Video: Bird Collision Avoidance System - Principle of Operation

The Bird Collision Avoidance System (BCAS), produced by Volacom, consists of multiple interconnected modules.

Main functions of the system are:

• Detection
• Recognition
• Deterrence
• Monitoring
• Data logging

Detection functions are performed by thermal and daylight stereo cameras, constantly scanning the environment for incoming flying objects. Once an object is detected, the data is analysed by a proprietary software. When the system recognises the flying object as a bird, it positions the acoustic module, which emits a proprietary sound signal. Thus, Acoustic Startle Reflex (ASR) is evoked and the bird changes its course, flying away.

This unique deflection approach causes no harassment and the avian species cannot get accustomed to the signal. The proof has come after extensive testing and research in cooperation with The University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria and WWF Bulgaria.

After the initial deployment of the system, it operates autonomously, providing real-time remote data monitoring. The database can be accessed for video, data and information retrieval. The collected data can be used for detailed analysis and reporting purposes.

Volacom’s proprietary software is a modular web-based application, providing access to all functions of the system. It allows quick storage and data retrieval for millions of records.

Volacom’s BCAS technology is a result of more than a decade-long research and development, which has recently been awarded a patent in the USA (US 8,598,998 B2/Dec.3, 2013 ).