Helping robots assess risk
A new project aims to help robots assess risks and make autonomous decisions. The research focuses on quantifying ambiguity in robot perception to improve safety and efficiency.
Robotics
Articles tagged with Robotics
Robot space maintenance based on human arm dynamics
Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology propose a human-like variable admittance control method to increase the safety, robustness, and adaptability of robot space assembly. The team successfully verified the effectiveness of their method through space satellite assembly simulation verification.
Wobbly gel mat trains muscle cells to work together
Researchers created a hydrogel mat with magnetic microparticles that mimic the forces of exercise. The team found that regularly exercising muscle cells resulted in longer, aligned fibers, and improved contraction capabilities.
To excel at engineering design, generative AI must learn to innovate, study finds
Researchers at MIT found that similarity-focused generative AI models falter when tasked with designing new products, highlighting the need to prioritize innovation in engineering tasks. By adjusting training objectives and metrics, AI can be an effective 'co-pilot' for engineers, enabling faster creation of innovative products.
Robotic prosthetic ankles improve ‘natural’ movement, stability
Researchers developed robotic prosthetic ankles controlled by nerve impulses, allowing amputees to move more naturally and improving stability. The study found that users were significantly more stable when using the robotic prototype, changing their postural control strategy and mimicking the body's behavior.
Georgia State receives $10 million grant to advance research in artificial intelligence, robotics and edge computing
The center will establish a national presence in cutting-edge research areas like Human-AI Collaboration and Responsible AI. Researchers aim to develop natural language interfaces for robots like Boston Dynamics' Spot, increasing its useful tasks and navigating environments on its own.
Instant evolution: AI designs new robot from scratch in seconds
A team of researchers at Northwestern University developed an AI capable of intelligently designing robots from scratch, compressing evolution into lightning speed. The AI designed a successfully walking robot in mere seconds, with a novel structure and three legs, fins along its back, and a flat face.
Is AI in the eye of the beholder?
Researchers discovered that users' prior beliefs about an AI chatbot's motives significantly impact their interactions with the agent. Priming users to believe certain things about the AI's empathy, neutrality, or manipulation influences their perception of its trustworthiness and effectiveness.
MilliMobile is a tiny, self-driving robot powered only by light and radio waves
Researchers have created MilliMobile, a tiny, self-driving robot powered only by surrounding light or radio waves. Equipped with sensors and tiny computing chips, it can move indefinitely on harvested power, enabling new abilities for swarms of robots in areas where other sensors struggle to generate nuanced data.
‘Brainless’ robot can navigate complex obstacles
Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a soft robot that can navigate simple mazes without human or computer guidance. The new robot has an asymmetrical design, allowing it to turn and move in arcs, enabling it to navigate complex and dynamic environments.
Tiny, shape-shifting robot can squish itself into tight spaces
Researchers have developed a tiny, squishable robot called CLARI that can change its shape to pass through narrow gaps. The robot's modular design allows it to be customized and expanded with additional legs, enabling potential applications in search and rescue operations after major disasters.
A lightweight wearable device helps users navigate with a tap on the wrist
A new wearable device using haptic cues can aid individuals who are visually or audibly overwhelmed, such as amputees and specialists, in navigating their environment. The device was tested in a real-world scenario and demonstrated an average accuracy of 87% in guiding users.
AI helps robots manipulate objects with their whole bodies
Researchers at MIT developed a method to simplify the process of whole-body manipulation for robots, enabling them to reason efficiently about moving objects. The technique uses AI and smoothing to reduce the number of decisions required, making it possible for robots to adapt quickly in complex environments.
$1 million grant helping empower students to succeed in the ‘fourth industrial revolution’
The University of Missouri is using a $1 million grant to develop an Industry 4.0 lab, providing engineering students with hands-on learning experiences in the latest industrial revolution's technology-centered job market. The lab will integrate skills at a higher level and keep students at the state-of-the-art level for industry.
3D display could soon bring touch to the digital world
Researchers have created a one-of-a-kind shape-shifting display that can generate scrolling text and fast enough to shake a chemistry beaker. The device uses soft robotic muscles that sense outside pressure, pop up to create patterns, and could potentially deliver the sense of touch in a digital age.
Reinforcement learning allows underwater robots to locate and track objects underwater
A team of researchers led by ICM-CSIC has successfully applied reinforcement learning to underwater robots, enabling them to track and locate marine objects with high accuracy. This breakthrough technology will allow for deeper study of ecological phenomena such as migration patterns and movement at various scales.
This 3D printed gripper doesn’t need electronics to function
A team of roboticists developed a 3D printed soft robotic gripper that can pick and release objects without electronics. The device is printed in one go and features built-in gravity and touch sensors.
Rice U.’s Kaiyu Hang wins NSF CAREER Award
Hang aims to develop general-purpose robots that can handle complex physical interactions without requiring perfect input from sensors or extensive instructions. His project seeks to improve robotic manipulation tasks by reducing assumptions about how the robot acts in real-world conditions.
Robot team on lunar exploration tour
A team of Swiss robots, including legged ANYmal and wheeled robots, is sent to explore a challenging terrain, showcasing the benefits of redundancy and specialization. The robots work together to detect minerals and identify rocks, with semi-autonomous capabilities for direct task assignment.
Pump powers soft robots, makes cocktails
A team of researchers at Harvard University has developed a compact, soft pump that can power soft robots in various applications. The pump uses dielectric elastomer actuators and can control pressure, flow rate, and flow direction, making it suitable for biomedical settings.
AI nursing ethics: viability of robots and artificial intelligence in nursing practice
Researchers examine whether robots and AI can replicate the ethical concepts attributed to human nurses, including advocacy, accountability, cooperation, and caring. While AI can inform patients about medical errors and present treatment options, it questions its ability to truly understand and empathize with patients' values.
Displays controlled by flexible fins and liquid droplets more versatile, efficient than LED screens
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new type of flexible display that uses capillary-controlled robotic flapping fins and liquid droplets to create switchable optical and infrared light multipixel displays. The displays are 1,000 times more energy efficient than traditional LED screens.
Study finds “robotic pill” can safely deliver injectable osteoporosis drug
A novel 'robotic pill' has been found to safely deliver the osteoporosis medication teriparatide orally, with comparable bioavailability to traditional injections. This breakthrough technology could offer a painless and more accessible treatment option for patients suffering from chronic conditions.
New state-of-the-art robotics lab to be created at Maynooth University
Maynooth University is establishing a state-of-the-art robotics lab with a €150,000 donation from Intel Ireland. The lab will provide students with hands-on learning experiences using cutting-edge robotic technologies and equipment used by engineers from Intel.
Advanced universal control system may revolutionize lower limb exoskeleton control and optimize user experience
Researchers developed a new method for controlling lower limb exoskeletons using deep reinforcement learning, enabling more robust and natural walking control. The system has the potential to benefit users with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and other neurological conditions.
Ankle exosuit for community walking aims to give post-stroke wearers more independence
A new ankle exosuit designed for community use could help stroke survivors improve their walking propulsion, boost confidence, and ability, according to a proof-of-concept study. The device simplifies mechanical components and allows wearers to control it easily, with sensors tracking progress over time.
Robot centipedes go for a walk
Researchers from Osaka University developed a biomimetic robot that uses dynamic instability to navigate uneven terrain. The robot can switch between straight and curved walking motions, making it suitable for search and rescue operations or planetary exploration.
Effective as a collective: Researchers investigate the swarming behavior of microrobots
A team of researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz studied the collective behavior of small robots and found that they can solve tasks that a single machine cannot. The study uses statistical physics to analyze how the robots interact and move, revealing potential applications in medical and pharmaceutical applications.
Human Brain Project: Study presents large brain-like neural networks for AI
Researchers develop a new online learning algorithm that enables the training of larger spiking neural networks with six million neurons. This allows for faster and more efficient processing of tasks such as speech recognition and object detection.
Research shows how organizations evaluate whether to imitate or differentiate when a competitor adopts new technology
A new study published in Strategic Management Journal found that organizations serving more difficult customer needs tend to defer investment, while those addressing easier problems accelerate adoption of the same technology. The researchers emphasized the importance of letting customers drive strategy around adopting a technology, reg...
Estimation of multi-person 3D poses and shapes from a low-resolution image
A new machine learning framework called MILI enables accurate multi-person 3D pose and shape representation from low-resolution images. The approach tackles occlusion issues in multi-person scenes with an occlusion-aware mask prediction network.
It’s all in the wrist: Energy-efficient robot hand learns how not to drop the ball
Researchers at the University of Cambridge designed a soft robotic hand that can grasp a range of objects using passive movement and tactile sensors. The hand successfully grasped 11 of 14 objects in tests, including a peach, computer mouse, and roll of bubble wrap, demonstrating its ability to predict when it might drop an object.
Origami-inspired robots can sense, analyze and act in challenging environments
A UCLA-led team developed foldable robots using conductive materials, overcoming chip weight and rigidity issues. The OrigaMechs can sense, analyze and act with precision in extreme environments, making them suitable for disaster response and space exploration.
Thread-like pumps can be woven into clothes
Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel solution for wearable assistive technologies by creating fiber-like pumps that can generate high pressure and flow rate. These pumps can be integrated directly into clothing, allowing for silent, vibration-free operation and requiring only a palm-sized power supply.
Robot caterpillar demonstrates new approach to locomotion for soft robotics
The caterpillar-bot uses a novel pattern of silver nanowires to control its movement, with the ability to steer in both directions and navigate through tight spaces. The robot's movement is driven by heating and cooling cycles that allow it to 'relax' before contracting again.
Hansel and Gretel's breadcrumb trick inspires robotic exploration of caves on Mars and beyond
University of Arizona engineers create a communication network allowing robots to explore subsurface environments independently, deploying miniaturized sensors as they traverse caves. The 'breadcrumb-style' system enables swarms of individual robots to navigate convoluted environments without losing contact.
Aarhus University heading major new European Internet of Skills project
The TOAST project, led by Aarhus University, aims to develop the Tactile Internet technology and upscale the talent pool for this emerging field. Researchers will focus on edge intelligence, haptic communication, and machine learning to create immersive user experiences.
Resilient bug-sized robots keep flying even after wing damage
Researchers at MIT have created a way for tiny robots to recover from severe damage to their wings, enabling them to sustain flight performance. The development uses laser repair methods and optimized artificial muscles that can isolate defects and overcome minor damage, allowing the robot to continue flying effectively.
Robots can help improve mental wellbeing at work – as long as they look right
A study by researchers from the University of Cambridge found that robots can be a useful tool to promote mental wellbeing in the workplace. The experiment used two different robot wellbeing coaches, with participants showing a better connection and positive perception with a toy-like robot compared to a humanoid-like robot.
Engineering breakthrough in softbotics
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a soft material with metal-like conductivity and self-healing properties that can support digital electronics and motors. The material has been demonstrated in various applications, including powering motors and enabling reconfigurable circuits.
Columbia engineers use psychology, physics, and geometry to make robots more intelligent
Researchers at Columbia University are developing algorithms that enable robots to understand object permanence and learn from 3D information. This allows robots to track objects and humans as they move around, improving their perception capabilities in indoor environments.
Grasshopping robots made possible with new, improved latch control
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a latch control system that enables grasshopping robots to perform efficiently on soft substrates. The team discovered that the latch can not only regulate energy output but also mediate energy transfer between the robot and its environment, leading to improved jump performance.
Free-hand, real-time needle guidance for prostate cancer diagnosis with augmented reality
A new AR system using HoloLens enables doctors to perform transperineal prostate interventions with high accuracy and flexibility. The system provides a 3D immersive experience, allowing doctors to guide needles to their target with ease.
New UCF project seeks to advance human understanding of AI reasoning
Researchers seek to develop algorithms providing meaningful explanations for AI decision-making, enabling higher human trust and adoption in fields like science. The project focuses on symbolic reasoning and estimating explanation accuracy, addressing the need for transparent AI systems.
Custom, 3D-printed heart replicas look and pump just like the real thing
Researchers have developed a procedure to create custom, 3D-printed heart replicas that accurately mimic a patient's specific heart form and function. These replicas can be controlled to mimic the pumping action of the real heart, allowing clinicians to test various treatment options for individual patients.
UMass Lowell NERVE Center and partners celebrate decade of advanced robotics design and discovery
The NERVE Center has developed test methods and metrics for various robots, identifying limitations to improve systems. The center's success grew its research capabilities through partnerships with NIST and the U.S. Army.
AI-powered massage robot to start product evaluation in the United States and clinical trial in Singapore
A new clinical trial will assess the efficacy of an AI-powered massage robot, EMMA, in managing chronic low back pain. The study aims to explore the effectiveness of robotic Tuina therapy in alleviating pain and improving health outcomes.
Engineers devise a modular system to produce efficient, scalable aquabots
Researchers at MIT create a novel approach to building deformable underwater robots using simple repeating substructures. The system can assemble into various shapes and sizes, offering scalability and efficiency improvements over current technologies.
Click beetle-inspired robots jump using elastic energy
Researchers have developed insect-sized jumping robots capable of navigating tight spaces, with a new study demonstrating two configurations that can successfully jump without manual intervention. The robots use a dynamic buckling cascade process to store and release elastic energy, allowing them to propel themselves upward.
Jumpin’ Jehoshaphat! New grasshopper-like material can leap 200 times its own thickness
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder designed a new rubber-like film that can jump high into the air like a grasshopper. The material responds by storing and releasing energy, similar to how grasshoppers store energy in their legs.
Microelectronics give researchers a remote control for biological robots
Scientists successfully used lab-produced tissue samples to remotely control muscle-driven miniature robots with this innovative technology. The device allows researchers a new level of interaction and exploration in the field of biological robots.
Need a hand? This robotic hand can help you pick your food items and plate your dish
Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design developed a new reconfigurable workspace soft robotic gripper that can pick and place a wide range of consumer items. The RWS gripper's adaptive capabilities make it particularly useful in logistics and food industries where robotic automation is crucial.
New “semi-sub” shows spy potential of sailing at waterline
Researchers developed a semi-submersible vehicle that can travel quickly with low drag and a low profile, making it ideal for military, commercial, and research purposes. The vessel's design allows it to collect and transmit data while minimizing energy expenditure.
The physical intelligence of ant and robot collectives
A team of simple robots, nicknamed RAnts, use photormones to escape a corral and perform complex tasks. The research reveals how collective cooperation can arise from simple rules, applicable to solving problems like construction, search and rescue, and defense.
MARM, the new three-leg robot to transport weights and manipulate components in Space
The MARM robotic platform has three limbs for enhanced mobility and manipulation flexibility, allowing it to transport large payloads and assemble components. The robot's unique design enables full-body motions and facilitates assembly operations by adjusting its central pelvis base.
Fossil-sorting robots will help researchers study oceans, climate
Researchers have developed a robot capable of sorting, manipulating, and identifying microscopic marine fossils. Forabot uses robotics and artificial intelligence to automate the tedious process of evaluating foram shells and fossils.
New lidar technique could help robotic vehicles land safely on Mars
Researchers developed a new lidar technique using 3D flash lidar combined with super-resolution algorithm for hazard avoidance during landing. The technique improved the precision and safety of robotic vehicles on Mars, enabling them to navigate through challenging environments.
Making “transport” robots smarter
University of Missouri engineers are working on a collaborative human-robot order picking system to speed up the online delivery process. The proposed model aims to optimize key decisions in warehouse operations, allowing robots to navigate efficiently and collaborate with humans to increase efficiency.
Learning from pangolins and peacocks: Researchers explore next-gen structural materials
A team of international researchers has designed new kinds of materials that are potentially tougher, more versatile and more sustainable than what humans can make on their own. These materials mix different proteins and molecules to achieve properties not possible with traditional metals or plastics.
A far-sighted approach to machine learning
Researchers developed a new machine-learning framework that enables cooperative or competitive AI agents to consider the future behaviors of all agents, not just their teammates or competitors. This framework, FURTHER, uses two modules: an inference module and a reinforcement learning module, to enable agents to adapt their behaviors a...