Siemens and the South Coast Air Quality Management District are conducting a pilot program for electric highways on one mile of roadway between the Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif. Intended to reduce carbon emissions caused by truck smog, the eHighway utilizes a catenary system similar to many trolley or streetcar systems with overhead electric wires that connect to the specially outfitted trucks. [Siemens]
Google has unveiled a new digital library of 3D objects to use in virtual reality or augmented reality applications called Poly. The platform, which includes thousands of free models, allows users to upload files, as well as edit or remix existing objects. [Google]
The National Grid will install a 48-megawatt-hour energy storage system, provided by Tesla, on the island of Nantucket off the coast of Massachusetts. Currently, the island is powered by two submarine cables that connect to the mainland transmission system, but increased demand is putting pressure on the system. The island has two backup diesel generators if the cables fail, but these generators need to be replaced. [National Grid]
Researchers from Imperial College London, the University of Cambridge, and Central Saint Martins have successfully created a wallpaper-like covering that also acts as both a solar bio-battery and solar panel—and it is environmentally friendly to boot. [ARCHITECT]
A team from the University of Michigan has developed a software algorithm that could double the speed of 3D printers. Previously, printers set at high speeds would vibrate, causing irregularities in the printed objects. But this new program accounts for this, adjusting the printer's motion as it works. [University of Michigan News]
Research and development group Sandia National Laboratories has developed a method for converting biofuel waste into chemical compounds used in nylons and plastics. [Sandia National Laboratories]
ICYMI: ZGF Architects designed the Rocky Mountain Institute’s Innovation Center in Colorado to be a model for high-performance office buildings. Is the project—which features no central heat or air-conditioning—living up to its lofty promise? [ARCHITECT]
