Tech Universe: Tuesday 21 September 2010

The Looxcie webcam. Photo / Supplied

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

LIGHT TRAFFIC: Researchers from Dresden and Zurich hope traffic will flow better with smart networked traffic lights. Sensors monitor activity and the lights work out how best to manage the traffic. In models the smart lights reduced waiting time 10 to 30%. I know a few intersections where smart lights would reduce road rage. More at GizMag.

WARMER: An infrared laser from the University of Michigan is the size of a DVD player. Mounted on aircraft, it makes the whole plane or helicopter look 'warm' to enemy heat-seeking missiles and so confuses them. That may give the pilot time for evasive manoeuvres. Doesn't it just make a bigger target? More at DiscoveryNews.

IN THE HOUSE: University of California created a backpack that collects indoor 3D mapping data while the wearer walks around. The backpack uses cameras, lasers range finders and inertial measurement units, and operates without GPS. So there, Google Maps. Details at SpaceMart.

IN YOUR SHOES: Honda's walking exoskeletons help support body weight and may be particularly useful for the elderly, people with disabilities and physical labourers. Sensors in the attached shoes feed information to the motors. These shoes are made for walking. More at SingularityHub and video on YouTube.

LOOK NOW: Did you miss that magic moment because you didn't have your camera? Attach a $200 Looxcie to your ear and you'll never miss
another. It's a video camera that records everything you see. When
something memorable happens press a button to keep the recording and
send it straight to YouTube. Look at this: my dog / cat / kid was so
cute! Repeat. More a Looxcie.

- Miraz Jordan knowit.co.nz