Monday, October 28, 2013

Robotic boat designed to view and assess disaster zones

University of Hawaii researchers have engineered a robotic boat designed to view and assess disaster zones before rescuers and other emergency personnel.

It has the ability detect chemical leaks and let response crews know what to expect when they venture into a harbor or port. It also feeds video and photos.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports the boat uses sonar and other technologies to map ports and harbors, which may help after tsunami or other catastrophes.

"This is the robot that goes in before the people, to keep the people safe," said Margo Edwards, senior research scientist with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology.

The 160-pound vessel — called an Unmanned Port Security Vessel — is 6 feet long and more than 4 feet wide so it can be quickly deployed in an emergency, said Brian Bingham, a mechanical engineering professor who developed the robotic vessel with a team of UH students.

For more of the Bradenton story: bradenton.com

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