Add BrightSurf on Google Email

NTT Research and Harvard scientists optimize biohybrid ray development with machine learning

Researchers developed mini biohybrid rays using cardiomyocytes and rubber, demonstrating improved swimming efficiencies approximately two times greater than previous biomimetic designs. The application of machine-learning directed optimization enabled an efficient search for high-performance design configurations.

Mammal-like tails most promising for acrobatic robots

A team of researchers found that mammalian tails can form complex curves and enable body rotations in mid-air, challenging the conventional design of robotic tails. The study suggests that tail structure optimized for inertial maneuvering could be applied to robots, improving their performance and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 10, 2025

Scientists ‘mimic real biological processes’ using synthetic neurons

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel high-performance organic electrochemical neuron that responds within the frequency range of human neurons. The device was integrated with artificial touch receptors and synapses to create a complete perception system, enabling real-time tactile signal sensing and processing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2025

Crossing the Uncanny Valley: Breakthrough in technology for lifelike facial expressions in androids

Researchers at Osaka University developed a dynamic facial expression synthesis technology using waveform movements, allowing androids to exhibit mood changes and convey emotions. This innovation enhances emotional communication between humans and robots, potentially leading to more natural interactions.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Robotics and Mechatronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2024

Team’s sequential control policy framework offers high success in multiple peg-in-hole assembly tasks

A research team at Tsinghua University Press has developed a sequential control policy framework that offers high success in multiple peg-in-hole assembly tasks. The framework improves robots' performance by adapting to different working scenarios, including object geometry and pose, with higher training efficiency and faster convergence.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCAAI Artificial Intelligence Research·DateDec 11, 2024

Empowering older adults with home-care robots

A study found that user participation and perspective are crucial in developing home-care technology. Common factors across countries include familiarity with robots and a positive impression of them. Japan values convenience, Ireland prioritizes notifying family members, and Finland emphasizes design. These findings highlight the impo...

SourceChiba University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateDec 10, 2024

How to make robots more lifelike

Researchers created a measurement scale to assess robot human likeness, revealing four key qualities: appearance, emotional capacity, social intelligence, and self-understanding. To seem lifelike, robots must exhibit these traits, with self-understanding being the most challenging aspect to simulate.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Service Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 9, 2024

Kaya advancing AI literacy

Erdogan Kaya and his team aim to create an AI curriculum for grades 4-5, focusing on emergent multilingual learners and preparing students for AI-intensive careers. The project explores the impact of the integrated curriculum on students' understanding of AI concepts and teachers' AI teaching efficacy beliefs.

Plastic device aids robot-assisted heart surgery

A new plastic device has been developed to secure the surgical field during robot-assisted heart surgery, allowing surgeons to operate with greater independence. The device, made from a type of plastic used in medical implants and aerospace industry, expands to a certain size and retains its shape.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalInnovations Technology and Techniques in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery·TypeCase study·DateNov 7, 2024

For these little robots, two heads are better than one

Scientists at Princeton University develop a system of two robots connected by flexible tether, enabling them to solve complex problems like maze navigation and object gathering. The innovative approach harnesses physical characteristics rather than digital calculation to achieve remarkable abilities.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

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

Touching the future: Mastering physical contact with new algorithm for robots

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new consensus complementarity control (C3) algorithm that allows robots to react to complex physical contact in real-time. The algorithm enables robots to control the motion of sliding objects, a challenging task previously thought to be impossible for autonomous robots.

How can micro/nanorobots overcome the design and manufacturing bottleneck and drive future technological advancements?

Researchers have identified coupling design methods, composite manufacturing techniques, and future prospects for micro/nanorobots. The review explores three core functions: mobility, controllability, and load capacity, offering insights into designing high-performance MNRs.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 23, 2024

Versatile knee exo for safer lifting

A new knee exoskeleton has been developed to support the quadriceps muscles during lifting tasks, helping workers maintain better posture even when fatigued. The device, which uses a complex algorithm to predict assistance needs, enabled participants to lift faster and with improved posture.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 18, 2024

Technological innovations and stakeholder collaboration in research can enhance the daily lives of people living with aphasia

Research collaborations between academics, clinicians, and individuals with aphasia aim to bridge the digital divide and develop accessible technology. The special issue showcases innovative approaches to aphasia research, assessment, intervention, and participation.

SourceIOS Press·JournalAdvances in Communication and Swallowing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2024

Locomotion control of cyborg insects by charge-balanced biphasic electrical stimulation

Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology developed a universal system for remote signal output control using infrared signals, enhancing the accuracy of cyborg insect locomotion control. The proposed system uses high-precision digital-to-analog converters and biphasic electrical stimulation signals to minimize muscle tissue damage.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateSep 2, 2024

Operating from 9,300km away

A team at ETH Zurich successfully conducted the first remote-controlled magnetic endoscopy procedure across a 9,300km distance. The procedure allowed for precise navigation and manipulation of a probe in a live pig's stomach via a joystick controlled by an operator in Zurich.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateAug 26, 2024

UMass Amherst researchers create new method for orchestrating successful collaboration among robots

Researchers developed a learning-based approach called LVWS to schedule robots and enable voluntary waiting, resulting in faster task completion. This method outperformed other approaches by up to 23% suboptimality, demonstrating its potential to improve manufacturing, agriculture, and warehouse automation.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 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...

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