- Table View
- List View
Time-Reversal Symmetry: Seven Time-Reversal Operators for Spin Containing Systems (Springer Tracts in Modern Physics #281)
by Ion I. GeruThis book introduces new developments in the field of Time-Reversal Symmetry presenting, for the first time, the Wigner time-reversal operator in the form of a product of two- or three time-reversal operators of lower symmetry. The action of these operators leads to the sign change of only one or two angular momentum components, not of all of them. It demonstrates that there are six modes of time-reversal symmetry breaking that do not lead to the complete disappearance of the symmetry but to its lowering. The full restoration of the time-reversal symmetry in the six cases mentioned is possible by introducing six types of metaparticles. The book also confirms the presence of six additional time-reversal operators using a group-theoretical method. The problem is only where to seek these metaparticles. The book discusses time-reversal symmetry in classical mechanics, classical and relativistic electrodynamics, quantum mechanics and theory of quantized fields, including dynamical reversibility and statistical irreversibility of the time, Wigner’s and Herring’s criteria, Kramers theorem, selection rules due to time-reversal symmetry, Onsager’s relations, Poincaré recurrence theorem, and CPT theorem. It particularly focuses attention on time-reversal symmetry violation. It is proposed a new method of testing the time-reversal symmetry, which is confirmed experimentally by EPR spectroscopy data. It shows that the traditional black-white point groups of magnetic symmetry are not applicable to magnetic systems with Kramers degeneration of energy levels and that magnetic groups of four-color symmetry are adequate for them. Further, it addresses the predicted structural distortions in Kramers three-homonuclear magnetic clusters due to time-reversal symmetry that have been identified experimentally. Lastly, it proposes a method of synthesis of two-nuclear coordination compounds with predictable magnetic properties, based on the application of the time-reversal transformation that was confirmed experimentally.
Time-Sensitive Remote Sensing
by Christopher D. Lippitt Douglas A. Stow Lloyd L. CoulterThis book documents the state of the art in the use of remote sensing to address time-sensitive information requirements. Specifically, it brings together a group of authors who are both researchers and practitioners, who work toward or are currently using remote sensing to address time-sensitive information requirements with the goal of advancing the effective use of remote sensing to supply time-sensitive information. The book addresses the theoretical implications of time-sensitivity on the remote sensing process, assessments or descriptions of methods for expediting the delivery and improving the quality of information derived from remote sensing, and describes and analyzes time-sensitive remote sensing applications, with an emphasis on lessons learned. This book is intended for remote sensing scientists, practitioners (e. g. , emergency responders or administrators of emergency response agencies), and students, but will also be of use to those seeking to understand the potential of remote sensing to address a range of pressing issues, particularly natural and anthropogenic hazard response.
Time Series Analysis
by Gregory C. Reinsel George E. Box Gwilym M. JenkinsA modernized new edition of one of the most trusted books on time series analysis. Since publication of the first edition in 1970, Time Series Analysis has served as one of the most influential and prominent works on the subject. This new edition maintains its balanced presentation of the tools for modeling and analyzing time series and also introduces the latest developments that have occurred n the field over the past decade through applications from areas such as business, finance, and engineering.The Fourth Edition provides a clearly written exploration of the key methods for building, classifying, testing, and analyzing stochastic models for time series as well as their use in five important areas of application: forecasting; determining the transfer function of a system; modeling the effects of intervention events; developing multivariate dynamic models; and designing simple control schemes. Along with these classical uses, modern topics are introduced through the book's new features, which include:A new chapter on multivariate time series analysis, including a discussion of the challenge that arise with their modeling and an outline of the necessary analytical toolsNew coverage of forecasting in the design of feedback and feedforward control schemesA new chapter on nonlinear and long memory models, which explores additional models for application such as heteroscedastic time series, nonlinear time series models, and models for long memory processesCoverage of structural component models for the modeling, forecasting, and seasonal adjustment of time seriesA review of the maximum likelihood estimation for ARMA models with missing valuesNumerous illustrations and detailed appendices supplement the book,while extensive references and discussion questions at the end of each chapter facilitate an in-depth understanding of both time-tested and modern concepts. With its focus on practical, rather than heavily mathematical, techniques, Time Series Analysis, Fourth Edition is the upper-undergraduate and graduate levels. this book is also an invaluable reference for applied statisticians, engineers, and financial analysts.
Time Series Modelling in Earth Sciences
by B.K. SahuIncluding the latest theories and applications of time series modelling, this book is intended for students, faculties and professionals with a background in multivariate statistics.Highlighting linear methods to yield ARIMA, SARIMA models and their multivariate (vector) extensions, the text also draws attention to non-linear methods, as well as state-space, dynamic linear, wavelet, volatility and long memory models. Also included are several solved case studies and exercises from the fields of mining, ore genesis, earthquakes, and climatology.
Time Snatchers
by Richard UngarA thrilling middle-grade sci-fi Caleb's blinders are off. The small group of orphans who were also "adopted" by Uncle used to feel like family, but the competition to be the top time snatcher and the punishment for failure has gotten fierce. Time traveling to steal valuable objects can be a thrill, but with bully Frank trying to steal his snatches, his partner Abbie falling for Frank's slimy charms, and Uncle's plans to kidnap innocent kids to grow his business, Caleb starts thinking about getting out. But Uncle's reach extends to any country in any time period, and runaways get the harshest punishment of all. Caleb can steal just about anything from the past, but can he steal a family for the future? .
Time-Space, Spiking Neural Networks and Brain-Inspired Artificial Intelligence (Springer Series on Bio- and Neurosystems #7)
by Nikola K. KasabovSpiking neural networks (SNN) are biologically inspired computational models that represent and process information internally as trains of spikes. This monograph book presents the classical theory and applications of SNN, including original author’s contribution to the area. The book introduces for the first time not only deep learning and deep knowledge representation in the human brain and in brain-inspired SNN, but takes that further to develop new types of AI systems, called in the book brain-inspired AI (BI-AI). BI-AI systems are illustrated on: cognitive brain data, including EEG, fMRI and DTI; audio-visual data; brain-computer interfaces; personalized modelling in bio-neuroinformatics; multisensory streaming data modelling in finance, environment and ecology; data compression; neuromorphic hardware implementation. Future directions, such as the integration of multiple modalities, such as quantum-, molecular- and brain information processing, is presented in the last chapter. The book is a research book for postgraduate students, researchers and practitioners across wider areas, including computer and information sciences, engineering, applied mathematics, bio- and neurosciences.
Time-Synchronized Control: Analysis and Design
by Shuzhi Sam Ge Tong Heng Lee Dongyu LiPrevious research on fixed/finite-time sliding-mode control focuses on forcing a system state (vector) to converge within a certain time moment, regardless of how each state element converges. This book introduces a control problem with unique finite/fixed-time stability considerations, namely time-synchronized stability, where at the same time, all the system state elements converge to the origin, and fixed-time-synchronized stability, where the upper bound of the synchronized settling time is invariant with any initial state. Accordingly, sufficient conditions for (fixed-) time-synchronized stability are presented. These stability formulations grant essentially advantageous performance when a control system (with diversified subsystems) is expected to accomplish multiple actions synchronously, e.g., grasping with a robotic hand, multi-agent simultaneous cooperation, etc. Further, the analytical solution of a (fixed) time-synchronized stable system is obtained and discussed. Applications to linear systems, disturbed nonlinear systems, and network systems are provided. In addition, comparisons with traditional fixed/finite-time sliding mode control are suitably detailed to showcase the full power of (fixed-) time-synchronized control.
Time to Shine: Applications of Solar Energy Technology
by Michael GruppAs solar energy becomes increasingly more important in all of our lives, it is more important to learn how it works and how it can be implemented. <P><P>This book is the perfect primer for the engineer, scientist, and layperson alike, for learning about the practical applications of solar energy technology and how it is being used today to heat homes, light city streets, and provide power worldwide.
Time to Think Small: How Nimble Environmental Technologies Can Solve the Planet's Biggest Problems
by Todd MyersThis call to climate action examines ways we can leverage the growing power of smartphones and other technologies to become effective environmental stewards to protect threatened species, reduce the risk from climate change, and stop ocean plastic.Personal technologies are creating what the Environmental Defense Fund calls &“a transformational shift&” in how we address environmental problems. Time to Think Small explores how these brand-new approaches are already playing a huge role in winning some of the most difficult and important environmental struggles of our day–from fighting climate change, to ensuring drinkable water for everyone, to saving endangered animals, to keeping plastic out of the ocean.Learn how these technologies magnify and multiply the power everyone has as individuals to save our environment and how this tremendous power is not only growing, but also has the huge benefit of being independent of sudden shifts in political leadership.Drawing on two decades of environmental policy and a career working with endangered species mixed with his previous career in tech, Myers looks at the different ways we can be empowered to find environmental solutions."Time to Think Small reminds me of the first words spoken on the moon, about small steps and giant leaps. Todd Myers does, in fact, describe the giant strides from accumulated small steps that will help solve THE biggest long-term problem facing humanity today. If Big Government won&’t act, WE CAN, in our own small ways!" --Donald Kroodsma, Author of Birdsong for the Curious Naturalist"The future of environmental stewardship depends on technology and innovation. Todd Myers is a national leader on environmental policy and technology and understands how to create solutions that sidestep political gridlock." --John Connors, former Microsoft CFO"A much-needed analysis of how we can solve complex global environmental problems by applying human ingenuity. . . and why every step matters along the way." --Benji Backer, President, American Conservation Coalition"Addressing climate change can be such a polarizing issue. Myers's book has found a way to cut right through that with practical, applicable actions that everyone can take to make a difference." --Kevin Wilhelm, CEO, Sustainable Business Consulting"While the positions taken by Todd Myers may be disconcerting to an old-school environmentalist such as myself, his voice is one we need to hear in the conversation about climate change. Myers makes a compelling argument that thinking small stimulates creativity, and that nimble, creative approaches can play a crucial role in achieving sustainability." -- John S. Farnsworth, PhD, Author of Nature Beyond Solitude: Notes from the Field
Time Trapped
by Richard UngarThe high-octane sequel to Time Snatchers. Caleb thought he'd escaped Uncle's clutches and could have a normal life in 1968, but no such luck. After being forcibly returned to Timeless Treasures and his old job of stealing valuable objects from the past, he learns that things have gotten even more sinister. Training the new kidnapped recruits doesn't seem very important to Frank, Uncle's evil lackey, even though a few of these kids have amazing theiving skills and genius for new technology. But then Caleb figures out it's because Frank doesn't plan on keeping them around very long - or keeping them alive. Stakes are high for all of the time snatchers. If only Caleb can convince the new ones to stop having fun with the technology and use it to save their own lives. .
Time Trapped
by Richard UngarThe high-octane sequel to Time Snatchers. Caleb thought he'd escaped Uncle's clutches and could have a normal life in 1968, but no such luck. After being forcibly returned to Timeless Treasures and his old job of stealing valuable objects from the past, he learns that things have gotten even more sinister. Training the new kidnapped recruits doesn't seem very important to Frank, Uncle's evil lackey, even though a few of these kids have amazing theiving skills and genius for new technology. But then Caleb figures out it's because Frank doesn't plan on keeping them around very long - or keeping them alive. Stakes are high for all of the time snatchers. If only Caleb can convince the new ones to stop having fun with the technology and use it to save their own lives.
Time Traveler: In Search of Dinosaurs and Other Fossils from Montana to Mongolia
by Michael NovacekTrue stories of fossil-hunting adventures around the globe from “a world-class field scientist [and] a highly entertaining writer” (The American Scholar).Michael Novacek, a world-renowned paleontologist who has discovered important fossils on virtually every continent, is an authority on patterns of evolution and on the relationships among extinct and extant organisms. Time Traveler is his captivating account of how his boyhood enthusiasm for dinosaurs became a lifelong commitment to vanguard science. He takes us with him as he discovers fossils in his own backyard in Los Angeles, then goes looking for them in the high Andes, the black volcanic mountains of Yemen, and the incredibly rich fossil badlands of the Gobi Desert.Wherever Novacek goes, he searches for still-undiscovered evidence of what life was like on Earth millions of years ago. Along the way he has almost drowned, been stung by deadly scorpions, been held at gunpoint by a renegade army, and nearly choked in raging dust storms. Fieldwork is very demanding in a host of unusual, dramatic, sometimes hilarious ways, and Novacek writes of its alluring perils with affection and discernment. But in addition to being an enthralling adventure story, Time Traveler makes sense of many complex themes—about dinosaur evolution, continental drift, mass extinctions, new methods for understanding ancient environments, and the evolutionary secrets of DNA in fossil organisms.Includes photos and illustrations“A superb introduction to paleontology.” —Edward O. Wilson“An engaging book [that] gives us an excellent sense of the way paleontologists have arrived at their world-shaking conclusions.” —The New York Times Book Review“Novacek offers a spellbinding natural history of our planet, as well as the equally fascinating story of how he fell into the profession.” —Publishers Weekly
Time-Triggered Communication (Embedded Systems)
by Roman ObermaisserTime-Triggered Communication helps readers build an understanding of the conceptual foundation, operation, and application of time-triggered communication, which is widely used for embedded systems in a diverse range of industries. This book assembles contributions from experts that examine the differences and commonalities of the most significant protocols including: TTP, FlexRay, TTEthernet, SAFEbus, TTCAN, and LIN. Covering the spectrum, from low-cost time-triggered fieldbus networks to ultra-reliable time-triggered networks used for safety-critical applications, the authors illustrate the inherent benefits of time-triggered communication in terms of predictability, complexity management, fault-tolerance, and analytical dependability modeling, which are key aspects of safety-critical systems. Examples covered include FlexRay in cars, TTP in railway and avionic systems, and TTEthernet in aerospace applications. Illustrating key concepts based on real-world industrial applications, this book: Details the underlying concepts and principles of time-triggered communication Explores the properties of a time-triggered communication system, contrasting its strengths and weaknesses Focuses on the core algorithms applied in many systems, including those used for clock synchronization, startup, membership, and fault isolation Describes the protocols that incorporate presented algorithms Covers tooling requirements and solutions for system integration, including scheduling The information in this book is extremely useful to industry leaders who design and manufacture products with distributed embedded systems based on time-triggered communication. It also benefits suppliers of embedded components or development tools used in this area. As an educational tool, this material can be used to teach students and working professionals in areas including embedded systems, computer networks, system architectures, dependability, real-time systems, and automotive, avionics, and industrial control systems.
Time-Varying Formation Tracking Control for Nonlinear Swarm Systems
by Jianglong Yu Xiwang Dong Zhang RenThe book focuses on time-varying formation control approaches for practical nonlinear swarm systems. Time-varying formation control is the basic guarantee for performing other tasks of swarm systems, such as cooperative decision-making and cooperative detection. However, most practical swarm systems have nonlinear dynamic models. This book studies three typical models of practical nonlinear swarm systems, which represent most of the practical systems and construct the corresponding formation control structure. At the same time, the effects of disturbances, uncertain dynamics, random noise and unknown leader's input are considered and processed to improve the robustness and adaptability. The comprehensive and systematic treatment of practical nonlinear time-varying formation control issues is one of the major features of the book, which is particularly suited for readers who are interested to learn time-varying formation control solutions in nonlinear swarm systems. The book benefits researchers, engineers and graduate students in the fields of formation control, nonlinear control, robust control, etc.
TIME A Year in Space: Inside Scott Kellys Historic Mission Is Travel to Mars Next?
by The Editors of TIME Jeffrey KlugerGo inside one of the most historic space missions ever in A YEAR IN SPACE, the new special edition from TIME, written by Apollo 13 author Jeffrey Kluger. A YEAR IN SPACE chronicles astronaut Scott Kelly's 340 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of NASA's exploration of the challenges of extended spaceflight. The most pressing question: Could humans endure the two-and-a-half-year trip to Mars and back?While science has some understanding of how space and zero gravity affect the human body, Scott and his twin brother, Mark, a retired astronaut who remained on Earth, have served as the perfect test and control subjects to explore these effects.This special edition, the companion piece to the TIME and PBS documentary series A Year in Space, provides exclusive coverage coupled with abundant photographs, many taken by Scott Kelly himself.Highlights include:An inside look at how Kelly conducted experiments aboard the ISS and how he spent his downtime.Landscape Mode: Breathtaking photographs taken by Scott Kelly from 250 miles above the Earth's surface.In interview with Samantha Cristoforetti, the first woman to spend 200 days in space, who spoke with TIME about her journey.
Timed Arrays
by Randy L. HauptIntroduces timed arrays and design approaches to meet the new high performance standards The author concentrates on any aspect of an antenna array that must be viewed from a time perspective. The first chapters briefly introduce antenna arrays and explain the difference between phased and timed arrays. Since timed arrays are designed for realistic time-varying signals and scenarios, the book also reviews wideband signals, baseband and passband RF signals, polarization and signal bandwidth. Other topics covered include time domain, mutual coupling, wideband elements, and dispersion. The author also presents a number of analog and digital beamforming networks for creating and manipulating beams. The book concludes with an overview of the methods to integrate time delay into the array design and of several other adaptive arrays that prove useful in many different systems. Examines RF signal concepts such as polarization and signal bandwidth and their applications to timed antenna arrays Covers arrays of point source, elements in timed antenna arrays, active electronically scanned array technology, and time delay in corporate fed arrays Includes complete design examples for placing time delay in arrays Timed Arrays: Wideband and Time Varying Antenna Arrays is written for practicing engineers and scientists in wireless communication, radar, and remote sensing as well as graduate students and professors interested in advanced antenna topics.
The Timekeepers: The Tesla Trap (Timekeepers )
by SJ KingThe Timekeepers are a secret organization of kids who keep the course of history on track. And history needs them—a villain called DeLay is causing chaos!When the hands on their watches start to spin backward, the Timekeepers know that DeLay has been up to no good, and it's up to them to put things right...In this installment, the Timekeepers travel back to 1890s New York City and the laboratory of Nikola Tesla. On the eve before Tesla is set to reveal his latest invention, the X-Ray Machine, the time pirate DeLay, disguised as Tesla's rival Thomas Edison, steals the machine. The Timekeepers begin a pursuit around New York City in search of the machine to ensure history stays on track. With a range of adventures that span all of history, The Timekeepers series is perfect for any adventure lover.
Timekeeping
by Sam Carbaugh W Eric Martin Linda FormichelliTimekeeping: Explore the History and Science of Telling Time travels through the past and into the future to explore how humans have measured the passage of time. From ancient civilization's earliest calendars and shadow clocks to GPS and the atomic clocks of today, kids will track the evolution of timekeeping devices, meet the inventors of calendars and clocks, and learn interesting facts and trivia. Hands-on projects and activities include making a shadow clock, using a protractor to create a sundial, measuring time using water, and creating your own calendar. Kids will understand how civilization's vague abilities to track days and months has transformed over the centuries into a sophisticated ability to keep time to the millionth of a second.
Timeless Thomas: How Thomas Edison Changed Our Lives
by Gene BarrettaWhat do record players, batteries, and movie cameras have in common? All these devices were created by the man known as The Wizard of Menlo Park: Thomas Edison. Edison is most famous for inventing the incandescent lightbulb, but at his landmark laboratories in Menlo Park & West Orange, New Jersey, he also developed many other staples of modern technology. Despite many failures, Edison persevered. And good for that, because it would be very difficult to go through a day without using one of his life-changing inventions. In this enlightening book, Gene Barretta enters the laboratories of one of America's most important inventors.
Timelines of Science (DK Timelines)
by DKFrom the wheel to the worldwide web, our planet has been transformed by science.Now you can travel through time to experience centuries of invention and innovation on this spectacular visual voyage of discovery. Starting in ancient times and ending up in the modern world, you&’ll explore scientific history showcased in stunning images and captivating text. An easy-to-follow illustrated timeline runs throughout the book, keeping you informed of big breakthroughs and key developments. Get to grips with revolutionary ideas like measuring time or check out amazing artifacts like flying machines. Great geniuses, including Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, and Charles Darwin are introduced alongside their most important ideas and inventions, all shown in glorious detail. Hundreds of pages of history are covered in Timelines of Science, with global coverage of scientific advances. Whether you're joining in with eureka moments, inspecting engines, or learning about evolution, all aspects of science are covered from the past, present, and future.
Timing Jitter in Time-of-Flight Range Imaging Cameras
by Gehan AnthonysThis book explains how depth measurements from the Time-of-Flight (ToF) range imaging cameras are influenced by the electronic timing-jitter. The author presents jitter extraction and measurement techniques for any type of ToF range imaging cameras. The author mainly focuses on ToF cameras that are based on the amplitude modulated continuous wave (AMCW) lidar techniques that measure the phase difference between the emitted and reflected light signals. The book discusses timing-jitter in the emitted light signal, which is sensible since the light signal of the camera is relatively straightforward to access. The specific types of jitter that present on the light source signal are investigated throughout the book. The book is structured across three main sections: a brief literature review, jitter measurement, and jitter influence in AMCW ToF range imaging.
Timing Performance of Nanometer Digital Circuits Under Process Variations (Frontiers In Electronic Testing Ser. #39)
by Jose Garcia Gervacio Victor ChampacThis book discusses the digital design of integrated circuits under process variations, with a focus on design-time solutions. The authors describe a step-by-step methodology, going from logic gates to logic paths to the circuit level. Topics are presented in comprehensively, without overwhelming use of analytical formulations. Emphasis is placed on providing digital designers with understanding of the sources of process variations, their impact on circuit performance and tools for improving their designs to comply with product specifications. Various circuit-level “design hints” are highlighted, so that readers can use then to improve their designs. A special treatment is devoted to unique design issues and the impact of process variations on the performance of FinFET based circuits. This book enables readers to make optimal decisions at design time, toward more efficient circuits, with better yield and higher reliability.
Timmy's Monster Diary: Screen Time Stress (But I Tame It, Big Time) (Monster Diaries #2)
by Raun Melmed Annette SextonMeet Timmy, a lovable monster who can’t get enough of the coolest gadgets and video games. Too bad he doesn’t realize how much time he spends each day in front of a screen. In the same humorous spirit of Diary of a Wimpy Kid comes Timmy’s Monster Diary: Screen Time Stress. Using the “Time-Telling” and “ST4” techniques developed by Dr. Raun Melmed of the Melmed Center in Arizona, Timmy’s Monster Diary teaches kids how to self-monitor the amount of time they spend on technology. Timmy’s hilarious doodles and diary entries chronicle his delightful adventures, misadventures, and eventual triumph in a funny, relatable way. It’s the one book that kids will want to turn off the TV and read! Timmy’s Monster Diary also includes a resource section to help parents and teachers implement Dr. Melmed’s methods, plus ST4 reminders that kids can remove, color, and place around the house. Ages 6–12 Don’t miss Marvin’s ADHD adventures in Book 1.
Tinkercad For Dummies
by Shaun C. BryantCreate in 3D with Tinkercad! If you can dream it, you can create it—using Tinkercad. This free tool gives everyone the power to create 3D models, regardless of your level of experience. With the help of Tinkercad For Dummies, you’ll have the knowledge you need to plan your designs, the know-how to utilize the platform’s drag-and-drop tools to create your design, and the information you need to print or export your designs to use them elsewhere. Tinkercad is for everyone! It’s simple enough to be used by kids and students, but robust enough that an adult could use it to create a complex product prototype. With more than 4 million designs posted in the Tinkercad community, the platform is also popular with teachers around the world. Why not join in on the fun? Create your Tinkercad account and join the community Use the drag-and-drop tools to build 3D images Export your designs to have them 3D printed Learn the principles of great 3D design Tinkercad is truly fun for all ages, and this hands-on guide makes it faster and easier to start using it right away!
The Tinkerers: The Amateurs, DIYers, and Inventors Who Make America Great
by Alec FoegeHaving completed her transition from a manufacturing economy, America - it is said - has stopped making things. When there are breakthroughs in engineering and design, it's usually thanks to a team of corporate researchers trying to squeeze out more profit. But once upon a time, the United States was a nation of tinkerers. Amateurs and professionals alike applied their ingenuity and talent to the problems of their day, coming up with innovative solutions that at once channeled the optimistic spirit of America and kept that spirit alive. Guided by the curiosity of an inquiring mind, a desire to know how things work, and a belief that anything can be improved, they laid the foundations for the American century.When Alexander Graham Bell beat Thomas Edison to the invention of the telephone, Edison fiddled around with the transmitter and receiver until he produced an equally revolutionary machine - the phonograph. When Thomas MacDonald observed the hardship that a lack of good roads imposed on his fellow Iowans, he began a road-building project that eventually morphed into the interstate highway system. Some of the people profiled in this book attended the finest engineering schools in the world; some, like Microsoft's former chief technology officer Nathan Myhrvold, had no formal training in their chosen fields. Some see themselves as solo visionaries; others emphasize the importance of working in teams. What binds them together is an ability to imagine new systems and subvert old ones, to see fresh potential in existing technologies, and to apply technical know-how to the problems of their day.In The Tinkerers, Alec Foege presents a version of American history told through feats of engineering, large and small. He argues that reports of tinkering's death have been greatly exaggerated; since World War II, it has been the guiding force behind projects from corporate-sponsored innovations (the personal computer, Ethernet) to smaller scale inventions with great potential (a machine that can make low-cost eyeglass lenses for people in impoverished countries, a device that uses lasers to shoot malarial mosquitoes out of the sky). Think tanks and companies have recognized the benefits of tinkering and have done their best to harness and institutionalize it. But as systems become more complex, budding inventors may become intimidated. Foege argues that this would be an enormous loss to a nation that achieved its strength largely thanks to the accomplishments of its innovators. He shows us how tinkering remains, in new and unexpected forms, at the heart of American society and culture.