A novel Kalman filter, GMCKF, was proposed to improve robot tracking accuracy in space with complex non-Gaussian noise. The algorithm achieves better performance under various non-Gaussian noises by utilizing a generalized Gaussian density function and automatic parameter selection.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 28, 2022
Researchers at the University of Manchester are developing AI-powered robots that can operate autonomously in hazardous environments. The 'hot-robotics' project aims to improve robot autonomy for tasks like decommissioning legacy power stations and inspecting nuclear reactors.
A multidisciplinary approach reveals a continuum of locomotion dynamics in lizards, with short-limbed species exhibiting snakelike waves and long-bodied species bending like lizards. The findings deepen understanding of evolution's implications for locomotion and have applications for advanced robotics designs.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
A novel algorithm, BLIND, enables robots to navigate through environments with obstacles by incorporating human feedback. Humans provide labels to refine the robot's trajectory, avoiding obstacles efficiently.
The study highlights opportunities for robotics to support human activities, foster innovation, and enhance monitoring. However, it also identifies potential threats such as exacerbating inequalities and diverting resources from tried-and-tested solutions. Researchers emphasize the need for early identification of negative impacts and ...
SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 22, 2022
A new AI system uses artificial neural networks to recognize objects more accurately and stably, despite changing visual inputs. The system mimics human eye movements to improve machine vision capabilities, reducing errors in self-driving cars and other applications.
SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 22, 2022
Researchers at MIT created insect-scale robots that can emit light during flight, allowing for precise motion tracking and potential communication between robots. The ability to emit light also enables the robots to call for help in search-and-rescue missions.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJun 21, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that robots loaded with widely-used AI models exhibit significant gender and racial biases. The AI models were trained on biased internet data, which led to the robot making assumptions about people's jobs based on their appearance.
A team of UCLA engineers developed a new design strategy and 3D printing technique to build robots in one step. The breakthrough enables the manufacturing of mechanical and electronic systems needed to operate a robot all at once, resulting in lighter weights, bulkier volumes, and reduced force output.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2022
Researchers at Stanford University have created millirobots that can precisely target specific areas of the body with medicines. These tiny robots, powered by magnetic fields, can navigate through narrow spaces and dispense medicine in real-time.
SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed an AI-powered method for robots to recognize and pour transparent liquids like water. The technique uses contrastive learning for unpaired image-to-image translation, enabling robots to see through different backgrounds and pour accurately.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute have developed an algorithmic planner that helps delegate tasks to humans and robots. The planner considers a list of tasks and decides how best to assign them, considering the time it takes for humans to complete tasks and teach robots new skills.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new technology using WiFi sensors to help robots navigate indoors, even in poor lighting. The system accuracy rivals commercial camera and LiDAR sensors.
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.
A physicist at TU Graz has developed a three-in-one hybrid material that reacts to force, moisture and temperature with high spatial resolution. The smart skin has potential applications in robotics, smart prosthetics and healthcare, and its production can be easily scaled and implemented.
SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2022
Researchers at EPFL's School of Life Sciences create a digital twin of Drosophila called NeuroMechFly, which uses biomechanical modeling and machine learning to simulate the fly's movements. The model is validated through experiments that demonstrate its accuracy in replicating real animal behaviors.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 11, 2022
Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design developed a new machine learning approach to model underwater robot dynamics, allowing for efficient swimming in complex environments. The approach, published in IEEE-RAL, uses deep neural networks to predict required flapping motions for a set of given propulsive force targets.
SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMay 11, 2022
Studies in fruit flies reveal coordinated movements of heads and bodies to stabilize vision and improve flight performance. Similar synchronization is observed in other animals, including primates, suggesting evolutionary benefits for energy efficiency and performance.
SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Daniel Preston, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Rice University, has won the National Science Foundation CAREER Award for his proposal on textile-based wearable robots. The grant aims to develop a platform for non-electronic computation that can be integrated directly into wearable robots, addressing problems with s...
Researchers developed a machine-learning method that allows robots to pick up and place never-before-seen objects in random poses, requiring only 10 human demonstrations. The system uses a neural network specifically designed to reconstruct 3D shapes, enabling the robot to generalize to new object orientations.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 25, 2022
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed micro-rocker bots that can move precisely on a solid surface using a single electromagnetic coil. The robots, about the size of a particle of dust, are controlled by a magnetic field generated by the coil and can perform well-controlled movement with selectable direction.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Micro-Bio Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022
Developed by Prof. Qing Shi's team, SQuRo can mimic the motion of actual rats and perform various motions like crouching-to-standing, walking, crawling, and turning. It successfully passed through an irregular narrow passage and demonstrated its potential application to inspection tasks inside narrow spaces.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022
A study found that people are more comfortable with AI companions that are voice-based and less likely to recommend them if they appear too human-like. The researchers suggest that the 'uncanny valley' effect may contribute to this preference.
SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication Research Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2022
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 propose a modular Mars exploration rover system consisting of four two-wheeled robots that can operate independently or combine in various constellations. The approach enables longer missions and gathers more information about the planet's history and potential habitability.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalActa Astronautica·DateApr 12, 2022
Researchers at UCF create brain-like devices that enable AI to function independently, allowing technology like robots and voice assistants to operate in remote areas or space. The devices use parallelism and in-memory computing, similar to the brain, for AI and unsupervised learning.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2022
Researchers at the University of Bristol created a 3D-printed artificial fingertip that produces nerve signals similar to those from human tactile nerves. The innovation could improve robot dexterity and prosthetic hand performance by giving them an in-built sense of touch.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022
Researchers at MIT developed a framework for robotic manipulation systems that can perform complex tasks using a two-stage learning process. This allows robots to learn abstract ideas about manipulating deformable objects, such as pizza dough, and execute skills to complete tasks.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 1, 2022
The article reviews key technologies for space intelligent robots in on-orbit operation requirements. Researchers discuss challenges such as microgravity, complex illumination, and strong radiation in space.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2022
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.
Developers are integrating optical coherence tomography (OCT) machines into sensor packages to create fast and accurate LiDAR systems. These advancements enable robots and cars to see the world in a more natural and safe manner, improving interaction with humans.
SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2022
A team of engineers and scientists has developed a proof-of-concept for a magnetic tentacle robot that can navigate the narrow tubes of the lung, enabling doctors to take tissue samples or deliver cancer therapy. The device measures just 2 millimeters in diameter and uses an autonomous magnetic guidance system to guide it into place.
SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalSoft Robotics·TypeCase study·DateMar 21, 2022
A new study from St John's College, University of Cambridge suggests that robots can help produce solar fuels, accelerating the world's transition to green renewables. The 'cyber-leaf' concept uses AI and robots to create sustainable syngas, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature Reviews Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 17, 2022
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.
Researchers at Skoltech used a 3D simulation to show that small fish can sense the position and tail beat of their neighbors through water pressure variations, enabling efficient group swimming even in darkness. This mechanism could lead to more energy-efficient aquatic research robots and improved fish behavior studies.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateMar 16, 2022
Researchers created BirdBot, a robotic leg inspired by the ostrich's anatomy, which achieves energy efficiency through a mechanical coupling of muscles and tendons. The robot leg requires fewer motors than other machines, making it suitable for large size applications.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalScience Robotics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 16, 2022
Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a new coating method for soft robots that allows them to change shape and movement through human-controlled activity. This breakthrough in active matter could lead to the creation of machines governed by individual units that cooperate to determine movement and function.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2022
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.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard University applied cognitive science theories to human-robot interaction, finding that humans need to see variation in robot behavior to build accurate mental models. Theories suggest that strategic variation can reveal concepts that might be difficult for a person to discern otherwise.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 2, 2022
Researchers at New York University found that paper airplanes can achieve stable gliding when the center of mass is in a specific location, unlike conventional airplanes. The study's findings enhance our understanding of flight stability and provide insights into designing small-scale flying machines.
SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022
A team of scientists developed a soft haptic sensor that can accurately estimate contact points and forces using computer vision and deep neural networks. The sensor is sensitive enough to detect even tiny forces and detailed object shapes.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 24, 2022
Researchers created an artificial sensory receptor that generates spike signals on its own, enabling the e-skin to analyze spatial information and react to external stimuli in real-time. The e-skin's functionality overcomes limitations of conventional electronic skins, which can only process tactile information sequentially.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 21, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Developed by University of Cambridge researchers, these materials can sense strain, temperature and humidity, and partially repair themselves at room temperature. The low-cost materials have potential applications in robotics, tactile interfaces and wearable devices.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNPG Asia Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2022
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have developed robots that can take a patient's blood pressure using only a simple touch, inspired by the folding mechanisms of leeches. The origami-inspired dry electrodes can be integrated onto humanoid-sensing robots to monitor blood pressure without traditional cuff-based digital sphygmomanome...
SourceSimon Fraser University·Journalnpj Flexible Electronics·DateFeb 10, 2022
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology has developed a transducer powered by electrochemical reactions to drive fluid pumps without cumbersome parts in soft robots. The ECDT enables self-sensing technology, enhancing the multifunctionality of soft robots and allowing for miniaturization.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A study by Washington State University researcher Soobin Seo found that people are more comfortable talking to female robots working in service roles in hotels. The preference is stronger when the robots are described as having more human features, with participants rating female robot interactions as more pleasant and satisfying.
SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022
For the first time, astronauts in orbit successfully controlled a robot on the ground using haptic feedback, simulating geological exploration missions. This breakthrough enables more complex investigations of planetary surfaces without human exposure to danger.
SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022
Researchers developed MonoCon, a new AI technique that enables accurate identification of 3D objects in 2D images. By incorporating auxiliary context, the method improves object detection and estimation accuracy, paving the way for safer and more robust autonomous vehicles.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2022
Research reveals that intense storms in the Southern Ocean increase ocean mixing, bringing carbon dioxide-rich waters to the surface and driving an outgassing of CO2 into the atmosphere. This process has significant implications for understanding global climate models and predicting future climate change.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeSurvey·DateJan 25, 2022
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.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new control technology that enables ANYmal, a quadrupedal robot, to combine visual perception of its environment with proprioception-based sensing. This allows the robot to tackle rough terrain faster and more efficiently.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2022
Researchers discovered humans unconsciously mirror a humanoid robot's body language, mirroring human behavior when interacting with peers. The study highlights the intriguing similarity between human-Robot interactions and interpersonal relationships.
Researchers developed soft manipulators based on pneu-nets, mimicking biological systems like elephant trunks and octopus tentacles. These structures can grasp and manipulate soft objects with increased flexibility.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 21, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new fabrication technique that enables the creation of soft actuators with 75% lower voltage requirements and 80% more payload capacity than current versions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of flying microrobots with improved performance and payload capabilities.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 16, 2021
A team of biologists and engineers created a robotic fish that scares mosquitofish away, altering its behavior and physiology. The study found that the mosquitofish showed fearful behaviors, weight loss, and reduced fertility when confronted with the robot.
SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
Researchers have developed a computer program that can control a robot using electrical signals emitted by a patient's brain, allowing them to move the robot with their thoughts. The system uses an algorithm that can learn from the patient's brain activity and adjust the robot's movements accordingly.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCommunications Biology·DateDec 16, 2021
A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has developed a system to enhance interactions between humans and robots in industrial settings. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to capture and analyze the environment, allowing robots to respond in a timely manner to ensure human safety.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalRobotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 14, 2021
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.
A recent study published in PNAS reveals that humans can instantly estimate slipperiness of a surface by detecting radial strain in the fingertip skin during initial contact. This innovation has significant implications for robotics and prosthetics design.
SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2021
A new floating robotic film can hoover oil spills at sea or remove contaminants from drinking water, using a pulsing motion inspired by water striders. The film is powered by light and fueled by water, making it sustainable and reusable.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Researchers at the University of Vermont have created the first living robots capable of reproducing, using AI-designed Xenobots. This groundbreaking achievement has significant implications for regenerative medicine, as it demonstrates a new form of biological self-replication.
SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
A recent study by Bocconi University professors reveals that individuals exposed to automation are more likely to support radical-right parties. The researchers found a strong correlation between automation exposure and poorer economic conditions, lower job satisfaction, and increased support for the radical right.
SourceBocconi University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2021
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.
A recent study found that robots negatively impact marriage stability and fertility, while improving gender pay equity. The research revealed that exposure to industrial robots worsens men's economic stature and reduces their ability to form long-term commitments, but boosts women's earnings and increases their labor force participation.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Human Resources·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 24, 2021
Researchers developed a bioinspired system using ultrasound measurements to create customized assistance profiles for users. The exosuit significantly reduced metabolic energy of walking across various speeds and inclines.
SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 10, 2021
Bubble casting is a new way to make soft robots using 'fancy balloons' that change shape in predictable ways when inflated with air. The researchers successfully cast star-shaped hands, coils and fingers, demonstrating the potential for soft robotics applications such as harvesting produce or providing personal care.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021
Researchers at Nicolaus Copernicus University developed an algorithm to help robots avoid dead ends by predicting obstacles and using augmented reality. This innovation significantly improves the efficiency of mobile robots.
SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalEnergies·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021
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.
Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate orbiting debris with spinning magnets, allowing for gentler maneuvering and potential repair of malfunctioning objects. The technology has the potential to help clear space junk from Earth's orbit and extend the life of satellites.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021