SPIDAR: SPinneret for Inspection And Reconnaissance in Search and Rescue Applications

A new type of self-rappelling search-and-rescue robot, dubbed SPIDAR, is being developed and tested by Automatika, Inc. (AI) for use by first-responders. The project is being funded by DARPA (Defense Advanced Projects Agency) with the intent to transfer technologies from the military domain to the civilian firstresponder application markets. SPIDAR is built around a set of articulating body-sections, running a modular running-gear configuration (wheels, legs, tracks, etc.) to allow for maximum terrainability in chaotic collapsed urban structures. The on-board tether-system allows for continuous powering and real-time data/video feedback. The tether serves as a tensile member that allows for rappelling and winching the robot into and out of precipices and crevasses, with a range of up to 30 meters. The system is deployable and operable by a single person off a remote console. This paper describes the overall system design and prototype efforts to date, including testing on critical elements of the design. Future testing is envisioned with first responders to evaluate the prototype design and collect data for future improvements.