Weekly IPAB workshop - Long Horizon Hierarchical Motion Planning and Neuroprosthetics: Working on Japanese Moonshot Projects

Date: 
Thu, 24/07/2025 - 13:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum. G.03
Speaker: 
Sethu Vijayakumar
University of Edinburgh

Abstract: In this talk, I will describe the work done in the context of the Japanese Science and Technology (JST) Moonshot projects that we have been involved in since the past year.

IPAB Workshop - High-Fidelity Simulation and Learning for Continuum Robots

Date: 
Thu, 17/07/2025 - 13:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum. G.03
Speaker: 
Mohsen Khadem
University of Edinburgh

Abstract: This talk introduces SoftManiSim, a fast, open-source simulator for multi-segment continuum robots that models dynamic loading and contact. Designed for real-time use and deep learning integration, SoftManiSim supports parallel simulations and generates high-quality synthetic data for training. I will highlight two key applications: (1) using the simulator to develop a framework for shape-aware control of tendon-driven continuum robots; and (2) applying the simulation framework in a design study aiming to enhance continuum robot stability and safety.

Rescheduled Weekly IPAB workshop: Learning dexterous manipulation from human demo

Date: 
Thu, 26/06/2025 - 13:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum. G.03
Speaker: 
Yucheng Xu
University of Edinburgh

Abstract: our recent work proposes a robot system which contains three main components: 1. Data processing module for extracting human hand motion trajectory and object motions. 2. Retargeting module based on MANO hand model for mapping from human motions to robot motions. 3. Residual action learning with RL for learning how to refine imperfect motion priors. With the proposed system, robot can quickly learn how to complete complex dexterous manipulation task with one single human video demo. 

Whose Gold? Aligning AI with Diverse Views on what’s Safe, Aligned, and Beneficial

Date: 
Wed, 02/07/2025 - 11:00 to 12:00
Location: 
Heriot-Watt University, LT3
Speaker: 
Professor Verena Rieser
Google DeepMind

Abstract: Human feedback is widely considered the 'gold standard' for AI alignment, but what if this 'gold' reflects inherently diverse and conflicting human views on what constitutes ‘good’ and ‘safe’? This keynote will explore the technical and ethical challenges posed by differing viewpoints and opinions across individuals and groups.

CANCELLED Weekly IPAB workshop: Learning dexterous manipulation from human demo

Date: 
Thu, 19/06/2025 - 13:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum. G.03
Speaker: 
Yucheng Xu
University of Edinburgh

Abstract: our recent work proposes a robot system which contains three main components: 1. Data processing module for extracting human hand motion trajectory and object motions. 2. Retargeting module based on MANO hand model for mapping from human motions to robot motions. 3. Residual action learning with RL for learning how to refine imperfect motion priors. With the proposed system, robot can quickly learn how to complete complex dexterous manipulation task with one single human video demo. 

Weekly IPAB workshop

Date: 
Thu, 12/06/2025 - 13:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum. G.03
Speaker: 
Zhaoxing Deng & Xiaofeng Mao
University of Edinburgh

Speaker: Zhaoxing Deng

Title: Automated Skill Evaluation of Bronchoscopy Operators Using Geometric Feature Analysis

Interpreting Drawings for 3D Design - From Drawing Techniques to Algorithms

Date: 
Wed, 04/06/2025 - 11:00
Location: 
Informatics Forum, MF2
Speaker: 
Adrien Bousseau
Inria Université Côte d'Azur

Abstract: Designers draw extensively to externalize their ideas and communicate with others. But drawings are currently not directly interpretable by computers. To test their ideas against physical reality, designers have to create 3D models suitable for simulation and 3D printing. However, the visceral and approximate nature of drawing clashes with the tediousness and rigidity of 3D modeling. As a result, designers only model finalized concepts, and have no feedback on feasibility during creative exploration.

Whose Gold? Aligning AI with Diverse Views on what’s Safe, Aligned, and Beneficial

Date: 
Mon, 02/06/2025 - 11:00 to 12:00
Location: 
Postgraduate Centre Lecture Theatre - PGG01
Speaker: 
Verena Rieser
Google DeepMind

Abstract: Human feedback is widely considered the 'gold standard' for AI alignment, but what if this 'gold' reflects inherently diverse and conflicting human views on what constitutes ‘good’ and ‘safe’? This keynote will explore the technical and ethical challenges posed by differing viewpoints and opinions across individuals and groups.

HAIR - Healthcare Applications and Interactive Robotics

Date: 
Mon, 02/06/2025 - 15:00 to 16:00
Location: 
Heriot-Watt University, Earl Mountbatten Building, Room EM2.44. 
Speaker: 
Ildar Farkhatdinov
School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences at King's College London

Title of the Talk: HAIR - Healthcare Applications and Interactive Robotics

Invited Speaker: Ildar Farkhatdinov

Time: June 2nd, Monday, between 15:00-16:00 

Location: Earl Mountbatten Building, Room EM2.44. 

 

Abstract: