Robotics

The Minimal Phone: A Distraction-Free Smartphone Summary: The Minimal phone is a new smartphone designed to reduce distractions and encourage focus. It combines the features of a Blackberry and an e-reader, with an E-Ink display and a physical keyboard. The phone, currently in the crowdfunding stage, aims to provide a minimalist experience and help users maintain a healthier relationship with their smartphones. Main Ideas: The Minimal phone is a smartphone designed to minimize distractions and promote focus. It features an E-Ink display, similar to an e-reader, which reduces eye strain and saves battery life. The phone has a physical keyboard, reminiscent of a Blackberry, for a more tactile typing experience. The Minimal phone is currently seeking crowdfunding to bring the project to lif...

BAE Systems' AMPV C-UAS prototype successfully shoots down quadcopter drones BAE Systems' Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) prototype recently conducted a live-fire field test. The AMPV C-UAS prototype used a Moog modular weapons system to take out a group of quadcopter drones. The test showcased the prototype's ability to effectively neutralize drone threats. US Army and BAE Systems working on advanced defense systems The AMPV C-UAS prototype is being developed under a U.S. Army program known as A-MUMPS (Advanced Multi-Purpose Sensor) to enhance vehicle protection. The collaboration between the US Army and BAE Systems aims to address the growing threat posed by unmanned aircraft systems. The successful live-fire field test is a si...

Hasselblad Introduces 907X & CFV 100C with 100-MP Sensor Main Ideas: Hasselblad has released the successor to the 50-megapixel 907X 50C camera system. The new model, 907X & CFV 100C, features a 100-MP back-illuminated image sensor. It can be used with legacy film cameras, making it a highly flexible and versatile option for photographers. The camera is part of Hasselblad's modular system, allowing users to mix and match different components. Author's Take: Hasselblad's introduction of the 907X & CFV 100C with a 100-MP sensor offers photographers an impressive option for capturing high-resolution images. The camera's compatibility with legacy film cameras adds a unique twist, catering to a wide range of photographers. With its modular design, Hasselblad continues to provide flexibility an...

Using Drones and Robots to Make Power Lines More Visible to Birds Main ideas: A new system uses a combination of drones and robots to help make overhead power lines more visible to birds. The system aims to prevent bird collisions with power lines, which are a common cause of bird deaths. A drone equipped with a thermal camera scans the power lines and detects any unseen overhead lines. A robot then paints the lines with a special paint that makes them more visible to birds. Author's take: This innovative system using drones and robots has the potential to save countless birds from colliding with overhead power lines. By making these lines more visible, we can reduce the number of bird deaths caused by these collisions. This technology shows the positive impact that robotics and automa...

Brit brand Ferguson Hill creates a stunning loudspeaker system Main ideas: Ferguson Hill's Jetstream loudspeaker system is a visually stunning design The system consists of transparent acrylic horn speakers and a cylindrical subwoofer The speakers are designed to be wall-mounted for optimal sound projection The Jetstream system is targeted at audiophiles and luxury consumers Author's take: Ferguson Hill's Jetstream loudspeaker system combines stunning design with high-quality sound. The transparent acrylic horns and cylindrical subwoofer create a visually striking setup that will likely appeal to both audiophiles and luxury consumers. While the system comes at a premium price, the unique design and audio performance may make it worth the investment for those seeking a statement piece in ...

Britain Tests Laser Weapon on Aerial Targets Main Points: Britain has conducted its first test of the Dragonfire high-powered laser weapon on aerial targets. The Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) was tested at the Ministry of Defence's Hebrides Range. The purpose of the test was to demonstrate the power and accuracy of the weapon. The test marks a significant milestone for the U.K. Ministry of Defence's efforts in laser technology. Tags: Laser weapon, U.K. Ministry of Defence, British Army, Royal Navy Author's Take: Britain has successfully tested its Dragonfire laser weapon on aerial targets, showcasing its power and accuracy. This represents a significant achievement for the U.K. Ministry of Defence's advancements in laser technology. As laser weapons continue to develop,...

Apple Celebrates 40 Years of the Mac Summary: Apple is marking the 40th anniversary of the Mac, which revolutionized the technology industry. In a statement, Apple announced that it will continue to innovate and evolve the Mac. The company highlights the profound impact the Mac has had on various industries, including music, design, gaming, and filmmaking. Since its launch in 1984, the Mac has undergone significant improvements and advancements. Apple promises to bring even more innovative features and performance enhancements to future Mac models. Author's Take: As the Mac celebrates its 40th anniversary, Apple reflects on the device's transformative impact on the technology industry. Acknowledging the Mac's longstanding legacy, Apple pledges to continue pushing the boundaries of innov...

Vaonis Upgrades Vespera Telescope for Second Generation Main Ideas: Vaonis has upgraded its Vespera telescope for a second-generation release The Vespera telescope is designed for amateur astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts The upgraded Vespera features improved portability, smartphone compatibility, and enhanced app capabilities The telescope is compact, lightweight, and easy to use Vaonis aims to make astronomy accessible to a wider audience Author's take: French telescope innovator Vaonis has made improvements to its Vespera model, a compact and portable telescope designed for amateur astronomers. With enhanced smartphone compatibility and app capabilities, Vaonis is aiming to make astronomy more accessible to a wider audience. The upgraded Vespera offers improved portability...

FiloBot: A Robot That Grows Like a Vine Main Ideas: The FiloBot, developed by researchers at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, is a robot that mimics the growth pattern of plants. Unlike traditional robots, the FiloBot can navigate through unstructured environments and overcome obstacles like uncrossable gaps. Biomimicry plays a key role in the design of the FiloBot, as it imitates the strategies used by plants to navigate complex and challenging terrain. The FiloBot expands and contracts its robotic segments, allowing it to grow and navigate through different spaces. Author's Take: The FiloBot is a remarkable development in the field of robotics, as it takes inspiration from the growth patterns of plants to overcome obstacles and explore unstructured environments....

DJI Takes a Leap into the Delivery Drone Market with FlyCart 30 (FC30) Main Ideas: - DJI, known for its consumer and cinematography drones, has introduced its first delivery drone called FlyCart 30 (FC30). - The FC30 is a package-toting multicopter designed for the delivery of goods. - The drone includes advanced features such as collision avoidance and vertical take-off and landing capability. - DJI aims to compete in the rapidly growing market of delivery drones, where companies like Amazon and Google are already major players. Author's Take: DJI's entry into the delivery drone market with the FlyCart 30 (FC30) is a significant move for the company. With its established reputation in the consumer drone industry, DJI has the potential to make a significant impact in the delivery drone...