Aerohaptics, circular BMWs and nano-generators: six top stories of the week

Oil and Gas UK calls for more oil fields ahead of 2050 net-zero carbon goal

E&T 

A trade body representing the UK’s oil and gas sector has called for greater investment in new oil and gas fields despite ongoing efforts to reach net-zero carbon by 2050.

Nanogenerators enable wooden floors to produce electricity

E&T

A wood-based ‘nanogenerator’ has been developed that can generate energy from footfalls on wooden flooring. Swiss researchers used a combination of a silicone coating and embedded nanocrystals to create a device that could power LED lightbulbs and small electronics.

Glasgow team creates aerohaptics holographic projections

The Engineer

Engineers at Glasgow University have developed aerohaptics, a new system that creates the sensation of physical touch when interacting with holographic projections.

Coventry team to develop 3D printed electric motor

The Engineer

Engineers at Coventry’s Manufacturing Technology Centre are working on the development of what they claim could be the world’s first 3D printed electric motor.

BMW goes on circular economy drive to reduce carbon footprint

Professional Engineering

BMW will increase the use of recycled materials in its cars as it tries to bring down its carbon footprint, amid global efforts to minimise warming to 1.5 degrees.

UK car production hits new low amid ‘pingdemic’

Professional Engineering

The number of cars rolling off production lines in the UK dropped by 37.6 per cent in July, to just 53,438, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

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