Multiple Breeds: Sensors/Sites

The central function of each feral is to seek out sources of environmental toxins. Different sources of toxins emit specific materials, which are visible using a range of electronic sensors. For example the ferals have been equipped for a release at the English power station in NH, where we expect to encounter high concentrations of, Co2, Co, and organic solvents as a result of coal burning power generation. The sensors that the dogs are fitted with for this release are sensitive only to these materials.

Type One: Stereo Sensing: Cloud: The crux from a prototype standpoint is integrating real world data collected by these sensors with the mechanics of the feral, allowing the dog to move closer to the source of the material. For this purpose each feral has two symmetrically opposite sensors enabling the dog to gather two independent values simultaneously. From this data the feral can compare these levels and determine the direction of the source. Next, this determination is passed to the mechanics moving the feral closer the source of the material.

Type Two: Directional Sensing: Particulate: The ferals have also been modified to enable the use of one sensor, as is the case with the dogs that are equipped to sense terrestrial radioactivity. In this model the sensor is attached to the dog’s head, which is scanning from side to side. Direction of the source is then determined again by making a comparison of levels from each side. In order to use this model, the sensor must be highly directional, i.e. it must see only what is directly in front of it.

This point is the determining factor between which of strategies to use, if the specifically chosen sensor can’ tbe made directional than the dog needs two sensors. The configuration of the sensors is specific to the material that is being sensed.