Ilmar Luik

Background

About Ilmar Luik

I started as an Aerospace Systems Designer and Project Engineer, performing contract work for General Dynamics, Boeing, and others. Some of my assignments involved critical segments of National Defense technology-related issues, including the need to improve: 1. Polaris ICBM star tracking servo systems and targeting accuracy. Synthetic Aperture Radar SAR imaging exploitation equipment. Today’s version of it enables Ukrainian Artillery to find and hit camouflaged Russian tanks. In July 1989 I decided to apply the lessons learned in computer and other high technologies while working in the US Defense Industries to advance the automation of American manufacturing. I began with my patented instrument for quick testing and calibration of Dial and Finger Indicators. The US Army considered it superior to the similar instrument by Brown & Sharpie and awarded my startup ITALL Corp. an production contract for use in all US Army calibration laboratories. In February 2008 ITALL Corp. was sold to new owners, became Teaching Factory Inc, and bought rights to my invention, trade named Toolivision. To see it in action, go to YouTube.com and enter Toolivision Demo 1 and 2. The invention reduced CNC set-up time from tens of minutes to a few seconds and significantly increased shop profitability. The next patent pending version of it automates CNC setup for lights-out machining of a wide variety of products in small production lots. Toolivision enabled Teaching Factory Inc. to become a successful producer of precision-machined Aerospace parts made of stainless steel, titanium and super alloys such as Inconel, and expand the development and installation of automated manufacturing systems for its own and its customers’ use. I welcome the opportunity to discuss contract opportunities my knowledge and expertise can benefit. Please contact me at ilmar@teachingfactory.org With energy and enthusiasm, I look forward to the challenges ahead.