Mechanical engineering

Researchers have achieved quantum coherence at room temperature by embedding a light-absorbing chromophore within a metal-organic framework. This breakthrough, facilitating the maintenance of a quantum system’s state without external interference, marks a significant advancement for quantum computing and sensing technologies.Researchers observe the quantum coherence of a quintet state with four electron spins in molecular systems for the first time at room temperature.In a study published in Science Advances, a group of…

Researchers have created a novel metamaterial that can dynamically tune its shape and properties in real-time, offering unprecedented adaptability for applications in robotics and smart materials. This development bridges the gap between current materials and the adaptability seen in nature, paving the way for the future of adaptive technologies. Credit: UNISTDrawing inspiration from the extraordinary adaptability seen in biological entities such as the octopus, a significant advancement in the field of soft robotics has…

MIT engineers observed that a liquid crystal’s orderly microstructures will spontaneously assemble into large, twisted structures (pictured) when the liquid is made to slowly flow. Credit: Courtesy of the researchersStudy finds chiral structures, with mirror-image configurations, can emerge from nonchiral systems, suggesting new ways to engineer these materials.Hold your hands out in front of you, and no matter how you rotate them, it’s impossible to superimpose one over the other. Our hands are a perfect example of…

“We used advanced fabrication techniques to cut small transducers from high-quality piezoelectric materials that allowed us to design miniaturized ultrasound stickers,” Xuanhe Zhao, professor of mechanical engineering at MIT, says. Credit: Courtesy of the researchersMIT’s ultrasound sticker enables continuous monitoring of organ stiffness, revolutionizing the early detection of diseases such as liver and kidney failure.MIT engineers have developed a small ultrasound sticker that can monitor the stiffness of organs deep…

Metamaterials with specific microstructures outperform solid materials in resisting supersonic impacts, offering potential for advanced protective solutions. (Artist’s concept.) Credit: SciTechDaily.comHigh-speed experiments can help identify lightweight, protective “metamaterials” for spacecraft, vehicles, helmets, or other objects.An intricate, honeycomb-like structure of struts and beams could withstand a supersonic impact better than a solid slab of the same material. What’s more, the specific structure matters, with…

In laboratory tests, a new design for padding, right, outperformed more conventional technologies like a foam, left, made out of the same springy material. Credit: Lawrence SmithFootball players (and anyone else who takes hard hits) may want to breathe a sigh of relief.In recent research, engineers at the University of Colorado of Boulder and Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new design for padding that can withstand big impacts. The team’s innovations, which can be printed on commercially available 3D…

Researchers at Washington State University are pioneering the discovery of liquid solvents crucial for extracting building materials from lunar and Martian soils. This advancement is vital for the construction of structures and tools necessary for long-term space exploration. By utilizing machine learning and computational modeling, the team has identified potential ionic liquids that can efficiently and environmentally sustainably extract essential elements for 3D printing applications in space. This initiative is part…

“It’s tough to find a more stylish, capable e-bike for the price of an Engwe M20.” Pros Dual batteries for extended range Dual suspension for a smoother ride Smooth acceleration Wide range of accessories Excellent value Cons Minimum-spec brakes Moderately uncomfortable…

Scientists are advancing the use of hafnium oxide (hafnia) for the next generation of non-volatile computing memory, offering significant advantages over existing technologies. Credit: SciTechDaily.comScientists outline new processes for leveraging hafnia’s ferroelectric features with the aim of enhancing high-performance computing.Scientists and engineers have been pushing for the past decade to leverage an elusive ferroelectric material called hafnium oxide, or hafnia, to usher in the next generation of computing…

Georgia Tech researchers have innovated a cost-effective and rapid method for printing nano-sized metal structures, using light-based technology that could revolutionize nanoscale 3D printing. (Art concept.) Credit: SciTechDaily.comTheir technique could transform a scientific field reliant on cost-prohibitive technology.Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a light-based means of printing nano-sized metal structures that is significantly faster and cheaper than any technology currently…