He learned that Yoostar was developing an interactive system which would allow users to insert themselves directly into movie scenes using green screen technology. “It’s ‘movie-oke,’” Tom explains. “So you can ‘star’ in a famous scene by recording the part to replace or play alongside your favorite character. I knew this product could completely change the face of home entertainment and I wanted IMET to be a part of it.” While Yoostar had the software designed, they needed to ensure the camera system would be mechanically and electronically viable. With IMET’s total-solution style to product development and prototyping abilities both in-house and overseas, it was quickly determined they would be a good fit to take Yoostar’s idea from concept to production.
Krol immediately assembled a team to handle the modeling of mechanicals and design of all electronics. Because the system had to include a studio-grade webcam as well as a dual microphone for echo cancellation, one of the toughest aspects proved to be the electrical spacing within the camera’s housing unit. IMET and electrical engineer Kurt Goszyk came up with a 2-board solution, utilizing printed circuit boards set horizontally and vertically inside the mechanical housing. A third board was designed for use in a wireless remote control, which included an RF transmitter to interact with the camera unit.
By December of 2008, initial working prototypes were being assembled by IMET to have ready to showcase at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show the following month. “I clearly remember putting together prototypes on Christmas Eve,” said Tom. Despite the tight deadlines, the CES proved to be a huge success for Yoostar, with CEA president Gary Shapiro previewing the system and claiming “Yoostar™ epitomizes what CES is about- innovation, content, technology and enhancing life.”
Work ramped up immediately following the show as consumer excitement and press attention grew. While IMET worked to ensure Yoostar’s software was Windows-Qualified for compatibility with home computer operating systems, Krol sent team member Brian Dougherty to China to source manufacturers and act as vendor liaison during the final prototyping and production stages. Multiple tools were created in China and evaluated by IMET for final production while color schemes and finishes were finalized to enhance the unit’s innovative design.
The Yoostar™ system premiered exclusively in Bloomingdale’s stores nationwide on August 26th, 2009. With viral marketing already creating much hype and a presence now in Best Buy stores, it is positioning to be the must-have entertainment system of the holiday season. “It’s a whole new way to enjoy movies that’s immersive, social and a lot fun,” says Krol. “We’re proud to be a part of such a revolutionary product and look forward to continuing our work with Yoostar through product and manufacturing support.”
Kurt Goszyk Has Joined IMET Corporation as Our New Vice President
Executive Summary
Kurt Goszyk founded iPREPpress LLC in February 2005 with a mission to exploit the ubiquitous iPod as a platform for educational content. After creating PDA like technology that would link text, audio, images and video on the iPod, he licensed best of breed content from well known and respected publilshers including Merriam-Webster, Encyclopedia Britannica, SparkNotes, Houghton Mifflin, Gareth Stevens and others. iPREPpress now has over 300 iPod titles from 30 Publishers available as downloads and on CD ROM through retail channels.
Prior to forming iPREPpress, Mr. Goszyk was VP, Engineering and Chief Technical Officer at Franklin Electronic Publishers. While there, he developed new product architectures and technologies for future hand-held platforms, brought to market approximately 50 new devices per year and was part of the executive management team and strategic planning committee.
His prior experience includes large company management positions and the founding of 3 startups. He has approximately 30 years technical and business experience in electronic product development, business development, sales and marketing. His educational background includes a BSEE from the University of Toledo, graduate credits from the University of Michigan and business and finance courses from the University of Pennsylvania.
Tradeshow schedule
Design2Part Show (click here for more information)
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, PA
Tuesday April 14th and Wednesday April 15th, 2010
Booth TBD
Amcon Show (click here for more information)
Dulles Expo Center, Chantilly, VA
Wednesday May 19th and Thursday May 20th, 2010
Booth 108
Atlantic Design & Manufacturing Show (click here for more information)
Medical Design & Manufacturing Show (click here for more show information)
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, NY
Tuesday June 8th through Thursday June 10th, 2010
Booth 330 |
