Tech Briefs - August 2020 - Vol. 44 No. 8

Overview

The August 2020 issue of Tech Briefs, Volume 44, No. 8, presents a diverse array of features and technical briefs that highlight the latest advancements in technology, particularly in the fields of engineering, materials science, and battery technology. This issue is designed to inform and inspire design engineers and technology enthusiasts about innovative solutions and emerging trends.

Key Features

1. Products of Tomorrow: The issue opens with a feature on the "Products of Tomorrow," which likely discusses upcoming technologies and products that are set to revolutionize various industries. This section emphasizes the importance of innovation in maintaining competitive advantages in the market.

2. Digitalization in Platform Development: A significant article explores how digitalization can reduce program risk in platform development. It discusses the integration of digital tools and methodologies that enhance project management, streamline processes, and improve overall efficiency in engineering projects.

3. NASA Spinoff: Another highlight is a feature on a NASA-developed lubricant that can repair car engine damage. This spinoff technology showcases how advancements in aerospace can benefit everyday consumer products, illustrating the practical applications of research and development in space exploration.

Tech Briefs

The magazine includes a variety of technical briefs that cover cutting-edge research and innovations:

• Electrical and Electronics: This section features topics such as selecting electrical safety relay modules for optimal performance, advancements in transparent graphene electrodes, and a room-temperature magnon switch that could revolutionize data processing.

• Sensors: Innovations in sensor technology are highlighted, including wearable strain sensors that utilize light transmittance, enhanced fabrication methods for temperature sensing in cryogenic environments, and 3D-printed glucose biosensors that could improve diabetes management.

• Materials and Coatings: The issue discusses several novel materials, including a laser treatment that turns metal surfaces into bacteria killers, a durable textile coating that repels viruses, and a polymer composite designed for radiation shielding. These advancements reflect a growing focus on health and safety in material design.

• Imaging Technologies: The imaging section features a model that recovers lost data from images and videos, as well as an ultrafast camera capable of capturing transparent objects and phenomena. These technologies have significant implications for fields such as surveillance, medical imaging, and scientific research.

Supplementary Content

The issue also includes a supplementary section titled "Man vs Machine: Who Reigns Supreme?" which likely examines the ongoing debate about the roles of human intelligence versus artificial intelligence in various applications. This topic is increasingly relevant as automation and machine learning continue to evolve.

Additionally, there are articles on detecting leaks in industrial pumps and harnessing the Wiegand effect for energy harvesting, showcasing practical applications of engineering principles in industrial settings.

Battery Technology

A notable focus of this issue is on battery technology, with articles discussing advancements in electric vehicle (EV) battery safety, including using multiphysics to predict and prevent battery fires and the importance of venting for EV battery packs. These discussions are crucial as the demand for electric vehicles grows, necessitating improvements in battery performance and safety.

Conclusion

Overall, the August 2020 issue of Tech Briefs serves as a comprehensive resource for engineers and technology professionals. It not only highlights the latest innovations and research but also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in solving complex engineering challenges. The blend of features, technical briefs, and supplementary content provides readers with a well-rounded understanding of current trends and future directions in technology.

This issue encourages readers to stay informed and engaged with the rapidly evolving landscape of engineering and technology, making it a valuable addition to the library of any design engineer or technology enthusiast.