The 2009 IEEE International Workshop on Safety, Security, and Rescue Robotics is dedicated to identifying and solving the key issues necessary to field capable robots across a variety of challenging applications. This seventh workshop in the series will address both the research challenges posed by search and rescue scenarios and the design of deployable robotic systems that satisfy user-defined requirements. It will create a unique opportunity for development and exchange of research ideas and technical solutions. As always, emergency responders and other expected users will be involved in presentations and discussions to ensure the practical relevance of technology developments for actual usage.
Topics for papers and demonstrations, include:

Robot performance requirements and technical solutions for applications of SSRR (urban search and rescue, CBRN hazard detection/mitigation, explosive ordinance disposal, physical security, surveillance, etc)
Locomotion for ground, aerial, aquatic, indoor, and collapsed structures
Perception for navigation, hazard detection, and victim identification
Mapping of complex environments (2-D, 3-D, GIS integration, etc)
Manipulation capabilities (hazards, payloads, obstacles, doors, etc)
Communications for reliable data transfer (tether management, radio, etc)
Intelligent behaviors to improve robot performance and survivability
Human-robot interfaces for improved remote situational awareness
Autonomous search and exploration
Multi-robot teams and mixed human-robot teams
Training methods and other personnel issues
Safety standards of robots and systems
Evaluation and performance metric of robotic systems
Emerging technologies (sensors, power sources, micro robots, etc)
Emergency management issues related to robotics
Mechanisms, Mechatronics, and Embedded Control