Not your normal umbrella, the sensing umbrella will respond to the level of air pollution in the area with a series of LED lights while helping track air quality. The Arduino-equipped sensing umbrella will be able to gather pollution data and upload it to pollution databases, making it possible to generate local pollution indicator maps for smaller regions. The umbrella's LED lights will also provide a more immediate source of information as they will flash and change color...

A new biological concrete able to support plant life could lead to a new generation of vertical gardens while eliminating the need for soil or complex hydroponic systems. The multilayer concrete replaces the traditional Portland cement with magnesium phosphate cement, which is slightly acidic. The acidity level creates a good environment for plants such as fungi, lichens and mosses. The concrete also consists of three layers: a waterproofing layer on top of the structural layer;...

The idea is to create a wearable device to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis through light instead of medication. The battery-powered device will be simple to use, with only a single on/off button. It will be equipped with an array of 40 high-intensity LEDs that will shine UV-free, blue light onto the skin - a therapy that has been proven to reduce the rate at which the cells divide. The device will fit both the arms and legs and can be worn at any time, making it easier to...

Microbes bearing tiny solar panels may be the next step in creating a more efficient way of converting the sun's energy than is possible with current methods. The process will mimic photosynthesis. By placing tiny solar panels on microbes, it will be possible to create a system for artificial photosynthesis which will harness sunlight and, in turn, create energy to drive the production of hydrogen. The photocatalysts will be able to harness solar energy for the manufacture of...

The Eko attachment will attach to almost any standard stethoscope to add a plethora of new features that can be accessed via smartphone. While electronic stethoscopes have been available for some time, their use has not yet caught on. The Eko attachment will electronic stethoscopes more widely available by adding electronic capabilities to the analog devices. The Eko will attach to the stem of a standard stethoscope's chestpiece, where it pairs with a companion app to deliver...