Electronic Nose Catches Graffiti Vandals Using Paint Fumes

electronic-nose-catches-graffiti-vandals-using-paint-fumes photo 1

Travel on most public transport networks around the world and you'll see graffiti. It's a very quick thing to do using a can of spray paint or marker pen, but it leaves a mark that's very difficult to remove. However, Reuters reports that trains in Sydney have been experimenting with a new electronic nose since late last year that detects graffiti vandals in the act.

It's being called Operation Mousetrap and relies on the fact trains are already monitored from a central command center and each train is equipped with cameras.

An electronic nose sensor is installed in each train carriage and reacts when it detects (sniffs) fumes from known paints or marker pens used by graffiti vandals. Once detected, an alarm is triggered in the command center and the cameras record the vandalism as it happens. Meanwhile, any railway security/police in the area (or on the train) can be alerted via their smartphones as to the specific train and carriage number so they can move in to make the arrest. Even if the vandal finishes before they arrive, there's video footage available proving who did it.

Related

  • South Korea Plans Near-Supersonic 'Hyper-Tube Train'South Korea Plans Near-Supersonic 'Hyper-Tube Train'

According to Howard Collins, CEO of Sydney Trains, "We've had over 70 instances of this kit being triggered. We've had 50 people being charged with offences. And as we roll it out now to other trains it's proving even more successful."

The sensor used for Mousetrap is developed by independent security technology company Technique Risk. Founder Mark Byers believes it works so well because, "security personnel or police can monitor the system in the field with a mobile phone." It clearly works as most of the trains serving Sydney are now free of graffiti. So expect Mousetrap to receive wider adoption quickly both within Australia and further afield.

Recommended stories

Relax Electronic Nose Catches Graffiti Vandals Using Paint Fumes stories

More stories

The best clothing iron

The Maytag M400 Speed Heat Iron and Vertical Steamer is affordable, lightweight and easy to use.