Important Innovations

  New Machine Learning Algorithms Spot Lightning Days Before Other WX Systems Do                                       Source:  Stock Lightning Images New AI System to Forecast Lightning and More There are few things more difficult to track and predict than the dynamic forces of nature that result in real-time weather.  Now, researchers at the University of Washington have invented an artificial intelligence, machine learning system that results in earlier and more precise weather forecasting.  The team started their artificial intelligence system with weather reports and data on lightning which is one of the most destructive and unpredictable forces of nature.  An example of the destructive force of unpredictable lightning is the massive 2020 California Lightning Complex fire that resulted in nearly 470,000 acres of total fire devastation and 23 deaths.  Early forecasting of that severe lightning event could have facilitated earlier fire preparation and possibly earlier containment.  

Very Original Origami for Spacecraft Landings Source:  University of  Washington Softens the Blow and Enables Rocket Reuse A team at the University of Washington has invented an origami inspired metamaterial.  It's designed to soften the force generated when a spacecraft lands and enable its reuse.  The researchers also say it can be used in cars to soften the blow of an accident.  For a news blog with details, go to Important Innovations Collection: Origami Invention for Spacecraft : Designed to Soften Impact of Landings Source:  University of Washington Origami Inspired Metamaterial This is unique innovation deve...

Size of a Band-aid, Made from Paper New Sensors University of Washington researchers use paper to create band-aid sized sensors. The sensor, placed on a pair of glasses, can detect eye movement.  It's wearable and can also detect a heartbeat, pulse, the blink of an eye, finger movement and more. Many Applications - All from Tissue Paper The researchers tear the paper which is loaded with nanoparticles from carbon nanotube laced water. The carbon nanotubes create electrical conductivity.  The fibers of the tissue are broken.  It then becomes a sensor.  The scientists say it has wide applications in health care, entertainment and robotics.  For instance, it could be used to monitor a person's gait or eye movements to determine brain function. Major Innovation The sensor is light, flexible and inexpensive.  The major innovation is that it's a disposable, wearable sensor made from cheap paper.  The University of Washington researchers are looking to commercialize it.