François Willème was far ahead of his time when he invented the photosculpture in 1859. He unknowingly sowed the seeds of one of the most impressive technological innovations: the 3D printer. With the use of 24 cameras, Willème would take 24 shots to create a 3D replica of the original object using a pantograph, a mechanical device for tracing an image. He would then fill the reproduction with clay, cast it, or paint it using bronze or plaster of Paris to produce a sculpture. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
