Inside this issue
Overview
The February 2022 edition of Tech Briefs, a publication dedicated to showcasing innovations in engineering and technology, presents a diverse array of topics and features that cater to design engineers and industry professionals. This issue, marked as Volume 46, Number 2, includes insightful articles, product highlights, and discussions on emerging technologies, particularly in the fields of power management, sensing, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
Key Features and Articles
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Products of Tomorrow: This section introduces groundbreaking products that are set to shape the future of technology. It emphasizes the importance of innovation in driving efficiency and performance across various industries.
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Executive Roundtable: Sensing and IIoT: A highlight of this issue is the executive roundtable discussion that delves into the integration of sensing technologies with IIoT. Industry leaders share their insights on how these technologies are transforming operations, enhancing data collection, and improving decision-making processes in real-time.
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Facility Focus: The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: This feature provides an overview of the innovative research and development initiatives at Embry-Riddle, a leading institution in aerospace and aviation education. The focus is on how the university is preparing the next generation of engineers and scientists to tackle future challenges in the aerospace sector.
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NASA Spinoff: Satellite-Based Search and Rescue System: This article discusses a NASA-developed technology that utilizes satellite systems for search and rescue operations. It highlights the practical applications of space technology in enhancing safety and response times during emergencies.
Technical Innovations
The magazine also covers a range of technical innovations across various domains:
Manufacturing & Prototyping: Articles in this section explore advanced manufacturing techniques, including the fabrication of superconducting circuitry on ultrathin silicon layers and the use of sound waves to transport droplets for rewritable lab-on-a-chip devices. These innovations are paving the way for more efficient and versatile manufacturing processes.
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Materials & Coatings: The issue features discussions on new materials, such as a class of nickel-based superalloys that can withstand extreme heat, and bio-inspired glues that seal wounds quickly. These advancements are crucial for applications in aerospace, medical, and industrial sectors.
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Optics: Innovations in optics are highlighted, including a photonic integrated chip designed for improved light control and a nanoscale LED that also functions as a laser. These developments are significant for enhancing imaging systems and communication technologies.
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Imaging: The magazine presents advancements in imaging technologies, such as high-definition millimeter-wave body scanners and systems that utilize smartphone cameras for health measurements. These technologies are revolutionizing fields like healthcare and security.
Special Sections
The issue includes a special section dedicated to Technology Leaders in Power Management, which discusses the pursuit of uninterruptible power supplies and the development of smarter gas flow devices. This section emphasizes the critical role of reliable power systems in ensuring operational continuity across various industries.
Advertisers and Resources
Tech Briefs also features a comprehensive advertisers index, showcasing companies that are at the forefront of technology and innovation. Advertisers listed in bold-face type have banner ads on the Tech Briefs website, providing readers with easy access to additional resources and product literature.
Subscription Information
For those interested in subscribing, the magazine offers various subscription options, including digital copies and single issues. The subscription rates are outlined, making it accessible for both individual and institutional readers.
Conclusion
The February 2022 issue of Tech Briefs serves as a valuable resource for engineers, researchers, and industry professionals seeking to stay informed about the latest technological advancements and trends. With its blend of feature articles, technical innovations, and insights from industry leaders, this edition not only highlights current developments but also sets the stage for future innovations in engineering and technology. Whether you are interested in power management, sensing technologies, or advanced materials, this issue provides a comprehensive overview of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the world of technology.
Features
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Articles
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Facility Focus
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NASA Spinoff
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Technology Leaders
Tech Briefs
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Manufacturing & Prototyping
20 Fabricating Superconducting Circuitry on Both Sides of an Ultrathin Silicon Layer
20 Sound Waves Transport Droplets for Rewritable Lab-on-a-Chip Devices
21 Fabrication Method for Large-Scale Production of Perovskite Solar Cells
22 3D-Printed Objects Sense How a User is Interacting with Them
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Materials
24 New Class of Nickel-Based Superalloys Withstands Extreme Heat
24 Bio-Inspired, Blood-Repelling Glue Seals Wounds Quickly
25 Load-Bearing Material Mimics Human Cartilage
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Photonics/Optics
28 Photonic Integrated Chip for Improved Light Control
28 Sub-Pixel Spatial Resolution Interferometry
29 Nanoscale LED Also Functions as a Laser
30 Optical Coating Exhibits the Same Color in Reflection and Transmission
30 Light Helps Autonomous Vehicles Better Scan for Nearby Fast-Moving Objects
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Imaging
32 Electronic Paper Displays Brilliant Colors
32 System Uses Smartphone or Computer Cameras to Measure Health
34 High-Definition Millimeter-Wave Body Scanner
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Energy
36 Artificial Intelligence Improves Battery Health and Safety
36 Wearable Biofuel Cells Produce Electricity from Lactate
37 Wearable Device Transforms the Human Body into a Biological Battery
37 Polymer-Based Battery Enables Fast Charging and Low Operating Temperatures
38 Eliminating Corrosion Extends Life of Lightweight Batteries
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Sustainable Technologies
39 Chemistry Discovery Could Remove Micropollutants from the Environment
Products
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Briefs
10 Software Gives Robots Human Touch
10 Incorporating Computer Vision and Uncertainty into AI for Robotic Prosthetics
11 Soft, Mechanical Metamaterials
12 Mobile Molecular Robots Swim in Water
12 Micro-Robots Propelled by Air Bubbles and Ultrasound
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Briefs
19 High-Performance MXene Electrodes for Next-Generation Battery
19 Technique Merges Solar Cell and Liquid Battery
20 Fast-Charging, Long-Running, Bendable Supercapacitor
21 Technique Extends Next-Generation Lithium Metal Batteries
22 Material Derived from Trees Could Replace Liquid Electrolytes