This text covers all aspects of manufacturing automation popular in research. CAD, CIM, rapid prototyping and tooling, industrial robotics, process planning, geometric modelling and feature-based technology are all covered here. Other topics include product development, high-efficiency machining and Internet-based design. The broad theme of the contributions is rapid development with the emphasis on software, modelling and planning. A range of work from international experts is brought together offering insights and developments in the following fields of research: design systems and methodologies; machining technology; intelligent systems; technology management; rapid product development; and Internet-based systems. Ideas, research and technological developments in the areas of manufacturing automation are explored to inform those working in the field and to foster better links between industry and academia.

Advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) combine novel manufacturing techniques and machines with the application of information technology, microelectronics and new organizational practices within the manufacturing sector. They include 'hard' technologies such as rapid prototyping, and 'soft' technologies such as scanned point cloud data manipulation. AMTs contribute significantly to medical and biomedical engineering. The number of applications is rapidly increasing, with many important new products now under development. "Advanced Manufacturing Technology for Medical Applications" outlines the state of the art in advanced manufacturing technology and points to the future development of this exciting field. Early chapters look at actual medical applications already employing AMT, and progress to how reverse engineering allows users to create system solutions to medical problems. The authors also investigate how hard and soft systems are used to create these solutions ready for building. Applications follow where models are created using a variety of different techniques to suit different medical problems. One of the first texts to be dedicated to the use of rapid prototyping, reverse engineering and associated software for medical applications, this title ties together the two distinct disciplines of engineering and medicine. It features contributions from experts who are recognised pioneers in the use of these technologies for medical applications. It includes work carried out in both a research and a commercial capacity, with representatives from 3 companies that are established as world leaders in the field - Medical Modelling, Materialise, & Anatomics. It covers a comprehensive range of medical applications, from dentistry and surgery to neurosurgery and prosthetic design. Medical practitioners interested in implementing new advanced methods will find "Advanced Manufacturing Technology for Medical Applications" invaluable as will engineers developing applications for the medical industry. Academics and researchers also now have a vital resource at their disposal.

Margaret I. Gibson shares in writing what she learns of self . Reading the titles of her poems, in itself becomes a poem of awareness, stirring the reader to recognition of profound emotional content. Written in the graceful flow of the timeless sonnet, addressing both reason and emotion, the poet is convinced that the world is ever just as we perceive/perception always shows what we believe. Myra Lochner, 2009. God does not refuse anyone who seeks him. Margaret I. Gibson, 2011.

So many the miles separating these two poets, so many the words they have patiently sown, paving an unbreakable bridge between them based on mutual appreciation, deeply rooted faith and a shared love for that melody of written word called: Sonnet. Talented, creative, each employing his/her own style, each creating his/her individual beauty, joining in this common venue of art in the aim to bring to you, the reader, the beauty of their expression.

The United States relies on imports for dozens of commodities in everyday use. Often enough, that reliance is 100%. This book provides awareness of the hidden geology and mineralogy behind common things, and develops an appreciation for the global resource distribution that underpins our society. While concerns about oil import reliance are in the news every day, our needs for other minerals are comparable, and are typically unknown even to technologically aware Americans.