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Smart toys without the batteries

Researchers have developed lightweight, flexible, and simple TENGs from recycled plastics that can generate electricity in self-powered smart toys. The technology has shown promise in creating interactive games without the need for batteries, benefiting children's entertainment and education.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJul 19, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Brain signals deliver first targeted treatment for world's most common movement disorder

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a new deep brain stimulation system that uses electrodes on top of the brain to sense movement and deliver targeted stimulation only when needed. This approach has shown promising results in reducing tremor symptoms, extending battery life, and improving patient performance.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateJun 27, 2017

Drones that drive

Researchers at MIT's CSAIL have developed a system of quadcopter drones that can both fly and drive through urban environments with ease. The drones, equipped with wheels on the bottom, can navigate around obstacles in both air and ground modes, making them ideal for transporting objects or rescuing people in disaster zones.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateJun 26, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Scientists propose better battery system for smart home use

Researchers have developed a new algorithm to optimize battery power consumption in smart home systems. The system learns to adapt to real-time electricity rates and minimizes grid power needed while extending battery life. Future work will investigate avoiding damage caused by frequent charging and discharging modes.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMay 16, 2017

Is this the 'holey' grail of batteries?

Researchers have developed a new battery system using electrodes with porous graphene scaffolding, showing substantial improvement in energy storage. By fine-tuning nanopore size, they achieved high mass loading and power capability while maintaining charge transport.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Harnessing geometric frustration to tune batteries for greater power

Researchers at the University of Kent have discovered a way to increase the charge transport rate in solid materials using geometric frustration, a phenomenon that breaks up regimented atomic formations. This technique enables faster ionic conductivity, potentially leading to more powerful batteries and fuel cells with zero-emission ca...

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 10, 2017

Thin layers of water hold promise for the energy storage of the future

The study found that the material with atomically thin layers of water stored energy more efficiently than the regular material, wasting less energy as heat. This breakthrough holds promise for future energy-storage technologies, such as thinner batteries and faster renewable-based power grids.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 28, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Revolutionary method reveals impact of short circuits on battery safety

Researchers developed a novel approach to study Li-ion battery failure under short-circuit conditions, gaining insights into cell design vulnerabilities and thermal runaway propagation. The findings provide new knowledge to improve battery safety and reliability for portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid-scale storage.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateApr 25, 2017

Freezing lithium batteries may make them safer and bendable

Researchers at Columbia University developed a new method using ice-templating to create solid electrolytes for lithium batteries, which are safer, have longer battery life, and are bendable. This approach could improve energy density by replacing the graphite layer with lithium metal.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 24, 2017

Stanford scientist's new approach may accelerate design of high-power batteries

A Stanford scientist's new mathematical model could accelerate the design of high-power electrical storage devices, including car batteries and supercapacitors. The model aims to improve material performance and reduce costs, paving the way for more efficient energy storage solutions.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 21, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

A battery prototype powered by atmospheric nitrogen

Researchers in China have developed a battery prototype that captures atmospheric nitrogen to generate electricity, offering a promising alternative to existing lithium-nitrogen batteries. The battery's energy output is brief but comparable to other lithium-metal batteries, making it a potential solution for renewable energy storage.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateApr 13, 2017

Multi-university effort to advance materials, define the future of mobility

Three MIT-affiliated research teams receive $10M in funding to develop novel energy storage technologies for future mobility and autonomous systems. The projects focus on lithium-ion batteries and nanostructured catalysts for oxygen reduction, with the goal of accelerating materials discovery and reducing CO2 emissions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 3, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Clarifying how lithium ions ferry around in rechargeable batteries

Researchers observe ultrafast bonding of lithium ions with solvents, challenging existing theory on ion diffusion. The study reveals dynamic restructuring of the solvent shell during ion transport, indicating that electrolytes play an active role in transporting lithium ions.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2017

Liquid fuel for future computers

Researchers at ETH Zurich and IBM Research Zurich have built a tiny redox flow battery that supplies electrical power and cools computer chip stacks simultaneously. The new micro-battery reaches record-high output and has potential applications in lasers, solar cells, and large energy storage systems.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 15, 2017

New nanofiber marks important step in next generation battery development

Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a nanofiber catalyst that improves the efficiency of rechargeable batteries and hydrogen production. The new catalyst, made from double perovskite nanofibers, shows significantly enhanced oxygen evolution reaction capability compared to existing materials.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2017

Paper pumps power portable microfluidics, biomedical devices

Biomedical engineers at North Carolina State University have created affordable paper pumps using capillary action that power portable microfluidic devices. These devices hold promise for use in applications ranging from diagnostics to drug testing, offering advantages such as portability, low cost, and disposability.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateMar 8, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

CCNY-based team develops sustainable, high energy density battery

Researchers at CCNY Energy Institute developed a sustainable, high-energy-density battery using manganese dioxide and copper. The unique material allows for both high cycle life and high areal capacity, making it suitable for practical applications.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2017

Coming soon: Oil spill-mapping swarms of flying drones

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed software that allows a swarm of low-cost drones to quickly map an offshore oil spill. The system uses principles from nature, such as flock dynamics, to optimize communication and data sharing among the drones, enabling them to determine the size of the spill in just nine minutes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateFeb 27, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Powerful change: A profile of today's solar consumer

A QUT study reveals that solar PV systems are being acquired by families with lower incomes, contradicting the long-held notion that it is a luxury reserved for high-income individuals. The research found that financial capacity, education status, and home ownership were not the primary factors driving solar uptake.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateFeb 6, 2017

Engineers harness stomach acid to power tiny sensors

Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have designed a small voltaic cell powered by acidic stomach fluids, generating enough energy to run small sensors or drug delivery devices. This innovation could offer a safer and lower-cost alternative to traditional batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

I can see clearly now

Researchers create adaptive lenses made of glycerin and rubber-like membranes to change the focal length, eliminating the need for bifocals or reading glasses. The lenses are controlled by electronics and a battery, allowing users to switch between near and far vision in just 14 milliseconds.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 24, 2017

Faster recharging batteries possible after new insights

Researchers at the University of Bath have gained important insights to improve the performance of lithium batteries by adding charged metal atoms. This discovery could lead to faster charging batteries for portable electronics and electric vehicles, benefiting consumers and reducing carbon emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New technology will cut plug-in hybrid fuel consumption by one third

Researchers at UC Riverside developed an innovative energy management system for plug-in hybrids, cutting fuel consumption by over 30% through real-time data analysis. The system combines connected vehicle technology and evolutionary algorithms to optimize power split between engine and battery, achieving greater efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateJan 10, 2017

Evolving deep brain stimulation patterns

Duke University researchers have developed a new approach to deep brain stimulation that reduces energy consumption by up to 75% without compromising treatment efficacy. The algorithm uses computational evolution to design tailored patterns for individual patients, leading to improved symptoms and reduced battery replacement procedures.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

The beating heart of solar energy

Researchers found that small solar cells under the skin can generate enough power to fully charge pacemakers or extend their lifespan. This technology has the potential to reduce device replacements and size, saving patients discomfort and stress.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 3, 2017

Fractional calculus helps control systems hit their mark

Researchers developed a new setpoint-tracking strategy using fractional calculus to improve the response time and stability of automated systems. The approach outperformed classical integer-order filters in tracking complex paths, offering potential benefits for applications like robotics, self-driving cars, and medical devices.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 22, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Delivering a power punch

A KAUST research team created integrated microsupercapacitors with three-dimensional porous electrodes, achieving high energy density of 200 microwatt-hours per square centimeter. The devices outperform state-of-the-art microsupercapacitors and thin film batteries, offering promising applications for self-powered sensors and IoT systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 5, 2016

'Back to the Future' inspires solar nanotech-powered clothing

A UCF scientist has developed filaments that can harness and store sunlight, weaving them into textiles for a breakthrough in wearable technology. The innovation could revolutionize military and civilian applications, including powering smartphones and electric cars.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2016

Salty batteries

Sodium-oxygen batteries have shown improved cycle life and rechargeability thanks to a highly concentrated electrolyte solution. The new approach stabilizes DMSO in the presence of sodium, resulting in a passivating protective layer that enhances battery performance.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 7, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Lithium ion extraction

Chinese scientists have designed a solid composite membrane that mimics biological ion channels with molecular sieve technology to effectively separate lithium ions from contaminants in brines. The approach allows for fast lithium ion flux and selectivity over other ions, making it a promising method for improved lithium extraction.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 2, 2016

Making high-performance batteries from junkyard scraps

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a steel-brass battery that can store energy comparable to lead-acid batteries and charge/dischcharge at rates comparable to ultra-fast charging supercapacitors. The secret lies in anodization, a common chemical treatment used to give aluminum a durable finish.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateNov 2, 2016

A complete waste of energy

Researchers have created a new type of switch that can instantly connect and disconnect electrical flow, reducing power waste by up to 50% in devices like smartphones and laptops. This technology has the potential to significantly improve energy efficiency and prolong battery life.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSolid-State Electronics·DateOct 25, 2016

New innovation in modeling and designing power grids

Researchers developed a new method to model microgrids using Hybrid Petri Net (HPN), allowing for efficient operation under various conditions. This analysis helps engineers estimate time and cost required for grid component switching, enabling improved microgrid design.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateOct 19, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

A better battery: One-time pollutant may become valued product to aid wind, solar energy

Researchers at Oregon State University have found that organic compounds traditionally known as pollutants can function as a low-cost, long-lasting cathode in dual-ion batteries. The discovery has promising characteristics for storing electricity from wind and solar energy, addressing a key constraint to wider use of clean energy systems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateOct 17, 2016

Fractional order modeling may reduce electric car drivers' anxiety

Researchers developed a fractional order model to estimate Lithium-ion battery charge, reducing errors of up to 1% compared to traditional methods. The model replicated the battery's performance and provided accurate results, promising to reduce drivers' anxiety on the road.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateOct 12, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Are planets setting the sun's pace?

Researchers at HZDR propose a new mechanism linking planetary tidal effects to the Sun's dynamo, which could drive the 11-year solar cycle. The theory suggests that small forces from Venus, Earth, and Jupiter can initiate oscillations in the alpha effect, leading to polarity reversals.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalSolar Physics·DateOct 4, 2016

Advancing lithium-air batteries with development of novel catalyst

A new study developed a mixed metal catalyst that enables both charge and discharge reactions in lithium-air batteries, overcoming key barriers to their development. This breakthrough offers opportunities for future research and potential applications in sustainable energy storage.

SourceThe Electrochemical Society·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateOct 3, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Chemists offer enhanced 3-D look inside batteries

Chemists have created a new technique to yield highly detailed, three-dimensional images of battery interiors. This approach uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor the condition of batteries in real time, potentially leading to more efficient and safer power sources.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2016

Researchers peel back another layer of chemistry with 'tender' X-rays

Berkeley Lab scientists create direct method to study electrochemical double layer using 'tender' X-rays, revealing changes in electric potential and charge properties. This breakthrough advances materials design and development of improved electrochemical systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 2016

New method developed for producing some metals

Researchers at MIT have discovered a new method for producing metal antimony using electricity, which could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly metal production systems. The process uses electrolysis to separate the metal from a compound, reducing pollution and energy costs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 25, 2016

Extending battery life for mobile devices

Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a new radio technology called Braidio that allows small mobile devices to offload energy consumption to larger devices, potentially extending battery life hundreds of times. This technology enables proportional sharing of power between devices, reducing the size and weight of wearable devices.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 25, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New electrical energy storage material shows its power

A Northwestern University team has developed a nanomaterial that can store large amounts of electrical energy like a battery and charge rapidly like a supercapacitor, promising to improve electric car efficiency. The material's stability allows for 10,000 charge/discharge cycles, making it suitable for commercial applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 24, 2016

UNIST makes mark on global list of most cited

Dr. Jaephil Cho, a top researcher in secondary batteries, has been selected into the list of 'Most Cited Researchers' in Materials Science and Engineering, with eight Korean researchers and five institutions including UNIST making the cut. His research focuses on high-energy-density cathode and anode materials.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateAug 4, 2016

Battery500 consortium to spark EV innovations

The Battery500 consortium is a five-year, $50M project led by PNNL to improve upon today's electric vehicle batteries. The goal is to develop lithium-metal batteries with almost triple the specific energy of current EV batteries, resulting in smaller, lighter and less expensive batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJul 27, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Garnet-type fast ionic conductor for all-solid-state lithium battery

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have developed a new garnet-type fast ionic conductor that can be used in all-solid-state lithium batteries. The material exhibits high lithium-ion conductivity and chemical stability, making it suitable for large-scale power sources.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·DateJul 20, 2016

A battery inspired by vitamins

Researchers at Harvard have discovered a whole new class of high-performing organic molecules that can store electricity safely and efficiently in large batteries. These molecules are inspired by vitamin B2 and offer improved stability and solubility compared to previous discoveries.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 18, 2016