A groundbreaking brain-computer interface is set to revolutionize the way animals detect odors, with the potential to transform them into super detectors. This innovative device allows animals to sense various smells and relay the information directly to a smartphone. Currently undergoing testing in rats, a version for dogs is expected soon. This technological advancement could have significant implications for sectors such as security, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
The device, developed in collaboration with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, features an array of 128 electrodes that capture neural signals from the olfactory bulb, the brain's primary center for receiving smells. Measuring thinner than a piece of tissue paper and a quarter the size of a US postage stamp, the device is delicately placed on the surface of the animal's olfactory bulb. These electrodes work in tandem with AI software that recognizes patterns and associates them with specific odors.
"Animals can do things that we can’t get current sensors to do, so that’s a smart way to get around that problem," said Joel Mainland.
Training the device requires minimal effort, with animals typically needing only about three sessions to become proficient. However, each dog can only be trained to detect one class of odor compounds, which limits the range of smells it is able to detect. Despite this limitation, the device excels at identifying critical substances such as arson accelerants, smokeless powder, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.
"It leverages the very hard-to-engineer physiology of olfaction while still getting the benefit of digitization and rapid analysis," noted Matt Angle.
A more advanced array boasting 767 electrodes is currently in development. This next-generation device aims to enhance performance in complex environments with background odors and confounding vapors. Gabriel Lavella shared insights into the future of this technology.
"That next-generation device will allow us to have greater performance in the field against complex background odors and confounding vapors that are in the air," explained Gabriel Lavella.
One of the most promising aspects of this technology is its broad range of applications. It holds potential for detecting bombs and contraband at airports and other checkpoints, identifying human diseases through scent detection, and monitoring environmental toxins.
"Airports and other forms of checkpoints are probably the most obvious use case," remarked Travis Massey.
Significantly, this device does not necessitate specialized training for animals, making it accessible and practical for widespread use. Moreover, developers anticipate no longevity issues or chronic effects on an animal's quality of life due to the device's use.
"We don’t anticipate any longevity issues or chronic issues having an effect on the animal’s quality of life," assured Gabriel Lavella.
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