Smart Credit Cards: The Answer to Cashless Shopping

Article Abstract:

Microprocessor-based cards for automated credit and debit transactions are currently being tested in France. While packaging and security problems are still being worked on, such integrated-circuit cards can be used for identification, access passes, bearers of personal records, carriers of electronic authorizations and tickets, encryption devices, and 'electronic money'. France's Telematique program uses a new pay telephone which accepts smart cards. Many cards now are used in France, with point-of-sale terminals which are part of a larger transactional system. The card often contains the computational ability and memory to replace a host computer. Cards either use dedicated logic or a microprocessor to achieve intelligence. Security of the cards is complex and software-based for constant updating. The smart card is part of a French effort to modernize their economy and a variety of companies are involved in the project. Illustrations included in the article are photographs of a card and the new pay phone, as well as diagrams of the card-terminal hook-up, card memory organization, and the French Telepaiement system.

Microprocessor, Credit, Smart cards, Telecommunications, Microprocessors, Telephones, France, Banking, Smart Card

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Robots: Not Yet Smart Enough

Article Abstract:

Industrial robots must be improved in mechanics, manipulators, sensors, programming, and intelligence for opportunities in applications to increase. Teach-box controllers program several robots for multiple point access but usually do not use programming languages for developing robot routines. Most operations today involve grasping an object, then moving, placing and releasing it, such as machine-tending, spot-welding, and painting. Intelligent robots use complex sensors for environmental adaptation as is necessary for arc welding or assembly work. Robot programming languages and computer graphics for programming should advance in the coming years. Vision sensor as well as force, torque and tactile sensor improvements will also allow more advanced robot applications. Several robots are illustrated.

Automation, Robots, Welding, Servomechanisms, Painting (Art), Integrated Systems, CAD/CAM, Industrial Robots, Robot Communication, Robot Arms, Painting, Sensor

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Smart Heat Sources

Article Abstract:

Metcal Inc. has developed a soldering iron with a tip that rapidly responds to changing thermal loads to maintain a constant temperature. The Sta-Temp VIP (stable temperature, variable internal power) soldering iron uses the temperature- dependent magnetic properties of some metals to self-regulate its heat. A diagram illustrates the laminar construction of the device.

Intelligent machines, Intelligent Devices, Soldering, Sta-Temp VIP

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