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July/August 2018 Issue
Feature Articles
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Rise of the Robots
As robots enter our world, they must become aware of their surroundings. Optics and photonics will play a key role.
by Edwin Cartlidge![](https://opn-web-afd-d3bfbkd5bcc5asbs.z02.azurefd.net/opn/media/images/articles/2018/1807/features/ozcan-thumb.jpg?t=638452538775451644)
Toward a Thinking Microscope
Convolutional neural networks and deep learning can boost the capabilities of standard optical microscopes to levels comparable to those of some higher-end imaging systems.
by Yair Rivenson and Aydogan Ozcan![](https://opn-web-afd-d3bfbkd5bcc5asbs.z02.azurefd.net/opn/media/images/articles/2018/1807/features/coffey-thumb.jpg?t=638452538751204095)
Machine Vision: The Eyes of Industry 4.0
Machine-learning algorithms embedded in advanced CMOS cameras are creating smart imaging systems that can replace human vision and decisions in the “fourth industrial revolution.”
by Valerie C. CoffeyDepartments and Columns
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Research and Industry News
Real-time 3-D physiological imaging; LIBS on a floating droplet; exploring current-carrying bacteria; flexible membrane lasers; using plasmonic loss to gain functionality; lidar market growth; OIDA Executive Forum investigates VR/AR.
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Robot Ready
Preparing for an AI and robotic future requires investments in education and innovation. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has compiled an Automation Readiness Index—a 25-country comparison of government-led efforts to shape outcomes of technological progress. Here’s a look at a few of EIU’s findings, and some observations from the consulting firm McKinsey & Co. (For more on the rise of the robot, check out this month’s feature articles.)
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The Current Landscape of Free-Space Optical Networks
OPN talks with a U.S. Naval Research Laboratory senior research engineer about the potential applications for free-space optics technology, as well as the stumbling blocks that still remain.
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Optical Careers in Robotics and AI
How does one leverage an optical background into a job in these thriving, rapidly evolving industries?
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How Optics Enables AI
Co-designing optics and AI technologies for optics-enabled applications is an exciting new prospect.
![](https://opn-web-afd-d3bfbkd5bcc5asbs.z02.azurefd.net/opn/media/images/articles/2018/1807/departments/idl-thumb.jpg?t=638452538654074828)
When Art Met Science
OSA celebrated IDL 2018 by co-sponsoring an immersive art exhibit.
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Also in this Issue
Advancing Core Values
30, 20, and 10 Years Ago in OPN
News from the Society
Kicking off the IDL; Women in Photonics workshop; OSA Fellow Member stories; honors to four Fellows; Carol Monaghan is 2018 Advocate of Optics; thank you, editors and volunteers.