Robotic-Remote Operated Sensing Device for U.S. Coast Guard

Abstract

This report describes a research program to evaluate if any state-of-the-art robotics technology is applicable to a hazardous- response robot for the Coast Guard. In general, little is known about the conditions facing a Coast Guard Strike Team when a chemical spill is initially encountered. This makes reconnaissance work both important and extremely hazardous. One way to reduce some of the risks facing the strike teams would be to first dispatch a reconnaissance robot to gather data and record images of the hazardous area. After the reconnaissance robot has completed its mission, the strike team would have images of the site and other relevant data to examine. Proper decisions with respect to safety and procedure will be easier for them to make when they are armed with data. The emphases of CMU's effort are to understand strike team procedures and to review state-of- the-art robotics technology. A conceptual design of a strike team reconnaissance robot will be synthesized from the available information. The major goal of this project is to produce a conceptual design of a robotic system capable of reducing risks to the health and safety of strike team personnel.