Robots - Because humans deserve better.

Cooking Robots

2007-04-14T06:34:00.000+08:00

Considering the chances for home robots to reach a fundamental breakthrough on the mass market, an observation of the daily habits of people shows that the most time-consuming specifiable tasks in traditional housework are cleaning, washing, ironing and cooking. Most these tasks require quite a complicated navigation and they cannot be done properly and satisfyingly without very sophisticated mechanics. Cooking is a task performed in an environment which is very easy to define and it is already done with the help of technical equipment – which is therefore adjustable to the requirements of an assisting robot. A mass market for home robots – with a simply to build and therefore cheap product that gives the consumer a valuable benefit – could therefore be found exactly in this area.

Currently, there is already very advanced food processors like the Thermomix, which can chop, puree, blend and also steam and heat food.

But a substitute for a cook is not yet available on the market. Change just seems to be a question of prize: Chinese inventors from Fanxing Science and Technology Co. Ltd in Shenzhen have developed the AIC-AI, the first robot capable of cooking freshly prepared meals. It is programmed to prepare typical meals of the Sichuan, Shandong and Canton cuisines and able to perform steaming, baking, frying, boiling and sautéing. The prototype, which cost about 250,000 $, was presented in 2006 and is currently used as an attraction in the Hong Kong Robot Kitchen. Hopefully cheaper in serial production, the machine will be available already in this year and shall be sold to restaurants and later to consumers. Besides the attraction of the robot itself, especially fast-food restaurants could profit from a fast-working machine cooking complicated dishes in a standardized way.

The low flexibilty and the high prize of even this relatively simple machine might be reason for researchers and companies to still focus on the development of very complex service robots, which are able to undertake complete householding tasks and can therefore be of a real benefit to the customer.

Walther Schulze, NT061333Y

Further references:

Cocina Abierta (Spanish)

Foodmall

Security Home Robot from Korea

2007-04-11T17:05:00.000+08:00

A new sophisticated robot will be able to guard your home around the clock and keep you informed on what's happening in the house through your handset even when you are far away. The 50-centimeter tall and 12-kilogram machine was developed through partnerships with venture start-up Mostitech after years of intensive work. In case of emergencies, like fire or lethal gas leakage, the robot's sensors will detect any potential dangers and the camera-eyed robot will be programmed to snap pictures of the situation and send them with a message to a designated person's cell phone. Also, when unexpected visitors enter a home, the robot will transmit pictures of them coupled with contingency messages. To gather further information, the recipient can order the robot to survey the suspicious situation or persons through a cell phone or Internet. The battery-operated robot, which moves around on wheels and recharges itself when its batteries run low, will also function as a caretaker and house sitter for kids, as the robot can even read a book. This robots retails at $850, and this is relatively cheaper compared to its peers from Japan Wakamaru of Mitsubishi and Banryu of Sanyo. ( as their prices hover above $10,000 ) U03651U Chwa Hock Chuan Link : http://www.forbes.com/2005/07/25/cx_gd_0726featslide_2.html?thisSpeed=90000

Bionic Arm

2007-04-10T10:50:00.000+08:00

Man is one step closer to realizing a cyborg reality. Jesse Sulllivan and Claudia Michelle are the one of the world’s first non-fictional cyborgs. Both of them were equipped with a robotic arm after suffering from accidents resulting in the loss of their natural limbs. The groundbreaking bionic arm is a prototype developed at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago by Dr. Todd Kuiken. It differs from other assistive technology in that the robotic arm is not controlled by traditional interfaces such as switches and joysticks. The bionic arm instead uses the signals from the nerve endings in the arm to control its motion.

The bionic arm essentially gets myeoelectric signals from motor nerves of the arm as the robot motor inputs. This muscular electrical energy is captured from under the skin, using a bipolar setup with two stainless steel electrodes on multiple sites. The electrical signals thus acquired are then processed by a TI 64-bit DSP chip embedded within the arm. The chip controls the motors in the arm. This results in a seamless translation of a mental hand-open command to a robotic-arm hand-open command.

The prototype is also capable of sensory feedback. The Bionic Arm Team reports that initial experiments at sensory feedback including pressure and temperature have been successful. The team is however still in the process of quantifying these signals completely.

This technology has tremendous potential and has generated a lot of interest in rehabilitation and assistive robotics. The robotic arm is a synthesis of international components with a hand from China, wrist from Germany and a shoulder from Scotland. The prototype implants in Jesse Sullivan and Claudia Michelle both have been successful. The arm allows Jesse Sullivan to wear a hat, grip a pen, hold a cup, drink and execute multiple movements by simply think about it naturally. The prototype however, has some way to go before it sees more widespread adoption: cost is a big issue. A brighter future for the disabled is definitely on its way.

Bought to you by:

Harish Kumar Koundinya

U037793N

Resources:

Jesse Sullivan powers robotic arms with his mind, March 23, 2006 CNN

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Bionic Man

Jesse Sullivan, Robotic Arm Video

Claudia Mitchell, Wikipedia

Brain controls robot arm in monkey, University of Pittsburgh. February 2005

Robotic Home Invades Japan!

2007-04-09T02:21:00.000+08:00

When it comes to robotics, Japan never fails to amaze everyone. In a recent exhibition the University of Tokyo showcased a robotic "living room of the future," another example of plans to make robots part of daily life in Japan.

Equipped with sensors in the walls and floor in the living room, the movement of the users is tracked and responded. For an instance, when the user sits down by the desk, the robot lamp automatically swings over to illuminate the book..

A humanoid robot "HRP-2" pours tea from a bottle to a cup to serve for a guest during a demonstration at Tokyo University. Tokyo University Professor Tomomasa Sato developed the robot for daily housework.

Source : http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/robotics/

The hottest highlight in the exhibition is the robot valet. A modified version of AIST's Promet humanoid- it is not only capable of the automated pouring and serving of drinks, it can actually wash up afterward. Using cameras as eyes mounted on the head, the humanoid robot is able to perform the action of tea pouring and after the users has finished, and the humanoid robot picks it up and bring it for wash!!!.

Another wheel locomotion robot demonstrated was capable of delivering cup of tea in an experimental room that has sensors embedded in the floor and sofa as well as cameras on the ceiling, to simulate life with robot technology.

The robotic home aims at catering for rapid aging societies such as Japan and hopes to lead the world in the designing of robots to care for the elderly, sick and bedridden.

It is interesting to note how the Japanese are trying to infuse the daily life with robots. These robots are not only capable of performing various task, other aspects in terms of physiological and physical are take into consideration. The development of human-looking robots with humanity expression and shows how much fine details work had been progress in the area of robotics.

It would not be long when robots are a part of our daily life.

Ng Buck Sin U046233B

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17383772/ http://www.tmz.com/2007/03/02/robot-maids-invade-japan/

My Spoon

2007-04-08T01:37:00.000+08:00

U036584N Wu Zhenyu This is one of the latest inventions in assistive robotics - My Spoon, a meal assistance robot which helps people with disabilities to eat. This robot is developed to assist patient with spinal cord injury or other diseases which results in the inability to move his arms, to have a proper meal. One of the main components of My Spoon is the Manipulator Arm. It is the part that performs all the action and feeds the user with food. One end of the Manipulator Arm is connected to the End-Effector, which can be connected with a spoon or fork. The other end of the Manipulator Arm is linked to the Base Unit, on top of which the Manipulator Arm is positioned. The Base Unit is also connected to a Operating Interface, which is used by the user to operate the robot. There are different choices for the Operation Interface. One is the joystick, for those who can operate it with fingers. For people who have problems operating with joystick, he can choose to operate it through buttons. This robot may looks a little simple, but it won the Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) "Robot of the Year for 2006" contest. In fact it does make sense as being able to eat is the basic element of social independence. A person could enjoy a meal properly and happily with his family or friends without external help. This would be essential in helping the patient to regain confidence in life. Reference:

My Spoon

HERTI spy-plane

2007-04-07T04:13:00.000+08:00

HERTI spy-plane Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have been the new development in terms of military surveillance, allowing a pilot-less insertion of an aerial vehicle into enemy territory for purposes of collecting data, or simply maintaining the security of a country’s own air space. UAVs are traditionally using remote control, requiring the “pilot” with the control console to have certain skills and abilities to launch, fly and land the UAV. In recent developments, UAVs are moving towards semi-autonomous and even fully autonomous operating conditions. Semi-autonomous UAVs require a pilot to launch the UAV after which it can be programmed to fly on auto-pilot beyond the radio’s range or out of the line-of-sight of the pilot on the ground. A fully autonomous UAV will be able to launch, fly and then land all by itself in a pre-programmed flight path. The HERTI is one such UAV, developed by BAE Systems. HERTI, otherwise known as “High-Endurance Rapid Technology Insertion” is capable of conducting various reconnaissance missions for up to 25 hours, and boasts of new technology such as a collision avoidance system, which comprises of a radar and electro-optic sense-and-avoid system. It also has an “Autosoar” system, which gives it the ability to detect thermals on which the UAV is able to climb on, thereby giving it an extended operating range and time. U048804B Oh Yide Andre

The Da Vinci of our Era - Only the fast gets to comment

2007-04-06T21:43:00.000+08:00

Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) refers to any form of surgery that works through small incisions. Here’s the thing about small incisions: it hurts less, results in fewer complications (and hence, less scarring), and most importantly, the usage of unsightly plasters can be avoided. The benefits of having MIS are obvious but it has its share of detractors too.

Firstly, surgeons are human beings, so it is just not possible for them to suddenly know how to perform MIS. It takes an extremely long time for them to learn the techniques of MIS. Secondly, surgeons lose tactile sensation when performing MIS. Thirdly, the instruments and angles in which MIS can be performed are seriously limited. There is probably nothing we can do about the first problem. As for the latter two problems, the solution lies in the field of robotics.

Much research is currently being put in the Da Vinci surgical system. Its purpose is as follows:

To restore tactile sensation

To restore dexterity

These can be achieved through a force feedback system.

Also, the Da Vinci surgical system is able to mimic the actions of the surgeon’s hands. Natural movements by a surgeon’s hands will be translated to precise micro-movements by “motion scaling” software. Essentially, this means that there are now fewer risks involved in surgery that requires extreme precision such as nerve repair. The reduction in risks is due to the fact that unlike the Da Vinci system, hands of a human surgeon will suffer from tremors as adrenaline courses through his veins.

If you have issues with having a robot operate on your body, I have this to say to you, “Just sign the indemnity form and let the doctors do what needs to be done! You wouldn’t know the difference anyway since you’ll be unconscious from the general anesthesia!”

On a more serious note, let it be known that Drs. David Yuh and Allison Okamura at Johns Hopkins are working very diligently to implement sensory feedback capabilities on the Da Vinci system.

I wish, for the sake of mankind, that they succeed.

Brought to you by, Nicholas Koh (U045902U)

References:

MINIMAL ACCESS SURGERY

NEW YORK PRESBYTARIAN HOSPITAL

ROBOT-ASSISTED MINIMALLY-INVASIVE CARDIAC SURGERY AT JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL

Pictures taken from:

ROBOT-ASSISTED MINIMALLY-INVASIVE CARDIAC SURGERY AT JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL

Wakamaru

2007-04-06T20:29:00.000+08:00

Wakamaru is a Japanese domestic robot made by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, primarily intended to provide companionship to elderly and disabled people. The robot is yellow, 100 cm tall, and weights 30 kilograms. It has two arms and its flat, circular base has a diameter of 45 cm. The first hundred went on sale in September, 2005, for USD $14,000.

Wakamaru runs a Linux operating system on multiple microprocessors. It can connect to the Internet, and has limited speech (in both male and female voices) and speech recognition abilities. Functions include reminding the user to take medicine on time, and calling for help if it suspects something is wrong.

The robot has the potential to replace a human caretaker in Japan, where robotic technology is embraced and the graying of the population has left many young people wondering who will care for their parents.

Its 3-foot-tall frame contains an integrated cell phone that is programmed to call emergency dispatchers automatically if a problem occurs with a patient. An embedded Web camera lets doctors and family members keep an eye on the patient at all times. Speech-recognition software and a built-in dictionary provide the robot's vocabulary.

Wakamaru is so robust that he or she -- Mitsubishi can give the robot either a male or female voice -- can be programmed to remind patients to take their medicine and even call a doctor when it appears that someone is in distress.

Khoo Yuan Jin
U036997M
Home Site:

http://www.mhi.co.jp/kobe/wakamaru/english/index.html (English)

http://www.mhi.co.jp/kobe/wakamaru/know/index.html (Japanese)

Patrolbot

2007-04-06T19:58:00.000+08:00

As technology improves by leaps and bouinds, the world is seen to move into a new era where robotics is becoming a very huge part of our lives, from education to entertainment and especially security and surveillance. Scores of companies are going into the field of inventing robots for security. One such company is MobileRobots Incorporated,formally known as ActivMedia.MobileRobots Incorporated has come up with a programmable autonomous general purpose robot named PatrolBot. PatrolBot is a versatile robot that moves on wheels and will be able to do the following tasks. It will be able to tighten the security of premises and valuables, monitor potential hazards to a particular site and document problems not visible to normal security cameras. Patrolbot can be controlled remotely from a computer or it can be programmed to follow a pre-determined route. Patrolbot also has robotic visual sensors and cameras that will enable it to read from dials 20 feet away. It also has a microphone and speaker system that will enable the Patrolbot to communicate with a person. Hence, in this way the controller will not be put in harms way. The Patrolbot will also be able to pick up small objects and deliver them to locations as specified by the controller. Patrolbot is a novel innovation and it helps us alleviate the need to train security personnel for a specific job. All that needs to be done is to reprogram the software for a particular task. Moreover, a robot doesn’t suffer from fatigue as humans do and hence Patrolbot will be more efficient than human security personnel. Reference: 1.http://www.mobilerobots.com/PatrolBot.html 2.http://www.activrobots.com/BldgPropty/patrolbot.html Sivagami A U037814E

Honda Humanoid Robot Asimo

2007-04-06T19:37:00.000+08:00

Asimo is the product of Honda’s challenge for a new type of mobility, to walk with two legs. And the reason behind it? So that the robot can move in all types of terrain. Its designers has believed that with a enhanced mobility, it can serve its purpose of helping humans better. It is the built by Honda with the hope of making a truly useful humanoid robot which possesses both intelligence and physical capabilities at a high level. Built to work in a real world, the 34 servomotors embedded in the robot allow a whopping 34 degrees of freedom. With these degrees of freedom, it is capable of many actions, like reach for things, pick things up, navigate along floors, sidewalks, and even climb stairs - very much like what a human can do. Not to forget all the powerful sensors built into the robot to help it recognize voices and human faces. The Asimo is also able to use its ‘camera eyes’ to map its environment and register stationary objects, helping it to avoid obstacles. And with the new Asimo, which was introduced back in 2005, it is now able to accomplish even more advanced tasks such as walking with a person while holding hands, pushing a cart and even serving drinks on a tray! Looking at the progress Honda has made, it would not be long before we can have a humanoid robot which can act as maid, a receptionist, or even as a worker! By U036419B Jway Kim Soon

The MS DanceR

2007-04-06T18:58:00.000+08:00

The Dance Partner Robot, MS DanceR (Mobile Smart Dance Robot) was founded by Kazuhiro Kosuge and ZhiDong Wang at the Tohuku University of Japan, Department of Bioengineering and Robotics. As the name implies, this robot is specialized in ballroom dancing. The dance partner robot (female) has been installed with an omni-directional base in order to enable it to carry out basic dance steps. The MS DanceR has been recognized as one of the 100 Best Inventions of 2005. With human-robot interaction as the base foundation of this concoction, MS DanceR uses the Body Force Sensor (force/torque sensor) to realize the human force and “react” accordingly. The ballroom dancing robotic system has been chosen as an application to research on by the Tohuku University due to the complexities involved in the implementation and the various considerations that have to be taken into account. This research has generated new dimensions to the field of human-robot interaction. The robot plays the role of the female dancer. Normally, in ballroom dancing the lead would be the male and the female counterpart would have to react to each step appropriately. Hence, the robot senses the steps through physical interaction with the human, anticipates and estimates the step and generates the corresponding output step. The control systems consist of the Omni-directional base, Body Force Sensor, Body Frame, Controller and Batteries. The Omni directional base allows multidirectional orientation of the robot. The Body Force Sensors are situated in various places in the robot such that it can detect pressure applied to its arms and back so that it can constantly anticipate it’s human partner’s next step. It is also equipped with memory that contains five basic steps required to dance the Waltz. Rajalakshmi Raghavan (U036804N) http://www.ieee-icit.info/figs/12.pdf http://www.ieee-ras.org/news/robots.php?news=archive#16

Hybrid Remotely Operated Vehicle For Deep Sea Exploration

2007-04-06T17:54:00.000+08:00

The first humans to venture into deep sea exploration were Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh in 1960.They were the first humans to touch the bottom of Challenger Deep, a underwater trench with a depth of 10924m. After that no one, man or machine has scaled such depths.Researchers at the Deep Submergence Laboratory at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Johns Hopkins University have been developing a vehicle called Hybrid Remotely Operated Vehicle(HROV) that will enable scientists to perform photography,biological sampling and topographical mapping of the world's deepest underwater trench, the Challenger Deep.

The Hybrid vehicle can either be controlled form the surface of the water by a controller or it can be programmed to do a variety of tasks autonomously.The HROV will be using a micro-cable that will enable the vehicle to go deeper without the drag of heavier cables. The HROV can also run for 36 hours on batteries only.

The HROV's first scientific mission is planned for 2008 and one of the first missions for the HROV is to obtain data from the Mariannas Trench that will enable scientists to learn more about the mantle how much the mantle is interacting with respect to the oceanic lithosphere.

The HROV will be able to withstand pressure from 11000m of water with the help of a state of the art ceramic material. It is highly dangerous to send humans to such depths for fear of implosions.

The HROV is a very advance robot and it will greatly help us understand the life and geography of the deep oceans.

References:

(1)http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/3373511.stm

(2)http://www.whoi.edu/sbl/liteSite.do?litesiteid=1810

Prakash S/O Yanaprakasam

U036229B

Third generation security robot

2007-04-06T17:46:00.000+08:00

ROBART III is the third generation security robots with addition of threat-response capability to the detection and assessment features, which has drawn tremendous military interest in Law Enforcement and Operations Other Than War. There are three subsystems employed on ROBART III according to their purpose and functionalities: (1) mobility and navigation; (2) threat detection and assessment; (3) non-lethal response; and (4) high level control. Each of these will be briefly discussed below.

1. Mobility And Navigation ROBART III is designed only for indoor operation on relatively smooth planar floor surfaces. Differential steering is employed with a single passive caster in the rear of the platform directly behind the battery compartment. The left and right drive wheels are 8-inch wheelchair snow tires (see Figure 1) driven by a pair of 12-volt motors.

2 Threat Detection And Assessment The initial detection is accomplished by a 360-degree staring array of eight passive-infrared (PIR) motion detectors arranged as a collar ring just below the head. The head could detect any alarm zone and a black-and-white video surveillance camera would survey the scene. Subsequent motion is detected with a reconfigurable video line digitizer. There are additional head-mounted security sensors support the intelligent security assessment algorithm in rejecting nuisance alarms

3 Non-Lethal Response The non-lethal-response weapon chosen for incorporation on ROBART III consists of a pneumatically powered dart gun capable of firing a variety of 3/16-inch diameter projectiles, including tranquilizing darts. A rotating-barrel arrangement (Figure 2) is incorporated to allow for multiple firings (six) with minimal mechanical complexity.

4 High Level Control The seven low-level microprocessor-based controllers installed on ROBART III will be interfaced via a high-speed multi-drop RS-232 interface as slaves to a master 68HC11 controller.

In summary, ROBART III incorporates a non-lethal response capability into a body of robotic mobility, navigation, and threat detection and assessment techniques. The system will be able to confront intruders with a laser-sighted six-barrel tranquilizer dart gun, remotely controlled by a human operator. The system simplifies the operator's difficult coordination task of simultaneously controlling vehicle movement and attitude, pointing the camera, and aiming and firing the weapon. This will be accomplished by onboard intelligence which uses the inputs of various sensors including video motion detection to detect intruders, filter out false alarms, and automatically track a moving target.

U037130N, Li Chao

Reference: http://www.nosc.mil/robots/land/robart/spie96.html

Parallel Link Robot -- Fanuc F-200iB

2007-04-06T16:25:00.000+08:00

The F-200iB robot has been developed by FANUC Robotics North America, Inc. It is a parallel link, servo-driven robot with six degrees of freedom, and it is made to be used in a variety of manufacturing and automotive assembly processes. F-200iB is not only powerful and compact, but also has extreme rigidity and exceptional repeatability. Hence, it can be used for material removal, compact robot welding, vehicle lift and locate, pedestal welding, part loading, tool/part manipulation and flexible/convertible fixturing. Parallel link robots are less affected by most of factors that reduce accuracy, because they have a closed, truss-like structure in which the end-effector is connected to the base by six independent kinematic legs that operate in unison. Moreover, the low deformation of the legs makes the F-200iB better for drilling, milling, and holecutting in harder materials like steel, aluminum, and gray iron.

The F-200iB is available in single- or dual-arm configurations. The dual-arm configuration adds a second, independently controlled, robotic arm to the same rail. The robot can load and unload the engine blocks and manipulate them precisely, by using a simulated horizontal-spindle machine center. It is very dexterous, since it can move both blocks through a series of complex motions as it exchanges a finished block for a raw block inside the machine center during the machine load/unload cycle.

In conclusion, F-200iB is an ideal solution for large material handling applications with heavy payloads.

U037157M Yi Jinzhou

References:

http://news.thomasnet.com/fullstory/14788/2328

http://www.sme.org/cgi-bin/find-articles.pl?&ME06ART64&ME&20060917&PUBME-142.137.41.83&SME

http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/09-03-2002/0001793248&EDATE=

Cleanroom Robots

2007-04-06T16:13:00.000+08:00

Basic Description The LR Mate 200iB and M-6iB are the latest generation FANUC cleanroom robots.The LR Mate 200iB and M-6iB are six-axis, modular construction, AC electric servo-driven robots. They are optimized for operation in sensitive, contamination-controlled environments and occupy minimal floor space. Designed for superior performance in manufacturing and lab applications, both robots provide high throughput, industry-leading reliability, and sophisticated motion control for gentle part handling. Unlike “canister” form factor robots, the LR Mate 200iB and M-6iB can move along three-dimensional curved paths and approach any position from virtually any direction. Both models and their predecessors have an installed base in the tens of thousands. The Solutions for: 1． Material handling 2． Machine tending 3． Assembly 4． Clean injection mold extraction 5． Dispensing Industries served 1． Semiconductor 2． Magnetic media (hard drives, audio/videotapes) 3． Optical media (CDs, DVDs) 4． Laboratory automation 5． Medical devices 11．Pharmaceuticals 12．Clean plastics http://www.fanucrobotics.com/24,1369,Robots+by+Application.html ---By U036546A Wu Lihua

Reflecting Intelligence

2007-04-06T15:30:00.000+08:00

For ages, the buzz word has been on abaout innovation, technology and the collaboration of these two to reflect intelligence in every walk of life. With IT software on one side and medicine on the other as the only 2 way streamlining processes that the student community flocks to, what is the one commonality that can still bridge the gap?, I wonder. I have the answer right here: Medical Robots, their invention and continued contribution. The first ever ‘heart bypass surgery’ was performed by 2-ft.-long robotic hands at Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus. The metallic limbs enter the patient's body through the narrow gaps between the ribs, cutting holes no bigger than a nickel. However, this robot, a Da Vinci model as they call it, made by Intuitive Surgical of Mountain View, Calif. does not have a mind of its own. It stays controlled by professional doctors who use a console that looks very similar to that of a video gaming board says Dr. Randall Wolf. Now George Mylonas of Imperial College London has developed motion compensation software that should allow the robotic surgeon to compensate for the motion of the beating heart, and operate on the organ without stopping it first. Robotic surgeons may seem like science fiction, but they have become a regular feature at operation theatres especially North America. Prostate cancer surgery is benefiting immensely from robotic surgeons, since the robots are more precise in nerve-sparing, allowing men to retain important functions of elimination control and sexual performance that can easily be lost when performed by a human surgeon. In conclusion, to remove some biased opinions if there are, I wish to remind the people who read this blog that the brains behind each of the inventions are still human. However, it does a lot of good to put it all into one robot whose efficiency, speed, and output overdo the capability of the whole human race. Call it artificial intelligence. Call it virtual human. Call it what you want. I call it evolution of a new kind.

Balasubramanian Prasanna [U0405872] u0405872@nus.edu.sg

References: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ http://www.machinebrain.com/General_Robotics/Medical_Robots/ http://www.ai.mit.edu/research/abstracts/abstracts2000/medrobots.shtml

Picture Source: http://www.whatsnextnetwork.com/ http://www.news.uns.purdue.edu

Disneyland enjoys robotic revolution

2007-04-06T15:21:00.000+08:00

Any discussion of entertainment robots has to include Disney. They have been doing entertainment robots as long as anyone and they do them quite well. With dancing bears and singing pirates Disney's imagineers have created thousands of robots. The robot shown in the picture is used since August, 2003. It is a robot dinosaur named Lucky. He walks on his two back legs and pulls a very large cart of "silk flowers". Really the cart is full of batteries. Even Disney has not figured-out the battery issue that plagues mobile robots. This was the only way they could get enough battery life for the robot to spend a meaningful amount of time wandering the amusement part. In recent years, Disneyland Park has also improved on their robot team by importing one of the world’s most advanced humanoid robots – ASIMO, produced by Honda. Comparing to the old dinosaur robot, ASIMO is much more intelligent as it can perform tasks including walking forward and backward, climbing and descending a flight of stairs and taking direction from a person. This is the robot designed for homes usage in future. It has two arms and two hands, which makes tasks such as reaching for and grasping objects, switching lights on and off, or opening and closing doors much easier compare to previous versions. And it has improved on the battery problem as power supply can last longer. We can expect widely application of similar robots in Disneyland while robots will be designed in those popular figures and identities. referrence: http://www.learnaboutrobots.com/entertainment.htm by Yang Kai, U036508R

Vision-based mobile robot for autonomous exploration

2007-04-06T15:01:00.000+08:00

Recently, most mobile robots have to use laser sensor to perceive their surrounding environment. It is true that laser is quite accurate for the robots to measure the distance to the objects so that they can navigate and map the dynamic environments. However, when the object is very large, laser sensor could not detect the whole object. Stereo vision can solve the problem that laser sensor has by capturing the image data and measuring the distance to the object at the same time. The image data can be used for localization and recognition of object and people. The reasons for not using the stereo vision are: the computers were not fast enough to process the data; the algorithms to make the computer vision work were not developed. Now, the faster development in computer vision has made it possible to construct the visually guided mobile robots. For instance, Rob Sim and his colleagues at the University of British Columbia, Canada, have developed such a robot that can estimate its location and map the environment. Last summer, Rob has demonstrated that his robot can autonomously explore a large office-like environment and correctly identify the position as well as construct the occupancy grid map. On the top are the sample image of the office and occupancy grid map. We can see that the occupancy grid map constructed from the robot’s exploration with grid resolution 0.01m by 0.01m per pixel can accurately captures the topology of the environment. The cluttered regions are corresponding to the office chairs and other furniture. Reference: http://www.cs.duke.edu/researchers/artificial_intelligence/papers/Sim06.pdf Liu PengYin U037121E

Nuvo

2007-04-06T14:39:00.000+08:00

39cm in height and 2.5Kg in weight, Nuvo is a small and light home-use-type humanoid robot aimed being marketed as a daily life companion. With 15 degrees of freedom (6 for each leg, 1 for each shoulder and 1 for the head), this small robot can dance, talk, play music, tell time, click pictures and even shake your hand. Nuvo is also equipped with joint angle sensors, rate gyro sensor and acceleration sensors to allow ZMP calculation and proper balancing. The infra-red sensors give feedback of the surroundings and saves the robot from banging into dead-ends. It is capable of walking at a speed of 3 metres a minute, can balance over a variety of terrains and can even stand up from a fallen position. Nuvo's features don't just stop at walking, but it is also programmed to respond to a variety of voice commands from its owner. If you ask Nuvo to shake your hand it will walk over to you, and reach out its hand for you to shake. If you want it to move forward, you simply tell it to do so and it responses by walking forward with smooth human-like motion. You can also ask Nuvo to give you the time, play your favourite music or even take pictures for you with it's built in camera. The Nuvo robot has been branded as a 'home robot', not only capable of entertaining you, but also of keeping an eye on your home when you are out, or even as a mobile baby monitor, by relaying pictures to your mobile phone on command via the internet using the IEEE802.11b wireless lan. It is has also been labeled as a home companion of sorts, offering a degree of verbal communication back to its owner through the pre-programmed female voice built in, as well as responding to commands in a similar way to a dog or a cat.
Post by: Nitin Batra U048708Y

ASTRO, The Satellite Repairing Robot

2007-04-06T14:32:00.000+08:00

ASTRO is a satellite repairing robot which is launched by DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Project). ASTRO is formed by a pair of satellite and it is designed such that they can patch up other satellite without the guidance of human being. ASTRO relies on its integrated GPS and laser sensor to do its repairing task. Once ASTRO is docked with the targeted ailing satellite, ASTRO will use a 10-foot robotic arm to fill the satellite with fuel and make repairs. Besides that, another mission of ASTRO other than repairing the satellite is providing an orbital boost to the satellite as to allow the recon satellites to maintain position longer.

The introduction of this robotic satellite repairing system eases the job of satellite repairing. However, this robotic system is still under testing. If this system is proved to be stable, there is not needed for astronauts to risk their life in repairing satellite or even spacecraft anymore. ASTRO don't need any interaction with human unless there's a problem with the sensors, passive detection systems, and computer software requiring mission control to intervene.

In my opinion, by improving this satellite repairing robot and minimize its size, astronauts can even carrying them on the spacecraft and use this repairing robot when necessary.

Reference [1]http://www.japan.engadget.com/2007/03/09/autonomous-repair-robots-launched-into-space/ [2]http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/robots/astro-becomes-first-robotic-satellite-repair-man-243532.php

Yong See Wei U048661X

The NACHI Robot. Unfashionable? Think again

2007-04-06T14:03:00.000+08:00

Done by Thulasy Suppiah U037823N

In this Video, an apt example of how the NACHI robots work in a sealing process is shown. Towards the end, the video will show a pretty cool clip of how two NACHI robots cooperate to perform the sealing procedure. One robot holds up the object, manipulating it seamlessly by rolling and pitching it at all kinds of angles so that the other NACHI can apply the sealant. The NACHI may not look as fashionable as some of the robots shown in other posts, or do cool things like surgery and dance to tunes... BUT having been in Engineering for 4 years now and knowing how difficult coding and programming can be, I could not help but marvel at how these instruments behave so naturally and precisely..all of it owing to some really cool programming/coding. Awesome stuff really. The sealing process is essentially a process of applying a form of air-tight, fluid-tight sealant or bonding chemicals to, say, a glass window so that it will adhere to an automobile's frame. All of this of course will be carried out in the assembly line as the frame progresses from one stage of production to another. If the process were to be carried out by humans, time would be an expensive consequence. Owing to the fact that human error can never be eliminated even in the best of conditions, a lot of residue (sealant, chemicals) may also result. Automating the process will eliminate resource wastage as well reduce the assembly time by a huge amount. This is why robotic systems are favoured so that the sealing process can be streamlined and perfect the application quality everytime the process is carried out.

The NACHI is an example of an industrial robot that can be deployed in sealing procedures. It is a typical six-axis robot, like most industrial robots, and has up to six-degress of freedom in terms of movement. These movements are possible because the robot has six independent joints in addition to cylindrical pistons that act as springs, thus enabling it to counter balance against gravity. This means the robot is able to lift heavy loads. The robot is also able to manipulate and place loads in any location in 3D-space(x-, y- and z- coordinates) as well as orient it in a specific fashion (roll, yaw, pitch for example).

References: [1] http://www.industrial-robots.com/sealing.htm

[2] http://www.learnaboutrobots.com/industrial.htm

[3] http://youtube.com/watch?v=G3vRAxN5Ah0

Nuclear Robots

2007-04-06T12:47:00.000+08:00

Control and maintenance of equipment in nuclear industries must be carried out to precision as a small incident could have far reaching consequences due to the volatile nature of nuclear technology. Thus robotic systems are used in nuclear industries. They shorten the mean time for to repair, by reducing response time to failures. There is no necessity for the suiting up of the “repair squad.” There is a reduction to health risks since human exposure is reduced while improving safety because robots are able to perform operations with consistency and without human error. Maintenance can take place during operations, instead of halting operation in the instance of an incident. This also makes the use of robotics in this industry is very cost effective, as the robot may pay for itself during one single application by preventing shutdown of a facility.The figure shows a robotic devices deployed to retrieve waste at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. There are several features required for maintenance in the nuclear industry. Due to low frequency of operation, a particular machine should be able to do a wide variety of tasks, to remain cost effective. Due to the layout of nuclear facilities, maintenance and repair require a fair level of dexterity. The uncertain impact of failure caused by the hazardous nature of the environment, leads us to the conclusion that a tele-operated robot would not just be advantageous, it would be essential. Thus robots are used for the following purposes: Operation and maintenance of industrial nuclear facilities and laboratories, maintenance in nuclear reactors, decommissioning and dismantling nuclear facilities, and lastly emergency intervention. T. Ranjan U036030X http://www.cs.utk.edu/~parker/publications/Handbook99.pdf

Mainstream Assistive Robotics for the less-abled

2007-04-06T12:30:00.000+08:00

We often see disabled people as dependent on society and the people around them for help with simple everyday activities that we take for granted. However, I deeply feel that they possess a mental strength and courage that we cannot even begin to appreciate as we do not fully understand the trials that they go through everyday. Many disabled people are sharp, energetic and full of life, but sadly limited to their physical conditions.

With the use of assistive technology, a difference can be made to help them re-gain their functional independence, self respect and greater acceptance in society, so that they too have the opportunity to lead lives as fulfilling and exciting as anyone else. Assistive technology also makes good economic sense as it helps to reduce the need for expensive human aid and informal care for such simple tasks as preparing meals, opening doors, performing simple household chores and even shopping.

Exact Dynamics, a company based in the Netherlands, has been producing and selling an Assistive Robotic Manipulator (ARM) that can be mounted on wheelchairs and used by less-abled people. Using a combination of a joystick and a keypad, the user can control the ARM to perform a variety of tasks ranging from simple ones such as opening doors and cupboards to high-precision tasks such as pouring milk, drawing and even playing musical instruments.

With such technology to aid these disabled people, they can now live independently at home without the need for a nanny. The ARM functions as a virtual replacement of their hand and they can perform simple tasks around the house.

Even when they are outdoors, they are functionally independent and can get to enjoy life as well as everyone else. This truly is a piece of enabling technology that has the capacity to greatly improve the lives of many disabled people around the world.

More images from source website can be found here

U037779R, Han Mingding

Shadow Robot Hand

2007-04-06T06:34:00.000+08:00

The Shadow robot hand is considered as one of the most advance robot hand in the world. Currently it can handle up to 24 types of movement which makes it a perfect solution for the disabled. It can hold a light bulb or a tomato, it also can write using a pen. In general, it is very skillful in physical movement or so called dexterous for such an artificial hand. By using 40 integrated air muscles, the hand can grasp soft and fragile object. The air muscle is a small actuator which is powerful and easily controllable. It behaves in a very similar way to a biological muscle. When actuated with a supply of compressed air, they contracted by up to 40% of its' original length. The force it provides decreases as it contracts and the first few percent of the contraction is very powerful. It also can be fitted with touch sensor at the fingertips which provide sufficient sensing ability to detect event a small coin. These air muscles provide the hand with many compliant movements. Following the biologically-inspired design principle, tendons couple the air muscles to the joints. Integrated electronics at the base of the hand system drive the pneumatic valves for each muscle and also manage corresponding muscle pressure sensors. Three modes of actuation are used in the Hand system. An opposing pair of muscles permits full control and variable compliance of the movement for most joints. Conditionally-coupled drive is used for the Middle and Distal phalanges of the fingers to produce human movement characteristics. The form factor of the hand is that of a typical human male, and the weight is around 3.9 kg, which is quite heavy for normal user. This is because the hand is a combination of metal and plastic. Currently it is being used mainly for researching purpose however, applying this type of hand into rehabilitation and assistive technology is a a very promising possibility in the future. References: The Shadow Robot Hand http://www.shadowrobot.com/ U037846R - Phan Tien Khoi

Bomb-sniffing Robots for military use

2007-04-06T02:28:00.000+08:00

The growing technology has caused the increase in the use of robots in military. Fido robot, a product by iRobot Corporation, is capable of "sniffing" or detecting bombs. U.S. makes use of Fido robot in Iraq to minimize the US troops casualties in Iraq which is mainly caused by bombs. In fact, more than 70 % of U.S. casualties are due to bombs. Currently, there are approximately 5000 robots in Iraq and Afghanistan. They are used to search for bombs inside caves, buildings, mines, roads, and cars. Besides the bomb-sniffing sensors, video cameras which are able to zoom and swivel are installed in Fido robot where it sends the image captured to the operator. By using this information, the operator then controls and commands the robot. Fido robot is also equipped with 7-foot manipulator arms which are useful to scan quite a long range of certain location like undercarriage of vehicles. At the end of the manipulator arms, the grippers are designed similar to humanoid hand so that the robot can disable or destroy bombs. By having these robots in war places like Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S casualties due to bombs can be reduced. The robots can be used to check ambiguous situations like abandoned cars or suspicious trash piles, so that there is no need to put soldiers' lives on the line. However, the sniffing-sensors are still susceptible to false positives which are usually caused by explosive residues, smoke and other contaminants. Nevertheless, reports by CNN show that since the robots arrived, no one has been hurt or killed when disarming the bombs. Personally I believe that Fido robot is very useful in a sense that it minimizes the casualties caused by bombs. However, this actually gives us the idea that it is possible that future wars can utilize robots as "killing machine". In fact, robots were already used to shoot and kill during recent Iraq's war until now. The name of the robot is Swords robot. They are controlled by the operator up to a mile away. By having cameras, laser sighting, thermal and night-vision sensors, they are much faster than any humans, and shoot with accuracy almost 100%. This definitely breaks the first robotic law which is "A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm:. Therefore, stricter international rules and regulations are needed so that the laws of robotic can be fully enforced. References:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/03/30/robot.warriors.ap/index.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4199935.stm
Iraq's Robot Invasion U037052H - Osbert Poniman

Guitar Heronoid

2007-04-06T01:41:00.000+08:00

Guitar Hero is a popular rhythm game on the PlayStation 2 that was a hit and spawned several sequels. The players were able to rock to some of the most famous rock songs in the game by pressing the correct button and strumming the fret as the notes hit the line. It was customary for big groups of friends to play together until someone decided that it's now time for robots to rock to the groove!

Rafael Mizrahi and Tal Chalozin from GarageGeeks embarked on a project to create a robot that can play Guitar Hero. GarageGeeks is a registered group in Isreal that provides a space for like minded people to network and socialize together to brainstorm and realize imaginative non-commercial projects.

According to the creators, the robot was separated into two distinct parts, the "brain" and the "body". The "brain" processes the input and sends the appropriate response to the body while the body controls the finger movements.

The robot's vision is actually the video signal from the console fed into a computer. The computer then observes the image and analyses it to make the correct decision. Basically, the creators discovered that when the fret reaches the line, it will generate a graphic (explosion) that contains bright colours. Setting a threshold in the Brightness value when using the HSV colour space, the image can analyse and thus deduce which fret that has reached the line.

The "brain" than sends the signal to the listener on the "body". The listened forwards the signal to the control board which then moves the respective finger in response. The creators had to construct a 5 moving finger left hand to press the 5 buttons and a single moving finger right hand to strum the guitar.

Combining everything on a display window doll, and donning him with a cool Guitar Heronoid tee shirt, he is ready to rock!

It was an interesting experiment, especially to see what fervent passion and interesting ideas can mash and lead to. This is a simple robot that does too complicated but using computer vision to deduce an action and responding to it. While each individual parts may seem simple, the sum of all efforts is no mean feat! There are software challenges as well as hardware challenges, especially the construction of hands to resemble human beings is no easy task. Although the Guitar Heronoid is not perfect, I will just start to get anxious when I play a game online with another player; is that a fellow human player at the other end, or a robot? Especially after just suffering a humiliating defeat!

Chua Chong Han (U045816M)

PackBot Tactical Robot

2007-04-06T00:26:00.000+08:00

When soldiers encounter a suspected minefield, they are usually delayed and face possible injuries if they are not careful. However, PackBot has been put to use to clear minefields around the world, most notably in Afaganistan during 2002 by the US ground forces. To date, more than 800 PackBot units have been sold around the world and are used in operations where robotic aid is deemed necessary - such as in urban warfare, minefield clearing, and in Afganistan's case, the clearing of caves. PackBot is basically a robot that can be used as an explorer, scout or in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) missions. As an explorer, PackBot functions to move and provide sight to the user by elevating its body to peek over obstacles. As a scout, it uses its sensors and is lightweight and low-profile. To clear explosives, its OmniReach manipulator system enables it to extend over two meters, when clearing mines on EOD missions. Together with its low profile, PackBot operates effectively under vehicles or even inside sewers. PackBot is able to attain a road speed of up to 14 km/h, and has continuous 360 degrees rotation. More importantly, it can move in rough terrain and over obstacles such as stairs, rocks, logs, rubble and debris. It can go underwater up to 2 meters deep and can withstand drops from 2 meters height onto a concrete surface. It can also be thrown through windows or tumble down a flight of stairs. In conclusion, its features and modes makes PackBot very attractive to armies around the world as it enhances the survivability of soldiers.U036378U Boo Junyou

Robot assisted prostate surgery? Errr... you first

2007-04-06T00:16:00.000+08:00

Swedish Med i cal C e n ter has achieved a major breakthrough in medical field by employing a four armed robot to perform prostate surgery. The procedure is called the da Vinci Prostatectomy.

The da Vinci Surgical System promises greater precision, less scarring and shorter hospital stay than tradition prostate surgery. Using the new system, instead of making a six to eight inch incision, the removal of the prostate can be done by making just five small incisions of about half an inch long, leading to less pain and faster recovery. This new system provides the surgeon with magnified 3D vision and miniature articulating robotic wristed instrumentation.

The magnified 3D vision is produced by a ‘viewfinder’ which has a special, dual-lens endoscope. It can provide a magnified view, up to 12 times more closely than human vision allows, of the surgical site inside the patient. This is very desirable as it enables surgeons to see small vessels and work more precisely. Besides magnified 3D vision, surgeons are equipped with a robotic computer. The surgeon’s wrists and hands are connected to glove-like sensors and movements are scaled to guide the tools on the robot’s arm, known as EndoWrist®. The flexibility (it can turn 540 degrees) and the motion scaling mechanism of this patented robotic wrist allow greater freedom of movement and finer, more precise movements than standard instruments. For example, if the surgeon’s hand moves five centimeters, he can scale the robotic hands to move only one centimeter. This is particularly important as the nerves associated control the sexual function. On top of the flexibility, this robotic technology provides steadiness by filtering minute tremors of the human hand.

Sources: http://www.swedish.org/body.cfm?id=1637 http://chronicle.uchicago.edu/030717/robot.shtml Prepared by: Kho Wee Kar (U036984H)

Industry Coating Robot

2007-04-05T23:55:00.000+08:00

The P-250iA/15 is the latest 12th generation coating robot supplied by FANUC Robotics [1]. It is a 6-axis model and supported by R-J3iC Intelligent Controller. It offers a reliable and precise solution for coating consumer and automotive products such as plastics, metal and fiberglass parts. The hollow wrist design ensures flexibility and makes system integration much easier for a wide range of paint process equipment. With a slim arm and wrist assembly, the robot is able to access unusual or hard to reach parts. As the latest generation of coating robot, the P-250iA/15 offers the following advantages that enable maximization of system performance:

The associated optional ROBOGUIDETM PaintPRO software is a Windows-based simulation package which is very easy to use.
It offers a maximum horizontal reach of 2.8m and a maximum coating speed 0f 1.5m per second.
Accuflow™ [2] closed-loop fluid delivery automatically maintains programmed flow rates to ensure consistent material delivery and higher finishing quality.
Collision Guard™ [3] monitors for unexpected interference to reduce machine and applicator damage and maximize uptime.
Accuchop™ [4] closed-loop fluid control is suitable for FRP applications. It can flip over itself thus covering a large work area for painting.
Its patented purge system is approved for operation in hazardous environments.

In short, the P-250iA/15 robot’s large work envelope enables a wide range of painting applications and is especially suitable for painting large components. In addition, the robot’s advanced motion software ensures constant speeds which helps to achieve a uniform and better finishing appearance. With these benefits, the P-250iA/15 robot makes coating easy and efficient and the customers can enjoy major cost savings.

References:

[1] http://www.fanucrobotics.com

[2] http://www.fanucrobotics.com/file_repository/fanucmain/accuflow.pdf

[3] http://www.fanucrobotics.com/file_repository/FANUCmain/100201.pdf

[4] http://www.fanucrobotics.com/file_repository/fanucmain/AccuChop.pdf

Xue Chao

U037176U

Have a great and safe shopping experience with Reborg-Q

2007-04-05T20:00:00.000+08:00

u037028m Azhar Risyad Sunaryo (Picture: Reborg-Q in action) Reborg-Q, product of a Japanese company, ALSOK, is designed to boost security of a place. It can patrol a pre-defined path or controlled by joystick using wheels underneath. While on patrol, the robot will take a look at the surroundings using its sensors that can detect water leaks, fire, or humans. If one of the sensors, for example the fire sensor, is alarmed, the robot will deviate from its path and follow the source. It then sends an alert to the computer in the security room and with four cameras on its head and shoulders, send the video of the problem. The person in the security room will then decide what to do, for example extinguish the fire using fire extinguisher that can be equipped on it. These videos can record anything during its patrol and the image will be sent via wi-fi to the security room. With the help of monitor on its chest, it can also provide various informations, such as the location's map. This will help lost children or for shoppers to find a way to their destination. Armed with a voice synthesizer, it can tell the time, weather or even make a promotional announcement. The robot can also ask for identification using a card reader equipped on its shoulders. With all the applications above, this robot can surely enhance the safety of a building. It indeed gives a new height to the shopping experience.

“The RB5X becomes the student and the student becomes the teacher”

2007-04-05T18:41:00.000+08:00

The RB5X is an Educational Assistant that has been integrated into the learning experience in many schools worldwide, ranging from elementary and high schools to university classrooms. Fifteen years of practical application and research has proved the RB5X to be a dynamic educational tool, acclaimed for its ability in capturing students’ attention by bringing interactivity to a higher level, increasing their motivation towards learning. It teaches skills in various disciplines, ranging from language, spelling, and mathematics, to analog and digital electronics, microprocessor fundamentals and competency-based programming.

The teaching principle behind the RB5X is “the RB5X becomes the student, and the student becomes the teacher”. When teaching the RB5X math or language, students learn to apply their knowledge and identify their learning gaps. From this learning process, they develop self-esteem, problem-solving skills, and consequently, motivation.

The RB5X is extremely versatile as it can speak any language, through the use of international phonemes, and is highly interactive, able to play interactive games with up to 8 people, owing to the incorporation of infrared sensing, ultrasound sonar, remote audio/video transmission, 8 sensors/bumpers, voice synthesizer, and a 5 axis armature, into its structure. It is also easily programmed from any computer; Macintosh, DOS, Windows, or Linux/Unix; with a serial/RS-232 port. The built-in multimedia capabilities; video transmission and video camera; further enhances its functionality. Lastly, the RB5X is intelligently designed, such that it automatically locates the charging station when the battery is low. Thus, the RB5X is a dynamic teaching system which can be customized to suit various teaching objectives.

References:

[1] http://www.edurobot.com/r_home.html

[2] http://www.generalrobotics.com/

[3] http://www.robotswanted.com/robotgallery/rb5x/index.html

[4] http://www.rbrobotics.com/Products/RB5X.htm

LAI WEI LUP U036239X

Have a great and safe shopping experience with Reborg-Q

2007-04-05T17:47:00.000+08:00

The Wine-tasting Robot

2007-04-05T17:09:00.000+08:00

As we all know, robots are now becoming more helpful in humans daily life. This wine-tasting robot could discriminate between wine types. However, the test condition is still limited: the sensor has to touch surface of the wine and it must be clean. The robot then will work by transmitting infrared rays at the wine and degree of absorption of certain wavelengths would be measured by the robot. According to the absorbance spectrum obtained from the wine, the robot could estimate the most components of the wine, such as sugar and fat. Then this information will send to the database it had, the database eventually will tell the robot what kind of wine it is. The robot now finishes it tasting job. Tasting wine is not only hard for human,but also quite chanllenging for robots. This is because the differences in absorbance spectra among different types of wine are really small to differ. The cleanness of the sensor will decide the accuracy of the results. Hence, the future development for such a robot is to improve the infrared sensor to make it with a wider spectrum that may covers the range from near-infrared rays to the mid-infrared spectrum. reference: Yu Zhenyu U037786A

"A robot may not injure a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm."

2007-04-05T10:47:00.000+08:00

Kevin Brown NT061428J Isaac Asimov's first law of robotics [1] seems certain to be broken in the near future. Military applications of robotics have poured many millions of dollars into unmanned air and ground vehicles, as well as smaller, armed robots. Most of the armed unmanned vehicles, however, lie under the ultimate control of a human. With the most government military (except Korea) currently wary to give control of the trigger to silicon, the first 'First Law' transgressor may have been designed by an amateur just out of college. In the summer of 2006 Aaron Rasmussen, freshly graduated from Boston University in the US, decided to do something to make him stand out to employers. He had a friend manning a turret in Iraq and it inspired him to design a sentry gun. “I thought, my friend is risking is life for no apparent reason,” he said. [2] Image provided by http://www.thesentrygun.com/ The gun essentially tracks and aims for the heart (with no higher level choice of target beyond recognizing a human). Rasmussen programmed the vision systems using Microsoft's DirectShow technology and utilizing the OpenCV library. The camera is an everyday webcam. The gun is an FN P90 and it tracks with servo motors controlled by four bar linkage. The computing power is provided by an external computer. There is commercial interest in the gun. USMechatronics has begun working toward production under the auspices of SEIS group. The sentry gun he designed shoots 6 mm ball bearings, not bullets, and Rasmussen says he is of the dangers presented. The bottom of his site, which details how he built the gun, reads "Don't Die Disclaimer: Don't use these plans, derivations of the gun, or anything to hurt people. In fact, don't hurt people." Citations: [1] "Runaround" by Isaac Asimov [2] http://www.bu.edu/phpbin/news-cms/news/?dept=4&id=37650 http://www.thesentrygun.com/ http://www.technovelgy.com/ct/Science-Fiction-News.asp?NewsNum=502

Robotic Haptic Interface

2007-04-05T02:02:00.000+08:00

Perhaps not as well-known as other types of disabilities, but Developmental Coordination Disorder (also known as dyspraxia) has caused difficulties for about 5% of the children in mastering coordination tasks, such as catching a ball, tying shoelaces and standing on one foot. Recent robotic research and development has come up with a device to teach coordination to children who having such problem. Firstly, certain tasks will be designed by therapists to challenge the eye-hand coordination of individuals. One example is handwriting. The children will hold the robotic arm and perform the task shown on the screen. The robotic arm will follow designed trajectories and provide resistance, thus simulate the effort that is required to perform such task. The robotic arm joined with the computer is known as a robotic haptic interface that incorporate the sense of touching to help children develop their eye-hand coordination. The user will be able to “feel” the virtual environment that is shown on the screen. With this equipment, the children can practice their coordination repeatedly in interesting tasks. This type of robotic therapy becomes a popular research area in rehabilitation robotics. The pictures show the prototype of such robot in performing handwriting task. Further research and development will enhance such system to perform more complicated tasks. Jin Peng U036569E

The World's First Expressive Computer

2007-04-04T17:41:00.001+08:00

RoCo, the world’s first expressive computer is a robotic computer has a monitor for a head and a simple LCD screen for a face. It expresses itself by using its double-jointed neck, which is equipped with actuators that shift the monitor up and down, tilt it forward and back and swivel it from side to side, An attached camera can detect when its user moves, allowing RoCo to adjust its posture accordingly. RoCo’ was being built, in hope that by responding to a user’s changes in posture, people might be more likely to build up a “rapport” with the computer that will make sitting at a desk all day a little more enjoyable. RoCo’s powers of expression might be harnessed by tuning into users’ moods; the robot might help them get their work done more effectively. Previous studies have shown that someone’s emotional state can dramatically affect their performance on analytical tasks and that posture can play a role in this; hence in this project, the researchers are looking into how the robot might affect users’ posture while working. RoCo could be programmed to adopt the right posture to foster greater attention and persistence in children, or simply to help improve people’s posture when sitting at a desk. In future, the group also plans to investigate programming RoCo to mimic the posture and gestures of its users, to see if that builds rapport and enhances engagement with the computer, as such behavior is known to do between humans. Tng Thomson U046231A

Integrating Exploratory Algorithms Using Multiple Cooperative Robots with land/sea/aerial/underground Exploratory Robots

2007-04-04T17:41:00.000+08:00

Recent times fall upon eager enthusiasm of the scientific community to explore other planets and moons in the solar system. With the Cassini space craft inspecting Saturn and its moon Titan and with various plans to explore and even terraform Mars, many minds around the world are dedicating to developing robots and algorithms to achieve such exploration on a feasible and efficient scale. The following is just my idea of bringing together many technologies and concepts that have been previously proposed. The materials present here are all referenced from http://www.techbriefs.com/. I believe using multiple robots with various forms of locomotion not confined to just solid ground would be most advantageous for exploration. For terrestrial exploration, why not use amphibious robots? The Planetary Autonomous Amphibious Robotic Vehicle (PAARV), in its prototype stage, is a merging of prior ice-penetrating exploratory robots and the designs of drop sondes used on Earth for scientific and military purposes [1].

In addition, the PAARV can be made to carry such miniature robot submarines as the miniature autonomous submersible explorer (MASE), that are built to explore extreme environments such as sub-glacial lakes, deep-ocean hydrothermal vents, acidic or alkaline lakes, brine lenses in permafrost, and ocean regions under Antarctic ice shelves [2].

For subsurface exploration, robots such as the Subsurface Explorer (SSX) that uses a mechanism similar to an optimized jackhammer can be deployed when necessary [3].

Now the crucial question: how does one determine when and where each of these robots is necessary? It would be easy to say, “Survey an area first, analyze the obtained data and carry out further explorations”. However, what if radio communication with earth is not always available? One solution may be to enhance communication networks by employing multiple relay points from ground units as well as airborne drones. Systems such as "Bioinspired Engineering of Exploration Systems" (BEES) [4] can be used, which mimic natural explores like honey bees to develop algorithms.

A more robust system would be to actually assign the role of leader to a drone and let the companion of robots act as a ‘herd’ in exploring the terrain [5]. The designated leader would issue commands to move the robots to different locations or aim sensors at different targets to maximize scientific return. Here, a potential field approach can be used to identify places of interest and obstacles and map them to an artificial ‘field map’, and genetic algorithm can be employed such that the herd could be regarded as consisting of a set of artificial creatures that evolve to adapt to a previously unknown environment. The development of this exploration method is still underway and theoretical testing is being carried out.

As can be seen here, there are a respectable number of hardware and software schemes that are available or are currently undergoing research and development. I believe someone should try putting all the bits and pieces together and start testing a fully functional planetary exploration system.

References:

[1] Mobile Robot for Exploring Cold Liquid/Solid Environments

[2] Miniature Robotic Submarine for Exploring Harsh Environments

[3] Sub-surface Explorer Robot with Spinning-Hammer Drive

[4] Cooperative Lander-Surface/Aerial Microflyer Missions for Mars Exploration

[5] Controlling Herds of Cooperative Robots

Curious Dogs

2007-04-04T17:30:00.000+08:00

The Aibo is a popular robot dog designed to interact with its owner and perform simple tricks. In Sony's R&D lab, all these new Aibo dogs were given two software control mechanisms. Firstly, a "low-level learning system" that controls simple behavior and also tries to predict how those behaviors will affect the surrounding sensory. Secondly, a "meta-learning system" that analyses the accuracy of predictions made by the low-level system and controls the overall “motivation”. Interaction between these two components is critical to the reprogrammed Aibos' uncannily inquisitive nature. The meta-learning system prompts the robot dogs to pursue behaviors that they can rapidly learn to predict, but which also have maximum learning potential. This tends to makes the robot dogs inherently curious, seeking out increasingly complicated scenarios with which to interact. However they will effectively become bored with activities that do not stimulate them to their artificial satisfaction. In an experiment, these robotic pups are placed in a child's activity-pen and were left alone for investigation. It was observed that the robots learned progressively; initially just moving their limbs in an uncoordinated manner, followed by exploring their surroundings and biting nearby soft toys. After several hours, these dogs started kicking their toys and even trying to interact with conventional Aibo dogs. Although every subject followed a similar learning pattern, but the results showed that there were variations among the Aibos’ pattern. This research could eventually help robot designers to create machines that are much more flexible and adaptive in unpredictable circumstances. Tng Thomson U046231A

ProVar

2007-04-04T16:50:00.000+08:00

U0303509 Varun Agarwala

In order to help people who have physical disabilities like tetraplagia, a Professional Vocational Assistant Robot, or ProVar for short, was developed, which would aid them to move physical objects. This system allows these people to create and execute daily chores and vocational supports using a function known as Activities of Daily Living.

The robot uses a novel user interface and dynamic control environment for robust and safe manipulation. It has an arm, mounted overhead a motorized track, which can execute tasks required by the user. The user can see a preview of the task on a workstation to confirm if that is exactly what he or she wants. The system uses a 3-dimentional model to combine task creation and manipulation. The system has the capability to act according to a user’s specific physical disabilities by using various adaptive devices, specified by the ADL. It can be used for getting medication, drinks, papers handling etc. In short, it has enough functions for a disabled person to remain comfortable in the absence of an assistant and most importantly, remain independent.

The use of this device on test subjects confirmed its ease of use as well as a variety of functions specified by the user’s themselves. After just a couple of training sessions, the users were able to use the device without much difficulty and this device should prove to be a big boon for physically disabled humans.

The Pipeline Explorer

2007-04-04T15:00:00.000+08:00

This little fellow explores a different kind of environment - natural gas pipelines. Introducing.... The Pipeline Explorer! The battery powered remote-controlled Explorer can perform long ranged inspections of gas pipelines, conveying images back to the operator via a wireless link. The Explorer's architecture consists of a seven segment body. Specially designed joints allows the robot to manuever itself in any direction it needs within the pipe. The CPU unit and electronics are protected in purged and pressurized housings. The locomotor module houses a mini 190 degree field-of-view camera, equipped with lenses and lighting. It also houses 3 retractable legs, which are equipped with custom molded driving wheels. The robot can reach cruising speeds of 4 inches per second. Many pipelines over the world are aging, and increasing checks are needed to detect water intrusions and other defects. The Explorer system can access thousands of feet of pipeline from a single excavation, making it far superior to any other conventional methods used in terms of speed and costs. The Explorer won an R&D Magazine Top 100 award in 2006 for being one of the year’s most original and innovative technological developments. References: http://www.technovelgy.com/ct/Science-Fiction-News.asp?NewsNum=732 http://www.rec.ri.cmu.edu/projects/explorer/ http://www.rec.ri.cmu.edu/projects/explorer/application/index.htm Huang Zhengyang U037752U

doctor, i think i have a robot in my intestines

2007-04-04T14:38:00.000+08:00

They say it is going to be the world's first microbot to be able to swim through arteries and the digestive system. They are an international team of scientist who are working on a robot that has a width of 2 human hairs. The leader of the team is James Friend, who is a scientist at the Micro/Nanophysics Research Laboratory at Australia's Monash University. This robot is so small that it is able to swim through many organs such as the heart, and is able to perform 'minimally invasive microsurgeries', according to Friend. The robot is designed to be able to transmit images from inside the human body; and also deliver microscopic payloads to parts of the body which is outside the reach of current technologies. For example, the robot is able to release a payload of microscopic glue onto a damaged brain artery. Usually this process is highly dangerous because these brain arteries are situated behind complicated sets of bend at the base of the skull. Only the most flexible catheters can possibly reach these places. To make matters worse, any puncture of these arteries will be fatal. The robot is administered to the human body through a syringe and guided by remote control. Once it has completed its missions within the body, it can return to the point of entry and be extracted by a syringe. The possible potential of this microbot extends to region of the body that current technology cannot reach. Patients with stroke, embolism and vascular-disease should, according to the scientist, be the first to benefit from this robot. This microbot's design is inspired by the E. coli bacterium, with flagella to propel it through the body. The initial materials used for the flagella are human hair, but later plans are directed towards using Kevlar. The breakthrough in this robot is the propulsion system. Within the micromotor, Friend and his team are exploiting the use of piezoelectric materials-- crystals that give off electric charges when mechanically stressed. These crystals vibrate a twisted micromechanism within the robot at ultrasonic frequencies. This process eventually leads to a rotor rotating and thus propelling the system. Video of the actuator: In the case the motor breaks down, the plan is to extract the robot at the entry point. Thus it needs to be inserted and controlled to swim upstream of the blood. Currently the scientist are working at the micro device in charge of delivering the imaging and deliver the payloads. Scheduled for a completed version in 2009, there are already larger prototypes of the motor ready, which is about the size of a grain of sand. Friend also needs the public's help in naming the robot. article at http://www.wired.com/medtech/health/news/2007/01/72448 Sim Jian Ping U036080A

Remote Presence Robots In ICU

2007-04-04T12:39:00.000+08:00

Wu Ronghua U036423A Having Remote Presence Robots in the neurosurgery intensive care unit(ICU) is the way to allow doctors to communicate more conveniently with the patients, family members and the staffs. As there is a serious lack in intensivists, the physicians who specialize in the care of critically ill patients, these RP-6 mobile robots proved to be helpful to extend the reach of the intensivists. These robots provide more "presence" of the physicians. The robot is about 5-foot-6-inch tall robot and displays the physician face on the monitor screen. The patient then will interact, speaks and hears with the physician through these robots. The robots can also move closer to the patients and zoom in on the patients or the monitors at the side, move to the patient’s record, X-rays, test reports to facilitate the doctors to view them. The physicians can do all this with the control of a joystick in either in their office or even at home. The presence of these intensivists is said to improve patients to reduce care, thereby reducing the stay of the patients and also the cost of their staying. These robots can also allow patients to access directly to medicals experts around the world so that they seek medical advice from them. They can also allow patients to interact with doctors who have performed their surgery, even if the doctors cannot be physically at the patient's bedside. Through surveys, such robots have been well received and some patients even prefer such robots to real doctors.

Meet Mr.Gromit and Mr. K-9!

2007-04-04T12:07:00.000+08:00

Robot space explorers are good because

1) they are cheaper than sending astronauts

2) they are easier to maintain - don't get bored, tired, need food, drink or exercise. they don't even need to go to the toilet!!

3) they can be neglected in a cramped space for a long period of time.

4) they can explore dangerous planets and don't need air to breathe.

Therefore, in the pursuit of strong interest on foreign planets like mars, we, human, need these advanced and intelligent robot space explorers to explore the unknown planets.

The renowned NASA then has came out with two robotic heros - Mr. Gromit and Mr. K-9. A smart robots, they claimed to be.

Mr Gromit

A red little cubic, four-wheeled robot. Though it is small size, Mr. Gromit can navigate a rock-strewn patch of land at a stately pace of 5 centimeters (2 inches) per second. While navigating, Mr Gromit can communicate with researchers back in the lab. Most surprisingly, it can obey dutifully to the commands tasked to him.

Mr. K-9

Mr. K-9, who is smarter and twice as fast than Mr. Gromit, uses its own built-in intelligence to navigate across the simulated Martian terrain and wheel around obstacles He is a born photographer, taking pictures of the rocks and analyzing their composition with half-minute pauses for reasoned reflection while on the trundling. Similar to Mr. Gromit, this crane-like, six wheeled robot also obeyed commands given.

So why them?

These two robots are much more complex and intelligent. In tandem of that, they are loaded with combinations of sophisticated software, cameras, spectrometers and global positioning system location-finders. In addition, they can build habitat for future human pioneering and specified the promising areas for joint human-machine exploration. The intelligence point is their ability to gauge the danger level of certain terrain. For example, they can feedback earth's researchers that the a certain region is safe for the machine, but not for human. What a caring robots, ya?

With more and more researchs weighing on the robot explorer, it is just a matter of time that these robots can eventually fully explore the Mars, build a civilisation on it and operate a "Matrix" world like us!

Koh Ling Ying

U046245W

References: http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?=/c/a/2005/10/04/MNGM7F25CD1.DTL&type=science

Border Protecting Robot

2007-04-04T05:02:00.000+08:00

As security is getting more and more important, the use of technology to enhance the security of a country is inevitable. In South Korea, the army uses modern robots developed by Samsung Techwin called Intelligent Surveillance and Guard Robot as multi-functional security guards to protect the borders of their country whose main features are tracking, firing and voice recognition capabilities. The robot with surveillance and tracking system utilizes the Electron Multiplying Charge Coupled Device (EMCCD), Un-cooled Infra Red (IR) Camera, IR Illuminator and Laser Range Finder which have a daytime detection range of 4km and a nighttime detection range of 2km. Its tracking capabilities are 2km during daytime and 1km during nighttime. It can even detect multiple objects as well as zooming in on the object for a clearer view. Even if the object is moving would not obstruct the tracking capabilities of the robot as the camera installed has great flexibility to turn with the object. This newly developed robot is equipped with weapons that enhance its capabilities to actively engage suspected targets and neutralize them. The installation of various lethal or non-lethal weapons together with high precision device is important for high firing accuracy. These designs allow a threat to be neutralized easily from a distance without killing them for future investigation. Other than that, it has sophisticated communication and voice recognition system. This reduces the risks friendly fire as the robot is able to accept passwords which can identify the suspected target as a friend or enemy. The robot can also warn the suspect to surrender instead of shooting at it if the password doesn’t match. Therefore, the robust system is ideal to avoid unnecessary injury while still being able to capture suspects. In short, this can enhance security at the borders against hostile intrusion. Human security guard can then act behind the scenes to observe and analyze the situation before ordering the robot to take steps to neutralize the suspect.

References:

http://www.samsungtechwin.com/product/features/dep/SSsystem_e/SSsystem.html

http://www.deanesmay.com/posts/1162932676.shtml

Lai Sing Zie U036919R

Morphing Planes

2007-04-04T00:53:00.000+08:00

New generation: Planes with Shape-Changing. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have been evolving. From the slow and bulky flying boxes, they have improved to become much smaller and quieter. Now, there's a new proposed version of it: A fast, swift and agile plane that mimics that of birds and sea gulls. It ranges from 15cm long to 60cm. Its capabilities would include that of 'diving in between buildings, zoom under overpasses and land on apartment balconies' which often requires 'sharp turns, spins and dives'. This can be achieved by changing the shape of the wings. There were a few prototypes that were done to produce these effects, the latest having the wings capable of being transformed from down to up position. This is modeled after the sea gulls, and the prototype was capable of making that transformation in just 12 seconds. Such transformation is assisted by motors and supported by metal rods, which allows the plane to be used suitably in city landscape. Current research now stands at improving the ease of flying such planes. This morphing plane loses stability when it is in a high maneuverability mode. Ultimate aim however would be focused on making such planes autonomous. Such planes would be useful in the military or police or the fire and bomb-removal departments, or in cases like 24-hour surveillance for security purposes or that of monitoring potential problems in hazardous plants like nuclear power plant or oil refinery plants, etc.

Food Robotics

2007-04-04T00:14:00.000+08:00

Every time when one goes to the supermarket to buy a pack of sliced meat and opened it, one can observe that the meat is nicely sliced with equal dimensions. How could humans have done that? Unless we are talking about Japanese sashimi chefs who slice fish at the highest precision, it is impossible to accomplish that feat. We have seen how robots are used in car assembly lines. What is happening here is the introduction of robotics to the food and beverage industry. Robots have been utilized in the management of food. A pity that they are not as widely used as their assembly line counterparts. There are three main sections of food management, (1) picking, (2) packing and (3) palletizing. Current factory settings involve humans to filter out poorly produced items and pick the rest for packing. Different individuals may have different perceptions of poorly produced items. Their vision may differ too, thereby resulting in inconsistency of selection. With robots programmed to fixed perceptions, the inconsistency will be massively reduced. It was mentioned that vision systems determine the characteristics of the items being scanned. Meat cutting is also pre-programmed to be done at certain orientations, thereby resulting in consistency in the dimensions of the meat. In a fast-paced competitive industry, it pays to be fast. Manual packaging takes a long time, even with a large factory workforce. With robots, this process will speed up by many folds. They can be pre-programmed to do such tasks over and over again, tirelessly and at high speeds. Moreover, they are flexible in that they can multi-task, by packaging more than one item at a time, and also to deal with a variety of packaging containers, such as boxes and trays. Handling packed products can also be a chore when it comes to storing the packages. Some items, especially frozen food, have to be stored in places with low temperatures. Robots are able to withstand long hours in such places, thereby speeding up the process. The weights of different items may vary. Therefore, stacking a heavy item over a lighter one can be damaging. Using vision systems to inspect the items, robots can place the packages in the correct orientation so as to prevent any damage. In the beverages industry, Motoman Inc., invented RoboBar, which serves as a bartender. It can mix different kinds of drinks through dispensing guns that pump the liquor and mixes, and can also add ice, depending on the choice of the customer. Most importantly, it can perform the order in a breeze. Besides mixing alcohol, it can also whip up a sumptous cup of coffee. With robots in the food and beverage industry, flexibility and speed can be introduced. Everything and anything can be handled and at great speed. Besides maintaining the robots, nothing else is done since the process has been pre-programmed. Since everything is automated, there will be a better distribution of the workforce to other human-specific tasks, thereby increasing the efficiency in their work. In addition to that, they can do the work of many people. Safety problems will also be reduced to a minimum. These robots certainly make us run for our money, eh?

http://news.thomasnet.com/fullstory/503400/2328
http://www.robots.com/articles.php?tag=1650
http://foodproductiondaily.com/news/ng.asp?id=66874-k-robotix-robotics-anuga

Video on Motoman RoboBar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XQ7H11YTm8

Cheong Wen Li, Ronald U036405J

OFRO - First outdoor security patrol robot

2007-04-03T23:00:00.000+08:00

OFRO is not only the first mobile security robot worldwide used for outdoor surveillance, it also has the honour of being one of the first robots used to patrol the stadium in the World Cup. The picture to the right is of the OFRO being used in the Olympic stadium in Berlin. In that particular World Cup event, the OFRO is used alongside of another robot, the MOSRO, and both these models of surveillance robots are developed by the Berlin company Robowatch. The OFRO can perform many functions. It is able to make use of thermal cameras to identify and locate intruders at night or at any places where visibility is low, according to their body heat. The OFRO can also be used for a wide variety of other reasons such as in the military as a scout and to detect radiation, toxins, viruses and chemical warfare agents. It is also very flexible being very much weather-proof and mobile so it is suitable to be dispatched either indoors or outdoors. It is also suitable to be used in hazard zones such as in the chemical industry or in explosive areas. In the World Cup, the OFRO got navigation help from the Global Positioning System satellites and send pictures back to a central room in the stadium called the skybox. Through remote control, the OFRO can also be sent to check on anything suspicious. In general, the sensor head of the OFRO is able to rotate 360° automatically with integrated thermo camera. It also has two ultrasound distance sensors, GSM module and WLAN built in. With highly sensitive sensor technology, it is able to identify intruders and react quickly. Timely action can be taken in terms of activation by a wireless signal from the OFRO. http://www.virtualworldlets.net/Archive/IndividualNews.php?News=1311 http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13485246/ Goh Pei Ming U049117N

A Hands-Off Physical Therapy Assistance Robot for Cardiac Patients

2007-04-03T17:27:00.000+08:00

U037841J Tan Sze Sze Vivian

Most developed countries face the problem of an aging population . This has put a strain on medical and healthcare services as this meant more medical workers are needed. The most direct implication is the shortage of nurses. The workload for existing healthcare workers are increased and methods for relieving their workload is needed. Robots that could provide assistance for repetitive yet time-consuming tasks are developed and are in high demand. They could relieve the workload of nurses and nurses could channel their efforts to greater flexibility. The robot presented in the picture below is named Clara and it provides assistance for breathing (spirometry) exercises for patients.

The target assistive for the robot ,Clara, is the spirometry exercise. Cardiac patients need to perform regular lung exercises after their surgery . This is to prevent infection and increase the speed of recovery. Patients inhale air through a spirometer, a small plastic device which measures the velocity and amount of inhaled air . Patients are supposed to inhale up to a specified volume of air, which will slowly increase as they recover. This exercise forces the lungs to expand and contract regularly to prevent pneumonia. This activity is usually facilitated by a nurse and has to be carried out ten times per hour for several days or weeks after the cardiac surgery. The process is repetitive, laborious and time-consuming for the nurses. Tutelage on how to use the spirometer and how to breath properly are needed in the first few sessions, subsequent sessions require mostly motivation and monitoring. Monitoring meant the recording of the patient’s progress and thus track recovery rate. Thus, in subsequent sessions after the patient has learnt how to use the spirometer and breath properly , the activity of providing spirometry exercise can be replaced by a robot.The robot will record the patient’s progress for the nurses to track their recovery.

Clara is a hands-off intelligent assistive robot as it has no physical contact with the patient. Instructions are given through speech and speech recognition is one of the implementations of the robot. 3 traits are endowed upon Clara, they are namely , social awareness, autonomy and the lack of tactile input or physical manipulation. Social awareness involves interaction with the patient, providing motivation for the specified breathing excercise ,which is painful for the patient. Autonomy means no human assistance is needed and lack of physical manipulation means it does not need a person to push it around or give it commands through physical contact. Clara is constructed with off-the-shelf products. It has acoustic perception and obstacle avoidance abilities for command and navigation. It has a video playback application that can display a person’s face.

Future work would involve improving accuracy of the speech recognition implementation and safety. Safety has to be improved as hospitals have highly dynamic environments and might hinder the robot’s ability to perform obstacle detection and avoidance. The robot could be made more interactive as well.

I feel that this robot is a good development and could benefit medical worker’s by relieving their workload a lot. More of these robots that cater for repetitive and time-consuming work could be development , not only in the medical field , but in engineering, construction fields or areas that involves high risk like space tracking. These assistive robots could help humans channel efforts to better use or perform difficult tasks in their place.

Reference : Kyong Il Kang, Sanford Freedman and Maja J Matari´c, Interaction Laboratory Computer Science Department, University of Southern California, Mark J. Cunningham and Becky Lopez,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery,Keck School of Medicine,University of Southern California, “A Hands-Off Physical Therapy Assistance Robot for Cardiac Patients”, USC Centre for Robotics and Embedded Systems Technical Report, CRES-05-001,Mar 2005

http://robotics.usc.edu/~maja/teaching/cs584/papers/kang.pdf

RoboMusic

2007-04-03T17:02:00.000+08:00

The word ‘Robots’ conjure up image of stiff human-like machines which carry out tasks according to pre-programmed specifications. Generally, it is quite hard to associate robots with something creative such as music. However, popular remix musician Martin Ottesen also known as Funkstar Deluxe came together with Professor Henrik Hautop Lund to create a new album titled ‘No Man’s Planet’ based on a revolutionizing genre of music that is created using a collaboration of musical instruments developed by robotics. These interactive musical instruments can measure touch and rolling pins that measure rotational acceleration and pressure to create variations in resonance, cut-off, volume and pan of musical tracks in the musical composition. The inauguration concert of the album ‘No Man’s Planet’ took place as an interactive RoboMusic concert during the Robots at Play Festival on 15th September 2006 in Odense, Denmark. The most pioneering aspect of this new musical genre is that it makes live concerts interactive for the audience. The audience can be actively engaged in the performance of the music of the concert by interacting with the musical instruments. The robotic instruments have a baseline musical behavior, which is changed upon interaction with the instrument. Interaction with the robotic instruments guides the robotic behavior and thereby creates unique live concert performances that change from concert to concert depending on the preferences and behavior of the audience. For the audience, the concert form has changed from passive listening to active participation in playing the concert. Each RoboMusic concert becomes a unique live performance! Enjoy RoboMusic here

--> http://www.e-robot.dk/robomusic/Teaser.mp3 Reference : http://www.e-robot.dk/robomusic.html Posted by : Jaseema Banu - U036882L

WAR - Becoming a Video Game??

2007-04-03T16:55:00.000+08:00

The superpowers in the world have long been interested in the development of defense technology to gain that competitive edge over other nations, even if it is just psychological. This pressing need for supremacy has seen funding to the tune of billions of dollars and has yielded many scientific marvels. A prime example is the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

A UAV is a much smaller aircraft without a pilot onboard. These robots can be remote controlled or given autonomous control based on pre-programmed flight plans or more complex dynamic automation systems. UAVs are currently used in a number of military roles, including reconnaissance and attack. The degree of autonomy of such aircrafts has been gradually increasing over the years ever since the first UAV was introduced in the 1950s. The degree of autonomy is contingent on areas like sensor fusion, motion planning, communications, trajectory generations, task scheduling and cooperative tactics. As is the case with most new inventions, the UAV can be used for a number of productive and peaceful missions but its primary application has always been in the defense sector. The US has likely invested the most in UAVs and the US Department of Defense has classified it as UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System). The military role of UAS is growing at unprecedented rates. In 2005, tactical and theater level unmanned aircraft (UA) alone had flown over 100,000 flight hours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

The UAV will definitely save many lives if employed in a combat situation and that was the idea behind its inception. While this invention is a great success from a scientific point of view, it adds a host of moral dilemmas. Since such aircrafts are unmanned, there is no human life factor to consider in a hostile situation, thus making it easier to go to war. Also we are still a long way off from getting robots to simulate human emotions and that is something that there is simply no substitute for. If the UAV continues development at the current rate than it wouldn't be long before it is used extensively not just for surveillance, but for combat also. We can only hope that this will not lead to more conflict between the nations as the all of mankind will have to bear the burden. The futility of war is probably best highlighted by the quote 'War seldom determines who is right, only who is left.'

Reference:

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unmanned_aerial_vehicle http://www.fas.org/irp/program/collect/uav.htm

Karthik Ramaswamy U037067L

Space Exploration: Software Failure in the Mars Pathfinder

2007-04-03T16:19:00.000+08:00

On December 4, 1996, NASA launched their space exploration robot, Mars Pathfinder, as a demonstration of a “faster, better and cheaper” spacecraft. It landed successfully on Mars on July 4, 1997 and started collecting sample soil, conducting chemical analysis and transmitting image data back to Earth. However, a few days after the landing, the robot started to experience frequent total system reset. This stopped the robot from normal operation and caused serious data loss.

This is caused by a software system failure called priority inversion in the Pathfinder. Pathfinder is using a real time embedded operating system called VxWorks. This system is in charge of scheduling all of the tasks and management of all the system resource like the memory. Tasks are scheduled in such a way that one task is not executed continuously. Instead, the time to perform one task is divided into pieces and interleaved. Each task is assigned with a priority according to its importance. At time slot n, the system is performing task1, for time slot n+1, if there is a task2 with higher priority than task1, task2 will be performed. Otherwise task1 will be continued.

In the same system, a piece of shared resource, the “information bus” is used, much like a shared piece of memory, for tasks to read and write on. As explained before, the tasks are interleaved in time. Data stored by one task into the shared memory without any protection mechanism will definitely be overwritten or misread by tasks which are later scheduled to perform. The mechanism to ensure data consistency used in Pathfinder is simple, whenever a task sees the shared memory is used by another task, regardless priority, it will just wait for the other task to finish using it.

There are three tasks involved in the failure, the meteorological data gathering task with low priority, data transmission task with medium priority and information management task with high priority. Just before the failure occurred, the low priority meteorological data gathering task was running and holding the shared memory. Before it can release the shared memory, it is stopped because the high priority information management task needed to run and the next time slot is scheduled to it. However, The information management task needed access to shared memory which is held by the low priority meteorological data gathering task. So the information management task stops and wait for the shared memory to be released. The meteorological data gathering task got to run again. However, before it released the shared memory, the medium priority data transmission task is scheduled. This task takes extremely long time to finish. During this time, the high priority task cannot be run because it must wait for the shared memory to be released. The low priority task cannot release shared memory. Because of its low priority it will not get the chance to be scheduled. Both the high priority and the low priority tasks are locked. When a high priority task is waiting for too long, the system interpreted that there is something wrong and totally reset the system—much like when you see your mouse cursor does not respond to the move for long, you press the reset button on your desktop.

Posted by Jin Yunye, U037842W

Mike Jones, "What Really Happened on Mars Rover Pathfinder"http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~brewer/cs262/PriorityInversion.html

Wikipedia, Priority Inversion http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Priority_inversion
Wikipedia, Mars Pathfinder http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mars_Pathfinder

Military Exploration: Packbot EOD

2007-04-03T02:38:00.000+08:00

In recently years, autonomous robots have been actively engaged in many exploration missions such as the planetary exploration by NASA and also the volcano exploration to take measurements in volcanic environments. In addition to those, the military has picked up on the use of robots. The possibilities of military use of AI are boundless, exciting, intimidating, and frightening. Today's military robots are used mainly in exploration to find roadside bombs, search caves, and act as armed sentries.

As such, iRobot's Government and Industrial (G & I) Robots Division has created several autonomous robots for such uses. One such robot is the Packbot EOD. It is a rugged, lightweight robot designed to assist with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), HAZMAT, search-and-surveillance, hostage rescue and other vital law enforcement tasks for Bomb Squads, SWAT teams, military units. Along with the drone planes, it is one of the technological stars featured in the Iraq war.

With its super lightweight, Packbot EOD is able to be carried anywhere by a single operator to be deployed to the war area. After its deployment, Packbot EOD is able to penetrate into very difficult terrain with a top speed of 5.5km/h. With this rapid movement, the robot is a perfect replacement for soldiers in the exploration of dangerous, inaccessible area.

Equipped with tracked QuickFlip(TM) dual rotating flippers, PackBot EOD is able to climb up stairs, maneuver over rocks and rubble and navigate narrow, twisting passages at ease. With a flexible ToughTrac(TM) polymer tracks, it can eject debris and maneuver over any surface with "human-like" agility, quickly positioning its payloads for optimum mission success. With this all-weather, all-terrain robot, any areas that might seems to be susceptible to high risk can be explored.

Its long-reach manipulator arm equipped with a powerful gripper enables Packbot EOD to perform intricate task such as ordnance disposal, weapons delivery to reconnaissance and search-and-rescue. In addition, it is armed with a continuous rotating pan-and tilted head on which is mounted with a high-powered zoom (300x) camera. Not only it can captures long distant target, its highly illuminated LED enables the identification of targets in all lighting conditions.

I feel that this invention of Irobot EOD is an important feature in today's warfare. With its high technological features, it is a perfect replacement for soldiers in the exploration of dangerous, inaccessible area during war period and it can definitely acts as a secondary protection line from potential threats to the soldiers.

- Koh Yew Tong U036316U-

References:

www.irobot.com

http://www.irobot.com/sp.cfm?pageid=164 - Picture of Packbot.

(sorry, the picture couldnt be upload)

The new KineMedic® is DLR light weight robotic arm

2007-04-03T02:22:00.000+08:00

The new KineMedic^®is DLR light weight robotic arm specially designed to perform dexterous hand actions in surgical interventions. This robot arm developed by German Aerospace has a much better payload-to-weight-ratio compared to robots today. It has 7 torque controlled redundant degree of freedom, giving it more flexibility and less collisions. It is compact and lightweight, that it to be mounted easily, yet stiff enough to perform high-precision operation. The joints are equipped with position and torque sensors for high-sensitive and precise movement using impedance-control.

This robotic system consists of 2 major components, the Arm and control module which includes external supply module. The 2 modules are connected by DC power cables and fiber optics for almost instant communications. The 7 joints of the robotic arm are arranged to a shoulder, an elbow and a wrist, each with intersecting axes. In order for high precision control, high performance communication bus is used to interact between the joints and its control circuits situated at the eternal supply.

The external control module is made up of DC power supply, emergency stop box and a personal computer for control. The controller used for control is a FPGA chip which is then connected to the computer via optical fiber wires. Calculations for the robotic control are done on the personal computer and not on the dedicated hardware.

From Rongjie (u0406232)

Miniature robot system for keyhole neurosurgery

2007-04-03T02:07:00.000+08:00

Keyhole surgery involves operating through tiny incisions. Although large incisions enable the surgeon to better see and manipulate the pathological tissue, unnessary damage are often done to the organ causing greater pain to the patient and longer recovery time. There is also a higher risk of complications due to surgical trauma. Thus, the need for Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) yields a considerable amount of research in the field of medical robotics.

Figure 1.1, taken from a research thesis, illustrates a novel image-guided system use for minimally invasive neurosurgery. The system consists of a miniature robot holding a mechanical guide for needle or probe insertion. Based on a preoperative CT/MRI image, the robot can automatically positions itself for accurate targeting or path finding along the skull of the patient.

Currently, such a system is still in research or refining stages in neurosurgery and the MARS robot is rather more commonly used in orthopedic procedures. Clearly, the use of miniature robot provides many advantages over existing bulky and expensive robotic system. The miniature robot system has no size and line-of-sight problems and insertion angles are not being restricted as the robot has 6 degree of freedom. Being robust and small, the system is not only more affordable but allows for easy use and change of plans prior to, or even during, the actual surgical operation. In addition, such a system does not require immobilization of the patient as the robot is mounted on the skull is based on a relative reference frame. The mounting frame also provides rigid and robust support for precise guidance of needle insertion. In the likely future, we shall see the broader use of smaller yet more precise robots in the field of medicine.

U036039B Kim Choon Ming, Alvin www.cs.huji.ac.il/~rubke/0thesisRuby.pdf

The Pinnacle of Entertainment

2007-04-03T01:12:00.000+08:00

Sony Corporation has redefine the word “entertainment” with QRIO, abbreviation for “Quest for cuRIOsity”, a bipedal humanoid entertainment robot following its discontinuation of AIBO (left). QRIO has recently appeared on the pitch of the RFK Stadium for the Nationals-Mets game, throwing out the first pitch of the game (right). The two-foot-tall humanoid can do better than that. QRIO was built to provide entertainment and I doubt many can do better. With Sony’s technology, QRIO is able to negotiate uneven surfaces, dance, recognize faces and voices and even carry out conversations. Its fluid motion is achieved by the Intelligent Servo Actuator (ISA), a drive system for the robot’s joints and limbs that involves motors, gears, a computer and a multitude of sensors. As if all these are not enough for entertainment, QRIO is designed to understand spoken words and learn new words other than the tens of thousands of words it knows already. Analysis of the words using voice recognition technology allows it to respond in its own words. As the time goes by, conversation with QRIO will get more and more interesting. Did I forget something? QRIO has the ability to sing in vibrato! This is definitely something you would expect from Sony, who places great emphasis on the entertainment value. Do keep a lookup for more news on QRIO~! Reference: http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/QRIO/top_nf.html http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/06/AR2005070602103.html U036418N Tan Chee Boon

ALTACRO (Automated Locomotion Training using an Actuated Compliant Robotic Orthosis)

2007-04-03T00:56:00.000+08:00

Gait rehabilitation provides locomotion training to people with incomplete spinal cord injuries to recuperate walking capability. Conventional training devices like the body weight support treadmill trainer(BWSTT) involve four physiotherapists to help the patient’s leg and hip motion. Moreover, it makes use of overhead suspension system which compromises comfortability. The existing step rehabilitation robots use bulky conventional electric drives making the joints very stiff. Integration of robotics will increase the efficiency and quality of such therapy.

The ALTACRO, an exoskeleton, is novel step rehabilitation robot and conduct clinical studies to overcome the problems of the systems available. It comprises of a treadmill, a safety linkage mechanism and a robotic orthosis with the hip, knee and ankle joints actuated by PPAM's. The use of Pleated Pneumatic Artificial Muscle [3] instead of electrical commands distinguishes this system from others. It creates a comfortable human-robot interface giving the rehabilitation process additional functionality. This actuator technology used by ALTACRO has following advantages:

The orthosis becomes lightweight and compact.
The high power output supports the entire body weight without using an overhead suspension.
The ankle joint assistance can be provided to realize normal gait.
The actuation system absorbs the spasmodic movements of the patients and with time patients can be given more independence in generating their walking movement

Click here for an animation of ALTACRO. Any patient who can walk again will benefit from this project. For those who will probably never walk again this robot will help limit the detrimental effects of being wheelchair-bound (loss of bone mass, osteoporosis, etc.) The ALTACRO promises better care and a speedier return to mobility. REFERENCES

[1] http://altacro.vub.ac.be/info [2] http://www.fondation-altran.org [3] Pleated Pneumatic Artificial Muscle (PPAM) NAMAN AGARWAL

2007-04-03T00:52:00.000+08:00

Dressman - The Ironing Robot

2007-04-03T00:03:00.000+08:00

The Dressman ironing robot is invented by Siemens with the intention to ease the laborious household chore, ironing. It achieves its objectives of drying and ironing clothes by combining simple technology with clever designs.

How It Works
The ironing board is cleverly designed to take on the shape of the upper torso of the human body. Upon placing the damp shirt on the figure, its interior will automatically be inflated with hot air and puffs up the shirt, thus removing any creases on the shirt that had resulted from the washing. The user can select the ironing cycle time by adjusting the rotary selector although the average time to iron a shirt takes 7-8 minutes. After the ironing is completed, the device will switch to blow cool air on the shirt for a minute to stabilize and prolong the crispness of the ironed shirt.

The Technology
The technology behind the Dressman robot is simple. It comprises of a heater box with a number of resistance elements that will begin to store up heat from the point that the user start to place the shirt on the figure. It will only be puffed with hot air when the shirt is properly positioned and the user activates the start button. The figure itself is made of three types of cloths with different permeability for hot air to ensure more hot air flow for thicker parts of the shirt (e.g. the cuffs and pocket) to achieve an even ironing effect.

Selling Point
Compared to conventional irons, the Dressman protects the fabric and prolongs the pristine look of the garment.

References
http://www.innovations-report.com/html/reports/process_engineering/report-29650.html http://www.newscientisttech.com/channel/tech/robots/dn5058

Submitted by
Choo Teck Kwang Adrian U036224U

Let the robots do the repair...

2007-04-02T23:31:00.000+08:00

As astronauts prepare themselves to make repairs in space to the underbelly of the space shuttle, engineers led by Northrop Grumman has engaged in developing an Autonomous Walking Inspection and Maintenance Robot (AWIMR) for NASA. AWIMR might look like something out of the War of the Worlds (Steven Spielberg’s film starring Tom Cruise in case you guys forget), but this six legged arthropod robot is capable of autonomously navigating across truss structures and clinging to the outside or underbelly of the spacecraft to perform maintenance. Putting AWIMR in space to perform the routine maintenance implies more safety and scientific efficiency for the astronauts. Though still in its development phase, AWIMR is projected to weigh approximately 20kg and measure about 1m across including its legs. Its “brain” is encapsulated in a central body with diameter of only 30cm, made of aluminum frame and plastic sheets. Using the cameras and other sensors, on both its body and belly, AWIMR can walk across the surface and perform inspection. By measuring the transfer function between its feet as it advances, AWMIR is able to determine if subsurface corrosion of holes from micro meteorites exist. For repair, AWMIR would wield the electron beam welding tool used currently by the astronauts. Control of AWIMR can also be made from inside the space shuttles using wireless links such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. With AWIMR, astronauts no longer need to expose themselves to the risk of micro meteoroids or solar radiation that can happen anytime.

Reference: [1] http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/air_space/1764027.html [2] http://www-robotics.jpl.nasa.gov/tasks/showTask.cfm?TaskID=33&tdaID=2705

Thng Kang Liang

U036278W

bipedal robot for bipedal humans

2007-04-02T17:55:00.000+08:00

Lo and behold, while we are playing with soccer robots on wheels, the students in Waseda University have built a 2 foot tall bipedal robot. It uses a combination of hydraulics and algorithms to stroll along gracefully. The WL-16IV’s (Waseda-Leg Number 16 Refinement Four) main characteristic is that it is able to climb stairs. A robot like this is definitely not rehabilitative, because it will just encourage humans to be lazier (if there is such a word), but it is definitely assistive. Imagine this allow wheel bounded patients to be able to negotiate stairs or other uneven terrain, something that wheels are just not able to accomplish. Similarly, imagine the technology on balancing on bipedal with hydraulics being used on other areas. Anyone watched Aliens 2? Remember the scene which Ripley was battling the alien with a bipedal machine robot used for carrying heavy and bulky crates? I guess WL-16IV is the grand dad of Ripley’s robot. Currently, I would think that the most advanced bipedal robot is Honda’s Asimo. What differentiate WL-16IV from Asimo is that WL-16IV uses hydraulics rather than electric motors, this enable it to handle heavy loads, such as the person sitting on top of it. Well, ten years ago, I would say ‘a picture paints a thousand words’, but here in 2007, its ‘a video paints a thousand pictures’. Shaw Ray U036444H. [1] http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/06/wasedas-two-legged-stair-climbing-robot-in-action/ edit: incase some of u not sure which robot in the movie Aliens 2 i was talking about. here i found a picture of it. just folllow the link. http://imdb.com/gallery/ss/0090605/IMG0013.jpg.html

Cost Effective Security Robots

2007-04-02T12:23:00.000+08:00

A high level of cost effective security at homes can be enforced with the advent of the MOSRO MINI. Manufactured with a weight of 750g and 28.5cm, MOSCRO MINI is a mobile security robot that ensures a reliable guarding of every corner in homes and even offices. It is able to travel autonomously through each room for a period of up to 6 hours. Being an intelligent mobile robot, the MOSRO MINI can avoid hitting furniture, work equipment, and further "obstacles" in a reliable manner. There are a total of three infrared scanners, which are able to detect motions in 100% darkness, integrated in this security robot. In addition, the guarding place may be remotely watched over via Computer or PDA with the use of the integrated MOSRO MINI Camera. In this case, whenever it registers burglars or a potential danger, the robot will set off an alarm, for instance, via text message (SMS) or images to the owner's mobile phone. Smoke, gas and heat detection is possible for this robot with the use of additional sensors. Thus, it is applicable in places where the fixed installation of a video monitoring device is not worth and the supervision of objects by guardsmen becomes too complex. The robot is freely programmable for further multiple tasks via a free interface. The software for direct piloting works under Windows or Linux. Links: http://www.quadratec-ltd.co.uk/MOSRO_MINI_Surveillance%20Robot.htm u036147x adrian yang

Teacher's Little Helpers

2007-04-02T11:29:00.000+08:00

The children learn from RUBI and play with QRIO. However, they are not your normal teachers and playmates. RUBU, Robot Using Bayesian Inference, and QRIO, whose names stands for Quest for Curiosity, are developing robots created by the Machine Perception Laboratory at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and Sony Corporation respectively. Meant as a research platform for the advancement in the field of real-time, social robotics and uses of interactive computers in educational environments, they are attending the Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) Classroom 1 at UCSD as part of a long-term research study.

Soft, warm and pleasantly plump RUBI, has 2 cameras for eyes and a third omni-directional camera for peripheral vision. In addition to 5 high-powered CPUs in her body, she learns by communicating through an antenna on her back with another 24 CPUs. RUBI is able to track heads and detect faces and basic expressions and as the assistant teacher, teaches the children songs, colours, shapes and other materials through her touch-screen belly.

Bipedal QRIO with its state-of-the art autonomous abilities, acts as the peer by dancing in response to humans and engaging the children in play and exercise activities during each hour long activity with the 10 to 24-month old children.

While the researchers are paving for future technical challenges, Lydia Morrison, the lead teacher of Classroom 1, says that RUBI and QRIO have become valuable members of the class. "It's an enriching experience for both the children and the teachers," Morrison said. "We need tools, we need teaching aids in the classroom. RUBI and QRIO could become real helpers one day. And for now, they are doing something just as important -- they are helping us imagine new ways of teaching. The experience is also fun. Tickling RUBI's sensitive TV belly so she giggles produces laughs from the people too. And, each time QRIO lays down on the floor at the end of a session for system shutdown, it draws a small crowd and a queue forms to cover him with a blanket and wish him "night-night."

References:

[1] http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/newsrel/soc/TeacherLilHelpers.asp

[2] http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/06/050622233733.htm

U036095H Ng Zhihong

Nursebot--the robotic 'angel'

2007-04-02T10:35:00.000+08:00

There are many applications in the medical field for autonomous robotic systems. These include micro surgery, remote surgery e.t.c. These applications are often more advanced and complicated and thus are subject to much interest and research efforts. However, we cannot neglect the less glamorous fields of post surgery as well as out of hospital health care. I have chosen to look at the role that companion robots can fulfill in the healthcare industry. Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh have jointly developed automated aides. These are 'nursebots' which are being designed to monitor elderly clients to provide healthcare roles such as reminding them to take their daily medication. These robots provide a two way link such that healthcare personnel can be used more efficiently as they can remotely monitor a larger number of patients at one time. It allows sick elderly patients to be able to receive the same nursing care at home as they have in the hospitals, allowing them to recuperate and heal in a less intimidating environment. Much research has been done to ease the elderly into accepting robotic technology as the older generation is often suspicious and apprehensive about modern technology. This is done through the development of more humanlike robots in terms of movement as well as facial features. These robots need to be meticulously tested and their functionality comprehensively accessed to ensure that they actually serve to facilitate health care for the elderly and can work bug-free. This is especially important as the elderly are physically vulnerable. posted by Chen Songyi u036339w

ROBOVOLC --- volcanic exploration

2007-04-02T10:27:00.000+08:00

U036786J Yeo Kelly

Following the successful launch of robot on the surface of Mars, many new robots have been designed for planetary exploration. One of which is volcanic exploration, because of the strong terrain similarities and due to the high danger volcanic activities pose to human.

ROBOVOLC is a mobile robot built for volcanic exploration. This project is a partnership between 2 Universities in Italy and U.K., 2 industrial and 2 research organizations.

Surfaces on which ROBOVOLC moves are very rough and disconnected especially those that occur close to or inside volcanic craters. Therefore the robot needs sophisticated assembly to move safely up the steep gradient and unstable surfaces. It is built with 6wheels, equipped with semi-active joints and the weight (<200Kg) and dimension (1.7m x 1.2m x 0.8m) of the system were carefully chosen to allow the system to be transported easily to the proximity of a volcanic crater. ROBOVOLC operates on hybrid Internal Combustion (IC) engine generator in combination with the batteries, as a back up and recharge system.

There are 2 navigation methods: autonomous or semi-autonomous:

Autonomous mode models the cognitive processes and is used when the location to explore is known or when tele-operation is not available. Hence path-planning will move the automated robot to a specific position in the volcanic area and perform the tasks required.

On the other hand, when unexplored region is being investigated, an operator will tele-operate the robot from a safe distance via the use of a high power wireless LAN interface video link. Then making use of the 4 cameras installed on each side of the rover and a 5 degree of freedom manipulator, it is able to observe the volcanic site and collect samples of rocks and gases, as well as, drop and pick up instruments.

When navigating, the current position of the robot must be determined via localization; its surroundings must be sensed and mapped; and finally decisions must be made as to how best to proceed.

Localization is done mainly by using a DGPS (Ashtec model Z-Xtreme) algorithm, which is a sensor system. Then with the exact location of the robot known, navigation and reconstruction of the terrain morphology can be carried out.

In this way, researchers can learn and better understand the on-going activities at the volcanic site and help predict and prevent unnecessary casualties.

NeCoRo - The Lovely Cat

2007-04-01T22:55:00.000+08:00

NeCoRo is a cat type communication robot developed by Omron Corporation, Japan. NeCoRo can respond appropriately to an individual’s emotions and movement. It can also have its own feelings and desires, which will be shown to its owner. Moreover, it can remember its name so that it can acknowledge its name when called. How does it achieve so many fantastic goals?

Firstly, it has sensing and recognition system. The tactile sensors locating in its head, chin and back can sense whether there is a stroking or patting on it. Apart from this, there is a microphone in its head so that it has the ability to detect sound and recognize the source. This is why it can remember its name after being called many times. A sight sensor in its nose prevents it from hitting on any obstacles. Last, an internal acceleration sensor helps it to recognize its position when cradling and spinning around.

Besides the sensors, the 15 actuators also play an important role. Its four legs, neck, tail, and even its eyelids and ears are equipped by actuators with many movement patterns. In addition, its mouse is equipped with a speaker which can vocalize 48 different cat sounds.

Apart from hardware, the software is also well developed. Through the recognition feedback, its feelings of anger, satisfaction, and uneasiness are generated. And according to physiological rhythms, it can express sleepiness or cuddling. Furthermore, a learning function and growth functions can let it behave like a real cat, which can communicate with its owner and respond appropriately.

NeCoRo is cool and lovely. It will definitely bring people happiness. Reference: http://www.necoro.com/newsrelease/index.html

Liu Ming U048695H

Quickplacer: the fastest robot in the world

2007-04-01T18:58:00.000+08:00

Automated assembly lines have come a long way from the days of heaving metal in Mr. Ford’s concept factories. Industrial robots, after a boom in the 80s, are becoming increasingly faster and stronger to match the high-rise demands in production capacity.

Just in March 2006, Fatronik unveiled the fastest industrial handling robot in the world at the time named Quickplacer [1]. Fatronik is a Spain-based R&D company with technological expertise in manufacturing production.

Watching Quickplacer at work is like watching a magician on stage. It is capable of handling items of up to 2Kg at a stunning rate of 200 items per minute. It can be further integrated with vision camera for movement guidance in accordance with the shape and orientation of the objects and also the speed of conveyor belts.

This parallel robotic platform has an effector that is manipulated by 4 precision actuators that can control four degrees of freedom( 3 translational and 1 rotational along the vertical axis). Its high speed is characterized by dynamic acceleration of 15G and a braking capacity that is more than 5 times greater than a Formula 1 racecar. Even in high speed motion, the robot can still maintain an absolute positional accuracy of +/- 0.2mm [2]. An optimized path planning is developed for an efficient movement and to avoid discontinuities in acceleration. This robot is designed for small mass handling industries such as food processing (e.g. candy packaging), electronics components, and pharmaceutical products.

Eugene Peng NT061399W

References
[1] Fatronik News Release:
http://www.fatronik.com/en/noticia.php?id=53
[2] Quickplacer technical characteristics:
http://www.fatronik.com/documentos/proyectos/Characteristics.pdf

YIPPEE - IT'S GUPI TIME !

2007-04-01T17:25:00.000+08:00

My mum’s always complaining that pets are dirty and messy – Guess it’s time for GUPI!

Figure 1 : GUPI

GUPI is the abbreviation for Guinea Pig and it’s an evolution of “Tamagotchi” that so many of us went crazy over. GUPI is an autonomous robotic pet that is able to avoid obstacles, respond to stroking and noises as well detect infrared beams from the ‘carrot’ gadget that comes with it.

All this is possible with a wide range of sensors. It has 4 legs/wheels which enables it to move freely. GUPI's movements are pseudo-random and it’s even able to engage a maze and come out of it! Infrared sensors in its eyes and nose enable its obstacle avoidance capability. There’s also an altitude sensor in the body and pressure sensor which allows it to respond when it’s being stroked. The ‘carrot’ when pressed, sends out infrared beam that GUPI picks up and homes in on.

The human touching behaviours are classified using haptic interfaces which adopts gridded pressure sensitive conductive ink sheets as shown in Figure 2. The results are used as signals for reinforcement learning in controlling the interactions behaviors with humans. To recognize more sensitive patterns of human touch (e.g. a tickle, scratch, etc.), haptic devices are needed to measure touching pressure at a high sampling rate and at high spatial and pressure resolutions.

Figure 2 : Gridded pressure sensitive ink sheets

GUPI makes 30 different sounds and has 4 different moods; namely the baby state, learning state, happy/normal state and the sleeping state. It is highly interactive and it becomes lonely and scared and goes into hiding if neglected.

The most interesting thing is the unique identification codes in the chipsets that allows it to react to other GUPIs in the vicinity! They might eventually sing and dance with each other if they learn to accept each other and share their food – the carrot which also doubles up as a battery reloader!

It only costs about £35 Cool!

Links : More Info On GUPI

References : Recognizing Human Touching Behaviors using a Haptic Interface for a Pet-robot , Futoshi Naya Junji Yamato Kazuhiko Shinozawa

U036077M Alvin Ong Jun Jie

Coordination of Multi-Robot Exploration

2007-04-01T16:47:00.000+08:00

The goal of exploration is to cover an unknown environment in a minimum of time. The key problem with a team of robots is to allocate efficient target locations for each of them, so that they can parallel explore different regions.

An approach for exploration with unlimited communication abilities is used in [1]: During the exploration a global map of the environment is built (known/unknown and obstacle free/unfree areas are mapped). The decision for which of the frontier locations (frontier to an unknown location) are allocated as the next targets is evaluated from two values: The cost of reaching this location (simple distance) and the utility. Whenever one robot chooses a location as a target, the utility of this and the adjacent locations are reduced to all other robots. Consequently an attractive location loses its attractiveness when it is targeted and other robots can explore other regions.

Results: This relative simple approach is needed to introduce quickness and robustness into the system. In real world experiments good results were achieved (see Figure: Coordinated exploration by three robots in a real world experiment; starting point is the left upper corner; Figure from [1]). This multi-robot system is more redundant, more fault-tolerant and faster in the exploration then a single robot.

Further works will deal with limited communication abilities, unknown relative positions of the robots, changing environments and dysfunctions of robots.

Reference: [1] W.Burgard, M.Moos, C.Stachniss, F.Schneider: "Coordinate Multi-Robot Exploration", International Conference on Robotics and Automation, IEEE, 2000, http://www.informatik.uni-freiburg.de/~stachnis/pdf/burgard05tro.pdf

NT061637N Ireneus Wior

Robotic Therapy for Hand

2007-04-01T14:11:00.000+08:00

U036855H Ong Mei Yee

A hand-wrist assisting robotic device (HWARD) designed by researchers from University of California helps stroke patients by improving their ability to grasp and release objects. Studies have shown that repetitive training on movements helps in the rehabilitation of the affected arm and hand. Hence, HWARD was developed to provide aid to the patient by having a pattern of ‘wrist extension with hand grasping’ and ‘wrist flexion with hand release’ when handling objects. The design follows the neurobiological principles of motor learning – sensorimotor integration, environmental complexity, attention and movement repetition [1].

The Design

As shown from the figures, HWARD enables rotation of the thumb, fingers and wrist. Also, a lever design is used to enable joint movement. This makes use of air cylinders attached to the level and the air pressure can be adjusted to aid movements.

Robot control

HWARD is activated by 3 air cylinders and the air pressure is regulated so that the air cylinders produce approximately 4 to 25N of force. This is done with precision regulators which control the source air pressure levels entering the system. In addition, sensors are attached to the joints and cylinders to provide significant data for computation. For instance, rotary potentiometers measure the finger, wrist and thumb joint angles, micro pressure sensors on air cylinders measures pressure levels. A computer program then allows the experimenter to control specific functions, perform safety shutdowns and collect information about the joint angles and pressure.

The experiment

The patient has to initiate the motor command. In cases where the hand can only move minimally, the robot can be controlled to complete the task so that the brain will re-learn what it is like to make the full grasp or release. With HWARD, stoke patients can regain their normal hand function to cope with daily chores.

References:

[1] C.D. Takahashi, L.Dcr-Yeghiaian, V.H. Le, S.C. Crammer, “A Robotic Device for Hand Motor Therapy After Stroke”, Proceedings of the 2005 IEEE, 9th Int’l Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics, pg 17 -20, June 28-July 1, (2005).

[2] http://www.redorbit.com/news/technology/833236/robotic_therapy_restores_hand_use/index.html [3] http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Robotic_Arm_Aids_Stroke_Victims_999.html

Sophisticated ExoMars Rover – unlocks the mystery of the Red Planet… soon

2007-04-01T12:50:00.000+08:00

The dreams of Martian neighbors and human mission to Mars may soon turn into reality! ESA (European Space Agency) had planned to launch the ExoMars mission in 2011 to establish whether life ever existed on Mars, or is still active today.

ExoMars Rover from http://www.esa.int/esa-mmg/mmg.pl?keyword=exomars
There are three parts in this mission: a Mars orbiter, a descent module and a Mars rover. After the Mars orbiter has reached Mars and put itself into orbit around the planet, the Mars descent module will deliver the rover to a specific location by using an inflatable braking device or parachute system. The advanced technologies used are robust enough for the Rover to survive the stresses of atmospheric entry and land accurately. The Rover is able to travel for kilometers using conventional solar arrays to generate electricity. Autonomous navigation is made possible with optical sensors and onboard software. This highly intelligent software is designed by SciSys so that the Rover can validate its activity plans with real-time information and repair these plans autonomously should they fail.
It carries the exobiology Pasteur model payload, including panoramic instruments, a subsurface drill, a sample preparation and distribution unit and the analytical lab. The latter includes a microscope, an oxidation sensor and a variety of instruments for characterizing the organic substances and geochemistry in the collected samples. The most important element is the drill which can reach a depth of 2m, monitor and control torque, thrust, penetration, depth and temperature at the drill bit, and conduct mineralogy studies inside the borehole.
ExoMars is the first mission with the mobility to penetrate deep to reach well-preserved organic molecules. Although there is no guarantee of a breakthrough, the many advanced technologies developed for this project presents high hopes and expectations.
References: http://www.esa.int/esaHS/SEM1NVZKQAD_exploration_0.html http://www.primidi.com/2006/05/17.html
Su Shiyan U036793W

Home Navigation Robot - Cye

2007-03-31T22:00:00.000+08:00

Cye, produced by Probotics, is currently the only home robot that can reliably navigate around a home or office. In fact, it navigates better than most research robots which cost upwards of $15,000. Most robots use range finding and other sensors to move around and avoid obstacles, but these robots never know where they are exactly. On the contrary, Cye uses highly accurate positional sensors to generate a map of home/office, with minimum human help. He can track his movement on a map using a radio link to PC. (A sample map is shown.) Due to this, Cye always knows his exact location and can roam around precisely just like a human. In order to get Cye installed and running, the first thing is to find an open corner as its base. Attach the radio modem to PC’s serial port, and then install a program called “MapNZap”. After a brief initialization sequence, choose the robot’s orientation relative to the screen, and the direction of the nearest wall relative to Cye. After making the selections, Cye will back off his base, move to the closest wall and bump squarely against it. Then he turns and come back near the base/charger. Now Cye is ready to start exploring. After roaming around the rooms/office, Cye is instructed to come back to the homebase. The robot rolls through the door from other rooms and right up to the charger. It will be slightly off and miss the charging station. Not perfect, but close enough for a robot. However, Cye will back away, move to the other wall and square against it, then come back and complete a PERFECT dock. Apparently, bumping the wall the charger is on zeroes out accumulated errors on one axis, and bumping the other wall (remember that the base must be placed in a corner) zeroes out errors along the other axis. If Cye can get anywhere near his base, he will dock with his charger every time. Cye’s navigation success attributes to “Dead Reckoning”, the ability to navigate using positional data only. When it moves to another room, the computer calculates a viable path on the map and sends coordinates for Cye to follow. As Cye moves, his encoder sensors check velocity/distance of each wheel 500 times per second. The telemetry data is sent back to computer so that the robot position can be tracked relative to walls and other obstacles. Probotics claims about Cye’s dead reckoning capabilities, less than 5 degrees of orientation error after 50 feet of travel. Cye is the best and most affordable home robot on the market. An amazing navigator: It is the only robot that can reliably find and dock with a charger. Cye uses the corner near its homebase to zero out errors that have accumulated during its journey. Affordable: It is less than half the cost of its closest competition. Although at a price of US$695, Cye is still much cheaper than other robots, which are priced lowest at US$2000. Can Vacuum the House: Cye can reliably vacuum every room in a house at any time of the day or night. Cye's new Hoover cordless vacuum cleaner will keep the carpets clean even if you aren't at home. It charges when the robot does, so it will vacuum completely unattended! Cye is Programmable: It can be programmed in Visual Basic or C++. With a few changes in the powerful but user friendly “MapNZap” software, the robot can go from room to room, play tunes, haul dishes and vacuuming. Can add extra sensors and motors: Cye’s external port will be able to accept a microcontroller known as Handy Board. This will allow more sensors, motors and LEDs to be attached. Cye is Educational: Playing with Cye will help people learn about the exciting world of robots and robotics. Both kids and adults will learn about navigation, dead reckoning, programming and many more. http://www.personalrobots.com/home.html http://www.pioneernet.net/johnc/cyemain.htm Xu Xiao U036505H

Self Replicating Robots

2007-03-31T11:30:00.000+08:00

Cornell University researchers have created a machine that can build copies of it. Though the robots do not perform any useful function yet, they are proof of the concept. This principle could be extended to self repairing which would be a great milestone and work wonders in the Space industry and other hazardous working environments. Self-replicating machines have been the subject of theoretical discussion since the early days of computing and robotics, but only two physical devices that can replicate have been reported. One uses Lego parts assembled in a two-dimensional pattern by moving along tracks; another uses an arrangement of wooden tiles that tumble into a new arrangement when given a shove. The robots are made up of a series of modular cubes -- called "molecubes" -- each containing identical machinery and the complete computer program for replication. The cubes have electromagnets on their faces that allow them to selectively attach to and detach from one another, and a complete robot consists of several cubes linked together. Each cube is divided in half along a long diagonal, which allows a robot composed of many cubes to bend, reconfigure and manipulate other cubes. For example, a tower of cubes can bend itself over at a right angle to pick up another cube. To begin replication, the stack of cubes bends over and sets its top cube on the table. Then it bends to one side or another to pick up a new cube and deposit it on top of the first. By repeating the process, one robot made up of a stack of cubes can create another just like itself. Since one robot cannot reach across another robot of the same height, the robot being built assists in completing its own construction. Although these experimental robots work only in the limited laboratory environment, the idea of making self-replicating robots out of self-contained modules could be used to build working robots that could self-repair by replacing defective modules. For example, robots sent to explore Mars could carry a supply of spare modules to use for repairing or rebuilding as needed, allowing for more flexible, versatile and robust missions. Self-replication and repair also could be crucial for robots working in environments where a human with a screwdriver couldn't survive. Vignesh Viswanathan - U045971E Reference: http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/May05/selfrep.ws.html http://ccsl.mae.cornell.edu/research/selfrep/ www.iser02.unisa.it/papers/67.pdf

Self Replicating Robots

2007-03-31T02:42:00.000+08:00

Cornell University researchers have created a machine that can build copies of it. Though the robots do not perform any useful function yet, they are proof of the concept. This principle could be extended to self repairing which would be a great milestone and work wonders in the Space industry and other hazardous working environments. Self-replicating machines have been the subject of theoretical discussion since the early days of computing and robotics, but only two physical devices that can replicate have been reported. One uses Lego parts assembled in a two-dimensional pattern by moving along tracks; another uses an arrangement of wooden tiles that tumble into a new arrangement when given a shove. The robots are made up of a series of modular cubes -- called "molecubes" -- each containing identical machinery and the complete computer program for replication. The cubes have electromagnets on their faces that allow them to selectively attach to and detach from one another, and a complete robot consists of several cubes linked together. Each cube is divided in half along a long diagonal, which allows a robot composed of many cubes to bend, reconfigure and manipulate other cubes. For example, a tower of cubes can bend itself over at a right angle to pick up another cube. To begin replication, the stack of cubes bends over and sets its top cube on the table. Then it bends to one side or another to pick up a new cube and deposit it on top of the first. By repeating the process, one robot made up of a stack of cubes can create another just like itself. Since one robot cannot reach across another robot of the same height, the robot being built assists in completing its own construction. Although these experimental robots work only in the limited laboratory environment, the idea of making self-replicating robots out of self-contained modules could be used to build working robots that could self-repair by replacing defective modules. For example, robots sent to explore Mars could carry a supply of spare modules to use for repairing or rebuilding as needed, allowing for more flexible, versatile and robust missions. Self-replication and repair also could be crucial for robots working in environments where a human with a screwdriver couldn't survive. Vignesh Viswanathan - U045971E Reference: http://ccsl.mae.cornell.edu/research/selfrep/ http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/May05/selfrep.ws.html

LOKOMAT. the HOPE.

2007-03-30T02:11:00.000+08:00

Tan Xie Xing U046240M

A diving accident had nearly caused a 13 yr old girl to lose her both legs. Her legs couldnt move for five weeks. And when the doctors predicted that she had only 10% to 30% of walking two years after the injury, it was too much for that young and sporty girl to handle....

Just when she was feeling depressed, her HOPE came. The LOKOMAT. the beacon in the sea of darkness.

That young girl was trained with LOKOMAT for eight weeks. This Swiss-manufactured exoskeleton robot delivers power to her hip and knee joints, and strapped her legs onto the machine. She was then suspended over a treadmill, which her repetitive walking (training) takes place.

8 weeks past. Guess what?! That little girl was able to walk 250 feet! Amazing ya? LOKOMAT has proven the statistic wrong. LOKOMAT had strengthen her legs. LOKOMAT had removed that girl from the wheel chair. LOKOMAT has became her saviour.

what is LOKOMAT?

Lokomat is actually a robotic gait orthosis and it is used together with Lokobasis (body weight support system) and a Woodway treadmill to perform rehabilitation to people with paralysis, especially those with partial spinal cord injuries. The Lokomat would move the patient's legs in a walking pattern repetitively and this kind of training, in time, can assist patients to regain his/her functional walking patterns.

How does it operate?

During the training, the patient’s hip and knee joint ankles would move and be guided according to a pre-programmed physiological gait pattern.. Each of the four joints is constantly monitored by the Lokomat’s software to ensure that they are precisely held to the predefined gait pattern. The computer controlled guidance also allows individual adjustments of different gait parameters. You may like to refer to the below clip for better understanding. :>

Other benefits

Besides rehab purposes, there are several other benefits as well.

1) Regular therapy can prevent limbs from deteriorating, by strengthening muscles and bones of the lower limbs. Also, weight-bearing exercise helps individuals with paralysis to ward off the threat of osteoporosis.

2) It can help to relief the therapist. Instead of conventionally carry the patient to walk on the walking bars with three other helpers, the new robot would only require one assistant to monitor and run the machine. As such, with the help of rehab machines, the therapist would be leaving soon.

3) It is also believed that Lokomat is useful for patients with other neurological diagnoses such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and Parkinson.

LOKOMAT is not an antidote that can cure paralysis in one day. However, LOKOMAT gives the hope to people. And it is through consistent and repetitive training before wonders can happen. :>

====================Reference================= Lokomat, hocoma, Rehab Continuum Report,

============================================

Groundhog - The Mine-Mapping Robot

2007-03-29T17:05:00.000+08:00

U045926H Wong Jia Hui

Groundhog is a mine-mapping robot developed by Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) in response to a mining accident due to inaccurate maps. Its objective was to explore and map a large abandoned coal mine accurately and reliably, so as to ensure safety of the miners.

Groundhog is equipped with: -tiltable SICK laser range finders to obtain scans efficiently

-cameras, tilt, gas and sinkage sensors to obtain data

-a gyroscope to allow it to get through the obstacles and the different terrains within the mine

-a wireless video system for data obtained to be seen by the team outside the mine

Groundhog makes use of the perception technology - Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), to derive maps from the data obtained in real time. With autonomous and mapping technology, Groundhog has to make decisions by itself on how and where to go, and to return outside with the required information.

The hallmark of Groundhog and its incorporated technology came when it encountered a fallen beam, and made the right decision to retreat. Under development, this was an unforeseen situation. Yet through Groundhog’s own analysis, it decided the beam was unsafe to cross, and appropriately retreated.

I think this is an excellent example of how autonomous robotics can be incorporated into real-world situations. With further development, robots like Groundhog can help ensure safety of workers in mining and in other areas such as deep sea excavation.

References:

http://www.cmu.edu/cmnews/extra/2002/021031_groundhog.html http://www.ais.fraunhofer.de/ARC/3D/download/icra2004/node3.html http://www.ri.cmu.edu/projects/project_509.html http://www.cmu.edu/cmnews/030625/030625_minemap.html

Deep Phreatic Thermal Explorer (DEPTHX)

2007-03-29T00:54:00.000+08:00

Carnegie Mellon University(CMU) recently developed an underwater robot named Deep Phreatic Thermal Explorer (DEPTHX). This autonomous underwater vehicle is 2 meters in diameter and weighs about 1300 kilograms. DEPTHX is a four degree-of-freedom autonomous underwater vehicle,it can spin and move in any direction, and due to the fact that it has very high buoyancy and very low center of mass, it is ideal for underwater exploration as it is extremely stable when floating upright.

The software used for navigation and mapping is simultaneous localization and mapping, or SLAM, developed by Associate Research Professor David Wettergreen of CMU. SLAM allows the vehicle to build a map of its three-dimensional surroundings, and this helps to determine the vehicle' location easily in the bottom of Zacaion Cenote. Besides, the map also carries information on the water temperature and salinity levels.

In February 2007, DEPTHX successfully exlored a 115 meters deep sinkhole in eastern Mexico, and this May, the team is planning a expedition to Zacatone Cenote in central Mexico, which is over 300 meters deep. Previous explorations into Zacatone Cenote have not gone deeper than 50 meters. The goal of this exploration is to study the sinkhole's underwater environment and to discover what kinds of organisms are still living in the deepest sink hole in the world, at the same time also creating-dimensional map of the sink hole.

DEPTHX is designed for unexplored territory, where there is no external navigating. Using its autonomous navigation, robot can go to places where human could not possibly go due to its extreme environmental condition.

Exploring the deepest region where no one has gone before seems to be a big expedition, however, all these are actually preparation for seeking life on Europa, an ice-covered moon of Jupiter.

U036472X Teo Hong Wee

References:
http://www.ri.cmu.edu/projects/project_544.html http://www.frc.ri.cmu.edu/projects/depthx/

Rehabilitative Robot - KineAssist

2007-03-28T17:27:00.000+08:00

Stroke patients usually suffer from the loss of motor functions like walking independently. Chicago PT has developed KineAssist technology which is a rehabilitative robotic system that aids therapists in rehabilitative sessions. The system provides patients recovering from stroke an omnipresent safety net that catches them when they fall. This allows the therapist to improve the quality of the session by providing more realistic training scenarios instead just preventing the patient from falling over.

The system is able to follow the patient allowing the patient to move around freely without feeling any extra weight. The harness is the interface connecting the machine and the patient. This tracking of the patient’s motion is done by force sensors in the harness. This allows for control of the robot which reacts to the patient’s movement and also the ‘catching’ of the patient when he falls over. In this sense the system is more of a reactive agent that only reacts to external stimulus.

Another feature that stands out is that the machine can lift the patient reducing the load on the patient’s legs. This allows for progressive training which could not be achieved by past rehabilitative methods.

Voice control or a wireless remote control could be built into the system to allow the therapist control the robot’s functions without endangering the patient with excess wires.

Further applications for this technology include creating this ‘safety net’ for gym users who train alone or for athletes who challenge themselves with heavier weights.

Feng Junwei Benjamin

U046064E

Check the Chicago Link for more videos Reference: Carolina News Tech Talk Chicago PT KineAssist paper MIT review paper

Hopping microbots

2007-03-26T16:30:00.000+08:00

Exploring planets like Mars with robots are expensive and time consuming. The success of a mission is linked to the survival of a single robot. Therefore the idea of a swarm of small cost-effective robots are appealing. Since the loss of a few units won't necessarily lead to the failure of a mission. Dr. Penlope and Dr. Steve Dubowsky have proposed a design of multiple jumping robots the size of tennis balls. All equipped with a camera and communication systems. Orientating themselves and other units to perform a intelligent collective autonomous behaviour. Each unit carrying a few instruments adding to the swarms ensemble. So that the swarm will have the ability of adapting to and investigating the environment.

In December 2005 NIAC the NASA Institute for Advanced Concepts awarded the idea with the Phase II grant. So that the inventors could develop the design and testing it on earth.

The jumping motion will be ensured by letting the robots be weighted in one side so that they always will come to rest in a specific orientation. They will also be able to control their direction and perhaps even able to perform a rolling motion.

A example of the benefit of the swarm idea is the ability to adapt to terrain. As an example the units could be used exploring caves on Mars with a great chance of extracting themselves out of the caves when they have investigated it. To enter the caves and still remain i contact with the earth the units could be used as relay points allowing a network to stretch into the cave.
Filip Wistrand
NT061734A

Reference:
New Scientist Space
Universe Today
Astrobiology Magazine

PEBBELS - Bringing the classroom to the hospital bed

2007-03-26T16:11:00.000+08:00

Being hospitalized can have a severe impact on children's education as they are cut of from school. Missing out on just a couple of months classes can make a big difference, and cannot always be replaced with home tutoring. But now there is a solution called PEBBELS (Providing Education By Bringing Learning Environments to Students). It is essentially a robot thats takes your place in the classroom, relaying the images and sound of the teacher and the class to your bed at the hospital. When the first class is over it moves on to the next classroom or stays at the lockers giving you an opportunity to chat with your friends.

The system works with two robots, one in the school and one at the hospital. The school one is remote controlled by the child, making it look and walk around and even raise its arm to answer questions. As for interface, one 15-inch monitor is placed on each robot, showing what the other robot is looking at making two way communication possible. This makes both the student and the teacher feel like the student is present in classroom. The robot also has ability of scanning and printing documents making paperwork not only staying in the classroom.

This is something that have proven to have a good effect on students ability to keep up with school while being in the hospital and the robots have even been accepted as the students themselves by fellow classmates. These new types of learning aids are an improvement for all sick children and is going to increase in popularity as they get cheaper.

References:

PEBBLES Project

Ryerson University

Telebotics

PEBBLES in Wired News

Stefan Wester, NT0601492M

Meet Penelope - A New Age Nurse

2007-03-26T13:25:00.000+08:00

Close your eyes and imagine: In an operating room, a patient is draped and anaesthetized on a table. The other humans – doctors and nurses- are masked and in gowns. A metallic assistant, perhaps a distant cousin to R2D2 of "Star Wars" fame, is standing by. The surgeon calls out for instruments:

Scalpel.

Scissors.

Retractor.

Kelly clamp.

And here is when science fiction starts blending eerily into a new health care reality: A slender robotic arm reaches toward a tray. And with each command, "she" hands instruments quickly, efficiently, correctly.Meet Penelope, the new scrub nurse at New York Presbyterian Hospital in Manhattan: a robot with a job that in many hospitals is held by humans with college degrees. Penelope is not just any old robot, but one blessed with artificial intelligence, an ability to "see" and the capacity to "hear." June 16, 2005 marked the day when Penelope became the first robot, to work as an independent assistant to the surgical team at the New York Presbyterian Hospital in the removal of a benign tumour. Penelope is equipped with a voice recognition software, allowing the surgeon to ask for the tools in a normal manner, and uses its robotic gripper to place the tools in the surgeon’s arms. Once a particular instrument is used and laid down by the surgeon, Penelope uses her digital cameras and advanced image processing software to recognize it and place it back in its correct position. Penelope even uses a software that helps her predict what require next and keeps track of the instruments used during any surgery. The Penelope system has four major hardware and software components :-

A 5 degree-of-freedom robotic arm with an electromagnetic gripper
An instrument platform that consists of sterile horizontal surfaces to store instruments
The System Stand that allows positioning of Penelope
The System Software that includes voice recognition and image processing routines

RoboNurses like Penelope can help in the serious manpower shortage faced by the health services industry, while helping save time and increasing efficiency in the operating room. Her human co-workers feel she is not a replacement to human nurses, but rather a great boon that can help the human nurses devote more time tending to patient needs. Costing as little as a portable X-Ray machine, Penelope will soon be a common sight in many operating theatres, enhancing the services of the healthcare industry.

References :-

http://www.roboticsurgicaltech.com/ http://www.financialexpress.com/fe_full_story.php?content_id=98667

-Gayathri Shankaranarayanan

U036611E

Domestic Service Robots - iRobot Roomba vaccuming robot

2007-03-26T06:29:00.000+08:00

Domestic service robots have long been a staple of science fiction and commercial visions of the future. The robot V.I.C.I in the mid -80’s TV show Small Wonder and Issac Isimov’s book I,Robot which was consequently made into a movie bear testimony to the same. Commercially too, this area has evoked a lot of interest with most big universities and research organizations devoting huge resources to the development of their own robot for different applications. But the question is how soon will robots become part of our day-to-day lives. According to the International Federation of Robotics, about two million personal robots were in use around the world in 2004, and another seven million will be installed by 2008. In South Korea the Ministry of Information and Communication hopes to put a robot in every home there by 2013. The Japanese Robot Association predicts that by 2025, the personal robot industry will be worth more than $50 billion a year worldwide, compared with about $5 billion today.

Most commonly these imaginaries take the form of humanoid assistants capable of performing multiple tasks and engaging in fairly sophisticated communication and interaction with people. But more recently, an entire new range of robots are being developed which do not take the humanoid form and focus on specific applications such as the iRobiq and Robomovers discussed in this blog.

One such popular robot is the iRobot Roomba vacuuming robot. The Roomba is a “robotic floor vac” capable of moving about the home and sweeping up dirt as it goes along. The Roomba is a logical merging of vacuum technology and intelligent technology. The Roomba undertakes three types of cleaning, using two rotating brushes that sweep the floor, a vacuum that sucks dust and particles off the floor, and side sweeping brushes to clean baseboards and walls. Infrared signals are used to determine the Roomba’s current location in a room, and to ensure that it does not fall down stairs or off of raised floors. A set of sensors is also used to determine dirty places on the carpet that need more attention. The Roomba returns to a self charging home base after the floor is clean or when it needs to recharge. Typically, it can clean about three 14 x 16 foot rooms before doing so. Inexpensive contact sensors or infrared sensors are most frequently used, along with simple heuristics to follow random motion patterns. The Roomba navigates a space based upon a predetermined pattern. However, this pattern is altered whenever the Roomba bumps into an obstacle and it changes its course. This introduces important variability in the Roomba’s movement and helps to achieve greater coverage. But one major disadvantage or drawback with this robot is that unlike most conventional robots it is not capable of planning or learning and at times needs human intervention to help clean inaccessible areas.

Author: Vignesh Ramachandran

Matric Number: U037024R

References:

1.Service Robots in the Domestic Environment: A Study of the Roomba Vacuum in the Home - Jodi Forlizzi et al

2. iRobot - Home robots

3.Sizing and seizing the robotics opportunity

Robotic Manipulators in Space:

2007-03-26T02:21:00.000+08:00

One of the areas where robots have a very important role is in the building of the International Space Station (ISS). ISS is a research facility being built in orbit under collaboration of NASA, Canadian Space Agency (CSA), European Space Agency (ESA), Russian Federal Space Agency and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).The assembly of modules and maintenance of the station require Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVA) performed by the astronauts. These are usually expensive and dangerous. This is where the robot manipulator comes in to rescue. The robot manipulator can help perform most of the common repairs and operations without the astronaut ever setting foot outside the ISS.

At present ISS is equipped with Mobile Servicing System or Canada Arm 2.It was built by MD Robotics in Brampton in Canada. It is an improved version of the Canadarm 1 i.e. the Space Shuttle Manipulator. Canadarm 2 is 17.6 meters long when fully extended. It has seven motorized joints, hence seven degrees of freedom and its joints can rotate 540°. It has a mass of 1,800 kilograms and a diameter of 35 cm. The arm is capable of handling large payloads of up to 116,000 kg. The length of the links and the rotational freedom give the manipulator a large working volume. Its ability to handle large weights help in assembling the ISS module, transporting cargo from one end of space station to the other or even help space shuttle dock by gently manoeuvring it into the right position. It is also useful in placing astronauts safely on any location on the ISS. Redundancy has been introduced into the manipulator arm in the form of 2 motors per joint as it is expected to be in service for next 15 years and hence should be able to function in spite of damage.

One of the amazing features of the manipulator is its Mobile Base System (MBS). Unlike most of the manipulator systems that have a fixed base, MBS allows the manipulator to move around on the external truss of ISS. MBS acts as a platform for storing payloads while astronauts work and has 4 grapple points for the robotic arms to attach. The manipulator has Latch End Effectors (LEE) on both ends that help it attach it to the Power Data Grapple Fixtures (PDFGs). PDFG supply power and data to the robot arm and are spread around on the surface of the work station. The manipulator arm can relocate itself in an inchworm fashion by going from one PDFG to another using both its ends or it can use the MBS.

The sensors on the manipulator include 4 colour cameras to supply video data to the astronauts and force moment sensors which give it a sense of touch. The manipulator arm can also automatically detect collisions about to happen and avoid them. The control of the manipulator can be done by the astronaut or it can work autonomously for minor tasks.

More manipulators are expected to be added to the ISS. The future robot arms will help build large work stations and will make full use of the gravity less environment for energy efficiency e.g. SkyWorker. With help intelligent and efficient tools space colonisation will be much safer and faster.

CSA- Canada Arm 2

http://www.space.gc.ca/asc/app/gallery/results2.asp?image_id=module_mini

NASA- Comparison of robotic Arms

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/structure/elements/mss.html

European Robotic Arm

http://www.esa.int/esaHS/ESAQEI0VMOC_iss_0.html

http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/archives/KSCDirect/archives/launch/sts111/carm-qa.htm

SkyWorker

http://www.frc.ri.cmu.edu/projects/skyworker/

Burra Pavan Kumar U045965E

Rotundus Spherical Robot

2007-03-25T20:05:00.000+08:00

The typical security robots that you see publicised these days are usually from japan or korea and basically is like a R2D2 that travels on 4 wheels. Rotundus is a swedish company that thought out of the box and introduces a security robot that is an entire sphere.

What's innovative about this robot is its propulsion system. It is powered by a pendulum inside the sphere. When the pendulum is displaced from the center of the sphere, the ball will move along the direction of the pendulum. As such, it can move in virtually any direction.

A sphere shape means it's fast too. Little point of the contact with the ground means little friction. It can also tackle any terrain from snow to grass to concrete. No need to get stuck at corners either

This robot was developed by Ångström Space Technology Center, part of Uppsala University, Sweden, and meant to be used in space. But people also realised that it can be used as a security robot back on earth. Plenty of space inside the sphere to put cameras, microphones and various sensors to fulfill its purpose as a security robot. All you need to do is set its patrol route, and it'll follow by using GPS.

It's still in prototype form though, and the finished version would have improved GPS, radar, alarms, and a better powered pendulum to enable it to go upslope. That's alot of improvements that need to be made, but the basic concept shows a lot of promise.

Now imagine this as a gps-enabled bowling ball and the things you could do with it. Perfect score!

References

Chen ZhaoLin U036701H

Robots in Nuclear Industries

2007-03-25T14:39:00.000+08:00

In the nuclear industry, humans are not able to withstand high levels of radiation without any adverse side effects. This is where I feel robots can come in and perform a niche role, to fulfil what humans are not able to do. In this industry, robots can perfrom different roles from maintenance work, such as simple manipulation or transportation of radioactive materials, disaster recovery at radioactive sites, and dismantling or assembly of nuclear weapons.

Semi Autonomous Robotic Manipulator

The core of a nuclear reactor is often located underwater and hence robots must be capable of underwater motion. One such example is of a robot developed in China by the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It is equppied with a vision system and capable of searching and operation. It also has a vacuum pump such that it can suck up small items for clean up purposes, and also equipped with a gripper to hold spanners or screwdrivers and can be utilized for maintenance or repairs.

China Nuclear Robot

Robots in such an industry could become increasingly more advanced such that they can become autonomous and for example, can carry out the daily tasks of running a nuclear reactor. I believe this will allow the removal of humans from the radioactive site and ensure that the safety of the workers at such a reactor is not compromised. In existing nuclear plants, the robots must be capable of stairs navigation and such a robot is developed in India, whereby it is six legged and capable of moving around and over obstacles. In my opinion, the robot from China is limited to certain places and not capable of complex navigation due to it being wheel-based.

References:

Seah Qiong Feng Sean U036739M

Spirit and Opportunity: Our eyes into another world

2007-03-25T12:09:00.000+08:00

Perhaps the most widely followed robots are those used in the Mars Exploration Rover(MER) Mission. Spirit and Opportunity became the newest participants of this mission when they were launched in 2003, joining two Viking Landers launched in 1976 and Pathfinder in 1997. The total cost of building, launching, landing and operating Spirit and Opportunity on the surface for the initial 90 day primary mission was about US $820 million.

The instruments carried by them include a Panoramic Camera (for determining the mineralogy, texture, and structure of the local terrain), magnets (for collecting magnetic dust particles), a Microscopic Imager (for obtaining high-resolution images of rocks and soils) and a Rock Abrasion Tool (for removing dusty and weathered rock surfaces).

Sorry to remind every one of our course work but one of the notable features of the rovers are the technologies used for autonomous planetary mobility that enable the rovers to make decisions and avoid hazards on their own. The system takes pictures of the nearby terrain, generate 3-D terrain maps and then plot dozens of possible paths before the rover chooses the shortest, safest path toward the programmed geographical goal.

The rovers may be light years away from us, but they are constantly improving as new software is uploaded to them frequently, applying whatever new knowledge we learn back here to help them in their mission. Even so, much technological advancements are made in hardware and could not be implemented to Spirit and Opportunity. Therefore, NASA has planned for another rover called the Mars Science Laboratory to be launched before the turn of the century. Despite the name which lacks inspiration, it will be packed with the best in navigation and exploration technology.

References: Mars Exploration Rover Mission Website http://www.space.com/marsrover/

Leaw Tiew Liang, U036391E

Life Support for Trauma And Transport (LSTAT)/Snake Robot

2007-03-25T02:23:00.000+08:00

An increasing use of medical robotics is in the battlefield where medical robots are used to treat soldiers who are wounded in the frontline. One example of such robots is the Life Support for Trauma and Transport (LSTAT) /Snake Robot. The LSTAT is a portable surgical platform (stretcher) which integrates various state-of-the–art medical devices. LSTAT incorporates many functions of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) such as a defibrillator, providing oxygen supply, analyzing blood, suction and physiological monitoring. These high-tech stretchers are currently being used by the US Army in Iraq and Afghanistan.

To further enhance the capability of the LSTAT, Carnegie Mellon University is working with the US Army’s Medical Research Department to integrate a snake robot with the LSTAT. This snake robot is capable of diagnosing and treating wounded soldiers on the spot, hence minimizing battlefield casualties as most fatalities occur due to late treatment being given. The snake robot is basically a serpentine arm(s) (think Doc Oc in Spiderman) which is capable of performing various medical functions such as:

serving as a third hand for the medic
moving an ultrasound probe under the control of a remote physician
spraying antiseptics and antibiotics onto wounds

At present, Carnegie Mellon researchers have integrated built-in cameras onto the snake robot which allow for the inspection of a patient by remote physicians. The cameras which are mounted onto serpentine arms are preferred over the conventional method because it requires less sweep volume. Telemedicine (remote surgery) requires a dedicated connection bandwidth in order to minimize data lagging, which may affect the co-ordination between the doctor and the robot, hence affecting the patient. This has been resolved as LSTAT’s hardware capability is more than sufficient to handle the bandwidth issue.

How are military medical robots like in Singapore? Last checked, they are relatively underdeveloped compared to the US. The various collaborations made between DSO, the local universities and the Singapore Armed Forces rarely involve medical robots. The potential of the snake robot is tremendous as it is potentially able to perform many medical functions. The US Army has provided research grants to various universities for further development of the snake robot. Perhaps one day, it will be able to perform surgery right on the spot, with minimal assistance from a remote doctor or medic.

References:

1. LSTAT/Snake robot video

2. LSTAT/Snake robot description

3. TATRC Cutting Edge Medical Technology

4. Study of LSTAT integration to Robotics

Blog entry posted by Ng Chin Ling U047690E

Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL)

2007-03-25T00:41:00.000+08:00

Written by Choo Liang Kwang (U046028R)

I typed "assistive robot" at youtube, and it gave me this interesting video. Take a look at this Hybrid Assistive Limb (opens in a new window) , or HAL, as the creator called it.

This assistive robot has been invented in 2005, and it has the potential to help older people or those with disabilities to walk or lift heavy objects.

HAL is created by Professor Yoshiyuki Sankai of the University of Tsukuba in Japan. He has integrated mechanics, electronics, bionics and robotics in a new field known as cybernics.

See the picture on the left. HAL is able to assist a person even when walking on stairs, and the latest HAL 5 is able to assist the arms in carrying heavy things.

HAL is controlled by neuro-signals. The system consists of bio-sensors placed on the surface of limbs that will sense the electric pulses that is transmitted from the brain to the muscle, and move the motor parts for that area. That translates to the wearer of the system doing less work than normal. Also, due to the fact that the system is able to react faster than the human muscles do (time needed for muscle to react to the signal), the person will not feel like he is trying to move a heavy limb.

Also, the system is able to 'learn' how the wearer moves. The initial run, the system records the person's posture and pattern motion in its database so that they can be use to better assist the person in future movements.

This system has alot of potential. I list them out here:

rehabilitation purposes, to help people recover from lost muscle functions
search and rescue missions, and applications where strength is required
military applications, so that soldiers will be less tired
with brain-computer interfacing, even people who has lost their limbs can use this system to aid in movement.
many many more (can't think of any now. Any suggestions?)

I think this assistive limb is still not available commercially, but a website has estimated the price to be between $14 to 19k.

I think this is a very nice innovation, as it can help alot of people in their daily activities. However, what will this world be like if everyone wears one? Imagine people running around in these 'power suits'...

Reference

MBARI Dorado AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle)

2007-03-24T21:00:00.000+08:00

Posted by Foo Jit Soon: U059592R The Dorado class AUV is 21 inches in diameter and can be as short as 8' or as long as 21'. This robot can map the seafloor with higher resolution than is possible with hull-mounted or towed sonar systems.

The MBARI Mapping AUV is a torpedo-shaped vehicle equipped with four mapping sonars that operate simultaneously during a mission. The sonars are a swath multibeam sonar, two frequencies of sidescan sonars, and a sub-bottom profiler. The multibeam sonar produces high-resolution bathymetry (analogous to topography on land), the sidescan sonars produce imagery based on the intensity of the sound energy's reflections, and the subbottom profiler penetrates sediments on the seafloor, allowing the detection of layers within the sediments, faults, and depth to the basement rock. The vehicle is launched on programmed missions and runs on its own battery power until it returns to the ship, as programmed, for recovery.

Such robots are great for such underwater explorations. Compared to a human being, they have better underwater capabilities- they last longer underwater, have increased depth explorations and also have better detection mechanisms. The main thing is still safety when such robots are concerned, as using such robots reduces the chance of a fatal accident happening to zero.

Also, I believe that such AUV robots will have great potential uses, for example, the study of hurricanes, coastal erosion, ocean exploration and fisheries stock assessments. As a student who is particularly interested in defence technology, I also believe that such robots will be able to employ anti-mine technology and also improved submarine detection. Current technology has already acquired some of the above "skills", but such "skills" are not perfected as the robots will still make errors like a human. Thus, much work is still needed on robot recognition so that differentiation between background and the surrounding objects can be done without errors. There is so much that can be done to improve AUVs, but due to the limitations of present technology, the problem still exists such that the "skills" of the AUVs are limited too.

There is also a Singapore Robotic Games competition which involves underwater robots: http://guppy.mpe.nus.edu.sg/srg/urc.pdf . Such competitions promote the research in such categories of underwater exploration and thus will be able to spark potential engineers to create even better AUVs.

Doctor "bugs"

2007-03-24T19:49:00.000+08:00

Mai Kaojie, U0307803@nus.edu.sg A new micro-bot, jointly created by Ritsumeikan University and the Shiga University of Medical Science in Japan, is believed to be the next weapon in the war against cancer. It is designed in the shape of a bug with just an inch long. With its small body dimension, it can be inserted easily through a small incision. The metal device is encased in plastic less than half an inch wide and protects the components while inside the body. This bug had a few amazing features. Firstly, it is able to capture images with a tiny camera which is mounted on its head. Secondly, it can deliver drugs through a special injecting device. Thirdly, it had tiny forceps for taking sample tissues. Future developments may enhance these forceps' capabilities to sever cancerous cell. Compare to radiotherapy which may damage the healthy cells while killing the cancerous cell, this method is safer because of its precision in removing cancerous cell. Last of all, the bug is connected to the computer by a cable. This cable relays data back and forth to the computer. The data could be in the form of images which is captured by the tiny camera or instructions to control the movements of the bug. In case the bug gets "lost" in its course, the cable acts as a "safety line". The future for these bugs could likely be in the battlefield. Small and versatile, they could be a great assistant to field medics. Such a day could be far, but often imagination from past science fiction is right here in our reality world. References: Daily mail, science and technology, "Robot that roams the body to seek and destroy cancer"

Home Robotics @ CES 2007

2007-03-24T14:49:00.000+08:00

U036185J Lin Changjie
Presenting to you iRobiq, the latest all-in-one robot which provides education, entertainment, security and daily life management in the house, unveiled at the world’s largest technology trade show this year!

iRobiq can wake you up every morning and deliver up-to-the minute news, weather, sports, and stock market information. As an entertainment machine, it allows you to take and watch photos, videos or even sing karaoke with it. Kids will love iRobiq as it can tell preloaded stories or even dance to nursery rhymes. Coupled with a camera and wifi capabilities, the surveillance mode allows live photos to be sent via email whenever it detects human presence. Thus, fret not if you feel uncomfortable about leaving your kids or elderly at home while outside the house. iRobiq can also control other robots to perform cleaning tasks and recharges itself. iRobiq is to become an integral part of the family. Here is a video of iRobiq in action.

In my opinion, the iRobiq can be further developed to have legged locomotion to overcome the many obstacles found in a home. It should also be able to perform tasks like fetching things. Home robotics has evolved from automatic cleaning robots, to robots with voice and face recognition capabilities that can cater to the different needs of a family. What’s next? A robot that can cook us a meal; listen to our problems and give advice? The future beholds and with the rapid development in robotics, it is not that hard to imagine.

References: Tech Digest CES 2007: http://techdigest.tv/2007/01/ces_2007_irobi.html Yujin Robot: http://www.yujinrobot.com/product/irobiq.php

iDog - A Perfect Companion for your iPod

2007-03-22T20:53:00.000+08:00

U0303157 Lim Kah Guan

Voila!! A new accessory for our favourite iPod. The iDog is a robot dog that exhibits behaviours and learning ability. It is designed and manufactured by Sega Toys. It is also manufactured by Hasbro which provides the iDog to North American audiences. It is also marketed as the eDog in Germany and the Netherlands.

The iDog reacts to music from an external source like the iPod and will work with any MP3 device from a 3.5mm audio jack input, and has an integrated speaker. It also reacts if placed near an audio source and has 70 built-in melodies. All these interactions with humans are enabled with a number of switches and sensors on its nose, head and tail which allow it to react to user input.

Currently, iDog comes in various kinds of colors and designs to enhance its popularity. I personally finds this iDog very interactive as it ‘feeds’ on the music that I played to him. Whenever an user pats it on the head or “feeds” it lots of music, at least 5 minutes every hour, iDog will show lots of flashing lights to signal that he is in good mood. However, if an user neglect him, iDog’s mood will change from excited to sad. Moreover, it also barks to let a user know that he is hungry for more music. It features seven flashing LED lights on its face that shows an user his mood and personality with tons of blinking lights patterns. In a way, it behaves like an actual dog as it requires the owner’s constant attention. iDog's built-in speakers can be switched off by flicking his tail, but he will give a deep growl when an user deprives him of music.

Following the huge success of the cute iDog, Sega comes out with more pets like iDog-Pup, iCat, iFish and iCY. And the best thing about them is that they love music. I cannot wait to be an owner of iDog as it brings some much fun and entertainment at a mere price of USD$29.99.

Robomowers

2007-03-22T17:53:00.000+08:00

It is interesting to note that by the end of 2005, robotic lawn mowers are the second largest category of household autonomous robots used. One of the best-selling robotic lawn mower is Robomow by Friendly Robots, an Israeli company.

Basically, you have to first peg a small wire to the ground around the perimeter of your lawn, defining the area to be mowed. It is a one-time set-up and will be covered by growing grass quickly.

Robomower uses sophisticated tiling algorithms to calculate the most effective pattern for mowing the entire lawn. The robotic lawn mower can operate on slopes, in rain and have sensors to bypass obstacles in the lawn. It also incorporate several safety features such as Lift Sensor which stops rotating the blades once the robot is lifted. More importantly, it can cut the grass into fine powder such that they can be recycled as fertilizer into the soil (grasscycling/mulching). This is not only environmentally friendly but it will also save us from the hassle of removing the clippings.

With such wonderful features, I wonder when such robotic lawn mowers will be ubiquitous in Singapore. The only problem I can predict now is that such robotic lawn mowers are too good to resist taking home by a passer-by. Currently, there is a TheftGuard system installed in the devices that require a personal 4-digit code to be entered upon each use. In my opinion, this might not deter determined thefts. However, there are solutions to this problem such as installing tracking or alarm devices that are activated once the Robomower is brought out of the boundary. Hence, I do not see any reason why they are not used in public parks or at least in country clubs in Singapore.

Why?

Robomowers - Because Singapore deserve better.

Reference: http://www.friendlyrobotics.com/ Picture: http://www.seattleluxe.com/robomower/index.php

Lee Kaizhao U036122x

Robotic legs to replace wheelchairs

2007-03-19T15:36:00.000+08:00

U036367L Khoo Wei Chuan http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12497049/ Eldery and disabled patients who suffer from movement difficulties have long been subjected to many inconveniences be it at home or outdoors. Despite the invention of wheelchairs and their automated counterparts being able to resolve this problem partially, it can be seen that it has introduced many new problems too. Most significantly, wheelchairs occupy a large amount of base area which in turn requires equally large movement paths. In the context of middle and low incomed Singaporeans whose houses are usually small and compact, this introduces a significant amount of movement difficulty especially through corridors. In addition, as wheelchairs function through the use of two wheeled movement, it is typically incapable of performing acute turns and more importantly, movement through staircases is also impossible. The robotic legged movement aid developed by Professor Atsuo Takanishi is targeted at resolving these conventional problems faced by wheelchairs. With this replacement movement concept, Takanishi hopes to create a two-legged robot that can fully operate in a human environment, specifically being able to climb staircases and travel along rough surfaces like any normal Homo sapiens do. The concept in general is very well though of. However, in my opinion, there is one major implication that the developing team has to resolve, which is the overall height increment of the user. As seen from the attached image and linked article, the robotics legs are longer than the length of the user's knee to foot. Despite the user being in a sitting position, it is evident that he is still overall taller than the people around him. Without doubt, increased height will introduce movement difficulties in areas with lower ceilings but more importantly, we need to look at the psychological impact on the user owing to this increased height. By itself, being tall will not induce any negative feelings. However, since the users of this robotic legs are generally elderly and disabled patients, it must be understood that the height increment will more or less serve as a publicity of their movement difficulties. Hence, this may adversely affect the commercial potential of the product. Nevertheless, I do believe that the developers are aware of this issue but probably due to the necessity of using extendable 'limbs' in replace of joints for stable movement through staircases, such a limitation has continued to exist.

Tai Chi Robot

2007-03-19T01:10:00.000+08:00

u036796e Lim Ruo Qi

As my fyp is on Tai Chi and quantitizing of its properties, I just had to dig up on Tai Chi robots to find out how advanced they are in this area. In this particular robot I found, the main objectives of its creator is to create motions more complicated then just walking actions. Thus, Tai Chi was chosen for its continuity of movements. The idea was quite straightforward. The robot consists of 22 motors and motion editor was used to manually input the positions of the various motors to achieve the movement of a single form. The Front, Right, and Top views for the robot's front, right, and above positions, respectively are shown in the motion editor. These forms were obtained through thorough studying of Tai Chi magazines. The motion editor will output the control data for each motor. By connecting all the forms together, a continuous motion is formed. A significant part of the process is spent testing the robot and making changes to enable the robot to be able to balance when doing the forms. A second part to the robot includes having a speech recognisation system to identify key words. This would enable users to call out Tai Chi motions which the robot will then perform. This robot can then be used for entertainment and education purposes has it will help beginners to be able to commit the motions to mind through frequent playing with the robot. However, the robot is not tuned to any 'Tai Chi' properties such as such as to be able to 'yield and overcome' instead of using brute force that many of us would have seen from martial arts flick and read about. This limits the usefulness of the robots in other areas. http://www.idemployee.id.tue.nl/g.w.m.rauterberg/conferences/ICAT2004/SS2-1.pdf

Robots ready to take over the home?

2007-03-18T22:19:00.000+08:00

Personal or domestic service robots are rapidly infiltrating the homes (statistically forecasted to increase from 1.3M in 2003 to 6.7 by the end of this year, according to the survey by the UN's Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)) to help handle daily chores like vacuuming the carpets, mowing the lawns, and especially the increasing research for robots to act more human-like (The Age. October 29, 2004). Definitely an exciting, industry to look into; very much the same way that the computer business did 30 years ago.
Whilst helping my mom out in the kitchen, I thought to myself the numerous things which can be automatized: the smart refrigerator; storage cabinets; doing of laundry; cleaning of the floor; cooking, even. Every aspect could be computerized and be handled by robots; but at a price of tagging every single object with an RFID such that robots can identify the article (as mentioned in earlier post "Replacing the Maid", April 10 2006) While WalMart is able to command this from its suppliers, many other smaller retailers would not be able to -- and this would incur and additional cost on us, the end consumers. With that said, it is to note that many of the current inventions are task-specific, which is not any good for that matter.
On a macro scale, what is needed are large real-time sensor networks which challenges the traditional models of computation. A sensor network comprises many individually insignificant and unreliable entities yet exhibit a collective, predicable behavior a la an ant colony. (Judy Tolliver (2006). On inventing laws of nature, faking intelligence, and understanding time. UIUC.) Just as what we have learnt in the lecture whereby individual robots behave in a cooperative manner towards a common goal or interest. "In a sense, we get to play god", researcher Abdelzaher says, "because you cannot change the instinct of an ant, but you can reprogram a particle [to the behavior of choice out of the collective]". We get to dictate the rules that lead to the phenomena in we specify -- a general, mulitpurpose, robotic maid. Just like Rosie the Robot Maid in The Jetsons (in picture above).

Chew Yiping (U036736A) yiping@nus.edu.sg

Space technology powers robotic neurosurgery

2007-03-18T00:08:00.000+08:00

U037795M Heng Kuan Yen u0303827(at)nus.edu.sg

Brain surgery is certainly no easy feat, involving intricate and delicate procedures which require a high degree of expertise. However, a robot capable of neurosurgery has been developed and tested. The $30 million project, dubbed neuroArm, incorporates space-age technology from NASA to ensure operating accuracy to within thousandths of a millimetre.

Pioneered by Dr. Garnette Sutherland of the University of Calgary in Canada, the robot substitutes for the hands of a neurosurgeon. A special workstation enables the neurosurgeon to manipulate the robotic arms remotely with controllers that provide tactile feedback and reduce tremors or accidental movement. Meanwhile both man and machine are guided with real-time images, either taken from a surgical microscope or 3D magnetic resonance imaging.

This technology is expected to open up entirely new possibilities in the field. Besides the obvious improvements in precision and reliability, neurosurgeons can now perform image-guided practice simulations beforehand, a feature which can also be used for training. Furthermore, the operating surgeon is no longer required to be physically present beside the patient since the system can be controlled from a remote workstation.

The neuroArm system has only recently passed the testing phase, and manufacturing is now underway. Within a year or two, we could be seeing this technological marvel in the operating room.

Links:

Gravitonus Workstation - An Ultimate Gamer's Fantasy

2007-03-17T17:38:00.000+08:00

GRAVITONUS for gamers

Lol and behold, a truly ingenious revolutionised,multi-functional workstation design from Gravitonus.

This innovative workstation design from Gravitonus allows users to move freely, and it comes with an on-board computer which constantly analyses position of your body and pressure on different parts of your body. With all of these analyses, the system will adapt to the user depending on their phychophysical activitiy and create maximum comfort that will fill in all your desire. Furthermore, its Matrox TripleHead capability ,that is capable of aligning all the display attachment perfectly in the user's best vision area in any body position, together with a special keyboard that allows user to move the keyboard freely in 3D and fix it in a place where the user want it to be, 5.1 sound system, shadow and glare-free illumination of the working area and dynamic exoskeleton for both hand. All these features help to provide the user with the maximum comfort. More importantly, the system is equipped with ACCS (alternative computer control system ) which can be effectively utilised by hardcore gamers in games like Counterstrike.

Currently, the product has yet to be launched though. Hopefully, it would be out soon in the near future.

Dunno what's wrong with the formatting, it was fine during preview, but after publishing, all the format went haywire :( For further links, please see [1] [Video of Gravitonus Workstation]

YIPPEE - IT'S GUPI TIME !

2007-03-15T18:45:00.000+08:00

U036077M

Alvin Ong Jun Jie

My mum’s always complaining that pets are dirty and messy – Guess it’s time for GUPI!

GUPI is the abbreviation for Guinea Pig and it’s an evolution of “Tamagotchi” that so many of us went crazy over. GUPI is an autonomous robotic pet that is able to avoid obstacles, respond to stroking and noises as well detect infrared beams from the ‘carrot’ gadget that comes with it.

All this is possible with a wide range of sensors. It has 4 legs/wheels which enables it to move freely. GUPI's movements are pseudo-random and it’s even able to engage a maze and come out of it! Infrared sensors in its eyes and nose enable its obstacle avoidance capability. There’s also an altitude sensor in the body and pressure sensor which allows it to respond when it’s being stroked. The ‘carrot’ when pressed, sends out infrared beam that GUPI picks up and homes in on.

GUPI makes 30 different sounds and has 4 different moods; namely the baby state, learning state, happy/normal state and the sleeping state. It is highly interactive and it becomes lonely and scared and goes into hiding if neglected.

The most interesting thing is the unique identification codes in the chipsets that allows it to react to other GUPIs in the vicinity! They might eventually sing and dance with each other if they learn to accept each other and share their food – the carrot which also doubles up as a battery reloader!

It only costs about £35 Cool!

Links : http://www.crazyaboutgadgets.com/detail.asp?ID=393

Home Floor Washing Robot - Scooba 5900

2007-03-15T14:50:00.000+08:00

Many have witness iRobot’s Roomba vacuums cleaning robot but this new product, the Scooba 5900, not only vacuums, it also washes, scrub and dries the floor. The Scooba 5900 floor washing robot is designed to clean floor autonomously with just a push of the buttons.

Scooba 5900 can clean up to 500 square feet on a single battery charge run, and provided maximum coverage of large floor areas. It dispenses fresh solution as it moves along to clean hard-to-reach areas such as under the kitchen cabinets, tables and cupboards. It is programmed to prep, wash, scrub and dry autonomously. The robot prep by vacuuming any loose dirt or crumbs before dispensing water and cleaning solution for wash. Following, its rotating brush would gently scrub and remove spills, dirt and grime from the floor surface before drying the floor off by the collection of the dirty water. The dirty water is collected to prevent spreading and also for easy disposal, to accelerate the drying time and for the convenient of the user. It sleek design allows it to maneuver through around kitchen decor and it is safe to use on all sealed hardwood, tile and linoleum.

Similar to Roomba, the Scooba 5900 consist of a front bumper sensor and surrounding sensor to detect obstacle and automatically avoiding while it cleans and washes. Its’ cleaning algorithms strength is demonstrated when it cleans an entire standard size kitchen autonomously in just a period of 45 minutes.

Check out the iRobot Scooba 5900 demonstration video and features on the iRobot's website

Cost: iRobot Scooba 5900 - USD$399.900

In addition, iRobot has came up with the iRobot Create Programmable Robot. Like a basic platform for the Roomba and Scooba, the iRobot Create Programmable Robot is a durable, reliable, fully assembled programmable robot with out-of-the-box operation. It has 10 built-in demos, 32 built-in sensors, an open cargo bay and 25-pin expansion port that allows you to add your own sensors, grippers, wireless connections, computers or other hardware. This product is great for experimenting with robotics.

Cost: iRobot Create Programmable Robot - USD$129.99

Other interesting home robotic product by iRobot

Ng Buck Sin U046233B U0406233@nus.edu.sg

Pictures source: http://www.irobot.com/sp.cfm?pageid=95

Robotic Telesurgical Workstation for Laparoscopy

2007-03-15T12:02:00.000+08:00

Tan Shunpeng U036051B U0307572@nus.edu.sg

With the introduction of minimally invasive surgery, unnecessary trauma is limited by reducing the size of incisions. This brings many advantages such as less scarring and faster recovery times. However, the reduced access results in reduction in dexterity, limits perception and lengthens procedure time. A robotic telesurgical workstation for laparoscopy has been developed in a joint project between UCB and UCSF to address this problem. The design is a bimanual system with two 6 DOF manipulators instrumented with grippers, controlled by a pair of 6 DOF master manipulators. The robotic instruments are under direct control of the surgeon through teleoperation.

To increase the dexterity, a 6 DOF slave manipulator will be controlled through a spatially consistent and intuitive master. The force feedback to the master will increase the fidelity of the manipulation and the tactile feedback will restore the tactile sensation. The workstation will incorporate two robotic manipulators with dexterous manipulation and tactile sensing capabilities, master devices with force and tactile feedback, and improved imaging and 3D display systems, all controlled through computers. This system is both highly dexterous and intuitive to use.

In the procedure for MIS of the abdomen, for example, a laparoscope is inserted with a cannula through a 10 mm incision in the abdominal wall. A CCD camera mounted on the laparoscope transmits the image to a CRT monitor is viewed by the surgical team. Several instruments such as graspers are inserted through separate cannulas. A commercial voice-actuated manipulator is also available to control the laparoscope.

References:

1) http://robotics.eecs.berkeley.edu/medical/

2) L. W. Way, S. Bhoyrul, and T. Mori, Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery, Churchill Livingstone, 1995.