Robots Net

Carnegie Mellon shows off "Scarab" lunar rover

2009-07-17T18:14:00.001-07:00

It looks like the moon could soon become a relatively crowded place if even half of all these robots and rovers we keep hearing about actually get off the ground, the latest of which comes to us from Carnegie Mellon University. Dubbed the "Scarab," this four-wheeled bot is equipped with a Canadian-made drill capable of obtaining meter-long geological core samples, which its creators hope could turn up evidence of hydrogen, water or other recoverable resources. While it's appearance would suggest otherwise, the Scarab apparently won't be tearing up the lunar surface if and when it gets there, with it boasting a top speed of just four inches per second. On the upside, it will apparently be able to maneuver over rocky surfaces, and it can anchor itself to the ground to stay in place while drilling. While that would be enough for most folks to call it a day, it seems that project leader William "Red" Whittaker won't be resting on his lunar laurels, as he's also announced that he'll be assembling a team to compete for the Google Lunar X-Prize, which promises $20 million to anyone that can land a privately funded robot on the moon by 2012.

[Via The Raw Feed]

Robo-surgeon to perform zero-G surgery

2009-07-17T18:13:00.004-07:00

Combining zero gravity with robots performing surgery probably isn't the average person's idea of a fun time, but that's what scientists envisage as the future of the robo-surgery sphere. A NASA C-9 transport aircraft in a 34,000 feet dive towards New Mexico is to be the base for this test, which will compare a prototype robot's ability to cut and stitch with that of a human. Researchers from SRI International and the University of Cincinnati will make the judgment, although it's unclear what exactly the two competitors will be working on. To top things off, the robot surgeon in the sky will be remotely controlled from the ground: to that we can only say, "show offs."

Hybrid robot runs on gasoline

2009-07-17T18:13:00.003-07:00

We've seen a lot of wacky approaches to the mobile power needs of robots, but this "hybrid" robotics platform solves the problem in that most American of ways: with an internal combustion engine. Using a 2.5-horsepower Subaru engine and a car alternator, developer Ken Gracey was able to build an outdoor bot with what he describes as an "unlimited power budget." Buffered by a battery that essentially acts as a large capacitor, the juice for all the systems on the bot is generated by the engine, a solution that will probably make the coming robot uprising sound like a lawnmower rally. Check a video of the bot in action after the break.

[Via Hack A Day]

Continue reading Hybrid robot runs on gasoline

Scientists develop robotic mouth

2009-07-17T18:13:00.001-07:00

Apparently, not only will our robotic overlords be capable of crushing and / or dismembering us with their razor-like talons and arm-mounted machine guns, but they will also be able to perfectly mimic our oral movements when speaking. According to reports, researchers from the Tokyo University of Science and the Musashino Red Cross Hospital have created a robot capable of reproducing tongue and lower jaw movements associated with speech. The prototype -- a model of the mouth -- is able to perfectly copy the movements needed to produce vowel sounds. Using a silicon tongue, which is supported by three aluminum scaffolds and wired to eight pneumatic muscles, and a lower jaw which pivots on an axle, researchers are able to program the "mouth" with data based on magnetic resonance imaging. The next step, they say, is to create an artificial mouth which covers all movements (including consonants), allowing the bot to be used for speech therapy, foreign language training... or the basis for Terminator heads. [Warning: read link requires subscription]

Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features

2009-07-17T18:12:00.004-07:00

We know, you're actively looking for ways to stay calm and patiently await the arrival of your US-bound i-SOBOT, so we're thrilled to pass along an introductory video to tide you over. The clip goes through and lists everything that comes bundled in with the bot itself, and the animated creature also shows off a few moves, phrases and modes. Granted, we hold a special place in our heart for any miniature mech designed to handle full-fledged somersaults and shamelessly rock out with an air guitar, but we're pretty sure you'll enjoy the vid, too. Go on, it's waiting after the break.

Continue reading Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features

iRobot debuts ConnectR and Looj home bots

2009-07-17T18:12:00.003-07:00

iRobot's mission to create the "robot home" got a whole lot more fleshed out this afternoon at the company's DigitalLife keynote. The general idea is to get usable tech into any and every home -- not just for the nerds, not like the Jetsons. "A little boring, but fantastically useful robots." Obviously iRobot has been attempting this a while with its Roomba and related lines, but the new ConnectR and Looj bots really flesh out that vision. On the boring end of things, the Looj is a remote-controlled bot that can clean up to 60 feet of gutter in 10 minutes. It rolls through your gutter tank-style and spits out the debris, and then rolls back to you. It's waterproof for easy cleaning, and is available today for $99. The ConnectR takes a whole new angle for iRobot, offering telepresence instead of the usual drudgery removal. You can "virtually visit" friends and family by controlling the WiFi-connected bot remotely, with live video, audio, controls and sensor data. The camera tilts and zooms, and has a zoom mode high resolution enough for reading text. You can transmit your voice through the bot, and control an LED light to convey mood. ConnectR launches next year for $499, and will be available in a pilot program for $199 to select beta-testing users.

Hands-on with iRobot's new ConnectR and Looj bots

2009-07-17T18:12:00.001-07:00

There's not much to see and feel with these two -- iRobots are all about the action -- but we got a quick look at the new ConnectR and Looj today. The Looj seems well enough suited to its purpose, with solid construction and a powerful thwap. We saw it running through a gutter earlier, and it certainly seems like it can clean as advertised. The ConnectR seems less well polished, but that's to be expected, since iRobot seems to be pretty flexible on what the finished product will be like when it ships in 2008, with changes based on customer feedback from trial sales. One feature in the works is an IR emitter, for controlling home automation and AV products, and hopefully iRobot can clean this one up and add another "killer" feature or two before unleashing it on the public.

How to build a toilet-flushing Lego robot

2009-07-17T18:11:00.004-07:00

We were always a little wary of bringing our Legos into the bathroom, but if you've got no such baseless fears, BattleBricks has published a handy how to on building one of those fancy auto-flushers you see in some of the finest washrooms worldwide. Using only parts from a standard NXT Mindstorms kit, Will Gorman rigged up a contraption that employs the ultrasonic sensor module to detect the presence and then absence of a bathroom-goer, and also features a dedicated button to perform a Rube Goldberg-esque manual flush. Keep on reading for a thankfully-SFW demo vid of the so-called "RoboFlush"...

Continue reading How to build a toilet-flushing Lego robot

Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT gets reviewed, videoed

2009-07-17T18:11:00.003-07:00

If you thought an introductory video was enthralling, wait till you check this out. Waziwazi was able to get some time alone with Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT, and while a thorough review would've certainly been enough, those folks went the extra mile and videoed quite a bit of the creature acting up. Reviewers found the bot to be "hilarious and easy to operate," and while they weren't exactly keen on the infrared remote, it was said to be "awesome fun" nonetheless. Of course, we aren't asking you to take our word for it, so head on over to the read link for a fairly in-depth review complete with box shots and lots of in-action video.

Air-driven robotic legs hop, skip and jump

2009-07-17T18:11:00.001-07:00

Though we've certainly seen robotic legs that like to get their jump on, a team of researchers at the University of Tokyo have assembled a new two-legged creature that can actually spring up about 50-centimeters on its own -- and land gracefully. The creation is part of a larger project aimed at creating humanoids with cat-like (or just human-like, really) reflexes that can better assist the elderly when used as caregivers. Moreover, this hopper relies on air-driven artificial muscles rather than electric motors, and while we're not sure it could hang with Ronaldinho, it can boot a fútbol when asked.

Robot Museum in Nagoya, Japan: our first and last visit

2009-07-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

Those reading Engadget last year might recall our unbridled excitement for the opening of the largest, most extensive (if not the first) museum dedicated to robots and robotics: the Robot Museum (aka Robothink). So you can only imagine how incredibly crestfallen we were to hear that just after a year of entertaining and educating the robot loving hordes, the museum announced that it is shuttering permanently.

Well, we couldn't let this monument to the bots we love go undocumented before the humans have to hit the kill switch, so this week we got our asses on the Shinkansen out to Nagoya, Japan in order to fulfill our androidiest electric-sheep dreams and hit up the museum before it's dismantled for parts. And none too soon, it turns out the museum actually closes its doors forever this Sunday. One day we will all pay for this.

Galleries below of the museum and its expansive robot shop -- be warned, over 150 photos of Robot Museum robots and exhibits and shopping await you. Read on for our thoughts about the museum.

Software glitch investigated as possible cause of deadly robot cannon incident

2009-07-16T18:29:00.001-07:00

According to ITWeb, the South African National Defense Force is now investigating the possibility that a software glitch may have been the cause of deadly anti-aircraft cannon "malfunction" that left nine soldiers dead and 14 seriously wounding during an exercise last Friday. The robot cannon in question is an Oerlikon GDF-005 which, as ITWeb points out, was apparently "not designed for fully automatic control," yet that is just how it was operating in this case, although Oerlikon itself reportedly played no role in the upgrades. While Defense Force spokesman Kwena Mangope apparently isn't going any further than to describe the incident as a "mechanical problem," both the police and a Board of Inquiry are now looking to get to the bottom of the matter, although there's no word as to when they expect to report their findings.

[Via Danger Room, thanks David D]

SanDisk Sansa TakeTV 8GB video player leaked

2009-07-16T18:28:00.004-07:00

Vanilla USB flash drives are so passé, so for those who want a little more flavor more from their generic sticks of memory, might we point you to the SanDisk Sansa TakeTV, apparently freshly leaked by way of buy.com? (It also briefly appeared on PC Mag's site and SanDisk's forums among other sites.) Sure, the TakeTV an 8GB flash drive, but it's also intended to plug into a USB dock with TV outs (and remote), which is capable of reading and decoding the DivX, XviD, and MPEG-4 video files up to 720 x 576 and 7Mbps for playback on your TV. All the old school simplicity of home sneakernet combined with the one-stop-shop convenience of a USB flash drive. Unfortunately buy.com won't tell us when it's out or how much it'll cost, so no one gets to take home TakeTV just yet.

Update: This whole thing sound familiar? It might, SanDisk announced its USBTV initiative at CES this year, so it looks like this is the first resulting product. Thanks to everyone who pointed this out.

[Thanks, Matt]

Continue reading SanDisk Sansa TakeTV 8GB video player leaked

NASA's third Space Elevator challenge falls short

2009-07-16T18:28:00.003-07:00

The third time 'round hasn't brought any luck to the space elevator crowd. The NASA-sponsored challenge is in its third year of running, and while technology is improving at a rapid rate, it's still not quite ready to meet the Space Elevator challenge's demands. Speed requirements have been boosted to 2 meters per second, and this year's contest seems have gone off without the geeky rule disputes of last year. The University of Saskatchewan came closest to claiming the prize with its ground laser-powered bot, and only fell a few seconds short of the required speed. Hopefully next year will see a winner, and we'll all get our shot at being fried by ionizing radiation before the century is up.

Researchers develop robot with non-verbal communications skills

2009-07-16T18:28:00.001-07:00

While we swear our Roomba reacts to our moods, researchers at Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology have developed a humanoid bot that can use communicate using gestures. The 187-pound robot stands about five feet tall and uses a 3D vision system to recognize gestures like pointing and bowing and determine their meaning -- and then use the same gestures when appropriate. The researchers say they envision the tech being used in caregiver robots for the elderly, but we're not trusting them until we see proof this thing recognizes the gesture for "Do Not Enslave."

[Via The Inquirer]

Nokia decapitates tablet puppy, upgrades to N800

2009-07-16T18:27:00.003-07:00

We're not sure if the new OS or upgraded features actually give it anymore bite, but Nokia's adorable little tablet puppy has on first glance been beheaded and rebuilt with an N800 for a noggin. Actually, after an exhaustive investigation by the Humane Society, it was determined that the 770-based pup was not in fact harmed in some sort of perverse head-swapping operation, but is instead frolicking happily among retired AIBOs and broken Dirt Dogs at the robot hospital. Next up for the family is an N810-crowned model, whose QWERTY grille is sure to make other robot dogs cower in fear. Keep reading to catch a video of this precocious little fellow in action...

[Image courtesy of Crave]

Continue reading Nokia decapitates tablet puppy, upgrades to N800

Armed stand-off ends with robot shot, man in hospital

2009-07-16T18:27:00.001-07:00

The opening shot of the robot rebellion this isn't, but it's still a reminder of how robots are slowly creeping into situations where humans and their fleshy bodies can't go. A five hour stand-off that began with a man pointing his gun at a neighbor in a mobile home park in North Fort Myers, Florida was ended when the suspect shot a bomb disposal robot sent in by police to video the man. After the encounter -- the man shot out the video camera's lens -- police moved in to "subdue" the man, although it's not clear whether they shot back. The suspect is now in hospital and is being evaluated for mental health problems: apparently he hadn't been taking his medication, and residents say his wife had just left him. The state of the robot is probably something along the lines of "broken."

[Via The Raw Feed]

iRobot announces winner of Create Challenge contest

2009-07-16T18:14:00.002-07:00

While it's not quite on the level of NASA's or DARPA's ongoing challenges, iRobot's Create Challenge contest nonetheless looks to have at least given some incentive to a few homebrew enthusiasts / would-be mad scientists, one of whom has now taken home a cool $5,000 for his troubles. Snagging that cash was Danh Trinh of Towson, Md, who's "Personal Home Robot" won over the judges with its ability to water plants, control lights, play music, and remind owners to take their medication, among other less-than-strenuous activities. Helping it manage all that is iRobot's DIY-friendly Create platform which, as you can see above, went under a pretty extensive transformation on its way to first place. Be sure to hit up the Instructables link below for the complete rundown.

Read - iRobot, "iRobot Selects Create Challenge Contest Winner"
Read - Instructables, "iRobot Create Personal Home Robot"

Please do not milk the Robot Goat

2009-07-16T18:14:00.001-07:00

Gamblers at the Edogawa Kyotei boat races in Tokyo must now face the threat of robots in addition to their fateful vice. No, it's not meant as a deterrent, this Rocky Mountain robo-goat was installed as a way to help control litter. A ticket held to the beast's sensor-laden mouth initiates robotic mastication at a rate of about 500 losing tickets per day. You know, when not feeding on the sweet succulent bits of unattended children.

DARPA's Urban Challenge set to roll Saturday with 11 robotic cars

2009-07-16T18:13:00.004-07:00

Oh man, can you taste it? That oily titanium tang is the smack of robotic cars set for release Saturday in the DARPA Urban Challenge. The final event pits 11 vehicles in competition for a $2 million first, $1M second, and $500k third place prizes. The 60-mile course at the former George Air Force Base in Victorville CA must be successfully navigated in less than 6-hours while avoiding about 50 carbon-based drivers. Can Stanford repeat their 2005 Grand Challenge victory with "Junior" or will Carnegie Mellon's "Boss" (pictured) bust out a BFG-9000 in swift retribution? Tune in Saturday to find out.

DARPA's Urban Challenge ends: six cars cross the line, CMU takes 1st place

2009-07-16T18:13:00.003-07:00

DARPA's Urban Challenge has finished, with six of the eleven cars making it across the finishing line. Cars from Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and Virginia Tech were the "winners," taking less than the six hour maximum to complete the 60 mile course which involved avoiding obstacles and fifty cars with human drivers. The overall winner of the $2 million prize has yet to be announced, although were guessing it'll be one of the latter three teams rather than the eight other cars that completed the course. Despite the significant collision potential, there was only one minor fender bender (which didn't even stop the two cars.) That's a far better showing than the first ever "Desert" Challenge in 2004 where not a single car finished. Since then the number of cars completing has only increased, and with it, the potential for cars that can drive themselves.

UPDATE: Carnegie Mellon won the $2 Million, with Stanford finishing second for $1 Million, and Virginia Tech third for $500,000.

iRobot wins injunction against Robotic FX

2009-07-16T18:13:00.001-07:00

iRobot's soap-opera-esque trade secret and patent lawsuits against rival Robotic FX entered a new phase last night, as the US District Court in Boston handed down a preliminary injunction preventing Robot FX from acting on a $279M contract to build Negotiator robots for the Department of Defense. Saying that Robotic FX CEO Jameel Ahed's admissions that he'd destroyed evidence "profoundly undermined" his credibility, the judge ruled that there was enough of a likelihood that iRobot would win its trade secret case to warrant an injunction -- the idea being to keep Robotic FX from gaining any benefits from a possible theft. The judge didn't make the exact terms of the injunction public, but she did order a trial to begin no later than April 4 -- which means there's still a lot of drama to come.

[Thanks, Jonas]

QRIO befriended by toddlers in study

2009-07-16T18:12:00.001-07:00

Remember that study which placed a bubbly QRIO in the middle of rambunctious 18- to 24-month old kids in order to better analyze human-robot interactions? We know, it's probably coming back ever so slowly, but regardless, the findings of the five month trial have finally been published, and the results are less than shocking. Essentially, researchers noticed that children learned to treat the QRIO as if it were another human; the Earthlings eventually felt comfortable touching its hands, covering it with a blanket when it laid down and helping it back up if it toppled over. Notably, kiddos even went so far as to shun the poor bot when it was programmed to dance nonstop, but they forgave the bizarre antics and continued to play nice once the jig was up. The crew involved with the research is now focusing on the development of autonomous bots for the toddler classroom, and while much more testing will likely be done before any conclusions are definitively drawn, results from this go 'round sure hinted at just how susceptible we are to robotic takeover, er, playing nice with harmless androids. Oh, and be sure and check the video after the break!

[Via Slashdot]

Continue reading QRIO befriended by toddlers in study

NASA's six-legged ATHLETE bot will roam the moon

2009-07-14T19:12:00.003-07:00

Mars isn't the only heavenly body that NASA is trying to colonize with robots: the US space agency is currently working on a prototype rover named ATHLETE that may be cruising around the moon within the next decade. Short for All Terrain Hex Limbed Extra Terrestrial Explorer, ATHLETE sports six wheeled "legs" attached to a hexagonal frame loaded with cameras and sensors, allowing an Earth-bound operator to get a 360-degree sense of his or her surroundings. While the current iteration is only half as big as the final version will be, this rover will eventually be able to land and carry up to 20 tons of gear -- but without any sort of onboard defense system, it will probably stand little chance against the first Decepticon attack. Video after the break...

[Via MAKE]

Continue reading NASA's six-legged ATHLETE bot will roam the moon

Robot surgeons compete with humans aboard the vomit comet

2009-07-14T19:12:00.001-07:00

We were always of the opinion that robot surgery was edgy enough as it is, but you know how those science peoples always have to kick things up a notch. SRI International and the University of Cincinnati hitched a ride on NASA's DC-9 "vomit comet" to pit human surgeons against semi-autonomous robots in suturing and incision tasks on simulated tissue -- while experiencing periods of zero gravity and 1.8g acceleration. Surprisingly, the robots kept pace just fine until SRI's fancy compensation software was switched off, which we're guessing is exactly the point SRI was trying to prove. Right now SRI is building a robotic operating room for the battlefield called Trauma Pod, which is mostly autonomous, and they're also working on a fully autonomous system for NASA that could treat an astronaut on Mars, where the 20 minute delay would make telesurgery not an option. Field testing for the trauma pod should begin in 2009.

[Via Slashdot]

Sanyo creates inspection robot to check structural integrity

2009-07-14T19:11:00.004-07:00

This certainly won't go down as the first underfloor robot we've heard about, but apparently, Sanyo's aiming to use all these fantastic ideas to actually bring a product to market. The fairly attractive bot is designed to cruise underneath apartment buildings, offices and essentially any other place of residence to check for structural damage, and it boasts integrated sensors that enable it to avoid obstacles while on duty. Apparently, the creation -- which can scoot about for just over two hours on a full charge -- can beam back live video of what it sees, and landlords can zoom in on curious spots to find out if there are indeed any problems that need attention. Unfortunately, we're hearing that it won't be on sale till next year, but it shouldn't cost much more than ¥1,000,000 ($8,736) when it finally arrives -- which, by our estimation, is a small price to pay to avoid months of back problems and terrifying encounters with all sorts of rodents.

[Via AkihabaraNews]

Researchers show off "Fudan Intelligent Robot"

2009-07-14T19:11:00.003-07:00

It looks like the folks at Shanghais' Fudan University have made some considerable progress in their endeavors in learning robots, with their new "Fudan Intelligent Robot" looking a whole lot more polished than their previous Fudan-1 model. As before, however, the goal is for the robot to learn new tasks by following voice commands, which the researchers hope could eventually allow the robot to help the elderly or become a "good household mate" for families. Among other things, the bot can currently can plot out its own map of its surroundings and remember specific locations and, of course, change TV channels at your command (or, as you can see above, even serve as a TV itself).

[Via The Raw Feed]

Robo-moth can't flap, still likes flames

2009-07-14T19:11:00.001-07:00

We're no strangers to the use and abuse of insects in the name of science, but we've gotta say that this robo-moth mech is the best example yet. Built by a few mad scientists over at the University of Arizona, robo-moth intercepts signals sent by the moth's eyes to its teensy brain and turns them into movement. The bot can detect where the moth is looking, and turns in that direction. Since moths have quite the fancy pair of preceptors and built-in reflexes, it's going to allow for some pretty complicated actions once scientists figure out how to control more motion than left and right. Researchers are looking down the road to where a moth could act as a disposable bomb-sniffing robot, or where paralyzed humans could more accurately control wheelchairs with their thoughts, but that's all still a ways out.

ETRI's Rabie terrifies children like Frank The Rabbit

2009-07-14T19:10:00.004-07:00

Come on ETRI, at least make Rabie look like Smurfette or something a bit more cuddly. And "Rabie?" Do you really have to name your latest robot after a fatal viral disease? Perhaps that name is a clue to how this robot intends to "play" with the kids it's designed for. Rabie is a networked bot which transmits video of your children wetting themselves in fear direct to your mobile phone. Good times. Watch Rabie in action after the break. Only you'll have to suffer though about 28 days, 6 hours, 42 minutes, 12 seconds of the arguably more interesting, Kobie the killer koala first.

[Via B2Btv]

Continue reading ETRI's Rabie terrifies children like Frank The Rabbit

Galileo robot sports hybrid treads, tackles most any terrain

2009-07-14T19:10:00.003-07:00

We've seen a plethora of robots crawl over all sorts of obstacles without blowing a gasket or anything, but the Galileo prefers to handle rough terrain by simply changing the shape of its treads rather than blowing up anything in its path or finding clever ways to scoot around. Judging by an informative (if not monotonous) video clip of the robot in action, this "hybrid tracked" creature sports a pair of wheels along with flexible treads on each side, and it can reshape the tracks as necessary to achieve the desired grip when meeting stairs, cinder blocks or a wide variety of slumbering animals in the wild. There's also a built-in camera integrated into the oh-so-helpful "tail," which can apply downward pressure in order to give the creation a boost when needed. We've inflated this thing's ego enough -- just click on through to see the Galileo gettin' into (and out of) all sorts of trouble.

[Via SciFiTech]

Continue reading Galileo robot sports hybrid treads, tackles most any terrain

South Korea doubles up, now getting two robot theme parks

2009-07-14T19:10:00.001-07:00

Thrill seekers and robot admirers alike can mark South Korea down as a must-see destination in the coming years, as it will soon be home to not one, but two robot theme parks. Yeah, we already knew that one of these fantasmical places were on the planning block, but just today the Commerce Ministry "announced a proposal to build two parks by 2013 for $1.6 billion." Reportedly, each park will mesh culture and entertainment with robot technology, and while one will be built in Incheon, the other will be erected some 242 miles south of Seoul in the port city of Masan. A feasibility study slated for next year is apparently the only piece of red tape still holding this project back, but if the bigwigs in South Korea shut the whole thing down, we'll gladly take 'em here on this side of the lake.

[Image courtesy of SciFi]

OLPC XO and iRobot Create brought together for telepresence hack

2009-07-14T19:09:00.005-07:00

While the project is still classified as "ongoing," Damon Kohler nonetheless looks to have made some considerable progress in his OLPC XO / iRobot Create combo, which together forms a makeshift telepresence robot. Among other things, if you decide to build your own, you'll apparently be able to control the robot via a web interface, and make use of the OLPC's webcam and microphone to monitor its surroundings. Some of the more recent additions include some text-to-speech capabilities to totally freak out your pets, and a high-tech night vision system (pictured above). If that's enough to tempt you, hit up the links below for the complete details on how to put together your own.

Read - Instructables, OLPC Telepresence
Read- Project Blog

[Via Gadget Lab]

Robotic cockroaches influence, exploit living clans

2009-07-14T19:09:00.003-07:00

Strangely enough, we've seen robotic roaches in action before, but a new report focusing on nature's influence on mechanical creatures substantiates some of our worse fears. Apparently, a team of researchers led by Jose Halloy of the University Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium crafted "cockroach-sized robots that interacted with their living counterparts." The critters themselves did not actually resemble cockroaches, but they were doused with chemicals to mimic the authentic aroma; subsequently, these autonomous pests were able to persuade a clan of real roaches to choose a poor (light) shelter over a dark alternative, sparking worry that humanoids may one day use these very tactics to lead us straight to our demise. On the real, the gurus behind the research are looking at the trials to "explore decision-making mechanisms in group-living animals," which when you think about, really isn't any less frightening.

[Image courtesy of ETHZ]

NASA's Mars Opportunity rover falls on hard times

2009-07-14T19:09:00.001-07:00

NASA's Mars Opportunity rover has already long outlasted its original 90 day mission, but it looks like the go-getter bot is now really starting to show its age, as NewScientist reports that problems with two key instruments have left the rover "crippled and blinded." As NewScientist points out, however, these latest issues are far from the first to plague Opportunity (and its counterpart, Spirit), and it's still suffering from a malfunctioning wheel and an "arthritic" robotic arm, both problems of which first cropped up in 2005. While NASA has currently suspended all work involving the rover's rock grinding tool and its infrared spectrometer, it's apparently hoping to get the spectrometer back up and running by shaking off some of the dust causing the problems, and at least one NASA official expects both rovers to keep "going for years more."

AIBO gets another shot at life, thanks to Wiimotes

2009-07-14T19:08:00.001-07:00

Just when you think the world has seen its fill of questionably-useful Wiimote hacks, some pranksters have to go and get AIBO involved. Disguised as a research project on human device interaction, the Wiibot hails from University of Calgary and involves a pair of Wiimotes and nunchucks -- the nunchucks are naturally strapped to the user's biceps -- for bending the AIBO to their will. In the video after the break you can see this interface method pitted against archaic keyboard input, or you can check out the read link to see these nerds try to justify these kinds of shenanigans.

Continue reading AIBO gets another shot at life, thanks to Wiimotes

Ladybug-styled robot to clean restrooms, give travel tips

2009-07-14T19:07:00.004-07:00

Japan's no stranger to a wide variety of service-oriented robots, and it looks like it could soon become home to yet another mechanical being that does our dirty work. The Lady Bird prototype, which is set to hit production sometime in 2009, would scour the floors of public restrooms and keep things looking clean throughout the day. Reportedly, the bot stands about 1-meter in height and is equipped with amenities such as a water tank, brushes and a few other grime-busting tools to boot. Furthermore, it boasts obstacle detection sensors to avoid patrons while on the clock, and it even includes voice recognition software along with access to current traffic information in case someone has the urge to spark up a conversation. There's no word on what this thing will do should someone try to stuff it in their trunk for at-home use, but if all goes well, the creature is expected to sell for around ¥3.5 million ($31,713) when it goes commercial.

[Via PinkTentacle]

Hitachi's EMIEW 2 humanoid runs errands, could easily replace Michael Scott

2009-07-14T19:07:00.003-07:00

While we thoroughly enjoyed hearing of EMIEW's (presumably) short-lived career as a hotel clerk, it looks like Hitachi's EMIEW 2 has some seriously large aspirations. In a recent demonstration in Hitachinaka, the two-wheeled robot wowed onlookers as it received commands wirelessly and happily ran office errands without too much trouble. The creation, which stands some 31.5-inches tall and weighs 29-pounds, did crash into a desk and stand motionless momentarily while being previewed, but developers didn't hesitate to inform the crowd that kinks were still being ironed out. Nevertheless, it was able to avoid obstacles while rolling about, understand and respond to human speech and move around for an hour before needing a recharge. The company refused to spill details surrounding its eventual price and release date, but we're hearing there may soon be an open spot in Scranton that this fellow could certainly fill.

[Via Inquirer]

Sakura robot skates around, keeps your princess entertained

2009-07-14T19:07:00.001-07:00

Considering that gift-giving time is right around the bend, it's no shock to see companies start cranking out gizmos that will perfectly stuff those lonely stockings. On the docket today is the Sakura robot, which dons a pink outfit, totally hip hairdo and a quasi-futuristic skateboard. Apparently, she can belt out a few jokes, school you with several "fun facts and fashion tips" and play back five different songs. Additionally, her board can be remotely controlled, and if you two build up a certain level of trust, you can record "secrets" within that will only be repeated should you insert the requisite key. Sounds like a total blast, eh? Go on, you know your princess is worth the £49.99 ($103) -- and hey, at least this thing won't teach her how to totally ruin her credit.

[Via Coolest-Gadgets]

"Justin" humanoid robot gets shown off, no one harmed

2009-07-14T19:06:00.003-07:00

It may just be for demonstration purposes for now, but this humanoid robot dubbed "Justin" certainly looks like he means business, and we can all be thankful that's he's confined to a table or there's no telling how things might have gone down. Apparently, Justin's biggest claim to fame is his pair of DLR-III Light-Weight arms which, in addition to making other robot arms look positively retro, are dexterous enough to pick up a trash can and dump it or twist a lid off a jar. No word as to when Justin might be let loose from the lab, but you can get a better look at what he's capable of in the video at the site linked below.

The RIBOGU Q guard robot authenticates faces -- the rest you can imagine

2009-07-14T19:06:00.001-07:00

Meet the RIBOGU Q guard robot with "face authentication technology" -- a world's first with such a lethal combination. Developed by Japan's ALSOK, the robot snaps photos of the filthy human stench in the vicinity in order to identify "terrorists, wanted fugitives" and anyone else on the corporate or government "blacklist." Presumably (they don't say), RIBOGU Q juices any identified villains with those wee, Tyrannosaurus arms. Of course, the ability to recognize specific faces is obvious overkill -- we know the real intent is to pare back the blacklist criteria to: "has a face."

[Via Impress]

Robot with soft hands can prepare meals, gently enslave humanity

2009-07-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

Sure, this ET-looking robot from Japan called "Twendy-One" looks adorable, but that doesn't mean we trust it -- even if it does boast hands gentle enough to grip bread and enough smarts to respond to greetings and serve breakfast. Designer Shigeki Sugano says Twendy-One is "the first robot in the world with this much system integration," and the five-foot tall, 245-pound bot doesn't pack all that tech in there on the cheap -- several million dollars have gone into development over the past seven years. The team is hoping to get costs down to $200,000 by 2010, but first they need to extend Twendy-One's 15 minute battery life and sort out some heat issues. We're willing to give them all the time they want -- anything to delay the inevitable toast-bearing robot apocalypse.

[Via Washington Post]

ICM's Climber robot ready to ascend

2009-07-02T20:09:00.002-07:00

International Climbing Machines' Climber certainly isn't the first of its kind, but we'll admit, this thing can handle some pretty daunting tasks. After successfully lasting through a number of field deployments this year, this wall climber is reportedly ready to take on the world in assignments such as "climbing the surfaces of C-5 / C-137 airplanes, decontaminating a vessel in a Nuclear Power Plant and removing paint from concrete walls for the Department Of Energy." Apparently, this iteration trumps many similar alternatives due to its ability to scale ceilings, rounded / rough surfaces and overcome obstacles that protrude up to 1-inch from a given surface. The rig can be controlled from the ground with a handheld remote, and attachments can be added for painting, cleaning, drilling or just capturing imagery from above. Mum's the word on pricing, but feel free to check out a couple more shots after the jump.

[Via Gizmag]

Continue reading ICM's Climber robot ready to ascend

The Mindstorms NXT gramophone, or, If Edison played with LEGOs

2009-07-02T20:09:00.001-07:00

Lying somewhere between the roboflusher and LEGO car-producing LEGO factory on the practicality scale, José Pino's Mindstorms NXT gramophone brings together all the fun and tinny sound of this antiquated music system with today's modern DIY sensibilities. Using little more than an off-the-shelf NXT kit running at 25% power, and, um, a fast food beverage cup, Pino was able rig together a very basic platform for spinning his vinyl, although scratching is probably not recommended on this rather delicate setup. Keep reading for a quick video walkthrough accompanied by those old-timey tunes so popular among today's seniors.

[Via Hacked Gadgets]

Continue reading The Mindstorms NXT gramophone, or, If Edison played with LEGOs

Jeremy Mayer turns inoperative typewriters into art

2009-07-02T20:08:00.002-07:00

Nah, Jeremy Mayer's typewriter-based creations aren't anything new for him, but he's used his years of practice to get a few installations on display at the Nevada Museum of Art. Most notable is the human-like creature above, which was assembled head to toe with now-defunct typewriter parts. So if you just so happen to be in the area, why not stop on by (before December 2nd) and see if you can hack it to send out an email or something.

[Via MAKE]

Researchers create "perching" robotic aircraft

2009-07-02T20:08:00.001-07:00

Sure, your average helicopter can land in a whole mess of places, but what if you really need to squeeze that sucker onto a steep incline? Normally, you'd be out of luck if the slant were anything more than a measly 20-degrees, but some Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have managed something a bit more extreme. Eric Feron, an aerospace engineer, and colleague Selcuk Bayraktar have created a new breed of robot helicopter which can land, or "perch," at inclines up to 60-degrees. On a similar tip, MIT researcher Jonathan How has fashioned another unique unmanned aircraft which can take off and land from a "prop hang" position, wherein the plane stands on it's tail in midair. The hope is that these new technologies will help get aircraft into -- and back out of -- complicated spots with a new level of maneuverability. Also, the engineers probably just love blowing people's minds. Check the videos after the break to experience the gravity-defying moves yourself.

Continue reading Researchers create "perching" robotic aircraft

Sarcos' military exoskeleton becomes a frightening reality

2009-07-02T20:07:00.002-07:00

Have you been waiting for a legion of half-man, half-machine storm troopers to descend upon your city and blaze a round of hellfire in all general directions? If you said yes, that's kind of weird. At any rate, you can consider yourself one step closer to cyborg annihilation thanks to a company called Sarcos and its semi-scary exoskeleton -- which will make any regular old soldier into a Terminator-like killing machine (as far as we can tell). Sure, they demo the unit lifting heavy equipment and reducing fatigue of the user, but we know what this thing is really for -- and it doesn't involve food drops. Check the video after the break to have your mind shattered into a million delicious pieces.

Continue reading Sarcos' military exoskeleton becomes a frightening reality

The Murider dancing media robot: so apropos

2009-07-02T20:07:00.001-07:00

Check your servos Rolly and Miuro, there's a new media playing robot in town by the foreboding name of "Murider." The new bot from Woori features a 4.3-inch display for watching DMB mobile television and support for audio playback when sourced from USB-connected devices or SD cards. Details are scant but it's said to stand (not roll) and a bust out a little dance with appropriately timed flashing lights. Oh, and it'll do so for a fraction of the price of its peers. Just don't be surprised to find little rolly muttering "Redirum, redirum" in response to this budget repetition of past events.

Christmas Rolly rocks to holiday favorites

2009-07-02T20:06:00.002-07:00

Most Americans have yet to get a taste of Sony's Rolly speakerbot, and while we may finally see the little critter, um, roll our way sometime next year according to company prez Stan Glasgow, Japan is already getting its first special edition of the lively MP3 player. Christmas Rolly -- on sale immediately for ¥41,800 ($380) and shipping December 19th -- comes preloaded with Japanese takes on traditional holiday favorites such as Santa Claus is Coming to Town and White Christmas, along with the accompanying pre-programmed "dance moves" -- though frankly we're at a loss as to how a two-wheeled robot gets down to Silent Night. Those folks on a budget who can't live without the special six-pack of tunes will also be able to find them on Sony's Christmas edition of the NW-E013 DAP, on sale next month for only ¥10,980 ($99).

[Via Impress]

"Justin" humanoid robot gets shown off, no one harmed

2009-07-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

The RIBOGU Q guard robot authenticates faces -- the rest you can imagine

2009-07-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

Monkeys take their robot-wielding powers international

2009-07-02T20:04:00.004-07:00

It's been a while since we've heard from the folks at Duke University and their robot-controlling monkeys, but it seems that they've remained hard at work on their potentially perilous collaboration, with them recently showing off some of their latest tricks at the Neuroscience 2007 conference earlier this month. This time, they had the monkeys control a pair of robot legs through the use of some electrodes implanted in their brains which, apparently, went off without a hitch. But that's not all! The legs the monkeys were controlling just so happened to be located at the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International in Kyoto, Japan, which the monkeys were linked to via the Internet. No word on what they plan to attempt next, although taking the robots and/or monkeys into space would seem to be the next logical step (at least to us).

[Photo courtesy of NASA-JSC / Wikimedia Commons]

Robot with soft hands can prepare meals, gently enslave humanity

2009-07-02T20:04:00.003-07:00

Microsoft-powered biped robot makes its debut

2009-07-02T20:04:00.001-07:00

It's taken a little while, but it seems that the first robot based on Microsoft's Robotics Studio package is now available for sale, although it's far from a consumer bot. Running a hefty $5,345, the so-called "e-nuvo WALK" robot from Japan's ZMP (makers of the e-nuvo WHEEL, as well) measures 14 inches tall and is apparently intended primarily for research and education although, as you can see above, it also seems to be a strong candidate for the next RoboCup. According to the AP, those in Japan can place their orders for the robot now, but they'll have to wait until sometime in January before they actually gets their hands on one.

The Wooden Menace: DIY robotic arm on the cheap

2009-07-02T20:03:00.001-07:00

Oh yeah, we've seen our fair share of robotic arms, but it's not everyday that a craftsman posts an eight-page tutorial on how to construct one of your own for less than $60. The Wooden Menace was designed to show that an inexpensive robotic arm could indeed be constructed using household junk and a few store-bought parts, and while its utility is relatively limited, there's a certain level of cool to having such a device guarding your paperwork at the office. Aside from a cloned PS1 controller and a few hunks of wood, you'll only need a voltage regulator, microcontroller, five servos, a 20MHz oscillator and a few other parts to make it all come together. No need in giving you the run down here -- there's eight pages chock full of details (videos included) awaiting you in the read link below.

[Via MAKE]

Virtual teacher understands your frustration, pours on the homework

2009-07-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe Eve won't really load you down with busywork, but the virtual teacher will sympathize with you, hear you out and alter her teaching style to better match your current mood. Reportedly, the Massey University creation can "pick up body language and facial expressions like a real teacher [in order] to interact and [hold] the attention of students." Additionally, she can ask questions, dole out feedback and discuss problems with pupils, but there's no telling how easily she hands out extra credit. Dr. Hossein Sarrafzadeh, the lead on the project, noted that people should soon expect robots to take note of their feelings and reactions exactly as we expect a fellow human to, but we're left to wonder how many more years our teachers have before they're subbed out en masse for digital replacements.

[Via SmartMobs, image courtesy of Primidi]

Researchers set sights on uber-dexterous robotic hand

2009-07-02T20:01:00.001-07:00

Dr. Honghai Liu, one of the two researchers heading up a project to craft an exceptionally deft robotic hand, has called such a device "one of the holy grails of science," and honestly, we can't say we disagree. He, along with Professor Xiangyang Zhu, was recently award a Royal Society grant to further research the possibility of using artificial intelligence to create software that could "learn and copy human hand movements." A sensor-laden cyberglove has been used to capture data about how the human hand moves, and the duo hopes to eventually use the findings to produce the "perfect artificial limb." Of course, there's no telling how long it'll take for such technology to actually be perfected, but we can already see the line forming with folks eager to swap out their own hand for one a bit more adept.

[Via The Raw Feed]

Robo-One Grand Championship sees battles, carols

2009-07-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

Sure, this may be the twelfth time that the Robo-One Grand Championship has taken place, but each year it seems to get even zanier. This go 'round, Tokyo was home to 25 finalists built by amateurs lusting for a little piece of the limelight, and the whole lot apparently put on quite the show. Hundreds of onlookers watched as "Arichyon," decked out in Christmas lights, belted out carols, only to get pelted by a penguin-headed bot who wasn't exactly feelin' the holiday cheer. If you missed out on this year's event, you've got over 360 days to prep for the next one -- just make sure your creation speaks, er, sings softly and carries a big stick, okay?

[Via I4U News, image courtesy of ITN]

DIY'er creates homegrown mini mech

2009-07-02T19:59:00.002-07:00

We've seen mechs of all shapes and sizes, but typically, they either aren't for sale or are priced right out of most budgets. Thankfully, Andres Bella has created a "mini mech" that can be replicated by anyone with a few extra dollars, a decent understanding of robotics and a bunch of unused vacation time. The creature was built using a Basic Stam II microcontroller, a couple of high gear motors / pneumatic cylinders, a power supply, pressure gauge and a bunch of metal (among other things). We won't pretend to know exactly how he went about constructing this thing, but we'd certainly love to have one to take the load off our own feet (and part the seas of holiday shoppers).

[Via Hacked Gadgets]

SmartPal V robot, now with additional lumbar units!

2009-07-02T19:59:00.001-07:00

Straight out of Japan comes the latest mobile robot to ease our daily lives while threatening our jobs, Yasukawa Electric Corporation's SmartPal V. The 1.3-meter tall rolling bot is loaded with all the proximity, speech recognition, and object-detecting sensors we've come to expect from today's modern mech, along with improved dexterity thanks to additional joints and lumbar units as compared to previous models. This latest SmartPal, which was introduced at the 2007 International Robot Exhibition, also rocks its own accessories, such as a head-mounted projector to push the world's last remaining tour guides into early retirement.

[Via Engadget Chinese]

Carnegie Mellon's "Crusher" military bot getting $14 million upgrade

2009-07-02T19:58:00.002-07:00

Carnegie Mellon's so-called "Crusher" unmanned military vehicle already had quite a bit going for it in its previous incarnation, but it now looks to set to expand its robotized arsenal even further, courtesy of a $14.4 million grant from the Army. According to the university's National Robotics Engineering Center, the updated bot will make use of the "latest suspension, vehicle frame, and hybrid-electric drive technologies to improve upon its predecessor's performance" while also promising to, somewhat ominously, "push the envelope for autonomous and semi-autonomous operation." That the NREC says, should allow the bot to begin working alongside troops in five or ten years, with it initially confined to convoy roles before it puts its autonomous skills to use in "tactical" missions.

[Via CNET Military Tech]

Robovie-X is coming to get you

2009-07-02T19:58:00.001-07:00

Remember the cock fighter we peeped back in August? He's far more deadly than we had imagined and now up for pre-order in Japan. At least his Robovie-X underpinnings are. The 13.5-inch / 2.86-pound bot manufactured by JR Robotics should start shipping in February for a pre-order price of ¥94,500 (about $856). This robot features the impressive pliability of his lessor RB2000 brother while including new voice response sensors and weaponry. In fact, the two can share parts in a mutant servo mashup only a mother robot could love. Oh did we mention this one can track targets and then blast it with missiles? Gulp, see for yourself in the video after the break.

[Via Impress]

Continue reading Robovie-X is coming to get you

"Robot" firefighters get put into service

2009-07-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

We've seen robot firefighters before, and even a robot firefighting contest, but it looks like some brave bots from the folks at Qinetiq are among the first to actually see service, although their roles are decidedly limited for the time being. According to Popular Mechanics, the robots are only being used to put out fires involving Acetylene gas, which had previously simply been left to burn themselves out due to the risk of explosions. With the bots, however, they're able get things moving along far more quickly, which is especially useful when the blaze is causing train delays. It seems that's a job too big for just one robot, however, as Qinetiq has reportedly been commissioned to put three bots into service during a six month trial period, including a Talon bot that uses thermal imaging to asses the situation, a 2,160-pound Brokk 90 robot that can "tear through walls or shove vehicles out the way," and last but not least the ATV-sized "Black Max" that actually douses the situation. Sadly, it seems that the bots are all remotely-controlled for the time being, and not fully autonomous, but we're sure it's only a matter of time before they really get to show what they're capable of.

Robotex creating gun-toting robots to replace human soldiers

2009-07-02T19:56:00.002-07:00

It's not as if we haven't seen weapon-wielding robots before, but Robotex is aiming to create a new breed of mechanical soldier that's quick to build and cost effective. The Silicon Valley startup has garnered quite a bit of funding from angel investors, and apparently, it has already created a two-foot tall, motorized robot that can travel ten miles per hour, spin around "on a dime," be controlled remotely and most importantly, "blow a ten-inch hole through a steel door with deadly accuracy from 400 meters." Reportedly, such a critter can be crafted for under $50,000, which is said to be "six times" cheaper than similar alternatives already being tested in Iraq. Of course, there's no telling how soon (or not) these things will actually be called into duty, but we can bet there's already a list forming to be the one behind the remote when it is.

[Via InventorSpot]

Is AIBO returning from the dead?

2009-07-02T19:56:00.001-07:00

You heard that right, folks. Supposedly, AIBO is back... with a vengeance. According to rumors, the feisty-but-killed robo-dog from Sony is making a comeback with a new paintjob and whole slew of fresh features. First and foremost, the re-upped model will be tailored to interface wirelessly with your PSP and PS3, will have a built in headcam which utilizes a motion sensor and facial recognition, and can stream its POV video over WiFi to your system. In addition, you'll apparently get to remotely trigger the bot with your handheld and control its movements, plus you can set it to "guard" your house (though we're pretty sure most enterprising burglars will just turn the little dude on its side if provoked). Of course, right now this is speculation -- Stuff Magazine's piece on the subject (above) gives the rumored bot a 53-percent chance of becoming a reality -- but there certainly seems to be some meat behind these murmurs. C'mon Sony -- the pup deserves a second chance.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Toyota's domestic partner robots get down like Nero

2009-06-26T19:08:00.001-07:00

If you're still wondering what Toyota's newly announced pair of partner robots are all about then you're in luck, we've got video. Akihabara News has the 30fps low-down in Japan on the practical use transportation and decidedly impractical violin playing robots said to be invading homes by 2010. Though we'd prefer rescue skills in our domestic robot, Toyota's will at least stand over your remains, somberly fiddling a lullaby while Rome burns. Guess that's something. Video after the break.

Continue reading Video: Toyota's domestic partner robots get down like Nero

Programmable RoboPhilo humanoid on sale now for $500

2009-06-26T19:07:00.004-07:00

RoboPhilo -- the self-proclaimed personal humanoid of your dreams -- has landed just in time for the holidays after being announced months back, and yep, it will indeed sell for under five bills. Available now at the RoboBrothers website, this (comparatively) affordable creation comes ready to walk, kick or boogie down with 20 servos, an included remote and a couple of ports for good measure. Essentially, it's only limited by your imagination and programming knowledge, and is ready to consume your forthcoming time off just as soon as you cough up the $499 required to get it on its way.

[Via Technabob]

Robotex creating gun-toting robots to replace human soldiers

2009-06-26T19:07:00.003-07:00

Is AIBO returning from the dead?

2009-06-26T19:07:00.001-07:00

Honda's ASIMO getting more intelligent?

2009-06-26T19:06:00.004-07:00

We're not getting too hopeful about all of this just yet, but reportedly, Honda has worked a new series of "cutting-edge intelligence technologies" into ASIMO. Apparently aimed to keep the poor humanoid from tumbling down stairs, the improvements will supposedly enable it to "operate autonomously with people and other ASIMOs," essentially making it more suitable for real world use. More specifically, the new technologies include a "new system that enables multiple ASIMO humanoid robots to share tasks and work together to provide uninterrupted service to people," an automatic charging function, intelligence to avoid obstacles by stepping back or yielding to oncoming objects and the ability to "perform tasks such as carrying a tray and pushing a trolley." That sound you hear? Yeah, that's the collective grumbling of butlers / maids the world over.

[Via Pocket-Lint]

Robot heckles Bill Clinton, Bill heckles back

2009-06-26T19:06:00.003-07:00

Peaceful robot / human talks looked to be on the verge of a meltdown in Iowa on Monday. Former president Bill Clinton was treated to barrage of output from a robot seeking for an apology regarding a 1992 comment Bill made concerning rapper Sister Souljah. The robot -- or potentially a human impostor dressed to look like one -- then threw color cards in the air, and was escorted away, but not without a parting shot from Clinton about picking a more environmentally-friendly way to protest. Rumors of the robot shouting "please tase me, humans" as a parting shot are unconfirmed. The video can be found at the read link.

iRobot adds swank mapping kit to PackBot

2009-06-26T19:06:00.001-07:00

iRobot has unleashed yet another semi-autonomous robot ready to take on whatever the battlefield throws at it, but this one's got a much better feel of where it's headed. The PackBot with Mapping Kit ups the ante by "creating a real-time two-dimensional structural map for the soldier while on the move in theater," essentially enabling the operator (and his / her squad) to see what's just ahead without having to slip into potentially dangerous scenarios to find out. Apparently, the kit utilizes an array of sensors and artificial intelligence to relay the structural map while "simultaneously detecting and avoiding obstacles in its path." Heck, let's just strap a railgun on this thing and let the soldier kick back at the base.

[Thanks, Jonas]
Read - Press release
Read - PackBot with Mapping Kit homepage

Korean researchers show off "Securo" security robot

2009-06-26T19:05:00.004-07:00

It looks like the international fraternity of security robots could soon be about to welcome a new member, as a team of researchers from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology recently announced that its "Securo" bot has passed a test that had it navigating a one kilometer long course by all by itself. That was apparently done with the aid of its built-in GPS and a laser image scanner, which allowed it to motor along at a speed of 5.4 km/h while avoiding obstacles and staying within an error range of 10 cm. That, the researchers say, could also make it suitable for delivering military supplies or performing surveillance, although there's no indication just yet as to when it might actually see service.

Robodance 4 software lets you control i-SOBOT with a Wiimote

2009-06-26T19:05:00.003-07:00

Tomy's i-SOBOT usually requires users to punch in one of 147 different keycodes on its monster handheld controller to get things moving, but a couple enterprising hackers have developed a control system that lets you get it on mo-cap style using a Wiimote and the nunchuk attachment. The secret is the upcoming Robodance 4 software, which maps the i-SOBOTs commands to the Wiimote and a GUI for complex scripted macros -- which means it'll be even easier to pretend that the bot is actually your real friend. Check a vid of the system in action, apparently shot in someone's underground bunker, after the break.

[Thanks, Daanish]

Continue reading Robodance 4 software lets you control i-SOBOT with a Wiimote

Army: "The Robotic FX contract is no longer in existence"

2009-06-26T19:05:00.001-07:00

A bad weekend for Robotic FX could mean good things for iRobot. On Friday, the US Army canceled its $280 million order for up to 3,000 of Robotic FX's bomb-detecting robots. According to Joanne Byrd, the Army administrator overseeing the contract, "The Robotic FX contract is no longer in existence." Harsh, and a tad confusing if you accept the fundamental axiom that existence exists. She did cite "peripheral complications" as the reason without going into detail. Though we're pretty sure that iRobot's injunction against Robotic FX had something to do with it. The move opens the door to iRobot as the next-lowest, qualified bidder for the XBot contract. Great. Perhaps when everyone is done futzing about with their lawyers and lobbyists we might actually get a few bots deployed to protect the innocents?

[Via Xconomy, thanks Jonas]

The $30 Android will never leave you

2009-06-26T19:04:00.005-07:00

No special person in your life to buy you a Nabaztag/tag so that you no longer need a special person in your life? Build yourself this $30 Android and make all the loneliness go away. Built into this charming little styrofoam head is a webcam, microphone, speakers, a few LED lights, light sensors and a small LCD screen, and once you install enough conversational and creepy RSS-based stalker software on it we're sure it'll reach sentience in no time. Video is after the break.

Continue reading The $30 Android will never leave you

Pal Technology announces Reem-B humanoid bot

2009-06-26T19:04:00.003-07:00

The folks at Pal Technology have been kicking around their Reem-A humanoid bot for long enough that they've decided to build him a friend. Unfortunately for Reem-A, his new buddy Reem-B is going to be getting all the lady bots with his refined looks, ultrasonic range finders, fully fingered hand and stair walking abilities. Reem-A only has voice, face and object recognition, and some other softwarey skills like self localization, he won't stand a chance. Those Pal Tech jerks. Reem-B will be fully revealed in Q1 2008, until then we'll just have to stare at his impressive chest.

[Via Slashdot]

Gizmo bot is here to help

2009-06-26T19:04:00.001-07:00

With a cute name like that you wouldn't expect this Gizmo robot to be so bent on risky reconnaissance missions, but that's what creator Javier Rodriguez Molina has in mind for his modular progeny. Gizmo is designed to gather information at disaster sites and relay it to whoever however, be that over wireless internet, cellular, Bluetooth or other means. Multiple bots can network together to collaborate, but while the current version of the bot is mostly a glorified remote control rover, future versions will carry all sorts of sensors and come in all sorts of form factors. Research is ongoing at San Diego's "Calit2," and the hope is for the final bot to come in under the $1,000 price point to make it easy for police, fire departments and other rescue organizations to buy the bots off the shelf.

iRobot awarded $286 million military contract

2009-06-26T18:58:00.000-07:00

In a shocking tale of totally expected events, iRobot has been awarded a tidy $286 million army contract to produce a merciless, bone-crushing battalion of 3,000 peaceful, loving, bomb-disarming robots (and their spare parts). This comes hot on the heels of Robotic FX getting its walking papers (as well as a canceled contract) on the same military work, so we can't exactly say we're surprised. Just another chapter in the ever-unfolding legal and philosophical drama that is the iRobot / Robotic FX story. iRobot -- this round is all yours.

The "Is our machines learning?" machine 2.0 test-taking bot

2009-06-26T18:57:00.002-07:00

We never liked taking tests in a general sense, but there was always something fun about filling in the answers with that trusty No. 2 of ours. The "Is our machines learning?" bot, shown off at the 2007 NYU ITP Winter Show, takes over that delicious task but still leaves humans with the chore of answering the questions remotely over the internets. The bot's name is a not-so-subtle jab at President Bush's grammar skills, but if we told you more we might all be in danger of some educatin', and the world doesn't need any more of that!

Single White Android just wants to hang out

2009-06-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

There was a lot of fun stuff at this year's ITP Winter Show, but Single White Android stole our hearts with his dejected expressions, glowing belly and brightly-lit excitability. Oh, and saran wrap, lots of saran wrap. The bot isn't terribly complicated, his belly glows red when he wants you to touch it, and when you do he lights up with joy. Hey, it's the little things, and while SWA might not be giving biped humanoids a run for research dollars anytime soon, he certainly managed to elicit some emotion from his audience.

Japan's 2007 Robot of the Year goes to...

2009-06-26T18:56:00.003-07:00

Putin. Ok, actually another stoic, semi-autonomous critter is the winner of Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) 2007 Robot of the Year award. The grand prize goes to the work-horse, industrial robot from Fanuc Ltd. called M-430iA. The multi-axis, greaseless (read: sanitary) robot is part of a food and pharmaceutical handling system. Unlike your unemployed uncle with his GED, this bot can work non-stop, 24 hours a day, accurately picking up 120 items per minute as they roll down a conveyor belt. Other winners are the dancing Miuro in the small- to medium-sized venture category and Matsushita's blood-toting HOSPI bot. The latter apparently winning due to its unique position to assimilate the human race. Hey, anyone else smell polonium?

iRobot wins lawsuit against Robotic FX

2009-06-26T18:56:00.001-07:00

It's been a long, winding, shady road, but the lawsuits between iRobot and Robotic FX are finally over, with a federal court in Massachusetts ruling the Robotic FX had stolen iRobot's trade secrets, and another federal court in Alabama ruling that Robotic FX had infringed on iRobot's patents. In addition, the Massachusetts court ruled that Robotic FX had destroyed evidence and violated fair trade practices. iRobot has agreed to buy "certain residual assets" of Robotic FX, which is dissolving as of today, and founder Jameel Ahed is barred from competing in the robotics industry for five years. iRobot says all this litigation cost the company $2.9 million -- that's some expensive dumpster diving.

Caption contest, Xmas edition: AIBO Claus

2009-06-26T18:55:00.001-07:00

Ho, ho, h-- er, woof, woof, woof! Even though AIBO has been spayed, so to speak, that doesn't mean the little guy can't dress up and get into the Christmas spirit just like the rest of his fellow Roombas and Robosapiens. Plus, we have to say, our old pal looks quite dashing in red.

[Image courtesy of Impress]

Evan: "Robot Santa, perhaps overly confident aboard his Sony-made sleigh, swore that this year his was gonna bite Bender right on his shiny metal ass."
Josh: "The scale only revealed what AIBO had known all along: a moment on the lips really was a lifetime on the hips."
Chris: "Still distraught over its discontinuation, AIBO shows up every Christmas morning at Sony headquarters, drunk, belligerent, and with a sad little Santa outfit that gets a little dingier every year."
Ryan: "All I want for Christmas is to be put back in production / to be put back into production / to be put back into production. End holiday song."

DIY robotic foosball table is ready to throw down

2009-06-26T18:54:00.004-07:00

Finally, your dreams of a constant foosball opponent have become a startling reality. Some clever DIY-types have come up with a solution for how to fill all those long, lonely nights -- a computer-controlled foosball table. The premise is simple: servos coupled with a micro-controller operate the arms of the table, while a camera above the action monitors the game, including the location of the ball and the opponents moves, then processes that information using a custom AI. Sure, your game won't include players like Hitler or Ghandi, but at least you won't have to go hunting for competition on those late nights. Check the video after the break, and hit the read link for all the how-to info.

Continue reading DIY robotic foosball table is ready to throw down

Angry drivers torching traffic cameras in England

2009-06-26T18:54:00.003-07:00

Apparently, the Luddite tradition of machine breaking is alive and well in its country of origin. According to a report, a group calling itself MAD -- or Motorists Against Detection -- have taken to setting autonomous traffic cameras ablaze across the United Kingdom, and are detailing their exploits on a website (of course). The group's "PR" claims they have been active since 2000, and have destroyed over 1000 roadside cameras. Says the group's leader, Capt. Gatso, "The vigilante anti-speed camera group have announced a summer of MADness which will see them target for destruction all speed cameras in the UK. It's now going to be a period of zero tolerance against all speed cameras." The gang of disgruntled drivers also plans a day of action called "National Cover-Up Your Number Plates Day." Guy Fawkes would be proud.

[Thanks, Anand]

Robotic artist does portraits, hoping to get into nudes

2009-06-26T18:54:00.001-07:00

A totally ingenious robotics researcher named Sylvain Calinon has created what might be the perfect storm of art and science -- a robot that can recognize and then draw portraits of human subjects. The bot, named HOAP-3, is able to distinguish a human face, take a still frame of that image, and then create a drawing by (robotic) hand based on what it sees. The demonstration is a part of designer Calinon's research into creating robots which can learn through imitation, or in scenarios where they must react to humans. Unfortunately for us fleshpiles, it's only a matter of time before this thing starts doing hilarious caricatures accentuating our worst features. Watch the robot work in the amazing video after the break, and check the read link for a lot more information on the HOAP-3 project.

[Via technabob]

Continue reading Robotic artist does portraits, hoping to get into nudes

German receives prototype Pleo, hacked up box

2009-06-26T18:52:00.003-07:00

After waiting for what seems like ages, we can imagine just how excited one would be to finally receive that beautiful brown shipping container with their very own Pleo tucked within. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on perspective) for one particular German, an unspecified retailer sent out what appears to be a prototype dino, complete with a pieced together box that once held a fax machine. Interestingly, it seems the lucky recipient is rather perturbed by the incident, but being the optimistic crew that we are, we'd actually hang on to this thing for bragging rights or discover its true value courtesy of eBay. Hit the read link for a few more shots.

[Thanks, Jared C.]

Giant ASIMO replica to pilot Honda's transforming Rose Parade float

2009-06-26T18:52:00.001-07:00

Generally we're a little too, um, preoccupied on New Year's Day to bother with such trifles as opening our eyes and watching the annual Rose Parade from Pasadena, but with Honda planning an ambitious float for 2008 that will feature a gigantic ASIMO replica riding a transforming Honda Ridgeline, well, at the very least we'll be setting our DVR. According to American Honda, which provides the Tournament of Roses with hundreds of vehicles and has won numerous awards for its entries in the past, its generators will cause "the hood of the truck to fold forward to become an aircraft cockpit, the doors and sides of the truck to unfold outward to become wings, the wheels to tuck under the body, and the bed of the truck to open and take on the form of an aircraft tail section, complete with rocket engines - and even real fire." Giant robots piloting huge fire-breathing truck-planes? If this truly is a "Passport to the Future" as Honda claims, you can sign us up! Lots more pics in the gallery below, and a full seven-part, behind-the-scenes mini-documentary after the break.

i-Snake: yet another flexible surgical robot

2009-06-26T18:51:00.001-07:00

A robot that crawls through your innards? Yeah, we've been there, done that on a number of occasions, but a new alternative being developed by a team at Imperial College London could reportedly "revolutionize keyhole surgery." The aforementioned crew has been granted some £2.1 million ($4.19 million) in order to further develop the i-Snake, which is a "long tube housing special motors, sensors and imaging tools." Apparently, the creation would be used in heart bypass surgeries, to "diagnose problems in the gut and bowel" and to generally act as a surgeon's hands / eyes in hard to reach locales within the body. Per usual, we've no idea when it'll be ready for mainstream use, but hopefully the i-Snake will be slithering through citizens sooner rather than later.

Pleo goes under the knife in astonishingly long video

2009-06-26T18:50:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we gave you a plethora of hatching photos to ooh and ahh over when we received our first Pleo, but considering our inexplicable fear of needles and prehistoric blood, we never considered taking things any further. Apparently, the folks over at Pleo Dreams completely disregarded our recommendation to not de-skin the dinosaur, and proceeded to remove every square centimeter of Pleo's covering on video. Believe it or not, things get pretty interesting once the garb comes off, but you'll have to endure a near-24 minute clip in order to say you saw the entire procedure from start to finish. You ready? It's waiting after the break.

Continue reading Pleo goes under the knife in astonishingly long video

Dento-Munch will robotically eat you out of house and home

2009-06-25T19:10:00.003-07:00

Dental implant designers have a new test bed to pit their latest creations against, and its name is Dento-Munch. A massive lump of metal and human teeth analogues, the Munch (can we call you that, sir?) can process matter in a human-like simulation of wear and tear with a six-degree articulated lower jaw. All the while it's scanned in 3D by its Dento-OS software, making sure to pick up any irregularities and flaws occurring along the way. Think of it ultimate set of wind-up chattering teeth if you must, just hope that your old pal Dento-Munch isn't set loose on the support structures in your house, your next Thanksgiving dinner, or your soft, defenseless underbelly.

iRobot shows off PackBot 510 with FasTac Kit before delivery to the Army

2009-06-25T19:10:00.001-07:00

As Danger Room reports, iRobot's currently working hard to churn out the bots that'll form the so-called "robot surge" the Army has planned, but the company did recently take the time to show off the robot at the center of it all, an updated version of its standard PackBot dubbed the "PackBot 510 with FasTac Kit." This one's apparently smaller and lighter than the company's other battle-tested bots and, as you can see above, it's capable of performing some fairly impressive contortions (more pics are available at the read link below). That light weight and agility apparently make the bot ideal for infantry use, with it also able to identify roadside bombs and other IEDs and dispose of them accordingly. Still no home version though, although we're suppose a similar iRobot Create mod isn't entirely out of the question for the particularly skilled bot-builders out there.

[Photo courtesy of Danger Room]

WowWee introduces Mr. Personality, Rovio, and Flytech Bladestar

2009-06-25T19:09:00.004-07:00

WowWee's CES robot lineup is here, so let's get to it. First up, you've got the Flytech Bladestar, a slightly crazier take on the indoor RC flying gig actually intended for duels with friends. The Bladestart has two spinning wings and stabilizing rotors to keep it steady while aloft, as well as wall and ceiling IR sensors.

Rovio is a "home exploration and telepresence" robot (meaning it doesn't do very much), featuring WiFi, a remotely-controlled directional webcam capable of streaming audio and video, self-docking and recharging, and "NorthStar" AI navigation (which WowWee describes as a micro-GPS like system that makes Rovio aware of its surroundings with "pinpoint accuracy").

If neither of those caught your fancy, we think the ironically anthropomorphized Mr. Personality might meet you in the middle. Featuring an LCD facial readout, downloadable personalities (via USB and SD), Ruxpin-esque story and joke telling and "conversation", as well as the usual IR and audio sensors.

WowWee's Robotics lineup gets some new additions

2009-06-25T19:09:00.003-07:00

WowWee, your favorite neighborhood bot-makers, have busted out of the gate at CES this year with another handful of new automatons sure to please even the toughest of fans... probably. On tap for the 2008 lineup are the Tribot, a three-wheeled robot which sports "distinct expressions" and "animated eyebrows," and can be controlled via a tilt sensor remote. Also on tap is the Femisapien, the female counterpart to the company's terrifically popular Robosapien line. Other inclusions are Wrex the Dog, a (you guessed it) dog robot with "desires and distinct moods" (happy, angry, and... er, crazy), as well as the Chatterbot, robo-figurines that connect to your PC via USB and can interact with email, IM, and web browsing apps (annoyingly, we suspect). WowWee is also introducing a new IR controller, the RoboRemote, which lets you program and assign individual buttons for elicit activities with your Robosapien, Robosapien V2, and Roboreptile, amongst others. Seem like a lot? That's just the Robotics gang -- stay tuned for another batch of bots from the company's other lines.

Hands-on with WowWee Mr. Personality, Rovio, and Bladestar

2009-06-25T19:09:00.001-07:00

What can we say? WowWee knows how to build themselves some entertaining bots. Of the three though, the flying Bladestar tickled us the most fancy. Unlike that mini helicopter you likely unboxed during the holidays, the Bladestar is actually controllable and able to maintain proximity to its user instead of flying off props-first into the family portrait. The WiFi-enabled home exploration Rovio is a novel idea with that NorthStar navigation. A system which uses a projector to cast a pair of red spots on the ceiling which Rovio will use to calculate its way home. Add pet and you've got instant fun. The three-wheelin' Mr. Personality Tribot features a "Wii-like" remote control which can send the bot off like a typical RC car. Something we wanted to do after just a few seconds of its 10 minute program of inane chatter. Expect to see the Bladestar in Target stores (exclusively) around February for a reasonable $49, the Rovio by summer for $299, and Mr. ~~Annoying~~ Personality sometime this fall for $99. Plenty of video on the way in a few.

WowWee lets out Alive animal bots, Fun mini-bots

2009-06-25T19:08:00.004-07:00

WowWee continues its cuddly robo-assault today, backing up the revamped FlyTech and Robotics gear with the Alive Lion, a furry robo-pet with "lifelike responses." The Lion features realistic fur, an animated face, and several feline-like reactions, like going limp when picked up by the scruff of the neck and falling asleep when left alone for five minutes. The Lion should be shipping soon, but the entire Alive line will get bigger later this year with the addition of the Alive White Tiger Cub, the Alive Panda Cub, and the Alive Polar Bear Cub.

If you're not into cuddly, WowWee's got you covered with its new Fun series, which is comprised of several miniature Bug-Bots. Coming in several wheeled and treaded version, the bugs each have different particular skills, and touch sensors will enable several to interact as a swarm. In addition to the Bug-Bots, the Fun line will also include miniature versions of Wrex the Dawg, Tribot, and FemiSapien. Check 'em all out in the gallery!

Touch Bionics has i-LIMB bionic arm to go with your bionic hand

2009-06-25T19:08:00.003-07:00

The mad scientists from Touch Bionics are at it again. After delivering their i-LIMB bionic hand last year, they're moving on up the, uh ... body and are announcing their sophomore effort: the i-LIMB bionic arm. Like their bionic hand, the arm is controlled via learned muscle movements picked up by electrodes placed on the user's chest and is covered in a "realistic cosmetic skin." The only real problem with the i-Limb bionic arm isn't so much a problem in our books, as it is an advantage: it's stronger than your old-fashioned human arms. Of course, with that power comes a whole bunch of ethical and safety concerns. Is there an ethical problem with exacting revenge on that arm-breaking arm wrestling arcade game?

hanging with WowWee's WiFi-enabled Rovio

2009-06-25T19:08:00.001-07:00

Mahalo Daily's Veronica Belmont caught up with Davin Sufer, WowWee's CTO, for an up-close look at the new WiFi-enabled Rovio bot -- and it looks pretty sweet. Users control the Rovio through any browser, and the interface includes full-motion video from the built-in camera, which can be aimed up and down to eas navigation. Check the full video after the break!

Continue reading Video: hanging with WowWee's WiFi-enabled Rovio

Get your notifications from the Tux bot

2009-06-25T19:07:00.004-07:00

This bad boy's been floating around for a while, but those of you looking to hop on the secondary information device bandwagon but reluctant to purchase anything that doesn't loudly proclaim your love of Linux might want to check out the Tux Droid. The $99 wireless version of everyone's favorite mascot will alert you to nearly anything you want via an adorable combination of wing-flapping, dancing, spinning, and light-flashing, and the open-source codebase means that there's already quite a library of plugins besides the usual email and RSS monitors. Tux snags info from his included (ridiculous) USB fish transmitter, but he can also function as a VOIP phone, wireless speaker, and alarm clock -- and motion sensors mean you're also getting a guard penguin in the deal.

WowWee's Tribot comes alive on the small screen

2009-06-25T19:07:00.003-07:00

We're a little disappointed that we didn't get to see exactly how much personality WowWee's Mr. Personality had in him, but Mahalo Daily's Veronica Belmont scored some facetime with the Tribot, and we'll admit that his three-wheeled dancing moves are pretty impressive. Check the whole video after the break.

Continue reading Video: WowWee's Tribot comes alive on the small screen