The robotic rat that could save lives

SCIENTISTS have unveiled a pioneering robotic rat that could be used to search through rubble and burning buildings for survivors – using only its whiskers.

The Scratchbot uses latest state-of-the-art technology to hunt through pitch black or smoke-filled rooms by relying solely on touch sensors located on a set of whiskers.

It could have massive implications in search and rescue missions by picking its way through rubble and debris or help in mine-clearing operations.

Researchers from the University of Bristol and University of Sheffield have spent six years and £500,000 painstakingly researching and designing the robotic rat, which could revolutionise rescue missions.

The project was inspired by the use of touch in the animal kingdom – specifically how rats explore their environments using whiskers in poorly-lit places. The rodents can determine the texture, position and shape of objects using rhythmic sweeping movements of their whiskers.