Using Robotics to Tackle Water and Flooding Challenges – Online Workshop

Flooding is one of the costliest natural disasters globally. In 2021 alone, flood-related disasters caused around $82 billion in economic losses worldwide, according to Munich Re, an international reinsurance company.

Between 2000 and 2019, there were 4,500 flood disasters worldwide, making it the most frequent type of natural disaster, as reported by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

This interactive workshop is co-organized by Innovation Booster Robotics et DroneTalks and will explore the powerful role robotics can play in addressing the growing challenges posed by water-related disasters, particularly flooding. Participants will dive into discussions on how drones, autonomous surface vehicles, and underwater robots can enhance our ability to detect, monitor, and respond to flood events in real-time.

As part of the Swiss Innovation Booster’s initiative, participants will have the chance to listen to the problem statement from speakers and develop potential solutions in breakout rooms during this interactive workshop.

The below questions will be thought through and can be discussed during the session:

• How can robotics (e.g., drones, autonomous surface or underwater vehicles) be used to improve flood detection and provide real-time monitoring?
• How can robots support rescue operations, especially in areas that are hard to access or where human intervention is too risky? What types of robotics (e.g., aerial, ground, aquatic) are most suitable for aiding in search-and-rescue efforts during floods?
• How can robots be used to assess structural damage to buildings, bridges, and roads post-flood?
• How can robots be used to detect and monitor contamination levels in floodwater, such as pollutants or hazardous materials?
• Can robots support temporary flood barrier deployment or other emergency infrastructure repairs? How can robotics be used to assess and repair damaged flood prevention structures, such as levees and dams?
• How could robotics contribute to flood prevention, such as maintaining natural drainage systems or dredging channels?
• Can a multi-robot system enhance resource allocation, task prioritization, and efficiency in flood response?

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While participation is free, registration is required. Use this link to register: 

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k8ai8SSbQpChtrKeqw-UQQ