Soft Pathfinding Robotic Observation Unit (SPROUT) for Rescue Missions

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
SPROUT is a soft, vine-like robot developed by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and the University of Notre Dame to aid in safe survivor rescues in collapsed buildings. It can navigate tight spaces and map collapsed structures, providing a safer and more adaptable solution for search-and-rescue operations.

Key Points

  • SPROUT is a soft, vine-like robot developed by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and the University of Notre Dame
  • Designed to aid in safe survivor rescues in collapsed buildings by navigating tight spaces and mapping structures
  • Offers a safer, faster, and more adaptable solution compared to traditional search-and-rescue gear

Pros

  • Flexible design allows SPROUT to navigate tight, winding spaces in collapsed buildings
  • Provides a safer, faster, and more adaptable solution for search-and-rescue operations
  • Can extend up to 10 feet with plans for future versions to reach beyond 25 feet

Cons

  • Current models limited in range, requiring multiple robots for covering larger areas