We demonstrated that distributed natural and robotic systems each with specific task solving abilities can be integrated together to produce a synergetic system. These systems can be considered as a fundamental new class of distributed cyber biological systems able to solve tasks more efficiently than pure systems. In this project, the goal of the CBS was to discover environmental resources. However, our methodology could be applied to other tasks involving the exploration of a complex and unpredictable environment such as prospection or search and rescue (SAR). Currently, dogs used in SAR are deployed in a restricted zone and are worked by humans on foot. By coupling dogs with additional sensors such as GPS, gas detector or other sensors, the dogs could autonomously scan a larger area in a shorter time and in a safer way. In addition, the development of species-specific sensors could enlarge the number of animal species used in urban SAR to small animals like ferrets that can access restricted environment after building collapses for example. In parallel, the development of artificial systems coupled to natural ones is expected to create new solutions for current agriculture. Indeed, rather than developing automated solutions based on routines for animal care, it will allow the development of CBS able to adapt to the state of the animals. Sensors could detect sick animals more quickly by constantly checking their behaviour, still taking care of their nutrition as it’s already done for cows, for instance. Thus, such CBS could increase animal welfare without additional cost. On the other hand, such system will also provide new solutions against animals that have always been considered a threat to human welfare and agriculture. Indeed, rather than using preventive pesticides with a broad spectrum against animal pests, the monitoring of animal activity will allow targeted interventions with specific treatments.
