U.S. researchers are developing a remote-controlled robot designed to rescue injured or abducted soldiers without putting their comrades at risk. The prototype of the nearly 6-foot-tall Battlefield Extraction-Assist Robot, called Bear, can lift nearly 300 pounds with one arm, and its developer, Vecna Technologies of College Park, Md., is focusing on improving its two-legged lower body.
Tracks on its thighs and shins allow the robot to climb over rough terrain or up and down stairs while crouching or kneeling. Wheels at its hips, knees and feet allow it to switch to two wheels to travel over smooth surfaces while adopting a variety of positions.
The robot's humanoid body and teddy bear-style head give it a friendly appearance.
"A really important thing when you're dealing with casualties is trying to maintain that human touch," said Gary Gilbert of the U.S. Army's Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center, which provided the initial $1 million development funding. Congress has since added $1.1 million.
The robot can also load trucks and carry equipment.
Bear is expected to be ready for field testing within five years.
