Engineers at Duke University have developed a robot with no front, no back and 20 eyes set into telescoping legs, as proof-of-concept for a new design principle called dynamic symmetry. Symmetry is everywhere in nature, from the bilateral form of vertebrates to the radial geometry of starfish. For decades, roboticists have tried to copy these shapes and their abilities with … [Read more...] about Omnidirectional, sea-urchin-like robot defies traditional designs
A simple calculation could change the way we use misfit wood
Urging industry to make better use of wood that’s wasted or burned for energy, researchers have released the first structural tests of non-straight, forked and double-curved roundwood logs used as columns. In his mission to normalise the use of ‘misfit wood’, Aalto University architect and researcher Jaakko Torvinen (pictured above) has shown how standard, business-as-usual … [Read more...] about A simple calculation could change the way we use misfit wood
Researchers develop architectural material made from yeast
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, have developed a new, entirely bio-based material from yeast. The material is 3D-printed and customised for use in architectural and interior design elements that are currently made from non-renewable or fossil-based materials such as plaster, plastic or synthetic textiles. The construction sector … [Read more...] about Researchers develop architectural material made from yeast
Companies collaborate on safer autonomous drone landing system
Cambridge-based research and product development company 42 Technology (42T) and Omnisense, a company specialising in terrestrial positioning technology, have developed a system for landing autonomous drones safely when satellite navigation signals are unreliable. The system uses a ground-based ultra-wideband (UWB) positioning technology and has been developed by Omnisense … [Read more...] about Companies collaborate on safer autonomous drone landing system
Call for nominations for the 2027 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering
The Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering is calling for nominations for the 2027 prizes. Awarded to up to ten outstanding engineers, the £500,000 QEPrize recognises bold, original innovations that deliver real, global benefit. It’s the world’s leading honour for engineering excellence and celebrates the people whose ideas and ingenuity have shaped how we live. Since … [Read more...] about Call for nominations for the 2027 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering