Abstract: A system for controlling escape of pets during emergency, such as a fire, smoke, gas or odor emission, includes a passageway from the inside of the enclosure to the outside thereof. The passageway is normally closed by a door and an apparatus is provided for enabling opening of such door during emergency. A pre-recorded message urges the pet or pets to the open passageway only when the alarm device annunciating such emergency is intermittently disabled. A control apparatus is also provided for enabling passage of the pet or pets through the passageway and annunciates location of the pet or pets with respect to interior or exterior of the enclosure. A method is disclosed for remote operation of the controlled pet door to enhance safety of the pet owner attempting to enter residential dwelling.

Abstract: A real-time tracing, transmitting and analyzing system for flight animals is disclosed. The real-time tracing, transmitting and analyzing system has a tracing and transmitting device with a weight between 1 and 10 grams. The tracing and transmitting device is fastened on any part of a flight animal's body (the flight animal's concave ring portion between its body and tail is most suitable), for capturing real-time flight information (such as location, height, flight velocity, and the physical and mental states of the flight animal) of the flight animal by using GPS. Moreover, the real-time flight information is transmitted via a base station to a flight information-analyzing device for immediately displaying the real-time flight information regarding each flight animal for reference via the flight information-analyzing device. Thereby, in a pigeon race, for example, breeders can obtain any real-time flight information that they desire regarding each flight animal.

Abstract: A system is provided for containing an animal in a defined area. The system comprises first, second, and third communicating units. One of the first two units defines a containment area, and the other unit is operatively associated with the animal. One of the first two units transmits an ultrasonic timing signal at a periodic interval, and the other unit receives the timing signal, and determining a distance between the first and second units. If the distance corresponds to the animal being outside the containment area, one of the first two units generates a warning signal. A third unit monitors whether or not the animal is within the defined area.

Abstract: A method of configuring a tracking device including accessing a tracking device management system comprising a tracking system server and a database with a terminal through a management system communication interface. A desired configuration option is selected from a plurality of configuration options provided by the tracking system server and the tracking device configuration settings are requested from the tracking system server for the desired configuration option. The configuration settings are transmitted from the database to the terminal for display. Further, the configuration settings are modified at the terminal to produce modified configuration settings and transmitted to the tracking device management system through the management system communication interface. A command is then transmitted from the tracking device management system to the tracking device through a tracking device communication link to configure the tracking device to reflect the modified configuration settings.

Abstract: A communications system for locating, tracking, and messaging between people, which preferably includes a satellite, global positioning satellites, ground monitoring units, and a portable-transmitter-receiver unit to locate and track objects and people. A communications satellite system can transmit and receive messages concerning the location and situation of an object or person. A location system may operate by way of global positioning satellites. The portable transmitter-receiver can activate a signal to the satellite system, which can inform the ground monitoring units that a person is in need of help. Each transmitter-receiver can contain memory that allows for identification of the wearer and can provide information such as address, medical problems, emergency contacts, etc.

Abstract: Enhanced product tracking, in which a data collection interface is established between a first supply management device and a transaction database, the data collection interface providing the transaction database with access to identification data and event data, the identification data uniquely identifying a pharmaceutical, and the event data relating to a supply chain process step for the pharmaceutical. Tracking also includes receiving a tracking request for formatted identification data and/or event data from a second supply management device; and establishing a data conversion interface between the second supply management device and the identification data and/or the event data, the data conversion interface providing the second supply management device with access to the identification data and/or the event data, according to the tracking request.

Abstract: A locking pet-entry door for a building. The pet's collar is equipped with an RFID tag, or transponder. An RFID tag reader controls a lock on the pet-entry door. When the transponder comes within range of the RFID tag reader, the transponder transmits a code, which the RFID tag reader receives.

Abstract: A pet escape notification system for notifying a pet owner when a pet has escaped from a predefined boundary. The escape notification system is used in association with an electronic animal containment system for maintaining a pet within the predefined boundary. A pet unit transmitter is provided for delivering a proximity alert signal to a base unit when the pet unit receives a transmitting antenna signal. After receiving the proximity alert signal, the base unit begins sending a location inquiry signal to the pet unit. Upon receipt of the location inquiry signal, the pet unit broadcasts a location inquiry response signal. If the location inquiry response signal is received by the base unit receiver, the base unit processing unit determines that the pet is still within or close to the boundary. Otherwise the base unit controller activates a communication network to notify the pet owner that the pet has escaped.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for tracking and containing animals within a programmable and customizable confinement area are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, a user programmable device is provided that is capable of receiving GPS data, variable inputs, and a rule script. The user-programmable device executes a script generated by a user upon accessing a web-based application stored in a remote server. The rule script includes rules for activation and deactivation of the corrective collar based upon various variable conditions such as proximity to owner, on leash status, time of day or other parameters in addition to boundaries. The remote server is communicatively coupled to said user programmable device and can be accessed by using a user interface for allowing the user to create the rule script.

Abstract: The number of piglets dying at birth is reduced by providing a temperature sensor in a farrowing crate at the piglet area thereof on a movable cover so that, when the sow is expected to give birth, the sensor is located in the crate at a location to detect the presence of one or more piglets after birth. On detection by a control unit using the sensor signal of the one or more piglets, the sensor communicates a signal to a pager carried by an operator indicating to the operator that birth of piglets is in progress and activates a heating lamp for the piglets in the pen to attract them away from the area of the sow to reduce crushing. The control unit and the sensor also control the heat output. The cover can slide along the piglet area and can lift to expose the piglet area.

Abstract: This invention relates to a training device (10) to be attached to or be worn by an animal (103) for training the animal to adapt its behavior to various environments (105-108), where the training device is operated by a trainer (102) of the animal. The training involves selecting various training setups, which are adapted to the various environments. A receiving means is used for receiving an input from the trainer, or from a training setup device used by the trainer, for initiating a new training setup. A detecting means is used for detecting parameters relating to the animal, wherein the parameters are regularly compared to the training setup. An output means is used for influencing the behavior of the animal if one or more of the detected parameters contradict with the training setup.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method enable monitoring of one or more physiological conditions in an animal including pH. A monitor may take the form of a bolus that may be installed in a stomach of an animal such as in a reticulorumen of a ruminant animal. The monitor may include sensors for detecting one or more of the pH, temperature, pressure, and position. The monitor includes a power source and electronics for processing, storing, and transmitting signals representing the physiological conditions detected by the sensor(s). The monitor may include first and second portions that are releasably joined, and that may support respective components for ease of assembly during manufacture and servicing. The monitor may form part of a system having a receiver for receiving and interpreting the signals from the monitor. The method includes installing the monitor in an animal and monitoring the animal by detecting physiological characteristics.

Abstract: A computer-aided training and management system that uses a computer or other processor in wireless communication with an instrumented dog collar and/or optionally, one or more dog interaction devices, such as, for example, video monitors, loudspeakers, video cameras, training toys (e.g., ball, bone, moving toy, etc.), an animatronics “trainer,” a treat dispenser, a food dispensing and monitoring device, a water dispensing and monitoring device, tracking devices, a dog door, dog-monitoring doghouse, a dog-monitoring dog toilet, is described. In one embodiment, the instrumented dog collar is in two-way communication with a central computer system.

Abstract: An electronic fence system capable of guiding animals under training to return to a predetermined restricted area. The electronic fence generates electric shocks as the animals attempt to leave the predetermined restricted area and restrains the electrical shock when the animals return to the predetermined restricted area. The electronic fence includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter transmits RF signals having a plurality of control signals such that different shock levels are generated responsive to the location of the animals within the predetermined restricted area. The receiver sets a shock wave level, selectively controls the generation of the electric shock and a high-frequency beep, automatically restrains the generation of the electric shock when an escaped animal returns to the predetermined restricted area, and generates an audible alarm and turns lamps on and off to indicate the location of the animal when it escapes from the predefined restricted area.

Abstract: A pet collar for alerting others as to the location of a pet is provided. The pet collar is provided for announcing the presence, audibly and visibly, of a pet such as in a burning structure or otherwise when the pet cannot be found. The pet collar is adapted to work in cooperation with either a conventional or an improved smoke detector. In one embodiment, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter is used in cooperation with a conventional smoke detector to communicate with a pet collar of the present invention. In either embodiment, when the smoke detector sounds an audible alarm either automatically or manually, the pet collar is activated to sound an alarm and to illuminate at least one light. The pet collar is also useful in cooperation with other detectors such as a carbon monoxide detector or a security alarm.

Abstract: A remote motion-activated transmitter unit for use in a animal behavior modification system which transmits a signal to activate a shock collar. The remote motion-activated transmitter is to be buried in the existing filled dog-hole. It is activated by the motion created by a digging animal when it returns to the filled hole to repeat it's digging activity. The motion sensing feature of the remote motion-activated transmitter is innovative in that it automatically sends the correction signal to shock collar at the exact time the misbehavior occurs. The transmitter circuit is designed to activate the shocking device when it senses motion.

Abstract: A system and method for storing and selecting animal carcasses within a cooler. A storage area has at least one storage loop forming a continuous loop upon which carcasses may circulate. A feed rail leads to the storage area. A loop entry rail branches from the feed rail onto each storage loop. A removal rail intersects each storage loop and leads to an exit rail. Each carcass may have an identification tag. Readers read the tag and a processor and database store and process information associated with the tag. Carcasses enter the storage area via the feed rail and are routed onto the loop entry rail of the storage loop having the greatest available capacity. When carcasses meeting specific criteria are desired, the database is searched and the processor causes the appropriate carcasses to circulate to the removal rails. The carcasses exit the storage loops onto the removal rails.

Abstract: A personal alarm system can be worn or carried by the user, may be activated at any time by the user and/or may be automatically activated to send a signal to any remote monitoring station on the network. The device identifies the user as well as the user's location within the monitored area. The alarm-sending unit is designed to fit within a box the size of a small cell phone or pager. The unit includes an ID memory for identifying the user, is programmable and has an on-board processor for generating a signal to a wireless transmitter for sending the signal to a to a local receiver for inputting the signal onto the network. A centralized, networked RF receiver is used with the personal alarm unit and one or more of these RF receivers may be installed in order to provided adequate coverage of the monitored area.

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.

Abstract: Timer Activated Doggie Door Opener is an automatic pet door that has a timer and motor to allow the door to open at designated times of the day. To use the preferred embodiment of Timer Activated Doggie Door Opener, a user selects a door or exterior wall to install the device and cuts an appropriate sized opening in the wall or door to accommodate the pet door. The user then attaches the frame and tracks of the device to the wall or door. A user then plugs the timer into a standard wall outlet and sets the timer to go on at a selected time. When the appropriate time is reached, power is sent to the motor which begins to reel the wire connected to the pet door into the housing of the motor, causing the pet door to slide along the upper and lower tracks to reveal the opening in the door or wall. When the user decides to close the pet door, he simply applies manual force to the pet door to cause the reeled in wire to unwind from the housing and allow the pet door to again cover the opening in the door or wall.

Abstract: An animal collar system including an animal collar, a housing mounted to the animal collar and an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit is enclosed in the housing and a built-in-test circuit is electrically connected to the electrical circuit.

Abstract: A micro-tracking device for tracing action track of animals is disclosed. The micro-tracking device has a weight between 1 and 10 grams and is fastened on any animal's any position (especially a flight animal's concave ring portion between its body and tail), for capturing action track information (for example, a current height value and a speed value of about flight animal, current position and time information about the flight animal) of the animal using GPS and controlling action statuses of the animal effectively.

Abstract: An apparatus for retrofitting automatic irrigation systems for animal and human deterrent control comprises at least one motion detector for placement within a bordered zone monitored for trespassers. The motion detector is adapted to detect a body entering said bordered zone and generate a trespasser signal having a unique ID. A programmable control receiver module receives the signal and activates a solenoid control valve to spray the trespasser with water.

Abstract: A monitoring systems includes at least one fixed location monitoring station, a remote central station and a communications link interconnecting the monitoring station with the remote central station. The monitoring station includes a processor coupled to an input device for retrieving subject identification definition data and subject location definition data. The processor also retrieves physiological parameter sampling data from the subject and determines whether the physiological parameter sampling data lies within boundary limits of the identification definition data and also determines whether the location of the monitoring station lies within boundary limits of the location definition data. In the event the sampling data and the fixed location are within boundary limits, the processor may actuate an access control to permit the subject to enter or exit a controlled premises.

Abstract: A portable animal tracking system. The portable animal tracking system provides two-way communication between a first unit carried by an operator and a second unit carried by an animal. The first unit allows an operator to issue warnings or corrections to an animal and to locate an animal. The second unit delivers warnings and corrections to the animal by the second unit and responds to location requests from the first unit. Location is accomplished through an angular-bearing analysis.

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.

Abstract: An animal behavior modification apparatus including a stimulation device for applying a stimulation having a current stimulation level associated with one of a plurality of stimulation levels including a minimum level. The stimulation device including control logic for applying a stimulation, based upon the steps of increasing the current stimulation level; applying a stimulation corresponding to the current stimulation level; determining the behavior of the animal until compliant behavior is obtained; and reducing the current stimulation level between the current stimulation level and the minimum level dependant upon the determining step.

Abstract: An animal collar system including an animal collar, a housing mounted to the animal collar and an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit is enclosed in the housing and a built-in-test circuit is electrically connected to the electrical circuit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a moving object locating apparatus that comprises a search unit and at least one target unit. The first central processing unit is configured to proceed with coding, and the antenna module is configured to transmit searching signals that carry identification codes. The target unit, which is provided with a default identification code, comprises a radio transmit-receive unit, a second central processing unit and a second power unit. When the radio transmit-receive unit receives the searching signal, the second central processing unit will decode the identification code carried by the searching signal and matches with the default identification code of the target unit. When two codes are matched, the second central processing unit then will proceed to coding and then actuate the radio transmit-receive unit to transmit a response signal, which carries the default identification code, back to the search unit.

Abstract: The present invention combines a residential elevator and automatic pet door with an intelligence component comprised of a Programmable Logic Controller with programmed intelligence that enables interoperability between the residential elevator and automatic pet door. In practice a pet will wear a collar with an attached or embedded transmitter. As the pet approaches the elevator door, the swing door will open and the accordion gate will open. If the elevator is at another level when the pet approaches, a call will be submitted to bring the elevator to the pet's level. The swing door and gate will open automatically when the elevator arrives. The gate and door will remain open long enough for the pet to enter the elevator and close automatically. The call to another floor will automatically be submitted to the elevator based on the current floor location.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a tracking apparatus (100) and method that are operable to efficiently track an animal. The tracking apparatus (100) is operable to be worn by an animal, determine its current geographic location, and transmit information relating to its current geographic location to an external device such as a portable navigation unit (200). The navigation unit (200) is operable to display a representation of the geographic location of the tracking apparatus (100) for consideration by a user.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling pet access according to various aspects of the present invention generally comprise a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock and unlock a pet door. A controller connected to the locking mechanism controls the locking mechanism in response to a control signal. A wireless receiver connected to the controller conveys the control signal to the controller.

Abstract: A system and method for agricultural data collection and management is described to provide quality assurance source verification data and performance tracking for agricultural items throughout the production cycle. Individual item data is efficiently collected, transferred, and shared in a transactional, event-oriented, row-oriented structure with few columns without need for creating relational structures. The system includes software components for data collection and real-time data lookup components; share, switch, route, and interface components; extract, transform, and load components; and report and analyze data components. Embodiments include data acquisition from multiple RFID reader locations; a web-based information system for a beef marketing alliance; value-based procurement, and supply chain management.

Abstract: The invention relates to an identification chip for insertion in an object located in a liquid. The identification chip comprises an acoustic resonator (100), which exhibits a number of distinct resonant frequencies, where the combination of resonant frequencies is unique to the identification chip. This enables the identification chip to be identified by exposing it to an acoustic polling signal, measuring an acoustic response signal and analysing the frequency of the response signal. The resonator (100) comprises a cavity-forming part (110, 120) and a membrane (130). The acoustic resonant frequencies are determined by at least one cavity (140), which is enclosed by the cavity-forming part (110, 120) and the membrane (140). The identification chip can be implanted in a fish, with the object of identifying the fish when it is located in water.

Abstract: Described is an insulated probe device of adjustable axial length for delivering an electroshock stimulus to an animal. The insulated probe device includes an electrode that is positioned in contact with the animal's skin and is disposed within an electrically non-conductive housing. The housing is a two-part housing, where the two parts cooperate such that the ultimate length of the housing is adjustable. The insulated probe devise includes a mounting device that electrically and mechanically secures the insulated probe device to an electronic animal training device. The mounting device is electrically connected to the electrode by way of a conductor, which is disposed within the housing. The conductor is a metal-rubber substance that conducts electricity like a metal and stretches like rubber such that it is capable of various lengths. Consequently, the ultimate length of the insulated probe device is adjustable.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting presence and movement of pests. Various embodiments of a pest detection system can be based on, for example, a beam-interrupt detector or a thermal imaging device. The beam-interrupt detection based system can provide functionalities such as counting of pests crossing a given beam. A plurality of such beams at different heights can also allow distinguishing different sized pests. The thermal imaging based detection system can provide functionalities such as tracking movement of pests. A recording can be triggered by detection of pest movement, thereby improving the efficiency of recording and reviewing information indicative of presence and movement of pests in a monitored area. Movement of pests can be monitored on a passive basis, or by providing a stimulus that induces movement.

Abstract: A system for controlling pets utilizes a low power transmitter to create avoidance zones in which one pet wearing an animal control receiver can enter but in which a second pet is deterred from entering.

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.

Abstract: A portable animal containment device for confining an animal to a defined area. The portable animal containment device includes a flat and a correction unit. The flat is adapted to be portable and defines the area within which an animal is confined. The flat has an associated presence detector for detecting whether the animal is occupying the flat. When the presence detector indicates that the animal is not occupying the flat, a signal is transmitted to the correction unit by way of wireless communication. The correction unit is carried by the animal and administers a stimulus to the animal when the correction unit receives the signal from the transmitter. Consequently, when the animal moves beyond the boundary defined by the flat, it receives a stimulus, which encourages the animal to remain in the flat.

Abstract: A system and method of performing a medical diagnosis in real time that can diagnose a health condition of a mobile terminal user in real time is disclosed. Various sensors provided in the mobile terminal sense a body condition, and a server diagnoses the health condition of the user from the sensed condition information, and informs the user of the corresponding health keeping plan and medical treatment as well. Thus, the user can conveniently check his/her health condition any time and anywhere.

Abstract: A property security system and method therefor assigns a property code uniquely associated with each property owning member. The property marker code includes an abbreviation for the state of residence of the property owner, a first numerical code identifying the county in which the member, or property owner, resides or is located, and a second numerical code identifying the township of the owner's residence or location. The township is divided into one mile square portions, with each one mile square portion further divided into quadrants to identify the owner's residence/location to within a 160 acre area. This coded indicia further includes an individual member number for each owner in the property security system. Another embodiment envisions using the security system for marking and identifying individual animals such as used in business with appropriate owner and animal identification and location indicia for identifying/locating the owner of lost, missing or sick animals.

Abstract: An intrusion detection technique involves: emitting a wireless signal within a container; detecting the wireless signal near the container; and responding to detection of a change in a characteristic of the detected wireless signal by transmitting a wireless notification to a location remote from the container. A different technique involves: responding to a determination that a condition representative of unauthorized intrusion is present while the container is stationary by transmitting a wireless notification; and responding to a determination that the container is moving by ignoring whether the condition is present. Yet another technique involves: monitoring whether a door of a container is in a closed position; and emitting a wireless signal indicating whether the container door is in the closed position.

Abstract: An antenna mounting for an animal collar including an O-ring and associated retainer disposed in an opening through the housing of a radio frequency receiver. The O-ring is compressed into multiple sealing locations between the circumference of the antenna and its surrounding structure to create a resilient hermetic seal between the antenna and such surrounding structure, and to resiliently suspend the antenna within the opening in the housing.

Abstract: An animal data gathering device comprise: a radio transmitter and receiver, a processor for controlling the operation of the device, and memory for storing, information including a first unique identifier associated with the device, wherein the processor is arranged to transmit a signal, by means of the radio transmitter, and to receive, by means of the radio receiver, one or more signals, each representing a second unique identifier from other devices and the processor is arranged to store in the memory each second unique identifier. Thus a record is kept of all radio devices with which the device has come into radio contact.

Abstract: A pet identification tag with associated cavity holder for insertion of a miniaturized Radio-frequency identification (“RFID”) transponder capsule. The tag has an embedded cavity and mechanism to insert or remove an optional RFID transponder capsule. The tag with transponder capsule can then be attached to a pet's collar to wireless ID the pet without need to medically inject a RFID transponder capsule into a pet's body by surgical means.

Abstract: Pet sensing is accomplished by detecting pulsed infrared light reflected from a pet worn collar or harness devised of highly reflective material. To avoid false triggering, a dual set of infrared light emitting and detecting sensor units works in conjunction with logic circuitry for reliable activation of an electrically actuated access device.

Abstract: A system for controlling pets utilizes a low power transmitter to create avoidance zones in which one pet wearing an animal control receiver can enter but in which a second pet is deterred from entering.

Abstract: A remotely controlled device (3) for controlling a remotely controlled launcher for dog training includes receiving circuitry (26,27) for receiving control information signals from a remote transmitter (2), controller (40) coupled to receive demodulated information from the receiving circuitry (26,27) and adapted to generate a control signal in response to the demodulated information, a coupling device (21A) for coupling the control signal to a control input of the animal training device (14-1), and a test circuit (33) responsive to a test switch (16) for testing continuity of the coupling by the coupling device (21A).

Abstract: A method of controlling at least one device by incidental sound produced by a living creature and including: attaching a sound-maker to a living creature so that the natural movements of the living creature will cause the sound-maker to emit a sound; receiving the sound by at least one device; and responding by some physical response to the sound, by the at least one device.

Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of an animal training device which is worn around the neck of an animal to apply at least one of an impulse wave and vibration to the animal. Upon pushing a first function switch under the condition that a security code number is set by a security code setting unit, the level of the impulse wave to be applied to the animal is set by a volume adjustment unit and a mode selector is set to any one of a vibration position, vibration/impulse wave position, impulse wave position, a receiver receives a radio signal containing such data and thus applies at least one of the vibration and impulse wave to the animal to train it. Further, the volume adjustment unit employs a variable resistor which can finitely adjust the impulse wave level. Therefore, only a vibration or a low-level impulse wave can be applied to an animal over-sensitive to an electrical stimulation to readily train it.