Modern Mechanics 24

Explore latest robotics, tech & mechanical innovations

Robotics

AI adviser

AI Adviser Helps Robotic Lab Discover Advanced Electronic Materials 60x Faster

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory created an AI “adviser” that guides robotic labs to discover electronic materials faster. The system helped complete a complex materials study in just 64 experiments instead of 4,300. This human-AI collaboration could speed up development of wearable electronics, better batteries, and medical devices.

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Tiny Robots

University of Pennsylvania Trains Tiny Robots to Swim Mazes Using Light

University of Pennsylvania physicists taught microscopic swimming robots to navigate mazes using light patterns based on Einstein’s theory of relativity. The 100-micron robots follow “artificial space-time” created by light, solving the problem of guiding tiny machines without bulky electronics. The technology could lead to medical applications like dental checks or tumor removal within ten years.

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mouse-sized robot

CERN and UK Team Build Tiny Robot to Inspect Large Hadron Collider

CERN and the UK Atomic Energy Authority have built PipeINEER, a 3.7-centimetre-wide robot that inspects the Large Hadron Collider from inside. It travels up to six kilometres on one charge, uses AI to spot damage, and reports exact problem locations. The robot saves time and money by avoiding lengthy dismantling of the 27-kilometre accelerator.

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Humanoid Robot

US Roboticist’s Humanoid Robot Test Beaten in Just Months

Roboticist Benjie Holson created the Humanoid Olympic Games thinking home robots were 15 years away. Within months, Physical Intelligence completed 11 of 15 challenges using vision-only systems. The robots now fold laundry, spread peanut butter, and use dog poop bags. Holson admits he underestimated camera-based learning and has released harder tests.

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China Develops First Exoskeleton Robot for Mine Emergency Rescue

China has developed its first exoskeleton robot for mine emergency rescue. Built by CHN Energy and the China Coal Research Institute, the system helps workers carry up to 80 kilograms while reducing energy use by 20 percent. The robot has completed three rounds of training with a national rescue team and shows strong stability underground. It marks a step toward human-machine collaborative rescue operations.

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