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The use of brainwaves as control parameters for electronic systems is becoming quite widespread. The types of signals that we have access to are still quite primitive compared to what we might aspire to in our cyberpunk fantasies, but they're a step in the right direction. A very tempting aspect of accessing brain signals is that it can be used to circumvent physical limitations. [Jerkey] … [Read more...]
There are already a lot of different ways to brew up a decent coffee at home, from the humble saucepan to the elegant vacuum flask. In an office environment the choice of coffee-making technique can have a major impact on workplace harmony---how can people be expected to work happily when the kitchen is filthy with grounds and the coffee is always stale? "Someone have mercy," [Christian Finger] … [Read more...]
We know that you can transform the mechanical motions of your body into electrical energy, like when you turn the crank or shake a mechanically-powered flashlight. These types of mechanical motions are quite large compared to many of the day-to-day (and minute-to-minute) actions you perform--for example walking, breathing, and thumb wrestling. What if we could harvest energy from these tiny … [Read more...]
Oberon is a wheeled remotely operated vehicle that [LucidScience] built based on an electric wheelchair. The detailed and helpful build log is valuable enough even before considering the vast potential of Oberon's intended use: strutting around town, scaring the neighbours. We've seen other ROVs before, of course, but none with the same kind of War of the Worlds "real-life invasion" kitch. … [Read more...]
Tentacles have inspired fear and respect in humans long before anime came into the scene. Sailors shivered in their timbers at the thought of the great Kraken, or that octopus from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. It's no surprise to know that humans have been trying to harness this fear and respect in technological form since the mid-20th century at least. The fascinating world of tentacle robots … [Read more...]
In the cold and mysterious wilderness of Norway, it pays to be ready for anything--especially heavy-walking trolls. The team at [nullohm] decided to prepare thoroughly for their trek into the woods to witness the Leonids meteor shower by putting together an Arduino-based "troll detector". The device is based on the superstition of hammering a steel spike into a tree to keep trolls away from … [Read more...]
It's always nice to show our appreciation for our elders. Today's young robots may be whippier, snappier, and go-gettier than their forbears but you have to admit that few of them have the moxie to dust themselves off after 45 years and have a walk around town (although it still wouldn't qualify for a senior's discount). George, a British humanoid robot made out of a WWII bomber, was resurrected … [Read more...]
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