Engineering news
The autonomous captain sets sail
Maritime Digitalisation & Communications
While self-driving cars have hogged the limelight, autonomous technology has quietly advanced in other fields. This week, the world's first fully autonomous ferry dodged obstacles and other vessels as it carried 80 people through the water of the Turku archipelago in Finland. The technology could revolutionise future marine vehicles.
Bad news for UK manufacturers
Professional Engineering
Only 6% of 16 to 23-year-olds are considering a career in manufacturing, with a tiny 3% of young women interested in the sector. The low levels of interest from ‘Generation Z’ is a potential concern for companies’ future recruitment plans, with the same survey by Barclays Corporate Banking also showing that more than half of UK manufacturing businesses are struggling to hire new employees.
The material that thickens when stretched
The Manufacturer
In news that seems to defy the laws of physics, a team at Leeds University created an 'auxetic' material that becomes thicker to the perpendicular force when pulled. It could be useful for body armour, architecture and medical equipment.
Most powerful ion drive ready for Mercury mission
Space.com
The "most powerful electric-propulsion engine system ever to explore space is now up and running," Space.com reported. The ion thrusters will take seven years to travel 9bn km.
Waste not, want not
Aerospace Manufacturing
We recycle plastic, paper... why not plane parts? Boeing and ELG Carbon Fibre will recycle excess aerospace-grade carbon fibre, potentially making it available for electronic and automotive applications.
Wind up
Energy Live News
A new renewable energy generation record was set in the UK thanks to high winds last Wednesday. Wind farms provided 32.2% of the country's energy needs for the week.
'An exciting time to work in rail...'
Rail Technology Magazine
The government launched the new rail 'sector deal', with goals including cheaper digital signalling, doubled exports and better data sharing.
and high speed centre stays on track
Rail Business Daily
The rail sector was also boosted by official backing for a high speed rail innovation centre in Leeds.
Hearing my car
The Engineer
Connected cars should be able to communicate with any other connected devices, including other cars, using a new 'universal' language developed by Bosch.
Manure in the tank
Professional Engineering
Researchers have claimed a “huge step” towards more sustainable fuels for existing diesel engines after successfully converting waste into a fuel with the same combustion efficiency and emissions profile as diesel. The team from the University of Illinois used manure and food waste to create the fuel, which could be blended with diesel to help tackle the huge amounts of waste from urbanisation and increased farming.
Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.