Australian National University Turns Tractor Beam into Reality
Yolanda Solo — September 9, 2010 — Tech
References: news.anu.edu.au & ubergizmo
Researchers at The Australian National University have succeeded in generating a working tractor beam which is straight out of the classic sci-fi movie Star Wars.
Using only the power of light, the researchers moved tiny particles a distance of 1.5 metres. So what's the big deal? It is only 1.5 metres right? The experiment was limited by the size of the optical table available, according to Professor Andrei Rhodes. He fully expects that at this stage they could realistically move particles up to 10 metres if they had the right environment.
Ten metres is already starting to sound a lot more interesting for mainstream applications, not to mention gadgets!
The full report on the experiment will be released online in ScienceWise on September 23rd, so until then you can watch an illustration of laser tweezers which will help you visualize similar technology which has already been developed on a smaller scale.
Star Wars has 'inspired' many modern gadgets which would have once upon a time been considered possible only in sci-fi movies. A tractor beam definately falls into that category. Of course, the commercial application of this technology is a long way off, but the fact that it exists presents mind-blowing possibilities for the future.
Using only the power of light, the researchers moved tiny particles a distance of 1.5 metres. So what's the big deal? It is only 1.5 metres right? The experiment was limited by the size of the optical table available, according to Professor Andrei Rhodes. He fully expects that at this stage they could realistically move particles up to 10 metres if they had the right environment.
Ten metres is already starting to sound a lot more interesting for mainstream applications, not to mention gadgets!
The full report on the experiment will be released online in ScienceWise on September 23rd, so until then you can watch an illustration of laser tweezers which will help you visualize similar technology which has already been developed on a smaller scale.
Star Wars has 'inspired' many modern gadgets which would have once upon a time been considered possible only in sci-fi movies. A tractor beam definately falls into that category. Of course, the commercial application of this technology is a long way off, but the fact that it exists presents mind-blowing possibilities for the future.
Trend Themes
1. Tractor Beam Technology - The development of tractor beam technology using the power of light creates opportunities for innovation in fields such as materials handling and particle manipulation.
2. Mainstream Applications of Tractor Beams - As researchers move particles up to 10 metres using tractor beams, there are exciting opportunities for innovation in fields such as package delivery and automated warehouse systems.
3. Sci-fi-inspired Technology - The success of creating a real-life tractor beam technology based on a sci-fi concept opens up possibilities for creative innovation in entertainment, gaming, and simulation industries.
Industry Implications
1. Materials Handling Industry - Tractor beam technology can revolutionize the materials handling industry by providing a non-contact and precise method of moving materials, reducing damage and increasing efficiency.
2. Logistics and Delivery Industry - Tractor beam technology can potentially make package delivery faster and more efficient by allowing objects to be transported without physical contact and reducing the need for manual labor.
3. Entertainment and Gaming Industry - Tractor beam technology creates opportunities for immersive entertainment experiences, such as simulation rides and interactive exhibits, inspired by the science fiction genre.
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