Tech universe: Wednesday 7, July

The Intel Connected Car. Photo / Intel

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

SPACE BOMBS: In the 50s and 60s the Americans and Russians detonated hydrogen bombs in space. The Starfish Prime explosion was seen even in New Zealand. "I have an idea: let's explode a nuke and see what happens." Report and video at NPR

SPLIT WHEELS: The HMK 561 electric bicycle's carbon fibre frame splits each wheel in two. An electric charge stored in the frame drives the bike. There are no pedals either, just foot pegs. Footloose and pedal free. Read more at Engadget.

FAST FEET: Treadways motorised shoes aren't exactly stylish, but they take the 'walk' out of walking. Powered by lithium-polymer batteries they'll quickly get you from the bus to the front door. Then just sit back and plug in your feet. Gizmodo explains. Video.

CRIMINAL PLATES: Cameras in New South Wales detect car number plates that recognition software matches to a database. It's the Automatic Number Plate Recognition system. At 6 plates per second it can pick out plenty of infringing cars. The quick eye of the law. Read more at SMH.

BLACK BOX CAR: The Intel Connected Car tracks how you drive. If you have an accident it can report back on your behaviour. It could also
report potholes in roads, and stop you from driving the wrong way on a
one-way street. Yaaay, the Nanny car. See more at the Telegraph.