Inspecting the bridge from the air and under water using a drone

Specialists from Stanford invented and developed a universal assistant robot, which in emergency situations can help in finding the victims. By its appearance, the robot resembles the likeness of a snake and can quickly, deftly, and flexibly overcome obstacles on the way to the target. This robot is equipped with a camera, and also, it is able to move objects and even supply water to those who are trapped.

The assistant robot is made of sealed soft plastic, a camera is attached at one end, and a pump is attached at the other. When turned on, it starts to move, increasing in length - up to 72 meters, and to shoot on video everything in its path. The movement of such a device is similar to the behavior of plants. The robot goes through turns when one of the sides is inflated more than the other. The orientation of the movement is regulated, but at the same time, the robot itself can decide where it is better to move.

University inventors staged a series of tests for their creation. The robot passed through glue, dense rows of nails, Velcro, climbed an ice wall, passed through cracks that were smaller than himself, and was even able to lift a suitcase weighing 70 kilograms, which blocked the way. Of course, after such tests, the robotic assistant was slightly damaged in the form of punctures, but this did not affect its functionality in any way. According to the test results, it was shown that an unusual robot can be useful not only in the search for victims, but also in operations to eliminate the consequences of a disaster, and even during a surgical operation.

To create a prototype, inexpensive plastic was used. When all tests are completed, more durable material will be used for the next model, one of the options is Kevlar, and liquid will be used to fill the robot instead of air. This will help the robot further deal with fires or provide water to those who are under the rubble.