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2020-10-13

Milrem Robotics’ UGV Plays a Key Role in Search and Rescue

The Estonian Disaster Relief Team (EDRT) recently utilised Milrem Robotics’ Multiscope Rescue unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) during an urban search and rescue (USAR) exercise. The UGV was used to transport rescue equipment of two USAR units to the operation area allowing members of the unit to conserve energy and reach survivors quicker.

“In real life urban search and rescue operations such as earthquakes, we use buses or vans to get our equipment to where it is needed. However, it is quite difficult to reach the exact point where you will use the gear with a bus due to narrow passages. A UGV of this size could get closer to where we need the equipment, hence we do not have to spare two people to carry things and they can use that time and energy to actually rescue,” explained Ivar Frantsuzov, an Estonian Rescue Board expert.

The Multiscope UGV is built to carry a maximum payload of 1,200 kg and can additionally be used for clearing the cave-in area of debris usually consistent of heavy concrete blocks – a task typically done by hand.

“Also, medics found that the UGV is of optimal height to administer first aid to the wounded on a stretcher attached on top of one of the UGVs track modules instead of providing it in the dirt and rubble,” Frantsuzov said, and added that the low noise signature of the UGV also comes in handy.

During future exercises, the EDRT wants to test the UGV during rope rescue using the vehicle as an anchor point. “The UGV could also be equipped with gas detectors to determine if the area is safe for the USAR units,” he added.

Flexible Solution

The Multiscope UGV combines know-how collected from extensive testing of the THeMIS during military exercises in harsh environments and provides faster, cost-effective and flexible solutions for civil engineering, security and especially fire and rescue applications. The Multiscope is ideal for industries that wish to eliminate the physical risk to their workforce and want to benefit from automating processes.

The modular platform is able to withstand harsh conditions and can reach areas that are difficult to reach with larger vehicles or too dangerous for firefighters and rescue services. Its functionality can be modified onsite, which widens the use of the platform.

The Multiscope can be remotely operated from a safe distance using the camera feed to see where the vehicle is going, or the operator can move with the vehicle in safer areas.

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