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[NetEase Smart News, January 14] Humans are naturally curious about the future. We often reflect on what our lives might look like, imagine the outcomes of today’s progress, and even create “sandboxes†to explore potential futures.
Scientists, however, tend to be cautious when it comes to predicting the future. Their conservative nature and reliance on data make them hesitant to speculate, as such predictions require a leap of faith. Even with strong data backing, countless variables can shift the outcome over time. Predicting the world in 100 years may not directly influence today’s decisions, and if they’re wrong, scientists prefer to focus on constructive work instead.
Looking back at the past century, the world has changed dramatically. In 1918, much of the globe was caught in World War I, while a deadly flu pandemic claimed between 20 to 40 million lives—more than those lost in the war itself. That same year, the U.S. established time zones, introduced daylight saving time, and issued the first American Airlines postage stamp.
It's clear that we've made significant progress. Today, dying from diseases like the flu or smallpox, which were once deadly, is extremely rare thanks to vaccines and antibiotics. The pace of technological development continues to accelerate, and here are some ways today’s innovations could shape the world for the next 100 years:
1. Quantum computing will mature
Just as the internet transformed society, quantum computing will revolutionize how we understand the world. It will allow us to process massive amounts of data about ourselves, the planet, and the universe in ways never before possible.
While we're unsure exactly how we'll use this data, we might uncover answers to long-standing physics questions or discover something completely unexpected.
2. Brain hacking becomes reality
Thanks to brain-computer interfaces (BCI), we don't have to wait a century to merge our minds with machines. Early prototypes have already helped stroke patients recover and enabled amputees to feel touch through sensory prosthetics.
As these technologies become widespread, the integration of man and machine could change human evolution forever. Non-invasive BCI prototypes, which read brain signals through the skull, are already in development and could lead to concepts like Elon Musk’s "brain mesh."
3. Self-driving cars reshape cities
In 2118, cities will be smarter, with better infrastructure and transportation systems. Electric cars will be autonomous and available where needed most.
While full automation remains debated, companies like Tesla are pushing toward L5 self-driving. Some cities are already becoming more complex, with solar highways charging electric vehicles on the move and self-healing materials being developed to fix roads and buildings.
4. AI transforms the workplace
Artificial intelligence will automate many tasks, especially those involving data collection. To counter job loss, some countries may adopt Universal Basic Income (UBI), offering citizens regular payments without requiring employment.
Experiments with UBI have already begun, and one report suggests it could boost the U.S. economy by $2.48 trillion in eight years. In fields like medicine, AI won’t replace humans but enhance their capabilities, such as through exoskeletons that give workers superhuman strength and reduce injuries.
5. A 3D-printed world
3D printers are now used widely in labs and are gaining popularity among consumers. Though expensive, they are seen as long-term investments, allowing users to print replacement parts. As 3D printing advances, we may see everything from printed organs to entire buildings.
6. High-tech medicine saves lives
Advances in personalized medicine and gene editing are transforming healthcare. Scientists are developing treatments tailored to individual genetic profiles, including cancer therapies. CRISPR technology holds promise for curing genetic diseases, while stem cells offer hope for previously untreatable conditions.
Experts predict that major diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders may be preventable or treatable by 2118. However, challenges like climate change and global conflicts could still impact life expectancy. Meanwhile, diagnostic tools are improving, with researchers working on devices similar to Star Trek’s medical scanners.
7. Earth grows warmer
Climate change is already altering our planet. By 2050, Greenland may no longer freeze in summer, and sea levels could rise by 0.6 to 0.9 meters by 2100, displacing millions. Despite the Paris Climate Agreement, global warming remains a critical challenge.
Reducing emissions is essential, but progress is slow. Countries like the U.S. have faced criticism for not meeting commitments, but grassroots movements continue to push for a sustainable future.
8. Humans explore deeper into space
Despite our achievements, space still captivates us. In the next century, space exploration may be the greatest challenge and opportunity for humanity. Visionaries like Elon Musk and Donald Trump aim to send humans to Mars within 100 years.
But reaching other planets requires more than just ambition. With better telescopes and cheaper space travel, we may soon explore distant worlds. The biggest question is: What happens when we do?
Jaymie Matthews, an astrophysicist at Columbia University, believes extraterrestrial life will be a historical fact by 2118. But how humans respond to that discovery remains uncertain. Will it make us more humble, or more arrogant? Either way, it will deepen our understanding of our origins.
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a complex system that integrates multiple technologies and devices to store electrical energy in the form of chemical energy and release it for use when needed. The following is a detailed description of the purpose of the BESS class:
I. Basic definition
BESS is a system that uses lithium batteries, lead batteries, etc., as energy storage carriers to store electricity for a certain period of time and supply electricity when needed. The power provided by the system has functions such as smooth transition, peak cutting and valley filling, frequency regulating and voltage regulating, etc. It is of great significance to improve the stability, reliability and flexibility of the power grid.
Second, system composition
BESS mainly consists of the following parts:
Battery Array:
It is the core part of BESS and is used to store electrical energy. Common energy storage batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries and so on.
The performance of the battery directly affects the efficiency and reliability of the entire energy storage system.
Battery Management System (BMS) :
Responsible for intelligent management and maintenance of each battery unit, prevent the battery from overcharging and overdischarging, and extend the service life of the battery.
Monitor the battery status, including voltage, current, temperature and other parameters, to ensure the safe operation of the battery pack.
Energy Storage converters (PCS) :
It is one of the key devices in BESS, responsible for converting direct current in the battery pack to alternating current, or alternating current to direct current, to meet the needs of different application scenarios.
PCS has the ability to control the flow of electric energy bidirectional, and can flexibly adjust the power and voltage of the grid.
Local controller:
Responsible for local control and management of BESS, including data collection, condition monitoring, fault diagnosis and other functions.
The local controller can also communicate with the external energy management system (EMS) to receive instructions and perform energy scheduling and power control.
Power distribution system:
Devices such as switches, circuit breakers, cables, etc. are included to connect BESS to the power grid or other loads.
Distribution systems need to ensure the safe transmission and distribution of electrical energy.
Auxiliary equipment:
Including temperature control system, fire protection system, lighting system, monitoring system and so on.
These devices are used to ensure the safe operation and routine maintenance of BESS.
3. Technical characteristics
High efficiency:
BESS has high energy conversion efficiency and charge and discharge efficiency, which can maximize the use of stored electrical energy.
Flexibility:
BESS can be flexibly configured and expanded according to actual requirements to adapt to different scales and scenarios.
Reliability:
With advanced BMS and PCS technology, BESS is able to ensure the safe operation and efficient utilization of battery packs and improve the reliability of the system.
Environmental protection:
BESS uses renewable energy for energy storage and power supply, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources and environmental pollution.
BESS Lifepo4 battery, solar power energy system, 3.2V lithium battery cell
Foshan Keylewatt Technology Co., LTD , https://www.klwenergy.com