Photonics/​Optics

Briefs : Data Acquisition

NASA Space Data Can Cut Disaster Response Times, Costs

The NASA study is a first step in developing a model to deploy in future disasters.

Technology Leaders : Imaging

3D Scanning Inspection

CT vs. structured light scanning — See which option is best for you.

Technology Leaders : Imaging

Spectral Sensitivity Curves of Cameras

Different line scan prism manufacturers might compare two possible curves in their advertising and argue that the steeper flanks should enable better color reproduction with greater selectivity.

Application Briefs : Sensors/Data Acquisition

Challenges for Lidar Software

Anand Gopalan, CEO of Velodyne Lidar, Inc., discusses lidar software for ADAS and autonomous vehicles

Technology Leaders : Sensors/Data Acquisition

Vision-Based System Validates Driver Monitoring

Vision-based convolutional neural network system detects phone usage, eating, and drinking.

Articles : Photonics/Optics

Fiber Lasers for Automotive Welding Applications

Altering the traditional intensity distribution of fiber lasers improves weld quality.

Articles : Imaging

Shortwave Infrared Cameras for High-Temperature Manufacturing and R&D Processes

There are longwave, midwave, and shortwave camera systems—each with its own advantages for specific industries and uses.

Briefs : Test & Measurement

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 : Wearables

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.

Briefs : Electronics & Computers

Thin Films of Barium Zirconium Sulfide Offer Exceptional Electronic Properties

These thin films hold great promise for solar cells and LEDs.

Products : Energy

New on the Market: March 2020

Thermal cameras, testing software, an ion air knife, and more.

Products : Materials

Product of the Month: March 2020 Tech Briefs

Midwest Engineered Systems, Waukesha, WI, offers the ADDere metal 3D printing system that consists of a 6-axis industrial robot combined with a 2-axis coordinated motion workpiece positioner. The...

Blog : Sensors/Data Acquisition

SPIE Photonics West 2020, Day 2: Sensing LiDAR's Rise

Editor Bruce A. Bennett shares his observations from SPIE Photonics West, including the emergence of LiDAR.

Blog : Transportation

SPIE Photonics West 2020 – Sights from Day 1

See what caught Bruce A. Bennett's eye during Day 1 of Photonics West 2020 in San Francisco.

INSIDER : Semiconductors & ICs

Laser Diode Emits Deep UV Light

Nagoya University scientists have succeeded in designing a laser diode that emits deep-ultraviolet light. It emits the world's shortest lasing wavelength, at 271.8 nanometers, under pulsed electric current...

INSIDER : Manufacturing & Prototyping

Method Detects Defects in 2D Materials for Future Electronics and Sensors

To further shrink electronic devices and to lower energy consumption, the semiconductor industry is interested in using 2D materials, but manufacturers need a quick...

Briefs : Sensors/Data Acquisition

Low-Energy Device Rapidly Reroutes Light in Computer Chips

The switch is a major new step toward building a computer that uses light instead of electricity to process information.

Briefs : Electronics & Computers

Polymer Coating Cools Down Buildings

This coating acts as a spontaneous air cooler and can be fabricated, dyed, and applied like paint.

Briefs : Aerospace

3D Printing of Plastics with Electrical Circuits

This innovation could lead to better drones, satellites, and biomedical devices.

Briefs : Robotics, Automation & Control

Multimaterial Fiber “Ink” for 3D-Printed Devices

Filaments with embedded circuitry can be used to print complex shapes for biomedical and robotic devices.