Could AI give you X-ray vision? | Tara Boroushaki | Ted Talks Daily

Intro

In this episode of Ted Talks Daily, researcher Tara Boroschaki discusses her work on AI-powered sensing technology that aims to bring X-ray vision closer to reality. By utilizing wireless signals like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, Boroschaki has developed an augmented reality (AR) headset that can “see the invisible” by reflecting signals off hidden objects and creating a virtual 3D map of the environment.

Main Takeaways

Industrial Applications of AI-Powered Sensing Technology

• AI-powered sensing technology has potential industrial applications, such as helping warehouse workers find packages, guiding store associates in retail stores, and aiding in logistics and manufacturing.

Teaching Robots to Locate and Retrieve Objects

• Boroschaki has taught her “spells” to a robot, enabling it to locate and retrieve objects with centimeter-level accuracy using specialized grippers and wireless sensors.

Adapting to New Environments and Finding Unseen Objects

• A UI algorithm is designed to help a robot adapt to new environments and find unseen objects.

Potential Future Applications

• Future applications of this technology include assisting robots in homes, interacting with smart homes, and aiding first responders in finding and tracking humans in low visibility conditions.

Enhancing Everyday Life with Extra-Vision

• Extra-vision has the potential to change how we perceive and interact with our environment, opening up new possibilities.
• It can also help individuals navigate the world in unique ways, adding a touch of magic to everyday life.

Summary

AI-Powered Sensing Technology for Industrial Applications

Researcher Tara Boroschaki is working on AI-powered sensing technology that utilizes wireless signals like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to create an AR headset capable of “seeing the invisible.” By reflecting signals off hidden objects, the headset creates a virtual 3D map of the environment. This technology has potential industrial applications, such as assisting warehouse workers in finding packages, guiding store associates in retail stores, and improving logistics and manufacturing processes.

Teaching Robots to Locate and Retrieve Objects

Boroschaki has successfully taught her “spells” to a robot, enabling it to locate and retrieve objects with centimeter-level accuracy. This is achieved through the use of specialized grippers and wireless sensors. The robot is capable of adapting to new environments and finding unseen objects, thanks to a UI algorithm that helps it navigate and interact with its surroundings. This technology has the potential to revolutionize various industries that rely on efficient object retrieval and manipulation.

Potential Future Applications of Extra-Vision

Looking ahead, the applications of extra-vision technology are vast. It can assist robots in homes, allowing them to perform tasks more effectively and interact with smart home systems. In emergency situations, this technology can aid first responders in finding and tracking humans in low visibility conditions. Additionally, extra-vision can enhance everyday life by providing individuals with unique ways to navigate the world and adding a touch of magic to their experiences.

Conclusion

Researcher Tara Boroschaki’s work on AI-powered sensing technology brings us closer to the possibility of X-ray vision. By harnessing wireless signals and creating virtual 3D maps of environments, this technology has the potential to revolutionize industries, assist robots, and enhance everyday life. With further advancements and applications, extra-vision could truly transform how we perceive and interact with our surroundings.