Manfred Hartbauer

My research focuses on smart bionic solutions using insects as model organisms. In an innovative approach we test a bionic collision-avoidance system that was inspired by the eyes of swarming locusts. This bionic system aims to improve the crash avoidance of drones in future. In another research project we  simulate the night-vision capabilities of nocturnal insects to develop novel night vision devices. My patent of a night vision algorithm created the basis for a project that aims to reduce the X-ray dosis that is applied during breast cancer screenings. Another research focus aims to substitue traditional chemical pesticides by essential plant oils. A patent was recently submitted that describes an oil mixture that kills gregarious locusts within 24 hours, but is harmless for meal worm beetles. In a future project we will investigate the noise robustness of the acoustic and vibratory communication channel of a tropical katydids in behavioral and neurophysiological experiments.