Robot mine detector. A prototype remote-controlled robot mine detector which can move over almost any terrain to trigger mines or traps ahead of troops. Invented in 1995 by Bill Battenburg of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, California, it moves on two 1.2-metre screw-like wheels that can carry it over rocks, mud and water, and up hills and stairs. When both screws turn in the same direction, it moves swiftly sideways; when the screws turn in opposite directions, it crawls forwards. It can also be fitted with cameras or other sensors and devices to disarm weapons, pull sniper fire, or sniff out toxins.