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: Semiconductors & ICs
A new encapsulation technique protects electronic properties of sensitive materials.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
Pop-up miniature electronics based on the Japanese art of kirigami can be repeatedly compressed.
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Briefs: Motion Control
This material could be used for artificial muscles that power bio-inspired robots.
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Briefs: Electronics & Computers
Aerogels based on cellulose nanofibers can effectively shield electromagnetic radiation over a wide frequency range.
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Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control
This process could lead to tiny, self-powered devices for environmental, industrial, or medical monitoring.
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Briefs: Medical
Inspired by parasites, the tiny needles could help eliminate painful shots.
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Briefs: Transportation
Additive manufacturing creates cooling solutions with sizes and shapes not previously possible.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
This method provides a key step toward quantum computers, sensors, and distributed quantum information.
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Briefs: Photonics/Optics
This system encodes information in twisting beams of light.
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Briefs: Internet of Things
Self-powering, color-changing humidity sensors are applicable to various fields including smart windows, health care, and safety management.
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Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems
Empa researchers were able to demonstrate real-time acoustic monitoring of laser weld seams.
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Briefs: Energy
A remote forest fire detection and alarm system is powered by nothing but the movement of trees in the wind.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
Designed to assist in robotic surgeries, biomedical devices can be printed in and on the human body.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
A new type of motion capture technology accurately tracks an athlete during the push start phase of performance.
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Briefs: Data Acquisition
Researchers tackled the problem using a geophysical measurement called seismic anisotropy.
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Briefs: Materials
One unexpected application for spider silk is its use in the creation of biocompatible lenses.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
University of Colorado researchers have described a new silicon chip that improves the resolution and scanning speed needed for a lidar system.
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Briefs: Materials
Real-time terahertz imaging with a single-pixel detector.
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Briefs: Software
This high-strength material could be used to improve safety and reduce the cost of producing cars.
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Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control
The robots could fly silently for covert operations and stay steady through turbulence.
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Briefs: Test & Measurement
Ultra-Sensitive Device Detects Magnetic Fields
The magnetic device is inexpensive to make, works on minimal power, and is 20 times more sensitive than many traditional devices.
Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control
Features include unusual color changes and high touch sensitivity.
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Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition
This neurostimulator could deliver fine-tuned treatments to patients with diseases such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s.
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Briefs: Materials
Liquid-Repelling Substance Works on All Surfaces
The new coating can eliminate complex disinfectant procedures for protective face shields.
Briefs: Medical
The “E-dermis” will enable amputees to perceive through prosthetic fingertips.
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Briefs: Test & Measurement
This technology provides rapid results, improving hospital workflow and patient care.
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Briefs: Wearables
The material was designed specifically for biomedical or wearable technologies, since sweat and volatile organic compounds evaporate away from the skin.
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Briefs: Test & Measurement
Bioactive inks printed on wearable textiles can map conditions over the entire surface of the body.
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Briefs: Nanotechnology
The ultra-light robotic insect can be folded or crushed, yet continues to move.
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