Facial Recognition

Background History

While facial recognition has been in the consumer market for a few years, it is now be introduced to the governmental side. For decades police and security forces have used pictures to identify criminals, but current technology allows for more the constant search for criminals and other desired peoples deemed by governments.

How it Works

Currently, there are 5 countries that use active facial recognition technology. This includes China, Japan, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, and the United States of America (particularly California). Uses per country include:

• China
• University security
• Criminal tracking
• J-walking crackdown
• Banking
• Toilet paper theft
• Japan
• Speeding
• Sleeping government workers
• Security
• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Border control
• Singapore
• Health care
• Lost travelers
• United States of America
• Airport security
• Banking
• Unknown uses in California

Impacts/Future Growth

It is no secret that facial technology is in the future, favorable of it or not. Many companies including tech giant Microsoft are calling for proper laws to be passed to prevent abuse and misuse of the technology, but as of currently there are no laws of such in place.

Pros

• Helps assist governments in everyday tasks, potentially saving millions of dollars

Cons 

• Strong public outcry against its usage
• Has the potential to be used for the wrong purposes
• Expensive to put in place

Works Cited

Chin, Josh. “Chinese Police Add Facial-Recognition Glasses to Surveillance Arsenal.” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 7 Feb. 2018, www.wsj.com/articles/chinese-police-go-robocop-with-facial-recognition-glasses-1518004353.

O'Dowd, Peter. “As Facial Recognition Technology Booms, So Do Privacy Concerns.” WBUR, WBUR, 21 Dec. 2018, www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2018/12/21/facial-recognition-privacy-concerns.

Prakash, Abishur. “Facial Recognition Cameras and AI: 5 Countries With the Fastest Adoption.” Robotics Business Review, Robotics Business Review, 21 Dec. 2018, www.roboticsbusinessreview.com/ai/facial-recognition-cameras-5-countries/.

Multimedia

https://3c1703fe8d.site.internapcdn.net/newman/gfx/news/hires/2018/bigbrotherfa.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4CjU48gD1w

https://www.wsj.com/articles/chinese-police-go-robocop-with-facial-recognition-glasses-1518004353

Opportunity Rover

Background History

In 2004, the NASA rover named Opportunity landed on the surface of Mars. The initial goal was to keep contact with the rover with at least 90, but many scientists found fault with that claim. 14 years following the beginning of its long journey on our neighboring planet, the rover continues to work in some fashions.

How It Works

Using hundreds of sensors, Opportunity roams the vast surface of Mars on its own. The rover uses a solar panel to convert sunlight into electrical energy and then transforms it into mechanical power. NASA keeps in touch with the rover through numerous methods, the preferred being a low-energy satellite signal, similar to that of a GPS. 

Impacts/Future Growth

Currently, NASA is failing to make proper contact with Opportunity. It is widely speculated that the rover endured a large dust storm, which may have caused damage to the device. Another theory involves dust covering the solar panels, which prevents the rover from using sensors and signals.

Pros

• Helps to gather data from a planet with little-known constants

Cons

• Very costly

Works Cited

Howell, Elizabeth. “Opportunity: Longest-Running Mars Rover.” Space.com, Space.com, 12 Sept. 2018, www.space.com/18289-opportunity-rover.html.

“Update on Opportunity Rover Recovery Efforts – NASA's Mars Exploration Program.” NASA, NASA, 29 Oct. 2018, mars.nasa.gov/news/8364/update-on-opportunity-rover-recovery-efforts/.

Wall, Mike. “NASA Will Keep Trying to Revive the Silent Mars Rover Opportunity Through January.” Space.com, Space.com, 30 Oct. 2018, www.space.com/42288-nasa-keeps-hailing-mars-rover-opportunity.html.

Multimedia

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https://cnet1.cbsistatic.com/img/r7aP4_JMWD1cSsfkUlpryp6tXJs=/970x0/2018/10/12/2874f4ad-c08b-4178-86dd-a5b9966547aa/oppyselfie.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha8GPZsMl8Y

Artificial Intelligence

Background History

A relevantly new topic, artificial intelligence, and rapidly made his way into today's society. From self-driving cars to medical applications, artificial intelligence has the ability to impact every field in the near future. With the further development of such systems, artificial intelligence could possibly take complete control humanity as we know it. 

How It Works

By combining large figures in the process of data collection, AI uses algorithms to process the recorded data. The software than notes patterns in the data, which it then uses to predict future data. The greater the amount of data that is inputted, the greater the accuracy of the predicted data.

Impacts/Future Growth

As more data is collected, AI can become more useful. For example, home devices like Alexa collected data from everyday speech. As the AI receives more data, it gains a better understanding of human speech. As this understanding grows, the ease of use also grows for the everyday consumer. 

Pros

• Can save cost in numerous fields of interest including health care, agriculture, manufacturing, banking, and retail

Cons

• Negative public stigma
• Technology not yet fully developed
•  Has the potential to cause mass job losses (especially regarding white-collar services)

Works Cited

“Artificial Intelligence – What It Is and Why It Matters.” SAS, www.sas.com/en_us/insights/analytics/what-is-artificial-intelligence.html.

“Benefits & Risks of Artificial Intelligence.” Future of Life Institute, Jolene Creighton Https://Futureoflife.org/Wp-Content/Uploads/2015/10/FLI_logo-1.Png, futureoflife.org/background/benefits-risks-of-artificial-intelligence/?cn-reloaded=1.

“What Is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? - Definition from Techopedia.” Techopedia.com, www.techopedia.com/definition/190/artificial-intelligence-ai.

Multimedia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rzufxlGH4o

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqXjw5jxHnE

https://qz.com/989137/when-a-robot-ai-doctor-misdiagnoses-you-whos-to-blame/

Robotic Mail Delivery

Background History

With the strong emergence of e-commerce in the last decade, shipping capabilities have grown dramatically. Although numerous improvements have been made in the sector, high-volume times like during the holidays prove problematic for both human and current machinery sources. Robotic mail delivery is the shipping of these items bought off of the world wide web and uses semi to full automation to improve efficiency over traditional processes.

How It Works

The process begins when a consumer orders a product off of the internet. The website then sends a signal to the warehouse, which then has a robot sent the product to a shipping facility if required. Upon arrival, the product is sorted and labeled completely automatically. An autonomous vehicle then transports the product to other shipping centers, when the process is repeated until the product is in the hands of the consumer.

Impacts/Future Growth

Both the fields of e-commerce and robotics continue to grow, making the idea of robotic mail delivery much more feasible. Although the robots to take job opportunities from hard-working individuals, they offer more high-paying jobs in the fields of mechanics and engineering to repair and redesign the robots.

Pros

• Provides efficiently in a complicated process
• Cost effective in the long-term
• Provides more mechanical/engineering related jobs

Cons

• Large cost in the short-term
• Takes away jobs from current workers in the industry

Works Cited

Calnan, Christopher. “Robot-Assisted Mail Delivery Testing Continues to Expand, This Time in Australia.” The Robot Report, 29 Oct. 2017, www.therobotreport.com/robot-assisted-mail-delivery-testing-continues-expand-time-australia/.

Guerrini, Federico. “Self-Driving Robots Will Soon Deliver The Mail In Switzerland.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 26 Aug. 2016, www.forbes.com/sites/federicoguerrini/2016/08/26/will-automation-spell-the-end-of-the-mailman-delivery-robots-soon-to-appear-on-swiss-streets/#3acb2f1a5ea7.

Reuters. “Robots Might Be The Future Of Mail Delivery.” The Huffington Post, TheHuffingtonPost.com, 7 Apr. 2016, www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/robots-deliver-mail-germany_us_5706857de4b0a506064e632a.

Multimedia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkYOnZDr0Lk

https://www.healthcarepackaging.com/article/machine-attributes/robotic/yaskawa-motoman-robotic-pharmaceutical-workcell

https://www.2025ad.com/latest/driverless-delivery-when-a-robot-brings-your-pizza/

Automatic Fire Extinguishing Robot

Background History

As the robotics continues rapid growth in all industries, their use to extinguish fires emerges as a feasible option. Even in the age where technology has impacted almost every profession, firefighting continues to be one of the most dangerous jobs. On a daily basis, they risk their lives to save the lives of others. Robots could solve this problem and limit the number of deaths from fires.

How It Works

The usage of the robot depends on its application.

Autonomous - Numerous sensors check for certain atmospheric factors like smoke and temperature. One a certain threshold is reached, the robot is deployed to fight the fire using either water or a carbon dioxide nitrogen blend (used in typical fire extinguishers).

Human-deployed - A human (typically a firefighter) deploys the robot in a situation where either the scene is unsafe for human entrance, or where extra assistance is required. These robots cost less as they require fewer sensors than the autonomous fire extinguishing robot.

Impacts/Future Growth

As fires become more dangerous due to the increased popularity of dangerous flammable material like natural gas, the solution of robotic fire extinguishers becomes more viable. The recent growth of the robotics industry means that the technology is not far from wide-spread use. 

Pros

• Autonomous robots able to sense fire without human interaction
• Human-deployed able to assist firefighters in dangerous situations

Cons

• Sensors and other features of robot result in a large cost
• Technology if not fully developed yet

Works Cited

Rastogi, Neha. “Automatic Fire Extinguishing Robot Without Manual Control.” Autonomous Fire Extinguisher Robot | EngineersGarage, 22 Aug. 2017, www.engineersgarage.com/contribution/automatic-fire-extinguishing-robot-without-manual-control.

Richardson, Robert, et al. “Automated Fire Fighting Robot.” School of Engineering, 2013, engineering.tcnj.edu/2013/02/26/automated-fire-fighting-robot/.

Sampath, Swetha. “Automatic Fire Extinguisher Robot.” IEEE Conference Publication, 26 Nov. 2011, ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/6145964.

Multimedia

https://www.elprocus.com/projects-on-fire-fighting-robotic-vehicle/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP9XPk00sIE

https://www.engineersgarage.com/contribution/automatic-fire-extinguishing-robot-without-manual-control

Noise-Canceling Devices

Background History

Trains, cars, and airplanes: how great they are for transportation, and how bad they are for a quality listening experience. Whether its some older music or the newest podcasts, earbuds and headphones are used by the masses. The problem occurs when outside noises interfere with the audio, creating a poor user experience. That's where noise canceling devices come into play. They use innovative technology to limit outside noises and focus on the desired audio.

How it Works

A small microphone is placed on the outside of the headphone or earbud, which listening to the external sound. Noise-canceling circuitry then creates a replica of the wave and sents it out of the headphones, limiting the majority of the noise. Sometimes the circuitry can catch parts of audio being transmitted inside the headphones, which can take away from the user experience.

Impacts/Future Outlook

As headphones continue to grow in popularity, so does the market of noise-canceling devices. Consumers are willing to pay a heftier price to get the quality of noise reduction. As the technology is further developed, it can be expected for the quality of noise reduction to improve closer to a noise-less device, and one that is dramatically less in cost.

Pros

• Limits outside noise from the ears of the user

Cons

• Cost more than typical headphones/earbuds
• Use battery (typical headphones/earbuds rely on phone/device power)
• Lower quality devices can lower the quality of sound coming from the device

Works Cited

Harris, William. “How Noise-Canceling Headphones Work.” HowStuffWorks, HowStuffWorks, 15 Feb. 2007, electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/audio-music/noise-canceling-headphone3.htm.

“How Do Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work?” How Do Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work? || Audio-Technica US, www.audio-technica.com/cms/features/b3ef06fca462fcad/index.html.

“How Do Noise Cancelling Headphones Work: A Simple Explanation of the Physics of Sound.” Phiaton, 14 July 2018, phiaton.com/how-do-noise-cancelling-headphones-work-a-simple-explanation-of-the-physics-of-sound/.

Multimedia

https://www.jbl.com/dw/image/v2/AAUJ_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/SitesmasterCatalog_Harmandefault/dw43c164ca/JBL%20Everest_Elite_750NC_Blue_Hero_1605x1605px.jpgsw=270&sh=330&sm=fit&sfrm=png

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7D_pnaexG0

https://i.amz.mshcdn.com/7vwPyyifJVhNC_SEwtOJdsHpPcI=/fit-in/1200x9600/http%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F11%2Factive-noise-cancellation.jpg

Self-driving Cars For Rural Areas

Background History

As self-driving cars begin to become reality with each coming year, new challenges also begin to emerge. These issues include safety, equity, environmental impacts, and other problems that slow their fast-paced emergence. Among these challenges include rural areas, which are not electronically mapped for self-driving cars.

How It Works

Typical self-driving cars are based of pre-made maps specifically designed for autonomous vehicles. These maps are perfect for highly populated cities where high traffic areas can be tracked to make small changes to each element in the map. Although these may seem perfect, they are far from it as they are very tedious to make and are not cost effective. That's when a group MIT researches decided to set off to conquer the challenge of a descriptive map-less self-driving vehicle. They used numerous sensor to collect data in order to not have to rely on a map.

Impacts/Future Growth

As the area of self-driving cars continues to rapidly grow, expect the area of rural autonomous vehicles to also succeed. The technology can allow drivers to do other tasks with their time instead of driving. 

Pros

• Can help drivers save time
• Can help prevent crashes
• Can be used in other applications (autonomous tractors, airplanes, and drones)

Cons

• Not yet fully developed
• Sensors add extra cost to cars
• Can in some cases be less safer than a human driver

Works Cited

CSAIL, Rachel Gordon |. “Self-Driving Cars for Country Roads.” MIT News, 7 May 2018, news.mit.edu/2018/self-driving-cars-for-country-roads-mit-csail-0507.

Hawkins, Andrew J. “MIT Built a Self-Driving Car That Can Navigate Unmapped Country Roads.” The Verge, The Verge, 13 May 2018, www.theverge.com/2018/5/13/17340494/mit-self-driving-car-unmapped-country-rural-road.

“Self-Driving Cars Explained.” Union of Concerned Scientists, www.ucsusa.org/clean-vehicles/how-self-driving-cars-work#.W7f4ZWhKhPY.

Multimedia

https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/01/paul-priestman-priestmangoode-autonomous-vehicles-self-driving-cars-exacerbate-congestion-drones-transport-virtual-reality_dezeen_2364_hero_0-852x479.jpg

https://www.machinedesign.com/motion-control/saved-sensor-vehicle-awareness-self-driving-age

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toSVe-duN_E

Robotic Surgeons

Background History

The first robot was used in a surgery around 1990. Since then, the field has quickly developed into widespread use among surgery centers and hospitals. The da Vinci Surgical System and Flex Robotic System are the only two robotic surgery operators approved by the FDA. Due to the public's uneasiness and concern over complete robotic surgeries, the FDA has not approved any unassisted robotic surgeons.

How it Works

A human surgeon an "endo wrist" to control the robot's tools. This replicates the movement of a surgeon’s hand and increases the accuracy of movements.  A camera on the robot connects to a high-resolution 3D stereo viewer, which gives the surgeon a much-improved view compared to traditional methods. These systems also allow for single site surgery which leaves only one small incision. This small incision leaves little to no scaring behind.

Impacts/Future Outlook

As the public becomes more comfortable and the technology is developed further, unassisted robotic surgeries are much more likely. The University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon continue to co-develop robotic surgeons and other universities are following in similar paths. Although the machines are currently only suited for head and neck surgeries, it is likely that more are to follow.

Pros

• Leaves little to no scaring
• Often safer than traditional methods

Cons

• Viewed as uncomfortable for most of the public eye
• Can malfunction and cause serious injury or death
• 
  

Works Cited

“How Robotic Surgery Works.” Mills-Peninsula Health Services, 2017, www.mills-peninsula.org/robotic/procedures/.

Shah, Jay, et al. “The History of Robotics in Surgical Specialties.” Advances in Pediatrics., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 June 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4677089/.

UPMC. “A Quick History of Robotic Surgery.” UPMC HealthBeat, 29 Aug. 2018, share.upmc.com/2016/02/robotic-surgery-history-mm12/.

Multimedia

https://www.asme.org/engineering-topics/articles/robotics/robo-doctor-will-see-you-now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdfyTp5XgKU

http://trendintech.com/2017/03/29/a-breakthrough-for-the-medical-world-comes-in-the-form-of-a-tiny-robot/

The World's Biggest Container Ship

Background History

Worldwide shipping has increasingly grown throughout the last decade. The demand for items in weeks, if not days, has now become commonplace. To help fill this demand, Daewoo in South Korea built the MSC Oscar for $140,000,000 in 2015. It continues to hold the record for the largest container ship in the world and operates as a container ship on a daily basis. Mediterranean Shipping Company now owns the ship.

How It Works

The capacity of the MSC Oscar is 14,000 TEU. Since the ship is so large, it is not able to dock in most ports across the world, including all American ports. Mediterranean Shipping Company says that many similar ships are in the construction process, and plans to make ships that can reach up to a staggering 22,000 TEU. They also state that as the ships grow, the efficiency grows as well. This means that the negative environmental impact is decreased, helping to sustain the world we live in.

Impacts/Future Outlook

As the shipping industry continues to grow, boats can be expected to also grow larger. While there are many engineering challenges in building larger boats, it is definitely possible. The size of existing ports also pose problems, but if ports are enlarged than it is possible. 

Pros

• Can carry more containers
• Positive environmental impact

Cons

• Most existing docks can not support boats this large

Works Cited

Dreamer. “20 Biggest Boats In The World.” Ezvid Rank, 14 Mar. 2017, rank.ezvid.com/biggest-boats-in-the-world#1-msc-oscar.

Minter, Adam. “Ships Have Gotten Too Big.” Bloomberg.com, Bloomberg, 14 June 2016, www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2016-06-14/ships-have-gotten-too-big.

“World's Largest Container Ship Is Too Big for U.S. - CNN Video.” CNN, Cable News Network, 9 Mar. 2015, www.cnn.com/videos/world/2015/03/09/pkg-boulden-uk-massive-ship-msc-oscar.cnn.

Multimedia

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MSC_Oscar_(ship,_2014)_003.jpg

http://www.seatrade-maritime.com/news/global-whispers/worlds-largest-boxship-msc-oscar-calls-in-malaysia.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDA9jGX67Uw

Electromagnetic Bombs

Background History

Early since the beginning of mankind, wars have broken out between those with disputes and contrasting opinions. To transfer information, simple encoders and decoders were first used to keep the opponent from understanding the message. This was the Enigma in World War II, but has since developed to much more: the electromagnetic bomb.

How It Works

A powerful electromagnetic field is created from very short and intense electromagnetic pulses. Once the bomb is deployed, it wipes out all electrical equipment in the area. This includes generators, refrigerators, computers, and even cell phones. Not only can electromagnetic bombs stop the transfer of information, but can mass chaos across an entire region. While it is believed that the U.S. has E-Bomb capabilities in its arsenal, it is also possible that terrorist groups are building similar weapons.

Impacts/Future Outlook

E-Bomb impact everyone in the world. Even if one does not depend on electricity, the mass chaos will eventually reach them. If an E-Bomb is created by a terrorist group, it can become a massive threat to any country. Unlike nuclear bombs where uranium can be traced to find potential bomb builders, E-Bombs have no special ingredient that can easily be traced. 

Pros

• Can stop the flow of information of an enemy
• Can cause mass chaos in an opposing state

Cons

• Can be used by terrorists for mass harm

Works Cited

Harris, Tom. “How E-Bombs Work.” HowStuffWorks Science, HowStuffWorks, 8 Mar. 2018, science.howstuffworks.com/e-bomb.htm.

Pike, John. “The Electromagnetic Bomb - a Weapon of Electrical Mass Destruction.” Vietnam War - American Return to Dog Fighting, www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/report/1996/apjemp.htm.

Multimedia

https://science.howstuffworks.com/e-bomb.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSmpI3emA1w

https://science.howstuffworks.com/e-bomb2.htm

Inductive Charging

Background History

Ever since cell phones were introduced, cords twisting and knotting up have become a persistent problem. Wireless charging capabilities have always been dreamed of, and have finally arrived. While most people think this is a relatively new discovery, it was first discovered by Nikola Tesla in 1901. He created the "Wardenclyffe Tower", also known as the "Tesla Tower", to demonstrate wireless power transfer. Although the experiment failed, his developmental work can still be seen in prototypes today.

How It Works

Electromagnetic waves are created using electrical coils. They ways are then sent through a mat to reach the device being charged. Although initial designs did emit radioactive particles, newer models admit healthy amounts of radioactivity.

Impacts/Future Outlook

As the technology further develops, the health risks and costs can be significantly lowered to be able to enter the consumer market. This means cords of the past could ultimately be worthless someday. Inductive charging could also greatly benefit the automotive industry, with wireless charges placed along or under roads for during use of electric cars.

Pros

• Less clutter
• More durable
• Can charge cars while driving

Cons

• More expensive
• Possibly dangerous
• Slower charging

Works Cited

“How Wireless Induction Chargers Work.” Explain That Stuff, 30 Jan. 2018, www.explainthatstuff.com/inductionchargers.html.

Mearian, Lucas. “Wireless Charging Explained: What Is It and How Does It Work?” Computerworld, Computerworld, 28 Mar. 2018, www.computerworld.com/article/3235176/mobile-wireless/wireless-charging-explained-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work.html.

Ware, Russell. “What Is Inductive Charging?” Lifewire, www.lifewire.com/what-is-inductive-charging-575296.

Multimedia

http://www.explainthatstuff.com/inductionchargers.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qr63Kl0SuFo

https://electriccarsreport.com/2011/05/volvo-working-on-wireless-charging-for-electric-cars/

World’s Biggest Air Purifier

Background History

Air pollution is killing about 4,400 people in China every single day. The Chinese government has finally admitted that air pollution is a problem in their country, and attempting to fix it. Many engineering and designers are coming up with revolutionary ideas that can not only help China but the rest of the world as well.

How It Works

Polluted air is sucked into the glasshouses and heated up by solar energy. The hot air then rises through the tower and passes through multiple layers of cleaning filters. There is no limit to size so this could be used in a large-scale scenario. 

Impacts On Society

Pros

• Does not use any non-renewable energy
• Reduces air pollution

Cons

• Expensive
• Has not yet been proven in a large-scale scenario

Future Outlook

Considering that the high demand for air cleaning products in only growing, the future is bright for large-scale air purifiers. Since the market is growing, it likely that more engineers and scientists will work at improving the current designs.

Works Cited

“China Builds 'World's Biggest Air Purifier' (and It Works).” South China Morning Post, 16 Jan. 2018, www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/2128355/china-builds-worlds-biggest-air-purifier-and-it-seems-be-working.

Markham, Derek. “China Built the Biggest Air Purifier in the World.” TreeHugger, Treehugger, 5 Feb. 2018, www.treehugger.com/clean-technology/china-built-biggest-air-purifier-world.html.

Mosbergen, Dominique. “Air Pollution Causes 4,400 Deaths In China Every Single Day: Study.” The Huffington Post, TheHuffingtonPost.com, 14 Aug. 2015, www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/air-pollution-china-deaths_us_55cd9a62e4b0ab468d9cefa9.

“World's Largest Air Purifier Completes Successful Trial Run in Xi'an, China.” ArchDaily, 16 Jan. 2018, www.archdaily.com/887144/worlds-largest-air-purifier-completes-successful-trial-run-in-xian-china.

Multimedia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LND6W7w4OpU

https://news.cgtn.com/news/3d676a4e7755444e/share.html

http://www.newsweek.com/smog-air-pollution-china-782834

Bosco Verticale

Background History

Over 3 million deaths every year are linked to the growing problem of air population. Short-term effects of air pollution include irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and upper respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, as well as headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions. Long-term effects include chronic respiratory disease, lung cancer, heart disease, and even damage to the brain, nerves, liver, or kidneys. Seeing the negative impact of air population of his city in Milan, Italian architect Stefano Boeri was determined to find a solution to this problem by building towers surrounded by plants.

How It Works

The 500 medium and large trees, 300 small trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 other plants combine to convert 44,000 pounds of carbon dioxide to oxygen. The plants also assist in lowering temperature, filtering fine dust particles, and lowering noise pollution. 

Impacts On Society

Pros

• Reduces air pollution
• Reduces noise pollution
• Filters fine dust particles
• Takes up less than a typical greenspace

Cons

• Costly
• Difficult to maintain

Future Outlook

After Stefano Boeri build the first two towers in Milan, he has been summoned across the world for numerous more designs. It is very likely that these designs become popular among other architects as well during a time when pollution is a large concern.

Works Cited

“The Incredible Vertical Forest Residential Towers in Milan, Italy.” TwistedSifter, 4 July 2016, twistedsifter.com/2016/06/vertical-forest-residential-towers-in-milan-by-boeri-studio/.

“What Are the Effects of Air Pollution?” Effects of Air Pollution on Humans, Plants and Animals, 2017, eschooltoday.com/pollution/air-pollution/effects-of-air-pollution.html.

Xie, Jenny. “High-Rise Forests in Italy Are Fighting Air Pollution.” The Verge, The Verge, 9 Aug. 2017, www.theverge.com/2017/8/9/16112758/milan-vertical-forest-stefano-boeri-video.

Multimedia

https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/z/milan-italy-may-bosco-verticale-vertical-forest-l-low-view-designed-stefano-boeri-sustainable-architecture-porta-nuova-93390826.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UQI3rBwIjQ

http://www.floornature.com/media/photos/1/13260/02_balcon-sur-paris_stefanoboeri-architetti_la-foret-blanche_home_sez.jpg

 

World's Largest Crane

Background History

After World War II Germany was in a state of disaster. The war had torn apart their country's infrastructure, and years and years of rebuilding was yet to come. Hans Liebherr founded Hans Liebherr Maschinenfabrik (engineering works) in an effort to help rebuilt the country he loved. Making everything from refrigerators to hydraulic excavators Liebherr has a wide variety of products. After finding a hole in the market for high-quality cranes, Liebherr decided to fill the gap. The Liebherr LTM 11200-9.1 is the tallest crane in the world, as well as having the greatest max load capacity.

How It Works

This 9-axle, 8-cylinder monster has the capability to lift 1,200 tons. It also has the longest telescopic boom in the world, which extends fully to 100 meters.

Max. load capacity 1,200 t

at radius 2.50 m

Telescopic boom from 18.30 m

Telescopic boom up to 100.00 m

Lattice jib from 6.5 m

Lattice jib up to 126.0 m

Drive engine/make Liebherr

Drive engine 8-Cylinder-Diesel

Drive engine/power 500 kW

Number of axles 9

Crane engine/make Liebherr

Crane engine 6-Cylinder-Diesel

Crane engine/power 270 kW

Drive/Steering standard 18 x 8 x 18

Driving speed 75.00 km/h

Total ballast 202.00 t

Impacts It Has On Society

Pros

• Can lift up to 1,200 tons
• Telescopic boom extends to 100 meters

Cons

• Costs around $5 million
• Too big for some confined jobs, like in a city

Multimedia

https://www.liebherr.com/en/rou/products/mobile-and-crawler-cranes/mobile-cranes/ltm-mobile-cranes/details/ltm1120091.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGm69ElXIs8

Works Cited

Abrams, Avi. “The World's Most Powerful Mobile Crane.” Dark Roasted Blend, www.darkroastedblend.com/2011/04/worlds-most-powerful-mobile-crane.html.

Bros, Ritchie. “Blog.” Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, 7 Jan. 2013, www.rbauction.com/blog/five-of-the-world-s-largest-cranes-.

“LTM 11200-9.1.” LTM 11200-9.1 Mobile Crane - Liebherr, 2018, www.liebherr.com/en/rou/products/mobile-and-crawler-cranes/mobile-cranes/ltm-mobile-cranes/details/ltm1120091.html.