Futureproof: Autonomous Rescue Crew Members
Future Narrative
This was a bad one. After working on earthquakes for 30 years worldwide, the big one hit Los Angeles this month. Thank God we had help from “DANNO,” or Disaster Assistant Non-Native Operator, and the other autonomous search and rescue members. Their strength is remarkable, and their sensors are invaluable. They have saved so many lives. They hear and see using acoustic, IR, thermal, and other high-resolution visual hardware. Once they find someone, it's incredible how they articulate and maneuver into small spaces to shore things up so we can reach them. DANNO has experienced five significant earthquakes. We have noticed him taking more breaks lately due to reduced on-board power stores, so the department is considering retiring him with merit. He will still come in handy around our HQ, fixing vehicles and the like, and he knows all our favorite recipes.
Technology
AI-enabled semi-autonomous mobility sensors, full vision camera array including thermal sensors, acoustic sensor array including heartbeat sensors, air quality measurement, and alert system, onboard structural analysis AI synthesis, hydraulic lift capability. Diamond blade cutter, spot fire suppression system, emergency rescue communications package, and geo-positioning system.
Implications
How will human-robot partnerships evolve?
What rights will android and assistive robotic systems have?
How will these systems function in ways that are emotionally intuitive to humans, such as using body language or other non-verbal ways of communicating?
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.