IDT · The IntelliDogTrainer, a new high throughput training device to train high level security dogs

Recently the threat of terroristic attacks dramatically increased. Therefore, global demand of bomb-sniffing dogs surged up to an unprecedented level while the supply of these dogs is stagnating worldwide. The reason for this stagnation lies in the fact that current training programs are reaching their limits in terms of capacity to deliver well trained, high level security dogs. TSE in Germany has a TRL6 prototype of an automated dog trainer (acronym: IDT) IDT will be an industrially manufactured product invented by TSE and it is the only system on the market allowing automated 24/7 behavioural testing of 5-10 dogs in a home-cage setting. IDT will train dogs, will support certification and re-certification and will result In high performing dogs at large scale. The device contains four operant conditioning trays equipped with a set of (presence) sensors to receive input from animals using the system, while integrated actors (motorized selection of pods containing a substance, delivery of a treat to confirm a wanted response) generate a pre-defined feedback to shape animal’s behaviour. The device consists of 4 essential configurations1.The hardware2.The software that integrates sensors and the monitoring systems 3.The use of neuroscientific theories in the training program.4.The use of animal behavioural insights in the various training / sniffing experimentsThe IDT allows for: 1) fast training on relevant odours, 2) refresh the dogs training on relevant odours, 3) reliably detection. 4) customization of training procedures (high flexibility), controlling training, analysing performance, 5) easy cleaning 6) easy transportation to hard-to-reach training sitesIn phase 1 TSE will perform a feasibility study directed at better and deep understanding of the market of security. The technical feasibility will be focussed on the cross-over from TRL6 to TRL 8 and on the production technology. Both feasibility study will form the basis for a st