The ultimate sacrifice of 104 firefighters at the August 12, 2015, Tianjin explosions and the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina call for the development of rescue robots as first responders. ^{1 ,} Reference Boyette ² Robots can be designed to combat fires, contain chemicals, rescue citizens, and perform other dangerous tasks. During disasters, the appropriate use of rescue robots could save lives.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Robotics Challenge (DRC) is an international competition that encourages the development of robots for performing rescue tasks in disaster zones. Some key elements of rescue robots that need further improvement are the ability to act autonomously, the mode and reliability of remote operation, the limitations of power cords, the ability to get in and out of vehicles, and dexterity that does not compromise robustness, strength, mobility, and balance.Reference Rosen ³

Because disaster relief tasks require operating equipment and maneuvering in buildings designed for humans, most rescue robots have human-like outlook and functionalities. Atlas is a DARPA-funded project to develop humanoid robots to serve in combat fields and operate in tough terrain with minimal guidance from remote human operators.Reference Feng, Xinjilefu, Atkeson and Kim ⁴ SAFFiR,Reference Kim and Lattimer ⁵ a humanoid robot that functions as a firefighter, can operate fire-suppressing equipment, see through smoke, and navigate passageways, ladders, and hatches of a ship even when the ocean is rough. The remote control and communication capability of rescue robots ensure the safety of human operators and open the possibility of crowdsourcing—an effort employed in the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370.

Existing robot technology is promising for disaster relief. Collaboration between researchers and the industry could bridge the gap between the theoretical and practical side of rescue robot technology, lending to designs optimized for manufacturing and cost-effectiveness. Robotic responders with the required qualities to operate in disaster environments will provide invaluable assistance to rescue efforts.