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Nadine Dabby is a graduate student in Computation and Neural Systems at Caltech, where she works on DNA nanotechnology and molecular programming in the Winfree Lab.  Prior to attending Caltech, she completed a double major in Molecular and Cell Biology and English Literature at UC Berkeley. Nadine is also an adjunct lecturer at the Art Center College of Design, where she teaches a course on Biomimicry to art and design undergraduates.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event: In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

On January 14, 2011, Caltech hosted TEDxCaltech, an exciting one-day event to honor Richard Feynman, Nobel Laureate, Caltech physics professor, iconoclast, visionary, and all-around “curious character.” Visit TEDxCaltech.com for more details.

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It’s not quite Geico’s Gecko, but the new bendy robot created by Harvard University researchers has some impressive capabilities for blending in.

Detailed in the journal Science, the camouflage robot was actually inspired by the flexibility and color adaptation skills of cephalopods like octopuses and cuttlefish. The small robot, walking and moving with the help of air pumped into its four appendages, is covered in a network of tiny channels, which can have dye, hot or cold fluids, and even glow in the dark liquid pumped into it.

For now, the power and dye is pumped into the robot, but both elements could one day be self-contained. Authors of the study say the robots could be used to complete tasks while being undetected—or be part of search and rescue efforts where being seen would be important.

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Technorati Tags: camouflage, camouflage robots, computer, electronics, Flexible Robots, gadgets, Harvard, Harvard University robots, new technology, research, robot, Robot based on cephalopods, robotics, robots, rubber robot, tech, Technology