Epson Robots to Demonstrate Innovative and Highly Efficient Robotics Solutions For The Factory Automation Industry At ATX West

CARSON, Calif. — January 29, 2018 —Epson Robots will be showcasing unique, innovative, high precision robotics solutions designed for maximum efficiency and productivity for a wide variety of applications in factory automation at the Automation Technology show, ATX West.

The showcase will feature the new T3 All-in-One SCARA robot, the Flexion™ N2 6-Axis robot as well other high precision robots for small parts assembly in industries ranging from automotive and medical development, to lab automation, consumer electronics, electronic components and industrial.

Epson will also lead a discussion on how to get started on automation.

The new T3 All-in-One SCARA robot comes with a built-in controller, a new technology feature that reduces space requirements and simplifies setup at an ultra-low cost. It offers an easy-to-install and fast integration solution perfect for simple applications such as pick and place, assembly, parts handling and dispensing. It is ideal for customers looking to automate their factory without wasting time or money on complex slide-based solutions.

The Flexion N2 6-Axis space-saving robot features the world’s first compact folding arm design which reduces required workspace up to 40 percent compared to standard 6-Axis robots similar in size and payload capability. It meets the increasingly high demands for efficient movement and precise placement and offers a tight-space motion capability for applications in advanced manufacturing that need smaller robots and workcells.

The G6 SCARA robot delivers fast cycle times, perfect for applications that require high speed and/or high precision. It features a high-rigidity arm design, which helps reduce vibration and deliver fast speeds and high precision with no overshoot or ringing. The Max-E envelope design delivers maximum motion range, allowing the robot to do jobs that normally require much larger arms. The smaller footprint translates to less factory space requirements and lower overall factory costs, helping manufacturers to stay competitive.

The C8 6-Axis provides high performance in a slimline design. Compact, yet powerful, with high repeatability and fast cycle times, C8 robots are ideal for demanding applications requiring 6-Axis dexterity. Featuring a compact wrist for efficient motion in tight spaces, a long arm for greater reach, and a compact elbow for optimum workcell layout, these robots have a wide range of motion, so parts can be accessed from virtually any angle.

Center Stage Presentation

Rick Brookshire, Group Product Manager Epson Robots, will present “The Starting Point for Robot Automation: A Beginner’s Tour.” This presentation will serve well as a starting point for those new to automation. Attendees will come away with a good understanding on how to get started with robotics in automation and the key aspects to consider.

ATX East takes place from February 6-8, 2018.

Epson’s presentation takes place on Wednesday February 7 from 1 p.m.-1:45 p.m. on the Center Stage.

Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, Calif., Epson booth 4109

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: Epson America

Saturnian I® Introduces High Tech Carbon Fiber Design In A New Grip Zone® Line Of Sport Balls

PLYMOUTH, Mich. — January 29, 2018 — New! 2018 Spring Outdoor & Active play! Saturnian I® is adding to our ever popular Fun Gripper® sport ball line by launching the new Grip Zone® Carbon Fiber Design Series — Footballs, Soccer Balls and Soft Flying Disc.

Grip Zone Carbon Fiber series includes two size footballs 8.5 inch or 10.5 inch with black Carbon Fiber design composite material and our foam matrix surface that makes this football the easiest to grasp, throw and catch! Perfect spirals every throw. Also comes in an 8 inch Soccer Ball Size (4) and 9 inch Soft Flying Disc. The unique materials make this football non-threatening and safe for team sports or recreational play. Proper hand placement is easy with this unique traditional design! These footballs are very durable and easy to grip with small hands when learning to throw and catch a football. Perfect size balls for family recreation and athletes of all levels.

Suggested retail $14.99 to $24.99

Features:

  • NEW! Carbon Fiber Design By: Saturnian I;
  • Provides excellent ball control;
  • Double-laces;
  • Tactile Grip Zone® covering allows easy throwing and catching;
  • Buytl Bladder provides maximum air retention. Waterproof plays anywhere;
  • Ages: 6 to Adult.

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: Saturnian I Inc.

ascena retail group Announces President Of dressbarn

MAHWAH, N.J. — January 29, 2018 — Ascena Retail Group Inc., announced today that Erin Stern has been promoted to president of Dressbarn.

“Erin brings extraordinary strategic, branding and merchandising capabilities that will complement our current leadership team,” said Gary Muto, president and CEO of ascena Brands. “I’ve known Erin from our work together at ascena, but also when our career paths crossed at Gap Inc. She is an extremely talented leader with a passion for product, brand and our customer.”

Stern spent the majority of her career at Gap Inc. where she held senior leadership roles across multiple product categories. She was also the chief merchant for Juicy Couture and president of bebe Sport. Prior to naming her president of Dressbarn, Stern served as executive vice president-chief merchandising officer for Maurices. Stern received a B.A. degree in Sociology from Tulane University in New Orleans, La.

“It’s always energizing to promote from within, especially with a candidate who has Erin’s drive, tenacity and product expertise,” said David Jaffe, chairman and CEO of the ascena retail group.

“I’m excited to work alongside this talented team,” Stern said. “The combination of this brand’s strong history, combined with its niche in the market, make us uniquely positioned to play a more meaningful role in our customer’s lives.”

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: ascena retail group

Applied DNA, GHCL And Reliance Industries, Launch CertainT® Recycled PET In Bedding Products At New York Home Fashions Week March 2018

STONY BROOK, N.Y. — January 29, 2018 — Applied DNA Sciences Inc. today announced it is collaborating with GHCL Ltd., a global manufacturer of home textiles, and Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL), India’s largest private sector company and the first to feature in Fortune’s Global 500 list of “World’s Largest Corporations,” to launch CertainT® verified recycled PET (rPET) bedding products at New York Home Fashions week, to be held from March 19-22, 2018.

Fully source-verified, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET post-consumer) is the clear plastic best known for packaging bottled water, and is the most widely recycled plastic in the world. GHCL will use Applied DNA’s CertainT platform in connection with PET- and/or recycled PET-blended bed sheets, pillowcases, and shams sold in-store or online in the United States. RIL is collaborating with GHCL and Applied DNA as the preferred fiber-manufacturing partner to use the CertainT platform for authenticity of recycled PET in bed sheets, pillowcases, and shams.

RIL, the largest integrated producer of polyester fibre and yarn in the world, manufacturers the most ecofriendly fibers in the world, Recron® Green Gold fibers and Recron® Green Gold Dope-Dyed (EcoD) Fibers & Tow, which are manufactured via ecofriendly processes of the highest standard. These fibers have been granted the “Global Recycle Standard” from the internationally recognized Control Union Certificates, Netherland.

Hemant Sharma, sector head – Polyester, RIL said: “RIL is the only company that has created a complete circle from creation of PET resin for making bottles, collection of discarded PET bottles, and converting them to Recron Green Gold Eco Friendly Polyester fibres for use by the downstream textile value chain that converts the fibers in to apparel and home textiles.”

Sharma continued: “Recron® Green Gold fibers and tow demonstrate the lowest carbon footprint number and meet the most stringent environmental criteria for being a green fiber. The collaboration with Applied DNA and GHCL for making forensic science based Recron® Green Gold fiber further bolsters our thrust on quality and persuasion for highest standards.”

“Consistent with global sustainability and the circular economy, we provide the first fully source-verified recycled PET bedding product line using CertainT, Applied DNA’s proprietary traceability system that tags, tests, tracks the original r-PET pellets to finished products,” said Manu Kapur, president and CEO, GHCL Home Textiles. “We produce a wide range of synthetic yarns from polyester, viscose and other high-end yarns which now utilize the CertainT system for full traceability. The ability to source and buy CertainT yarns made from verified recycled PET fiber is a unique offering that GHCL can provide to customers globally.”

GHCL operates its home textiles facility in Vapi in the state of Gujarat, India. The facility overseas the production process from spinning to weaving to finished processed fabric, which is then made into duvet sets, sheet sets, comforters, to name a few. As one of the leading manufacturers in home textiles in India, the plant boasts an annual production capacity of 36 million meters of finished fabric per annum. GHCL’s home textile products are predominantly exported worldwide to USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany and other European Union countries as well. On October 25, 2017, GHCL was presented with the Golden Peacock Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance in London.

“CertainT does what no other system can do – we can tag every single fiber and verify them through a defined and secure supply chain through systematic sampling, testing and tracking,” said Dr. James Hayward, president and CEO of Applied DNA. “Momentum with retailers and manufacturers across a variety of textiles is growing; we are pleased to see the CertainT platform and trademark now making its way onto retail shelves this year, giving consumers what they want.”

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: Applied DNA Sciences

PPG Foundation Invests More Than $600,000 In Science And Engineering Programs At 11 Universities In 2017

PITTSBURGH — January 29, 2018 — PPG today announced that the PPG Foundation completed grants totaling more than $600,000 to 11 universities considered premier institutions in the disciplines of polymer science and engineering, chemical engineering, materials science and synthetic organic chemistry. The 2017 grants were made on behalf of PPG’s corporate science and technology function.

The grants supported an array of programs and initiatives, including graduate student fellowships, symposiums and conferences, scholarships, mentorship programs and other initiatives at the following universities:

  • California Polytechnic State University;
  • Carnegie Mellon University;
  • North Dakota State University;
  • Northwestern University;
  • Penn State University;
  • University of Michigan;
  • University of Akron;
  • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign;
  • University of Massachusetts, Amherst;
  • University of Pittsburgh; and
  • University of Wisconsin.

“PPG and the PPG Foundation are committed to supporting the development of the next generation of chemists and engineers, who will create tomorrow’s innovative technologies,” said Mike Makowski, PPG senior research associate.

PPG and the PPG Foundation aim to bring color and brightness to PPG communities around the world. We invested more than $10.5 million in 2017, supporting hundreds of community organizations across 29 countries. By investing in educational opportunities, we help grow today’s skilled workforce and develop tomorrow’s innovators in fields related to coatings and manufacturing. Plus, we empower PPG employees to multiply their impact for causes that are important to them by supporting their volunteer efforts and charitable giving.

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: PPG

Key Patent Behind Game-Changing Dyneema® Force Multiplier Technology Upheld At Highest European Patent Instance

GELEEN, the Netherlands — January 29, 2018 — Royal DSM — a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials — today announces that a key patent of DSM Dyneema, protecting its Dyneema® Force Multiplier Technology will be maintained after a second challenge before the Boards of Appeal of the European Patent Office. This radical innovation platform delivers game-changing materials for soft body armor and hard materials for helmets, vest inserts and vehicle armor. Armor made with Dyneema® Force Multiplier Technology is 30 percent lighter than traditional armor whilst providing the same level of ballistic protection.

An appeal against the patent was filed by Honeywell Inc., after DSM Dyneema already successfully defended this patent EP1699954B1 in opposition proceedings in 2014.

“We are pleased that also after this second challenge, the European Patent Office, rejects the opposition and will maintain the patent with its original granted claims,” said Olivier Janin, vice president ,Marketing & Sales, DSM Dyneema. “The patent cannot be further challenged anymore at the European Patent Office.” Beyond Europe the patent is granted in several other countries of the world including the United States.

Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology has proven to be a game-changer in the life protection field, and is the result of an important investment in research and development dating back over more than ten years. Only due to the company’s unique and massive body of knowledge in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) polymer, UHMWPE fiber, UD chemistry and production technology, DSM Dyneema was able to create this new platform.

Several products within the high-end platform have been highly successful, and DSM Dyneema has captured on the substantial growth potential, and will continue to do so including launching of new products. The importance of Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology has been recognized by a number of DSM Dyneema customers through various awards it has received over the years.

“Since filing this original patent, we have continued our innovation efforts and filed additional patents further protecting this technology,” said Janin.

The confirmed protection for Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology and the newest generation of ultimate strength Dyneema fibers means that DSM Dyneema customers can continue to benefit from the protection of the unique products they source from the company.

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: DSM Dyneema

The Future Of Manufacturing In The U.A.E.

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — January 28, 2018 — The U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council released a new report on the latest developments in the U.A.E.’s manufacturing sector at a high-profile event held in Abu Dhabi Sunday, January 28. Eng. Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri, CEO of SENAAT, and Badr Al-Olama, the Head of the Aerospace Business Unit at Mubadala Investment Company, provided keynote remarks at this exclusive business roundtable luncheon.

U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council President Danny Sebright, highlighted the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council’s new report, titled “Making the Future: The U.A.E.’s Growing Manufacturing Sector.”

Eng. Jamal Al Dhaheri subsequently spoke about the state of the country’s manufacturing sector. He also provided insights into SENAAT’s plans and projects, including the recently inaugurated Ducab Aluminium Company (DAC).

Al Dhaheri said: “SENAAT is a key contributor to Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, strategically developing the Emirate into a global industrial player. As a fast-growing industrial champion with a track record in forging successful partnerships, we are currently managing AED 27.5 billion of industrial assets in metals, F&B, O&G services, and the construction and building materials sector. In line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 & the Abu Dhabi Industrial Development Strategy, we continue to explore multiple investment plans and strategic projects and we look forward to strengthening ties with the international investment community in this journey.”

Badr Al-Olama, who also leads the organizing committee for the Global Industrialization and Manufacturing Summit (GMIS), then shared his thoughts on the future of U.A.E. manufacturing. “The U.A.E. is a story of transformation,” Al-Olama said. “With strong leadership, and a continued focus on long-term goals, our advanced manufacturing sector is set to share a quarter of the national GDP in the very near future. Growth in manufacturing is encouraging greater investment in developing specialist skills and promoting wider societal sustainability initiatives across the country.”

Al-Olama also discussed the role that Mubadala plays in this industrial transformation and on wider U.A.E. society. “At Mubadala, we believe that manufacturing, ultimately, has a transformative impact on society — by creating an agile economy that offers high-value employment opportunities that are more resilient to market dynamics.”

Following these keynote remarks, Al Dhaheri and Al-Olama engaged in a thoughtful discussion with senior-level attendees about the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the impact of 3-D printing, automation, and artificial intelligence on industry. Finally, they discussed opportunities and challenges to manufacturing in the U.A.E. and provided detailed advice to companies considering establishing operations there.

Sebright concluded the event by stressing the wide range of opportunities the U.A.E.’s manufacturing sector provides for U.S. companies and investors. “This new report and today’s event demonstrate that the prospects for U.A.E. manufacturing are bright,” Sebright said. “There are substantial opportunities for U.S. companies who are considering establishing manufacturing operations in the U.A.E. or exploring commercial relationships with U.A.E. manufacturers.”

Posted January 29, 2018

Source: U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council

DICK’S Sporting Goods Celebrates Employee Roster Of 11 Team USA Winter Olympians

PITTSBURGH — January 26, 2018 — DICK’S Sporting Goods, the official sporting goods retail sponsor of Team USA, announced today its official roster of athletes from its Contenders program who have successfully qualified for the 2018 Olympic Winter Games.

In total, 11 participants in the Company’s Contenders program, which supports U.S. Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls with flexible job scheduling and a highly competitive wage, have qualified for Team USA thus far. More than 30 percent of the 36 Team USA Olympic winter hopefuls participating in DICK’S Contenders program will be competing in the Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang.

Additionally, five of the seven U.S. Paralympic athletes who are part of the Company’s Contenders employment program are still competing to earn a spot on Team USA.

“We’re proud to be a leading employer of Team USA athletes, supporting hundreds of hopefuls during all phases of their Olympic and Paralympic journeys,” said Lauren Hobart, president, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “The fact that such a large number of our employees qualified for Team USA gives us confidence that our Contenders program is successful in giving these inspiring athletes the extra support they need to help achieve their dreams. We look forward to watching their incredible accomplishments continue in PyeongChang.”

DICK’S announced the multi-faceted Team USA partnership in 2015, which includes the in-store employment program, sporting goods and equipment donations to the U.S. Olympic Training Centers and sponsorships to Team USA hopefuls to help them pursue their Olympic and Paralympic dreams. Since inception, more than 250 Team USA hopefuls have been employed by DICK’S.

“The Contenders program from DICK’S Sporting Goods makes a real difference for Team USA, offering flexible employment for athletes as they train for the chance to compete at the Olympic or Paralympic Winter Games,” said Lisa Baird, USOC CMO. “Fans of Team USA all over the country are looking forward to cheering these amazing athletes on in PyeongChang.”

The roster of DICK’S Sporting Goods Contenders who have qualified for the 2018 Olympic Winter Games includes:

Alex Rigsby, Ice Hockey – Competing in her first Olympic Winter Games as a goalie for Team USA Women’s Hockey. Before enrolling at the University of Wisconsin and playing on their women’s hockey team, Alex played on men’s teams from the age of five through high school.

Carlijn Schoutens, Long Track Speedskating – A dual citizen of the United States and Netherlands, Carlijn Schoutens is a short-track speedskater competing in the Olympic Winter Games for the first time. Off the ice, Carlijn is enrolled in school at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to become a doctor.

John Shuster, Curling – A 2006 Olympic Bronze medalist, John Shuster is competing in his fourth Olympic Winter Games for Team USA as the skip of his curling team. He credits his employment at DICK’S with assisting him with family expenses.

Jessika Jenson, Snowboard – Coming off a 13th place finish in the 2014 Games in Sochi, Jessika is hoping to win her first Olympic medal in PyeongChang. In addition to her work in the Contenders program, Jessika sells her own line of neck warmers to support her Olympic journey.

 

FULL ROSTER
First Name Last Name Sport Hometown Store Location
Hakeem Abdul-Saboor Bobsled Powhatan, Va. Burlington, Vt.
Cory Christensen Curling Duluth, Minn. Minnetonka, Minn.
Kimani Griffin Speedskating Winston Salem, N.C. Midvale, Utah
Rebecca Lynn Hamilton Curling McFarland, Wis. East Madison, Wis.
Jessika Jenson Snowboard Rigby, Idaho Pocatello, Idaho
Briauna Jones Bobsled* Charlotte, N.C. Charlotte, N.C.
Alex Rigsby Ice Hockey Delafield, Wis. West Madison, Wis.
Carlijn Schoutens Speedskating Heemstede, the Netherlands Midvale, Utah
John Shuster Curling Chisholm, Minn. Duluth, Minn.
Jerica Tandiman Speedskating Kearns, Utah Midvale, Utah
Aaron Tran Short Track Speedskating Seattle, Wash. Midvale, Utah
*Alternate

 

Details on the DICK’S Sporting Goods Contenders who have qualified to make the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games will follow at a later date once the U.S. Paralympic Team roster is officially announced.

Posted January 28, 2018

Source: DICK’S Sporting Goods

Xerium Names Harald Weimer President Of Xerium Technologies, Inc.’s Europe Organization

YOUNGSVILLE, N.C. — January 26, 2018 — Mark Staton, president and CEO of Xerium Technologies Inc., a global provider of industrial consumable products and services, announced today the hiring of Harald Weimer as Xerium’s president of Europe. Weimer will be based out of the Company’s Reutlingen, Germany, facility and will be responsible for guiding the European operations to sustainable growth following the completion of the Company’s primary repositioning projects.

Staton said: “We are very excited to have Harald join Xerium to lead our European organization. Harald is a seasoned leader and has demonstrated the ability to unlock growth and develop new markets and products within the confines of a streamlined platform. With Harald’s addition, Dave Pretty will transition his European responsibilities while maintaining his role as president of North America. This transition gives us single-point regional leadership across the globe and permits Harald and Dave to focus 100-percent of their efforts on further improvements in their important regions.”

Weimer said: “I am honored to accept this opportunity to lead Xerium in Europe and the broader EMEA region. I look forward to working with the global leadership team and my European colleagues to continue delivering high quality products and services that exceed customer expectations. It is my goal to ensure we leverage our industry-leading know-how into disciplined revenue growth through our existing customers and through new opportunities.”

Harald Weimer Background Highlights

  • 25 years of sales, technical, operational, managerial and executive leadership experience;
  • Seasoned international leader with experience residing and operating in Europe, Mexico and the United States;
  • Many years of full P&L responsibility with functional leadership experiences including manufacturing, project management, business development, sales and marketing;
  • 19 years of progressive leadership responsibilities with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen;
  • Most recently held the position of Executive Board Member, Sales and Services, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen;
  • Prior to Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, held leadership positions at Xerox; and
  • Degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Applied Sciences for Technology, Esslingen. Focus on Production & Automation Technology and Technical Sales & Sales Communication.

Posted January 26, 2018

Source: Xerium Technologies

Ewoldsen Named President Of Johnston & Murphy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — January 26, 2018 — Genesco Inc. announced today that Danny Ewoldsen has been named president of the Company’s Johnston & Murphy division, effective February 4, 2018.

A 15-year veteran of Johnston & Murphy, Ewoldsen most recently served as executive vice president, Retail and eCommerce. As president, he will expand his responsibilities to include the division’s wholesale and retail operations. Ewoldsen will report to Jon Caplan, senior vice president of Genesco and CEO, Johnston & Murphy and Genesco Branded Group.

“Danny has been instrumental in successfully driving change through Johnston & Murphy’s direct to consumer businesses,” Caplan said. “His focus on ensuring our organization provides the very best customer service regardless of where and how our customer shops, along with his passion for developing and mentoring high performing teams and approach to overall brand management will build on the Johnston & Murphy legacy and continue the positive momentum we have established over the recent years.  Our past has been exceptional, but I am confident that our future is even brighter.”

Posted January 26, 2018

Source: Genesco Inc.

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