In disasters, rapid information gathering is important. However, a compromised or contaminated building’s infrastructure could be very dangerous for human rescue crews. Therefore, a group of researchers from various institutions has developed a rescue robot called QUINCE.
It is used to gather information on rescue procedures in the event of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear disasters (CBRNE). These include chemical leaks in underground malls and high-rise buildings, as well as terrorist attacks.
Quince’s robotic end effector performs a variety of tasks. Following an earthquake, a robotic arm can turn doorknobs, move through rubble piles, and carry vital survival items.
Since 2006, NEDO has conducted research and development on advanced robotic components to achieve this accomplishment.
The newly developed QUINCE scours hazardous underground malls at high speed to pinpoint potential victims and provide remote information during disasters.
Quince Robot Specifications
- Payload: 20kg
- Battery: lithium-ion battery
- Sensors: PTZ camera, birds eye camera
- Height: 110 cm
- Length: 110 cm
- Width: 48
- Weight: 45 kg
- Speed: 5.76 km/h
How is the Quince robot taught to perform its task?
Electronic remote control is used to operate the Quince rescue robot. The robot can be controlled by a person who is able to view the recorded information.
Quince robot functions
The purpose of this robot is to explore buildings in order to find out if there are any hazardous gases, radiation, or other dangers. Before human rescue teams arrive, the Quince searches the area.
The robot simulates a rescue team’s functions but can retrieve valuable information from areas inaccessible to humans. This robot is equipped with two sensors, both of which are position-sensitive detectors (PSD).
The sensors measure the distance to the ground. The carbon dioxide sensor can detect body heat and breathing to help locate survivors.
Importance of Quince Robot in Surveying Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant
During March 11, 2011, east Japan earthquake, Quince inspected the inside of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
As a nuclear power plant operator, Quince has photographed structures, created radiation dose maps, and sampled radioactive materials.
As a result, it has helped to reduce the radiation dose to on-site workers as well as shorten the duration of the work day.
Pros and Cons of Quince Robot
- Advantages
Quince is capable of finding people in tight spaces, navigating obstacles, and climbing rubble. It is capable of saving lives in disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, etc.
- Disadvantages
If they are lost, they can be difficult to locate. Additionally, if it is located in a cave, it may be crushed. In addition, they are extremely expensive, and losing them could result in losses ranging from 50 to 150 thousand dollars.
Quince Robot Impact
This robot has a profound effect on the audience that it is targeting. The robot is capable of supplying important information from hazardous areas that are inaccessible to humans.
Conclusion
In short, making the Quince rescue robot is a big step toward improving how people respond to disasters. It can save a lot of lives because it can go into dangerous areas and get important information in situations like CBRNE disasters.
Its successful deployment during the Fukushima Daiichi inspection demonstrates its effectiveness. However, like any technology, the Quince robot also has its limitations and challenges, such as its high cost and risk of loss.
Nevertheless, disaster response teams depend on it, and its continued development and deployment will undoubtedly save more lives.