Developed by EPFL researchers, this robot is capable of reacting on the fly and grasping objects with complex shapes and trajectories. Incredibly, it's equipped with a learning algorithm that allows it to be taught by humans.
To make it work, EPFL researchers first taught the robot how to predict the trajectory of a moving object. Then it was given a lesson on how to grasp and move each arm. This information was then transferred — or taught — to the robot by a human who physically interacts with the machine.
The robot can watch objects fly through its environment a number of times and then build a model for catching it in real time. Eventually, the device could be used to catch falling objects or to prevent projectiles from harming a person.