3D Depth from Flash Photography

Sometimes the simple ideas can be the most effective. Case in point with the method used by researchers at the University of Manchester, UK, to extract the 3D depth of ancient artifacts using flash photography.

The new technique is already being used to add depth and realism to the ancient carvings that will appear in Maya Skies - a full-dome digital projection for planetariums that tells the story of the Mayan people. Maya Skies will be released in 2009.

Link to website
Read research paper (PDF)

Magnetic Micro Machines

The precision of these little critters is pretty amazing! This video is a must see.
via Technology Review

Microscopic machines might one day deliver drugs directly to a sickly cell or a tumor, or allow researchers to fabricate electronics components more easily. But first, scientists need to figure out how to power and control such tiny devices. Methods currently being explored range from piggybacking on bacteria to harnessing magnetic fields.

Micro Robots? Enter the Micromuscle!

Now this video is a must see! The size of these little miniature machines is quite amazing. Check out their website here for more info.

(via Micromuscle's website)
MICROMUSCLE EAP technology

Using MICROMUSCLE EAP technology a wide variety of small moving components can be constructed. The possibility to create moving structures and exert force enables new functionality for medical devices and other life science products.

Electroactive polymers
Electroactive polymers are an emerging class of materials with many new revolutionary properties. One of the main advantages of electroactive polymers is the possibility to electrically control and fine-tune their behaviour and properties.
The electroactive polymers used by Micromuscle AB are characterized by their ability to swell and contract when a small voltage is applied. The mechanism behind this is based on electrochemistry. Swelling is caused by ions and water entering the polymer. When the voltage is removed or reversed, the polymer contracts and resumes its original shape.

Swimming in Augmented Reality

A funny example here of combining real and the virtual environments together. One can only think of the what the future has in store for those who need an escape from reality.