Design of a portable snake-like search and rescue apparatus used in the gap

In this paper, a portable snake-like search and rescue apparatus is developed, which can search and rescue in gap of ruin formed by natural disasters through the life detectors, night video imaging device and other electronic equipment fixed on its tip. It can also provide supplies for survivors under debris. The apparatus consists of two parts, namely the flexible arm and integrated control platform. The flexible arm is divided into detection unit, direction control unit, flexible hollow segments and quick connector. Furthermore, some field experiments proved that the search and rescue apparatus used in gap has perfect performances of direction control and adaptability under different conditions. It is of foundation for the apparatus applying to actual disaster site.