G-38, 39 and 40: An artist's exploration of space

Three experiments are described which use space processing technology in the formation of and coating of bubbles and spheres to be orbited as sculptures visible from Earth. In one experiment, a 22,000 m1 sphere is to ride into orbit containing a 15 psi Earth atmosphere. Once in orbit, a controller directs a valve to open, linking the sphere to a vacuum of space. Technologies used in the fabrication of these art forms include vacuum film deposition and large bubble formation in the space environment

Impact mitigating capabilities of a spray-on elastomer coating applied to concrete

Structural protection against the effects of a nearby explosive detonation is an area of growing importance. Spray-on elastomer coatings are of interest as a practical and low cost protective solution. Recent research has demonstrated the effectiveness of such coatings for blast mitigation. However, there are two loading scenarios of concern for these applications: blast pressures and fragment impacts. To date, there remains a need to understand the merits of this protective solution for impact indentation of concrete structural elements. In this work, we examine whether, and by what mechanism, an elastomer coating can offer protection in this case. A series of quasi-static indentation and dynamic impact experiments are performed using a 0.1 kg circular cylindrical (i.e. blunt) projectile. It is demonstrated that the coating displays a significant protective capability over the full range of impact velocities considered, c. 45 - 150 m/s. The coating remains intact until impacted at a velocity of c. 120 m/s when it fails by a ductile, tearing mechanism, forming a plug which undergoes large elastic contraction after projectile penetration. A finite element model of the impact indentation of uncoated and coated concrete cubes is developed and validated against the experiments. Focusing on the early time steps and damage initiation in the concrete, the numerical model is used to interrogate the mechanism by which the elastomer achieves its mitigating effect. It is found that the way in which the elastomer alters the stress distribution in the concrete, and its time evolution, is key to its performance. These findings provide a basis for optimising protective coatings for concrete structural elements.George and Lillian Schiff Foundation, University of Cambridg

InsurTech and Claims

Questions related to InsurTech and claims

InsurTech and Actuarial

Questions regarding InsurTech and actuarial work

Module 1: Introduction to Technology Foresight, Risk Management, and InsurTech

Instructional Module 1 for course, Developing Technology Foresight: Case Study of AI in InsurTech

Introduction to the Course

This PDF document describes the course, Developing Technology Foresight: Case Study of AI in InsurTech, and includes learning outcomes and a course outline

Module 3: Technology Foresight and InsurTech

Instructional Module 3 for course, Developing Technology Foresight: Case Study of AI in InsurTech

InsurTech and Distribution

Questions regarding InsurTech and distribution