September 2011 article (press release) about the collaboration between the University of Maine and Gemini Products in making the Gemini Folding Struts better, by innovative solutions to production methods:
UMaine Develops Novel Crimping Device for Maine Business
A unique tube-crimping device created by students and staff at the University of Maine’s Advanced Manufacturing Center for a Rockland marine products company has streamlined the company’s operations to the point where its business emphasis may change.
Students and staff at the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC) last spring designed, machined and assembled a compressed air-powered stainless steel tube-crimping device for Gemini Marine Products & Custom Canvas.
The device reduces hours of work to minutes by replacing a process in which employees previously clamped, drilled and filed four small holes through stainless steel tubes and the plugs on either end of a hinge. They then used small-press fit pins to hold the pieces together. The hinged tubing forms folding support struts for canvas boat dodgers, awnings and bimini tops the company makes.
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Marine Fabricator magazine, Sept. 2010 issue
The hard facts on marine hardware and components ...
article describing where successful marine hardware comes from and how important input comes from you, the canvas shop owner
Create better products with the latest in fabrication technology. read more,
great article about Gemini and the "Strapless Bimini" in Boater's Mouth, here