Molecules have internal motions that are characteristic of their structure and identity. These motions can be studied by spectroscopy in different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Molecular spectra can be used as a “fingerprint” to unambiguously state whether or not a particular chemical is present and in what amount. As such, small portable spectrometers are frequently used as components of chemical sensors.

A miniature, portable wireless vital signs monitor (MWVSM), called Mini-medic™, could aid in the triage and diagnosis of trauma patients with and without traumatic brain injury (TBI). The MWVSM consists of two components, both of which are the approximate size and weight of a cellphone: one is a sensor that is placed either on the forehead or the fingertip of a patient, and the other is a monitor that receives a wireless signal transmitted up to 100 m carried by the medic.

US national and many international hearing conservation programs (HCPs) have adopted a noise exposure criterion of 85 dBA for a time-weighted average of 8 hours, with a 3 dB per doubling exchange rate (safe exposure duration was cut in half for each 3 dB increase in noise level). Military personnel who work in extreme noise environments require high attenuation from hearing protection in order to complete a normal duty day without risk of permanent hearing loss. Improvements to both hearing protection and noise dose monitoring have been consistently recommended and pursued as a means to reduce risk for noise-induced hearing loss.

A cable installation simulator from W. L. Gore & Associates aids in evaluating the stress of installation on microwave airframe assemblies, thereby minimizing the risk of cable assembly damage or failure during installation. By comparing signal integrity before and after installation, Gore can engineer assemblies that withstand airframe installation as well as the demands of the aircraft’s flight envelope. Use of the installation simulator gives aircraft manufacturers and installers evidence that their assemblies will provide the same level of electrical performance after installation as when they are new. More detail at https://articles.sae.org/13287.

Custom grounding cables and clips from Mueller Electric help prevent the generation of electrical sparks caused by static electricity, which can damage equipment and lead to safety hazards. The products support the typical grounding and bonding requirements found within aircraft fueling, electrical equipment, marine, oil and gas tanks and drums, and pump grounding systems. More detail at https://articles.sae.org/13241.

PCB Piezotronics’ surface microphone for R&D testing features a low-profile design ideal for testing in confined spaces and windy environments. The low-profile (1/8-in height) microphone and surface mount pad reduces the impact of undesired air pressure on the microphone during the measurement process. Model 130B40 is an all-in-one, prepolarized microphone and preamplifier combination with a water- and dust-resistant cover. Maximum dynamic range allows measurements to 142 dB and a 32 dBA low noise floor. More detail at https://articles.sae.org/13242.

Three high-performance thermoplastics from Victrex have been added to the Digimat-MX material and modeling database to accelerate the application development process while helping to minimize component weight and costs. The software suite from e-Xstream engineering offers data on Victrex PEEK 150CA30, Victrex PEEK 90HMF40, and Victrex PEEK 150GL30. Victrex PEEK 150CA30 is typically used to replace metals such as aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel. More detail at https://articles.sae.org/13284.

Powerful visual computing processors for dashboard displays are now taking on safety-critical driver-assistance functions. Read more at https://articles.sae.org/13314.

Autonomous vehicles are a hot topic, most noticeably in the automotive world. But automated driving/operation is making significant headway in the off-highway realm as well, especially in mining applications. John Williamson of Komatsu America Corp. and Serge Lambermont of Delphi Electronics & Safety provide some insights on the topic. Read more at https://articles.sae.org/13300.

The actual J1349 rating is more than 100 hp more than Chrysler engineers teased in late May. The automaker's first production supercharged V8 uses a Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger supplied by IHI. The engine's high-output spec required extensive upgrading of engine reciprocating components to handle the extra loads. Read more at https://articles.sae.org/13227.