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HIGH SPEED GEAR HSGI BLEEDER/BLOWOUT POUCH
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount is a versatile, lightweight, and durable pouch designed for immediate access to medical shears and essential medical equipment. This pouch is manufactured by High Speed Gear, a reputable company renowned for producing high-quality tactical and outdoor gear that is designed to perform at the highest levels of comfort, functionality, and adaptability.To get more news about zeolite hemostatic dressing, you can visit rusuntacmed.com official website.
This emergency medical pouch is constructed of high-quality nylon, a durable and lightweight material that can withstand the rigours of everyday use. Thanks to the MOLLE attachment system, the pouch is designed to be easily attached to MOLLE-compatible gear. The pouch’s dimensions of 3 inches in width and 7 inches in height make it ideal for carrying essential medical equipment.
The rear slot for medical shears, which is secured by a strap and a snap, is one of the pouch’s distinguishing characteristics. This ensures that your shears are readily accessible whenever they are required. The main pouch is equipped with a quick-pull interior strap that facilitates the removal of its contents with one hand, making it simple to access your medical supplies in an emergency.
The laser-cut MOLLE on the sides of the High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount provides additional attachment points for other MOLLE-compatible accessories. Multiple options for securing the pouch’s contents are provided by the pouch’s flap, which features a side release buckle, hook-and-loop closure, or both. The grommet on the pouch’s base ensures that any excess liquids or moisture can easily drain.
This medical emergency pouch is intended for use by the military, law enforcement, or law-abiding armed citizens. It is a great option for anyone who must carry essential medical equipment and desires easy access to their supplies. The pouch’s lightweight construction makes it easy to carry, and its small size ensures that it won’t take up too much space on your equipment.
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount is a well-designed, versatile, and durable emergency medical pouch that is ideal for anyone who must carry essential medical equipment and desires easy access to supplies.
Made in the United States from premium materials, this pouch is designed to outperform and outlast any rival. This is one of the best emergency medical pouches on the market, and it is an excellent choice for your battle belt, war belt, or any other MOLLE-compatible gear, whether you are military, law enforcement, or a responsible citizen.
In conclusion, the High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount is an excellent option for those seeking a dependable, durable, and easy-to-carry IFAK that is belt-mounted. This pouch is designed to meet your needs and provide you with immediate access to your medical supplies, whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or a law-abiding, armed citizen.
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for the best belt-mounted IFAK for your duty belt. This pouch is the ideal combination of accessibility, durability, and functionality due to its versatile attachment options, quick-pull interior strap, and laser-cut MOLLE on the sides. Be sure to have the High Speed Gear HSGI Bleeder/Blowout Pouch Adaptable Belt Mount with you if you want to be prepared for any emergency situation.
WHY 2K? TWO-SHOT INJECTION MOULDING NOW AVAILABLE
The 2K or ‘two-shot’ injection moulding process opens a world of possibilities for component performance and/or cost reduction. Simply put, it allows us to combine multiple polymers in a single process, creating individual parts that perform multiple functions.To get more news about 2k injection molding, you can visit asm-mold.com official website.
The advantage of 2K compared with over-moulding is the first material injected is still hot and clean, enabling the best possible bond, and a much-reduced risk of burning.
Because of the chemical bond created between the two materials, outstanding adhesion is achieved; all without the thermoplastic portion requiring a chemical pre-treatment. The outcome of this is both an efficient and cost-effective process.
COBA Plastics Moulding is already working with existing customers on some exciting product lines in the automotive and homeware sectors.
One of the most in-demand functions for a 2K part is when the rigidity of one material such as nylon is required for structural integrity, whilst a second softer material allows flex or can act as a seal between the component and its surrounding in the finished product.
2k Injection Molding Process
2K injection molding, also known as two-shot injection, is a process that uses two injections instead of one. Like any other molding technique, the two-shot injection has become very popular with manufacturers worldwide for various reasons. But how exactly is it carried out step by step? This is what we are going to look into today. We will be exploring the entire step-by-step process of two-shot injection molding, the machines used, the raw materials involved,,and finally a brief look at some of the benefits it brings to the table.To get more news about 2k injection moulding, you can visit asm-mold.com official website.
The two-shot injection molding process is similar to the regular injection molding technique, the only difference being that this former uses two injection nozzles that are released into a mold that has two crates. The process takes place in 4 main stages.
Stage 1: The raw materials are loaded into both injection canisters, where they are exposed to heat and pressure so that they can maintain that viscous state necessary for injection to occur. The first molding crate is opened, and the first injection is shot into it as the other crate remains closed.
Stage 2: The press on the first crate is opened, and the part that has been freshly created from the first injection is quickly transferred robotically to the second mold. This means that the first chamber is now free again, ready for the second injection.
Step 3: The press on the second chamber is closed, and the second injection is shot into the now open first chamber until it fills up just like the first one. This is to ensure uniformity of the end products.
Step 4: The second chamber is opened again, and the second part is transferred to it again using robotic arms. The process continues this way as fast as it can until the required number of products is clamoring attained.
So why are manufacturers clamouring to use the 2k injection molding technique for most of their production needs? The use of this technique has been gaining popularity, and that’s not by accident. The following are some of the reasons why.
Part Consolidation: The traditional methods of manufacturing usually split the production of different parts, which are then joined to make a single component. This is a lot of work and wastage of resources. Two-shot injection molding ensures that the number of parts needed is reduced significantly, saving time, energy, and costs.
Improved Efficiency: The process doesn’t require too many hands on the job. With most of it being automated, you end up saving money that would have gone into covering labor costs, and in return, you get precise robots that are able to handle the same work at ten times the speed and accuracy.
Improved Quality: The precision involved in this technique is off the charts, and when you combine that with the meticulous steps it follows and the raw materials used, the end product comes out with the best qualities one could ever wish for. This boosts customer confidence in your products and increases sales.
Design Range: With two-shot injection molding, you are free to try out as many designs as you want, even those that may seem to be impossible. The wide range of options available to this technique makes it a cost-effective and covenant method of making clear plastic and metallic mold products.
Better Aesthetics: The process is handled in a controlled environment, and this makes it easy for any other modification to be added. This could be patterns, logos, texts, or colors that further enhance the overall appearance of the end product. These auditions are permanently engraved on the product, making it look more natural and complete.
Reduced Post-Processing: The two-shot injection process is all-encompassing, everything is done in one move, and this cuts down the need for further processes like post-processing, which usually increase the cost, time, and energy consumption for nothing.
5 Minutes to Understand Plastic Pelletizing Machine
Pelletizing plastics is the process that includes melting and cutting polymers into easy-to-handle plastic pellets. Understanding pelletizing system and feeding system will help you select the right plastic pelletizing machine!Get more news about die cutting plastic recycling machine,you can vist our website!
Pelletizing Systems
Pelletizers are the essential parts of plastic pelletizing machines. There are several types of pelletizing methods. Die face cutting system, also known as hot die cutting pelletizing system is the most popular used system among the other options. In this system, the molten polymers pass through the die head, and later on a rotating blade cuts the hot polymer at the surface of the die.
The common feeding types for plastic pelletizing recycling machines include hopper feeding and side feeding.
Hopper Feeding Pelletizing System
A feeding hopper feeds materials directly into the extruder without preheating. Harder plastic scraps or rigid regrind such as crushed HDPE bottles are suitable to be recycled by the hopper feeding system. Soft plastic materials such as crushed and washed PE films are also processable, which makes a flexible solution for the hopper feeding pelletizer.
A side feeding is a stable and continuous measure to feed materials. It allows stable extruder feeding even when the bulk density varies. So the overload and underload can be avoided, which assures maximum efficiency.
A compacting and pelletizing system combines the function of the cutter, crushing, compacting, plasticization and pelletizing in one step. It is an efficient solution for plastic film, HDPE bags, plastic raffia, zipper, nonwoven bags and foaming materials repelletizing.
Flexible Customized Pelletizing System from Genius
Upon the customer's requirements, Genius provides a flexible customized pelletizing system for each customer starting from sorting units, feeding units, to degassing units, number or type of filters, storage and packing systems. Moreover, due to the various materials to recycle, Genius helps customers with the unique screw design requirements and pelletizing units.
Through the various requirements and feedback from different customers, today we are one of the most reliable manufacturers of customized plastic recycling machines. Below, you’ll see 2 case studies of Genius’s super services.
Peru - Video Conference Support for the Installation
Recently a Peruvian customer who started in the recycling business for the first time acquired a recycling pelletizing line. However, due to the pandemic, the engineers were not able to travel abroad for the installation. For the customer that is a huge disadvantage to install a recycling machine because it is their first time acquiring this machine. Genius’s technicians have supported them through the usage of video conferencing during the installation. The customer followed the instructions and installed the whole machine by themself without any further inconvenience.
Japan - Repeat Orders to Genius
The customer was originally using Japanese recycling machines. They bought a squeeze dryer from Genius three years ago and were impressed with the quality of the machine. Then they bought another set of recycling lines. After operating and making sure about the efficiency of the line, they contacted Genius’s technicians and ordered once more another set of the same recycling line.
Edwards Vacuum launches modern industrial two-stage oil sealed rotary vane pump
The range embodies a perfect balance between performance, cost and usability. It pumps down fast, it handles vapours and it contributes to minimising noise level in your workplace. In short a simple, yet powerful rotary vane pump to boost your production but not your expenses.Get more news about Two Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump Seller,you can vist our website!
In terms of performance, the E2S range offers a high pumping speed to reduce cycle times and gain productivity. In order to be suitable for humid applications, it has a hydro mode with improved vapour handling capability, whereas its low noise level allows it to meet lab environment working expectations.
All these benefits are packed in a modern, yet simple design, making the E2S an economical product with a clean layout. Two nice examples are the range’s built-in oil filter to protect the pump mechanism from contaminants and prevent oil leaks; and its innovative design to increase cooling performance and keeping a high vapour tolerance. All together, the E2S has avoided complex mechanical arrangements and kept the technology simple.
It’s simple design, however, has not made compromises towards the pump’s usability as it accommodates the users' needs on various levels: easy and pleasant to use and service, allowing for on-site cleaning to maximise uptime, can optionally include efficient over-temperature protection and low oil level detection, and has implemented increased safety against operator misuse.
In need of more speed?
Standard combinations of E2S two-stage rotary pumps and EH mechanical boosters are also available for high capacity demands. As they are factory pre-assembled, these pumping systems are compact, mobile and easy to use. With a direct start from atmospheric pressure our E2S85-EH1200 stack provides up to 900 m³/h effective speed and allows to reach high vacuum range with an ultimate vacuum of 3x10 -4 mbar.
Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine Market is Booming Worldwide
Global "Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine Market" (2023-2030) research report provides analysis of different types of products, as well as market forecasts. Different application fields have different usage and development prospects of products. provides subdivision data of different application fields and market forecasts. includes detailed data of major regions of the world, including detailed data of major regions of the world. Research report provides precise information related to business development, advanced growth plans and trends predictions. It discusses about market current state and future prospects along with sales patterns, market size, price structure, market share, and market progressions. The Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine market study covers holistic overview of industry revenue, demand status, competitive landscape and regional segments of global industry. This report also contains the comprehensive research of the Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine market with all its aspects influencing the growth of the market. Get more news about Auto Shrink Wrap Machine,you can vist our website!
Automatic shrink wrap machines will detect a product, seal, and shrink without human operation. Automated machines have infeed and exit conveyors, which need to be loaded and unloaded as the line is in process.
Our market research experts provide qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on involving economic and non-economic factors in the same report with market value (million USD) data for each segment and sub-segment. This way, clients can achieve all their goals while taking advantage of emerging opportunities. Technological advancements, new product launches, and market capital flows are compared across scenarios to demonstrate their impact over the forecast period.
Data collected includes market dynamics, technology outlook, application development, and pricing trends. All of this is fed into a research model, which then produces relevant data for market research. Global market trend analysis is given including historical data, estimates to 2023 and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecast to 2030.
2023 will be a tough year for much of the global economy, as the ongoing war in Ukraine continues to strain trade, especially in Europe, and the global economy remains reeling from the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
But as China moves ever closer to fully reemerging from three years of government-imposed Covid isolation and reintegrating with the world, economic expectations are high.And with the global economy now facing significant challenges, including energy shortages, slowing growth and high inflation, Chinaâs reopening could provide a much-needed and timely boost.
The report researches and analyzes the influence of the Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine industry in the new era of global post-COIVD-19 economy in 2023, and provides in-depth analysis and professional suggestions on the current development.
The report on the global Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine Market offers valuable insights into the drivers of market demand and supplier strategies. It includes a detailed analysis of key players and their market shares. This comprehensive report covers the historical, present, and future prospects of the global Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine market from 2018 to 2030. It also provides an outlook on the Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine market.
The latest market dynamics, such as driving and restraining factors, as well as industry news like mergers, acquisitions, and investments, are also tracked in the report. The Global Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine Market Size (value and volume), market share, and growth rate by types, and applications, and the report uses both qualitative and quantitative methods to make micro and macro forecasts in different regions or countries.
FARSOON 3D PRINTING USED TO BUILD CHINA’S LARGEST REUSABLE ROCKET ENGINE
Chinese aerospace firm Galactic Energy has turned to 3D printing to build the country’s largest reusable rocket engine to date. Get more news about china sls 3d printer,you can vist our website!
Galactic Energy’s Welkin 50-ton LOX/kerosene engine features more than 30 Farsoon-3D printed parts, including a turbo pump and LOX/kerosene main valve housing. Since integrating these cost and lead time-optimized components, the firm has gone on to verify the engine’s ignition, starting, and transition performance, via a full-system test.
Falcontech’s 3D printing exploits
Based in the city of Wuxi, Falcontech is a YinBang-backed provider of production services that cover powder R&D, performance testing, reselling, CNC machining, 3D printing, and isostatic pressing. In practice, the firm divides its business into three divisions: Special Metal Powder, Special Manufacturing Technology, and 3D Printing, the latter of which serves aerospace, medical, and molding clientele.
To address this demand, Falcontech not only deploys its farm of EOS, Renishaw, and Concept Laser machines, but calls upon the ‘SuperAM’ 3D printing facility it bolstered in 2020 with 20 Farsoon systems. Having already used the FS421M, FS301M, and FS271M to 3D print various aerospace parts, it was said at the time that Falcontech aimed to install a further 30 Farsoon printers, taking its total to 50.
Falcontech boasts of its portfolio’s potential to develop consolidated, lightweight aerospace builds with improved performance, thanks to their complex, topology-optimized designs. Having been tapped by Galactic Energy, it appears that the company’s services are now enabling the development of an engine that could become critical to China’s launch capabilities in the years to come.
Galactic Energy’s Welkin engine
According to Galactic Energy, the Welkin is China’s first reusable large-thrust open-cycle LOX/Kerosene rocket engine. Featuring a variable area pintle type injector, and a unique geometry that combines film and regenerative cooling, the propulsion system is designed to provide 40 tons of variable thrust at a thrust-weight ratio of over 120:1.
Critically, the Welkin’s variable thrust capabilities enable it to drop booster levels for soft landings, while its fault detection and isolation functionalities facilitate continued re-use. As such, it’s said that the engine can be redeployed up to 50 times, putting it in the same reusability category as the Merlin rocket engine developed at SpaceX.
Interestingly, rather than producing the Welkin’s 3D printed parts in-house, Galactic Energy chose to outsource them to Falcontech in 2019. To fulfil this order, the latter deployed Farsoon PBF, as well as DED, and CNC machining, over a four-month period. It’s said that conventionally producing the thrust chamber parts would have taken some 25 days, but 3D printing them took just four.
By redesigning the engine’s turbo pump, it’s also understood that Galactic Energy has managed to improve its efficiency by 5%, and following full-system testing, the operation, structural design, and coordination of each of the Welkin’s assemblies have now been confirmed, moving it a step closer to launch applications.
Once ready, the engine will reportedly be used to power the Pallas-1, an eight-meter-high launch vehicle that’s set to be capable of launching groups of satellites into orbit. While Galactic Energy’s other rocket, the Ceres-1, has already been deployed, the commissioning of its new offering could be significant in that it’s highly reusable, potentially making it China’s answer to the USA’s SpaceX Falcon 9.
What is Cold Stamping and Mold Making?
Cold stamping is the application of pressure to a material by means of a die mounted on a press to cause separation or plastic deformation. Thereby obtaining a pressure method of the required parts (commonly known as stamping parts or punching). Because it is usually processed at room temperature of the press, it is called cold stamping.Get more news about Micro Precision Cold Extrusion Part Exporter,you can vist our website!
The main feature of the cold stamping production process is that it is processed by die and stamping equipment, which is easy to automate, high in productivity and easy to operate. For ordinary presses, each piece can produce several to dozens of stampings per minute, while high-speed punches can produce hundreds or even thousands of stampings per minute. The parts obtained by cold stamping generally do not need to be machined, so it is a method of saving energy and saving raw materials. Since the raw materials used for cold stamping are mostly sheets or strips with good surface quality, the dimensional tolerances of the stampings are guaranteed by the die, so the dimensions are stable and the interchangeability is good. The cold stamping product has a thin wall, light weight and good rigidity, and can be processed into parts with complicated shapes, from the second hand of the clock to the longitudinal beam of the car and the cover.
However, since the die manufacturing is generally a single-piece small-volume production with high precision and high technical requirements, it is a technology-intensive product with high manufacturing cost. Therefore, cold stamping production can only achieve higher economic effects in the case of large quantities.
In summary, cold stamping has unique characteristics compared with other processing methods, so it is widely used in industrial production, especially in mass production. A considerable number of industrial sectors are increasingly using cold stamping products, such as machinery manufacturing, vehicle production, aerospace, electronics, electrical appliances, light industry, instrumentation and daily necessities. In these industrial sectors, the proportion of stamping parts is quite large. Many parts that have been manufactured by casting, forging and cutting methods have been replaced by stamping parts with light weight and good rigidity. Through stamping processing, productivity is greatly improved and costs are reduced. It can be said that if the stamping process is not widely used in production, it is difficult to upgrade the product in many industrial sectors to improve productivity, improve quality, and reduce costs.
In summary, cold stamping has unique characteristics compared with other processing methods, so it is widely used in industrial production, especially in mass production. A considerable number of industrial sectors are increasingly using cold stamping products, such as machinery manufacturing, vehicle production, aerospace, electronics, electrical appliances, light industry, instrumentation and daily necessities. In these industrial sectors, the proportion of stamping parts is quite large. Many parts that have been manufactured by casting, forging and cutting methods have been replaced by stamping parts with light weight and good rigidity. Through stamping processing, productivity is greatly improved and costs are reduced. It can be said that if the stamping process is not widely used in production, it is difficult to upgrade the product in many industrial sectors to improve productivity, improve quality, and reduce costs.
1. Cold stamping process aspect
Research and application of important trends in the development of various stamping technologies aimed at increasing productivity and product quality, reducing costs and expanding the range of stamping process applications. At present, domestic and rapid emergence of advanced technology for the production has a precision stamping press, a flexible membrane forming, superplastic forming, multi-point forming, explosion and other high-energy electromagnetic forming, high precision stamping and cold extrusion technology, etc. . These stamping advanced technologies have achieved good technical and economic effects in actual production.
Precision stamping is an effective method to improve the accuracy of stamping parts, and an important way to expand the range of stamping processing. At present, precision precision can reach IT6~IT7, and the thickness of sheet can reach 25mm. The fine punching method can not only be punched, but also can be formed (precision bending, deep drawing, flanging, cold extrusion, embossing and countersinking, etc.).
2. Die design and manufacturing aspects
Stamping is the basic condition for the production of die. At present, there are two trends in die design and manufacturing that should be given enough attention.
(1) mold structure and precision are developing in two aspects
On the one hand, in order to meet the needs of high-volume, automatic, precision, safety and other large-scale automated production. The die is developing in the direction of high efficiency, precision, long life, multi-station and multi-function; On the other hand, in order to adapt to the rapid requirements of product upgrading in the market, the design and manufacturing of various rapid prototyping methods and simple economical dies have been rapidly developed.
RUNNING TRACK MODE EXPANDS ACROSS EUROPE
Users can now use an Apple Watch to run on a track at last! Apple has enabled the previously released “running track mode” for more nations, including France, Spain, and the Netherlands. When you enter a track, Apple’s running track mode immediately recognises the lanes and track. It then clamps the GPS track and distances it to the track itself. Running in track mode typically produces GPS maps that are flawless, even down to the precise lane you ran in (regardless of the watchmaker). In addition, it typically provides a more constant running pace on the track (because track curves can be hard for GPS), and frequently provides extremely accurate lengths right down to the actual line itself.Get more news about high quality running track,you can vist our website!
Apple used Apple Maps data instead of a learning algorithm, which is how all other watch brands identify a running trail. This indicates that it is only accessible in the nations and territories that Apple specifically permits. As a result, this most recent round’s additions now include France, Spain, and the Netherlands.
The benefit of Apple’s method is that it begins to function as soon as you step onto the track (literally, as soon as you step onto the track surface it notices). This is in contrast to other firms that require you to do about two circuits before it “snaps” to that track. On the other hand, the drawback of Apple’s strategy is that it is severely constrained to just a small number of nations that Apple has activated when you consider the entire world. As many have discovered, when users try to run at four separate tracks, even in those nations where it is enabled, it might not find all of them.
One can argue that combining the two is actually the best course of action: For countries with access to maps, but a learning algorithm for all other nations. In fact, using that algorithm-based info, one could even create a database of tracks (particularly with companies like Garmin, which uploads all of its data to the Garmin Connect platform).
Anyhow, DC Rainmaker tried it out during the past couple of days. Nothing has changed from the time it was launched, albeit the most recent beta versions have a few more minor adjustments. It will ask you to select a lane as previously, and it even knows how many lanes you have per track.
APPLE RUNNING TRACK MODE
Apple’s Running Track Mode is a new feature that was introduced in watchOS 8, designed to provide runners with an enhanced running experience. The feature uses the built-in GPS on the Apple Watch to track the user’s running path and provides real-time data on their progress. This essay will discuss the benefits of Apple’s Running Track Mode and how it can help runners achieve their fitness goals.
1. ACCURATE DATA
One of the primary benefits of Running Track Mode is that it provides runners with accurate data on their running performance. This feature tracks the distance covered, pace, and time taken, allowing the runner to monitor their progress and make necessary adjustments. The data collected can also be viewed after the run to gain insights into areas where the runner needs to improve. The Apple Watch also provides audio feedback during the run. It alerts the runner when they have completed a certain distance or achieved a particular milestone. This feedback helps to keep the runner motivated and focused on their goals.
2. SET GOALS AND MONITOR PROGRESS
Another benefit of Running Track Mode is that it allows runners to set goals. They can also monitor their progress towards achieving them. The Apple Watch provides the option to set a target distance, pace, or time for the run. Once the target is set, the watch will track the progress and provide feedback. The feedback is on how close the runner is to achieving their goal. This feature is particularly useful for runners who are training for a specific event or trying to improve their performance.
3. RUNNING PATH
Running Track Mode also provides runners with a map of their running path. This can be helpful for those who like to explore new routes. The map shows the runner’s current location and the route they have taken. This makes it easier to navigate and avoid getting lost. The map can also be used to track progress and plan future runs. Runners can see which routes they have taken and where they need to go next.
4. STAY SAFE WHILE RUNNING
Finally, Running Track Mode can help runners stay safe while running. The feature includes an SOS function that can be activated by pressing/holding the side button on the Apple Watch. This function sends an alert to emergency services and shares the runner’s location with them. This feature can be especially useful for runners who run alone or in areas where there is limited phone coverage.
Smart laser cutter system detects different materials
With the addition of computers, laser cutters have rapidly become a relatively simple and powerful tool, with software controlling shiny machinery that can chop metals, woods, papers, and plastics. While this curious amalgam of materials feels encompassing, users still face difficulties distinguishing between stockpiles of visually similar materials, where the wrong stuff can make gooey messes, give off horrendous odors, or worse, spew out harmful chemicals.Get more news about laser cutting line,you can vist our website!
Addressing what might not be totally apparent to the naked eye, scientists from MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) came up with “SensiCut,” a smart material-sensing platform for laser cutters. In contrast to conventional, camera-based approaches that can easily misidentify materials, SensiCut uses a more nuanced fusion. It identifies materials using deep learning and an optical method called “speckle sensing,” a technique that uses a laser to sense a surface’s microstructure, enabled by just one image-sensing add-on.
A little assistance from SensiCut could go a long way — it could potentially protect users from hazardous waste, provide material-specific knowledge, suggest subtle cutting adjustments for better results, and even engrave various items like garments or phone cases that consist of multiple materials.
“By augmenting standard laser cutters with lensless image sensors, we can easily identify visually similar materials commonly found in workshops and reduce overall waste,” says Mustafa Doga Dogan, PhD candidate at MIT CSAIL. “We do this by leveraging a material’s micron-level surface structure, which is a unique characteristic even when visually similar to another type. Without that, you’d likely have to make an educated guess on the correct material name from a large database.” Beyond using cameras, sticker tags (like QR codes) have also been used on individual sheets to identify them. Which seems straightforward, however, during laser cutting, if the code is cut off from the main sheet, it can’t be identified for future uses. Also, if an incorrect tag is attached, the laser cutter will assume the wrong material type.
To successfully play a round of “what material is this,” the team trained SensiCut’s deep neural network on images of 30 different material types of over 38,000 images, where it could then differentiate between things like acrylic, foamboard, and styrene, and even provide further guidance on power and speed settings.
In one experiment, the team decided to build a face shield, which would require distinguishing between transparent materials from a workshop. The user would first select a design file in the interface, and then use the “pinpoint” function to get the laser moving to identify the material type at a point on the sheet. The laser interacts with the very tiny features of the surface and the rays are reflected off it, arriving at the pixels of the image sensor and producing a unique 2-D image. The system could then alert or flag the user that their sheet is polycarbonate, which means potentially highly toxic flames if cut by a laser.
The speckle imaging technique was used inside a laser cutter, with low-cost, off-the shelf-components, like a Raspberry Pi Zero microprocessor board. To make it compact, the team designed and 3-D printed a lightweight mechanical housing.
Beyond laser cutters, the team envisions a future where SensiCut’s sensing technology could eventually be integrated into other fabrication tools like 3-D printers. To capture additional nuances, they also plan to extend the system by adding thickness detection, a pertinent variable in material makeup.
Dogan wrote the paper alongside undergraduate researchers Steven Acevedo Colon and Varnika Sinha in MIT's Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Associate Professor Kaan Akşit of University College London, and MIT Professor Stefanie Mueller.