WHAT A GREAT IDEA!

From genius minds around the world, 12 inventions that will improve our lives

- Patricia Pearson

Shape-Shifting Clothes

Imagine owning a complete wardrobe but only a handful of garments. We know that 3D technology can print three-dimensional products-houses, tools ... even skirts and pants. Now, 4D technology takes that one step further by using a "smart" material that, when printed in 3D, changes with the help of external stimuli like water, heat or light.

If you can picture a sponge, or a memory-foam mattress that contracts and expands, you're in the ballpark of understanding how these materials work. 4D clothing can be triggered to lengthen, fold, flatten, bend and even change color. The military, for instance, has been testing uniforms that react to a soldier's surroundings by instantly creating a camouflage shade appropriate to the environment.

In other applications, scientists have created wearable gripping aids for people with limited mobility in their fingers, cardiovascular stents that expand and contract with each heartbeat, and soft-tissue implants designed to release microdoses of medication.

The research, conducted by the MIT Self-Assembly Lab, is in its early stages. Researchers aren't letting on about the "smart" material's makeup, but its potential impact on health and industry is boundless. Imagine: One day, that new Ikea dresser you buy might not even come with instructions for putting it together. Simply add water and watch it pop up, ready to store your couple of items of 4D clothing.

A Brain Implant That Overcomes Paralysis

Stunning advances in neurotechnology are bringing real hope to people with spinal injuries. One paralyzed man has been able to walk simply by thinking about it, thanks to a digital brain-spine interface that boosts neural signals damaged by the injury.