Measuring the performance of urban search and rescue robots

The Department of Homeland Security is sponsoring development of standards for urban search and rescue (USAR) robots. This program is being coordinated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and will result in consensus standards developed through ASTM International. Robot deployment categories and performance requirements have been identified by emergency responders, These requirements are being translated into tests and metrics with which to measure the performance of robots. Several test methods have been entered into the standards process. Three major exercises have been held at US&R training facilities, in which responders work side-by-side with robot manufacturers to experiment with robot deployments in relevant scenarios and to refine and expand performance requirements. To date, over forty robots, including ground, aerial, and aquatic, have been involved. Supporting projects are developing an ontology of robot capabilities and situational constraints. In general, these efforts will enable responders to enhance their effectiveness while reducing risk to personnel during disasters through use of robotic assets.