Friday, 27 January 2012

Laboratories: looks like the high-tech of the future - V

Music from blocks

Researchers at Southampton University have created a new way to generate computer music. This software, audio d-touch, works with a computer and a webcam. By using simple techniques of computer vision, physical blocks are drawn on a printed circuit. The position of the block then determines how the computer samples and reproduced the sound.


Everything you need is a computer with a webcam and a printer. Each user creates physical objects interactive and combines visual markers recognized by Audio d-touch. The software platform is open and can be extended to applications beyond the synthesis of music.

Batteries more efficient

Improved lithium-ion batteries is the promise we've made
​​in years! But apparently this time it's true because they should be sold within two years. By replacing the graphite electrodes with silicon, researchers at two different universities have created lithium-ion batteries capable of storing two times more energy than today.

Thus, our cell phones will discharge half as fast. During a test, a battery was able to make 250 cycles charge / discharge before recharging capacity falls below 80%. The company is close to a performance of 500 cycles required for a battery of electronic equipment. As for electric vehicles, the battery would require at least 3000 cycles.

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