Tech Briefs - October 2019 - Vol. 43 No. 10

Overview

The October 2019 issue of Tech Briefs presents a wealth of innovative technologies and advancements across various fields, particularly focusing on electronics, robotics, and manufacturing. This edition is structured to provide insights into emerging products, features, and applications that are shaping the future of engineering and design.

Key Features and Innovations

1. Products of Tomorrow: The magazine opens with a section dedicated to groundbreaking products that are set to influence the market. This includes a variety of technologies that enhance performance and efficiency in different applications.

2. Mobile Rugged Displays: A feature highlights the development of mobile rugged displays designed for situational awareness. These displays are crucial for environments where durability and reliability are paramount, such as in military or emergency response scenarios.

3. NASA Spinoff: The issue includes a fascinating article on NASA's food research, which has implications for improving 3D printing technologies. This research not only supports space missions but also has potential applications on Earth, particularly in food production and sustainability.

Technological Advancements

The magazine delves into several technological advancements across various sectors:

• Electrical/Electronics: Innovations such as thin nylon films for transparent electronic devices and a chip that converts wasted heat into usable energy are discussed. These technologies aim to enhance energy efficiency and the functionality of electronic devices.

• Wireless Communication: A wireless transceiver that quadruples the speed of 5G is highlighted, showcasing the rapid advancements in communication technology that promise to revolutionize connectivity.

• Heat Management: The introduction of atomically thin heat shields and ultrathin transistors is noted, which are essential for protecting electronic devices and improving the performance of computer chips.

• Aeronautics: The magazine features a neural lander that utilizes artificial intelligence to land drones smoothly, demonstrating the integration of AI in aviation technology. Additionally, advancements in vertical takeoff and landing aircraft are explored, emphasizing the future of urban air mobility.

• Manufacturing & Prototyping: The issue covers high-speed 3D printing technologies that cater to high-performance plastics and the innovative 3D printing of magnetic liquid droplets. These advancements are set to transform manufacturing processes and product development.

Mechanical and Fluid Systems

The magazine also addresses innovations in mechanical and fluid systems, including:

• A rose-inspired device designed to collect and purify water, showcasing the intersection of nature-inspired design and practical applications in water management.

• A fluid-filled frequency-tunable mass damper, which represents advancements in vibration control technologies, crucial for various engineering applications.

Special Section: Securing the Connected Car

A significant focus of this issue is on the security of connected vehicles. As the automotive industry increasingly integrates technology, ensuring the security of electronic control unit interfaces becomes critical. The article discusses the importance of safeguarding wireless communications, including Bluetooth and WLAN, to protect against potential cyber threats. Firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates are presented as a reliable method for maintaining security by swiftly equipping devices with the latest software updates.

Conclusion

The October 2019 issue of Tech Briefs encapsulates a diverse range of technological advancements and innovations that are shaping the future of engineering and design. From the development of rugged mobile displays to the integration of AI in aeronautics, the magazine highlights the importance of innovation in addressing contemporary challenges. The focus on security in connected vehicles underscores the need for robust measures in an increasingly digital world. Overall, this issue serves as a valuable resource for engineers, designers, and technology enthusiasts looking to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in their fields.