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New technique improves AI ability to map 3D space with 2D cameras

Researchers developed a technique called Multi-View Attentive Contextualization (MvACon) to improve AI's ability to map 3D spaces using 2D images from multiple cameras. MvACon significantly improved the performance of vision transformers in locating objects and detecting speed and orientation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 13, 2024

Innovative bird-eye-inspired camera developed for enhanced object detection

Researchers have developed a new perovskite-based camera inspired by the structures and functions of bird's eyes, specializing in object detection. The camera features an artificial fovea and multispectral image sensor that detects UV and RGB light, providing greater motion detection capabilities than conventional cameras.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Bio-inspired cameras and AI help drivers detect pedestrians and obstacles faster

Researchers have developed a system combining bio-inspired cameras with AI to quickly detect obstacles around cars, using less computational power. The hybrid system detects objects up to one hundred times faster than current systems while reducing data transmission and processing needs.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 29, 2024

Animal brain inspired AI game changer for autonomous robots

Researchers at Delft University of Technology developed a drone that flies autonomously using neuromorphic image processing and control based on the workings of animal brains. The drone's deep neural network processes data up to 64 times faster and consumes three times less energy than when running on a GPU.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Unveiling a polarized world – in a single shot

Scientists at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a compact, single-shot polarization imaging system that can provide a complete picture of polarization. The system uses two thin metasurfaces to capture the most complete polarization response of an object in real-time.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 2, 2024

New privacy-preserving robotic cameras obscure images beyond human recognition

Researchers at the University of Sydney and Queensland University of Technology have developed a new approach to designing cameras that process and scramble visual information. The approach, known as 'sighted systems,' creates distorted images that can still be used by robots to complete tasks but do not compromise privacy.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Responsible Technology·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 4, 2024

Cell phone video technology unveils new method for analyzing walking and gait

Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a new method for analyzing walking and gait using free software and cellphone videos. This approach is more accessible and quicker than current state-of-the-art methods, enabling clinicians to assess patients' walking abilities more conveniently.

SourceKennedy Krieger Institute·JournalPLOS Digital Health·DateMar 28, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

A swarm to save the day

Researchers propose using coordinated multi-swarm drones to quell forest fires, leveraging AI-enabled fire detection and autonomous decision-making. The approach could lead to more efficient fire suppression and reduced response times.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Systems Man and Cybernetics Systems·DateMar 21, 2024

Low-cost versatile mesoscope makes brain imaging in rodents more accessible

Researchers developed a custom-built, low-cost mesoscope that can adapt to different neuroimaging experiments in live mice and rats. The system offers excellent spatial and temporal resolutions, achieved through its reversible tandem lens configuration, which enables flexible experimentation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMar 12, 2024

Study detects cognitive changes in older drivers using in-vehicle sensors

A study published in BMC Geriatrics uses in-vehicle sensors to detect anomalous driving behavior indicative of cognitive impairment in older adults. The system analyzes driving patterns, facial expressions, and eye movement to identify early signs of dementia.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalBMC Geriatrics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 29, 2024

The help of AI significantly improves colonoscopy

A new AI-powered system has been shown to detect 40% more polyps during colonoscopies, a crucial step in preventing colorectal cancer. This breakthrough technology uses artificial intelligence to examine every pixel in the image and alert doctors to potential issues, allowing for more accurate diagnoses.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

SFU researchers develop AI that can understand light in photographs

Researchers at Simon Fraser University have developed an AI approach to intrinsic decomposition, separating images into lighting effects and true colours of objects. This innovation enables a range of applications, including image compositing and augmented reality, making it accessible to content creators and post-production artists.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateFeb 20, 2024

Q&A: Helping robots identify objects in cluttered spaces

Researchers developed a way for robots to recognize objects even when partially obscured, using a visual perception system and topology. The THOR (Teaching Humans Object Recognition) method outperforms current state-of-the-art models in cluttered spaces, including warehouses and homes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateFeb 7, 2024

KU study shows weightlifting before basketball practice does not affect shooting accuracy

A new study published in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living found that resistance training before basketball practice has minimal to no effect on shooting performance. In fact, the only scenario where accuracy decreased was after upper-body training, but this decrease disappeared 30 minutes post-exercise completion.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 17, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Scientists develop ‘flying dragon’ robot to fight fires from a distance

A Japanese research team developed a four-meter-long, remotely controllable flying firehose robot called the Dragon Firefighter. It can safely and efficiently extinguish fires by directly approaching flames. The robot will be deployed in real-world firefighting scenarios after approximately 10 more years of development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2023

A system designed at the UMA estimates the speed of vehicles driving on the same road

A computer vision system developed by University of Malaga engineers estimates vehicle speeds in real time using a single camera, reducing complexity and costs. The algorithm, published in Neurocomputing, aims to improve vehicle safety and has potential applications in autonomous driving and driver assistance.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNeurocomputing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2023

Shock wave photographed passing through a single cell

Scientists use new photography technique to observe interaction between biological cell and shock wave, revealing high-speed phenomena. The technology has potential applications in science, medicine, and industry.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Toward more precise and flexible targeted spectroscopy measurements in the retina

Researchers develop a versatile imaging system for targeted spectroscopy in the eye fundus, allowing for continuous color imaging and spectral measurements. The system enables users to select targets and move them to any location within the eye fundus region without realignment or fixation changes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateDec 15, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Aussie teens are not actually selfie-obsessed

Researchers from RMIT University found that Australians aged 20 to 40 years old take more selfies than teenagers and older Australians. Older participants used their smartphones for functional purposes like capturing information at work, whereas teenage participants preferred taking photos during exciting events or with friends.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Visual Literacy·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 27, 2023

Anti-bias police training improved performance and reduced discrimination-based complaints significantly

A new study found that anti-bias training significantly improved police performance scores and reduced discrimination-based complaints. Officers who received the training had a small but significant increase in performance scores and a 50% reduction in complaints compared to those who did not receive training.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalPolicing An International Journal·DateNov 20, 2023

AI recognizes faces but not like the human brain

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that AI's deep convolutional neural networks can identify faces but struggle to capture other important information like emotional state and trustworthiness. Brain activity scans revealed a weak correlation between AI's codes and human brain represent...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Smartphone attachment could increase racial fairness in neurological screening

A smartphone attachment developed by UC San Diego engineers can screen for neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury at low cost, accurately regardless of skin tone. The technology uses far-red light to enhance visibility of the pupil, making it easier to track changes in eye movement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 24, 2023

Simplifying the generation of three-dimensional holographic displays

A team of researchers proposes a novel approach to generate three-dimensional holograms directly from regular 2D color images captured using ordinary cameras. This approach utilizes deep learning to transform the image into data that can be used to display a 3D scene or object as a hologram.

SourceChiba University·JournalOptics and Lasers in Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Study links selfies to higher ratings of slimness

A study found that participants rated women's bodies as slimmer when viewed in selfie photographs compared to external perspectives. The researchers also discovered a link between self-viewing and disordered eating thoughts, suggesting potential harm from social media consumption.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

New method helps AI navigate 3D space using 2D images

Researchers developed MonoXiver, a new method to help AI extract 3D information from 2D images, making cameras more useful tools for emerging technologies. The method significantly improves accuracy when used in conjunction with existing techniques, such as MonoCon.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2023

Breaking in the black box of pedagogical authority

A team from Université de Genève and University of Teacher Education, State of Vaud conducted an innovative field study on pedagogical authority. They found that 'double addressing' strategies, combining direct and indirect communication, are particularly effective in exercising teaching authority. This approach allows teachers to prev...

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalTeaching and Teacher Education·TypeNews article·DateSep 19, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New camera offers ultrafast imaging at a fraction of the normal cost

Researchers developed a new diffraction-gated real-time ultrahigh-speed mapping (DRUM) camera that captures dynamic events in a single exposure at 4.8 million frames per second. The camera uses off-the-shelf components and is fast enough to capture highly dynamic biomedical processes or enable high-speed lidar systems.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateSep 14, 2023

Study uses motion capture to determine what makes the best free-throw shooters

A new study from the University of Kansas used motion capture technology to analyze the biomechanics of proficient free-throw shooters. Proficient shooters exhibited lower knee and center of mass peak and mean angular velocities, greater release height, and less forward trunk lean compared to nonproficient shooters.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 29, 2023

New technique measures structured light in a single shot

Researchers have developed a new measurement technique that uses the Kramers-Kronig relation to untangle complex helical light patterns from camera intensity measurements. This allows for single-shot retrieval of orbital angular momentum spectrum information, accelerating and simplifying the process compared to conventional on-axis int...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 8, 2023

Using cameras on transit buses to monitor traffic conditions

A study by Ohio State University researchers uses mobile cameras installed on campus buses to count vehicles, detect objects in the road, and track movements. The AI-powered YOLOv4 model provides accurate measurements with high spatial and temporal coverage, which could enhance current traffic systems and improve efficiency.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSensors·DateJul 26, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Front cover highlights "innovative approach" of research into 2D materials

Lancaster University researchers have developed a novel scanning thermal microscopy approach to directly measure the heat conductivity of two-dimensional materials. This breakthrough enables the creation of efficient waste heat scavengers generating cheap electricity, new compact fridges, and advanced optical and microwave sensors and ...

SourceLancaster University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

The Good Fight: Advance in flexible photodetector could improve monitoring of greenhouse gases

Researchers have developed flexible photodetectors that can detect visible to long-wave infrared radiation, covering the full spectrum of greenhouse gases without complex optical components. The new detectors are simple and cost-effective to make, with production at room temperature.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

UMass Amherst epidemiologist updates and validates ‘gold standard’ of prenatal physical activity tools

A University of Massachusetts Amherst researcher has updated the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), a widely used tool for measuring prenatal physical activity. The new PPAQ is considered reliable and valid, providing estimates of physical activity and sedentary behavior in pregnant women.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Vehicle stop study illuminates importance of officer's first words

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that officers' first 45 words during a vehicle stop with a Black driver can indicate how the stop will end. The study discovered a unique 'linguistic signature' that characterizes escalated stops, where officers give an order without stating the reaso...

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 29, 2023

Capturing non-transparent ultrafast scenes

The INRS team developed a single-shot ultrafast terahertz photography system that captures ultrashort events in optically opaque scenarios. The system uses an electro-optic sampling technique and achieves sub-picosecond resolution, allowing researchers to study complex dynamics inaccessible by conventional optical frequencies.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateMay 26, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New camera technology could revolutionise plastics recycling

A new camera technology developed by Aarhus University and Newtec Engineering A/S aims to make it easier to recycle plastic materials. The technology uses hyperspectral imaging to analyze the chemical composition of plastic waste, allowing for the removal of unwanted additives that may be banned or harmful.

SourceAarhus University·DateMay 23, 2023

New research sheds light on how human vision perceives scale

Researchers from Aston University and the University of York discovered new insights into how the human brain makes perceptual judgments of the external world. They found that humans can exploit 'defocus blur' to infer perceptual scale, but this process is crude and more heuristic than metrical analysis.

SourceAston University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2023

Data compression scheme facilitates measurement of blood flow to the brain

Researchers develop innovative data compression scheme to facilitate multispeckle diffuse correlation spectroscopy with high pixel resolutions, enabling non-invasive measurement of brain blood flow. The scheme uses field-programmable gate array compression to alleviate computational burdens and expand the use of SPAD cameras in biomedi...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 9, 2023

World's first mass production of metalenses for visible wavelengths

A POSTECH research team has successfully mass-produced metalenses for visible light, overcoming previous limitations in fabrication and efficiency. By combining photolithography and nanoimprint lithography, the team achieved high-speed production of high-performance lenses with improved efficiency up to 90%.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 8, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Novel ‘registration’ method identifies plant traits in close-up photos

Researchers have developed a novel registration method to identify plant traits in close-up photos by correcting illumination effects. The approach uses artificial intelligence and combines data from multiple sensors to generate high-quality point clouds of plants.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Eye-opening origin story: Scientists trace key innovation in our camera-like vision to bacteria

Researchers at University of California - San Diego found that vertebrates acquired a special protein from bacteria more than 500 million years ago. This discovery reveals a new piece of genetic material introduced from foreign bacterial genes, leading to unique functionality in vertebrate eyes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 12, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Robotic hand can identify objects with just one grasp

Researchers developed a robotic finger with high-resolution sensors that capture data along the entire length of each finger. The three-fingered robotic hand can identify objects after just one grasp, with 85% accuracy, using tactile sensing and machine-learning algorithms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 3, 2023

Deepfakes: has the camera always lied?

Research highlights centuries-old manipulation of photos and videos, raising questions about the social problems behind deepfakes, including the objectification of women and dehumanization of marginalized groups. Dr. Joshua Habgood-Coote argues for media reform and institutional change to combat these issues.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalSynthese·DateMar 30, 2023

Wild animals stop the spread of socially transmitted misinformation

Researchers discovered that even in the absence of predators, escape events occur frequently but rarely spread to many fish. The study suggests that this robustness to false alarms is due to dynamic adjustments in sensitivity to socially acquired information.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2023

Light meets deep learning: computing fast enough for next-gen AI

Researchers developed a novel design for the chip using a crossbar layout, outperforming state-of-the-art photonic counterparts in terms of scalability and technical versatility. The synergy of powerful photonics with the novel crossbar architecture enables next generation neuromorphic computing engines.

SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 22, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Gigapixel 3D microscope captures life in unprecedented detail

Researchers have developed a high-speed, 3D gigapixel microscope that stitches together dozens of cameras to capture life in unprecedented detail. The device enables the recording of differences in pitch and depth, allowing scientists to study zebrafish behavior and developmental biology without harming the animals.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2023

Unique image obtained by Brazilian scientists with high-speed camera shows how lightning rods work

Brazilian researchers used a high-speed camera to capture an image of lightning rods trying to connect to nearby buildings, revealing details of the connections. The image shows that even with multiple lightning rods in place, the strike connected to a smokestack on top of one building, highlighting the importance of proper installation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 13, 2023

Cherenkov color imaging shows promise in enhancing radiation therapy effectiveness

Researchers found that increasing melanin levels in human skin reduces Cherenkov emission intensity, while blood concentration affects different color channels. The study suggests using multispectral signatures to correct attenuated signals based on patient's blood volume or skin color.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMar 13, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Wheeled robot measures leaf angles to help breed better corn plants

Researchers have developed a robotic system called AngleNet that measures leaf angles on corn plants, providing plant breeders with accurate data more quickly. The technology uses stereo vision and deep convolutional neural networks to capture images of leaves at different heights, enabling 3D modeling and precise measurements.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Field Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023

DART successfully deflected the orbit of an asteroid, but by how much?

The DART mission successfully deflected the orbit of asteroid Dimorphos by 33 minutes. The team's calculations showed that the momentum transferred to Dimorphos was significantly enhanced by the recoil created from streams of particles produced by the impact, exceeding initial expectations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature·DateMar 1, 2023

Neuromorphic camera and machine learning aid nanoscopic imaging

Scientists at IISc develop neuromorphic camera that uses machine learning to pinpoint objects smaller than 50 nanometers in size, enabling nanoscale precision in biological processes, chemistry, and physics. The technique combines optical microscopy with the neuromorphic camera and machine learning algorithms.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 21, 2023