Articles tagged with Robotics
MIT engineers developed a versatile demonstration interface that allows users to teach robots new skills in three intuitive ways: remote control, physical manipulation, or demonstration. This innovation expands the type of users and 'teachers' who interact with robots, enabling robots to learn a wider set of skills.
Scientists at Columbia University have developed a process called 'Robot Metabolism' that enables machines to absorb and reuse parts from other robots or their surroundings. This new paradigm allows robots to physically sustain themselves, grow, adapt, and repair using materials from their environment or from other robots.
Researchers developed a self-driving lab that collects at least 10 times more data than previous techniques, dramatically expediting materials discovery research while slashing costs and environmental impact. The system uses dynamic flow experiments to continuously characterize samples, capturing data every half second.
Researchers are creating generalized digital twins for machines, aiming to improve coordination up and down the production line. The center also plans to develop digital twins for human-robot collaboration and use software for simulation and analysis.
Researchers demonstrated R-STDP synaptic plasticity in a single ferroelectric floating-gate device, enabling SNN to simulate robotic capture tasks with excellent performance. The network achieved a success rate up to 85.5% in dynamic capturing tasks.
Researchers developed an AI system that enables a four-legged robot to adapt its gait to different terrain, just like animals. The robot learned to switch gaits on the fly and navigate uneven surfaces without any alterations to the system itself, overcoming previous limitations around adaptability.
Yen-Ling Kuo, a UVA computer scientist, has been awarded the NSF CAREER Award to help robots understand and respond to human behavior. Her research focuses on building AI systems that can reason, communicate, and collaborate like humans, enabling robots to support people in various settings.
Researchers developed a soft electroactive polymer eel-like robot that can explore underwater environments with minimal impact on wildlife and fragile structures. The robot uses dielectric elastomer material, enabling it to swim efficiently without causing harm to the environment.
New humanoid surgical robots offer a solution to the growing healthcare labor shortage, allowing for more efficient surgeries and reduced burnout among doctors. By taking on routine tasks, these robots can free up surgeons to focus on more complex procedures.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing medical needle procedures by providing unprecedented levels of accuracy and precision. AI-powered robots can assist physicians in complex tasks, enabling safer and more effective procedures. The four components of AI guidance are formalized, categorizing current systems into Eyes-on/Hands...
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have created a new way to build and control tiny particles that can move and work like microscopic robots. The team's method combines high-precision 3D printing and microstenciling, allowing for precise surface patches on active particles of arbitrary shape.
The FiLM-Scope surgical microscope offers precise 3D imaging using 48 tiny cameras, creating a detailed 3D map of the scene in real time. This technology can expand possibilities in manual and robotic microsurgery.
A fully autonomous robotic system developed by MIT researchers can measure important material properties like photoconductivity, increasing the speed and precision of research. The system uses machine learning and robotics to analyze new semiconductors and optimize the development of more powerful solar panels.
A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that interacting with robots through social games makes them seem more human-like. The researchers used a box-shaped robot called Cozmo and found that participants who played games with it considered it more human-like, whereas those who interacted mechanically did not.
A team of undergrads at CU Boulder has created a digital twin for their robot, Armstrong, which is being used to train human operators on how to navigate the moon's surface. The study found that training in a digital environment resulted in faster task completion and reduced stress.
Researchers from Empa's Soft Kinetic group studied the rare scaly-tailed squirrels' unique bodily structure, discovering that their thorn-covered scales help them maintain position and grip onto tree bark. The study aims to inform robotics by adopting morphological structures and behaviors honed through millions of years of evolution.
Researchers created a machine vision sensor that adapts to extreme changes in light faster than the human eye, using quantum dots to mimic key behaviors. The device can respond dynamically to bright and dim lighting, outperforming existing systems by reducing redundant data and computational burden.
A new imaging technique developed by MIT researchers leverages reflections from wireless signals like Wi-Fi to create accurate 3D reconstructions of objects blocked from view. This approach achieved 96 percent reconstruction accuracy on everyday objects with complex shapes.
The AI for Good Global Summit 2025 will showcase AI innovations delivering better healthcare and education, reducing disaster risks, ensuring water and food security, and bolstering economic resilience. The event, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), features talks from AI leaders and 100+ demos.
Researchers have successfully controlled a dexterous robotic hand using noninvasive EEG-based Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) for individual finger movements. The study demonstrates real-time brain decoding and motor imagery control, paving the way for potential applications beyond basic communication to intricate motor control.
A team of researchers at Princeton University and Harvard found that fish schools do not form diamond shapes as previously believed. Instead, they adopt a dynamic ladder pattern, allowing them to stagger in multiple planes and reduce energy expenditure.
Scientists from Institute of Science Tokyo create photo-switchable binding of DNA nanostructures that generate two distinct directional motions. The research paves the way for innovative fluid-based diagnostic chips and molecular computers.
The study analyzed 50 countries' national AI strategies, finding that only 13 gave high priority to training the current workforce and improving AI education. Common themes included establishing AI-focused programs in universities and on-the-job training, with a focus on human soft skills such as creativity and collaboration.
The Digits framework uses compressed air to produce shape changes, vibrations, and haptic feedback, offering a versatile platform for virtual reality and physical therapy. The device's modular design and pneumatic actuation enable adaptable and scalable control methods.
Researchers at IIT have successfully demonstrated the first flight of a humanoid robot, iRonCub3, which can lift off the floor and maintain stability. The robot's AI-powered control system enables it to handle high-speed turbulent airflows, extreme temperatures, and complex dynamics.
International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing (IJEM) achieves a new Impact Factor of 21.3, surpassing 20 for the first time and maintaining its position as top journal in the field. IJEM has attracted submissions from 853 institutions in 81 countries.
A research team developed AI technology that analyzes individual personality traits and values to generate personalized analogies, allowing people to understand others' feelings through familiar experiences. This approach significantly improved emotional understanding and empathy in participants compared to traditional methods.
Scientists created a low-cost, durable, highly-sensitive robotic 'skin' that can detect various types of touch and pressure. The technology senses multiple physical inputs simultaneously, allowing robots to interact with their environment in a more human-like way.
Researchers at MIT developed a machine learning-based adaptive control algorithm that enables autonomous drones to adapt to unknown disturbances like gusting winds. The system achieves 50% less trajectory tracking error than baseline methods in simulations.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin discovered a novel way to accelerate brain-computer interface (BCI) learning: gentle electrical nudge to the spine. This stimulation helps focus the brain on the task, significantly speeding up the learning curve.
A Chinese research team developed a magnetic microrobot capable of manipulating small droplets in the presence of magnetic fields. The robot achieved speeds 20 times faster than previous models and could interact with highly corrosive compounds without damage.
Rice University students have developed a cutting-edge wearable haptic wristband that can deliver two distinct forms of tactile feedback. The device aims to make virtual reality more immersive and accessible, and is entirely self-contained with a modular design that makes it easy to repair and integrate into different environments.
The research team developed a novel auditory technology that allows sound-based interaction between humans and robots, even in noisy environments. The technology facilitates sound-based recognition of human positions using only a single microphone.
The Rice University team created a soft robotic arm capable of performing complex tasks using smart materials, machine learning, and an optical control system. The arm is guided and powered remotely by laser beams without any onboard electronics or wiring.
Researchers at KAIST developed a quadrupedal navigation system that enables the robot to reach its target destination quickly and safely in complex terrain. Inspired by cat's paw placement, they significantly reduced computational complexity.
Professor Shalom Lappin argues that tech companies' dominance in AI development poses a threat to public benefit and environment. He calls for comprehensive international regulation, intellectual property reform, and preparation for workforce disruption to address these challenges.
Researchers developed an algorithm that lets a robot think ahead and consider thousands of potential motion plans simultaneously, solving multistep manipulation problems in a matter of seconds. The new method enables robots to rapidly determine how to manipulate and pack items without damaging them, even in narrow spaces.
Researchers at Stanford University developed a new technique called the milli-spinner thrombectomy that significantly improves success rates in treating strokes and other clot-related diseases. The milli-spinner can reduce clots to as little as 5% of their original volume, making it a promising tool for improving patient outcomes.
Researchers created dynamic metashells that leap into the air on a predetermined schedule without intervention, jumping up to nine times their height. The structures were engineered to store energy and release it at a controlled timing, with scheduled jumps possible from three seconds to 58 hours in advance.
Researchers created a soft robotics technology that can identify damage, pinpoint its location, and autonomously initiate self-repair. The system uses a multi-layer architecture featuring liquid metal microdroplets, thermoplastic elastomer, and electromigration to melt and seal damaged areas, effectively self-healing the wound.
Researchers developed VR Co-Lab to ease confusion while training employees digitally for disassembling recyclables without damaging materials. The program provides feedback on task completion time and mistake rates.
A multidisciplinary team will utilize cutting-edge imaging technology and underwater robotics to discover and describe exotic marine species in the deep ocean. The project aims to transform how scientists understand the ocean's vast midwater region.
Aerial robots are limited to manipulating rigid objects, but Lehigh University researcher David Saldaña aims to expand their capabilities with an adaptive controller and reinforcement learning. His research has potential applications in construction, disaster response, and industrial automation.
Scientists have created the first soft robots that can walk out of the machines that make them using a new 3D printing system. The flexible devices were developed to overcome challenges in manufacturing and design, making them suitable for various industries like nuclear decommissioning and space exploration.
The F3T sensor accurately decouples temperature, normal force, and all-directional tangent force. It outperforms traditional sensors in static and dynamic tests, enabling robots to adaptively respond to external disturbances.
Antonio Bicchi has been selected for the 2025 Pioneer in Robotics and Automation Award for his groundbreaking contributions to robotics and prosthetics. He is recognized for developing innovative robotic limbs that match human hand capabilities, as well as natural prosthetic limbs.
The Stuttgart Cluster of Excellence IntCDC will continue to develop innovative construction methods that reduce resource consumption and CO2 emissions through computational design and engineering methods. The cluster aims to evolve its Co-Design approach into a Co-Agency approach, focusing on bio-based building materials, AI technologi...
Triboelectric and piezoelectric nanogenerators convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, enhancing robotic autonomy and efficiency. The technology has the potential to reshape future robotic capabilities, particularly in industrial automation, healthcare, and smart home applications.
Researchers found that artificial intelligence tools can accurately predict disease for patients with typical symptoms but struggle with those exhibiting atypical symptoms. Human oversight is necessary for high-quality patient-centered care when using AI as an assistive tool.
The University of Texas at Arlington's (UTA) Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) has developed a real-time sensor data system to track environmental impact. The program helps Texas manufacturers reduce pollution, lower emissions, and save costs by identifying energy waste, water consumption, and air leaks.
A new simulation method enables researchers to test social robots without human participants, making research faster and more scalable. The study introduces a dynamic scanpath prediction model that helps humanoid robots predict where people would look in a social setting, mimicking human-like eye movements.
The ETH Zurich researchers have developed SonoTextiles, a novel technology that uses acoustic waves to measure touch, pressure, and movement in fabrics. This allows for accurate health monitoring, such as tracking breathing patterns, with minimal power consumption and high precision.
Researchers developed a spherical prototype with adjustable surface dimples to cut through pressure drag and generate lift, reducing drag by 50% compared to smooth counterparts. The adaptive skin setup can adjust dimple depth to maintain drag reductions and generate controlled movement.
Researchers developed novel haptic devices to enable precise robot control with tactile feedback, reducing collisions and improving user proficiency. The devices integrate digital twin technology and augmented reality for enhanced immersion.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a new framework called HUMAC that enables robots to collaborate like humans by teaching them Theory of Mind. After just 40 minutes of guidance, robot teams exhibited strong collaborative behaviors and achieved high success rates in simulations and physical tests.
Developers of educational tools focus on technical challenges, while educators are concerned with broader impacts, such as inhibiting critical thinking skills and exacerbating systemic inequality. Researchers recommend designer-centered approach to facilitate development of educator-centered edtech.
The Purdue team developed Purdubik’s Cube, a high-speed robotic system that solves a Rubik’s Cube in record-breaking 0.103 seconds. The team leveraged machine vision, custom solving algorithms, and industrial-grade motion control hardware to achieve this feat.
UCF students created an AI system, AIMS, to track surgical staples during robotic surgeries, reducing waste and improving sustainability. The technology was developed as part of the college's Senior Design capstone course and has been successfully tested in operating rooms at Orlando Health.
Generative AI agents powered by large language models meet three conditions of free will: goal-directed agency, genuine choices, and control over actions. Experts warn that as AI gains more power and freedom, moral responsibility may shift from developers to the AI agents themselves.
Researchers created a new type of insect cyborg that can navigate autonomously using UV light to guide movement, preserving sensory organs and maintaining consistent control. The system outperformed traditional methods in tests, with 94% of cyborg insects escaping a maze-like environment compared to just 24% of normal cockroaches.