A new invention has emerged from the sea as a robotic humanoid capable to explore the ocean while its driver is safe into a boat. This is not a dream but a reality taken off from a science-fiction page. This machine was designed by Oussama Kathib, a professor at Stanford University in the field of computer science in an attempt to develop better ways to study the deepest oceans and all treasures the sea may hide.
It was created as the perfect representation of the human being.The machine was named OceanOne and its capability for underwater exploration is incredible. This robot has two hands, a stereo vision and the best of all: the robot driver can feel what the robot is doing without the dangers or time limits associated with diving. The back parts of OceanOne consists in computers, batteries and thrusters.
Recently, OceanOne had explored the archeological site of the shipwreck ‘La Lune’ in the coast of France in a first trip. The robot explored a flagship that lies under 300 feet of water. Once it was at this place, OceanOne discovered an ancient vase that picked up and then deposited carefully into a basket. This treasure is from King Louis XIV era.
Oussama Khatib said that “It’s almost like you are there; with the sense of touch you create a new dimension of perception.”
The design of this robot was financed by Meka Robotics and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.
Other similar inventions made in Stanford
Other experts are creating new devices like OceanOne as robot hands (like those made for people with disabilities). These robots hands are manufactured with the intention to be attached to humanoid robots or other similar devices.
Actually, Khatib Team is working on improvements and new devices for exploring purposes. A lot of students participated actively in the developing of OceanOne: Gerald Brantner, Xiyang Yeh, Boyeon Kim and Brian Soe, Shameek Ganguly and Mark Cutkosky, a professor of mechanical engineering.
Source: Fox News