Revolutionary Bionic Arm: Transforming Prosthetics at the University of Plymouth by Naveeth Liyanage

By S. Adam Jadetimes Contributor

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Image Source : Naveeth

Redefining Prosthetics: University of Plymouth's Breakthrough in Bionic Technology by Naveeth Malinga

At the University of Plymouth, a pioneering team is reshaping the future of prosthetic technology with a revolutionary bionic arm. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Naveeth Malinga and supported by master’s students Aswathi PI, Vivek Biju, and Hima Murali K, operates under the expert guidance of Dr. Mohammad Diab. Together, they are merging innovation with compassion to create prosthetics that go beyond limitations.

Introducing the Anatomical Mechanism

Image Source : Naveeth

Central to this innovation is the development of an Anatomical Mechanism that mimics the natural movement of the human hand. Unlike traditional prosthetics, this cutting-edge design enables precise forearm rotation and enhances the hand's dexterity. This mechanism allows for smoother, more flexible movement, offering users a level of functionality previously unattainable in prosthetic devices.

The Role of Neural Interfacing

Image Source : Naveeth

The team is also integrating neural interfacing technology, which bridges the gap between the user's intentions and the bionic arm’s actions. By interpreting neural signals, this interface allows for intuitive control, empowering users to perform tasks with greater ease and precision. This breakthrough represents a significant leap forward in creating prosthetics that feel like a natural extension of the body.

A Mission to Improve Lives

Led by Naveeth Malinga, the team’s mission extends beyond technological advancement—they aim to improve the quality of life for individuals relying on prosthetic devices. Their innovative approach ensures that the bionic arm is not only functional but also accessible and transformative, providing users with independence and confidence.

Pushing the Boundaries of Robotics and Bionics

This project exemplifies the University of Plymouth's commitment to advancing robotics and bionics. By blending engineering excellence with empathetic design, the team is setting new benchmarks in prosthetic technology. Their work promises to make a profound impact on the global prosthetics community, inspiring future innovations in the field.

A Brighter Future

With dedication and vision, Naveeth Malinga, Aswathi PI, Vivek Biju, Hima Murali K, and Dr. Mohammad Diab are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Their work at the University of Plymouth is not just about creating a bionic arm—it’s about bringing hope, dignity, and opportunity to people worldwide. This groundbreaking project stands as a testament to the transformative power of science and compassion.

Boeing Seeks FAA Emissions Waiver to Sustain 777F Freighter Production Amid Certification Delays

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business

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Image Source: REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/Pool

Boeing is requesting a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration to extend the production and sale of 35 additional 777F freighters, citing robust customer demand and delays in the certification timeline for its next-generation 777-8 Freighter. The waiver would allow Boeing to continue delivering the current 777F models in the face of upcoming emissions standards that are scheduled to take effect in 2028, rules the company says could otherwise constrain its ability to meet existing cargo demand.

Boeing indicated that the 777-8 Freighter, which is expected to meet the new environmental limits, will not be ready for certification and service until after the 2028 deadline. By seeking relief, the company aims to align its manufacturing plans with market needs, ensuring that airlines and freight operators have access to a highly efficient widebody freighter in the interim.

The company has set a target to deliver the first 777-8F roughly two years after the initial delivery of the 777-9, currently scheduled for 2027. The FAA emissions rules finalized in February 2024 under the previous administration established international standards to limit carbon pollution from large airplanes operating in U.S. airspace, though they do not apply retroactively to aircraft already in service as of the policy’s inception.

Boeing emphasized the critical role of large widebody freighters in supporting U.S. export activity, noting that in 2024, more than $600 billion in goods moved by air, with over $260 billion transported on large freighters. The company also highlighted the economic impact of each 777F export, valued at about $440 million in catalog terms, underscoring the potential multi-billion-dollar effect on the U.S. trade balance if exemptions were not granted.

Additionally, Boeing pointed out that it remains the sole producer of the current large widebody freighter in production, a factor that amplifies the significance of maintaining continuity in the fleet as the aviation sector navigates ongoing regulatory shifts. The broader policy context includes ongoing federal climate initiatives, including a plan to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from U.S. aviation by 2050, which informs ongoing discussions about fleet modernization and emissions compliance.

Baidu’s AI Growth Slows as Video Streaming Revenue Declines

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering the USA

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Image Source: Jeff Pao, Asia Times

Baidu reported mixed financial performance in its latest quarterly results, highlighting continued growth in its artificial intelligence businesses alongside mounting pressure on its online entertainment segment. Revenue from Baidu’s AI-related operations, including the autonomous driving unit Apollo Go and smart home devices such as Xiaodu, rose 21% year on year to 9.3 billion yuan, underscoring the company’s ongoing push to diversify beyond its traditional search business.

Despite the solid increase, the pace of AI revenue growth slowed sharply compared with the previous quarter. In the second quarter, Baidu’s AI segment recorded a 34% year-on-year increase, reflecting stronger demand and rapid expansion across multiple product lines. The more modest third-quarter growth was largely attributed to a low comparison base from the same period last year, suggesting that momentum in the AI business may be stabilising rather than accelerating.

Baidu has invested heavily in artificial intelligence in recent years, positioning AI as a central pillar of its long-term strategy. Apollo Go, its robotaxi service, continues to expand operations in several Chinese cities, while Xiaodu smart devices remain a key consumer-facing application of the company’s AI capabilities. These initiatives are seen as critical to Baidu’s efforts to build sustainable growth engines in a highly competitive technology landscape.

In contrast, iQiyi, Baidu’s online video streaming subsidiary, reported an 8% year-on-year decline in revenue to 6.7 billion yuan. The drop reflects ongoing challenges in China’s streaming market, including intense competition, rising content costs, and cautious consumer spending. The performance of iQiyi has been a recurring concern for investors, as the platform works to balance subscriber growth with profitability.

Overall, the results highlight a shift in Baidu’s revenue mix, with AI-driven businesses playing an increasingly important role while legacy and entertainment segments face headwinds. Analysts note that while AI remains a bright spot, sustaining high growth rates will depend on broader adoption, continued innovation, and the company’s ability to convert technological advances into stable, long-term revenue streams.