HADES: An underground mine disaster scouting robot

Abstract

Despite increased safety and improved technology in the mining industry, fatal disasters still occur. Robots have the potential to be an invaluable resource to search and rescue teams, but have demonstrated limited success. Of all robot deployments in underground mine disasters, 75% have failed. This necessitates advancement in the field in order to increase the success rate. Identified through literature, the three primary concerns are: unreliable locomotion systems, severed tethers and lack of consideration for underground mine environments. Our robotic system addresses these issues with a unique chassis and novel locomotion system, along with a wireless mesh network and dedicated environmental design techniques.