Infrared Sensory Systems in Pyrophilous Buprestid Beetles
Abstract
The project focused on the infrared (IR) sensory systems of so-called pyrophilous beetles which show the behaviour to approach forest fires. For this reason, the beetles are equipped with IR sensory organs. Compared with uncooled technical IR sensors, the insect IR receptors have some major advantages: (i) there is no need for temperature constancy; (ii) the receptors operate at high ambient temperatures; (iii) the receptors are rugged having a smart design, and work under harsh environmental conditions. The objective of the proposed research was to broaden our understanding of the biological significance, special function, and performance of biological IR reception. This included the search for hitherto unknown IR receptors in pyrophilous insects. The final aim of the research was to further develop and improve a technical uncooled IR sensor and the appropriate signal processing algorithms which are based on the principles and mechanisms of its biological models which were improved by millions of years of evolution. To achieve the objectives, morphological, behavioural, neurophysiological, and thermo-physical investigations have been performed. Using the obtained results, a prototype of the photomechanic IR detector had been improved by combining appropriate solid absorbers with sensitive mechanosensors. Additionally, an approach was made to determine some important parameters, which are used to specific technical IR sensors.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA427165
Entities
People
- Helmut Schmitz
Organizations
- University of Bonn