  Remember discussing what you wanted to be when you grew up? A firefighter? A doctor? (Yes, we still have those discussions.) LEGO's new MINDSTORMS set could get today's kids shouting that they want to be robotics engineers. Targeted for the 11 years and up group, the system's heart is the RCX, an autonomous microcomputer that can be programmed from a PC. The RCX processes data, based on input from light and touch sensors, and signals the motors to turn on and off. An LCD display on the module identifies the current program in operation and indicates the sensor readings. A CD carries the RCX Code programming software, and a supplied infrared transmitter system transfers the data from the PC to the RCX module. The basic set also includes more than 700 LEGO pieces, gears and the Constructopedia building guide. Expansion sets include RoboSports and Extreme Creatures. RoboSports allows young engineers to design robots that can shoot hoops, flick pucks and dart through obstacle courses; Extreme Creatures encourages the construction of robots that mimic the movement and behavior of a broad range of beasties. All parts are fully compatible with components from other LEGO sets, which further expands the design possibilities for engineers (and the kids for whom the set was, ostensibly, originally purchased). Circle 400.
Originally published in the November 1998 issue of designfax.
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To help meet emissions legislation for
diesel-powered vehicles, Lucas Control Systems has developed a fast-responding electric
EGR valve that could contribute to increased performance and total lifecycle costs in the
heavy truck industry. A self-cleaning rotary sleeve valve, driven by a brushless torque
actuator, offers faster, more accurate control of the exhaust gas intake, enabling engines
to meet both current and future stringent emissions legislation. By applying a rotary
design, the valve wipes away exhaust residue as it cycles, preventing valve-clogging
build-up that would otherwise reduce response time and place a strain on the actuator. An
aerodynamic profile, developed through CFD modeling, helps in achieving a more balanced
vane, which allows a low consumption solenoid to be used. The profile also helps precisely
position the rotary vane and accurately control the gas flow. Typical response times for
the solenoid are <50 ms, compared with pneumatic EGR response times of >200 ms.
Intensive test trials indicated that the EEGR valve offered greatly improved longevity in
all diesel applications, particularly in larger, high gas-flow engines. In low-flow
regions, the valve has greater resolution and linearity than standard, pintle-type EGR
valves. The valve has a mean effective area of 507mm2, and 12 and 24 volt
versions will be available. Circle 401. 