The Jellyfishbot, developed by IADYS in 2016, is a robotic cleaner emphasizing practical design and versatility to combat water pollution effectively. Launched in 2018, it has revolutionized how marinas, ports, and other hard-to-reach areas are cleaned, thanks to its thoughtfully engineered design. Unlike larger machines that often struggle with precision, the Jellyfishbot is compact and agile, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and around obstacles. This capability makes it ideal for handling various tasks, from picking up everyday debris like plastic waste to managing more severe environmental threats like oil spills. Its design is not just about getting into difficult areas; it ensures those areas are thoroughly cleaned.

IADYS has created several models of the Jellyfishbot, each tailored to specific tasks:

Jellyfishbot Classic: This original model is well-suited for general cleaning tasks in marinas, ports, and smaller bodies of water. Its compact design and ability to be remotely operated make it particularly effective in accessing and cleaning areas that larger vessels cannot reach, making it a reliable choice for routine maintenance.

Jellyfishbot Expert: Building on the Classic’s foundation, the Expert model integrates advanced sensors that provide real-time water quality monitoring and depth measurement. It’s designed for more complex environments, such as industrial sites, where it can handle cleaning and environmental monitoring, making it an efficient dual-purpose tool.

Jellyfishbot Mobile Oil Skimmer: This model is specifically engineered to respond to oil spills. It efficiently skims oil from the water’s surface without needing disposable materials, reducing costs and environmental impact. The design allows it to operate in narrow, shallow areas, making it particularly effective in sensitive environments like riverbanks.

Jellyfishbot Custom: IADYS offers a custom version of the Jellyfishbot for clients with unique or specialized requirements. This model can be equipped with additional sensors, tools, or features to meet specific environmental challenges, ensuring the robot is fully capable of addressing the exact needs of any situation.

The differences between the Jellyfishbot and a consumer product like the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, reviewed by Yanko Design, are significant in terms of design and application. The iSkim Ultra is designed especially for pool cleaning, focusing on high-speed, efficient debris removal within the controlled environment of a swimming pool. Its design emphasizes quick and thorough cleaning of a confined area, ensuring the pool remains clear of debris like leaves and dirt.

On the other hand, the Jellyfishbot is built to operate in much more varied and complex environments. It’s designed for natural and industrial water bodies, tackling larger-scale challenges such as macro-waste, oil spills, and environmental monitoring. While the iSkim Ultra excels in maintaining the cleanliness of swimming pools, the Jellyfishbot’s versatility and adaptability make it suitable for a wide range of outdoor water cleanup tasks that demand more robust and flexible solutions.

Both robots share key design elements, such as compactness, maneuverability, and the ability to operate autonomously or under remote control. These features highlight their shared emphasis on providing user-friendly, automated solutions for surface cleaning in water environments. However, the Jellyfishbot’s design includes additional capabilities, such as sensors for water quality monitoring and the ability to manage hazardous waste, which extends its utility far beyond the iSkim Ultra.

After reviewing the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, Yanko Design recommended enhancing its functionality by incorporating features that pool owners care about. These features include monitoring pH levels, analyzing water chemistry, and recommending chemical adjustments. Such upgrades would transform the iSkim Ultra from a device focused solely on surface cleaning into a comprehensive pool management tool, addressing a broader range of maintenance needs. While the iSkim Ultra currently excels in clearing debris from the water’s surface, these potential enhancements would align it more closely with the Jellyfishbot’s multifunctional approach, offering users a smarter, more integrated solution for pool care.

The variety within the Jellyfishbot lineup reflects IADYS’s commitment to addressing diverse environmental challenges with specialized tools. Each model is crafted to meet specific needs, whether it’s handling routine debris in marinas or dealing with the complexities of oil spill cleanup. The Jellyfishbot’s design focuses on delivering functionality and efficiency, ensuring that, regardless of the task, there’s a model equipped to tackle it effectively.

In contrast, the Beatbot iSkim Ultra is purpose-built for the specific environment of swimming pools. Its design is tailored to quickly and efficiently clean this controlled environment, where debris is typically more predictable and less hazardous than what the Jellyfishbot encounters. While the iSkim Ultra handles its intended job with precision, the Jellyfishbot’s range of models is engineered to tackle a broader spectrum of water cleaning tasks, especially in environments where precision and adaptability are crucial.

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Apple appears to be making significant progress in its development of home robotics, according to a report from *Bloomberg’s* Mark Gurman. New details suggest that Apple is working on a tabletop device that sounds like it could change how we manage our homes. This upcoming product, reportedly featuring an iPad-like screen on a robotic arm, seems designed to serve multiple functions—a hub for smart home controls, a video call tool, and a home security monitor. What makes it particularly intriguing is how it seems to balance practical use with thoughtful design, potentially positioning it as a standout in Apple’s lineup.

Designer: Apple

The centerpiece of this new product is its screen, which can tilt and rotate 360 degrees on a slim, robotic arm. This design enhances user interaction significantly. Imagine a FaceTime call where the screen automatically pivots to face you or adjust the screen angle during a meeting with a simple voice command. Such flexibility transforms this device from mere technology into an adaptive companion for your daily life.

Apple appears to focus on creating a home assistant that fits naturally into the living space, both in appearance and function. Running a modified version of iPadOS, this device will be familiar to iPad users but with added features tailored for home use. Voice commands, like “look at me,” could make Siri even more useful, allowing for hands-free control over smart home devices, video calls, and security monitoring with ease.

Pray that Siri Home Assistant isn’t bad or creepy like this Wehead ChatGPT-powered AI Assistant.

Design-wise, this home assistant aligns with Apple’s approach of combining simplicity with functionality. The robotic arm, while a key feature, is expected to be sleek and discreet, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any room. It’s easy to imagine this product becoming as central to the home as other Apple products like the HomePod but with a broader range of uses.

In terms of functionality, the device is remarkably versatile. It could be the main control center for smart home devices like lights and thermostats, providing an easy-to-use visual interface. Its ability to rotate and adjust makes it just as valuable in the kitchen for recipes as it would be in the living room for managing your entertainment system. The added security features, such as remote monitoring through the camera, add further practical value, making it a versatile tool for everyday living.

Siri

Apple plans to release this home assistant between 2026 and 2027, with a price tag of about $1,000. This pricing strategy suggests Apple is targeting a premium yet broadly accessible market. By blending familiar technology with new, practical features, Apple appears to be crafting a device that enhances daily living and sets a new standard for home robotics.

This new addition raises an interesting question: is Apple creating a must-have device for our homes, or is it simply a product searching for a place on our countertops? While it’s designed to blend into daily life and make our spaces more connected, one has to wonder if this is the kind of innovation we truly need—or if it’s just another gadget vying for a spot in an already crowded smart home landscape. For Apple, it might be the next step in its push into home robotics, but only time will tell if consumers feel the same way.

The post Is Apple Manifesting Siri into Physical Form with Its New Robotic Home Assistant? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Wireless speakers have become the standard for home audio equipment these days, and they come in a wide variety of designs. Some are rugged and geometrical, meant to be ready to brave the outside world if needed, while others are like art objects you’d dare not knock down accidentally. These designs are clearly targeted at adults as if they are the only user group who can appreciate music. Kids in their formative years need to be exposed to music as well, and not just from the tablets or smartphones that parents hand over to them for playtime. This robot concept not only gives these children an advanced toy to play with but also lets them have a more personal friend to enjoy listening to music with.

Designer: Jesus Gonzalez Torres

With a widespread interest in robotics, toy robots are no longer the exclusive domain of young boys, or kids for that matter. Kids of all ages will find a humanoid robot interesting, especially if it can express human-like behavior even through simple emoticons. Even better if it can actually perform seemingly magical feats, like singing to them while they’re engaged in play.

The musicBOT concept design is pretty much a Bluetooth speaker in the guise of a small human-like robot. It combines two already existing features into one, but this is a case where the sum is greater than its parts. More than just the collection of functions, it creates a totally different experience for the child whose mind is still open to so many imaginative concepts.

musicBOT is not just a music player but also a companion for the child. It plays tunes while you play with other things or play with the robot itself. The concept doesn’t go into the details, but the robot can display different facial expressions on its dot matrix face. It can even connect with a nearby musicBOT via Bluetooth, making them look like they’re friends and perhaps encouraging their owners to do the same.

Technologically speaking, the concept isn’t ground-breaking and could actually be an actual product. The novelty it offers is more on the experience and the psychology, putting the child at the center rather than becoming a passive listener. It makes listening to music a more active engagement, allowing them to develop a stronger mental association with music than simply hearing it from the background.

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Imagine a world where seniors don’t just get by, they thrive. Where technology isn’t just a tool, but a companion, that’s where you’d have SILBO, a unique robot designed not just to help, but to be a true friend to seniors navigating the later stages of life. The name “Silbo” comes from the Spanish word for “whistle,” capturing the lightness and joy it hopes to bring into the lives of its users.

Designer: Taeyoon Kim and Hongik University

Silbo isn’t just another household robot; it’s a lifeline to a community, a bridge to a more connected, fulfilling life. The inspiration behind Silbo’s creation is the realization that many seniors, after leaving the workforce, feel a sense of isolation and a lack of belonging. Traditional social networks often cater to younger generations, leaving seniors on the sidelines. Silbo steps in to fill this gap, offering not just assistance but true companionship.

Have you ever heard of “Active Seniors”? This term refers to a new generation of older adults who refuse to slow down. They’re not content with the quiet, passive lives of past generations; instead, they’re working, playing sports, and engaging in social activities. Silbo is designed with these vibrant individuals in mind. It’s here to support their active lifestyles, while also being there for those quiet moments when a little companionship means the world.

When you first bring Silbo into your home, it’s like meeting a new friend. This isn’t just a gadget you set up and forget about, Silbo takes the time to get to know you. It observes your daily routines, learns your habits, and tailors its actions to fit seamlessly into your life. Whether it’s reminding you to take your medication or just being there with a smile (yes, the robot has expressions!), It’s always about thinking about how to make your day a little brighter.

One of the most special things about Silbo is its ability to form emotional bonds. It’s not just about providing help, it’s about being there for you, understanding your emotions, and responding in a way that feels personal. With its range of facial expressions, Silbo doesn’t just act like a friend; it feels like one.

Silbo is a robot focused on being friendly and approachable. Designed with a human-like form, soft edges, and a range of facial expressions, it’s a robot that no one would feel uncomfortable with. It’s quite cute, actually, with its gentle presence adding warmth to any home.

Communication can become a bit tricky as we get older, especially with the fast pace of new technology. But this companion makes it easy. With its AI-powered translation and communication features, you can speak to Silbo, and it will send texts or messages to your loved ones. You don’t have to struggle with tiny keyboards or complicated apps—just talk to your robot friend, and it’ll do the rest. This also makes it convenient for their children to keep a check on their parents, offering a comforting way to stay in touch even when distance separates them. Staying connected is important, and Silbo ensures that family bonds remain strong, no matter the miles in between.

Seniors often find joy in reminiscing about the good times, and Silbo is there to help capture those moments. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon in the garden, it can record these memories, creating a digital scrapbook of your happiest times. It’s like having a personal historian who’s always by your side.

What’s truly remarkable is that Silbo is not just a home robot, it’s also designed for outdoor use. It can help around the house, but it’s also ready to accompany you on walks, garden outings, or even trips to the store. Silbo adapts to your lifestyle, supporting you wherever you go.

To make the experience even more personal, you can get a name tag for your Silbo, just like you would for a beloved pet. This small touch turns Silbo from a piece of technology into a true companion that’s uniquely yours. Additionally, there’s a special combo offer available, where you can get an acupressure ball along with Silbo, adding an extra layer of comfort and care to your daily routine. Silbo helps ensure that the second half of life isn’t just about getting by—it’s about living fully, with a friend who’s always there to share in the joy and offer a comforting presence when needed.

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Boston Dynamics’ nightmarish BigDog is finally behind us, but that doesn’t mean we’re past seeing visually headless robot dogs every now and then. Spot has become the blueprint for these smaller and more agile quadruped machines and, to be fair, it has led to quite a few interesting designs and useful applications. Despite that, there are still a few design issues that need to be addressed, particularly when it comes to the robot’s mobility on any terrain or elevation, especially stairs and fences. That’s the kind of puzzle that this new quadruped robot is solving, ironically with wheels instead of flat feet, and it’s starting to behave almost like a stereotypical dog when it comes to climbing over things it probably shouldn’t.

Designer: Unitree

It sounds almost counter-intuitive to put wheels on a robot’s feet to help it move better, but that’s exactly what will make the Unitree Go2-W a head-turner. Technically, those wheels allow it to move anywhere, practically like an all-terrain four-wheel drive, rolling over smooth floors, rough roads, or inclined surfaces like ramps with precision and agility. But if you think those wheels will give it trouble on stairs, you definitely haven’t been paying attention.

Going up any stairs is no sweat off its non-existent brow, as not only can it lift its feet like a normal (robot) dog, but the wheels actually give it a leg up, pardon the pun. The wheels not only give it a bit more grip but also help boost it up by rolling up on the vertical edge of the stairs. Like with organic dogs, going down stairs or from high places is naturally easier, just rolling off the steps or simply falling off the edge and bouncing back up.

What makes the Go2-W even more special is its ability to climb over fences, almost like a real, naughty dog. It stands on its two hind feet to prop itself on top of the ledge with its front legs. It then uses those rear wheels to hoist itself up, and it’s quite cute to watch it struggle a bit, again like a real dog.

The Unitree Go2-W can do one other trick that almost no other robot dog can. It can do “handstands” and, of course, roll around upside down on its front “feet.” These are definitely impressive abilities, though some will question their practical use. The proper accessories could help the headless dog explore places that are too dangerous for humans to deliver payloads or simply analyze the area. And no one will probably mind being able to teach the dog new tricks, presuming you don’t get too uneasy with such robot dog designs.

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You’re walking along a beautiful beach when your senses are suddenly marred by cigarette butts just lying along the sand. Anyone who has ever visited the beach has probably had that experience as these are among the most common trash we see lying around. Using humans to clean it up is of course the most practical but it can be a tedious and slow process.

Designer: Dynamic Legged Systems at the Italian Institute of Technology

In this age of robotics, we can of course get them to clean this up. VERO or Vacuum-cleaner Equipped Robot is one such device that has been developed for this very purpose. It is a dog-like quadruped robot that uses vacuum nozzles on its feet and is equipped with depth cameras and uses a neural network. It is based around the the AlienGo robot from Unitree.

The vacuum is mounted on the back of the robot with hoses going down the legs and with 3D-printed nozzles that can suck the butts as near the ground as possible without the robot toppling over. It is able to use the depth camera mounted on the robot’s chin and the neural network to not only detect the butts but also to chart a path towards and around it.

The VERO is tested not just on sand but also on stairs and uneven surfaces in Genova where the lab is located. It is not that quick yet but is still better than humans manually picking up butts since the latter will eventually get tired and fed up. There may be other potential use cases for a robot like this like inspecting cracks in buildings and bridges, placing nails and rivets, and even spraying weeds in crop fields.

The post Quadruped robot can pick up cigarette butts on beaches first appeared on Yanko Design.

Retrofuturism, a captivating blend of past visions and future possibilities, has long fascinated the human imagination. It represents a unique genre where artists and designers, with their ingenuity, envision what the future might look like from the perspective of their own time. This concept shines brightly in the extraordinary illustrations from Japan between the 1930s and 1960s, a period rich in creativity and innovation. These illustrations are images and windows into a world of unlimited dreams and super-charged imagination.

Via Dark Roasted Blend

Human-Powered Flying Machine

The human-powered flying machine is a captivating vision of eco-friendly personal transportation. This design leverages human energy for flight, merging the simplicity of a bicycle with the exhilaration of flight. The Japanese text in the illustration reads, “空を駆ける夢の自転車” (A dream bicycle that runs in the sky). This phrase captures the essence of a time when the sky was not the limit but the beginning of endless possibilities. The machine’s sleek, aerodynamic form suggests a lightweight construction essential for actualizing such a concept.

In today’s world, advancements in lightweight materials, battery technology, and AI-assisted flight controls bring this dream to reality. Innovations like the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft and drone technology reflect this vision. The focus on sustainability and individual mobility aligns well with current trends in transportation innovation. This concept’s emphasis on human power also highlights a growing interest in reducing carbon footprints, making this design a likely candidate for future development.

Versatile Ground Vehicles

The ground vehicles featured in these retrofuture illustrations showcase the imaginative engineering of that era. The Japanese text describes them as “どんな道も走破する万能車” (All-purpose vehicles that conquer any road). This encapsulates a vision of vehicles that can navigate any terrain, from rugged mountains to smooth highways, with practicality and ease. The robust and rugged designs focus on durability and adaptability, essential traits for exploration and practical use.

Modern advancements in autonomous driving technology, AI-driven navigation systems, and robotics make such versatile vehicles a reality. Companies are developing all-terrain vehicles equipped with sophisticated sensors and AI to handle various environments autonomously. These innovations are revolutionizing industries like construction and exploration and have potential applications in everyday commuting, especially in remote or challenging terrains. These designs’ blend of functionality and futuristic aesthetics points to a future where versatility and technology are seamlessly integrated.

Space Station Platforms

One of the most inspiring elements of retrofuturism is the vision of space station platforms as self-sustaining habitats. The Japanese text “宇宙に浮かぶ未来の都市” (Future cities floating in space) suggests a future where humanity has extended its reach far beyond Earth. These illustrations depict vast, intricate structures designed to house human life, showcasing a blend of advanced technology and architectural innovation. The idea of living in space, with self-sustaining ecosystems and AI-managed operations, reflects an ambitious and forward-thinking outlook.

Today, this vision is inching closer to reality with the International Space Station (ISS) and planned lunar and Martian colonies. AI and robotics play crucial roles in maintaining these habitats, ensuring safety, and optimizing resource management. These advancements are paving the way for long-term human presence in space. The concept of space station platforms represents not just a technological leap but a monumental step in human evolution, opening new frontiers and possibilities for future generations.

Sleek Futuristic Watercraft and Weaponry

The sleek futuristic watercraft and weaponry illustrated in these retrofuture visions highlight a perfect fusion of aquatic design and advanced technology. One notable design is the “Aribird S,” described in the Japanese text as “水中を駆ける未来の船” (A future boat that runs underwater). This phrase captures the essence of an era that dreamed of high-tech performance and adventure seamlessly integrated into everyday life, with an aesthetic appeal that intrigues the viewer. These designs’ vibrant colors and dynamic forms reflect an aesthetic that values functionality and visual appeal.

These watercraft are envisioned with advanced propulsion systems and streamlined bodies, capable of high-speed travel and maneuverability. In today’s world, innovations in maritime technology are beginning to mirror these designs. Concepts like hydrofoils, autonomous underwater vehicles, and advanced naval vessels are becoming more common. These illustrations’ emphasis on sleek, aerodynamic shapes and cutting-edge technology indicates a future where high-tech performance and adventure are the norm.

“Mighty Patrol” Car

The “Mighty Patrol” car presents a vision of futuristic law enforcement that combines sleek design with advanced communication systems. The Japanese text refers to it as “未来のパトロールカー” (Future patrol car), suggesting a high-tech vehicle designed for efficiency and speed. The streamlined body, advanced lighting systems, and integrated communication technology reflect an era that envisioned law enforcement as a blend of technology and efficiency.

Integrating AI, drones, and advanced surveillance systems will likely make such vehicles a reality as technology evolves. Modern police vehicles incorporate some of these elements, with AI-driven data analysis, real-time communication networks, and enhanced mobility features. The “Mighty Patrol” car embodies the future of policing, where technology plays a central role in maintaining order and safety, improving the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.

Advanced Fighter Jets and Space Vehicles

The depiction of advanced fighter jets and space vehicles in retrofuture illustrations showcases a future of aerial and space combat marked by speed, agility, and advanced weaponry. The Japanese text “空を支配する未来の戦闘機” (Future fighter jets that dominate the sky) reflects an ambition to achieve superiority in both air and space. Sleek, aerodynamic shapes, advanced propulsion systems, and futuristic weaponry characterize these vehicles.

With advancements in aerospace engineering, AI, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), these designs are nearly becoming a reality. Modern fighter jets incorporate AI for enhanced decision-making, stealth technology, and advanced weapons systems. Similarly, space vehicles designed for defense and exploration are becoming more sophisticated. These illustrations’ relentless pursuit of technological superiority highlights a future where control of the skies and space is paramount.

Amphibious Vehicles

The amphibious vehicles, blending automotive and nautical design, offer a glimpse into the future of versatile transportation. These vehicles are depicted as capable of traversing both land and water, reflecting a vision of seamless transition between different terrains. The Japanese text, “陸と水を行き来する万能車” (All-purpose vehicle that moves between land and water), captures the innovative spirit of these designs.

In modern times, the development of multi-terrain vehicles and amphibious transport solutions is gaining momentum. Concepts such as amphibious cars, boats with wheels, and versatile rescue vehicles are becoming more practical with materials and propulsion technology advancements. The sleek designs and robust capabilities of these retrofuture vehicles suggest a future where transportation is as adaptable as it is innovative, addressing the needs of diverse environments.

Circular Cities and Underground Worlds

These illustrations’ circular cities and underground worlds represent a visionary approach to urban planning. The Japanese text, “地下に広がる未来の都市” (Future cities expanding underground), suggests a rethinking of how space is utilized in urban environments. These designs feature vertical integration, subterranean spaces, and advanced transport systems, reflecting an ambition to create efficient and sustainable living spaces.

With increasing interest in sustainable and efficient use of space, concepts like vertical integration and underground cities are gaining traction. Modern urban planning explores the potential of building downwards and upwards to maximize space use, reduce environmental impact, and enhance livability. The futuristic architecture and integrated transport systems in these illustrations reflect a holistic approach to city living, where innovation addresses the challenges of urbanization.

Flying Saucers

The depiction of flying saucers, such as the “Gakushiyu,” captures the imagination with its promise of advanced air travel. The Japanese text reads, “空飛ぶ円盤” (Flying saucer), evoking images of sleek, circular aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing. This vision reflects an era that dreamed of conquering the skies with revolutionary designs.

While the exact design of these flying saucers may differ, the concept of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft is becoming a reality with developments in drone technology and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Companies invest heavily in urban air mobility solutions, envisioning a future where flying cars and air taxis become commonplace. These flying machines highlight the future of urban air mobility, where the sky is no longer the limit but a new frontier for innovation.

Multi-Wheeled Explorer Vehicle

With its robust design and versatile capabilities, the multi-wheeled explorer vehicle is a vision of future exploration vehicles. The Japanese text describes it as “探検用の多輪車” (Multi-wheeled vehicle for exploration), indicating a design built for navigating diverse and challenging terrains. The vehicle’s numerous wheels and durable construction suggest a shape that reflects advanced engineering, while including multiple rockets hints at the vehicle’s formidable combat capabilities. This illustration captures the thrill and intensity of air combat, inspiring visions of high-stakes dogfights in the skies.

The Amphibious Supercar: Versatility Redefined

With its sleek, futuristic design, the amphibious supercar showcases a vehicle capable of traversing land and water. This concept blends the luxury and speed of a sports car with the adaptability of an amphibious vehicle. With its bold lines and dynamic composition, the illustration highlights the car’s ability to transition between terrains seamlessly. The vibrant colors and detailed rendering emphasize the vehicle’s innovative features, symbolizing versatility and cutting-edge technology.

The Quirky Dinosaur Transport

We’ll end with this image featuring a quirky yet functional dinosaur-shaped transport vehicle. With its playful exterior and practical interior, this design combines imagination with utility. The vehicle’s dinosaur form, complete with a drill in its mouth and a cockpit for passengers, suggests a future where transport is efficient but also fun and engaging. The whimsical design and detailed features make this vehicle memorable, reflecting a future where creativity and practicality go hand in hand.

More to come…

The continued exploration of these retrofuture illustrations from Japan offers a captivating glimpse into the boundless creativity and imagination of the past. Though conceived decades ago, these visions still inspire us today, reminding us of the endless possibilities. Stay tuned as we delve further into the world of the retrofuture, uncovering more hidden gems and fantastical designs that shaped the dreams of yesteryear.

The post Retrofuture Revelations from Japan: A Journey Through Time and Imagination first appeared on Yanko Design.

A major problem with tiny flying drones, referred to as micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), is that they cannot fly for a very long duration. Especially the MAVs weighing under 10 grams, as such micro vehicles can only stay airborne for about 10 minutes. Using sunlight as a constant power source could provide a solution to keep such bird-sized drones afloat and flying longer.

However, it’s not as simple as sticking a solar panel on the wings. Traditional propulsion systems used in micro aerial vehicles aren’t very efficient at making appropriate use of generated solar power. Moreover, these tiny drones can’t carry much payload, making them inconsistent and unworthy in support operations, search, and rescue.

Designer: Beihang University

The CoulombFly, a small, ultra-efficient drone powered by static electricity was introduced as a solution to the abovementioned problem by scientists at Beihang University in Beijing, China. The super-small drone uses a special propulsion system that can lift to a decent height while using very little power for the same. The vehicle itself weighs just 4.21 grams – which is extremely lightweight – has a wingspan of 20 cm, and can carry a payload of roughly 1.59 g.

According to the researchers, CoulombFly is about ten times smaller and weighs 1/600th the weight of the previous, smallest and lightest solar-powered aerial vehicle out there. Dubbed then as the smallest and lightest solar-powered aerial vehicle, it is small enough to sit on the palm and is engineered to fly indefinitely while the sun shines on its wings. Mingjing Qi professor at Beihang and the lead of the project says he doesn’t want to settle for this size of the drone. “My ultimate goal is to make a super tiny flying vehicle, about the size and weight of a mosquito, with a wingspan under 1 centimeter,” Qi notes.

Unlike the previous tiny aerial vehicles that rely on electromagnetic motors and generate power using electromagnets; CoulombFly uses an electrostatic field to produce motion. With a mass of 1.52 g, electrostatic motor can generate lift-to-power efficiency that’s twice or even thrice that of traditional MAV motors. The electrostatic motor of the tiny drone comprises two rings: the inner ring is a spinning motor with 64 carbon fiber slats covered with aluminum foil, while the outer ring has eight alternating pairs of negative and positive carbon fiber electrode plates also bonded with foil. When the CoulombFly is exposed to sunlight, the outer ring with its 16 plates generates electric fields. Since each electrode plate is embedded in aluminum brushes, these brush against the rotor slats on the inner ring spinning the propeller and lifting the drone up until the sun is shining on it.

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When I first encountered a self-checkout system in IKEA a few years ago, I sort of panicked because I didn’t know what to do. But after experiencing it and eventually figuring things out, I thought this was such a convenient way to do your shopping, especially if you want to keep social interactions at a minimum. Now if only there was a also a self-packing system since the packing up groceries stuff is the most difficult.

Designer: MIT CSAIL

Eventually, this can of course come true and one step towards a system like this is the RoboGrocery. This was developed by MIT’s CSAIL department and uses a soft robotic gripper together with computer vision to help you bag groceries and other small items. It’s still in its early stages of course but seeing how it’s working at this time seems pretty promising.

They tested it out by placing 10 objects on a grocery conveyer belt, ranging from soft items like grapes, crackers, muffins, bread to the more solid ones like cans, meal boxes, and ice cream containers. The vision detects the size of the item to determine the order of placing it in a box. The grasper, with the pressure sensors in its fingers, then determines whether the item is delicate and should not be placed at the bottom of the bag.

While we’re still a few steps away from actually having a robot to bag your groceries, it’s an interesting first step towards that. Eventually, after it becomes available for commercial use, they might also be able to develop this for industrial spaces like recycling plants and factories.

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Robots are slowly but surely invading our homes, but most of them come in the form of cleaners or toys for our amusement. We might not be the only intelligent lifeforms in the house, however, and the small members of our family also deserve their due, especially when we have to leave them alone for the day. Smart home security cameras are fine if you just want to watch or talk to your pets while you’re away, but that still leaves your furry friends to their own devices. And you still have to figure out ways to get them fed on time and with the right amount without having to call in favors. Unlike others of its kind, this rolling robot is made specifically for your cats or dogs (or both) to keep them entertained, healthy, fed, and even comforted when you’re not at home.

Designer: Enabot

Parents warn their kids that raising pets isn’t an easy job, but even grownups have a difficult time considering their own busy schedules. It isn’t enough to just keep them well-fed either, as pets need to be interacted with, talked to, and entertained for both their physical as well as mental health. The Enabot ROLA PetPal robot tries to take a load off your shoulders, especially when you’re not around to give what your pets need, and you can change what it does simply by switching out the load it carries on its back.

Unlike Enabot’s ball-like smart home robots for humans, the ROLA PetPal looks a bit more like the popular disc-shaped robot vacuum cleaners in the market, except it has two large wheels on its side and a discernible “face” on its front. The rolling robot alone can already be a source of curiosity for pets, but its real value comes from its modular design. It can switch from providing entertainment and even exercise to providing nourishment just by switching between the Interactive Toys module or the Treat Dispenser module.

As the name suggests, Interactive Toys keep your furry friends preoccupied with a playful stick, laser games, or rolling balls. The more interesting module, however, is the Treat Dispenser which uses AI to identify your pet’s face and drop the small treats in its wake when it’s time for food. It can also capture all these moments while your pets play or eat and send you photos or video clips for posterity’s sake.

More than just standing in for you when you’re away, the Enabot ROLA PetPal also tries to deepen your relationship with your pets in absentia. Not only can you talk to your pets remotely, you can also train them to put their paw on a specific part of the robot to send a “Hello” message to your phone. And, of course, the robot’s 5MP 2.5K camera “eye” not only keeps an eye on your pet but also makes sure you’ll never miss a precious moment when you’re not around. It’s not easy being a furry parent, but the cute robot helps lighten up the load and care for your pets in a unique and advanced way.

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