Biomechatronics and Collaborative Robotics

Join us at the European Robotics Week for a captivating and informative event open to the general public, hosted by the Biomechatronics and Collaborative Robotics research group at the Top Research Centre Mechatronics (TRCM), University of Agder (UiA), Norway. We are excited to present two remarkable demos that showcase the future of robotics in life-saving scenarios.

Demo 1: Collaborative Robots (Cobots) for Emergency Situations
Imagine a world where robots are not just tools but trusted team members, especially in unpredictable and high-risk environments like disaster zones and emergency situations. In this demonstration, we explore the potential of Collaborative Robots (Cobots) as indispensable partners in delivering first aid during emergencies. A snake robot, equipped with exceptional prehensile capabilities, works alongside first responders and potential victims to provide critical assistance.

The snake robot receives vital information, such as site planimetry and the location of the person to be rescued. It also retrieves specific aid objects to deliver to those in need. With precision and agility, the snake robot navigates treacherous terrain, grasps the necessary items, reaches the delivery location, and releases the aid. To illustrate the effectiveness of this framework, we will showcase various case studies and simulation results, demonstrating how locomotion and grasping capabilities combine to save lives.

Demo 2: Hand Gesture-based Control of Quadruped Robot for Search and Rescue
In the context of search and rescue operations, we introduce an innovative project that deploys quadruped robots, equipped with advanced sensors and hardware, into hazardous environments. What sets this project apart is the integration of a real-time hand gesture recognition system, enabling rescue operators to remotely control the robot using intuitive hand gestures.

In disaster-stricken areas, where human rescuers face significant risks, this technology empowers a safer and more efficient approach. Using recognized hand gestures, operators can command the robot to stop, move forward, change direction, and more. The robot provides live video and sensor data to the rescue team, enhancing situational awareness. Multiple robots can be deployed simultaneously, each controlled by a different operator using hand gestures, facilitating a collaborative effort to cover a larger search area and improve the chances of finding survivors.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness cutting-edge robotics technology in action, designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of search and rescue missions in challenging and perilous environments. Join us at the European Robotics Week to be inspired by the potential of robotics in saving lives and making the world a safer place.