News EPFL

The impending revolution of low-power quantum computers

Published:23.11.11 — Electronics could be 100 times less energy-hungry thanks to a quantum phenomenon known as the tunnel effect - by 2017 in consumer electronics

Mathematics: Mapping a fixed point

Published:22.11.11 — For fifty years, mathematicians have grappled with a so-called “fixed point” theorem. An EPFL-based team has now found an elegant, one-page solution that opens up new perspectives in physics and economics.

EPFL's long history of Geotechnical Engineering

Published:18.11.11 — It was an era of massive construction projects - dams, roads, and bridges – and many felt there was a need to better understand and control the behavior of the soil and rock underpinnings of all these infrastructures. Thus, in 1935, the Soil and Rock Mechanics Laboratories were created. Today, they’re celebrating their 75th birthday.

A touchscreen you can really feel

Published:16.11.11 — EPFL researchers have invented a new generation of tactile surfaces with relief effects – users can feel actual raised keys under their fingers. This technology could have many applications, particularly in improving access to electronic media for the visually impaired.

Terahertz boost detection

Published:15.11.11 — Swissto12—an EPFL spin-off—could help boost the performance of detection systems and create new antennas for mobile telephony and on-board satellite systems thanks to an innovative transmission system that takes advantage of a previously under-utilized wavelength: the terahertz.

The Delta robot – Swiss-made and fastest in the world!

Published:14.11.11 — It’s the story of a long dynasty of industrial robots. Delta’s three arms began by packaging chocolates, before being used in watchmaking, tele-surgery and the processing of materials....

Better muscles thanks to a genetic knock-out

Published:11.11.11 — A team of researchers at EPFL, the University of Lausanne and the Salk Institute has improved the muscle structure and stamina of mice and nematodes by reducing the function of a natural inhibitor, suggesting treatments for age-related or genetically caused muscle degeneration are within reach.