Is it really 100% cotton? Smartphone-sized device can analyze fabrics

Is your scarf really made from cashmere? Is that necktie truly silk? Such questions may soon have an easy answer via a pass with your cell phone’s camera thanks to a tiny near-infrared spectroscopy system developed by researchers in Germany.Continue Re… Continue reading Is it really 100% cotton? Smartphone-sized device can analyze fabrics

SOMA system will control prosthetic hand via ultrasound, not electrodes

Currently, almost all powered prosthetic hands utilize electrodes that detect the user’s muscle impulses and convert them into hand movements. A new system which is in development, however, should reportedly work better by utilizing ultrasound.Continue… Continue reading SOMA system will control prosthetic hand via ultrasound, not electrodes

LG sets new real-world-ready distance record for 6G data transmission

Technology never sits still, so while 5G communications feels pretty new and flashy, the industry is already making preparations for the next generation. LG Electronics and the Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz Institute have now conducted a test that set a ne… Continue reading LG sets new real-world-ready distance record for 6G data transmission

Experimental system may stop unwanted tremors by subtly zapping muscles

There may be new hope for people who suffer from involuntary muscle tremors. Scientists are developing a partially implanted system that stimulates muscles in order to stop their problematic activity – with a little help from the nervous system.Continu… Continue reading Experimental system may stop unwanted tremors by subtly zapping muscles

SUCOM tech makes for better cellular comms with delivery drones

While short-range radio remote control may be fine for consumer drones, long-distance delivery drones often use cellular networks to communicate with their operators. A new mobile network system could make the latter method much more reliable.Continue … Continue reading SUCOM tech makes for better cellular comms with delivery drones

Ultra-thin coating makes for self-cleaning solar panels

Solar panels can’t operate efficiently if they’re caked in dirt, but cleaning them regularly can become a time-consuming process. Engineers in Germany have now developed an ultra-thin coating that can make solar panels and other surfaces self-cleaning…. Continue reading Ultra-thin coating makes for self-cleaning solar panels

Custom 3D-printed joints may restore full movement to disabled fingers

We hear a lot about artificial hips and knees, but finger joints? They do exist, but their fit and functionality is limited. Germany’s Fraunhofer research group aims to change that, with artificial finger joints that are custom 3D-printed for each pati… Continue reading Custom 3D-printed joints may restore full movement to disabled fingers

New pacemaker leads would dissolve in the body when no longer needed

The leads that connect external pacemakers to the heart can potentially cause problems, either if they’re removed or left in place. German scientists are therefore developing an alternative, in the form of leads that get absorbed by the body.Continue R… Continue reading New pacemaker leads would dissolve in the body when no longer needed