Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
MIT Study Reveals Flexible Brain Circuits for Task Switching in Mice
MIT neuroscientists have discovered flexible brain circuits in mice that can switch between storing sensory inputs and action plans in working memory. This finding supports the theory of modularity in the brain, suggesting that the same groups of neurons can perform various computations across different tasks. The research highlights the brain's ability to utilize a limited number of neurons to represent a wide range of information, which is crucial for cognitive flexibility in everyday life. The significance of this study lies in its implications for understanding cognitive processes. By demonstrating that the same populations of neurons can hold both sensory stimuli and action plans, the research provides insight into how the brain efficiently manages multiple tasks. This modularity could explain the ease with which humans and animals adapt to different cognitive demands, enhancing our understanding of neural efficiency and flexibility. Looking ahead, researchers aim to further explore how these neural circuits can be repurposed for various functions. The study opens avenues for investigating cognitive flexibility and the brain's capacity to handle diverse information types, which could have broader implications for neuroscience and cognitive research. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Research Memory Neuroscience Brain and cognitive sciences Picower Institute School of Science
EPFL, Duke University, and Instituto Superior Técnico Develop Simulated Zebrafish and Robotic Fish to Study Brain Circuits
A collaborative research team from EPFL, Duke University, and Instituto Superior Técnico has created a realistic simulation of larval zebrafish and a robotic fish to investigate how the body influences brain circuits. This study, published in Science Robotics, reveals the essential neural components required for the optomotor response (OMR), enabling autonomous navigation even in low visibility conditions. The significance of this research lies in its ability to provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying fish behavior without the limitations of live animal experimentation. By utilizing a physics-based simulation called simZFish, researchers can manipulate various aspects of the fish's body and neural connections, allowing for a deeper understanding of the neural computations involved in swimming and navigation. Looking ahead, the findings from this study could pave the way for advancements in neuroscience and brain-inspired robotics. The ability to dissect and analyze the neural circuits in a simulated environment opens new avenues for research, potentially leading to innovative applications in robotics and artificial intelligence. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Itera raises $12 million for fluid circuit board that rewires itself in under a minute
Deep tech startup Itera has unveiled its groundbreaking prototype of the world's first fluid circuit board, a technology that enables engineers to rewire and retest physical electronic circuits in under a minute. This significant advancement aims to streamline the design and testing processes in electronics, potentially transforming how engineers approach circuit development. The announcement was made as Itera emerged from stealth mode, highlighting its innovative capabilities. To support its launch and further development, the company secured $12 million in seed funding from notable investors including Upfront Ventures, Costanoa Ventures, and Colle Capital. This funding will facilitate Itera's efforts to bring its revolutionary technology to market, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of electronic circuit design.
Electronics News automation news deep tech startups electronic design automation electronics design
Robots Successfully Mimic Knee-Jerk Reflex, Human's Fastest Neural Circuit Operates on Bionic Legs
A research team at the University of Stuttgart has achieved a significant milestone by replicating the human knee-jerk reflex in a robotic leg. This innovative study, conducted recently, highlights the potential for machines to emulate human neural responses. By successfully transferring the reflex circuit to physical hardware, the researchers demonstrated that the robotic leg can produce responses that are indistinguishable from those of a human. This advancement opens new avenues for the development of more sophisticated robotic systems capable of mimicking human-like reflexes and responses.
Bionic Legs Neural Engineering Robotics Biomechanics
Grindr — yes, Grindr — won the WHCD party circuit
Verge has launched a new newsletter titled "Regulator," aimed at its subscribers and focusing on the intersection of technology and politics. The newsletter seeks to explore how technology influences political dynamics and vice versa. While it invites readers to subscribe for ongoing insights, it humorously assures potential subscribers that their contributions will not fund extravagant expenses, such as a drone-proof ballroom for the staff. The initiative reflects Verge's commitment to providing in-depth analysis and commentary on current events and trends in the tech and political arenas.
Column Policy Politics RegulatorRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
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