Briefs: Photonics/Optics

System Helps Drones Detect and Avoid Power Lines

This technology provides drones sufficient time and distance to react, avoid wires, and navigate follow-on maneuvers.

Blog: Robotics, Automation & Control

'Magic' Software Makes Complex DNA Robots, Faster

New software being developed at Ohio State University will allow creation of more complex DNA robots, at much faster speeds.

INSIDER: Motion Control

Artificial Muscles for Robotic Actuators

Northern Arizona University researchers developed high-performance artificial muscle technology based on linear actuators. Because of their helical structure, the actuators generate more power,...

Blog: Robotics, Automation & Control

A First Step for Humans on Mars: NASA's Rover Makes Oxygen

The technology demonstration is a first step in showing that humans could someday live (and breathe) on Mars.

Blog: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

A Photonic 'Sunflower' Offers New Ideas for Light-Driven Systems

Taking inspiration from the insect, Tufts researchers created light-activated composite devices that execute precise, visible movements and form complex three-dimensional shapes, like a "photonic sunflower. "

Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control

3D Structural-Sensing Robots

These robots could perform basic healthcare tasks to support the work of doctors and nurses.

Briefs: Motion Control

Lightweight Crane Technology for the Moon

A prototype version could be demonstrated on a large cargo lunar lander.

Products: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

New Products: April 2021 Motion Design

Servo drives, magnetic angle sensors, draw wires, and more.

Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control

Materials Capable of Self-Propulsion

Shape and environment can cause materials to move without motors or hands.

Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control

High-Torque Light-Powered Actuator

These actuators can compete with electrical and pneumatic systems.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Laser-Light-Based Accelerometer

The tiny device accurately measures acceleration in smaller navigation systems and other devices.

Briefs: Robotics, Automation & Control

Soft Robots Turn Rigid on Demand

A new type of control system may broaden robots’ range of tasks and allow safer interactions with people.

Articles: Motion Control

New Smart Control Technology Improves Spring-Set/Electrically Released Brake Controls

Specially designed brake controls are a critical factor of brake performance in any application.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Optical Phased Array Technology On-Chip at Near Infrared and Blue Wavelength

This compact beam steering technology has applications in autonomous navigation, AR, and neuroscience.

Articles: Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Disrupting the Automobile Design Process

The more complex the vehicle, the greater the need for comprehensive design solutions.

5 Ws: Wearables

5 Ws of the Internal Injury-Sealing Patch

A medical patch can be folded around minimally invasive surgical tools and delivered through airways, intestines, and other narrow spaces.

INSIDER: Motion Control

Nanosized Foldable Robots

Army-funded researchers created nanosized robots that could enable locomotion, novel metamaterial design, and high-fidelity sensors. Cornell University researchers created micron-sized shape memory actuators...

INSIDER: Motion Control

Automating the Design of Soft Robots

There are some tasks that traditional rigid robots aren’t cut out for. Soft-bodied robots, on the other hand, may be able to interact with people more safely or slip into tight spaces with ease. But...