Researchers are working on software to allow small robots to coordinate their actions, carry out commands from a single human operator, or take directions from a larger, smarter robot when performing complex tasks such as emergency rescue work.

The team is working on tiny robots called Scouts, equipped with a video camera, three infrared range finders, two light sensors and a pyroelectric sensor (for sensing body heat) — plus a two-way, secure remote-control system.

An emergency-response robot “dream team” might include a dozen or more Scouts with a combination of sensing devices. The team would be led by a MegaScout, a 15-inch-long sibling of the Scout that can carry larger sensors, a manipulator arm (for opening doors, lifting smaller Scouts and similar tasks) and the processing power to control the Scout team in the field. The robotic team leader could coordinate the smaller robots, perform more complex tasks and report back to a human operator.