The annual and popular Researchers´Night, when the doors of scientific and research institutes in Europe are opened to the public, is approaching and CIIRC CTU will not miss this event again. This year, the event will take place on 27 September 2024 from 5 to 10 pm at the RICAIP Testbed Prague and in the adjacent atrium of the building. All science enthusiasts, from children to adults, are welcome to learn about modern technologies, discover innovative projects and meet experts who will be happy to answer your questions. Across the disciplines of our institute, we have prepared a programme for you and your children in the spirit of this year’s theme „TRANSFORMATION“ and it is this transformation, whether technological, physical or social, that will be the main theme of all the activities prepared.
And what have we prepared for you CIIRC?
1) Robotic assistance based on voice commands
Enter the world of the future with voice command-based robotic assistance. This technology uses advanced speech recognition algorithms and allows robots to perform tasks based on your voice instructions. Come see how the robot itself recognizes your voice and does exactly what you tell it to do. As part of this activity, you can try controlling a robot with your voice and see for yourself how advanced this technology is.
In addition to the experience of interacting with the robot itself, you will also have the opportunity to discuss with experts who will explain the technology behind these developments and the future directions of robotic assistance.
2) The Ageing Suit – the transformation of the human body
The Ageing Suit will allow you to experience the transformation of the human body associated with ageing. This simulator of physical limitations puts you in the body of an elderly person – your mobility, muscle strength, and sensory perception will deteriorate. Thanks to specially designed clothing and equipment, you will experience what it is like to face normal everyday tasks when your body no longer moves as easily.
This activity will bring you closer to the aging process, help you develop empathy for the older generations and show how important it is to take care of our health to maintain our quality of life in later life.
3) Automatic pallet truck: transforming the industry
Technological transformation is also affecting industry, especially through robotics. At Researchers´Night, you will be able to see an automatic pallet truck that can independently find a pallet of bricks, load it and transport it to a designated location – all without human intervention. This autonomous robot represents the next step towards fully automated solutions that transform traditional industrial processes.
Come see how automation is changing the way we work and the challenges and opportunities it brings.
4) Radioactive transformation: changes at the atomic level
Researchers´Night also offers a unique opportunity to learn about the phenomenon of radioactive transformation. Our experts will show you how to measure the radioactivity of naturally occurring isotopes that can be found in the everyday environment – for example in soil or building materials. You will learn how this process works and what role it plays in natural sciences.
If you’re curious about how radioactivity works and how scientists can measure it, this exhibition will provide answers and offer a fascinating insight into the invisible world of atomic change.
5) Robobar – come for a soft drink poured by a robot!
Robotics and automation are gradually making inroads into fields where we have hitherto expected the human touch. In our Robobar at RICAIP Testbed Prague, a robotic bartender will prepare and pour your drinks without any human intervention.
You will have the opportunity not only to taste the drinks prepared by the robot, but also to think about where robots can replace humans and where the human factor will still be necessary.
6) Robotic checkers
Play robotic checkers against our robot. This robot uses technology that allows it to analyse your moves and predict your actions to choose the best strategy. You have three difficulty levels to choose from, so both beginners and advanced players will enjoy the game.
This activity will show you how artificial intelligence and collaborative robotics are changing not only the world of gaming, but also everyday life and industry.
7) Teleoperation and RC cars: the remote control of the future
Teleoperation technology allows for real-time remote control of robots, which is used for example in the exploration of hazardous environments or in smart factories. In this activity, you will be able to play a game with an RC car that you control remotely using a steering wheel. You will experience how response times are improving with the transition to 5G technology and what this means for the future of teleoperation.
8) CTU Space Research rocket
The CTU Space Research student team operates at all CTU faculties and is engaged in the development and construction of competitive scientific rockets. Students are responsible for the development of the largest civilian rocket in the country, Illustria. Working in the team allows students to turn the acquired theoretical knowledge into reality and tangible results, thus supporting their professional development.
9) Tetris evolutionary algorithms – come play the game with us
Are you interested in the mysteries of artificial intelligence and would like to see how advanced algorithms can solve complex problems? Come to Researchers‘ Night, where our team will demonstrate the power of nature-inspired genetic algorithms through a fun and interactive computer game. Can you beat artificial intelligence in solving the business traveller problem, where as a delivery driver you will be looking for the shortest possible route to deliver goods?
Immerse yourself in a world where technology mimics nature and reveals incredible possibilities for solving seemingly intractable problems. Get inspired and discover how these technologies can change our world. We look forward to seeing you!
10) Virtual reality
Come and experience virtual reality for yourself! This technology, which is commonly known for displaying holograms, allows us to control robotic workstations such as robotic 3D printing, robot polishing or guiding a robot to precise positions. With augmented reality, we make the work of operators easier and open up completely new possibilities for human-machine interaction.
Come and be inspired and discover how these technologies are transforming the future. We look forward to seeing you!
11) NAO the robot
You know the NAO robot – you could see it last year at the Night of Scientists. This time, NAO is also programmed with humour, so it will tell you jokes and entertain you with its gestures. Come and see what new things the NAO has learned. You can ask him anything. Come to the Night of the Scientist on September 27 at the CIIRC.
We haven’t forgotten the kids visitors either, for whom we are going to collect stamps for mastering activities and very interesting rewards in the style of computer science, robotics and cybernetics.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover the latest technologies, discuss with experts and experience an evening full of scientific and technological transformations. Researchers´NighA 2024 at the Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics and Cybernetics is for all ages and admission is free. Come and experience science for yourself!
You can see how the Researchers´Night 2024 went in the photo gallery HERE.