Dept/Center/Lab: Humanitarian Technology (HUT) Labs
The WIR is an innovative tele-operated mobile robot designed for search and inspection. Its multi-terrain driving capability, featuring a track belt between the wheels, allows it to navigate various surfaces, including stairs, oily areas, and rocky terrains. Equipped with a side-attached flipper mechanism, the SAR can overcome obstacles, ensuring stability and maneuverability. The robot integrates advanced sensors for comprehensive external inspections, effectively detecting issues such as cracks, corrosion, and missing rivets, with a focus on hard-to-reach areas like the belly of aircraft. By reducing the need for personnel to enter hazardous zones, the SAR enhances safety and efficiency in maintenance processes while providing real-time data and imagery for immediate analysis and decision-making. Overall, the SAR significantly improves inspection technology.