Navigation the brain's arteries with a steerable catheter
For the first time, a steerable catheter will give neurosurgeons the ability to steer the device in any direction they want while navigating the brain's arteries and blood vessels.
soft robotics
Microrobots deliver drugs to central nervous system
A study shows that magnetic millirobots can climb slopes, move against fluid flow and precisely deliver substances to neural tissue.
Sensor material powers wearables in extreme cold
A new material that combines the flexibility of human skin with improved conductivity and tolerance of temperatures as low as -93 C.
3D printed soft robotic hand plays Nintendo
Researchers have 3D printed a soft robotic hand that is agile enough to play Nintendo's Super Mario Bros. - and win!
New computer memory helps soft robot control movements
Engineers have unveiled an air-powered computer memory that can be used to control soft robots. It overcomes the problem of the mismatch between pneumatics and electronics.
Universal approach to tailoring soft robots
An integrated design optimisation and fabrication workflow opens new opportunities for tailoring the mechanical properties of soft machines.
Shape-changing implants to treat severe pain
An ultra-thin, inflatable device that uses a combination of soft robotic fabrication techniques and microfluidics can be used to treat the most severe forms of pain without the need for invasive surgery.
Smart elastomers make robots more touchy-feely
A new generation of robotic tools are beginning to be realized thanks to a combination of strong 'muscles' and sensitive 'nerves' created from smart polymeric materials.
Self-learning robots go full steam ahead
Researchers have shown that a group of small autonomous, self-learning robots can adapt easily to changing circumstances. They connected the simple robots in a line, after which each individual robot taught itself to move forward as quickly as possible.
A Lego system for building robots
Scientists have developed a system with which they can fabricate miniature robots building block by building block, which function exactly as required.
Artificial muscle technology for robotics
Mechanical engineers have developed a new high-performance artificial muscle technology that enables robots to motion more human-like.
Algorithm designs soft robots that sense
Deep learning technique optimizes the arrangement of sensors on a robot’s body to ensure efficient operation.
A conductive hydrogel for medical applications
Researchers have developed a method to produce graphene-enhanced hydrogels with an excellent level of electrical conductivity.
How soft robots can turn rigid on demand
Researchers have developed a new type of control system that may broaden robots’ range of tasks and allow safer interactions with people.
Robotics: Soft pumps power artificial muscles
Robotic clothing that could help people to move more easily is a step closer to reality thanks to the development of a lightweight power system for soft robotics.
A 3D printed, sweating robot muscle
Researchers used 3D printing to create a soft robot muscle that can regulate its temperature through sweating.
3D printed smart gel changes shape
Engineers have created a 3D printed smart gel that changes shape when exposed to light and becomes an "artificial muscle".
Ultra-thin sensitive strain sensors
Researchers have developed a new range of nanomaterial strain sensors that are 10 times more sensitive when measuring minute movements, compared to existing technology.
Soft robotic gripper inspired by pole beans
Researchers have designed a new soft robotic gripper that draws inspiration from an unusual source: pole beans
Designing soft and sensitive robotic fingers
Scientists have designed a 3D printable soft robotic finger containing a built-in sensor with adjustable stiffness.
E-skin has a strong future stretching ahead
A material that mimics human skin in strength, stretchability and sensitivity could be used to collect biological data in real time.
3D printing strong and tough hydrogels
Skin and cartilage are both strong and flexible – properties that are hard to replicate in artificial materials. But a new fabrication process brings lifelike synthetic polymers a step closer.
'Skin' sensor gives robots human sensation
Researchers at Cornell University have developed stretchable sensors that gives robots and VirtualReality a human touch.
Sensor for smart textiles survives hammers
An ultra-sensitive, resilient strain sensor that can be embedded in textiles and soft robotic systems survived being tested by a washing machine and a car.
E-skin: Engineers imitate hands to make better sensors
Researchers have developed “electronic skin” sensors capable of mimicking the dynamic process of human motion.
Scientists get soft on 3D printing
Researchers have developed a new method of 3D printing gels and other soft materials.
Soft robots, origami combine to deliver treatments
Researchers have found a way to send tiny, soft robots into humans, potentially opening the door for less invasive surgeries and ways to deliver treatments for several conditions.
Why do human-like robots elicit uncanny feelings?
Many people experience an uneasy feeling in response to robots that are nearly lifelike, and yet somehow not quite “right”.
Sarcopenia: Robotic muscles could turn back body clock
Loss of strength and muscle wastage is currently an unavoidable part of getting older and has a significant impact on health and quality of life.