A high-performance robot for earthquake search and rescue—developed through a five-year collaboration between Chinese and American universities—has recently been unveiled. It is expected to revolutionize rescue operations in confined spaces following earthquakes.

Researchers from Yale University explained that the project aimed to overcome limitations in existing rescue technologies, such as poor obstacle navigation, limited data collection capabilities, and slow movement speeds. Powered by edge computing technology, the robot can capture and transmit 2D and 3D mapping data from depth cameras and radar, along with infrared human-detection signals. This provides critical real-time information for rescue teams while enabling communication with trapped survivors and the delivery of essential supplies.

According to team members from Guizhou University, the core breakthrough of the innovation lies in its powertrain system. Their proprietary composite power system features a rotational mechanism that connects two independent units, allowing the robot to lift its “feet” and demonstrate exceptional load capacity. The robot’s “life mapping system” can generate detailed 3D models of disaster zones, significantly improving the efficiency of search and rescue operations.

Moving forward, the team plans to continue refining the robot’s agility and safety performance in extremely narrow environments, leveraging cutting-edge technology to save more lives in future disaster scenarios.