MIT and other researchers developed a framework that models irrational or suboptimal behavior of a human or AI agent, based on their computational constraints. Their technique can help predict an agent’s future actions, for instance, in chess matches. Image: iStock

A new technique can be used to predict the actions of human or AI agents who behave suboptimally while working toward unknown goals.

To build a better AI helper, start by modeling the irrational behavior of humans

MIT researchers developed an algorithm that can automatically select the best shortcuts for a robot to take on its way to a destination that will reduce the overall travel time while limiting the likelihood that the robot will meet an impassable obstacle. Image: Jose-Luis Olivares, MIT; iStock

A new algorithm reduces travel time by identifying shortcuts a robot could take on the way to its destination.

Researchers help robots navigate efficiently in uncertain environments

This illustration shows electric current being pumped into platinum (the bottom slab), which results in the creation of an electron spin current that switches the magnetic state of the 2D ferromagnet on top. The colored spheres represent the atoms in the 2D material. Image: Courtesy of the researchers

An MIT team precisely controlled an ultrathin magnet at room temperature, which could enable faster, more efficient processors and computer memories.

Researchers harness 2D magnetic materials for energy-efficient computing

MIT researchers modified a multi-material 3D printer so it could produce three-dimensional solenoids in one step by layering ultrathin coils of three different materials. It prints a U.S. quarter-sized solenoid as a spiral by layering material around the soft magnetic core, with thicker conductive layers separated by thin insulating layers. Image: Courtesy of the researchers

The printed solenoids could enable electronics that cost less and are easier to manufacture — on Earth or in space.

Engineers 3D print the electromagnets at the heart of many electronics

Because additive manufacturing allows the researchers to easily try new designs, they created a number of different quadrupole filters before arriving at the final iteration (h), which is surrounded by a series of triangular lattices to provide durability. Image: Courtesy of the researchers, edited by MIT News

Lightweight and inexpensive, miniaturized mass filters are a key step toward portable mass spectrometers that could identify unknown chemicals in remote settings.

Researchers 3D print components for a portable mass spectrometer

MIT researchers developed a fabrication process to produce self-heating microfluidic devices in one step using a multi-material 3D printer. Pictured is an example of one of the devices. Image: Courtesy of the researchers

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To build a better AI helper, start by modeling the irrational behavior of humans

Researchers help robots navigate efficiently in uncertain environments

Researchers harness 2D magnetic materials for energy-efficient computing

Engineers 3D print the electromagnets at the heart of many electronics

Researchers 3D print components for a portable mass spectrometer

Scientists 3D print self-heating microfluidic devices