RoBoa Slinks Through Disaster Areas that are Too Perilous for Other Robots

When disaster strikes, drones and robots can search for survivors in dangerous zones. The student team at ETH Zurich designed the RoBoa to slither through debris that would stop other robots.

Developed at the Autonomous Systems Lab, RoBoa aids rescue teams in disaster and war zones. Its snake-like movement allows it to navigate rubble while using its sensor-equipped head to locate trapped survivors.

The robot features an inflatable fabric tube connected to a supply box that provides pressurized air and houses electronics and additional tubing. This machine is controlled remotely via a live camera feed. The latest prototype upgrades its pneumatic tubing from 10 meters to 100 meters, and its diameter can be adjusted to meet specific mission needs.

RoBoa: A Versatile Rescue Robot for Communication, Supply Delivery, and Hazardous Environments

This machine can also communicate with survivors through a speaker/microphone and potentially deliver supplies such as food, water, and medicine. Beyond rescue, its head can be configured for tasks like inspection, environmental monitoring, and mapping. This machine handles dirty or slippery surfaces and is safer in environments where sparks may cause explosions.

This student project has evolved into a startup, with commercial release on the horizon thanks to an ETH Pioneer Fellowship award. The team will present the RoBoa at ETH Zurich’s Industry Day 2024 on November 21.

Read Original Article: New Atlas

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