“It's not win or lose; it's win or learn.”
– Jeannie Leavitt
This is a published version of the AMT Tech Report newsletter. You can sign up to get the Tech Report in your inbox here.
1. Why You Need a Test Bed
Testbeds aren’t just practical – they’re essential for trying out the latest cutting-edge tech before diving into full-scale implementation. Without them, you’re risking massive costs and chaos. Nvidia found our testbed interesting, which may have influenced their decision to keynote AMT’s upcoming MFG 2025 conference. Like they say: Real recognize real – and testbeds are where innovation gets real!
2. ORNL Went Chasing Rabbits
Oak Ridge National Lab researchers 3D printed and tested a "rabbit capsule" for the High Flux Isotope Reactor, marking the first use of additive manufacturing for such components in a nuclear reactor. The stainless steel capsule endured extreme conditions, showcasing faster, cost-effective, and more intricate designs compared to traditional methods. Further evaluations this winter aim to refine this transformative approach.
3. A Japanese Boardroom Thriller
Makino Milling faces an unsolicited takeover bid from Nidec, both leaders in advanced manufacturing critical to U.S. industry. Makino is delaying the bid to protect its autonomy and secure better terms, requesting that the minimum threshold for acquisition be raised to two-thirds of voting-rights shares from Nidec’s original offer to acquire one-half. If Nidec succeeds, it could reshape Makino and impact supply chains, partnerships, and innovation in the U.S. manufacturing sector.
4. The Modular Lathe at Home...
Modulathe’s MT5 spindle taper is a beast for a machine of this scale. That hefty headstock taper not only adds rigidity but also allows for compatibility with industrial-grade tooling and larger workpieces, setting it apart from many small-scale CNC solutions. It’s a serious feature for makers looking to bridge DIY flexibility with professional-grade performance. It would look good on a workbench accompanied by a Pocket NC mill and an igus ReBeL cobot – just saying!
5. The Tesla Lidar Mystery
Tesla's lidar investment might be signaling a (backpedaling) shift, possibly addressing the company’s autopilot flaws, which have resulted in crashes with motorcyclists. Despite CEO Elon Musk’s past anti-lidar statements, purchasing $2.1 million worth of sensors from Luminar may indicate Tesla recognizes the tech’s role in safety-critical systems. Whether for robotaxis, Optimus, or mapping, this pivot could enhance Tesla's capabilities, improving both vehicle and rider safety. Just say you were wrong, bro.
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