Because light emitting diodes (LEDs) convert electrical energy into visible light, they are suitable for use in many types of consumer electronic products. Researchers at the University of Illinois believe there is another practical application for LEDs—a new class of sensors that detect the presence of harmful chemicals. Thomas Kuech, a professor of chemical engineering and materials science at the university, foresees making small optical emitters and detectors that are chemically sensitive to ammonia in factories; biochemical agents used in military or terrorists situations; and radon, smoke, and carbon monoxide in our homes. Kuech teamed up with professors Arthur Ellis from the University's chemistry department and Luke Mawst to change the surface of the light-emitting structure, making it chemically sensitive. The altered structure was then integrated onto a chip with a nearby detector stem where the emitter and detector communicate. "The structures are designed for optimizing the amount of surface area relative to the overall volume of the LED," says Ellis. "This enhances our ability to adsorb analytes and convert the adsorbtion to an optical signal," he explains. In addition to detecting the presence of chemicals, they also were sensitive to the amount of a given chemical present in the air. For more information, contact Ellis at (608) 262-0421.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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