Battelle
Vortex gun blows rings of high-speed electrified gas – could have numerous applications
While something called a “vortex gun” might sound like a device from science fiction, the fact is that they have been available as novelties for years – if you’ve ever used a toy gun that shot out a smoke ring, then you’ve used a vortex gun. Lately, however, scientists from the Ohio-based Battelle R & D group have developed one that could have practical uses for people such as firefighters, exterminators and riot cops. Read More
The disparate interests of engineers and artists don't normally intersect in the workplace, but at Battelle they do. At Battelle's Healthcare Products division, artists and engineers each bring their unique skills and viewpoints to design the healthcare products for the future. "It's an interesting and necessary, mix," said Larry Barbera, Director of Industrial Design at Battelle Healthcare Products and a 20-year veteran industrial designer at Battelle whose portfolio includes working for Apple Computers and Hewlett Packard. "When people think of Battelle they think of science, but there is so much more to making a usable product than just making sure it works," Barbera said. "Art and design hit the emotional qualities in people and influences their choices. Good design always makes the product experience more meaningful and positive. Design touches the human element in all we do at Battelle." Read More
