SAMS Technology applies newly discovered scientific principles of shark vision to the development of marine materials configured with specific patterns of colour, contrast, size and shape to present the wearer or object as either cryptic (disruptively coloured) or conspicuous in the ocean. The principles are based on the physiology of what predatory sharks can see at different depths, from various angles, in different light conditions, and times of the day.
The rationale for certain types of conspicuous and disruptive colouration affecting behaviour of sharks has a long anecdotal history. SAMS Technology applies the new discovered information on visual science of shark vision to enhance these strategies.
Initial tests have been completed in live conditions off the coast of Western Australia and South Africa, on the SAMS technology. Whilst the initial trials were strongly supportive of the scientific principles, they are not 100% conclusive, and further testing is under way.
The technology has been translated into two visual designs:
The Diverter design presents the wearer or object as unlike normal shark prey, such as a seal.
The Elude design has been developed to hide the wearer in the water column.