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[Solid state solar panels are more affordable, say researchers, don't leak]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/northwestern-university-solid-dye-solar-cell/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/northwestern-university-solid-dye-solar-cell/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/northwestern-university-solid-dye-solar-cell/#comments http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/northwestern-university-solid-dye-solar-cell/

Researchers at Northwestern University have found one way to stop a leak: get rid of the liquid. A new variation on the Grätzel solar cell replaces a short-lived organic dye with a solid alternative. The molecular dye the solid substance replaces was corrosive, at risk of leaking and only lasted about 18-months -- by replacing it, researchers plan to pave the way for a more affordable (and less toxic) alternative. Northwestern's new design flaunts a 10.2-percent conversion efficiency, the highest ever recorded in a solid-state solar cell of its type -- but that's still only half of what traditional sun collectors can do. Researchers hope to improve conversion in the long run, but expect that the cost reduction alone will be enough to get the party going. It may not be the greenest solar technology we've ever seen, but who are we to judge?

Solid state solar panels are more affordable, say researchers, don't leak originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 May 2012 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gratzelgratzel solar cellGratzelSolarCellgreen energyGreenEnergynorthwestern universityNorthwesternUniversityphotovoltaicphotovoltaic cellPhotovoltaicCellsolarsolar cellsolar powerSolarCellSolarPowerSun, 27 May 2012 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Solar-powered Son-X Octavia now bringing 'interactive sound' to school playgrounds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/solar-powered-son-x-octavia-now-bringing-interactive-sound-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/solar-powered-son-x-octavia-now-bringing-interactive-sound-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/27/solar-powered-son-x-octavia-now-bringing-interactive-sound-to/#comments Solar-powered Son-X Octavia now bringing 'interactive sound' to school playgrounds

While initially announced in the summer of 2011, the Son-X Octavia has been working its way into reality ever since. As of this month, though, the solar-powered "interactive sound device" is now shipping to schools in Europe. For those unfamiliar, the coconut-esque device straps onto a conventional swing set in order to keep kids outside -- using technology to prevent kids from becoming supersaturated with technology, if you will. The company has designed it with tight school budgets in mind, making it completely wireless, self-contained and easy to install. Once in place, swingers can activate three aural games, each of which act to "awaken the natural curiosity in children to explore the possibilities through activity." Not surprisingly, it's designed to be upgraded over time, with new titles to be made available on USB drives. The outfit's still not offering 'em direct to consumers, but those with B2B connections can grab one for €499 ($624).

Solar-powered Son-X Octavia now bringing 'interactive sound' to school playgrounds originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 May 2012 04:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>educationlearningsolarsolar powersolar poweredsolar-powersolar-poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredSon-X OctaviaSon-X playSon-xOctaviaSon-xPlayswingtoySun, 27 May 2012 04:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Solar Impulse takes off for Morocco on first sun-powered transcontinental flight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/solar-impulse-first-transcontinental-flight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/solar-impulse-first-transcontinental-flight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/solar-impulse-first-transcontinental-flight/#comments Solar Impulse takes off for Morocco on first sun-powered transcontinental flight

The sun-powered Solar Impulse plane is gradually working up to a trip around the globe, with the most recent benchmark being its first international flight in 2011. Now Bertrand Piccard and Andre Borschberg are taking the jumbo jet-size plane on its first transcontinental journey. The Solar Impulse set off for Morocco today, and its pilots will stop in Madrid along the way. The goal is to complete the 1,554-mile trip by next week, and the big challenge will be crossing cloudy regions like the Pyrenees mountains separating France and Spain. In a 2010 test flight, the Impulse's 12,000 solar cells soaked up enough rays to keep the plane going through the night, but in case something goes wrong this time, the pilots are prepared with parachutes. If all goes well on this trial run, Piccard and Borschberg will be just one step away from their goal of circumnavigating the world in 2014.

Solar Impulse takes off for Morocco on first sun-powered transcontinental flight originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftandre borschbergAndreBorschbergbertrand piccardBertrandPiccardflightflightsgreengreen energyGreenEnergyplaneplanessolar impulsesolar powersolar poweredsolar powered planeSolarImpulseSolarPowerSolarPoweredSolarPoweredPlaneThu, 24 May 2012 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[University of California, Riverside runs entire building floor off of 1.1-megawatt green battery]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/university-of-california-riverside-runs-building-on-battery/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/university-of-california-riverside-runs-building-on-battery/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/university-of-california-riverside-runs-building-on-battery/#comments University of California, Riverside runs entire building floor off of 1.1-megawatt green battery

We're used to batteries powering a lot of devices, but the University of California, Riverside is upping that a notch by charging up a whole floor's worth. The school's Winston Chung Global Energy Center is walking the eco-friendly walk and has started using a huge bank of rare earth, lithium-ion batteries from Balqon to produce 1.1 megawatts, enough to keep Winston Chung Hall's entire first floor humming along while tapping renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. The batteries bank their energy overnight, keeping the throngs of students happy without having to recharge as much or use the regular power grid as a fallback. While it's considered a testbed, the university's giant battery is considered a blueprint for cellular towers and the green power sources themselves -- the combination of which could keep your smartphone up and running with a lot less of an environmental hit.

[Thanks, Justin B]

University of California, Riverside runs entire building floor off of 1.1-megawatt green battery originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balgonbatteryCell TowerCellTowerCellular TowerCellularTowersolarsolar powerSolarPowerUniversity of Californiauniversity of california riversideUniversityOfCaliforniaUniversityOfCaliforniaRiversidewindwind powerWindPowerFri, 11 May 2012 21:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic sends 100,000 LEDs down Tokyo river, mates tech with tradition (updated with video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/panasonic-sends-100000-leds-down-tokyo-river/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/panasonic-sends-100000-leds-down-tokyo-river/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/panasonic-sends-100000-leds-down-tokyo-river/#comments Panasonic sends 100,000 LEDs down Tokyo river, mates tech with tradition

If you'd been by the shore of the Sumida River in central Tokyo this past weekend, you would have noticed that it was glowing a distinct shade of blue. That's because Panasonic decided to kick off the first-ever Tokyo Hotaru (fireflies) festival by sending 100,000 EVERLED light bulbs down the river, both to mimic fireflies as well as to pay homage to a Japanese tradition of floating candles on the water. Before you cringe too much at the thought of the environmental impact, rest assured that Panasonic minimized the footprint of its aquatic LED parade. All the bulbs ran on solar power (presumably, charged during the day) that kept Evolta batteries fed inside, and the entire lot was scooped up in a large net afterwards. We love the exhibition as a large-scale demo of sustainable lighting -- you may just want to avoid fishing along the Sumida's shoreline for awhile in case you catch a straggler.

Update: We've found a video of this spectacular event -- check it out right after the break.

Continue reading Panasonic sends 100,000 LEDs down Tokyo river, mates tech with tradition (updated with video!)

Panasonic sends 100,000 LEDs down Tokyo river, mates tech with tradition (updated with video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 May 2012 20:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everledeverledsevoltaledlightlight bulblight bulbsLightBulbLightBulbslightingpanasonicsolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredtokyovideoFri, 11 May 2012 20:23:00 EST<![CDATA[First solar-powered boat to circle the world pulls into home port, contemplates next move]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/first-solar-powered-boat-to-circle-the-world/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/first-solar-powered-boat-to-circle-the-world/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/first-solar-powered-boat-to-circle-the-world/#comments First solar-powered boat to circle the world pulls into home port, contemplates next move

It's been two years since we last heard of the 98-foot-long solar-powered boat, which at the time was gearing up for its big journey around the world. Well, some 19 months and 37,286 miles after setting sail from Monaco, the MS Turanor PlanetSolar has finally made it home. The PlanetSolar broke four Guinness world records along the way, including the all-important "first circumnavigation by solar-powered boat," and it made stops on six continents to promote solar energy. Oh, and the team fended off Somalian pirates in the process, too. Now that it has a moment to catch its breath and soak up some rays at leisure, the MS Turanor could become any number of things -- from the world's largest solar battery to a "green luxury yacht." The latter option would certainly befit its chichi home port.

First solar-powered boat to circle the world pulls into home port, contemplates next move originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boatboatsenergy efficientEnergyEfficientgreenguinness book of world recordsGuinness RecordGuinness World RecordGuinnessBookOfWorldRecordsGuinnessRecordGuinnessWorldRecordMS TuranorMS Turanor PlanetSolarMsTuranorMsTuranorPlanetsolarnauticalPlanetSolarPlanetSolarYachtsolarsolar energysolar powersolar poweredsolar-poweredsolar-powered boatSolar-poweredBoatSolarEnergySolarPowerSolarPoweredFri, 04 May 2012 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Logitech unveils its Solar Keyboard Folio for the new iPad and iPad 2, we go hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/logitech-solar-keyboard-folio-for-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/logitech-solar-keyboard-folio-for-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/logitech-solar-keyboard-folio-for-ipad/#comments Logitech unveils its Solar Keyboard Folio for the new iPad and iPad 2, we go hands-on

There are all sorts of ways to go green these days, from driving an EV to installing super efficient light bulbs, and now Logitech's given us an environmentally friendly way to type tactilely on a tablet. It's a new iPad and iPad 2-friendly case called the Solar Keyboard Folio, which packs a Bluetooth keyboard powered by ambient light using the same solar cell tech found on the firm's computer keyboards. Once topped up with photons, Logitech claims its battery will keep you typing for over 1,000 hours even in complete darkness. The case is crafted of black, soft-touch, faux leather embossed with a small Logitech logo and has perforations for the iPad's speakers, plus a portal for the tablet's camera.

Gallery: Logitech Solar Keyboard Folio for iPad

Its keyboard is made of gray plastic, and pecking at the grid is a similar experience to using the one found on Logitech's other recently released iPad typing peripheral, the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover. Buttons are short-throw and provide satisfying clicky feedback, but the space bar and shift keys have a hollow feel when pressed. Perhaps the Folio's most intriguing design feature is the feet on the corners of the cradle in which the iPad is placed. Those little nubs allow for two viewing angles -- your slate can be seated in a more upright position behind the keyboard for typing, or in the notches outside the two shift keys for a more obtuse viewing angle when the keyboard isn't needed. What's this bit of green gear cost? It goes on sale in the US and Europe this month with an MSRP of $130.

Continue reading Logitech unveils its Solar Keyboard Folio for the new iPad and iPad 2, we go hands-on

Logitech unveils its Solar Keyboard Folio for the new iPad and iPad 2, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambient lightAmbientLightbluetoothhands-onipad 2ipad 3Ipad2Ipad3ipatkeyboardlogitechlogitech solar keyboard folioLogitechSolarKeyboardFolionew ipadNewIpadslatesolar keyboard foliosolar panelsolar panelssolar powersolar poweredsolar-powereredSolarKeyboardFolioSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerSolarPoweredtabletThu, 03 May 2012 04:00:00 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[Spinach-based solar cells get $90,000 development funds from EPA, Popeye delighted]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/spinach-based-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/spinach-based-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/spinach-based-solar-cells/#comments Spinach-based solar cells get $90,000 development funds from EPA, Popeye delightedA biohybrid solar panel that substitutes expensive silicon components for a spinach protein has been granted some substantial Phase II funding from the EPA. Students from the Vanderbilt School of Engineering managed to stand out from 44 other university teams vying for funding at the National Sustainable Design Expo held in Washington DC. The team's large-scale panel only ekes out a small amount of electricity from the photosynthetic proteins at the moment, but according to Professor Kane Jennings, the cash injection from the EPA will help achieve higher energy conversion ratios over the next few years. Perhaps you could try wrapping them up into giant 3D cubes, Professor.

[Thanks Brandon]

Spinach-based solar cells get $90,000 development funds from EPA, Popeye delighted originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioHybridbiohybrid solar panelBiohybridSolarPanelenvironmental protection agencyEnvironmentalProtectionAgencyEPAgagagagagagaNational Sustainable Design ExpoNationalSustainableDesignExpopopeyesolar cellssolar powerSolarCellsSolarPowerspinachVanderbiltVanderbilt School of EngineeringVanderbiltSchoolOfEngineeringThu, 26 Apr 2012 12:21:00 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CaliforniaelectricityElon MuskElonMuskenergyenergy grantEnergyGrantgranthomeHouseholdoff-gridsolarsolar energysolar panelsolar panelssolar powerSolarCitySolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerTeslaTransportationWed, 18 Apr 2012 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/#comments Image

Panasonic has been touting its eco-minded efforts for quite some time now, but it's gone one step further at the currently-happening Fortune Brainstorm Green Conference. The company has announced the formation of a new Eco Solutions business unit, which will be focused on "end-to-end energy solutions" for the United States and Canada. Things remain a bit vague beyond that, but the company will apparently help design, implement and finance various renewable and energy efficient projects, and Panasonic hopes that the new unit will help it become "the leader in green innovation in the electronics industry by 2018." It does have one firm commitment to get things started though; the new division has partnered with the Denver-based Renewable Social Benefit Funds to develop commercial-scale solar projects in North America -- something Panasonic itself already has a fair bit of experience with.

Continue reading Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018

Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 06:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoEco SolutionsEcoSolutionsenvironmentgreenminipostpanasonicPanasonic Eco SolutionsPanasonicEcoSolutionssolarsolar powerSolarPowerWed, 18 Apr 2012 06:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Kyocera joins forces with IHI and Mizuho on 70-megawatt solar plant]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/kyocera-joins-forces-with-ihi-and-mizuho-on-70-megawatt-solar-pl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/kyocera-joins-forces-with-ihi-and-mizuho-on-70-megawatt-solar-pl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/kyocera-joins-forces-with-ihi-and-mizuho-on-70-megawatt-solar-pl/#comments Kyocera joins forces with IHI and Mizuho on 70-megawatt solar plantJapan is often on the cutting edge of technology, but one of the things it apparently does not have is a collection of large solar power plants. Kyocera, better known state side for its interesting cell phone designs, is looking to change that by teaming up with IHI and Mizuho Corporate Bank on a large facility in Kagoshima City. The 314 acre sun farm will collect solar rays on 290,000 Kyocera-built panels capable of generating 70 megawatts of electricity, increasing the country's sun-powered production by almost 40-percent and keeping roughly 22,000 homes thoroughly juiced. The project can't quite match some of the largest such plants here in the US, but it will go a long way towards getting the island nation back on track following the fallout of the tsunami. The ¥25 billion ($309 million) construction is expected to start in July. For more info check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading Kyocera joins forces with IHI and Mizuho on 70-megawatt solar plant

Kyocera joins forces with IHI and Mizuho on 70-megawatt solar plant originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenihijapankyoceramizuhoMizuho Corporate BankMizuhoCorporateBanksolar plantsolar powerSolarPlantSolarPowerWed, 11 Apr 2012 14:21:00 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[Researchers create incredibly thin solar cells flexible enough to wrap around a human hair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/thin-flexible-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/thin-flexible-solar-cells/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/thin-flexible-solar-cells/#comments ImageYou've probably heard that the sun is strong enough to power our planet many times over, but without a practical method of harnessing that energy, there's no way to take full advantage. An incredibly thin and light solar cell could go a long way to accomplishing that on a smaller scale, however, making the latest device from researchers from the University of Austria and the University of Tokyo a fairly significant discovery. Scientists were able to create an ultra-thin solar cell that measures just 1.9 micrometers thick -- roughly one-tenth the size of the next device. Not only is the sample slim -- composed of electrodes mounted on plastic foil, rather than glass -- it's also incredibly flexible, able to be wrapped around a single strand of human hair (which, believe it or not, is nearly 20 times thicker). The scalable cell could replace batteries in lighting, display and medical applications, and may be ready to be put to use in as few as five years. There's a bounty of physical measurement and efficiency data at the source link below, so grab those reading glasses and click on past the break.

Researchers create incredibly thin solar cells flexible enough to wrap around a human hair originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterycellcellselectricelectricityjuicepanelpanelspowerprototypeprototypesresearchsciencesolarsolar cellsolar cellssolar panelsolar panelssolar powerSolarCellSolarCellsSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowersunUniversity of AustriaUniversity of TokyoUniversityOfAustriaUniversityOfTokyoWed, 04 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Aqua Tek S wants to be your desert island iPhone case]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/insert-coin-aqua-tek-s-wants-to-be-your-desert-island-iphone-ca/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/insert-coin-aqua-tek-s-wants-to-be-your-desert-island-iphone-ca/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/insert-coin-aqua-tek-s-wants-to-be-your-desert-island-iphone-ca/#comments In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.
Have any immediate plans to go to war, escape nuclear fallout or get shipwrecked in the middle of the Pacific? Boy has Snow Lizard got the iPhone case for you. The Aqua Tek S is rugged, waterproof, battery-powered, solar panel-packing and in some cases camouflaged -- all said, it looks to be a beast of an iPhone 4 / 4S case that'll make your Otterbox case look like Samuel L. Jackson in Unbreakable. The twist ending here is that the case is currently seeking funding over on Kickstarter, with less than a month to reach its lofty goal of $75,000. When it hits, it's expected to run a pricey $130. Press info and a video of the case in action, after the jump.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Aqua Tek S wants to be your desert island iPhone case

Insert Coin: Aqua Tek S wants to be your desert island iPhone case originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecaseinsert coinInsertCoiniphoneiphone 4iphone 4siphone caseIphone4Iphone4sIphoneCasekickstartermobilepostcrossruggedsolar powerSolarPowerwaterproofWed, 15 Feb 2012 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nanoshells trap light for more efficient solar panels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/nanoshells-trap-light-for-more-efficient-solar-panels/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/nanoshells-trap-light-for-more-efficient-solar-panels/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/nanoshells-trap-light-for-more-efficient-solar-panels/#comments NanoshellsScientists at Stanford are hard at work trying to improve the efficiency and durability of solar panels -- two key factors that have kept the Sun from becoming a more popular source of energy. Their latest effort involves nanocrystalline-silicon, a material that has proven resilient and highly conductive, but not very good at absorbing light. Their solution, nanoshells -- hollowed out spheres of silicon that trap and recirculate light much like a whispering gallery does sound. Balls of the crystalline material are dipped in silicon, then hydrofluoric acid is used to eat way the center of the sphere, leaving a path for light to enter. The shells trap the light, allowing more of it to be absorbed, and also reduces the effect of non-optimal angles on energy production. Hit up the source for a few more details.

Nanoshells trap light for more efficient solar panels originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>green techGreenTechnanocrystalline-siliconnanoshellssolar panelssolar powerSolarPanelsSolarPowerstanfordStanford UniversityStanfordUniversityThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:11:00 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[Powerskin's SolarCharge still believes in the sun]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/powerskins-solarcharge-still-believes-in-the-sun/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/powerskins-solarcharge-still-believes-in-the-sun/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/powerskins-solarcharge-still-believes-in-the-sun/#comments
Remember when Nokia poo-poohed the idea of solar charging as a viable way to keep a smartphone juiced? It seems that no-one told XPal Power, since its PowerSkin brand has just launched a new photovoltaic kit as part of its 2012 lineup here at CES:
  • SolarCharge is a silicone-wrapped brick with a solar panel on one end that'll charge most devices via a microUSB port. The 1000mAh battery tucked inside is rated to pony up around 350 minutes of talk time for your average smartphone. It'll set you back $70 when it arrives in February.
  • KeyCharge attaches to your keychain and can offer a quick boost 90 minutes of additional time on its 750mAh battery, again via its microUSB port. It'll cost a more modest $25 and will be available to order at the same time
Come with us, and you'll be, in a world of pure press releases, after the break.

Continue reading Powerskin's SolarCharge still believes in the sun

Powerskin's SolarCharge still believes in the sun originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidBatteryBlackBerryCESCES 2012Ces2012ChargingEnvironmentalGreenmobilepostcrossPowerSkinPowerSkin KeyChargePowerSkin SolarChargePowerskinKeychargePowerskinSolarchargeSci/TechSmartphoneSolar ChargingSolar PowerSolarChargingSolarPowerUSBXPal PowerXpalPowerWed, 11 Jan 2012 06:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: 2012 Detroit Auto Show, 3D-printed geometric kite and the world's largest battery]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-2012-detroit-auto-show-3d-printed-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-2012-detroit-auto-show-3d-printed-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-2012-detroit-auto-show-3d-printed-ge/#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.


Green transportation kicks into high gear this week with the launch of the 2012 Detroit Auto Show -- and Inhabitat is set to bring you breaking coverage of this year's event! So far we've taken a look at 6 green cars to watch at NAIAS 2012 -- including Lexus' sexy LF-LC hybrid sports car -- Volkswagen's Beetle-inspired electric concept car, and Smart's For-US super-compact electric pickup truck. We also saw a MIT researcher explain why gas mileage is still low despite advances in fuel economy, Mexico unveiled the record-breaking world's tallest bridge, and we took Hyundai's futuristic Veloster coupe for a test drive.

It was also a momentous week for energy news as China supercharged its grid with the world's largest battery and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funded the first human waste to biodiesel plant in Ghana. Meanwhile, India announced plans to produce 33.4 gigawatts of solar energy by 2022, Onyx unveiled a plug and play 330 watt photovoltaic array that sets up in a snap, and we shined the spotlight on 6 of the world's most impressive solar powered projects.

In other news, this week high tech designs reached for the sky as the world's first tower built by a team of flying robots rose in France, researchers developed a virtual cloud-like LED ceiling to make offices more pleasant, and we brought you a beautiful 3D-printed geometric kite. Finally, we brought you the latest dispatches from the field of wearable technology -- a set of jewelry made from recycled AK-47 rifles, a robotic exoskeleton that will help paraplegics walk again in 2012, and a LED television you can wear as a shirt.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: 2012 Detroit Auto Show, 3D-printed geometric kite and the world's largest battery originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryDetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowElectric carElectricCargreenHyundaiinhabitatInhabitatsWeekInGreenLEDroboticssolar powerSolarPowerthis week in greenThisWeekInGreentransportationSun, 08 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SolarKindle cover basks in the sun's rays, charges for days and days]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/solarkindle-cover-basks-in-the-suns-rays-charges-for-days-and/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/solarkindle-cover-basks-in-the-suns-rays-charges-for-days-and/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/07/solarkindle-cover-basks-in-the-suns-rays-charges-for-days-and/#comments Direct sunlight and Amazon's Kindle have always gone hand in hand -- you simply can't read E-Ink without a strong light source. So, it would make sense to pair that lighting requirement with a solar panel, pack it into a convenient case, toss in a reading lamp and give readers the gift of effortlessly extended battery life -- which is exactly what SolarFocus intends to do. Scheduled to be shown off at this week's CES, the company's SolarKindle adds three months of unplugged use, in addition to 50 hours for its included LED lamp. And unlike most innovations that take their sweet time getting to market, this cover's slated for a January 15th bow, priced at $80. Take that paperbacks.

Continue reading SolarKindle cover basks in the sun's rays, charges for days and days

SolarKindle cover basks in the sun's rays, charges for days and days originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 21:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonAmazon KindleAmazonKindlecaseCESCES 2012Ces2012covere booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readersereaderskindlesolar chargingSolar Focussolar powerSolarChargingSolarFocusSolarKindleSolarPowerSat, 07 Jan 2012 21:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Onyx develops 330-watt 'plug-n-play' solar panel with built-in AC outlet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/onyx-develops-330-watt-plug-n-play-solar-panel-with-built-in-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/onyx-develops-330-watt-plug-n-play-solar-panel-with-built-in-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/onyx-develops-330-watt-plug-n-play-solar-panel-with-built-in-a/#comments Onyx's new 330-watt solar panel isn't the first to offer a "plug-n-play" solution for getting power to your gadgets, but it may be the first to include a standard US power outlet, and enough output to juice up a computer, light or any other appliance (within reason) through its built-in micro inverter. "You can literally point the panel at the sun and plug an extension cord directly into the panel for immediate power," according to the Onyx PR, which you'll find in full just past the break.

Continue reading Onyx develops 330-watt 'plug-n-play' solar panel with built-in AC outlet

Onyx develops 330-watt 'plug-n-play' solar panel with built-in AC outlet originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectricitygreengreen techgreen technologyGreenTechGreenTechnologyminipostonyxonyx OSPP330-1onyx OSPP330-2onyx poweronyx solarOnyxOspp330-1OnyxOspp330-2OnyxPowerOnyxSolarOSPP330-1OSPP330-2powersolarsolar panelsolar powerSolarPanelSolarPowersunThu, 05 Jan 2012 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's letting it shine as it nears $1 billion investment in solar energy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/googles-letting-it-shine-as-it-nears-1-billion-investment-in-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/googles-letting-it-shine-as-it-nears-1-billion-investment-in-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/googles-letting-it-shine-as-it-nears-1-billion-investment-in-s/#comments
Google's feeling charitable this holiday and has pumped $94 million into a Californian solar-energy project. The photovoltaic power plant (which is a posh way of saying "lots of solar panels in the Sacramento desert valley") currently being built by Recurrent Energy will generate 88MW, enough juice for 13,000 homes. Additional investment is coming from equity fund KKR, who has already sold the first 20 years of energy to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District. It brings the search giant's investment in clean energy projects to $915 million -- with the company expected to cross the billion dollar mark some time next year, when we hope it'll get a nice loyalty bonus from Mother Nature.

Google's letting it shine as it nears $1 billion investment in solar energy originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Clean EnerguCleanEnerguGoogleGreenKKRPhotovoltaicPVSacramentosacramento municipal utility districtSacramentoMunicipalUtilityDistrictSMUDSolar EnergySolar PlantSolar PowerSolarEnergySolarPlantSolarPowerSunTapTue, 20 Dec 2011 14:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists create first solar cell with over 100 percent quantum efficiency]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/scientists-create-first-solar-cell-with-over-100-percent-quantum/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/scientists-create-first-solar-cell-with-over-100-percent-quantum/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/scientists-create-first-solar-cell-with-over-100-percent-quantum/#comments Researchers over at the National Renewable Energy Lab have reportedly made the first solar cell with an external quantum efficiency over 100 percent. Quantum efficiency relates to the number of electrons-per-second flowing in a solar cell circuit, divided by the number of photons from the energy entering. The NREL team recorded an efficiency topping out at 114 percent, by creating the first working multiple exciton generation (MEG) cell. Using MEG, a single high energy photon can produce more than one electron-hole pair per absorbed photon. The extra efficiency comes from quantum dots 'harvesting' energy that would otherwise be lost as heat. The cell itself uses anti-reflection coating on a transparent conductor, layered with zinc oxide, lead selenide, and gold. NREL scientist Arthur J. Nozik predicted as far back as 2001 that MEG would do the job, but it's taken until now for the concept to leap over from theory. The hope is, of course, that this will lead to more competitively priced solar power, fueling the transport of the future.

Scientists create first solar cell with over 100 percent quantum efficiency originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellelectronmegmultiple exciton generationMultipleExcitonGenerationNational Renewable Energy LaboratoryNationalRenewableEnergyLaboratoryNRELphotonquantum efficiencyQuantumEfficiencyrenewable energyRenewableEnergysciencesolarsolar cellsolar powerSolarCellSolarPowerMon, 19 Dec 2011 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheap electronic skin edges us closer to cyberpunk future]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/cheap-electronic-skin-edges-us-closer-to-cyberpunk-future/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/cheap-electronic-skin-edges-us-closer-to-cyberpunk-future/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/cheap-electronic-skin-edges-us-closer-to-cyberpunk-future/#comments Researchers working for the Department of Energy's Berkeley Lab have figured out how to create relatively inexpensive "electronic skin" comprising carbon nanotubes enriched with semiconductors. Their process involves an enriched single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) solution embedded in a honeycomb pattern of hexagonal holes to make it more flexible and stretchable - it's so limber, they wrapped it around a baseball, as you can see in the photo above. Combined with inkjet printing of electrical contacts, the technology paves the way for making flexible, wearable computers and a host of other cool things that William Gibson and other cyberpunk authors thought of back in the 1980s: smart bandages, flexible solar cells and electronic skin that can sense touch. Bring on the Zeiss eye implants and neural interface jacks!

Cheap electronic skin edges us closer to cyberpunk future originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berkeley labBerkeleyLabcarbon nanotubesCarbonNanotubesCyberpunkdepartment of energyDepartmentOfEnergymedicineSemiconductorsolar powerSolarPowerWilliam GibsonWilliamGibsonThu, 15 Dec 2011 06:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: 5 megawatt solar roof, driverless electric cars and ten of the world's craziest Christmas trees]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/#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.
Solar-powered buildings heated up this week as Inhabitat reported that Apple will crown its new Cupertino headquarters with a 5 megawatt solar roof, and we took a peek inside a sun-powered prefab pod home set in the Italian Alps. We also showcased several fresh examples of wintry architecture this week as we brought you six amazing buildings made from ice and snow and we learned that BIG's waste-to-energy ski slope incinerator was scrapped due to environmental concerns. We also showcased an innovative shelf for interiors made from movable pins, a set of awesome night lights made from retrofitted vintage cameras, and since the holidays are on the way we shared a kit that will help you make your own geodesic gingerbread house!

Speaking of the holiday season, this week we rounded up the world's 10 craziest Christmas trees made from recycled objects, and we brought you photos of a massive luminous Xmas tree in Lithuania made from 40,000 plastic bottles. We also brought you a guide for making your own DIY terrarium Christmas ornaments, and if you're looking for cool techy gifts to stick beneath the tree you won't want to miss Theo Jansen's 3d-printed miniature Strandbeest wind walking robots and this fun wooden iPhone toy for tots.

In other news, eco transportation blasted off to the future as Zapata Racing unveiled a set of insane water-propelled rocket boots that will send you soaring like a superhero and Audi and BIG unveiled plans for a network of driverless electric cars and luminous high-tech roadways. We were also excited to announce that the Nissan Leaf was named Japan's Car of the Year at the Tokyo Motor Show, we saw Daimler unveil plans for a new E-Cell hybrid with inductive charging, and Smart shared a sneak peek of their upcoming "For-US" compact electric pickup truck.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: 5 megawatt solar roof, driverless electric cars and ten of the world's craziest Christmas trees originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleAudiBIGDIYE-Cellelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehiclegreeninhabitatinhabitat.comNissanNissan leafNissanLeafrecycledsolar powerSolarPowersun-poweredthis week in greenThisWeekInGreenTokyo Motor showTokyoMotorShowSun, 11 Dec 2011 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/#comments

Warding off assassins while saving the environment just became a cake walk with the Jo-Mojo, an upcoming creation by Lativian armored vehicle company DARTZ. This two seat convertible roadster brandishes an 80 horsepower electric engine capable of pushing zero to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph -- yet most of its "mojo" is outside the hood. Custom seating, color-changing chameleon paint finish, bulletproof tires, and others are just a few of the many "drooling" features. The sunroof is given a task with flexible solar panels built-in, good for juicing up the batteries while idle or on the go. Aimed to hit the market at the end of Q2 2012, its estimated price tag starts at 30,000 euros (~ $40,000), within range of most low-end luxury automobiles. Check past the break for a video slideshow of this snazzy piece of metal by Gray Designs, DARTZ's partner in the venture.

Continue reading Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works

Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyAlternativeEnergyarmoredArmored carArmoredCarautomobileautomobilesbatteriesbatterybulletproofcarcarsConvertibleDARTZDartz KombatDartzKombatenvironmentenvironment protectionEnvironmentProtectionevGray DesignsGrayDesignsgreenhorsepowerjames bondJamesBondjo-mojomphprotectionroadstersolarsolar panelsolar panelssolar powersolar poweredSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerSolarPoweredsunrooftransportationvehiclevideoThu, 08 Dec 2011 05:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: flexible OLEDs, wind-energy skyscrapers and 3D-printing spider robots]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/inhabitats-week-in-green-flexible-oleds-wind-energy-skyscrape/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/inhabitats-week-in-green-flexible-oleds-wind-energy-skyscrape/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/inhabitats-week-in-green-flexible-oleds-wind-energy-skyscrape/#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.

Exciting energy projects lit up the newswires this week as Inhabitat reported that Desertec will begin building the world's largest solar project in the Sahara Desert next year. We also saw a West Virginia wind farm use batteries to improve its performance, and we showcased the brand new Eco Whisper wind turbine, which is quieter and more efficient than three-bladed models. Meanwhile, Apple announced plans to build a major solar-powered iCloud data center in North Carolina, architects unveiled plans for a towering wind-energy generating skyscraper in Taiwan, and we shared ten tips for cutting down your electricity bill this winter.

In other news, green transportation took off for the skies as the world's first manned electric multicopter launched its first flight. We also brought you six sexy electric cars that will be hitting the streets in 2012, plus one awesome compact camper that is a miniature house on wheels. Across the pond, Foster + Partners unveiled a massive Thames Hub plan to update Britain's energy and transportation infrastructure, and IKEA just announced plans to build a massive 26-acre suburb in East London.

Researchers also brought to light several stunning new forms of energy-efficient illumination as they unveiled the world's most efficient flexible OLED, Samsung announced plans to launch a bendable OLED cell phone in 2012, and we showcased a luminous netted vest for nighttime cyclists. We also spotted several fresh life-saving gadgets -- a spindly 3D printed spider robot that can analyze hazardous sites, and a series of designer gas masks that question our psychological reliance on luxury labels. Finally, you won't want to miss the awesome tot-sized Dalek costume that is currently tearing up our Green Halloween Costume Contest for kids, and this rock-solid carbonite Han Solo costume from our Halloween contest for adults.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: flexible OLEDs, wind-energy skyscrapers and 3D-printing spider robots originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 20:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campereco whisperEcoWhispergreenhan soloHanSoloinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenlondonnorth carolinaNorthCarolinaoledSkyscrapersolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredvestwest virginiaWestVirginiawind turbineWindTurbineSun, 06 Nov 2011 20:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

The most frustrating products are the ones that have such simple ideas, you're upset that it hasn't been done before -- or that you weren't the one that came up with it. No idea is so simple as the brilliant Ray solar charger. A mobile phone juicer that comes with a kickstand and built-in suction cup so that it's nearly always pointed right at the sun. If you think that sounds like simple madness or genius, click past the break to find out why it could be worth your investment.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight

Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-friendlyEnvironmentGreenInsert CoinInsertCoinPhone ChargerPhoneChargerPhotovoltaic CellPhotovoltaicCellPVRayRay Solar ChargerRaySolarChargerSolarSolar ChargerSolar PowerSolarChargerSolarPowerWindshieldWindshield MountWindshieldMountSat, 29 Oct 2011 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Solar Ship takes to the skies powered by good deeds and sunshine (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/solar-ship-takes-to-the-skies-powered-by-good-deeds-and-sunshine/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/solar-ship-takes-to-the-skies-powered-by-good-deeds-and-sunshine/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/solar-ship-takes-to-the-skies-powered-by-good-deeds-and-sunshine/#comments The Solar Ship is a little bit airplane, a little bit blimp and all good intentions. The hybrid dirigible combines the cockpit and landing gear of a plane with the top of a blimp, the latter of which is lined with solar panels. The green vehicle can take off from and land on short runways, an ideal feature in a craft designed to deliver supplies to areas hit by natural disasters or with otherwise rough terrains. The ship will come in three sizes, and the company will be offering up more public demonstrations next year. If you can't wait that long, however, you can check out a test run after the jump.

Continue reading Solar Ship takes to the skies powered by good deeds and sunshine (video)

Solar Ship takes to the skies powered by good deeds and sunshine (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blimpdirigiblegreensolarsolar powersolar shipSolarPowersolarshipsunsunlightsunshinevideozero emissionsZeroEmissionsMon, 24 Oct 2011 17:57:00 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[Apple solar patent wants a sunny display light for your Sunny (De)light]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/apple-solar-patent-wants-a-sunny-display-light-for-your-sunny-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/apple-solar-patent-wants-a-sunny-display-light-for-your-sunny-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/apple-solar-patent-wants-a-sunny-display-light-for-your-sunny-d/#comments
Let's begin with the usual disclaimer: Apple patent applications do not mean the outlandish technology will be arriving in the next iPhone, just that someone in a Cupertino basement cooked it up during a marathon "imagining" session (possibly while enjoying a cool glass of purple stuff). The company's latest drawings-and-charts masterpiece concerns the construction and placement of photovoltaic cells and, more importantly, using the sun's energy to illuminate a display. By using a mirror pointed at the sky, you could reflect some rays toward your screen to supplement an LED backlight, or by turning the top lid of your Macbook into a solar panel. Although we can see one minor drawback in using solar powered backlighting -- if you have to point your display toward the sun, you're gonna need some powerful shades.

Continue reading Apple solar patent wants a sunny display light for your Sunny (De)light

Apple solar patent wants a sunny display light for your Sunny (De)light originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple PatentApplePatentEnvironmentalPatentPatentsSolarSolar CellSolar EnergySolar PanelSolar PatentSolar PowerSolarCellSolarEnergySolarPanelSolarPatentSolarPowerUSPTOWed, 19 Oct 2011 12:29:00 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[MIT researchers suggest graphene could be used to build a better camera sensor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/mit-researchers-suggest-graphene-could-be-used-to-build-a-better/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/mit-researchers-suggest-graphene-could-be-used-to-build-a-better/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/mit-researchers-suggest-graphene-could-be-used-to-build-a-better/#comments As you may have noticed from the pace of research over the past few years, graphene is promising to make a whole lot of things a whole lot better. Now, it seems, you can also add camera sensors to the list. A team of MIT researchers recently discovered that graphene can serve as a photodetector over a "very wide energy range," and that it works particularly well in infrared light, where other types of detectors often come up short. That, the researchers say, could open to the door to everything from better nightvision systems to more advanced detectors for astronomical telescopes -- not to mention more inexpensive camera sensors in general, since graphene is cheap to work with. What's more, the researchers also suggest that those same light-detecting abilities could make graphene a good material for collecting solar energy, although they note that there's still much more research needed to determine if it's truly an efficient means of generating energy.

MIT researchers suggest graphene could be used to build a better camera sensor originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 03:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camera sensorcamera sensorsCameraSensorCameraSensorsdetectorgraphenemitphotodetectorresearchsensorsolarsolar powerSolarPowerWed, 12 Oct 2011 03:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Murata Tactile Controller TV remote hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-tactile-controller-tv-remote-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-tactile-controller-tv-remote-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-tactile-controller-tv-remote-hands-on-video/#comments What's that, you're not into changing the channel with that boring old remote, or even with your voice? Murata's ground-up Tactile Controller brings a real twist to every couch potato's favorite gadget. Quite literally. The company's prototype remote uses touch-pressure pads and pyroelectricity to analyze the position of a piezoelectric film. In English: a plastic film produces tiny amounts of electricity at various voltages (output as data) when it's forced into a variety of positions, letting you change the channel simply by twisting the controller in either direction, or flexing to adjust volume. The model we saw was a plastic sandwich of sorts, and also included four solar cells, capable of producing one milliwatt of electricity -- just enough to power the device.

We put the controller through its paces at the company's CEATEC booth, adjusting a TV's volume and channel up and down, and, well, up and down, since that's just about all you can do with the thing. The model we saw only supported five twist positions and four bending positions in each direction, so it could theoretically adjust those two basic settings more quickly based on how much pressure you put on the film, but realistically can't do much beyond that. The Tactile Controller on display here is more of a proof of concept of sorts -- with the concept being the plastic film technology itself, and not the battery-free remote control, which the company decided would be the most visual application for testing its new film, though not necessarily the most practical. Understandably, Murata doesn't have any plans to release the remote that we saw today, but you can jump past this to see us do the twist.

Gallery: Murata Tactile Controller hands-on

Continue reading Murata Tactile Controller TV remote hands-on (video)

Murata Tactile Controller TV remote hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceatecceatec 2011Ceatec2011chibachiba japanChibaJapanflexiblehands-onjapanLeaf Grip Remote ControllerLeafGripRemoteControllerMurataphotovoltaicpiezoelectricpiezoelectricitypiezoelectricsprototyperemote controlRemoteControlsolar powerSolarPowertelevisiontokyotokyo japanTokyoJapanvideoWed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Solar Decathlon, hydrogen jet and a solar LED installation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-decathlon-hydrogen-jet-and-a-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-decathlon-hydrogen-jet-and-a-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-decathlon-hydrogen-jet-and-a-s/#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.

This week an incredible crop of sun-powered prefabricated houses popped up in Washington DC for the 2011 Solar Decathlon, and Inhabitat was on the scene to bring you exclusive coverage of this year's stunning homes! We took a look at all 19 of this year's ultra-efficient projects, we rounded up seven stellar teams set to take the competition by storm, and we'll continue to keep you posted as the results roll in, so stay tuned. We also highlighted several inspiring projects from MIT's $1,000 house challenge, we saw a massive solar LED installation light up the night in Croatia, and we spotted plans for a futuristic floating island paradise at sea.

Green transportation got things rolling this week as Chicago launched a lush green subway car filled with plants, and Edison unveiled an electric version of their X-Prize winning Very Light Car. Two-wheeled transportation took off as well as an all-electric Tron Lightcycle hit the streets for the first time and researchers developed a nylon bike that is as strong as steel using satellite technology. We also took a spin in the 2012 Honda Insight Hybrid and we showcased plans for a Lockheed Stratoliner hydrogen jet that can travel anywhere on earth without refueling.

As September winds down schools across the county are now in session, but if you're still scrambling to pick up a few last-minute supplies don't miss our roundup of 14 green gadgets for back to school and ten solar-powered designs to charge your life. We also saw eco-fashion go high-tech as researchers developed a smart t-shirt that can monitor hospital patients' vital signs, designers created a motion-sensing interactive window display and a Star Wars fan made a remarkably realistic stormtrooper helmet entirely from Adidas sneakers. Finally, we shined a light on a Swedish daycare center's plans to track kids with GPS tracking devices.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Solar Decathlon, hydrogen jet and a solar LED installation originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoeco-friendlygpsgreeninhabitatInhabitats Week in GreenInhabitatsWeekInGreenledmitsolarsolar powersolar poweredsolar-powerSolarPowerSolarPoweredSun, 25 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Murata wants to take couch potatoes by the hand and do the remote control twist]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/murata-wants-to-take-couch-potatoes-by-the-hand-and-do-the-remot/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/murata-wants-to-take-couch-potatoes-by-the-hand-and-do-the-remot/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/murata-wants-to-take-couch-potatoes-by-the-hand-and-do-the-remot/#comments We've seen Murata's marketing future, and it involves either Chubby Checker or that '90s Helen Hunt movie. The Japanese electronics maker's cooked up a flexible sensor device that'll let you twist and shout bend your way to remote television control. Dubbed the Leaf Grip Remote Controller, the prototype UI design makes use of a special pyroelectric effect-free piezoelectric film that translates twisting into channel changing, rapid twisting to swap video inputs, bending for volume control and rapid bending to power the set on / off. The company's also outfitted the non-clicker (which we'll henceforth refer to as "the Twister") with a photovoltaic cell, giving it the ability to charge -- from your man cave? Kinks in its planning aside, sample shipments are expected to be delivered sometime next spring. But, before they rush this product out to market, may we suggest the inclusion of a sports-induced rage-proof mode?

Murata wants to take couch potatoes by the hand and do the remote control twist originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexibleLeaf Grip Remote ControllerLeafGripRemoteControllerMurataphotovoltaicpiezoelectricpiezoelectricsremote controlRemoteControlsolar powerSolarPowertelevisionSun, 25 Sep 2011 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel Developer Forum (IDF) 2011 wrap-up]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/intel-developer-forum-idf-2011-wrap-up/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/intel-developer-forum-idf-2011-wrap-up/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/intel-developer-forum-idf-2011-wrap-up/#comments We came, we saw, we conquered -- and just like that, Intel's Developer Forum was over. Much like years past, Chipzilla was proudly beating its own drum: we saw demos of Ivy Bridge and Haswell, a healthy helping of Ultrabooks and of course its high speed interconnect du jour, Thunderbolt. But that doesn't mean we didn't see a lot of other random, mind-stimulating otherness. Did you catch all the treasures we found lurking deep within the halls of this year's show? Unfortunately, we can't tell from here, so you better hop past the break for the full listing and find out.

Continue reading Intel Developer Forum (IDF) 2011 wrap-up

Intel Developer Forum (IDF) 2011 wrap-up originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aava mobileAavaMobileasuscpudeveloper forumDeveloperForumeyefinityhaswellidfidf 2011Idf2011intelintel developer forumIntelDeveloperForummedfieldmsiprocessorrealvncsan franciscoSanFranciscosolarsolar powersolar-powersolar-poweredSolarPowerthunderboltultrabookultrabooksux21ux31wrap upWrapUpTue, 20 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/#comments
So you're tres green chic with your solar-charging jacket, and that Ralph Lauren backpack keeps your gadgets energized even off the coast of Martha's Vineyard. But what about stylish photovoltaics for your home, dear earth-friendly aesthete? We humbly submit the Electree, by French designer Vivian Muller. Shaped like a bonsai tree, each of its 27 leaves is a solar panel that helps charge a 13,500mAh battery. A concealed USB connector and A/C outlet will feed your gadgets while minimizing unsightly wires, and rotatable branches let you customize the look. Muller's looking for 400 presales to make the Electree a reality: for early birds, the price is €269 (about $370). If this sounds like the sort of thing you'd put on your windowsill, hit the source link to commence with the purchasing.

Continue reading The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets

The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artawesomedesigneco-friendlyElectreehouseholdlamplightlightingpre orderpre salePreOrderPreSalesolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredtreeVivian MullerVivianMullerMon, 19 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel reveals 'Claremont' Near Threshold Voltage Processor, other conceptual awesomeness at IDF (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/intel-reveals-claremont-near-threshold-voltage-processor-othe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/intel-reveals-claremont-near-threshold-voltage-processor-othe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/intel-reveals-claremont-near-threshold-voltage-processor-othe/#comments Thought Intel was done busting out new slabs of The Future at IDF? Wrong. Justin Rattner, the firm's chief technology officer, just took the stage here in San Francisco in order to showcase a trifecta of new concepts, all of which were borne out of research in Intel Labs. The first, and perhaps most notable, is the Near Threshold Voltage Processor (code-named "Claremont"), which relies on novel, ultra-low voltage circuits that dramatically reduce energy consumption -- like EnerJ, but not. How so? Well, by "operating close to threshold, or turn-on voltage, of the transistors," it's able to scream when needed or scale back dramatically (below ten milliwatts) when the workload is light. If you're curious as to just how low that is, we're told that it's low enough to keep running while powered only by a solar cell the size of a postage stamp. Sadly, the research chip isn't destined to become a product itself, but Intel's hoping that the knowledge gained could lead to "integration of scalable near-threshold voltage circuits across a wide range of future products, reducing power consumption by five-fold or more and extending always-on capability to a wider range of computing devices."

As for demos? A smattering of multicore / multiprocessor sessions aided Intel in upping its bragging rights, and we were informed that coding for multicore setups is "easier than the press makes out to be." The outfit also took the opportunity to release a Parallel JS engine to the open source crowd, adding data-parallel capabilities to JavaScript to purportedly "speed up browser-based services such as computer vision, cryptography, and 3D games by up to eight-fold." Furthermore, a newly revealed Hybrid Memory Cube -- complete with seven times better energy efficiency than today's DDR3 memory -- was also unwrapped. More details can be found in the links below, and we've got your unveiling video embedded just beyond the break.

Gallery: Intel reveals Near Threshold Voltage Processor, other conceptual awesomeness at IDF (video)

Continue reading Intel reveals 'Claremont' Near Threshold Voltage Processor, other conceptual awesomeness at IDF (video)

Intel reveals 'Claremont' Near Threshold Voltage Processor, other conceptual awesomeness at IDF (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsClaremontcpuexperimentalHybrid Memory CubeHybridMemoryCubeidfidf 2011Idf2011intelNear Threshold Voltage ProcessorNearThresholdVoltageProcessorParallel JSParallelJsprocessorresearchsolarsolar cellsolar powersolar poweredsolar-powersolar-poweredSolarCellSolarPowerSolarPoweredvoltageThu, 15 Sep 2011 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: magnetic highways, MoMA tech exhibit and lasers in the sky]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-magnetic-highways-moma-tech-exhibit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-magnetic-highways-moma-tech-exhibit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-magnetic-highways-moma-tech-exhibit/#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.

Renewable energy supercharged our transit system this week as Inhabitat showcased Vycon's plans to tap speeding subway trains for immense amounts of kinetic energy, and we took a look at an innovative magnetic highway system that harvests energy from passing cars. Biofuels also got a boost from several unlikely sources as researchers discovered that bacteria in panda poop is incredibly efficient at breaking down plant matter, and scientists developed a way to recycle newspaper into biofuel. We also showcased a real-time energy monitoring device for kids, we learned that some radioactive areas around Fukushima are more dangerous than Chernobyl, and we took a look inside a subterranean atomic shelter that has been transformed into a cavernous underground office.

How do machines communicate with people? If you're pondering that idea, you'll be interested in this exclusive video interview with Museum of Modern Art curator Paola Antonelli on MoMA's new 'Talk to Me' technology exhibit which recently opened in New York City. We were also amazed by several artistic innovations this week as Wacom unveiled a pen that instantly digitizes anything you can draw and Sarah Garzoni created a beautiful series of printed paper butterflies.

In other news, we shined the spotlight on several brilliant advances in lighting technology as scientists successfully created rain by shooting laser beams into the sky and a designer unveiled a solar OLED tile system that can transform skyscrapers into zero-energy displays. We also brought you several bright ideas in wearable tech as Halston unveiled a glow-in-the-dark sequin gown, a ghostly troop of illuminated radiation suits wandered through the German countryside, and a Cornell student developed a type of clothing that traps toxic gases. Meanwhile the Hudson River lit up with a luminous field of 200 LEDs and Laser Power Systems unveiled plans for a nuclear powered car. Speaking of green transportation, we also spotted a high-tech E-Max motorcycle that converts pressure into power, and we watched Toyota's all-electric P001 racer become the first EV to break the Nurburgring's 8-minute speed record.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: magnetic highways, MoMA tech exhibit and lasers in the sky originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animalanimalsbacteriacare-maxeco-friendlyelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVglowglow in the darkGlowInTheDarkgreeninhabitatInhabitats Week in GreenInhabitatsWeekInGreenlaserlaser beamsLaserBeamslightlightingmotorcycleoledp001pandaradiationsolarsolar powerSolarPowertoxictoyotaVyconSun, 04 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST