robotics

Based on the findings of a recent study by Lund University in Sweden, the efficiency of bird flight (and bird-like dinosaur flight before it) is at least partially a result of their ability to fold their wings during the upstroke. This may…

EPFL researchers developed a method that allows a flapping-wing robot to land autonomously on a horizontal perch using a claw-like mechanism. The act of perching is a delicate balance of timing, high-impact forces, speed, and precision.…

A study by MIT economists suggests an optimal policy would include a (modest) tax on robots to combat the effects of automation on income inequality in the U.S. Favored by Bill Gates, the rationale is that taxing the companies using…

Approximately 190 million people around the globe have conditions that impair their ability to move and function independently. Assistive robots can give them more freedom while reducing the need for caregiving. These robots are not widely…

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new material that changes its electrical behavior based on previous experience—gaining a form of adaptive memory. Scientists could use these materials in next-gen medical and environmental…

Amazon's new intelligent robot, Sparrow, is a significant stride in AI-driven warehouse automation. According to Amazon, a critical part of fulfillment happens before items are packaged for shipment. Until now, technology moved totes to…

Dresden-based researchers are developing a new class of materials whereby actuators and sensors are integrated directly into flexible fiber composites. The German Research Foundation (DFG) approved a 2nd phase of Research Training Group…

Researchers are using origami as the inspiration to create programmable surfaces that alter the physical properties of a uniform substance across a range of directions. Published in Advanced Materials, they describe programmable…

by Jon Gabay, Engineer The Optimus robot, also known as Teslabot, was unveiled recently at the electric vehicle maker's AI day with optimism. Tesla CEO Elon Musk made the point that his goal is to introduce humanoid-like robots as…

Robotics and wearable devices might soon be smarter with the addition of a stretchy, wearable synaptic transistor developed by Penn State engineers. Working like neurons in the brain to send signals to some cells and inhibit others to…