Abstract: An RFID collar for tracking and locating animals, and method of manufacturing the same. The RFID collar includes an RFID tag substantially enclosed within an animal collar. In manufacture, a mold for defining a collar-shaped volume is provided. At least one support member is configured to engage an RFID tag and suspend the RFID tag within the volume, in preparation for the molding process that forms the collar. An amount of uncured collar material is forced by an injection molding apparatus into the mold, thereby substantially surrounding the RFID tag. Thereafter, the uncured collar material is cured.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing the proper operation of an electronic pet containment transmitter. The transmitter includes an internal short loop antenna that is used to activate the receiver unit when it is brought into close proximity of the transmitter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing the proper operation of an electronic pet containment transmitter. The transmitter includes an internal short loop antenna that is used to activate the receiver unit when it is brought into close proximity of the transmitter.

Abstract: A system for confining and training a pet is provided. The system includes a stationary transmitter in communication with a receiver collar worn by a pet and the other configured as a portable transmitter for controlling the operation of the stationary transmitter. The stationary transmitter includes a correction signal generator and a warning signal generator which feed an amplifier having an adjustable amplification factor controlled by a processing device. The amplified correction signal is transmitted through the wire loop antenna via a transmitter. The normal confinement mode operation of the system is interrupted by a training signal from the portable transmitter. Upon receipt of a training signal, the processing device produces a signal corresponding to the desired deterrent signal and increases the gain of the appropriate amplifier thereby boosting the signal strength such that the entire confinement area is filled with the desired deterrent signal.

Abstract: A system and method for locating a break in a single conductor unshielded wire is provided. The system includes a transmitter generating two continuous wave radio frequency signals attached to each of the wire segments of a broken wire. Each signal has a unique frequency and is transmitted in opposite directions around the wire. When a locator is operated near a wire transmitting one of the signals, an audible tone of the appropriate frequency is generated. The volume of the tone decreases as the locator is moved closer to the break. In this manner, the operator can determine the location of the break within a margin of about six inches. Accordingly, no unnecessary digging is required to locate the break in the wire.

Abstract: An animal deterrent system for deterring animal intrusion into a specified area using an oscillating ultrasonic tone. The system includes a weatherproof housing containing an infrared detector for detecting the presence of an animal. To identify relevant intrusions, a count of the number of detections is maintained. After the count reaches predetermined number of infrared signals within a predetermined amount of time, an oscillating ultrasonic deterrent signal is generated to distress the animal and deter intrusion into the protected area. A deterrent timer activates the ultrasonic deterrent for a predetermined amount of time. A mounting stake for deploying the system in remote outdoor locations includes an anti-rotation mechanism, to prevent misalignment as a result of incidental contact.

Abstract: A device for achieving animal response that produces two output frequencies, one to soothe the animal and one to distress the animal. The frequency for distressing the animal is an oscillating frequency to cause further attention by the animal and to provide optimum operation of the sound-producing element. The oscillating frequency is created by producing a second frequency higher than the first frequency, and then oscillating this second frequency. Sound is produced by a piezoelectric element driven by these frequencies. Components are generally contained in an enclosure body, with push buttons for selecting a desired sound output penetrating this enclosure body for contact by a user of the device.