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! 

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Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Oussama Khatib
• Stanford Robotics Lab

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Russ Altman introduces guest Oussama Khatib, a professor of engineering at Stanford University.

(00:01:54) Underwater Robotics Advancements

Innovations in underwater robotics, including breakthroughs for deeper exploration.

(00:05:35) New Flotation Materials

The discovery of lightweight, strong flotation materials for deep-sea robots.

(00:06:25) Robot Battery Challenges

The challenges of powering robots at extreme depths.

(00:09:09) Importance of Anthropomorphic Design

Why humanoid features are essential for performing delicate underwater tasks.

(00:14:20) Robotic Design Challenges

The design of lightweight robotic arms that can withstand underwater pressure.

(00:19:51) Ease of Use for Operators

How both novices and experts can quickly adapt to controlling these robots.

(00:22:37) Applications in Biology and Archaeology

Future applications in marine biology and underwater archaeology.

(00:26:12) Search and Rescue Potential

The potential for robots to assist in search and rescue missions.

(00:27:48) Future of Deep-Sea Exploration

The future of deep-sea exploration using robotics.

(00:29:40) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook