The robotic ‘snake’ that could enhance earthquake rescue
When thinking of a robot, a slinky snake might not immediately spring to mind. But researchers at ETH Zurich have invented just that. ‘RoBoa’ is a soft robot snake made of fabric, which is driven by pressurised air to reach 17 metres long. Its softness allows it to squeeze into tight spaces, plus with features like a water supply tube and a camera on its head, it could make a potentially brilliant aid in search and rescue operations after earthquakes.
From CrowdScience programme: Can robots be soft?
Presenter: Alex Lathbridge
Researchers: Pascal Auf der Maur, Betim Djambazi, Alexander Kübler
Producer: Julia Ravey
(Image: RoBoa in action on a rooftop in Zurich. Credit: Julia Ravey)
Duration:
This clip is from
More clips from CrowdScience
-
![]()
What if the Moon didn’t exist?
Duration: 02:24
-
![]()
A meeting with the ‘chilli queen’
Duration: 02:19
-
![]()
How do you identify an optimistic crow?
Duration: 02:32
-
![]()
Why do bats live so long?
Duration: 02:40
