Since 2015 Hardshell has focused on the need for non-lethal hazing methods for avian management. We have developed laser and drone-based approaches, used 3D printed desert tortoise models as predator lures and worked extensively on remotely operated vehicles for a number of applications. Our early funding has largely come from Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts. As the technology matures it is being used operationally. Our work on Remote Egg Oiling and the Techno-tortoise has led to both of these methods being applied widely on projects administered by US Fish and Wildlife Service and US Geological Survey conservation projects. Recent commercial raven repulsion contracts grew out of years of steady progress on laser-based avian repulsion.
A common denominator for all of our R&D efforts is the drive to develop and refine Remotely Operated Devices (RODs). The application of sophisticated remote communication and control technologies allows us to observe scenes from afar and to operate devices to intervene when needed. These techniques will eventually apply to many other use cases but we are currently concentrating on laser and rover use cases.