Archived News for Engineering Professionals - October, 2015
Yamaha’s new motorcycle-riding robot has called out nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi.
More scientists swing against old coal
The Australian Academy of Science has become the latest major institution to offload its fossil fuel investments.
Sonic tractor beam floats with new motion
British engineers have unveiled the world’s first sonic tractor beam – a device that can lift and move objects using sound waves.
Wave lab looks to the clouds
Advanced equipment at a new research facility launched this week will allow scientists to better understand the relationship between the wind, ocean and sky.
BHP won't let downturn damage its view
The chairman of BHP Billiton says the company remains “robust and resilient”, despite taking a battering in recent months.
Chevron shells out for dodgy tax deal
Profit shifting has led to big costs for Chevron, with the Supreme Court ruling it must pay $322 million to catch up on its tax-dodging.
Methane bugs could help Earth breathe easy
Australian bio-engineers have discovered two new methane-eating organisms that could help clean up anything from gassy coal operations to cattle farms.
New chief seeks nuclear nicety
Australia has a new chief scientist, in a move some say will open up debate about nuclear energy.
Brain links leap into tablet age
Neuro-engineers have successfully enabled an almost entirely paralysed person to control a tablet PC with her brain.
Cold Canadian feet could cost big
A decision by the Canadian government could mean Australia’s 70 F-35A jets cost $100 million more.
Disagreement over union's background deals
The former head of the Australian Workers Union (AWU) in Victoria has responded to claims of big donation deals around the $2.5 billion EastLink road project.
Shorten seeks safer imports
The Federal Opposition says the Government should do more to stop asbestos-laden building products coming into Australia.
Steel giant propped up by pay deal
BlueScope Steel will continue with steelmaking operations at Port Kembla in the New South Wales Illawarra region, saving thousands of local jobs.
Sun state team streaks ahead in solar spree
A Queensland team has become the first Australian squad to cross the line and complete the gruelling 3,000 km Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.
Builder wants to break into SA rivers
An enterprising developer has a bold plan for South Australia’s Port River – floating accommodation.
Local lasers boost hot knowledge
Australian scientists have produced a laser device that could create a new international standard for temperature.
Plastic skin gives sense of robot hands
Engineers in the US have created a prosthetic ‘skin’ with embedded circuitry that can send messages directly to the brain.
Second airport draft plan lands
The Federal Government has provided some more details on the plans for Sydney’s second airport at Badgerys Creek.
3D-printed teeth take bite at bacteria
The next wave of prosthetic teeth could be churned out of a 3D-printer.
Big rail deal draws regulator's eye
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has some serious reservations about a proposed takeover of ports and rail operator Asciano, by a Brookfield Infrastructure Partners consortium.