# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Participants discussed advanced robotics, noting that force control and visual feedback systems (like those in Rethink Robotics' Baxter robot) are more effective than traditional position-based control, with the insight that designing objects with "potential wells" can simplify robotic assembly.

• A DIY genetic modification project called "TALE@home toolkit" was proposed, aiming to use TALEN technology for modifying genes like FOXO3A in home settings, with detailed discussion of equipment requirements (estimated at $5,000) including laminar flow hoods, CO2 incubators, and centrifuges.

• The group identified significant barriers to DIY biology, particularly the difficulty for individuals to obtain cell culture media and fetal bovine serum without institutional affiliations, along with regulatory challenges in countries like France where genetic modification is heavily restricted.

• A paper on Device Human Resolution was shared, revealing that humans cannot achieve precision below 0.01mm without significantly increased time, which has implications for human-machine interface design.

• Knowledge-based engineering software for automated building design was discussed, highlighting how constraint satisfaction algorithms can optimize placement of rooms, doors, windows, and plumbing for manufacturability.

• The VIM Clutch project (a hardware pedal for switching between VIM editor modes) was shared, demonstrating practical hardware-software integration for productivity enhancement.

• Participants debated approaches to molecular nanotechnology, suggesting that starting with macro-scale replicators and scaling down might be more practical than beginning at the nano scale.