World’s smallest flying robot takes off

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9FDkJZCMuE[/youtube]

A robot the size of a fly that is able to perform the agile maneuvers of the ubiquitous insects has been created bu scientists in the United States. This “robo-fly”, built from carbon fiber, weighs a fraction of a gram and has super-fast electronic “muscles” to power its wings.

 

 

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COMAN – a robot that can’t be knocked over no matter how hard you shove it

COMAN

Mimicking the many distinct balancing adjustments standing humans make when unexpectedly shoved, or while encountering shifting terrain (such as on a boat or moving train) is a skill that most robots haven’t mastered. Nevertheless, one lab in Italy has created a humanoid robot that comes very close to matching our skill at avoiding taking a spill. (Video)

 

 

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BionicOpter – a hyper-realistic dragonfly drone

BionicOpter

The BionicOpter was created by German automation company Festo. It was designed to mimic the look and flying dynamics of a dragonfly. The 1.5-foot-long ultra-light flying robot operates via remote control from a smartphone and can maneuver and hover in place just like a real dragonfly. Each of the robot’s four wings operate independently using servo motors, allowing each wing to be twisted by up to 90 degrees. (Video)

 

 

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Lego’s Mindstorms EV3 – a robot kit that is iPhone-controlled

Lego Mindstorms EV3

Lego Mindstorms EV3 is Lego’s first major update of the Mindstorms line since 2006.  Mindstorms are Lego’s programmable robotic parts–a brain, motors, and sensors–that interface with their Technic line.  And since social networks, smartphones and apps all rule today it’s only natural that each of these ideas worked themselves into the Lego Mindstorm EV3.

 

 

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DARPA’s robotic pack mule responds to vocal commands and stomps through the forest

The Legged Squad Support System, or AlphaDog.

The robotic “pack mule” from DARPA and Boston Dynamics, the AlphaDog, has markedly improved capabilities since the prototype was introduced in October 2011. Then, the machine—intended to carry up to 400 pounds over rough terrain, while also serving as a power source for troops—was stuck on an inside track, connected to heavy cables. In this latest video from DARPA, filmed recently in central Virginia, it marches through the forest, responds to about 10 verbal commands, and follows its leader closely. Rough terrain like ditches isn’t a problem for the hearty man-made beast, and when it rolls down a hill, it recovers smoothly. On flat land, its trot is impressive, too. (video)

 

 

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MIT’s autonomous robotic plane’s indoor flight: Video

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYs215TgI7c&hd=1[/youtube]

Academic and industry researchers have been working  for decades on control algorithms for autonomous helicopters — robotic helicopters that pilot themselves, rather than requiring remote human guidance. Dozens of research teams have competed in a series of autonomous-helicopter challenges posed by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI); progress has been so rapid that the last two challenges have involved indoor navigation without the use of GPS.

 

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Top 10 most promising technological inventions inspired by science fiction

Sonic Screwdriver

The Doctor in Doctor Who holds a sonic screwdriver.

We previously explored how science fiction movies, books, games and more inspire the technology we use today. So, what about the future? What great inventions from science fiction are in our future? What if you could ride around town in your very own landspeeder, or travel the world by simply standing on your very own teleporter pad and telling it where to send you?

Here’s a list of the top 10 most promising up and coming technological inventions inspired by science fiction.

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Panasonic testing shampoo robot in Japan

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IROoXFz5dj0[/youtube]

Hair salon Super Hair Seo in Nishinomiya, Japan is playing lucky host to Panasonic’s Head Care Robot, which is undergoing its first tests alongside hairdressers.  The shampoo robot  ‘offers a degree of comfort that users cannot experience with human hands.’

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Discover the Hidden Patterns of Tomorrow with Futurist Thomas Frey
Unlock Your Potential, Ignite Your Success.

By delving into the futuring techniques of Futurist Thomas Frey, you’ll embark on an enlightening journey.

Learn More about this exciting program.