Chapter 1.5: Emerging Technologies: Impact on Everyday Life

Emerging Technologies

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Computer systems simulating human intelligence.

• Examples: PR2 robot, Deep Blue, self-parking cars.

• Potential uses in military and police, but ethical concerns exist (e.g., empathy).

Biometrics

• Identification using unique body characteristics.

• Types: Fingerprint scanning, eye (iris) recognition, facial and voice recognition.

• Purpose: Enhance security for computer system access.

Vision Enhancement

• Uses video technology to improve user's vision.

• Amplifies infrared light for clear images in darkness.

• Applications: Military missions and night surveillance.

Robotics

• Used in manufacturing for labor-intensive tasks.

• Can be programmed for specific tasks or used manually.

• Benefits: Precision, ability to work in extreme conditions, robotic surgery.

• Factory applications: lifting, assembly, welding, painting.

Quantum Cryptography

• Secures online communications.

• Commonly used in online shopping and banking to protect data.

Computer-Assisted Translation

• Example: Google Translate, translates typed or spoken language.

3D and Holographic Imaging

• Technology for producing 3D images; holographic images move like the original in 3D.

• Creation process involves splitting a laser beam into two, half of the light reflected of the object onto a photographic plate. The other half (reference beam) is reflected off a mirror onto the same photographic plate.

Virtual Reality

• Artificial environment created with software, often using a head-mounted display.

• Uses: Training, education, computer games, sports analysis, construction visualization.