'Sniffer-bot' algorithm helps robots seek scents

Moths are renowned for their ability to pick up a faint whiff of pheromones from faraway mates. Robots may soon match this feat with the help of a new mathematical method developed to help guide them toward a scent. In tests, the algorithm made virtual scent-hunter bots move just like moths do, snaking and spiralling toward their goal. Finding the source of a strong smell is pretty straightforward. As you move, simply check whether a scent is getting stronger or weaker and head in the direction in which it is strongest.