Daniel Ackerman

Robotic finger uses tactile sensing to find buried items

MIT researchers developed a robot that digs through granular material, like sand and gravel, and find the shapes of buried objects with tactile sensing, which could help inspect cables and more. See video.

Algorithm helps robots collaborate on difficult tasks

MIT researchers have designed an algorithm to ensure the fruitful cooperation of information-gathering robot teams, which could be vital for robot teams’ success in complex, unpredictable environments.

Researchers’ algorithm designs soft robots that sense

Deep-learning technique optimizes the arrangement of sensors on a robot’s body to ensure efficient operation. See video.

Helping soft robots turn rigid on demand

A new control system developed by MIT researchers may broaden robots’ range of tasks and allow safer interactions with people.

Data transfer system connects silicon chips

A data transfer system that pairs high-frequency silicon chips with a polymer cable as thin a strand of hair has been developed by MIT researchers.

Tiny drones developed with an insect’s agility

Insect-sized drones have been developed with a soft actuator that allows them to withstand the physical travails of real-world flight, which could help their overall movement in many applications. See video.

Researchers develop speedier network analysis for computer hardware

Software has been developed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) researchers to more efficiently run graph applications on a range of computing hardware, including both CPUs and GPUs.

Nanowire could provide a stable superconducting transistor

The cryoyton is a superconducting transistor, inspired by decades-old MIT research, which could boost quantum computers and other superconducting electronics.

Machine-learning system adapts on the job

A neural network has been developed with flexible algorithms, called "liquid" networks, which allow the network to learn and adapt to new data inputs on the job.

Designing customized robot brains for critical applications

A system has been developed that devises hardware architectures to hasten robots’ response time so they can operate in critical situations.

Method finds hidden warning signals in collected measurements

A deep-learning algorithm has been developed that could provide advanced notice when systems — from satellites to data centers — are falling out of whack.

LED developed for direct integration into computer chips

Researchers have fabricated a silicon chip with fully integrated LEDs, bright enough to enable sensor and communication technologies, which could streamline manufacturing and also provide better performance for nanoscale electronics.

Computer-aided creativity for robot design

A system called RoboGrammar allows designers to simulate potential robot designs to find a system that works best for particular terrains.