Articles tagged with "sensor-technology"
How robots like ANYbotics' Roberta are improving industry inspection
The article discusses how ANYbotics’ robotic platform, exemplified by their robot Roberta, is transforming industrial inspection by enhancing autonomy, safety, and sustainability in heavy industries such as oil, gas, and chemical sectors. Founded in 2016 by Dr. Péter Fankhauser and his team, ANYbotics aims to move robotics from research labs into real-world applications, addressing the need for remote monitoring in hazardous environments. Roberta is deployed at Equinor’s Northern Lights carbon-storage terminal, where it autonomously conducts regular inspections, including CO₂ level monitoring and perimeter surveys, reducing the need for on-site personnel and improving asset integrity. Roberta’s operations are integrated with a digital twin of the facility, enabling pre-planned missions that are supervised and triggered remotely via cloud-based platforms. This system allows for virtual rehearsal of routes and failure scenarios, ensuring the robot’s on-site behavior aligns with expectations. The robot collects multi-sensor data (visual, thermal, acoustic, gas), which
roboticsindustrial-automationautonomous-robotsdigital-twinpredictive-maintenancesensor-technologyoil-and-gas-industryNew microneedle sensor checks fish freshness in under two minutes
Researchers have developed a novel portable sensor that can assess fish freshness in under two minutes by detecting early chemical changes associated with spoilage. Traditional methods of judging fish quality—such as checking appearance and smell—often identify spoilage too late, after visible or sensory signs appear. The new device targets hypoxanthine (HX), a molecular marker that rises quickly as fish decomposes post-mortem. Unlike current HX testing methods that require lab equipment and skilled technicians, this sensor uses a four-by-four microneedle array coated with gold nanoparticles and an enzyme that reacts specifically with HX, enabling rapid, on-site freshness evaluation. The microneedles penetrate just below the fish’s surface to detect chemical activity where spoilage begins. When pressed against the fish, the enzyme reacts with HX, causing electrical signal changes that the sensor interprets to determine freshness. Tested on salmon samples left at room temperature for up to 48 hours, the device detected HX levels as low as 500 parts per billion
IoTsensor-technologymicroneedle-sensorfood-freshness-monitoringsmart-sensorsreal-time-quality-detectionseafood-qualityHow smart ports are rebuilt from the system up
The article "How smart ports are rebuilt from the system up" explores the transformation of traditional ports into digitally integrated, sensor-driven ecosystems. Modern smart ports leverage AI, IoT, automation, and predictive maintenance to coordinate operations across ships, yards, warehouses, and equipment in real time. This shift not only enhances operational efficiency and speeds up global trade but also supports sustainability efforts through solar energy, advanced waste management, and digital tools aimed at reducing emissions and energy waste. Predictive maintenance, enabled by connected sensors, has become a standard practice rather than a future goal. The evolution of digital ports began in the late 20th century with electronic data-exchange networks that improved cargo tracking and reduced errors. Key milestones include the 1993 opening of the fully automated ECT Delta Terminal in Rotterdam and subsequent automation advancements in ports like Singapore, Hamburg, Shanghai, and Abu Dhabi. Today’s mature smart ports use dense sensor networks and predictive analytics to optimize container placement, route planning, and ship arrivals, while
IoTsmart-portsautomationroboticspredictive-maintenanceenergy-efficiencysensor-technologyLuminar is fighting with its biggest customer as bankruptcy threat looms
Luminar, a lidar sensor company, is embroiled in a serious dispute with its largest customer, Swedish automaker Volvo, which recently canceled a five-year-old contract. This conflict comes at a critical time for Luminar, which has defaulted on several loans and warned investors of a potential bankruptcy. To avoid collapse, Luminar has laid off 25% of its workforce and is exploring selling the company or parts of it, with founder Austin Russell—who resigned as CEO amid an ethics inquiry—among potential buyers. Additionally, Luminar is under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The longstanding partnership between Luminar and Volvo has been mutually beneficial, with Volvo investing in Luminar and incorporating its technology into early production vehicles. This relationship bolstered Luminar’s credibility, aiding its 2020 SPAC merger that made Russell a young billionaire. However, Luminar has struggled to diversify beyond Volvo, leading to significant staff cuts and outsourcing manufacturing. The dispute escalated publicly on October 31,
robotlidarautonomous-vehiclessensor-technologyautomotive-technologymanufacturingtech-startupsDiamond-based detectors may help unlock safer fusion reactors
The University of California system has awarded $8 million in research grants over three years to accelerate nuclear fusion innovation, aiming to establish California as a leader in fusion power. At UC Santa Cruz, physicists received $555,000 to develop advanced monitoring systems for future fusion reactors using artificial diamond detectors. These diamond-based sensors are designed to withstand the extreme radiation inside fusion reactors, a condition that traditional silicon-based detectors, such as low-gain avalanche diodes (LGADs), cannot endure. The project is a collaboration with Advent Diamond, a company specializing in fabricating diamond sensors, enabled by an initial $48,000 seed grant from UC Santa Cruz. Fusion energy, which replicates the sun’s reaction by fusing hydrogen to produce clean power without greenhouse gases or significant waste, has gained momentum following the 2022 fusion ignition milestone at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. With over $10 billion in private investment and supportive policies like California’s Senate Bill 25, the UC Initiative for Fusion Energy
energyfusion-energydiamond-detectorsnuclear-fusionradiation-resistant-materialsclean-energysensor-technologyTeradar raises $150M for a sensor it says beats lidar and radar
Teradar, a Boston-based startup led by CEO Matt Carey, has developed a novel solid-state sensor that operates in the terahertz band of the electromagnetic spectrum, positioned between microwaves and infrared. This sensor aims to combine the advantages of radar—such as no moving parts and effective operation in adverse weather conditions—with the high resolution typically associated with lidar. Teradar claims its sensor offers long-range, high-resolution detection at a price point between radar and lidar, making it more affordable for widespread automotive use. The company has demonstrated the technology publicly, including at CES, where it impressed major automakers with real-time scene parsing. The startup recently secured $150 million in Series B funding from investors including Capricorn Investment Group, Lockheed Martin’s venture arm, IBEX Investors, and VXI Capital. Teradar is collaborating with five leading U.S. and European automakers and three Tier 1 suppliers, targeting sensor integration in 2028-model vehicles, with production readiness expected by 2027. The
robotsensor-technologylidar-alternativeterahertz-sensorautonomous-vehiclesadvanced-driver-assistance-systemsautomotive-technologyGraphene boosts accuracy in lithium detection, could help make reliable sensors
Researchers at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) have demonstrated that integrating graphene into solid-contact lithium-selective electrodes significantly improves lithium detection accuracy and sensor reliability. Graphene’s unique electrical and surface properties—such as high capacitance, hydrophobicity, and minimal potential drift—make it an ideal ion-to-electron transducer. This enhancement addresses longstanding challenges in sensor technology related to precision, durability, and stable voltage readings by preventing water layer formation and ensuring efficient ion signal transmission. The study, published in Microchemical Journal as part of the NGS–New Generation Storage project, highlights graphene-modified electrodes’ superior performance compared to other materials. This advancement supports the development of next-generation potentiometric sensors with exceptional sensitivity, reproducibility, and robustness. Potential applications span healthcare monitoring, energy storage systems, industrial processes, and environmental analysis, where reliable and accurate lithium measurement is critical. Overall, leveraging graphene’s properties paves the way for more dependable and versatile lithium sensors capable of maintaining consistent
graphenelithium-sensorsenergy-storagematerials-sciencesensor-technologynanotechnologyelectrode-designBonsai Robotics launches Amiga robots at FIRA 2025 - The Robot Report
Bonsai Robotics introduced its new Amiga lineup at FIRA USA 2025, marking a significant advancement following its acquisition of farm-ng. The debut included three models: Amiga Flex, Amiga Trax, and Amiga Max, all fully integrated with Bonsai Intelligence, the company’s vision-based autonomy platform. CEO Tyler Niday emphasized that this unified system aims to provide accessible and adaptable autonomous solutions tailored to diverse agricultural environments and applications. The Amiga Flex is a modular, durable electric vehicle roughly the size of a small ATV, designed to bridge research and development with real-world agricultural deployment. It supports a variety of tasks such as weeding, hauling, towing, and crop scouting, with a payload capacity of 800 lbs, lift capacity of 700 lbs via a CAT 0 three-point hitch, and towing capacity of 1,600 lbs. It features a swappable battery system offering over eight hours of runtime, open interfaces for sensor and implement integration, and is built for
roboticsagriculture-roboticsautonomous-vehicleselectric-robotsfield-roboticssensor-technologyrobotic-automationSilent, deadly, and preventable: the radon story you need to hear
The article highlights radon as a silent, deadly, and preventable public health risk responsible for thousands of deaths annually, primarily through lung cancer caused by long-term exposure. Dallas Jones, an expert in environmental health and radon safety, explains that radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the soil, making all houses potentially vulnerable regardless of construction type. The invisible and odorless nature of radon, combined with its slow health effects, contributes to widespread under-awareness and difficulty in accountability since no single manufacturer or company is responsible. Testing is emphasized as the only reliable method to detect radon, with levels fluctuating due to environmental and seasonal factors, necessitating continuous monitoring rather than one-time tests. Advances in sensor technology, such as those developed by Ecosense, now offer affordable, real-time digital radon monitors that provide hourly updates, enabling homeowners to identify exposure spikes and take timely action. Additionally, smart home integration allows mitigation systems to dynamically respond to radon levels,
IoTsensor-technologyradon-detectionenvironmental-healthsmart-home-devicesreal-time-monitoringair-quality-sensorsChina's fingernail-sized chip can map 5,600 stars in seconds
Chinese researchers at Tsinghua University have developed a groundbreaking optical chip named Yuheng (also called Rafael) that is no larger than a fingernail but capable of mapping up to 5,600 stars in a single snapshot with unprecedented spectral precision. The chip records starlight at 88 frames per second and achieves a color resolution 100 times sharper than conventional imagers, distinguishing colors separated by less than a tenth of a nanometer. Unlike traditional spectroscopic instruments that physically separate light into colors—resulting in bulky devices and light loss—Yuheng uses a novel approach combining tiny random interference patterns and a lithium niobate crystal to encode all incoming light simultaneously. Advanced algorithms then decode this information to reconstruct the full color spectrum rapidly and efficiently. This innovation compresses the functionality of large, complex optical benches into a compact, high-speed device with 73% light transmission, enabling ultra-high-resolution spectral analysis without sacrificing brightness or speed. The chip’s capabilities could revolutionize fields such
materialsoptical-chipspectroscopylithium-niobatephotonicssensor-technologyadvanced-algorithmsJapanese firm unveils bathtub that promises full-body spa everyday
Japanese bathroom fixture manufacturer Science Co. has unveiled the "Human Washer in the Future" (Mirai Ningen Sentakuki), a fully automated, hands-free bathing system designed to transform showering into a spa-like experience. Displayed at the 2025 Osaka Expo, the device resembles a sleek, oversized bathtub with a canopy that encloses the user. Once inside, the user reclines as warm, soapy water fills the tub to chest level, while calming nature visuals and sounds play on a built-in display. The process, lasting a few minutes, is controlled by precision sensors that maintain optimal water temperature (around 100°F/38°C) and flow, with intelligent water recycling to promote sustainability. The Human Washer emphasizes convenience, relaxation, and accessibility, rooted in Japan’s traditional bathing culture that values hygiene and wellness. Science Co. envisions future versions incorporating AI personalization for temperature, scent, and sound preferences. Inspired by a similar concept introduced by Sanyo Electric Co. at the
IoTautomationsmart-bathroomsensor-technologywater-recyclingAI-personalizationsustainable-designPrinceton AI restores missing fusion data to improve reactor control
An international team led by Princeton University has developed an AI system called Diag2Diag that generates synthetic sensor data inside fusion reactors to enhance plasma monitoring and control. By analyzing existing sensor measurements, the AI effectively acts as a virtual sensor, filling gaps when physical sensors fail or are too slow. This capability provides more detailed insights into plasma behavior, such as validating the theory that small magnetic fields create “magnetic islands” to suppress damaging edge-localized modes (ELMs) by flattening temperature and density profiles—effects that physical sensors alone could not fully capture. The improved diagnostic detail from Diag2Diag is crucial for the development of commercial fusion power plants, which must operate continuously without interruption, unlike current experimental reactors that can be shut down if sensors fail. The AI also offers economic and design advantages by potentially reducing the number of physical sensors needed, making future reactors more compact, simpler, and less costly to build and maintain. Beyond fusion, the team suggests this AI approach could enhance sensor data in
energyfusion-powerartificial-intelligenceplasma-controlsensor-technologyreactor-monitoringnuclear-fusionNew smart fabric buried in asphalt lets roads self-report damage
Scientists at Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research (WKI) have developed an innovative smart fabric embedded with sensors that can be integrated directly into asphalt roads to monitor their internal condition in real time. Made from flax fibers reinforced with ultra-thin conductive wires, this bio-based fabric detects strain and stress within the asphalt’s base layer by measuring changes in electrical resistance. The data collected is analyzed by AI algorithms, enabling continuous, nondestructive monitoring of hidden cracks and damage beneath the road surface without the need for drilling or core sampling. This approach aims to improve maintenance planning by providing timely insights into road health, potentially reducing costly repairs and traffic disruptions. The lightweight flax-based fabric is designed for durability, resisting damage during weaving, installation, and heavy traffic loads. Manufactured on a double rapier loom, it can be produced in scalable widths and lengths suitable for real-world road construction. Initial tests involved embedding the fabric across the full width of roadbeds in industrial zones. While the technology does not extend
smart-fabricsensor-technologyIoTroad-monitoringmaterials-sciencesustainable-infrastructureAI-analyticsZoox tests self-driving service in Washington, D.C. - The Robot Report
Zoox Inc. has begun deploying sensor-equipped test vehicles in Washington, D.C., marking its eighth city and first presence in the mid-Atlantic region as part of its plan to launch a fully driverless robotaxi service. This expansion follows Zoox’s recent launch of a fully autonomous ride-hailing service in Las Vegas, where it became the first company to operate a purpose-built, all-electric robotaxi without a driver’s seat or steering wheel. Zoox’s test fleet is also active in seven other cities, including San Francisco, Seattle, and Miami. In Washington, D.C., Zoox is currently in the manual mapping phase, where engineers drive the sensor-equipped vehicles throughout the designated geofenced area to collect data and create detailed maps for autonomous operation. This initial phase involves manually driven vehicles with engineers onboard to gather and process sensor data. Zoox anticipates beginning autonomous testing later in the year, starting with safety drivers behind the wheel before transitioning to fully autonomous operation in its four-passenger
robotautonomous-vehiclesself-driving-carsrobotaxielectric-vehiclessensor-technologymobility-technologyNext-gen quantum sensors could be built as scientists overcome big hurdle
Scientists at the University of Sydney have developed a new quantum sensing protocol that overcomes limitations imposed by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, enabling ultra-precise measurements of both position and momentum simultaneously. By effectively redistributing the unavoidable quantum uncertainty—pushing it into less critical areas—they can measure fine details with unprecedented sensitivity. This approach uses "grid states," quantum states initially designed for error-corrected quantum computing, applied to the tiny vibrational motion of a trapped ion, analogous to a quantum pendulum. This breakthrough allows measurements beyond the standard quantum limit achievable by classical sensors, potentially revolutionizing navigation in GPS-denied environments such as submarines, underground locations, or spaceflight. Additionally, it holds promise for enhancing biological and medical imaging, materials monitoring, gravitational system analysis, and fundamental physics research. While still experimental, this new framework complements existing quantum sensing technologies and could lead to next-generation sensors capable of detecting extremely subtle signals with high precision.
quantum-sensorsquantum-uncertaintynavigation-technologyprecision-measurementtrapped-ionsensor-technologyHeisenberg-uncertainty-principleDoorstep raises $8M seed to help find missing food deliveries
Doorstep, a startup founded by Shashwat Murarka and Sheel Patel, has raised $8 million in a seed funding round led by Canaan Partners to address the challenge of missing food deliveries during the "last mile" of the supply chain. The company’s technology integrates with existing delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, using phone sensors to track drivers inside buildings—such as when they enter, take elevators, and reach the correct doorstep—where standard GPS fails. This real-time, verifiable data helps automate dispute resolution and validate deliveries, reducing customer frustration and improving proof-of-delivery accuracy without compromising user or driver privacy. The funding will enable Doorstep to transition from pilot to full production and expand its engineering and product teams. Murarka emphasized that unlike hardware-based competitors (e.g., building sensors or lockers), Doorstep’s software solution is more scalable and cost-effective. Currently active across all US states, the company aims not only to reduce fraud and refund disputes but also to rebuild
IoTdelivery-trackingGPS-technologysupply-chainsensor-technologylast-mile-logisticsfood-deliveryWhy China's robotic mowers could decide the LiDAR race
The article highlights how robotic lawn mowers are accelerating the development of LiDAR technology more rapidly and effectively than the automotive sector. Unlike the bulky and expensive LiDAR systems initially designed for luxury vehicles, robotic mowers demand smaller, cheaper, and more reliable sensors suitable for mass-market consumer products. This pressure has driven Chinese companies like Hesai and RoboSense to innovate, pushing LiDAR from mechanical and analog designs toward sleek, digital solid-state versions. The consumer robotics market, particularly robotic mowers, is thus emerging as the critical battleground for LiDAR democratization and technological breakthroughs. Robotic mowers represent a fast-growing global market, expanding from $1.5 billion in 2021 to an expected $4.04 billion by 2028. Early mower navigation relied on boundary-wire systems, which were cumbersome and prone to failure. More recent boundary-free approaches use technologies such as pure vision, ultra-wideband (UWB), and real-time kinematics (RTK), each with strengths and
roboticsLiDARrobotic-mowersChina-technologysensor-technologyconsumer-roboticsautonomous-devicesMIT Kitchen Cosmo scans ingredients and prints out AI recipes
MIT’s Kitchen Cosmo is an innovative AI-powered kitchen device developed by Ayah Mahmoud and C Jacob Payne as part of MIT’s Interaction Intelligence course. Unlike conventional smart kitchen appliances that emphasize automation and efficiency, Kitchen Cosmo fosters collaboration, creativity, and play by generating personalized recipes based on scanned ingredients, user-set constraints, and emotional inputs. The device uses a webcam to visually scan available ingredients and combines this data with tactile inputs—such as dials and switches representing time, mood, and dietary preferences—to produce context-specific recipes. These recipes are then printed on thermal paper, reinforcing a screenless, physical interaction that encourages mindful and embodied cooking experiences. Inspired by the retrofuturistic 1969 Honeywell Kitchen Computer, Kitchen Cosmo critiques the history of prescriptive smart devices by offering an improvisational and human-centered alternative. Its bold red cylindrical design doubles as a recipe archive, blending mid-century aesthetics with modern generative AI powered by GPT-4o. A unique feature is the “
IoTartificial-intelligencesmart-kitchenAI-recipeshuman-machine-interactionsensor-technologykitchen-automationNew acetone breath test could offer quicker diabetes screening
Researchers at Penn State have developed a novel graphene-based breath sensor that can rapidly and inexpensively detect diabetes and prediabetes by measuring acetone levels in exhaled breath. The device uses a combination of laser-induced porous graphene and zinc oxide to selectively identify acetone, a biomarker linked to diabetes risk when present above 1.8 parts per million. Unlike traditional diabetes tests that require blood draws or lab visits, this sensor provides results within minutes by simply exhaling into a bag and dipping the sensor, eliminating the need for induced sweat or complex lab analysis. The sensor’s design overcomes challenges such as moisture interference by incorporating a membrane that blocks water molecules while allowing acetone to pass through, enhancing detection accuracy. Currently, the test requires breath collection in a bag to avoid environmental airflow disruption, but future iterations aim to enable direct detection under the nose or inside a mask. Beyond diabetes screening, the researchers envision broader health applications by tracking acetone fluctuations related to diet and exercise. The study,
materialsgraphenesensor-technologydiabetes-detectionzinc-oxidebreath-analysishealth-monitoringUltrahuman acquires viO HealthTech to launch enhanced cycle and ovulation tracking
Ultrahuman has acquired smart ring maker viO HealthTech to enhance its cycle and ovulation tracking capabilities. Leveraging viO’s temperature-sensing algorithm, originally developed for its OvuSense fertility monitors over 15 years and trained on a dataset of more than 260,000 cycles, Ultrahuman is launching a new premium plug-in called “Cycle and Ovulation Pro” for its Ultrahuman Ring AIR. This plug-in offers users accurate cycle tracking, fertility planning support with ovulation confirmation, and the ability to detect irregular patterns such as early or late ovulation. Additionally, users can log moods and symptoms to identify long-term wellness trends, providing a more personalized and adaptive experience compared to traditional menstrual tracking platforms that often assume regular 28-day cycles. Ultrahuman emphasizes that its new offering is designed to support users with diverse cycle patterns, including those affected by conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or thyroid disorders, who typically find existing platforms less accurate or helpful
IoTwearable-technologyhealth-trackingsmart-ringfertility-monitoringsensor-technologywomen's-healthVietnam’s first humanoid robots dazzle crowd with precise dance moves
Vietnam’s first domestically developed humanoid robots made a striking public debut on August 8, 2025, performing synchronized dance routines at Vingroup’s 32nd anniversary event. Created by VinMotion, a startup founded just seven months earlier and backed by Vingroup, these robots showcased advanced balance, precise timing, and real-time communication enabled by in-house mechanical, electronic, and software engineering. Chairman Nguyen Trung Quan emphasized that the robots relied on distance sensors and optimized network infrastructure to maintain stability and synchronization despite potential Wi-Fi interference from the large audience. This demonstration marked a significant technological milestone for Vietnam, potentially setting a world record for rapid deployment of stable, synchronized humanoid robots. VinMotion was established with about $39 million in capital and is part of Vingroup’s broader tech ecosystem, leveraging AI, data analytics, and industrial automation capabilities from sister companies like VinAI, VinBigdata, and VinFast. The company aims to develop general-purpose humanoid robots for practical applications in manufacturing,
roboticshumanoid-robotsdance-robotsVietnam-technologyreal-time-computingmotion-controlsensor-technologyOrbbec touts Pulsar ME450 as a multi-pattern 3D lidar - The Robot Report
At the World Robot Conference 2025 in Beijing, Orbbec introduced the Pulsar ME450, a novel multi-pattern 3D lidar sensor designed to enhance robotic perception by allowing users to switch scanning modes without changing devices. The sensor combines a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) mirror with motorized azimuth control to offer configurable scanning patterns and an adjustable vertical field of view. This design enables the Pulsar ME450 to adapt to diverse robotics applications, such as smart forklifts, logistics robots, lawn mowers, and surveying equipment, by supporting non-repetitive, non-dense repetitive, and dense repetitive scanning modes. The sensor delivers millimeter-level precision and high-fidelity 3D reconstruction, maintaining stable performance across various materials and interference conditions. Orbbec emphasizes that the Pulsar ME450’s flexibility addresses the evolving demands of robotics, balancing the need for fast, real-time obstacle avoidance with detailed mapping capabilities. By integrating multiple scanning patterns into a single device, the
roboticslidar3D-perceptionMEMS-technologyautonomous-navigationsensor-technologyrobotics-applicationsNew sensor gives robots lifelike touch and instant grip control
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a novel fabric-based electronic textile (E-textile) sensor that mimics human skin’s ability to sense pressure, slippage, and movement. This sensor, integrated onto 3D-printed robotic fingers and a compliant gripper, enables robots to react in real time by adjusting their grip strength dynamically—tightening or loosening as needed. The sensor operates via the tribovoltaic effect, generating electrical signals from friction, and demonstrates response times as fast as 0.76 milliseconds, surpassing typical human touch receptor speeds. This rapid and sensitive feedback allows robots to detect object slippage and adjust their grasp without crushing items, significantly enhancing robotic dexterity. The breakthrough holds promise for a variety of applications requiring fine motor control and delicate touch, such as collaborative manufacturing tasks, robotic surgery, and prosthetic limbs. The research team plans to incorporate reinforcement learning to further improve control algorithms and explore the sensor’s adaptability across different robotic platforms. Funded by the University
robotroboticssensor-technologyelectronic-textilesrobotic-grippersprostheticsrobotic-surgeryChina’s humanoid robot stuns by opening car door in a 'world-first'
AiMOGA Robotics has achieved a significant breakthrough with its humanoid robot, Mornine, which autonomously opened a car door inside a functioning Chery dealership in China—marking a world-first in embodied AI. Unlike scripted or teleoperated robots, Mornine used only onboard sensors, full-body motion control, and reinforcement learning to identify the door handle, adjust its posture, and apply coordinated force to open the door without any human input. This task, performed in a live commercial setting, demonstrates advanced autonomy and a shift from simulation-based robotics to real-world service applications. Mornine’s sophisticated sensor suite includes 3D LiDAR, depth and wide-angle cameras, and a visual-language model, enabling real-time perception and continuous learning through a cloud-based training loop. The robot was not explicitly programmed to recognize door handles but learned through millions of simulated cycles, with the learned model transferred to real-world operation via Sim2Real methods. Currently deployed in multiple Chery 4S dealerships
roboticshumanoid-robotautonomous-robotsAI-roboticsservice-robotsreinforcement-learningsensor-technologyAeva strikes lidar chip-making deal with LG subsidiary
Aeva Technologies, a U.S.-based company specializing in 4D LiDAR sensing systems, has entered a manufacturing partnership with LG Innotek, the components and materials subsidiary of South Korea’s LG. Under the deal, LG Innotek will manufacture and supply Aeva’s Atlas Ultra 4D LiDAR sensors primarily for the automotive sector, targeting some of the top 10 global passenger vehicle OEMs. LG Innotek will also invest up to $50 million in Aeva, acquiring about a 6% equity stake. The partnership aims to eventually expand the use of Aeva’s LiDAR technology into consumer electronics, robotics, and industrial automation. Aeva’s 4D LiDAR technology differs from conventional LiDAR by using Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) sensing, which measures both distance and velocity for every pixel in real time, providing richer data akin to moving from black-and-white to color imaging. The company has miniaturized the entire LiDAR system
LiDARroboticsautomotive-technologysilicon-photonicssensor-technologyindustrial-automationsmart-infrastructureWorld’s smallest spectrometer delivers full scan under one volt
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed the world’s smallest spectrometer prototype, measuring just a few square millimeters, small enough to be integrated into smartphones or even function as a single pixel in sensor arrays. This compact device can detect light across a broad spectrum, from ultraviolet to near-infrared, by using a specially designed photodetector whose sensitivity varies with applied voltage. By sweeping voltages under one volt and recording the photodetector’s responses, the system computationally reconstructs the full light spectrum reflected or transmitted by materials. The process is rapid, occurring in under a millisecond, and avoids the need for complex optics or high-voltage inputs that have traditionally hindered miniaturization. In laboratory tests, the prototype demonstrated accuracy and sensitivity comparable to conventional commercial spectrometers and photodetectors. Its low voltage operation, fast response, and broad spectral sensitivity mark a significant advancement toward consumer-level spectroscopy. The research team envisions this technology enabling new applications by embedding spect
materialsspectroscopyminiaturizationphotodetectorschemical-analysissensor-technologylow-voltage-devicesLoomia Smart Skin Developer Kit to help give humanoid robots a sense of touch - The Robot Report
The Loomia Smart Skin Developer Kit is a new product designed to help roboticists incorporate flexible tactile sensing into humanoid robots and other automation systems. Recognizing that most robots lack the ability to sense touch, Loomia developed this kit after extensive interviews with over 100 engineers across industrial automation, medical devices, and robotics sectors through the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps program. Loomia’s founder, Maddy Maxey, highlighted that pressure sensing is a critical missing component in robotic hands and grippers, with no robust, flexible, plug-and-play solutions previously available. Founded in 2014, Loomia specializes in patented soft circuit systems that enable sensing, heating, and lighting in environments unsuitable for traditional printed circuit boards, and has deployed its technology in automotive, industrial, and robotics applications. The company’s flexible tactile sensors, first developed in 2018, have been shipped in over 1,000 units to enterprise clients for custom prototyping. Loomia identified key challenges faced by robotics
roboticstactile-sensorshumanoid-robotsflexible-electronicssoft-circuitsindustrial-automationsensor-technologyFlipping Robot Senses and Movement On Its Head
The article discusses the AgiBot X2-N, a humanoid robot notable for its lack of cameras or visual sensors, challenging conventional robotic design that relies heavily on visual input. Despite having no "eyes," the AgiBot X2-N can navigate complex terrains such as steps and slopes with precise balance and movement. This capability is achieved through advanced internal sensing and control mechanisms that allow the robot to maintain stability and adapt to its environment without relying on vision. This innovative approach to robotic sensing and locomotion could significantly impact the field of robotics by demonstrating that visual input is not always necessary for effective movement and navigation. The AgiBot X2-N's design may lead to more robust and versatile robots capable of operating in environments where cameras and visual sensors are limited or ineffective, such as in low-light or visually obstructed conditions. Overall, the robot represents a shift in how sensory data is utilized in robotics, potentially broadening the applications and reliability of humanoid robots.
roboticshumanoid-robotsensor-technologyrobot-movementAgiBot-X2-Nrobotics-innovationautonomous-robotsNew portable device sniffs fentanyl from air faster than trained dogs
A new portable device called VaporID, developed by the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and commercialized by BaySpec, can detect fentanyl vapors in ambient air at concentrations as low as six parts per trillion—significantly faster and more sensitive than current methods such as swab tests or trained detection dogs. The microwave oven–sized sensor uses non-contact sampling and a miniature mass spectrometer to analyze air instantly, identifying fentanyl, its analogs, and other narcotics like methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, and ketamine. A bench-top lab version demonstrated even greater sensitivity, detecting fentanyl at ten parts per quadrillion by employing an atmospheric flow tube that prolongs interaction between drug molecules and charged ions. This technology addresses the challenge of detecting substances with low vapor pressure in complex environments filled with competing vapors. By filtering out background noise and tagging target molecules with ions before mass spectrometry, VaporID achieves rapid and precise identification. Field trials at
IoTsensor-technologyportable-detection-devicemass-spectrometryhomeland-securitynarcotics-detectionchemical-sensorsHexagon launches AEON humanoid robot for industrial applications - The Robot Report
Hexagon AB has launched its first humanoid robot, AEON, designed specifically for industrial applications to address labor shortages and enhance operational efficiency. Unveiled at the Hexagon LIVE Global event, AEON integrates Hexagon’s expertise in precision measurement and sensor technologies with advanced locomotion, AI-driven mission control, and spatial intelligence. This combination enables the robot to perform a variety of tasks such as manipulation, asset inspection, reality capture, and operator support across industries including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. AEON features agility through bipedal locomotion and dexterity, environmental awareness via multimodal sensor data fusion, versatility in task execution, and power autonomy enabled by a battery-swapping mechanism. Hexagon is collaborating with partners such as Schaeffler and Pilatus to pilot AEON in real-world industrial scenarios like machine tending, part inspection, and reality capture. These pilots aim to demonstrate the robot’s capabilities and contribute to sustainable growth amid demographic changes affecting labor availability.
roboticshumanoid-robotindustrial-automationAIsensor-technologymanufacturinglogisticsVolvo Cars Introduces World First Multi-Adaptive Safety Belt in the Upcoming Volvo EX60 - CleanTechnica
Volvo Cars has introduced a world-first multi-adaptive safety belt, debuting in the fully electric Volvo EX60 in 2026. This innovative safety belt uses real-time data from the car’s advanced interior and exterior sensors to customize protection for each occupant based on factors such as height, weight, body shape, seating position, and crash characteristics like direction and speed. By expanding load-limiting profiles from three to eleven, the belt adjusts the force applied during a crash to optimize safety—applying higher force for larger occupants in severe crashes to reduce head injury risk, and lower force for smaller occupants in milder crashes to minimize rib fractures. The system continuously improves through over-the-air software updates, enhancing its response as more data is collected. This development builds on Volvo’s extensive safety research, leveraging a database of over 80,000 real-world accident cases and decades of innovation since the original three-point safety belt invention in 1959. The multi-adaptive safety belt integrates with Volvo’s broader safety ecosystem, including airbags, occupant detection, and driver assistance systems, to provide harmonized protection and reduce the risk of injury. Tested extensively at Volvo’s Safety Centre crash lab, this technology represents a significant advancement in automotive safety by tailoring protection to individual occupants and crash scenarios in real time.
IoTautomotive-safetyadaptive-technologyelectric-vehiclessensor-technologyover-the-air-updatesreal-time-dataKepler Robotics showcases K2 'Bumblebee' humanoid at ICRA 2025 - The Robot Report
robothumanoidautomationindustrial-roboticsenergy-efficiencysensor-technologyK2-BumblebeePhotoneo launches MotionCam-3D Color (Blue) to improve robot perception - The Robot Report
robotIoTmachine-visionautomation3D-scanningdigital-twinssensor-technologySonair debuts ADAR, a 3D ultrasonic sensor for autonomous mobile robots
robotautonomous-mobile-robotssensor-technologysafetyhuman-robot-collaboration3D-sensingADARNhóm giảng viên ứng dụng AI sáng chế robot chiến trường
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