A round-up of the latest technology news from around the globe.
HEALING SEAL: Paro is a cute little robot baby Harp seal that moves and sqeals. It learns and responds to different touches and the sound of people talking to it. Paro is used for pet therapy, relieving stress and improving mood and communication. Toilet training not
required. More at
and Video on YouTube.
PRIVATE SPACE: Two Russian companies are planning to create a Commercial Space Station by 2016. It will function as a space laboratory and hotel for up to 7 people at a time. Don't expect a swimming pool, or a shower. More at Space.
TALK TO THE HAND: Nokia and the University of Cambridge Research
Centre are working on stretchable electronic skin. The idea is to create flexible electronics for cellphones so they can be worn on hands or wrists. Airport security scanners are going to have to get a whole lot smarter. More at Nokia and video on YouTube.
UNIDENTIFIED FLYING CRANE: The Australian Skylifter is a UFO shaped blimp designed to carry loads up to 150 tonnes. It can cruise at around 45 Knots for up to 24 hours, and carries a module for crew and control equipment. It's fuelled with a combination of Diesel Electric and Solar power. Do we want 150 tonne loads floating above our heads?
More at Skylifter.
HEAT BOOST: University of Arizona physicists sandwiched a rubber-like polymer between two metals acting as electrodes. They used this device to capture heat and turn it into electricity by building up voltage between the two electrodes. This technique could capture the waste heat from a car and turn it back into power. An engine wrap should generate quite a bit of energy. More at ScienceDaily.
- Miraz Jordan knowit.co.nz