PROJECT NAME: Improvised Explosive Device Detector
Brief Introduction:
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) have been a leader in research and development in Australia for 85 years. In 2004 they commenced the development of “Cybernose”. Cybernose technologies is a project based on a bio-electric nose developed as an analysis tool for the grape and wine industry. In 2008 CSIRO approached aadi Defence to explore potential applications of Cybernose in the Defence and Security sector.
Client: CSIRO
Objective:
To build a business case for the Cybernose Technology so that it can be utlised in the area of Defence.
The Science:
A bio-electric nose developed to detect the trace elements used in the manufacture of explosives would be an ideal tool for defence. Explosive devices pose a major threat to military personnel abroad and the general public at home in places such as federal buildings or ports of entry (airports). The need to have this capability only increased in recent years.
aadi Defence Competitive Edge:
Innovative Technologies:
We are interested in innovative solutions that can be applied to the field of defence; however this does not limit the technology from being used in non Defence related applications. We believe that Cybernose is a novel biosensor that could potentially be used to meet needs in security, food and health domains.
Insight into Defence:
We are a unique team of consultants who have extensive experience in the field of defence and an understanding of the defence organisation. We have strong ties to the DSTO and a highly valued relationship with other Defence organisations. We draw on our skills and experience and our networks to build collaborative efforts to add value to your project.
Added value for Cybernose:
The business case for Cybernose was an extensive process that was developed over a period of time and through our valued relationships within Defence.
Phase One: We engaged all relevant departments that have an interest in explosives. This required an interest in the proposed technology and for the departments involved to have trust in our assessment of the technology.
Parties involved:
From Defence Science and Technology Organisation: Counter IED Division, Explosives Division, Land Operations Division.
From Military: Future Capabilities; Current Operations Team; Counter IED team; current sensor training team (dog)
Phase Two: We collaborated with all above parties to pursue the best outcome for this project, including workshops with key stakeholders from these parties. These workshops were established to identify any issues or gaps with the technology, highlight any other desirable features or capabilities that a particular Defence stakeholder group might require.
Phase Three: Fostering the development of Cybernose. Feedback from the above groups were incorporated into the project’s technical development plan, with key developments scheduled for delivery early in the project timeframe to reduce the overall project risk.
The Outcome:
A Successful business Case:
aadi Defence tailored a business case between 2008 and 2009 for Cybernose to be used in the Defence and Security sector. aadi Defence gathered significant support by Defence Stakeholders. The Cybernose project was awarded AUD $2.1 million by the Australian Defence’s Capability and Technology Demonstrator Program (CTD).