Tech Universe: Tuesday 30 November

The US are planning to make their 911 system accessible to text messages, pictures, and videos. Photo / Thinkstock

HLP SND AMBLNCE: Like it or not, people do try to send SMS messages to emergency services. The US are planning to make their 911 system accessible to text messages, pictures, and videos. The system could also allow automated sensors, such as personal medical devices, to make emergency calls. The change will mean upgrading equipment, training staff, and covering costs. Just watch out for autocorrect on the txt messages. More at Arstechnica.

GTAC: It's amazing how much information can be stored in DNA. Hong Kong researchers have shown how to change words into into DNA-ready code, so they could be stored in bacteria. They convert letters to an ASCII number, then render that in Base 4, then match each digit to a DNA base equivalent. Then they break data into packets with checksums, and place them in bacteria. 1 gram of E. coli could hold 900 terabytes of data. Be careful with the anti-bacterial handwash! More at iO9.

SUB STALKER: Modern submarines can run submerged for thousands of kilometres, so tracking them ties up ships and crew. An automated robo-frigate, with no crew, could do the job more easily, especially as crew comfort would be irrelevant. Such a vessel is still being designed, but DARPA has contracts out for it. I guess the enemy won't think to employ hackers to sabotage the comms. More at TheRegister.

DRIVING LIGHT: Heavy vehicles burn more fuel and create more pollution. Cars are generally made of aluminium and steel - both fairly heavy. Swinburne University of Technology in Australia, figure lasers, rivets and glue may allow lightweight magnesium to be used too, overcoming traditional problems in working with the metal. Lasers spot-heat the magnesium, allowing rivets to be inserted, while glue helps hold everything together. Better not make cars too lightweight: a good Canterbury Nor'Wester could lift them off the road. More at Swinburne.

SMART PLASTER: A sticking plaster normally just covers over broken skin. A team at Yonsei University, South Korea, created a skin patch that uses corrugated microporous polystyrene that releases a liquid as the patch distorts. This could release pain medication as inflamed tissue flexes. Although I'm sure some athletes will use it to enhance performance more accurately. More at NewScientist.

- Miraz Jordan knowit.co.nz