LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES 1. Develop a computerized system, based on hierarchical neural network pattern recognition technology, for reliable identification of plants. 2. Identify poisonous plants. 3. Expedite discovery of new medicinal plants. 4. Create an image database directly from plant material and link with existing medicinal plant databases. 5. Develop commercial product for pharmaceutical companies, agriculture and others.
SPECIFIC AIMS 1. Design hierarchical system of neural networks to follow natural plant taxonomy groupings and extend our identification technology to a large number of plant species. 2. Improve accuracy of identification. 3. Design a prototype workstation for botanical and agricultural field stations and laboratories. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS FOR ACHIEVING GOALS. 1. Digitize large number of plant species from special collections. 2. Measure automatically venation patterns and shape. 3. Design hierarchical neural networks to divide plants into natural groupings. 4. Accumulate virtual herbarium database as leaves are digitized (scanned or photographed). POTENTIAL FOR TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION This system is unique in capturing botanical recognition knowledge in a hierarchy of neural networks and is the first fully-computerized system for plant identification utilizing information digitized directly from plants.

Proposed Commercial Applications

1. Expedite discovery of new medicinal plants for pharmaceutical industry. 2. Create valuable database directly from plants. 3. Identification of poisonous plants. 4. Valuable for rapid identification of invasive weeds.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
3R44CA067559-02A1S1
Application #
6028355
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG7 (09))
Program Officer
Miller, William C
Project Start
1996-04-01
Project End
2000-03-31
Budget Start
1998-04-15
Budget End
1999-03-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Netrologic
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
San Diego
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92122