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| Sonar capabilities of dolphins inspire researchers to develop a mini radar device that could detect hidden electronic devices. (Picture from: http://www.newscientist.com/) |
Sonar capabilities of dolphins inspire researchers to develop a mini radar device that could detect hidden electronic devices, such as surveillance cameras or a bomb trigger.
As reported from New Scientist, Timothy Leighton, an acoustic engineer at the University of Southampton, England was inspired while watching the natural world shows. "Why are dolphin spitting bubbles from their blowholes burrow to coral fish?" he wondered. Surely, he thought, these "bubble nets" must reflect sonar clicks and wreck the dolphin's ability to locate their prey? "Even the best man-made sonar couldn't distinguish between the fish and bubbles," he says. "There had to be something else going on.
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| New radar system is based on unique sonar concept called twin inverted pulse sonar (TWIPS). (Picture from: http://www.robaid.com/) |
After experimenting with a variety of acoustic signals, he found that a large pulse followed by a small pulse can reflect sound waves. This is what makes dolphins can recognize, where fish (prey) and where bubbles. "We also made a sonar that works like this, try it in the sea, and success," said Leighton. New radar system is based on unique sonar concept called twin inverted pulse sonar (TWIPS).
However, he was not sure if that's the case how the dolphins to detect prey. Leighton then think, the same thing should be true for radio waves. So he made a radar prototype and test it. Apparently, his homemade mini radar (with a size of only two centimeters) and Leighton says it can be built for just €2, can distinguish a variety of materials.
"If you save a bomb in a plastic bag, bicycle tires, or canned beverages, this radar can detect objects with metal wires and semiconductors," he said. This radar can also be used to search for earthquake victims buried by recognizing their gadget or cell phone.
"This advanced radar shows promise," says Gary Kemp, programme director at Cambridge Consultants in the UK. Any technology that increases the probability of detecting improvised explosive devices or buried casualties will undoubtedly save lives, he says. "Evolution has once again sparked ideas for remarkable innovation.". *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NEW SCIENTIST | BBC | ROB AID | PIKIRAN RAKYAT 07112013]
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