Dogs tend to show signs of fear after hearing fireworks and thunder, which causes distress to owners and families. So Ford has prototyped a noise-cancelling kennel to shelter dogs from noises that bother them.
“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,” said Graeme Hall — who is one of the UK’s best dog trainers and is known as “The Dogfather” via a Ford blog post.
The kennel prototype was inspired by noise-control technology that Ford integrated into its Edge SUV for reducing noises from engines and transmissions. Once the microphones in a kennel detect sounds, an audio system within the kennel plays opposing sound waves from the car audio system. And high-density cork — which is ideal for soundproofing — was also integrated into the kennel.
Lyn West, the brand content manager of Marketing Communications at Ford of Europe, pointed out that the team was wondering how technologies used in 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,” added West.
Unfortunately, the noise-cancelling kennel is not available for purchase.
