Tag: Robotics

  • MIT Tech Enables Robots to See Through Walls Using Wi-Fi Signals

    MIT Tech Enables Robots to See Through Walls Using Wi-Fi Signals

    Key Takeaways

    1. MIT’s new imaging system, mmNorm, uses millimeter-wave signals to see through materials like cardboard and plastic, providing robots with ‘X-ray vision’.
    2. mmNorm represents a major advancement over traditional radar, allowing for detailed 3D reconstructions of hidden objects rather than just rough outlines.
    3. The system achieved 96% accuracy in reconstructing complex objects, significantly improving upon previous techniques.
    4. Potential applications include augmented reality for factory workers and improved airport security scanners for clearer imaging of concealed items.
    5. Ongoing research aims to enhance the system’s capabilities, particularly in seeing through metal and thick barriers.

    A new imaging system created at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) might soon provide robots with a type of ‘X-ray vision’. This innovative technology, named mmNorm, uses millimeter-wave (mmWave) signals, which are similar to those found in Wi-Fi and 5G, to look through materials like cardboard, plastic, and even interior walls. It can accurately reconstruct the shapes of objects that are not visible.

    Advancements Beyond Traditional Radar

    This marks a significant advancement over conventional radar systems, which can identify where an object is but only gives rough outlines. The team at MIT made a breakthrough by examining how surfaces bounce back wireless signals, much like a mirror reflects light. By capturing these reflections from various angles, their system can deduce the shape and position of an object’s surface, piece by piece. It then assembles this data to create a detailed 3D representation.

    Excitement Over New Insights

    This project signifies a big change in how we view these signals and the 3D modeling process. “We’re thrilled to see how the knowledge we’ve gathered here can have a wide-ranging effect,” stated Laura Dodds, the lead author of the research paper.

    In experiments, mmNorm achieved a remarkable 96% accuracy in reconstructing a variety of complex objects, including silverware and power tools, greatly surpassing earlier techniques. This technology has the potential to change the field of robotics and automation by enabling machines to not only detect objects inside a container but also to determine what they are, their position, and if they are damaged, all without needing to open the box.

    Future Applications

    Other possible uses for this technology include providing factory workers with augmented reality glasses that can showcase the internal parts of machines or improving airport security scanners to deliver clearer images of hidden items. Although the system is unable to see through metal or very thick barriers at this time, researchers are actively working to enhance its functionality.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Boston Dynamics Advances Atlas Robotics Development Progress

    Boston Dynamics Advances Atlas Robotics Development Progress

    Key Takeaways

    1. Boston Dynamics has introduced a new version of Atlas that does not use hydraulic power, addressing issues with leaks and maintenance costs from the previous model, Atlas HD.
    2. The new Atlas design allows for faster and more efficient movements, including 360-degree motion and the ability to walk backwards instead of turning around.
    3. Future applications for Atlas include roles in car manufacturing and other human workspaces, aiming to enhance productivity.
    4. Insights from practical uses of Atlas are helping to refine its functions as a working robot, similar to existing products like Spot and Stretch.
    5. Boston Dynamics is optimistic about integrating artificial intelligence to improve Atlas’ skill development in future applications.

    Almost one year since the introduction of the new Atlas, Boston Dynamics has shared a video showcasing significant advancements with the robot. In this latest update, the company elaborates on the capabilities of Atlas and discusses the benefits of shifting from the hydraulic-powered Atlas HD. Developers have described Atlas HD as “messy,” highlighting the high costs associated with the technology and its maintenance.

    New Features and Advantages

    The latest version of Atlas, which does not rely on hydraulics, has eliminated issues related to hydraulic fluid leaks that were common with Atlas HD. This new design allows the robot to operate more quickly and efficiently, thanks to its ability to perform numerous 360-degree movements without the limitations that come with human-like motion. For instance, instead of needing to turn around, the robot can simply walk backwards.

    Future Applications

    Boston Dynamics is committed to turning Atlas into a productive robot equipped with professional skills. In the future, Atlas is expected to assist in car manufacturing and will be implemented in workspaces that were originally meant for humans. It remains to be seen if Atlas will master the remarkable tasks that Atlas HD showcased over the years. Currently, there is a lack of a “fun video,” which has become a tradition for Boston Dynamics. Last year’s Halloween video featured Atlas sorting car parts for Hyundai, its owner.

    According to Boston Dynamics, insights from practical applications are aiding in refining Atlas’ function as a working robot. Products like Spot and Stretch are already available in the market. Additionally, the topic of artificial intelligence is addressed by Boston Dynamics, which expresses hope that AI will enhance Atlas’ skill development.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Foresees Popular Adoption of Humanoid Robots

    NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Foresees Popular Adoption of Humanoid Robots

    In a recent conversation, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang discussed his forward-looking perspective on the future, foreseeing a scenario where humanoid robots will soon become ubiquitous across different sectors, bringing about a significant transformation.

    Vision for Mainstream Humanoid Robots

    Huang highlighted that the production costs associated with humanoid robots are poised to be remarkably affordable, comparable to the pricing brackets of budget-friendly automobiles. He suggested a price span of $10,000 to $20,000 for these robots, aiming to make them widely accessible to a diverse consumer base.

    Potential Impact on Industries

    Drawing an analogy to the automotive realm, Huang underscored the adaptability and versatility that robots could offer within specific human-created environments. These robots are envisioned to tackle hazardous, repetitive, or monotonous tasks, ultimately boosting efficiency and safety within workplaces.

    Supporting Huang's perspective, Tesla CEO Elon Musk also mentioned that the manufacturing outlay for the humanoid robot, Optimus, is merely half of what is needed for Tesla electric vehicles. Musk envisioned an initial pricing strategy for Optimus ranging from $25,000 to $30,000, with anticipated price reductions over time.

    Technological Advancements by NVIDIA

    In line with their futuristic outlook, NVIDIA introduced Project GR00T, a foundational model tailored for humanoid robots, and launched Jetson Thor, a robust computing system specially crafted for these robots. Leveraging NVIDIA's Thor system-on-a-chip (SoC), Jetson Thor offers cutting-edge performance, energy efficiency, and a compact form factor, propelling the evolution of humanoid robotics.

    Moreover, NVIDIA's collaborations with prominent humanoid robot firms like 1X Technologies, Agility Robotics, and Boston Dynamics signify a concerted endeavor to build comprehensive AI frameworks for robotics.

    Empowering Developers and Robotics Advancements

    NVIDIA's enhancements to the Isaac platform empower developers to design and deploy sophisticated robots across various settings. Tools such as Isaac Lab for reinforcement learning and OSMO for compute orchestration facilitate the rapid enhancement of robotic capabilities. Furthermore, offerings like Isaac Manipulator and Isaac Perceptor provide pre-trained models and advanced features for robotic arms and self-governing mobile robots.

    Huang's visionary outlook, combined with NVIDIA's technological progress, paints a picture of a future where humanoid robots seamlessly integrate into our daily routines, reshaping industries and augmenting human capabilities.

    (source: NVIDIA)

    Tags: ,