New “traffic cop” algorithm helps a drone swarm stay on task
By keeping data fresh, the system could help robots inspect buildings or search disaster zones.
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Titanic robots make farming more sustainable
MIT alumnus-founded FarmWise uses autonomous machines to snip weeds while preserving crops, eliminating the need for herbicides.
Learning to compute through art
“Introduction to Physical Computing for Artists” at the MIT Student Art Association teaches students to use circuits, wiring, motors, sensors, and displays by developing their own kinetic artworks.
Robot armies duke it out in Battlecode’s epic on-screen battles
The long-running programming competition encourages skills and friendships that last a lifetime.
Custom, 3D-printed heart replicas look and pump just like the real thing
The soft robotic models are patient-specific and could help clinicians zero in on the best implant for an individual.
Nine from MIT named 2023 Sloan Research Fellows
Annual award honors early-career researchers for creativity, innovation, and research accomplishments.
Responsive design meets responsibility for the planet’s future
Senior Sylas Horowitz tackles engineering projects with a focus on challenges related to clean energy, climate justice, and sustainable development.
Learning challenges shape a mechanical engineer’s path
Recent alumnus James Hermus wants to help others overcome barriers to accessibility and full participation.
Inside two MIT students’ historic BattleBots runs
PhD students Lucy Du ’14, SM ’16 and Ginger Schmidt are crushing the competition — and gender barriers — in the world of televised robot combat.
Automating the math for decision-making under uncertainty
A new tool brings the benefits of AI programming to a much broader class of problems.
Engineers devise a modular system to produce efficient, scalable aquabots
The system’s simple repeating elements can assemble into swimming forms ranging from eel-like to wing-shaped.
Startups led by MIT mechanical engineers offer health care solutions
Companies founded by MechE faculty and alumni solve a variety of health care challenges, from better drug delivery to robotic surgery.
Sensing with purpose
Fadel Adib uses wireless technologies to sense the world in new ways, taking aim at sweeping problems such as food insecurity, climate change, and access to health care.
Using robotics to supercharge health care
Vecna Technologies, founded by a pair of MIT alumni, has followed a long and winding path to help people in health care settings.
How to push, wiggle, or drill an object through granular material
A method for quickly predicting the forces needed to push objects through "flowable media" could help engineers drive robots or anchor ships.