Detection Techniques Development

Closed
Main contact
LUCENTARA / Dinosty Fossils
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
Caitlin Furby
CEO
(26)
5
Project
120 hours per learner
Learner
Anywhere
Advanced level

Project scope

Categories
Artificial intelligence Databases Hardware Machine learning Software development
Skills
analytical techniques data collection algorithms machine learning chemical composition data analysis spectroscopy
Details

In this project, students will collaborate to develop and implement detection techniques for material identification. They will explore various analytical methods such as spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction to analyze and classify different materials, including resin, dyed materials, natural minerals, and rocks. The goal is to lay the foundation for accurate material identification in subsequent phases of the project.

Deliverables

Project Description:

In this project, students will work together to design and implement detection techniques for material identification. The project consists of the following key tasks:


Detection Technique Selection:

  • Students will study the characteristics and properties of the materials of interest (resin, dyed materials, natural minerals, and rocks).
  • Based on the materials' properties, they will select appropriate detection techniques. For example, spectroscopy for chemical composition analysis and X-ray diffraction for mineral identification.

Experimental Setup:

  • Set up the necessary equipment and instruments for the chosen detection techniques.
  • Ensure that the equipment is calibrated and ready for data collection.

Data Collection and Analysis:

  • Students will collect data from samples representing different materials.
  • Analyze the collected data to identify unique signatures or patterns that distinguish between materials.

Algorithm Development:

  • Develop algorithms or methods for automated material classification based on the analysis of the data.
  • Explore machine learning techniques if applicable to improve classification accuracy.


Project Deliverables:

Upon completion of the project, students will deliver the following:

  1. Detection Technique Implementation: The implementation of selected detection techniques, including the experimental setup and data collection process.
  2. Data Analysis Results: An analysis of the data collected, highlighting the unique signatures or patterns used for material identification.
  3. Algorithm Prototypes: Prototypes of algorithms or methods for material classification based on the data analysis.


Mentorship

Support for Learners:

To ensure that learners successfully complete this project and achieve the desired learning outcomes, the following support mechanisms will be provided:

  1. Guidance and Training: Students will receive guidance on the selection and implementation of detection techniques, including access to relevant resources and tutorials.
  2. Regular Check-Ins: Periodic check-in sessions with project mentors or instructors will allow students to seek guidance and feedback on their progress.
  3. Access to Equipment: Access to necessary equipment and instruments for data collection will be provided.
  4. Algorithm Development Support: If students are developing algorithms, they will have access to programming resources and guidance.
  5. Collaborative Environment: Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers, share insights, and discuss challenges related to detection technique development.

By offering these forms of support, learners will be well-equipped to complete the project successfully, gaining practical experience in detection techniques and contributing to the advancement of the material identification system.

About the company

Company
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
2 - 10 employees
Retail, Sales, Science, Trade & international business
Representation
Family-Owned Indigenous-Owned Neurodivergent-Owned Small Business Women-Owned

Lucentara

Science | Technology | Innovation

Lucentara is a Canadian science and innovation company dedicated to advancing the study and application of ammolite and other natural materials. Founded by Caitlin Furby and Mark Turner, Lucentara operates at the intersection of geology, materials science, and design — exploring how nature’s rarest formations can inspire modern advancements in technology and sustainability.

Through ongoing research partnerships and applied experimentation, Lucentara develops cutting-edge methods for fossil preservation, laser restoration, and structural color analysis. Every discovery contributes to the deeper understanding of ammolite’s optical and geological properties, positioning Lucentara as a pioneer in natural photonics and gemstone science.

Lucentara represents the future of Canadian innovation — where art, science, and nature converge.

Dinosty Fossils

Mining | Restoration | Heritage

Dinosty Fossils is the foundation of Alberta’s ammolite industry — a mining and restoration company co-founded by Mark Turner and Caitlin Furby, specializing in the ethical extraction and preparation of ammonite fossils and gem-grade ammolite from the Bearpaw Formation.

Operating across more than 1,200 hectares of mineable land in Southern Alberta, Dinosty Fossils combines traditional field expertise with modern restoration technology to bring prehistoric treasures back to life. Every specimen is meticulously excavated, stabilized, and restored by hand, honoring both its geological origin and its natural artistry.

Through Dinosty Fossils, Furby and Turner have built one of Canada’s most respected fossil operations — supplying collectors, museums, and jewelers worldwide while preserving the integrity and story of each discovery.