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.
So-called plastic crystals could open new avenues in the quest to make refrigerators with only solid components.
The problem could be particularly bad in rental cars.
Such cyborg partnerships could aid law enforcement during manhunts.
Researchers develop a new technique that uses artificial intelligence to summarize long scientific papers.
New proof of concept could guard against the disorienting effects of laser pointers invading the cockpit.
A month's worth of cool science stories summed up.
Researchers embrace the wobbliness of soft materials to make squishy robots.
A month's worth of cool science stories summed up.
Researchers use a more environmentally friendly approach to make larger see-through wood panels than before.
Once the tricky political agreements have been reached, how do nations take apart their nuclear weapons?
Scientists have designed a new material that gets stronger after a "workout."
