Nature inspires lighter and tougher plastic components

By Dag G.
One Comment1 September 2011
fraunhofer-bionic-inspired-polyamide-printing

Certain biological materials exhibit exceptional strength due to their complex structure which has been perfected through time. Inspired by the perfected structures found in nature, researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute are collaborating on a project named Bionic Manufacturing. It aims to develop plastic products that are lightweight and strong, while being economic in their use ... »

Novel nuclear power plants developed for future extraterrestrial bases

By Damir B.
2 Comments30 August 2011
lunar-nuclear-powerplant-1

Researchers from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are cooperating in order to develop a technology that could be used as the first nuclear power plant for production of electricity on potential future extraterrestrial bases. Although far different from the familiar terrestrial nuclear power stations, they are ... »

Using algebraic equations to enhance robot motion

By Damir B.
29 August 2011
graphic-representation-of-an-algebraic-equation

Although robots advance each day, they still lack the fluent movement and gracefulness we’d expect them to have. A group of researchers from the University of Innsbruck employs new mathematical approaches to improve the control of robot movements. Aside making robots more graceful and efficient, the research might lead to better motion safety for both ... »

Green architecture – Viceroy Snowmass Hotel, Colorado

By Dag G.
28 August 2011
viceroy-snowmass-hotel-1

Viceroy Hotel is the first hotel in Aspen/Snowmass area awarded with LEED Gold certification. By incorporating sustainable design and construction, innovative operational practices, and promotion of sustainability to both staff and guests, Viceroy Hotel aims to redefine luxury while ensuring that the future generations are able to enjoy the area’s pristine, high-alpine environment of Snowmass, ... »

Researchers develop faster organic semiconductors for flexible displays

By Damir B.
27 August 2011
better-organic-electronics-1

Organic semiconductors are suitable for application in thin film and flexible displays but they haven’t yet reached the speeds needed to drive high definition displays. A team of researchers, led by researchers from Stanford and Harvard universities, applied a logical approach in order to create a new material which is suitable for high-speed organic semiconductors. ... »

A peptide-based fluid used for a non-invasive way to fight tooth decay

By Damir B.
3 Comments26 August 2011
leeds-tooth-regeneration

Researchers from the University of Leeds have discovered a new way to treat the first signs of tooth decay. They developed a peptide-based fluid that is literally painted onto the tooth’s surface in order to reverse the damage of acid attack and re-builds teeth as new. The peptide technology is based on knowledge of how ... »

Researchers develop a system for simultaneous control of multiple robots

By Dag G.
One Comment25 August 2011
mpi-swarming-robot-quadrocopter

Max Planck Institute (MPI) researchers are using computer simulations and prototypes in order to enhance the simulations control of multiple robots. They are developing flying multi-robot systems, which receive instructions from a  user and fulfill the commands in an autonomous manner. Navigated by a human operator, four or more of these Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) ... »