Category Archives: Auto

Innovating Clean Energy: How Aerleum Captures CO2 to Create Fuel

February 5, 2025Auto, CES 2025, Gadgetsces2025, clean energy, fuel, gadgets, methanol, pollution, vehiclePLUGHITZ Live

In recent years, the urgency to address climate change has catalyzed innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly in energy production. One such groundbreaking advancement is the development of synthetic fuels derived from carbon dioxide captured directly from the air. Aerleum is leading the charge with this development, which not only presents a viable alternative to fossil fuels but also plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to global sustainability efforts.

A Promising Solution for Reducing Emissions

The process of creating fuel from air involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, which is then transformed into synthetic fuels, such as methanol. Methanol is a versatile fuel that can effectively replace diesel in multiple industries, including maritime and aviation. The technology behind this process employs a direct air capture system, which utilizes a specially designed material that acts like a sponge to absorb CO2 from the air. Once the CO2 is captured, it undergoes a chemical reaction to produce methanol, which can then be distributed for various applications.

One of the most compelling aspects of this technology is its potential to utilize an abundant and free resource: air. As the air is freely available, the challenge lies in developing a cost-effective method to capture and convert CO2 into fuel. The ultimate goal for companies like Aerleum, which specializes in this technology, is to achieve price parity with fossil fuels. Currently, many existing technologies to produce synthetic fuels are significantly more expensive-often five to seven times higher than conventional fuels. Bridging this cost gap is essential for widespread adoption and acceptance among consumers.

Major Environmental Benefits

The environmental benefits of using methanol as a fuel source are substantial. When burned, methanol can emit up to 90% less CO2 compared to traditional fossil fuels. This reduction in emissions is a critical factor in combating climate change and reducing the overall carbon footprint of energy consumption. Moreover, as the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy sources, synthetic fuels derived from captured CO2 can serve as a transitional solution, allowing industries to continue operating while mitigating their environmental impact.

However, the transition to synthetic fuels is not without challenges. Questions surrounding the scalability of production, the efficiency of CO2 capture technologies, and the infrastructure needed to support the distribution and use of methanol as a consumer fuel must be addressed. Additionally, the economic viability of these fuels will depend on consistent and supportive policies that encourage investment in clean technologies and carbon capture initiatives.

Conclusion: While Struggles Exist, CO2 Capture has A Big Future

In conclusion, the development of fuels from air represents a significant stride towards reducing emissions and addressing climate change. By harnessing the power of innovative technologies to capture CO2 and convert it into usable fuels like methanol, Aerleum can pave the way for a more sustainable future. The journey towards price parity with fossil fuels may be challenging, but the potential rewards-both environmental and economic-are worth the effort. As we continue to explore and invest in these technologies, we move closer to a world where clean, sustainable energy is not just a possibility, but a reality.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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The Versatility of Zadar Labs’ Radar Tech: From Drones to Smart TVs

February 5, 2025Auto, CES 2025, Gadgets, Securityautonomous vehicle, ces2025, gadgets, security, smart device, smarthomePLUGHITZ Live

In an era where smart technology is rapidly evolving, the integration of imaging radar systems presents a significant leap forward in the capabilities of various devices. The discussion with David Wu sheds light on the remarkable advancements made by Zadar Labs in the realm of imaging radar technology. This innovative approach utilizes radio waves to create high-resolution images of the environment, allowing for enhanced perception and interaction with the surroundings, which is crucial for the development of smarter, more autonomous systems.

Imaging Radar Enhances Smart Technology

Imaging radar operates fundamentally differently than traditional visual sensors such as cameras. While cameras provide a two-dimensional view of the environment, imaging radar offers a three-dimensional perspective, capturing the shape, position, and movement of objects within a specified range. This ability to scan the full area and provide depth perception makes imaging radar an ideal choice for various applications, particularly those involving robotics and automation. The technology is well-suited for automated tractors, drone navigation, and even home security systems, where conventional cameras may fall short due to limitations such as poor lighting or adverse weather conditions.

Zadar Technology is Versitile

One of the most compelling advantages of Zadar Labs’ imaging radar is its robustness in diverse environments. Unlike cameras that can struggle to detect objects in low light or inclement weather, imaging radar can function effectively in such conditions. This capability is particularly beneficial for home security applications, where the radar can monitor the perimeter of a house, detecting movement up to 1,000 meters away, regardless of whether it is raining or dark outside. This level of sensitivity and reliability enhances the safety and security of residential areas, providing homeowners with peace of mind.

Moreover, the integration of imaging radar into consumer products is poised to revolutionize everyday technology. There are potential applications in smart TVs, where radar could be embedded within the device to personalize audio experiences based on the viewer’s location. By detecting where individuals are sitting, the TV could direct sound to specific areas, creating a more immersive audio experience. This personalization extends beyond audio; imaging radar can also enhance video quality by adjusting lighting and contrast based on the viewer’s position. Such innovations illustrate how imaging radar can transform passive devices into intelligent systems that actively respond to user needs.

The flexibility of imaging radar technology allows it to be utilized in both indoor and outdoor settings, making it a versatile tool for various industries. Whether it is integrated into consumer electronics, automotive systems, or industrial applications, the potential for imaging radar to enhance smart technology is vast. The ability to provide detailed information about the environment while preserving user privacy is another significant benefit. For instance, while the radar can determine how many people are in a room and their movement patterns, it does not compromise individual privacy by revealing personal details. This balance between functionality and privacy is essential in today’s tech landscape, where consumer concerns about data security are paramount.

Conclusion: Enhanced Safety and Personalization and Increased Privacy

In conclusion, Zadar Labs’ imaging radar represents a transformative advancement in smart technology, offering unparalleled depth perception and environmental awareness. This technology not only enhances the functionality of various devices but also enables new applications that were previously unimaginable. By integrating imaging radar into everyday products, we are moving towards a future where technology is not only smarter but also more intuitive and responsive to our needs. The ongoing development and adoption of imaging radar will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of smart technology, making our lives easier, safer, and more connected.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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From walls to cars: How Algorized is preventing human tragedies

February 5, 2025Auto, CES 2025, Gadgetsautomobile, baby, ces2025, gadgets, safetyPLUGHITZ Live

In a world increasingly shaped by technological advancements, the intersection of innovation and child safety has become a focal point for many industries, particularly automotive. The recent developments discussed by Natalie Lopez of Algorized highlight the transformative potential of technology in saving lives, especially when it comes to protecting our most vulnerable population: children.

Life-saving technology for child safety

One of the most pressing issues faced by parents is the tragic phenomenon of children being left unattended in vehicles, particularly infants and toddlers. The consequences can be dire, often resulting in severe health risks or even fatalities due to heat exhaustion in hot cars. This heartbreaking reality underscores the urgent need for effective solutions that can prevent such tragedies. Fortunately, technology is stepping up to address this critical issue.

Algorized, originally focused on detecting people trapped in buildings during rescue missions, has expanded its technology to include a life-saving feature for automobiles. By utilizing the same sensors and technology designed for detecting human presence in emergencies, the company has developed a system that can notify parents and caregivers when a child is left inside a vehicle. This innovative approach not only showcases the versatility of the technology but also emphasizes its potential to save lives.

This development is not just a technological upgrade; it represents a significant step forward in child safety. In Europe, the implementation of this feature will be standard in all new vehicles as of next year, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of child safety in automotive design.

The implications of this technology extend beyond mere convenience; they have the potential to change lives. The emotional weight of hearing about children left in hot cars is profound. It resonates with parents and caregivers who understand the stakes involved. The introduction of this detection system offers a layer of reassurance, knowing that technology can act as a safeguard against human error.

Multimodal sensor technology enhances safety

At the heart of this innovation is the concept of multimodal sensor fusion, which involves combining data from various sensor types-such as ultrawideband, wireless sensors, and computer vision systems to create a comprehensive understanding of the environment. This integration allows for a more nuanced interpretation of data, moving beyond isolated sensor readings to a holistic view that can significantly enhance decision-making processes in critical situations.

One of the primary applications of this technology is in emergency response scenarios. Lopez illustrates how Algorized collaborates with sensor manufacturers to deploy portable sensors that can be quickly set up in disaster-stricken areas, such as those affected by mine cave-ins or other emergencies. The ability to detect human life through these sensors can be a game-changer in search and rescue operations. When law enforcement or medical teams are alerted to the presence of individuals in need of assistance, the technology can provide real-time data that directs responders to the exact location of those individuals, potentially saving lives.

Conclusion: Preventing infant heat injuries and deaths

Algorized is at the forefront of developing advanced sensing and perception technologies designed to protect life. Their innovative solutions utilize ultra-wideband (UWB) radar and complex processing algorithms to detect human presence, track positioning, and monitor vital signs, even through obstacles. These technologies have wide-ranging applications, from enhancing in-car safety and autonomous vehicles to improving human-machine interactions and consumer electronics. Algorized’s commitment to sustainability and unobtrusiveness ensures that their solutions seamlessly integrate into various environments, providing real-time decision-making capabilities and contributing to a safer, more efficient world.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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2Pi Optics’ cutting-edge lenses bring the future into focus @ CES 2024

February 1, 2024AI, Auto, CES 2024, IoTaugmented reality, cameras, ces2024, gadgets, lens, sensors, virtual realityPLUGHITZ Live

2Pi Optics sensor lenses Innovative optics technology is a cutting-edge field that aims to revolutionize the way we capture and perceive images. The technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated, an MIT spin-off startup, focuses on creating lenses for sensors, cameras, and consumer electronic devices like AR/VR headsets. The optics technology has been under development for the last decade, with 2Pi Optics working on this specific lens technology for the last three years.

How 2Pi Optics’ lenses work

The company’s focus is on achieving high-resolution and crisp images in sensor arrays used by various manufacturers. 2Pi Optics does this by leveraging wafer-scale semiconductor manufacturing capabilities for high-volume, low-cost, and scalable flat optics production and integration.

The 2Pi Optics lens replaces the conventional stack of lenses with a single, thin piece of glass known as metasurface flat optics to overcome the fundamental limitations of traditional optical systems. This transformative technology preserves and can even improve optical performance, while achieving smaller form factors, lighter weights, better accuracy, and lower costs in the process.

The design prioritizes discrete wavelengths, which means that the lenses are optimized for specific colors or wavelengths. For instance, they can isolate infrared wavelengths, while disregarding other colors, which is particularly useful in AR/VR products where color accuracy may not be critical.

Traditional lenses sometimes sacrifice stability and clarity for specific features or functions. However, the technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated aims to overcome these limitations by providing precise sensor images without compromising either. 2Pi Incorporated has rolled out prototypes and samples, and partnered with sensor module integrators who will integrate their lenses into their sensors and sell them to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Apple, Matter, and Microsoft.

Advantages of single glass lenses

One of the key advantages of this innovative optics lens technology is its cost-effectiveness. By utilizing a single piece of glass and employing low-cost manufacturing techniques typically used for computer chips, the production cost is significantly reduced. Assembly and packaging costs are also minimized, making the technology not only performance-enhancing but also economically viable.

While the lenses are made from thin glass, they are designed to be tough and durable. They provide a wider field of view and are unaffected by variations in temperature. They can be directly bonded onto image sensors, creating a monolithic piece that improves the overall ruggedness of the device. 2Pi Optics lenses can be used in a variety of consumer electronics devices, in industry automation, and automotive technologies.

Conclusion: 2Pi Optics brings improved performance and reduced costs into clear view

In conclusion, the innovative lens technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated is disrupting optics in the best way possible. By replacing conventional stack lenses with a single, thin piece of glass, this technology delivers high performance and reduced size, weight, power and cost, enhancing the overall consumer experience. With partnerships in place and a product launch on the horizon, it is an exciting time for the future of optics lens technology. While currently in prototype phase, a full product launch is expected in 2024.

For more information on the technology, you can email info@2pioptics.com or visit 2Pi Optics’ website for more information.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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grivix is Revolutionizing Heavy-Duty Vehicle Charging @ CES 2024

January 30, 2024Auto, CES 2024autonomous vehicle, ces2024, electric, Electric Vehicle, gadgets, vehiclePLUGHITZ Live

grivix heavy vehicle charging Fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles is a revolutionary concept that aims to address the challenges faced by industries such as mining, ports, and long-haul transportation. Marc-Andre Beck, the CEO and founder of grivix, discusses the need for fast charging solutions for heavy-duty vehicles and introduces their innovative technology.

Fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles

Currently, heavy-duty vehicles like big caterpillars in mines or vehicles in ports are not electrified. Even if they are electrified, the existing infrastructure takes a significant amount of time to charge them. However, in industries that operate 24/7, such as mines and ports, vehicles need to be charged quickly, within minutes, to ensure uninterrupted operations. This is where grivix comes in with their fast charging solution.

grivix has developed a charging system that can charge heavy-duty vehicles at a speed of up to 6 MW, which is double the speed of filling gasoline into a vehicle. This is more than 10 times faster than Tesla’s supercharger. The charging process is fully automated, with the vehicle being guided to the charging spot with a precision of 50 centimeters based on ultrawideband technology. Once the vehicle is in position, the system disables the drivetrain, and the connector is automatically recognized and plugged in. The system can deliver up to 4,000 amps, enabling even the charging of large 250-ton caterpillars in a few minutes.

The autonomous aspect of grivix’s technology is a significant feature. The charging system utilizes ultrawideband technology to guide the vehicle to the charging spot with a precision of 15 centimeters. This technology allows for autonomous charging, but it also integrates with the vehicle’s display system, enabling manual control if required.

Immense speed without battery damage

One of the key questions is how fast charging can be achieved without damaging the battery. Beck explains that the technology is compatible with lithium titanate batteries, which are capable of being charged at 10C. The difference in battery chemistry allows for the incredible speed without damaging the batteries. If you were to try the same thing with a standard lithium-ion battery, it would destroy the chemicals and potentially create a fire.

For regular lithium batteries, the maximum charging speed is 3C, which translates to about 20 minutes for a typical 20 to 80% charge. However, sophisticated cooling systems are required to prevent overheating during the charging process. These batteries are expensive but allow for rapid charging, making them an acceptable expense for industries that need to prioritize speed over cost.

Who is grivix designed for?

The target demographic for grivix’s fast charging solution is industries that rely on heavy-duty vehicles for their operations. Mining companies, ports, and long-haul transportation companies are among the potential customers who can benefit from this technology. The ability to charge heavy-duty vehicles quickly and efficiently will significantly reduce downtime and increase productivity in these industries.

While grivix is currently in the proof of concept phase, they plan to roll out their charging stations in controlled environments such as mines and ports in the coming months. Regulatory considerations may delay their deployment in public areas. However, the company aims to ramp up production and make their fast charging technology more widely available by the end of the year.

Conclusion: Ultra-fast charging for a focused market

In conclusion, fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles is a game-changing technology that addresses the need for rapid charging in industries that operate 24/7. grivix‘s innovative solution offers charging speeds of up to 6 MW, fully automated charging processes, and integration with autonomous and manual control systems. While still in the proof of concept phase, grivix aims to roll out their charging stations in controlled environments and eventually make its technology more widely available. This advancement in fast charging technology has the potential to revolutionize heavy-duty industries and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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Supraways’ vision for urban transport: Autonomous pods @ CES 2024

January 23, 2024Auto, CES 2024, Travelautonomous vehicle, ces2024, connected city, gadgets, transportation, travelPLUGHITZ Live

Supraways urban transportation pods Supraways is an eight-year-old startup based in Lyon, France, that is revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars. The company has developed a system of autonomous cars that can carry up to seven passengers and are suspended on beams along highways and airports. This system aims to address the issue of traffic congestion and provide a more efficient and on-demand mode of transportation.

Revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars

The autonomous cars developed by Supraways are not only automated but also equipped with embedded electronic and robotic systems. One of their key innovations is an embedded switch system, which allows the cars to move left and right while the beams remain passive. This eliminates the need for maintenance on the beams, making the system more cost-effective and efficient.

Supraways envisions a network of interconnected loops, where all the stations are offline, similar to a highway system. This means that passengers can travel from one point to another without any stops, resulting in faster and more efficient journeys. The system operates 24 hours a day, and passengers can simply use an app to request a ride to their desired destination. The cars communicate with each other, the infrastructure, and the stations, ensuring smooth and coordinated operations.

A flexible choice for cities

One of the key advantages of Supraways’ system is its flexibility. When there are no passengers, the cars can be utilized for freight transportation or other purposes, such as transporting goods or deploying small robots within the city. This flexibility allows for optimal utilization of resources and ensures that the system is not idle during non-peak hours.

The revolutionizing potential of Supraways’ autonomous car system lies in its ability to transform urban transit by providing a more efficient, on-demand, and flexible mode of transportation. By utilizing autonomous cars that can communicate with each other and the infrastructure, the system ensures smooth and coordinated operations. With the ability to transport passengers and goods, the system offers a holistic approach to urban mobility.

Las Vegas is an ideal partner

Las Vegas is seen as an ideal test site for Supraways’ system due to its compact size and high population density. The system’s ability to transport a large number of people quickly and efficiently makes it a perfect fit for cities with a significant number of tourists and residents. By integrating Supraways’ autonomous cars into the existing transportation infrastructure, cities like Las Vegas can enhance their mobility options and alleviate traffic congestion.

Conclusion

While the system is still under development, Supraways is building the first K1 model near Lyon, France. They are also working on a proof of concept inside their factory, where they are developing the communication system and artificial intelligence that will govern the cars’ operations. The company aims to have the system up and running within the next six months and is actively seeking partnerships and collaborations, including with cities like Las Vegas.

In conclusion, Supraways’ autonomous car system has the potential to revolutionize urban transit by addressing the challenges of traffic congestion and providing a more efficient and flexible mode of transportation. With its innovative features and ability to seamlessly integrate into existing infrastructure, the system offers a promising solution for cities seeking to enhance their mobility options. As Supraways continues to develop and expand its system, it will be interesting to see how it transforms urban transportation in the years to come.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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MoonBikes let you enjoy winter fun like never before @ CES 2022

January 20, 2022Auto, CES 2022, Entertainmentces2022, gadgets, snow, winterPLUGHITZ Live

MoonBikes electric snowbikes If you live in an area with snow, you know how much fun a snowmobile can be. However, they can be really large, heavy, and cumbersome. This is where MoonBikes comes in. These devices are small, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. Nearly anyone can easily control one of these devices, making it easy for more people to enjoy the snow together.

What is a MoonBike?

MoonBikes give you the freedom of an e-bike with the power of a motorcycle. Whether you’re rallying on trails, venturing into the backcountry, or simply cruising around town, MoonBikes make winter your playground. Like a bike, a MoonBike is just 70. cm wide and can pass through doorways and be transported on a hitch carrier or in the bed of a truck.

MoonBikes are a fascinating middle ground between a motorcycle and a snowmobile. It looks mostly like a motorcycle, except the wheels have been replaced. The front wheel is replaced by a short ski, while the back wheel is replaced by a large tread. Even with the altered design, it is still capable of doing most things a motorcycle can do.

Because of this design, the controls are also changed from that of a snowmobile to something similar to a motorcycle. To change directions on a snowmobile, you turn a movable handle and the front of the machine changes direction with the back coming along behind. In this case, you lean to the left or right in order to change direction.

MoonBike specs

A MoonBike weighs just 87 kg with a single battery, and 100 kg with a second battery. With a single battery, you will get about 1.5 hours of run time. You can also add an optional dual battery to double the range with up to roughly 3 hours of ride time. All of this is possible while managing to attain 42 km per hour (about 26 miles per hour). In addition, all of this makes it so that the center of gravity is low, making it easy to ride for everyone.

Even with all of this power, a MoonBike still comes in at just $8,500. That is comparable to a traditional snowmobile, or in many cases far less. And, when you consider that it can run for hours and is more maneuverable, it makes for a great option for most people.

They aren’t just great for individuals, they are great for rental agencies, as well. Because of the ease of riding, the long battery life options, and the ability to charge outside of the device, rental shops, hotels and lodges, and even ski lift companies can easily and safely add them to their offerings.

Summary

Most importantly, MoonBikes are just plain fun! They’re fast, agile, and easy to handle so you can really let loose and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, MoonBikes make winter biking easy and enjoyable. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun on a MoonBike! To learn more or reserve one for yourself, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central and Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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LumiLor: A coating that gives objects the ability to glow @ CES 2022

January 15, 2022Accessories, Auto, CES 2022PLUGHITZ Live

LumiLor LumiLor is a breakthrough lighting solution that is revolutionizing the way we light our world. With its easy application and versatile design, the product makes it possible to create products that were difficult (if not impossible) to illuminate before. If you’re looking for a safe, efficient, and elegant lighting solution, look no further than LumiLor.

What makes LumiLor unique?

One of the great benefits of LumiLor is that it is a very safe lighting solution. The light emitted from the coating is gentle and does not produce any heat. This makes it perfect for use in products where safety is a concern, such as children’s toys or medical devices. With LumiLor, you can have peace of mind knowing that your product is safe and secure.

Another great benefit of LumiLor is its versatility. Because it can be applied to any surface, it opens up endless possibilities for creative lighting solutions. You can create intricate designs with luminescent borders or add subtle highlights to objects to make them stand out against a dark background. With this product, the only limit is your imagination.

Where can LumiLor be used?

This versatile product can be applied directly onto any object or surface where light is desired. It emits a very bright glow that makes it perfect for accentuating logos on retail products as well as creating glowing jewelry items like chokers and necklaces. LumiLor is also a great luminescent lighting solution for interior design and furniture.

You can even add luminescent designs to clothing, costumes, and fabric using LumiLor’s innovative pre-applied film option. This makes it possible to create luminescent apparel that will light up any party! Because of the thickness, only 100 microns, adding luminescence to clothing and accessories won’t add any bulk and nearly no additional weight.

One great example of how you can use the versatile product would be in ski goggles: attaching an adhesive layer onto your existing pair of ski goggles not only protects them from scratches but also allows you to easily attach custom graphics or logos onto them so they really stand out against other competitors on the slopes at nightfall. You could even apply the coating directly onto snowboards as long as you have a smooth, clean surface to adhere the luminescent coating onto.

But, you can add the company’s luminescent coating to other outdoor sports items, such as bikes and accessories. Rather than having to add lights to your bike and helmet to use at night, LumiLor allows you to use your items as they are intended, with just the addition of the lighting film.

There are many more luminescent lighting applications for both interior and exterior design that you can explore. If there’s an object or surface where luminescence is desired, LumiLor will work! Whether it be signage on vehicles, bar stools in your cafe/restaurant, cabinets in your kitchen & bathroom, or any other luminescent lighting application imaginable – LumiLor has a solution for every need.

For more information on this amazing product, visit the company’s website today!

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

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RoboSense solid-state LiDAR drives next-gen autonomous cars @ CES 2021

March 3, 2021Auto, CES 2021autonomous vehicle, ces2021, gadgets, LiDAR, sensorsPLUGHITZ Live

RoboSense solid-state LiDAR Cassie Gong, Overseas PR Manager for RoboSense, was at CES 2021 to share the company’s latest developments in LiDAR technology.

Founded in 2014, RoboSense (Suteng Innovation Technology Co., Ltd.) is the leading provider of Smart LiDAR Sensor Systems. The systems incorporate LiDAR sensors, AI algorithms, and IC chipsets that transform conventional 3D LiDAR sensors into full data analysis and comprehension systems. The company’s mission is to develop outstanding hardware and artificial intelligence capabilities to provide smart solutions that enable robots (including vehicles) to have superior perception capabilities.

The RoboSense product line includes various Smart LiDAR perception system solutions, including the MEMS and Mechanical types LiDAR HWs, fusion HW unit, and AI-based fusion systems. At CES, the company announced the SOP version of their automotive grade high-performance solid-state LiDAR, which is also the world’s first mass-production ready solid-state automotive LiDAR. The solid-state system, says Gong, serves the critical automotive industry need to achieve large-scale commercialization of autonomous vehicles with a new generation of high precision 3D environmental sensing.

The high resolution, high reliability, and low cost of the system make it attractive to the automotive industry, as does the fact that MEMS technology has been long used by companies like Texas Instruments for a long time, making it a mature technology in terms of therefore it is very mature in terms of production, cost, and performance

RoboSense technology has earned the AutoSens Award, Audi Innovation Lab Champion, and the CES Innovation Award twice. To date, RoboSense LiDAR systems have been widely applied to autonomous driving passenger cars, RoboTaxi, RoboTruck, RoboBus, automated logistics vehicles, and intelligent road by domestic and international autonomous driving technology companies, OEMs, and Tier1 suppliers.

The company expects to be able to get the cost of their solid-state LiDAR system to $700-$800 per unit, with the goal of getting it in every autonomous vehicle in the near future, to provide a safe and reliable drive. To learn more about the technology, head to the RoboSense website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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ResiTire has a new airless replacement for traditional tires @ CES 2021

March 2, 2021Auto, CES 2021car, ces2021, gadgets, resitire, vehiclePLUGHITZ Live

ResiTire airless tires One of our favorite contingencies at CES is always the group from Case Western Reserve University. Over the years we have seen the school present innovative new products and services from students, faculty, and alumni. We’ve had the opportunity to speak with representatives from several of the new companies, and in this installment, we got to speak about ResiTire.

ResiTire is offering a new take on an everyday necessity idem – tires. Rather than being a standard rubber tire filled with gas, the new approach is actually made of interlocking metal rings. The metal, called Nitinol, is actually designed by NASA, and the design is licensed from NASA, which calls it Superelastic Tire technology. While the technology was originally created for use on other surfaces, ResiTire has adapted it for terrestrial use.

The tire that we see during the conversation is actually only part of the equation. This strangely shaped device has an elastic style design to it because of the interlocking rings. Because of this, it allows the tire to operate similarly to a traditional rubber tire, with the same grip capability. However, because there is no gas or destructible surface, this technology makes it possible to produce a tire that is able to eliminate leaks, slashes, tears, and more.

To be clear, this is not a “run-flat” tire. One of the biggest problems with the current “run-flat” concept – nearly no one actually replaces one with another one. This means that you only get the benefit for the first few months of owning the car, and never again. The company is currently focusing on the tire market but intends to use the elastic properties of the metal to produce other items in the future.

To learn more about ResiTire and how it can be used, head over to the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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