Canine Readiness and Performance Open Topic

OUSD (R&E) CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Integrated Sensing and Cyber; Advanced Materials OBJECTIVE: The objective of this focused open topic is to demonstrate technologies that support performance readiness and operational effectiveness of working dogs across all training and operational environments based on current and future Army needs. Technologies with purely veterinary medical use cases will not be considered. DESCRIPTION: The Army SBIR Program seeks proposals that focus on one or more of the following sub-topics within this topic objective. Firms are asked to self-identify which sub-topic(s) their technology relates to in their proposal submission. 1. Bite performance: Evaluating canine bite performance involves a range of measures to include bite pressure, grip stability, endurance, stamina and full mouth bite. Technologies that evaluate canine bite performance, including but not limited to bite sleeves, bite pillows or other innovative solutions will be considered. 2. Physiological Monitoring in extreme environments: Monitoring the physiological status of canines in extreme environments is crucial for ensuring canine health, performance, and safety. Technologies and techniques used to track and evaluate core body temperature, behavior, cognitive function, hydration and electrolyte balance, and other physiological data related to extreme conditions will be considered. 3. Sensor Platforms: Integrating canines with sensors leverages their natural abilities and enhances them with technology that operates with minimal human interaction. Wearable platforms suitable to canine morphology while collecting sensor data will be considered. 4. Advanced Protection: The Army requires innovative canine protection technologies for canines operating in demanding environments. Innovative technologies centered on the protection of canine paws, hearing, and eyesight are desired. Additionally, innovative solutions for body armor and protective vests will be considered. 5. Body Temperature Regulation: The Army seeks innovations to assist in the regulation of internal temperature for working dogs in extreme environments. Technologies and techniques including but not limited to cooling vests, thermoelectric cooling devices, smart fabric technology, advanced hydration, nutritional supplements or other innovative solutions will be considered. 6. Kennel Monitoring: Monitoring canine rest and rehabilitation is crucial for ensuring the health and recovery of working dogs. Innovative technologies and methods designed to monitor canine rest and rehabilitation in a kennel with be considered. PHASE I: This topic is only accepting Phase I proposals for a cost up to $250,000 for a 6-month period of performance. Demonstrate the scientific, technical, and commercial merit and feasibility of the selected technology, participate in capability pitches to Army stakeholders and develop a technology transition plan. PHASE II: Develop, install, and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution identified during the Phase I study. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Pet Care/Veterinary Care: Enables remote patient monitoring, early detection of health issues, and long-term health trends. Rescue dogs: GPS enables rescuers to track their dogs and suspected target area. Moreover, dog 'gestures' allow rescuers to 'understand' dogs. Assistance dogs: Enable communication between dogs and the human they are caring for. R&D: Sensors allow universities and veterinary researchers to augment data REFERENCES: 1. Comparison of Non-invasive and Implanted Telemetric Measurement in Conscious Beagle Dogs: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31014339 2. Cardiac Monitoring of Dogs via Smartphone Mechanocardiography: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31014339 3. Evaluation of Dry Electrodes in Canine Heart Rate Monitoring: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29848952 KEYWORDS: Working dogs; Canine, K-9; Readiness; Performance; Protection; Wearable; Sensors; Monitoring; Physiological Data