NASA’s 3D-printed rotating detonation rocket engine (RDRE) is a big deal because it generates thrust using a supersonic combustion phenomenon known as a detonation. This means it can produce more power while using less fuel than today’s propulsion systems.
Paradigm Robotics’ FireBot is basically an innovative robot that was designed to save lives in burning structures. This high-temperature resistant, remote controlled wireless robot can quickly be deployed into burning buildings to search for and locate trapped individuals without risking the lives of firefighters.
Researchers at Imperial college London, under ESA’s General Support Technology Program (GSTP), are developing an Iridium Catalyzed Electrolysis CubeSat Thruster (ICE-Cube Thruster), which is essentially a micro-scale rocket engine. It uses hydrogen and oxygen propellants produced by the electrolysis of water and is designed to produce a thrust of just 4.5mN.
The new Alexa-powered Amazon Echo Frames Gen 3 (2023) smartglasses combine fashion with function in seven different styles including two designs by Carrera Eyewear of Safilo Group—Modern Rectangle, Rectangle, Round, Square, Cat Eye, Carrera Cruiser, and Carrera Sprinter.
Agility Robotics introduces RoboFab, a factory in Salem, Oregon capable of building more than 10,000 of their Digit humanoid robots per year. This 70,000-square-foot facility is set to open this year and will employ more than 500 workers when at full capacity, marking a pivotal moment in the history of robotics as they begin mass producing commercial humanoid robots.
Engineers at the Toyota Research Institute (TRI) are using generative AI techniques to teach robots new behaviors, working toward their goal of building Large Behavior Models (LBMs). These robots successfully learned 60 difficult, dexterous skills, including pouring liquids, using tools, and manipulating deformable objects.
Euro Airship’s Solar Airship One aims to offer a hydrogen and electric-powered, non-stop around the world tour in 20-30 days without any fossil fuels by 2026. Unlike traditional airships, this one features a double enveloped design that maintains a cushion of air all around for consistent pressure, encased by solar panels.
UK-based startup DEEP wants to build a permanent human habitat under the oceans by 2027. More specifically, sub-sea stations that will allow researchers to operate continuously down to 200 meters (656 feet) for up 28 days at a time. This gives them extended access to most of the continental shelves and the entirety of the Epipelagic, or ‘sunlight’ zone.
Photo credit: Jacqueline Ramseyer Orrell/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory successfully tested their newly upgraded Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) X-ray free electron laser (XEFL). LCLS-II will enable scientists to study the details of quantum materials with unprecedented resolution to drive new forms of computing and communications as well as develop new types of pharmaceuticals.
Photo credit: Acrylic Robotics
Montreal-based startup Acrylic Robotics specializes in using AI-powered robots to make near identical copies of original paintings. This requires a digital system where artists can track all of their brush strokes digitally, and once uploaded, the robot then emulates the original painting using brush attachments.