Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for monitoring and controlling tools are provided. In general, the methods, systems, and devices can electronically receive data regarding one or more tools being used to perform a process, e.g., a scientific process, can analyze the received data, and can electronically provide the received and/or analyzed data to one or more users via one or more external devices. Electronically providing the data to the user(s) can include providing the data over a network. In at least some embodiments, a control box is provided that can be configured to electronically couple to one or more external tools. The control box can be configured to communicate over a network with at least one external device. The control box, the tool(s), and the at least one external device can define a network of physical objects so as to be an application of the Internet of Things.

Abstract: Metamaterial devices with environmentally responsive materials are disclosed. In some embodiments, a metamaterial perfect absorber includes a first patterned metallic layer, a second metallic layer electrically isolated from the first patterned metallic layer by a gap, and an environmentally responsive dielectric material positioned in the gap between the first patterned metallic layer and the metallic second layer.