Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Velcro DNA helps build nanorobotic Meccano

Scientists at the University of Sydney create programmable nanostructures using DNA origami, enabling rapid prototyping of diverse configurations. These custom-designed nanostructures have potential applications in targeted drug delivery, responsive materials, and energy-efficient optical signal processing.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2024

NRL completes development of robotics capable of servicing satellites, enabling resilience for the U.S. space infrastructure

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has successfully developed a robotic suite capable of servicing satellites in orbit, enabling resilience for the US space infrastructure. The Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites Integrated Robotic Payload (IRP) will enable satellite upgrades and repairs, reducing complexity and cost.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateNov 14, 2024

Smart robots could withstand waves to cut green energy costs

A new study suggests that smart robots can predict waves in real-time, enabling them to work stably in turbulent seas. This technology could reduce the cost of generating renewable energy by up to 50%, making it more competitive with fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe International Journal of Robotics Research·DateNov 14, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Giving robots superhuman vision using radio signals

PanoRadar leverages radio waves and AI to enable robots to navigate challenging environments like smoke-filled buildings or foggy roads with high resolution. The system combines measurements from all rotation angles to enhance imaging resolution, creating a dense array of virtual measurement points.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

Robot that watched surgery videos performs with skill of human doctor

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have developed a robot that can perform surgical procedures with the same skill as human doctors, eliminating the need to program robots with individual moves required during surgery. The 'imagination' model uses imitation learning to train the da Vinci Surgical System robot, enabling it to pre...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateNov 11, 2024

AI-driven mobile robots team up to tackle chemical synthesis

Researchers at the University of Liverpool developed AI-driven mobile robots that can perform exploratory chemistry research tasks faster and more efficiently than humans. The robots use AI logic to make decisions, processing analytical datasets in real-time to determine the next steps in chemical synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature·DateNov 6, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists develop grain-sized soft robots controlled by magnetic fields for targeted drug delivery

Researchers developed grain-sized soft robots that can transport up to four different drugs, release them in reprogrammable orders and doses, and navigate complex environments inside the human body. The robots' precision functions have the potential to significantly improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2024

Study: Robotic automation, AI will speed up scientific progress in science laboratories

Researchers from UNC-Chapel Hill propose that robotic automation and AI can transform science labs, speeding up experiments and unlocking breakthroughs in health, energy and electronics. Automation reduces human fatigue, increases precision and improves safety, enabling scientists to focus on higher-level research questions.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience Robotics·DateOct 23, 2024

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers develop cat's eye-inspired vision system for autonomous robotics

Researchers at GIST developed a cat's eye-inspired vision system that filters out unnecessary light and improves visibility in low-light conditions. The system promises to elevate the precision of drones, security robots, and self-driving vehicles, enabling them to navigate intricate environments with unparalleled accuracy.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Toddlers show increased physical activity with a robot playmate moving around the room

Researchers found that toddlers' activity levels increased in the presence of an active robot, particularly when the robot moved autonomously. The study's findings suggest that assistive robots like GoBot may be effective in promoting physical activity in young children.

SourceOregon State University·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2024

Microscale robot folds into 3D shapes and crawls

Researchers at Cornell University have developed microscale robots that can change shape and move independently. The robots are printed as a 2D hexagonal 'metasheet' but, with the application of electricity, transform into pre-programmed 3D shapes and crawl.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 11, 2024
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.

Mars mission: Würzburg researchers orchestrate swarm of robots

A team of Würzburg researchers is using a swarm of autonomous robots to explore the Martian canyon system, Valles Marineris. The robots will collect data on the canyon's geology and search for signs of liquid water and potentially life, shedding light on the planet's habitability.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateSep 10, 2024

HKUST develops groundbreaking artificial compound eye to revolutionize robotic vision at lower cost but higher sensitivity

The research team at HKUST has developed a novel artificial compound eye system that offers a high sensitivity at least twice that of existing market products. This innovation can be applied in various scenarios, such as drone navigation and emergency rescue.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

Using photos or videos, these AI systems can conjure simulations that train robots to function in physical spaces

Researchers have developed AI systems that use photos or videos to create simulations for training robots in real settings. The RialTo system generates highly accurate simulations of specific environments, while the URDFormer system creates generic simulations quickly and cheaply. These advancements aim to lower costs and increase acce...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 7, 2024
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.

An international effort to define intelligence, consciousness and more: efforts to create consensus definitions for diverse intelligent systems

A collaboration of scientists, ethicists, and researchers aims to create a consensus definition for diverse intelligent systems, including AI, LLMs, and biological intelligences. The proposed approach will provide a common language for recognizing, predicting, manipulating, and building cognitive systems.

SourceCortical Labs·JournalThe Innovation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 30, 2024

Self-powered ’bugs’ can skim across water to detect environmental data

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed self-powered aquatic robots that can skim across water and detect environmental data. The devices use ocean bacteria to generate power, with an average output of 1 milliwatt, enough for mechanical movement and sensor tracking.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2024

Shape-shifting ‘transformer bots’ inspired by origami

Researchers at NC State University have developed a way to transform a single plastic structure into over 1,000 configurations using three active motors. The findings could pave the way for adaptable robotic systems that can take on multiple functions and carry loads.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 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.

Ant insights lead to robot navigation breakthrough

Researchers at TU Delft developed an insect-inspired navigation strategy for tiny, lightweight robots, allowing them to return home after long trajectories while requiring minimal computation and memory. The strategy combines visual breadcrumbs and step counting to enable autonomous navigation in cluttered environments.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024

Safe drone traffic in smart cities of the future

Eötvös Loránd University researchers develop first large-scale autonomous drone traffic solution, combining route planning and bio-inspired flocking models to avoid conflicts and manage remaining issues. The system can handle up to 5000 drones in two dimensions with varying speeds and priorities.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalSwarm Intelligence·DateJul 15, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

UMD researchers develop new and improved camera inspired by the human eye

The University of Maryland team created a camera mechanism that mimics the involuntary movements of the human eye, resulting in sharper and more accurate images. The Artificial Microsaccade-Enhanced Event Camera (AMI-EV) has implications for robotics, national defense, and industries relying on accurate image capture.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 1, 2024

Drone racing prepares neural-network AI for space

Researchers at Delft University of Technology use drone racing to test neural-network-based AI control systems planned for next-generation space missions. The goal is to achieve optimal onboard operations by continuously replanning trajectories, reducing resource consumption and boosting mission autonomy.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2024

Designing environments that are robot-inclusive

Researchers developed a novel methodology utilizing digital twins to establish the usefulness of built environment design guidelines for robots. Digital twins allow for real-time monitoring, hazard identification, and training a robot's algorithm before deployment.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalBuildings·DateMay 31, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

3D printing robot uses AI machine learning for US Army research

A US Army research collaboration with Boston University's KABlab used an AI machine learning robot to create a record-breaking energy-absorbing shape, breaking the known record of 71% efficiency. The shape has four points, like thin flower petals, and is taller and narrower than early designs.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

New research reveals that prehistoric seafloor pockmarks off the California coast are maintained by powerful sediment flows

Research reveals that powerful sediment flows, not methane gas eruptions, maintain prehistoric seafloor pockmarks off the California coast. Sediment gravity flows have caused erosion in the center of each pockmark, maintaining these unique underwater morphologic features over time.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·DateMay 21, 2024

To optimize guide-dog robots, first listen to the visually impaired

A study by UMass Amherst researchers reveals key features for developing effective robotic guide dogs, including two-hour battery life, camera orientations, and audio sensors. The research aims to address barriers to adoption of canine guide dogs, which are currently limited by cost, allergies, and physical limitations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 16, 2024
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.

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

New snail-inspired robot can climb walls

A snail-inspired robot has been developed to mimic the motion of a snail, featuring a sliding suction mechanism that enables it to slide on water and climb walls. The robot achieves comparable sliding ability as snails, carrying loads up to 1kg without energy consumption.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2024

Built-in bionic computing

Researchers have created a method to control pneumatic artificial muscles with embedded bifurcation structures, which can generate diverse dynamics and patterns. This breakthrough enables robots to exhibit more adaptable and flexible movements, streamlining hardware and software development.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

New A.I. project will allow industrial robots to be more freethinking

A new international research project, RoboSapiens, aims to make industrial robots more adaptable and reliable by utilizing artificial intelligence. The project, led by Aarhus University, will focus on four use-cases: autonomous ships, human-robot interactions, warehouse robots, and laptop refurbishment.

SourceAarhus University·DateApr 16, 2024
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.

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

Terminator-style robots more likely to be blamed for civilian deaths

A new study published in The Journal of Experimental Social Psychology reveals that high-tech bots are more likely to be held responsible for civilian deaths, even when the incidents are identical. Researchers found that people perceive robots as more culpable if described in a more advanced way.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 14, 2024

New dressing robot can ‘mimic’ the actions of care-workers

A new robot can mimic the two-handed movements of care-workers, allowing them to dress individuals with ease and freeing up time for health and mental well-being. The robot was trained using learning from demonstration, where a human demonstrates the motion required, and has been tested in laboratory settings.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateMar 4, 2024

Researchers develop and test the first unmanned forestry machine

Researchers developed an unmanned forestry machine that can safely pick up logs using computer vision, autonomous navigation, and manipulator control algorithms. The machine reduces labor costs while minimizing environmental impact, promoting sustainable forestry.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Field Robotics·DateFeb 7, 2024
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.

Autonomous synthesis robot uses AI to speed up chemical discovery

Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam developed an autonomous chemical synthesis robot with integrated AI, outperforming human chemists in terms of speed and accuracy. The 'RoboChem' system can perform various reactions while producing minimal waste and delivering results quickly.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Material science advance could lead to airplanes that optimize their shape in flight

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to manipulate the shape of materials through microscale melting and cooling, enabling autonomous shapeshifting in 3D. This technology has far-reaching implications for industries such as aerospace and architecture.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Researchers develop hedgehog safety test for robotic lawnmowers

Researchers at the University of Oxford have created a standardized safety test to assess how dangerous robotic lawnmowers are to hedgehogs. The test uses specially designed hedgehog crash test dummies and has found that many models pose a threat to these animals, especially at night when they are most active.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAnimals·DateJan 15, 2024

NASA Johnson Space Center engineer Kimberly A. Hambuchen, Ph.D., recognized for seminal research in developing new methods for making robots more autonomous and usable by humans across a time delay

Dr. Hambuchen's affordance template innovation allows remote humans to interact with robots as supervisors, guiding them to complete tasks while maintaining autonomy. This technology has significant implications for NASA's space exploration and deep-sea exploration, overcoming the challenge of time delays.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateJan 10, 2024

Towards more accurate 3D object detection for robots and self-driving cars

Researchers developed a network that combines 3D LiDAR and 2D image data to improve small object detection accuracy. The model outperformed existing methods in various noise conditions, with average precision improvements of up to 7.18%.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Intuitive and self-learning robots

Researchers aim to create robots that can change tasks autonomously and explore settings to optimize performance. The project will focus on battery recycling and energy efficiency, with the goal of reducing industrial waste.

SourceUniversità di Trento·DateJan 9, 2024

New soft robots roll like tires, spin like tops and orbit like moons

Researchers have developed twisted ringbots that can roll forward, spin like a record, and follow an orbital path around a central point. These devices can navigate and map unknown environments without human or computer control.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

Meet 'Coscientist,' your AI lab partner

A new AI system, Coscientist, has demonstrated its ability to autonomously learn about Nobel Prize-winning chemical reactions and design successful laboratory procedures. The system achieved this in just a few minutes, outperforming human chemists in some cases.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
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.

Autonomous excavator constructs a 6-meter-high dry-stone wall

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed an autonomous excavator called HEAP to construct a 6-meter-high and 65-meter-long dry-stone wall. The excavator uses sensors, machine vision, and algorithms to place stones in the desired location, achieving a high level of precision and speed.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023

‘Cutting the cord’ to advance ocean data collection

A team led by Lehigh University's Yahong Rosa Zheng is developing an Autonomous Observatory Node that can collect and transmit data from underwater sensors wirelessly, without the need for expensive subsea cables. The prototype aims to operate at depths of up to 1000 meters, enabling researchers to study extreme environments and detect...

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 13, 2023