Researchers from MIT and the University of Notre Dame developed SPROUT — a soft inflatable mechanism designed to search for people under rubble. It can extend up to three meters and is controlled remotely using a joystick. A camera and sensors at the end of the device let it explore debris without risking harm to people or the structure.
One of the key tasks was to make SPROUT inexpensive, easy to operate, and resistant to damage. Its flexible structure allows it to enter hard-to-reach areas safely, going around obstacles.
The new approach using soft materials makes SPROUT unique and useful not only for rescue operations, but also for inspecting complex objects.
