Animal Control Patents (Class 367/139)
  • Patent number: 11957121
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for repelling insects. An electrostatic field is provided about a user by: connecting the user directly to a source of high voltage and low current; or providing a conductive garment about the user and connecting the conductive garment to a source of high voltage and low current. At a sufficiently high voltage, the electrostatic field become effective at repelling insects from the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: Jonathan Tam
  • Patent number: 11959779
    Abstract: A pest monitoring system may include a sensor and a sensor unit. The sensor may be configured to measure a change in fringe capacitance. The sensor unit may include a housing, at least one microprocessor, a non-volatile memory, a transceiver, a clock, and a connector operatively connected to the sensor. The housing may include a power source. The sensor unit may be programmed to manage power usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: BRANDENBURG (UK) LIMITED
    Inventors: Mathew V. Kaye, Mark Jacques
  • Patent number: 11944085
    Abstract: An insect repelling system utilizes a vehicle, and includes: a position information acquisition unit configured to acquire and provide vehicle position information, an interface unit configured to display species-based frequency ranges that insects avoid and to allow a user to select one of the displayed frequency ranges, a controller configured to perform control such that the interface unit displays the species-based frequency ranges that are avoided by insects that can be repelled at the current position of the vehicle based on the vehicle position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit and to generate and output a control signal for outputting a sound having the frequency selected through the interface unit, and a sound generation device configured to output the sound having the frequency by the user according to the control signal output by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation
    Inventor: Dong Hyeon Woo
  • Patent number: 11874407
    Abstract: Technologies for processing a three-dimensional (3D) underwater scene is disclosed. A computing device receives a data set representative of an underwater environment corresponding to sonar data generated by a sonar transducer assembly and receiving parameters. The data set includes 3D volumetric points representative of at least one 3D volumetric data set at one or more time points. The computing device applies segmentation modes on the data set, in which each segmentation mode generates a processed subset of the 3D volumetric points. Each processed subset includes one or more 3D volumetric objects. The computing device classifies one or more 3D volumetric objects based on a combination of the plurality of processed subsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: CODA OCTOPUS GROUP INC.
    Inventors: Alam Abbas Syed, Blair G. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 11645354
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a determination method for a preferred habitat of fish and a terminal device, wherein the method comprises: acquiring parameter information of a water environment in which target fish is located, and establishing a 3D water environment model by utilizing the parameter information of the water environment; determining an ecological function of the target fish and constructing a bio-simulation model on the 3D water environment model by combining the ecological function; acquiring a movement locus of the target fish in the bio-simulation model and determining potential habitats of the target fish according to the movement locus; and determining the preferred habitat of the target fish from the potential habitats by utilizing a preference learning model based on a density accumulation method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: XI'AN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Quan Quan, Shaoze Gao, Simin Yang, Rong Fan
  • Patent number: 11337417
    Abstract: An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area includes a housing, recordable memory media contained within the housing for storing a pre-recorded ultrasonic sound and a prerecorded audible sound. An audible sound emitter contained within the housing is also provided for emitting the prerecorded audible sound. Further, an ultrasonic sound emitter contained within the housing for emitting the prerecorded ultrasonic sound and second pre-recorded sounds that simulate first and second distinct sounds each made by a species of animal in the environment. A user interface, such as a hand held unit, is also provided to play back the audible and ultrasonic sounds simultaneously to produce a blended sound for attracting an animal. The apparatus may further include a first amplifier for amplifying the audible sound and a second amplifier for amplifying the ultrasonic sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Rogue LLC
    Inventors: Steven C. Holmberg, Stephen W. Cass, Randal P Stuart, Gary Roberson
  • Patent number: 11278234
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method of operating a system for neurofeedback (NFB) that includes trained animal in a feedback chain. Feedback chain consists of the following steps: A?B?C?D?A wherein said steps are: A. real time recording of the subject's EEG performed by the user module and forwarded to the mobile module; B. analytics of the recorded signal performed by the mobile module and algorithmic decisioning about the stimulation form; C. forwarding the stimulation towards the animal by using of one or more ultrasonic speakers simultaneously wherein the information needed for the animal performance is forwarded in the form of a coded ultrasonic signal; and D. performing of a learned action by the animal triggered by the received ultrasonic signal from the step C which provides a stimulus to the subject exposed to the NBF training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: UMO NEUROSCIENCE D.O.O.
    Inventor: Marin Maletic
  • Patent number: 11242121
    Abstract: A remotely positioned, ultrasonic wave producing, and low voltage anti-fouling system comprising; a computing module, a mounting system having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to vessel or a structure, a substantially waterproof enclosure detachably engaged with the second end of the mounting system, at least one transducer positioned within the substantially waterproof enclosure and cooperatively connected to the computing module, wherein the at least one transducer produces a sound wave able to impinge upon a submerged surface, at least one wave form generator cooperatively connected to the computing module and the at least one transducer, at least one power amplifier cooperatively connected to the at least one wave form generator and the at least one transducer, and at least one sensor cooperatively connected to the computing module, wherein the at least one sensor substantially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Inventors: James DiLorenzo, Pete Schibly, Geoff Trager, Dave Sherzer
  • Patent number: 10773815
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product optimizes an operation of an aerial drone. A drone on-board computer on an aerial drone receives sensor readings from sensors on the aerial drone, where the sensor readings detect a change in flight conditions while the aerial drone is flying between a first location and a second location. In response to the sensors on the aerial drone detecting a change in the flight conditions while the aerial drone is flying between the first location and the second location, the drone on-board computer disengages an electric motor from propellers on the aerial drone and engages an internal combustion engine to the propellers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ahamed Jalaldeen, Chivukula V. L. Narayana
  • Patent number: 10499633
    Abstract: A remote notification electronic rodent trapping system and method is provided having a plurality of rearming electronic rodent trapping devices configured to wirelessly communicate trap information to a base station that is in communication with a cloud server. When a trap is activated by a rodent trigger it changes from a set state to a kill alert state and initiates a killing cycle. The trap waits a first time period and then sends a notification signal to the base station of trap activation which the base station forwards to the cloud server. The cloud server waits a second predetermined time period before sending a pushed notification to a remote user of the trap's kill alert state. If the trap rearms prior to expiration of the second time period, it alerts the base station which notifies the cloud server. The cloud server updates trap status to the set state and does not send a notification to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: WOODSTREAM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Christopher T. Rich, Thomas J. Daly, Jr., Aaron W. Lunger
  • Patent number: 10455829
    Abstract: A light irradiation device includes: at least one imaging means that images a monitoring region to continue to accurately irradiate a moving target with light; at least one projection means that irradiates the monitoring region with signal light; a control means that controls the imaging means to image the monitoring region and controls the projection means to emit the signal light; at least one propeller that moves the own device in the air; and a flight control means that controls flight of the own device by controlling the propeller, the control means controlling, when recognizing a light irradiation target to be irradiated with the signal light on image data imaged by the imaging means, the projection means to emit the signal light toward the light irradiation target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Fujio Okumura
  • Patent number: 10407320
    Abstract: Techniques for depleting target organisms in water include a waterproof transducer configured for ensonifying a container of water with low intensity sound at one or more ultrasound frequencies for a duration sufficient to prevent maturation of at least 90% of the target organism. In some cases the target organism is mosquito larvae. For example, a portable system for depleting target organisms in water includes a control system and a plurality of waterproof transducers. The system is configured for ensonifying a surface layer of water in an acoustic frequency range from about 40 kilohertz to about 100 kilohertz and in a power concentration range from about 35 milliwatts per milliliter to 100 milliwatts per milliliter for a duration in a range from about 1 to about 100 seconds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: THE TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK
    Inventors: Szabolcs Marka, Imre Bartos, Zsuzsanna Marka
  • Patent number: 10398130
    Abstract: Various systems and methods for implementing animal control systems are provided herein. A monitoring system for influencing animal behavior includes a processor subsystem to: receive, at the monitoring system, an indication of an animal proximate to a restricted area; determine whether to activate a repellent device and an attractant device to maneuver the animal away from the restricted area; and activate the repellent device and the attractant device when the determination is positive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas A. Birch, David I Poisner
  • Patent number: 10396905
    Abstract: Information is communicated to an individual by directing an acoustic signal transcranially to a target region in the brain. The target region is stimulated to produce a cognitive effect, and the cognitive effect is modulated or encoded to carry the desired information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: CEREVAST MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: William J. Tyler, Isy Goldwasser, Robert Muratore, Sumon Pal, Tomokazu Sato, Daniel Z. Wetmore
  • Patent number: 10081437
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product optimizes an operation of an aerial drone to transport a product to a customer. Processor(s) receive an order for a product from a customer. In response to determining that the customer is authorized to have the product delivered by the aerial drone, the processor(s) identify a weight, size, item type, and value of the product, and determine whether the aerial drone is physically able to lift and transport the product, based on a distance to the customer and a cost effectiveness of using the aerial drone over another mode of transportation. The aerial drone is coupled to the product and launched. In response to sensors on the aerial drone detecting a change in flight conditions while the aerial drone is flying to the customer, a drone on-board computer disengages an electric motor and engages an internal combustion on the aerial drone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ahamed Jalaldeen, Chivukula V. L. Narayana
  • Patent number: 10045525
    Abstract: An active non-lethal infrasound system for denying all bird species access to critical areas, particularly in areas around aircraft and other high value systems. The system comprises a plurality of infrasound generators broadcasting continuous infrasonic signals to create a bird-free infrasound active zone within the perimeters of the protected critical area and an infrasound-free dead zones for birds being denied access to the critical areas. Further, an active infrasonic barrier is assembled within an exclusion area surrounding the bird-free infrasound active zone to dampen all low frequency sound waves emanating from the critical area and its perimeters. Wherever the situation allows, a wildlife sanctuary is preferably established further from the exclusion area to attract and protect birds, enforced by broadcasting infrasound signals that simulate natural sounds that attract species typical of the geographic location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignees: TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATED, EMINENT TECHNOLOGY INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Abdo A. Husseiny, Omar Abdallah, F. Bruce Thigpen, Ajay Mahajan, Jonathan Tyron Hagstrum, Zeinab A. Sabri
  • Patent number: 10028502
    Abstract: An animal deterrent is provided. The animal deterrent includes a housing having a high voltage spark generator disposed within. A power source, such as a battery, is connected to the high voltage spark generator. A sensor may be connected to the battery and is operable to detect at least one of a motion and a sound. When the sensor detects at least one of the motion and the sound, the power source powers the high voltage spark generator so that the high voltage spark generator generates high voltage sparks. The high voltage sparks produce a sound and a light, along with ozone scaring animals away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Inventor: Richard Earl Nichols
  • Patent number: 9986730
    Abstract: A portable electronic animal call device comprising a housing, a memory, a plurality of user inputs, a speaker, an amplifier, a power source, a status indicator, and a controller for controlling the electronic components. The housing encloses the electronic components and includes a plurality of sound openings near the speaker. The housing also includes a plurality of ridges and recesses for gripping the device. The memory stores animal sound files therein. The inputs include a power button, a plurality of animal sound selection buttons, and one or more volume inputs. The user holds or presses the power button to turn on and off the device and to resume and pause an animal sound. The user presses one of the animal sound selection buttons to select and play a desired animal sound. The status indicator communicates a power or animal sound status via LED light or similar alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Innovative Sportsmen, LLC
    Inventors: Perry Jay Madl, William Cokeley
  • Patent number: 9877471
    Abstract: An acoustic signal for attracting rats comprising a playback recording or synthetic generation of vocalizations of rats or mice is provided. The vocalizations may be of rat pups, and may be characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 1.8-7.5 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the ranges of 21-24 kHz, 40-50 kHz and/or 60-96 kHz. The vocalizations may be of adult male rats, including courting adult male rats, characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 15-20 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the range of 20-100 kHz. The vocalizations may be of adult female mice, including nursing adult female mice, characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 8-12 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the range of 25-100 kHz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: SCOTTS CANADA LTD.
    Inventors: Stephen J. Takacs, Antonia E. Musso, Regine M. Gries, Gerhard G. Gries
  • Patent number: 9729252
    Abstract: Information is communicated to an individual by directing an acoustic signal transcranially to a target region in the brain. The target region is stimulated to produce a cognitive effect, and the cognitive effect is modulated or encoded to carry the desired information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: CEREVAST MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: William J. Tyler, Isy Goldwasser, Robert Muratore, Sumon Pal, Tomokazu Sato, Daniel Z. Wetmore
  • Patent number: 9504233
    Abstract: An electromechanical horn having a sound generating system including a piezoelectric speaker generates a series of short, audible sound signals in a repetitive pattern, the generated sound signals having fundamental frequencies with associated harmonic component frequencies and decibel levels that fall within a frequency range of greatest hearing sensitivity of the animal to disperse or deter an aggressive animal in a non-detrimental manner. The generated sound signals have fundamental frequencies with associated harmonic component frequencies that fall within a frequency range of from about 3 kHz to about 10 kHz, and decibel levels in a range of from about 75 dB to about 115 dB (SPL) at 1 meter. The horn device can be hand-held, attached to a user's belt or clothing, or removably attached to a bicycle, motorcycle, stroller, or other conveyance or object and can be actuated while attached or quickly removed and actuated when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Inventors: Leah Stephens, John Stephens
  • Patent number: 9480248
    Abstract: The invention comprises a device and method for impacting the behavior of invertebrates that infest wood, without the use of chemicals. In particular, the invention is useful for impacting the behavior of wood-boring invertebrates, which infest wood products, lumber and the woody portions of plants and trees. The invention utilizes acoustic (sonic) agents which may be optionally modulated with specific signals, to cause negative effects on the normal behaviors exhibited by wood-infesting invertebrates, which may result in the invertebrates being injured or killed, unable to reproduce, or caused to flee the wood that the invertebrates are infesting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents, Acting for and on behalf of Northern Arizona University
    Inventors: Richard W. Hofstetter, Reagan McGuire, David Dunn
  • Patent number: 9468198
    Abstract: The apparatus and methods are described for an electrical fish barrier system that has more than one geographically separate pulsator that are connected to a common electrical grid and are synchronized to prevent the overlapping of electrical pulses to prevent line notching or local line electrical line noise that may interfere with railroad transmission lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Smith Root, Inc
    Inventor: Douglas Malone
  • Patent number: 9432791
    Abstract: A location aware self-configuring loudspeaker includes a plurality of ultrasonic receivers that each provide an associated received ultrasonic receiver signal. An RF receiver receives adjacent loudspeaker RF data from an adjacent location aware self-configuring loudspeaker and provides received RF data indicative thereof. A data receiver receives audio data and provides received audio data indicative thereof. The location aware self-configuring loudspeaker also includes a processor that receives and processes the received ultrasonic receiver signals and the received RF data to determine a location of detected adjacent loudspeakers and the location of the location aware self-configuring loudspeaker. The processor also provides data indicative of the determined location of the detected adjacent loudspeakers and the location of the self-configuring loudspeaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: HARMAN INTERNATIONAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Dibyendu Chatterjee
  • Patent number: 9258994
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating infestation in a wooden body is provided. The apparatus comprises at least one transducer configured to deliver High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) signals to at least one region of the wooden body. The method comprises scanning at least one part of the wooden body to identify at least one region of the wooden body infested with one or more pests. The method further comprises delivering HIFU signals to the at least one region of the wooden body infested with the one or more pests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)
    Inventor: Munir Eldesouk
  • Patent number: 9107399
    Abstract: A method for controlling an insect pest with vibrations, including a step of determining a frequency range and an amplitude range of vibrations in a habitat medium of an insect pest that induce or suppress a specific behavior of the insect pest, and a step of controlling the insect pest behavior by applying vibrations in the frequency range and amplitude range once or two or more times in the insect pest habitat medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignees: Forestry And Forest Products Research Institute, The University Of Electro-Communications, National University Corporation Hokkaido University
    Inventors: Takuma Takanashi, Wakako Ohmura, Eiji Ohya, Yoshitaka Kubojima, Teruo Mori, Takuji Koike, Hiroshi Nishino
  • Patent number: 9089123
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for collecting data and monitoring vocalizations of wildlife and transmitting same to a user are described. The apparatus comprises one or more microphones coupled to a device for recording and processing captured audio signals and providing the captured information to a user. Several methods for use of the apparatus to collect data and monitor subjects of information are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventor: Mark Holton Thomas
  • Patent number: 9060504
    Abstract: A device for repelling animals using acoustic waves, comprising an acoustic wave generation unit (11); first and second frequency adjusting units (12, 13) to induce the generation of resonance of the pulse signal generated from the acoustic wave generation unit (11); an acoustic wave output unit (14) to output the acoustic wave; a resonance generation-type acoustic wave output unit (15) to output the acoustic wave; a resonance generation unit (16) which forms a space in which the acoustic wave outputted from the acoustic wave output unit (14) and the acoustic wave outputted from the resonance generation-type acoustic wave output unit (15) stay at the same time, and amplifies the volume and the frequencies by inducing resonance to be generated by mutual interference; and an acoustic wave diffusing unit (17) which diffuses the acoustic waves expanded by the resonance to a free space via an induction pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventor: Seung Noh Lee
  • Patent number: 9042201
    Abstract: Information is communicated to an individual by directing an acoustic signal transcranially to a target region in the brain. The target region is stimulated to produce a cognitive effect, and the cognitive effect is modulated or encoded to carry the desired information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Thync, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Tyler, Isy Goldwasser, Robert Muratore, Sumon Pal, Tomo Sato, Daniel Z. Wetmore
  • Publication number: 20150128479
    Abstract: An acoustic signal for attracting rats comprising a playback recording or synthetic generation of vocalizations of rats or mice is provided. The vocalizations may be of rat pups, and may be characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 1.8-7.5 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the ranges of 21-24 kHz, 40-50 kHz and/or 60-96 kHz. The vocalizations may be of adult male rats, including courting adult male rats, characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 15-20 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the range of 20-100 kHz. The vocalizations may be of adult female mice, including nursing adult female mice, characterized by sonic frequency components in the range of 8-12 kHz and/or ultrasonic frequency components in the range of 25-100 kHz.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Stephen J. Takacs, Antonia E. Musso, Regine M. Gries, Gerhard G. Gries
  • Patent number: 9027513
    Abstract: A green-light device for driving mice away includes a casing and a control circuit in the casing, wherein the control circuit comprises a power conversion circuit, a voltage regulating integrated circuit (IC), an amplifying circuit, a control knob, an ultrasonic frequency oscillator circuit, a logical-determination circuit and multiple green-light emitting diodes (LED) coupled to and controlled by the logical-determination circuit. The control knob is configured to be switched to lead the control circuit to create an ultrasonic wave or a special light wave such that mice can be cheated or driven away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Chih-Hsien Wu
  • Publication number: 20150127209
    Abstract: The bird repellent system is particularly adapted to repel various species of birds on and around airports, but may be readily adapted for use in other environments where birds have become a nuisance or hazard. The system includes both a ground vehicle and an airborne vehicle to optimize the effect against both sitting birds and birds in flight. Both vehicles are unmanned and operate autonomously, or by remote control as drones. The airborne vehicle is preferably a quad rotor craft for very slow and hovering flight. Both vehicles are equipped with GPS guidance and are preprogrammed to travel about a predetermined area or route. The two vehicles communicate with one another for optimum effect. Both vehicles include audio systems to broadcast startling sounds and/or bird distress cries in sound frequencies audible to humans as well as in ultrasonic frequencies known to be audible to various species of birds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS
    Inventors: AHMED Z. AL-GARNI, WAEL G. ABDELRAHMAN
  • Patent number: 9013961
    Abstract: An apparatus for repelling pests includes a vibration generator operably connected to an object that operates in a first vibrating mode and a second non-vibrating mode. An environmental sensor senses a condition external to the vibration generator. A controller receives the sensed condition and controls the vibration generator between the first and second modes in response to the received sensed condition. Vibrations from the vibration generator are transferred to the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventors: William D. Nicholson, Christopher Ehlers
  • Patent number: 9010264
    Abstract: A rat guard and method utilizing a flexible shield affixed to a plastic sheath positioned on a mooring line to prevent entry onto or exit from the ship by vermin. An electric grid is positioned on an insulated pad on the sheath which is electrically connected to the shield for receiving power from an acoustical generator also connected to the shield and spaced therefrom. The acoustical generator directs ultrasonic acoustic signals in a variable frequency range toward the shield to frighten rats or other vermin therefrom. Should the acoustical signals not deter the vermin, the electric grid will shock any vermin making contact therewith to cause harm and frighten. The shield provides another obstacle to prevent advancement and is affixed to the sheath on the mooring line. The shield is flexible and remains in place during high winds and other adverse weather conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Fjord, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Ratigan
  • Patent number: 8964508
    Abstract: A weather-resistant housing (1 a, 1 b) provides a chamber (1 b) containing an acoustic generator. An acoustic outlet (2) is located, in use, to direct an acoustic signal into air of the animal tunnel/burrow system rather than into ground/soil. The acoustic outlet may be an acoustic tube that extends along a tunnel of a subterranean tunnel system of the species to be deterred so as to form part of that tunnel. The device may be powered by a battery (10). A part of the device that extends above the ground may support a solar panel (5). The acoustic signal represents one or more deterrent communication calls of the species to be deterred. In the case of a water vole or mole, the acoustic signal represents one or more of a distance regulating or territorial call and a defensive call. Two such communication calls may be artificially paired to form the acoustic signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: W. Neudorff GmbH KG
    Inventors: Andreas Prokop, Thorsten Menke
  • Patent number: 8953413
    Abstract: A device for acoustically scaring avian species includes means for emitting an acoustic sequence including the repetition of a combination of at least three categories of different synthetic signals, including warning signals representative of alert noises from birds of prey, interspecies distress signals, and taking-flight signals from various species representing beatings of wings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignees: Airbus Operations SAS, Universite Rennes 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)
    Inventors: Nathalie Papin, Frederic Sebe, Thierry Aubin
  • Patent number: 8934319
    Abstract: An animal deterrent has a housing and a power source, a processor, and a sound emitter. The deterrent can be programmed by a user to perform one or more tasks. The deterrent can be manipulated via a touch-screen, a button, or a remote control and receiver. A sensor can be included to send a sensor signal when a temperature, sound, light, or other environmental condition is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Bird-B-Gone, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Donoho
  • Publication number: 20140340996
    Abstract: The invention comprises a device and method for impacting the behavior of invertebrates that infest wood, without the use of chemicals. In particular, the invention is useful for impacting the behavior of wood-boring invertebrates, which infest wood products, lumber and the woody portions of plants and trees. The invention utilizes acoustic (sonic) agents which may be optionally modulated with specific signals, to cause negative effects on the normal behaviors exhibited by wood-infesting invertebrates, which may result in the invertebrates being injured or killed, unable to reproduce, or caused to flee the wood that the invertebrates are infesting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Arizona Board of Regents acting for and on behalf of Northern Arizona University
    Inventors: Richard W. Hofstetter, Reagan McGuire, David Dunn
  • Publication number: 20140334268
    Abstract: A method is described for emitting an insect behaviour modification signal to create a protected zone into which insect entry is minimized. The use of complex waveforms is described, emitted at frequencies from 150.000 Hz to 250.000 Hz. First and second waveforms are emitted at resonant frequencies to strengthen the protective effect. Further refinements include modulation of the transmitted signal, and frequency hopping of the transmitted signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Norma O'Hara
  • Publication number: 20140293750
    Abstract: A device for acoustically scaring avian species includes means for emitting an acoustic sequence including the repetition of a combination of at least three categories of different synthetic signals, including warning signals representative of alert noises from birds of prey, interspecies distress signals, and taking-flight signals from various species representing beatings of wings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Nathalie Papin, Frederic Sebe, Thierry Aubin
  • Publication number: 20140247696
    Abstract: A device for repelling animals using acoustic waves, comprising an acoustic wave generation unit (11); first and second frequency adjusting units (12, 13) to induce the generation of resonance of the pulse signal generated from the acoustic wave generation unit (11); an acoustic wave output unit (14) to output the acoustic wave; a resonance generation-type acoustic wave output unit (15) to output the acoustic wave; a resonance generation unit (16) which forms a space in which the acoustic wave outputted from the acoustic wave output unit (14) and the acoustic wave outputted from the resonance generation-type acoustic wave output unit (15) stay at the same time, and amplifies the volume and the frequencies by inducing resonance to be generated by mutual interference; and an acoustic wave diffusing unit (17) which diffuses the acoustic waves expanded by the resonance to a free space via an induction pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventor: Seung Noh Lee
  • Publication number: 20140241128
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell or array is used to power a bird repelling device that emits deterrent sounds from a speaker or other sound emitter, under control of an electronic processor. Repellant sounds can be either a single sound, or a set of sounds, including for example pest species sounds and predator species sounds. One or more sensors, and a user interface, can assist in controlling which sound(s) to use, and when.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Bird-B-Gone, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Donoho
  • Publication number: 20140211594
    Abstract: Acoustic tags have been used for years in fisheries research to study survival and behavior of fish in various aquatic environments. The described techniques, devices and systems enhance the ability of researchers to understand the effect on fish mortality by predators through an acoustic tag that includes a digestible fuse. When the implanted acoustic tag comes in contact with the digestive fluids in a predator's stomach, the fuse coating is dissolved causing the fuse to disintegrate and result in an open circuit. The open circuit in turn signals the electronics in the acoustic tag that the tagged fish has been consumed. In response, the electronics alter the tag transmit signal to indicate that predation has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: HYDROACOUSTIC TECHNOLOGY INC.
    Inventors: William W. Allen, Scott E. Hemmings, Samuel V. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8792306
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for attracting aquatic animals are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for attracting aquatic animals includes a submersible speaker adapted to emit a pre-recorded sound for attracting an aquatic animal. The pre-recorded sound includes tactile sound. The apparatus also includes a controller in communication with the submersible speaker. The controller is adapted to be coupled to an above-water portion of a boat. The controller includes a user interface comprising one or more user-selectable options. The controller is adapted to send a signal to the submersible speaker in response to detecting a selection of one of the user-selectable options, and the submersible speaker emits the pre-recorded, sound in response to receiving the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Harold Palmer, Eugene Joseph Eisenmann, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140185415
    Abstract: This utility model releases an alarm device for banishment of birds and animals, which includes: radio transmission module, voltage stabilizing circuit and inverter circuit. The radio transmission module sends radio signals to radio receiver module which then transmits such radio signals to the PC control circuit; the said PC control circuit sends instruction signals to the audio circuit which then transmits the audio signal to amplification circuit which outputs the amplified audio signals; the said voltage stabilizing circuit provides 5V power supply to the said radio transmission module, radio receiver module, the said PC control circuit and the said audio circuit, while the said inverter circuit provides +/?35V power supply to the said amplification circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: TIANJIN CHANGYUE ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Fengyue Bu
  • Publication number: 20140185414
    Abstract: An active non-lethal infrasound system for denying all bird species access to critical areas, particularly in areas around aircraft and other high value systems. The system comprises a plurality of infrasound generators broadcasting continuous infrasonic signals to create a bird-free infrasound active zone within the perimeters of the protected critical area and an infrasound-free dead zones for birds being denied access to the critical areas. Further, an active infrasonic barrier is assembled within an exclusion area surrounding the bird-free infrasound active zone to dampen all low frequency sound waves emanating from the critical area and its perimeters. Wherever the situation allows, a wildlife sanctuary is preferably established further from the exclusion area to attract and protect birds, enforced by broadcasting infrasound signals that simulate natural sounds that attract species typical of the geographic location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicants: EMINENT TECHNOLOGY INCORPORATED, TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Abdo A. HUSSEINY, Omar ABDALLAH, F. Bruce THIGPEN, Ajay MAHAJAN, Jonathan Tyron HAGSTRUM, Zeinab A. SABRI
  • Publication number: 20140169138
    Abstract: Provided is a method for repelling pests from a greenhouse which is open and closed by a vent, and the method includes recognizing a pest which lives in or may possibly come into a greenhouse, detecting a frequency required to repel the recognized pest; and emitting an ultrasonic wave or attractant light with the detected frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: Hae-Dong LEE, Kyu-Hyung Kim, Soo-In Lee
  • Patent number: 8755251
    Abstract: A ground rodent repeller includes a main rod, a cover, a battery base and a control circuit board. One end of the main rod has an opening and a first screw thread. The cover has a second screw thread and a first locking part. The second screw thread and the first screw thread engage with each other. One end of the battery base has a second locking part, which engages with the first locking part of the cover. By this configuration, the components are designed for simple assembly, have a low production cost, can be promptly installed, and have ideal sealing and water proof effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Tzu-Ying Jan
  • Publication number: 20140144390
    Abstract: A system for directing a bird away from equipment includes an emitter configured to transmit a beam of audio-modulated ultrasonic sound. The beam of audio-modulated ultrasonic sound is configured to frequency down-convert in the atmosphere to produce a specified audible sound for a bird at a selected distance away from the emitter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: William D. Duncan, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Thomas A. Weaver, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Patent number: 8737169
    Abstract: A dog repelling device for bicyclists that includes a housing that houses a battery-powered timer-controlled ultrasonic pulse emitter and that is releasably attached to a bicycle handle bar with an attachment body, including a hook and loop strip which removably inserts through a slot within a second member of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: Kathleen A. DeWitt, Benjamin T. DeWitt