Specialists at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI have developed an experimental model of a robot capable of remotely collecting samples from potentially dangerous objects and analyzing them for the presence of explosives. The device was named "Polkan", referring to service dogs used for searching.
The complex is a mobile remotely controlled platform with a manipulator and a built-in analytical module. The operator brings the robot to a suspicious object, after which the mechanical arm takes a sample from its surface. The sample goes directly to the "Segment" device installed on board.
The analyzer, manufactured by the Yuzhpolimetall-holding group of companies, uses ion mobility spectrometry. The method allows determining substances in the sample under study and thereby detecting traces of explosives.
The robot also has another way to detect substances. The spectrometer can analyze the air near a suspicious object and detect volatile compounds. But low-volatile explosives may practically not evaporate and remain on the surface of the object. In this case, "Polkan" takes a physical sample with a manipulator, and the sapper gets the opportunity to conduct an inspection from a safe distance.
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