The latest in car design – steer-by-wire control

Usually found on aircraft rather than cars, steer-by wire controls will be used in a new Nissan car due to be launched in 2013. According to an article on the BBC Technology page, Nissan says that the move away from the current hydraulic and mechanical system will mean ‘ an improved driving experience as the driver’s intentions would be transmitted to the wheels faster than by using a hydraulic and mechanical system.’ With further developments, it could also mean further freedom for car designers as the steering wheel could be located in different areas within the vehicle. The technology may also contribute to the development of driverless cars. There is some history of similar technology being used in the braking systems of different vehicles with varying degrees of success. For the history and future of electronic, rather than mechanical, design in car manufacturing, visit the BBC website http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-19979380

Engineering – how much do qualifications improve salary prospects?

Has all your time spent in lectures and engineering labs been worth it? Does time studying improve your salary prospects? The answer may be both ‘yes’ and ‘no’ according to recent articles on The Engineer magazine website. Results from a study commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineers found that those with an engineering qualification could achieve a 15% wage premium compared to the average UK salary. When compared to a career in finance or business this may not be considered very large but Stephen Harris’ article looks at the situation from a different angle. Other data shows engineering graduates earning 32% more than someone with two ‘A’ Levels; the average graduate earning just 27% more than that same ‘A’ Level qualified recruit. In addition engineering salaries ‘rose sharply with experience’ suggesting an industry sector that values such experience. Read more on this analysis of the value of engineering qualifications on The Engineer website http://www.theengineer.co.uk/opinion/comment/how-much-is-an-engineer-worth/1014095.article#ixzz28ix9JdLK