Tech Briefs

A comprehensive library of technical briefs from engineering experts at NASA and major government, university, and commercial laboratories covering all aspects of innovations in electronics, software, photonics, imaging, motion control, automation, sensors, test, materials, manufacturing, mechanical, and mechatronics.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Let’s Get Small: New Argonne Method Greatly Improves X-Ray Nanotomography Resolution

Scientists are working to improve the image resolution of X-ray techniques.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Making Measurements with a Fine-Toothed Comb

The comb detects even the smallest amounts of greenhouse gases in the air or look for disease in human breath.

Briefs: Wearables

“Smart” Shirt Monitors the Heart

Flexible carbon nanotube fibers woven into clothing gather accurate EKG and heart rate.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

DC Drives as Replacements for AC Servos

Low-voltage DC stepper and servo drives offer space-saving options for applications traditionally handled by AC servo drives.

Briefs: Materials

Deployable Composite Boom

Applications include space structures, emergency shelters, backpack solar collectors, and inspection of hazardous environments.

Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control

Soft Robots Use Camera and Shadows to Sense Human Touch

An off-the-shelf USB camera captures the shadows made by hand gestures on the robot’s skin.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Laser Jolts Microscopic Electronic Robots into Motion

Incorporating semiconductor components, microscopic robots are made to walk with standard electronic signals.

Briefs: Communications

Nanosheets of Borophane are Stronger Than Steel

The 2D materials boost device performance for electronic devices, solar cells, batteries, and medical equipment.

Briefs: Imaging

Robot Locates and Retrieves Buried Items

This robotic arm fuses data from a camera and antenna to locate and retrieve items buried under piles and completely out of view.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Color-Changing Dyes Visualize Stress in Plastics

Directly visualizing external stresses of plastics is useful in development of materials with improved mechanical properties.

Briefs: Energy

Stable Polymeric Ink with High Conductivity

This paves the way for innovative and more energy-efficient printed electronics.

Briefs: Materials

Concrete-Like Material from Space Dust and Astronaut Blood

The material could be used to create housing in outer space.

Briefs: Imaging

Ruggedized Infrared Camera

The camera was designed for use in space and other extreme environments.

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Photo-Induced Emission Analysis to Identify Surface Contaminants

The instrument identifies, quantifies, and characterizes contamination, even on irregularly shaped surfaces.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Sonolithography Uses Ultrasound for Non-Contact Patterning on Surfaces

The new printing method coaxes particles and droplets into precise patterns using the power of sound.

Briefs: Materials

Manufacturing Technique Yields Flexible Electronics

With this advance, so-called “flextronics” move closer to reality.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Using Silicone Wristbands to Measure Air Quality

The inexpensive, convenient devices can measure exposure to a class of chemicals that can be harmful during pregnancy.

Briefs: RF & Microwave Electronics

Radio Signals Image Hidden and Speeding Objects

This method could help firefighters find victims inside buildings and could track hypersonic objects such as missiles and space debris.

Briefs: Energy

Long-Life Lithium-Metal Battery

The technology could be key to lighter, less expensive, and long-lasting batteries for future electric vehicles.

Briefs: Software

Industrial Software Integrates With IT

Modern PLCs now include IT-capable software and communications protocols, empowering users to easily access edge-sourced data and integrate it with the enterprise.