You need the Flash Player version 8.0.0.0 or higher and a JavaScript enabled browser to view this site

Smart Surfaces Switch Properties

Related Article: How Nanotechnology Works

Watch this video about smart surfaces on HowStuffWorks. At the presence of an external stimulus, such as an electrical current, these smart surfaces can actually switch properties. Learn about these surfaces in this research video from MIT.

browse videos in devices

Deadliest Catch: Crane Pots Hydraulics (1:23)

Northwestern Deck Boss Edgar Hansen explains how cranes, pots, and hydraulics work to keep a crab boat running.

Assembly Line: Cannondale Bicycles (6:49)

One focus at the upper end of the bicycle market is what differentiates Cannondale bicycles from the rest. Learn more about Cannondale Bicycles in this video from Discovery.

Solar Balloons (2:43)

Watch this Reuters video showing how solar balloons could solve power needs for remote areas. Designed by the Technion Institute of Technology, solar balloons could provide power without taking up valuable farmland or living space.

Video Goggles (1:16)

Watch this Reuters video showing how Japanese researchers are always able to remember where they put their keys. The "key" is to wear a pair of video goggles that identifies and records everything you see for instant playback.

Factories on Your Desktop (1:46)

Watch this video about factories on your desktops called "fabbers" on HowStuffWorks. Researchers are developing high-tech desktop precision laser cutters, or fabbers, and envision them being next to everyone's computer at home one day. Learn how... More »

recently added

Assembly Line: Hay Baler (6:53)

Feel free to grab a bale of hay and test one of New Holland's hay balers. Learn more about manufacturing in this video.

Discoveries: Urban Dispersion (5:02)

Many residents of New York City still live in fear of another terrorist attack and ask questions like: What would happen during a deadly attack with poison gas? Learn more about potential threats in this video.

Assembly Line: Baltimore Chisels (5:44)

Check out the assembly line at Baltimore Toolworks where some of the greatest chisels are made. Learn more about manufacturing in this video.

How It's Made: Globe (2:35)

What goes in to making a globe? Learn more about globes and Earth in this video.

Simulator Controls 2 (1:39)

From the archives of Discovery: The controls in a flight simulator are virtually identical to the controls in an aircraft. Learn more about flight simulation.

Storm Simulator 10 (1:43)

From the archives of Discovery: Using a camera and monitor, the research team observes storm formation within the simulation. Learn more about storm simulation in this video.

Flight Simulation (2:03)

From the archives of Discovery: Flight simulations realistically mimic actual flying conditions. Learn more about flight simulation.

Storm Simulator 5 (2:34)

From the archives of Discovery: This storm simulator uses a simple process to simulate storms. Learn more about storm simulation.

Storm Simulator 4 (2:40)

From the archives of Discovery: This storm simulator uses a simple process to simulate storms. Learn more about storm simulation.

Storm Simulator 2 (2:04)

From the archives of Discovery: This storm simulator uses a simple process to simulate storms. Learn more about storm simulation.