Robotic Ferret Will Detect Hidden Drugs, Weapons and Human Trafficking

A new type of robot being developed will make it easier to detect drugs, weapons, explosives and illegal immigrants concealed in cargo containers.

Dubbed the ‘cargo-screening ferret’ and designed for use at seaports and airports, the device is being worked on at the University of Sheffield with funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The idea for the project emerged from an event organised by EPSRC, the British Home Office Scientific Development Branch and the UK Borders Agency.

The ferret will be the world’s first cargo-screening device able to pinpoint all kinds of illicit substances and the first designed to operate inside standard freight containers, according to a news release issued today. (more…)

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Jun 12, 2009 | Categories: Frontiers of Scientific Exploration | Tags: container security, homeland security, human trafficking, illegal drugs, port security, ports, terrorists | Leave A Comment »