AGR Automation Ltd., Subsidiary of Blakell Europlacer Group, to Integrate MagneMotion's QuickStick™ LSM System into Transfer and Positioning Equipment Platform

Acton, Massachusetts (September 17, 2004)

MagneMotion’s QuickStick™ LSM 100 FP (Fine Positioning), a linear synchronous motor module, has been selected for trial as the driver for the main transport system on AGR Automation’s Precision Modular Automation Platform. Once implemented, the QuickStick™ will allow for high speed, precision transfer of component parts during the assembly of medical devices, pharmaceutical/drug delivery and high volume consumer disposables.

AGR Automation, one of Europe’s premier special purpose automation system suppliers, selected the QuickStick™ System for its ease of integration, low maintenance, and higher production capability. Shaun Farris, Design Engineer and a key member of the project team responsible for the integration of the QuickStick™ System, admired the simplicity of layout and integration. According to Mr. Farris, “Using the QuickStick™ is so simple. We don’t have to worry about extra sensors, cables or where to place the motors, as the QuickStick™ integrates propulsion and positioning in each module. Also, its precision indexing and rapid positional control eliminates the need for an axis on our pick and place operations as the transport system itself can be used.”

The QuickStick™ LSM is a meter long linear motor module with embedded position sensors and control software. Connected end to end, the modules create a propulsion system of virtually any length. The QuickStick propels and independently controls pallets when it interacts with a built-in permanent magnet array on each pallet. Its built-in controls regulate speed, acceleration, direction, permission to advance, and positioning of the pallets. The pallet requires no power or communication cables, allowing a broader range of movement and uses.

Implementation is scheduled for early 2005. Upon successful testing, AGR Automation plans to utilize its Precision Modular Platform in a number of high profile projects with major customers across Europe and the Americas.

Craig Dickson, Operations Manager, AGR Automation with specific responsibility for the new platform stated, “The integration of the QuickStick™ (LSM) is one of the most exciting aspects of the new platform. This together with the unique operating software will make the new modular platform the ‘must have’ system available on the market.” For more information on AGR Automation, please visit www.agr-automation.com.

MagneMotion is an industry leader in the development of linear synchronous motor and magnetic levitation technologies. Founded in 1996, MagneMotion is developing an urban maglev system in cooperation with the Federal Transit Administration's Urban Maglev Initiative, and has teamed with Federal Equipment Co. (Cincinnati, OH) and Northrop Grumman Newport News (Newport News, VA) to develop an LSM-based Advanced Weapons Elevator for the next generation aircraft carrier. MagneMotion is a privately held company.

For more information on MagneMotion Inc., please visit the company website: www.magnemotion.com, or contact MagneMotion at info@magnemotion.com.