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.

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Briefs: Electronics & Computers
High-frequency sound waves can be used to build new materials, make smart nanoparticles, and even deliver drugs to the lungs for painless, needle-free vaccinations.
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Briefs: Electronics & Computers
By introducing defects to a common material, a highly efficient capacitor offers dramatically increased energy density.
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Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems
The lightweight brake rotor design with high heat dissipation uses novel surface cooling technology.
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Briefs: Energy
Solid-state batteries offer a higher level of safety and potentially longer life than lithium-ion batteries.
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Briefs: Energy
A flexible device worn on the wrist harvests heat energy from the human body to monitor health.
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Briefs: Electronics & Computers
By capturing more cancer cells than blood draw screening, this device could help doctors understand a tumor’s biology and make decisions about treatment.
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Briefs: Green Design & Manufacturing
Prototypes show promise as a low-cost, natural filtration option.
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Briefs: Materials
The high-quality bioplastics can be molded into a film that can be used in plastic bags and packaging.
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Briefs: Energy
An enhanced polymer could be used for more energy-efficient systems with a smaller carbon footprint.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
The algorithm speeds up the planning process robots use to adjust their grip on objects for picking and sorting or tool use.
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Briefs: Packaging & Sterilization
A novel method was developed to produce an alkaline hydrogel that could improve wound healing.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
The app detects fluid behind the eardrum using a piece of paper and a smartphone’s microphone and speaker.
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Briefs: Software
A production-based X-ray solution performs product quality evaluation directly on the manufacturing line.
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Briefs: Green Design & Manufacturing
This portable method could enable hospitals to make their own supply of the disinfectant on demand and at lower cost.
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Briefs: Test & Measurement
Microspheres are used in wind tunnel experiments to monitor airflow, to stain biological samples, and in time-delayed drug release.
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Briefs: Energy
The carbon fiber serves as the electrode, conductor, and load-bearing material.
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Briefs: Materials
The soft material demonstrates autonomous, heartbeat-like oscillating properties.
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Briefs: Electronics & Computers
Flywheels offer an environmentally and financially sound choice for protecting critical operations.
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Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems
Terrestrial uses include physical therapy, clinical diagnosis, athletic training and performance, and robust exercise equipment.
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Briefs: Medical
This wearable device is placed on the skin to measure a variety of body responses, from electrical to biomechanical signals.
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Briefs: Test & Measurement
The system uses infrasonic acoustics for weather monitoring and for drone or UAV activity.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
Dangerous “butterfly” landmines can be detected using low-cost drones and infrared cameras.
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Briefs: Photonics/Optics
The size and shape of the nanostructure can be controlled as it is assembled piece by piece.
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Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping
The material could be used in security, health, industrial, and safety applications.
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Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping
The new metal lattice material can be used to create models that regain shape after being crushed.
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Briefs: Unmanned Systems
These tiny aerial robots can operate in cramped spaces and withstand collisions.
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Briefs: Materials
The new material could provide efficient and reusable protection from shock, vibration, and explosion.
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Briefs: Packaging & Sterilization
The gel works even at freezing temperatures and contains natural antimicrobial compounds derived from durian husk.
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Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control
Servo motion control delivers powerful, fast, and precise movement onboard robots and for associated equipment.
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