SB092-004 TITLE: The Automated Control of Complex Tasks in Animals

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Information Systems, Biomedical, Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop and validate a portable device that automates the training of complex behaviors in animals without human intervention.

DESCRIPTION: Animal training currently requires long hours and the involvement of a human trainer. The development of an automated mammalian training device would significantly reduce the need for human involvement. In addition, it may enable the ability for remote on-site training in potentially limited access areas. This device would also have the ability to better and more rapidly train an animal through the collection of performance metrics that indicate subject intelligence, capability, and progress. Animal use is anticipated under this
topic.

PHASE I: Develop an initial concept design and model key elements of a portable device that automates canine training procedures. These training procedures should include, but are not limited to:

Discrimination of objects, verbal commands, and olfactory cues

Retrieval and transport of objects between locations at various distances

Complex path navigation along multiple waypoints

Association of human vocabulary with object of actions

Animal use protocol will be required prior to beginning work
Determine technical feasibility and develop detailed analysis of predicted performance in meeting above objectives.
Validation of feasibility of integrating these training procedures into a portable automated caning training device shall be demonstrated to a level satisfactory to indicate the practicality of the design in meeting requirements and objectives. Animal use is anticipated in this phase.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype of the portable training device. Integrate training procedures into device and demonstrate the technology identified in Phase I. Phase II deliverables shall include, but are not limited to, a detailed demonstration of key technical parameters that can be accomplished and a detailed performance analysis of the technology. A subscale demo is acceptable, but a full-scale demo is encouraged. Also, model validation testing, a detailed evaluation report, and recommendations are required. An approved animal use protocol will be required prior to beginning work. Animal use is anticipated in this phase. TRL: 4.
DARPA - 14

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Training is required for animals employed for multiple missions including search and rescue for police and other government agencies. Automated animal training has a market in military and commercial industries.

REFERENCES:
1. Otto, J., et al., “Training rats to search and alert on contraband odors,” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 77, Number 3, 6 June 2002 , pp. 217-232
2. Britt, Winard, et al., “Automated Modeling of the Guidance of a K-9,” American Control Conference, Seattle, Washington, 2008.

KEYWORDS: Canine, Automated Training, Portable Device, Training Procedures

I would think that we would want service animals to learn to bond to their human masters something I don't think any robot would be able to replicate.