Miniature sonic screwdriver in development

Doctor Who’s most popular technology has taken one more step closer to being a reality. No, sorry, we don’t mean the TARDIS. But you are nearer than ever to getting your very own sonic screwdriver.

Researchers at the University of Bristol’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and Northwestern Polytechnical University in China have demonstrated how applying acoustic vortices as a ‘sonic tornado’ can make particles collect in the eye of the tiny storm. While small particles rotate slowly around the middle of the vortex, particles as large as household flour spin at high speeds, or move into a series of rings, stuck by the sonic forces.

So while you’re not going to be able to take on a Dalek armada just yet, or break into any high level security buildings to perform a daring rescue, the watchmaker’s sonic screwdriver is on the way. Now who do we speak to about getting some Psychic Paper?

[Source: CNET]