Tiny satellite tests autonomy in space
Lincoln Laboratory’s Agile MicroSat will be the first small satellite to demonstrate long-duration, low-altitude flight with autonomous maneuvering.
An automated way to assemble thousands of objects
A new algorithm for automatic assembly of products is accurate, efficient, and generalizable to a wide range of complex real-world assemblies.
Anticipating others’ behavior on the road
A new machine-learning system may someday help driverless cars predict the next moves of nearby drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians in real-time.
Slender robotic finger senses buried items
The technology uses tactile sensing to identify objects underground, and might one day help disarm land mines or inspect cables.
Toward deep-learning models that can reason about code more like humans
Researchers propose a method for finding and fixing weaknesses in automated programming tools.
A robot that senses hidden objects
System uses penetrative radio frequency to pinpoint items, even when they’re hidden from view.
Researchers’ algorithm designs soft robots that sense
Deep-learning technique optimizes the arrangement of sensors on a robot’s body to ensure efficient operation.
This 3D printer doesn’t gloss over the details
New system enables realistic variations in glossiness across a 3D-printed surface. The advance could aid fine art reproduction and the design of prosthetics.
3Q: Christine Walley on the evolving perception of robots in the US
Anthropologist touches on the history of tech-related job displacement and explores how other countries approach policies on robots, skills, and learning.
3 Questions: Frank Levy and Arshia Mehta on warehousing and trucking in response to Covid-19
Work of the Future research brief looks at changes in two supply-chain industries in the wake of the pandemic.
Intelligent Towing Tank propels human-robot-computer research
A novel experimental facility integrates automation and active learning, illuminating a path to accelerated scientific discovery.