Beneath the surface of everyday life lies a world of engineering and science that defines how we understand and engage with the world around us. From soccer and sound to ballet shoes and internet defenses, in this issue, come with us as we explore physics, design, and the impact of everyday engineering
In Hacked: the Overlooked and Under-Supported Open Source Projects Holding the Internet Together, we explore the little-known, volunteer-led projects that are the basis of the modern internet. We take a look at some of the most used projects as well as the consequences of their influential position, especially how they can be an easily exploited access point to sensitive material or internal information. By learning from examples of how this open-source code has been hacked to the detriment of large amounts of data, we can strengthen our understanding of the internet and its weaknesses. We then dance over to On the Science and Craft of Ballet Pointe Shoes, and explore the intricate history of pointe shoes and the immense amount of physics that goes into the design and use of pointe shoes. We learn about the origins of pointe shoes, how ballerinas manage to balance on the tips of their toes for extended periods of time, and what the new innovations in the field look like, including 3D printed shoes.
Our third article, How Malware Hides From You, examines the concept of malware and computer viruses, how they work, and how to protect ourselves from them. Learning about the different types of malware, and the ways in which it takes advantage of our electronic devices, allows us to better protect ourselves from others attempting to breach our privacies and steal our information. Sound Check! Crafting Acoustics for Performance explores how engineers manipulate geometry and materials to control sound, even using machine learning models to simulate various acoustic environments. By understanding the physics of sound waves, this field enhances our everyday auditory experiences in different spaces, from performance venues to lecture halls.
Finally, Beyond the Pitch: Technology’s Role in Optimizing Player Health and Recovery examines cutting-edge innovations shaping soccer, including video assistant referees, goal detection cameras, and other applications of AI in the sport. These advancements not only refine gameplay and strategy, but also improve player health and performance, demonstrating the growing role of engineering in athletics.
Through these stories, we hope to illuminate the curiosity and innovation that drives progress and, hopefully, inspires you to see the boundless potential in everyday experiences and emerging technologies.
Managing Editors: Alicia Tsung and Vidya Iyer
Illumin Team
