Dragon Firefighter: A Rugged Robotic Solution for Fire Suppression
Researchers from Osaka University and Tohoku University have crafted a robotic platform aimed at dousing fires with precision and reach. The device is a four meter-long fire hose that rises into the air through a system of high pressure water jets. The project, detailed in a peer reviewed publication, highlights teamwork between leading Japanese institutions to push what is possible in autonomous firefighting technology.
The unit, nicknamed Dragon Firefighter, can ascend to an altitude of roughly two meters and morph its form to target hot spots more effectively. Water is expelled through multiple nozzles at a rate of 6.6 liters every second, under pressures reaching one megapascal. It draws supply from a large onboard tank with a capacity of about 14 thousand liters via a dedicated feed line. Onboard imaging includes both conventional cameras and thermal sensors to detect flames and guide operations. The system is positioned to support rescue teams in hazardous environments where human access is limited or unsafe.
During testing, the authors identified and addressed several design issues, including how to manage vibrations that occur as the dragon-inspired mechanism operates. They also noted that the protective covering for the water hose and electrical lines showed susceptibility to heat, with the potential to deform under flame exposure. These insights informed iterative improvements to enhance robustness in real world conditions.
Looking ahead, the researchers anticipate expanding the system’s maneuverability to achieve a ten meter range and broadening the scenarios where such robots can assist fire services. They project that a staged introduction could begin within a decade, particularly in urban settings or industrial sites where traditional firefighting approaches face significant constraints. Earlier work in the field has explored forest fire detection using radar and related sensing technologies, illustrating a broader move toward automated solutions for early flame detection and rapid response.