Design made easy goes on show at the University of York
Posted on 5 January 2005
Computer technology, that is revolutionising the design of products ranging from footwear to toys, is to be demonstrated at the University of York.
A workshop, organised by the University's Advanced ICT Training Initiative, will give businesses, schools, colleges and the health sector the opportunity to try out a haptic device, enabling users to touch and manipulate virtual objects (in 3D) or to control robotic hardware in a semi-virtual way. Visitors will also be able to see a 3D printer in action.
Similar to a traditional joystick, the haptic device has a built-in force feedback to simulate the resistance experienced when hitting objects making it possible to track and co-ordinate movements with mathematical precision.
Experts from manufacturers, SensAble will attend the event on 20 January to answer questions about the device. Techsoft will also be attending to demonstrate their Dimension 3D printer which produces parts by extruding molten ABS plastic to create solid plastic objects that can be handled and used.
Programme Manager Amanda Selvaratnam said: "The workshop is open to everyone as part of our computer-aided design course and is a fantastic opportunity for businesses in the York and North Yorkshire area to see and try out this cutting edge technology.
[This] is a fantastic opportunity for businesses in the York and North Yorkshire area to see and try out this cutting edge technology
Amanda Selvaratnam
"We are hoping it will answer everybody's questions about this exciting technology. Many small businesses are saying it is worth investing in this type of virtual modelling which does away with a lot of maths and speeds up prototype development time."
The event will take place in the Atrium of the Biosciences building in the University of York's Department of Biology between 12.30pm and 5pm on 20 January.
The workshop will be run on a drop-in basis. Contact Carolyn Jones on 01904 328768 or email cmj4@york.ac.uk giving a rough idea of the time you would prefer to attend. Wine will be served for anyone attending after 4pm.
Notes to editors:
- Photocall: 12 noon, 20 January. Biosciences Building. Photographers and cameramen should report to Reception and ask for Amanda Selvaratnam.
- SensAble Technologies is a leading provider of 3D touch-enabled digital solutions for commercial software development, academic and commercial research, and product design. More information at www.sensable.com
- Haptic application development customers include Boeing, CSIRO, General Electric, KAIST, MIT, NTT Research Lab, Sandia National Labs, Stanford University, Tokyo University, University of Glasgow, University of Hong Kong, University of North Carolina, and University of Siena.
- More information on the Techsoft 3D Printer at www.techsoftuk.co.uk/DIMENSION.htm
- The University of York's Advanced ICT Training Initiative provides new opportunities for companies to access the University's wealth of expertise. Its training packages provide around 30 hours of workshops and seminars in purpose-designed facilities followed by access to tutor support for a further three months.
- The Advanced ICT Training Initiative is supported by the Learning and Skills Council, using funds from Yorkshire Forward and in partnership with Science City York and the White Rose University Consortium.