Monday, December 21 marked the longest night and the shortest day of the year. Known as the winter solstice, it marks the first day of winter and the day that Earth’s Northern and Southern Hemispheres trade places in receiving the sun’s light and warmth most directly. Because Earth is tilted on its axis by 23 1/2 degrees, the tilt of the Earth is what causes winter and summer.
This year December 21 also marked the rare appearance of the Christmas Star. For the first time in approximately 800 years, Jupiter and Saturn aligned so closely they appeared as a double planet. The celestial event was visible roughly 45 minutes after sunset in the southwest.
Some astronomers, including German astronomer Johannes Kepler, believe that the “star of Bethlehem” which appeared to the Magi on the night Christ was born was likely a triple conjunction of Jupiter, Saturn and Venus.
As with most things in 2020, the Christmas holidays are unfolding in the face of COVID-19. Yet the appearance of the star also helps to point us to opportunities, possibilities and a season of hope. Visit most manufacturers’ websites and you’ll see the message “We are open during the crisis.”
Companies may have tightened their belts but they have kept parts production going. One of the ways they have done this is through investing in maintenance, retrofits and upgrades. When it comes to CMMs, one has the option of a new machine, a retrofit or an upgrade. All three choices can give you results that will boost your bottom line.
We’ve also witnessed the optimism of suppliers bringing on new product lines in anticipation of market growth. To that end we developed and launched a new CMM for the first time since 2015.
The Summit 10.10.10 puts REVO-2 5-axis dynamic scanning and multisensor surface finish measurement [including video probing] into the hands of the operator. Engineered with 1 meter cubed capacity, the Summit provides high volume, large parts inspection. It can be automated with a robot load/unload system or pass through process with a conveyor. Honda Transmission Manufacturing of America Inc. adopted the first Summits to come off the line for installation in new automated production line that requires 100 percent part inspection. Honda expects to have its Summit cells operational in 2021.
Whether your need is for calibration services, a new machine, or an upgrade or retrofit of your legacy equipment or software, we are dedicated to contributing to your ongoing success. Here at AIMS we want to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Please contact us with any needs. 
