by AUVSI News 

This week in the unmanned systems and robotics world NASA and Verizon partnered to develop an unmanned aircraft system traffic management system using cell networks, Boeing patenting a system for recharging drones midair and Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers displayed an origami-inspired robot that can self-fold, move on multiple surfaces including water and even carry loads before dissolving. 



The long anticipated DARPA Robotics Challenge went underway this Friday with team IHMC and its Running Man robot from Florida jumping out to an early lead earning seven points and completing all but one task using one reset. Team IHMC finished second at the DRC trials two years ago. Later on, the team from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Carnegie Mellon University, and their robot Warner, picked up 7 points as well. The competition wraps up Saturday June 6 with the top team earning $2 million. 



The Federal Aviation Administration has approved 18 more commercial drone exemptions this week bringing the total number of approved operations to 497 out of over 1500 requests.



Singapore has released guidance for drone operators in the country that requires commercial entities to apply online for operator and activity permits. For research and recreational purposes with drones under seven kilograms, no permit is needed under most conditions. (Drone Brief)  



Boeing has patented a system for recharging drones midair. The inflatable-, or electrically-powered bouyant-, aircraft includes a tether that connects to ground-based power supplies. (The Next Web)



NASA and Verizon are working together to develop an unmanned aircraft traffic management system using cell networks to track drones in the national airspace. Google and Amazon have also signed on to help test the system, which is being developed out of NASA’s Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California. (The Verge)



A team from MIT’s Senseable City Lab is working on a digital traffic controller system to enable intersections to operate more efficiently with connected, autonomous vehicles. (Citylab)



In July, the Henn-na Hotel in Sasebo, Japan will open with a staff of 10 life-like, autonomous robots and only two human staff members in the latest example of hotel automation and robotics. The robots will greet guests, carry bags and clean rooms. (BBC News)



Researchers from MIT have created a self-assembling robot that can walk on multiple surfaces, burrow, swim and carry loads before dissolving. The robot is controlled through electromagnetic coils and may one day operate inside the human body. (IEEE Spectrum)