Articles tagged with "remote-control"
World’s first hydrogen-powered tractor with remote control debuts
Japanese manufacturer Kubota has introduced the world’s first autonomous hydrogen fuel cell tractor, unveiled at Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai. Designed to tackle climate change and labor shortages in agriculture, the tractor runs on compressed hydrogen stored in tanks and delivers power equivalent to a 100-horsepower diesel engine through two electric motors—one for driving and one for powering implements. The hydrogen fuel cell generates electricity by reacting hydrogen with oxygen, producing only water as an emission, positioning it as a sustainable alternative for high-power, long-duration farm machinery. The tractor features advanced autonomous driving technology with AI cameras and sensors, enabling operation without an onboard driver. It can be remotely controlled via a monitoring station equipped with steering and pedals or close-up using a portable device. Notably, the tractor lacks a traditional driver’s station, emphasizing its fully autonomous design. Kubota has commenced field tests in Japan to evaluate the tractor’s autonomous capabilities, hydrogen refueling processes, and overall performance in agricultural tasks. This concept aims to combine
hydrogen-fuel-cellautonomous-tractorremote-controlagricultural-roboticssustainable-energyIoT-in-agricultureKubota-tractorInflatable F-35 decoy deploys in 10 minutes to trick missiles
The article discusses the development and deployment of inflatable decoys that mimic advanced military equipment, focusing on a new inflatable F-35 fighter jet decoy created by South Korean company Sea Wolf Marine. These lightweight mock-ups can inflate into full-size replicas within minutes, emit radar and heat signatures, and realistically simulate the appearance and some functions of real weapons systems. Designed to mislead enemy sensors and waste costly missile fire, the decoys also serve to exaggerate combat strength and deter aggression. Sea Wolf has produced similar decoys for Korea’s K9 howitzer and K1A2 tank, with ongoing development for foreign weapons like the U.S. HIMARS and the F-35 itself. The inflatable F-35 decoy can be set up by two people in about 10 minutes and is transportable in trailer form. Its ability to generate electromagnetic and heat signatures makes it harder for enemies to distinguish from actual aircraft on radar and infrared sensors. This innovation reflects a broader military trend of using low-cost deception
robotmilitary-technologydecoy-systemsradar-signatureinfrared-sensorsremote-controlbattlefield-deceptionRussia turns Chinese 'golf carts' into remote-controlled war robots
Russian forces have repurposed Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), originally designed as recreational utility vehicles, into remote-controlled battlefield robots. This adaptation was carried out by the 36th Guards Combined Arms Army of Vostok and reported in early October 2024 during operations in Ukraine. The modified vehicles are used primarily to lay up to five kilometers of fiber-optic communication cable remotely, reducing the exposure of Russian signal troops to enemy fire. These conversions utilize commercially available electronics and 3D-printed parts, allowing operators to control the vehicles from a safe distance, thereby minimizing casualties in high-risk frontline zones. Beyond communication roles, the Desertcross ATVs have been adapted for logistical support and direct combat, with some fitted with various machine guns and grenade launchers, as well as anti-drone defenses like nets or cages. While these vehicles offer a cost-effective and flexible solution amid Russia’s operational challenges, they remain lightly armored and vulnerable to destruction by
robotremote-controlbattlefield-robotsmilitary-technologyfiber-optic-cable-laying3D-printingunmanned-vehiclesMagnet-controlled soft metamaterial resists acid and holds shape
Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel soft metamaterial that can rapidly change size and shape under remote magnetic control, combining exceptional flexibility with high strength and stability. Unlike traditional materials, this metamaterial’s properties arise from its engineered geometry rather than its chemical composition. It features “programmed multistability” enabled by trapezoidal supports and reinforced beams that lock the structure into new shapes even after external forces are removed. The material withstands compressive loads over ten times its weight and remains functional under extreme temperatures and corrosive conditions, such as those found in the human stomach. Constructed using 3D-printed molds, the metamaterial’s microarchitecture allows it to switch between open and closed states with magnetic triggers, retaining its shape afterward, effectively giving it a form of memory. Larger structures made by linking unit cells can perform complex motions like peristaltic waves, enabling controlled movement or fluid delivery. This soft, adaptable design aims to reduce risks associated with rigid implantable devices, such
materialssoft-metamaterials3D-printingmedical-devicesremote-controlprogrammable-materialsmicroarchitectureUnitree designs R1 humanoid robot to be agile and affordable - The Robot Report
Unitree, a Hangzhou-based robotics company, has introduced the R1 humanoid robot priced at $5,900, significantly more affordable than most existing humanoids, including its own previous model, the G1, which cost over $13,000. The company achieved this cost reduction by developing and manufacturing core components like motors and reducers in-house and optimizing the robot’s body structure. Founded in 2016, Unitree has a strong background in legged robots and recently secured Series C funding, valuing the company at approximately $1.7 billion. The R1 stands 1.2 meters tall, weighs 25 kg, and features 26 joint modules enabling lifelike agility demonstrated through actions such as flips and boxing moves. It integrates multimodal large models for voice and image recognition, facilitating easier development and customization, with options including a dexterous hand and enhanced computing power via NVIDIA Jetson Orin. Unlike some competitors’ humanoids, the R1 is currently remote-controlled
robothumanoid-robotUnitreeroboticsartificial-intelligencelithium-batteryremote-controlRussia turns Soviet tanks into remote-controlled battlefield robots
Russia has developed the “Shturm” robotic assault platform, converting Soviet-era T-72 and T-90 tank chassis into remotely operated combat vehicles designed for high-risk, particularly urban, battlefields. Created by Uralvagonzavod under the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Shturm system features a shortened 125mm main gun for maneuverability, a bulldozer blade for obstacle clearing, and enhanced armor protection. While intended for remote operation, some vehicles were observed with crews during trials, indicating that fully autonomous control is still under development. The system aims to breach fortified positions and conduct frontline operations without risking personnel. A key component of the Shturm system is a mobile command-and-control vehicle capable of directing a platoon of 20 to 50 robotic tanks within a 3-kilometer radius. Multiple combat variants have been tested, including versions armed with 125mm or potentially 152mm guns, thermobaric rocket launchers, automatic cannons, and
robotautonomous-vehiclesmilitary-roboticsremote-controlbattlefield-technologyrobotic-tanksdefense-technologyGame controller steers cyborg beetles in lab disaster rescue test
Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed cyborg darkling beetles (Zophobas morio) equipped with removable microchip backpacks that enable remote guidance via video game controllers. These “cyborg insects” use electrodes to stimulate the beetle’s antennae or forewings, prompting movement in specific directions, including side-to-side and vertical climbing. The beetles’ natural ability to maneuver through complex, confined spaces such as rubble makes them ideal candidates for search and rescue missions following disasters like building collapses or mine cave-ins, potentially reducing survivor location times from days to hours. The research team, led by Dr. Thang Vo-Doan, emphasizes that these beetles combine biological advantages—such as active footpads and sensing capabilities—with programmable controls that do not affect their lifespan. Although early tests used wired power sources, the beetles have demonstrated the ability to carry batteries as heavy as themselves while climbing. Future developments aim to integrate miniature cameras and compact power systems to enhance the beet
robotcyborg-insectsremote-controldisaster-rescuemicrochip-backpacksbio-roboticssearch-and-rescue-technologyChinese humanoid robot cooks steak by remote control from 1,118 miles away
Chinese robotics company Dobot Robotics has demonstrated its humanoid robot, Atom, cooking a steak via remote control from 1,118 miles away using virtual reality (VR). The robot, equipped with five-fingered hands and 28 degrees of freedom, precisely mirrored an engineer’s hand gestures in real time with an accuracy of 0.05 millimeters. The demonstration showcased Atom performing delicate cooking tasks such as patting the steak, pouring oil, flipping the steak, and sprinkling salt, highlighting its human-like dexterity. Currently, only the robot’s upper body is controllable via VR, while walking remains autonomous or limited. Released in March 2025 at a price of around $27,500, Atom represents a significant advancement in teleoperated robotics, proving that high-precision control over long distances is feasible. Dobot envisions applications in hazardous or inaccessible environments like nuclear plants or outer space, as well as precision-demanding tasks such as surgery and housework. The demonstration positions
roboticshumanoid-robotteleoperationvirtual-realityremote-controlprecision-roboticsDobot-RoboticsNew capsule lets users teleport full‑body motion to robots remotely
H2L, a Tokyo-based company, has developed the Capsule Interface, a novel teleoperation system that uses advanced muscle displacement sensors to capture subtle shifts in muscle tension and intent in real time. Unlike traditional teleoperation methods relying on motion sensors (IMUs, exoskeletons, optical trackers), this muscle-centric approach enables humanoid robots to replicate not only a user’s movements but also the force and effort behind them. This results in more realistic, immersive, and emotionally resonant remote interactions, as robots can mirror the intensity of actions such as lifting heavy objects, enhancing haptic authenticity and a sense of embodiment. The Capsule Interface transforms the user’s body into a remote control for humanoid robots, allowing full-body motion and force transmission while the user remains seated or lying down. Equipped with speakers, a display, and muscle sensors, the system offers a low-effort, natural experience that can be integrated into everyday furniture like beds or chairs, avoiding the need for bulky equipment or extensive training.
robothumanoid-robotsteleoperationmuscle-sensorsremote-controlhuman-machine-interactionhaptic-feedbackNew remote-controlled giant robotic saw slices rocks like butter
The KUKA Catonator is a groundbreaking remote-controlled robotic saw designed to revolutionize cutting in construction, shipbuilding, and heavy manufacturing. Mounted on the KUKA FORTEC KR 480 Ultra robotic arm, it features powerful spindle blades ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 mm in diameter, enabling it to slice through tough materials such as steel, concrete, and complex composites with high precision. The saw boasts a payload capacity of up to 300 kg and a reach exceeding 3 meters, combining brute cutting force with advanced automation to handle complex geometries previously unattainable by robots. The Catonator operates fully electrically, powered by a high-performance battery module that eliminates CO₂ emissions and reduces noise and exhaust fumes compared to traditional diesel-powered equipment. Its precision is enhanced by KUKA’s SmartProduction ecosystem, which provides real-time sensor data and machine learning algorithms to optimize cutting paths and blade performance, maintaining a tolerance as fine as 0.1 millimeters.
robotroboticsremote-controlautomationconstruction-technologyelectric-machinerysmart-productionThe New Electric Bulldozer That Could Drive on the Moon
robotIoTenergyelectric-vehicleslunar-technologyremote-controlheavy-machineryUS student develops sound-based remote tool for ocean robotics
robotIoTunderwater-roboticsmetamaterialsacoustic-wavesremote-controlnon-invasive-toolsNew haptic tools let humans feel and guide machines in real time
robothaptic-technologyindustrial-automationremote-controldigital-twinsaugmented-realitysafety-in-manufacturing