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Military dogs with goggles are getting a high-tech upgrade. These dogs are already trained to detect explosives and track down enemy combatants, but now they're getting specialized goggles that will enhance their abilities.
The goggles are equipped with thermal imaging technology, which allows the dogs to see in low-light conditions. This is especially useful for nighttime missions or in areas where visibility is limited.
The goggles also feature a heads-up display that provides the dogs with real-time information about their surroundings. This can include the location of potential threats or the path they should take to reach their destination.
Military Dogs with Goggles
Military dogs with goggles are being equipped with a new tool to help them do their job more safely and effectively. This tool is a camera system added to Rex Specs, the goggles currently worn by U.S. military dogs to protect their eyes.
The goggles have a computer-generated dot that can be placed over an object in a dog's line of sight, drawing their attention to it. This is similar to how a real laser pointer works, but without giving away the handler's location to an enemy.
It took about a week to get a dog named Mater used to wearing the goggles, and then two weeks to get him to respond to a real laser pointer. The final step was getting him to recognize the AR dot, which took another week.
The goggles allow handlers to issue commands from afar, giving them a safer way to communicate with their furry co-workers. This is especially important for military dogs that are in charge of scouting areas for explosives.
The goggles also have a camera, allowing handlers to see everything their companions see. This means there's no need for a handler to be nearby to issue hand or spoken commands.
Types of Goggles
Augmented reality goggles have been developed to help military working dogs find bombs and chemicals.
These goggles allow handlers to give commands to dogs while staying out of harm's way, a safety risk previously posed by using hand signals or laser pointers.
The goggles are designed to support military dogs in scouting areas for explosive devices and hazardous materials, as well as assisting in rescue operations.
Augmented reality goggles can provide a safer way to give commands to dogs, reducing the risk of soldiers being put in harm's way.
The goggles are a valuable tool for military working dogs, enhancing their ability to detect and locate potential threats.
Applications of Goggles
Military dogs with goggles can perform a variety of tasks, including scouting areas for explosives and hazardous materials.
The goggles allow handlers to issue commands from afar, reducing the risk of harm to both the handler and the dog. This is especially important when working with explosive devices, as the handler could accidentally set them off.
The goggles also have a camera, so handlers can see everything their companions see. This eliminates the need for a handler to be nearby to issue hand or spoken commands.
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These goggles are not just a novelty, but a serious tool for military operations. They have the potential to save lives and improve the effectiveness of military working dogs.
Command Sight, Inc. developed the goggles as a project for the Army Research Laboratory. The company's founder, Dr. A.J. Peper, identified the need for better human-animal communication on the field.
The goggles are designed to work with goggles military canines are already using to protect their eyes from the elements. This means the dogs don't have to be trained to wear yet another piece of equipment.
The current design is wired, but researchers are working to develop a production-level wireless device. This will allow handlers to issue commands from even farther away, increasing the safety and effectiveness of the dogs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do service dogs wear goggles?
Service dogs wear goggles to protect their eyes from potential harm caused by debris, sharp objects, and harsh weather conditions while working in various terrains. This protective gear helps prevent minor abrasions and serious eye injuries.
Are doggles worth it?
Doggles can be a worthwhile investment for dogs with eye conditions or those who enjoy outdoor activities, potentially improving their comfort and vision on bright days. Consult with a veterinarian to determine if doggles are a good fit for your furry friend.
Sources
- https://www.freethink.com/technology/military-dogs
- https://www.engineering.com/story/augmented-reality-goggles-for-military-working-dogs-could-transform-rescue-operations
- https://au.news.yahoo.com/ar-goggles-for-military-dogs-114535787.html
- https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/10/06/Augmented-reality-goggles-could-help-military-dogs-find-bombs-chemicals/7141602022656/
- https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/special-forces-dog-goggles/
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