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: RF & Microwave Electronics

Researchers Generate Terahertz Laser with Laughing Gas

In the middle ground between microwaves and visible light lies terahertz radiation, and the promise of “Tray vision.”

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Researchers Create Nanoscale Sensors to Better See How High Pressure Affects Materials

Researchers have developed new nanoscale technology to image and measure more of the stresses and strains on materials under high pressures.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Stretchable Wireless Sensor Could Monitor Healing of Cerebral Aneurysms

A wireless sensor small enough to be implanted in the blood vessels of the human brain could help clinicians evaluate the healing of aneurysms.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

New Solution to Elderly Falls: Drones, Smartphones and Sensors

Drones, smartphones, and sensors could provide a lifeline to the world’s growing elderly population at risk of falls.

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Oxygen Sensor for Sick Infants

A mobile, wearable device the size of a Band-Aid could allow babies to leave the hospital and be monitored from home.

Briefs: Medical

Self-Moisturizing, Smart Contact Lenses

The lenses can prevent dry eyes and may be used for drug delivery.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Soft, Conformable Hearing Implants

These electrode implants will allow people with a dysfunctional inner ear to hear again.

Briefs: Motion Control

Low-Inductance DC Power Bus

The bus is designed for high-frequency, high-temperature operation in electric drive systems and next-generation power electronics.

Briefs: Aerospace

Layered Composite Insulation

This cost-saving piping insulation has uses in refrigerated containers that protect food, medicine, and other perishables.

Briefs: Aerospace

Magnetic Shield Using Proximity Coupled, Spatially Varying Superconducting Order Parameters

This magnetic shielding design can be easily incorporated into a wide range of electronic sensing applications.

Briefs: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Flap Device for Airframe Noise Reduction

This trailing edge flap device reduces noise without compromising cruise efficiency or landing lift and stall characteristics.

Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Wireless System Powers Devices Inside the Body

The technology could enable remote control of drug delivery, sensing, and other medical applications.

Briefs: Aerospace

Insect-Inspired Arms Improve Drones

The new arm design enables unmanned aerial vehicles to fly in windy conditions.

Briefs: Aerospace

Conductive Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Structural Materials

These materials can be used in aerospace vehicles, automobiles, clothing, helmets, and chemical sensors.

Briefs: Propulsion

Green Jet Fuel Additive Made from Acetone Plus Light

The additive creates fuel from biomass while improving engine performance.

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Blood Test Detects Multiple Types of Cancer

The test can screen for numerous types of cancer with a high degree of accuracy.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Remote, Noninvasive Cardiac Activity Tracer (RENCAT)

This vibrometer has uses in analyzing spasms in humans, as a breath analyzer for diagnosis of cancer and other diseases, and as a preventative healthcare sensor.