When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as airplane and automobile parts to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in the 1980s as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and patient-specific models to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
As the U.S. Open kicks off in New York this week, the Williams sisters will go with natural fibers, but Rafael Nadal prefers a particular polymer. When it comes to stringing their tennis racquets, that is.
Steve Inskeep and David Greene report on NPR:
The game they’re playing is a game a [sic] skill, but the technology matters too. The game we’re seeing this week is in many ways different than it used to be, because the equipment has changed.
In the pro tennis world today, the material strings get more attention than the racquet. Nearly three decades ago, graphite racquet took over the game that wood had started. Strings have traditionally been made from animal intestines. Amateurs usually stick with inexpensive and forgiving nylon. Now, some high-level players are taking to polyester because tennis researchers say using these strings can help add more spin on the ball, which can be a critical advantage in a tennis match.
Roman Prokes strings tennis racquets for stars such as Pete Sampras and Andy Roddick. Prokes told NPR, “With the polyester strings, it kind of grabs the ball, you almost hold it on the strings, and it generates tremendous spin.”
Tennis researcher John Yandell, who is also editor and founder of TennisPlayer.net, is trying to get a better look at the theory. He used high-speed cameras to film Nadal hitting with polyester strings and told NPR:
No one ever saw another human being hit a tennis ball. That event lasts about four milliseconds, which is about 20 times too fast for your eye to register.
Tennis writer John Speckman told NPR that the footage shows that “the ball is more lively because the strings are more lively.” He added,” They’re moving basically twice as much. They’re sliding out of position and snapping back right where they came from before the ball leaves the strings.”
Will everyone switch to polyester? Not necessarily, because although players say that polyester strings deliver more power and spin, they can serve up a sore arm, too.
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