Technology & Innovation

Engineers are pioneering biodegradable electronic textiles (e‑textiles) that merge wearable tech with environmental stewardship. Unlike conventional e‑textiles laden with plastics and metals, these innovative fabrics integrate conductive threads and sensors made from biodegradable materials such as cellulose, graphene, and PEDOT:PSS. Research at universities like UWE and Cornell has produced prototypes—including heart-rate monitors and pH-sensing fabrics—that…

Transient electronics—also known as biodegradable electronics—are devices engineered to dissolve harmlessly after performing their function. These devices use ultrathin silicon layers encapsulated in biodegradable materials like silk, allowing them to disappear entirely after their job is done. This innovation offers a promising solution to the growing problem of electronic waste and opens new doors for…

Ambient computing is quietly reshaping how we interact with technology by making it seamlessly blend into our environments. Unlike traditional computing, which relies on direct user input through devices like smartphones or computers, ambient computing leverages sensors, AI, and interconnected systems to anticipate user needs and respond proactively. Think smart homes that adjust lighting based…

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the field of prosthetics, offering individuals with limb loss unprecedented levels of mobility and control. Modern AI-driven prosthetic limbs utilize advanced sensors and machine learning algorithms to interpret electrical signals from muscles and nerves, enabling more natural and intuitive movements. For instance, the Utah Bionic Leg employs AI to provide…

Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical systems—are revolutionizing how cities are planned, developed, and managed. In urban planning, these sophisticated 3D models simulate real-time data from traffic flows, weather patterns, and infrastructure usage to give planners a predictive edge. By replicating a city’s behavior digitally, officials and engineers can forecast the impact of new developments, test…