I would like to understand more about what is new with the MEMSIC's MEMS flow sensor design. This technology (heater with two thermopiles on each side) has been around for very long time, and I believe the original patent on this approach has already expired. There are a number of other companies that have released/are releasing natural gas meters based on the exact same approach, with intergrated IC. And I do not think their claim of higher resolution is reflected on their preliminary data sheet, yet.
How do you think this MEMS technology will be perceived by the utility companies? How are the MEMS natural gas meters that have already passed the certifications doing? Any buy-ins from the utility companies?
That's makes sense, Chuck. So what happens is the sensors help automate the collection of usage data while also making that data more accurate. So even if the sensor is more expensive, it ultimately saves dollars.
There are two price advantages, Rob, and both have to do more with operating costs than initial costs. First, utility companies don't want to send people out to read meters and turn meters on and off. That's too costly. Second, utility companies want their readings to be as accurate as possible. A 1% error multiplied by two million meters can be costly.
Is there a price point advantage on this as well, Chuck? With the cost of electronics going down consistently, that might be one of the selling points here.
MEMSIC says that today's electromechanical methods of measuring gas flow are accurate but not well suited to implementation in smart meters with wireless communication capabilities. They also say that previous MEMS-based methods did not have the high resolution that the new sensor offers.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
