Scientists at the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) are developing snake-like technology in an effort to create robotic snakes for search-and-rescue missions.
The project, known as the robotic tentacle manipulator involves arranging a group of snakes in a circular array that function like a team to manipulate an object, scan a room or handle improvised explosive devices.
Go deeper with GlobalData
A snake-robot can be built as a large or small subsystem to a larger platform like iRobot‘s rugged system Warrior, which travels over rough terrain and climbs stairs.
The number of tentacles determines the scope of its search capabilities as well as its ability to crawl, swim, climb or shimmy through narrow spaces while transmitting images to the operator.
The amphibious snake will be equipped with a large-screen laptop as a simple user interface and sophisticated electronic sensors including laser detection and ranging to provide 3D representations and physical properties like faces, mass and centre of mass.
See Also:
ARL scientist Derek Scherer said the technology is leading to more than just the very tip of the snake being used in the object manipulation effect.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalData“Touch sensitivity allows the platform to lift and reposition objects, including IEDs, for examination, and do so in a controlled fashion that is unlikely to detonate any ordnance,” he said.
Hardware of the snake robot includes a master controller system to direct each 24cm tentacle and communicate with the embedded motors in the tentacles.
