Month Wise: Issue Wise August-2008 July-2008 June-2008 May-2008 April-2008 March-2008 February-2008 January-2008 December-2007 November-2007 October-2007 September-2007 August-2007 July-2007 June-2007 May-2007 April-2007 March-2007 February-2007 January-2007 December-2006 October-2006 September-2006 August-2006 July-2006 June-2006 May-2006 April-2006 March-2006 February-2006 January-2006 December-2005 November-2005 October-2005   Sharpline ties up with Christiani for technical training       Sharpline Automation Pvt Ltd, the Mumbai-based leader in CNC retrofitting and automation, has sharpened its focus with a rethinking on vocational training in India. The result is the recent launch of Chritiani Sharpline Technical Training Pvt Ltd, a 50:50 joint venture between Christiani of Germany, the pioneers in vocational training education, and Sharpline Autumation Pvt Ltd. White grease for green vehicles       To lower a vehicle’s energy consumption, many technologies are being tested in the automotive industry. Weight reduction is of particular concern, which is the reason why in many cases plastics are being used to replace metals. This is a special challenge for lubrication, because the compatibility of plastics and lubricants is not always easy to achieve. Tackling rejects and reducing the costs and downtime       A supplier to Maruti Suzuki, Climate Systems India (CSIL) was established in 1991 as as a joint venture between Ford Motor Company (now Visteon Corporation, a long time customer of Rockwell Automation) and Maruti Udyog (now Suzuki Motors). The company manufacturesheat exchangers exclusively for the Suzuki Motors plant near New Delhi and is committed to product and service quality comparable to the best in the worl The onus is on us to revolutionise the way car transactions happen in India       The vision at Carwale.com is to become India's most influential and authoritative source of automotive data for consumers and other stakeholders in the automotive ecosystem. The idea is to help consumers reduce their hassles and maximise their next car sale or purchase. New generation Zeroshift transmission       European Powertrain Company, Zeroshift, has introduced a modified version of its Zeroshift transmission. Having presented the second generation of its automatic gearbox technology last year Zeroshift has now moved into the next phase of development with two new actuator systems and a new industry standard control system aimed at making the integration of the high-efficiency transmission as simple as possible. Quick start With ZF's 8-Speed Automatic Transmission       New technologies are evolving around hybrid propulsion technology as auto manufacturers race towards meeting or exceeding the tighter emission norms. Most hybrids include an auto transmission that is hooked to the process of start-stop as the source of propulsion varies between an internal combustion engine and an electric drive motor. In a new development, ZF's new generation 8-speed auto transmission enables the integration of hydraulic impulse oil storage in micro hybrids. Volkswagen completes Blue TDI development       At the recent International Vienna Motor Symposium, Volkswagen an-nounced the production of the BlueTDI, a next-generation turbo diesel developed especially for the North American market. This is in keeping with the fact that five US states including California, currently have the strictest emissions standards in the world (BIN5/LEV2). Dynamic measurement of objects       In developing products within a short pe-riod of time and manufacturing them at low costs, the inspection of parts with respect to their motion and deformation behaviour plays a decisive role. In fact, many industries today perform dynamic object measurement as an important element of product development and testing. Electronic control for direct-injection engine brake pressure       Kelsey-Hayes Company, a subsidiary of TRW Automotive, has developed a modular multi-piston pump electronic stability control (ESC) system with enhanced performance to rapidly build brake pressure independent of vacuum boost from the engine. M&M to acquire Kinetic Motor       Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has said that its Board of Directors has approved the acquisition of business assets of Pune-based Kinetic Motor Company Ltd. (KMCL). The acquisition will be done through a new company to be formed. Robot brings flexibility to laser welding       Robots are increasingly becoming a part of life. They can be found almost everywhere and are no longer subject to as much trepidation as they were before. There are today expected to complement efficiency by enhancing the capabilities. The fact that Kuka robots can work individually, with positioning tables or as a team, enabling extremely large parts to be processed should come as an example. Be it laser welding, laser cutting or laser hybrid welding, all processes are camera-monitored. Faster dedicated measuring fixtures       Measuring fixtures cannot always be assembled exclusively from standard components. When complicated part geometry and/or special contact situations are involved custom-built workpiece adaptations are needed. Usually Witte Far East Pte Ltd (Singapore), manufacturer of modular fixturing system Alufix, supplies such custom-built components conventionally milled. In order to speed up manufacture of special parts Witte is taking advantage of rapid prototyping possibilities and utilising RapidFit from Materialise. Coatec India: Catering to the needs of SMEs       Chandigarh-based Coatec India is driving the shift from large sized Cathodic Electro Deposited (CED) epoxy coating plants to more compact, more relevant plants that cost a fraction of what the larger plants cost. Apart from commissioning many world class CED coating plants, ranging in capacity from 750 litres to 50,000 litres, the company is also redefining material handling with fully automated lines. Small engine fuel delivery modules from Delphi       From motorbikes to commercial lawn mowers to boats, small engines are a vital component of everyday life for many people. But with so many small engines out there—and countless more produced daily—pressure is mounting on small engine manufacturers to comply with increasingly stringent emissions regulations and, in some cases, even fuel economy targets, particularly with commercial equipment. Welding automation of elliptical shape welding By S V Patki & D M Talekar       In any industrial sector, there is a constant quest to improve the product quality and minimise the cost of production. This can be achieved by incorporating suitable automation at the bottleneck points, to compensate for the time lost. Heat treatment plant of Turbo Gears in Pune       Turbo Gears, a Carraro group company, has set up a new thermal treatment plant using the latest gas nitriding process. Specialising in the production of quality components, shafts and gears, the new thermal treatment plant – Gear World – is expected to enable the company to further improve the level of service to its customers and tackle the market more competitively. Faurecia interior systems for BMW X6       The BMW X6, which was recently introduced at Geneva, blends the qualities and design keys of other BMW coupe models with the sporty lines of the X-line vehicle range. Faurecia, Europes second largest equipment supplier, has provided this BMW with its considerable expertise in "premium" interiors for the production of the front seats, instrument panel, centre console and door panels. Seen in the right light       Cameras are being used in optical quality control to an in creasing ex-tent. In many cases, this approach proves more reliable than the manual testing of engines or individual components carried out by humans. Key factors are precisely calculated positions for the camera and light sources, for which the DaimlerChrysler researchers have developed a mathematical planning tool. Torotrak announces first use of mechanical KERS       Torotrak announced a licence agree ment with Xtrac Ltd recently to use traction drive technology to develop highly efficient and compact continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) for application in a new mechanical kinetic energy recovery systems (KERS) proposed for Formula 1 (F1) motor racing. A major F1 racing team has become the first customer for the mechanical KERS. CFD modelling solutions from Beta CAE Systems       CAE pre- and post-processing software systems from Beta CAE Systems are a popular choice with many automakers and suppliers. The companys flagship product, ANSA pre-processor and µETA post-processor package is one of the leading CAE software and has been instrumental in setting the standards in a multitude of sectors like automotive, railway, aerospace, motor sports, chemical and academics. Minda Group forms JV with Japans Tokai Rika       Auto component manufacturer NK Minda Group announced the formation of a joint venture (JV) with Japan's Tokai Rika to manufacture automotive seat belts, locks and immobilisers. In the new entity, Tokai Rika Minda India Pvt Ltd, the Japanese firm will have 70 per cent stake while the balance 30 per cent will be held by the Minda Group. Diesel particle filter with combined regeneration and nitrogen dioxide reduction       The diesel particulate filter system with combined regeneration and nitrogen dioxide reduction meet Euro 5 emissions. Good response to Auto Engineering Show       The first Auto Engineering Show, organised in Pune, was successful in grabbing the attention of the automotive industry Camfil Farr has established a new company in India       Camfil Farr Air Filtration India Limited - by a joint venture agreement with Anand Automotive Systems, which Camfil Farr has collaborated with for many years. Enterprise technology for harmonious manufacturing       Stamping dies are a substantial invest-ment for automotive manufacturing in the range of US$ 80-100 million per vehicle programme BASF plastics for new Mercedes C-Class       As the race for weight saving and efficiency enhancement assumes greater pace, automotive plastics also start playing a greater role in applications that were until now the monopoly of metals Nissan develops innovative concept car       Nissan has unveiled an innovative concept car with X-by-wire technology New generation of power electronics from Continental       Hybrids are finding increasing recognition as automakers seek to develop greener technologies Tenneco’s kinetic suspension technology on Toyota LandCruiser       The new Toyota LandCruiser employs Tenneco’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System Automotive engineering show       It's been a year almost since the Auto Cluster Development and Research In-stitute moved into its own premises in the industrial suburb of Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad. Playing an important role in the lives of auto industries in and around Pune, the Auto Cluster is holding a Automotive Engineering Show at the Auto Cluster Exhibition Centre at Chinchwad from May 14-17, 2008. Robotics Bending very large, heavy metal plates       After hitting upon the idea of industrialising the building trade with the aid of prefabricated steel box panels, Wolfgang Langer began to search for an integrated automation solution for their production. Eliminating vibes       Hybrid propulsion, active cylinder controls, compression devices are some of the new technologies that the auto industry is working on for the future. These technologies are likely to usher in more fuel-efficient and environment friendly automobiles. Cadillac CTS dressed in Beneke-Kaliko PUR upholstery       The 2008 Cadillac CTS combines power and performance in a luxury sedan. Substantially revised, the CTS offers a far more inviting cabin, far from the cold, plastic-ridden treatment found in the current edition of the car. Hydraulic steering soon to be a technology of past       Hydraulic steering mechanism seen on most automobiles may soon be a thing of past. The progress in electromechanical devices and systems is poised to replace hydraulic steering systems. Volvo XC60 with Continetal sensor system       The XC60 from Volvo is a new arrival and marks Volvo's continued pres-ence in the SUV domain. A softroader that blends muscularity with the sporty charisma of a coupe, the XC60 is actually a crossover with bold styling and a variety of intelligent safety systems. Smaller, lighter, more capable braking system       Continental's new MK100 brake system generation makes it possible to install ABS/ESC in all vehicle categories. Newest development from Continental, MK100's range of functions can be scaled to suit whatever functionality and level of performance is required - from a motorcycle ABS system with or without an integral braking function right up to the demanding high-end ESC designs with their extremely powerful, low-pulsation pump variants. Aluminium crane systems in practical use       More and more companies are realising that it is necessary to optimise their material flow and handling in production, trading and distribution by means of both specific and wide-ranging rationalisation measures. Improved aerodynamics and weight-saving for BMW M3       The BMW M3 was shown at the Auto Expo 2008 held in Delhi re-cently. The car is a CBU and is offered in India as part of the M family. The M3 is a high performance version of the popular compact BMW 3-Series automobile. New Passat CC with self-sealing tyres       The new Passat CC four-door debuted at the Detroit Motor Show with a coupe body style. Unifying sports car dynamics and sedan comfort, the Passat CC is a car whose concept and design sets a new course beyond the mainstream. Dual-mass flywheel and clutch from ZF in Boxer diesel engine       Subaru's world's first boxer diesel en-gine is part of a symmetrical AWD drivetrain layout, which mounts the horizontally opposed engine and transmission longitudinally. RoboPlazma revolution: faster, smarter, cost effective       Plazma Cutting Technologies Pvt Ltd is a single product dedi-cated 100 man company. With excellence as a hallmark, the company is powered by synergy, teamwork, drive, foresight, audacity and innovative genius.  Industrial Automation INDIA       The inaugural Industrial Automation INDIA, an event organised by Deutsche Messe AG at Bangalore in December 2007 through its Indian subsidiary Hannover Fairs India Pvt Ltd, was a huge success. Diagnostics for workshops       SIDIS MB from Continental covers the vehicle communication systems of all well-known automobile manufacturers from Alfa Romeo to Volkswagen (data of 43 vehicle manufacturers, 818 vehicle types and more than 15,000 electronic control units). Advanced series plug-in-hybrid drive system design from Raser       Designed for full-size SUVs and pickup trucks in conjunction with its systems integration partner, FEV, Raser Technologies' new advanced extended-range plug-in series hybrid electric vehicle powertrain and integrated drive system integrates Raser's Symetron technology in an advanced 200 kilowatt (kW) peak, 100 kW continuous AC induction motor and power electronic traction drive and a 100 kW PM synchronous generating system and a 700 volt lithium-ion battery and power... Festo plug and work A great combination       Gone are the days when designers had to design expensive handling systems over a protracted period themselves: With Festo's plug and work, the shrewd customer is reaching for fully pre-assembled handling axes with grippers or vacuum suction units which can be integrated into an assembly system with a minimum of effort. Role of instrumentation in automobile industry       The Indian Auto Industry today is go-ing from strength to strength. In terms of statistics, it is the: Largest three wheeler market in the world Second largest two wheeler market in the world Fourth largest passenger vehicle market in Asia Fourth largest tractor market in the world, and Fifth largest commercial vehicle market in the world. Cyronics pursues auto sector growth       Cyronics recently shifted its office from Shivajinagar to Kothrud in Pune. The new, swanky office belies the fact that Cyronics specialises in automotive diagnostic equipment and related technologies and medical equipment. These sound like two different extremities and yet make perfect business sense for a company. Specialty vortex flow meters       A flowmeter is an instrument used to measure linear, non-linear, mass or volumetric flow rate of a liquid or a gas. A vortex flow meter has a sensor that detects the frequency of vortex shedding behind an obstacle in flowing fluid by small pressure variations. Adaptive front lighting system       Adaptive front lighting systems (AFS) redirect low-beam headlamp units individually in a horizontal direction in accordance with steering angle and vehicle speed. As a result, these systems can improve visibility during nighttime cornering, ensuring safer driving. Battery condition indicator       Aweak battery can easily give driv-ers a nasty surprise in the morning, particularly when temperatures drop. The car won't start, because the starter doesn't receive the needed power. Ironically, today's batteries must provide much more than they did in the past. After all, vehicle electronics have taken on many more responsibilities. Sabic offers new insight into latest auto design trends       Through the annual auto trend watch program, Sabic regularly shares its strong market insights, research and expertise in automotivedesign trends with customers. Current trends include double-curved glazing with extended functionality, white and deep gloss black exterior applications, and added functionality in wraparound-style exterior body panels. Smart keyless technology for Ford Focus and Mondeo       Keyless entry is nothing new nor is key less ignition. Described in simple terms a keyless entry is a highly convenient piece of technology employed in automobiles that unlocks the driver's door or all the doors, making it unnecessary to use a key. "Bar coding can help in differentiating the fake parts from the genuine ones"       US-based Zebra Technologies is a leading global provider of rugged and reliable specialty printing solutions, including on-demand thermal bar code label and receipt printers and supplies, plastic card printers, RFID smart label printer/encoders, certified smart media, and digital photo printers. Automotive Products Finder spoke to Mr Shailesh Deshmukh, Territory Manager (India), Zebra Technologies. Excerpts Brake assist systems usher more safety for pedestrians       The European Union wants brake as-sist to be standard by 2009 on all new cars. Not for no reason. Brake assist is looked upon as a system that will help reduce the number of pedestrian accidents. In most circumstances, when the driver wants to come to a stop as quickly as possible, especially in a critical situation, he usually steps on the brake quickly, but often not firmly enough, wasting valuable braking distance. Magneti Marelli and Fiat 500       The little Fiat 500 was rolled out by Fiat India recently and will go on sale very soon. Priced at Rs 12 lakhs approximately, the Fiat 500 will be sold in India as a CBU. Inspired by the Fiat 500 of the 50s, the car is receiving accolades the world over. Bending with integrated intelligence       Multibend-Center is the name of the bending centre from RAS Reinhardt Maschinenbau GmbH for flexible sheet-metal working. In a state-of-the-art production line, two KUKA robots load and unload this unique bending system. Premium Surround Sound for new Mercedes SL-Class       The new generation Mercedes SL-Class debuted at the Geneva Motor Show and carries with it a number of new enhancements in addition to dashing good looks. Other than new power plants Mercedes has tweaked the rest of the SL to provide a more responsive and "sportier" roadster. Continental extends ContiGuard safety system       Continental has enhanced the performance of ContiGuard, its comprehensive vehicle safety system, which interlinks the brake and driver assistance systems all the vehicle's active and passive safety components, and integrates environmental sensors and telematics functions. Atlas Copco introduces energy efficient compressor       Atlas Copco has yet again proven its world leadership in air-compressor manufacturing with the introduction of the new GA range of oil-injected compressors. Every component in the new GA range has been carefully evaluated and designed to provide Atlas Copco's customers with a product offering the highest levels of reliability and energy efficiency. Fast-acting airbag sensors provide greater safety       Continental, the international auto-motive supplier, has developed a Crash Impact Sound Sensing (CISS) system which controls airbag ignition so precisely that, in the event of an accident, the vehicle occupants are provided with maximum protection. The characteristic structure-borne sound caused by an impact allows CISS to detect both the accident and its severity and to distinguish even more quickly and more reliably between different crash situations. Eclipse Inc celebrates 100 years       Eclipse Inc., the Rockford, IL based world-leading combustion engineering major is presently celebrating its 100 years of Global Family Business. Founded in 1907 by Garnet McKee, Eclipse is now headed by the Perks family, and is now celebrating its First 100 years in all its establishments across the world spanning the Netherlands, China, several other European and Asian nations including India, during 2007 and 2008. Everything in view       VDO Dayton is offering a portable truck navigation system and at the same time incorporating digital television into its mobile devices. This means that drivers of large vehicles such as trucks, buses, or RVs can get more than professional support in choosing the right route to take. “Our automotive solutions enable automotive retailers compete successfully online”       What are the solutions Logix Microsystems specialises in? Particularly automotive solutions like Izmo... We provide a complete suite of products, platforms, services, and solutions for creating and running a successful Internet automotive dealership. izmocars offerings include izmoweb, the interactive, custom designed dealer websites that are in fact Internet dealerships; izmoMobi, which is the first mobile website platform for automotive retail, izmoRainmaker, a complete online marketing soluti Rockwell Automation assists Tata ramp up operations       Research shows that less than 2 per cent of Indian citizens own automo-biles, compared with 45 per cent in the United States, and the Indian population is three times the size of the United States. These two very simple statistics illustrate the huge potential for the automotive industry in India. Automobile ownership in India is on the rise and manufacturers are aggressively ramping up operations to meet the growing demand. Bosch and Mahle to develop and manufacture exhaust gas turbochargers       The increasing use of turbocharg-ers in diesel as well as gasoline (petrol) engines has many systems suppliers taking heed. Robert Bosch and Mahle have announced that they will be establishing a fifty-fifty joint venture to develop, manufacture, and market exhaust gas turbochargers. The joint venture is expected to commence in April 2008. Colour trendsetter ecology       The debate on climate protection and heightened environmental awareness is impacting colour trends for cars. “The worlds of colour reflect a sustainable symbiosis of nature and technology,” declare BASF Coatings colour designers Michaela Finkenzeller and Mark Gutjahr (Europe), Chiharu Matsuhara (Asia/Pacific) Dual mass flywheel from ZF       More than 50 per cent of the cars in Europe are diesel. The recent advances in diesel have made them an attractive candidate for passenger cars and vans. And more and more people are lapping up diesel cars in Europe. Many motorists, particularly diesel drivers Negotiating curves safely       Advances in technology are dialing in more safety, reliability and driv-ing pleasure. Systems like power steering are getting increasingly hi-tech with every passing day. Sophisticated mechatronic systems are taking over the functions from simple electronic or mechanical linkages with an increasing tendency to network complex systems in liaison with each other. ThyssenKrupp Steel and JFE develop new ultra high-strength steel       With the debate of metal versus plastic at its peak in the auto in-dustry, ThyssenKrupp Steel and Japan’s second-biggest steel producer JFE Steel Corporation have joined forces to develop a new multiphase steel for automotive applications. Variable dampers from ZF       Europe is the hotbed of commercial vehicle activity. Other than a desti-nation for probably the most advanced commercial vehicle technologies, Europe is also a big market for sophisticated commercial vehicles. Active bonnet system for Citroen C6       The Citroen C6 achieved four stars for pedestrian safety in the Euro NCAP crash tests. The C6 takes the essential cues of executive saloons – elegance, sophistication and on-the-road presence – and combines them with the marque's own key values. New pre-crash sensor to prevent accidents in urban traffic       The increasing number of automobiles and a diverse mix of commercial vehicles, light vehicles, three wheelers and two wheelers is increasing safety challenges. Urban areas have seen the most increase in traffic. New miniature TMC antenna solutions for PNDs       Utilising Traffic Message Channel (TMC) technology, Ficosa’s Advanced Communications Business Unit launched a new set of outstanding external and internal antenna solutions to enable real-time traffic information into portable car navigation systems. TMC is a specific application of the FM Radio Data System (RDS) used for broadcasting real-time traffic and weather information. It is typically digitally coded using the FM-RDS system on conventional FM radio broadcasts. It can also be transmitted on DAB or satellite radio. It allows silent delivery of high quality accurate, timely and relevant information, in the language chosen by the user and without interrupting normal services. Services, both public and commercial, are largely operational in many European countries. While the countries that offer TMC services include Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden... Hoses for rising standards       Higher performance, smaller installation spaces and more demanding customers are the typical challenges most auto manufacturers continue to face. ContiTech’s fluid technology arm has developed new hydraulic, flat, and moulded hoses to enable the automakers to handle these challenges. Subaru unveils Boxer diesel       Subaru has come up with the world’s first Boxer diesel engine. A symmetrical AWD drivetrain layout, which mounts the horizontally opposed engine and transmission longitudinally, coupled with the AWD system, the Boxer diesel engine produces a powerful torque output of 350Nm at 1800rpm while complying with European EURO 4 regulations - it produces 148 g of CO2 per km. 7-speed DSG from Volkswagen       Volkswagen launched the Passat in India with a 6 speed DSG (auto) transmission. It received quite an amount of attention from the media for its brilliance and technology. Volkswagen has now come up with a 7-speed DSG (auto) transmission for high-volume production – starting in the Golf. Spallshield revolution       DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions introduced DuPont Spallshield, the business' first generation plastic composite product, for use in vehicle sunroofs recently. Its launch marks a new alternative to pure organic plastic glazing or other existing glass-glass type laminates. Applied to a single layer of glass, Spallshield provides up to eight times the impact performance versus standard laminated glass, whilst weighing up to 30 per cent less. The business views the introduction of the glass-plastic composite as a "revolution in safety glass technology", and a response to OEMs' efforts to design ever larger roof systems into vehicle production. The immediate success of the new technology is reflected by its adoption in new models from Mercedes-Benz. Recycling of tyres       Every year Europe generates 2.5 million tonnes of old tyres. Nearly 600,000 tonnes of these originate in Germany, where tyre sales are the highest. Many find their way to a landfill and find little other use. Automotive supplier Continental AG, which is also the manufacturer of Continental tyres in addition to various other automotive sub assemblies, systems and components, has found a new way to recycle old tyres. The group has found a tyre disposal company, Reifen-Entsorgungsgesellschaft mbh, which works with different waste management companies in the area of tyre recycling. As part of the research and development used tyres were shredded, for example, and waste rubber containing metal and fabric reduced to as little as 20 mm in size. Right Light       Good visibility and adequate lighting are vital for safe driving, and especially when it gets dark or the weather turns foul. Fall and winter bring challenges, such as grimy windscreens and dirty headlamps. Wiper systems are constantly switched on and off as leaves, rain and slush come into play. However, it’s not only the view through the windscreen that is impaired by poor road conditions, drivers often underestimate how restricted vision range can be with dirty headlamps on dark roads. This can have a negative effect on reaction time. VDO, which was recently acquired by Continental and has been developing technologies to enable the driver get a better view of the road ahead, has developed a new technology that improves visibility and cleans headlamps. Having a range of products and systems that include heated washer fluid reservoirs and state of the art nozzles, VDO has developed nozzles that clean away the dirt from the headlamps and windscreen with up to 3.5 bar water pressure. Countdown to Auto Expo 2008       Auto Expo 2008 is expected to herald exciting time for the Indian auto industry as well as the ones who aspire to own a vehicle. This show will, for the first time, shed light on India's common man even as it highlights green solutions Sensing solutions for winds of change       Sensing solutions are an integral and important aspect of today's automobile industry, says Prakash Rao Pneumatic trends in automobile industry       Over the past few years, all the successful automobile manufacturers have reduced their supplier basis for vehicle components from several thousand companies to just a few hundred. One-stop solution for auto component manufacturers       The auto component industry in India is poised for a big leap with a lot of new greenfield facilities that are coming up, and also the expansion plans of major automobile manufacturers. Green solutions from Beru       Ludwigsburg-based systems supplier Beru has come up with green solutions for the automobile industry. Ford SYNC heralds new in-car communications technology       Bagging the award from Popular Science magazine as a top new technical innovation of the year, the Ford SYNC is a fully integrated, voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment system that works with most digital media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones Two-stage turbo puts on the pressure       Regulated 2-stage turbocharging from BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems is set to take the US market by storm in the 6.4-litre V8 diesel engine from International and Ford Basotect for Lexus LS       The LS Series is a flagship model of the Lexus range. Part of Toyota Motor Corporation, the Lexus LS provides the high- est level of performance and technology, and the truest expression of luxury of any Lexus ever created. The LS employs BASF's melamine resin foam Basotect TG for engine hood covers. Nanotechnology for environment       Thermoplastics modified by the addition of Nano particles point at new engineering developments that could mark a step towards environment protection Maglev on the Mumbai-Nagpur corridor       Maharashtra is planning to launch a Maglev that will cover the nearly 900 km between Mumbai and Nagpur within three-and-half-hours at a speed of roughly 500 kph. The plan follows railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's remark last year about the possibility of high-speed trains in India. Turbocharging and second generation gasoline direct injection look promising       Gasoline direct injection and turbocharging are modern technologies that promise maximum performance. Bosch has intelligently combined both technologies to give gasoline engines torque and economy at all revolution speeds Audi turns to LED headlamps       German sports car maker, Audi, has turned to LED head lamps for the R8. Since 1992, red LEDs have been used increasingly for high-level brake lights, as well for tail lights and regular brake lights. Delphi's IVT sensor makes more electronics possible       Delphi Corporation's new battery IVT sensor helps ensure optimal battery performance, improving the integrity of a continuously expanding collection of electronics included on automobiles while ensuring sufficient power for starting the engine. Delphi's Battery IVT Sensor precisely measures current (I), voltage (V)... ZF develops automatic 8-speed transmission for passenger cars       The 8-speed auto transmission promises six per cent savings over the second-generation six speed auto transmission Audi starts A6 production in India       Audi has successfully started production for the Indian market of the world's most successful luxury midsize sedan - the Audi A6 - at Aurangabad in Maharashtra. By 2015, when more than 2,000 units of the A6 should be rolling off the line… Smart sensor solution for automotive electronics industry       VTI Technologies, a global market leader of low-g acceleration sensors for automotive industry applications and Cardiac Rhythm Management (CRM), has designed a new automotive digital accelerometer family to support the trend towards intelligent integration and smart sensing combined with improved reliability and sophisticated self-test features. Optimising airbags       Airbags or Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) are used in an automobile for cushioning the occupants against impact in the event of a collision. The airbag was invented by John W. Hetrick of Newport, PA, US in 1952. He patented the device the following year. Ficosa intelligent communications module       Ficosa, together with GMV, has introduced an intelligent communications module for vehicles that improves traffic movement and safety. Sources at Ficosa claim that in the next few years communications between vehicles… Single-nanotechnology prototype catalyst from Mazda       Japanese automaker and a Ford group company, Mazda has announced the development of a new single-nanotech prototype catalyst Contributing towards CO2 reduction       Hirschvogel Automotive Group, de- velopment partner and production specialist for the automotive industry, showcased its know-how in achieving resource-saving mobility with reduced CO2 emission at the IAA in Frankfurt last year. Honda FCX Clarity advanced fuel cell vehicle       Environmental sustainability is influencing technology and developments like never before. A fitting example is the debut of the Honda FCX Clarity concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year. Endress+Hauser & Rockwell partner for process control       Alliance between Endress+Hauser and Rockwell Automation aims at addressing process manufacturing challenges and work towards technologies for next-generation process controls systems AutoForm integrates its technology into Catia V5 Environment       Catia V5 is a leading product development solution for manu facturing organizations from Dassault Systemes. With capabilities that can be applied to a variety of industries such as aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, electrical, electronics, shipbuilding, plant design, and consumer goods... Air filter for the budget-priced space-saving miracle       A car with all the bells and whistles at roughly Euro 8,500 is nothing less than a miracle. Such a miracle was turned into reality by Renault in the form of Dacia Logan (Renault-Mahindra Logan in India). Innovative EGR systems from Mahle       Systems for Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) are increasingly used to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions of internal combustion engines. More stringent emissions legislation indirectly places ever-higher demands on EGR systems, particularly with respect to the quality of control and endurance. Plastics: A look behind the scenes       Whether in a seat, gearbox, induc-tion or exhaust gas re-circula-tion system: polymer plain bearings can be used for a wide variety of applications. Accordingly, automotive design engineers make the most of the associated low-cost, low-friction and long-life properties. In order to provide an overview of the development, testing and production of polymer bearings, the Cologne-based bearing specialist igus GmbH held a national competition. First prize went to Stefan Kopp, design engineer at Siemens VDO in Schwalbach. First, he was taken on a tour of the igus plant. Then he and his wife sped off for the weekend in a Ferrari 360 Modena. A customer success story       Astra Logistics, a Tier One supplier, satisfies auto industry requirements, improves profitability and reduces capital requirements with Exacta LINK Manufacturing Execution Software (MES) "Exacta orchestrates our order entry, production planning and error proofing systems to ensure that we ship the correct products 100% of the time. It performs data analysis and management to ensure all tire and wheel assemblies shipped by Astra meet or exceed the customer's expectations." Electronics outweigh hydraulics       Even though it is still in the proto-type stage, the Siemens VDO Elec-tronic Wedge Brake (EWB) performs better than today's hydraulic braking systems, achieving about 15 per cent shorter braking distances on ice. This was confirmed during tests on roughened ice in Arjeplog, Sweden for a Dekra expert opinion on braking performance. Today's cars decelerate using hydraulic brakes and use electronics to help shorten braking distances and minimize swerving. In a comparison test with four other mid-sized vehicles, a test vehicle equipped with the Electronic Wedge Brake (EWB) achieved noticeably better braking performance without hydraulics. ZF develops new torque vectoring rear axle drive       Safety and improved driving dynamics for all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles is assuming greater priority. In order to meet this challenge ZF has developed a new torque vectoring rear axle drive. When driving straight, the new torque vectoring rear axle drive acts like an ordinary transmission with an open differential: The drive torque is distributed equally among the drive shafts of the wheels. The torque is only distributed individually between both drive shafts during cornering. Fluent for Catia V5 enhances productivity       Version 3.0 of Fluent for Dassault Systemes' Catia V5 software promises workflow enhancements and new features that further improve the integration of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology in the Catia V5 product lifecycle management (PLM) environment Denso high output power control unit and battery cooling system for hybrid vehicles       Denso Corporation has developed a high output power control unit (PCU) and a battery cooling system for hybrid vehicles. The sub assembly, which is installed on the Lexus LS600h and the Lexus LS600hL that were launched in May 2007 by Toyota Motor Corporation, signal a more efficient and compact structure. Escorts launches new series of pick-n-carry cranes       ECEL, subsidiary of Escorts Limited and leader in the Indian Construction and Material handling Equipment Industry, unveiled the TRX Series of Pick-n-Carry Cranes in the 23 T ( TRX 2319 ), 17T ( TRX 1713 ) and 16T ( TRX 1614) category at the EXCON 2007. Cost reduction in handling sheet-metal components       Sheet metal is a critical part of the auto industry, and as standards elevate, the need for better and more efficient systems is on the rise. This applies to various aspects of the sheet metal industry, from the press to the handling equipment. Handling of sheet metal components, especially the skin panels, is an art. Critical sheet metal components like skin panels require specialised gripping systems to arrive at high standards of fit and finish. There are other factors too, which make the consideration of the economic and efficient aspects of vacuum gripping systems for handling sheet-metal parts very important in the auto industry, which is very sensitive to costs as well. New diesel EGR valve for lower emissions       Tightening emission norms is driving manufacturers and suppliers in search of new technologies. With the sale of new generation diesel on the rise and a greater focus on deriving better emission control in diesel engines auto makers are asking for better and more innovative solutions from their suppliers. Although diesels have lower carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline engines, they have the potential to emit more smog-causing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulates. New clean diesel tech from Nissan       Nissan Motor Company has devel-oped a new clean diesel technol-ogy using high-performance catalysts. The technology is claimed to offer great promise and may be able to meet the State of California's standard for super-ultra-low emission vehicles (SULEVs), equivalent to the Tier2Bin2 emissions requirements. While Nissan plans to do further research and development of the clean diesel technology for commercial application in its future products, the technology is structured on three components that work together. Heavy-duty engine platform from Daimler Trucks       DaimlerChrysler has announced a new heavy duty engine plat-form for Daimler Trucks. Andreas Renschler, member of the Daimler Board of Management and Head of the Daimler Trucks Division, and his colleagues, Dr. Michael Dostal, who is responsible for Powertrain Operations & Manufacturing Engineering, and Chris Patterson, who is responsible for the NAFTA Region and the commercial vehicle brands Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star, and Thomas Built Buses, today presented the new Heavy-Duty Engine Platform (HDEP) for the North American market in Detroit, Michigan, US. Orbitz package for automechanika China       automechanika is the world's premier event for automotive parts, equipment and service suppliers. For years it was hosted in Germany and confined to the west. Its magnitude and potential soon reached the Far East and Asia Pacific regions making it imperative to host its Eastern equivalent. Improved efficiency and quality for painting steel       Where steel is used in motorvehicle manufacturing andexposed outdoor areas, protection against corrosion and wear is essential, as are resistance to UV radiation, chemicals, solvents and mechanical stressing, as well as a decorative appearance. Robotised for growth       If the management of the Pune-based Precision Automation Robotics India Limited (PARI) claims to be in an "extremely bullish" mood, let it be made clear that it has nothing to do with stocks and shares. But yes, the words chosen to describe the sentiment are perfect for the occasion. Inertial sensors find increasing use n automobiles       Even if the first application of the Southampton University based sensors will be aimed at improving car safety systems, the sensors could also be used to improve GPS back-up systems, virtual reality systems, inertial navigation and guidance as well as seismology. High temperature identification       Challenges are meant to be conquered. This is how Pepperl+Fuchs solved the problem Delphi MagneRide semi-active suspension for Audi R8       Audi's new R8 road-going sports car, which incorporates the genes of the five-time Le Mans winning race car, becomes yet another Audi after the TT to feature Delphi’s revolutionary MagneRide suspension technology. Launched in Europe earlier this year, the R8’s MagneRide semi-active suspension technology uses magneto-rheological fluid-filled dampers to provide continuously variable real-time suspension damping control. Lane departure warning on BMW 5-Series       BMW launch)ed the new 5 Series early this year and em-bodies all-round enhancement of the dynamic, innovative and sophisticated character of the 5 Series, attractive modifications in design, enhanced style and value within the interior, best-of-class fuel economy in all model variants, trend setting, future-oriented enhancement of comfort and safety features, enhancement of the model’s leading position in the segment and new dimension of efficient dynamics. Plastic Vs metal       Automobiles of today are a com-plex construction. And with every step forward, the complexity in automobiles is only growing. The power output for a given displacement is rising and so are the systems that handle the increased output and torque. Cars weighing as low as 800kg are putting out power in the region of 250-350 hp and enjoy a power-to-weight ratio that is close to defying the laws of nature. Suction pads developed for a car manufacturer       Originally developed for the Japanese car manufacturer Toyota, which uses its own tooling systems with standardised connections in its press shops, the suction pads of the types SABT-C and SAFT-C have now been released for sale on the world market. Greater flexibility in prototype construction       Incremental sheet metal forming at the AUDI AG Pre-series center. Only a small circle of developers and design experts know what the cars of tomorrow will look like. They create vehicles long before they hit the market. The culture of modern safety systems       Every automotive manufacturer should know the culture of modern safety systems, says George Schuster. Automotive manufacturers are un-der constant pressure to provide a safe working environment in their factories without the expense of unnecessary downtime or reduced productivity. Intelligent nutrunning stations at VW       The Emden facility of Volkswagen in Germany where the Passat is made employs Siemen’s intelligent nutrunning stations Konecranes – the ideal lifting partner       Konecranes has now entered the Indian Market with a 100% subsidiary of Konecranes Plc, Finland. Konecranes India Private Limited is a fully operational office representing all products and business areas. THUMS for pedestrian safety simulations       Toyota Motor Corporation and Toyota Central Research & Development Laboratory have been developing THUMS since 1997 Electronic warning system from Siemens VDO       German automotive supplier showcased driver attention system for safety of drowsy or inattentive truckers at the Hannover Commercial Vehicles show New composite solutions and technologies from Polytec Group       Polytec Group exhibited new composite solutions and technologies for reducing the weight of trucks at the Hannover commercial vehicle show. TFT instrument cluster on the new Jaguar XK       The new XK from Jaguar features some outstanding features. TFT instrument cluster is one of them. British automaker, Jaguar selected Visteon Corporation as one of the devlopment partners for its new XK. Visteon partnered with Jag to develop an advanced instrument cluster for the new XK in addition to a few other systems. Slip control boost       TRW Automotive has developed the slip control boost system and steering torque control. TRW Automotive is pursuing new integration opportunities related to electronic stability control (ESC) to provide customers with smaller and lighter systems that yield greater performance and fuel efficiency. PSA with emergency call system       PSA Peugeot Citroën has introduced emergency call system to speed and improve medical assistance. After several months of coopera-tion with the French Interior Ministry's department of public safety (DDSC), PSA Peugeot Citroën has become the first European carmaker with an emergency call system certified to be in compliance with the standards of French road safety organisations. Inertial sensors find increasing use in automobiles       MEMS sensors are increasingly used today to improve performance, reduce cost, and enhance the reliability of the vehicle Need for green products is top environmental issue for Indian manufacturers       Development of ‘green’ or ‘environment-friendly’ products is the most important environmental issue facing manufacturing businesses in India today, according to an international study on sustainability and environmental trends conducted by Harris Interactive for Dow Corning Corporation. Importance of security       With Ethernet assuming greater significance in industrial systems applications there is a growing need for improved security Pedestrian low lift pallet trucks       The huge range of pedestrian-operated low-lift electronic pallet trucks from GEAPL meets a wide diversity of medium-light and heavy horizontal handling requirements. GEA Ecoflex plans new plant near Pune       The Pune facility will manufacture plate heat exchangers to cover the needs of local as well as the global market On new paths to control reliability & safety       Failsafe Simatic controllers in automotive body production from Siemens Not just lifting things, but the entire business       Konecranes India provides productivity-enhancing lifting solutions and services HVOF coating on piston rings       A new and improved process has been developed recently over conventional chrome plating and molybdenum coating. It is HVOF coating Automotive glass       When Henry Ford launched the Model T, windshield was just an option and its function was exclusively to protect car drivers and passengers against wind. Automotive manufacturers these days are continuing to increase the glazing area within cars, in order to emphasise visibility and an open cabin feel. BorgWarner all-wheel drive powers the new Porsche       The new sports car from Porsche employs the innovative all-wheel drive technology from BorgWarner Caparo T1 out in the open       The Caparo T1 aims to surpass the 1000bhp per tonne barrier Lexus LS460 and Denso       System supplier, Denso Corporation, was closely involved with Toyota while developing the Lexus LS460 Smart valve actuation technology       Automotive engine designers are striving to eliminate camshafts from engines altogether EGR cooler from aluminium       Supplier Kolbenschmidt Pierburg AG has developed aluminium EGR cooler Parallel sequential dual stage turbo from Honeywell       New dual stage turbo technology from Honeywell promises to elevate diesel engine technology a step higher Car motors into wheels       Supplier, Siemens VDO Automotive has started eCorner development Economical mobility       New systems for lower running costs, less time off the road and reduced fuel consumption as well as cleaner exhaust gases, improved safety and increased comfort Nano ceramic window films utilise spacecraft technology to offer superior protection        Nano ceramic is the latest technology used in manufactur-ing of heat and sun control films for car windows. Mitsubishi Motors develops two new component systems       Two new component systems that improve dynamics and announce new technology are expected to feature in the new Lancer Evolution, due for launch later this year Camera system for a large number of variants Intelligent camera tests steering wheels in vehicles       In order to be able to cope with the continuing increase in the variety of types in the future and for testing quality-relevant properties of steering wheels in vehicles, a task that previously required considerable efforts in sensors and mechanics Noryl resins join GE Plastics portfolio       Noryl GTX joins GE Plastics’ ecomagination portfolio, which already contains products like Xenoy iQ and Valox iQ resins Direct yaw control torque vectoring is in       Honda launched the Acura RL with torque vectoring systems Others are developing their version Parallel full hybrid Cayenne by 2009       Post announcing that Porsche automobiles would comply with the strict EU5 emission standards starting as early as next year the German sports car maker presented the hybrid version of Cayenne recently. Heatable hose-line module for Carbamide technology       SCR technology is the alternative to modifying the engine in order to comply with current and future diesel exhaust gas values. Key component of the solution is a heatable hose line module The enigmatic world of sensors       Bosch has been at the forefront of automotive electronics. It has been researching in the field of sensors for quite some time now Safety electronics from Delphi       Delphi Corporation displayed its latest commercial vehicle offerings at the IAA Nutzfahrzeuge show at Hannover, Germany Special common-rail with plug-in pumps       Bosch has developed a special common-rail system with plug-in pumps, particularly for off-highway applications, light and medium-sized commercial vehicles Integration of fractal antenna designs       Ficosa and Exatec join hands to integrate fractal antenna designs into polycarbonate automotive glazing systems. Zarges inaugurates Corporate Office in Chennai       Zarges Tubesca Aluminum Systems Pvt Ltd, aleading manufacturer of a wide range of ladders, work platforms, scaffolds, construction access products, logistic equipments, etc., Aiming at zero accidents       Toyota Motor Corporation is aiming at zero accidents, and in the process reassessing its technological prowess Advanced data collection helps automotive supplier cut costs       Transaction manager efficiently logs data and provides critical link between plant floor controllers and enterprise-level database Green and safe with daytime LED       Supplier and aftermarket auto component manufacturer, Hella, has developed new LED daytime running light Mikron delivers world leading fuel injection solutions       Mikron Technology Group is offering innovative solutions to the automotive fuel injection technology sector Rai Automotive Systems A leader in garage equipment       The booming automotive sector in the country also translates in a bur-geoning network of service centres for the millions of wheels on the roads. European conveyor systems from ATS Conveyors India       ATS Conveyors (India), a 100% subsidiary of leading European material handling solution provider ATS Group of France with sister company Hero Foerdertechnik in Germany, has made a strong beginning to the financial year by bagging the orders worth Rs. 120 m Graco’s Technology Tour 2007       Fluid handling equipment specialist, Graco conducted a technology tour in India recently Michelin Pilot Road 2 Two tyres in one       The new two-compound Michelin Pilot Road 2 delivers unrivaled longevity and the best grip on wet roads Dassault Systčmes’ Catia PLM Express for Indian SMBs       The company has put in place an India-centric strategy EOS and MotoCzysz come together       Laser-sintering systems supplier, EOS has joined hands with MotoCzysz to help the latter bring its C1 motorcycle to the world racing stage Noise emissions       In recent years, the comfort and environment consciousness of automotive industry and customers has resulted in a constant reduction of vehicle noise emissions Bearings Industry On a strong growth path       Technology is emerging as a standard bearer of the bearings sector ARB Bearings targets auto and precision machine sectors       Delhi based ARB Bearings is aiming at a leadership position in the bearing industry with focus on the auto and precision machine sectors MEC Bearings on a major expansion drive       Bhiwadi-based MEC Bearings has a major expansion plan up its sleeve New concept from BMW       The sale of convertibles is on a rise in Europe, claim industry sources. Smart-Lock from Gerwah       Smart-Lock from couplings expert, Gerwah, is an innovative approach towards optimum connection Nanotechnology for automobile industry Revolution in the making       Nanotechnology and nanomaterials will influence the design/manufacturing of automobiles by 2015, opines Dr. V.K. Tripathi Umicore and Solvay launch Solvicore       Umicore and Solvay launched Solvicore to develop and supply core technology for fuel cell industry Tata to make "air" engine car in India       The path breaking technology for engines powered by air has Tata interested, amongst many others LMS Test Lab for DaimlerChrysler Buses       The world's largest manufacturer of buses and coaches is using LMS technology for fast-turnaround NVH testing. Lean beyond product management       Rising cost pressures are leading to innovations that enable lean beyond product management BMW's green plant       BMW has started operating the world's first green paint shop Voice control in automobiles       Voice control in automobiles is making life easier behind the wheel by combining hardware and software architectures to make up a single system The thinking roof       Scheduled to go into production in the year 2009, a safety system developed by auto supplier Edscha and Ident Technology for convertible roofs offers a non-contact trap guard Launches galore!       A peek at the various launches that took place last fortnight. Innovative ZF technology on BMW 5 Series