Every parent is faced with the scary possibility that their infant might stop breathing in the middle of the night. This is known to be Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), SIDS is responsible for approximately 7 percent deaths per year in infants in the United States. However, parents may see a brighter future thanks to the Sleep Sound, a prototype invention by University of Idaho students. It is an indicator embedded in infant sleepwear that activates an alarm in case the child stops breathing.
Scientists and engineers are constantly creating new innovations like the Sleep Sound. But, lack of funding and technology have impeded the growth of this sector. The federal government adopted a new act to address the problem. It was applauded and approved by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. ASME is a professional organization that promotes engineering and related sciences.
America Creating Opportunities for Meaningfully Promoting Excellence in Technology Education and Science Act (also known as America COMPETES) aims to increase U.S. innovation through technology education and investments.
“Funding increases are a vital investment in the future prosperity and security of our nation, and support for fundamental research at the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy Office of Science and National Institute of Standards and Technology puts us on the right path,”ASME.
This new law authorizes spending $33.6 billion dollars in the next three years on education and research programs. ASME and the America COMPETES Act are just two of the programs that ASME has implemented to encourage innovation. The Innovation Showcase, also known as I-Show, recognizes the inventive skills demonstrated in innovative creations like the Sleep Sound.
This legislation, along with the support of ASME, will ensure that America’s science-technology programs continue to evolve. Visit www.gov/technology/. www.asme.org.
