Researchers at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have created a nano-engineered coating for photovoltaic (PV) cells that increases sunlight absorption to 96.21 percent. Reported in “New nano coating boosts solar efficiency” on CNN.com, this new technology may improve performance of PV by enabling greater energy capture. Importantly, this coating also improves energy absorption for non-direct angles between the sun and PV collector.
Solar reflectivity is only one parameter among a complex array of variables impacting PV performance. Nonetheless, the CNN article suggests that efficient solar energy absorption at high angles may eliminate sun tracking systems, which have parasitic power draws.
Safety networks have become more complex, and have actually become simpler and easier to deploy for plant operators. This slideshow highlights developments in plant safety with an emphasis on integrated safety networks.
As the MEMS industry spans a myriad of industries and markets, the future of MEMS in consumer electronics will enable a myriad of functionality, applications, and personalization.
The Nest is a sleek-looking digital thermostat which can actually "learn" its owners' schedule and then continue to regulate temperature to suit the user's preferences and patterns.
Thanks to embedded electronics, medical devices are getting smaller and smarter than ever. Pacemakers and implantable defibrillators are now able to call physicians. MRIs, CT scanners, and ultrasound machines are gaining mobility. And the venerable Band-Aid may soon be able to detect illnesses ranging from fevers to heart arrhythmias. On February 21, join Design News senior editor Charles Murray for a wide-ranging discussion, "Embedded Angles for Medical Products," which will explore the latest developments in medical electronics. The discussion will examine advances in medical device technology and offer an inside look at the embedded electronics behind it.
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