School project becomes US Air Force robot to defuse deadly bombs

A school project developed by former Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Trombone has evolved into a promising robotic system to aid explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams in safely defusing some of the world’s most dangerous bombs. While completing his electronics engineering degree at the University of Arkansas, Grantham, Trombone identified a key challenge faced by EOD operators: difficulty judging depth and distance when controlling bomb-disposal robots through flat, two-dimensional video feeds. To address this, he designed a low-cost, fixed visual reference system that enhances depth perception without requiring additional sensors or complex processing. Built initially with hobby-grade parts and mounted using simple clamps and tape, the prototype significantly improved operators’ ability to handle tasks more precisely. Recognizing the potential beyond the classroom, Trombone partnered with Tech. Sgt. Matt Ruben to refine the design and sought support through the Air Force’s AFWERX Refinery innovation accelerator. This collaboration secured funding, engineering expertise, and industry outreach coordinated by the Wright Brothers Institute,