F1 simulation predicts more overtaking in 2009

As far as we know, Formula One (F1) cars are the fastest compared with almost all other motorsports. Yet there is still the risk of the race getting boring if all these speed demons always travel in a procession with Ferrari and McLaren-Mercedes forever leading the pack. According to a computer simulation done to project the effect of the aerodynamic bodywork changes for next season, we'll probably see more overtaking in 2009 compared to this year.

The report claims that F1 cars next year will look very different because of smaller wings, lack of winglets and very different rear diffusers. This will make it easier for the cars to get closer to one another, making overtaking more likely. But with overtaking comes risks and thrills, too. So if you haven't enjoyed this season much so far, hang in there for a possibly more ride season next year.

Via F1-Live.com | Image credit: Morio

GPS + wearable tech = Seek

Designers Jukka Roitta, Miska Väisänen & Jordan Siegler have seen the roadmap to the future, and it lies on your wrist. It has a name that's crystal-clear even to the geographically challenged: Seek.

This Minority Report-like wristband concept packs a portable GPS system and music player all in one. Though given how power-hungry GPS units are, you might not want to drain that battery pack tuning in Cold Play or Madonna. No idea, either, on how this juices up. But we do know the Seek offers directional guides and location-based services accessed via its interactive touchscreen. Now all it needs are wireless connectivity and a cosmetic makeover, and this might well make inroads with globetrotters when and if it releases.

Via Tuvie

F1 racing going green

Come 2009, Formula One's racing body will be implementing new rules targeted at lowering the environmental impact of the sport. To fulfill these requirements, development is underway to recover energy lost during deceleration. The Kinetic Energy Recovery System or KERS kicks in while braking and stores kinetic energy mechanically or electrically via a flywheel or battery, respectively. This stored energy is then subsequently released to accelerate the car out of a corner, etc.

According to Wikipedia, the maximum power handling for the F1 KERS is capped at 60kW and teams such as BMW and Honda are currently testing the system. What's more interesting is the potential of this technology in street cars and the fuel savings to offset the soaring petrol price.

Via BusinessWeek | Photo credit: BMW Sauber

Handheld breath sensor could help detect cancer

University of Oklahoma researchers are working on a high-tech breath test that could one day help detect cancer.
The team is using mid-infrared laser technology to measure suspected cancer biomarkers in the breath, such as ethane, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde, and to establish the relationship between those gas molecules and the disease. Ultimately, they hope their work will lead to easy-to-use detection devices that don't emit radiation.

But it may take a while before doctors have such devices in hand. Patrick McCann, an OU professor of electrical and computer engineering who's leading the team, predicts that it will take five to 10 years for the gadgets to find their way into clinics.
Read more »

Tech lets tongue drive the PC, wheelchair

Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking blinks an eye to control a computer and voice synthesizer. But with the use of a new technology, he could use his tongue instead.

Engineers at Georgia's Institute of Technology have developed technology that would allow people with severe disabilities, such as Hawking, to operate a wheelchair or computer by moving their tongue. They only need to get as hip as a tongue-pierced punk.

The technology, which was described in this month's issue of the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, involves a small magnet the size of a grain of rice, which gets pierced into the person's tongue. A companion device embedded with magnetic sensors, such as an orthodontic brace or headset, can then trace the movement of the tongue and transmit those signals wirelessly to a nearby portable computer.

People can set six tongue motions, such as a right-click, and use their tongue like a joystick to direct movements of a cursor on a computer screen or power a wheelchair.
Read more »

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