16. The method as set forth in claim 11 , wherein the identification of the match in the set of competing adaptable predictive models is performed using a down-selection method that compares the set of competing adaptable predictive models over at least two time intervals of current sensory data, wherein the down-selection method ensures that when selecting a new adaptable predictive model, a selection is made only between those competing adaptable predictive models that are consistent with the history of sensory data.
17. The method as set forth in claim 16 , wherein a majority of the set of competing adaptable predictive models are compared over a first time interval of current sensory data having a length, and only the matches within that majority are compared over a second time interval of current sensory data within the first time interval having a length that is shorter than the length of the first time interval.