The Sonic Screwdriver is invented in Dundee, Scotland

The BBC is reporting that Dundee Uni researchers have invented the sonic screwdriver. So, how does the Doctor Who device work?

The Dundee University researchers have created a machine which uses ultrasound to lift and rotate a rubber disc floating in a cylinder of water.

It is said to be the first time ultrasound waves have been used to turn objects rather than simply push them.

If it sounds like a push to describe this as a “sonic screwdriver” then note that it’s not the BBC who coined the phrase. The researchers coined the phrase. It seems likely that Doctor Who helped inspire the science.