Latest news with #MichaelTam
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists develop tree-inspired tech that can pull drinking water straight from the sea: 'A … solution to the emerging water crisis'
Scientists develop tree-inspired tech that can pull drinking water straight from the sea: 'A … solution to the emerging water crisis' The world's growing population, changing climate, and issues with pollution have made getting fresh, drinkable water more difficult and costly than ever. Over 4 billion people globally are affected by a lack of access to potable water. However, researchers from the University of Waterloo have come up with a more efficient way to turn salt water into fresh water. A new type of desalination device could make fresh water both more accessible and more affordable. "Our inspiration comes from observing how nature sustains itself and the way water evaporates and condenses in the environment," said Dr. Michael Tam, a professor from the Department of Chemical Engineering at Waterloo. "The system we've engineered induces water to evaporate, transports it to the surface, and condenses it in a closed cycle, effectively preventing the accumulation of salt that reduces the efficiency of the device." Most desalination devices use a membrane to separate the salt from the water. This is effective, but salt collects on the membrane, so over time, less water is able to travel through it. It has to be cleaned off frequently to keep it working at peak efficiency. By contrast, the research team at Waterloo created nickel foam and coated it with a conductive polymer and pollen particles that respond to heat. It draws up a thin layer of seawater with an action similar to that of a tree's capillaries, separates the water from the salt, and cycles the salt back down into the mixture. All of this is purely powered by solar energy, which is generated by the material that the researchers created. It is able to harvest solar energy with about 93% efficiency. Dr. Yuning Li, another Waterloo professor who helped the team measure the efficiency of their device, told Waterloo News, "This new device is not only efficient but also portable, making it ideal for use in remote regions where access to fresh water is limited. This technology offers a sustainable solution to the emerging water crisis." Where do you get most of your drinking water from? Straight from the tap Out of a filter Bottled water Cans of sparkling water Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
UBTECH's Tam on Plans to Scale Up Production
Michael Tam, Chief Brand Officer at UBTECH, discusses the robotics firm's business outlook and growth strategy, as the company plans to increase production 10-fold in 2026. He speaks exclusively with Annabelle Droulers on the sidelines of the BEYOND Expo in Macau on "Bloomberg: The China Show."
Al Bawaba
23-05-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
China to unveil its first home companion robot this year, priced at $20K
Published May 23rd, 2025 - 04:59 GMT ALBAWABA - UBTECH Robotics, a Chinese robot manufacturer, has announced the launch of its first home companion robot, set to debut this year at a price of $20,000. The humanoid robot is designed to serve as a household companion, aligning with the rapidly growing market for domestic robotics in China. Also Read Abu Dhabi officially begins robotaxi tests Home companion humanoid robot UBTECH Robotics will launch its first home companion humanoid robot this year, priced at approximately $20, expect it to make a significant impact, as demand for humanoid robots and home companions in China continues to grow, particularly for elderly and childcare support. The company stated that it plans to ship around 1,000 units this year and is positioning itself as a strong competitor against major players such as Tesla, BYD, and Foxconn Technology Group. UBTECH Robotics will launch its first home companion humanoid robot this year, priced at approximately $20,000. (Shutterstock) Michael Tam, UBTECH Robotics Chief Brand Officer, stated: 'White-hot competition creates a lot of pressure on a single company, but for the whole industry, it does help preserve good companies and eliminate bad ones.' Also Read Uber to launch robotaxi service in Europe in 2026 © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
Bloomberg
23-05-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
A $20,000 ‘Home Companion' Robot From China to Debut This Year
China's UBTech Robotics Corp. is planning to unveil a $20,000 humanoid robot that can serve as a household companion this year, seeking to expand beyond factories. The company sees 'home companion' robots as a bright spot in China partly because of the growing need for elderly care, Chief Brand Officer Michael Tam told Bloomberg News in an interview on Friday. Still, he didn't give a timing for when the product goes on sale and said an all-purpose robot that can handle many types of household chores and look after human beings is years away as the technology isn't ready.
Bloomberg
23-05-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
UBTECH's Tam on Plans to Scale Up Production
Michael Tam, Chief Brand Officer at UBTECH, discusses the robotics firm's business outlook and growth strategy, as the company plans to increase production 10-fold in 2026. He speaks exclusively with Annabelle Droulers on the sidelines of the BEYOND Expo in Macau on "Bloomberg: The China Show." (Source: Bloomberg)
