When the Cloud Meets the Ground - TRENDS Research & Advisory
The National ·
The article content was not provided. Therefore, a factual summary describing what happened cannot be generated as there is no information to extract.
The National ·
The article content was not provided. Therefore, a factual summary describing what happened cannot be generated as there is no information to extract.
TII ·
The 34th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (GASS) of the International Union of Radio Science (URSI) will be held in Rome from August 28 to September 4. The Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC), led by Dr Chaouki Kasmi, will present a tutorial and five scientific papers. DERC's presentations will focus on advances in electromagnetics and optoelectronics. Why it matters: DERC's participation highlights the UAE's growing role in international radio science research and development.
TII ·
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) in the UAE has partnered with the University of Pisa to develop electronically controlled surfaces for dynamic broadband radio-absorption. This collaboration aims to test new materials and manufacturing processes for flexible radio-absorbing surfaces suited for harsh environments like the UAE. The project seeks to create smart-shields, active electromagnetic frequency selective surfaces, and electromagnetic energy harvesting surfaces. Why it matters: The partnership accelerates innovation in applied electromagnetics and could lead to advancements in telecommunications, energy, and electromagnetic protection in the region.
KAUST ·
KAUST researchers published a paper in Nature Electronics outlining communications infrastructure enhancements for 6G to provide global internet access and bridge the digital divide. They propose innovations like aerial access networks, intelligent spectrum management, and energy efficiency improvements. In a separate IEEE paper, KAUST and Missouri S&T researchers demonstrate approaches for improving network throughput using UAVs and balloons in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure. Why it matters: The research addresses the UN's Sustainable Development Goal of universal internet access and aims to bring connectivity to underserved populations, enabling access to essential services and opportunities.
KAUST ·
KAUST researchers have found that dust clouds in the Arabian Peninsula are three times larger than previously estimated by current models. The study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres, uses refined mathematical models and data collected since 2012 to analyze the impact of coarse dust particles. The updated model indicates that larger particles contribute to over 80% of dust mass on land, leading to significant efficiency loss for solar technology, estimated at 15-45% depending on location. Why it matters: Accurate dust modeling is crucial for the strategic deployment and maintenance of solar technology, supporting Saudi Arabia's sustainable economy goals.
TII ·
John Pantoja from the Directed Energy Research Center at TII presented a method to estimate the effects of high current impulses on electro-conductive textiles. The method uses specific action, a parameter to determine burst of exploding wires, and a new equivalent electrical circuit. The model estimates the current intensity needed to melt the conductive layer at contact areas between yarns, and is validated experimentally on ripstop woven fabrics. Why it matters: The research explores conductive fabrics for portable lightning protection shelters, potentially reducing lightning-related accidents in high-risk populations.