The ERDP Remote Drive from PHD Inc. electrically powers pneumatic grippers, clamps, and short-travel linear actuators, independent of factory air systems. Unlike a conventional pneumatic system, the remote drive and attached actuators form a closed-loop system with no air exhausted during operation.

Spherical air bearing systems are commonly used to test the attitude control systems of small satellites. The frictionless nature of the spherical air bearing makes it easy to simulate a zero-gravity environment, allowing the satellite’s pitch, roll, and yaw control systems to function as they would in space without cumbersome and expensive test simulations.

DETROIT, MI—General Motors announced today that its GM Energy unit is offering electric vehicle (EV) owners a home storage solution to capture and transfer solar energy, as part of its broader strategy to attract potential EV buyers. 

SOUTHFIELD, MI—Dürr has introduced a new iteration of its GigaCoater system for automated manufacturing of battery electrodes.

WASHINGTON—A report issued by the Aviation Supply Chain Integrity Coalition today outlined new measures to prevent unapproved parts from entering the aviation supply chain.

HORSEHEADS, NY—Siemens Mobility is investing $60 million to build a new assembly plant here to make its American Pioneer 220 high-speed train. 

RENTON, WA—Talks resumed Monday with federal mediators, but no significant progress was made. 

WASHINGTON—Boeing had already notified affected 737 operators of a rudder issue in August, and the FAA emphasized that existing automated checks can detect rudder limitations before landing.

XIAOLAN, China—Comau has designed and deployed a flexible body-in-white (BIW) manufacturing line for JMC Ford’s assembly plant here, which produces high-end pickup trucks. 

SPRING HILL, TN—Around 1,000 workers at Ultium Cells’ battery assembly plant here joined the United Auto Workers in September after a majority signed union cards.