Domestic Animal Training, Monitoring, Or Controlling Patents (Class 340/573.3)
  • Publication number: 20130285815
    Abstract: An animal tracking system is provided for remotely monitoring animal positioning. The system includes an implant device, a global positioning system, a network, one or more remote servers, and at least one wireless computing device. The implant device acts as a GPS receiver, calculating the animal's position and then transmitting the results to the remote server where they are stored in a database. Owners can remotely access the database via a software application installed on a wireless computing device. Users can select an acceptable roaming range for the animal, an acceptable range between the animal and other animals being tracked, a lack of movement, or substantial changes in body temperature. Additionally, the implant device can directly connect with the wireless computing device via a Bluetooth connection. In this way, the computing device can access or transfer data regarding owner contract info, and an animal's medical history.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Johnny Jones, II
  • Publication number: 20130265165
    Abstract: Disclosed is a position tracking apparatus for training an animal. When transmission data including an identification code of a training device is transmitted to a GPS device after the GPS device and the training device are attached to an animal, the GPS device receives the transmission data of the training device and transfers the received transmission data to the training device. Accordingly, it is possible to train the animal to desirably act through an operation of the training device attached to the animal even though the animal is far away from the master when the animal acts with undesirable behavior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: Dogtra Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Min Jae SO
  • Patent number: 8552872
    Abstract: A transmitter for animal training device capable of switching modes between a rheostatic mode and an intensity selection mode is provided. Switching from rheostatic mode to intensity selection mode is done by fitting a select knob to a volume switch, setting a mode selection switch to a vibrations mode, and operating both an adjust mode select switch and a power switch at the same time. When in intensity selection mode, a user is able to adjust the volume level in multiple stages. When the select knob is fitted to the volume switch and is rotated, a ball plunger engages in grooves of the select knob, so that the select knob is stopped at the volume level a user desires. With adaptation of the select knob or volume knob to the volume switch, vibrations or shock level are adjusted in rheostatic mode or intensity selection mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Min Jae So
  • Patent number: 8547237
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a creature-machine hybrid detector system capable of autonomously detecting illicit and hazardous materials. This hybrid detector comprises of an explosives detecting creature trained in the art of detecting illicit and hazardous materials that is additionally outfitted with a battery operated lightweight and portable electronics-based detector machine ensemble capable of real-time characterizations of vapor, liquid and gaseous phase materials towards which the creature displays a positive alert response, two-way wireless video, data, voice, location and image connectivity, a creature-heartbeat detector, and the capacity for interaction to remote personnel within the field of operations through a hand-held display or to a central control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: David O. B. A. Adebimpe
  • Publication number: 20130249694
    Abstract: Systems for containing, training, and tracking animals (e.g., pets) utilize electronic animal tags or collars, including IR reception and two-way RF communication. An aimable IR directional zone defining unit includes selectable different modes of operation relative to an animal collar or tag. A RF base station arranged to communicat with an animal collar or tag includes is arranged to automaticlaly communicate with at least one terminal responsive to a receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, and proximity of the animal to the base station. The base station may further generate a user-perceptible alarm signal. A handheld remote controller adapted to communicate with the electronic animal collar or tag includes memory for digital media files, and an audio output element to deliver audible animal training instructions from the memory element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Titan Pet Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason A. Hardi, James M. O'Brien, III, Fredrik Daapan Andersen
  • Patent number: 8541949
    Abstract: An illumination method includes emitting light suitable for providing illumination for human activities; detecting an animal indication signal indicative of the presence of an animal; and temporarily changing at least one property of the light in response to the detected presence of the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Maurice Alexander Hugo Donners
  • Publication number: 20130222141
    Abstract: An early alert system and a method for livestock disease detection are disclosed. An activity measurement zone (AMZ) is defined near an incentive device (e.g. a livestock feeder) with an RFID tag reader and a uniquely-designed feedlot fence crossbar-embedded RFID antenna, which amplifies multiple signal wavelengths in a single dipole antenna. The early alert system is configured to detect and count an animal's access into the AMZ with an RFID tag attached to the animal. If the animals' activity relative to the AMZ drops to an alarmingly low level (e.g. dropping below an alert trigger point) over time, then a user of the early alert system is informed of a potential health problem of the animal and may also be encouraged to inspect the animal in person for further determination of its current health and potential medical issues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Hana Micron America Inc.
    Inventor: Hana Micron America Inc.
  • Patent number: 8514060
    Abstract: The present invention is aimed at providing a wireless identification tag which can save information with high reliability that is free from the possibility of being lost or falsified, is not broken or melt in the concrete, can expand directionality of an antenna, be distributed in a cement product to be in an appropriate condition for radio communication, and has good adhesion and affinity with cement or the like. A wireless identification tag 1 mixed in a cement product in the manufacturing procedure thereof in which cement, an aggregate, water, or the like are mixed including a protection body 2 incorporating the wireless identification tag 1 having an antenna portion which can write/read information by radio communication, wherein a concave portion 3 is provided on the surface of the protection body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Mitomo Corporation
    Inventors: Kikuo Kaga, Shigeo Ashizawa
  • Patent number: 8493207
    Abstract: An improved system and method for defining an event based upon an object location and a user-defined zone and managing the conveyance of object location event information among computing devices where object location events are defined in terms of a condition based upon a relationship between user-defined zone information and object location information. One or more location information sources are associated with an object to provide the object location information. One or more user-defined zones are defined on a map and one or more object location events are defined. The occurrence of an object location event produces object location event information that is conveyed to users based on user identification codes. Accessibility to object location information, zone information, and object location event information is based upon an object location information access code, a zone information access code, and an object location event information access code, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Geofence Data Access Controls LLC
    Inventor: Darrell Diem
  • Publication number: 20130169441
    Abstract: A system for repelling a pet from at least one predetermined area includes a first device adapted for positioning at the predetermined area. The first device includes at least one of a first receiver and a first transmitter. A second device is adapted for placement on the pet. The second device includes at least one of a second receiver and a second transmitter. At least one of the first device and the second device is configured to warn the pet when the second device approaches the at least one predetermined area, and thereby train the pet to stay away from the predetermined area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Wilson
  • Patent number: 8477037
    Abstract: An animal training apparatus with multiple receiver control function is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a single transmitter and multiple receivers corresponding to the respective animals. The transmitter includes a plurality of level adjustment switches for setting shock levels of the respective receivers. When the volume of a level adjustment switch corresponding to a desired receiver is changed, a transmitter control unit stores a shock level data into a memory. An ID code corresponding to the receiver is attached to the shock level data of a selected receiver. The shock level data with the ID code is transmitted to the receivers. The receivers receive an RF signal that includes the ID code and shock level data, and generate electrical shock to be applied to the animal when the received ID code is identical to a stored ID code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Ho Yun So
  • Patent number: 8466801
    Abstract: The patient monitoring system comprises at least one load cell element (12) mounted in relation to a support surface, the load cell element (12) determining movement of a person on a support surface. The movement is determined based on a reference (31) measured using the load cell element (12) when the person is positioned on the support surface in a reference position and the subsequent load changes determined using the load cell element in relation to the reference. If the load change exceeds a pre-defined threshold, an alarm (18) is activated. The user is able to set the threshold value of the alarm system according to the physical condition of the patient. For example, in some cases it is necessary to he notified about any movements and in others only major movements are of interest. The patient monitoring system is able to provide a flexible means of monitoring of a patient by a nurse or carer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: Stephen Hayes, Stephen Hollyoak
  • Patent number: 8457364
    Abstract: The present invention provides a camera for detecting a driver's drowsiness state, which can increase the number of pixels in an image of a driver's eye even when using an image sensor having the same number of pixels as a conventional camera instead of a high definition camera. The camera of the present invention is, thus, capable of determining whether the driver's eyes are open or closed. The camera for detecting the driver's state according to the present invention includes a cylindrical lens mounted in front of the camera configured so as to enlarge an image in the vertical direction, a convex lens located in the rear of the cylindrical lens, an image sensor for taking an image of a driver's face formed by the cylindrical lens and the convex lens, and an image processor for extracting an eye area from the image of the driver's face and determining whether the driver's eyes are open or closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Japan R&D Center, Inc., Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Nakamura Hiroshi
  • Patent number: 8451130
    Abstract: A gesture-based animal trainer is provided. The gesture-based animal trainer is configured to be used by a person that provides gesture commands to an animal. As used herein, the term “gesture commands” refers to gestures that are each associated with a respective animal training command, wherein a gesture is defined as a selected group of movements performed by a person. The gesture-based animal trainer detects whether the person performs a gesture command and provides a stimulus to the animal in accordance with the gesture command. Upon the animal associating the respective stimulus with the gesture command, the gesture-based animal trainer allows the animal to receive the gesture command regardless of whether the person is within the animal's line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher E. Mainini
  • Patent number: 8436735
    Abstract: Described is an animal data communication system for detecting particular conditions and actions of an animal, compiling information indicative of the detected conditions and actions, communicating the information to a remote location, and presenting the information at the remote location. The animal data communication system includes a carried device and an interfacing device. The carried device detects particular conditions and actions of the animal and compiles the corresponding information. The carried device is in communication with the interfacing device and transmits the information to the interfacing device. The interfacing device communicates the information to a network. The user of the animal data communication system accesses the network by way of a display device, which is in communication with the network, and perceives the information. The display device is disposed at a location remote to the animal such that the user can perceive the information at the remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher E. Mainini
  • Publication number: 20130076516
    Abstract: A transmitter for animal training device capable of switching modes between a rheostatic mode and an intensity selection mode is provided. Switching from rheostatic mode to intensity selection mode is done by fitting a select knob to a volume switch, setting a mode selection switch to a vibrations mode, and operating both an adjust mode select switch and a power switch at the same time. When in intensity selection mode, a user is able to adjust the volume level in multiple stages. When the select knob is fitted to the volume switch and is rotated, a ball plunger engages in grooves of the select knob, so that the select knob is stopped at the volume level a user desires. With adaptation of the select knob or volume knob to the volume switch, vibrations or shock level are adjusted in rheostatic mode or intensity selection mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Min Jae SO
  • Publication number: 20130027207
    Abstract: An animal training apparatus including an electrical conductor embedded within a flexible member, and a housing having a through-opening for receiving the electrical conductor therethrough. The flexible member is molded around the electrical conductor and the antenna, while the electrical conductor is positioned such that it extends into the housing through the through-opening. As a result of the molding process, the flexible member shields the housing through-opening, discouraging substances such as water from accessing the interior of the housing via the through-opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Brent A. GOETZL, Kevin ZINN
  • Publication number: 20120326874
    Abstract: An early alert system and a method for livestock disease detection are disclosed. An activity measurement zone (AMZ) is defined near an incentive device (e.g. food or water dispensing system) with an RFID tag reader and/or an RFID antenna. An animal's access into the AMZ is tracked and counted with an RFID tag attached to the animal. If the animals' activity relative to the AMZ drops to an alarmingly low level (e.g. dropping below an alert trigger point) over time, then a user of the alert system is informed of a potential health problem of the animal and may also be encouraged to inspect the animal in person for further determination of its current health and potential medical issues. The early alert system may be powered by hybrid alternative energy sources for rural or remote areas, which may have inconvenient or expensive access to conventional electrical power lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: HANA MICRON AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: Sung Bok Kwak, Yong Hyun Lee, Toan Tran, Sungryol Jin, Songtao Jin
  • Publication number: 20120312247
    Abstract: Devices and systems are disclosed which are specially adapted to enable trained animals, particularly canines, to actuate electrical and electronic circuits in order to control various mechanical, electronic, and electrical equipment on behalf of one or more humans. At least one embodiment of the present invention comprises a bezel-protected contact plate connected to a household electrical circuit enabling canines weighing between 5 to 250 pounds to transmit emergency alert signals to first responders, to operate lights and household appliances, and to perform any other similar functions. The bezel-protected contact plate is mounted in a stationary control box containing internal electric components to modulate the output of the signal resulting from the animal's actuation of said plate. The present invention permits canines to assist humans in generating appropriate responses to emergency conditions or commands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Russell Ebersole
  • Publication number: 20120313786
    Abstract: A litter box cleanup monitor, comprising a sensor module that is triggered when an animal uses the litter box, a transmitter that transmits a signal, and a notification device that alerts the user when the litter box has been used. The notification device can be a dedicated device, a smartphone, or an Internet-connected computer. A plurality of notification devices may also be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Debby Clary, Guy McIlroy, Bruce C. Lundeen, Marjorie Lundeen
  • Patent number: 8330589
    Abstract: A security system includes a warning notification module adapted to recognize at least one of a wireless or audible signal. A door bell ringer or emergency transmission signal from a wireless transmitter can provide a recognition signal to a microprocessor in the security system via the warning notification module. The microprocessor retrieves dog barking sounds stored in memory and provides them to at least one of an amplifier or radio frequency transmitter after the microprocessor receives the recognition signal from the warning notification module. Dog barking sounds can be broadcasted using the wireless transmitter. Processing can be with a time delay after first receipt of the recognition signal. A random module can enable random retrieval of various dog barking sounds from memory for processing. A time out module can disable operation of the microprocessor at a set time after recognition signal receipt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventors: Melisendro T. Ortiz, Luis M. Ortiz
  • Patent number: 8321124
    Abstract: A security and tracking apparatus includes at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein the apparatus is adapted for transmitting the location of each signaling unit when the first and second signaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance. A method to locate a person, animal, or object, includes providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to the person, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location of the signaling units and for transmitting the location of the signaling units when the first and second signaling units are separated more than a preselected distance; and activating the signaling units to transmit the location of the signaling units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: C2 Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Benedict S. Curatolo, Thomas E. Cornelius
  • Patent number: 8317720
    Abstract: A system and method for managing a herd of animals possibly requiring medical treatment, such as cows in a feedlot. The animals are herded individually into a chute, where identification data is collected from a tag, and core temperature data is collected using a special non-contacting core temperature sensor. The animal is tagged with a color coded tag representing a range of temperatures into which that animal's temperature falls. The animal is then delivered to a pen corresponding to that range of temperatures, where appropriate medicinal treatment is automatically dosed and applied to the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Herdx, Inc.
    Inventors: Laird W Laurence, James Derwin King, James C Lyman, Jack C Laurence, Michael R Williams, Allen Nance, Ronald B Hicks
  • Patent number: 8305220
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for monitoring and displaying the activities and behaviours of animals over a period of time. The display includes a sequence of visual representations correlating to the activities of the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Say Systems Ltd
    Inventor: David John Michael Gibson
  • Patent number: 8276544
    Abstract: A pet abode with sound dampening characteristics comprising an interior space of a pet abode having sufficient dimensions to allow a pet to comfortably reside within the interior space. The interior space is formed from at least three walls where one or more of the walls exhibits sound dampening characteristics. The sound dampening characteristics reduces a one or more sounds originating from a source external to the interior space. That is, the interior space of the pet abode is sound proofed (or sound dampened), allowing a pet to be undisturbed by loud noises outside the interior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventors: Robyn Seltzer, Steven Seltzer
  • Patent number: 8269504
    Abstract: Described is a system for locating a partial break in a wire loop antenna. More specifically, the system generates two test signals, each test signal having a signal pattern distinguishable from the other. The system transmits the test signals by way of the antenna such that each test signal radiates from the antenna. The system receives the radiating test signals and generates a signal indicator for each test signal, each signal indicator reflecting properties of its respective test signal. Each signal indicator is analyzed with respect to the other to determine the location of the partial break. Because the test signals have distinguishable signal patterns, the analysis of the signal indicators is simplified and, in certain circumstances, made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Duane A. Gerig
  • Patent number: 8253572
    Abstract: A dynamically controlled retractable tether provides a mechanism by which a pet can be safely exercised on a bicycle or other vehicle. The pet avoids injury when running in front of the bicycle and stopping short, by having a detector detect the relative motion of the pet and the bicycle so as to automatically apply brakes to the bicycle prior to the pet being injured. Variations include a zone detection mechanism that detects a relative position of the pet relative to the bicycle, and uses a different set of braking parameters, depending on the zone in which the pet is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley D. Lytle, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8248248
    Abstract: An electronic device and transmitter allowing animal owners to locate their animals by a non-verbal audible output signal and a visual output signal. A method for training animals to elicit a desired behavior based upon stimuli emitted from an electronic device. The electronic device and method enable animal owners to quickly find their animals that might not otherwise respond to verbal commands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Patricia J. Hill
  • Patent number: 8223012
    Abstract: An improved system and method for defining an event based upon an object location and a user-defined zone and managing the conveyance of object location event information among computing devices where object location events are defined in terms of a condition based upon a relationship between user-defined zone information and object location information. One or more location information sources are associated with an object to provide the object location information. One or more user-defined zones are defined on a map and one or more object location events are defined. The occurrence of an object location event produces object location event information that is conveyed to users based on user identification codes. Accessibility to object location information, zone information, and object location event information is based upon an object location information access code, a zone information access code, and an object location event information access code, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Geofence Data Access Controls LLC
    Inventor: Darrell Diem
  • Patent number: 8218871
    Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for detecting behavioral deviations in members of a cohort group. In one embodiment, a member of a cohort group is identified. Each member of the cohort group shares a common characteristic. Respiratory metadata associated with the member of the cohort group is received in real-time as the respiratory metadata is generated. The respiratory metadata describes respiration associated with the member of the cohort group. Patterns of respiratory changes are identified using the respiratory metadata. The respiratory metadata is analyzed to identify the patterns of respiratory changes. In response to the patterns of respiratory changes indicating behavioral deviations in the member of the cohort group, the member of the cohort group is identified as a person of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Lee Angell, James R. Kraemer
  • Patent number: 8207850
    Abstract: Jungle canopy surveillance apparatus and method for surveillance of human presence in a jungle canopy environment includes a plurality of sensor-relay units configured to be disposed on or near the jungle floor, and configured to detect human presence and wirelessly transmit a corresponding detection signal. At least one of the sensor-relay units is configured to receive a detection signal from another sensor-relay unit and to relay the thus-received detection signal. An artificial intelligence center is configured to be disposed on or near the top of the jungle canopy, and is configured to (i) receive at least one of the detection signal and the relayed detection signal, (ii) analyze the received at least one of the detection signal and the relayed detection signal using artificial intelligence software, and (iii) transmit a corresponding report signal to a receiving platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher William Weller, James Henry Boschma
  • Publication number: 20120154154
    Abstract: Position and proximity detection systems and methods are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing device may include a processor configured to determine a position coordinate of a first movable device. Further, the processor is configured to determine whether the position coordinate of the first movable device is a predetermined distance from a second movable device. The processor is also configured to signal the second movable device in response to determining that the position coordinate of the first movable device is a predetermined distance from a second movable device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Ernest Troxler
  • Patent number: 8188869
    Abstract: A kit monitoring and tracking the location of at least one animal includes a GPS implant designed to be transplanted subcutaneously into an animal, and capable of communicating spatial information related to the location of the animal. A first receiver allows the user to receive the spatial information communicated from the GPS implant and related to the location of the animal. The first receiver is adapted to transmit the spatial information communicated from the GPS implant to a smartphone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Carole A. Wangrud
  • Publication number: 20120112917
    Abstract: A system and method of tracking animal livestock using electronic frequency signal transmitters and receivers is herein presented. The system involves electronic tags attached to the bodies of livestock. The tags transmit a signal which conveys the location or other pertinent information regarding the status of the animal. The signals are picked up by a receiver attached to a stationary platform, or located in a vehicle, or in a portable hand held receiver device. The information transmitted can be used to locate a specific animal or can be used to monitor the status and condition of the animal. The device contains several modes which minimize power consumption and maximize power supply lifetime.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: SCR ENGINEERS LTD.
    Inventors: Uri ben Menachem, Eyal Brayer, Shy Levi
  • Patent number: 8169324
    Abstract: A system is provided of tracking objects loaded into a receptacle, where the receptacle defines a chamber having an open side for receiving the objects and has a perimeter about the open side. The system comprises a radio frequency identification antenna spaced from the receptacle and attached to the perimeter about the open side, and a radio frequency identification reader attached to the receptacle for receiving a signal from the antenna. The system further comprises a control unit attached to the receptacle communicating with the reader for processing the signal from the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventors: James Kuzniar, Malcolm Cole
  • Publication number: 20120092170
    Abstract: A gesture-based animal trainer is provided. The gesture-based animal trainer is configured to be used by a person that provides gesture commands to an animal. As used herein, the term “gesture commands” refers to gestures that are each associated with a respective animal training command, wherein a gesture is defined as a selected group of movements performed by a person. The gesture-based animal trainer detects whether the person performs a gesture command and provides a stimulus to the animal in accordance with the gesture command. Upon the animal associating the respective stimulus with the gesture command, the gesture-based animal trainer allows the animal to receive the gesture command regardless of whether the person is within the animal's line of sight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher E. MAININI
  • Patent number: 8159355
    Abstract: An animal confinement system including at least one transmitter, a loop antenna associated with each transmitter, a loop monitor associated with each loop antenna, a remote communication device and a communication device. The transmitter sends a signal to the loop antenna. The loop monitor senses at least one attribute of the signal. The communication device is communicatively connected with the loop monitor. The communication device communicates at least one attribute to the remote communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Duane A. Gerig, Andrew F. Siska
  • Publication number: 20120086574
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tracking device, system and method that may utilize GPS, global system for mobile communications (GSM) or general packet radio service (GPRS), including using triangulation, and/or wireless local area network (WLAN) technologies to improve the scope, range, reliability, convenience and speed of current tracking devices. The present invention may employ a wearable or attachable device to track persons, such as children or the elderly, or objects, for example. The wearable device may be designed to be secured to the wearer to track the wearer's whereabouts. Unauthorized removal, destruction, or tampering of the tracking device may result in alerts being sent out to a variety of monitoring stations. The tracking and alerts, for example, may be monitored via a convenient remote monitoring interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Dan Blumel, Kari Joseph Sikias
  • Patent number: 8154411
    Abstract: A System and Method for Person or Object Position Location Utilizing Impulse Radio, comprising a plurality of reference impulse radios; an object or person to be tracked having a mobile impulse radio associated therewith; an architecture with an associated positioning algorithm associated with said plurality of impulse radio reference radios and said mobile impulse radio; and display means for displaying the position of the person or object whose position is to be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: TDC Acquisition Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Richards, Larry W. Fullerton, David C. Meigs, William D. Welch, Jr., Donald A. Kelly, Timothy T. Payment, James S. Finn, William J. Tucker
  • Patent number: 8149113
    Abstract: An improved system and method for defining an event based upon an object location and a user-defined zone and managing the conveyance of object location event information among computing devices where object location events are defined in terms of a condition based upon a relationship between user-defined zone information and object location information. One or more location information sources are associated with an object to provide the object location information. One or more user-defined zones are defined on a map and one or more object location events are defined. The occurrence of an object location event produces object location event information that is conveyed to users based on user identification codes. Accessibility to object location information, zone information, and object location event information is based upon an object location information access code, a zone information access code, and an object location event information access code, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Darrell Diem
  • Patent number: 8149121
    Abstract: The present invention is aimed at providing a wireless identification tag which can save information with high reliability that is free from the possibility of being lost or falsified, is not broken or melt in the concrete, can expand directionality of an antenna, be distributed in a cement product to be in an appropriate condition for radio communication, and has good adhesion and affinity with cement or the like. A wireless identification tag 1 mixed in a cement product in the manufacturing procedure thereof in which cement, an aggregate, water, or the like are mixed including a protection body 2 incorporating the wireless identification tag 1 having an antenna portion which can write/read information by radio communication, wherein a concave portion 3 is provided on the surface of the protection body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Mitomo Corporation
    Inventors: Kikuo Kaga, Shigeo Ashizawa, Yasuo Kano
  • Patent number: 8138882
    Abstract: An approach is provided that that uses an electronic multi-touch floor covering that has numerous sensors to identify shapes. The electronic multi-touch floor covering identifies a shape of an object that is in contact with the surface of the electronic multi-touch floor covering. An entity record is then retrieved from a data store, such as a database, with the retrieved entity record corresponding to the identified shape. Actions are then retrieved from a second data store with the actions corresponding to the retrieved entity record. The retrieved actions are then executed by the computer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Lydia Mai Do, Travis M. Grigsby, Pamela Ann Nesbitt, Lisa Anne Seacat
  • Patent number: 8115642
    Abstract: This invention teaches a method and apparatus that combines GPS, map overlays, a means to draw containment perimeters directly over map overlays, and a means to transmit signals to any plurality of electronic stimulus control collars to contain humans or animals within each containment perimeter. A primary aspiration of this invention is to provide hunters with a means to effortlessly operate functions of an animal stimulus collar while hunting. Novel features include a means to specify a containment perimeter that travels with the hunter by drawing the same on a on a touch sensitive graphic user interface that displays a map of the local area. This invention is easy to use and readily accepts new perimeters, perimeter alterations, or a multiple of perimeters at will.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Scott R Thompson, Richard Folsland
  • Patent number: 8111166
    Abstract: A device for determining a posture pattern of an animal comprises a housing configured and adapted to be attached to a part of the animal; the housing comprises a posture sensor operative to sense an orientation of the part of the animal indicating the posture of the animal; and an interface unit operative to output the orientation information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: S.A.E. Afikim Milking System Agricultural Cooperative Ltd.
    Inventors: Hagai Flexer, Eli Heimlich
  • Patent number: 8098164
    Abstract: An animal training system including a programming apparatus and an animal training collar. The animal training collar is communicatively couplable to the programming apparatus. The animal training collar includes at least one stimulation probe and a programmable device operatively connected to the at least one stimulation probe to activate the at least one stimulation probe. The at least one stimulation probe also transferring data at least one of to and from the programming apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Duane A. Gerig, Stephen T. Russell, Paul McAfee
  • Patent number: 8061307
    Abstract: A deterrent apparatus having a non-conductive tubing having a length, an outer surface and an inner surface defining a lumen, and at least a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor present on the outer surface of the non-conductive tubing. A power source comprising a battery having a first terminal and a second terminal is connected to the conductors so that the first terminal is electrically connected to the first conductor and the second terminal is electrically connected to the second conductor. The deterrent apparatus is suitable for use on medical tubing or veterinary tubing, for example, to deter animals from chewing or biting at the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: Chris A. Minick, Brian Dingman, James F. Pitzen
  • Patent number: 8058976
    Abstract: A security system includes a warning notification module adapted to recognize at least one of a wireless or audible signal. A door bell ringer or emergency transmission signal from a wireless transmitter can provide a recognition signal to a microprocessor in the security system via the warning notification module. The microprocessor retrieves dog barking sounds stored in memory and provides them to at least one of an amplifier or radio frequency transmitter after the microprocessor receives the recognition signal from the warning notification module. Dog barking sounds can be broadcasted using the wireless transmitter. Processing can be with a time delay after first receipt of the recognition signal. A random module can enable random retrieval of various dog barking sounds from memory for processing. A time out module can disable operation of the microprocessor at a set time after recognition signal receipt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventors: Melisendro T. Ortiz, Luis M. Ortiz
  • Publication number: 20110273300
    Abstract: A microradio is provided with a hysteretic switch to permit an optimum range increasing charging cycle, with the charging cycle being long relative to the transmit cycle. Secondly, an ensemble of microradios permits an n2 power enhancement to increase range with coherent operation. Various multi-frequency techniques are used both for parasitic powering and to isolate powering and transmit cycles. Applications for microradios and specifically for ensembles of microradios include authentication, tracking, fluid flow sensing, identification, terrain surveillance including crop health sensing and detection of improvised explosive devices, biohazard and containment breach detection, and biomedical applications including the use of microradios attached to molecular tags to destroy tagged cells when the microradios are activated. Microradio deployment includes the use of paints or other coatings containing microradios, greases and aerosols.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventors: Karl D. Brommer, Tracey H. Brommer
  • Patent number: 8047161
    Abstract: Described is an animal containment system for containing an animal within a boundary, for maximizing the animal's usable area within the boundary, for not discouraging the animal from returning to within the boundary in the event the animal moves beyond the boundary, and for doing so without utilizing an independent polarity indicator. The animal containment system determines whether the animal is within the boundary or beyond the boundary by considering the polarity of an activation signal the animal containment system transmits from the boundary and receives at the location of the animal. The animal containment system determines the polarity of the activation signal by modulating the signal such that the modulation indicates the polarity of the activation signal. The animal containment system achieves the above-discussed features by delivering a stimulus to the animal only when it traverses the boundary from within the boundary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: William P. Moore
  • Patent number: 8049630
    Abstract: An animal management system and scanning access device are disclosed. The scanning access device accesses RFID label disposed on/in animal body, and the information of the accessed RFID label is subsequently processed and transmitted to the animal management system via a communication transmission module for comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventors: Jin-Hao Chao Cheng, Yu-Lun Ho