SURVIS is a fully-automated system that enables a completely new quality of bait distribution. SURVIS comprises a GPS receiver, a computer-based control unit, a dropping device and a special film container for the baits.
A fully-automated Baiting System
Preparations for the vaccination campaignFirst of all, the most cost-effective flight path within the vaccination area is determined and subsequently programmed into the computer - taking into account load capacity, distance between flight lines, total flight distance and return flight without pay load. Before the flight the GPS and the control unit are loaded with co-ordinates of the vaccination area and the bait density, respectively. In areas with high population density of foxes it is very simple to set a higher bait density. Areas where no baits are to be distributed - such as lakes and inhabited areas - the dropping can be stopped at any time by using the remote control. Vaccination campaigns with SURVISThe plane is loaded with baits wrapped in film containers just before take-off. After the plane's engine is started the GPS receiver and the computer are switched on. The computer system now runs automatically, so the pilot can fully concentrate on flying the plane. the data received by the GPS receiver is transferred to the control unit. Together with the previous loaded information the programm controls the release frequency of the baits. The system automatically interrupts the release of baits when flying over an area where no baits are to be distributed. DocumentationEach bait released is recorded by the control unit through a sensor, with the exact location, time and date of release. The control unit encrypts the collected data to protect it from possible manipulation. This offers a unique and non-corruptible possibility for authorities to | verify if the achieved bait density and bait distribution pattern corresponds to the previous determined baiting strategy. After the flight and subsequent data processing it is possible to produce a map with the exact location of each bait released. Futhermore the data can be transformed in nearly all formats ( ASCII, Excel, Access, HTML). It is also possible to transfer the data to a central database (WHO Collaborating Centre) that also receives data from other vaccination areas. This allows a precise assessment of the vaccination campaigns over large areas. Advantages of SURVISThe authorities no longer have to deal with the logistics of the vaccination campaigns, this is now the responsibility of the bait manufacturers. The authorities have another objective surveillance system available, with documentation of the exact flight path and points of bait release. The bait density can be varied within the vaccination area, allowing local factors to be taken into consideration. Costs are reduced in comparison to conventional aerial bait distribution systems, since SURVIS can be operated by the pilot alone (extra payload capacity and reduced personnel costs). The boundaries of the vaccination areas are automatically recognized, ensuring no vaccination gaps and no distribution outside the area.
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