Bark indication detection and release algorithm for the automatic delivery of packages by dogs

The Canine Remote Deployment System (CRDS) is a set of equipment for the delivery of emergency supplies to trapped victims in urban search and rescue (US&R) operations. The system utilizes search canines carrying a bag of supplies and equipped with a wireless receiver device. A hand-held wireless transmitter is used by a human to trigger the release of the bag. The canine handler would activate the transmitter upon hearing the dog's "bark indication" that it has found a live victim. In such manner, a package can be deployed from the dog at the press of a button. This paper describes a new feature of the CRDS whereby the release mechanism that deploys the package---called the "underdog" - is activated through the detection of the dog's barks and an algorithmically controlled deployment strategy. A series of experiments were conducted to ensure consistency and accuracy of the bark release algorithm. Results are presented in this paper.