Best of: The future of underwater robotics

The field of robotics has a long history at Stanford Engineering, and Professor Oussama Khatib has been a pioneering leader in that field, working on everything from human-interactive robots to underwater exploration, pushing the boundaries of what robots can do. Most recently, he’s led the opening of a new Robotics Center at Stanford. Today we’re bringing back the conversation we had with him about his work on OceanOneK — a humanoid robot who now has a new home in the Robotics Center. Join us as we talk about his journey, his vision for the future of robotics, and how his research is transforming the way humans interact with machines. We hope you enjoy the episode! Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Oussama KhatibStanford Robotics LabConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Oussama Khatib, a professor of engineering at Stanford University.(00:01:54) Underwater Robotics AdvancementsInnovations in underwater robotics, including breakthroughs for deeper exploration.(00:05:35) New Flotation MaterialsThe discovery of lightweight, strong flotation materials for deep-sea robots.(00:06:25) Robot Battery ChallengesThe challenges of powering robots at extreme depths.(00:09:09) Importance of Anthropomorphic DesignWhy humanoid features are essential for performing delicate underwater tasks.(00:14:20) Robotic Design ChallengesThe design of lightweight robotic arms that can withstand underwater pressure.(00:19:51) Ease of Use for OperatorsHow both novices and experts can quickly adapt to controlling these robots.(00:22:37) Applications in Biology and ArchaeologyFuture applications in marine biology and underwater archaeology.(00:26:12) Search and Rescue PotentialThe potential for robots to assist in search and rescue missions.(00:27:48) Future of Deep-Sea ExplorationThe future of deep-sea exploration using robotics.(00:29:40) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.