Ορολογία της Ημέρας (T.O.D) – 22/2/2017 [4-D printing]

4-D printing is additive manufacturing that prints objects capable of transformation and perhaps even self-assembly.

When a complex item is created using 3-D printing, the item is printed in parts that must be assembled. The purpose of 4-D printing is to reduce the total time needed to create a finished product by printing with materials that are capable of changing form or self-assembling with minimal human interaction. The “D” in 4-D printing stands for time — more specifically, time saved.

Small Plastic Birds protecting Huge Metal Ones > Flappy bird-drone keeps airports safe — TechCrunch

Remember that plane that landed in the Hudson? The whole saga started with a bird strike. Birds at airports can be a terrifying ordeal, so you’d be unsurprised to hear that airports pay a pretty penny to keep the area around an airport clear. Clear Flight Solutions’ Robird is a drone that flaps its wings…

via This flappy bird-drone keeps airports safe — TechCrunch

On bots, language & making tech disappear — TechCrunch (βγαίνουν τα σώψυχα αν μιλάς με botakia?)

This year’s new buzzword in computer design circles is without question “bots.” As with anything we build, we give bots names. A name can be a way of expressing trust in an object — or expressing control over it. But giving a bot an identity isn’t always for the best. Calling a bot Siri does…

via On bots, language and making technology disappear — TechCrunch

Smart Homes – Smart toasters – smart stuff everywhere…

My favorite thing, hands down, about the Griffin Connected Toaster is the slider on the app. On one side is an icon of a white piece of bread. On the other, is one that’s all black. Sure, a smart toaster is the epitome of connected appliance ridiculousness, but there’s something to be said for being…

via Smart toasters are here — TechCrunch