Looking into 2009, past all of the doom and gloom, is the opportunity to explore and learn. Among the new technologies that have piqued my interest are unobtrusive hydrokinetic electrical generation, image projection and unlit displays, solid-state replacement technologies (incl. mobility), and a special focus on the human body.
Exploring the human body, among all of the potential jokes, is actually very important. I'm not about to accept anything like homeopathy or many of the other oddball quick-fix schemes, but understanding our nerve system and the use of energy within the body may be key to eliminating years worth of sorrow, pain, and hunger for myself and the people I will know. This will be an important part of my ongoing "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger Challenge".
Solid state technologies, found in the form of transistors, LEDs, photovoltaic collectors, flash memory, and numerous other gadgets found in most Canadian homes, represents my prefered use of harnessed electrical energy. Without wear and tear the users of solid state technologies can enjoy the use of their devices for years longer without wasting energy on spinning and heating when they do not have to. I might as well declare another challenge, the "Solid State Challenge". An ongoing simplification of our modern commodities.
The transmission of knowledge in the late twentieth century was dominated by video screens, predominantly CRT technologies. In this decade we have seen the progressive conversion to photochemical (Plasma) and solid state (LCD) display technologies although these are slow and incomplete. Incomplete. They are replacements for a poor technology, time to blank the slate. With solid state projection a user can carry a device the size of a cell phone to enjoy the traditional glow of a lighted display, and the 3M MPro-110 is an excellent start for this idea. The other solid state image technology is the E-Ink display, as it is unlit and monochrome for the time being it has a mixed response from the consumer market. I am confident that the efficiency of the E-Ink display for static content and the Projection technology for video content will improve efficiency and the user experience. Photos never glowed before, and they shouldn't anymore.
Then that other thing... hydrokinetic. Yea, not exactly solid state. I've got a feeling its going to be huge in Niagara though. I enjoy being involved with a strong project and if anyone knows about any plans for new HK projects please contact me.
Until next year, stay safe and power up!