news 2011

Researchers have invented a new generation of tactile surfaces with relief effects - users can feel actual raised keys under their fingers.

A new system boosts the performance of detection systems and helps to create new antennas for mobile telephony and on-board satellite systems: An innovative transmission system takes advantage of a previously under-utilized wavelength: the terahertz.

Research has shown that contrary to what was thought from previous studies, spin-outs don't systematically set up shop near their parent companies. To stay or to leave, what's the best strategy? "I was really surprised, when doing this research, to find that 50% of spin-outs don't necessarily establish themselves near the parent company," observes Christopher Tucci from EPFL.

Aelios is an application that was developed by Bachelor students. Two weeks after its launch, it topped download charts in Switzerland and Germany.

[ Florian Aigner A research project at the Vienna University of Technology (TU Vienna) could turn futuristic 3D-printers into affordable everyday items. Printers which can produce three-dimensional objects have been available for years. However, at the Vienna University of Technology, a printing device has now been developed, which is much smaller, lighter and cheaper than ordinary 3D-printers.

Controlling the rotation of light - this amazing feat was accomplished at the Vienna University of Technology (TU Vienna), by means of a ultra thin semiconductor. This can be used to create a transistor that works with light instead of electrical current. Light waves can oscillate in different directions - much like a string that can vibrate up and down or left and right - depending on the direction in which it is picked.

Energy consumption poses a critical challenge in the development of next-generation supercomputers and IT systems.