SENTINEL: AI Robot for Post Wildfire Mop Up Operations

Designed by: Wonjin Lee, Mokwon University

Wildfire control continues long after the flames are out. The mop up phase, which involves detecting and eliminating hidden embers, is essential to prevent re ignition and new flare ups. SENTINEL is a next generation physical AI robot created to perform this critical task with precision, safety, and autonomy.

Built with a quadrupedal structure, SENTINEL is designed to move steadily across uneven and mountainous terrain, reaching areas that are often difficult or unsafe for humans. It uses a thermal imaging camera and an AI based active vision system to detect embers hidden beneath leaves or soil while analyzing the landscape to plan its route intelligently.

During operation, SENTINEL’s front legs transform into rake and shovel tools, allowing it to clear surface layers, expose hidden embers, and extinguish them using its integrated water system.

By automating one of the most dangerous and physically demanding stages of firefighting, SENTINEL reduces risk to personnel and improves the speed and accuracy of post fire recovery. It shows how robotics and intelligent design can strengthen disaster response and environmental protection efforts.