A team of researchers from Shinshu University in Japan has created a bio-hybrid drone that uses the antennae of male moths to detect and track scents, revolutionizing gas leak detection and environmental monitoring.
A team of researchers from Shinshu University in Japan has created a bio-hybrid drone that uses the antennae of male moths to detect and track scents. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we detect gas leaks, monitor environmental pollutants, and even improve our understanding of pheromone communication.
Shinshu University is a public research university located in Nagano, Japan.
Founded in 1949, it has since grown to become one of the country's leading institutions for education and research.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), humanities, social sciences, and more.
With a strong focus on innovation and collaboration, Shinshu University has established partnerships with international organizations and universities to foster global exchange and knowledge sharing.
The Science Behind Pheromone Detection
Traditional electrical sensors for odours are commonly used to detect gas leaks, but they have limitations. These sensors can be slow to react to smells and even slower to reset between measurements. In contrast, the moth antenna is a highly sensitive sensor that can detect the sex pheromone emitted by female moths.
Pheromone detection involves identifying and analyzing chemical signals released by living organisms.
These signals can convey information about an individual's reproductive status, dominance, or warning of danger.
Pheromones are detected through specialized sensory organs, such as the vomeronasal organ in mammals.
Research has shown that pheromone detection plays a crucial role in mating behaviors and territorial marking.
Studies have also explored the use of synthetic pheromones for pest control and agricultural applications.
Daigo Terutsuki, a researcher at Shinshu University, explains that ‘it’s very difficult to apply that to other types of odours‘. However, his team has successfully integrated a male moth antenna into the electronics of a drone. The drone is then able to autonomously fly towards the source of a smell using the moth antenna as a sensor.
Limitations of the Technology
While the technology shows promise, it has some limitations. The drone can only detect the sex pheromone emitted by female moths, which means that it may not be effective for detecting other types of odours. Additionally, the technology is still in its infancy, and further research is needed to improve its accuracy and reliability.
Future Applications
Despite its limitations, this technology has the potential to revolutionize a range of fields. For example, it could be used to detect gas leaks more quickly and accurately than traditional sensors, which could save lives and prevent property damage. It could also be used to monitor environmental pollutants, such as pesticides and heavy metals.
Overall, the use of moth antennae in drones is an innovative and promising technology that has the potential to improve our understanding of pheromone communication and revolutionize a range of fields.
Researchers have developed a new type of antenna inspired by the moth's ability to navigate using polarized light.
This technology uses a similar principle to create an ultra-wideband antenna, capable of transmitting and receiving signals across a wide range of frequencies.
The moth-inspired antenna is more compact and efficient than traditional antennas, making it ideal for use in small devices such as smartphones and wearables.
Studies have shown that this technology can improve wireless communication by up to 50%.
- newscientist.com | Smell seeking drone uses moth antenna to follow a scent
