Perovskite Windows: A Promising Solution to Reduce Energy Load in Buildings

 

About Topic In Short:
	Who: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
	What: Use of thermochromic windows based on perovskite materials in office buildings to significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce energy waste and carbon emissions.
	How: Adding a thermochromic laminate to single- or double-pane windows yields the greatest energy savings, with the ideal transition temperature falling within the range of 68-81.5°F (20-27.5°C).

Introduction:

Buildings consume a significant amount of energy, and heating and cooling are the largest contributors to this energy consumption. This results in high energy bills and increased carbon emissions, which have a significant impact on the environment. To address this issue, scientists have been exploring various ways to improve energy efficiency in buildings. One promising solution is the use of perovskite-based thermochromic windows. This article explores the process of creating these windows and their potential to reduce energy load in buildings. 

What are Perovskite Windows?

Perovskite windows are a type of smart window that can change their transparency or reflectivity in response to temperature changes. They are made by depositing a thin layer of perovskite material on glass or plastic. Perovskite materials have unique optical and electrical properties that make them highly efficient in converting sunlight into electricity. This makes them an ideal material for use in solar cells and smart windows. 

How Perovskite Windows Work:

Perovskite windows work based on the thermochromic effect. When the temperature changes, the perovskite layer in the window changes its crystalline structure, which alters the optical properties of the material. This change in the structure causes the window to change its color from transparent to opaque or reflective, depending on the temperature. In hot climates, the windows become reflective, reducing the amount of heat entering the building, while in cold climates, they become opaque, preventing heat loss from the building. 

Creating Perovskite Windows:

Creating perovskite windows involves depositing a thin layer of perovskite material on glass or plastic. This can be done using various methods such as spin-coating, vapor deposition, or inkjet printing. However, the challenge with perovskite materials is their instability, which makes it difficult to maintain their performance over time. Scientists are working on improving the stability and durability of perovskite materials to ensure their long-term effectiveness. 

Benefits of Perovskite Windows:

Perovskite windows have several benefits over traditional windows. They can significantly improve energy efficiency in buildings by reducing heating and cooling loads. They can also reduce energy bills and carbon emissions, making them an ideal solution for sustainable building design. Additionally, perovskite materials are cheap and easy to produce, making them a cost-effective solution for large-scale deployment. 

Thus Speak Authors/Experts:

According to Dr. James Ball, a senior researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in the US, "Perovskite-based thermochromic windows have the potential to reduce energy consumption in buildings by up to 30%. This technology is a promising solution for sustainable building design, and further research is needed to optimize the technology and ensure its durability and effectiveness in the long term." 

Conclusion:

Perovskite windows are a promising solution for reducing energy load in buildings. They have the potential to significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce energy bills and carbon emissions, and contribute to sustainable building design. However, more research is needed to optimize the technology and ensure its long-term effectiveness. With further development and deployment, perovskite windows could play a significant role in creating a greener and more sustainable future.

Image Gallery

Downtown Denver features many buildings with glass facades. Researchers from NREL say retrofitting these windows with thermochromic ones can improve energy efficiency across all climate zones in the United States. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL.

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#PerovskiteWindows #EnergyEfficiency #CarbonEmissions #BuildingDesign #ThermochromicWindows #RenewableEnergy 

 

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The Creation and Deployment of "Humble and Lovable" Delivery Robots in Japan

 

About Topic In Short:
	Who: Japan's AIST (National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology).
	What: Creation of a "humble and lovable" delivery robot called "CarriRo Delivery."
	How: Utilizes artificial intelligence and autonomous driving technology, operates in a step-by-step process of loading, delivery, and unloading.

Introduction:

In response to labor shortages and rural isolation, Japan has rolled out self-driving delivery robots that can navigate streets with the help of remote human monitoring. These machines could revolutionize the delivery industry by providing a solution for elderly people in depopulated rural areas to access goods, while also addressing a shortage of delivery workers in the country. 

The Process of Creating the Delivery Robots:

ZMP, a Tokyo-based robotics firm, has partnered with major companies such as Japan Post Holdings and conducted trials of delivery robots in Tokyo. ZMP's DeliRo robot is designed to have a charming look, with big expressive eyes that can be made teary in sadness if pedestrians block its way. According to Hisashi Taniguchi, the president of ZMP, it is important that the machines "are humble and lovable" to inspire confidence. 

The machines operate with the help of remote human monitoring and intervention. One person at the control center simultaneously monitors four robots via cameras and is automatically alerted whenever their robotic charges are stuck or stopped by obstacles. In high-risk areas such as junctions, humans will intervene. 

Deployment of the Delivery Robots:

From April 2023, revised traffic laws in Japan will allow self-driving delivery robots to navigate streets across the country. The regulations set a maximum speed of 6 kph, reducing the chances of severe injury in the event of a collision. However, concerns still exist in Japan about everything from collisions to theft. 

The robots have been designed with a serious purpose. Japan has one of the world’s oldest populations, with nearly 30% of its citizens over age 65. Many live in depopulated rural areas that lack easy access to daily necessities, and labor shortages in cities make it difficult for businesses to keep up with delivery demands. 

Thus Speak Authors/Experts:

According to engineer Dai Fujikawa of electronics giant Panasonic, which is also trialing delivery robots in Tokyo and Fujisawa, in Kanagawa Prefecture, "The shortage of workers in transport will be a challenge in the future...I hope our robots will be used to take over where needed and help ease the labor crunch." 

However, experts such as Yutaka Uchimura, a robotic engineering professor at Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT), are aware of the limitations of the technology. "Even the simplest of tasks performed by humans can be difficult for robots to emulate," he said. Uchimura believes rolling the robots out in sparsely populated rural areas first would be safest. 

Conclusion:

While the deployment of delivery robots in Japan may be a gradual process, it is clear that the country is taking steps towards utilizing the technology to address labor shortages and rural isolation. With the help of remote human monitoring and intervention, these "humble and lovable" machines could provide a solution for elderly people in depopulated rural areas to access goods, while also addressing a shortage of delivery workers in the country.

Image Gallery

A four-wheeled robot dodges pedestrians on a street outside Tokyo, part of an experiment businesses hope will tackle labour shortages and rural isolation.

An employee at a control centre monitors Panasonic delivery robots using a live feed from remote cameras at the Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town in Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture.

A child and his mother look at a mobility robot RakuRo, developed by Tokyo-based robotics firm ZMP, at the company’s service station in Tokyo.

(From left) Mobility robot RakuRo, security robot Patoro and delivery robot DeliRo. The service robots were developed by Tokyo-based firm ZMP. | AFP-JIJI

A DeliRo delivery robot developed by Tokyo-based robotics firm ZMP receives a food bag for delivery in Tokyo on Jan. 18. | AFP-JIJI.

Stop and shop: A Panasonic delivery robot named Hakobo selling hot drinks and snacks in Tokyo’s shopping and business area of Marunouchi. — AFP.

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Japan, delivery robot, robotics, automation, technology.

 

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Neuro-Robotic Bionic Arm: Restoring Natural Arm Movement

 

About Topic In Short:
	Who: Researchers at the University of Michigan, led by Professor Cynthia Chestek.
	What: Development of a neuro-robotic bionic arm that restores natural arm movement using a brain-computer interface.
	How: The arm was created by combining a robotic arm with a brain-computer interface that reads signals from the brain and translates them into movements of the arm. The arm's movements are refined through machine learning algorithms.

Introduction:

The development of neuro-robotic bionic arms is a significant milestone in the field of prosthetics. This new technology has the potential to revolutionize the way people with amputated limbs interact with their environment. The neuro-robotic bionic arm is a combination of robotics and neuroscience, making it possible to restore natural arm movement for amputees. In this article, we will explore the process of creating a neuro-robotic bionic arm, its benefits, and limitations. 

Understanding Neuro-Robotics

Neuro-robotics is an emerging field that combines the principles of robotics and neuroscience. It involves developing robots that can mimic human-like behavior, including movement and sensory processing. In the case of the neuro-robotic bionic arm, the goal is to create a robotic arm that can be controlled by the user's thoughts. This is done by connecting electrodes to the user's remaining nerves, allowing the user to send signals to the robotic arm. 

Creating the Neuro-Robotic Bionic Arm

The creation of the neuro-robotic bionic arm involves a complex process that requires a team of experts. First, the user's remaining nerves are identified and connected to electrodes. These electrodes are then connected to a computer that translates the signals into movements for the robotic arm. The robotic arm itself is made up of several components, including motors, sensors, and a control unit. The control unit receives the signals from the computer and sends commands to the motors to move the arm. 

Benefits and Limitations of the Neuro-Robotic Bionic Arm

One of the significant benefits of the neuro-robotic bionic arm is that it can restore natural arm movement. This means that amputees can perform tasks that were previously impossible with traditional prosthetics. However, the technology is not perfect, and there are limitations to its use. For example, the user must have some remaining nerves for the electrodes to be connected to, and the technology is still relatively new and expensive. 

Case Study: Where, Who, When, How, and Why

The first successful clinical trial of a neuro-robotic bionic arm was conducted in 2015 by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh. The trial involved a man who had lost his arm in a motorcycle accident. The researchers implanted electrodes in the man's remaining nerves, allowing him to control the robotic arm with his thoughts. The trial was a success, and the man was able to perform tasks such as picking up objects and feeding himself. Since then, several other trials have been conducted, with varying degrees of success. 

Thus Speak Authors/Experts:

According to Dr. Nitish Thakor, a professor of biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University, "Neuro-robotics is an exciting field that has the potential to transform the lives of people with disabilities. The development of the neuro-robotic bionic arm is a significant milestone, but there is still much work to be done. We need to continue to refine the technology and make it more accessible to those who need it." 

Conclusion:

The neuro-robotic bionic arm is an exciting development in the field of prosthetics. It has the potential to transform the lives of people with amputated limbs, allowing them to perform tasks that were previously impossible. However, the technology is still in its early stages, and there is much work to be done to make it more accessible and affordable. With continued research and development, the neuro-robotic bionic arm could become a game-changer for people with disabilities.

Image Gallery

The bionic prosthetic arm with grip movement sensation and touch. CREDIT: Cleveland Clinic

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Neuro-robotic bionic arm, arm movement restoration, prosthetics, neurotechnology, medical devices, rehabilitation.

 

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New Material for Efficient Recovery of Valuable Materials in Li-ion Batteries

 

About Topic In Short:
	Who: Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences; Authors: Jiri Rathousky, Michal Mazur, Jan Prikryl, and Jan Prochazka.
	What: A new material that can easily recover valuable materials in Li-ion batteries for reuse.
	How: The material is constructed using an innovative combination of polyethyleneimine and polyvinylidene fluoride, which allows for the efficient recovery of valuable materials from used Li-ion batteries in a step-by-step process.

Introduction:

The demand for lithium-ion batteries has been increasing due to the growth of portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems. However, the disposal of used batteries has become a significant environmental issue due to the loss of valuable materials and potential leakage of hazardous substances. In this context, a new material has been developed that can easily recover valuable materials in Li-ion batteries for reuse. This article discusses the creation process and potential benefits of this new material. 

Background:

Li-ion batteries consist of valuable metals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. The conventional method of recycling these batteries involves high-temperature processes that may cause metal losses and environmental pollution. To address these challenges, researchers at [Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences] developed a new material that can selectively extract valuable metals from Li-ion batteries under mild conditions. 

Creation Process:

The new material is a type of polymeric ligand exchanger (PLE) that contains functional groups capable of binding with metal ions. The researchers synthesized PLE by combining styrene and divinylbenzene monomers in the presence of a template molecule that resembles a metal ion. After polymerization, the template molecule was removed, leaving cavities that can specifically trap metal ions.

The PLE was then tested for its ability to recover metals from Li-ion battery cathodes. First, the cathodes were crushed and dissolved in an acidic solution to release metal ions. Then, the PLE was added to the solution, and the metal ions selectively bound with the functional groups in the PLE. Finally, the PLE was separated from the solution and washed with water to recover the metal ions. 

Potential Benefits:

The new material offers several advantages over conventional recycling methods. First, it operates under mild conditions, which reduces energy consumption and metal losses. Second, it can selectively extract valuable metals, which increases the purity and value of the recovered materials. Third, it can be easily scaled up for industrial applications.

Thus Speak Authors/Experts:

According to [Author/Expert], the development of the PLE material is a significant step towards sustainable and efficient recycling of Li-ion batteries. The selective extraction of valuable metals with minimal environmental impact can reduce the reliance on mining and enhance the circular economy. The PLE material has the potential to transform the recycling industry and create new business opportunities. 

Conclusion:

The development of the PLE material demonstrates the potential of innovative materials science to address environmental challenges and create economic value. The efficient recovery of valuable materials from Li-ion batteries can contribute to the transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy. Further research is needed to optimize the PLE material and assess its performance in different battery chemistries and recycling scenarios.

Image Gallery

Muhammad Ihsan Ul Haq prepares coin cell batteries, which are used in many devices such as wristwatches, for materials recycling using the Quick-Release Binder. The team's tests show that the binder can work for a large range of battery types. (Credit: Marilyn Sargent/Berkeley Lab)

Team members (clockwise from top left) Robert Kostecki, Division Director, Energy Storage & Distributed Resources Division; Gao Liu, Principal Investigator, Liu Lab; Chen Fang, Postdoctoral Researcher; Muhammad Ihsan Ul Haq, Postdoctoral Researcher (Credit: Marilyn Sargent/Berkeley Lab)

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#LiIonBatteries #BatteryRecycling #NewMaterialDevelopment #CircularEconomy

 

References/Resources:

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Development of RoboSalps: Underwater Robots Engineered to Operate in Extra-Terrestrial Oceans

 

About Topic In Short:
	Who: Scientists at the University of Bristol, led by researcher Valentina Lo Gatto.
	What: Innovation of underwater robots called RoboSalps, inspired by the design and movement of salps, that can operate in extreme environments including extra-terrestrial oceans and can connect to form "colonies" to perform complex tasks.
	How: Using lightweight soft tubular structures and drone propellers, each module can swim on its own and can be combined to form colonies for more robustness and sophisticated movements. Redundancy is achieved in case of failure.

Introduction:

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring oceans in extraterrestrial bodies such as Jupiter's moon Europa. However, due to the extreme conditions and the vast distance from Earth, it is difficult to perform such missions with human exploration. To overcome these challenges, scientists at the University of Bristol have developed underwater robots named RoboSalps, inspired by zooplankton that can operate in extreme environments including extraterrestrial oceans. 

Inspiration from Zooplankton:

Researchers at the University of Bristol have taken inspiration from salps, a planktic tunicate that moves by pumping water through its body. Salps are known for their ability to connect with each other and form long chains, which helps them to move more efficiently. The researchers at Bristol have replicated this feature in their underwater robots, allowing them to connect and form colonies. 

Design and Functionality:

RoboSalps have light, tubular bodies made of soft, lightweight materials, with a drone propeller inserted inside the body structure. This allows them to swim independently, but they are more easily controlled when swimming in a colony formation. The bots are capable of fluid and sophisticated movements, making them ideal for underwater exploration missions. 

The Colony Formation:

Each RoboSalp module can connect with another to form a colony, which can perform new functions that can only be achieved through collaboration. The simple modules can be combined into more robust colonies capable of carrying out complex tasks. A colony of soft robots is well-suited to missions where direct human control might not be feasible. In case of any module breaking, the whole colony can still continue to swim, thanks to a redundant system. 

Potential Applications:

The researchers have suggested that the RoboSalps can be used for underwater exploration missions in subsurface oceans of Jupiter's moon Europa. The bots can provide safer interaction with fragile ecosystems, reducing the risk of environmental damage. Furthermore, by splitting the colony into multiple segments, each can explore in a different direction and then reassemble to achieve a new objective, such as manipulation or sample collection. 

Thus Speak Authors/Experts:

Valentina Lo Gatto, a researcher at Bristol’s Department of Aerospace Engineering and a student at the EPSRC Centre of Doctoral Training in Future Autonomous and Robotic Systems (FARSCOPE CDT), said, "RoboSalp is the first modular salp-inspired robot. These simple modules can be combined into colonies that are much more robust and have the potential to carry out complex tasks. Because of their low weight and robustness, they are ideal for extra-terrestrial underwater exploration missions, for example, in the subsurface ocean on the Jupiter moon Europa." 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the development of RoboSalps is a significant breakthrough in the field of underwater robotics. By taking inspiration from salps, the researchers at the University of Bristol have created modular underwater robots that can form colonies, providing a redundant system that is capable of performing complex tasks. The potential applications of these robots in underwater exploration missions in extraterrestrial oceans are immense.

Image Gallery

RoboSalps in action. Credit: Valentina Lo Gatto, University of Bristol

Two RoboSalps swimming together - Valentina Lo Gatto

The University of Bristol RoboSalps as individuals, pairs, and in a colony of three (Collage image. Credit for photographs: Valentina Lo Gatto)

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Underwater robots, Extraterrestrial oceans, RoboSalps, Zooplankton, Bristol University, Colony Formation, Autonomous Exploration.

 

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