Rats are one of the most widespread pest problems across cities worldwide, creating havoc through burrowing and foundation destruction as well as spreading diseases like bubonic plague.
Cities looking to combat an ever-increasing rodent population are turning to modern technologies, like internet-connected traps that electrocute animals. These devices also provide real-time data, helping proactively combat infestations.
1. Robotics
Technology advances and innovations could revolutionize rat control in the future by helping eliminate pest infestation from sewers, pipes, narrow spaces and commercial settings. Examples include Smart Sensor Technology (SMART) and Passive Infrared Radar (PIR) sensors as revolutionary solutions.
Robotics and artificial intelligence hold tremendous promise to carry out tasks that humans simply can’t. Applications include agriculture, mining, space/sea exploration, unmanned surveillance systems, health/education issues as well as several others.
As technology evolves, robots have become smarter, more flexible and energy efficient – even capable of self-repairing themselves and adapting to changing environments. But developing and maintaining these complex systems is time consuming and expensive; therefore a more time- and cost-efficient solution may be robot-as-a-service (RaaS). This service enables companies to utilize robotics on an as-needed basis as per market conditions.
2. Artificial Intelligence
Rat control depends heavily on technological innovations and advancements – AI being one such advancement.
Artificial Intelligence is a field dedicated to developing machines capable of reasoning, learning and acting intelligently. Artificial intelligence has been employed successfully in businesses to automate various tasks including customer service and lead generation.
AI can be beneficial in many areas of business operations and research, from fraud detection and quality control to medical research. AI also assists organizations in recognizing trends and patterns within data which may aid their business operations by offering insights and guidance into improving operations.
3. 3D Printing
3D Printing (sometimes referred to as additive manufacturing) is an advanced manufacturing technology which uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to generate three-dimensional objects using layering materials such as plastics or composites in complex fashion to form three-dimensional products.
3D printing has proven itself an efficient means of prototyping new products, as well as being cost-efficient when mass producing goods. Industries including consumer goods and medical equipment have already begun harnessing this technology to their benefit.
Rapid prototyping capabilities have opened the doors for innovation in manufacturing. Companies have used 3D printing to quickly develop custom helmets tailored specifically for each user, which improve comfort and safety while simultaneously decreasing weight. Other innovations include snowboard bindings that match riders’ boards or baseball glove inserts designed to improve performance.
4. E-Cigarettes
E-cigarettes (commonly referred to as vapes) heat a liquid which creates a vapour that people can inhale, such as nicotine, flavorings or chemicals.
Many people have turned to electronic cigarettes in lieu of traditional tobacco cigarettes as a healthier choice that does not contain cancer-causing components like nicotine.
Furthermore, they’re significantly less expensive than cigarettes and may help you break free of smoking altogether.
Studies have demonstrated that electronic cigarettes may be detrimental to your health and pose significant health risks; such as heart disease and lung cancer.
Smoking cigarettes can also be very addictive, particularly if you smoke multiple cigarettes daily or are an avid smoker.
5. Smart Cities
As urbanization and population growth continue, cities must adapt their approach to managing resources and improving efficiency in order to keep up with demand. Smart city solutions could offer one way of reaching this goal.
Smart city technologies cover everything from better transportation options and air pollution management, to safer public spaces – these advancements can have a profound effect on city residents and business owners alike.
Westminster, London has implemented a smart parking project which employs sensors to identify available spots for drivers to park their vehicles efficiently and avoid traffic congestion.