Abstract: The present invention is a motor driven tournament steer that comprises a front frame and a back frame. The front frame incorporates a steer head with protruding horns suitable for roping. The rear frame incorporates roping ‘legs’ and is hinged to the front frame. When two ropers catch the steer head and ‘legs’, the heeler roper lifts the rear frame, a switch is activated, and the motor stops. A timer simultaneously stops. The motor is started by a remote controlled switch.

Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus are provided for a cutting horse trainer that operates to train a cutting horse without additional input from an operator or trainer. More specifically, in one aspect of the disclosure described herein, positioning systems, such as transmitters, receivers, camera tracking, gyroscopes, accelerometers, and/or GPS tracking allow a cutting horse trainer system to detect the position of the horse with respect to a field of view (azimuth) of a decoy, and automatically adjust the position of the decoy accordingly.

Abstract: An apparatus and device are provided for a self-propelled roping training system. The apparatus includes an endless track comprising a plurality of corner sections, each of the plurality of corner sections comprising an arc length, a carriage assembly comprising a front slider assembly coupled with the track and a rear slider assembly coupled with the track, and a self-propelled vehicle coupled with the carriage assembly configured to follow a path defined by the endless track.

Abstract: A roping training dummy is claimed comprising a dummy representing an animal having a target to be lassoed by a roper. A position sensor, such as video camera or radar system, is disposed on the dummy for monitoring the real-time position of the roper relative to the lasso target. A monitor on the dummy is visible to the roper and operatively connected to the position sensor. The monitor displays the roper's real-time position and a positional reference corresponding to a preferred roper placement.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer may comprise a steer assembly having a front and a rear. The steer assembly may comprise a frame and a leg assembly mounted on the frame and including at least one leg member being movable with respect to the frame, the at least one leg member having a lower end movable along an arc. The steer apparatus may further comprise an actuation assembly configured to engage a ground surface below the steer assembly and move the at least one leg member when the steer assembly is moved across the ground surface. The steer apparatus may also comprise a rope deflection assembly configured to deflect a rope from looping about the at least one leg member for at least a forward portion of the arc of movement of the leg lower end.

Abstract: The current inventive technology is generally directed to an improved animal roping form representing an improved training system applicable to various animal roping activities. Some embodiments of the inventive technology may include, for example, an animal form (2), a tractable leg element (3), a joint element (4) and a resilient torsion control joint connection (5) that may facilitate the tension coupling of the leg element (s0 to said animal form to more realistically mimic a live animal movement and resistance. In addition, some embodiments may include support attachment element (6) coordinated with a support element (8) allowing, for example such animal form to be suspended or conveyed to approximate animal movement to create a realistic roping training system. Further embodiments may have a knee joint (16) to more fully replicate the anatomical movements of a real animal leg joint.

Abstract: A process for deterring behavior of pets which includes providing a device comprising a reflective metalized plastic sheet having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils, having a reflective and non-reflective side and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed by pressure from a pet, a fibrous layer, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device, and the reflective side of said reflective plastic layer is oriented outward, where the device is capable of being folded or rolled-up, and when placed on an object, the device deters pets from getting on said object.

Abstract: A movable target for training and proving with multiple applications comprising a movable target which can be moved at multiple speeds, and in multiple directions, and for multiple distances to simulate the natural movements of actual moving objects. Said movable target control and operation may be accomplished through a control interface, including but not limited to a remote transmitter or a control panel. Said target movements may be controlled by activating or creating programmed runs or by manual operation. Said user interface may be used to manually control said movable target behavior.

Abstract: A calf roping training apparatus incorporating a simulated calf, a support column and a towing structure. The support column has a spin joint and an invert joint. The calf body of the simulated calf is formed by one or more pieces of simulated skin and a simulated head fixed in anatomical form by a body frame. The support column is anchored to the towing structure. The towing structure has a tow member, a pair of long skids, a short skid, and a towing attachment device. The support column base is attached to the short skid which provides for transfer of the weight of the simulated calf to the ground. The support column top is attached to or integrated with the body frame.

Abstract: A roping practice apparatus for realistically simulating motion of the head of an animal to train a roper in roping skill. The roping practice apparatus includes: a steering unit drivable and rotatable by a power source; a transmission section rotatable in response to the rotation of the steering unit, the transmission section having a first end mounted on the steering unit and a second end; a universal actuator to which the second end of the transmission section is pivotally connected; and a driven section mounted on the universal actuator and rotatable in response to the rotation of the transmission section. A head model is connected with the driven section and drivable by the driven section to swing back and forth and left and right within a range of 360°.

Abstract: A device for training or proving horses comprising a movable target which can be moved in multiple speeds and in multiple directions to simulate the natural movements of a live cow. Said target movements may be controlled by activating or creating programmed runs or by manual operation. System control and operation may be accomplished through a remote transmitter or other control interfaces.

Abstract: A livestock training aid includes a carriage having wheels that move along a set of tracks. The carriage has a livestock model mounted thereon. A first motor and first controller are provided to move the carriage on the tracks and control the speed and direction of the carriage movement. A second motor and second controller are provided on the carriage itself to move the model with respect to the carriage. The carriage also has a power storage device to provide power to the second motor and second controller. A charger is provided for the power storage device and is coupled to one of the wheels. The charger charges the power storage device when the carriage moves along the tracks. At least one of the controllers can store a sequence of commands for the carriage and the model movements, which commands can then be played back and executed. A livestock training aid is also provided for horseback riders.

Abstract: A roping practice apparatus includes a base and at least one wheel rotatably mounted to the base about a horizontal wheel axis oriented transverse to the base and below the top surface of the base, the wheel defiling at least one slot extending from a rim of the wheel toward the wheel axis. The rim of the wheel extends above the top surface of the base. An upper portion defines a wheel well on a bottom surface thereof, and is configured such that the wheel extends upward into the wheel well. The upper portion is supported above the base such that a gap is formed between the upper portion and the base. The wheel is configured such that a selected object drawn through the gap enters the at least one slot on the wheel and causes the wheel to rotate. A retainer mechanism is operative to prevent the upper portion from moving upward away from the base.

Abstract: A cutting horse trainer uses a transport device which rides on a rail of the fence of a pen. The transport device can be positioned behind the fence of a pen. The transport device is moved along the rail responsive to commands from a handheld remote control device. A pulley engaged with the rail is linked to an artificial calf, which is extended into the pen via a hinged arm. As the transport unit moves along the rail, the pulley coupled to the rail causes the artificial calf to rotate accordingly. Thus, during changes in direction, the calf appears to be turning, from the viewpoint of the cutting horse. When not in use, the arm can be folded upwards to remove any apparatus associated with the cutting horse trainer from the pen.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer is disclosed that comprises a support assembly for engaging the ground surface and a steer assembly mounted on the support assembly. The support assembly may comprise a main frame and a pair of lateral skids mounted on the main frame, and the pair of lateral skids may each be pivotable with respect to the main frame. In some embodiments, the steer assembly includes a frame and a body covering assembly mounted on the frame and configured to move with respect to the frame in response to movement of the steer assembly across the ground surface. In some embodiments, the steer assembly comprises includes a frame and a head assembly mounted on the frame and configured to move with respect to the frame in response to movement of the steer assembly across the ground surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a releasing device and more particularly a releasing device used to release fish in water. Deep-water fishes such as rockfish often exhibit the effects of rapid water pressure change such as expelled gas bladder, protruded eyes when brought to the surface. The fish releasing device of the present utilizes a jaw assembly, a weight, and other components to clamp onto a fish. The device is dropped into the water which pulls the fish beneath the surface of the water and automatically releases the fish upon the opening of the clamping jaw.

Abstract: A roping practice apparatus simulated steer assembly for roping practice, having a base having a vertical support mechanism mounted on the base; a body mounted on the vertical support mechanism and having a front end, a back end, a left side and a right side; legs mounted on the back end of the body; a head portion mounted on the front end so that the head pivots toward the left side when roped; a rocker arm mounted on the vertical support mechanism; a spring and cable system connecting each of the legs to the rocker arm for moving the legs backward and forward; and a power source operatively connected to the rocker arm. The assembly may be towed or may be radio-controlled.

Abstract: A system for roping practice by horse mounted individuals uses a wheel mounted target simulating a live animal and a spring driven tow cable arrangement to impart movement to the target. The system includes means to restrain the target against movement until released by a latch actuated by a hand line held by the horse mounted person or an assistant. The target rolls freely on wheels and includes a brake that causes the target to stop quickly when the tow cable tension is relieved. Construction of the target frame is such that various commonly available molded plastic steer heads can be attached.

Abstract: A western heritage ranch sports event includes elements which test horsemanship and other skills of the participants. The present event requires that one or more preselected herd animals (e.g., cows or calves) be cut or culled from a herd located at one end of an arena, and then driven or herded by the contestant(s) for the length of the arena, perhaps along a predetermined route, to a goal gate or enclosure. The object is to achieve this in the lowest total elapsed time. When more than a single competitor is participating, the competitors act as a team. More than one herd animal may be used as desired, with time credit given for successfully cutting and herding more than one animal. While roping the animals is not required, successful roping of the animals provides an additional time credit for the contestants, with unsuccessful roping attempts resulting in a time penalty.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus with enhanced stride simulation includes a forward support assembly for resting on a ground surface. The support assembly has a front and a rear. A rearward steer assembly is located rearwardly of the support assembly and is mounted on the rear of the support assembly. The steer assembly comprises a leg assembly including a pair of leg members being pivotable with respect to the ground surface and an actuation mechanism for pivoting the leg members when the support assembly is moved across the ground surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an animal includes a motorized and programmable actuator unit that is coupled to a bridle on the horse. The actuator unit includes a motor and a pulley to control tension on lines leading to the horse, the tension providing a control stimulus to the animal. A clutch coupling the motor and pulley provides a release function to automatically release tension on the lines once the motor is deactivated. A remote signal unit sends control signals to a controller in the actuator unit for controlling the animal remotely from the horse.

Abstract: A roping training apparatus provides a target moving along a substantially level track from a starting end to a stopping end. The target, such as a calf figure, is mounted on a wheeled platform and connected to one end of at least one tensioning member the other end of which is fixed to the stop end of the track. Guide means, such as cables, are connected between the ends of the track and engage and guide the target in its passage along the track. The actuating mechanism, in addition to the at least one tensioning member, includes latching assembly at the starting end of the track to engage the target assembly and hold it against the force of the at least one tensioning member. When the target is positioned in the actuating mechanism and then released, it moves along the track, under the influence of the at least one tension member, and a roper attempts to rope the target before it comes to a stop at the end of the track.

Abstract: A three-dimensional moving target system comprising a track assembly and a three-dimensional target. A structure is for supporting the target in an upright position from the track assembly. A facility is for propelling the supporting structure with the target along the track assembly. An archer can practice at shooting an arrow from a bow at the target traveling along the track assembly.

Abstract: Animal training apparatus particularly useful in the training of cutting horses to cut a cow or calf from a herd. The apparatus includes a pneumatic tube, preferably annular, mounted at a selected height above the ground by support members. The tube is provided internally with a piston which is reciprocally moveable at a desired speed and direction by compressed air fed into and removed from air ports in the tube by an air compressor. A wheeled carriage, mounted on the exterior surface of the tube, carries a second magnet, magnetically coupled to the first magnet of the piston, for movement of the carriage in concert with the piston. An artificial cow or calf downwardly depends from the carriage, serving as a stimulus for training of the horse.

Abstract: Apparatus for the training of cutting horses includes a calf replica mounted to a track for traversing movements along the track. Motive apparatus for causing the calf replica to traverse along the track is reversible in two opposite directions. Program apparatus causes the motive apparatus to execute a programmed series of movements of the calf replica.