You wouldn't expect Ford to come through with an amazing solution to help dogs, but here we are. Ford Europe has unveiled a new dog kennel that is out to aid those canines that are sensitive to the sounds of fireworks or thunderstorms. From Geek.com:
The automaker this week introduced a prototype noise-cancelling kennel. Using the same technology found in cars and headphones, the doghouse can protect sensitive canine ears during loud pyrotechnic displays.
The kennel itself is just a prototype by now, but the company is touting it as a way to change how pets live with the loud sounds around them. In this case, it is fireworks -- something we'll see a lot of here at the end of the year. The company tapped "The Dogfather" Graeme Hall, a well-known dog trainer who has helped 5,000 dogs and owners with behavior problems to help explain the need for this tech:
“Many animals find fireworks scary – and compared to people, dogs can hear things that are four times further away, and across a much wider range of frequencies. Preparing in advance of firework displays is the key – and part of that is to identify a place where your pets feel safe and happy.”
The tech is based on the noise canceling found in the new Ford Edge SUV, where the engine and transmission sounds are "counteracted with opposing sound waves from the car’s audio system" according to Geek.com. From Ford:
Once microphones inside the prototype kennel detect the sound of the fireworks, a built-in audio system emits opposing frequencies that in effect cancels out the noise completely – or at least reduces it significantly. High-density cork, ideal for sound proofing was an integral part of the design. The result? No more stress for your pet.
The idea was inspired by the noise-cancelling technology Ford created for it's new Ford Edge SUV. Geek.com explains how it works:
The din of an engine or transmission is counteracted with opposing sound waves from the car’s audio system.
The idea is the first in what Ford is calling "Interventions," which sees the company using their automobile know-how to solve everyday problems:
“We wondered how the technologies we use in our cars could help people in other situations. Making sure dogs and their owners could enjoy a stress-free New Year’s Eve seemed like the perfect application for our Active Noise Control system, and we have a few more ideas in progress as to how our everyday lives might benefit from a little Ford know-how."
It is odd to see that Ford logo on the side, but it feels good if it works.
On Ford Europe's post announcing the prototype for the kennel, Ford's Robert Wallis responded to a question regarding its ability to block out other sounds beyond fireworks, such as thunder:
Yes, fireworks were used as a timely example with the New Year fast approaching, but active noise cancelling works to combat any excessive loud noise.
The response to the prototype is overwhelmingly positive. There are tons of comments on Ford Europe's post about the product, filled with dog-owners who sound like they would do just about anything to get their hands on one of these. It looks like Ford might be making itself a lot of money off this in the future.
