Technical Briefs, Design Engineering News

December 2019

Articles: Robotics, Automation & Control

Collaborative Automation: It's More Than Just the Cobot

“Cobots” allow companies of almost any size to automate processes that were previously out of reach.

Articles: Manufacturing & Prototyping

The Role of Sensors in the Evolution of Robotics

Sensing technology will help to transform manufacturing floors into the connected factories of the future.

Briefs: Communications

WiFi-Based Technique Measures Speed and Distance of Indoor Movement

A technology uses a combination of WiFi signals and accelerometer technology to track devices in near-real-time.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Biologically Inspired Artificial Skin Improves Sensory Ability of Robots

A synthetic skin enables robots to sense their own bodies and surroundings

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Self-Contained Wheel Unit

Researchers have developed a self-contained wheel unit that combines a wheel and an electric motor.

Briefs: Motion Control

Precision Low-Speed Motor Controller

The technology can be used in commercial motors, robotic systems, and hybrid and electric vehicles.

Application Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Docking System Enables Safe Rendezvous in Space

The ESA has commissioned its industry partners to design a new docking system called the International Berthing and Docking Mechanism (IBDM).

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Algorithm Gives Robots a Faster Grasp

The algorithm speeds up the planning process that robots use to adjust their grip on objects.

Briefs: AR/AI

Artificial Skin Provides Haptic Feedback

The skin could help rehabilitation and enhance virtual reality by instantaneously adapting to a wearer's movements.

Products: Test & Measurement

New Products: December 2019 Motion Design

Actuators, Encoders, Gripping Tools, and More

Application Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Valve Position Sensor Protects Switch Boxes from Salt Environment

Salty air the Dutch city of Harlingen causes exposed metal parts to corrode.

Special Reports: Automotive

ADAS/Connected Car - December 2019

Today's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and connected cars are paving the way for tomorrow's automated vehicles. To help you keep pace with the latest technology developments, we present this...

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

MMOD Impact Detection and Location

This system uses fiber optic strain sensing to detect and locate micrometeoroid/orbital debris.

Products: Materials

New on the Market: December 2019

Adhesives, flame-retardant compounds, vision measurement, and more...

Articles: Test & Measurement

Employing the Electrical Digital Twin to Mitigate Compliance Risk in Aerospace

With the rise in electrification and design complexity, aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) need to look for new methodologies to mitigate compliance risk.

Briefs: Materials

Superconductivity in a Nickel Oxide Material

Made with “Jenga chemistry,” the material could help in understanding how high-temperature superconductors work.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Low-Bandwidth Radar Technology Provides Improved Detection of Objects

Radar technologies were originally designed to identify and track airborne military targets. Today, they're more often used to detect motor vehicles, weather formations,...

Briefs: RF & Microwave Electronics

Enhanced Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Reader

The reader uses a frequency multiplexer to boost its ability to accurately locate a greater number of RFID tags.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Potassium-Oxygen Battery Stores Clean Energy

Researchers have developed a more efficient, more reliable potassium-oxygen battery with a cathode that stores the energy produced by a chemical reaction in a metal-oxygen or metal-air battery....

5 Ws: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

5 Ws of EarEcho

The biometric tool uses modified wireless earbuds to authenticate smartphone users

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Embedded Fiber Optic Sensors (EFOS)

Current laser interferometry pressure pulse detection techniques use the shock-induced change in index of refraction to track detonation and/or shock fronts in a single fiber optic by reflecting laser...

Technology Leaders: Energy

Development and Analysis of Solid-State Batteries with the COMSOL® Platform

As lithium-ion battery production doubles, more viable energy storage solutions are needed.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Li-ion Cell Calorimeter Makes Commercial Lithium Batteries Safer

Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center have developed a calorimeter that is able to measure the total heat generated when specific types of Lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells are...

Briefs: Aerospace

Continuous Fiber Composite for Use in Gears

This lightweight material brings strength and durability to complex shapes.

Facility Focus: Semiconductors & ICs

Facility Focus: NASA John H. Glenn Research Center

Glenn's research facilities have contributed to decades of technology advances.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Packaging for SiC Sensors and Electronics

This packaging provides protection for SiC sensors and electronics in harsh, hightemperature environments.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Free-Space Fiber Optic Laser Rod

This approach removes the limitation on peak power densities that exists for fiber lasers.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Shape Memory Alloy Art (SMArt)

This hands-on, educational tool highlights the properties of SMA wire.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

De-Orbit Device for SmallSats

This retractable de-orbit device facilitates targeted re-entry, attitude and orbital control, and collision avoidance.

NASA Spinoff: Energy

Carbon Capture Process Makes Sustainable Oil

Life support research for astronauts enabled a solution to one aspect of climate change.

Briefs: Materials

Metallization for SiC Semiconductors

This technology provides simultaneous ohmic contacts and the process to make them.

Briefs: Imaging

Human Torso Simulator

The simulator could help in the development of new back braces.

Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Photonic Switch Increases Speed and Efficiency of Light Through Optical Fibers

This optical switch controls the direction of light passing through optical fibers faster and more efficiently.

Articles: Photonics/Optics

Products of Tomorrow: December 2019

Products include an aerosol scattering sensor; metal foam; and a new coated drug capsule.

Briefs: Energy

Chemical Mixture Widens the Temperature Range for Electric Car Batteries

A combination of additives shows promise for boosting battery performance in very cold or hot weather.

Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Technique Uses X-Rays to Detect Defective Computer Chips

This method also reverse-engineers computer chips to detect the chip’s purpose.

Briefs: Automotive

Aerogel-Fiber Layered Laminate System

This multifunctional hybrid laminate composite can be used for residential and commercial construction.

Briefs: Automotive

Shape Memory Alloy with Adjustable, Wide-Ranging Actuation Temperatures

This invention is a highly stable, heat-treatable, and tunable material.

Briefs: Energy

Device Creates Electricity from Snowfall

The nanogenerator also acts as a weather station.

Q&A: Electronics & Computers

Q&A: Refrigeration by Twisting Fibers

Changing directions of twist and coiling changes whether a material cools or heats.

Briefs: Energy

Photovoltaic-Powered Sensors

RFID-based devices work in indoor and outdoor lighting conditions and could transmit data for years before they need to be replaced.

Briefs: Imaging

Method Speeds 3D Printing of Millimeter-Sized Imaging Lenses

The method could impact optical imaging, vision correction, and disease diagnosis.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Optically Fixable Shape Memory Polymers

These polymers can combine thermal and optically fixable shape memory.

Briefs: Defense

Unpowered, Lightweight Ankle Exoskeleton

This low-profile ankle exoskeleton integrates into a shoe and fits under clothing.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Method Manipulates Electrons and Transmits Information Quantum-Mechanically

This technology could lead to the creation of fully functional quantum computers.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Heat-Regulating Material for Next-Generation Space Blanket

Squid skin inspires a new material with heat-regulating properties.

Articles: Electronics & Computers

Innovators Recognized for Creating the Future 2019

Top prizes in the 2019 contest were awarded on November 8 in New York City.

Briefs: Energy

Ultra-Thin Layers of Rust Generate Electricity from Flowing Water

When combined with saltwater, rust can be a source of electricity.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Transport Method Boosts Capacity of Heat Exchangers

A simple modification can improve the capability of turbulent heat exchangers by 500%.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC) Actuator

This technology has applications in sonar, range measuring, directional-force sensors, flow meters, and vibration/noise sensing and control.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Adaptive Spatial Resolution Enables Focused Fiber Optic Sensing

This innovation dynamically provides fast signal processing and precision measurement.

Briefs: Materials

Washable Sensor Can Be Woven Into Materials

The device could impact composites manufacturing and health monitoring.

Briefs: Automotive

Durable Polyimide Aerogels

Stronger and flexible, polyimide aerogels provide insulation and structural support.

Products: Electronics & Computers

Product of the Month: December 2019 Tech Briefs

The GNV-720 and GNV-725 humidity temperature meters from Global Specialties feature three environmental sensors.

White Papers: Robotics, Automation & Control

Solving the E/E Dilemma of Electric and Autonomous Vehicles

As automotive manufacturers and suppliers develop advanced technologies to realize the trends of autonomy, connectivity, electrification, and shared mobility, they are encountering...

White Papers: Aerospace

How to Mitigate Aerospace Electrical Compliance Risk: A New Approach

Electrical Load Analysis (ELA) is an important to ensure adequate power for the electrical systems during all phases of flight. For the most part, ELA today is done...

INSIDER: Materials

New Transistor Nanocrystals Are Smaller, Higher Quality, and More Efficient

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method for producing atomically thin semiconducting crystals that could one day enable more...

Question of the Week: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Will Self-Assembling 'M-Blocks' Catch On?

A team at MIT created self-assembling robotic cubes that can climb and roll over each other into set formations.

INSIDER: Test & Measurement

Compact Depth Sensor Inspired by Spiders

Inspired by spiders, researchers at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), have developed a compact and efficient depth sensor that could be used onboard...

INSIDER: Sensors/Data Acquisition

3D-Printed Plastics with High Performance Electrical Circuits

Rutgers engineers have embedded high performance electrical circuits inside 3D-printed plastics, which could lead to smaller and versatile drones and better-performing small...

INSIDER: Sensors/Data Acquisition

MIT Researchers Employ Low-Cost Sensors to Detect and Track the Origins of Air Pollutants in India.

At any moment in Delhi, India, a resident might start their car, releasing exhaust that floats into the atmosphere. In northwest India, a...

Blog: Electronics & Computers

In High Temperatures, A New Class of Ceramics Controls Heat Radiation

New ceramics expand on ways to more efficiently use heat radiation.

White Papers: Imaging

Liquid Lenses in Machine Vision Whitepaper

By integrating a liquid lens, the imaging system can change the plane of focus in milliseconds in order to provide sharp images, regardless of the object's distance from the camera. This is an ideal...

White Papers: Automotive

Detailed Technical Comparison of Automotive Serial Buses

Point-to-point automotive networks deployed in the 1980s were replaced by bus-based networks in the 1990s, with CAN bus emerging as the industry standard. Since then, the complexity of...

Tech Talks: Medical

New Developments in Catheter Shaft Components – Part 2

This Webinar focuses on advancements in catheter shaft componentry with a deeper dive into film cast technology. Specifically, we will hone in on polyimide and lubricious polyimide.

White Papers: Motion Control

Safety First - the Position Determination and Checking Algorithms of the RESOLUTE™ True-Absolute Optical Encoder

This white paper gives an overview of the operation of the RESOLUTE absolute encoder and describes in detail the safety...

On-Demand Webinars: Green Design & Manufacturing

Rapid, Selective Volatile Emissions Testing for Vehicles and Components

Regulators and consumers demand increasingly lower levels of harmful volatile emissions in motor vehicle passenger cabins, pushing manufacturers toward more comprehensive testing – from component level to finished vehicles – to ensure conformance and avoid costly...

On-Demand Webinars: Materials

Enhance Product Design and Dependability with Advanced Coating Technologies

For decades, engineers have been tasked with designing new products that are not only smaller and lighter than previous generations, but they must also operate in increasingly challenging environments. These challenges are true in many industries, including...

News: Medical

Soft Wearable Health Monitor Uses Stretchable Electronics

A wireless, wearable monitor built with stretchable electronics could allow comfortable, long-term health monitoring of adults, babies, and small children without concern for...

News: Electronics & Computers

Reconfigurable Electronics Offer Promise for Implantable Devices

Medical implants of the future may feature reconfigurable electronic platforms that can morph in shape and size dynamically as bodies change or transform to relocate...

News: Energy

Stretchable and Flexible Biofuel Cell Runs on Sweat

A unique new flexible and stretchable device, worn against the skin and capable of producing electrical energy by transforming the compounds present in sweat, has been developed and...

Blog: Materials

Answering Your Questions: How is a Parylene Conformal Coating Used?

Parylene coatings are being used in the medical industry and even space. Our expert explains why.

White Papers: Electronics & Computers

Achieving Reliability to Match Capability

Partial Reconfiguration allows FPGAs to dynamically change modules without disrupting other parts of the design. This white paper describes the special considerations throughout the design process...

INSIDER: Green Design & Manufacturing

A New Concept for More Sustainable Batteries

A new concept for an aluminum battery has twice the energy density as previous versions, is made of abundant materials, and could lead to reduced production costs and environmental impact. The...

Question of the Week: Transportation

Will ‘Unbreakable Batteries’ Find a Place in Electronics and Vehicles?

Increasingly, lithium-ion batteries are supporting portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid storage.

INSIDER: Internet of Things

Highly Sensitive Diode, Converts Microwaves to Usable Electricity

A highly sensitive rectifying element in the form of a nanowire backward diode can convert low-power 100 nanowatt microwaves into usable electricity. The newly developed...

INSIDER: Power

Big Plans to Save the Planet Depend on Nanoscopic Materials Improving Energy Storage

The challenge of building an energy future that preserves and improves the planet is a massive undertaking. Scientists and politicians have recognized...

On-Demand Webinars: Robotics, Automation & Control

Collaborative Robot Applications in the Automotive Industry

Smaller, easier to program, quick to implement, and typically one-third the cost of industrial bots, collaborative robots are more than being noticed in the industry. Recently a global director of manufacturing engineering integration at a major automotive OEM was quoted as...

On-Demand Webinars: Aerospace

Update on Civil Certification of Multicore Processing Systems in Commercial Avionics

The transition from traditional federated systems to consolidated multicore platforms gives aerospace suppliers a competitive edge. This 60-minute Webinar examines the industry’s remarkable journey bringing multicore processing to avionics systems as...

INSIDER: Robotics, Automation & Control

Intelligent Microrobot Moves Without A Visible Force

Researchers developed a microrobot that measures a few micrometers across and resembles a paper bird made with origami. It flaps its wings or bends its neck and retracts its head via...

On-Demand Webinars: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Metal 3D Printing

Having proven its capability and future potential in producing plastic-based parts, 3D printing has also been progressing steadily in metal. Recent market analysis reports stake material and printer sales in the metal 3D sector to be growing at rates of over 30% and 45%, respectively – fastest among all 3D printing...

Blog: Electronics & Computers

Countdown: The Top Stories of 2019

Tech Briefs in 2019 celebrated historic NASA anniversaries, new ways to power electronics, and innovative hacks of our “smartest” technologies.

Blog: Sensors/Data Acquisition

How to Fix Satellites — With Satellites

If a satellite breaks in orbit, there's not much that can be done. A professor envisions a new idea for refueling and repair.

Tech Talks: Automotive

An Advanced Solution for Hydrodynamic Film Challenges

Seals are responsible for nearly one-quarter of all lost mechanical energy in traditional transmissions, and manufacturers have increasingly turned to new low-friction transmission seals to save fuel, lower emissions, and extend the operating life of industrial powertrains. This...

Question of the Week: Materials

Can Gels Stop Wildfires?

A preventive treatment developed by Stanford researchers could greatly reduce the incidence and severity of wildfires. The cellulose-based, gel-like fluid protects against fires and stays on target vegetation through rain, wind, and other environmental exposure. Watch the demo on Tech Briefs TV.