Robots are no longer confined to science fiction; they are becoming an integral part of our daily lives. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of robotics and explore the cutting-edge developments that are revolutionizing various aspects of our lives. From robots navigating through crowds to performing everyday tasks and even transforming the operating room, the advancements in robotics are reshaping our health, safety, learning, and quality of life.
Navigating Through Crowds: Robots in Action
Discover how robots are being developed to navigate through crowded environments safely and efficiently.
Robots are being equipped with advanced safety algorithms that enable them to navigate through dense crowds with ease. Researchers at UC San Diego are developing a unique algorithm that combines control theory and machine learning techniques to encode implicit information about human behavior in crowds.
This algorithm allows robots to navigate through crowds that are 100 times denser than the training data, making it a versatile solution for various applications such as autonomous driving, disaster relief, and space robotics. By understanding how humans interact and behave in crowded environments, these robots can seamlessly navigate through complex scenarios.
Mastering Everyday Tasks: Robot Hands in Action
Explore the advancements in training robotic hands to perform basic manual tasks and the potential for more complex tasks in the future.
Robotic hands are being trained to perform a range of everyday tasks that are common for humans but still challenging for robots. Professor Xiaolong Wang at UC San Diego is leading research in developing algorithms that enable robots to rotate objects, throw and catch, and perform various manual tasks.
By running simulations on virtual robot hands, Wang's research team collects data to build advanced computer models. These models are then transferred to real-world experiments, allowing robots to apply learned actions to different objects and settings. This approach enables robots to be versatile in various environments and lays the foundation for more complex tasks in the future.
Revolutionizing the Operating Room: Soft Robotics for Minimally Invasive Surgeries
Learn how soft, flexible snake-like robots are transforming minimally invasive surgeries and improving patient outcomes.
Soft, flexible snake-like robots are being developed to enhance the precision and control of surgeons in minimally invasive surgeries. Professor Tania Morimoto at UC San Diego is at the forefront of this research, focusing on designing new surgeon-side and patient-side robots.
These robots offer increased dexterity and can navigate through tight, highly curved areas inside the body. They have the potential to improve access to occlusions in blood vessels, making procedures safer and more effective. Collaborating with clinicians specializing in various surgical techniques, Morimoto's research group aims to develop impactful systems that improve patient outcomes.
Enabling Remote Social Interaction: Telepresence Robots
Discover how telepresence robots are supporting individuals with long-term illnesses to remotely interact with others.
Telepresence robots are designed to support individuals with long-term illnesses, such as long COVID-19, who may be unable to leave their homes. These robots are equipped with cameras, displays, microphones, and even arms and grippers to provide a sense of touch.
They can be deployed in various settings, allowing users to remotely interact with others from the comfort of their own homes. Pratyusha Ghosh, a Ph.D. student at UC San Diego, is working on developing telepresence robot systems that facilitate social connectedness and inclusion for people with chronic illnesses.
