Dogs, seismic sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and thermal imaging represent a few of the existing innovations in survivor detection. 

Helping stranded people still often requires digging or breaching, which takes time. These phases of search and rescue are frequently the slowest, which highlights the need for improvement.

C.O.B.R.A. (Changeable Operations Breaching and Rescue Automaton) is a project I worked on as part of a 3-person team.

The idea grew out of the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Florida, which killed close to 100 people. 

Rescue efforts there relied on heavy equipment like cranes and excavators. Current search and rescue technology can still delay first responders once that equipment is involved.

• Oxygen hose(s) that extend effectively into major void spaces

• High durability against debris, including cut-resistant hoses

• Ability to navigate complex, narrow collapse zones

• Delivery of oxygen-enriched air to victims trapped in debris, built for use by firefighters

The final design centers on a set of motor-controlled tubes that push into collapse zones and deliver air. 

• A compressor inflates the driving tubes and supplies the breathable air tube

• A manifold splits air into 5 directions

• 3 motor-controlled valves manage airflow into the driving tubes

• 3 internal casings wrap and store the driving tubes

• 3 driving tubes reach into the voids

• A face piece holds the tubes together, allows steering, and houses the electronics

• Electronics mounted on the face give the operator a view into the wreckage

• A base holds the tubes and casing

• All 6 motors achieved the required 90-degree rotation to control the valves during the electronic functionality test.

• The camera gave consistent, reliable video streaming from the device to the operator.

• General mobility testing showed partial success. The tubes inflated and began moving, but couldn't redirect once a direction change was needed.