Development of a continuum robot enhanced with distributed sensors for search and rescue

Abstract Continuum robots can enter narrow spaces and are useful for search rescue missions in disaster sites. The exploration efficiency at sites improves if the simultaneously acquire several pieces of information. However, a continuum robot that information to such an extent has not yet been designed. This is because attaching multiple sensors without compromising its body flexibility challenging. In this study, we installed small distributed manner develop continuum-robot system with information-gathering functions. addition, field experiment demonstrated gathered potential improve searching efficiency. Concretely, developed active scope camera sensory functions, which was equipped total 80 sensors, as inertial measurement units, microphones, speakers, vibration sensors. Herein, consider space-saving, noise reduction, ease maintenance designing robot. communicate all attached even it bent minimum bending radius 250 mm. We also operation interface integrates search-support technologies using via survivor procedure simulated rubble environment Fukushima Robot Test Field. confirmed provided through finding survivors. limitations designed discussed. development system, great applications, extends application management will benefit community large.