Robotic Technology Research Articles

The Role Of Robotics Technologies In Preschool Mother Tongue Development Of Children With Special Needs

The Role Of Robotics Technologies In Preschool Mother Tongue Development Of Children With Special Needs

Mapping of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Technologies Applied to Offshore Wind Energy

Mapping of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Technologies Applied to Offshore Wind Energy

A multimodal educational robots driven via dynamic attention

IntroductionWith the development of artificial intelligence and robotics technology, the application of educational robots in teaching is becoming increasingly popular. However, effectively evaluating and optimizing multimodal educational robots remains a challenge.MethodsThis study introduces Res-ALBEF, a multimodal educational robot framework driven by dynamic attention. Res-ALBEF enhances the ALBEF (Align Before Fuse) method by incorporating residual connections to align visual and textual data more effectively before fusion. In addition, the model integrates a VGG19-based convolutional network for image feature extraction and utilizes a dynamic attention mechanism to dynamically focus on relevant parts of multimodal inputs. Our model was trained using a diverse dataset consisting of 50,000 multimodal educational instances, covering a variety of subjects and instructional content.Results and discussionThe evaluation on an independent validation set of 10,000 samples demonstrated significant performance improvements: the model achieved an overall accuracy of 97.38% in educational content recognition. These results highlight the model's ability to improve alignment and fusion of multimodal information, making it a robust solution for multimodal educational robots.

Multiphysics Simulation and Concept of an Electromagnetically Control Volumetric Pixel as a Step Towards a Shape Morphing Composite

Abstract Constant development of robotics forces scientists and engineers to work on robots that are more visually and rigidly compatible with the environment around us. To make this possible, new flexible structures are necessary that enable programmatic shape change. To meet this need, in this work we present the concept and modelling methodology of a new structure enabling shape change using electromagnetic forces produced in liquid metal conductor and its stiffening using a granular jamming mechanism. This work presents the structure concept, the description of modelling methodology and empirical validation including the magnetitic field, scanned by magnetic field camera, and displacement distribution.

Control of Multi-Robot Arms in Object Retrieval Based on Human-Machine Interface

Multi-robot arm control is the result of the development of advanced robotics technology. With the advancement in the field of human-machine interface, controlling robot arms has become more efficient and can be done intuitively by humans. In this study, we designed three robot arms of 4-DoF, each of which is controlled by a computer in a visual program interface. This research aims to develop a human-machine interface-based multi-robot arm control system that allows humans to interact with the robots directly. The movement method of each robot uses Trajectory Planning, which works when the operator gives motion commands through the interface display. Multi-robot communication with a computer using USB hub serial format. The computer is the master, and each Arduino on the robot is the enslaved. Three robot arms have been tested and controlled by the HMI computer, and all of them move according to the commands of the operator. The time required by each robot to complete its mission is ± 10 seconds. The results of this study are expected to open new opportunities in the application of robotics in various fields, such as the manufacturing industry, health services, and transportation.

A scoping review of robotic technology in hospitality and tourism

Purpose With the disruptive evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), the roles of robotics in hospitality and tourism are shifting rapidly from automatic to emotional works. Although academics have focused on examining robotic applications in hospitality and tourism, concrete images of the different roles of robots are unclear. Thus, this study aims to systematically aggregate and evaluate existing robotic technology-related studies published in Social Science Citation Index-listed hospitality and tourism journals to link the fragmented knowledge and provide an up-to-date overview of robotic technology in hospitality and tourism. Design/methodology/approach This study retrieved 134 robotic technology-related articles and used descriptive and content analyses to analyze the retrieved papers thoroughly. Findings The top keyword identified was service robot. Robotic technologies are categorized into AI-supplemented, AI-generated, robotic technology anthropomorphism (RTA)-facilitated and RTA-mediated. Research limitations/implications Future studies can consider exploring service robots further from the perspectives of suppliers in tourism. A more comprehensive categorization of robotic technologies is also recommended. Originality/value This study contributes to the robotic research realm by providing a holistic view of robotic applications in hospitality and tourism research. This study also attempts to pin down the potential research directions to guide researchers in expanding future studies.

Ethical Reflections on the Application of Medical Robots in Healthcare

With the development and utilization of medical robots, more and more members of the public have begun to pay attention to the risks of practicing medical robots and have expressed concerns about their application. In order to deeply study the ethical risks of medical robots applied in health care, this study chooses the literature research method to reflect on the moral and ethical issues involved in medical robots. The study found that current medical robots have many application scenarios, such as: surgery, rehabilitation care, assisted work and telemedicine. These application scenarios of medical robots may bring ethical risks such as attribution of medical responsibility, doctor-patient relationship, and data algorithms. Intensively, the study points out that inadequate laws, immature values, and technological deficiencies are the most significant factors leading to the aforementioned risks. Thus, adequate attention should be paid to the medical career, the intelligent technology of robots should be improved, and the relevant laws and regulations should be actively improved. This study realistically reflects the current situation and risks of medical robot application, and through in-depth reflection, provides inspiration for robots to better serve the medical cause.

Digital twin-enhanced robotic system for remote diesel engine assembly defect inspection

Purpose This study aims to streamline and enhance the assembly defect inspection process in diesel engine production. Traditional manual inspection methods are labor-intensive and time-consuming because of the complex structures of the engines and the noisy workshop environment. This study’s robotic system aims to alleviate these challenges by automating the inspection process and enabling easy remote inspection, thereby freeing workers from heavy fieldwork. Design/methodology/approach This study’s system uses a robotic arm to traverse and capture images of key components of the engine. This study uses anomaly detection algorithms to automatically identify defects in the captured images. Additionally, this system is enhanced by digital twin technology, which provides inspectors with various tools to designate components of interest in the engine and assist in defect checking and annotation. This integration facilitates smooth transitions from manual to automatic inspection within a short period. Findings Through evaluations and user studies conducted over a relatively long period, the authors found that the system accelerates and improves the accuracy of engine inspections. The results indicate that the system significantly enhances the efficiency of production processes for manufacturers. Originality/value The system represents a novel approach to engine inspection, leveraging robotic technology and digital twin enhancements to address the limitations of traditional manual inspection methods. By automating and enhancing the inspection process, the system offers manufacturers the opportunity to improve production efficiency and ensure the quality of diesel engines.

Multimodal flexible electronic skin with adjustable module size for robot collision detection

Purpose This paper aims to present a modular multimodal flexible electronic skin that can be used for robot collision detection in human–robot interactions. This type of electronic skin will meet the requirements of performance indicators such as sensing mode, sensing domain coverage and dynamic data update rate in human–robot interactions. Design/methodology/approach The electronic skin uses a modular architecture, and the sensing module is designed to be adjustable in size so that it can be easily deployed on complex robot surfaces, increasing area coverage, reducing power consumption, and improving data update rates. Findings The authors evaluated electronic skin through experiments using a UR5 robot. Electronic skin has high static scene perception differentiation and dynamic scene perception abilities. Moreover, the robot realizes a high-speed collision response based on the electronic skin proposed in this study. Originality/value The proposed electronic skin provides crucial technical support for advancing robotic technologies, and holds promising prospects for industrial applications.

Agent-based modeling system for real-time characterization of film thickness in digital twin coating

In the automated spraying workshop of ship segments, poor visibility caused by dust and fog hampers the effectiveness of the video monitoring system. The traditional method used during the automated spraying process fails to provide real-time measurement of film thickness and prediction of spraying quality, resulting in uneven film thickness and high rework rates. Robotic spraying technology also faces challenges, such as the time-consuming and labor-intensive process of building and computing a highly reliable Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) based spraying film-forming simulation model, which cannot be reflected in real-time during the spraying process. The digital twin characterization method, based on the agent model, offers a solution to these limitations and challenges, providing new ideas and approaches for improving and optimizing the spray film formation model. This paper presents the development of a real-time characterization system for sprayed film thickness based on digital twin technology. The spraying film thickness under different working conditions is obtained using Ansys-Fluent simulation software by varying the gun height and gun speed. The predictive model for spraying film thickness is then established using the obtained simulation data and the corresponding gun height and gun speed, employing the surrogate modeling method (BP neural network). The real-time characterization system for spraying film thickness is developed by combining C# and Unity3D. Finally, in order to ensure the accuracy of the predictive model, a spraying experimental platform is built to verify the accuracy of the predictive model.

Scientific production on robotic metabolic and bariatric surgery: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis on its current world status.

Robotic metabolic and bariatric surgery (RMBS) has emerged as an innovative approach in the treatment of severe obesity by combining the ergonomic precision of robotic technology and instrumentation with the established benefits of weight loss surgery. This study employs a bibliometric approach to identify local research trends and worldwide patterns in RMBS. The research methodology used "robotic" and "metabolic" or "bariatric surgery" to search Web of Science. Articles that were published prior to December 31st, 2023, were included. The analyses were developed using the Rayyan and Bibliometric, in R Studio. 265 articles from 51 different journals were included. Scientific production of RMBS experienced a significant annual growth rate of 21.96% from 2003 to 2023, resulting in an average of 12.6 papers published per year. A high correlation (R2 = 0.94) was found between the year and number of articles. The mean number of citations per document was 13.25. Approximately 90% of the journals were classified as zone 3, according to the Bradford categorization. International collaboration was identified in 10.57% of cases, with the University of California and the University of Illinois being the most common organizations. The countries with the highest number of corresponding authors, in descending order, were the United States of America, China, and Switzerland. Scientific production in RMBS has experienced sustained growth since the first original publications in 2003. While it has not yet reached the volume, impact, and international collaboration seen in studies related to non-robotic metabolic and bariatric surgery, RBMS holds potential that remains to be explored.

A Decade of Experience Between Open and Minimally Invasive Hepatectomies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background and Objectives: Hepatic resection offers promising outcomes for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) but can be constrained by factors like patient suitability. Continuous advancements in laparoscopic and robotic technologies have made minimally invasive hepatectomies (MIHs) a viable alternative to open hepatectomies with benefits in terms of recovery and complications. Materials and Methods: We completed a retrospective review on 138 HCC patients who underwent OH or MIH between 2010 and 2020 at the Hume-Lee Transplant Center. Univariate and multivariate analyses were completed on demographic, clinical, and tumor-specific data to assess the impact of these variables on overall and disease-free survival at 1, 3, and 5 years. Preoperative metrics like length of hospital stay (LOS) and operation duration were also evaluated. Results: Of the 109 OH and 29 MIH patients, MIH patients demonstrated shorter LOS and operative times. However, overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were similar between groups, with no significant variations in 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates. Age > 60 years and a lack of preoperative transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) were significant predictors of inferior OS and DFS in multivariate analyses. Conclusions: MIH is an efficient substitute for OH with comparable survival, even in older patients. The reduced LOS and operation time enhance its feasibility, and older patients previously denied for curative resection may qualify for MIH. Preoperative TACE also enhances survival outcomes, emphasizing its general role in managing resectable HCCs. Both robotic and laparoscopic hepatectomies offer acceptable short- and long-term clinical outcomes, highlighting MIH as the standard choice for HCC patients.

Robots in Public Libraries: An Empirical Analysis of Current Applications and Future Opportunities

ABSTRACT The paper investigated the current application of robots in public libraries with specific consideration of its future opportunities. Three (3) objectives guided the conduct of the study. The study employed a qualitative research approach. The population for the study comprised librarians who have been certified by the Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) and worked at public library boards. Thematic analysis and content analysis techniques were adopted for this study. The study found that robots bring various advantages, including increased operational efficiency and streamlined access to information, as well as interactive educational opportunities and heightened user involvement. The findings indicate that embracing robotic technology enables public libraries to establish more accessible, dynamic, and user-focused environments, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and technological progress within the realm of information services. It could be concluded that the integration of robots in public libraries plays a vital role in modernizing and improving library services to meet the evolving demands of library users and communities. However, library stakeholders must address potential obstacles, including financial limitations, technological preparedness, and user acceptance. Prioritizing the training of staff, fostering community involvement, and establishing clear policy frameworks enables public libraries to effectively navigate the challenges related to incorporating robotics, ensuring a smooth transition toward a technologically advanced and user-focused library environment.

Evolution and Adaptations of Robotic DIEP Flap Surgery: A Systematic Review.

The integration of robotic technology into surgical procedures has gained considerable attention for its promise to enhance a variety of clinical outcomes. Robotic deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap harvest has emerged as a novel approach for autologous breast reconstruction. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current techniques, outcomes, and complications of robotic DIEP flap surgery. A systematic literature search was conducted after PRISMA 2020 guidelines across databases including PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Web of Science from 2000 to 2023. Articles exploring robotic DIEP flap harvest for breast reconstruction were assessed to compare operative techniques, clinical outcomes, and complications. The risk of bias was evaluated using ROBINS-I and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Fourteen studies involving 108 patients were included. Three studies used a totally extraperitoneal (TEP) technique, whereas 11 studies used a transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach. Preoperative planning utilized computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance angiography imaging. The mean robotic operative time was 64 minutes, with total operative times averaging 574 minutes for TAPP and 497 minutes for TEP. The mean length of stay was 5 days, and the mean fascial incision length was 3cm. Overall complication rate was 14.9%, with no significant difference compared with conventional DIEP flap procedures. Robotic DIEP flap harvest is a promising technique that may reduce postoperative pain and limiting abdominal donor site morbidity. Potential limitations include longer operative times, variable hospital stays, and increased costs.

Paleoinspired robotics as an experimental approach to the history of life.

Paleontologists must confront the challenge of studying the forms and functions of extinct species for which data from preserved fossils are extremely limited, yielding only a fragmented picture of life in deep time. In response to this hurdle, we describe the nascent field of paleoinspired robotics, an innovative method that builds upon established techniques in bioinspired robotics, enabling the exploration of the biology of ancient organisms and their evolutionary trajectories. This Review presents ways in which robotic platforms can fill gaps in existing research using the exemplars of notable transitions in vertebrate locomotion. We examine recent case studies in experimental paleontology, highlighting substantial contributions made by engineering and robotics techniques, and further assess how the efficient application of robotic technologies in close collaboration with paleontologists and biologists can offer additional insights into the study of evolution that were previously unattainable.

Special Issue on Robotics and Mechatronics Technology for Aerial Robots

Aerial robot technologies, such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, are rapidly advancing in various domains. These robots now possess enhanced autonomous flying abilities and use sensor technology, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system, and cameras to avoid obstacles, automatically land, and track flights. Evolving technologies in airspace management and route optimization ensure that flights are efficient and safe. Aerial robots have a wide range of applications, such as agriculture, disaster response, environmental monitoring, and inspection. These devices excel at precise data collection thanks to their high-resolution cameras and high-precision sensors. Swarm robotics, which allows collaboration between multiple aerial and ground robots, is also progressing. This enables quick coverage of large areas, which benefits disaster relief and land management. In addition, research and development of flying robots modeled after flying animals is underway. The evolution of aerial robots results in their efficient use in a variety of fields and new applications. This special issue includes the latest research papers and development reports on aerial robotic technology from the aforementioned perspectives. We hope that this special issue will pique researchers’ and engineers’ interest in aerial robots, thereby encouraging additional research and development. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude to all authors, all reviewers, the editorial board of the Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics, and Fuji Technology Press Ltd.

Special Issue on Robotics and Mechatronics Technology for Sports, Exercise, and Health Care (Part 2)

Robotics, mechatronics, and digital technologies are advancing significantly in sports, exercise, and healthcare, and offer innovative solutions that shape the future of these fields. In Part 2 of this special issue, we examine independent research and cutting-edge developments that address new challenges and provide unique contributions to these domains. Technological advancements in assistive devices and rehabilitation offer new solutions for improving the quality of life of individuals with physical challenges. Researchers of wearable assistive devices and prosthetics continue to devise methods to enhance mobility and support physical functions, thereby benefiting both users and healthcare providers. Sports and motion analysis remains a key focus area, where innovative technologies are employed to analyze and improve athletic performance. By capturing and evaluating detailed movement data, these technologies can help athletes refine their techniques and achieve greater precision in their sports, thus ultimately resulting in enhanced performance and injury prevention. As in Part 1, the studies presented in this issue demonstrate the practical applications of cutting-edge technologies and offer insights into their future potential. We hope that these contributions will inspire researchers and practitioners alike and provide a foundation for continued advancements in these exciting and impactful fields.

Sensing and Perception in Robotic Weeding: Innovations and Limitations for Digital Agriculture

The challenges and drawbacks of manual weeding and herbicide usage, such as inefficiency, high costs, time-consuming tasks, and environmental pollution, have led to a shift in the agricultural industry toward digital agriculture. The utilization of advanced robotic technologies in the process of weeding serves as prominent and symbolic proof of innovations under the umbrella of digital agriculture. Typically, robotic weeding consists of three primary phases: sensing, thinking, and acting. Among these stages, sensing has considerable significance, which has resulted in the development of sophisticated sensing technology. The present study specifically examines a variety of image-based sensing systems, such as RGB, NIR, spectral, and thermal cameras. Furthermore, it discusses non-imaging systems, including lasers, seed mapping, LIDAR, ToF, and ultrasonic systems. Regarding the benefits, we can highlight the reduced expenses and zero water and soil pollution. As for the obstacles, we can point out the significant initial investment, limited precision, unfavorable environmental circumstances, as well as the scarcity of professionals and subject knowledge. This study intends to address the advantages and challenges associated with each of these sensing technologies. Moreover, the technical remarks and solutions explored in this investigation provide a straightforward framework for future studies by both scholars and administrators in the context of robotic weeding.

Comparative analysis of the safety and effectiveness of robotic natural orifice specimen extraction versus laparoscopic surgery for colorectal tumors through systematic review and meta-analysis.

The purpose of this study and meta-analysis was to evaluate the perioperative and oncologic results of robotic NOSE versus laparoscopic surgery for colorectal tumors. We plan to perform an extensive electronic search on PubMed, CNKI, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to find research articles published from the beginning of the databases until July 2024 that examine the comparison between robotic natural orifice specimen extraction and laparoscopic surgery in patients with colorectal cancer. Both English and Chinese literature will be included. Literature screening will strictly follow predetermined criteria for inclusion and exclusion, specifically targeting randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. The evaluation of quality will be conducted with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Review Manager 5.4.1 will be utilized to perform a meta-analysis of data gathered from the studies that are included. The ultimate evaluation included seven past cohort studies with a total of 1117 participants (545 who had robotic NOSE and 572 who had laparoscopic surgery). Patients who had robotic NOSE experienced notable enhancements in LOHS, time to first flatus, time to start the liquid diet, EBL, and postoperative ileus when compared to patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. There were no notable discrepancies noted in terms of surgical duration, total complications, lymph node collection, and anastomotic leakage between the two methods. In conclusion, the use of robotic technology for extracting specimens through natural body openings in colorectal surgery is considered to be safe and achievable. It offers notable advantages over laparoscopic surgery, including reduced hospital stay, earlier time to first flatus and liquid intake, decreased EBL, and lower incidence of postoperative ileus.

Evaluating robotic assistance on the learning curve and efficiency of mandibular angle ostectomy: an animal model study.

This study evaluated the efficacy and learning curve of a maxillofacial surgical robotic system (MSRS) guided by electromagnetic navigation for mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO), compared to traditional surgical methods. The study utilized a controlled experiment involving thirty rabbits, paired divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent MAO using the MSRS, while the control group was treated with conventional surgical techniques. The surgeons performing the procedures were inexperienced in robotic surgery and MAO to assess the learning curve and the impact of robotic assistance. Key parameters measured included the accuracy of ostectomy, setup time, and ostectomy efficiency, with data analyzed through a paired-t test to compare the performance between the two groups. The study indicated a significant reduction in ostectomy time for the experimental group, with improved accuracy and efficiency in ostectomy. The study found that robotic assistance could decrease the risk of complications and enhance surgical outcomes. It also highlighted the presence of an initial learning curve when adopting new robotic technologies, which could be mitigated through adequate training and simulation practices. Using MSRS for MAO could lead to faster early learning curves and increased ostectomy efficiency compared to traditional surgical methods. It demonstrated the potential benefits of integrating robotic systems into craniofacial surgery, suggesting a promising direction for future surgical practices.