Robot Design Challenge Earthquakes What are the hazards ? How will I find people? How will I help them? How will I transport them? How will I tell others where they are?

Robot Design Challenge

Earthquakes An earthquake (also known as a quake, tremor or temblor) is the result of a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves. It occurs usually where two earth plates meet.   They are measured on the Richter scale. A scale of 3 is hardly perceptible whilst an earthquake of 7 causes severe damage. The largest ever recorded earthquake was at level 9. Earthquakes can also be accompanied by tidal waves which can cause more damage.

Damage Earthquakes shake the foundations of buildings sometimes opening great rifts in the earth. Buildings which are not built to withstand earthquakes invariably collapse causing loss of life. People are often caught in collapsed buildings and need to be dug out. There is a critical time period of 3 days after an earthquake to find people.

Danger of Recovery The buildings are often half collapsed and they may further collapse if items are moved. It is very hard to locate people who are buried under rubble.

Injuries The injuries sustained in earthquakes are broken limbs and cuts. Internal bleeding is also very common for victims.

Difficulties Recovery is difficult due to the fragility of the buildings. Extra supports are often needed to be installed as areas are dug up. The rubble often hides the body heat of victims and makes it harder to find. The ability to pick up sound is an important means of finding people who are stuck under buildings.