Bat-inspired AI gives drones ultrasonic sight to navigate disaster rescue zones

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Bat-inspired AI gives drones ultrasonic sight to navigate disaster rescue zones
AI NavigationAutonomous SystemsDrone Navigation
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Inspired by bats and dolphins, this ultrasonic tech lets machines “see” in pitch-black and chaotic environments.

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed an AI-powered echolocation system that allows robots and drones to navigate in total darkness. No cameras, GPS, or laser sensors needed. Inspired by how bats and dolphins use sound to perceive their surroundings, the system could revolutionize navigation in disaster zones, combat environments, or anywhere traditional vision-based tools fall short.

”Synthetic Training, Real-World ResultsInstead of relying on expensive field testing, the team trained the system entirely in a virtual environment. They simulated 3D spaces with real-world distortions to teach the AI how echoes behave in chaotic conditions.This approach allowed the AI to learn how different object shapes reflect sound from various angles. Using synthetic data also cut down on labor and cost, speeding up development without sacrificing accuracy.

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