Technology
Innovations that shape our world
Since early humans first tended fires and sharpened spears, we’ve sought to apply our knowledge to shape the natural world to suit our needs. Here we chronicle the promise and pitfalls of this basic human drive in all its present day manifestations – from robots and AI to nanotechnology and materials to devices, transportation, engineering and manmade disasters.
Engineers developed a soft robot that can move through sand and curve around objects where traditional robots struggle.
A new heat sensor offers an option for incorporating thermal imaging into phones.
New research recommends allowing pilots to choose their own routes on trans-Atlantic flights to reduce carbon emissions.
New e-skin can withstand profuse sweating, resulting in more accurate readings of biomedical measurements.
Researchers design and synthesize a material with very low thermal conductivity, which could be used to convert waste heat to electricity.
A new approach to digitizing color could help improve the realism of cameras, displays and LED lighting.
Scientists plan to announce the successful creation of the material in an upcoming paper.
The new technological solution developed for one type of pesticide could soon expand to others.
These fine filaments can funnel light from fluorescent nanoparticles, acting just like a teeny optical fiber.
AI algorithms design chips of equal or greater quality in far less time, according to new research from Google.
New research zooms in on the outer surface of the coronavirus to reveal more about how COVID-19 scars the lungs.
New models may help people who are blind learn molecular structures.
