The project CURSOR DEMO: robot SMURF conducting underground searches to locate victims trapped in the collapsed structures allows the visitors to learn about the EU research project CURSOR and its outcomes. The ground robot SMURF (Soft Miniaturised Underground Robotic Finder) will be demonstrated on and under the rubble, the functionalities are explained. The visitors will have the opportunity to try out the navigation of the SMURF and monitor the data received from the robot. Other project outcomes (drone fleet, information management system, geophones) will be additionally explained.
The focus will be on the end users in the research, how the end users – researchers-tech developers collaboration is bringing the desired results and expected support in the disaster risk reduction.

【Reflection】
The CURSOR DEMO event showcased the innovative outcomes of the EU-funded research project CURSOR, with a particular focus on the ground robot SMURF (Soft Miniaturised Underground Robotic Finder). The demonstration provided visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the SMURF in action, as it conducted underground searches simulating real-life scenarios of locating victims trapped in collapsed structures.
A highlight of the event was the interactive element: visitors were able to navigate the SMURF themselves and monitor the data transmitted by the robot. This hands-on experience enhanced understanding of both the technical capabilities and the potential real-world impact of the technology. Additional project outcomes—including the drone fleet, the information management system, and geophones—were also presented, offering a comprehensive view of CURSOR’s multi-faceted approach to disaster risk reduction.
The emphasis on end-user involvement stood out as a central theme. The collaboration between researchers, technology developers, and practitioners demonstrated how user feedback and practical needs have shaped the project’s progress. This synergy ensures that the innovations are not only scientifically advanced but also practically relevant, increasing their likelihood of adoption in real disaster scenarios.
Overall, the event successfully communicated the value of EU research in disaster preparedness and response. The CURSOR project illustrates how interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technology can significantly strengthen disaster risk reduction efforts worldwide.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
• Research Partnership:
Japanese institutions, particularly Tohoku University, are integral to the CURSOR consortium. Tohoku University will be in charge of design and prototype hardware development of miniaturized robots SMURF for searching victims in debris cones on the basis of its past achievement of disaster robotics. The final target SMURF V2 will have superior mobility of drop/stop/move in confined space of rubbles by applying soft robotics, and have advanced sensors such as the sniffer developed by WP2, cameras, thermography, microphone, GPS, etc. for detecting living signals from victims. It will also develop a previous version SMURF V1 at the first stage for accelerating the whole project by providing a platform and for testing components.

• Funding and Testing:
The project receives funding from the European Union and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).

• Field Trials:
Japan has hosted real-world, large-scale field trials of the combined drone and SMURF system to test its effectiveness in disaster scenarios.