Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Nest expands its reach, begins shipping Learning Thermostat to Canada]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/nest-expands-its-reach-begins-shipping-learning-thermostat-to-c/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/nest-expands-its-reach-begins-shipping-learning-thermostat-to-c/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/nest-expands-its-reach-begins-shipping-learning-thermostat-to-c/#comments Nest expands its reach, begins shipping Learning Thermostat to Canada

The Nest Learning Thermostat has certainly generated plenty of buzz -- and not just by thermostat standards -- but it's so far only be available to those in the United States. That's finally starting to change today, though, with Nest announcing that is has now begun shipping the thermostat to Canada. Those interested will initially only be order the device through Nest's own website, where it will set Canadians back the same $249 -- they can also take advantage of the "Nest Concierge" program to get the unit professionally installed for $119, with additional installations running $25 each (all still in US dollars). Still no word on any Canadian retailers that will be carrying the device.

Continue reading Nest expands its reach, begins shipping Learning Thermostat to Canada

Nest expands its reach, begins shipping Learning Thermostat to Canada originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 May 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaenergyhomehouseminipostnestnest learning thermostatNestLearningThermostatthermostatWed, 30 May 2012 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers use virus's rogue traits to create electricity from motion]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/researchers-use-viruss-rogue-traits-to-create-electricity-from/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/researchers-use-viruss-rogue-traits-to-create-electricity-from/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/researchers-use-viruss-rogue-traits-to-create-electricity-from/#comments berkeley-labs-piezoelectrics-from-virus

Viruses are the swarming bullies of biology, but it turns out their alarming self-replication could one day power your iPod. We've seen them in batteries before, but researchers at Berkeley Labs have now coated electrodes with modified M13 bacteriophage, a harmless bacteria-eating virus, to create the first ever organic piezoelectric material -- which can convert force to electricity. The team explained that such a substance would be non-toxic, organize naturally into thin layers and self-regenerate, giving it a possible advantage over chemical options. In theory, by attaching a thin film of it to your shoes, power could be generated when walking, lending volts to the myriad electronics we pack around nowadays. To see a finger-powered video demo of our frequent-enemies making themselves useful for a change, stroll on past the break.

Continue reading Researchers use virus's rogue traits to create electricity from motion

Researchers use virus's rogue traits to create electricity from motion originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The term "smart home" seems to turn up in tech circles every so often, only to fade into the background again without much sign of ultra-connected dwellings becoming a reality. Honda's at least putting one foot forward, with a just-unveiled test house in Saitama, Japan featuring a system for controlling and monitoring energy usage. The Honda Smart Home System (HSHS) consists of thin-film solar cell panels, a rechargeable home battery unit, gas and hot water supply systems and the Smart e Mix Manager. The latter is the central part of the energy-control system, and it keeps track of all the other components in addition to monitoring the home's use of power supplied by the grid. In emergency situations, it can also provide electricity via the home battery unit. On the day-to-day level, however, the system is there to let home owners know what sources of power they can kill. Honda also integrates its Japan-only Internavi system for controlling home appliances remotely. The car maker hopes to use the house for extensive demo testing, with an ultimate goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 50 percent. No word on how many decades till we actually call this sort of place home, though. Click on past the break for a look (in Japanese) at the test home's features.

Continue reading Honda test house features Smart Home System for controlling energy usage

Honda test house features Smart Home System for controlling energy usage originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 May 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconceptselectricityEnergyenergy efficientenergy usageEnergyEfficientEnergyUsagegreenhomehomeshondaHonda Smart e Mix Managerhonda smart home systemhonda test homeHondaSmartEMixManagerHondaSmartHomeSystemHondaTestHomeHousehousesJapanSmart e Mix Managersmart homesmart homesSmartEMixManagerSmartHomeSmartHomesvideoTue, 01 May 2012 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Study says wind turbines raise surrounding area temperature, but only at night]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/study-wind-turbines-raise-area-temperature-/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/study-wind-turbines-raise-area-temperature-/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/study-wind-turbines-raise-area-temperature-/#comments Study says wind turbines raise surrounding area temperature, but only at night

Who said the butterfly effect couldn't apply to renewable energy? Though wind farms are considered pretty green on the energy-generating spectrum, it looks like they, too, have an impact on the planet. According to a study published today in the journal Nature Climate Change, turbines can raise the local temperature -- albeit slightly. From 2003 to 2011, researchers monitored satellite data for west-central Texas, which is home to 2,350-plus turbines and four of the world's largest wind farms. In that decade, scientists observed a temperature increase of 0.72 degrees in wind farm regions compared to areas without turbines. That warming trend was especially marked at night, when the temperature difference between the ground and the air is highest. The temperature increase was also higher in winter; researchers say that these cooler, windier conditions cause turbines to generate more electricity and therefore create more heat. Since the study didn't find any change in daytime temperatures, it looks like we don't have to ring the global warming alarm just yet.

Study says wind turbines raise surrounding area temperature, but only at night originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyAlternativeEnergyclimate changeClimateChangeEnergyenergy efficientEnergyEfficientglobal warmingGlobalWarminggreengreen energyGreenEnergynaturerenewable energyRenewableEnergyresearchresearcherssciencestudiesstudytemperaturetemperaturesturbineturbineswind farmwind farmingwind farmswind turbinewind turbinesWindFarmWindFarmingWindFarmsWindTurbineWindTurbinesMon, 30 Apr 2012 14:47:00 EST<![CDATA[USC develops printable liquid solar cells for flexible, low-cost panels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/usc-develops-printable-liquid-solar-cells-for-flexible-low-cost/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/usc-develops-printable-liquid-solar-cells-for-flexible-low-cost/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/usc-develops-printable-liquid-solar-cells-for-flexible-low-cost/#comments USC develops printable liquid solar cells for flexible, low-cost panels

Solar cells are becoming more viable sources of energy -- and as they become more efficient, they're only getting smaller and cheaper to produce. Liquid nanocrystal cells are traditionally inefficient at converting sunlight into electricity, but by adding a synthetic ligand to help transmit currents, researchers at USC have improved their effectiveness. The advantage of these liquid solar cells? They're cheaper than single-crystal silicon wafer solutions, and they're also a shockingly minuscule four nanometers in size, meaning more than 250 billion could fit on the head of a pin. Moreover, they can be printed onto surfaces -- even plastic -- without melting. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to pave the way for ultra-flexible solar panels. However, the scientists are still experimenting with materials for constructing the nanocrystals, since the semiconductor cadmium selenide they've used thus far is too toxic for commercial use.

USC develops printable liquid solar cells for flexible, low-cost panels originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellsEnergyenergy efficiencyenergy efficientEnergyEfficiencyEnergyEfficientgreengreen techgreen technologyGreenTechGreenTechnologyliquid solar cellsliquid solar powerLiquidSolarCellsLiquidSolarPowernanocrystalnanocrystalsresearchresearcherssciencesolarsolar cellssolar powerSolarCellsSolarPowerUniversity of Southern CaliforniaUniversityOfSouthernCaliforniauscUSC researchUscResearchFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla pairs up with SolarCity, will power off-grid homes as well as cars]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/tesla-solarcity-batteries-off-grid-solar-homes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/tesla-solarcity-batteries-off-grid-solar-homes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/tesla-solarcity-batteries-off-grid-solar-homes/#comments Tesla pairs up with SolarCity, will power off-grid homes as well as cars

If you've ever dreamed of thumbing your nose at big energy and its expensive, polluting ways, then Tesla and a solar panel leasing company called SolarCity might be taking you a baby-step closer to reality. Although recognized mostly for its EVs, Tesla reckons it knows enough about batteries to solve a key problem in the solar energy chain -- namely the storage of power for use when the sun, power grid, or both go offline. The battery design, consisting of many laptop-style lithium ion batteries stacked together, was chosen after two years of research and a $1.8 million energy grant. The two companies are now waiting for tax credits from the Fed and California before rolling out the tech. And being kissing cousins -- with Elon Musk as both Chairman of SolarCity and CEO of Tesla -- certainly can't hurt.

Tesla pairs up with SolarCity, will power off-grid homes as well as cars originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's a little strange crowning a "winner" when only a single company enters the contest, but that's exactly what happened during the L Prize celebration in August of last year. Philips was the only outfit to take the US Department of Energy up on its offer, earning some $10 million to develop what might go down as the most radically designed, wildly expensive bulb your table lamp has ever seen. That said, the victorious bulb is a big fan of Ma Earth (and her of him), using just 10 watts of energy while outputting light similar to that of a 60 watt incandescent. It'll hit retailers like Home Depot this Sunday (Earth Day) for around $50 a pop, while some utility companies may subsidize 'em in an effort to hit the magical $20 price point. Hey, no one said saving energy would be remotely affordable, right?

Philips' L Prize-winning light bulb goes on sale Sunday, priced between $20 and $60 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

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With the days getting longer and the spring sun creeping into the evening hours this week, we saw a host of impressive solar energy projects that put those rays to work. Kyocera revealed their plan for Japan's largest solar farm and French company Areva announced they will be building the largest solar installation in Asia. On the other side of the globe, New York City was proud to say that it recently tripled its solar power production and a new study showed that the United States pulled ahead of China in the clean energy race this year. We also saw designs for a new solar satellite that could harvest the sun's rays 24/7 and we ogled photos of the Image massive array of PV panels topping the zHome complex in Washington. A team at Natcore blew away the scientific community by creating the "blackest" solar cell ever designed and Panasonic gave us a sneak peek at its shimmering, solar-powered "Photosynthesis" Ecosystem installation, which will light up the night at the Milan Furniture Fair next week.

In green transportation news, Justin Bieber's blindingly shiny chrome Fisker Karma had people talking (and putting on their sunglasses), while the former head of R&D at GM predicted that we'll see driverless cars by 2020. Honda announced that it is teaming up with Zipcar to provide EVs and hybrids to Zipsters and Ferrari confirmed that its future V12 models will have a new hybrid system. Finally, SolarWorld sent us news about their new Elektra solar-powered plane, which can fly twice as far as its predecessor.

Smart design continued to make the world a little better with innovations like this vibrating glove that lets blind people text and Montessori's Intro to Letters app, which teaches kids the alphabet. We also got back into nature (literally) with these see-through bubble tents surrounded by trees, and we reflected upon the mysterious human-shaped mirror sculptures that popped up in a Scottish forest.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar-powered plane, chrome Fisker Karma and the 'blackest' solar cells ever originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clean energyCleanEnergyecoenergyenergy raceEnergyRaceevfisker karmaFiskerKarmagreengreen powerGreenPowerhondainhabitatinhabitatsweekingreenkyoceranatcoresolarthisweekingreenSun, 15 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nest-thermostat-software-update-airwave-10-day-history/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nest-thermostat-software-update-airwave-10-day-history/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nest-thermostat-software-update-airwave-10-day-history/#comments Image
There's a first for everything, including Engadget stories about software updates for thermostats. If we're going to suddenly start getting granular in our coverage of home automation products, though, we may as well start with the Nest, a device slick enough to make us use "thermostat" and "sexy' in the same sentence. Now that it's been out on the market for about five months, the company's issuing a software update that introduces a couple new features.

For starters, particularly fastidious users can now access a detailed 10-day history, showing precisely when and for how long their heating and cooling systems kicked in, as well as the reason for that shift (e.g., you manually changed the temperature, were away). Though you can't view all that data on the device's small, circular screen, you can look it up online or through Nest's iOS and Android apps. Next up is Airwave, a feature that uses your fan to distribute chilled air through the home after your air conditioner has turned off (you know, instead of letting one room get intensely, unnecessarily cold). According to Nest, that feature turns on automatically when the temperature is high and the humidity low, though we're hazy on the algorithm being used there. Rounding out the list, Nest has made certain settings easier to access, and the hardware itself will ship with redesigned connectors that purport to work well even without wall anchors. Save for that last bit, current owners can enjoy all these tweaks via a free software update -- fully automated, 'o course.

Gallery: Nest Thermostat update with 10-day energy history

Continue reading Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home

Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airwaveapp updateapp updatesAppUpdateAppUpdatescoolingeco friendlyEcoFriendlyEnergyenergy efficientEnergyEfficientgreenheatinghouseholdnestnest labsNest Learning ThermostatNestLabsNestLearningThermostatsoftware updatesoftware updatesSoftwareUpdateSoftwareUpdatesthermostatsupdateupdatesThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Delaware Ph.D. student hopes to solve energy woes with renewable hydrogen production]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/delaware-student-develops-hydrogen-reactor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/delaware-student-develops-hydrogen-reactor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/delaware-student-develops-hydrogen-reactor/#comments Delaware Ph.D. student hopes to solve energy woes with renewable hydrogen productionHydrogen fuel is a fickle mistress. On one hand, it teases us with the promise of renewable energy and a cleaner tomorrow. On the other hand, it's most often produced with natural gas as the source -- hardly the clean break from fossil fuels that many had envisioned. Fortunately, there are other methods to harness this abundant element, and a doctoral student at the University of Delaware may have created a worthwhile process. Similar to previous research we've seen -- which relies on ceric oxide and energy from the sun -- Eric Koepf has designed a reactor that combines zinc oxide powder, solar rays and water to derive hydrogen as a storable energy source. Most intriguing, it's thought that the zinc oxide byproduct from the reaction will be reusable -- a potential gateway to sustainable energy. Koepf will spend the next six weeks in Zurich at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, where his reactor prototype will be put through its paces to determine its efficiency and effectiveness. If successful, his advisors envision that one day, we may see giant versions of Koepf's reactors producing hydrogen on an industrial scale. We certainly won't fault them for dreaming big.

Delaware Ph.D. student hopes to solve energy woes with renewable hydrogen production originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 03:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delawareeco-friendlyelectricityenergyEric KoepfEricKoepffuelgreenhydrogenhydrogen fuelhydrogen reactorHydrogenFuelHydrogenReactorpowerprototypereactorrenewablerenewable energyRenewableEnergyresearchsciencesolarsolar powerSolarPowersunlightsustainablesustainable energySustainableEnergysyngasuniversity of delawareUniversityOfDelawarezinc oxideZincOxideThu, 05 Apr 2012 03:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook inks partnership with Opower, looks to socially compare home energy usage]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/facebook-opower-social-energy-tracking-project/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/facebook-opower-social-energy-tracking-project/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/facebook-opower-social-energy-tracking-project/#comments Facebook oPower energy usageGoogle passed, and Microsoft reckoned it had better things to do, but Zuckerberg's Castle is seemingly willing to pick up where those two left off. In what may go down as the strangest Facebook decision since the rejection of Valentina Monetta's video as best in the whole wide world, the company is launching a new social energy app that'll tap into technology from the National Resources Defense Council and Opower. Initially, the app will reach some 20 million households, and it's designed to help eco-curious Earthlings compile and benchmark usage data to see how their home stacks up against others. Within territories with utility participation, people can connect their utility account directly to the app to track progress and share energy saving accomplishments with friends. Unfortunately, the whole process looks rather manual for now, and privacy overlords will no doubt question the motives for requesting even more information from Facebook users; that said, it's totally possible to engage in the Opower tracking sans a Facebook account. To get going, give those source links a look.

Facebook inks partnership with Opower, looks to socially compare home energy usage originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-friendlyelectricityenergyenergy meterenergy usageEnergyMeterEnergyUsagefacebookgreenhomehome utilitiesHomeUtilitieshouseholdopowersocial networksocial networkingSocialNetworkSocialNetworkingutilitiesutilityTue, 03 Apr 2012 17:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
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Happy April 1st! In honor of the day, we've rounded up some of Inhabitat's best April Fools stories for your reading pleasure. Our collective jaws dropped this morning when we were sent an anonymous photo from a tipster which hints at intergalactic plans for Apple's new Cupertino campus. Google also surprised us today when it announced a partnership with the city of New York to replace NYC taxis with driverless Google Cabs. In other NYC news, it was revealed today that New York City's ever-popular High Line park is going to bring a train back on the High Line to keep up with the growing crowds, and satellite photos divulged that Dubai appears to be building a series of Dubai-shaped islands off of its coast.

In more serious news, the New York Auto Show is hitting Manhattan next week, and in preparation this week Fisker released the first sketch of its highly anticipated Nina Plug-in Hybrid. Inhabitat will be on-scene at the reveal on Tuesday to bring you the first photos of its unveiling, so stay tuned for Inhabitat's live Fisker Nina coverage on Tuesday! We also brought you a sneak peek at several more innovative eco vehicles that will displayed at this year's New York Auto Show -- including NYC's taxi of tomorrow and Infiniti's new Nissan Leaf-based EV. Meanwhile, Lexus divulged that it is considering producing the sexy LF-LC hybrid sports coupe, and Chevy Volt's sexier European twin the Opel Ampera racked up 7,000 orders, putting it well on its way to meeting sales targets. In two-wheel transportation news, bicycles kicked into high gear as Specialized launched the world's fastest E-bike and Jose Hurtado designed a hubless 'Twist Bike' that can be turned into a tandem in a snap.

Continue reading Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines

Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 20:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperechevycleanecoenergygreengreen autoGreenAutohybridinhabitantinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreeninhabitatweekingreenleaflegolexusNinanissanrenewable energyRenewableEnergysynthetic boneSyntheticBonethisweekingreenSun, 01 Apr 2012 20:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: supersonic biplane, urban algae farm and magnetic tattoos]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/supersonic-biplane-robot-jellyfish-high-line-fisker-nissan/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/supersonic-biplane-robot-jellyfish-high-line-fisker-nissan/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/supersonic-biplane-robot-jellyfish-high-line-fisker-nissan/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

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Energy-efficient transportation soared to new heights this week as MIT unveiled designs for a supersonic biplane that promises to be the successor to the Concorde. Meanwhile Boeing, Airbus and Embraer partnered to develop a new breed of affordable biofuels, and Volkswagen used space foil to make cars safer. In hot car news, Porsche announced plans to release a plug-in hybrid Panamera in 2014, and we brought you sneak peeks of several sexy electric vehicles that will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show in just over a week: Fisker's Nina plug-in hybrid and Infiniti's new Nissan leaf-based EV.

On the subject of energy efficiency, it was a big week for clean tech as Inhabitat reported that the world's most powerful wind turbine was just installed off the Belgian coast, and the National Ignition Facility flipped the switch on the world's first two-megajoule ultraviolet laser in an attempt to unlock nuclear fusion. Meanwhile, scientists discovered a link between trees and electricity by studying the way they affecty the concentration of positive and negative ions in the air, and OriginOil announced plans for an urban algae farm near Paris that will heat buildings while treating wastewater. The solar industry heard good news this week as a report showed that solar installations in the US more than doubled in 2011, and President Obama toured the states touting his "all of the above" approach to energy.

This week Inhabitat also showcased several amazing public infrastructure projects - including a series of gigantic fruit-shaped bus shelters in Japan, gmp Architekten's gorgeous new Hangzhou South Railway Station, the fresh new designs for section 3 of NYC's High Line elevated park, and a soaring 30-storey-tall wood skyscraper in Vancouver.
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In robot news, a Virginia Tech team created a self-charging robo-Jellyfish that harvests hydrogen fuel from water, and we shared 6 incredible inventions made possible by nanotechnology. F.A.T. Labs released a Free Universal Construction Kit that can connect LEGOs to 8 other types of building blocks, and Amazon purchased a robot company to improve working conditions in its warehouses. As most of you probably know, This American Life issued a retraction of its Apple factory exposé - and while Mike Daisey may lost his credibility, we believe strongly that distrust in the integrity of his "reporting", should not be a reason for consumers to turn a blind eye to working conditions at Foxconn and other electronics ODMs. This week Nokia filed a patent for magnetic tattoos that could vibrate when someone calls, and we learned that free smartphone applications could consume 75% more energy than paid versions. Speaking of mobile phones, new research linked cellphone radiation during pregnancy to behavioral disorders in offspring so we looked at ways pregnant mothers can protect their babies from potential cellphone radiation exposure. Last but not least, we brought you an interesting high-tech clothing concept from Stella McCartney - a sports bra with a built-in heart sensor.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: supersonic biplane, urban algae farm and magnetic tattoos originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 20:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alloftheaboveApplecellphonecellphone radiationCellphoneRadiationenergyenergy efficientEnergyEfficientFoxconninhabitatinhabitatsweekingreenLEGOLEGOsMITNYCrobotrobotssefl-chargingthisweekingreenturbinesSun, 25 Mar 2012 20:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: 'Plantscraper' vertical farm, new wave energy and a battery-powered iPhone case]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-plantscraper-vertical-farm-new-wav/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-plantscraper-vertical-farm-new-wav/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-plantscraper-vertical-farm-new-wav/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
Groundbreaking green architecture burst into life in Sweden this week as Inhabitat reported that Plantagon began construction on the world's first 'Plantscraper' vertical farm. We also marveled at artist Yayoi Kusama's dazzling Infinity Mirror Room, which shines with the reflections of thousands of LEDs, and we shared the bubbly modular AMPS living wall system. Meanwhile, the MoMA PS1 Young Architects Program announced that HWKN's bright blue spiky sea-urchin shaped pavilion will be popping up this summer, PinkCloud.DK unveiled plans to transform oil refineries into giant energy positive communities and the UK granted planning commission for its first amphibious house.

We also showcased several amazing applications for LEGO bricks this week: a NYC apartment renovated with 20,000 plastic bricks, a gigantic LEGO-inspired church in the Netherlands and a remarkable fully articulated prosthetic LEGO arm. Speaking of next-gen prosthetics, this week Israeli scientists demoed a real-life "Star Trek" VISOR that enables the blind to see, and Nike took the wraps off a prosthetic running sole for amputee triathlete Sarah Reinertsen.

This also marked a heated week for energy news as solar power heavyweight Sunpower sued Solarcity over stolen data, and Aquamarine Power geared up to connect its new wave energy generator to the UK's national grid. We also got ready for rough days ahead with the waterproof, armageddon-ready, solar-charged, battery-powered iPhone case, and we got things cooking with Biolite's brilliant new camping stove, which converts waste heat into electricity for USB gadgets. Last but not least, we were wowed by several amazing new applications for discarded tech: Sean Avery's astounding animal sculptures made from shattered CDs and Paola Mirai's elegant jewelry fashioned out of discarded computer circuits.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: 'Plantscraper' vertical farm, new wave energy and a battery-powered iPhone case originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amphibiousamphibious houseAmphibiousHouseAMPSBiolitesCDscircuitsenergyenergy consumptionEnergyConsumptionHWKNsInhabitatInhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreeniPhoneLEGOMoMA PS1MomaPs1PinkCloudSolarcityStar TrekStarTrekSwedenthisweekingreenweekingreenSun, 19 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar tulip, new discovered molecule and a colossal statue of Coca Cola crates]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/solar-tulip-new-discovered-molecule-statue-CocaCola-crates/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/solar-tulip-new-discovered-molecule-statue-CocaCola-crates/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/solar-tulip-new-discovered-molecule-statue-CocaCola-crates/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

The big news that had the world of green transportation buzzing this week was Tesla's unveil of its brand new Model X luxury car and we also saw the blazing fast Lightning GT EV hit the track for the first time. We also shined light on the futuristic solar-powered SPV car while Mitsubishi's i-MIEV electric car stole the greenest vehicle title from the Honda Civic and the Boulder EV became the first electric truck capable of hitting 70 mph. We were also excited to announce that San Francisco is set to launch its electric bike sharing program, French cyclists won the controversial right to run red traffic lights, and Volkswagen unveiled its Think Blue Beetle, which is made from 2,805 pieces of recycled trash.

Energy news sent shock waves around the world this week as Inhabitat reported that the US approved its first nuclear power plants in 30 years and the temperature of Japan's damaged Fukushima nuclear plant suddenly soared up to 45 degrees celsius. We also saw an energy-generating "Solar Tulip" power tower spring up in Spain, and a 10-year-old girl discovered a new molecule that stands to improve energy storage. Meanwhile, we brought you the scoop on the world's next tallest skyscraper in Azerbaijan and industrial giant AAB announced plans for a worldwide electric vehicle charging network.

In recycled design news, we saw a colossal statue made from 4,200 Coca Cola crates rise up over Cape Town and we shared a set of larger than life beasts made from recycled motorcycle parts. We also brought you a brilliant line of lamps made from recycled e-waste and a set of LEGO-like Earth Blocks made from coffee beans and tea chaff. Last but not least, we showcased an electronic suit that treats nerve disorders, and since Valentine's day is on the way we took a look at BIG's interactive LED heart sculpture in NYC, 6 adorable DIY cards, and 6 simple DIY V-Day gifts.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar tulip, new discovered molecule and a colossal statue of Coca Cola crates originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bikeBoulder EVBoulderEvcarchargingCoca ColaCocaColaDIYelectricelectric bikeelectric vehicleElectricBikeElectricVehicleelectronic suitElectronicSuitenergygiftgiftsinhabitatinhabitatsweekingreenLEGOminipostmoleculenew moleculeNewMoleculescienceskyscrapersolarSPV carSpvCarthisweekingreentransportationValentinesweekingreenMon, 13 Feb 2012 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Two US startups break solar efficiency records, aim to light up your life]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/two-us-startups-break-solar-efficiency-records-aim-to-light-up/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/two-us-startups-break-solar-efficiency-records-aim-to-light-up/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/two-us-startups-break-solar-efficiency-records-aim-to-light-up/#comments Two US startups break solar efficiency records, aim to light up your lifeTwo US startups are breaking solar efficiency records in their quest to bring clean, cost-effective, eco-friendly energy to a power grid near you. Alta Devices, based in Santa Clara, CA, has achieved a 23.5 percent efficiency rating with its standard solar panel, while Semprius, a Durham, NC company, has achieved a rating of 33.9 percent with its concentrated photovoltaic offering -- besting the previous records of 22.9 percent and 33 percent, respectively. Interestingly enough, both outfits chose to utilize a new material to construct their sun-sopping cells: gallium arsenide. The material, while more expensive, is better suited for absorbing the sun's energy, especially when compared to silicon, the cheaper element typically used. Alta and Semprius are looking to proliferate solar power by further refining the technology, making its price per kilowatt equivalent to that of fossil fuels without the use of government subsides. Here comes the sun...

Two US startups break solar efficiency records, aim to light up your life originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alta DevicesAltaDevicesefficiencyEnergyGsAshigh-concentration photovoltaicHigh-concentrationPhotovoltaicphotovoltaicphotovoltaic cellphotovoltaic cellsPhotovoltaicCellPhotovoltaicCellsphotovoltaicsRenewableRenewable EnergyRenewableEnergySempriusSolarSolar CellsSolar EnergySolarCellsSolarEnergyWed, 08 Feb 2012 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: glowing green sea, an equinox house and energy-efficient skyscrapers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/inhabitats-week-in-green-glowing-green-sea-an-equinox-house-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/inhabitats-week-in-green-glowing-green-sea-an-equinox-house-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/inhabitats-week-in-green-glowing-green-sea-an-equinox-house-a/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
Tidal energy made waves around the world this week as Inhabitat reported that Verdant Power was awarded the first license for an East River power project in NYC, while across the pond the UK announced plans for a gigantic 27 gigawatt Marine Energy Park and a new SeaRaser tidal power plant that could be the world's cheapest method of producing electricity. We also watched President Obama set forth a green blueprint for America in his State of the Union Address, despite going on to support oil and gas drilling in his following speech on Thursday. Meanwhile, Scotland made headlines as a new company launched with plans to turn whisky into biofuel, and Google Earth revealed an alarming patch of glowing green sea near a nuclear power plant.

It was also a big week for solar-powered architecture as Deutsche Bank completed the world's tallest roof-mounted solar array and the U.S. Department of Energy announced that the 2013 Solar Decathlon will be taking place in sunny Southern California. We also took a peek inside a crazy solar-powered billboard house, and we showcased plans for a super efficient Equinox house that tracks the sun. We also brought you the world's first 1.4 billion Euro home made from shredded bills, and we rounded up the 6 most energy-efficient skyscrapers in New York City.

In other news, this week Apple CEO Tim Cook responded in outrage to New York Times accusations that Apple abuses workers' rights in Chinese factories, and green transportation blasted off as auto manufacturers unveiled a trio of high-performance vehicles - theTS030 hybrid race car, Toyota's solar-powered 2000GT, and the sexy Lotus-based PG Elektrus. We also saw researchers developed the world's smallest train from a strand of DNA, while Mitsubishi developed a way to make ships more efficient by blowing tiny air bubbles. Finally, we brought you the hottest news in high-tech fashion as the U.S. military developed a pair of high-tech undies to monitor soldiers' vitals and Chanel built a life-size airplane plane for its spring 2012 Paris Couture Week show.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: glowing green sea, an equinox house and energy-efficient skyscrapers originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecarefficientenergyenergy efficiencyEnergyEfficiencyinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenmitsubishirace carRaceCarsolarTidal energyTidalEnergyTim CookTimCookweekingreenSun, 29 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arman Ahnood teases OLED display with solar cells, idealizes the self-sustaining smartphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/oled-display-with-integrated-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/oled-display-with-integrated-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/oled-display-with-integrated-solar-cells/#comments Plenty of effort is going into improving smartphone battery life, but only a few individuals are delving into radical realms to achieve the goal. Take for example, Arman Ahnood, a researcher at the London Centre for Nanotechnology, whose latest prototype uses solar cells to capture wasted energy from OLEDs. Similar to Wysips (which uses only ambient light), and equipment from UCLA (designed for LCDs), each project faces the unenviable task of making the smartphone a self-sustaining piece of gear.

Ahnood's handiwork relies on an array of solar cells that surround and sit beneath the phone's display. Currently, the system averages 11 percent efficiency in its energy capture, with a peak efficiency of 18 percent. Naturally, there are gains to be made. Of the light generated from OLEDs, Ahnood approximates that only 36 percent is actually projected outward. Critically speaking, this also suggests that similar power savings could be achieved with dimmer, more efficient displays, but we'll let that slide. As it stands, Ahnood's system is able to generate approximately five milliwatts of additional power, given a screen size of 3.7-inches. It's hardly sustainable, but if the creation lets us squeeze in a few more text messages on Friday night, we'll take it.

Arman Ahnood teases OLED display with solar cells, idealizes the self-sustaining smartphone originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Arman AhnoodArmanAhnooddisplaydisplaysenergyLondon Centre for NanotechnologyLondonCentreForNanotechnologymobile displayMobileDisplaymobilepostcrossoledphotovoltaicpowersmartphonesmartphonessolarsolar cellsolar cellssolar powerSolarCellSolarCellsSolarPowerFri, 20 Jan 2012 01:03:00 EST<![CDATA[California demands manufacturers ditch inefficient vampire chargers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/california-demands-manufacturers-ditch-inefficient-vampire-char/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/california-demands-manufacturers-ditch-inefficient-vampire-char/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/california-demands-manufacturers-ditch-inefficient-vampire-char/#commentsLeechYou've probably had it drilled into your head that your gadgets are doing terrible, terrible things to the environment -- and not just 'cause they end up as toxic landfill in poorer countries. Many of your chargers and electronics continue to draw power even when they're off or your device is disconnected. We've seen some ingenious solutions to the problem but, perhaps it would be best to avoid the issue all together. Starting next year California will require manufacturers to ship efficient chargers with their products, potentially saving $306 million in energy costs and cutting power usage by up to 13 percent in the state. The new rules are set to go into effect on February 1st, 2013, but we wouldn't be surprised if the law faced some road blocks before then.

California demands manufacturers ditch inefficient vampire chargers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiachargerchargersenergyenergy efficiencyEnergyEfficiencygreenlawmobilepostminivampirevampire powerVampirePowervampiresTue, 17 Jan 2012 06:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Cyborg cockroaches inch closer to reality, blame science]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/cyborg-cockroaches-energy-power/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/cyborg-cockroaches-energy-power/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/cyborg-cockroaches-energy-power/#comments
Few things on this planet are more indestructible than the lowly cockroach -- except, of course, a cyborg cockroach. That's what researchers at Case Western Reserve University are looking to create, and they're a lot closer than you may think. In fact, chemistry professor Daniel Scherson has found a way to harvest energy from the chemicals swimming within these insidious insects, meaning that they may soon be able to create robot cockroaches with a more reliable power source. To do this, Scherson and his team incorporated enzymes capable of converting a cockroach's food intake into electrons, which can then be funneled through a fuel cell to generate electricity. Unlike similar developments, Scherson's technique doesn't rely on an external source like light, movement or batteries. All you need is a cockroach and a steady food supply -- basically, a college dorm room.

[Image courtesy of The Life Files]

Cyborg cockroaches inch closer to reality, blame science originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugscase western reserve universityCaseWesternReserveUniversitychemistrycockroachcyborgcyborg cockroachesCyborgCockroacheselectricityenergyfuelgrossinsectresearchscaryThu, 12 Jan 2012 05:37:00 EST<![CDATA[China trumpets completion of 'world's largest battery energy storage station']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/china-byd-worlds-largest-battery-energy-storage/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/china-byd-worlds-largest-battery-energy-storage/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/china-byd-worlds-largest-battery-energy-storage/#comments See that above? That's the world's largest battery energy storage station, or so says the State Grid Corporation of China and BYD. The two entities have just wrapped up construction on the Zhangbei-based project, which marries 40 Mega-Watts of renewable energy generation (both wind and solar), 36 Mega-Watt-Hours (MWh) of energy storage and a smart power transmission system. The goal? To provide a "stable solution for transferring vast amounts of renewable electricity safely to the grid on an unprecedented scale." As it stands, BYD products 1GW of solar panels annually, and with China's population still rising, it's solutions like these that'll help it grow while keeping efficiencies high. Soaking up rays for solar energy is all fine and well, but having a facility to capture and store it is where the equation really comes together; something tells us a few other nations will be scrambling to snatch the record in short order.

Continue reading China trumpets completion of 'world's largest battery energy storage station'

China trumpets completion of 'world's largest battery energy storage station' originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bydchinaenergygreensolarSat, 07 Jan 2012 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/#comments
"Catastrophic lithium-ion battery failure" are five words Malfunctioning Eddie never wants to hear, and may not have to, thanks to a new sensor developed by the folks at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. Despite the popularity of lithium-ion batteries in everything from consumer electronics to hybrid and electric vehicles, they have been associated with a phenomenon called "thermal runaway" -- known to cause overheating and potentially, fire. The newly developed device measures the electrical parameter of the cell, which is an indicator of whether the internal layer temperatures are getting too toasty. The best part? The warning comes before the heat can reach the surface and cause catastrophic failure, perhaps saving our electronics from a fate like the one in the video after the break.

Continue reading Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate

Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesconsumer electronicsConsumerElectronicselectric vehicleselectrical vehiclesElectricalVehiclesElectricVehicleselectrodeselectrolytesenergyheatJohn Hopkins University Applied Physics LaboratoryJohnHopkinsUniversityAppliedPhysicsLaboratoryjohns hopkinsJohnsHopkinsLithium Ionlithium ion batteriesLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesthermal runawayThermalRunawayvideoSat, 24 Dec 2011 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers build world's smallest steam engine that could]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/researchers-build-worlds-smallest-steam-engine-that-could/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/researchers-build-worlds-smallest-steam-engine-that-could/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/researchers-build-worlds-smallest-steam-engine-that-could/#comments
Wanna create your very own microscopic steam engine? Just take a colloid particle, put it in water, and add a laser. That's a CliffsNotes version of what a group of German researchers recently did to create the world's smallest steam engine. To pull it off, engineers from the University of Stuttgart and Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems tweaked the traditional approach introduced by Robert Stirling nearly 200 years ago. In Stirling's model, gas within a cylindrical tube is alternately heated and cooled, allowing it to expand and push an attached piston. Professor Clemens Bechinger and his team, however, decided to downsize this system by replacing the piston with a laser beam, and the cylinder's working gas with a single colloid bead that floats in water and measures just three thousandths of a millimeter in size. The laser's optical field limits the bead's range of motion, which can be easily observed with a microscope, since the plastic particle is about 10,000 times larger than an atom. Because the beam varies in intensity, it effectively acts upon the particle in the same way that heat compresses and expands gas molecules in Stirling's model. The bead, in turn, does work on the optical field, with its effects balanced by an outside heat source. The system's architects admit that their engine tends to "sputter" at times, but insist that its mere development shows that "there are no thermodynamic obstacles" to production. Read more about the invention and its potential implications in the full press release, after the break.

Continue reading Researchers build world's smallest steam engine that could

Researchers build world's smallest steam engine that could originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beadcolloidconceptdevelopmentefficiencyenergyengineGermanyheatlaserlaser beamLaserBeammax planck institutemax planck institute for intelligent systemsMaxPlanckInstituteMaxPlanckInstituteForIntelligentSystemsoptical fieldOpticalFieldparticlephysicsplasticresearchrobert stirlingRobertStirlingsteam engineSteamEngineThermodynamicsworlds smallest steam engineWorldsSmallestSteamEngineMon, 12 Dec 2011 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T exec discusses plans for home energy management service]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/atandt-exec-discusses-plans-for-home-energy-management-service/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/atandt-exec-discusses-plans-for-home-energy-management-service/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/atandt-exec-discusses-plans-for-home-energy-management-service/#commentsVerizon has already dipped its toes into the home energy management business, and it looks like AT&T is about to do the same as well. Speaking on a Broadband Breakfast panel in Washington, DC last week, AT&T Executive Director of Public Policy Jeffery Dygert revealed that the company is "in the process of developing" its own home energy management system, which would let users monitor their electricity usage and manage its use more efficiently. That service is said to be a part of the company's broader Digital Life Project, and it will apparently be marketed to both AT&T's wireless and wireline customers, but details remain otherwise light for the time being. Hit the source link below for a video of the panel discussion.

AT&T exec discusses plans for home energy management service originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attelectricityenergyhome energyhome energy managementHomeEnergyHomeEnergyManagementJeffery DygertJefferyDygertmobilepostcrossTue, 22 Nov 2011 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung introduces Advanced LED light bulbs, preps for zombie apocalypse]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/samsung-introduces-advanced-led-light-bulbs-preps-for-zombie-ap/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/samsung-introduces-advanced-led-light-bulbs-preps-for-zombie-ap/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/samsung-introduces-advanced-led-light-bulbs-preps-for-zombie-ap/#commentsSamsung is going to make sure your light bulbs use as little energy as possible, last literally decades and sort of look like a heat sink to boot. The company, which just released its Advanced LED Light Bulbs for the US, has put forth the A19, the PAR and the MR16, each bulb being designed for a specific purpose. The AR19, which is engineered to replace conventional incandescent bulbs, is dimmable and can shine directionally from vanity lights, wall sconces, assorted lamps and more. The PAR, which is also dimmable, is designed with a variable beam angle between 25 and 40 degrees in mind and slated around track and recessed lighting. Finally, the MR16 Bulb is designed to be used in recessed, vanity, and track lighting and arrives in two different base types with adjustable brightness levels. Samsung has priced the bulbs from $19.98 all the way up to $59.98 with a life expectancy between 27 and 36 years; they're currently available at your local Lowe's location, although if Philips gets wind of it, that could change post-haste.

Continue reading Samsung introduces Advanced LED light bulbs, preps for zombie apocalypse

Samsung introduces Advanced LED light bulbs, preps for zombie apocalypse originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A19Advanced LEDAdvancedLedbrightnessbulbbulbsdimmableenergyheat sinkHeatSinkhouseholdlifelightlightingLowesMR16PARrecessedSamsungsconcestrackvanitywallTue, 22 Nov 2011 08:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla bucks industry standard with new charging system for Model S]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/tesla-bucks-industry-standard-with-new-charging-system-for-model/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/tesla-bucks-industry-standard-with-new-charging-system-for-model/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/tesla-bucks-industry-standard-with-new-charging-system-for-model/#comments
At a time when most EV manufacturers are converging toward charging station conformity, Tesla is still marching to the beat of its own drum. Late last month, the company unveiled a new plug and charger that looks notably different from the J1772 connector -- the SAE International standard you'll find on most electric cars, including the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf. The new system, which will be available for the upcoming Model S, consists of a lightweight plug and wall-mounted unit that can supply 240 volts at up to 80 amps. It also features a comparatively thin cable that promises to deliver fast charging at 480 volts, which, according to the company, should give the Model S an extra boost. When connected to a 240 volt outlet, the car will be able to re-juice at a rate of 62 miles of travel per hour of charging. And while its streamlined aesthetics may signal a shift away from the J1772, Tesla's new charger does feature standard connectors for 120 volt and 240 volt outlets, and will ship with an adapter for industry standard plugs. So why did the manufacturer choose to ignore the J1772? CEO Elon Musk certainly has his reasons. Speaking to the New York Times, Musk poetically described the standard connector as "absolutely terrible, extremely ugly and low power." Tesla's system, by contrast, is more like "a beautiful advanced alien artifact that arrived in the middle of the night." He then went on to say how he really feels. Read more, at the source link below.

Tesla bucks industry standard with new charging system for Model S originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 04:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240 volt240Voltchargingcharging stationChargingStationdesignelectric vehicleElectricVehicleElon MuskElonMuskenergyEVJ1772model sModelSplug inplug standardPlugInPlugStandardre chargeReChargeSAE InternationalSaeInternationalstandardTeslatesla model stesla motorsTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsMon, 07 Nov 2011 04:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: quantum levitation, Zombie-Powered Vertical Farm and Macquariums]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/inhabitats-week-in-green-quantum-levitation-zombie-powered-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/inhabitats-week-in-green-quantum-levitation-zombie-powered-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/inhabitats-week-in-green-quantum-levitation-zombie-powered-ve/#comments Alternative transportation blasted off into the future this week as DeLorean revealed plans to launch an all-electric vehicle in 2013 and Richard Branson announced the official opening of the Virgin Galactic Gateway spaceport. Researchers also developed a next-gen quantum levitation technology that could lead to floating vehicles, and we spotted a cloud concept blimp that soars through the skies. We also brought you an exclusive interview with Revenge of the Electric Car director Chris Paine, and we shared a leaked brochure with specs on Toyota's new Prius C.

Renewable energy also rocketed towards a more sustainable tomorrow as Japan's team Tokai took first place in the World Solar Challenge and Apple filed a set of patents for next-generation solar technology. Meanwhile Facebook announced plans to launch a new energy efficiency app in 2012 and we launched a contest where you can win one of 25 $600 home energy audits. We also showcased a stunning set of satellite photos of the world's power lines, and since Halloween is on its way, we brought you a Zombie-Powered Vertical Farm designed to keep its inhabitants safe from the Living Dead.

Speaking of Halloween, this week we shared instructions for making a DIY cardboard box robot costume, and we launched our 2011 Green Halloween Costume Contest for kids. We also brought you several developments from the realm of eco textiles -- a material that repairs its own rips and tears and a Japanese company that recycles old bras into power-generating fuel. Finally, we showcased several slick developments in aqueous technology: an oil skimmer that cleans up spills four times faster, an artificial muscle that could one day propel nanobots through the body, and a quirky set of 'Macquariums' made from Apple iMacs.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: quantum levitation, Zombie-Powered Vertical Farm and Macquariums originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carecoeco-friendlyelectricityenergyevgatewaygreeninhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenrichard bransonRichardBransonsolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredspaceVirgin GalacticVirginGalacticweek in greenWeekInGreenSun, 23 Oct 2011 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/#comments
General Electric is sending its troops to Colorado to conquer the thin film solar panel business. The 38th state will play home to a new facility that leverages the supermodel-thin panel know-how of PrimeStar Solar, which GE scooped up back in 2008. In traditional solar panels, sand is refined into silicon ingots, sliced wafers of which are then placed in a frame. The thin film process eliminates this, sandwiching layers of semiconductors between panes of glass -- saving time, money and, most importantly, energy. The factory will open ahead of schedule in 2012 and is reportedly capable of producing a new panel every ten seconds. You can learn all of that and more in the press release we've got for you after the break.

Continue reading GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds

GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ColoradoDanielle MerfeldDanielleMerfeldEcoEco-FriendlyEnergyEnvironmentFinanceGEGeneral ElectricGeneral Electric EnergyGeneral Electric SolarGeneralElectricGeneralElectricEnergyGeneralElectricSolarGreenNew YorkPhotovoltaicPowerPrimeStar SolarPrimestarSolarPVSci/TechSolar PanelSolar PanelsSolar PowerSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerThin FilmThin Film SolarThin-FilmThin-Film SolarThin-filmSolarThinFilmThinFilmSolarvideoMon, 17 Oct 2011 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic, Tesla rekindle romance, strike supply agreement for Model S batteries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/panasonic-tesla-rekindle-romance-strike-supply-agreement-for-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/panasonic-tesla-rekindle-romance-strike-supply-agreement-for-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/panasonic-tesla-rekindle-romance-strike-supply-agreement-for-m/#comments
Panasonic and Tesla renewed their corporate wedding vows yesterday, with a new supply agreement on lithium-ion batteries. Under the accord, Panasonic will provide Tesla with cells for some 80,000 cars over the next four years, effectively ensuring that the manufacturer will meet its ramped-up production targets for 2012 -- including more than 6,000 orders for its Model S EV. As for the batteries themselves, they'll be made using Panasonic's nickel-type cathode technology, which, according to the company, will offer the highest energy density known. Of course, we're still awaiting for the Model S to actually enter full production, but you can whet your electric appetite with Panasonic's full press release, available after the break.

Continue reading Panasonic, Tesla rekindle romance, strike supply agreement for Model S batteries

Panasonic, Tesla rekindle romance, strike supply agreement for Model S batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agreementautoautomotivebatterycarcathodecellchargedealelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenergyenergy densityEnergyDensityEVlithium ionlithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatterymanufacturingmodel SModelSmoneynickel type cathodeNickelTypeCathodepanasonicsupplyteslatesla model STeslaModelSThu, 13 Oct 2011 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[LG panel puts LEDs along a single edge, achieves more nits with fewer watts]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/lg-panel-puts-leds-along-a-single-edge-achieves-more-nits-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/lg-panel-puts-leds-along-a-single-edge-achieves-more-nits-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/lg-panel-puts-leds-along-a-single-edge-achieves-more-nits-with/#comments Confining LEDs to the edges of an LCD TV cuts its energy consumption, particularly if you can get away with just lighting up one or two edges instead of all four. LG claims its latest Full HD 47-inch panel is the "world's most energy efficient," using a single vertical edge backlight to achieve 400 nits of brightness with just 28W of power -- less than any other HDTV bigger than 40-inches and even less than many 20-inch PC monitors. That's all good so long as there's no head-lighting or other tell-tale signs when the panel built into a final product. We hope for LG's sake that the washed out right side on the picture above is due to burning rubber. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading LG panel puts LEDs along a single edge, achieves more nits with fewer watts

LG panel puts LEDs along a single edge, achieves more nits with fewer watts originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>28w400 nits400Nits47-inchbacklitconsumptionedge backlightedge litedge-litEdgeBacklightEdgeLitenergyenergy savingEnergySavinggreenhdpostcrossLCDLEDLGlow-powervertical edgeVerticalEdgeMon, 10 Oct 2011 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Piezoelectric system turns your balmy breath into pungent power]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/piezoelectric-system-converts-your-balmy-breath-to-pungent-power/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/piezoelectric-system-converts-your-balmy-breath-to-pungent-power/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/piezoelectric-system-converts-your-balmy-breath-to-pungent-power/#commentsResearchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have come up with a way to produce electricity from just about the most renewable source known to man -- his own breath. It's all thanks to a plastic microbelt developed by engineers Xudong Wang, Chengliang Sun and Jian Shi. Made of a material known as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), this belt produces an electric charge whenever low-speed airflow passes over it and causes it to vibrate -- a result of that vaunted piezoelectric effect. Eventually, Wang and his team were able to tinker with their system to the point where it could produce enough current to charge small electronic devices. "The airflow of normal human respiration is typically below about two meters per second," Wang explained. "We calculated that if we could make this material thin enough, small vibrations could produce a microwatt of electrical energy that could be useful for sensors or other devices implanted in the face." The researchers say their technology could be used to power smaller biomedical devices like blood monitors and pacemaker batteries, which typically don't demand vast amounts of energy. No word yet on when this system could make its way to the mainstream, but we'll be waiting with bated breath.

Piezoelectric system turns your balmy breath into pungent power originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airflowbiomedicalbreathbreathingelectricityenergyengineeringglucose monitorGlucoseMonitorhealthhumanpacemakerpiezoelectricplastic microbeltPlasticMicrobeltpolyvinylidene fluoridePolyvinylideneFluoridepowerPVDFrenewableresearchrespirationuniversity of wisconsin-madisonUniversityOfWisconsin-madisonWed, 05 Oct 2011 04:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/microbial-fuel-cell-produces-hydrogen-from-wastewater-without-wa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/microbial-fuel-cell-produces-hydrogen-from-wastewater-without-wa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/microbial-fuel-cell-produces-hydrogen-from-wastewater-without-wa/#commentsBack in 2005, Bruce Logan and his team of Penn State researchers developed a microbial fuel cell capable of converting poop into power. Now, Logan has refined his system to the point where it can produce hydrogen from wastewater or biodegradable organic materials without using a drop of grid electricity, and without emitting even a hint of carbon dioxide. His approach, outlined in the September 19th issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, involves something known as reverse-electrodialysis (RED) -- a process that harvests energy from the ionic discrepancy between fresh and salt water. Logan's bacterial hydrolysis cell (pictured left) features a so-called RED stack that's comprised of alternating positive and negative ion exchange membranes, which it uses to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Normally, this process would involve about 25 pairs of membranes, but by using RED technology in conjunction with electricity-producing exoelectrogenic bacteria, Penn State's team was able to extract hydrogen with just five membrane pairs. All told, Logan's cells proved to be about 58 to 64 percent energy efficient, while producing between 0.8 to 1.6 cubic meters of hydrogen for every cubic meter of liquid that passed through the system. The researchers' results show that only one percent of that energy was used to pump water through the cells, which are completely carbon neutral, as well. According to Logan, this breakthrough demonstrates that "pure hydrogen gas can efficiently be produced from virtually limitless supplies of seawater and river water and biodegradable organic matter." Somewhere, the US Navy is taking scrupulous notes. Full PR after the break.

[Image courtesy of Penn State / Bruce Logan]

Continue reading Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy

Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bacteriabacterial hydrolysis cellBacterialHydrolysisCellbruce loganBruceLogancarboncarbon dioxidecarbon neutralCarbonDioxideCarbonNeutralelectricityelectrodialysisenergyengineeringexoelectrogenic bacteriaExoelectrogenicBacteriagridhydrogenhydrogen fuelhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenFuelHydrogenFuelCellhydrolysisionicmembranemembrane pairMembranePairmicrobial fuelmicrobial fuel cellMicrobialFuelMicrobialFuelCellpenn statePenn State UniversityPennStatePennStateUniversityREDRED stackRedStackresearchreverse-electrodialysissaltsalt waterSaltWaterstudywaterThu, 22 Sep 2011 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[German engineers want to halve EV manufacturing costs by 2018, seem confident about it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/german-engineers-want-to-halve-ev-manufacturing-costs-by-2018-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/german-engineers-want-to-halve-ev-manufacturing-costs-by-2018-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/german-engineers-want-to-halve-ev-manufacturing-costs-by-2018-s/#comments Yearning for an EV that can fit within your budget? You may not have to wait too long, according a group of engineers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), who are aiming to halve plug-in manufacturing costs by 2018. It's all part of something called Competence E -- a €200 million ($273 million) initiative that will draw upon the expertise of 250 scientists from 25 different institutes, in the hopes of creating new and more cost-effective methods of producing power trains and batteries. Under the publicly funded project, which was announced at last week's International Motor Show, KIT's researchers will construct a "research factory" where they'll develop and demonstrate their processes and technologies. According to project leader Andreas Gutsch, the idea isn't to create concepts that could bear fruit a few decades down the road, but to develop more pragmatic solutions that can be integrated at the industrial level within a relatively short time frame. "We are no longer focused on studying individual molecules or components, but on developing solutions on the system level, which meet industrial requirements," Gutsch told Science|Business. "We are actively approaching industry and will even intensify these efforts...We are conducting excellent research for application, not for the drawer." A full 50 engineers will begin working on Competence E next year, with the project scheduled to wrap up by 2018. Purr past the break for more details, in the full press release.

Continue reading German engineers want to halve EV manufacturing costs by 2018, seem confident about it

German engineers want to halve EV manufacturing costs by 2018, seem confident about it originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterycarcompetence ecompetence e projectCompetenceECompetenceEProjectcostelectric vehicleElectricVehicleenergyengineerengineeringevfrankfurt international motor showFrankfurtInternationalMotorShowfundgreeninitiativeinternational motor show 2011InternationalMotorShow2011Karlsruhe Institute of TechnologyKarlsruheInstituteOfTechnologyKITmoneyplug inPlugInpower trainPowerTrainresearchsciencestorageTue, 20 Sep 2011 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers convert soundwaves into electromagnetic energy, silence no longer golden]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/researchers-convert-soundwaves-into-electromagnetic-energy-sile/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/researchers-convert-soundwaves-into-electromagnetic-energy-sile/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/researchers-convert-soundwaves-into-electromagnetic-energy-sile/#comments

Researchers in Japan and Germany have converted energy from soundwaves into electromagnetic energy, trapping a magnetic "spin current" between metal layers. In the experiment, when sound waves are directed at an interface between the thin metal layer and magnetic material, electrical signals are generated at a pair of electrodes attached above. When the soundwaves reach the magnetic material, this creates a spin current that gets picked up by three layers of metal. This is where the exercise class-sounding reverse spin Hall effect kicks in, transforming it into an electrical voltage.

Not to be confused with Orange's Sound Charge T-Shirt, scientists believe that it should be possible to generate that mystical electromagnetic energy from any material in the future. At the moment, the project is looking into materials that are able to eke out more voltage from the process -- perhaps a few years later screaming at our phones will give their batteries a boost? Watch the video after the break for more technical details and close-ups of the equipment.

Continue reading Researchers convert soundwaves into electromagnetic energy, silence no longer golden

Researchers convert soundwaves into electromagnetic energy, silence no longer golden originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>energyenergy conversion devicesEnergyConversionDevicesgermanyJapanTechnical University of KaiserslauternTechnicalUniversityOfKaiserslauternTohoku UniversityTohokuUniversityvibrationvideoTue, 20 Sep 2011 08:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Dean Kamen files patent application for an inflatable, illuminated wind turbine]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/dean-kamen-files-patent-application-for-an-inflatable-illuminat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/dean-kamen-files-patent-application-for-an-inflatable-illuminat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/dean-kamen-files-patent-application-for-an-inflatable-illuminat/#comments
Inflatable wind turbines may not be an entirely new idea, but prolific inventor Dean Kamen has detailed one of a slightly different sort in a recently published patent application. In addition to generating energy for general use, the turbine would also be able to power a set of LEDs adorning the turbine itself, which could be used to display advertising or other information using a persistence of vision effect. The application even suggests that multiple turbines could be linked together and synchronized to form one large billboard. Of course, it is still just that, a patent application -- but it is assigned to Kamen's DEKA company, so it may not be quite as far off from reality as some other applications.

Dean Kamen files patent application for an inflatable, illuminated wind turbine originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbillboarddean kamenDeanKamendekaenergyinflatableinflatable turbineinflatable wind turbineInflatableTurbineInflatableWindTurbinekamenpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpowerturbinewind turbineWindTurbineSat, 17 Sep 2011 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: 9/11 Memorial designs, an electric helicopter and laser headlights]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-9-11-memorial-designs-an-electric-he/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-9-11-memorial-designs-an-electric-he/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-9-11-memorial-designs-an-electric-he/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Today a day of reflection dawns in New York as the city recognizes the ten-year anniversary of the September 11th attacks with the official unveiling of the National 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero. Tranquil though the memorial may be, it has had a tumultuous past - this week we showcased seven unrealized designs for the WTC site that will never see the light of day, and we took a look at what happened to Daniel Libeskind's original plans for the WTC Freedom Tower. We also saw green buildings soar as Sydney unveiled Australia's greenest office tower, we learned that the new Batman movie may be filmed in a salt mine in Transylvania, and we spotted an amazing replica of the Trump Tower built from 65,000 LEGO bricks.

It was also a record-breaking week for green transportation as the world's first manned electric helicopter took flight and scientists developed the world's tiniest electric motor. Meanwhile, pedal-powered transportation got a major boost as Hertz launched an electric bike rental program in London and Silverback unveiled a series of bikes with built-in USB chargers for your gadgets. We also brought you the latest news from the Frankfurt Auto Show as Rimac teased the unveiling of its 1,000 horsepower electric supercar and Audi and BMW both unveiled vehicles endowed with ultra bright next-gen laser headlights.

Speaking of shining examples of green design, this week we brought you a first look at the Samsung Galaxy Skin concept phone, which features a flexible AMOLED display that can fold to fit inside your pocket. We also saw several inspiring ways to reduce waste as scientists worked on a fuel cell that generates power while cleaning up nuclear fallout, Think Geek brought us a clever set of Fridgeezoo icebox pets that encourage kids to save energy, and we looked at Sloan's innovative AQUS grey water toilet system that recycles your sink water. Finally, we brought you the state of the art in wearable tech as we reported that scientists developed a Terahertz "Invisibility Cloak" and researchers discovered a coral reef secret that could lead to sunscreen in a pill in five years.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: 9/11 Memorial designs, an electric helicopter and laser headlights originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Sep 2011 21:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-friendlyenergyfuel cellFuelCellgalaxygalaxy skinGalaxySkingreenhertzinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreennynycsamsungskinsunscreenterahertztoiletwaterworld trade centerWorldTradeCenterwtcSun, 11 Sep 2011 21:04:00 EST<![CDATA[EnergyHub's energy management system on sale now to American planetlovers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/energyhubs-energy-management-system-on-sale-now-to-american-pla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/energyhubs-energy-management-system-on-sale-now-to-american-pla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/energyhubs-energy-management-system-on-sale-now-to-american-pla/#commentsThose Smart Meters may not have went over so well in San Francisco, and Google may have shuttered PowerMeter just a few months ago... but that doesn't mean that Ma Earth is doomed to live a life a few centigrade higher than she should, right? EnergyHub has just announced that its snazzily designed energy monitoring system is now on sale for eco-minded folk in the USA, with $399 netting you a home base, a socket, a strip and a wireless thermostat (simpler bundles start at $299). According to the company, this kit's ready to take on shacks, apartments or even houseboats, though no seal of approval from the Old Spice guy has been garnered in the case of the latter. Previously, this here package was only available through utility-sponsored programs, but now the simpleton in your life can see live energy use information, automatically switch appliances off while one's away and sleeping, and even control settings remotely via the web or an iPhone / Android app. Head on past the break for an introductory video, or visit the source links to get in on the buying frenzy.

Continue reading EnergyHub's energy management system on sale now to American planetlovers

EnergyHub's energy management system on sale now to American planetlovers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conservationecoeco-friendlyelectricityenergyenergy monitoringenergyhubEnergyMonitoringgreengreen livingGreenLivingnow availableNowAvailableoutletsshipshippingshipsvideoWed, 31 Aug 2011 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Lighting superbike, kinetic energy generator and vibrating gloves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/inhabitats-week-in-green-lighting-superbike-kinetic-energy-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/inhabitats-week-in-green-lighting-superbike-kinetic-energy-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/inhabitats-week-in-green-lighting-superbike-kinetic-energy-ge/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

It's been an epic week for environmental news as Inhabitat reported that the East Coast battened its hatches against the force of Hurricane Irene, which has arrived in the wake of a 5.8 earthquake that shook the Eastern Seaboard from Virginia to New York. We compiled a series of tips to help our readers weather the storm, and we took a closer look at the six nuclear power plants that were shaken by the East Coast's unusual quake. We also showcased several incredible examples of high-tech architecture -- the recently crowned world's tallest LEED platinum building and the world's longest tunnel, which Russia recently announced would span the Bering Straight.

Speaking of remarkable advancements in sustainable transportation, this week we took at look at what could be most powerful electric car on earth, and we brought you footage of the 200 mph Lighting superbike breaking a world land speed record. We also saw eco vehicles take off for greener horizons as Oliver VTOL unveiled an ultra-efficient airplane with 6 engines, a team of engineers in Africa constructed a DIY space shuttle in a local garden, and the flying ParaMoto Trike soared through the skies. On the topic of air travel, you may also want to check out our six tips for flying with small children (without Benadryl).

It was a big week for wearable technology as well, as researchers unveiled a powerful kinetic energy generator that can fit in your sneakers. We also saw a vibrating glove that improves motor performance, a haptic glove that allows the blind to see with sonar, and a range of antenna-embedded clothing that offers a discreet form of hands-free communication. Finally, we heard Ashton Kutcher predict that wearable technology will be the next big wave, and we shared a glow-in-the-dark sequin gown that would make a choice piece of evening wear if this weekend's storm knocks the lights out.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Lighting superbike, kinetic energy generator and vibrating gloves originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columneco-friendlyelectricityenergygeneratorgloveglovesgreenhurricanehurricane ireneHurricaneIreneinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenirenepowervibratingwearableSun, 28 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photovoltaic polarizers could make self-charging smartphone dreams come true]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/photovoltaic-polarizers-could-make-self-charging-smartphone-drea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/photovoltaic-polarizers-could-make-self-charging-smartphone-drea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/photovoltaic-polarizers-could-make-self-charging-smartphone-drea/#comments There's nothing worse than losing the charge on your iPhone at the company picnic. But fear not, you won't be stranded Twitter-less next to the potato salad if UCLA's new energy recycling LCD technology ever makes it to market. According to its inventors, the traditional LCD polarization process loses as much as 75 percent of light energy -- something that eats around 80 to 90 percent of the device's power. By using polarizing organic photovoltaic cells, however, the LCD-packing gizmo can recycle its own lost backlight energy, keeping itself charged for longer. What's really cool is these cells can recycle indoor or outdoor light as well, so you will essentially never lose a charge -- or have to speak to another human IRL again. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Photovoltaic polarizers could make self-charging smartphone dreams come true

Photovoltaic polarizers could make self-charging smartphone dreams come true originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 01:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecellcellscomputercomputersdisplaysenergyiphonelcdlcdsphotovoltaicphotovoltaic cellphotovoltaic cellsphotovoltaic polarizerphotovoltaic polarizersPhotovoltaicCellPhotovoltaicCellsPhotovoltaicPolarizerPhotovoltaicPolarizerspolarizing organic photovoltaicPolarizingOrganicPhotovoltaicsmartphonesolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredsuntablettabletsUCLAuniversity of los angelesUniversityOfLosAngelesyang yangYangYangThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony intros 200-pound battery to power businesses, government agencies during a blackout]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/sony-intros-200-pound-battery-to-power-businesses-government-ag/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/sony-intros-200-pound-battery-to-power-businesses-government-ag/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/sony-intros-200-pound-battery-to-power-businesses-government-ag/#commentsIn the five months since a tsunami and 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit Japan, we've seen various technology companies struggle to get their manufacturing operations back in order, but Sony appears to be the first to introduce a product seemingly inspired by the disaster itself. The outfit's Japanese division just announced the ESSP-2000, a 90kg (198-pound)battery whose 2.4kWh of power should keep businesses and government agencies afloat for at least a few hours in the event of a blackout or natural disaster. All told, the battery can support a maximum load of 1000VA, and can recharge to 95 percent in about two hours -- not bad, considering the capacity of this thing. Sony also went with olivine-type lithium-ion iron phosphate batteries, which it says will last ten years. With a price of ¥2 million ($25,700), this battery's clearly not meant to be a savior for home users, though for businesses it could be a small price to pay for an uninterrupted power supply.

Sony intros 200-pound battery to power businesses, government agencies during a blackout originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup powerBackupPowerbatterydisasterdisastersemergencyenergyJapanjapanese earthquakejapanese tsunamiJapaneseEarthquakeJapaneseTsunamipowerpower outagepower outagesPowerOutagePowerOutagesSonySony ESSP-2000Sony JapanSonyEssp-2000SonyJapantsunamiuninterruptible power supplyUninterruptiblePowerSupplyupsMon, 08 Aug 2011 11:17:00 EST