Someday bridges may have feelings too

Article Abstract:

'Smart materials,' with built-in sensors that monitor structural integrity, will be available for commercial use within the next few years. Some smart materials would simply warn people that a structural problem is developing, but researchers envision the possibility of even smarter materials, foreseeing structures that defend their structural integrity by taking corrective actions. A bridge that is weakening in one place, for an example, might automatically compensate by bracing or stiffening in the weakened part while it shifts weight to other parts. Such a structure is compared to a biological organism: sensors in such a structure are said to be like an animal's sense organs, and silicon chips function like a brain. 'Muscles' are simulated by using 'shape memory metals,' which change in predictable ways if heat or an electric voltage is applied.

Design and construction, Artificial intelligence, Industrial engineering, Smart materials, Future Technologies

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Sometimes, Vaccines Can Be Good for Business

Article Abstract:

While many blame this years shortage of influenza vaccine on a U.S. business environment that stifles product development, the vaccine industry does hold promise for some companies.

United States, Product development, Drugs, Economic aspects, Biological products industry, Vaccines

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