Articles tagged with Batteries
Researchers at the University of Miami and Japan have proven the existence of a 'spin battery', a device that stores energy in magnets, potentially leading to faster, less expensive, and more efficient computer hard drives and car batteries. The technology uses nano-magnets to induce an electromotive force without chemical reactions.
A follow-up study found that workers exposed to lead at work showed greater cognitive problems after age 55, even when current blood levels of lead were controlled. The researchers linked cumulative exposure to mild deficits in spatial ability, learning and memory, and overall cognitive score.
Kansas State University engineers are creating an energy-harvesting radio that can transmit data wirelessly, eliminating the need for battery changes. The technology has potential applications in monitoring stress, temperature, and pressure on bridges and other structures.
Researchers have developed a microgenerator that harnesses the heart's surplus energy to produce electricity for pacemakers and defibrillators. The innovative system, called SIMM, has shown promising results in increasing energy production with each heartbeat, potentially leading to longer-lasting devices.
The CSIRO-invented UltraBattery combines an enhanced-power negative electrode and a lead acid battery, with applications for low emissions transport and renewable energy storage. The technology has been licensed to East Penn and Furukawa Battery Company for global distribution.
Researchers at MIT have developed a sensor system that harnesses electricity from trees to predict and prevent forest fires. The system, which uses off-the-shelf batteries slowly recharged by tree power, can transmit temperature and humidity data wirelessly, enabling early alerts and improved fire prediction models.
Researchers at the University of Bath are developing new rechargeable lithium batteries to enhance hybrid electric cars. These advancements aim to reduce energy consumption, lower emissions, and increase efficiency in urban driving.
The Australian government's tax hike on premixed spirits is unlikely to significantly reduce binge drinking rates. Consumers may switch to unmixed spirits or cheaper beverages, but the impact will be limited due to spirits' small market share.
A study found that RFID devices caused 34 out of 123 EMI tests to malfunction, with hazardous incidents including pacemaker stoppages and syringe pump failures. The authors warn that the introduction of RFID in critical care environments requires careful management to prevent such incidents.
Researchers developed a system that enables users to access location-specific, real-time information from other mobile phone users across the world. The virtual sticky note application combines capabilities of distributed networks, social networks, and geographic positioning technologies.
The Phoenix Processor achieves a groundbreaking low-power design by focusing on its extreme sleep mode, which consumes just 30 picowatts. This innovation enables smaller battery sizes and overall system reductions, opening up new sensor applications.
MIT engineers developed a new material that increases the power output of direct methanol fuel cells by more than 50 percent. The new material is also less expensive and has potential uses in other electrochemical systems, such as batteries.
A recent study by researchers found that household photoelectric alarms are more likely to remain functional after installation, with only 5% not working nine months later. In contrast, ionization alarms had a 20% failure rate during the same period, often due to nuisance alarms caused by cooking.
Physicists at UC Berkeley have built the world's smallest radio using a single carbon nanotube, detecting radio signals through mechanical vibration. The nanoradio can tune in to FM broadcasts and even transmit music pieces from over a century old.
A team of mechanical engineers at Vanderbilt University has developed a revolutionary prosthetic arm that can lift up to 25 pounds and perform three times faster than current commercial arms. The arm is powered by a miniature rocket motor, allowing for greater power and function without the need for batteries.
Researchers at MIT have successfully demonstrated wireless power transfer using coupled resonant objects, enabling the charging of devices without physical connections. The team's 'WiTricity' concept uses magnetic fields to transfer energy efficiently, promising a future free from bulky batteries and power cords.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology used neutron-diffraction research to study the effects of nanostructuring on Li-ion battery performance. They found that the phase balance changes significantly when electrode particles are scaled down, leading to reduced battery performance.
Scientists have developed 'smart' sunglasses featuring electrochromic polymers that change colors in response to an electric current, offering a wide range of color options. The prototype shades are powered by a tiny battery and resemble regular sunglasses with a button-activated color-changing feature.
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a software patch to increase fuel efficiency in cars, reducing energy waste and emissions. The patch enables the car to achieve optimal engine performance more frequently, resulting in savings of up to 2.6% on fuel consumption.
A study by University of New Hampshire professor Brett Gibson found that humans and pigeons primarily rely on corners of an object to recognize it, rather than shading and color. This similarity in visual processing could lead to future technological advancements, such as small visual prosthetics for the visually impaired.
A new study by DOE's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory finds that idle electric power system capacity can generate electricity for 84% of the country's plug-in hybrid vehicles. This would reduce reliance on foreign oil and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Nanotechnology has become a significant part of consumer goods, with products like Nano-Tex treated fleece jackets and carbon nanotube-infused tennis rackets. The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies has identified over 350 manufacturer-identified nanotechnology consumer products currently being sold.
The HLPR Chair system provides powered mobility and allows patients to move to and from beds, chairs, and toilets without assistance. It reduces caregiver and patient injuries through its lifting ability and center of gravity management.
Researchers have developed a hybrid battery that combines the power of a capacitor with the storage capacity of a traditional battery. The device, made from plastic and polypyrrole, has twice the storage capacity of an electric double-layer capacitor and delivers over 100 times more power than a standard alkaline battery.
Researchers have developed high-efficiency 'plastic' solar cells with potential efficiencies of up to 15 percent, paving the way for wider use. Additionally, scientists have created compounds that block bacterial communication signals, offering a powerful strategy against deadly infections.
Researchers at Arizona State University have created a tiny hydrogen-gas generator that can power electronic devices up to three times longer than conventional batteries. The generator uses borohydride solution and is recharged by refilling a fuel cartridge, making it safer for the environment.
A new electrode material has been developed that improves battery power and charge retention. The material, which combines nickel, cobalt, and manganese ions at regular intervals, allows for high rates of discharge and energy storage.
A new algorithm has been developed to improve mobile data retrieval efficiency, allowing users to access data more quickly without increasing power consumption. The technique uses parallel air channels to reduce channel switching and minimize battery drain.
Researchers at Ohio University have successfully created the world's first synthetic nanoscale fractal molecule, which has potential applications in novel energy storage systems, photoelectric cells, and molecular batteries. The molecules are made of iron and ruthenium ions and form a hexagonal gasket.
MIT researchers have made a breakthrough in creating morphing vehicles by utilizing rechargeable batteries. The team's innovative approach involves using the expansion and contraction of solid compounds to actuate large-scale structures, allowing for seamless shape changes.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new type of lithium battery that can charge and discharge in about 10 minutes, making it closer to the timeframe needed for hybrid car batteries. The new material is more stable and safer than existing lithium cobalt oxide batteries, which are used in small devices.
A new material, Li1-xNi1+xO2, was produced using the sol-gel method, resulting in better electrochemical performance. The research aimed to optimize the preparation conditions for this cathode material, which has a large discharge capacity and low cost.
The Columbia battery, introduced in 1896, marked a significant step in transforming batteries from industrial products to consumer goods. Its technology served as the basis for all dry cell batteries for sixty years.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a wearable device that harnesses mechanical energy from walking to charge mobile phones and other small electronics. The Suspended-load Backpack uses vertically oriented springs to capture energy from the wearer's movement, generating up to 7.4 Watts of power.
Researchers found that consumers tend to spend more money on brand-name items when someone they don't know is nearby. In contrast, consumers are more likely to buy cheaper items when no one is around. The study suggests that store owners can increase profits by optimizing product placement to minimize feelings of isolation or anxiety.
Researchers have developed a paper battery that harnesses the power of urine to test for diseases, providing a cheap and efficient solution for healthcare diagnostics. The device can be integrated into biochip systems, enabling people to monitor their health at home without relying on external power sources.
A new 'nuclear battery' technology has been developed, increasing the surface area of a radioactive gas to produce a current. This increase results in a 160-fold efficiency improvement over conventional designs, making it suitable for long-lasting medical devices and deep-space probes.
Researchers have developed a new type of battery that uses tritium to generate electricity, potentially leading to the creation of long-lasting devices. The battery's staying power is tied to the enduring nature of its fuel, which releases electrons through beta decay.
A new microgenerator has been successfully developed by Georgia Tech researchers, capable of producing useful amounts of electricity and powering small electronic devices. The device's high-speed spinning magnet produces 1.1 watts of power, a significant advancement in microengines that could replace conventional batteries.
RIT's NanoPower lab has secured a three-year project to improve the efficiency of alpha voltaic batteries for miniature military devices. The team, led by Ryne Raffaelle, will use nanotechnology materials to protect semiconductors from radiation damage.
The Charleston earthworks, built in 1862-1863, are gradually eroding at a rate of about five millimeters a year. Researchers have been documenting the pattern and rate of this degradation to better understand natural hillslope evolution.
Researchers have developed a portable cooling system that weighs just several pounds and can detect chemical and biological toxins using miniature sensors. These devices use microchannels to enhance heat transfer or chemical reactions, enabling better process control and overall miniaturization of systems.
Researchers identified cardiovascular abnormalities in 39% of participants, highlighting the need for early recognition and treatment. The study suggests that effective treatment can prevent 90% of heart attacks and strokes.
The US patient underwent the second procedure in the revised Phase I human clinical trials at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. The Arrow LionHeart device has shown promising results in lengthening and improving the lives of patients with end-stage heart failure.
The UC Davis entry, 'Yosemite', a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, achieved fuel economy of about 30 miles per gallon with similar performance to a standard Ford Explorer SUV. The team won the competition in 2001 and subsequent awards for Best Dynamic Handling and telematics.
Researchers have developed a smart brick that can monitor a building's temperature, vibration, and movement, providing vital information for firefighters and rescue workers. The device uses sensor fusion, signal processing, and wireless communication to report conditions remotely, enabling improved safety and comfort.
The PNNL-developed microscale fuel processor, the smallest integrated catalytic fuel reformer in the world, provides a low-watt power source for hand-held devices. This compact system enables soldiers to operate essential electronic equipment without added weight or bulk.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have discovered a new polymer membrane that allows for more efficient movement of lithium ions, leading to better battery performance and longer lifespan. The membrane, made from MEEP material, can be molded into any shape and is temperature-tolerant, making it suitable for various applications.
A new PCR device, called Razor TM , weighs only 8 pounds and can analyze 12 samples in 22 minutes running on battery power. This portable device has multiple uses in diagnostics and environmental testing due to its ease of use and portability.
A team led by Sandeep Shukla is working on devising strategies for achieving the optimal balance of power and performance in embedded computer systems. The goal is to guarantee maximum performance while reducing power consumption, which is crucial for devices like wireless devices, cars, and climate control systems.
Virginia Tech researchers are working on ways to protect battery-operated computers and wireless devices from hacking attempts that can drain their batteries. The project aims to develop built-in measures to prevent such attacks, which could become a major concern for the wireless industry.
Researchers developed a new circuit that harnesses vibrations to generate up to 50 milliwatts of power, surpassing the output of simple energy harvesting circuits. The adaptive piezoelectric energy harvesting circuit can be used in various applications, including wearable devices, sensor networks, and smart home security systems.
Researchers aim to compress images for small mobile agents, reducing power requirements and enabling wireless data transmission in confined spaces. Successful technology advances could benefit search and rescue operations, soldiers' field communications, and micro-air vehicles.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a system to remove hydrogen odorant using adsorbers, enabling the use of pure hydrogen in fuel cells. The system also addresses hydrogen storage concerns by utilizing a metal hydride system based on magnesium, which is stable up to 554 degrees Fahrenheit.
The PSU/ARL monitor uses advanced signal processing, data fusion, and automated reasoning to estimate working time, physical condition, and causes of failure. It takes into account the physical changes in batteries, such as electrode surfaces and internal processes.
Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists have developed a cobalt-free alloy that can store more charge and resist corrosion, leading to longer battery life. The discovery could lead to more affordable electric vehicles.
The Ovshinskys will be designated one of 12 Heroes of Chemistry by the American Chemical Society for their development of better batteries for electric cars and roof shingles that convert sunlight to electricity. They are also working on making use of hydrogen as fuel practical and affordable.
Scientists Yonathan Shapir and Jacob Jorné discovered that natural cycles generate fractal patterns, governing everything from weather to cauliflower heads. This breakthrough enables the prediction of events like car battery lifespan, lawn growth, and tumor cell behavior, with potential applications in engineering and medicine.
A semi-fuel cell hybrid has been developed to propel unmanned undersea vehicles, providing a cheap and safe energy source with four times the energy of current batteries. The technology also features a long shelf life and uses seawater as the battery fluid.
Researchers at Purdue University are developing a new type of environmentally friendly fuel cell that generates about 20 times more electricity per pound than car batteries. The cell produces electricity through chemical reactions between hydrogen peroxide and aluminum.