Engadget RSS Feed http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2013 AOL Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Apple trying for patent on electromotive charging, could use that confident stride to charge iPhones]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/apple-trying-for-patent-on-electromotive-charging/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/apple-trying-for-patent-on-electromotive-charging/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/apple-trying-for-patent-on-electromotive-charging/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Apple trying for patent on electromotive charging, could use that confident stride to charge iPhones

We've seen the concept of electromotive (movement-based) charging before, but it usually comes at the cost of either a clunky design or a limitation to very low-power devices like watches. Apple has been experimenting with a concept that could power gadgets as big as iPhones and iPods with that spring in your step -- and without the bulk of any extra wires. A newly published patent application uses flat, printed coils to generate electromagnetic induction through movable magnets; as the device bounces around in your pocket, the magnets slide past the coils and run them through the magnetic fields they need to build electricity. It all sounds grand, but it's hard to tell from the very recent June filing whether the technology is enough to keep devices completely powered or simply delays the inevitable. We'd still suggest getting back into shape, though, in the event that morning run can one day save you from hunting down a wall outlet.

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Source: USPTO

]]> apple iphoneapple ipodAppleIphoneAppleIpodcellphonecellphoneselectromagnetic inductionElectromagneticInductionelectromotiveinductioniphoneipodkinetic chargingKineticChargingpatentpatent applicationpatent filingPatentApplicationPatentFilingpatentsportable audioPortableAudiorunningsmartphonesmartphonesusptowalking Thu, 20 Sep 2012 16:40:00 -0400 21|20329265 <![CDATA[Robotic legs simulate our neural system, lurch along in the most human-like way so far]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/06/robotic-legs-most-like-human-walking/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/06/robotic-legs-most-like-human-walking/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/06/robotic-legs-most-like-human-walking/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments robotic-legs-most-like-human-walking

We've seen some pretty wonky bipedal robots before, but scientists at the University of Arizona have gone straight to the source -- us -- to make one with a more human-like saunter. It turns out it's not just our skull-borne computer that controls gait: a simple neural network in the lumber area of our spine, called the central pattern generator (CPG), also fires to provide the necessary rhythm. By creating a basic digital version of that and connecting some feedback sensors in the legs, a more natural human stride (without balance) was created -- and on top of that it didn't require the tricky processing used in other striding bots. Apparently this throws light on why babies can make that cute walking motion even before they toddle in earnest, since the necessary CPG system comes pre-installed from birth. That means the study could lead to new ways of stimulating that region to help those with spinal cord injuries re-learn to walk, and produce better, less complex walking robots to boot. Judging by the video, it's a good start, but there's still a ways to go before they can mimic us exactly -- you can watch it after the break.

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]]> biologybiped robotBipedRobotbotcentral pattern generatorCentralPatternGeneratorcpgmechneural networkNeuralNetworkresearchrobotroboticsUniversity of ArizonaUniversityOfArizonawalkingwalking robotWalkingRobot Fri, 06 Jul 2012 04:16:00 -0400 21|20272685 <![CDATA[Samsung files patents for robot that mimics human walking and breathing, ratchets up the creepy factor]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/22/samsung-files-patents-for-robot-that-mimics-human-walking/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/22/samsung-files-patents-for-robot-that-mimics-human-walking/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/22/samsung-files-patents-for-robot-that-mimics-human-walking/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Samsung robot patent filings would mimic human walking and breathing, wouldn't eliminate the creepy factor

As much as Samsung is big on robots, it hasn't gone all-out on the idea until a just-published quartet of patent applications. The filings have a robot more directly mimicking a human walk and adjusting the scale to get the appropriate speed without the unnatural, perpetually bent gait of certain peers. To safely get from point A to point B, any path is chopped up into a series of walking motions, and the robot constantly checks against its center of gravity to stay upright as it walks uphill or down. All very clever, but we'd say Samsung is almost too fond of the uncanny valley: one patent has rotating joints coordinate to simulate the chest heaves of human breathing. We don't know if the company will ever put the patents to use; these could be just feverish dreams of one-upping Honda's ASIMO at its own game. But if it does, we could be looking at Samsung-made androids designed like humans rather than for them.

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]]> androidandroidsapplicationbreathingfilinggaithumanoidhumanoid robotHumanoidRobotpatentpatent applicationpatent filingPatentApplicationPatentFilingrobotrobotssamsunguncanny valleyUncannyValleyusptowalking Fri, 22 Jun 2012 02:14:00 -0400 21|20263622 <![CDATA[Google Maps for Android takes you inside with improved walking directions]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/google-maps-for-android-takes-you-inside-with-improved-walking-d/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/google-maps-for-android-takes-you-inside-with-improved-walking-d/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/google-maps-for-android-takes-you-inside-with-improved-walking-d/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Image

All right, so Google Maps has gotten you safely to your destination. Now what?! Don't panic -- the company is rolling out indoor walking directions for the app's latest Android release. Version 6.7 also features 360-degree photo views of businesses, to help ensure that you really don't get lost once inside. Also new is nearby deals that can be accessed by clicking "Offers," so you can nab some sweet deals within arms' reach. The latest version is up for the download now via Google Play. If you're still lost, please consult the instructional video after the break.

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]]> androidappdealsdirectionsgooglegoogle mapsgoogle maps for androidGoogleMapsGoogleMapsForAndroidmapmapsmobilepostcrossofferswalkingwalking directionsWalkingDirections Wed, 09 May 2012 16:02:00 -0400 21|20234838 <![CDATA[National Geographic TOPO! maps find their way to Magellan eXplorist GPS devices]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/national-geographic-topo-maps-for-magellan-explorist/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/national-geographic-topo-maps-for-magellan-explorist/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/national-geographic-topo-maps-for-magellan-explorist/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments National Geographic TOPO! maps find their way to Magellan eXplorist GPS devices

If you're more about the mountainous views, than Mountain View, then you might be pleased to hear that Magellan is bringing National Geographic's TOPO! maps to its eXplorist range of outdoor GPS devices. More specifically the 310, 510, 610 and 710 models. If you like the sound of the full color USGS topographic maps, then they are available on a subscription basis for $30 a year. If you don't already own a Magellan device, however, then you might be more interested in one of the forthcoming TOPO! bundles, if you can find your way to a retailer that is.

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]]> eXploristexplorist 510eXplorist 610eXplorist 710Explorist510Explorist610Explorist710extra mapsExtraMapsgpsmagellanmapsminipostNational Geographicnational geographic TOPONationalGeographicNationalGeographicTopooutdoor gpsOutdoorGpsoutdoorstopotopographic mapTopographicMapwalking Wed, 09 May 2012 07:10:00 -0400 21|20234056 <![CDATA[Student's push to make Raleigh more walkable relies on homemade signs and QR codes]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/students-make-raleigh-more-walkable-with-homemade-qr-code-signs/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/students-make-raleigh-more-walkable-with-homemade-qr-code-signs/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/students-make-raleigh-more-walkable-with-homemade-qr-code-signs/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Guerilla urbanism campaign walks the walk in Raleigh with QR code signsWalking is apparently underrated. So University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill student Matt Tomasulo decided to engage in some "guerilla urbanism" in January with fellow fans of bipedal activity, posting 27 signs at three Raleigh, NC intersections as part of the "Walk Raleigh" project. The cardboard and vinyl signs contained snippets about how many minutes it would take to walk to must-see destinations like Raleigh City Cemetery, as well as QR codes for downloading directions. Like the activity it promotes, Tomasulo says the idea behind the project is simple: It's OK to walk. Apparently, Tomasulo and his buddies did such a great job with the signs that it took the sharp folks at the city government a month to catch on and take the stuff down. The city has since walked back its opposition to the signs, however, and put them back up as part of a 90-day pilot project. In the meantime, Walk Raleigh has turned into a Walk [Your City] Kickstarter campaign to put your wallet where your feet are.

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]]> guerilla urbanismGuerillaUrbanismnorth carolinaNorthCarolinapedestrianqrqr codesQrCodesraleighsignagesignstactical urbanismTacticalUrbanismuncunc chapel hillwalk raleighwalk your citywalkingWalkRaleighWalkYourCity Fri, 13 Apr 2012 02:53:00 -0400 21|20213782 <![CDATA[Boston Dynamics PETMAN portends the pending robot apocalypse]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/boston-dynamics-petman-portends-the-pending-robot-apocalypse/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget 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/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#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.

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]]> at-stbipedbipedalboston dynamicsBostonDynamicshumanoidhumanoid robotHumanoidRobotpetmanrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypserobotsvideowalkwalkerwalking Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:33:00 -0400 21|20094884 <![CDATA[Murata Manufacturing shows off self-balancing electric walking aid]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/murata-manufacturing-shows-off-self-balancing-electric-walking-a/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/murata-manufacturing-shows-off-self-balancing-electric-walking-a/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/murata-manufacturing-shows-off-self-balancing-electric-walking-a/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Walking assistants of the future come in all shapes and sizes -- from exoskeletons to high-tech walkers -- and you can now also this electric walking aid from Murata Manufacturing to the list of possibilities. It's inspired by some of the standalone robots that the company has built and, much like the Segway, it's able to maintain its balance and stand upright on its own (with an extra set of wheels for some added security). Unlike traditional walkers, however, it requires virtually no effort to push, with built-in sensors able to detect how much the person's body is tilted, and how fast or slow it should move to keep up with them -- it's also apparently powerful to carry a person's luggage or groceries. As you might have suspected, however, it's still just a prototype, and the company isn't ready to say when it might become an actual product. Head on past the break for the company's recent demonstration at CEATEC.

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]]> ceatecceatec 2011Ceatec2011muratamurata manufacturingMurataManufacturingvideowalkerwalkingwalking aidwalking assistantWalkingAidWalkingAssistant Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:03:00 -0400 21|20092326 <![CDATA[Motorola MOTOACTV hands-on (update: video with Dean Karnazes!)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/motorola-motoactv-hands-on/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/motorola-motoactv-hands-on/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/motorola-motoactv-hands-on/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments So when Motorola teased its "faster, thinner, smarter, stronger" event we were pretty sure that was a not-so-subtle reference to the 7mm-thick Droid RAZR. As it turns out, the company was also being quite literal. Instead of a Xoom 2, the outfit rounded out its New York City presser with MOTOACTV, an iPod Nano-like touchscreen device that plays music and keeps track of your various fitness vitals. While we couldn't take it more than a few feet away from the pedestal where it was on display, we did get to poke around its UI for a few minutes and put that 600MHz processor to the test. You know the drill: hands-on photos below, along with impressions and a short vid after the break.

Gallery: Motoactv hands-on


Joseph Volpe and Zach Honig contributed to this report.

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]]> calorie countercalorie countersCalorieCounterCalorieCountersdean karnazesDeanKarnazesfitnessfitness gadgetsFitnessGadgetshands-onhealthMotoactvMotorolamp3 playerMP3 playersMp3PlayerMp3Playersmusic playermusic playersMusicPlayerMusicPlayersrunningvideowalkingweight lossWeightLoss Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:18:00 -0400 21|20084420 <![CDATA[The Xsens ForceShoe watches your step, helps you walk better]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/the-xsens-forceshoe-watches-your-step-helps-you-walk-better/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/the-xsens-forceshoe-watches-your-step-helps-you-walk-better/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/the-xsens-forceshoe-watches-your-step-helps-you-walk-better/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
The technology-laden Xsens ForceShoe might better be described as a sandal. However, if you're the type of bipedal perfectionist who wants to analyze your gait using an array of 6DoF force sensors and magnetic trackers (not to mention that cunningly-disguised wireless data transmitter), then the chances are your toenails can also stand a bit of scrutiny. In fact, although the ForceShoe is primarily designed for physio patients, we think its inventors at the University of Twente might just have stumbled upon the next-gen Nike+ accessory we've all been waiting for. Unfortunately they're not on sale, but if you're a researcher looking to measure the orientation, acceleration, angular velocity, force and torque of your feet in three dimensions, you're welcome to hop past the break for the full press release.

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]]> 6DoFathleteathleticsfootwearforce sensorForceSensorforceshoegaitIMUinertial measurement unitsInertialMeasurementUnitsmagnetic trackerMagneticTrackerphysiophysiotherapysandalsneakersportsportstrainertwenteuniversity of twenteUniversityOfTwentewalkwalkingxsensxsens forceshoeXsensForceshoe Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:29:00 -0400 21|19964743 <![CDATA[Paralyzed man can stand and walk again, thanks to spinal implant]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/paralyzed-man-can-stand-and-walk-again-thanks-to-spinal-implant/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/paralyzed-man-can-stand-and-walk-again-thanks-to-spinal-implant/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/paralyzed-man-can-stand-and-walk-again-thanks-to-spinal-implant/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Here's an amazing story to end your week on a high note: a 25-year-old paraplegic is now walking again, thanks to a groundbreaking procedure developed by neuroscientists at the University of Louisville, UCLA and Cal Tech. The Oregon man, Rob Summers, was paralyzed below the chest in 2006, after getting hit by a speeding car. This week, however, doctors announced that Summers can now stand up on his own and remain standing for up to four minutes. With the help of a special harness, he can even take steps on a treadmill and can move his lower extremities for the first time in years. It was all made possible by a spinal implant that emits small pulses of electricity, designed to replicate signals that the brain usually sends to coordinate movement. Prior to receiving the implant in 2009, Summers underwent two years of training on a treadmill, with a harness supporting his weight and researchers moving his legs. This week's breakthrough comes after 30 years of research, though scientists acknowledge that this brand of epidural stimulation still needs to be tested on a broader sample of subjects before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. Summers, meanwhile, seems understandably elated. "This procedure has completely changed my life," the former baseball player said. "To be able to pick up my foot and step down again was unbelievable, but beyond all of that my sense of well-being has changed." We can only imagine.

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]]> brainBreakThroughCal TechCalifornia Institute of TechnologyCaliforniaInstituteOfTechnologyCalTechelectrodeepiduralepidural stimulationEpiduralStimulationhealthimplantlocomotor trainingLocomotorTraininglouisvillemedicinemovementneuroscienceparalysisparalyzedresearchrob summersRobSummersspinal cordSpinal cord injuriesSpinalCordSpinalCordInjuriesstandingtherapytreadmilltreatmentuclaUniversity of LouisvilleUniversityOfLouisvillewalking Fri, 20 May 2011 08:47:00 -0400 21|19945660 <![CDATA[Paralyzed student uses robotic exoskeleton to walk at college graduation (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/paralyzed-student-uses-robotic-exoskeleton-to-walk-at-college-gr/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/paralyzed-student-uses-robotic-exoskeleton-to-walk-at-college-gr/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/paralyzed-student-uses-robotic-exoskeleton-to-walk-at-college-gr/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Austin Whitney hasn't been able to walk since a 2007 car crash left him paralyzed, but on Saturday the 22-year-old triumphantly strode across the stage to accept his degree from UC Berkeley. He had a little help, in the form of a specially crafted robotic exoskeleton developed by Berkeley engineering professor Homayoon Kazerooni. Kazerooni and his team designed the exoskeleton with lightness and affordability in mind, resisting the urge to load it up with expensive hardware and tethering the mechanized walker to a backpack that houses a computer and a rechargeable, eight-hour battery. As a result, the Austin walker won't enable the kind of acrobatic leaps that would make Lt. Rasczak proud, but its reduced mobility comes at a reduced cost of just $15,000. That's certainly not an impulse buy, though it's a welcomed alternative to other exoskeletons that retail for $100,000 or more. Walk past the break for a video of Whitney's momentous steps, along with a clip of Kazerooni describing his creation.

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]]> austin whitneyAustinWhitneyberkeleycollegecollege graduationCollegeGraduationcommencementcostdesignexoskeletongraduationhealthmoneyparalyzedparaplegicrechargeablerechargeable batteryRechargeableBatteryrobotic exoskeletonRoboticExoskeletonroboticsstudentsUC berkeleyUcBerkeleyUniversity of California BerkeleyUniversityOfCaliforniaBerkeleyvideoWalkerwalking Mon, 16 May 2011 08:45:00 -0400 21|19941175 <![CDATA[Bipedal robots learn to shuffle, evolve toward doing the twist (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bipedal-robots-learn-to-shuffle-evolve-toward-doing-the-twist/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bipedal-robots-learn-to-shuffle-evolve-toward-doing-the-twist/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bipedal-robots-learn-to-shuffle-evolve-toward-doing-the-twist/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Yes, some robots are evolving to a point where they can play instruments and swing a hammer. Hilariously, though, bipedal robots are still awful at turning in a tight radius. Several presenters at the International Conference on Robotics and Automation have been working on a solution: instead of making them take steps, program robots to shuffle. This allows turning without complex weight-shifting -- every time your foot leaves the ground, you have to adjust your balance to remain upright. Keeping your feet on the ground avoids that fairly complicated process, and can make robot-turning quicker, and possible in confined spaces; most current bipedal bots require lots of time and space to turn. See the video after the break for an example from Japan's Osaka Electro-Communication University. It may look like a metal man shuffling his feet, but it's an important step toward our robot-dominated future.

[Thanks, Henry]

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]]> bipedbipedalbipedal robotBipedalRobotbipedsbotsfootICRAInternational Conference on Robotics and AutomationInternationalConferenceOnRoboticsAndAutomationJapanOsaka Electro-Communication UniversityOsakaElectro-communicationUniversityrobotrobotsshuffleturnturningvideowalkwalking Mon, 16 May 2011 07:18:00 -0400 21|19940958 <![CDATA[Cornell's Ranger robot walks 40.5 miles on a single charge, doesn't even break a sweat (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/cornells-ranger-robot-walks-40-5-miles-on-a-single-charge-does/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/cornells-ranger-robot-walks-40-5-miles-on-a-single-charge-does/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/cornells-ranger-robot-walks-40-5-miles-on-a-single-charge-does/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments

A few years ago, engineers at Cornell were rejoicing when their Ranger robot set an unofficial world record by walking for 5.6 miles without stopping. Since then, the 22-pound bot has only built up its endurance, to the point where it can now chug along for a full 40.5 miles without a single battery recharge, or an ounce of human assistance. The Ranger pulled off the feat last week, when it completed nearly 308 laps around the university's Barton Hall running track, over the course of more than 30 hours. Engineers say that their bot's stamina has a lot to do with its energy efficiency. The Ranger runs on about 16 watts and uses them more sparingly than most of its mechanized brethren. It also saves juice by swinging its legs more liberally than most bipedal walkers, essentially allowing its limbs to fall freely before re-stabilizing itself. The robot's next challenge, apparently, will be to incorporate automatic steering into its gait, since walking in circles can get understandably dull, after a while. Gallop past the break for the full PR and a video of the Ranger's latest achievement.

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]]> cornellCornell UniversityCornellUniversityCOTdistancedistance walkingDistanceWalkingEnergyenergy efficiencyEnergyEfficiencylapsRangerranger robotRangerRobotrecordresearchrobotroboticsvideowalkingworld recordWorldRecord Wed, 11 May 2011 18:12:00 -0400 21|19937515 <![CDATA[HECTOR insect-inspired hexapod walking robot is a smooth operator (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/hector-insect-inspired-hexapod-walking-robot-is-a-smooth-operato/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/hector-insect-inspired-hexapod-walking-robot-is-a-smooth-operato/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/hector-insect-inspired-hexapod-walking-robot-is-a-smooth-operato/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments We've seen some rather nightmare-inducing robots inspired by insects, but, once again, the folks at Germany's Bielefeld University have managed to turn something inherently creepy into a rather lighthearted affair. HECTOR, or hexapod cognitive autonomously operating robot, was designed to help its creators understand how exactly real animals manage to move so gracefully. Physically speaking, HECTOR sports six legs, with 18 joints in total, that protrude from an exoskeleton made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Its legs are given a rather life-like range of motion provided by a special set of "elastic joint drives" and a series of "biologically inspired" algorithms, and its exoskeleton can carry a load weighing 30 kilograms -- the robot itself weighs a mere 12 kilograms. What's more, HECTOR's built to learn from its experiences. Okay, so a three foot robotic insect that can carry nearly three times its weight does sound kind of creepy in retrospect, but HECTOR really does have some smooth moves. You can see at least one of its legs in action after the break.

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]]> automatonbielefeldBielefeldUniversitygermangermanyHECTORhexapodhexapod cognitive autonomously operating robotHexapodCognitiveAutonomouslyOperatingRobotinsectinsect robotInsectRobotnaturerobotvideowalkingwalking robotWalkingRobot Tue, 19 Apr 2011 03:17:00 -0400 21|19917090 <![CDATA[MegaReader brings true multitasking to the iPhone, lets you walk and read at the same time (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/megareader-brings-true-multitasking-to-the-iphone-lets-you-walk/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/megareader-brings-true-multitasking-to-the-iphone-lets-you-walk/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/megareader-brings-true-multitasking-to-the-iphone-lets-you-walk/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Galaxy S owners will already be familiar with the awesome power of overlaying text on a live view of their phone's camera feed, but now their iPhone counterparts get to join in the fun as well. MegaReader, an e-reading app that's survived the cutthroat App Store waters long enough to reach version 2.1, has just added a "Heads Up Display" feature to its list of attributes. Its function is to make your iPhone appear transparent, which is achieved by relaying camera images of what's behind the phone to its front. A real life saver, a mere gimmick, or a golden opportunity for a hilarious promo video? Why not all three?

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]]> app storeAppleTvapplicationsAppStorearaugmented realityAugmentedRealitye booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readerE-readerse-readingheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayhudios 4.2Ios4Ios4.2Iphone3glive viewLiveViewmegareadermultitaskingreadingSoftware UpdateSoftwareUpdatetransparencytransparentvideowalking Wed, 19 Jan 2011 06:51:00 -0500 21|19806417 <![CDATA[Prototype Pleo motion capture exoskeleton up for grabs: $2,400 OBO]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/prototype-pleo-motion-capture-exoskeleton-up-for-grabs-2-400-o/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/prototype-pleo-motion-capture-exoskeleton-up-for-grabs-2-400-o/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/prototype-pleo-motion-capture-exoskeleton-up-for-grabs-2-400-o/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Still haven't nailed down the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone in your life? Shame on you. Just kidding. But on the real, if you've got $2,397.99 and a lust for robotics, there's hardly a better buy available right now than this. The concoction you're peering at above isn't apt to go on sale to the general public again anytime soon, as it's a rare prototype motion capture exoskeleton that was used by (the now-defunct) Ugobe in the creation of Pleo. Word has it that this suit was vital to the R&D efforts surrounding the first edition of the outfit's robotic dinosaur, with one Caleb Chung fitting in and hulking about as computers analyzed and recorded movements. So far as we can tell, all of the circuits and wires are still here, meaning that you actually could use this for R&D of your own provided you had the right equipment to read it. Unfortunately, it'll cost a small fortune to ship a 350 pound crate anywhere outside of the continental US, but for those of you currently living overseas... well, here's your excuse to relocate.

[Thanks, Colin]

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]]> auctionebayexoskeletonfor saleForSalemechMOCAPpleoprototyperobotsensorsensorssuitUGOBEwalkingwalking suitWalkingSuitwearable Mon, 20 Dec 2010 12:14:00 -0500 21|19770099 <![CDATA[Athlete Robot runs just a few steps before falling down, does it with style]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/athlete-robot-runs-just-a-few-steps-before-falling-down-does-it/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/athlete-robot-runs-just-a-few-steps-before-falling-down-does-it/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/athlete-robot-runs-just-a-few-steps-before-falling-down-does-it/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Since 2007, researchers at Tokyo University's ISI Lab have been working on a prototype of a running robot, which we've seen several of in the past. Athlete Robot (as it is seemingly dubbed) is a little bit different though. While it hasn't outwardly been given the humanoid treatment in any significant way, technologically, it works very much like a human. As you'll see in the video below, early prototypes of the bot which were less 'human' like in design didn't function as well as the newer version, which boasts McKibben artificial muscles and a biologically correct musculoskeletal system. Now, the robot still can't run very far without falling over, but it's impressive to watch its movements nonetheless.

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]]> humanoidjapanlegsmusclesrobotrobotsrunnerrunninguniveristy of tokyoUniveristyOfTokyovideowalking Wed, 15 Dec 2010 21:58:00 -0500 21|19763184 <![CDATA[Berkeley Bionics reveals eLEGS exoskeleton, aims to help paraplegics walk in 2011 (update: eyes-on and video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/berkeley-bionics-reveals-elegs-exoskeleton-aims-to-help-paraple/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/berkeley-bionics-reveals-elegs-exoskeleton-aims-to-help-paraple/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/berkeley-bionics-reveals-elegs-exoskeleton-aims-to-help-paraple/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Wondering where you've heard of Berkeley Bionics before? These are the same whiz-kids who produced the HULC exoskeleton in mid-2008, and now they're back with a far more ambitious effort. Announced just moments ago in San Francisco, the eLEGS exoskeleton is a bionic device engineered to help paraplegics stand up and walk on their own. It's hailed as a "wearable, artificially intelligent, bionic device," and it's expected to help out within the hospital, at home and elsewhere in this wild, wild place we call Earth. Initially, the device will be offered to rehabilitation centers for use under medical supervision, and can be adjusted to fit most people between 5'2" and 6'4" (and weighing 220 pounds or less) in a matter of minutes. We're told that the device provides "unprecedented knee flexion," and it's also fairly quiet in operation; under ideal circumstances, speeds of up to 2MPH can be attained, and it employs a gesture-based human-machine interface that relies on legions of sensors to determine a user's intentions and act accordingly. Clinical trials are going on as we speak about to begin, and there's a limited release planned for the second half of 2011. We're still waiting to hear back on a price, so keep it locked for more as we get it live from the event.

Update: We just got to see the eLEGS walk across stage, and you'll find a gallery full of close-up pics immediately below. We also spoke to Berkeley Bionics CEO Eythor Bender, who detailed the system a bit more -- it's presently made of steel and carbon fiber with lithium-ion battery packs, weighs 45 pounds, and has enough juice to run for six hours of continuous walking. While he wouldn't give us an exact price, he said they're shooting for $100,000, and will be "very competitive" with other devices on the market. Following clinical trials, the exoskeleton will be available to select medical centers in July or August, though Bender also said the company's also working on a streamlined commercial version for all-day use, tentatively slated for 2013.

Gallery: Berkeley Bionics' eLEGS exoskeleton, eyes-on

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]]> Berkeley BionicsBerkeleyBionicsdisabilitydisabledeLEGSEXOSKELETONhands-onhealthmedicalPARAPLEGICSrobotrobotsvideowalking Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:44:00 -0400 21|19665259 <![CDATA[Magellan busts out 510, 610 and 710 eXplorist outdoor GPS for all you... outdoors types]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/magellan-busts-out-510-610-and-710-explorist-outdoor-gps-for-al/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/magellan-busts-out-510-610-and-710-explorist-outdoor-gps-for-al/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/magellan-busts-out-510-610-and-710-explorist-outdoor-gps-for-al/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Magellan's just updated its eXplorist handheld outdoor GPS units. The 510, 610 and 710 (as they are called) all feature 3-inch, touchscreen displays, 3.2 megapixel, auto-focus cams, plus a microphone and speaker for recording notes along the way. They're also waterproof, and come pre-loaded with maps of the entire world. The 710 unit comes with the most detailed on and off-road maps of the series, and both the 610 and 710 feature 3-point compasses. The new eXplorist units are available now, and the 510 will run you $349.99, the 610 is $449.99, and the 710 is $549.99. Full press release is below.

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]]> eXploristexplorist 510eXplorist 610eXplorist 710Explorist510Explorist610Explorist710gpsmagellanoutdoor gpsOutdoorGpsoutdoorswalking Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:31:00 -0400 21|19556048 <![CDATA[Utah woman sues Google after walking directions lead her to a highway]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/utah-woman-sues-google-after-walking-directions-lead-her-to-a-hi/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/utah-woman-sues-google-after-walking-directions-lead-her-to-a-hi/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/utah-woman-sues-google-after-walking-directions-lead-her-to-a-hi/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
GPS directing motorists to do insane things like drive onto train tracks are nothing new -- we've been hearing tell of such things for years now. And while it can be fodder for a lot of humor, well, the people involved are operating heavy machinery, so in a way it's understandable... right? But a Utah woman is now suing Google over walking directions she got on her BlackBerry which directed her to walk onto a highway, which -- she says -- resulted in her getting hit by a car. According to the court docs, Lauren Rosenberg of Park City, Utah downloaded Google walking directions from one part of town to another, and these directions included walking on Utah State Route 224 -- a major road sans sidewalks. Rather than try to re-route, Lauren followed the directions, and was promptly struck by a car. Rosenberg is now suing Google for around $100,000. Of course, most users of Google's walking (or biking, or public transit) directions will probably have noted that they come with a warning -- "Walking directions are in beta. Use caution - This route may be missing sidewalks or pedestrian paths," so we're not sure how far Rosenberg's case will go, but take this as a cautionary tale, will you? Please.

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]]> accidentaccidentsgooglegoogle mapsGoogleMapslawsuitlawsuitswalkingwalking directionsWalkingDirections Mon, 31 May 2010 05:23:00 -0400 21|19497172 <![CDATA[Energy-recycling foot makes it easier for amputees to walk]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/energy-recycling-foot-makes-it-easier-for-amputees-to-walk/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/energy-recycling-foot-makes-it-easier-for-amputees-to-walk/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/energy-recycling-foot-makes-it-easier-for-amputees-to-walk/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments What's better than an artificial nose? Why, an artificial foot, of course! University of Michigan researchers have developed a new prosthetic foot that could one day make it much easier for amputees to walk. Put simply, this new prototype drastically cuts the energy spent per step, as it harnesses the energy exerted when taking a step and enhances the power of ankle push-off. The device is able to capture dissipated energy, and an inbuilt microcontroller tells the foot to return the energy to the system at precisely the right time. Tests have shown that those using this here foot spent just 14 percent more energy to walk than one would spend when walking naturally, which is a rather significant decrease from the 23 percent uptick experienced with conventional prostheses. If you're still baffled, there's a pretty wicked video demonstration waiting for you after the break.

Gallery: Energy-recycling foot makes it easier for amputees to walk

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]]> amputationamputeeArtificial footArtificialFootenergyexercisefeetfitnessfoothealthmedicalpowerprostheticprototyperecyclerecyclesresearchuniversityuniversity of michiganUniversityOfMichiganwalkwalking Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:21:00 -0500 21|19366999 <![CDATA[Nippon Institute of Technology unveils educational humanoid robot]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/21/nippon-institute-of-technology-unveils-educational-humanoid-robo/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/21/nippon-institute-of-technology-unveils-educational-humanoid-robo/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/21/nippon-institute-of-technology-unveils-educational-humanoid-robo/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments We really can't get enough of these humanoid robots. Researchers collaborating from the Nippon Institute of Technology, Harada Vehicle Design, ZMP and ZNUG Design have just taken the wraps off another addition to the crew. The newest version of the e-NUVO walk bot stands about 4 feet tall, making it roughly the size of an elementary school aged child, and will be incorporated into classes to teach children about humanoid robots in a hands-on environment. We'll admit that after seeing a video of the bot in action (it's after the break), we're pretty jealous of those school children.

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]]> boteducationeducationaleducational robotEducationalRobotharada vehicle designHaradaVehicleDesignhumanoidhumanoid robothumanoid robotsHumanoidRobotHumanoidRobotsnippon institute of technologyNipponInstituteOfTechnologynitrobotrobotswalkingwalking robotWalkingRobotzmpznug designZnugDesign Mon, 21 Dec 2009 01:18:00 -0500 21|19288542 <![CDATA[Walky robot understands iPhone gestures, football fanaticism (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Hey there sailor, we imagine you've been doing your fair share of button mashing what with a certain new bit of software out and about, but how would you like a whole new control paradigm? Taking up Steve Jobs' war on buttons, a group of grad students at Japan's Keio University have put together a comprehensive robot control interface that relies solely on finger swipes, taps, and presses. By employing the iPhone's built-in accelerometer and multitouch screen, the robot can replicate a humanistic walking motion, perform sidesteps and, when called upon, kick a football with gusto and presumed passion. Your destination is just past the break, where the video demo awaits.

[Via HDBlog.it]

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]]> accelerometerapplebipedalcontrolcontrollercontrolsgestureshumanistichumanoidiphoneiphone osiphoneosjapankeio universityKeioUniversitymobilemultitouchrobotrobotstokyotouchscreenvideowalkingwalking robotWalkingRobot Tue, 17 Nov 2009 04:19:00 -0500 21|19242530 <![CDATA[Walky robot understands iPhone gestures, football fanaticism (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/17/walky-robot-understands-iphone-gestures-football-fanaticism-vi/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Hey there sailor, we imagine you've been doing your fair share of button mashing what with a certain new bit of software out and about, but how would you like a whole new control paradigm? Taking up Steve Jobs' war on buttons, a group of grad students at Japan's Keio University have put together a comprehensive robot control interface that relies solely on finger swipes, taps, and presses. By employing the iPhone's built-in accelerometer and multitouch screen, the robot can replicate a humanistic walking motion, perform sidesteps and, when called upon, kick a football with gusto and presumed passion. Your destination is just past the break, where the video demo awaits.

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]]> accelerometerapplebipedalcontrolcontrollercontrolsgestureshumanistichumanoidiphonejapankeio universityKeioUniversitymultitouchrobotrobotstokyotouchscreenvideowalkingwalking robotWalkingRobot Tue, 17 Nov 2009 04:19:00 -0500 21|19242406