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Using AI to predict 3D printing processes

University of Illinois engineers develop physics-informed neural networks to predict outcomes of complex 3D printing processes. The model accurately recreates experiments and predicts temperature and melt pool length with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalComputer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering·DateJul 1, 2021

Autonomous excavators ready for around the clock real-world deployment

Researchers from Baidu Research and the University of Maryland have developed an autonomous excavator system (AES) that can operate continuously for over 24 hours without human intervention. AES uses perception, planning, and control capabilities to identify target materials and avoid obstacles, achieving performance comparable to expe...

SourceBaidu Inc·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 30, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Strategies to speed global vaccine availability

A new paper proposes actions to increase access, speed time to market, and decrease costs of vaccines globally. Regulatory harmonization, manufacturing capacity building, and streamlined IP arrangements are key opportunities to address challenges in vaccine development and deployment.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalVaccine X·DateJun 29, 2021

Mixing it up: A low-cost way to make efficient, stable perovskite solar cells

High-quality nickel oxide films for perovskite solar cells can be created at low temperatures without expensive thermal annealing, enabling large-scale, low-cost manufacturing. The new process achieved power-conversion efficiencies of 17.9% and demonstrated stability over extensive testing.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalSolar RRL·DateJun 29, 2021

Pitt faculty, students capture top awards at 2021 CALPHAD Global Conference

University of Pittsburgh researchers received prestigious awards for their work on phase diagrams, thermodynamic properties, and uncertainty quantification in alloy powder production. Assistant Professor Wei Xiong won the inaugural CALPHAD Young Leader Award, while graduate student Xin Wang received the Best Poster Award.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 25, 2021

Researchers propose methods for additive manufacturing quality control

A team of researchers from Penn State, University of Nebraska--Lincoln, and NIST proposed a six sigma framework of quality control for additive manufacturing. The method involves five steps: defining, measuring, analyzing, improving, and controlling, to eliminate defects and drive profits.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateJun 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Printing flexible wearable electronics for smart device applications

Researchers have developed a printing technique to fabricate flexible supercapacitors, which can be bent, stretched, and twisted without losing electrochemical function. The printed devices use printable electrodes and functional inks, offering flexibility and low cost for various applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateJun 10, 2021

R&D exploration or exploitation? How firms respond to import competition

A study published in the Strategic Management Journal finds that firms in response to increased import penetration tend to rely more on familiar knowledge in developing innovations, rather than exploring new sources of knowledge. This shift is temporarily reversed over time, positively associated with an increased likelihood of survival.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJun 2, 2021

New method to improve durability of nano-electronic components, further semiconductor manufacturing

Researchers developed a novel approach to mitigate electromigration in nanoscale electronic interconnects by coating copper metal interconnects with hexagonal boron nitride. This innovation enables further scaling of device density and progression of Moore's Law, leading to improved device efficiency and decreased energy consumption.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateJun 1, 2021
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.

Scientists demonstrate a better, more eco-friendly method to produce hydrogen peroxide

Researchers have developed a more efficient and environmentally friendly method to produce hydrogen peroxide by using palladium-gold nanoparticles as a catalyst. The new process produces almost 100% hydrogen peroxide with minimal water formation, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Liberal Arts & Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 1, 2021

New research could help manufacturers avoid 3D-printing pitfall

Researchers at NIST found that island scanning, a common method to mitigate residual stress in 3D-printing, is far from a silver bullet. The study used high-energy X-rays and detailed mapping to analyze the effects of different printing patterns on titanium alloy parts.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateMay 19, 2021
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.

Building a foundation for high-power tech

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are working on new soft magnetic materials and manufacturing processes to enable ultra-high frequency power electronics switching devices. The four-year project aims to establish a foundation for ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor materials in novel power electronics switching devices.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateMay 14, 2021

Smaller chips open door to new RFID applications

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a 125μm×245μm Gen2-compatible RFID chip, the world's smallest of its kind. The smaller chip size enables mass production and reduces costs to under one cent per tag.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMay 12, 2021

Best practices to prevent the federal government from blowing its technology budget

Researchers found that moving baseline targets is a key driver of increasing budgets for federal government technology programs. However, componentizing programs into smaller work units and increasing competency in program management can result in significant cost savings.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateMay 11, 2021

Designing new alloys for additive manufacturing

Researchers aim to develop new alloys that can be additively manufactured to produce strong yet ductile structures. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of grain refinement in complex concentrated alloys, they hope to create materials suitable for various engineering applications, including space exploration.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateApr 28, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Tandem micro-LEDs for full-color displays

Tandem micro-LEDs featuring stacked red, green, and blue micro-LEDs enable full-color displays. This method alleviates the issues of reduced LED size performance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

The future looks bright for infinitely recyclable plastic

A new type of plastic, poly(diketoenamine), can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. The material's production and recycling processes are designed to be inexpensive and energy-efficient, making it commercially competitive with conventional plastics.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 22, 2021
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.

Marine animals inspire new approaches to structural topology optimization

Researchers at Georgia Tech and Brazil's Pontifical Catholic University developed a new framework for designing hierarchical, spatially-varying microstructures with potential applications in cranial reconstruction, space exploration, and biomaterials. This approach combines design and manufacturing to create novel microstructures.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 20, 2021

Injection molding transparent glass like a plastic

Researchers have developed a novel approach for injection molding transparent fused silica glass at lower temperatures. This innovative process enables the production of high-quality glass components using conventional injection molding techniques, offering improved industrial efficiency.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Digital twin can protect physical systems and train new users

Researchers developed a digital twin environment that mirrors physical welding setups to train new users and protect physical systems. The system tracks welders' behavior patterns, enabling efficient novice training and safe practice without risk of damage.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 7, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Story tips: Mighty Mo material, fueling retooling, goods on the move, doubling concrete and more

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a refractory metal alloy that can withstand extreme temperatures and is viable for additive manufacturing. The team also created an electrocatalyst that enables the conversion of water and carbon dioxide into higher weight hydrocarbons, set to reduce fuel costs.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateApr 5, 2021

Study shows promise of quantum computing using factory-made silicon chips

A single qubit on a standard silicon transistor chip has been successfully demonstrated as 'quantum capable' in a new study. The researchers were able to isolate and measure the quantum state of a single electron in a silicon transistor manufactured using existing manufacturing processes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPRX Quantum·DateMar 31, 2021

Turning wood into plastic

A research team has created a high-quality bioplastic from wood byproducts, showing promise for producing durable and sustainable plastics. The resulting material exhibits high mechanical strength, stability, and UV-light resistance, making it suitable for various applications, including packaging and automobile manufacturing.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 25, 2021
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.

Income drives the economy, not prices

As consumers become richer, they spend more on services like health and education, while spending less on agriculture and manufactured goods. The study reveals that income and preferences play a larger role than productivity in shaping the sectoral composition of the economy.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEconometrica·DateMar 22, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

UCSF study finds evidence of 55 new chemicals in people

A recent study published by the University of California - San Francisco detected 109 chemicals in pregnant women, including 55 new ones, which may be derived from consumer products or industrial sources. The researchers used high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify man-made chemicals in people.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMar 17, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Story tips: Urban climate impacts, materials' dual approach and healing power

Scientists have identified a statistical relationship between city growth and paved surfaces' impact on water cycles and climates. They also demonstrated a method to heal dendrites in solid-state batteries, and created high-performance thermoplastic composites using additive manufacturing and conventional compression molding.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateMar 15, 2021

UMass Lowell researchers work toward a greener economy

The UMass Lowell project aims to create new uses for plastic waste and improve recycling of plastic films from industrial and consumer goods. Researchers will develop innovative plastics-processing technologies to support manufacturers across the country.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateMar 12, 2021

The quest for sustainable leather alternatives

Researchers have developed innovative sustainable materials mimicking the texture and look of cowhide leather without using livestock or synthetic chemicals. Plant-based materials, mushroom leather, fish skin, and cell-culture leather are gaining attention among manufacturers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 10, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Finding key to low-cost, fast production of solid-state batteries for EVs

A new manufacturing process developed by Georgia Tech researchers allows for the mass production of solid-state batteries using nonflammable ceramic electrolytes. This breakthrough could lead to lighter, safer, and more energy-dense batteries, potentially reducing costs and increasing efficiency.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 8, 2021

Smaller, faster, greener

Computing has a significant environmental impact due to hardware manufacturing and infrastructure. Researchers at Harvard are working to design more sustainable computing systems by reducing emissions from chip manufacturing and improving device efficiency. They also aim to incorporate environmental factors into computational design.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateMar 2, 2021
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.

Science takes guesswork out of cheese production and reduces waste

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to predict and control the ripening process of cheese, allowing for earlier detection of quality issues. This new approach uses biomarkers and multi-omics analysis to compare cheese samples, enabling more accurate grading and reducing waste.

SourceRMIT University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMar 1, 2021

KIMM develops all-round grippers for contact-free society

Researchers at KIMM developed an all-round gripper technology that can handle objects of various shapes and sizes. The gripper's soft structure allows it to perfectly match the target object contour, providing a firm grip and preventing damage.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateFeb 26, 2021

New catalyst makes styrene manufacturing cheaper, greener

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new catalyst that significantly increases styrene manufacturing yield, reducing energy use by 82% and carbon dioxide emissions by 79%. The catalyst achieves a single-pass yield of 91%, outperforming conventional technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2021
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.

New research identifies the most important global supply chain linkages

The study's model analyzes country-sector linkages in the European Union, identifying EU trade partners as the most important linkages for sector growth. Domestic ties are also crucial, but less important than trade agreements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomic Systems Research·DateFeb 23, 2021

Detecting COVID-19 with a sticker on your skin

A University of Missouri engineer has received a $500,000 grant to mass-produce a wearable bioelectronic device capable of detecting COVID-19 and tracking multiple vital signs. The device, which can be customized to fit individual health needs, aims to provide critical information for early detection and potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 23, 2021

Terahertz imaging of graphene paves the way to industrialization

Researchers have developed a new measurement standard for graphene analysis, allowing for fast and non-destructive quality control. The technique enables the creation of high-quality graphene products with consistent performance, accelerating large-scale production and industrialization.

SourceGraphene Flagship·Journal2D Materials·DateFeb 23, 2021
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.

Researchers grow artificial hairs with clever physics trick

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new manufacturing technique that uses spinning and curing to form soft, solid structures resembling artificial hairs. The method leverages simple physics to solve engineering problems and promises to play a key role in developing robotic sensing capabilities.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2021

Stabilization technology for wireless communications for manufacturing systems

Researchers at NICT and TOYOTA have successfully implemented stabilization technology for wireless communications in manufacturing systems. This technology allows for real-time visualization of the wireless environment and coordinated control of different systems, detecting unregistered terminals and suppressing radio congestion. The s...

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateFeb 18, 2021

A scalable method for the large-area integration of 2D materials

Researchers from Graphene Flagship report a new method to integrate graphene and 2D materials into semiconductor manufacturing lines, overcoming challenges such as transferring materials between growth substrates. The technique uses standard dielectric material BCB and conventional wafer bonding equipment, enabling high-quality integra...

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Creating more sustainable fragrances with biotech

Companies are pivoting to biotechnology to manufacture scents and flavors using fermented microbes, which are more sustainable than traditional methods. This approach allows for the creation of new fragrance molecules with consistent flavor and smell, meeting consumer demand and reducing environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 10, 2021