Its sensitive hearing likely allows it to detect the echolocation calls of its bat predators.
Its signaling system also enables it to detect dirty areas that need special attention and to clean accordingly.
The researchers are now working to add sensors to the robot, which would allow it to detect objects in its environment and navigate toward or away from them.
Its huge size and excellent receiver technology enables it to detect exquisitely weak signals that may provide evidence of intelligent life elsewhere in the universe".
However, like a Roomba, the Roboquad has basic infrared sensors that allow it to detect when foreign objects interfere with its desired trajectory.
The Apple patent describes how use of the scanner's sensors would allow it to detect different kinds of surfaces and adjust its behaviour accordingly.
"However, an infra-red telescope would allow it to detect asteroids from their heat".
They can also instruct it to detect and track objects based on color and appearance.
The software also plants "honeypots" in networks that allow it to detect and monitor intruders.
The Poole Borough Council, for example, used it to detect and prosecute illegal fishing in Poole Harbor.
Then we can use it to detect the presence of criminals on foot in the city," he said.
