Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/#comments Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms

Should the robots ever form an alliance and turn against us, all we need to do is call on people like Anand Jin to save us. Why? Because it's folk of his ilk that are the pied pipers of the machine world. We've seen disk drives coerced into recreating Daft Punk, and Bo-Rhap extorted from an Atari 800XL. Now, we can watch the aforementioned Anand eke the theme from Game of Thrones out of eight floppy drives. There's more info on his YouTube channel if you're curious to know the hows and whys. Much as we enjoy the performance, hearing the theme again just brings up bad memories of last week's ending.

Continue reading Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms

Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>computer musicComputerMusicdisk driveDiskDrivedisneyfloppy drivefloppy drivesFloppyDriveFloppyDrivesgame of thronesgame of thrones themeGameOfThronesGameOfThronesThememidimusicrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsethemeThu, 17 May 2012 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Chiba University's one-armed robot juggles balls, is not a Juggalo (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/chiba-universitys-one-armed-robot-juggles-balls-is-not-a-jugga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/chiba-universitys-one-armed-robot-juggles-balls-is-not-a-jugga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/chiba-universitys-one-armed-robot-juggles-balls-is-not-a-jugga/#comments Image

Two balls, one hand? In this case, that's a definite yes, although the end result is much more appropriate for all ages. Furthering our slow creep towards engineering's Uncanny Valley, comes a cybernetic effort out of Japan's Chiba University that's made to mock our most precious clown-past time: juggling. The one-armed, three-fingered robot, shown off at the 2012 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation, utilizes a high-speed camera to track a ball's flight at 500fps and help coordinate its repetitive movements with eerie precision. The current setup's not without hitches, though, considering the bot's fixed shoulder joint can only carry out successful catches on a 2D plane before, quite literally, dropping the ball. Refinements are apparently on the way to expand the cyborg limb's range of motion which, of course, will only serve to defeat us in the end. Robot apocalypse, we're looking at you.

Continue reading Chiba University's one-armed robot juggles balls, is not a Juggalo (video)

Chiba University's one-armed robot juggles balls, is not a Juggalo (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 06:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chiba UniversityChibaUniversityIEEE International Conference on Robotics and AutomationIeeeInternationalConferenceOnRoboticsAndAutomationjugglingresearchrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseroboticsrobotsvideoThu, 17 May 2012 06:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Environmentally friendly robots will feed the flowers they trample]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/environmentally-friendly-robots-will-feed-the-flowers-they-tramp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/environmentally-friendly-robots-will-feed-the-flowers-they-tramp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/environmentally-friendly-robots-will-feed-the-flowers-they-tramp/#comments Environmentally friendly robots will feed the flowers they trample

Dr Jonathan Rossiter, a senior lecturer at the University of Bristol's Department of Engineering and Mathematics, has snagged a two-year research grant of over £200,000 to develop robots that decompose once their mission if complete. This means instead of our automaton friends rusting away, devoid of purpose, they could return gracefully (and more importantly non-toxically) back to mother earth. Not only would this be a boon to the environment, but scientists would no longer need to track and retrieve their mechanical progeny once it reached the end of its usable life, further sparing resources and allowing mass deployment. At least we know, when the day comes, the planet won't be harmed.

Environmentally friendly robots will feed the flowers they trample originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biodegradablebristoleco-friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlygurt robotGurtRobotrobotrobot apocalypserobot innumRobotApocalypseRobotInnumscienceukuniversity of bristolUniversityOfBristolWed, 02 May 2012 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[James Cameron to create sparks with Robogeddon on Discovery Channel]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/james-cameron-to-create-robogeddon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/james-cameron-to-create-robogeddon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/james-cameron-to-create-robogeddon/#comments James Cameron to create sparks with fighting robots, Robogeddon coming to Discovery ChannelFresh off his return from the briny deep, James Cameron is set to create a television show for the Discovery Channel called Robogeddon. Similar to BattleBots and Robot Wars, the program will feature a competitive death match of sorts, where robots tear each other to shreds in pursuit of being the last machine standing. In addition to Cameron's participation, the show will also feature the stamp of Mark Burnett -- famous for such reality television titles as Survivor, Shark Tank and The Voice. It's also said that Donald Hutson, the two-time Super Heavyweight Champion of BattleBots, will be among the show's competitors. No date is set for when we'll see the sparks fly, but if you want to get in on the ground floor, might we suggest hitting your local scrapyard?

James Cameron to create sparks with Robogeddon on Discovery Channel originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 03:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlebattlesdeath matchDeathMatchdiscoverydiscovery channelDiscoveryChannelfightingfighting robotfighting robotsFightingRobotFightingRobotsjames cameronJamesCameronrobogeddonrobotrobot apocalypserobot battleRobotApocalypseRobotBattlerobotsWed, 11 Apr 2012 03:24:00 EST<![CDATA[US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to comply]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/#comments US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to complyWar. What is it good for? Well, if new use of technology by the US Navy has anything to do with it, finding Pirates for a start. By upgrading its existing Fire Scouts with new 3D laser imaging tech, it's hoped that the drones will be able to recognize the small ships used by these unscrupulous seafarers. The system, known as LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging, also known as LADAR) uses millions of laser pulses reflected off an object to create the three-dimensional image, which could then referenced against known pirate ships from a database. Ultimately, human operators will make the final call, to avoid any ED-209 style mis-understandings. That said, if you're taking the dingy out past the Californian breakwaters this summer, you might want to keep the stars and stripes in clear view, as that's where the Navy will be running its initial trials.

US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to comply originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d image3dImagearmydefensedroneFire ScoutFireScoutLADARlaserLIDARmilitaryMQ-8MQ-8 Fire ScoutMq-8FireScoutMQ-9navypiratesreaperrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseuacuavunmanned aerial vehicleunmanned aircraftUnmannedAerialVehicleUnmannedAirUnmannedAircraftus navyUsNavywargadgetSun, 08 Apr 2012 09:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Cute mini-robots compete for championship title, gladiator freedom (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/robot-one-championship/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/robot-one-championship/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/robot-one-championship/#comments ImageIf you thought a robot fighting championship just sounds like the plot for a Hugh Jackman vehicle, you'd be partly right. We'll tell you who does have the real steel though, the plucky fellas you see above. They're competing for this year's ROBO-ONE championship, an annual competition where humanoid robots slug it out to the death (or power failure at least) held this weekend in Kawasaki, Japan. This is no toy fair either, with contestants bagging a $12,000 pot if their android-avatar wins the crown. This year, that title goes to GAROO, winning for the second time in a row by defeating Gargoyle Mini for the spoils. Rumors of LED gouging were unfounded, as you'll see in the video after the round... we mean break.

Continue reading Cute mini-robots compete for championship title, gladiator freedom (video)

Cute mini-robots compete for championship title, gladiator freedom (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlebattle royalBattleRoyalchampionshipfightingjapanjapaneserobot apocalypserobot onerobot one 20Robot-oneRobotApocalypseRobotOneRobotOne20RobotsvideoTue, 27 Mar 2012 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Hume: the bipedal 'Parkour' robot (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/hume-the-bipedal-parkour-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/hume-the-bipedal-parkour-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/hume-the-bipedal-parkour-robot/#comments Hume: the bipedal parkour robotA future threatened by wild robotic rottweilers with no humanoid dog-walkers to keep them in check? That must not happen. Fortunately, we'll have a fleet-footed droid named "Hume" to keep us safe: he's the work of engineers at Meka Robotics and the University of Texas at Austin, who want to be the first to build a bipedal robot with Parkour skills, aka rough terrain free-running or "Human-Centered Hyper-Agility". Sure, they still have some way to go, but watch the video after the break, then imagine it without the wobbly coat stand, and then re-imagine it from the POV of an angry pup.

Continue reading Hume: the bipedal 'Parkour' robot (video)

Hume: the bipedal 'Parkour' robot (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bipedalfree-runningHumeMeka RoboticsMekaRoboticsParkourrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseroboticsUniversity of Texasuniversity of texas at austinUniversityOfTexasUniversityOfTexasAtAustinvideoMon, 26 Mar 2012 07:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Neato Robotics' XV-21 vacuum sucks up pet hair and allergens, looks like a new-age SNES]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/neato-robotics-xv-21-vacuum-sucks-up-pet-hair-and-allergens-lo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/neato-robotics-xv-21-vacuum-sucks-up-pet-hair-and-allergens-lo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/neato-robotics-xv-21-vacuum-sucks-up-pet-hair-and-allergens-lo/#comments
Sure, iRobot may have a strong presence in the impending robot apocolypse world of autonomous vacuum cleaners, but lest we forget about the others like Neato Robotics. The company's introducing the retro-futuristic XV-21 Pet and Allergy Vacuum for those of us wanting rid our domains of sniffle-inducing dust particles. Although the XV-21 looks similar to last year's XV-12, it features a new filter for improved airflow and suction, which Neato claims will catch three-times as many tiny bits around your domain as its normal kit. If that wasn't enough, the cleaner is also loaded with newly developed bristled brush to aid in sweeping up the likes of pet hair while keeping its noise levels to a minimum. If you're ready to leave the cleaning to the bots, this little guy is set to hit shelves in late April for $429 alongside a $60 Pet and Allergy kit packed with the filter (30 bucks on its own) and brush. Current Neato owners shouldn't fret either, as the add-ons are compatible with all of the company's vacuums, requiring only an upgrade to the latest firmware via USB. You'll find the full details in the press release after the break.

Gallery: Neato Robotics XV-21 (press images)

Continue reading Neato Robotics' XV-21 vacuum sucks up pet hair and allergens, looks like a new-age SNES

Neato Robotics' XV-21 vacuum sucks up pet hair and allergens, looks like a new-age SNES originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allergensallergyautonomous vacuumbristled brushBristledBrushdanderdustfilterneat robotics xv-21neatoneato roboticsNeatoRoboticsNeatRoboticsXv-21pet hairPetHairrobotrobot apocalypserobot vacuumRobotApocalypseRobotVacuumvacuum cleanerVacuumCleanerxv-21Sun, 11 Mar 2012 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA's robotic cheetah sets a land speed record racing into your nightmares (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/darpas-robotic-cheetah-sets-a-land-speed-record/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/darpas-robotic-cheetah-sets-a-land-speed-record/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/darpas-robotic-cheetah-sets-a-land-speed-record/#comments DARPA Robotic Cheetah
Sleep tight.

Continue reading DARPA's robotic cheetah sets a land speed record racing into your nightmares (video)

DARPA's robotic cheetah sets a land speed record racing into your nightmares (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boston dynamicsBostonDynamicscheetahDarpaDarpa Robotic CheetahDarpaRoboticCheetahm3Maximum Mobility and ManipulationMaximumMobilityAndManipulationrobotrobot apocalypserobot cheetahRobotApocalypseRobotCheetahrobotic cheetahRoboticCheetahrobotsvideoMon, 05 Mar 2012 13:41:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA's 'Avatar project' aims to give soldiers surrogate robots, make James Cameron proud]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/#comments In a fevered mash up of blockbuster films directed by James Cameron, DARPA is looking to put soldier controlled bi-pedal robots on the battlefield. Think Terminator meets Avatar. The agency has set aside $7 million of it's $2.8 billion 2012 budget to develop an "Avatar program" that will "develop interfaces and algorithms to enable a soldier to effectively partner with a semi-autonomous bi-pedal machine and allow it to act as the soldier's surrogate." DARPA isn't talking about simple remote control rigs, either -- these 'bots are being designed to clear rooms, and facilitate sentry control and combat casualty recovery. The new budget also sets aside $4.1 million to design laser countermeasures to protect military weapons, well, lasers -- ensuring that the future's robot soldiers will be nigh indestructible when they rebel against their human hosts.

DARPA's 'Avatar project' aims to give soldiers surrogate robots, make James Cameron proud originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armautonomousavatardarpahandhandsmachinesmilitaryrobotrobot apocalypserobot avatarRobotApocalypseRobotAvatarrobotssurrogatesurrogate soldiersSurrogateSoldiersterminatorwargadgetSun, 19 Feb 2012 07:03:00 EST<![CDATA[AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/#commentsBoston Dynamics LS3 AlphaDogBoston Dynamics' LS3, better known 'round these parts as AlphaDog, has already wowed us with a display of its stability, power and mobility. Thing is, that little clip we caught back in October took place entirely within the safe and purposefully laid out confines of a laboratory. So, the question is, what happens when you take the rather noisy quadruped outside and strap a bunch of weight to it? Well, pretty much the same thing that happened while it was nice and cozy inside -- the beast powered through the reasonably rugged terrain with nary a hitch. By the end of the tests DARPA hopes to have a mighty robotic porter capable of carrying 400 pounds of gear up to 20 miles without refueling. Though, the trek is expected to be slow and arduous as a full 24 hours is target time frame for such a journey. For full PR and to see the bot in action head on after the break.

Continue reading AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares

AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've kept a pretty stern eye on the development of GRASP Lab's quadrocopters, and with good reason it seems, now that the four-bladed aerial ninjas have even more alarming abilities at their disposal. In the video after the break, watch them hold a variety of complex formations like it's no thing -- even while on the move. The 'copters can also take flight, or resume position, after being thrown into the air, navigating real world obstacles with deft fluidity. It's part of University of Pennsylvania's Scalable sWarms of Autonomous Robots and Mobile Sensors project (conveniently SWARMS for short), which is responsible for developing the air-born acrobats' new grouping skills. They say it's an attempt to replicate swarming habits in nature, though we're not convinced.

Continue reading Acrobatic quadrocopters hunt in packs, seduce you into submission (video)

Acrobatic quadrocopters hunt in packs, seduce you into submission (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botbotsconstructioncopterdronedronesgrasp labGraspLabgroupnano quadrotorsNanoQuadrotorsquadrocopterquadrotorresearchrobocopterrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsSWARMteamworkuniversityuniversity of pennsylvaniaUniversityOfPennsylvaniavideoWed, 01 Feb 2012 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers develop 'wireless optical brain router' to manipulate brain cells]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/researchers-develop-wireless-optical-brain-router-to-manipulat/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/researchers-develop-wireless-optical-brain-router-to-manipulat/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/researchers-develop-wireless-optical-brain-router-to-manipulat/#commentsOptogenetics might be a relatively unknown area of neuroscience, but it's one that, thanks to some new research, could soon find itself (and its rodental subjects) in the spotlight. For the uninitiated, it's the practice of manipulating animal cells using light (with a little help from gene therapy). Until now, optogenetic equipment has been large and unwieldy, making testing on subjects (read: rats) painstaking. Startup, Kendall Research, has changed all this, creating wireless prototypes that weigh just three grams (0.11 ounces). By eschewing bulky Lasers for LEDs and Laser diodes, the equipment is small enough that it can be attached to the rodents. At that point, their brain function can be manipulated with the touch of a button, and different parts can be stimulated without breeding mutant variants -- a controversial practice that doesn't even yield results in real time. The "router" is powered wirelessly by super capacitors below test area, and researchers can conduct experiments remotely, even automatically. Human applications for this are still some way off, but we're sure our future overlords will make good use of it.

Researchers develop 'wireless optical brain router' to manipulate brain cells originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brain routerBrainRoutercell manipulationCellManipulationexperimentKendall ResearchKendallResearchlaserlaser diodeLaserDiodeledneuroscienceoptogeneticsratsresearchresearcherresearchersRobopocalypseRobotApocalypseroutersciencestartupstartupssuper capacitorSuperCapacitorwirelessTue, 24 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Quadrocopters don creepy eyes, build synthetic Christmas tree of envy (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/quadrocopters-don-creepy-eyes-build-synthetic-christmas-tree-of/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/quadrocopters-don-creepy-eyes-build-synthetic-christmas-tree-of/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/30/quadrocopters-don-creepy-eyes-build-synthetic-christmas-tree-of/#comments First we let them play music, then they started juggling. Now quadrocopters are feeling emotions as well; namely, jealousy. One of Flying Machine Arena's dainty quadrocopters, nicknamed Juliet, was compelled to build its own synthetic Christmas tree after spying an authentic fir through a glass window. Sure, stacked bricks of festive foam seem innocent enough, but look into those ping-pong ball eyes and tell us you aren't a little worried that next year's "war on Christmas" will be the machine's war on humans. Fly past the break to see Juliet's envious construction project for yourself.

Continue reading Quadrocopters don creepy eyes, build synthetic Christmas tree of envy (video)

Quadrocopters don creepy eyes, build synthetic Christmas tree of envy (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiChristmasChristmas TreeChristmasTreedroneethflying machineFlying Machine ArenaFlyingMachineFlyingMachineArenaquadrocopterquadrotorrobotRobotApocalypsevideoFri, 30 Dec 2011 03:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Programmable robots coming to Korean stores, will assimilate your Android phone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/programmable-robots-coming-to-korean-stores-will-assimilate-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/programmable-robots-coming-to-korean-stores-will-assimilate-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/programmable-robots-coming-to-korean-stores-will-assimilate-you/#comments
South Korea loves its robots. While the country prepares them to teach the kids and guard its prisons, smartphone-compatible models are now propping up shelves in hobbyist shops. Dongbu Robot (previously Dasarobot) is launching several new products for wannabe bot engineers, but it's the Google OS-compatible HOVIS kits that caught our eye. While we already know Android-powered bots can make a mean cocktail, these kits will get new features programmed to them through a phone's Bluetooth and WiFi connections. The basic wheeled model can be upgraded to fully-fledged legs, while Dongbu Robot is working alongside the country's SK Telecom network to offer speech recognition as the first software add-on, with plans for education and home security all in the pipeline. The price of sowing the seeds of the Robopocalypse? Around $620 for the starter model. Sound like too much? Well, there's always Romo.

Programmable robots coming to Korean stores, will assimilate your Android phone originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid robotAndroidRobotKoreaRobopocalypserobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotssk telecomSkTelecomspeech recognitionSpeechRecognitionFri, 09 Dec 2011 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ladder-climbing robot brings us one step closer to extinction (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/ladder-climbing-robot-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-extinction-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/ladder-climbing-robot-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-extinction-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/ladder-climbing-robot-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-extinction-v/#comments
Will finding high ground save you when SkyNet becomes self-aware and Terminators annihilate the human race? Doubtful, thanks to Japanese robotics company Muscle Corp., which has built a robot that can climb ladders...and other stuff. "Dream Robo" certainly isn't the first wall-climbing robot, but its eerie anthropomorphic shape is guaranteed to send its victims into paroxysms of terror when it slowly, inexorably make its way up the side of a building to sate its hunger for human blood. Muscle Corp. President Hirofumi Tamai says the robot only took three months to build, with 15 companies collaborating to create the vertical killing machine. The device incorporates five motors: two in the shoulders, two in the legs, one in the back, all of which can be seen in action in the video above. No word on the specs of the beams that rain hot, fiery death from its chitinous, soulless black eyes, but we'll be honest -- our fear wouldn't allow us to inquire.

Ladder-climbing robot brings us one step closer to extinction (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>climbingdream roboDreamRoboladdermuscle corpMuscleCorprobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseSci/TechskynetterminatorvideoThu, 01 Dec 2011 17:08:00 EST<![CDATA[SSTL designs cheap radar satellite, UK government kicks in £21 million to build it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/sstl-designs-cheap-radar-satellite-uk-government-kicks-in-21-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/sstl-designs-cheap-radar-satellite-uk-government-kicks-in-21-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/sstl-designs-cheap-radar-satellite-uk-government-kicks-in-21-m/#comments While we have an innate fear of the eye in the sky (and the role it'll play in the coming robot apocalypse), there's no doubt that observation satellites do a lot of good -- from recording weather and climate changes to helping coordinate relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL) has plans to beef up planetary monitoring capabilities with its new NovaSAR satellite, and the company just received £21 million from the UK government to make it happen. NovaSAR works using synthetic aperture radar, so it can see through clouds (unlike optical satellites) and offers its services for £45 million -- or 20 percent of the cost of existing space radar platforms. With governmental funding in hand, SSTL can begin to develop and build its first such satellite, and the plan is to put it in orbit in two or three years. If NovaSAR does what it's been designed to do, SSTL hopes it can sell and launch enough of them so that any place on earth can be under its gaze in less than 24 hours. We're all for improving disaster relief efforts, but if you spy these sats overhead on a clear night, we recommend keeping an ear to the ground in case they're guiding an army of Alpha Dogs your way.

Continue reading SSTL designs cheap radar satellite, UK government kicks in £21 million to build it

SSTL designs cheap radar satellite, UK government kicks in £21 million to build it originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>novasarradarrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsesarsatellitespacesstlsurrey satellite technology limitedSurreySatelliteTechnologyLimitedsynthetic aperture radarSyntheticApertureRadarukunited kingdomUnitedKingdomTue, 29 Nov 2011 21:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ant-Roach inflatable robot can carry a family, scare the kids (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/ant-roach-inflatable-robot-can-carry-a-family-scare-the-kids-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/ant-roach-inflatable-robot-can-carry-a-family-scare-the-kids-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/ant-roach-inflatable-robot-can-carry-a-family-scare-the-kids-v/#comments

This 15-foot inflatable pneumatic beast is a confusing mix of child-like inflatable wonder and cold, brutal, robopocalypse-beckoning science. The Ant-Roach (half-anteater, half, er, roach) is still a concept device, with inflatable actuators on the legs doing the heavy lifting -- apparently up to 1,000 pounds. Manifolds are peppered along the beast's underbelly, with a microcontroller obeying its soft-stomping orders by wireless signal. While it battles for our inflatable robot affections, you can check it (just about) conquering shallow water right after the break.

P.S. We'd be remiss if we didn't point out that the same lab has also developed an inflatable robot arm. Check it out after the break as well.

Continue reading Ant-Roach inflatable robot can carry a family, scare the kids (video)

Ant-Roach inflatable robot can carry a family, scare the kids (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 22:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actuatorsant roachantroachinflatableinflatable robotinflatable robotsInflatableRobotInflatableRobotsmanifoldpneumaticpneumaticsRobopocalypserobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsvideoTue, 22 Nov 2011 22:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/#comments
We've already seen it dance, sing and read minds, but Honda's ASIMO humanoid has now taken that one great leap into decidedly more dystopian territory. The revamped bot, pictured above (and apparently doing its best Herman Cain impression), was unveiled today in Japan, sporting a streamlined physique and scarily adept mind. In fact, Honda claims that its bot is now less "automated" than it is "autonomous" -- all thanks to new behavior control technology that allows it to move and make decisions on its own, independent of human operators. Its external recognition capability and set of onboard visual and auditory sensors enable it to rapidly process information about its environment, which the ASIMO then uses to plot its next move. Combining long- and short-term sensor data, the droid can predict human movements and automatically recognize voices or gestures. Because of this, Honda says, the ASIMO could be more easily integrated within social environments, and peacefully coexist with its human prey counterparts.

Physically, meanwhile, the robot's looking svelter than ever, having shed a full six kilograms. It can now run at a maximum speed of 9 kilometers per hour, jump up and down for as long as it wants, and even hop on one leg, should it ever need to. Plus, its hands are now more dexterous than ever, thanks to new independent finger control functions that allow it to handle the most delicate of tasks -- like pouring you a stiff one after work, or before your inevitable demise. Check out more images in the gallery below, or hop past the break for a video and accompanying press release.

Gallery: Honda Robotics ASIMO robot

Continue reading Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video)

Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 02:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ASIMOautonomousbotcoexistenceengadget awardsengadget awards 2011EngadgetAwardsEngadgetAwards2011finger controlFingerControlhandhondahonda roboticsHondaRoboticshumanoidRobopocalypseRobotApocalypsesensorvideoTue, 08 Nov 2011 02:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Foxconn chairman signs letter of intent for 'intelligent robot kingdom,' we cower in fear]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/foxconn-chairman-signs-letter-of-intent-for-intelligent-robot-k/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/foxconn-chairman-signs-letter-of-intent-for-intelligent-robot-k/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/foxconn-chairman-signs-letter-of-intent-for-intelligent-robot-k/#comments It looks like FRIDA and friends are about ready to get comfy over at Foxconn. Following the company's August announcement that it would infiltrate its ranks with one million robots in the next three years, Focus Taiwan is reporting that the manufacturer's parent company, Hon Hai, is moving forward on its plans to build an "intelligent robotics kingdom" in the Central Taiwan Science Park. Chairman Terry Gou reportedly signed a letter of intent with Taichung mayor Jason Hu last Saturday, confirming its plans to erect a plant dedicated to the production of robots and automation equipment. That robo-mecca is expected to draw some serious scratch, with an estimated production-value boost of NT$120 billion (about $4 billion) and the creation of 2,000 jobs. How many of those positions will be filled by headless automatons remains to be seen.

Foxconn chairman signs letter of intent for 'intelligent robot kingdom,' we cower in fear originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 04:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Foxconnhon hai precision industriesHonHaiPrecisionIndustriesrobotrobot apocalypserobot kingdomRobotApocalypseroboticsRobotKingdomrobotsTaiwanSun, 06 Nov 2011 04:36:00 EST<![CDATA[TBCP-II tank robot climbs walls with gecko-inspired feet (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/tbcp-ii-tank-robot-climbs-walls-with-gecko-inspired-feet-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/tbcp-ii-tank-robot-climbs-walls-with-gecko-inspired-feet-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/tbcp-ii-tank-robot-climbs-walls-with-gecko-inspired-feet-video/#comments Taking a cue from nature and perhaps Geico, researchers at Simon Fraser University Burnaby have created a gecko-inspired robot, the Timeless Belt Climbing Platform (TBCP-II), capable of climbing smooth walls or across ceilings with lizard-like foot pads. The feet, made out of fibrillar adhesive polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), act as grip thanks to a small mushroom cap design 17 micrometers wide and 10 micrometers high for maximum surface exposure. The 240g tank-like machine is also somewhat independent, using sensors to detect its surroundings to change course based on obstacles in its way, taking us one step closer to... the inevitable. Check out the video and full PR after the break.

Continue reading TBCP-II tank robot climbs walls with gecko-inspired feet (video)

TBCP-II tank robot climbs walls with gecko-inspired feet (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fibrillar adhesivesFibrillarAdhesivesgeckolizardpolydimethylsiloxanerobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsSimon Fraser University BurnabySimonFraserUniversityBurnabytankTimeless Belt Climbing Platform TBCP-IITimelessBeltClimbingPlatformTbcp-iiThu, 03 Nov 2011 02:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Boston Dynamics PETMAN portends the pending robot apocalypse]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/boston-dynamics-petman-portends-the-pending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/boston-dynamics-petman-portends-the-pending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/boston-dynamics-petman-portends-the-pending-robot-apocalypse/#comments If the sight of Boston Dynamics' unstoppable Alpha Dog didn't convince you of the coming robot apocalypse, then perhaps a glimpse of its bipedal relative, PETMAN, will. Last time we saw the two-legged bot, It was walking well enough, but it lacked the humanoid visage needed to infiltrate and overthrow. In the time since, however, PETMAN has gotten a more anatomically-correct body and some arms -- giving it some push-up prowess to go with its jaunty gait. As the video below demonstrates, this robot isn't a T1000 just yet, but is seems certain PETMAN and its progeny will be running and leaping over us meatbags on the way to the top of the evolutionary food chain soon enough. So our anthropomorphic replacements are on the way, but there's no need for full-blown panic... yet.

Continue reading Boston Dynamics PETMAN portends the pending robot apocalypse

Boston Dynamics PETMAN portends the pending robot apocalypse originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at-stbipedbipedalboston dynamicsBostonDynamicshumanoidhumanoid robotHumanoidRobotpetmanrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsvideowalkwalkerwalkingMon, 31 Oct 2011 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/self-moving-robot-leads-automatons-in-impending-robot-apocalypse/#comments Just in time for All Hallow's Eve shenanigans, scientists at MIT's DARPA and Boeing funded Chembots program have just introduced an uber creepy self-propelling robot quite capable of leading the robot apocalypse single-handedly. The automaton moves with the help of a pneumatic battery -- a power source that utilizes a hydrogen peroxide catalyst to inflate a soft silicone pod, in turn forcing the bot forward. With electropermanent magnets to regulate built-in valves, all it takes is a small current to activate the bot, which can regulate just how much H202 it will employ for a completely solo and super creepy zombie-like C-walk. Jump past the break to check out the video... if you dare.

Continue reading Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video)

Self-moving robot leads automatons in impending robot apocalypse (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BoeingChembotschembots programChembotsProgramcontainedDARPAelectromagnetic valvesElectromagneticValveselectropermanent magnetsElectropermanentMagnetsH202hydrogen peroxideHydrogenPeroxideMITpneumatic batteryPneumaticBatteryrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsself-propellingsiliconevideoThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[BlueBiped robot needs no power to walk for miles, as long as it's downhill (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/bluebiped-robot-needs-no-power-to-walk-for-miles-as-long-as-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/bluebiped-robot-needs-no-power-to-walk-for-miles-as-long-as-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/bluebiped-robot-needs-no-power-to-walk-for-miles-as-long-as-it/#comments The robots; they're walking -- and this one's doing it under its own steam. This passive robotic frame requires no energy input, and is instead powered by its own weight and a gentle slope. The BlueBiped can be adjusted to match the proportions of any user, and researchers plan to use it to assist people who find it difficult to walk and transport unwieldy sports equipment. It already holds the Guinness world record for the longest distance walked by a bi-pedal robot, plodding 15 kilometers (9.32 miles) in a single 13-hour stroll. Those fearing the impending Robopocalypse can at least breathe a sigh of relief that -- like some other homocidal robots -- stairs still remain out of bounds.

Continue reading BlueBiped robot needs no power to walk for miles, as long as it's downhill (video)

BlueBiped robot needs no power to walk for miles, as long as it's downhill (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assisted livingassisted walkingAssistedLivingAssistedWalkingbipedal robotBipedalRobotBlue bipedBlueBipeddalekengineeringguinness book of world recordsGuinnessBookOfWorldRecordsjapanNagoya Institute of TechnologyNagoyaInstituteOfTechnologyRobopocalypserobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotic walkerroboticsRoboticWalkerrobotssciencevideowalkerwalking robotWalkingRobotTue, 25 Oct 2011 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[T.I.M. has a taste for passers-by, also fava beans and a nice chianti (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/t-i-m-art-installation-has-a-taste-for-passers-by-also-fava-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/t-i-m-art-installation-has-a-taste-for-passers-by-also-fava-be/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/t-i-m-art-installation-has-a-taste-for-passers-by-also-fava-be/#comments Art school -- incubator of tomorrow's next great visionaries, or think tank for the Robot Apocalypse? Sorry folks, but this latest Arduino frankenconcept looks to be working against Team Humanity. Part of Art Institute of Chicago BFA student Daniel Jay Bertner's recent oeuvre, the Tracking Interactive Mechanism (or T.I.M., for short) uses a webcam operating OpenCV to follow gallery-traipsing gawkers' faces, and respond to their movements. Careful, though. T.I.M. here bites, or at least makes virtual attempts to pierce your flesh thanks to a hidden photocell mechanism triggered by a viewer's proximity. There's just one thing Daniel left out of his wall-mounted, predatory cyborg installation -- the requisite Hannibal Lecter soundboard. Jump past the break to see this nightmarish, mixed media concept in motion.

Continue reading T.I.M. has a taste for passers-by, also fava beans and a nice chianti (video)

T.I.M. has a taste for passers-by, also fava beans and a nice chianti (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Arduinoartart installationArt Institute of ChicagoArtInstallationArtInstituteOfChicagoDaniel Jay BertnerDanielJayBertnerHannibal LectorHannibalLectorinstallationopencvrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseTIMtracking interactive mechanismTrackingInteractiveMechanismvideoFri, 21 Oct 2011 01:06:00 EST<![CDATA[SimLab SQ1: Korea's adorably unstable robot dog (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/simlab-sq1-koreas-adorably-unstable-robot-dog-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/simlab-sq1-koreas-adorably-unstable-robot-dog-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/simlab-sq1-koreas-adorably-unstable-robot-dog-video/#comments
After the recent score of creepy robots, it's great to see a mechanical creature that doesn't look like it would trample you to death if you insulted its parentage. This is the SimLab SQ1, built by the Korean software company as a testbed for a Government-funded giant version to rival the AlphaDog. After the break you'll find a little motion picture of the SQ1 comically tottering around. Have your laughs now: it won't nearly be so funny when it comes for you in the night.

Continue reading SimLab SQ1: Korea's adorably unstable robot dog (video)

SimLab SQ1: Korea's adorably unstable robot dog (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IROSIROS ExpoIROS Expo 2011IrosExpoIrosExpo2011RobopocalypseRobotRobot ApocalypseRobotApocalypseRobotsSimLabSimLab SQ1SimlabSq1SQ1videoFri, 14 Oct 2011 04:35:00 EST<![CDATA[iCub crawls closer toward the Robopocalypse (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/icub-crawls-closer-toward-the-robopocalypse-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/icub-crawls-closer-toward-the-robopocalypse-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/icub-crawls-closer-toward-the-robopocalypse-video/#comments
Another day, another augur of doom for humanity -- iCub has been spotted in the wilds of the IROS Expo in San Francisco. The cute (in a Demon Seed sorta way) robot is designed to replicate the trial-and-error learning process of a three year-old. We've already seen it learning how to speak and shoot arrows, and now it wants to show off it's... erm, recently improved crawling abilities. Head down after the break and you can see it slowly navigating the dangerous carpets of the convention floor. That's iCub, SkyNET drones, Cyborg Rats and Robotic Bulls all in the last month. Does anyone else think the Robopocalpyse will hit before Christmas?

Continue reading iCub crawls closer toward the Robopocalypse (video)

iCub crawls closer toward the Robopocalypse (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iCubiCub RobotIcubRobotIROS ExpoIROS Expo 2011IrosExpoIrosExpo2011RobopocalypseRobotApocalypsevideoTue, 04 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S to get faster Sport edition, leave sedan in the dust]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/tesla-model-s-to-get-faster-sport-edition-leave-sedan-in-the-du/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/tesla-model-s-to-get-faster-sport-edition-leave-sedan-in-the-du/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/tesla-model-s-to-get-faster-sport-edition-leave-sedan-in-the-du/#comments

Tesla looks set to offer another slightly more aggressive, slightly faster model alongside its Model S sedan [pictured]. The high-performance, zero-emission (and tentatively-named) Model S Sport packs a larger battery, extending its single-charge range to 300 miles. Green Car Reports adds that it'll even get optional aerodynamic wheels adding another 20 miles to the car's range. Acceleration has also been boosted, with 0 to 60MPH cut to under 4.6 seconds in the sporty upgrade. This should be the perfect vehicle for evading capture in the gasoline-poor robopocalyptic future. The Sport is reportedly set to launch alongside the standard Model S next year.

Tesla Model S to get faster Sport edition, leave sedan in the dust originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 01:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobileautomobilescarcarselectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevmodel sModel S sportModelSModelSSportRobopocalypserobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseS SportsportSSportteslatesla model stesla motorsTeslaModelSTeslaMotorszero emissionzero emissionsZeroEmissionZeroEmissionsTue, 04 Oct 2011 01:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Boston Dynamics Alpha Dog makes Alyx Vance's pet look like a toy (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/boston-dynamics-alpha-dog-makes-alyx-vances-pet-look-like-a-toy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/boston-dynamics-alpha-dog-makes-alyx-vances-pet-look-like-a-toy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/boston-dynamics-alpha-dog-makes-alyx-vances-pet-look-like-a-toy/#comments
Boston Dynamics' BigDog is one of our favorite insane-level DARPA projects; a robotic pack-mule that can carry 400 pounds of kit for troops. At some point, the Massachusetts mechanics decided the bot would be far better if it was the size of a bull, or, you know, an SUV. The Alpha Dog loses the un-stealthy buzzing noise of its predecessor, has a range of 20 miles and can take much more punishment. If you check out the video after the break, you'll see two people unsuccessfully attempt a takedown on the monster -- Half-Life 2 diehards might experience a combat flashback at the mere sight of it. AT-AT Jr is expected to see field testing sometime next year when it won't have a test bed of rocks to contend with, but the US Marines. Mark our words: we expect 'em to appear in every nightmarish dystopia of the 2020s, and take a starring role in the forthcoming Robopocalypse.

Continue reading Boston Dynamics Alpha Dog makes Alyx Vance's pet look like a toy (video)

Boston Dynamics Alpha Dog makes Alyx Vance's pet look like a toy (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alpha DogAlphaDogAlyx VanceAlyxVanceAt-ATBig DogBigDogBoston DynamicsBoston Dynamics LS3BostonDynamicsBostonDynamicsLs3DARPADogHalf-Life 2Half-life2Military RobotsMilitaryRobotsRobopocalypserobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseUS MarinesUsMarinesvideoSun, 02 Oct 2011 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists build digital cerebellum for Roborat: to protect, serve and spook]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/scientists-build-digital-cerebellum-for-roborat-to-protect-ser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/scientists-build-digital-cerebellum-for-roborat-to-protect-ser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/scientists-build-digital-cerebellum-for-roborat-to-protect-ser/#comments
You'd be forgiven if talk about Cyborg Rats made you think about precision gaming mice, but in this case we're yapping about the real thing. A team from Tel Aviv University has found a way to restore lost motor function in rodents by building a digital cerebellum. As the story goes, they anesthetized a rat, disabled its natural abilities and installed the device -- and were able to teach the chip to make the rat blink when a sound was played. It's all very early-days, but the hope is to develop implants to aid people with long-term disabilities -- or to ensure our sewers are crime free. For those not paying attention, rat-brained innovations are on the up: in June, researchers at the University of Southern California were able to construct an artificial memory, not to mention last year's Tokyo brain-car. After all this mistreatment, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Cyborg Rats sided with the machines in the forthcoming Robopocalypse. Which, you know, is exactly what we need weighing on our conscience.

Scientists build digital cerebellum for Roborat: to protect, serve and spook originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Artificial CerebellumArtificialCerebellumCerebellumCyborgCyborg RatCyborgRatMatti MintzMattiMintzRobopocalypseRobotApocalypseTel Aviv UniversityTelAvivUniversityWed, 28 Sep 2011 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Autom lady-bot will help you lose weight, love you regardless]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/autom-lady-bot-will-help-you-lose-weight-love-you-regardless/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/autom-lady-bot-will-help-you-lose-weight-love-you-regardless/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/autom-lady-bot-will-help-you-lose-weight-love-you-regardless/#comments Aw, this little cutie is so adorable -- until she denies you pizza and cheese fries. Autom, the 15-inch talking droid we first caught a glimpse of last year, is back and available for pre-order. Using the LCD touch screen, hungry dieters are prompted to enter daily calorie consumption and exercise habits -- to which the robot will respond kindly to keep you motivated. With face-tracking capabilities and a killingly sweet death stare, Autom is always watching, which might just make you feel guilty enough to skip the dip. The lady bot costs $195 for the deposit and $670 for the device through company's website. Slated to ship in 2012, apparently aiding the impending robot apocalypse doesn't come cheap. Check out little Autom in action after the break.

Continue reading Autom lady-bot will help you lose weight, love you regardless

Autom lady-bot will help you lose weight, love you regardless originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automdietingintuitive automata incIntuitiveAutomataIncrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsvideoweight lossWeightLossSun, 25 Sep 2011 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[McConnel's Robocut mower verges on obscene (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/mcconnels-robocut-mower-verges-on-obscene-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/mcconnels-robocut-mower-verges-on-obscene-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/mcconnels-robocut-mower-verges-on-obscene-video/#comments Woe betide any Appalachian tiger swallowtails who get caught up in this ungodly four-foot flailhead. Moving to higher ground won't save them either, because Robocut's 40hp Isuzu diesel engine and high grip tracks can chew up 55-degree slopes without ever pausing to contemplate. The bargain price? £40,000 ($60,000) plus extra for antihistamines. Apocalyptic video after the break.

Continue reading McConnel's Robocut mower verges on obscene (video)

McConnel's Robocut mower verges on obscene (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawn mowerlawn mowinglawn mowing robotLawnMowerLawnMowingLawnMowingRobotMcConnelMcConnel RobocutMcconnelRobocutRobocutrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsvideoMon, 19 Sep 2011 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists attempt to give spark of life to all-synthetic metal cells]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/scientists-attempt-to-give-spark-of-life-to-all-synthetic-metal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/scientists-attempt-to-give-spark-of-life-to-all-synthetic-metal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/scientists-attempt-to-give-spark-of-life-to-all-synthetic-metal/#comments Just because it hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it can't; at least that's what a Scottish research group is hoping as it attempts to create reproductive synthetic cells made completely from metal. At this stage, the idea of sentient metallic life remains a distant sci-fi dream, but researchers at the University of Glasgow have already birthed iChells -- inorganic chemical cells. These bubbles, formed from the likes of tungsten, oxygen and phosphorus, can already self-assemble, possess an internal structure, and are capable of the molecular in-and-outs expected of its biological counterparts. Researchers are still tackling how to give these little wonders the ability to self-replicate, and possibly evolve -- further cementing our doom post-Robot Apocalypse. Check out our future synthetic overlord's first steps in a video after the break.

Continue reading Scientists attempt to give spark of life to all-synthetic metal cells

Scientists attempt to give spark of life to all-synthetic metal cells originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biologycellsGlasgowmetal cellsmetal overlordsMetalCellsmetallic cellsMetallicCellsMetalOverlordsrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsesciencesynthetic cellsSyntheticCellsUniversityUniversity of GlasgowvideoMon, 19 Sep 2011 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[My Keepon drops by for a brief hands-on, we can't handle the cuteness (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/my-keepon-drops-by-for-a-brief-hands-on-we-cant-handle-the-cut/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/my-keepon-drops-by-for-a-brief-hands-on-we-cant-handle-the-cut/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/my-keepon-drops-by-for-a-brief-hands-on-we-cant-handle-the-cut/#comments
See that little dude up there? That's My Keepon, and it should look familiar if you're a fan of Spoon or keeping up with autism and related human interaction research. It was just about four years ago when we glimpsed the original dancing research robot by BeatBots dubbed Keepon, and now the $50 toy version we'd been teased is finally set to make its debut this holiday season. Considering its Pro sibling costs nearly $30k, we were curious to see how well this version made by Wow! Stuff would keep the original's essence in tow. To find out, we spent some time with a pre-production unit and had Marek Michalowski, co-inventor of the robot, walk us through it.

Gallery: My Keepon hands-on

Continue reading My Keepon drops by for a brief hands-on, we can't handle the cuteness (video)

My Keepon drops by for a brief hands-on, we can't handle the cuteness (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat botsbeatbotscutedancing robotDancingRobothands-onkeeponMarek MichalowskiMarekMichalowskimetronomemusicmy keeponMyKeeponrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsetoyvideowow stuffWowStuffTue, 13 Sep 2011 18:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Robopocalypse coming soon to a theater near you, Spielberg to smother it in PG]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/robopocalypse-coming-soon-to-a-theater-near-you-spielberg-to-sm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/robopocalypse-coming-soon-to-a-theater-near-you-spielberg-to-sm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/robopocalypse-coming-soon-to-a-theater-near-you-spielberg-to-sm/#comments The Robopocalypse is coming -- just not in the way you'd dreaded. DreamWorks and Twentieth Century Fox have joined movie-making forces to reanimate Daniel H. Wilson's fictional (for now) literary account of a future, robot-helmed doomsday. The studios have thrown some guy named Steven Spielberg behind the lens of this cinematic cautionary tale, and plan to scare the bejeezus out of us all when it premieres July 3, 2013 -- that's if we make it past the Mayan end of the world. No casting was mentioned in the project's announcement, so we'll continue to cross our toes in the hopes a certain daytime show couch jumper and film star-turned-pilot don't join in on the blockbuster fear-mongering.

Continue reading Robopocalypse coming soon to a theater near you, Spielberg to smother it in PG

Robopocalypse coming soon to a theater near you, Spielberg to smother it in PG originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Daniel H. WilsonDanielH.WilsondreamworksfilmfilmsmoviemoviesRobopocalypserobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotssteven spielbergStevenSpielbergtwentieth century foxTwentiethCenturyFoxThu, 08 Sep 2011 20:44:00 EST<![CDATA[LG Hom-Bot 2.0 Smart Robot Vacuum Cleaner hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-hom-bot-2-0-smart-robot-vacuum-cleaner-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-hom-bot-2-0-smart-robot-vacuum-cleaner-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-hom-bot-2-0-smart-robot-vacuum-cleaner-hands-on-video/#comments
Smile, you're on Vacucam! LG's Hom-Bot (RoboKing in the US) was zipping around its own special playpen on the stage at the company's IFA booth today, picking up the occasional speck of dust and using its dual cams to spy on bloggers and Germans, while also diligently avoiding a plastic family dog along its ten-square-foot cube of real estate. The bot's Smart ThinQ technology enables it to interact with an Android or iPhone app, which you'll use to watch a live video feed from its built-in cam, send it rolling to a specific point in the house in "Patrol" mode, or adjust settings. You can also log in remotely, assuming your Hom-Bot is powered up and has a WiFi connection. Official US and Euro pricing and availability hasn't been announced yet, but an LG rep suggested we'll see it in the €500-700 range (about $710-995 US). Cameras and interactivity are nice and all, but that's a lot to spend on any vacuum cleaner. Today's trade show sneak peek is probably the closest we'll be getting to this pricey little vac, so roll past the break for some super action footage.

Gallery: LG Hom-Bot 2.0 Smart Robot Vacuum Cleaner hands-on

Continue reading LG Hom-Bot 2.0 Smart Robot Vacuum Cleaner hands-on (video)

LG Hom-Bot 2.0 Smart Robot Vacuum Cleaner hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botbotscameracamerascleaning robotCleaningRobothands-onhom-bothouseholdifaIFA 2011Ifa2011KoreaLGlg electronicsLgElectronicsrcremote controlRemoteControlrobokingroboking Triple EyeRobokingTripleEyerobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotssensorsensorssmartphonesmartphonesvacuumvacuum cleanerVacuumCleanervacuumsvideovideo cameraVideoCameraVR6180VMNVFri, 02 Sep 2011 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LG launches 'RoboKing Triple Eye' smartphone-controlled vacuuming robot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/lg-launches-roboking-triple-eye-smartphone-controlled-vacuumin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/lg-launches-roboking-triple-eye-smartphone-controlled-vacuumin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/lg-launches-roboking-triple-eye-smartphone-controlled-vacuumin/#comments You won't have to leave your post on the couch, but you will have to lift a finger to your smartphone in order to tidy up with LG's 'RoboKing Triple Eye' VR6180VMNV robot vacuum. Unlike it's purple cousin who spends his time looking inwards, this little guy is always looking outward with its three cameras, capturing video and sending it to your smartphone or PC over WiFi. The robot uses sensors to create a plan of attack map of your home, allowing you to move it around by clicking the filthiest parts. Like a well-trained puppy, the dust buster also responds to voice commands from up to 5 feet away and it doesn't even bark -- only emitting 48dB of sound while sucking up dust. Of course, laziness of this caliber doesn't come cheap, as it costs 899,000 Korean won, or around $840 bones.

LG launches 'RoboKing Triple Eye' smartphone-controlled vacuuming robot originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botbotscameracamerascleaning robotCleaningRobothouseholdifaIFA 2011Ifa2011KoreaLGlg electronicsLgElectronicsrcremote controlRemoteControlrobokingroboking Triple EyeRobokingTripleEyerobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotssensorsensorssmartphonesmartphonesvacuumvacuum cleanerVacuumCleanervacuumsvideo cameraVideoCameraVR6180VMNVTue, 30 Aug 2011 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[MOTOFONE F3, the zombie apocalypse survival phone (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/motofone-f3-the-zombie-apocalypse-survival-phone-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/motofone-f3-the-zombie-apocalypse-survival-phone-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/motofone-f3-the-zombie-apocalypse-survival-phone-video/#comments You can never be too prepared. Whether you're being chased by brain sucking zombies, hunted down by ruthless killer robots, or -- more likely -- the victim of an earthquake or other natural disaster. There's only one phone you really need, and that's the MOTOFONE F3. Forget your smartphone and its fancy pants features, forget the internet -- when the apocalypse strikes your survival might depend on a durable handset with great battery life and just the basics, which is exactly what the MOTOFONE F3 delivers. Introduced in 2006 for developing markets, it makes and takes calls, sends and receives text messages, beeps and vibrates, stores and recalls your most important contacts, and includes an alarm clock -- that's it.

Of course, these specs describe almost every simple phone launched since SMS was added to the GSM standard. What makes the MOTOFONE F3 unique is that it uses a segmented e-paper display which sips power and remains legible in both direct sunlight and dark back alleys, along with dual antennae for superior radio performance. Battery life is absolutely incredible, with over 2 weeks in standby and several months powered off. Motorola also designed the handset to be light (68g), thin (9mm) and strong -- it's resistant to shock, dust and moisture, with a sealed keypad and speaker (which is extremely loud). The best part? You can pick one up online, unlocked, for as little as $25.

Check out our gallery below, and whatever you do, don't be like our protagonist in the zombie apocalypse video after the break -- don't leave your SIM at home.

Psst... yeah, we know this phone's ancient, but every now and then we like to reach back and have a little fun. And, you know, escape a looming zombie horde.

Gallery: MOTOFONE F3

Continue reading MOTOFONE F3, the zombie apocalypse survival phone (video)

MOTOFONE F3, the zombie apocalypse survival phone (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypsee-inke-paperearthquakeF3GSMmobilepostminiMotofoneMotofone F3MotofoneF3MotorolarobotapocalypserobotssurvivalvideoZombieApocalypsezombiesSat, 27 Aug 2011 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[ETRO robot wears its heart on its face, promises to love you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/etro-robot-wears-its-heart-on-its-face-promises-to-love-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/etro-robot-wears-its-heart-on-its-face-promises-to-love-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/etro-robot-wears-its-heart-on-its-face-promises-to-love-you/#comments We prefer our robots stick to the household cleaning chores, a little DJing action even, and then go right back to the closet. But, when we first glimpsed this emoting automaton from Korea's Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, our fears of the day of robot reckoning subsided slightly. The ETRI-built robot (or ETRO for short) is currently "employed" as an ambassador for human-robot relations at Daejon's National Science Museum, treating amused passersby to outspoken professions of love backed by its LED-lit facial expressions. Originally designed as a reading robot back in 2003, version 2.0 of this humanoid helper was created with a greater cause in mind -- showcasing robotics as promising Korean growth industry. Rather than let those economic concerns muddle our whimsy, let's just focus on the AI-assisted cuteness in the video below.

Continue reading ETRO robot wears its heart on its face, promises to love you

ETRO robot wears its heart on its face, promises to love you originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatonbotDaejonDaejon National Science MuseumDaejonNationalScienceMuseumElectronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteElectronicsAndTelecommunicationsResearchInstituteemotionemotionsETRIETROKoreaKoreanLEDrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsFri, 26 Aug 2011 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Swarm robots attack your bookshelf, win AAAI Oscar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/14/swarm-robots-attack-your-bookshelf-win-aaai-oscar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/14/swarm-robots-attack-your-bookshelf-win-aaai-oscar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/14/swarm-robots-attack-your-bookshelf-win-aaai-oscar/#comments What's more frightening than a swarm of robots? An award-winning swarm of robots trained to raid your library -- that's what. This SciFi-worthy outfit of mechanized literature swindlers, known as the "Swarmanoid," landed themselves the Best Video Award at this week's AAAI (Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence) conference in San Francisco. The video in question features the mixed bag of eye-bots, hand-bots and foot-bots in an Oceans 11-style bookcase heist. Of course, there are probably easier ways to reach the top shelf (e.g. a ladder), but none that get us thinking about the end times quite like this. The full video awaits you after the break.

Continue reading Swarm robots attack your bookshelf, win AAAI Oscar

Swarm robots attack your bookshelf, win AAAI Oscar originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 14 Aug 2011 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AAAIAAAI 2011AAAI Best Video AwardAAAI ConferenceAaai2011AaaiBestVideoAwardAaaiConferenceAssociation for the Advancement of Artificial IntelligenceAssociationForTheAdvancementOfArtificialIntelligenceBest Video AwardBestVideoAwardDr. Marco DorigoDr.MarcoDorigoeyebotfootbothandbotMarco DMarcoDRobotrobot apocalypseRobot SwarmRobotApocalypserobotsRobotSwarmswarmanoidvideoSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:33:00 EST