The SMART system for mine detection dogs is an electronic device built into the dog’s harness. Using audio and GPS, the dog handler can give voice commands to the dog using VoIP technology from a distance of up to 100 m (in moderately dense vegetation). This allows the handler to remove the lead, which has traditionally been an obstacle limiting the effectiveness of dogs used for mine detection.
On an Android smartphone or tablet, the dog handler can see the map with the dog’s position and the direct video feed from the harness camera in real-time. The system’s built-in Wi-Fi transmitter creates a Wi-Fi hotspot for communication and data exchange between the computer and the smartphone. Statistics such as the area covered, the area still to be cover, the location of dog, the GPS coordinates of alerts and videos are all recorded and stored in a consolidated database. Once the dog has finished, an IMSMA compatible report can be easily generated and maps exported by the software in standard GIS formats (KML and shapefiles).
The Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) database is a management tool aimed at providing correct, coordinated and appropriate information to decision makers and demining parties. This information mainly concerns field action, current standards, correct guidelines and procedures, good practices, etc. This decision support system was developed by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) and assists in planning operations by gathering information from all demining parties. The effectiveness of the SMART system lies in the systematic integration of recorded data into a monitoring system that provides accurate information for further assessment.
SMART, which was developed in close collaboration with GICHD experts, saves time and money by eliminating time-consuming and costly procedures to allow the dog access to certain areas. The deployment of an off-lead dog speeds up the search of large areas, which significantly reduces the use of demining resources in areas where there are no mines or explosives left over from war. In conclusion, the SMART harness could potentially save hundreds of millions of dollars worldwide, simply by giving a starting point to mine clearance teams.
Technical data
| Harness weight | 900 grams |
| Harness material | Cordura ® |
| Wi-Fi network | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n |
| Range | In line of sight: 150m
With dense vegetation: 70m |
* The full technical data sheet can be found in the brochure.