Today, we take GPS (Global Positioning System) technology for granted. Thinking back on the days of navigating with maps seems like a long time ago, even though modern GPS systems are really fairly new. Thats because the technology has been so revolutionary to the way we live our lives, that we cant really imagine life without it. It helps us to navigate while driving, help us track our steps, and even crowdsource crime analysis maps to help keep us safe. Technology is always evolving, however, and there may be something new on the horizon that could make GPS obsolete: synthetic diamonds.
How Does GPS Work?
Currently, GPS works using three different devices: satellites, ground devices, and receivers. Satellites, of course, orbit the Earth and are able to relay positioning data back to the ground devices. The ground devices then use radar to confirm positioning. Our receivers are the devices we use on an everyday basis: our phones, GPS units in the car, smart watches, and any other instrument that can enable GPS. While this system works perfectly well for most of our needs, there are some limitations on the accuracy and speed of GPS. For some technology, like driverless cars, well need a more reliable option for safety and accuracy. Could synthetic diamonds be that option? Perhaps.
Synthetic Diamonds and Driverless Cars
One of the major concerns with driverless cars is the accuracy of their sensors. Because GPS isnt completely accurate, readings can be off by a few feet. This isnt a big deal when youre using GPS to navigate as a driver, but an automated vehicle cant make on-the-spot calculations, or rely on context to figure out where theyre going, or maneuver around other cars. Thats where synthetic diamonds could come into play. Researchers at a British tech company have discovered that red, lab-grown diamonds with a nitrogen vacancy defect are very sensitive to magnetic waves, allowing them to detect passing cars hundreds of feet away. This could eliminate delays in GPS signals, and allow driverless cars to safely navigate other vehicles around them. The red diamonds have the potential to make automated vehicles much safer and more accurate, which could help make fully driverless cars a reality.
At the moment, the team developing the diamonds has their eye on other uses for them, such as changing the way MRI procedures are performed. Using the diamonds, patients might one day be able to receive scans without needing to lie still in a tube. Instead, a handheld scanner might be all that is needed. For now, improving the diamonds sensitivity is the top priority for researchers. But one day, these diamonds could have many different applications in our everyday lives.
Innovation in Technology
In our modern economy, were always looking toward new innovations in technology to help make our lives better. GPS has improved our lives in so many ways, but it does have some limitations. By constantly seeking out better methods for location detection, we can come a few steps closer to technology like driverless cars, which could transform the way we live our lives. Replacing GPS may still be a long way off, but its on the horizonand it could change our lives.
