Temperature

Scientists have developed a sensor made of incredibly thin strands of sapphire that can withstand extreme heat and radiation, and possibly be put to work in the harsh environment of nuclear fusion reactors and enable more streamlined air travel.

Although digital body-temperature thermometers may be easier to read than their analog counterparts, there's always the chance that their battery will go flat. That's where the BCool comes in, as you just give it a few shakes to power it up.

For now, quantum computers are mostly limited to labs and big experimental setups. But Japanese researchers have now made a step towards more accessible quantum computing devices, finding a way to “twist” light at room temperature.

Electronics and batteries are vulnerable to very high or low temperatures, but a new thermal switch could help deal with both. Made from graphene foam, it can dynamically trap heat when it’s cold out or allow heat to escape when it gets too warm.

​Although it may not be way up there on your list of problems to address, scalding your mouth on too-hot tea or coffee can be a hassle. A German startup is out to do something about it, with the iLIQ temperature-sensing drink-cooling device.

Energy is all around us – we just need to work out how to tap into it. Now a team from MIT has developed a device called a thermal resonator, which could essentially pull electricity out of thin air by taking advantage of gradual ambient temperature changes over the course of the day.

​When fruit is being transported from the field to the supermarket, it's vitally important that it remain refrigerated. With that in mind, scientists have developed temperature sensors that could ride along with fruit shipments, replicating the fruit's size, shape and structure.

Through a special organ on their snouts, pit vipers can sense the body heat of their prey. Scientists have developed an artificial skin that uses a similar mechanism​ and could allow prosthetic limbs to detect changes in temperature, or make a smart bandage that can warn of infection.

Kinsa has launched an Elmo-branded version of its smart ear thermometer which it hopes will make taking the temperature of ill kids easier. An app for the new thermometer will feature the voice of the Sesame Street character delivering temperature readings and telling kids to feel better soon.

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have created an adhesive from the metal gallium that has on-demand reversible glue-like properties that could have applications in everything from industrial electronics processes to switchable adhesive feet for climbing robots.

The firm behind CubeSensors has launched a new trio of home sensors designed to improve your health, productivity and sleep. The Koto smart sensors, which are currently funding on Indiegogo, also feature IFTTT compatibility.

Unlike devices that merely monitor and report sleeping data, such as the Sleepace RestOn, the nuyu Sleep System takes a more active approach under the covers, by automatically changing bed temperature through the night.