It’s one of HRSBT’s favorite topics, so we couldn’t wait to tell you about the FIDO project, which will let managers communicate with their canine reports—electronically!
According to media reports, the FIDO (Facilitating Interactions for Dogs with Occupations) project under way at Georgia Tech, with input from Google, would allow working dogs to communicate vital information through sensors on their collar or vest. The dogs are trained to bite, lick, or otherwise depress the appropriate sensor to convey certain information.
The sensor then transmits the information to the dog’s “manager” in dog-to-human electronic communication. The project is also investigating ways to have dogs transmit video as well as auditory tones.
The project sees implications of the communication for rescue dogs, bomb- and drug-sniffing canines, and service animals aiding the disabled. Unemployed pooches may also get the technology, so they can tell their owners when they are hungry or have to go for a walk.
Sources: www.popsci.com, www.technologyreview.com