Skip to content

Sam's News — tech-research — 2026-08-04

TL;DR

Tech Research

MIT researchers develop ShiftLens, a 3D-printing system for interactive objects without electronics

MIT researchers created ShiftLens, a 3D printing system that enables objects to change their surface appearance when pressed, slid, or turned without any internal electronics. The system combines optical layers with mechanical parts and can be manufactured in a single pass on a multimaterial 3D printer, allowing individuals without technical expertise to design dynamic everyday objects like warning signs or chemical bottles that alert users to improper usage.

  • System uses specially arranged optical layers combined with built-in mechanical parts
  • Objects change appearance based on user interactions like pressing or rotating
  • Can be manufactured in one pass on a multimaterial 3D printer
  • Eliminates need for fragile electronic circuits
  • Published August 5, 2026

Sources: MIT News Web Search

Georgia Tech receives $18.1M NSF grant to build AI-powered cloud laboratory for advanced manufacturing

Georgia Tech received $18.1 million from the National Science Foundation to develop an AI-enabled cloud laboratory that allows researchers nationwide to conduct advanced manufacturing and materials experiments remotely. The facility will expand autonomous workflows across more than 100 pieces of equipment, enabling AI-assisted coordination of experiments and serving over 400 researchers from 150 organizations.

  • $18.1 million NSF funding
  • Part of nationwide network of 20 AI-enabled cloud laboratories
  • Will serve 400+ researchers from 150+ academic, industry, and government organizations
  • More than half of participants expected to participate remotely
  • Based at Georgia Tech's Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility

Sources: Yahoo News Web Search