| Image Credit: Z. Wang and L. Wei |
Demand is rising for wearable devices that seamlessly integrate into daily life while enhancing connectivity, health monitoring and convenience. This pursuit of a smarter lifestyle has led to the emergence of new forms of smart devices, including smartwatches, fitness bands and smartglasses—but functional clothing remains rare.
A feature article in the March issue of Optica’s magazine Optics & Photonics News (OPN) takes a closer look how integrating functional fibers—particularly optical and optoelectronic fibers—into wearable technology could usher in a new era of smart clothing that maintains the comfort and versatility of traditional fabrics while serving as wearable devices.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Image Credit: Qiulan Liu, Zhejiang Lab and Zhejiang University in China |
| In a recent article from Optics Letters, researchers describe how they used high-speed laser writing to fabricate precision micro-optical devices and metamaterials. This fast and high-precision approach allows rapid fabrication of complex optical elements, which are crucial for the performance of next-generation immersive technologies. |
|
|
|
|
|
The researchers found that agave leaves have an inner core that remains highly hydrated while the outer layer acts as a protective barrier to reduce water loss.
Image Credit: Enrique Castro, CIO |
| In a new study published in Applied Optics, learn how researchers used terahertz spectroscopy and imaging to gain new insights into how agave plants store and manage water to survive in dry conditions. Understanding how plants adapt to dry conditions could lead to higher crop yields with lower water consumption, benefiting farmers, food production and global food security. |
|
|
|
|
|
| Photo Courtesty of Tawfique Hasan |
| Tawfique Hasan was advised not to compare himself with other colleagues in academia and to find joy in research. This has shaped his career in many ways, most notably in his love of his work and achieving a work-life balance. He shares similar advice for early career researchers, adding, "Don't wait for the perfect moment, as life is full of exciting opportunities." After all, science and technology can change the lives of millions, and he aims to dream big and look across disciplines to make new developments. |
|
|
|
|
|
 Image Credit: Optica |
| Call for Papers |
| Present your research and connect with global leaders at the Optica Imaging Congress—six topical meetings advancing imaging science and shaping future technologies! |
|
|
|
 Image Credit: Optica |
| Register Now and Save! |
| Join the Optica Quantum 2.0 Conference and Exhibition to explore cutting-edge quantum optics, foster collaborations and stretch the possibilities beyond imagination. |
|
|
|
|
|
