Innovation & Tech Today -- 2020 Year-End Issue by Innovation & Tech Today

CES TECH ZONE

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STEM IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY

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THE PARTNERSHIP TO BRING US BACK TO THE MOON

Ricky Gervais 2020 Year-End Issue

Entertainment in a Post-Pandemic World Dave Bautista is Bigger than Ever Ralph Macchio – Cobra Kai never dies Paris Hilton Talks Tech Astronaut Cady Coleman A New World of VR with Oculus Phoning It In: The Rise of Telemedicine

Special Double Cover Issue

CES TECH ZONE

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STEM IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY

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THE PARTNERSHIP TO BRING US BACK TO THE MOON

Dave Bautista

Bigger

than Ever

2020 Year-End Issue

Ricky Gervais in a Post-Pandemic World Ralph Macchio – Cobra Kai never dies Paris Hilton Talks Tech Astronaut Cady Coleman A New World of VR with Oculus Phoning It In: The Rise of Telemedicine

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FROM THE EDITOR

Joe Toppe, Managing Editor

“ The need for thoughtful understanding is a required standard for posterity, especially in terms of infrastructure, health, and humanity.”

The Science of Things To quote our publisher, Charles Warner, “If your politics get in the way of science and facts, well, that’s your problem.” The pursuit of truth is the clearest endeavor of science. What is out there? What is it made of, and will we be there one day to touch it? As we move on from the election and reorder our priorities for 2021, I hope we all remember, and especially our incumbent governments and corporations, to consider the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics of every policy decision in the new year. There should be no law created, factory-built, or roadway paved until the science behind every decision is not only understood but obeyed. Should law infringe upon technology by limiting research and development, should a factory be a danger to local ecosystems, should a new road or housing development replace an aging forest? For too long, corporations and governments have gotten away with exploiting the environment for profits, votes, and even jobs. While every state and economic development organization would bend over backwards with tax incentives and other goodies to entice industry within their borders, how often do academics and the local science community get their say before shovels start breaking ground? Without a thoroughly researched approach, no policy, environment, or construction protocol should be put into action. The need for thoughtful understanding is a required standard for posterity, especially in terms of infrastructure, health, and humanity.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Science is the pursuit of truth and the netting of facts. At one time, folks were sure there was a man on the moon, it was made of cheese, and the world spinning beneath it was flat, but the practical use of science and the human drive to question everything persevered. Today, we know enough to know; we don’t know it all. We are not the center of the universe, and we are likely not the sum of its life either. One day, much like the Moon and the Earth, we will earn a better understanding through experimentation, education, and a commitment to science and facts. How would that change our governments? Our policies? Our religions? A dedication to the facts, in many ways, makes scientists of us all. After all, what is a scientist but someone searching for the truth of things? With that in mind, we are all Neil Degrasse Tyson’s, Bill Nye’s, and Michio Kaku’s. We are dedicated to STEM and the preservation of our species through the effective use of science-first policies and mindset. In our end of year issue of Innovation & Tech Today, we are celebrating all things STEM, whether it is the cutting-edge technologies of gaming and entertainment, the engineering of outdoor innovations and backyard gear, or the science behind med tech, and the complex mathematics and geometry of 3D printing. We have it all covered here.

SINCE LAST ISSUE

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE; THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME. New President, new tech, new gaming content, same old COVID-19. At the end of the summer, Dr. Anthony Fauci predicted a second wave of the virus was inevitable. In fact, The Washington Post reported in late October the U.S. hit an all-time high in new coronavirus cases, exceeding 80,000 in a day for the first time. While the pandemic remains an underlying narrative to everything we do, the surge in responsive technologies during the crisis is a testament to the human spirit to adapt and overcome. In the future, there will be other pandemics, maybe even other bouts with dreaded COVID-19, but we will not stop working, playing, or getting on with the business of living. We will persevere. Remote work and education venues have exploded over the last six months, making your computer or smart device the perfect virtual band aid for the lack of human interaction. Event schedules were already moved online before the summer issue of Innovation & Tech Today hit newsstands, and the first two quarters of 2021 aren’t looking any different. Most experts don't anticipate a return to in-person events until the second half of 2021. Meanwhile, smart home gadgetry, gaming and entertainment tech is on the rise. Although COVID-19 isn’t the sole reason, it has certainly been a catalyst for speedier innovation. Since last issue, Innovation & Tech Today has not only covered the many impacts of the pandemic whether it is in industry, the home, or entertainment, we have also highlighted cutting-edge technology to combat the crises, esports, drone tech, and a renewed vigor for space travel as NASA, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin ready us for a return to the moon. As 2020 comes to an end and the new year brings its own challenges, Innovation & Tech Today will continue to inspire positive change by celebrating innovations in science, business, entertainment, sustainability, and STEM.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Patricia Soloveichik/Boeing, NASA, Lockheed Martin, Celestron Telescopes, Arnie Kravitz/Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing, Dave Bautista, Ricky Gervais, Ralph Macchio, Paris Hilton, Danica Smith, Stephen Fertelmes, Charlie Roina, Rich Hardcastle, Britney Ross

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INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

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contents

2020 YEAR-END FEATURE STORIES

52 If You Can’t Join ‘Em… Stream ‘Em Ricky Gervais

56 Nothing Goes Over His Head Dave Bautista

By Jennifer Oladipo

By Joe Toppe

Photo: Rich Hardcastle

Photo: Eric Williams

Departments 8 By the Numbers 10 Event Wrap-ups 12 Quick Bytes 14 DENT Files 16 Entrepreneurship 18 Artificial Intelligence 20 Space 80 The Lighter Side/Coming Next Issue

22 2020 Innovators of the Year Elon Musk and Dr. Anthony Fauci

24 Connected Car Tech Takes the Skills Required Up a Notch

26 Outdoor+Adventure Tech The Hometown Explorer 28 The Top 50 Most Innovative Products: Gear Guide

30 Health Tech Cool Technologies to Teach Kids About Medicine 32 Top 50 Most Innovative Products: Health Tech

34 Gaming+Entertainment Ralph Macchio Talks Tech, the Switch to Netflix, and Season 3 of Cobra Kai 38 Oculus Quest 2: New, Improved, and More Affordable 42 How Video Games Are Getting Us Through the COVID-19 Pandemic 44 Everything You Need to Know About Drone Racing 46 Top 50 Most Innovative Products: Gaming+Entertainment

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Photo: Art Streiber

contents

2020 YEAR-END 48 Connected Life Plugging in with the Contemporary Home 50 Top 50 Most Innovative Products: Connected Life

60 Tech Zone Welcome to a 5G World 62 Robots in a 5G world 63 5G Takes Autonomous Driving to the Next Level 64 Santa Clarita is Making Movies

66 Sustainability Today Produced in Partnership with Sustainable Brands

Fashion Seeks Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Solutions

70 STEM Today

Produced in Partnership with the USA Science & Engineering Festival

Top Platforms in Virtual Learning

76 Top 50 Most Innovative Products: Product Revolution

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Since 2017, there has been a steady growth in online school attendance for students enrolled in post-secondary institutions. Each year, the spike in online platforms influences the marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic and employment strategies. Before the COVID-19 pandemic placed an even greater emphasis on innovating effective, distance technologies, two-year colleges and traditional brick-and-mortar universities were already expanding their curriculums to include virtual options. At their best, universities should not only prepare working professionals for the contemporary market, they should also resemble it in every function. As employees transition to online business for the long haul, so too, are educational institutions around the world.

2017 ONLINE EDUCATION STATISTICS: A total of 19.7 million students enrolled in courses at degree-granting postsecondary institutions.

2018 ONLINE EDUCATION STATISTICS Business

In 2018, the most popular undergraduate programs online were: Health & Medicine

19%

Of these, 6.6 million students enrolled in some form of distance education/online learning courses.

There were 5.5 million undergraduate students (3.2 million of these students or 19.5% took at least one but not all their courses online, while 2.2 million of these students or 13.3% enrolled in exclusively distance education/online courses)

23%

Social Sciences, Computers & IT Criminal Justice & Law Arts & Humanities

11%

13%

There were 1.4 million post-baccalaureate students (274,211 of these students or 9.1% took at least one but not all their courses online, while 868,708 of students or 28.9% enrolled in exclusively distance education/online courses.

2019 ONLINE EDUCATION STATISTICS: 46% of faculty members said they have taught an online course for credit compared to 39% in 2016

As of June 15, 4-year institutions are seeing an average of 6-8% decline in Fall 2020 enrollment

38% of faculty members used a blended or hybrid course format including both online learning and face-to-face instruction

As of April 2, 98% of institutions had moved most in-person classes online

39% of faculty members indicated they supported increased usage of technology in education, compared to 29% in 2017 60% of faculty members feel that academic dishonesty is more prevalent in online teaching vs. face-to-face settings compared to 39% who feel it occurs equally in both situations

2020 ONLINE EDUCATION STATISTICS AND COVID-19

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

95% of institutions suspended travel for faculty & staff 93% of institutions implemented work-remotely policies for staff 43% of institutions had invested in new online learning resources

Event Wrap-Ups

The Virtual Season While the COVID-19 pandemic continues and in-person events are being shelved into next year, the birth of the virtual venue has quickly become a growing commodity. Not only to stave off further infections, the online event has also become an effective cost-cutting tool for companies around the world. No more travel costs. No more logistical nightmares. The headache of travel and the financial limitations on businesses and their executives may soon become a thing of the past. Some of last quarter’s most prominent virtual events included:

CEDIA Expo This premier trade event spearheaded one of the industry’s first completely virtual trade shows for the custom integration and design communities. The event took place Sept. 15-17 and saw 7,600 trade professionals come together to connect and discuss topics facing the industry this year and next. There were 110 virtual exhibitors, 235 media registrants, 161,740 exhibitor booth views, 14,288 virtual panel discussion or program registrations, and over 7,600 CEDIA Expo Virtual Experience registrants. Samantha Ventura, CEDIA’s Senior Vice President of Education and Training, told Innovation & Tech Today learners from around the world attended the event for a wide range of highly technical business topics and everything in between. “As a result, attendees were treated with a valuable opportunity to gain a leading edge, and top of the industry expertise from wherever they were,” she said. “The feedback showed the subject matter was on-point and relevant. We look forward to integrating lessons learned from this global platform into future CEDIA Education programming and future CEDIA Expos.”

Emerge Virtual Cannabis Conference & Expo The event featured noted speakers like Jim Belushi and industry CEO, Wanda James, in a Hyperfair platform and avatar-based virtual ecosystem while educating attendees on the latest in cannabis discoveries, trends, innovations, and policies. Taking place Sept. 8-10, the event saw nearly 1,200 attendees pour into the virtual exposition hall on day one. Overall, 1,600 attendees enjoyed the immersive experience. The event included more than 15,000 business cards exchanged, over 9,000 individual conversations, 50 sessions, six keynotes, three days, and zero masks. Kristi Dougherty, CEO at Reach Consultancy and Event Director for Emerge, said “the cannabis industry is too dynamic and rapidly evolving to ignore connections, education, and development opportunities while the country copes with COVID restrictions.” “The Emerge Virtual Cannabis Conference & Expo is the closest replication of a large in-person event that we can provide right now to meet those needs in our community,” she said. Attendance and sponsorship at Emerge ensures cannabis business, science, and legislation continues to move forward into 2021 and beyond.”

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

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The Ice Melter The more scientists learn about Antarctica, the grimmer the predictions. Data compiled by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research shows sea levels around the world will rise about two and a half meters as the Antarctic ice sheet continues to melt. Although scientists expect the sheet of ice to be around for a few more centuries, there is an expiration date now as the global average temperature continues to rise. Researchers concluded that melting will likely take place over a long period but may be irreversible because of the way the ice cap is expected to melt. While the ice sheet has looked relatively the same for the last 34 million years, scientists from the Potsdam Institute say its future form will be decided within our lifetime. Photo: iStockphoto.com/Bernhard_Staehli

This illustration shows Jezero Crater — the landing site of the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover — as it may have looked billions of years ago on Mars, when it was a lake. An inlet and outlet are also visible on either side of the lake. Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech Photo: iStockphoto.com/Dr_Microbe

The Plastic Pig By linking two enzymes found in a plastic-eating bug at a Japanese waste site in 2016, scientists at the University of Portsmouth, UK have engineered a new super enzyme capable of degrading plastic bottles six times faster than the contemporary rate. To boot, experts believe combining it with enzymes that break down cotton could also allow mixed-fabric clothing to be recycled. According to the research, millions of tons of such clothing is either dumped into landfills or incinerated. Derived from bacteria with the natural ability to eat plastic, the robust enzyme makes the full recycling of plastic bottles a reality. Currently, there are new plastics being created from oil as it is difficult to break plastic bottles down into their chemical components to create new from the old. The new super-enzyme works at room temperature while experts say combining different approaches could speed progress towards commercial use.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Lakefront Property on Mars? While Earthlings have long speculated whether or not something’s scurrying about the surface of Mars or patrolling the desert skies in twirling Unidentified Flying Objects, few have ever considered the likelihood of lakefront property somewhere on the red planet. Recently, researchers from the University of Rome say they’ve confirmed the presence of a large saltwater lake beneath the ice on the Martian surface, and at least three more. The discoveries were made using radar data from the Mars Express, an orbiting spacecraft launched by the European Space Agency. According to the study, areas of high reflectivity were detected, indicating bodies of liquid water trapped under more than one kilometer of Martian ice. Scientists say the lakes are spread over about 75,000 square kilometers — an area roughly one-fifth the size of Germany. The largest lake measures 30 kilometers across and is surrounded by three smaller lakes, each measuring a few kilometers wide.

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Photo: iStockphoto.com/tunart

Sponge Job While most see them as little porous mushroom-like stalks sprouting from the seafloor, a group of Harvard researchers now see marine sponges as ideal models for stronger and taller buildings, longer bridges, and lighter spacecraft. According to the research, the diagonally-reinforced, square lattice-like skeletal structure of Euplectella aspergillum, a deep-water marine sponge, has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than the traditional lattice designs used for centuries in the construction of buildings and bridges. Using this natural design as inspiration for the future of building, researchers showed the paired parallel, crosseddiagonal structure of marine sponges improved overall structural strength by more than 20 percent and without the need to include additional materials. When compared to other building strategies, the study showed the sponge design outperformed them all, capable of withstanding heavier loads without buckling.

Another Feather in the Cap They know who they are. Whether it is a crow, a raven, or another version of corvid, they are often renowned for their memory, their gift-giving, and their ability to solve geometric puzzles and build tools. Well now, scientists from Vanderbilt University and the University of Tübingen in Germany say the birds also “know what they know” and can ponder the content of their own minds, a degree of intelligence and investigative thought resemblant of humans. At 1.5 billion neurons, the research shows a crow’s brain has as many as some monkey species. But Corvids aren’t the only birds with brains. A 2014 study showed certain crows, rooks, and European jays can solve an old fable challenge of dropping stones into a water-filled tube to bring a floating bit of food within reach, something kids generally can’t do until age 7. These birds were the first nonhuman animals to solve the task, according to the study. Photo: iStockphoto.com/racerunner

Photo: iStockphoto.com

Have Your Caffeine Yet? Contrary to common belief, research published by the American Psychological Association revealed caffeine can help adolescents pay attention for longer periods of time. In a study made up of three testing sessions, 31 adolescents consumed either 1 mg/kg of caffeine, 3 mg/kg of caffeine, or a placebo before completing a continuous assignment. Scientists say the task lasted approximately 30 minutes and required the participants to examine a stream of four-digit numbers to pick up on the few identical pairs. Each participant was asked to abstain from caffeine for 24 hours before each testing session. While performance declined over time, the task’s early stage was comparable across all three doses. However, researchers discovered performances among participants who received caffeine declined less as time dragged on compared to the placebo.

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

DEPARTMENTS / DENT Files

Astronaut Cady Coleman On Spacesuits, STEM, and Inclusive Education By Steve Broback Cady cites how cost-cutting measures were made by NASA to eliminate small space suits in the 1990s. This change effectively eliminated a third of the female astronauts from being considered for spacewalks on the International Space Station. Fortunately, NASA has committed to designing suits that will fit everyone in the astronaut population so that the upcoming generation of moon-walkers will be more representative of the population.

The National Science Foundation reports 80% of jobs available in the coming years will require math and science skills. Despite this need, estimates say less than a third of high school graduates test ready for higher education in science, and less than half are considered prepared for college-level math courses. Unequal access and outcomes compound this shortfall. A 2013 report by the U.S. Census Bureau found that although women make up nearly half of the American workforce, they represent only 26% of STEM workers. Similarly, African Americans account for only 6% and Hispanics for only 7% of professionals employed in STEM-related jobs. I recently hosted an online fireside chat with retired astronaut and Dent board member Dr. Cady Coleman, who has dedicated her time and experience to help draw women and minorities into the sciences. In this conversation, she discussed the issues and challenges surrounding STEM education and the opportunities for building a brighter future for students around the world. Cady is a pilot who holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a doctoral degree in polymer sciences. She is best known for her two flights for science-based missions aboard the space shuttle Columbia and a six-month 2010-2011 stint on the International Space Station.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Had NASA brought female astronauts and other stakeholders into the conversation as the decision was being made years ago, many more young women worldwide might have been inspired sooner. This year’s spacewalk by two women on the ISS will create ripples for years to come.

As I mentioned in a prior column for Innovation & Tech Today, the value of “nontraditional” participants cannot be overstated, and there is strong evidence that it is these people who drive real innovation. Cady believes that it’s critical that both institutions and individuals stop and take note of those “hidden figures” who may not currently be factored into decisions made about how an organization or educational institution operates.

This example is one of many that taught her the importance of “being involved in the process” and “cheerfully showing up at meetings I wasn’t invited to.” From her experience, intentional exclusion has been less of a problem than simply the lack of vision of decisionmakers to bring in all relevant stakeholders. Given that, she believes people should feel empowered to take an active role in being heard. Cady is involved with two organizations that she feels serve as good examples of proactive inclusion. One is the MIT Media Lab’s Space Exploration Initiative, including the Space Enabled research group led by Dr. Danielle Wood. This group aligns space technology to support societal needs and makes a point of pursuing input and leadership from nontraditional participants. Another is Arizona State University, where Cady serves as the Global Explorer in Residence. ASU recently launched the Research for Inclusive STEM Education Center. ■

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DEPARTMENTS / Entrepreneurship

It’s in the Blood By Joe Toppe

Paris Hilton Means Business…Globally She is from a family of entrepreneurs. She is a virtual DJ raising money for charities during COVID-19. She is a designer and she is a tech investor. Paris Hilton, long renowned for her celebrity and social media persona, is not only growing her brand around the world, she is also carving out a path as a serious business professional. Just this year, Hilton was a keynote speaker at the Upfront Summit 2020, and recently she spoke about women and entrepreneurship in the digital era at Milken Institute’s Middle East and Africa summit. Selling handbags and other consumer products, Paris Hilton Entertainment has 45 branded stores throughout the Middle East and Asia. Since 2004, she has released 27 fragrances, and in 2011, Variety declared her a “Billion Dollar Entrepreneur” for her successful business and global brand. Hilton’s YouTube Originals documentary, “This Is Paris,” was released Sept. 14. In addition to her business endeavors, Hilton is also an avid supporter for reform on the Troubled Teen Industry. She works with The Sasha Project in LA helping patients at the Children’s Hospital heal through art, and she designed a merch collection to raise money for charities affected by COVID-19. Recently, Hilton sat down with Innovation & Tech Today to not only discuss her brand and business strategy but her tech investments and the state of women in business. Innovation & Tech Today: What sparked your interest in technology and innovation? Paris Hilton: Ever since I was a little girl, I loved gadgets. While growing up, that interest spread into all forms of technology and innovation, and now I am using it to build a business empire which consists of 19 product lines. I look forward to more breakthrough innovation and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. I&T Today: Why tech investments? Why apps? PH: When it comes to investing, I tend to gravitate towards supporting ideas around strong female founders, companies that can make the world a better place, or things I can relate to and use myself. Essentially, I will invest in what I know, and that has led me to apps and other consumer tech businesses. I&T Today: Can you talk about the challenges of being a female entrepreneur in the digital age? PH: Regardless of the digital age, being a female entrepreneur is always challenging. But, things are changing. In my documentary, I wanted to show the world how hard I’ve worked to build my business. I don’t believe I’ve been given respect for what I’ve built, and there are still many people out there that think a blonde with high heels can’t become a successful businesswoman. But, I love the digital age, it suits me and my personality. The business is closer to the consumer and you can have a direct relationship with customers through technology. Additionally, I can work from anywhere. My office is now my laptop and iPhone. ■

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Photo: Brendan Forbes

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DEPARTMENTS / Artificial Intelligence

A Brave New World

Exploring the Ethics of AI

By Gretchen Philyaw In the 1970s, Sneaky Pete was the first chess-playing computer, paving the way for IBMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deep Blue â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the first machine using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to become a Chess Grandmaster. And of course, ultimately, Alpha Zero has transcended all. AI has come a long way from those rudimentary chess matches, and the power of AI mandates a set of ethics be established to guide us into the future. Machine learning is a common term associated with AI. In simple terms, software developers write algorithms to sort through data. The algorithm has rules on how the data is sorted or analyzed. Based on the algorithm, the machine can make decisions. These decisions are rulebased and they consider a lot of data the human brain cannot process. Over time, the computer revises earlier decisions based on new data. The advantage of AI is that with more data, decisions get better. The ethical dilemmas are subtle regarding AI. Algorithms are written to sort data and make decisions. These decisions can determine who gets a bank loan, who gets audited, or who receives a college scholarship based on thousands of applications. There are many more examples of how AI is used.

Bias The first ethical question is whether the algorithm was biased against race, sex, or any other variable. If so, the outcomes or decisions cannot be used. My vision is that applications using AI will be monitored just like the IRS monitors tax returns. A formal reporting body will review the output of AI logic to validate that there are no biases, and the algorithm rules were followed correctly. This validation will get reported in some official manner.

Privacy With data, there must be rules about privacy. Consumers need to know when their information is being used in any way. Consent must be given, and any time AI is used to make a decision, consumers or customers need to know how this decision was derived. This privacy agreement cannot be hidden in the fine print.

Security Security is a no brainer if data used in the AI process is corrupted, hacked, or misused. To ethically use AI, data integrity is paramount. If users of AI cannot secure the data, how can they trust the decision output?

Algorithm Integrity The final pillar of the ethics debate is the legitimacy of the algorithm. Testing has to be conducted using real-world data to determine if the algorithm followed the rules set. Humans develop the algorithm. Humans should also be able to verify the algorithm was followed. Outputs cannot be random.

About the Author: Gretchen Philyaw is President of Magenta Technologies LLC, an Atlanta-based industrial automation company and founder of USA Loves Manufacturing, an organization promoting and advocating USA manufacturing and technology.

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool. Data analytics combined with immense amounts of data pulled into an algorithm designed to make critical decisions will be a big part of the future. International governments will have to work together to make the rules on how AI is harnessed ethically. AI will create fantastic opportunities for those willing to explore the future. â&#x2013;

Photos: iStockphoto.com

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

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DEPARTMENTS / Space

Space Jam NASA bands together with industry for a return to the moon By Joe Toppe

In 1962, John F. Kennedy told a large crowd at Rice Stadium in Houston, Texas, “We choose to go to the moon.” And we did, just seven years later. Today, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is working alongside industry to ensure we not only return to the moon, but we use it as a springboard to Mars and beyond. With global firms like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman providing resources to the Artemis Program, NASA is expected to land the first woman and next man on the lunar surface by 2024. While Lockheed Martin will provide the space vehicle, The Orion, Boeing will supply the rocketry to propel the astronauts beyond Earth’s gravity and into deep space. Mark Nappi, Boeing’s Space Launch Systems Director, told Innovation & Tech Today the company designed and built the first stage rocket and the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (ICPS). “The Space Launch System uses upgraded solid rocket boosters and the RS-25 engines from the shuttle,” he said. “The stages are designed from the ground up to be evolvable – human-rated and able to support a variety of

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

science, exploration, and defense missions – without having to re-invest in new infrastructure.”

“It’s a smart stepping stone for human advancement – hours to ISS; days for the moon, and months for Mars,” he said.

Each of these functions will play a key role in NASA’s vision for deep space exploration while using the International Space Station (ISS) as a proving ground for technologies needed to support humans long-term in a weightless environment.

Lockheed Martin’s Orion spacecraft can hold six crewmembers beyond Earth’s low-orbit and uses glass cockpit interfaces modeled after those used in the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Nappi said the “next step” is the Artemis missions and to test deep space technology in lunar orbit before taking crewed missions to Mars.

Mike Hawes, VP of Human Space Exploration and Orion Program Manager, said “Orion is the only exploration-class spaceship poised to take humans into deep space.” “Orion will not only accelerate scientific discovery of our solar system; it will improve life

DEPARTMENTS / Space The Moon The Orion will communicate with mission control, switching from the TDRS system to the Deep Space Network. It will run through its communications, navigation, and operational paces to test systems. Flying about 100 KM above the surface of the moon, it will use the Moon’s gravitational force to drop into a new deep retrograde orbit (70,000 KM from the moon surface) for about six days to collect information.

Credit: NASA / Radislav Sinyak

“ Throughout the history of mankind, curiosity about science and nature has fueled the betterment of humanity. We are very excited to see NASA and the reinvigorated space industry refocusing on space travel.” – Corey Lee, CEO, Celestron

Return and Re-entry The Orion will fly closer to the moon before firing its service module engines to accelerate back toward Earth, again using lunar gravity to maneuver into its return flight trajectory. The spacecraft will splash down off the California coast, where the U.S. Navy will retrieve the ship and crew.

on Earth through advancements in technology and job creation,” he continued. “As a cornerstone of the Artemis program, the spacecraft is like no other in history and will carry astronauts to the Moon and on to Mars for many decades to come. It will become the defining space achievement of this era,” Hawes shared.

The Launch Rundown According to Boeing, the rocket will produce 8.8 million pounds of thrust and carry a vehicle weighing nearly six million pounds to orbit on liftoff. Propelled by a pair of five-segment boosters and four RS-25 engines, the rocket will reach the period of greatest atmospheric force within ninety seconds. After jettisoning the boosters, service module panels, and launch abort system, the core stage engines will shut down and the core stage will separate from the spacecraft. As the spacecraft makes an orbit of Earth, it

Credit: Lockheed Martin

The technology and lessons learned in the Artemis program are also expected to usher in a new age of deep space flight and exploration, culminating with a trip to Mars sometime in the 2030s. The trip to the red planet will take 234 days, and because of orbital dynamics, the astronauts will have to wait a few months before departing.

will deploy its solar arrays and the upper stage, while the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (ICPS) gives Orion the big push needed to leave Earth’s orbit and travel toward the Moon. From there, Orion will separate from the ICPS within about two hours after launch. The ICPS will then deploy several small satellites, known as CubeSats, to perform experiments and technology demonstrations.

John Honeycutt, NASA’s SLS Program Manager, said: “as travel to the Moon becomes more sustainable and routine, this will open up all sorts of opportunities for NASA and our commercial and international partners.” “The Space Launch System will send astronauts to the Moon for missions that will open up a new era of travel to deep space,” he finished. ■ 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Innovators of the Year

Elon Musk and Dr. Anthony Fauci By Joe Toppe

With the biggest presidential election in recent history happening in November, most of us anticipated an edgy 2020 this time last year. But no one could have predicted COVID-19 and the subsequent pandemic closing markets around the world and claiming more than a quartermillion American lives so far, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Despite the virus, the year wasn’t all bad. Between NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and SpaceX, there is a renewed vigor in space exploration and discovery. Right now, plans are being made to put the first woman and next man on the moon by 2024, while innovations in rocketry, vehicle, and communications technology is paving our way to Mars sometime in the next decade.

Elon Musk

He is SpaceX. He is Tesla. And just a few years ago, Forbes ranked him 25th on their list of The World’s Most Powerful People. But he is also an engineer, a business owner, and an explorer. Musk’s commitment to meaningful science is evident not only in his brand of sustainable automobiles but in his ongoing contributions to discovery and space exploration. In May 2020, SpaceX and NASA put the first Americans in space since 2011 when NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley, lifted off in a SpaceX capsule called the “Crew Dragon” bound for the International Space Station in low orbit. The vehicle was powered by the aerospace manufacturer’s Falcon 9 Rocket. Currently, SpaceX continues designing and building launch vehicles, rocket engines, Dragon spacecraft, and additional hardware for NASA, National Defense, and others.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Photo: Steve Jurvetson

Although there are many deserving candidates, especially in a year demanding so many great people step forward, Innovation & Tech Today acknowledges Elon Musk and Dr. Anthony Fauci as Innovators of the Year. Not only for their commitments to science and discovery over the last 12 months, but for their lifetime of dedication, fields of expertise, and body of work.

Dr. Anthony Fauci

He is a physician. He is an immunologist. And since January 2020, he’s been the lead in the Trump Administration’s Coronavirus Task Force. Despite public criticisms from the president, Fauci remains the country’s “goto” for COVID-19 information and healthcare recommendations. Fauci’s public service record extends as far back as the Reagan Administration and his contributions to HIV/AIDS research for the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, where he’s been the director since 1984. His studies furthered an understanding of how HIV breaks down the body, making it prone to fatal infections. He also played a key role in designing treatments that help people with HIV live long and active lives. Fauci is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Medicine, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical Society.

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

CONNECTED CAR

STEM in the Auto Dealership Tech Takes the Skills Required Up a Notch By Michael Coates

Contemporary vehicle maintenance requires technical expertise and a STEM understanding. Photo: iStockphoto.com/Scharfsinn86

At one time, the automobile dealership was a relatively simple business. Salespersons in front needed to know enough about the cars and trucks they were selling to make a compelling case to a prospect coming into the store. Not a lot of technical knowledge was needed as you could put the person behind the wheel and let them experience how the vehicle worked in the real world. In the rear of the store, mechanics needed to know their way around an automobile’s inner workings to diagnose and fix largely mechanical problems. Others in supporting roles needed specific skills like working in the F&I Department, which requires

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more than a passing understanding of math and financial computations. There is now a significant shift happening, making more of these jobs require a solid educational foundation in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Take a look at Mercedes’ vision of sales in the coming decades. Rather than just offering a customer a brochure and the opportunity to test-drive cars on the lot, the company is pushing the digital transformation of its dealerships’ sales floors with the introduction of a 3D augmented reality (AR) app and virtual

reality (VR) set with data goggles. Using the app, prospective buyers will be able to configure their vehicle on a smartphone or tablet — and then view it inside and out using the goggles. Customers will even be able to take virtual test drives using the technology. This “InCar Virtual Reality Experience” blends the virtual and real worlds together, but it is going to require a higher level of technical knowledge from salespersons. And that’s just the technology needed to physically interact with a customer. The 21st-century car salesperson also needs to

Photo: iStockphoto.com/Andrii Borodai

CONNECTED CAR

Virtual reality and other cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the dealership.

have a deeper understanding of technology found in the modern car than ever before. Being able to explain a new technology — how it works and what benefits it brings to the new car owner — will be a critical part of the new sales experience. Connected mobile apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, embedded software, and control technologies like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking need to be explained clearly so the new car buyer understands what they’re getting and what to expect when driving. The new sales training will have to encompass more science, technology, engineering, and mathematics than ever before because those are at the core of all current cars.

technology in the service bay. Most diagnostics rely on sophisticated technical tools that are light-years beyond old-school problem-solving approaches. That shift of knowledge base, along with other societal changes that seem to devalue automotive technicians, has led to a severe drop in new technicians. A recent online search showed more than 50,000 automotive technician jobs were available (Indeed.com). That’s for jobs paying more than $20 an hour that don’t require a post-secondary degree.

Grease Monkeys To High-Tech Technicians The back shop is already well into a STEMbased transformation, but it’s kicking into a higher gear.

A variety of schools, both state colleges and junior colleges along with many private technical colleges, have moved in to try to meet this shortfall. Certification to current standards, such as the ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) or NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation), is a critical step in moving into this new world of technicians.

If you’ve taken your car in for service or repairs at a dealership recently, you’re usually greeted by a service writer with a tablet. That’s the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the application of

Subspecialties in electrical or computer technology are possible, but knowledge of these areas is the foundation for working on a modern automobile. Those studies are all based on

STEM areas of knowledge, but a deeper dive will be required going forward. Back Shop Virtual Reality The latest technology promises to take technicians up to a new level. Microsoft has teamed with Daimler (parent company to Mercedes-Benz) to ratchet up back shop technology with the goal of providing speedier and more complete service. Along with wrenches and electronic diagnostic tools, service technicians at U.S. dealerships now have HoloLens 2 headsets equipped with Microsoft’s Dynamics 365 Remote Assist mixed reality app. Equipped with this high-tech hardware, Mercedes-Benz technicians can tap into the worldwide ecosystem of remote technical specialists in real time. Diagrams and notes can be shared virtually while the headset allows the technicians to continue to operate with their hands-free to use tools. It may not be simple anymore, but car dealerships’ embrace of STEM-trained personnel promises to help make sales and service a more engaging and efficient process. ■

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

The Hometown Explorer By Jennifer Oladipo When’s the last time you really took a look around? Your yard, neighborhood, or nearby park might be familiar, but there’s a lot you don’t see. At a time when many people aren’t getting away, becoming a hometown explorer might be just the thing to break up the monotony. Day or night, at home or at a park, in the city, country, or suburbs, check out these technologies and learn about your neck of the woods.

Detectors You could start with the ground under your feet, and “look” even deeper with a metal detector. While some people might associate them with lonely beach combers, they’re actually a gateway to a lesson in science. You’ll get a geology tutorial while researching your topsoil. Is it limestone, sandy hard-packed clay, or highly mineralized? The ACE Apex detector can get you the information while allowing you to choose among multiple frequency options. Metal detection also helps develop an understanding of electromagnetic fields and how they interact with the soil. Consider any treasure you might find an added bonus.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Weather Stations If getting the lay of the land isn’t for you, then look to the sky — and everything in between — with a personal weather station. Wherever you are in the world, microclimate is a little different from the climate everywhere else. The weather conditions can differ from your local forecast, opening the door to meteorology. A weather station gives you current weather conditions and other details to better understand your microclimate over time. The Extech Wireless weather station kit comes with an outdoor wireless transmitter, while five built-in sensors include a self-emptying rain collector for measuring rainfall. There are wind cups for wind speed, a wind vane for wind direction, temperature and humidity sensors. It also sends data by a low power radio frequency to a base station (maybe your back porch?) up to 450 feet away.

Telescopes Weather data can be helpful for finding time to explore your next frontier, outer space. Just like the climate, your local view of the cosmos will be just a little different from anywhere else in the world. Celestron makes a wide array of instruments for viewing the night sky. Choosing between refracting and reflecting telescopes is an education in itself. You might choose a refracting telescope, which tends to be more compact and easier to maintain. On the other hand, you might want reflecting telescopes for that deep-space look at galaxies and nebulae. Various smartphone apps can help you plan. You can also tune into StarDate, a two-minute radio show provided since 1978 (now with website and podcast) provided by the University of Texas at Austin McDonald Observatory. It details different phenomena you can expect to see in the sky every night.

Night Vision Speaking of nighttime, the true hometown explorers will not miss a chance to check out the advances in night vision technology. Forget that green-tinted view of animals coming to life at night. Today’s complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology lets you scope wildlife day and night with super clear resolution. The BinoX 4K binoculars from ATN tout clear resolution at up to 10X the magnification. They’ll also capture whatever you discover in high definition 4K video. You can even livestream via Wi-Fi, because why keep your adventures to yourself? So, next time you’re walking around a familiar landscape or looking out your window, think about looking closer, deeper, and farther. Go ahead, nerd out. A little technology can go a long way toward turning the mundane into an endless source of knowledge. Or, at the very least, you’ll have a fun new hobby. ■

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Safari Trillium – Designed for the harshest conditions and a high occupant turnover, the Safari Trillium 3-Person Camping Hammock is not only one of the largest hammocks on the market, it features more than 20 meters of webbing and is secured by heavy-duty ratchets and straps. In the yard or on the trail, the Safari Trillium hammock comes with a three-year warranty and can hold three adults or six kids. $399

Outdoor Research Archangel Jacket and Bibs – Want the highest level of water resistance in a comfortable fabric suited for Alpine climbing? The Outdoor Research Archangel Jacket and Bibs are outfitted with the newest generation of GORE-TEX PRO fabric technology. In the rain, sleet, or snow, this stretchy waterproof fabric can you really get you there. $699 jacket, $699 bibs

Shovelhead Jacket – Whether you are camping in the rain, skiing in the blowing snow, or need something warm and comfortable on a quick overnight trip, the Shovelhead Jacket from the Big Agnes’ SL Down Collection is an ideal addition to any winter wardrobe. It is water-resistant and comes in a regular fit for that extra room to move freely and layer underneath. $270

Rapid Raft – The Uncharted Supply Co.’s revolutionary new packraft was built to fulfill a military request for rapid deployment and re-packing for fluid transition to the water. Weighing little more than 3lbs, the Rapid Raft can be inflated in 45 seconds and includes a patent design to manage a water emergency, while also providing an incredible product for adventure. $400 Solo Stove Grill – More families are eating at home together these days, and the Solo Stove Grill is the perfect addition to any get together. Whether it is the easy set-up, stainless steel features, or reduced heat-up period, this grill was meant for the patio. The product’s design also enables it to maintain ideal grilling temperatures for longer periods. $599

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

GEAR GUIDE Matador SEG42 Travel Pack – There is nothing more cumbersome than a hotel room or campsite full of bags, nothing more time consuming than digging through three or four pieces of luggage to track down your toiletries, smart device, or socks. The Matador SEG42 Travel Pack’s innovative architecture enables a unique combination of the best in a backpack, duffle, and packing cubes into one product. $190

The Ranger Camera Crossbody – Whether you’re shooting landscapes, nature, or a group of friends on a night out, you’re going to need a bag to carry all your photo equipment. At the same time, you need something light, compact, and versatile. The Ranger Camera Crossbody features expedition style hardware, adjustable padded divider, and nylon shoulder strap. $50

Weatherman Umbrella – Nobody knows how to keep their heads dry more than a meteorologist. Created by Fox News Chief Meteorologist Rick Reichmuth, the Weatherman Umbrella was born from experience. The umbrellas are made from fabric woven with Teflon for superior water resistance, and industrial strength fiberglass to prevent inverting and breaking in winds up to 55mph. Not only that, but there is also a Weatherman app and Bluetooth tracking technology to ensure you stay ahead of any weather. $54 Szanto Desert Sands – Modeled after what the British troops used in North Africa through World War II, the desert watch uses the latest in 21st-century timekeeping technology. The watch includes a 22mm Brown Calf Leather Strap with Signature Buckle, is water resistant up to 100 meters, and features a push crown, and screw case back. $295

Dometic CFX3 35 – This cooler will allow you to bring more drinks and food the next time you head outdoors. Whether you are tailgating or camping, this cooler fits 36 to 50 cans and features compressor cooling technology that efficiently refrigerates and deep-freezes to –7° F. That's not all, a mobile app puts the control of your Dometic CFX3 at your fingertips. $900

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Health Tech

Cool Technologies to Teach Kids About Medicine

By Scott Jung

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear; we need more good doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, and medical technology innovators. As kids return to school, whether virtually or inperson, now is a great opportunity to teach them about the human body, the diseases that can affect it, and the medicines and devices to treat these ailments. Thanks to tech, learning biology and the life sciences these days can be a lot more fun than the plastic skeletons and cutaway heart models of yesterday. Here are some fun ways to teach kids about the body using gadgets that you might already own. 3D Printing In the Summer 2019 issue, we explained the potential for 3D printing to radically disrupt the medical technology industry by enabling rapid production and modification of all kinds of medical products. But for the rest of us, the relatively low cost of 3D printers, the prolific and active community of 3D printing enthusiasts, and the wide range of applications make a 3D printer a great hobby that is also a fun educational tool. For example, 3D-printed hands from organizations like e-NABLE. These prosthetic limbs not only look cool, but they can also provide real functionality for those who rely on prosthetics to perform everyday tasks. As kids print and assemble these articulated and functional hands, they’ll learn about the design of their own hand: how hinge joints connect the fingers to the hand and how pulling on the strings (the “tendons”) cause them to move. Older kids can learn valuable design and engineering skills by becoming part of the

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

3D printing tech is revolutionizing not only healthcare and medicine but how students learn about the human body.

“hacker” movement. By using a professional 3D modeling program such as SolidWorks or free tools like SketchUp and TinkerCad, students can create replacement parts to repair mobility devices like wheelchairs, crutches, and other mobility aids and even design modifications to make them more useful for patients. Their designs can be quickly and inexpensively printed and perhaps even undergo real-world testing on a brave and willing patient!

powerful, tangible representation of how frail our bodies can be.

Finally, while plastic anatomical models are nothing new, custom 3D-printed models add a level of personalized learning by allowing you to choose what you want to see. Not only can one print a model of an entire organ, it can print the anatomical features hidden or typically too small to see with the unaided eye. One can even print models of actual body parts that have been affected by defects or diseases, an often

Virtual and Augmented Reality Virtual reality has revolutionized entertainment and learning with immersive and interactive experiences that make one feel like they’re actually there. It can take us to just about anywhere on planet Earth and even to the depths of outer space. And it can allow us to explore something just as mysterious and amazing: our own bodies.

Smarter technologies can create an interactive and more compelling educational experience.

informed about our health. With the worldwide prevalence of childhood obesity increasing at an alarming rate, the growing ubiquity of fitness wearables could be an opportunity to better educate kids about the importance of physical fitness. Let your kids wear a fitness tracker, even for a short period of time, and they’ll learn about biometrics such as heart rate, temperature, and blood oxygen and how they change depending on their activity. Human Anatomy VR and The Body VR are a couple of apps for the popular Oculus VR headsets that allow users to travel inside the human body. Start up the app, and you’ll be “shrunken” tinier than a cell and see what it’s like to navigate the various vessels and passageways underneath our skin. Kids will get a thrill zooming through the arteries and veins of the circulatory system and be in awe at the sight of thousands of electrical signals being transmitted around them in the brain. Budding young surgeons may want to check out the Medical Realities app, which places you inside the operating room to observe a surgery. They’re 360-degree videos of actual procedures intended for surgical trainees and medical students, so they might not be suitable for those who get squeamish at the sight of blood. But, it can give students interested in a career in medicine an immersive look into the manpower and equipment needed to perform a safe and effective surgery. For those who are put off by the site of blood

or prone to motion sickness, augmented reality can also be an excellent learning tool. One cool augmented reality product that we’ve used is the Curiscope Virtuali-Tee. It’s a seemingly normal t-shirt with an eyecatching pixelated rib cage and spinal column image on the front, but by pointing a smartphone with the Curiscope app at the image, the front of the shirt transforms into an interactive 3D view of the one’s innards. The various organs and systems can be explored in greater detail, and the app can even measure your heart rate by analyzing the subtle change in color in your skin. It’s somewhat like a virtual dissection or autopsy, but without the knives or blood. Wearable Fitness Trackers Wearable fitness trackers have been one of the fastest-growing consumer device segments in recent years. Just about every year, new wearable devices from Fitbit, Apple, and other companies feature additional sensors and biometric measurements in an effort to keep us more

Older kids can take their biometrics further using historical data that most fitness trackers provide. Using statistical analysis, kids can learn how to discover patterns and trends about their biometrics, form hypotheses, and design “clinical” experiments to test their theories. It’s the ultimate personalized science experiment that can teach kids about the basic process of using data in research. 3D printing, virtual and augmented reality, and wearables can be powerful learning tools. In fact, these technologies are already being used to learn more about our bodies and improve healthcare. Biomedical engineers are using 3D printers to prototype new medical devices, surgeons use virtual and augmented reality to train for procedures, and researchers are using data from wearables to gain insights into population health. These three technologies are relatively inexpensive and widely available to the public, so why not use them to help prepare our next generation of healthcare workers? ■ 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Health Tech

VSSL First Aid Mini – This product was designed by the professionals as a compact, optimally organized, and waterproof first aid kit. And it can go anywhere, whether you stow it in the glove compartment or backpack. After taking the advice of first responders, the VSSL First Aid Mini is stocked with bandages, blister pads, medications, thermometers, tweezers, and more. $70 Steel HR – You can keep track of your heart rate, activity, and sleep with the Withing Steel HR Health Watch. Not only is it water resistant up to 50M, it also recognizes 10-plus activities including calories burned and distance. The watch also features a digital screen for smartphone notifications, sleep monitoring, and up to 25 days on a single charge. $180 ClearUp – For most of us, allergies are a seasonal challenge, while the medications leave us in a fog. The ClearUP device targets sinus pain at the source by delivering advanced microcurrent technology directly to the sinus nerves under the skin of the face. Gliding the tip across the cheek, nose, and under the eyebrow for five minutes will give you six hours of relief. Available without a prescription, ClearUp is also drug-free. $149

Mateo – Equipped with a footprint recognition AI algorithm to users for a seamless experience, the Mateo uses a high-precision weighing system that allows a 0.2lbs (0.1kg) measure up to 400 lbs. In addition to body measurements like fat and muscle mass, Mateo can even score your posture. You’ll get suggested exercises to correct your posture and improve your score based on advice from our Doctors of Podiatric Medicine panel. $179

Cubii Pro – You can’t talk about health without exercise equipment, and in a COVID-19 world, the home gym is exploding. The Cubii Pro is a Bluetooth connected, compact, seated elliptical with eight levels of resistance. Whether you want to burn calories, get stronger, or boost your energy levels, the Cubii’s ergonomic design fits in front of your favorite chair or under almost any desk. $349

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

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No Mercy Ralph Macchio Talks Tech, the Switch to Netflix, and Season 3 of Cobra Kai By Joe Toppe Thanks to streaming technologies like YouTube and Netflix, what started almost four decades ago is back in a big way. Ralph Macchio’s return to Daniel LaRusso in Cobra Kai is a culmination of the market’s continued interest in The Karate Kid movie franchise and the “Perfect Pitch,” according to the actor. The series began on YouTube in 2018 and remained there for the first two years. The show has since transitioned to Netflix and will kick off season three in early 2021. So far, nearly the entire original cast has made an appearance, while more are expected later in the series. With projects like The Outsiders, My Cousin Vinny, and HBO’s drama series, Deuce, under his belt, Macchio has enjoyed a career in the spotlight since the early 1980s. While the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the traditional movie business and an entertainer’s capacity to connect with fans through film, viewing technologies and the consumer’s ability to watch from anywhere are creating a tech-oriented demographic and demand. How does Macchio watch movies now? Is he a tech enthusiast? What are his future projects? What’s the release date for the third season of Cobra Kai? Will there be a season four?

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

In a recent sit-down with Innovation & Tech Today, Macchio not only talked about Cobra Kai and the technologies he uses in his home, he told us where the idea for the show came from and how he learned all those fighting moves. Innovation & Tech Today: Can you tell us how you pitched the idea for Cobra Kai? What were your initial thoughts? Ralph Macchio: The pitch came to me as opposed to me coming up with the concept. Over the last 30 years, everyone had their ideas on how to get back to The Karate Kid universe. But they were never that exciting. In this case, they were writers who’d seen the movie a million times. It was their Star Wars. They came to me last after getting all the other cast on board because they’d heard I was the most resistant to going back to that well again. I wanted the legacy to stand. But their pitch came from the Johnny Lawrence angle, William Zabka’s character. They jumped 34 years in the future where two guys haven’t seen one another but a rivalry still percolates beneath them. And yet, they are telling a fresh story that is also relevant today with a next-generation cast.

Photo: Art Streiber

After finishing the first two seasons on YouTube, the third installment of Cobra Kai premiered on Netflix Jan. 8, 2021.

Photo: Guy D'Alema/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo: Jace Down/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo: Mark HillSony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo: Steve Dietl/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

It was the right time because I felt these guys really cared about the franchise. Now, here we are from YouTube to Netflix and it is exploding all over the world. I&T Today: Have you ever trained in Karate or any other martial art? RM: For the first movie I went through basic training if you will. It was like the Cliffs Notes version to look good while doing it without paying all the dues. But it is fight choreography, like a dance. You must learn the steps, and we designed it to mimic the Okinawan style, which is defensive and open-handed, but not aggressive like Cobra Kai. The style also lends itself to my body and lankiness.

When you think of the crane pose, it’s all arms and legs. I know Billy Zabka kept it up a few years after, but when they stopped paying me, I stopped wanting to get kicked in the face. It’s like riding a bike to a point, but the body now doesn’t respond like it used to. I&T Today: Can you tell us about the season three move from YouTube to Netflix? RM: YouTube was high on the show and made the highest play to get it at the onset, but they changed their mandates for the platform and were going away from scripted entertainment. Because we just completed the third season and there were no further commitments, Sony Pictures worked a deal to re-shop the show around. Netflix had always been in everyone’s crosshairs. It has now exploded all over the

world with season three coming out January 8. The season is done and in the can. I recently watched it and it is the ultimate fan service, and yet, it was broader in scope than the first two seasons. I am excited to give the fans what they’ve been clamoring for, but not in the way they’d expect. The season will keep you on your toes. We even went to Okinawa to shoot a few episodes as LaRusso returns to learn some of the origins of Miyagi-Do Karate. There are new things about the martial art and Mr. Miyagi that fans don’t know. It is cool this show can go back to legacy characters and reveal even more about them after they’re gone. It is a fist-pumping season. We are writing the fourth season right now.

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

No Mercy

In season 1, Daniel LaRusso implements the many training strategies given to him by Mr. Miyagi. Photo: Steve Dietl/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo: Steve Dietl/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

While following the guidelines of Miyagi-Do Karate, LaRusso also applies his own training methods. Photo:Bob Mahoney/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo:Bob Mahoney/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

I&T Today: Already a trend before COVID19, streaming technologies have been pushed to the forefront during the pandemic. How critical have these technologies been to actors? RM: In this current time, it is good to have these outlets to reach your audience. We didn’t have this option 20 years ago. While shooting the movies or shows can be tough in a [COVID19] world, it allows us to continue creating. I&T Today: With all that is going on with the COVID-19 pandemic and tech innovations in home entertainment, will “movie going” ever be the same? RM: While streaming technologies allow actors additional opportunities to get stories to the consumer, we all miss the communal experience of being in a theater. In the future, theaters will be designed differently to accommodate things like upgrades in seating and ventilation.

Photo: Jace Downs/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

Photo: Steve Dietl/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

done some writing and directing short films and producing some television. And everything old is new again, so I am looking at recycling things I’ve had in development. I’d like to do a current spin on some young adult topics. During the first three seasons of Cobra Kai, I was also working with HBO on Deuce. I loved watching that show on Sunday nights with the Cobra Kai script on my lap. The role on HBO was so different and allowed me to show a different range, so I would love to embrace another opportunity like that again. I&T Today: Do you consider yourself a tech enthusiast? What is your home entertainment setup? RM: No, but I am jealous of the people that are, so I aim to learn more soon. Right now, if I post on Instagram, I have to ask my kids for help, but I am getting better. The 12 on my VCR isn’t flashing anymore.

I&T Today: Any future projects? What irons do you have in the fire? RM: As you can imagine, Cobra Kai takes up a decent amount of time, but I am working on a couple of projects behind the camera. I have

As I get older, I also think I need the gym more than the home theater system. But maybe I could do both and have a retractable screen

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Photo: Jace Downs/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

After more than 30 years of not seeing one another, Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence's rivalry remains.

I have a Samsung system and I love sound. It is such a big thing for movies, and I like to use Bose headphones to recreate that movie experience. Although I have a great gym in the basement, there are times when I look around and think this place should be a home theater.

In the foreseeable time, I am not running to a movie theater, even though I miss it, but the movie theater experience will return one day.

Much like his own family, LaRusso begins teaching the Okinawan style of Karate to others.

Photo: Steve Dietl/Sony Pictures Television/Netflix

around the weights? I&T Today: Did you use a custom installer for your home tech integration, or do you do it yourself? RM: I did a few things for the television and sound system, but my son is good at it. Between the two of us, we can get it figured out. But like I said, I don’t have the full enchilada yet. When I need things like Ring cameras installed, I simply purchase the items and hand them to my electrician. But when I had to change my Wi-Fi for them, the first one took me 20 minutes while the remaining cameras barely took me six seconds each. Just like anything else, the first time feels like a mountain. But after that, you get the hang of it. I&T Today: Is there any kind of smart home tech that you’ve got your eyes on? RM: I always have my eyes on innovative security systems for obvious reasons, while also educating myself on all that is out there. I have had an alarm and security system in my home since the 1970s, ever since I was a kid, but I need an upgrade. With upgrades comes all the connected capabilities like lighting and communication channels throughout the home, but I am sure I will need a “Mr. Miyagi” to get me through it. ■

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Facebook Embarks on Another Epic Quest in VR Oculus Quest 2 has improved drastically, while seeing a $100 price drop. By John Gaudiosi

Facebook is offering the perfect gift this holiday season with the launch of Oculus Quest 2. Even if the world wasn’t closed because of COVID-19, virtual reality has jumped by leaps and bounds since Palmer Luckey launched his Oculus startup in 2012. Oculus Quest 2 retails for $300 for the 64GB version, a full $100 less than the first untethered device launched in May 2019. The 256GB version retails for $400. Facebook has improved every aspect of the mobile Quest headset. It’s been redesigned smaller and approximately10% lighter, which is important for those long gaming sessions. It’s a headset designed to work for more people – it’s flexible to switch between all-in-one and PC VR gaming, with more accessory options to customize users’ fit and comfort.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Facebook has updated the pair of Touch Controllers, which are larger and more comfortable to use for long gaming sessions. There’s also a new circular faceplate for your thumb to rest on. Everything about the batteries has been improved. The battery flap now snaps into place securely on each controller, and the single AA battery lasts four times longer than the first generation. There’s also a separate Elite Strap with a battery pack, which doubles the battery life for gaming. When it comes to gaming, the biggest improvement will be the visual experience. Quest 2 utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Platform and has the highest-resolution LCD display ever at 1832×1920 per eye, which is 50% more pixels than the first generation of hardware. What this means is that every game

has been improved. The entire library of Quest 1 games has been upgraded visually with titles like Waltz of the Wizard: Extended Edition offering real-time lighting, particle effects, more objects and better resolution, and Ironlights including double render resolution and improved fine text, model edges, and particle effects. A full rundown of games is below. Speaking of games, there are even more opportunities to play in VR thanks to Oculus Link. While still in beta (with room for improvement), if you buy a long USB-C cable you can plug the Quest 2 into your PC and play content from SteamVR and other avenues. This also increases the processing power of the Quest 2 and opens up new gameplay experiences like the upcoming Medal of Honor VR. The one change not everyone may like is the

Jurassic World Aftermath

requirement for every user to log in to their Facebook account to play Quest 2. I personally deleted my Facebook account years ago out of privacy and data mining concerns, so I created a new one just for VR. But Facebook did pay Palmer $2 billion for Oculus back in 2014 with the goal of evolving social media, so this makes business sense. With no end to this pandemic in sight (at least until fall 2021 based on scientists and epidemiologists), there’s never been a better time to take the leap into VR. The price point is perfect and the gaming experiences have evolved to the point where you do feel transported to new worlds. Leaving the current COVID-19-plagued planet seems like a welcome respite these days, which makes Quest 2 the perfect portal to fun and adventures. The Best Games Outside of the issue of price, the biggest detriment to VR going mainstream has been killer apps. Facebook (along with rivals HTC Vive/Cosmos and Sony PlayStation VR) has invested a lot into killer apps. Ubisoft has been a leader in the traditional game publishing space when it comes to pushing VR forward. Having released Eagle Flight, Werewolves Within, and Star Trek: Bridge Crew with Oculus, Ubisoft is now bringing two of its AAA franchises to VR with new entries in the Assassin’s Creed and Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell universes. Both games are being developed from the ground up by Ubisoft’s Red Storm in collaboration with

Ubisoft Reflections, Ubisoft Dusseldorf, and Ubisoft Mumbai. Look for these titles to be released in 2021 and beyond. But there are plenty of cool games out now for Quest 2, including: Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge, ILMxLAB Having finished delving into the Dark Lord’s past with the award-winning Vader Immortal series, ILMxLAB has brought the latest Star Wars theme park to life with this VR experience. Set on the new planet Batu (which Imagineers created in real life at Disneyland and Walt Disney World), players will explore new areas on the planet beyond the outskirts of Black Spire Outpost. Featuring fan-favorite characters like C-3PO, R2-D2, Jedi Master Yoda, and brand new characters like the chatty bartender Seezelslak, Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge launches you into a spirited Star Wars adventure that will evolve and expand over time. Jurassic World Aftermath, Universal Games and Digital Platforms and Coatsink Games Set two years after the fall of Jurassic World, this game immerses the player in Isla Nubla. You’re tasked with returning to the dinooverrun island in search of confidential research materials lost in the evacuation. The problem? A crash landing has left you stranded in the rundown ruins of a now-abandoned research facility—and deadly Velociraptors stalk your every move. You’ll have to rely on your wits

(and a bit of luck) to escape the island alive. Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond, Oculus Studios and Respawn Entertainment After three years of development, Oculus Studios, and Respawn Entertainment have crafted the killer app that puts players inside the hell of World War II. Based on the original game franchise that was created by Steven Spielberg, this original VR title allows players to storm the beaches of Normandy, aid the French Resistance, and liberate Europe. This immersive game will only be playable on Quest via Oculus Link (compatible PC also required) as well as on SteamVR. Population One BigBox VR has created a battle royale that is only possible in VR. Its unique Vertical Combat System gives players the freedom to climb anything, fly anywhere, and fight everywhere. It’s chaotic, it’s exhilarating, and delivers limitless combat possibilities. The developer promises to keep the action fresh with ongoing live in-game events and fresh content to explore. Beat Saber Multiplayer, Beat Games Facebook liked this game so much it bought the developer, Beat Games, in 2019. Now it’s expanding the addictive rhythm music gameplay with multiplayer support and a new BTS Music Pack. That means it’s time to figure out which of your friends is actually good at Beat Saber via virtual block-busting jam sessions. Also new is BTS and their recently revealed TinyTAN 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Facebook Embarks on Another Epic Quest in VR characters, whose personalities are inspired by each member of the acclaimed septet. VR users can learn the dance moves and experience 12 of the group’s hit songs in the new BTS Music Pack. Myst, Cyan Myst was revolutionary 30 years ago by bringing the world to life via 2D visuals. Now the world of Myst has been built from the ground up in VR, bringing the iconic locations to life in full 360-degree immersion. This reimagined version of the classic puzzle game features updated art and interactions — and even an optional puzzle randomizer, for those who long ago memorized the island’s secrets and are looking for a fresh take on their Myst experience from 1993. The Climb 2, Crytek Building on the success of its groundbreaking 2016 original, Crytek’s latest celebration of rock climbing pushes the boundaries of vertigoinducing visuals. Featuring 15 new maps, players will scale snow-covered peaks, desert buttes, and even skyscrapers, one impossibly small handhold at a time. Compare your times to others on The Climb 2’s leaderboards or participate in global events. The key to successfully scaling these mountains is to remember it’s just VR. And of course, don’t look down. Warhammer 40,000 Battle Sister, Pixel Toys Don unstoppable power armor, embrace devastating weapons and wargear, and get ready to battle for the fate of humanity in Warhammer 40,000 Battle Sister. Set within the popular Warhammer sci-fi universe, players will step into the boots of Sister Ophelia as she takes on the hundreds of enemies standing between her and her lost twin sister in this immersive, actionpacked shooter from Pixel Toys. Whether you’re an existing Warhammer fan or not, Battle Sister is shaping up to be one of the year’s most intense shooters. Pistol Whip 2089, Cloudhead In 2089, a plague of killer androids has overrun an off-world colony, leaving only one hero with the mettle needed to shut it all down. Pistol Whip 2089 expands Cloudhead’s acclaimed rhythm-shooter with a gritty sci-fi action campaign, featuring new weapons, a new

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

robotic threat, and a new synthwave-inspired soundtrack. Prepare for the orbital assault and become the ultimate action hero. The Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners, Skydance Interactive The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners has been terrifying Rift users for most of 2020, but we Myst

Pistol Whip 2089

The Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners

know everyone wants the opportunity to fight their way through a zombie-filled New Orleans. This expansion to Robert Kirkman’s comic book universe offers one of the most intense actionhorror VR experiences out there. Shape the fates of your fellow survivors over the course of the 15-hour campaign in the Big Easy — and try your best to stay alive. ■

Electric Car Charging Safety Some of the best-selling EV Charging Stations are not safety-tested and certified

fter deciding to buy a plug-in electric vehicle, often the next decision is to purchase a Level 2 charging station for faster charging at home. The technical name as defined in the National Electric Code for these products is EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment), commonly called charging stations. Safety might not be the first consideration when selecting a charging station, but safety is actually the most important thing to consider. The primary function of a plug-in vehicle charging station is to provide electrical safety for the operator and electrical infrastructure throughout the charging process and specifically to address the risks of fire and electric shock. The good news is charging an electric vehicle is actually very safe and easy when done with proper, independently safety-certified equipment. The challenge is that not all charging stations on the market are independently safety tested and certified. When a charging station manufacturer develops a new product, or makes even a minor change to an existing product, they should send samples to a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), such as Intertek (ETL mark) or Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL mark). Safety engineers at these labs perform months of extensive safety testing that the products must pass before they can be safety certified and made available to the public for sale. Only products with these marks appearing on the manufactured product’s rating plate are safety certified. Look for these (ETL or UL) certification marks on the station itself when shopping for a charging station:

Do a quick experiment in your own home: look around at the electrical appliances purchased from a reputable source and you will see they are all marked with a safety label. If you find a product that plugs into the wall that is not marked, you might want to consider not using it.

Be Cautious of These Things:

Deceptive Markings - Some manufacturers use officiallooking marks such as the CE logo. If you only see a CE mark then the product has not been independently certified. CE is a self-certifying mark and it should not be trusted in the US, Canada, and Mexico. A CE mark in addition to the UL or ETL mark is acceptable. Do NOT use a product that only has a CE mark.

Uncertified Products are being sold by what seems like a reputable seller - Buying the product from what seems to be a reputable seller doesn’t mean the charging station has been safety certified. Most large home improvement retailer stores like Lowes and Home Depot have standards in place that require NRTL certification for electrical appliances. However, there are online retailers, such as Amazon, direct sellers, and sources from outside the United States that DO carry and sell unlisted products. Deceptive Claims - When selecting a charging station, if you are unsure about the NRTL certification status of a product, reach out to the product supplier and ask them to provide confirmation that the product you are interested in is NRTL (UL or ETL) certified. Non-Grounded Plugs - If you are purchasing a plug-in charging station, NEVER buy a station with a NEMA 10-30 or 10-50 plug. The NEMA 10-30 and NEMA 10-50 style outlets do not have an earth ground connection. There is NO possibility that a charging station delivered with one of these plugs is properly NRTL safety certified. One of the key safety functions of a charging station is providing an earth ground connection to the vehicle. This assures the vehicle body is safely grounded during charging. For more information: www.ClipperCreek.com/Safety

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Escapism and Entertainment

How Video Games Are Getting Us Through the COVID-19 Pandemic By Alex Moersen

On March 11, 2020, the NBA officially announced they would be suspending their season indefinitely. It was a pivotal point in the year, signaling to the masses that COVID-19, which at the time was still shrouded in mystery, was something to be taken seriously. For many, it was the pandemic’s beginning that kept us inside our homes for most of 2020. But not all was lost. While we were all locked in our homes this spring and summer, you know where people escaped? Video games. Video games, which still exist in the gray area between childish toys to some and technological artisanship to others, became a main source of entertainment for many this year. According to a study by Deloitte Insights, 34% of those surveyed, of all ages, tried a new video game activity during the pandemic, including subscribing to a video game service, using a cloud gaming service, or watching an esports event. Even 16% of Boomers (ages 55-73) tried out a new video game activity during the pandemic. This sudden increased interest in video games shouldn’t come as a surprise as video games can provide two key psychological

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

benefits to humans: escapism and social interaction. A Whole New World Not only are video games a common form of entertainment and escapism during an anxietyinducing pandemic, but many games also provided an opportunity for people to connect during the lockdown. Take Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which was released in March, as an example of the perfect marrying of escapism and social interaction. Animal Crossing, the social simulation game where you mosey around a peaceful island, sold 13.41 million units in its first six weeks. “The psychology behind video games during COVID-19 pandemic: A case study of Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” a study written by Lin Zhu and published in Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies, examines the phenomenon of Animal Crossing as both a form of escapism and social interaction. “It is not hard to discover the two main psychological successes behind this phenomenon,” Zhu explains. “First, it captures peoples’ instinct to escape from realistic

difficulties and their yearning to chase a peaceful and harmonious life; then it satisfies peoples’ unwillingness to be lonely and their deep inner desire for social interaction.” While playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons, one can go fishing, pick flowers, chop down trees, build a home on their own personal island, visit a friend’s island, and so much more. The game provides a peaceful atmosphere, where “there are no mountains of work and demanding bosses,” Zhu explains. “Most importantly, there is no disaster or disease, it is like a haven that keeps you away from COVID-19.” But Zhu argues that “the most fascinating part of the game is that the players can continue to socialize virtually even as they remain in physical isolation.” For those who were forced to brave lockdown without family or roommates, the isolation could be damaging. As social creatures, it’s important for us to have these interactions, and Animal Crossing is a great example of how video games can provide social needs virtually. “The gamers not only can invite others to their

“ First, it captures peoples’ instinct to escape from realistic difficulties and their yearning to chase a peaceful and harmonious life; then it satisfies peoples’ unwillingness to be lonely and their deep inner desire for social interaction.”

islands to trade items but also can talk and hang out virtually,” Zhu explains. “There are even real stories of people having weddings on the game after their ceremonies had been canceled in real life. It is a thoughtful way to make memories and have some laughs during a time they cannot do so in person. New Horizons fulfills the players’ desire to continue social contact with each other during the COVID-19 epidemic.” The Show Must Go On Each spring, sports fans rejoice. Baseball season opens up, playoff races heat up in the NBA and NHL, March Madness takes the nation by storm. There’s the Masters Tournament and the Kentucky Derby. The absence of sports this year left an entertainment void for many. Who stepped in? Esports. Prior to the pandemic, the esports industry was already becoming a global force, surpassing $1 billion in 2019. With video games’ internetfriendly playstyle, esports had an easier time transitioning into a COVID-19 world, taking advantage of a sport-less world. According to the University of Las Vegas

Nevada, viewership on the popular video game streaming platform Twitch rose 23 percent, amounting to 1.2 billion hours of video games watched. In fact, gaming streams across Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and Mixer grew from 4.8 billion in Q1 of 2020 to 7.6 billion in Q2, according to Stream Hatchet. A study by PwC found that earlier this year more than two-thirds of under-35-year-olds were playing or watching gaming content during the lockdown, and more than half were open to watching gaming or esports specifically. It wasn’t only Twitch and YouTube hosting esports and video game streaming. Major networks like Fox Sports and ESPN also got onboard and used esports to fill the holes in their schedules, televising the eNASCAR season and the Rocket League world championship, respectively. No Industry is Immune Of course, while it has had an easier time adapting to our COVID-19 world, the video game industry has faced its own issues. In the world of esports, major events, like Epic Games’ Fortnite World Cup, have been cancelled. Other

major tournaments for League of Legends, FIFA 20, Hearthstone, Apex Legends, Call of Duty, and Rocket League have also been postponed or cancelled. While we are seeing films and TV shows delayed due to companies adjusting to COVID19, remote working, and new health standards — the gaming industry may be affected in the same way. Production of gaming hardware could be hindered as factories experience supply chain interruptions and game developers may want to prepare for a loss in efficiency as employees continue to work remotely. Nintendo itself stated in an annual report that “development schedules may be impacted due to the difference in development environment between working from home and in the office … As a result, we may not be able to proceed with the release of Nintendo products and the start of services as planned.” The video game industry isn’t immune to COVID-19, but, although revenues might be declining at present, the value of the video game and esports sector has skyrocketed due to its accessibility in the home. ■

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Now This is Drone Racing! Everything You Need to Know About This Exciting New Sport By Alex Moersen outfitted with a camera, which sends its feed to a pair of goggles that the pilot wears. In essence, the pilot sees what the drone sees. Racing drones are designed for speed rather than photography or video. While photography quadcopters are designed in an X-pattern, a racing model will typically have its four motors configured in an H-pattern, which helps to thrust the drone forward, rather than up. In addition, three- or four-blade propellers have shorter diameters, allowing for a small frame with increased acceleration and maneuverability. While the world record is 179.6 miles per hour, the drones tend to race at around 90 miles per hour. The courses can vary depending on the league. Some are shorter, about a mile long, with intricate design and obstacles. Others take place outside, utilizing natural and manmade elements to create the course.

In July of 2017, the Drone Racing League set the Guiness World Record for the fastest drone. The top speed? 179.6 miles per hour. To put that in perspective, the 1.76-pound drone, called the DRL Racer X, can move faster than a Tesla at top speed in Ludicrous Mode. With such impressive speeds, it’s not surprising drone racing has become one of the most exciting new additions to the sports and entertainment catalogue. What began in Germany in 2011 as a handful of amateur pilots getting together for drone races has slowly become an international phenomenon. In fact, BMW held the Drone

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Racing League’s (DRL) 2018 Semi-Finals race at their automobile museum, selling out the event with 3,000 fans. Here’s what you need to know about drone racing. How Does it Work? The goal of FPV drone racing is simple: finish the designated course as quickly as possible with your high-speed drone. The FPV in this case stands for “first person view,” meaning each drone is

How is it Organized? Drone racing can be boiled down to three primary leagues. The most accessible and widespread league is MultiGP, which governs and sanctions drone racing events internationally. The organization frequently hosts competition-based tournaments, but also free-fly gatherings and other casual events as a way to execute both grassroots and professional racing initiatives, increasing the sport’s accessibility. The Drone Racing League, or DRL, is a television program where pilots are filmed competing in drone races. Pilots are invited to participate in several races as a part of a global racing circuit and the races air on ESPN, NBC Sports, SKY Sports, and others. Available in over 75 countries and airing on mainstream stations, the DRL has been instrumental in drone racing’s growth in popularity. The final primary league is the IUDRO, or the International University Drone Racing Organisation, which is the world’s first drone racing league that globally regulates and organizes interuniversity drone racing events. Anybody who intimately knows sports understands how important university involvement is before the professional level and the IUDRO provides not only entertainment but a chance for students to hone their skills before entering the professional circuit. Drone racing, like esports, is ushering in a new era of technologybased sporting events. While popularity is still growing for drone racing, the future looks bright for this high-octane sport. If you’re ready to take on a new hobby, you can find races to watch on the DRL website. ■ 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Odyssey G9 – Matching the curvature of the human eye, the 49-inch Odyssey G9 has the screen space of two 27inch panels. From each end of the spectrum, the Samsung monitor delivers “picture perfect” quality with every frame. Now, imagine your favorite game on that screen. Experience a more encompassing view with maximum space to take in all the action.With the rapid 240hz refresh rate, you have up to four times as many frames displayed on screen every second compared to its traditional counterpart. $1480 GAEMS Rail System – Gaming is serious business these days. Not only do you need a place for your monitor, you’re going to need a place for your headset, camera, smart phone, tablet, and more. The GAEMS Rail System uses a weighted stand, has an adaptable design, is fully adjustable, supports up to 24” VESA compatible mounted monitors, and up to 14 lbs in weight. $100 Oculus Quest 2 – The future of gaming is here, so become part of the experience with the Oculus Quest 2. The model showcases a blazing fast processor and next generation graphics. You can take VR into your own hands with the redesigned Oculus Touch controllers, complete with hand tracking, and a resolution of 1832x1920px per eye. You’ll even hear in all directions with the built-in speakers delivering cinematic 3D positional audio. $299 GAEMS Hex Pac Backpack – Have game, will travel. Every gamer needs a place to store their gear when on the road or staying over at a friend’s house to try out the latest game. This backpack offers console compatibility including the PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, and Nintendo Switch, features laptop and tablet sleeves, internal headphone strap, and quick access document pockets. $70

Secretlab Titan 2020 – When you’re a serious gamer, the last thing you need is an uncomfortable place to sit down for a session. Do you want a chair that fits you? Do you want room to move around a little too? The Secretlab Titan provides customization at the highest level and features logo stitching, adjustable armrests, and head pillow with memory foam and cooling gel. $500

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

8BitDo Arcade Stick – Compatible with both Nintendo Switch and Windows, this throwback to the arcade days provides a hands-on and classic approach to gaming. Using the 8BitDo, you can even customize button mapping and create macros with any button combination. The stick includes wireless bluetooth, an ultra-moddable arcade stick, a universal mounting plate supporting Sanwa, Seimitsu, Happ & IL arcade sticks. $90

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 – Designed as the successor to topselling wireless gaming headsets for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|s, PS4 and PS5, the Turtle beach Stealth will support the console-based surround sound technologies and Bluetooth connectivity. This product includes significant upgrades in comfort, durability, and audio performance. There is also an improved 20-hour battery life. $150

GUNNAR Optiks – Lightning Bolt 360 – To a lot of us, gaming is more than entertainment, and the last thing we need are distractions. These gaming glasses are versatile and were designed to relieve temple pressure while wearing headsets. Delivering style, comfort and versatility, the Lightning Bolt 360 focuses on your eyes so you can focus on the game. Features include three temple options, interchangeable lens, and protective case. $130

C40 TR Gaming Controller – This one’s for the pro’s in the house. Got a tournament coming up and want a controller with a premium design and compatible with the PS4, PC/MAC? The C40 TR includes an optimal rear button layout for superior ergonomics that improves precision during critical moments. Also, mappability streamlines the controller for any genre and playstyle while improving response time and accuracy. $199

Logitech G403 – Do you want next-level tracking with your gaming mouse? What about its range, filtering, and acceleration? The G403 is lightweight and designed to mold to your hand with rubber grips for added control. An optional 10 g removable weight lets you tune the weight to your preferences.With a lightning-fast response time, this mouse is up to eight-times faster than standard mice not designed specifically for gaming, delivering near-instantaneous moves and clicks. $70

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

connected life

Plugging in By Joe Toppe control” an important quality before adopting connected technologies for the home. Money Talks Up and down weather, up and down thermostat, up and down electric bills. Stuart Lombard, CEO, and founder of ecobee, said a voice controlled smart thermostat can clog leaky funds and save additional money while making the move to clean energy. In fact, “homeowners can save up to 23% annually on heating and cooling costs,” he said. The right smart thermostat can “leverage machine learning and AI to tailor temperature settings.” Instead of where the thermostat is placed in the home, smart sensor technology can keep each room comfortable through occupancy detection.

The contemporary home is already much different than what our grandparents were used to with the internet and smart devices laying around. As the COVID-19 crisis digs in for another turn, the home has become more than a place to lay your head, it is a sanctuary, it is an entertainment hub, it is the gym, and it is the office. Today, moving into your new house or apartment requires an understanding of integrated appliances and cost-effective gadgetry that is both smart and safe. Whether you want security, cleaner floors, or increased efficiencies with internet access for smart devices like an iPhone, gaming console, or television, the connected home and the people living there are plugging in to make it happen. As far back as three years ago, a survey conducted by Finn Partners’ Global Technology Practice showed consumers considered “human

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

connected life smart mapping technology, learn a floor plan, know the difference between your living room and kitchen, so “you don’t have to think about vacuuming for months at a time,” she said. Additionally, “state-of-the-art AI is used to automatically detect and suggest clean zones around specific objects like couches, tables, and kitchen counters. This means you can instruct your robot to clean precisely where the mess is with a simple voice command or button in the app.” And once you are home, the last thing you want to do is go out again, especially to the gym. Smart exercise equipment and devices were already on the rise

Peace of Mind When moving into a new place, you want more than a view from the kitchen window or the patch of White Oaks dropping fall leaves through the sunlight in the front yard. You want satisfaction. You want contentment. In a tech world, seamless Wi-Fi and home security are a good place to start for “resting easy.” After all, can you think of many things higher on the list of needs when moving into a new place than personal safety and a stable wireless connection to the world outside? Sandeep Harpalani, VP of Product Line Management for NETGEAR, said “first and foremost, capable smart home networks need good Wi-Fi infrastructure, especially with the growing number of devices in the home needing network connectivity.” “Reliable Wi-Fi is an important capability as we navigate an increasingly digital world and spend more time at home social distancing or working,” he said. “Having a connection that won’t cause problems and will elevate your experience is key.”

peace of mind they are protected, he said. Using features like video, motion detection, and twoway talk, “you can monitor what’s happening on your property at all times.”

But, you can’t stream the latest blockbuster or play the hottest game without knowing what’s behind you or in the other room first. Smart home security is quickly becoming a must for the new renter and homeowner too.

Convenience Now that you’re saving a little money, you’re safe, and your internet connection is strong, you can sit back, relax, and allow your home to work for you. Whether you need to get some cleaning done or a workout in, the applications of smart technology offers users unrivaled conveniences.

Joshua Roth, CTO of Ring Cameras, told Innovation & Tech Today “homeowners want to feel safe – whether they are home or away.”

Sarah Wang, Senior Product Manager at iRobot, said one portion of your housework can be taken care of from start to finish.

Security systems give homeowners and renters

Robot vacuums can empty their own bins, use

before the onslaught of COVID-19 shut most, if not all, gym doors around the country during mandatory closures. Chris Stadler, CMO of Tonal, said breakthrough technology like patented digital weight and A.I. learning is creating the world’s smartest personal-use gyms. “The smart home gym can leverage advanced intelligence to learn from your strengths, while providing suggested weight recommendations and detailed progress reports,” he said. Like a personal trainer, “the smart home can help get the best results by optimizing every workout for you.” ■ 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

connected life Gregory Juxt - F20 Adventure Travel Pack – Today’s traveller is more than an overnight bag and a few days worth of clothes. The contemporary traveller is a digital mover, and the Juxt is making a name for itself as a smart travel bag featuring digital-organization and high-performance carrying comfort. Some days, you need to take the office with you, even off the grid. The Juxt comes equipped with an electronics caddy that securely stores computers, tablets and accessories, while the suspension system ensures breathability. Starting at $200

Vuzix Blade Upgraded Smart Glasses – Want to protect your eyes? Want to listen to music and take pictures at the same time? The Vuzix smart glasses deliver a hands-free connection to the digital world, providing unprecedented access to location-aware information, data collection, remote support communications with both audio and video. The glasses include an auto-focus 8-megapixel camera, built-in stereo speakers, and advanced Vuzix voice control. No BT headset is required. $900

LG Dual ThinQ- Phone & Compatible Screen – In the digital world, the power of a smartphone cannot be overstated. We all want entertainment, photo, video, and audio practicality and excellence. The LG G8X ThinQ features the best in dual screen, advanced camera, and audio technology. Powered by a 4,000mAh Battery, this smartphone can run a multitude of applications longer and without any interruptions. $780 for phone / $199 screen Yale Smart Delivery Box – While most of us see the holidays as another chance to share gifts and see family and friends, there are others who see it as an opportunity to break the law. Why not protect your deliveries with the Yale Smart Delivery Box? From wherever you are in the world, the box allows anyone to conveniently receive packages and perishable deliveries using the the Yale Access App and Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, $229-279 August Wi-Fi Smart Lock – Whether you are a renter or homeowner, safety is paramount. You also want to know your home and property is secure when away. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is easily installed and attached to your existing deadbolt. Upgrade your locks and control your front door from anywhere with remote access and monitoring abilities. $249

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

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FEATURE STORY

If You Can’t Join ‘Em… Stream ‘Em 52

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

By Jennifer Oladipo Photos by Rich Hardcastle

FEATURE STORY This fall, Ricky Gervais was living his best lockdown life. Hollywood was on pause, but the actor and comedian kept in full stride. Binging fans had made his Netflix series After Life the mostwatched British comedy for the second year in a row while he stayed home writing a third season. Meanwhile, Gervais also took to Periscope each week, broadcasting a live, online, off-the-cuff talk show where he responds to viewer comments from his den at home as the pandemic postponed his standup tour. Innovation & Tech Today caught up with Gervais to discuss his embrace of streaming technology as a consumer, filmmaker, and one-man-production studio. Innovation & Tech Today: How has streaming technology impacted the way you view and create your work, both as an artist and from a business perspective? Ricky Gervais: It’s incredible because, personally, I always wanted to have the final edit. I wanted it to be my thing, no interference, uncompromised. But to get that final edit, I had to go to a smaller channel that would let me. I had to choose fewer viewers, in a way. So, it was HBO, not NBC, or BBC2, not BBC1.

Gervais' Netflix series After Life was the most watched British comedy for the second year in a row.

Then Netflix came along and said, “We don’t interfere; we’ve got even deeper pockets.” With 160 million subscribers, they’re already bigger than the BBC, so it’s a no-brainer. This was all sort of inevitable. Things on YouTube were already getting more views than something on the telly. “Internet” was a dirty word in Hollywood. But now Netflix, iTunes — all of them — they pay the best wages, have the least interference, and get the biggest viewing figures. So, I don’t know what’s going to compete with that. Everyone’s going to get a piece of it, I think. I&T Today: So, streaming stigma is over? RG: I still think there’s a validation needed for things like this. There are YouTubers who get 50 million hits but still want to get on television, because it’s sort of a traditional validation. Their mum doesn’t watch them on YouTube. I sell out stadiums around the world in an hour by tweeting a link. But I then walk around the city and think, “Oh, I wish I had billboards.” I don’t need them, but I would like them. Everything is technology these days, but there’s something nice and analog about those things. 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

FEATURE STORY If You Can’t Join ‘Em… Stream ‘Em

“ I also think people have fallen out of love with film stars. They used to be enigmatic. You didn’t know what they thought. There was no Twitter.”

I&T Today: With your Supernatural comedy special forthcoming and After Life doing so well, do you still feel that kind of nostalgia about your own work? RG: I suppose I think differently about projects now because I know it’ll have an audience. It’s been 20 years since I wrote a script and wondered if it would get on the telly. But you can’t turn out rubbish. It’s not like you think you’re invincible. You still have to act like you could lose your cachet. And I think globally now more than I ever did. Not that I pander: If something’s set in England, I don’t change “tap” to “faucet” or “pavement” to “sidewalk.” But I know people around the world are watching. Netflix translates you into 160 different languages and dialects, so, in a way, I can be even more uncompromised. I can do my tiny, silly little thing for a few people, and it goes global. I&T Today: How do you see the future of Hollywood and the film industry postCOVID-19?

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

RG: I don’t know. Cinema was sort of — not dying, but it had evolved into something else. You only saw real movies at film festivals. They didn’t make any money, but they were quite good. And the things at the cinema were just franchises. People running around in rubber costumes for teenagers and strange adults. That was Hollywood; it was all comic-book stuff.

came together.

I also think people have fallen out of love with film stars. They used to be enigmatic. You didn’t know what they thought. There was no Twitter. Now, someone who gets famous and makes $10 million a movie and everyone loves them, suddenly they open their mouth, and everyone realizes they’re an idiot.

RG: I think it’s better for the auteur; I really do. Before, if you did a film, they’d screen-test it and focus-group it because they wanted everyone to like it. Hollywood used to water it down. They made it safe, anodyne.

I think they thought they were invincible. They thought, “People love me in that movie where I’m wearing a cape and flying around. They’ll definitely love me when I spout my politics and tell working-class people how to vote.” It was already designed to go wrong. Add that to the fact that you could watch a movie at home for a couple of quid (a few dollars). It all

But, yeah, I think it’ll carry on in some form. It’ll evolve. It’s supply and demand, isn’t it? If people want it, it’ll work. Everyone will have a win. Even Disney now is doing the Netflix model. Everyone borrows, steals, evolves. I&T Today: Is the streaming model better?

They made a Hollywood rom-com the same as the Hollywood rom-com that was out last week, and it would stay in the cinema weekend after weekend. Innovation suffered at the cinema because people would go, “That’s a bit weird,” and they didn’t go and see it. On Netflix, people can take forever to find it. I can do a tweet about my three-year-old comedy special, Humanity, and it gets a spike from people that are 15 years old now and didn’t watch it

FEATURE STORY

“ I love the idea that you’re not beholden to anyone. I’ve never liked interference. I’ve never liked putting my hand up to suggest an idea.”

before. I’m very fascinated by the analytics of the internet and social media, how things trend differently, and this instant global reach. We’re all broadcasters. That’s the other thing. I can get advertising now for my tweets or my podcasts or my videos. I’m a TV company, you know what I mean? It’s crazy. I&T Today: It’s fun watching you crack yourself up and also deal with lighting and tech issues on your Periscope show. What is it like to be the talent, producer, and director? RG: Well, I don’t know what I’m gonna say in advance. I haven’t seen the audience’s questions beforehand, and I don’t know where it’s gonna go, so that’s exciting. But also I sometimes realize the absurdity of it — that I’m arguing with a (person pretending to be) a cat or a dog on social media. I love the idea that you’re not beholden to anyone. I’ve never liked interference. I’ve never liked putting my hand up to suggest an idea. An idea is the best it’s ever going to be when it’s in

your head, and you’ve got to be in charge to make sure it’s ruined as little as possible. Even if you get a final edit on a film or TV show, there are still 50 people involved, and you have to hand it over. I have an incredible platform and choice and power. It’s great, perfect for me, in a way. I&T Today: You’re using this platform and power to talk about mostly dogs and animals. Why? RG: Because it’s still entertainment and fun. If I went on there for half an hour each week and talked about how we wipe out 10,000 species a year and torture and kill farm animals and sea creatures, people would turn off. It’s too much. So, I make jokes for 25 minutes and say how brilliant dogs are, then say, “Oh, you might want to look at this charity.” You have to sort of educate people and talk them around and get them on your side. They don’t want to be told what to do by so-called experts or entertainers. You have to do it gently. They’re not bad people; many just don’t know.

I&T Today: Standup has a certain kind of energy you seem able to capture a bit on Periscope. RG: Yeah. It’s as real as it could possibly be. There’s no facade. I can’t take anything back. It is like riffing, like a warmup thing. Actually, there are a couple of ideas that, if I jot them down, could become standup. The big thing at the moment is podcasts, but that’s still a little bit like eavesdropping. You still know it’s two people talking to each other and not you. But here, you’re looking down the lens at the person. They’re at home alone, and they can talk back to me. I think that’s what’s really engaging for people. There are 50,000 hardcore people who wait for it to come online, then the show gets another 150,000 over the next few days. They know I’m real. They know I’m an idiot like one of them. They like scolding me, as well. They say things like, “You’re losing your hair. You’re looking fat today, Rick. You’re looking scruffy with that hole in your shirt.” They don’t get to say that to Tom Cruise. ■

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

Nothing Goes Over His Head

Photo Eric Williams

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

FEATURE STORY

Despite movie delays, Dave Bautista is bigger than ever. From penniless father to world-class wrestler, from a lover of film to larger-than-life movie star, Dave Bautista has put in the work. He’s also a student of the craft, wants to act alongside the industry’s best, and loves to tell a story through performance.

By Joe Toppe

“I love breaking down stereotypes in characters and making my performance change the audiences’ expectations of what a character is supposed to look or sound like."

He wasn’t always this big though. Bautista was a shy, gangly kid growing up on the streets. Since, he’s had to overcome an introverted personality and the financial hardships of a young family to get his start. For the last two decades, Bautista has enjoyed the life of a six-time WWE wrestling champion, roles in films like Riddick, Blade Runner 2049, and the Guardians of the Galaxy movie franchise as Drax. While the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed a long list of movie premieres and episodes from our favorite theater, Netflix, Apple, or Hulu feature, the star of Dave Bautista has gotten brighter. Recently, Innovation & Tech Today caught up with him to talk not only about his time as a wrestling champion and tech interests, but his upcoming projects like Dune, See, and Army of the Dead. Innovation & Tech Today: Can you tell us how you started in entertainment? Dave Bautista: It’s not a very glamorous answer. I needed to make some money because I was broke. To be honest, there wasn’t much I was qualified to do. Other than lifting weights, I didn’t pursue a lot right out of high school. I loved working out, it was so therapeutic for me. But closing in on 30 with two kids and no money, I figured I’d give professional wrestling a try. It was so hot at the time and I looked the part, right? Back then, when I told people about my plans, they looked at me like I was crazy because I was such an introverted person. I just didn’t have many options, so I went after it. And it wasn’t long before I became obsessed with wrestling. I fell in love with it. I fell in love with the entertainment side of things.

Courtesy Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

Although I was shy as a kid, I always wanted to be one of those flamboyant guys. I still struggle being in the spotlight. Fame can be a bit overwhelming for someone like me, but I love telling stories through performance. I&T Today: Your career is firing on all cylinders right now with work on Netflix, Apple, and of course, Dune. What’s the next year look like? DB: Dune has been pushed to next year. [Expected Oct. 1, 2021] I understand, and was anticipating this delay, but I’m like most fans — I’m dying to see this movie. I also did a film for Netflix called, Army of the Dead, and it has been pushed back as well. It is a fun take on zombies and should be released in the first quarter of next year. But I am really looking forward to Dune. The movie means a lot to me and to the fans. It was a

long journey from Blade Runner to Dune, so it is personal. I am also back in Canada now because I am signed up for a TV series called, See, with Jason Momoa. In addition, I have something coming out that I can’t talk about. It’s a project I’ve worked on now for about four years and has some big names attached to it. So, I’m sorry I can’t say anymore because I’m kind of teasing it here. But it will be a big deal and I think people will love it. And of course, we will finally be going into Guardians of the Galaxy 3, and I am excited to get this done and bring it full circle. I&T Today: Did you see the original Dune? Did you take anything from it and add it to your current interpretation? DB: No. Not at all. Dune in 2020 is a reimagining, not a reboot. It won’t even remotely resemble the original film. The 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

FEATURE STORY Nothing Goes Over His Head

Bautista as Drax the Destroyer in the Guardians of the Galaxy movie franchise.

characters and film are much different, and this version will also be much closer to the novels. I am not knocking the original, I just don’t think it was true to the books. And of course, special effects have come so far since then. I&T Today: How do you approach acting? DB: It becomes an obsession, and I crave to work with the best performers in the world. It is how I learn. I am an on-the-job learner. It was the same way in wrestling, and it has been the same in acting and making films. I love breaking down stereotypes in characters and making my performance change the audiences’ expectations of what a character is supposed to look or sound like. I love being a student, and I take pride in being a student. It’s how you get ahead in life by putting yourself in that role to grow and learn.

Courtesy Marvel Studios/Jay Maidment

I&T Today: If you had one dream matchup in wrestling, what would it be and why? DB: When I was a kid, I loved The Warlord. At that time, I was a scrawny kid, and he was this mountain of a man. I always liked the big guys. He was what I wanted to be, not a gangly kid sick with asthma. I wanted to be that big imposing person. I loved him, so I’d put myself in a match against him. But if I had to watch the match, I would love to see Ric Flair against Triple H in their primes. This may be biased, but they are the two greatest professional wrestlers ever.

Courtesy Marvel Studios

I&T Today: What was it like to be on Bear Grylls? You seemed to have a real connection. Bautista: I learned a lot, and I lost a toenail. My biggest takeaway is Bear. He is such a down to earth, lovable person. I think all you’re seeing on TV with him connecting with his guests is true. It’s all genuine. He is one of those guys you could sit down with and pick his brain. He’s had such an amazing life. I&T Today: Shifting gears, do you see yourself as a tech person? The action comedy My Spy was released in early 2020.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Photos courtesy of STXfilms/Michael Gibson

DB: I am in the process now of turning my

FEATURE STORY garage into a movie theater. It’s not because I am a big tech guy though, it’s because I love the movie experience. Not being able to go to the movies since everything shut down is one of the biggest things I miss. I like to lose myself in the theater, and it is such a social thing where everyone comes together, too. They have a smell and a feel. Movie-going is the best of both worlds, being around people and not necessarily having to interact with them. But tech, I am not opposed to learning more, it’s just a little after my time. I bought my mom a computer and spent the entire day with her getting it set up by telling her to “Google it.” I&T Today: How do you stay connected with fans? Although you are not a tech person, you are prominent on social media. DB: I like being connected with the fans. I feel a bit disconnected right now because my social media has been centered on politics, in line with most Americans today. I am hoping the election will go the right way, and then I will set down my phone and take a long-needed break. But I don’t really want to be politically outspoken. It is uncomfortable for me, but there is so much at stake right now that I don’t think I could live with myself if I didn’t participate. But I look forward to interacting with fans about wrestling or films.

Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios

In 2015, Bautista's film Spectre was the 24th in the James Bond series.

My followers are true fans, and they are interested in my life and journey. Those are the people I want to stay connected with as an entertainer. They are what it’s all about. I&T Today: You are a big animal lover. Are there any charities or nonprofits you want to talk about? DB: I have close ties with Frankie’s Friends. A lot of times people can’t afford to care for their animals when they need a serious operation, and they are forced to consider putting them down. Frankie’s Friends raises money for those families that can’t afford the surgery or procedure to keep their beloved pets alive. I also support Golden Ears Sanctuary in Tampa, Florida. They take in animals with terminal illnesses and allow them to find comfort and peace in their last days, where they are wanted and cared for until they are gone. Animals are my weak spot. ■

Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

tech zone

CES

Welcome to a 5G World By Robert Yehling

It’s fast, super-efficient, likely to transform society and the business world in a way not seen since the automobile — and it’s already here. 5G is the fifth generation of broadband — instant mobile connectivity. The massive bandwidth increase brings far more dataprocessing and loading speed, and the delivery of services and technology we haven’t seen before. For those who think of it as an upgrade on 4G, think of it more like a stratospheric leap forward. 5G includes an entirely different set of protocols some estimate will eventually produce data speeds 100 times greater than 4G (right now, most companies report a 15- to 30-fold increase). With the rollout well underway, it will become the data and communications pipeline of the country within two or three years. Gary Shapiro, President and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, said this year’s digital CES event will be a showcase for 5G. “Everything will be faster with more things to do simultaneously,” he said. “Every 10 years the content requires a leap whether it’s gaming platforms or new medical.” The event took place January 11-14 online. Shapiro said going online “allowed us to serve the tens of thousands who wanted to attend CES physically but can’t.” “We can reach new audiences easily,” he followed. With 5G, more content will be coming through the pipeline. This means everything for the next-gen technology and applications in business, manufacturing, entertainment, sports, virtual office, and consumer experiences, such as immersive content, Artificial Intelligence,

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Virtual Reality, and Augmented Reality. All of these can easily clog a 4G network, due to the bandwidth and processing speeds they require. With 5G, we’re going to see their potential. For one thing, the latency we experience when a network is used to capacity will, for the most part, no longer exist in our daily home and work functions. A few examples of how industries and manufacturing processes are being transformed by 5G: • Vehicles can talk to each other in real-time to change lanes, brake, and make other adjustments, thus filling in the missing link to a future with autonomous vehicles on the road. The BMW iNEXT, an electric-powered SUV, will roll out in 2021 with sensors that collect and process data from surrounding cars and their proximate locations. The vehicle permanently surveys the road around it and sends relative bits of information to the cloud to create real-time maps, which are pushed down to other cars. • How about smart agriculture? NimbeLink is partnering with The Bee Corporation to use 5G and the Internet of Things (IOT) to help protect honeybees, critical for the world’s food supply, now in population distress. Adopters will use asset trackers to monitor the health of hives. Temperature, humidity, movement and location will be collected by sensors. In addition, several tractor and combine manufacturers deploy smart technologies on their vehicles to assist farmers in the field with soil moisture content, estimated crop yield, seeding efficiency, and many other functions. • 5G has already proven a lifesaver to many during the pandemic. With 5G, you can switch back and forth between audio and video chats,

sending and receiving instant messages, and watching YouTube videos, with no latency issues. Your phone will become even more of an interactive and immersive content goldmine, and content producers know it: Verizon and Disney’s StudioLab are partnering on packages of streaming content specifically for Verizon customers. • Smart cities will grow now that the 5G spinal cord is settling into place; in addition, municipalities can partner with carriers on smart lighting solutions, traffic control, and energy efficiency. In Las Vegas, for example, the City and AT&T are partnering on a smart lighting solution for security and energy efficiency. They are using Ubicquia’s Ubicell street lighting routers and smart lighting platform. • Between earthquakes and the dramatic upsurge in wildfires, California is in the crosshairs of mortal danger every day. With 5G, warning apps like ShakeAlert, and reverse 9-1-1 calls, can get information to residents far faster for these and other emergencies — literally saving lives in many cases. • The medical world is already benefiting greatly — again, a development 5G is turning into a life-saver. In 2019, AT&T signed an agreement with the Rush University Medical Center and Rush System for Health in Chicago to create the “hospital of the future,” which connects multiple hospitals and healthcare providers citywide. It also enhances the speed and efficiency of conducting remote surgeries (even more critical during the pandemic), sharing records with specialists anywhere in the world, and other life-saving benefits. Rush is using AT&T’s 5G network and multi-access

tech zone

edge computing edge IT service environment. “We strongly believe 5G is a game-changing technology that when fully implemented will help us support better hospital operations as well as provide the highest-quality patient and staff experience,” said Senior Vice President and CIO Dr. Shafiq Rab of Rush University Medical Center and the Rush System for Health. In a nutshell, thousands of cities, towns, and metropolitan areas are hooked up to 5G, while rural America is catching up — the typical order of any technology rollout. What might surprise some is the rollout has been happening for two years. In late 2018, AT&T announced its 5G network went “live” in parts of Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Louisville, Oklahoma City, New Orleans, Raleigh, San Antonio, and Waco. In mid-2019, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Nashville, Orlando, San Diego, San Francisco, and San Jose joined the group. Then, in December 2019, Verizon flipped the switch to make 5G available to over 5,000 cities and towns that total more than 200 million residents. While 4G will continue to be available for the foreseeable future, phone manufacturers are jumping on the 5G express. As of October 2020, Apple, Asus, Google, HMD Global (Nokia), Honor, HTC, Huawei, LG, Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Samsung, Sony, and Chinese juggernaut Xiaomi all offer several different 5G models. In the manufacturing world, we’re already seeing the disruptive and transformative capacity of 5G play out in robotics. While many chafe at the once futuristic but now very present reality where robots can and will replace humans in some jobs, those dealing with high

manufacturing volume and customer demand, like Amazon’s shipping and distribution departments, find them indispensable in keeping up. While dystopian movie producers and the paranoid fringe focus on the potential of so-called “killer robots” to wreak havoc on society, that’s a worry whose time really has not yet gone beyond the box office. How about the positives of 5G-powered robotics? Like robots that provide every type of service, solution, or entertainment function? Or those already cleaning living room floors and mowing yards? If you’re a working single parent, think of your latchkey kid coming home, opening the door — and a robot notifying you that your kid’s home, while helping your kid with snacks and reminding them of homework assignments. These types of specific-use cases will be commonplace soon in business, manufacturing, medical, and home settings — particularly in the retail and service sectors. The intrinsic value of robots is they perform the tasks and functions we don’t like to do. Repetitive solutions can be learned. What are the biggest issues as we evolve into a 5G world? The same two subjects that keep us awake at night, whether concerning technology, business, or our personal lives — privacy and security. “Some of us are extremely private and wish to remain that way; others are more open about information sharing. We have to find where our comfort zone lies, and be willing to accept privacy isn’t as easy to come by, or for millions of citizens, as important as it used to be,” notes Tech Cat podcast producer and CNN tech correspondent Lori H. Schwartz. The first place to increase your security is on your phone — by switching default settings.

CES

The average consumer buys a connected device and doesn’t change the default settings. Keep in mind those settings are initially programmed to serve the manufacturer as well as the consumer — especially when it comes to things like physical location, personal data mining, spending habits, search patterns and the like. 5G will also bring up new ethics questions and challenges we’ve never faced. This includes a growing transformation in the types of jobs coming available — and those going away, many industry or sector stalwarts for decades. In a way, it’s similar to what happened when automation began moving into manufacturing in the 1990s. It eliminated, to a great degree, very big job categories — physical assembly and factory floor jobs on the assembly line, for example. The same happened throughout the manufacturing sector, so when someone argues that our manufacturing presence was weakened because of the jobs being outsourced, they were — to technology and automation, far more than to other countries. On the flip side, today’s average sixth grader who graduates college, or gets some sort of post high-school training, is going to enter a job market in 8-10 years in which up to 50 percent of the jobs do not exist yet. Think back ten years: could you have imagined some of the job opportunities available now? Like making six or seven figures being a social media influencer? Or running multi-million dollar click bait companies off your phone? Now that 5G is becoming more prevalent, look for all sorts of new job categories to pop up. ■ Lori H. Schwartz also contributed to this article, with excerpts from her forthcoming book, The Tech Cat. 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

tech zone

CES

Just in Time Robots in a 5G World

5G and extreme robotic automation are expected to change the world as much as any prior industrial revolution.

By Joe Toppe Despite a year marked by political turmoil, economic instability, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the arrival of 5G, a fifth-generation technology and the world’s new wireless standard, is not only expected to saturate the global market, but it is also just-in-time for the robotics industry. The Financial Times reported in October, “the pandemic has accelerated the need for a new digital infrastructure.” We invent machines to perform tasks that are difficult for humans or where there are fundamental human limits. Computers are used for complex calculation; vehicles for accelerated transportation; and robots for precise assembly, according to the article. Ilayda Samilgil, CEO and Co-Founder of Organic Robotics Corporation told Innovation & Tech Today, he believes 5G will be critical on the factory floor to reduce latency in remotely controlled manufacturing processes. “In the future, factories will be designed to be remotely operated in case of pandemics or other catastrophes,” he said. “Remote operation will only be as good as the network. 5G is right on time, as teleoperation via VR will require large bandwidth and low latency.” A recent study by Nokia Bell Labs showed the COVID-19 pandemic as a catalyst to the digital transformation of industry throughout the world. In the analysis, the research highlighted how technologies like 5G, extreme robotic automation, massive-scale sensing, augmented cognition, control tools, and human augmentation will change the world as much as any prior industrial revolution. While dangerous manufacturing positions seem the likely job for a robot in a 5G world, even the Defense Industry has plans for the upgrade in wireless tech.

INNOVATION & TECH TODAY | 2020 YEAR-END ISSUE

Matt Holvey, manager of Intelligent Systems at Bell Helicopters, said “when enhanced with proper ruggedization and security, 5G mobile networks will offer a new level of enhanced connectivity across the military and aerospace.” “But this isn’t a conversation about mobile carriers deploying 5G for cell phones,” he continued. “This is a dialog around leveraging similar advanced communication principles and applying them in new ways to achieve more decentralized, organic communication that embeds itself deeper into the device stack to allow both defense and aerospace greater resiliency and agility in their communication networks.” Right now, the obvious advantages for 5G and robotics remain on the factory floor of global industry. Arnie Kravitz, CTO of Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM), said the technology will improve the ability for robots to exchange large amounts of data. “Smart Autonomous features will benefit from the improved ability to provide burst updates

and resets to autonomous mobile robots working in factories where communication blind spots, GPS, and other typical navigation aids are degraded,” he said. “Edge-based navigation applications are better able to use cloud-sourced information to update their local maps and include movement information of objects spotted or tracked by other robots and surveillance systems.” In fact, robots in a 5G world can become lighter, cheaper, and smarter. Robotics’ users can even expect more choices for hardware, software, and add-on functionality. Kravitz said map information will be much higher resolution too, while remote monitoring and control of robots will be enhanced by the exchange of significantly higher resolution images. “In the area where a human and robot are working together at a distance, the enhanced resolution of imagery available for augmented or virtual reality devices will improve the quality and fidelity of the telepresence experience,” he said. ■

tech zone

CES

Hitchin’ a Ride 5G will take autonomous driving to the next level. By Joe Toppe While most of us are looking to smartphones for the possibilities of 5G technology, the automotive industry is gearing up for a free ride. Self-driving vehicles were already on the scene before a fifth-generation innovation promised industry pros and academics a complete realization of autonomous driving. “The benefits of autonomous driving will be fully realized with supporting wireless communication offered by 5G,” Mashrur “Ronnie” Chowdhury said, Ph.D. and professor of transportation at Clemson University.

The coverage will be expanded to other areas and become the key motivator for the connected and automated vehicle’s widespread deployment. Commercial use is also centering its focus on wireless communication and increasing autonomy. Steve Rober, Head of Advanced Technology, at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, told Innovation & Tech Today “5G’s lightning-fast connection speeds and increased bandwidth will trigger a number of new automotive technologies, especially when linked to advanced vehicle control systems and communication networks.”

enhanced by cloud computing, while 5G is an enabler of future scenarios where numerous AV’s will be coordinated with cloud-based, citywide traffic control, and management. AV operations will vary based on location and time. To cover varying scenarios, 5G offers different types of base stations (like LTE towers) for different regions, such as low band base stations in rural areas or millimeter-wave micro base stations in dense urban areas. AV’s can also switch between different 5G base stations based on application requirements and locations.

5G’s lightning-fast connection speeds and increased bandwidth will trigger a number of new automotive technologies, especially when linked to advanced vehicle control systems and communication networks.

The technology will enable vehicle-toeverything (V2X) communication, which includes vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-toinfrastructure, and vehicle-to-vulnerable road users, he said. An autonomous vehicle is equipped with different sensors such as camera, lidar, and radar, which can generate data at a rate of multi-gigabits per second. Currently, the telecommunication industry, which includes AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint have already deployed 5G as a fully operational network in major cities like Atlanta, Boston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Houston.

“The information carried over the faster network won’t just improve direct-to-consumer features, it will unlock updates with more offboard capability, creating a channel to improve vehicle quality, durability, and efficiency,” he said. “As 5G comes online, it will also enhance higher levels of autonomy.” How will it work? According to Clemson University, the presence of 5G can aid an autonomous vehicle’s (AV) leverage computing capabilities offered by roadside infrastructure, which can reduce the computational load on the vehicle itself. The external computation capability can be further

However, solely relying on AV sensors could pose risks when sensors cannot perceive approaching objects like other vehicles and pedestrians. AVs with V2X technology are considered the best solution to make driving safer and more reliable with less dependency on the invehicle sensors.

Pierre Lefevre, CTO at Coast Autonomous, said 5G’s most obvious impact on autonomous driving would be the communication between vehicles allowing an ease in traffic flow while enhancing safety. “The infrastructure must communicate with vehicles for signals and traffic lights, even if cameras and AI can recognize road signals, they can be temporarily out of sight behind a truck or other obstruction,” he said. “This technology will provide a complementary perception layer coming from smart poles instrumented with cameras, radars, and lidars to enhance perception. This will impact traffic flow and safety.” ■

tech zone

CES

Hollywood North Santa Clarita is Making Movies By Joe Toppe

Less than 25 miles north of Hollywood, the City of Santa Clarita is quickly becoming a valued extension of the movie-making business. Recently, LA North Studios announced plans to convert 113,640 square feet of space at The Center at Needham Ranch into a functioning satellite soundstage by early 2021. Prior to the expansion of LA North Studios, “our estimated economic impact from filming has been over $30 million dollars for each of the last six years,” Evan Thomason said, Economic Development Associate for the City of Santa Clarita. LA North’s commitment and investment will be a significant contributor to the local economy, he said. “The additional capacity for production will mean more jobs and millions more spent locally.” Currently, the city offers a local Film Incentive Program, smooth permit process, and does not require a municipal business license tax.

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John Prabhu, Partner at LA North Studios, said “our soundstages employ several hundred on a daily basis and on certain days, reach close to 500.”

filming, with Hollywood using it as a film location for Westerns as early as 1903,” Holly Schroeder said, President & CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp.

The decision was made because of the studio’s intimate knowledge with the process, timing, business, and film-friendly environment with the City of Santa Clarita, he said. The area has quietly become a go-to destination for television and feature film productions.

“The demand for content has never been greater, and with that comes the demand for sound stages,” she said. “The Santa Clarita Valley has been rapidly adding more certified sound stage space over the last couple of years, and this new expansion from LA North will bring our total to over 40.”

Right now, there are four studios in Santa Clarita including LA North, Santa Clarita Studios, Blackhall Studios, and Valencia Studios. Ranches in Santa Clarita feature a “who’s who” of filming history ranging from Old Yeller and The Parent Trap, to Wyatt Earp and the Pirates of the Caribbean II and III. Ranches include Golden Oak Ranch, Blue Cloud Ranch, Melody Ranch Studio, Rancho Deluxe, and the Rancho Maria & Sable Ranch. “The Santa Clarita Valley has a long history of

Despite the COVID-19 shutdowns impacting the film industry, there were strong final numbers in the 2019-2020 fiscal year in the Santa Clarita Valley with 468 permits issued, adding up to 1,249 film days and generating over $30 million in economic impact to the region. In the prior fiscal year, 526 film permits were issued representing 1,380 film days and generating an estimated $33.4 million in economic impact to the local community. ■

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Baking Sustainable Practices into Fashion Choices Produced in partnership with

The fashion industry continues to seek more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to sourcing, manufacturing, and product lines. By Melissa Jenkins and Destiny Nolan Produced in partnership with

As consumers, we’ve become increasingly conscious of our purchases, channeling the power of our vocalized objections to make a positive difference for the people involved in the making of our clothes and goods. How conscious? According to statistics from the fashion industry, sales of clothes, shoes, accessories and other fashion wear made from recycled plastics, nylon, and other products are estimated to hit a whopping $64 billion by 2025 — reflecting sustainable sourcing and the desire of customers to wear a more environmentallyfriendly product. Produced in partnership with

Over the years, dozens of slow fashion brands have emerged that are dedicated to ethical and sustainable practices. The companies listed below represent some of the better ethical alternatives to fast fashion companies. Each has made it a central part of its mission to approach fashion in an ethical and transparent way that considers both people and the planet. Outerknown In 2014, legendary 11-time world champion surfer Kelly Slater, a longtime environmental activist, proponent of clean oceans and sustainable choices, teamed up with acclaimed designer John Moore and started expanding his sustainable brand, Outerknown. It seemed like the perfect fit: who is closer to the environment on a daily basis and more impacted by it than surfers who ply their trade in the world’s oceans? Not surprisingly, casual, effortless, and casual beach styles rooted in sustainability and transparency define Outerknown. Over 90% of their products are made from organic cotton and hemp, recycled, or regenerated materials. The company’s manufacturing partners also follow strict

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guidelines of safety and working conditions. Outerknown also made history in the industry by becoming the first brand to pursue fair labor association accreditation before ever shipping a single product (although had such accreditation existed in the 1970s, Patagonia would have led the way). And through Fair Trade USA, they invest in the livelihoods of over 5,000 workers who bring their vision to life. A deeper dive into Outerknown’s manufacturing practices underscores their commitment to the environment, sustainable practices, and informing their customers. Every little detail has an impact, especially the ocean plastic buttons on the S.E.A. LEGS. The buttons actually list the map coordinates of where the recycled plastic was harvested; they are also made from corozo fruit or nuts. To keep worn or torn S.E.A Jeans out of landfills, they offer to

repair, replace, or recycle them through a lifetime guarantee. Bestsellers from the brand include the cozy, heavyweight Blanket Shirt (made from 100% organic cotton) and the simple, sleek Neptune Tank Dress (made from hemp and Tencel Lyocell). Outerknown’s sustainability practices also include sensible partnering. They partnered with Breitling to introduce econyl to Breitling’s luxury watch, crafting a heritage timepiece with NATO straps made from regenerated nylon. For every watch sold, Brietling donated $1,000 to the ocean conservancy. Outerknown took that econyl from their board short business; 100% of those trunks are made with recycled and renewable econyl fibers from recycled fishing nets. Outerknown’s message to its customers and the world extends to its website, which offers an

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Gucci Off The Grid Gucci Off the Grid is an extension of Gucci Circular Lines, which implements a circular production to reduce waste by reintroducing byproducts back into the supply chain. It minimizes the brand’s use of new raw materials and explores all manner of regenerated textiles. This concept of circularity bends the straight line from product to consumer to landfill by designing clothes with their “end of life” in mind instead. The goal is to ensure as many “lives” as possible for a garment by using materials that can be broken down, recycled, and made into something else on a constant loop.

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incisive look at their positions on fashion, materials, and sustainability — along with a highly appealing men’s and women’s line. They have changed the outlook on fashion by being so involved in the environment, and aren’t afraid to pull out the bullhorn and proclaim it (among other avenues, they advertise on CNN). They care about their products and how they will have an impact on people and the environment. Rareform Backpacks Hikers and mountaineers are another highvolume outdoor group highly dependent on a clean environment and the sustainability practices it requires. Which is what brothers Alec and Aric Avedissian realized in 2013, when they started Rareform Backpacks in Southern California. They began creating sustainable luggage and recycled backpacks by using billboard vinyl and keeping them out of landfills. Billboards are one of the most wasteful products, due to the combination of short shelf life and lack of recycling, plus the sheer volume: in 2019, an estimated 450,000 billboards lined America’s roads and highways. The average lifespan of an advertising billboard, which averages 12 feet x 48 feet, is only four to eight weeks before it’s taken down. Now, many of them have a new destination besides the landfill: they are shipped from throughout the

U.S. to Rareform’s warehouse to be washed, hand-cut and sewn together into unique designs. What’s cool about Rareform is that no two bags are exactly alike, and they’re designed to turn heads. So will their material composition, which is durable, waterproof, comfortable, unique, light weight, eco friendly, and veganfriendly. They make cooler bags, messenger bags, duffle bags, totes, backpacks, wallets, fanny packs, travel accessories, wristlets, surfboard bags, hats, and keychains. Also featured is TPU waterproof lining, a nylon-lined interior that fits most laptops up to 15 inch with ease and includes strong quality YKK zippers, which can be found in all products. Rareform’s story began on the popular TV show Shark Tank. Since then, they’ve been able to recycle over 50,000 pounds of billboard vinyl a month. Rareform products can be found in 350 retail stores across the country, in addition to Whole Foods, Patagonia shops in Japan, and on BestBuy.com. Big brands and companies are reaching out directly to partner with their billboard waste, not the least of which is Disney. Like many sustainable fashion companies, Rareform gives back to environmental causes: 1% of their annual sales go to nonprofits that sustain our natural playgrounds, in this case.

Gucci is one of the first luxury brands to commit to a circular future, starting with Gucci off the Grid, a 37-piece unisex line of sporty daywear and accessories made from organic, recycled, or bio-based materials. Among their products are backpacks, shoes, shoulder bags, mini bags, hats, duffle bags, wallets, tote bags, credit card cases, vests, passport cases, pouches, jackets,and pants with gaiters. The main material behind all of this, which we mentioned before with Outerknown, is Econyl. It is sourced entirely from regenerated materials like fishing nets and carpet flooring. The econyl offcuts are recovered from Gucci’s manufacturing and then recycled to create new Econyl materials as part of a pre-consumer fabric take-back program. Leather scraps from the collection are also recovered and upcycled as part of the Gucci-Up program, which led to the reuse of around 11 tons of leather scrap materials and saved approximately 4,500 tons of carbon dioxide in 2018, according to the company. The brand has been following a ten-year plan, committing to amplify its focus on social and environmental sustainability. This sustainable business model was announced in 2015, and Gucci has aimed to hit specific milestones by 2025 like reducing its environmental footprint and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

2020 YEAR-END ISSUE | INNOVATION & TECH TODAY

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Baking Sustainable Practices into Fashion Choices

worn-out garments into polyester fibers to produce clothing such as hard shells, boardshorts, fleece, and Capilene base layers. This reduces the company’s dependence on petroleum as a source of raw materials.

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Patagonia No good article on sustainable practices in the fashion and outdoor industry can be complete without catching up with the godfather of sustainable fashion, Patagonia, now approaching 50 years as the trailblazer into this industry. Patagonia is a designer of outdoor clothing and gear for outdoor sports such as climbing, surfing, skiing and snowboarding, fly fishing, and trail running. Since he founded Patagonia in 1973 as a rock-climbing outfitter, Yvon Chouinard has dedicated his life and his company’s mission to creating eco- and earthfriendly products, and employing workers and manufacturing operations in the same country. Currently, Patagonia owns and operates offices in the United States, the Netherlands, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Chile and Argentina. They also own 70 stores worldwide. Patagonia has always focused on making highperformance products which leave the tiniest footprint possible. While the footprint of their full supply chain accounts for 97% of the company’s carbon emissions, the emissions associated with their owned and operated facilities is just 3% — attesting to this highly sustainable, eco-friendly practice. Put simply, Patagonia has always emphasized cleaning up their own house, and promoting that philosophy through their products and messaging.

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Along with that, Patagonia was using recycled nylons and plastics for a good 25 years before it became de rigeur in the fashion industry. They began with plastic soda bottles in 1993, becoming the first outdoor clothing manufacturer to transform trash into fleece. They turn unusable manufacturing waste and

Polyester is an important fiber in Patagonia’s clothing line. It allows them to build lightweight materials that dry quickly and can be used in a variety of applications, including trail-running tops and yoga tights. It also blends well with natural fabrics, such as cotton. However, it is the ecological side that delivers the larger benefits: for Fall 2020, 84% of their polyester fabrics are made with recycled polyester, reducing CO2 emissions by 8% (or 11 million pounds) compared to virgin polyester fabrics. In the ocean, they turned 35 tons of plastic fishing net into hat brims. Patagonia continually invests in new technologies to make its supply chain and products more sustainable. Finally, Patagonia takes care of its suppliers who take care of the earth. More than 550 farmers are part of their Regenerative Organic Certification Pilot Cotton program, and 66,000 workers are supported by their participation in the Fair Trade Program. ■

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The Virtual Learning World:

Top Platforms to Watch By Melissa Jenkins With millions of elementary, middle, and high school children, plus college students, learning from home this fall, who is powering their virtual classrooms and online learning platforms? Dozens of companies have seen customer demand skyrocket since COVID-19 descended on our shores in early March, with their platforms being elevated from learning options to absolute necessities. We surveyed learning platforms to find the most innovative, user-friendly, interactive, and collaborative experiences — as well as those offering the most valuable content to students. Here are some that we particularly liked:

LearnWorlds

LearnWorlds brings everything you need into one place in an online platform that offers the ability to build your online academy while creating unique, interactive, and social learning experiences that are easy and affordable at the same time. It’s ideal for individual instructors and educators — but also for entrepreneurs, small and medium businesses, professional trainers, and internal employee training for companies.

Udemy 70

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Udemy is one of the most popular online course marketplaces on the Internet. It makes course creation possible for teachers, instructors, educators and freelancers with the possibility of acquiring new skills. This educational platform has more than 40 million students and 50,000 instructors. It offers a range of online learning materials including PDF documents, PowerPoint, text, and video content amongst many others.

Skillshare Skillshare is great for instructors who are in the creative field and want to make a side income. It has more than 4 million students and up to 24,000 lessons in various disciplines. Course lessons last from 20-60 minutes and are made out of a series of small videos, class projects, and a student community that encourages interaction through discussion forums.

Thinkific

Thinkific is ideal for solopreneurs, small/medium businesses, and online trainers. A standalone course platform helps sell online courses. Thinkific provides everything you need, including an easy-to-use interface to build courses and rich multimedia to add right into your course content.

Coursera is aimed for instructors and professors who are based at a HE partner institution or business. With 23 million users, it is dedicated to offering high-quality online training courses worldwide. Coursera also provides students the opportunity to receive certifications from renowned institutions.

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The Virtual Learning World: Top Platforms to Watch PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Open-edX WizIQ

Open-edX has powered more than 8,000 online courses from 100 prestigious universities and businesses that are currently offering higher education in many disciplines. Open-edX is an open-source content management system behind the massive online course provider (MOOC)-edX, that was created by a team of scientists from Harvard University and MIT.

WizIQ is ideal for enterprise employees, individual teachers, trainers, colleges, universities, tutoring, and Test-Prep companies. It is a cloudbased education platform for real-time or self-paced training using your own custom-branded domain. It delivers live and on-demand webinars and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very popular tool amongst online course creators who prefer live training, coaching or a classroom-like feeling.

Teachable is a great option for new course creators, solopreneurs, coaches, and creative professionals. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an online platform that serves the everyday instructor. Easy and simple solutions are provided for uploading your learning content, customizing your online school, and communicating effectively with your students.

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Teachable

Book your Space Camp group experience today! Programs are available for adults, families and children ages 9-18.

Enjoy out-of-this-world astronaut training simulations in the internationally-renowned Space Camp program. Spend a day or spend the week! There’s something here for every group! Call 1-800-637-7223 to plan your summer trip now. Prime spots are filling fast!

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The Virtual Learning World: Top Platforms to Watch PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Kajabi

Kajabi is for non-techie online course creators and individual instructors selling simple format courses and downloadables. It is an all-in-one platform that offers the tools to sell digital products, including online courses.

Varsity Tutor Varsity Tutor is an exceptional online tutor platform for students of all ages. Their onboarding process features friendly and knowledgable “admissions” counselors who size up the tutoring goal and student — and then place the student with tutors that are compatible with both their personalities and learning needs. Tutoring sessions are offered in live 1 ½-hour video sessions. Plus, the student can go online anytime, 24 hours a day, with a particular homework or class issue — and a tutor will help them in real-time. Tutoring is sold in packages of 50, 36, and 24 hours. Varsity Tutor has seen a 50% spike in demand so far as students catch up for lost school time.

Buncee has over 1,000 templates to choose from to unleash your creativity in no time. Buncee Templates gives you a jump start on any creation, but with the freedom to add your personal touch. You’ll be able access their library of 8,000+ exclusive stickers, animations, and templates, or upload your own.

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Buncee

Ricoh Theta SC2 – Not a pro photographer? No worries here. This camera will easily capture and share eye-catching 360-degree still images and 4K videos with precise stitch image processing. Equipped with a range of preset modes, the THETA SC2 is designed to deliver perfect footage for specific subjects and shooting scenarios with ease. Features include a Face Mode, Night View, and Wi-Fi. $300

Senstroke Essential Box – Learning to play any instrument is hard enough. Today, smart technologies are shortening the learning curve for aspiring musicians. Senstroke’s Bluetooth drum sensor technology turns your environment into your own personal drum kit. It allows users to reproduce movements, the impact of drumsticks and a drummer’s footwork identically to create a unique musical experience. $200 Gabb Z2 – Finally! A phone built specifically for kids. The Gabb Z2 has GPS, protects against cyberbullying, inappropriate content, online predators, and more. The phone features 14 essential apps to provide freedom from distractions like the internet, games, social media, and app stores. The phone is so safe there is no need for parental controls. $100 SimpliSafe Essentials Kit – We all want a one-stop-shop for the things we buy. Why not get it in home security too? The SimpliSafe Essentials Kit has all the bases covered. The kit features a wireless keypad to arm and disarm the system, three entry sensors to cover all entry points into the home, and one motion sensor to catch anyone walking through a main passage. $259

Relay+ – Designed to give today’s frontline workers a simple and powerful communication solution, the Relay+ features a simple onebutton, voice-first communications, GPS tracking, and Slack-like dashboard. Upgrades to the new model include an enhanced waterproof rating, a longer-lasting battery, and the ability to connect to multiple LTE networks. $100

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Nebula Astro Portable Projector – You can take the movies with you now. In the car, the backyard, or in the playroom, the Nebula Astro Portable Projector is a kids pocket cinema and features eye guard technology and Android 7.1 to binge-watch your favorite movies and shows on Netflix or Amazon Prime. Want entertainment on the go? Want kid-friendly content? This portable projector has 2.5 hours of battery life. $280

Gryphon Guardian – The Guardian is an advanced security and parental control system with seamless mesh WiFi coverage. You can even set bedtimes and homework during the school week. The Gryphon Guardian includes Intelligent Intrusion Detection and Malware Filtering. Parents can even view the browsing history, suspend the internet, or enforce Safe Search on YouTube. $99

HomeHawk Floor – Ever want to protect your home like James Bond? Looking for security equipment with a little more style and function? The Panasonic HomeHawk FLOOR combines a slim, ambient floor lamp with a near-invisible camera system that blends into any decor for smart, discrete, and reliable home monitoring. The designer lamp includes an inconspicuous 1080p Full HD-camera with color night vision, motion-activated video recording, and storage. $270 SafeSleeve – There is a new focus on health, and there are many studies highlighting risks the omnipresent smartphones pose including tumors and genetic damage caused by radiation emitting from the device. The SafeSleeve and anti-radiation phone case features an RFIDblocking wallet, military-grade protective case, and FCC-accredited, lab-tested radiation shield that blocks over 99% of potentially dangerous RF and 92% of ELF electromagnetic radiation. $30 to $60

Insta360 ONE X2 – This is imagery on the move. This is smart technology that can transform the novice into a polished photographer. The Insta360 can do it all, capturing cinematic perspectives that used to require a cameraman or drone. When you’re ready to edit, AI-powered features in the Insta360 app and desktop software help you find and edit your best shots in just a few taps. $430

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DuraBall Classic – Maintaining your health these days means more than bandaging a wound or getting the diet soda. The DuraBall Classic is not only great for sitting around and exercising, but it is also ideal for rehabilitation and can improve your poster and reduce back pain in the office, classroom, or home. $55

iBUYPOWER Snowblind S – If you want an engaging presentation mirroring your screen while sharing content, the iBUYPOWER Snowblind S 19’’ TN LCD side panel display with 1280x1024 resolution is the hot ticket. Users will say goodbye to the frustrating task of going back and forth between tabs by transforming their workstation into a dual-screen setup. Users can display videos, gifs, and custom designs on the side panel and operate in similar fashion to an additional monitor. $1499 - $2489

GO:LIVECAST – Want a live streaming studio for your smartphone? Want to make your broadcast look professional? The GO:LIVECAST by Roland can add superior production values to your webcasting. The hardware/app combo is a fully featured streaming studio that lets you mix sound, display titles, play media, trigger sound effects, and more — without needing a computer or costly dedicated A/V gear. $250

Unistellar eVscope – This isn’t your father’s telescope. The Unistellar eVscope opens up galaxies, nebulae, and comets in crisp, colorful detail. Whether you’re in the country or the lights of town, the technology compensates for light pollution, enabling observations from anywhere. It’s also smart and userfriendly. Just choose an object on the Unistellar app, and observe. No need to be an expert on the night sky, and no polar star alignment required — the Unistellar eVscope does it all by itself in just a few minutes. $2999

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SideTrak Slide Portable Monitor – Sometimes one computer screen is not enough. Using the SideTrak portable monitor will double your laptop screen workspace, helping you get out of the office even quicker. The monitor securely attaches to the back of your laptop with device-safe metal plates, is compatible with most 13” to 17.5” Mac, Windows or Chrome laptops, and is easy to carry and fit into your bag or backpack. $300

IZIP Zuma Luxe – With this bike, you can go almost anywhere. Up and down hills, roadways, or across town, the Zuma Luxe is designed for nimble handling as well as quick foot-down ability in stop and go riding. The Zuma Luxe is powered by a Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motor that can reach top pedal assist speeds of 20 mph, along with a 400Wh integrated battery, you can even venture a 20 – 53 mile range. $2750

DJI Mini II – You’re going to fly a little further with this drone. The DJI Mini II is a high-performance camera drone packing new features into a small, portable design in the safest drone category weighing less than 249 grams. It’s easy to fly and has improved imaging capabilities, powerful flight performance, and a significantly enhanced transmission technology for longer and more reliable connection. With optimized intelligent, pre-programmed modes, users can capture eye-catching footage. Regular $449 | Fly More Combo $599

Ultrapod 3 – Content creators looking for a steady mount and unique camera angles now have an excellent platform for cell phones, POV sports cameras, camcorders, medium-format cameras, and compact DSLR cameras. The Pedco mount can securely attach to posts, tree limbs, railings, etc., with the removable hook and loop cinch strap. The unique ball and socket camera mount assembly adjusts to multiple positions quickly and easily without having to remove the device. $25 NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier – The world after COVID-19 will not be the same. The OxyPure is the first air purifier proven to remove coronavirus from the air. The air purifier's advanced five-stage filter system is designed to capture 100% of microscopic airborne particles as small as 0.09 microns. This purifier also eliminates lead, mold, dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, allergens, and bacteria. $599

CleanPod – If today’s world has taught us anything, it is in the power of germs. The CleanPod is a contemporary tool made to protect you against invisible germs lurking on all the objects you touch at home or outside. With the press of a button, a high-energy beam of UVC (ultraviolet C) light is emitted from the specialized LEDs, effectively sanitizing surfaces without the use of chemicals. In 30 seconds, UVC light can kill up to 99.9% of germs that get in its way. $90

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The Lighter Side Jack Dorsey Hoping History Remembers Him as “The Square Guy” Instead By Louie Aronowitz Jack Dorsey, founder and CEO of both Twitter and Square, has stated he’d prefer his historical legacy center around the latter company as opposed to the former, sources indicate. The now bearded visionary who’s behind some of the most important technology today attempts to shy away from any linkage to Twitter while constantly trying to steer towards Square or even CashApp. “How will I be remembered 100 years from now? As the guy that shifted us off paper money and into digital payment, or the guy that made that site where everyone hates everything and cancels each other and is slowly eroding the fabric of our society?” Dorsey pondered, video conferencing from a two-week starvation retreat in the wilderness of Gisakura. “The most powerful man on the planet can post insane ramblings while taking a dump, causing the economy to crash, while simultaneously, someone is called a Nazi because they like the wrong ‘Star Wars’ movie? Please, just credit me with Square and pretend Zuck or Bill Gates made Twitter.” Experts have mostly agreed Dorsey will be branded the Twitter guy forever, whether he likes it or not. And based on his body language he most certainly does not like it. “He could cure cancer and the headline would say, ‘Twitter founder does other thing that’s still overshadowed by the stain of Twitter,’” said modern history professor Mary Racone. “It’s too bad because he’s a real smart dude, Square is a revolutionary technology… But Twitter is actively causing the downfall of humanity. CashApp is really great and will get

more people adopting crypto currencies but Square will likely become obsolete when we stop using money altogether and resort to bartering with human organs or whatever. Kind of funny how that works.” Fellow tech CEO’s have agreed with Dorsey’s sentiment, worrying about their legacy in human history. “No matter what I do, I will forever be the dick-pic-app-guy,” commented Evan Spiegel, founder of Snapchat. “At least Twitter can make the argument that the users ruined a good idea. My platform was just straight up made to send dick pics; that was the starting point and that’s certainly what the end point will be.” There is also concern amongst board members that Dorsey’s commitment to a goatlike beard could be materially harming shareholders, but conversations to convince him to get a trim reportedly spurred the CEO to respond with a rather lengthy diatribe about the value of knowing oneself and silent meditation while running the most toxic platform on earth. At press time, a history professor from the year 2120 came back from the future to confirm, “In 100 years, Jack Dorsey is known simply as the second most influential tech mogul of the 21st century in the textbook our lord and savior Mark Zuckerberg uploads into our brains at birth. Also, whatever you do, don’t elect The Rock as president. It seems like a great opportunity at the time but it’s one of the most disastrous things to ever happen to America.” ■

Louie Aronowitz is a writer for Hard Money Writer, follow him on twitter @louiearonowitz or for more tech and finance satire, visit Hard-Money.net Photo: Mark Warner via wikimedia.org

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ComingNextIssue Building a Smarter World While the COVID-19 pandemic has put the breaks on many things in industry and entertainment, the innovation of smart technologies persists. Whether it be smarter homes through connectivity, sensor lighting, and security, or smarter cities made more efficient with an array of data collecting devices, we are building a smarter, more interactive world. Where does 5G come into play? How will the fifth-generation wireless standard enhance our collective efforts to create smarter environments?

What comes after 5G?

Distance Communication Technology was already racing towards virtual independence before the COVID-19 crisis placed much heavier importance on the need for distance technologies. Right now, there are existing venues in place for education, work, and play. What can a post-COVID-19 world bring to distance work? Will we revert to previous standards and protocols in the office, grocery store, and movie theater? Will Zoom, online education, and the virtual event experience continue its take over? Although the need for personal human interaction remains, there is also a need for technology to keep the world moving in the face of a pandemic.

5G and Healthcare

Most of us want faster smartphones. Most want smoother interactions online and in the marketplace. All of us want improved healthcare. With all that 5G is doing in manufacturing, robotics, air travel, and communication, could its greatest impact be in how we take care of one another? How we care for our sick and dying? Off the top, patients can expect quicker diagnosis as images, large files, and additional health information at 5G speed will be instantaneous. The technology is also expected to do more than improve efficiencies, experts say it will transform the global healthcare system.

CES 2021 is All-Digital

As the second wave of COVID-19 is expected and the industry braces for another series of shutdowns, the virtual event is gaining traction, not only as a future possibility for businesses with small travel budgets but as a safeguard against future COVID-19 outbreaks and unknown pandemics. Traditionally held in Las Vegas, the event this year is all-digital and took place Jan. 11-14.

OUR MISSION DRIVES INNOVATION IN HEART HEALTH

VitalSight™ Complete™

HeartGuide™

CES2021 Best Digital Health & Fitness Product by Engadget

2020 Honoree of a CES Innovation Award

Named a 2019 TIME Magazine Best Invention

Zero Heart Attacks. Zero Strokes. Our goal is to create a future free of heart attack and stroke by dramatically changing the way people engage with their heart health. From HeartGuide™, the first medically accurate blood pressure monitor in the form of a wristwatch to Complete™, the first 2-in-1 blood pressure monitor with built-in EKG technology to now, VitalSight™, remote patient monitoring program for hypertension, OMRON Healthcare, Inc., is transforming the global heart health marketplace with innovations that set new standards. For more information on these products or any of our other home blood pressure monitors, visit www.OmronHealthcare.com.

Innovation & Tech Today -- 2020 Year-End Issue

Articles inside

By the Numbers

Artificial Intelligence

DENT Files

Entrepreneurship