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Tilting cars on the assembly line: A new angle on protecting autoworkers

Researchers at Ohio State University found that tilting cars on the assembly line can reduce autoworker strain, improving safety and efficiency. The study compares two methods: a cantilevered chair and a car carriage system, with the latter proving more effective in reducing stress for nine different tasks.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateMay 14, 2012

Chimpanzee uses innovative foresighted methods to fool humans

A new study shows that chimpanzee Santino's planning and deception abilities are greater than previously thought. He uses innovative strategies like hiding projectiles and inhibiting dominance displays to fool visitors, suggesting a flexible planning ability similar to humans.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 10, 2012
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.

NASA's Webb Telescope flight backplane section completed

The center section of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the telescope's hardware development. The backplane will support the telescope's mirrors, instruments, and thermal control systems during its mission.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 24, 2012

Low-cost optical components through nanoimprinting lithography

The NaPANIL project demonstrated the potential of nanoimprinting lithography to create low-cost optical components with various applications. The project showcased three main demonstrators: an OLED Head-Up Display, a Functional Light Directional Element, and a Planar Diffactive Optical Element.

SourceCatalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)·DateApr 20, 2012

X-rays create a window on glass formation

Scientists have visualized the transformation of powder mixtures into molten glass using X-ray microtomography. The study revealed that contact between grains determines whether a mixture turns into liquid glass, and that sodium carbonate plays a key role in initiating chemical reactions.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateApr 16, 2012

MIT project could transform robotic design and production

The MIT CSAIL project aims to develop a desktop technology that enables personalized robot design, customization, and printing within hours. Researchers hope to create an end-to-end process for building physical machines using simple printing processes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateApr 3, 2012
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.

Center for Innovative Metal Processing created

The Penn State Applied Research Laboratory and Sciaky, Inc. have established the Center for Innovative Metal Processing through Direct Digital Deposition as a Manufacturing Demonstration Facility. The center aims to provide an advanced design and simulation tool in a shared network for industry participants to evaluate the technology.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 13, 2012
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.

How to save $800 on a new car

Research shows consumers can save up to $800 by finding out what a dealer pays for a car, visiting two dealerships and liking to bargain. Buyers who don't like to bargain or do research can save $230 by doing just two things.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·DateMar 5, 2012

Investigation links deaths to paint-stripping chemical

At least 13 workers died from exposure to methylene chloride used in paint-stripping products, leading to recommendations for safer methods and product restrictions. MSU researchers urge manufacturers to note safety warnings on products and restrict access.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 23, 2012

MIT research: The high price of losing manufacturing jobs

A new study by MIT economist David Autor shows that the rise in low-wage manufacturing industries overseas has a significant impact on the US economy and its workers. The disappearance of US manufacturing jobs frequently leaves former workers unemployed for years, creating a drag on local economies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 23, 2012
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.

Crippleware: How do consumers react when companies disable product features?

Global brands employ versioning to remove or reduce features in existing models, but consumers revolt and sue companies if perceived as unfair. Companies can mitigate negative reactions by reducing similarity between products and communicating with consumers about the practice.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 14, 2012

Jumpstarting computers with 3-D chips

Researchers at EPFL have successfully developed a 3D chip with multiple processors stacked vertically, increasing efficiency and processing power. The chip is connected using thin copper microtubes through tiny openings called Through-Silicon-Vias, reducing data exchange time.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJan 24, 2012

Researchers devise new means for creating elastic conductors

Researchers at NC State University have developed a new technique to create elastic conductors from carbon nanotubes, enabling the production of stretchable electronic devices with improved resilience and conformability. The new method buckles carbon nanotubes on an elastic substrate, creating conductors that can transmit electric sign...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 24, 2012
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.

New microtweezers may build tiny 'MEMS' structures

Researchers have created new microtweezers capable of manipulating objects to build tiny structures, print coatings for advanced sensors, and grab live stem cell spheres. The tool enables the precision printing of chemical or protein dots onto microcantilevers, which can detect chemicals in air and water.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateJan 17, 2012

Outlook for an industry that touches 96 percent of all manufactured goods

The chemical industry is expected to see a boost in sales due to growing demand for chemicals used in agriculture, electronics, cars, and airplanes. However, the industry faces challenges such as expiring patents and slowing growth in Asia, which will impact industries like paint and construction materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 11, 2012

Cosmetic chemical hinders brain development in tadpoles

A new study by Brown University researchers found that exposure to a common cosmetic chemical, methylisothiazolinone (MIT), can disrupt the fine wiring of the nervous system in tadpoles, even at very low concentrations. The study suggests that lower concentrations of MIT may be detrimental to brain development.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuroscience·DateJan 10, 2012
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.

Research could improve laser-manufacturing technique

Ultrafast laser pulses create precise patterns in metals and ceramics, but new research reveals an early plasma forms immediately before the mushroom cloud, hindering performance. Eliminating this interference could unlock new applications in manufacturing, materials science, and more.

SourcePurdue University·JournalApplied Physics B·DateDec 19, 2011

On the road to creating an affordable master instrument

Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed a method to treat wood with a white-rot fungus, resulting in instruments with tonal qualities comparable to Stradivarius. The goal is to standardize the process to mass-produce violins with guaranteed quality.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalApplied Microbiology and Biotechnology·DateDec 9, 2011

Researchers use CT to recreate Stradivarius violin

A team of experts used CT imaging and computer-aided machinery to create a reproduction of a 1704 Stradivarius violin. The process involved scanning the original instrument and converting images into stereolithographic files, which were then carved and assembled by hand.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2011

NC State team to develop energy efficient 3-D CPU

Researchers from North Carolina State University are working on a 3D CPU design to achieve up to 25% reduction in energy consumption and improve performance. The goal is to overcome challenges such as heat dissipation and incompatible chip designs, enabling the manufacture of more efficient and powerful computing devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateNov 15, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Manufacturing microscale medical devices for faster tissue engineering

Researchers developed a new method using two-photon polymerization with multiple foci to create finely detailed structures, such as tissue scaffolds and microneedles, more quickly than traditional techniques. This enables faster production of microscale medical devices for tissue engineering applications.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 2, 2011

Maryland climate plan passes key tests in UMD studies

The University of Maryland Center for Integrative Environmental Research finds that Maryland's Climate Action Plan improves electric reliability while having a negligible impact on manufacturers. The plan is expected to generate new business opportunities and jobs in the green sector, with potential growth in employment opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateNov 2, 2011
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.

Wind Energy Manufacturing Lab helps Iowa State engineers improve wind power

Researchers at Iowa State University's Wind Energy Manufacturing Lab are working to develop new manufacturing methods that can improve the productivity of turbine blade factories by up to 35%. The lab uses advanced technologies like lasers and nondestructive evaluation to analyze and improve wind blade edges, fabric manipulation techni...

SourceIowa State University·DateOct 26, 2011

What drives IT performance?

A study by Concordia University explores how IT impacts manufacturing SMEs, finding that strategic planning positively affects performance. The research highlights the importance of autonomous IT management and aligned applications to maximize technological benefits.

SourceConcordia University·DateOct 26, 2011

Study evaluates industry payments to orthopedic surgeons

A study analyzed financial payments made by orthopedic device manufacturers to orthopedic surgeons from 2007 to 2010. The findings show a reduction in total payments and funds distributed after payment disclosure was required, as well as an increase in the proportion of consultants with academic affiliations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 24, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

One size does not fit all for knee replacements and other medical devices

Researchers used mathematical models to assess knee replacement implants and found that older patients or those with multiple conditions may not benefit from incremental gains in implant durability. This highlights the need for personalized approach to medical device development and evaluation.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 19, 2011

Improving the physics of grocery store display cases to save energy

Researchers at the University of Washington and Kettering University have developed a tool to optimize grocery store display case designs, reducing energy consumption by up to 15%. The team tested various air curtain speeds, angles, and factors to minimize warm air infiltration into chilled compartments.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·DateOct 13, 2011

Culturally symbolic products: Would you buy a Sony cappuccino maker?

A recent study by Carlos J. Torelli and Rohini Ahluwalia found that consumers react positively to brand extensions when products match cultural expectations, but unfavorably when they don't. The authors suggest that understanding a brand's cultural symbolism is crucial for harnessing its potential profitably.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 14, 2011

Wayne State University partners with Toyota on safety research

Two Wayne State University research groups will lead projects on reducing driver distraction and improving the safety of children, teens, seniors, and pedestrians. The Collaborative Safety Research Center will invest $50 million over five years to enhance vehicle safety.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateSep 14, 2011
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.

Manufacturing method paves way for commercially viable quantum dot-based LEDs

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a novel manufacturing process for quantum dot-based LEDs, reducing production costs and improving efficiency. The breakthrough enables the large-scale commercialization of these energy-efficient lights, potentially replacing traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 31, 2011

Consumers willing to pay more for sustainable apparel if business is transparent, MU study finds

Consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable and ethical products from apparel companies that practice transparency. However, skepticism about corporate claims of sustainability persists due to suspicion of marketing ploys. To build trust, consumers demand standardized authentication from authorities like the government.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClothing and Textiles Research Journal·DateAug 17, 2011

Lead poisoning from battery industry reported in developing countries

A study reports that children living near lead battery manufacturing and recycling operations in developing countries have significantly higher blood lead levels, associated with lifelong health problems. The industry is expected to nearly double in size over the next five to 10 years, posing significant risks to workers and communities.

SourceLaura Mecoy Communications LLC·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene·DateAug 15, 2011

Product stewardship: Designing for life after the consumer

Manufacturers are designing products with an end-of-life perspective, incorporating biodegradable materials and easy disassembly. This approach to product stewardship fosters take-back programs and recycling, reducing environmental pollution risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 3, 2011
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.

Laser, electric fields combined for new 'lab-on-chip' technologies

Researchers at Purdue University have developed new technologies that combine a laser and electric fields to manipulate fluids and tiny particles, enabling innovative sensors and analytical devices. The method can be used for medical diagnostics, testing food and water, crime-scene forensics, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 5, 2011

The future of chip manufacturing

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to improve the resolution of high-speed e-beam lithography, making it more practical for mass production. By using a thinner resist layer and developing the resist with table salt, they were able to achieve resolutions down to nine nanometers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMicroelectronic Engineering·DateJun 30, 2011
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.

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

SourceQueen's University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 28, 2011

Concordia research accelerated

Nadia Bhuiyan and Yves Gélinas, two Concordia professors, have received NSERC Discovery Accelerator Supplement awards to advance their research in lean manufacturing and coastal aquatic ecosystems. The awards will support Bhuiyan's study on product development and Gélinas' research on estuaries and microbial composition.

SourceConcordia University·DateJun 22, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NIST contests in China put next-gen robot technologies to the test

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) hosted three robotics competitions to prove advanced robotics and microrobotics technologies. The Virtual Manufacturing Automation Competition and Mobile Microrobotics Challenge evaluated teams' ability to assemble components and navigate microbots, respectively.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 8, 2011

MIT News: When is it worth remanufacturing?

A study by MIT researchers found that remanufacturing products can be more energy-efficient in some cases, but new technology often cancels out savings. The team looked at life-cycle analysis and found that many remanufactured products are less energy-efficient due to newer versions being more efficient.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 16, 2011
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Zeroing in on the elusive green LED

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method for manufacturing green-colored LEDs with significantly enhanced light extraction, internal efficiency, and light output. This breakthrough brings the team closer to their goal of developing high-performance, low-cost green LEDs.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 25, 2011

Limit to nanotechnology mass-production?

A leading nanotechnology scientist proposes a 3nm diameter threshold for mass-produced structures, citing unpredictability in bottom-up manufacturing. This challenge raises concerns about the billions invested in nanotechnology research and development.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 20, 2011

Bringing new ideas to fruition

In 'The Art of Invention', Paley explores the essential aspects of creative thinking, from identifying a problem or need to finding an inspired solution. He offers detailed guidance for aspiring inventors and experienced designers alike on conceptualizing ideas and turning them into reality.

SourcePrometheus Books·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Oxygen sensor invention could benefit fisheries to breweries

A new oxygen sensor invented by Michigan State University professor Ruby Ghosh can provide real-time data at a relatively low cost. This technology has potential applications in various industries such as aquaculture, beverage manufacturing, biomedical research, and petroleum manufacturing.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 4, 2011

Seeing in stereo: Engineers invent lens for 3-D microscope

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a single, stationary lens to create 3D images of microscopic objects from nine different angles. The freeform lens, made from thermoplastic material, enables miniaturized products with reduced equipment needs and improved precision.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the Optical Society of America A·DateMar 21, 2011
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.

MU chemist discovers shortcut for processing drugs

A University of Missouri chemist has discovered a method for manufacturing certain pharmaceutical drugs using pressurized carbon dioxide at room temperature. This new approach could streamline production processes and reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming methods currently used in the industry.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 2011