Tech universe: Tuesday, 13 July

Renshui's Sunrise faucet.

A round-up of the latest technology news from around the globe.

MAGNETIC VISION: Wish you could see magnetic fields? Say Hello to the humble Robin. Cryptochrome molecules in the bird's retina make
magnetic fields visible as light and shade. A handy skill for a crimefighter's resume. Read more at DiscoverMagazine.

ZERO GRAV RADIATION SUIT: For some operations doctors must wear tiring and heavy lead aprons. The Zero Gravity Suit hangs from the ceiling of an operating theatre, and the doctor steps inside when it's needed. No more heavy lifting required. Surgeons in space. Read more at WFAA.

THAT FRESH CONCRETE SMELL: No need to worry about car exhaust fumes. Make roads from air-purifying concrete and they'll suck up dangerous nitrogen oxides, releasing nitrates instead. The concrete includes titanium dioxide, and is self-cleaning too. Now, about the extra nitrates in the drains...

REAL VIRTUAL CHESS: If you play chess on the Internet you're stuck with a virtual chessboard. Unless you build an Internet-enabled chess board, that is. A webcam and projector let you move real pieces to
play against an online opponent. Check.

TECH TAP: Renshui's Sunrise faucet has a built-in "smart chip" to
control water flow and temperature, and a light to warn if the water's
too hot. Not yet Mensa-level smart, I think. Details at Trendir.