For further information on how to join the group or how to receive a sample copy of the magazine, contact June Thompson at SPIE Headquarters. The special issue shows the influences of the wider biological sciences and systems on robotics as well as the modeling of biological systems. Examples include living creatures such as insects providing inspiration for robotic research. Self-organizing classifier systems aid gait acquisition in locomotion Kobe Univ. The robot acquires stable periodical gaits by learning how to reach a light source through reinforcement signals.
Forward motion receives a local reward while stepping back receives a local punishment.
Implementation of a sensing scheme for heading direction is planned. Retinalike visual sensors and oculomotor control Scientists from Univ. of Genoa, Italy, discuss current research implementing a sensor using CMOS technology. The sensor has already been used in the digital camera Giotto. Discussion of electroactive polymers includes description of an EAP-actuated robotic hand able to win against a human in an arm wrestling match and use of a bending EAP material in a dust wiper. Another application is the development of a miniature robotic arm with closed-loop control for lifting and dropping of the arm and manipulation of the gripper fingers.