MIT and Notre Dame Develop ‘Sprout’ Robot to Aid Disaster Rescues
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the University of Notre Dame have developed a new robot named Sprout to assist emergency responders in locating survivors trapped in rubble after disasters.
Sprout is a soft, flexible “vine robot” that can grow, twist, and maneuver through tight spaces and debris. Designed to operate in areas where traditional rescue tools fall short, Sprout helps emergency teams map environments, locate survivors, and navigate collapsed structures more efficiently.
Made from inflatable, airtight fabric, Sprout unfurls from a fixed base and is powered by a motor. Equipped with cameras and sensors, it transmits live visuals and data to operators, who control the robot using a joystick interface.
Sprout can currently extend up to 10 feet, with ongoing improvements aimed at increasing its reach and durability. The robot was tested at the Massachusetts Task Force 1 training site, where feedback helped the team enhance its portability and steering precision.
MIT says the technology may eventually be used in maintaining military systems or accessing hard-to-reach areas in critical infrastructure. Future developments aim to expand its use to hazard detection and operational safety assessments in disaster zones.
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