Intelligent Automation, Inc. — Department of Homeland Security SBIR Phase II: H-SB017.1-001

Description

Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) face multiple challenges when pursuing adversaries in difficult terrains.Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI) proposes to develop a novel target tracking and recognition system using a small UAV. Named Dismounted Adversary Recognition and Tracking System (DARTS), the UAV will have an advanced sensing, video processing, and autonomous flight control capabilities to follow designated targets allowing the agent to focus on mission priorities.When an agent decides to pursue adversaries, the agent will be able to launch the DARTS UAV, and direct it to one or multiple locations, and to specify which IoI to follow. Operating autonomously, DARTS will control the UAVs flight as it continues to track the IoI using image-based cues, reacquire the IoI as needed (e.g., when the IoI goes into hiding), and recognize the IoIs actions. DARTS will display the acquired imagery and IOI information on the BPAs Control Unit.At the Phase I final demonstration, IAI has demonstrated proof-of-concept in (1) intuitive user interface for directing the drone to user-selected locations, (2) autonomous flight control, (3) advanced video analytics for detection, tracking, and identification, and (4) following of IOI autonomously.