What’s new in SolidWorks 2009?

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News

Falcon UPS helps power data capture of supersonic land speed challenger

F-15 tests alternative jet engine fuel

Third-generation high-strength steels expected to reduce vehicle body mass by 35%

Energy-generating aerial wind turbine tethered with Vectran fiber

How black can be cool on hot days
Dark surfaces of building roofs and facades attract heat, but light surfaces remain distinctly cooler. Some innovative pigments from BASF now make it possible for surfaces to heat up much less in the sun despite their dark color: Paliogen Black, Lumogen Black, and Sicopal Black. In contrast to carbon black, the standard black pigments, the BASF offerings reflect most of the invisible near infrared (NIR) radiation that accounts for more than 50% of the total incident solar energy.
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The performance of a lifetime The 35000 series (size 14) double stack hybrid linear actuators provide higher force, longer life and improved performance. The various patent pending designs deliver exceptional performance and new linear motion design opportunities. Three designs are available, captive, non-captive and external linear versions. The 35000 Series is available in a wide variety of resolutions - from 0.00012" (.003048 mm) per step to 0.00192" (.048768 mm) per step. The motors can also be microstepped for even finer resolutions. The Size 14 actuator delivers thrust of up to 50 lbs. (23 Kg). For more information visit Haydon Switch & Instrument online.

Scientists make ultra-strong magnets quickly, cost effectively
Northeastern University researchers have invented a rapid, high-volume, and cost-effective one-step method for producing pure Samarium Cobalt rare earth permanent magnet materials. Samarium Cobalt is a mainstay material for several industries that rely on high-performance motor and power generation applications, including the Department of Defense and the automotive industry.
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Wheels: Off-highway
Surprising benefits of hydraulic-to-electric actuator conversion
Many manufacturers of off-highway equipment have replaced hydraulic cylinders with electric actuators in order to eliminate pumps, hoses, and valves, and make vehicles smaller, lighter, and quieter. They have taken advantage of the flexibility in interfacing with control systems to provide a wide range of new features and capabilities.
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5-Star Product: Torque tool testing and documenting just got easier
The LTT torque analyzer from Mountz is designed for torque calibration, joint testing, auditing, or for force and load measurement or verification of load cells. Meeting the demands to test multiple torque ranges for various torque tools used in production, maintenance, and calibration labs, the LTT features the new EZ-Plug & Play technology, which is an auto-recognition system with Mountz torque sensors.
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Engineer's Toolbox: LED fiber optic probe for hard-to-reach areas
See the light and a whole lot more using the new Portable LED Fiberoptic Probe from Titan Tool Supply. Slip-on angled probe extensions are available to make exacting internal inspections for automotive and aviation engines, metal and plastic molds, electronics assemblies, and more.
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Pro/E vs. SolidWorks article responses
Readership of and response to our Pro/ENGINEER vs. SolidWorks mini-roundtable last week (Sept. 16, 2008) was strong. We thought we'd post some of the feedback and share the comments. Let us know what you think. We read all of the feedback, and we direct inquiries when we can. If your company is interested in submitting a roundtable discussion or article, contact the editor at mfoley@nelsonpub.com.
Read the responses here

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