RAT

RAT captures and processes images with an OpenMV Cam M7 microcontroller to generate real-time, time-stamped x and y coordinate data for rodent behavioral experiments.

Key Features:

• Onboard image processing (OpenMV Cam M7, 15 Hz): Performs real-time machine vision processing at 15 Hz on the OpenMV Cam M7 microcontroller.
• Positional output (x, y): Records real-time x and y coordinates and saves them to an onboard microSD card instead of storing full video files.
• Real-time clock (RTC): Applies precise time stamps to all recorded data files using an onboard RTC.
• Programmable multi-function input/output: Provides an I/O pin for integration with external equipment to transmit tracking information or receive external signals.
• Peripheral integration (pellet dispenser): Interfaces with a pellet dispensing device to log positional information alongside dispenser status updates.
• Optogenetic stimulation control (RTPP): Enables control of optogenetic stimulation systems for real-time place preference (RTPP) brain stimulation reinforcement studies.

Scientific Applications:

• Circadian activity monitoring: Supports multi-day experiments such as four-day measurements of rodent circadian activity patterns.
• Feeding and operant tasks: Enables concurrent logging of positional data and pellet dispenser events for feeding or operant behavior studies.
• Real-time place preference (RTPP) experiments: Facilitates RTPP brain stimulation reinforcement studies by coordinating tracking with optogenetic stimulation control.

Methodology:

Image capture and onboard processing occur on an OpenMV Cam M7 microcontroller at ~15 Hz, producing x and y coordinates saved to an onboard microSD card with RTC time stamps and communicated via a programmable multi-function I/O pin for peripheral integration and stimulation control.