Tag: Robotics

Origami techniques can help vehicles achieve greater stability, whatever the terrain. Whereas, less stable objects can be lifted by robots with grippers made from soft materials such as cloth or silicon. Though useful, these grippers’ low load capacity is a limiting factor. Enter a Seoul-based research team, which is using a centuries old technique so that robots can grasp...

Recycled glass is saving beaches from erosion; while a remote-controlled buoy could rescue those in peril at sea. Seaweed’s high CO2 uptake means that it is contributing significantly to climate rescue. Still, Sargassum, a brown algae that spreads rapidly (see the 5,000 mile long slick in the Atlantic) has unwanted side effects. It deprives marine life of vital light...

Harvesting coconuts automatically would be a safer alternative to climbing. When it comes to cheese production, robots can lend a helping hand too. But not all automated helpers are equipped with sensors to facilitate collaboration with humans. Enter a research team from the USA and their new textile skin which can sense human contact and pressure. Comprising three layers,...

In dicey situations, fire-dousing robots or fire-fighting drones can save lives on both land and air. Now, thanks to a Portuguese startup and its remotely-operated life buoy, those in peril on the sea could expect help to come just as fast. With a turbine on each side, the U-shaped device has a top speed of 15 km/h and is...

Thanks to a special armband, people with limited hearing capacity could play a more active role in conversations. Now, a Portuguese research institute is helping children with visual impairment converse with their non-visually impaired counterparts. Key to the enterprise: a modified, commercially-available robotic toy. It moves between children as they speak and uses an in-built microphone to determine who...

Mountain rescue has grown wings. Fitness is key for outdoor activities such as running or hiking. Those who need a little boost can soon turn to a startup from Shanghai. Its 1.8kg exoskeleton for thighs can offset loads by some 30kg on steep hills, and give a 10kg horizontal push to those moving at speeds greater than 3 m/ph....

A spray could provide Parkinson’s patients with faster, more targeted help. Treating internal wounds is often expensive, however, as biological material must be implanted as part of the recovery process. Which is why a research team in Sydney has developed a thin robotic arm with an integrated 3D printer. Due to flexible hydraulics, the arm can be operated like...

Converting your cabrio to a campervan should soon be a possibility. Now, a New York startup has developed a versatile machine to keep your house and garden shipshape all year round. The cordless robot can be turned into a lawn mower, leaf-blower or snow plough by attaching one of three different modules. The area to be cleaned is defined...