Multifunctional Automated Tick-Collection Rover

To address the DHP need for a novel self-propelled tick collection device that is capable of operating in diverse habitats under various environmental conditions, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Multifunctional Automated Tick-Collection Rover (MATR) based on a novel system design, and mature COTS and in-house components. MATR is a configurable lightweight autonomous all-terrain rover (ATR) that performs automated tick collection using compartment traps and dragging on the same deployment. The user enters the dragging paths and point sampling locations to MATR using mission planner software operating on a computer or smart phone, and then MATR will automatically execute the tick collection tasks. MATR is compact, man-portable, and weighs 30 lb. Its battery capacity is scalable and can operate MATR from 1 hr to 8 hr depending on collection tasks. In Phase I, POC will design the MATR concept including the traps that it will use. In Phase II, POC will complete the MATR system design and fabricate its prototype. Once the initial prototype is developed, it will be tested in both laboratory and field environments for efficacy in collecting medically important ticks such as Dermacentor variabilis and Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Ixodes scapularis, and Dermacentor marginatus.