• Exciting news for space enthusiasts! A small, innovative company is stepping up to challenge the legendary Moonwatch with a groundbreaking new watch designed specifically for space exploration! This amazing timepiece is 3D-printed, lightweight, and perfectly engineered for Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVAs) and repairs on the International Space Station (ISS). Imagine having a watch that can withstand the harshest environments known to humanity while keeping impeccable time! The future is bright, and innovation knows no bounds! Let's dream big and reach for the stars!

    #SpaceExploration #Innovation #Timepiece #Moonwatch #AstronautLife
    🌟✨ Exciting news for space enthusiasts! 🚀 A small, innovative company is stepping up to challenge the legendary Moonwatch with a groundbreaking new watch designed specifically for space exploration! 🌌🎉 This amazing timepiece is 3D-printed, lightweight, and perfectly engineered for Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVAs) and repairs on the International Space Station (ISS). ⏱️✨ Imagine having a watch that can withstand the harshest environments known to humanity while keeping impeccable time! 🕒💪 The future is bright, and innovation knows no bounds! Let's dream big and reach for the stars! 🌠🔭 #SpaceExploration #Innovation #Timepiece #Moonwatch #AstronautLife
    This New Watch Is Being Purpose-Built for Space Exploration—and It's Not an Omega
    A small company is vying to take on the Moonwatch with a cutting-edge, 3D-printed lightweight timepiece that's fit for EVAs, can be fixed on the ISS, and capable of keeping time in the harshest environment known to humans.
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  • At last, physicists at the University of Liège have cracked the code: water landscapes created with 3D printing! Because why enjoy a simple drink when you can have a miniature ocean on your table? Forget about the days of just swimming in water; now we can marvel at the aesthetic pleasure of tiny, printed spines dancing on the surface. Who knew physics could be so… artistic? Next up, they'll probably figure out how to print clouds into our living rooms. Get ready for some very confused houseplants.

    #3DPrinting #WaterLandscapes #PhysicsArt #UniversityOfLiege #InnovativeScience
    At last, physicists at the University of Liège have cracked the code: water landscapes created with 3D printing! Because why enjoy a simple drink when you can have a miniature ocean on your table? Forget about the days of just swimming in water; now we can marvel at the aesthetic pleasure of tiny, printed spines dancing on the surface. Who knew physics could be so… artistic? Next up, they'll probably figure out how to print clouds into our living rooms. Get ready for some very confused houseplants. #3DPrinting #WaterLandscapes #PhysicsArt #UniversityOfLiege #InnovativeScience
    Físicos de la Universidad de Lieja crean paisajes líquidos gracias a la impresión 3D
    ¿Y si pudiéramos convertir el agua en un paisaje? Físicos de la Universidad de Lieja, en Bélgica, en colaboración la Universidad Brown (EE.UU.), lo han logrado. A partir de espinas milimétricas impresas en 3D, consiguieron manipular la superficie del
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  • Have you ever imagined a world where glass is 3D printed at room temperature? It sounds like a dream, but it's becoming a reality! The versatility of glass is truly remarkable, offering us transparency, chemical resistance, and the ability to recycle.

    As we explore the fascinating realm of 3D printing with glass, we unlock endless possibilities for innovation. Imagine the applications, from stunning art pieces to advanced tech solutions! Let's embrace this exciting future and be inspired by what we can create together!

    Keep dreaming big and pushing the boundaries! The only limit is our imagination!

    #3DPrinting #GlassInnovation #Sustainability #CreativeFuture #Inspiration
    🌟 Have you ever imagined a world where glass is 3D printed at room temperature? 🌈 It sounds like a dream, but it's becoming a reality! The versatility of glass is truly remarkable, offering us transparency, chemical resistance, and the ability to recycle. 💚✨ As we explore the fascinating realm of 3D printing with glass, we unlock endless possibilities for innovation. Imagine the applications, from stunning art pieces to advanced tech solutions! 🚀 Let's embrace this exciting future and be inspired by what we can create together! 💪💖 Keep dreaming big and pushing the boundaries! The only limit is our imagination! #3DPrinting #GlassInnovation #Sustainability #CreativeFuture #Inspiration
    Impresión 3D de vidrio a temperatura ambiente: ¿mito o realidad?
    El vidrio es un material que nos rodea en nuestro día a día y que se encuentra en múltiples formas. Presenta características muy interesantes para numerosas aplicaciones: transparencia, inercia química, aislamiento eléctrico, resistencia al calor y r
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  • Ah, the glorious return of the zine! Because nothing says "I’m hip and in touch with the underground" quite like a DIY pamphlet that screams “I have too much time on my hands.” WIRED has graciously gifted us with a step-by-step guide on how to create your very own zine titled “How to Win a Fight.”

    Print. Fold. Share. Download. Sounds easy, right? The process is so straightforward that even your grandma could do it—assuming she’s not too busy mastering TikTok dances. But let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer audacity of needing instructions for something as inherently chaotic as making a zine. It’s like needing a manual to ride a bike… but the bike is on fire, and you’re trying to escape a rabid raccoon.

    In the age of high-tech everything, where our phones can tell us the weather on Mars and remind us to breathe, we’re now apparently in desperate need of a physical booklet that offers sage advice on how to “win a fight.” Because nothing screams “I’m a mature adult” quite like settling disputes via pamphlet. Maybe instead of standing up for ourselves, we should just hand our opponents a printed foldable and let them peruse our literary genius.

    And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor here! The last time a majority of us saw a zine was in 1999—back when flip phones were the pinnacle of technology and the biggest fight we faced was over who got control of the TV remote. Now, we’re being whisked back to those simpler times, armed only with a printer and a fierce desire to assert our dominance through paper cuts.

    But hey, if you’ve never made a zine, or you’ve simply forgotten how to do it since the dawn of the millennium, WIRED’s got your back! They’ve turned this into a social movement, where amateur philosophers can print, fold, and share their thoughts on how to engage in fights. Because why have a conversation when you can battle with paper instead?

    Let’s be honest: this is all about making “fighting” a trendy topic again. Who needs actual conflict resolution when you can just hand out zines like business cards? Imagine walking into a bar, someone bumps into you, and instead of a punch, you just slide them a zine. “Here’s how to win a fight, buddy. Chapter One: Don’t.”

    So, if you feel like embracing your inner 90s kid and channeling your angst into a creative outlet, jump on this zine-making bandwagon. Who knows? You might just win a fight—against boredom, at least.

    #ZineCulture #HowToWinAFight #DIYProject #NostalgiaTrip #WIRED
    Ah, the glorious return of the zine! Because nothing says "I’m hip and in touch with the underground" quite like a DIY pamphlet that screams “I have too much time on my hands.” WIRED has graciously gifted us with a step-by-step guide on how to create your very own zine titled “How to Win a Fight.” Print. Fold. Share. Download. Sounds easy, right? The process is so straightforward that even your grandma could do it—assuming she’s not too busy mastering TikTok dances. But let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer audacity of needing instructions for something as inherently chaotic as making a zine. It’s like needing a manual to ride a bike… but the bike is on fire, and you’re trying to escape a rabid raccoon. In the age of high-tech everything, where our phones can tell us the weather on Mars and remind us to breathe, we’re now apparently in desperate need of a physical booklet that offers sage advice on how to “win a fight.” Because nothing screams “I’m a mature adult” quite like settling disputes via pamphlet. Maybe instead of standing up for ourselves, we should just hand our opponents a printed foldable and let them peruse our literary genius. And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor here! The last time a majority of us saw a zine was in 1999—back when flip phones were the pinnacle of technology and the biggest fight we faced was over who got control of the TV remote. Now, we’re being whisked back to those simpler times, armed only with a printer and a fierce desire to assert our dominance through paper cuts. But hey, if you’ve never made a zine, or you’ve simply forgotten how to do it since the dawn of the millennium, WIRED’s got your back! They’ve turned this into a social movement, where amateur philosophers can print, fold, and share their thoughts on how to engage in fights. Because why have a conversation when you can battle with paper instead? Let’s be honest: this is all about making “fighting” a trendy topic again. Who needs actual conflict resolution when you can just hand out zines like business cards? Imagine walking into a bar, someone bumps into you, and instead of a punch, you just slide them a zine. “Here’s how to win a fight, buddy. Chapter One: Don’t.” So, if you feel like embracing your inner 90s kid and channeling your angst into a creative outlet, jump on this zine-making bandwagon. Who knows? You might just win a fight—against boredom, at least. #ZineCulture #HowToWinAFight #DIYProject #NostalgiaTrip #WIRED
    Print. Fold. Share. Download WIRED's How to Win a Fight Zine Here
    Never made a zine? Haven’t made one since 1999? We made one, and so can you.
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  • Hello, wonderful people! Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible advancements happening in the world of 3D printing, especially highlighted at the recent Paris Air Show!

    What an exciting week it has been for the additive manufacturing industry! The #3DExpress has been buzzing with news, showcasing how innovation and creativity are taking flight together! The Paris Air Show is not just a platform for the latest planes; it’s a stage for groundbreaking technologies that promise to revolutionize our future!

    Imagine a world where designing and producing complex aircraft parts becomes not only efficient but also sustainable! The use of 3D printing is paving the way for a greener future, reducing waste and making manufacturing more accessible than ever before. The possibilities are endless, and it’s invigorating to witness how these technologies can transform entire industries! 💪🏽

    During the show, we saw some amazing demonstrations of 3D printed components that are not only lightweight but also incredibly strong. This is a game-changer for aerospace engineering! Every layer printed brings us closer to smarter, more efficient air travel, and who wouldn’t want to be part of that journey?

    Let’s not forget the talented minds behind these innovations! The engineers, designers, and creators are the true superheroes, pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation to dream bigger! Their passion and dedication remind us that with hard work and determination, we can reach for the stars!

    If you’ve ever doubted the power of creativity and technology, let this be your reminder: the future is bright, and we have the tools to shape it! So, let’s stay curious, keep pushing forward, and embrace every opportunity that comes our way! Together, we can soar to new heights!

    Let’s keep the conversation going about how #3D printing and additive manufacturing can change our world. What are your thoughts on these incredible innovations? Share your ideas and let’s inspire each other!

    #3DPrinting #Innovation #ParisAirShow #AdditiveManufacturing #FutureOfFlight
    🌟✨ Hello, wonderful people! Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible advancements happening in the world of 3D printing, especially highlighted at the recent Paris Air Show! 🚀🎉 What an exciting week it has been for the additive manufacturing industry! The #3DExpress has been buzzing with news, showcasing how innovation and creativity are taking flight together! 🌈✈️ The Paris Air Show is not just a platform for the latest planes; it’s a stage for groundbreaking technologies that promise to revolutionize our future! Imagine a world where designing and producing complex aircraft parts becomes not only efficient but also sustainable! 🌍💚 The use of 3D printing is paving the way for a greener future, reducing waste and making manufacturing more accessible than ever before. The possibilities are endless, and it’s invigorating to witness how these technologies can transform entire industries! 💪🏽✨ During the show, we saw some amazing demonstrations of 3D printed components that are not only lightweight but also incredibly strong. This is a game-changer for aerospace engineering! 🛠️🔧 Every layer printed brings us closer to smarter, more efficient air travel, and who wouldn’t want to be part of that journey? 🌟🌍 Let’s not forget the talented minds behind these innovations! The engineers, designers, and creators are the true superheroes, pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation to dream bigger! 💖🔭 Their passion and dedication remind us that with hard work and determination, we can reach for the stars! 🌟 If you’ve ever doubted the power of creativity and technology, let this be your reminder: the future is bright, and we have the tools to shape it! So, let’s stay curious, keep pushing forward, and embrace every opportunity that comes our way! Together, we can soar to new heights! 🚀💖 Let’s keep the conversation going about how #3D printing and additive manufacturing can change our world. What are your thoughts on these incredible innovations? Share your ideas and let’s inspire each other! 🌈✨ #3DPrinting #Innovation #ParisAirShow #AdditiveManufacturing #FutureOfFlight
    #3DExpress: La fabricación aditiva en el Paris Air Show
    ¿Qué ha ocurrido esta semana en la industria de la impresión 3D? En el 3DExpress de hoy te ofrecemos un resumen rápido con las noticias más destacadas de los últimos días. En primer lugar, el Paris Air Show es esta…
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  • Ah, the magical world of 3D printing! Who would have thought that the secrets of crafting quality cosplay props could be unlocked with just a printer and a little patience? It’s almost like we’re living in a sci-fi movie, but instead of flying cars and robot servants, we get to print our own Spider-Man masks and Thor's hammers. Because, let’s face it, who needs actual craftsmanship when you have a 3D printer and a dash of delusion?

    Picture this: You walk into a convention, proudly wearing your freshly printed Spider-Man mask—its edges rough and its colors a little off, reminiscent of the last time you tried your hand at a DIY project. You can almost hear the gasps of admiration from fellow cosplayers, or maybe that’s just them trying to suppress their laughter. But hey, you saved a ton of time with that “minimal post-processing”! Who knew that “minimal” could also mean “looks like it was chewed up by a printer that’s had one too many?”

    And let’s not forget about Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir. Because nothing says “God of Thunder” quite like a clunky piece of plastic that could double as a doorstop. The best part? You can claim it’s a unique interpretation of Asgardian craftsmanship. Who needs authenticity when you have the power of 3D printing? Just make sure to avoid any actual thunder storms—after all, we wouldn’t want your new prop to melt in the rain, or worse, have it be mistaken for a water gun!

    Now, if you’re worried about how long it takes to print your masterpiece, fear not! You can always get lost in the mesmerizing whirl of the printer’s head, contemplating the deeper meaning of life while waiting for hours to see if your creation will actually resemble the image you downloaded from the internet. Spoiler alert: it probably won’t, but that’s part of the fun, right?

    Oh, and let’s not forget the joy of explaining to your friends that you “crafted” these pieces with care, while they’re blissfully unaware that you merely pressed a few buttons and hoped for the best. After all, why invest time in traditional crafting techniques when you can embrace the magic of technology?

    So, grab your 3D printer and let your imagination run wild! Who needs actual skills when you can print your dreams, layer by layer, with a side of mediocre results? Just remember, in the world of cosplay, it’s not about the journey; it’s about how many likes you can get on that Instagram post of you holding your half-finished Thor’s hammer like it’s the Holy Grail of cosplay.

    #3DPrinting #CosplayProps #SpiderMan #ThorsHammer #DIYDelusions
    Ah, the magical world of 3D printing! Who would have thought that the secrets of crafting quality cosplay props could be unlocked with just a printer and a little patience? It’s almost like we’re living in a sci-fi movie, but instead of flying cars and robot servants, we get to print our own Spider-Man masks and Thor's hammers. Because, let’s face it, who needs actual craftsmanship when you have a 3D printer and a dash of delusion? Picture this: You walk into a convention, proudly wearing your freshly printed Spider-Man mask—its edges rough and its colors a little off, reminiscent of the last time you tried your hand at a DIY project. You can almost hear the gasps of admiration from fellow cosplayers, or maybe that’s just them trying to suppress their laughter. But hey, you saved a ton of time with that “minimal post-processing”! Who knew that “minimal” could also mean “looks like it was chewed up by a printer that’s had one too many?” And let’s not forget about Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir. Because nothing says “God of Thunder” quite like a clunky piece of plastic that could double as a doorstop. The best part? You can claim it’s a unique interpretation of Asgardian craftsmanship. Who needs authenticity when you have the power of 3D printing? Just make sure to avoid any actual thunder storms—after all, we wouldn’t want your new prop to melt in the rain, or worse, have it be mistaken for a water gun! Now, if you’re worried about how long it takes to print your masterpiece, fear not! You can always get lost in the mesmerizing whirl of the printer’s head, contemplating the deeper meaning of life while waiting for hours to see if your creation will actually resemble the image you downloaded from the internet. Spoiler alert: it probably won’t, but that’s part of the fun, right? Oh, and let’s not forget the joy of explaining to your friends that you “crafted” these pieces with care, while they’re blissfully unaware that you merely pressed a few buttons and hoped for the best. After all, why invest time in traditional crafting techniques when you can embrace the magic of technology? So, grab your 3D printer and let your imagination run wild! Who needs actual skills when you can print your dreams, layer by layer, with a side of mediocre results? Just remember, in the world of cosplay, it’s not about the journey; it’s about how many likes you can get on that Instagram post of you holding your half-finished Thor’s hammer like it’s the Holy Grail of cosplay. #3DPrinting #CosplayProps #SpiderMan #ThorsHammer #DIYDelusions
    How to 3D print cosplay props: From Spider-Man masks to Thor's hammer
    Start crafting quality cosplay props with minimal post-processing.
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  • Hello, amazing friends! Today, I am absolutely thrilled to share an extraordinary breakthrough in the world of medical science that is sure to inspire all of us!

    Imagine a child, full of dreams and laughter, facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Now, picture a groundbreaking innovation that not only transforms lives but also brings hope and joy back into the heart of a family! This is exactly what the pioneering achievement of the first-ever complete femur transplant printed in 3D for a pediatric patient represents!

    In our latest edition of #3DExpress, we celebrate this remarkable milestone where technology and compassion intersect! The power of 3D printing is revolutionizing medicine, making the impossible possible. This incredible prosthesis wasn’t just designed; it was tailored specifically for a young hero who needed it the most. The precision and customization that 3D printing allows means that every single detail is crafted to fit perfectly, ensuring comfort and functionality. How amazing is that?

    This isn't just a medical achievement; it's a story of resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of innovation! It reminds us that every challenge faced can lead to solutions we once thought were out of reach. As we follow the journey of this young patient, we are reminded of the strength of community and the power of support. Together, we can uplift each other, foster creativity, and inspire breakthroughs that change lives!

    Let's take a moment to appreciate the brilliant minds working tirelessly in the fields of medicine and technology. Their dedication and ingenuity are paving the way for a brighter future where all children can thrive, free from limitations! This is not just about science; it's about hope, possibilities, and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow!

    So, to every innovator, dreamer, and believer out there, keep pushing boundaries! The world needs your light! Let’s celebrate this wonderful achievement and continue to spread positivity and support for those who are working to make the world a better place, one innovation at a time!

    Together, we can build a future filled with hope and healing, where every child can dance, run, and play without fear! Let’s keep the momentum going!

    #3DPrinting #MedicalInnovation #HopeAndHealing #ChildrensHealth #Inspiration
    🎉✨ Hello, amazing friends! Today, I am absolutely thrilled to share an extraordinary breakthrough in the world of medical science that is sure to inspire all of us! 💖🚀 Imagine a child, full of dreams and laughter, facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Now, picture a groundbreaking innovation that not only transforms lives but also brings hope and joy back into the heart of a family! This is exactly what the pioneering achievement of the first-ever complete femur transplant printed in 3D for a pediatric patient represents! 🦴💫 In our latest edition of #3DExpress, we celebrate this remarkable milestone where technology and compassion intersect! 🎊 The power of 3D printing is revolutionizing medicine, making the impossible possible. This incredible prosthesis wasn’t just designed; it was tailored specifically for a young hero who needed it the most. The precision and customization that 3D printing allows means that every single detail is crafted to fit perfectly, ensuring comfort and functionality. How amazing is that? 🌈👏 This isn't just a medical achievement; it's a story of resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of innovation! 💪🌟 It reminds us that every challenge faced can lead to solutions we once thought were out of reach. As we follow the journey of this young patient, we are reminded of the strength of community and the power of support. Together, we can uplift each other, foster creativity, and inspire breakthroughs that change lives! 🌍❤️ Let's take a moment to appreciate the brilliant minds working tirelessly in the fields of medicine and technology. Their dedication and ingenuity are paving the way for a brighter future where all children can thrive, free from limitations! This is not just about science; it's about hope, possibilities, and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow! 🌅💕 So, to every innovator, dreamer, and believer out there, keep pushing boundaries! The world needs your light! Let’s celebrate this wonderful achievement and continue to spread positivity and support for those who are working to make the world a better place, one innovation at a time! 🌟🌈 Together, we can build a future filled with hope and healing, where every child can dance, run, and play without fear! Let’s keep the momentum going! #3DPrinting #MedicalInnovation #HopeAndHealing #ChildrensHealth #Inspiration
    #3DExpress: La primera prótesis de fémur impresa en 3D para un paciente pediátrico
    Bienvenidos a una nueva entrega del 3DExpress, el espacio en que les compartimos noticias rápidas y variadas del mundo de la impresión 3D. Comenzamos con hito médico. El primer trasplante de fémur completo impreso en 3D realizado a un niño…
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  • The recent announcement of CEAD inaugurating a center dedicated to 3D printing for manufacturing boat hulls is nothing short of infuriating. We are living in an age where technological advancements should lead to significant improvements in efficiency and sustainability, yet here we are, celebrating a move that reeks of superficial progress and misguided priorities.

    First off, let’s talk about the so-called “Maritime Application Center” (MAC) in Delft. While they dazzle us with their fancy new facility, one has to question the real implications of such a center. Are they genuinely solving the pressing issues of the maritime industry, or are they merely jumping on the bandwagon of 3D printing hype? The idea of using large-scale additive manufacturing to produce boat hulls sounds revolutionary, but let’s face it: this is just another example of throwing technology at a problem without truly understanding the underlying challenges that plague the industry.

    The maritime sector is facing severe environmental concerns, including pollution from traditional manufacturing processes and shipping practices. Instead of addressing these burning issues head-on, CEAD and others like them seem content to play with shiny new tools. 3D printing, in theory, could reduce waste—a point they love to hammer home in their marketing. But what about the energy consumption and material sourcing involved? Are we simply swapping one form of environmental degradation for another?

    Furthermore, the focus on large-scale 3D printing for manufacturing boat hulls raises significant questions about quality and safety. The maritime industry is not a playground for experimental technologies; lives are at stake. Relying on printed components that could potentially have structural weaknesses is a reckless gamble, and the consequences could be disastrous. Are we prepared to accept the liability if these hulls fail at sea?

    Let’s not forget the economic implications of this move. Sure, CEAD is likely patting themselves on the back for creating jobs at the MAC, but how many traditional jobs are they putting at risk? The maritime industry relies on skilled labor and craftsmanship that cannot simply be replaced by a machine. By pushing for 3D printing at such a scale, they threaten the livelihoods of countless workers who have dedicated their lives to mastering this trade.

    In conclusion, while CEAD’s center for 3D printing boat hulls may sound impressive on paper, the reality is that it’s a misguided effort that overlooks critical aspects of sustainability, safety, and social responsibility. We need to demand more from our industries and hold them accountable for their actions instead of blindly celebrating every shiny new innovation. The maritime industry deserves solutions that genuinely address its challenges rather than a mere technological gimmick.

    #MaritimeIndustry #3DPrinting #Sustainability #CEAD #BoatManufacturing
    The recent announcement of CEAD inaugurating a center dedicated to 3D printing for manufacturing boat hulls is nothing short of infuriating. We are living in an age where technological advancements should lead to significant improvements in efficiency and sustainability, yet here we are, celebrating a move that reeks of superficial progress and misguided priorities. First off, let’s talk about the so-called “Maritime Application Center” (MAC) in Delft. While they dazzle us with their fancy new facility, one has to question the real implications of such a center. Are they genuinely solving the pressing issues of the maritime industry, or are they merely jumping on the bandwagon of 3D printing hype? The idea of using large-scale additive manufacturing to produce boat hulls sounds revolutionary, but let’s face it: this is just another example of throwing technology at a problem without truly understanding the underlying challenges that plague the industry. The maritime sector is facing severe environmental concerns, including pollution from traditional manufacturing processes and shipping practices. Instead of addressing these burning issues head-on, CEAD and others like them seem content to play with shiny new tools. 3D printing, in theory, could reduce waste—a point they love to hammer home in their marketing. But what about the energy consumption and material sourcing involved? Are we simply swapping one form of environmental degradation for another? Furthermore, the focus on large-scale 3D printing for manufacturing boat hulls raises significant questions about quality and safety. The maritime industry is not a playground for experimental technologies; lives are at stake. Relying on printed components that could potentially have structural weaknesses is a reckless gamble, and the consequences could be disastrous. Are we prepared to accept the liability if these hulls fail at sea? Let’s not forget the economic implications of this move. Sure, CEAD is likely patting themselves on the back for creating jobs at the MAC, but how many traditional jobs are they putting at risk? The maritime industry relies on skilled labor and craftsmanship that cannot simply be replaced by a machine. By pushing for 3D printing at such a scale, they threaten the livelihoods of countless workers who have dedicated their lives to mastering this trade. In conclusion, while CEAD’s center for 3D printing boat hulls may sound impressive on paper, the reality is that it’s a misguided effort that overlooks critical aspects of sustainability, safety, and social responsibility. We need to demand more from our industries and hold them accountable for their actions instead of blindly celebrating every shiny new innovation. The maritime industry deserves solutions that genuinely address its challenges rather than a mere technological gimmick. #MaritimeIndustry #3DPrinting #Sustainability #CEAD #BoatManufacturing
    CEAD inaugura un centro dedicado a la impresión 3D para fabricar cascos de barcos
    La industria marítima está experimentando una transformación importante gracias a la impresión 3D de gran formato. El grupo holandés CEAD, especialista en fabricación aditiva a gran escala, ha inaugurado recientemente su Maritime Application Center (
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  • Branding and Visual Identity: MP2E Solutions' Modern Look

    06/15 — 2025

    by abduzeedo

    Explore Palantis' sleek branding and visual identity for MP2E Solutions, showcasing thoughtful design and industry-specific color palettes.
    In the dynamic world of industrial design, a brand's visual identity must clearly communicate its expertise and innovation. Palantis, a branding, design, and strategy studio based in Nantes, recently tackled this challenge for MP2E Solutions. The result is a sleek, adaptable, and cohesive visual system that truly reflects the company's position and know-how.
    MP2E Solutions specializes in distributing Hauschild planetary mixers and equipment, acting as the exclusive distributor of these highly technical machines for nearly a decade. These Speed Mixer™ machines are renowned for their versatility, capable of mixing, pulverizing, and degassing, serving vital functions across the pharmaceutical, food, medical, and electronics sectors. To usher in a new era, MP2E Solutions commissioned Palantis to refresh its entire visual identity.
    The Hyphen: A Symbol of Solutions
    Palantis built the core of the new visual system around the hyphen in "MP2E-Solutions". This seemingly small detail carries significant weight, symbolizing the connection between "MP2E"—an acronym for Mélangeur Planétaire Emmanuelle Etiemble—and "Solutions," representing the company's comprehensive range of services, products, and client support. This thoughtful integration of the hyphen into the graphic language creates a strong and recognizable visual identity.
    The brand’s new visual identity extends beyond just the logo. Palantis developed a flexible system through the interplay of symbols and a carefully chosen color palette. Each color was intentionally selected to evoke the specific industries MP2E Solutions serves, strengthening the brand's presence within its diverse ecosystem. For example, a vibrant green might represent the pharmaceutical industry, while a deep blue could signify the electronics sector. This allows for endless variations while maintaining clear brand identification and visual consistency.
    A Cohesive Visual Language
    An integral part of this branding and visual identity overhaul included the development of a dedicated iconographic system. This system helps structure and clarify information across various communication channels, ensuring that MP2E Solutions' message is always clear and organized. From digital platforms to printed materials, the new design elements work in harmony.
    Palantis' work on MP2E Solutions is a testament to the power of meaningful design and transformative solutions. They believe in crafting tomorrow's story today, and this project exemplifies that philosophy. The refreshed branding not only accurately reflects MP2E Solutions' expertise but also sets them apart as a forward-thinking industrial leader.
    The meticulous attention to detail, from the symbolic hyphen to the industry-evoking color schemes, showcases Palantis' deep understanding of branding and visual identity. Their approach ensures that MP2E Solutions is well-positioned for its new era, with a visual language that speaks volumes about its commitment to building the future by mixing materials.
    Discover more of Palantis' inspiring work at www.palantis.fr.
    Branding and visual identity artifacts

    Tags

    branding
    #branding #visual #identity #mp2e #solutions039
    Branding and Visual Identity: MP2E Solutions' Modern Look
    06/15 — 2025 by abduzeedo Explore Palantis' sleek branding and visual identity for MP2E Solutions, showcasing thoughtful design and industry-specific color palettes. In the dynamic world of industrial design, a brand's visual identity must clearly communicate its expertise and innovation. Palantis, a branding, design, and strategy studio based in Nantes, recently tackled this challenge for MP2E Solutions. The result is a sleek, adaptable, and cohesive visual system that truly reflects the company's position and know-how. MP2E Solutions specializes in distributing Hauschild planetary mixers and equipment, acting as the exclusive distributor of these highly technical machines for nearly a decade. These Speed Mixer™ machines are renowned for their versatility, capable of mixing, pulverizing, and degassing, serving vital functions across the pharmaceutical, food, medical, and electronics sectors. To usher in a new era, MP2E Solutions commissioned Palantis to refresh its entire visual identity. The Hyphen: A Symbol of Solutions Palantis built the core of the new visual system around the hyphen in "MP2E-Solutions". This seemingly small detail carries significant weight, symbolizing the connection between "MP2E"—an acronym for Mélangeur Planétaire Emmanuelle Etiemble—and "Solutions," representing the company's comprehensive range of services, products, and client support. This thoughtful integration of the hyphen into the graphic language creates a strong and recognizable visual identity. The brand’s new visual identity extends beyond just the logo. Palantis developed a flexible system through the interplay of symbols and a carefully chosen color palette. Each color was intentionally selected to evoke the specific industries MP2E Solutions serves, strengthening the brand's presence within its diverse ecosystem. For example, a vibrant green might represent the pharmaceutical industry, while a deep blue could signify the electronics sector. This allows for endless variations while maintaining clear brand identification and visual consistency. A Cohesive Visual Language An integral part of this branding and visual identity overhaul included the development of a dedicated iconographic system. This system helps structure and clarify information across various communication channels, ensuring that MP2E Solutions' message is always clear and organized. From digital platforms to printed materials, the new design elements work in harmony. Palantis' work on MP2E Solutions is a testament to the power of meaningful design and transformative solutions. They believe in crafting tomorrow's story today, and this project exemplifies that philosophy. The refreshed branding not only accurately reflects MP2E Solutions' expertise but also sets them apart as a forward-thinking industrial leader. The meticulous attention to detail, from the symbolic hyphen to the industry-evoking color schemes, showcases Palantis' deep understanding of branding and visual identity. Their approach ensures that MP2E Solutions is well-positioned for its new era, with a visual language that speaks volumes about its commitment to building the future by mixing materials. Discover more of Palantis' inspiring work at www.palantis.fr. Branding and visual identity artifacts Tags branding #branding #visual #identity #mp2e #solutions039
    ABDUZEEDO.COM
    Branding and Visual Identity: MP2E Solutions' Modern Look
    06/15 — 2025 by abduzeedo Explore Palantis' sleek branding and visual identity for MP2E Solutions, showcasing thoughtful design and industry-specific color palettes. In the dynamic world of industrial design, a brand's visual identity must clearly communicate its expertise and innovation. Palantis, a branding, design, and strategy studio based in Nantes, recently tackled this challenge for MP2E Solutions. The result is a sleek, adaptable, and cohesive visual system that truly reflects the company's position and know-how. MP2E Solutions specializes in distributing Hauschild planetary mixers and equipment, acting as the exclusive distributor of these highly technical machines for nearly a decade. These Speed Mixer™ machines are renowned for their versatility, capable of mixing, pulverizing, and degassing, serving vital functions across the pharmaceutical, food, medical, and electronics sectors. To usher in a new era, MP2E Solutions commissioned Palantis to refresh its entire visual identity. The Hyphen: A Symbol of Solutions Palantis built the core of the new visual system around the hyphen in "MP2E-Solutions". This seemingly small detail carries significant weight, symbolizing the connection between "MP2E"—an acronym for Mélangeur Planétaire Emmanuelle Etiemble—and "Solutions," representing the company's comprehensive range of services, products, and client support. This thoughtful integration of the hyphen into the graphic language creates a strong and recognizable visual identity. The brand’s new visual identity extends beyond just the logo. Palantis developed a flexible system through the interplay of symbols and a carefully chosen color palette. Each color was intentionally selected to evoke the specific industries MP2E Solutions serves, strengthening the brand's presence within its diverse ecosystem. For example, a vibrant green might represent the pharmaceutical industry, while a deep blue could signify the electronics sector. This allows for endless variations while maintaining clear brand identification and visual consistency. A Cohesive Visual Language An integral part of this branding and visual identity overhaul included the development of a dedicated iconographic system. This system helps structure and clarify information across various communication channels, ensuring that MP2E Solutions' message is always clear and organized. From digital platforms to printed materials, the new design elements work in harmony. Palantis' work on MP2E Solutions is a testament to the power of meaningful design and transformative solutions. They believe in crafting tomorrow's story today, and this project exemplifies that philosophy. The refreshed branding not only accurately reflects MP2E Solutions' expertise but also sets them apart as a forward-thinking industrial leader. The meticulous attention to detail, from the symbolic hyphen to the industry-evoking color schemes, showcases Palantis' deep understanding of branding and visual identity. Their approach ensures that MP2E Solutions is well-positioned for its new era, with a visual language that speaks volumes about its commitment to building the future by mixing materials. Discover more of Palantis' inspiring work at www.palantis.fr. Branding and visual identity artifacts Tags branding
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  • Air-Conditioning Can Help the Power Grid instead of Overloading It

    June 13, 20256 min readAir-Conditioning Can Surprisingly Help the Power Grid during Extreme HeatSwitching on air-conditioning during extreme heat doesn’t have to make us feel guilty—it can actually boost power grid reliability and help bring more renewable energy onlineBy Johanna Mathieu & The Conversation US Imagedepotpro/Getty ImagesThe following essay is reprinted with permission from The Conversation, an online publication covering the latest research.As summer arrives, people are turning on air conditioners in most of the U.S. But if you’re like me, you always feel a little guilty about that. Past generations managed without air conditioning – do I really need it? And how bad is it to use all this electricity for cooling in a warming world?If I leave my air conditioner off, I get too hot. But if everyone turns on their air conditioner at the same time, electricity demand spikes, which can force power grid operators to activate some of the most expensive, and dirtiest, power plants. Sometimes those spikes can ask too much of the grid and lead to brownouts or blackouts.On supporting science journalismIf you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.Research I recently published with a team of scholars makes me feel a little better, though. We have found that it is possible to coordinate the operation of large numbers of home air-conditioning units, balancing supply and demand on the power grid – and without making people endure high temperatures inside their homes.Studies along these lines, using remote control of air conditioners to support the grid, have for many years explored theoretical possibilities like this. However, few approaches have been demonstrated in practice and never for such a high-value application and at this scale. The system we developed not only demonstrated the ability to balance the grid on timescales of seconds, but also proved it was possible to do so without affecting residents’ comfort.The benefits include increasing the reliability of the power grid, which makes it easier for the grid to accept more renewable energy. Our goal is to turn air conditioners from a challenge for the power grid into an asset, supporting a shift away from fossil fuels toward cleaner energy.Adjustable equipmentMy research focuses on batteries, solar panels and electric equipment – such as electric vehicles, water heaters, air conditioners and heat pumps – that can adjust itself to consume different amounts of energy at different times.Originally, the U.S. electric grid was built to transport electricity from large power plants to customers’ homes and businesses. And originally, power plants were large, centralized operations that burned coal or natural gas, or harvested energy from nuclear reactions. These plants were typically always available and could adjust how much power they generated in response to customer demand, so the grid would be balanced between power coming in from producers and being used by consumers.But the grid has changed. There are more renewable energy sources, from which power isn’t always available – like solar panels at night or wind turbines on calm days. And there are the devices and equipment I study. These newer options, called “distributed energy resources,” generate or store energy near where consumers need it – or adjust how much energy they’re using in real time.One aspect of the grid hasn’t changed, though: There’s not much storage built into the system. So every time you turn on a light, for a moment there’s not enough electricity to supply everything that wants it right then: The grid needs a power producer to generate a little more power. And when you turn off a light, there’s a little too much: A power producer needs to ramp down.The way power plants know what real-time power adjustments are needed is by closely monitoring the grid frequency. The goal is to provide electricity at a constant frequency – 60 hertz – at all times. If more power is needed than is being produced, the frequency drops and a power plant boosts output. If there’s too much power being produced, the frequency rises and a power plant slows production a little. These actions, a process called “frequency regulation,” happen in a matter of seconds to keep the grid balanced.This output flexibility, primarily from power plants, is key to keeping the lights on for everyone.Finding new optionsI’m interested in how distributed energy resources can improve flexibility in the grid. They can release more energy, or consume less, to respond to the changing supply or demand, and help balance the grid, ensuring the frequency remains near 60 hertz.Some people fear that doing so might be invasive, giving someone outside your home the ability to control your battery or air conditioner. Therefore, we wanted to see if we could help balance the grid with frequency regulation using home air-conditioning units rather than power plants – without affecting how residents use their appliances or how comfortable they are in their homes.From 2019 to 2023, my group at the University of Michigan tried this approach, in collaboration with researchers at Pecan Street Inc., Los Alamos National Laboratory and the University of California, Berkeley, with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy.We recruited 100 homeowners in Austin, Texas, to do a real-world test of our system. All the homes had whole-house forced-air cooling systems, which we connected to custom control boards and sensors the owners allowed us to install in their homes. This equipment let us send instructions to the air-conditioning units based on the frequency of the grid.Before I explain how the system worked, I first need to explain how thermostats work. When people set thermostats, they pick a temperature, and the thermostat switches the air-conditioning compressor on and off to maintain the air temperature within a small range around that set point. If the temperature is set at 68 degrees, the thermostat turns the AC on when the temperature is, say, 70, and turns it off when it’s cooled down to, say, 66.Every few seconds, our system slightly changed the timing of air-conditioning compressor switching for some of the 100 air conditioners, causing the units’ aggregate power consumption to change. In this way, our small group of home air conditioners reacted to grid changes the way a power plant would – using more or less energy to balance the grid and keep the frequency near 60 hertz.Moreover, our system was designed to keep home temperatures within the same small temperature range around the set point.Testing the approachWe ran our system in four tests, each lasting one hour. We found two encouraging results.First, the air conditioners were able to provide frequency regulation at least as accurately as a traditional power plant. Therefore, we showed that air conditioners could play a significant role in increasing grid flexibility. But perhaps more importantly – at least in terms of encouraging people to participate in these types of systems – we found that we were able to do so without affecting people’s comfort in their homes.We found that home temperatures did not deviate more than 1.6 Fahrenheit from their set point. Homeowners were allowed to override the controls if they got uncomfortable, but most didn’t. For most tests, we received zero override requests. In the worst case, we received override requests from two of the 100 homes in our test.In practice, this sort of technology could be added to commercially available internet-connected thermostats. In exchange for credits on their energy bills, users could choose to join a service run by the thermostat company, their utility provider or some other third party.Then people could turn on the air conditioning in the summer heat without that pang of guilt, knowing they were helping to make the grid more reliable and more capable of accommodating renewable energy sources – without sacrificing their own comfort in the process.This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
    #airconditioning #can #help #power #grid
    Air-Conditioning Can Help the Power Grid instead of Overloading It
    June 13, 20256 min readAir-Conditioning Can Surprisingly Help the Power Grid during Extreme HeatSwitching on air-conditioning during extreme heat doesn’t have to make us feel guilty—it can actually boost power grid reliability and help bring more renewable energy onlineBy Johanna Mathieu & The Conversation US Imagedepotpro/Getty ImagesThe following essay is reprinted with permission from The Conversation, an online publication covering the latest research.As summer arrives, people are turning on air conditioners in most of the U.S. But if you’re like me, you always feel a little guilty about that. Past generations managed without air conditioning – do I really need it? And how bad is it to use all this electricity for cooling in a warming world?If I leave my air conditioner off, I get too hot. But if everyone turns on their air conditioner at the same time, electricity demand spikes, which can force power grid operators to activate some of the most expensive, and dirtiest, power plants. Sometimes those spikes can ask too much of the grid and lead to brownouts or blackouts.On supporting science journalismIf you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.Research I recently published with a team of scholars makes me feel a little better, though. We have found that it is possible to coordinate the operation of large numbers of home air-conditioning units, balancing supply and demand on the power grid – and without making people endure high temperatures inside their homes.Studies along these lines, using remote control of air conditioners to support the grid, have for many years explored theoretical possibilities like this. However, few approaches have been demonstrated in practice and never for such a high-value application and at this scale. The system we developed not only demonstrated the ability to balance the grid on timescales of seconds, but also proved it was possible to do so without affecting residents’ comfort.The benefits include increasing the reliability of the power grid, which makes it easier for the grid to accept more renewable energy. Our goal is to turn air conditioners from a challenge for the power grid into an asset, supporting a shift away from fossil fuels toward cleaner energy.Adjustable equipmentMy research focuses on batteries, solar panels and electric equipment – such as electric vehicles, water heaters, air conditioners and heat pumps – that can adjust itself to consume different amounts of energy at different times.Originally, the U.S. electric grid was built to transport electricity from large power plants to customers’ homes and businesses. And originally, power plants were large, centralized operations that burned coal or natural gas, or harvested energy from nuclear reactions. These plants were typically always available and could adjust how much power they generated in response to customer demand, so the grid would be balanced between power coming in from producers and being used by consumers.But the grid has changed. There are more renewable energy sources, from which power isn’t always available – like solar panels at night or wind turbines on calm days. And there are the devices and equipment I study. These newer options, called “distributed energy resources,” generate or store energy near where consumers need it – or adjust how much energy they’re using in real time.One aspect of the grid hasn’t changed, though: There’s not much storage built into the system. So every time you turn on a light, for a moment there’s not enough electricity to supply everything that wants it right then: The grid needs a power producer to generate a little more power. And when you turn off a light, there’s a little too much: A power producer needs to ramp down.The way power plants know what real-time power adjustments are needed is by closely monitoring the grid frequency. The goal is to provide electricity at a constant frequency – 60 hertz – at all times. If more power is needed than is being produced, the frequency drops and a power plant boosts output. If there’s too much power being produced, the frequency rises and a power plant slows production a little. These actions, a process called “frequency regulation,” happen in a matter of seconds to keep the grid balanced.This output flexibility, primarily from power plants, is key to keeping the lights on for everyone.Finding new optionsI’m interested in how distributed energy resources can improve flexibility in the grid. They can release more energy, or consume less, to respond to the changing supply or demand, and help balance the grid, ensuring the frequency remains near 60 hertz.Some people fear that doing so might be invasive, giving someone outside your home the ability to control your battery or air conditioner. Therefore, we wanted to see if we could help balance the grid with frequency regulation using home air-conditioning units rather than power plants – without affecting how residents use their appliances or how comfortable they are in their homes.From 2019 to 2023, my group at the University of Michigan tried this approach, in collaboration with researchers at Pecan Street Inc., Los Alamos National Laboratory and the University of California, Berkeley, with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy.We recruited 100 homeowners in Austin, Texas, to do a real-world test of our system. All the homes had whole-house forced-air cooling systems, which we connected to custom control boards and sensors the owners allowed us to install in their homes. This equipment let us send instructions to the air-conditioning units based on the frequency of the grid.Before I explain how the system worked, I first need to explain how thermostats work. When people set thermostats, they pick a temperature, and the thermostat switches the air-conditioning compressor on and off to maintain the air temperature within a small range around that set point. If the temperature is set at 68 degrees, the thermostat turns the AC on when the temperature is, say, 70, and turns it off when it’s cooled down to, say, 66.Every few seconds, our system slightly changed the timing of air-conditioning compressor switching for some of the 100 air conditioners, causing the units’ aggregate power consumption to change. In this way, our small group of home air conditioners reacted to grid changes the way a power plant would – using more or less energy to balance the grid and keep the frequency near 60 hertz.Moreover, our system was designed to keep home temperatures within the same small temperature range around the set point.Testing the approachWe ran our system in four tests, each lasting one hour. We found two encouraging results.First, the air conditioners were able to provide frequency regulation at least as accurately as a traditional power plant. Therefore, we showed that air conditioners could play a significant role in increasing grid flexibility. But perhaps more importantly – at least in terms of encouraging people to participate in these types of systems – we found that we were able to do so without affecting people’s comfort in their homes.We found that home temperatures did not deviate more than 1.6 Fahrenheit from their set point. Homeowners were allowed to override the controls if they got uncomfortable, but most didn’t. For most tests, we received zero override requests. In the worst case, we received override requests from two of the 100 homes in our test.In practice, this sort of technology could be added to commercially available internet-connected thermostats. In exchange for credits on their energy bills, users could choose to join a service run by the thermostat company, their utility provider or some other third party.Then people could turn on the air conditioning in the summer heat without that pang of guilt, knowing they were helping to make the grid more reliable and more capable of accommodating renewable energy sources – without sacrificing their own comfort in the process.This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. #airconditioning #can #help #power #grid
    WWW.SCIENTIFICAMERICAN.COM
    Air-Conditioning Can Help the Power Grid instead of Overloading It
    June 13, 20256 min readAir-Conditioning Can Surprisingly Help the Power Grid during Extreme HeatSwitching on air-conditioning during extreme heat doesn’t have to make us feel guilty—it can actually boost power grid reliability and help bring more renewable energy onlineBy Johanna Mathieu & The Conversation US Imagedepotpro/Getty ImagesThe following essay is reprinted with permission from The Conversation, an online publication covering the latest research.As summer arrives, people are turning on air conditioners in most of the U.S. But if you’re like me, you always feel a little guilty about that. Past generations managed without air conditioning – do I really need it? And how bad is it to use all this electricity for cooling in a warming world?If I leave my air conditioner off, I get too hot. But if everyone turns on their air conditioner at the same time, electricity demand spikes, which can force power grid operators to activate some of the most expensive, and dirtiest, power plants. Sometimes those spikes can ask too much of the grid and lead to brownouts or blackouts.On supporting science journalismIf you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.Research I recently published with a team of scholars makes me feel a little better, though. We have found that it is possible to coordinate the operation of large numbers of home air-conditioning units, balancing supply and demand on the power grid – and without making people endure high temperatures inside their homes.Studies along these lines, using remote control of air conditioners to support the grid, have for many years explored theoretical possibilities like this. However, few approaches have been demonstrated in practice and never for such a high-value application and at this scale. The system we developed not only demonstrated the ability to balance the grid on timescales of seconds, but also proved it was possible to do so without affecting residents’ comfort.The benefits include increasing the reliability of the power grid, which makes it easier for the grid to accept more renewable energy. Our goal is to turn air conditioners from a challenge for the power grid into an asset, supporting a shift away from fossil fuels toward cleaner energy.Adjustable equipmentMy research focuses on batteries, solar panels and electric equipment – such as electric vehicles, water heaters, air conditioners and heat pumps – that can adjust itself to consume different amounts of energy at different times.Originally, the U.S. electric grid was built to transport electricity from large power plants to customers’ homes and businesses. And originally, power plants were large, centralized operations that burned coal or natural gas, or harvested energy from nuclear reactions. These plants were typically always available and could adjust how much power they generated in response to customer demand, so the grid would be balanced between power coming in from producers and being used by consumers.But the grid has changed. There are more renewable energy sources, from which power isn’t always available – like solar panels at night or wind turbines on calm days. And there are the devices and equipment I study. These newer options, called “distributed energy resources,” generate or store energy near where consumers need it – or adjust how much energy they’re using in real time.One aspect of the grid hasn’t changed, though: There’s not much storage built into the system. So every time you turn on a light, for a moment there’s not enough electricity to supply everything that wants it right then: The grid needs a power producer to generate a little more power. And when you turn off a light, there’s a little too much: A power producer needs to ramp down.The way power plants know what real-time power adjustments are needed is by closely monitoring the grid frequency. The goal is to provide electricity at a constant frequency – 60 hertz – at all times. If more power is needed than is being produced, the frequency drops and a power plant boosts output. If there’s too much power being produced, the frequency rises and a power plant slows production a little. These actions, a process called “frequency regulation,” happen in a matter of seconds to keep the grid balanced.This output flexibility, primarily from power plants, is key to keeping the lights on for everyone.Finding new optionsI’m interested in how distributed energy resources can improve flexibility in the grid. They can release more energy, or consume less, to respond to the changing supply or demand, and help balance the grid, ensuring the frequency remains near 60 hertz.Some people fear that doing so might be invasive, giving someone outside your home the ability to control your battery or air conditioner. Therefore, we wanted to see if we could help balance the grid with frequency regulation using home air-conditioning units rather than power plants – without affecting how residents use their appliances or how comfortable they are in their homes.From 2019 to 2023, my group at the University of Michigan tried this approach, in collaboration with researchers at Pecan Street Inc., Los Alamos National Laboratory and the University of California, Berkeley, with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy.We recruited 100 homeowners in Austin, Texas, to do a real-world test of our system. All the homes had whole-house forced-air cooling systems, which we connected to custom control boards and sensors the owners allowed us to install in their homes. This equipment let us send instructions to the air-conditioning units based on the frequency of the grid.Before I explain how the system worked, I first need to explain how thermostats work. When people set thermostats, they pick a temperature, and the thermostat switches the air-conditioning compressor on and off to maintain the air temperature within a small range around that set point. If the temperature is set at 68 degrees, the thermostat turns the AC on when the temperature is, say, 70, and turns it off when it’s cooled down to, say, 66.Every few seconds, our system slightly changed the timing of air-conditioning compressor switching for some of the 100 air conditioners, causing the units’ aggregate power consumption to change. In this way, our small group of home air conditioners reacted to grid changes the way a power plant would – using more or less energy to balance the grid and keep the frequency near 60 hertz.Moreover, our system was designed to keep home temperatures within the same small temperature range around the set point.Testing the approachWe ran our system in four tests, each lasting one hour. We found two encouraging results.First, the air conditioners were able to provide frequency regulation at least as accurately as a traditional power plant. Therefore, we showed that air conditioners could play a significant role in increasing grid flexibility. But perhaps more importantly – at least in terms of encouraging people to participate in these types of systems – we found that we were able to do so without affecting people’s comfort in their homes.We found that home temperatures did not deviate more than 1.6 Fahrenheit from their set point. Homeowners were allowed to override the controls if they got uncomfortable, but most didn’t. For most tests, we received zero override requests. In the worst case, we received override requests from two of the 100 homes in our test.In practice, this sort of technology could be added to commercially available internet-connected thermostats. In exchange for credits on their energy bills, users could choose to join a service run by the thermostat company, their utility provider or some other third party.Then people could turn on the air conditioning in the summer heat without that pang of guilt, knowing they were helping to make the grid more reliable and more capable of accommodating renewable energy sources – without sacrificing their own comfort in the process.This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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