10. Molecule Self-Configuring Robots
Daniela Rus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
This shape-changing bot is built of many simple modules which it can move around, allowing it to adapt to different tasks and build 3-dimensional structures.
9. Learning to Walk in 20 Minutes
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
This little guy can learn to walk in 20 minutes. Built by MIT, this robot learns with every step it takes, continually adapting to terrain. Learning technology potentially makes robots more practical for applications like prosthetics and exploration. Click to enlarge.
8. USC Humanoid Robot
Zina Deretsky, NSF
This freaky looking USC-built robot head can learn facial movements from human teachers and watches objects it finds interesting. This collaboration between neuroscience, robotics, and computer vision is the first step to building full-body humanoid robots.
7. Self-Assembling Robotics
Klavins Lab, University of Washington, 2005
This exhibit demonstrates 10 self-assembling robots that attach to each other to form larger structures. Each robot is 4 inches wide and weighs less than a quarter pound. Attendees are encouraged to play with the robots to figure out how they work.
6. Systems for Surgical Assistance
Computer Integrated Surgical Systems and Technology Engineering Research Center
This robotic surgeon, designed to assist in brain surgeries, has the steadiest hand in the business. The exhibit will also show two compact, image-guided robot systems developed for tiny operations such as prostate biopsy.