So from what I've gathered, the good Doctor's sonic screwdriver is a neat little device that allows him to manipulate objects with sound waves. It's a pretty useful piece of technology in the show, but it's still only science fiction. There's no way we're making progress towards making it a reality, right?
Well, you read the headline, so you already know the answer to that.
Sure, this "sonic screwdriver" might seem extremely primitive next to its fictional counterpart, but this is a pretty big leap forward. The technology also has a wide range of potential applications, like (as the article mentions) non-invasive ultrasound surgery, targeted drug delivery, and ultrasonic manipulation of cells. It's a stepping stone, sure, but one that may take us to some great new heights.
Also, it's science fiction made a little less fiction. Horrific robot wars and doomsday scenarios aside, it's hard to argue with that.
And since I know next to nothing about Dr. Who, I'll end this article with Inspector Spacetime instead: It's not a matter of where you can get this new device, but when.
Well, you read the headline, so you already know the answer to that.
Source: BBCThe Dundee University researchers have created a machine which uses ultrasound to lift and rotate a rubber disc floating in a cylinder of water.
It is said to be the first time ultrasound waves have been used to turn objects rather than simply push them.
...Ultrasound waves could already be made to push objects and scientists believed they could also turn them - but the Dundee University team claims to have now proved it.
Sure, this "sonic screwdriver" might seem extremely primitive next to its fictional counterpart, but this is a pretty big leap forward. The technology also has a wide range of potential applications, like (as the article mentions) non-invasive ultrasound surgery, targeted drug delivery, and ultrasonic manipulation of cells. It's a stepping stone, sure, but one that may take us to some great new heights.
Also, it's science fiction made a little less fiction. Horrific robot wars and doomsday scenarios aside, it's hard to argue with that.
And since I know next to nothing about Dr. Who, I'll end this article with Inspector Spacetime instead: It's not a matter of where you can get this new device, but when.