A Virginia Tech scientist has developed a mathematical model that demonstrates bacteria can control the behavior of robots, opening up new possibilities in ecology, biology, and robotics. The model uses engineered gene circuits in E. coli to create a bacteria-robot system that exhibits unique decision-making behavior.
Harvard engineers create a 3D-printed, soft robot that combines autonomy and speed with adaptability and resilience. The robot's design allows for the integration of rigid electronic components with its soft body, increasing robustness and reducing stress points.
Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have created a 3D-printed robot with a soft exterior and rigid core, enabling over 30 untethered jumps. The robot's design combines nature-inspired materials to achieve improved agility and robustness for safe human interaction.
Researchers studied seahorse's unusual skeletal structure and found its square-tail design provides flexibility and strength, allowing for energy-efficient grasping mechanisms and crushing resistance. This discovery may inspire robotics applications in laparoscopic surgery, industrial systems, or search & rescue robots.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge developed a method to combine multiple functions in a single material by integrating structure at the nanoscale. This approach enables the creation of multi-functional artificial muscles that can move, sense, and report on their environment.
Researchers develop algorithm to generate lower-level control systems from scratch, solving complex Dec-POMDP models in a reasonable amount of time. The approach decomposes the problem into two graphs, reducing complexity and enabling practical application in robotics.
Researchers propose using tiny robots driven by magnetic potential energy from MRI scanners to treat hydrocephalus and other conditions. The robots can be steered out of the body after treatment, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries.
The University of Bristol has developed intelligent handheld robots with increasing levels of autonomy, enabling cooperation between users and tools. Users tend to prefer fully autonomous tools, which show a significant impact on completion time and reduced perceived workload.
Researchers at Disney Research Pittsburgh have developed a 2-legged robot that can mimic an animated character's walking motion, using a combination of 3D-printed links and servo motors. The robot is designed to duplicate the character's gait as closely as possible, while also being stable and physically realizable.
Researchers at UC Berkeley developed algorithms that enable robots to learn motor tasks through trial and error, mimicking human learning. The 'deep learning' technique allows robots to adapt to changing environments without pre-programmed details.
Professor Matei Ciocarlie has received a three-year Young Investigator Program grant to develop collaborative manipulation systems for human-robot teams. His research aims to create novel mechanisms that combine mechanical and computational intelligence, enabling robots to perform versatile tasks in cluttered or occluded settings.
As the global population is projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, robotic pets are becoming increasingly popular, offering alternatives for those who cannot have live pets. However, concerns arise about the ethics of relying on robots for companionship and potential impacts on human relationships with real animals.
The project aims to develop individualized robots that can adapt to the special needs of each elderly user, improving their well-being. The robots will be designed to model human-human interaction and adjust to user pace, abilities, and actions in real-time.
Researchers have developed a new type of 4D printing material that can transform into different shapes in response to water or heat. The technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine and construction, with applications including soft robotics and autonomous valves.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a modular robot that can replicate the sharp turns of real sidewinder rattlesnakes. By analyzing the snakes' complex motion, they discovered how to change the phase and amplitude of two wave motions to achieve exceptional maneuverability.
A novel, fully untethered soft robot capable of repeated jumping has been developed, covering half a meter in a single hop-and-roll motion. The innovative design utilizes a combustion-powered system based on a roly-poly toy, enabling the robot to function over rough terrain.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed a new approach to laparoscopic surgery using magnetic force, allowing for up to 100 times more mechanical power and improved organ retraction. The system consists of an external unit and an internal unit with powerful permanent magnets, enabling accurate positioning and precise control.
A University of Texas at Arlington computer scientist is designing a reservation/reminder software system to help veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The system will be accessible through an android cell phone app or kiosk and can send text reminders about upcoming appointments.
A new study from Harvard University compares the design of fuel systems for soft robots, assessing various types of pneumatic energy sources and their benefits for specific applications. The study provides a framework for configuring fuel systems in soft robotics.
Sandia National Laboratories is developing technology to improve the endurance of legged robots, enabling them to operate for long periods in disaster response scenarios. The new robots, STEPPR and WANDERER, will demonstrate energy-efficient actuators and biped walking capabilities.
A new study shows that hospitals adopting robotic surgery between 2001-2004 performed partial nephrectomies more frequently, preserving organs for kidney cancer patients. This increase in partial nephrectomy rates is attributed to greater institutional experience with robotic surgery.
Scientists have developed a stretchable electronic skin that can detect pressure, location, intensity, and direction. This innovation could be used in prosthetic limbs, robotic skins, and rehabilitation devices.
Researchers from UC Riverside have discovered that dead geckos can adhere to surfaces with the same force as living geckos, eliminating the need for active control. This finding has significant implications for robotics and other fields where adhesion is crucial.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington are exploring ways to create more human-like interactions between humans and robots. Julienne Greer, a theatre arts lecturer, is using her expertise in performance technique method acting to inform the design of robots like Pepper, which can understand and respond to human emotions.
The Soft Robotics Toolkit offers downloadable plans, how-to videos, and case studies to assist users in designing, fabricating, modeling, characterizing, and controlling soft robotic devices. The toolkit aims to stimulate innovation and learning in the field of soft robotics.
A novel robotic system is being tested to determine if it can make prostate cancer biopsies faster, more accurate, less costly, and less discomforting for patients. The robot uses real-time MRI images to guide the insertion of needles, potentially delivering therapies with greater precision.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a programmable headlight system that prevents glare from hitting oncoming drivers, improving visibility in snowy or rainy conditions. The system can adjust the light beam to highlight traffic lanes and even project directional signals.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a shape-changing soft robot that can navigate through snow, puddles of water, flames, and withstand crushing forces. The robot's resilience has implications for search and rescue missions.
Researchers at Harvard University and Cornell University have developed a non-rigid, shape-changing robot that can walk on four legs and operate without constraints. The robot can function in snowstorms, move through puddles of water, and withstand limited exposure to flames, with a payload capacity of up to 8 kg.
A team of neuroscientists and robotics engineers has demonstrated direct brain-to-brain communication in humans, transmitting information via the internet between two human subjects separated by 5,000 miles. The study used advanced precision neuro-technologies to directly transmit a thought from one person to another without them havin...
Robo Brain is a large-scale computational system that learns from publicly available internet resources. It will process images to pick out objects and connect them with text to recognize patterns and behaviors. The system employs structured deep learning, allowing robots to understand how the world works and interact with humans.
Researchers developed a technique to semi-automatically align 3-D models with photo geometry, estimating environmental illumination and appearance. This system enables realistic edits by fitting models into the photo's geometry and applying colors, textures, and lighting consistent with the image.
Researchers developed a technique for estimating visibility using motion as a cue, enabling large-scale 3D motion reconstruction without markers. The Panoptic Studio used 480 video cameras to create detailed reconstructions of volleyball games and confetti cascades.
A phase-changing material developed by MIT researchers allows robots to transform between a rigid and soft state, enabling them to navigate through tight spaces without damaging organs or vessels. The material can also self-heal and repair damage, making it suitable for applications such as surgical robotics and search-and-rescue opera...
Frontiers introduces a new open-access journal, covering robotics and artificial intelligence. The journal will utilize the Frontiers open-science platform to facilitate research networking and knowledge sharing.
Researchers have created a system of extremely simple robots that can cluster together without requiring complex computation. This development enables the creation of large numbers of robots to perform tasks collectively, with potential applications in precision farming and healthcare technologies. The robots use minimal information an...
A team of researchers from Washington State University developed a novel approach to teaching computers new skills, mimicking the interaction between a human teacher and student. The method involves giving action advice to help students learn complex games like Pac-Man and StarCraft.
Researchers at MIT create a self-contained autonomous soft robot capable of rapid body motion, mimicking the escape maneuver of real fish. The robotic fish uses fluid flow through flexible channels to change direction quickly and explore new advantages in soft robotics.
A soft-bodied robotic fish with a flexible spine can mimic real fish swimming motions and perform rapid accelerations. The innovative design enables the robot to adapt to various environments, showcasing advancements in soft robotics.
Researchers developed robotic fish inspired by the weakly electric black ghost knifefish to study fragile coral reefs and investigate sunken ships. The technology improves underwater vehicles' agility, allowing them to navigate complex geometries in murky waters.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are investigating ways for robots to work alongside humans in settings like manufacturing plants and elderly homes. They aim to develop algorithms that enable robots to collaborate with people on tasks, enhancing productivity without compromising safety.
Researchers at NC State University have developed wearable, stretchable sensors using silver nanowires that can measure strain, pressure, human touch, and bioelectronic signals. These sensors hold promise for creating responsive prosthetics and robots that can interact with their environment.
Researchers at the University of Chicago and Cornell University have developed a universal jamming gripper that can handle various objects on the same manufacturing line. The company Empire Robotics is now commercializing this technology, which has potential impacts in industries such as prosthetics and mobile robots.
Researchers are using an advanced humanoid robot called Nao to measure human interaction with robots in public spaces. The project aims to enhance the public realm as a space where people can interact under conditions of privacy and equality.
Researchers from University of Cincinnati develop a brain-computer interface to detect brain signals and interpret intent, paving the way for thought-controlled smart tech and robotic personal assistants. The university also announces its development of an interdisciplinary curriculum for human-centered robotics.
Recent advances in robotics enable the creation of prosthetics that mimic natural movement, allowing users to navigate stairs and uneven ground with reduced stress. Studies have shown improved walking speed, decreased energy expenditure, and reduced fall rates compared to passive prostheses.
Researchers aim to create a system that acquires data from various sensors during surgery and integrates it with pre-operative information to produce dynamic, real-time maps. This will enable surgeons to work more easily and safely, while also enabling the robot to assist in semi-automating surgical sub-tasks.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing robotic rotorcraft for inspecting bridges, tools for minimally invasive surgery, and assistive robots for blind travelers. The National Science Foundation has awarded $7 million to support these projects.
University of Toronto researchers have developed a method to rapidly screen human stem cells, allowing for better control over their fate. The technology uses robotics and automation to test compounds or drugs at once, with controllable environments to study cell characteristics as they differentiate.
Maurizio Porfiri, an associate professor at NYU-Poly, has been named the ASME Dynamic Systems and Controls Division Outstanding Young Investigator Award winner. His research on biomimetic robotic fish contributes to understanding animal collective behavior.
A three-year program using robotic technology will be implemented in non-technical middle school classes in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The goal is to identify and nurture students with an affinity for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The MIT researchers' new system of self-assembling robots uses a surprisingly simple scheme to overcome the complexity of traditional modular robot designs. By giving up on static stability and leveraging clever engineering, they create cubes that can climb, roll, and even move while suspended upside down.
The project aims to perfect a non-invasive brain-machine interface technology that allows patients to control robotic legs and neuroprosthetic limbs with their thoughts. Researchers have begun initial testing at UH, with broader clinical trials planned for Methodist Hospital.
Researchers have developed a technique to pattern and actuate hydrogel materials, enabling the creation of soft robotic devices with potential biomedical applications. The devices can manipulate objects using electrically assisted ionoprinting, opening new possibilities for drug delivery and tissue scaffolding.
Soft Robotics is a new peer-reviewed journal combining advances in biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and materials science to create robotic technology for interactive robots. The journal provides a forum for scientists and engineers across diverse fields to work together to build the next generation of soft robots.
The autonomous robot will test technologies and techniques for exploring life on Mars, with a focus on gathering scientific data. Zoë is equipped with a one-meter drill to bore deep into the ground and analyze soil samples using instruments like the Mars Microbeam Raman Spectrometer.
A new method using Petri nets simplifies supervisor control for automated manufacturing systems, reducing deadlocks and improving system throughput. NJIT professor Mengchu Zhou's research proposes removing dependent inequalities to minimize computerized supervisory control time, providing a more efficient solution.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a firefighting robot that creates a 3D thermal imaging picture of a burning building, providing critical data for first responders. The robot uses stereo vision and sensor data to map the interior of the building, allowing rescuers to better assess the structure and plan their activities.
A Cornell robot has been programmed to anticipate human actions, enabling it to step in and offer a helping hand. The robot uses a Microsoft Kinect camera and a database of 3D videos to identify activities and predict future actions.
A new method developed by Disney Research enables a humanoid robot to receive an object handed to it by a person with natural, human-like motion. By rapidly searching a database of human motion, the robot can predict where the human plans to make the handoff and move its arm accordingly.