NASA Tech Briefs - May 2010 - Vol. 34 No. 5

Overview

The May 2010 issue of NASA Tech Briefs, Photonics Tech Briefs, and Embedded Technology presents a rich array of articles and insights focused on advancements in technology, particularly in the fields of photonics, turbomachinery design, and embedded systems. This edition highlights innovative solutions and products that are shaping the future of engineering and technology.

Key Highlights:

1. Software Simplifies Turbomachinery Design: The issue opens with an exploration of software tools that streamline the design process for turbomachinery. These tools are essential for engineers looking to enhance efficiency and reduce costs in the design of turbines and compressors. The article discusses how advanced simulation and modeling software can predict performance and optimize designs, ultimately leading to more effective and reliable turbomachinery.

2. Sensors Expo Product Preview: This section provides a preview of the latest products showcased at the Sensors Expo, emphasizing innovations in sensor technology. The products highlighted include advanced sensors that improve measurement accuracy and reliability across various applications, from industrial automation to environmental monitoring.

3. NASA’s Centennial Challenge Winners: The magazine features the winners of NASA’s Centennial Challenges, which encourage innovation in aerospace technology. This segment showcases groundbreaking projects and inventions that have emerged from these competitions, highlighting the creativity and ingenuity of participants who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space exploration and technology.

4. Photonics Solutions for the Design Engineer: A significant focus of this issue is on photonics, with articles detailing various applications and technologies. One notable article discusses the use of electro-photonic integrated circuits, which combine electronic and photonic components to enhance performance in communication systems. This technology is crucial for developing faster and more efficient data transmission methods.

5. Using Light to Reverse Engineer a Steam Turbine: An application article delves into the use of non-contact optical scanning equipment to reverse-engineer complex geometric shapes, such as turbine blades. This process is essential for maintenance and improvement of existing machinery, allowing engineers to create precise models without the need for physical disassembly.

6. Widely Tunable Mode-Hop-Free External-Cavity Quantum Cascade Laser: The issue also covers advancements in laser technology, specifically a new type of quantum cascade laser that offers wide tunability without mode hopping. This innovation is significant for applications in spectroscopy and sensing, where precise wavelength control is critical.

7. Non-Geiger-Mode Single-Photon Avalanche Detector With Low Excess Noise: Another technical article discusses a novel single-photon avalanche detector designed to operate with low excess noise. This technology is vital for applications in quantum communication and advanced imaging systems, where detecting single photons is necessary for high-performance operation.

8. Using Whispering-Gallery-Mode Resonators for Refractometry: The magazine features research on whispering-gallery-mode resonators, which are used for high-precision refractometry. This technique allows for the measurement of refractive index changes with high sensitivity, making it applicable in various fields, including biomedical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.

9. New Products Section: The issue concludes with a comprehensive overview of new products in the market, including microelectrode arrays for cerebral applications, COM Express modules for embedded systems, and solutions for effective thermal design. This section serves as a valuable resource for engineers and designers looking to stay updated on the latest tools and technologies available for their projects.

Conclusion:

The May 2010 issue of NASA Tech Briefs, Photonics Tech Briefs, and Embedded Technology is a treasure trove of information for professionals in engineering and technology. It not only highlights the latest advancements and products but also provides insights into the challenges and innovations shaping the future of various industries. With a focus on practical applications and cutting-edge research, this edition serves as an essential resource for engineers, designers, and technology enthusiasts alike. Whether you are interested in turbomachinery, photonics, or embedded systems, this issue offers valuable knowledge and inspiration to drive your projects forward.