How can a simple low-tech principle solve a modern engineering challenge?

[Kevin.L]

Engineering is about solving problems, but the most elegant solutions are often the simplest. What's one example of a low-tech or surprisingly basic principle that solved a complex modern engineering challenge you've encountered or read about?

[GeorgeFT]

Its a venturi based passive cooling trick used in compact electronics Narrowing a duct speeds air and creates suction that pulls heat away without fans No moving parts and it stays reliable.

[MatthewR]

A simple heat pipe uses a sealed tube and capillary action to move heat by liquid turning to vapor No moving parts reliable in harsh environments.

[Amelia63]

Capillary driven microfluidics lets you run lab tests without external pumps A tiny chip uses surface tension to move fluids along channels.

[PaisleyBC]

Friction pendulum bearings give buildings seismic isolation using gravity based restoring forces A low tech idea that dramatically improves safety without complex systems.

[LarryB]

Arch and triangle based designs show big loads can be carried with less material This classic idea still shines in modern engineering design 2025 complementing high tech systems