Animal Controlling Or Handling (e.g., Restraining, Breaking, Training, Sorting, Conveying, Etc.) Patents (Class 119/712)
  • Patent number: 11713968
    Abstract: A fully self-contained portable location tracking device autonomously compares a current location with a latitude-longitude map stored in memory. The latitude-longitude map stores guidance zone values indicative of a predetermined safe zone, progressive alert zones, and a predetermined reference point. The guidance zone values represent actions to be taken based upon current location. When initiated by some combination of current location or zone value, location history, and time, or when otherwise queried, the tracking device transmits the offset from reference location, rather than actual current location data, to at least one wireless communications monitoring apparatus. The monitoring apparatus also stores a copy of the latitude-longitude map and reference point. Using the received offset, the monitoring apparatus knows both the location of the location tracking device and the actions to be taken based upon current location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: GPSip, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Landers
  • Patent number: 11632946
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel compositions of rosemary extracts for use as a cat-deterrent formulation. The compositions of the present invention may be applied directly to an area, or object, to which it is desired to deter cats or animals from loitering or interaction. It is further contemplated that the compositions of the present invention may be applied directly to an area, or alternatively, be encapsulated in a container which substantially retains the solid components of the compositions of the present invention, but allows transport of the aromatic compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: SKEDDADER INC.
    Inventor: Shelley Phillips
  • Patent number: 11564385
    Abstract: A rodent trap having a remote arming capability and a method of deploying a rodent trap in an unarmed state and then arming the trap after a wait period without the user having to again physically access the trap. The trap, preferably embodied as an electronic rodent trap, may be configured with wireless remote arming capability, timed arming functionality, activity based arming and the like. When in the unarmed state, the trap operates in a monitoring mode in which the trap can monitor and evaluate activity and/or interactions with the trap and can send and receive wireless communication signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Woodstream Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Daly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11547088
    Abstract: One variation of a method for autonomously training an animal includes: loading an autonomous training protocol for the animal onto a training apparatus configured to dispense units of a primary reinforcer responsive to behaviors performed by the animal; during an autonomous training session for the animal, accessing a video feed of a working field near the training apparatus, detecting the animal in the video feed, and executing the first autonomous training protocol; calculating a training score for the autonomous training session based on behaviors performed by the animal during the autonomous training session; selecting a manual training protocol, from a set of manual training protocols, based on the training score; generating a prompt to execute the first manual training protocol with the animal during a first manual training session; and transmitting the prompt to a user associated with the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: Companion Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Mundell, John Honchariw, Noémie A. Guérin, Sayli Benadikar, Tim Genske
  • Patent number: 11432527
    Abstract: A pet hammock for vehicle, adapted for accommodating one or more pets between a front seat and a rear seat of a vehicle, includes a main body including a front panel, a rear panel and a base panel, and a mounting unit including a front hanger and a rear hanger arranged for mounting the main body between the front seat and the rear seat through a plurality of anchor points provided at the front seat and the rear seat respectively, such that the base panel is suspendedly supported between the front hanger and the rear hanger while the front hanger and the rear hanger are secured with the front seat and the rear seat at the anchor points thereof. The front panel has a window covered with a see-through screen for communicating the front seat with the rear seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Inventor: Min Pan
  • Patent number: 11412672
    Abstract: Programmable controller technology, in which data is received that identifies a particular type of irrigation system component that is to be controlled by a programmable controller. Based on receiving the data identifying the particular type of irrigation system component, configuration information is accessed for the particular type of irrigation system component. Based on the configuration information, a configuration is determined for one or more interface ports of the programmable controller. The one or more interface ports of the programmable controller are configured according to the determined configuration. A connection between the particular type of irrigation system component and the programmable controller that satisfies the determined configuration is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: Alarm.com Incorporated
    Inventors: Daniel Goodman, Craig Carl Heffernan
  • Patent number: 11334145
    Abstract: Sensory feedback (“chaperoning”) systems and methods for guiding users in virtual/augmented reality environments such as walk-around virtual reality environments are described. Exemplary implementations assist with preventing collisions with objects in the physical operating space in which the user acts, among other potential functions and/or uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: Valve Corporation
    Inventors: David Sawyer, Kenneth Birdwell, Kenneth Barnett, Tristan Reidford, Aaron Leiby, Emily Ridgway, Alexander C. Vlachos
  • Patent number: 11298711
    Abstract: A powdered scent compound and related methods of application for adhering the powdered scent compound to a desired application area. The powdered scent compound can comprise a porous carrier powder, an adhesive compound and a synthetic scent compound. The powdered scent compound is shelf-stable and convenient to apply, carry and store. Furthermore, the powdered scent compound can adhere to applied surfaces, thereby ensuring that powdered scent compound remains where it is applied, even in locations where the potential exists for the compound to drip or be blown from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: WINDAGE, LLC.
    Inventor: David Healy
  • Patent number: 11220386
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a packaging for a powdered explosive-detection training aid which may include first and second opposing flexible sheets heat sealed together along less than a periphery thereof and defining a storage compartment therebetween, wherein an unsealed portion of the periphery defines an opening to the storage compartment, wherein at least a portion of the first opposing flexible sheet is a semipermeable material permeable to a vapor emitted from the powdered explosive-detection training aid, with the second opposing flexible sheet being impermeable to the powdered explosive-detection training aid vapor; and a sealing member, wherein the sealing member is secured to the first opposing flexible sheet and, in a closing position, covers the semipermeable portion of the first opposing flexible sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Homeland Security
    Inventor: Darren Jay Steed
  • Patent number: 11178851
    Abstract: An animal training and behavior altering device and method is used to teach and train dogs, cats and most other animals from unwanted behaviors such as continuous barking, jumping up, stealing, pet to pet confrontations, unwanted use of furniture and other bad habits and behaviors. The device and method combines sound and smell to trigger senses of the animal in a manner that establishes and reinforces negative feedback. In particular, discharge of a propellant through a specially designed nozzle on a canister creates a loud hissing sound combined with a citrus scent that most animals strongly dislike, whereby the behavior of the animal is corrected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: L.P.I. CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Peter C. Tomassetti, Louis D. Tomassetti
  • Patent number: 11172652
    Abstract: Implementations of a multiple dog attachment apparatus are provided. In some implementations, the multiple dog attachment apparatus comprises a connection apparatus, a first and a second collar connector, and a leash connector. In some implementations, a method of using the multiple dog attachment apparatus comprises attaching a first dog to the multiple dog attachment apparatus, attaching a second dog to the multiple dog attachment apparatus, and attaching a leash to the multiple dog attachment apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventor: Vaughn White
  • Patent number: 11140875
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for automatically locating an animal by means of radio waves and a plurality of nodes, wherein the animal is located on a ground and is equipped with a node of the radio locating system to be located and with one or more acceleration sensors. By evaluating the measurement results of the acceleration sensors, a conclusion is drawn about which activity the animal is presently performing and at which height above the ground the node is located. The calculation of the position of the node to be located from the measurement results of the radio locating system is influenced by the assumption of said height as a constraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: SMARTBOW GMBH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Auer
  • Patent number: 11007295
    Abstract: A scent-masking mixture and method for making and using that mixture are disclosed. That scent masking mixture includes an “Earth Scent” fragrance, eucalyptus essence, peppermint essence, rosemary essence, clove essence, and water. The majority of the scent-masking mixture may be water while the largest amount of active ingredient might be the “Earth Scent” fragrance. The scent-masking mixture beneficially includes equal amounts of eucalyptus essence and rosemary essence. Preferably there is more peppermint essence than clove essence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: SCENT THIEF, LLC
    Inventor: Russell L. Epperson
  • Patent number: 10995508
    Abstract: A pool cleaning tool have a pole partitioned into a first section and a second section. The first section is positioned at a proximal end of the pole and is configured to be a coupling site for a cleaning attachment. A visual indicium is disposed on the pole delineating a boundary separating the first and the second sections. Each section having a pair of apertures configured to align with complementary apertures disposed on the cleaning attachment. Responsive to one of the apertures in the first section becoming deformed, the cleaning tool can be repaired by severing the first section from the pole along the visual indicium and using the second section as a new coupling site for the cleaning attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: The Boden Co.
    Inventor: Eric Newville
  • Patent number: 10980357
    Abstract: A diaper changing assistance device. The diaper changing assistance device provides efficiency to a parent changing a diaper of an infant. A rod is attached between an infant's ankles by a pair of ringed members. The rod can be freely lifted by the parent so that the parent is able to change the diaper of the infant with reducing flailing and movement of the infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventors: Charlie Burnside, Karen Burnside
  • Patent number: 10962046
    Abstract: The present invention is directed at a wire-cage mountable multi-part fastener adapted for holding pet accessories. The fastener can be securely attached to a cage by mutually abutted fastener's female and male portions, from the inside and the outside of the cage, respectively. When said female and male portions are pressed into one other by threadable means while having the cage's bars sandwiched between them, the resulting friction allows the fastener to remain in a stationary relation to the cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: Sharyn Kilpatrick
  • Patent number: 10937472
    Abstract: A system for acclimating a horse to the sound of opening a chute gate of a rodeo arena in a timed chase event is disclosed. The system includes an arena with a chute gate, a recording and playback device, at least one speaker, and a controller. In use, a horse-mounted rider is contained within a box at the side of the chute. The horse has incorrectly associated the sound of the gate with beginning chase. The recording and playback device records the sound of the opening of the gate, which may be played back for the horse to hear within the box. Upon hearing the sound, the rider holds back the horse to prevent giving chase. Repeated use acclimates the horse to the sound and teaches the horse to wait for the rider's cue to begin chase. A method of use is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventor: Greg Roshay
  • Patent number: 10885049
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for generating a user interface to enable identification of one or more pivot identifiers and one or more step identifiers. The system executes a query on events having raw machine data associated with a timestamp and obtains fields associated with the events. The system further populates a graphical user interface with field identifiers associated with the obtained fields and enables identification of one or more fields as one or more pivot identifiers and one or more step identifiers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Splunk Inc.
    Inventors: Joerg Beringer, Isabelle Park, Joshua Walters, Eric Tschetter, Simon Fishel
  • Patent number: 10814787
    Abstract: The vehicle-sider rear-view mirror mounted bird deterrent system delivers an electric shock to scare birds away. The bird deterrent system includes a shock strip, a sensor, a microcontroller, a power source, and a vehicle-side rear-view mirror. The vehicle-side rear-view mirror can be any rear-view mirror of a commercial or passenger vehicle. The shock strip is a thin flexible strip that attaches onto an exterior face of the vehicle-side rear-view mirror. The shock strip is positioned along the side rear-view mirror and covers most of the flat surface which the bird is likely to stand on. The sensor is operatively connected to the shock strip, wherein the sensor transmits a signal to the microcontroller when it detects a bird standing on the shock strip. The microcontroller completes a circuit between the power source and the shock strip, thereby creating a flow of electrical current capable of delivering an electrical shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Inventor: Marinus Felix
  • Patent number: 10645904
    Abstract: A transportable pet care center includes (1) a canister having a plurality of dispensing sections for providing food, water, medicine, treats, toys, and such like to a pet (2) an electronics dashboard for providing interaction with the pet via localized entertainment and network interaction with the owner, (3) adjustable trays for receiving materials from the dispensing sections, (4) a base tray for providing stability and capturing items that fall from the trays, and (5) and extendable handle with wheel assembly for easy transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: Johnnie Mack Brown Encarnacion
  • Patent number: 10568303
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for automatically locating an animal by means of radio waves and a plurality of nodes (1, 2, 3), wherein the animal is located on a ground (5) and is equipped with a node (1) of the radio locating system to be located and with one or more acceleration sensors. By evaluating the measurement results of the acceleration sensors, a conclusion is drawn about which activity the animal is presently performing and at which height above the ground (5) the node (1) is located. The calculation of the position of the node (1) to be located from the measurement results of the radio locating system is influenced by the assumption of said height as a constraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Smartbow GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Auer
  • Patent number: 10561365
    Abstract: A system for behavioral monitoring for equines, comprising at least one sensor to measure a signal related to the equine, a database to store at least one parameter of the equine as a function of time, and processing means. The sensor is in communication with the equine, and comprises a wireless transmitter which is in communication with the database. The processing means, in communication with the database, is adapted to (i) determine, from at least one signal from the at least one sensor, at least one parameter of the equine as a function of time; (ii) establish normal behavior of the equine based on the parameter; and (iii) identify at least one abnormal behavior of the equine by identifying at least one deviation from normal behavior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: SCR ENGINEERS LTD
    Inventor: Elizabeth Newman
  • Patent number: 10524465
    Abstract: A system and method for driving geese away from an area employs predetermined random illuminations of particular wavelength light directed in a fashion that repels geese while avoiding annoying humans. Embodiments include systems associated with golf course flags and other structures and animal decoys that hide undesired aesthetic appearances of prior art industrial lighting elements. Other embodiments employ adjustable/movable mirror elements used in conjunction with systems powered by solar energy panels positioned below the light source, which can be adjusted in terms of direction, shielding, color, duration, wavelength and pulsation, providing a variety of random patterns so as to avoid habituation by geese.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kovarik, Jeff Franek
  • Patent number: 10482735
    Abstract: A merchandise security device for securing items of merchandise from theft is provided. The merchandise security device may include a printed circuit board and a base containing the printed circuit board. The security device may include a sensor electrically connected to the printed circuit board and configured to engage a support surface for detecting unauthorized removal of the base from the support surface. The security device may also include a tether configured to be coupled to one or more items of merchandise, and a spool rotatably disposed within the base for winding and unwinding the tether, wherein the tether is configured to be extended and retracted relative to the base. The printed circuit board is coupled to the spool such that the printed circuit board is configured to rotate relative to the base when the tether is extended and retracted, and the sensor is configured to remain stationary when the tether is extended and retracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bisesti, William B. Howell
  • Patent number: 10455809
    Abstract: A lick deterrent device to deter animals from biting or chewing. The deterrent device has a flexible substrate physically conformable in three directions with conductive traces thereon. The lick deterrent device is configured for electrical connection to a removable power source. The traces are configured so that they may be contacted by an animal's tongue or saliva, so that upon contact, an electrical circuit is completed thereby delivering a mild electric shock to the animal. The lick deterrent device may be stretchable in at least one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: Mark L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 10375931
    Abstract: A method for creating a video for pets, comprising: creating visual content for the video; and creating auditory content for the video, wherein the auditory content comprises: a musical arrangement that has a relaxing effect on dogs, the musical arrangement characterized by a tempo in the range of 50 to 70 beats per minute (BPM), and one or more sounds that have a stimulating effect on dogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: PTV Media Ltd.
    Inventors: Ron Levi, Guy Martinovsky, Gilad Neuman
  • Patent number: 10342218
    Abstract: Individual zones are defined within a multi-zone assisted guidance region by storing a zone GPS data point target width, assigning GPS data points located within a perimeter and within the target width to a second zone, allotting GPS data points located interior of and distinct from the second zone and within the target width to a first zone; and finally ascribing unassigned GPS data points located interior of and distinct from the first zone to a safe zone. Adjacent guidance zones have unique stimulation that acts through different neurological access channels to provide behavioral guidance to an animal. The stimulation may be varied based upon direction of travel relative to a safe zone center point, and may also be varied based upon a level of training calculated during active system operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: GPSIP, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney P. Landers, Kevin L. Nieuwsma, Chad R. James
  • Patent number: 10278379
    Abstract: A portable bird scare device uses airflow to create random movement of a sock. For example, a portable bird scare device can be constructed from a toolbox, marine fan, waterproof switch, deep-cycle battery, fuse, ripstop nylon tube, plumbing pipe and plumbing pipe connectors. A switch can control power between the fan and a battery protected by the fuse. The fan can drive air from within the toolbox through pipe and connectors to the ripstop nylon tube. By controlling the dimensions of the ripstop nylon tube, the ripstop nylon tube can be made to alternatively rise and collapse. By constructing the bird scare device in this manner, it can be made to fit the needs of an airport for a portable, all day, quiet device that can be placed in fields and within confined spaces (such as under bridges, within window wells, etc.) to scare birds due to the movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventors: Timothy Holt, Allison Drennan, Eric Snaufer, Abigail Slama-Catron, Katelin Drennan
  • Patent number: 10231440
    Abstract: A system is described herein that comprises a communications device periodically transmitting a radio frequency signal, wherein the periodically transmitted signal includes data. The system includes a receiver detecting the periodically transmitted signal, the detecting including measuring strength of the periodically transmitted signal, the detecting including using the signal strength to provide a first estimate of the receiver's distance from the communications device. The system includes the communications device comprising at least one location sensor for determining an additional distance indication, wherein the data includes the additional distance indication. The system includes the receiver performing a function when the first estimate meets at least one criterion and when the additional distance indication indicates a first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: RADIO SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard Alan Seltzer, Christopher Mainini
  • Patent number: 10223884
    Abstract: A merchandise security device for securing items of merchandise from theft is provided. The merchandise security device may include a printed circuit board and a base containing the printed circuit board. The security device may include a sensor electrically connected to the printed circuit board and configured to engage a support surface for detecting unauthorized removal of the base from the support surface. The security device may also include a tether configured to be coupled to one or more items of merchandise, and a spool rotatably disposed within the base for winding and unwinding the tether, wherein the tether is configured to be extended and retracted relative to the base. The printed circuit board is coupled to the spool such that the printed circuit board is configured to rotate relative to the base when the tether is extended and retracted, and the sensor is configured to remain stationary when the tether is extended and retracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bisesti, William B. Howell
  • Patent number: 10194639
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a training device may include a first module to receive a plurality of inputs that define a set of animal waste elimination behaviors. A second module may train an animal monitoring system based on the plurality of inputs. The training may facilitate use of the animal monitoring system with an irrigation system to reduce water consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: B. Delano Jordan
  • Patent number: 10182964
    Abstract: A system for providing a therapeutic treatment to a mammal for a selected mammalian condition includes a wearable member configured for use about an upper torso of a mammal and an energy module configured to generate energy waves in an energy range particularly configured to provide a stimulation that is therapeutically effective treatment for the selected mammalian condition. The energy module is adapted to be supported by the wearable member about the upper torso of the mammal. The wearable member also includes a therapy delivery portion configured to position the energy module at a treatment site about the upper torso. The underlying idea of the teachings herein is to deliver non-invasive, non-electrical-inducing therapies and energies such as vibroacoustic, physioacoustic, kinesitherapy and phototherapy, through wearable and non-wearable apparatuses to animals and humans for therapeutic treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Copa Animal Health, LLC
    Inventor: Buddy Snow
  • Patent number: 10178854
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of sound desensitization dog training. The method may be conducted in-person or unattended by a user by means of a smart device through use of a software application operated on the smart device. The method comprises steps of a user selecting a training sound, testing a training sound, setting a duration and a frequency of play cycle for the training sound, playing the training sound repeatedly during a training session, and ending the training session. Optionally, the method may comprise an additional step of dispensing a treat from a treat dispenser after playing the training sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: K&K Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Kristian Bristol Lawson, Kevin Michael Henry
  • Patent number: 9955671
    Abstract: An animal training and indicating device (10) includes a housing (12) having an outer surface (14). A capacitive sensor (54) is operative to detect contact by a paw or nose of an animal with the outer surface. Responsive to the contact, the device is operative to provide an illumination of at least one light emitter (60, 62), an audible output from a speaker (28) and at least one wireless RF signal which can be received by a portable wireless device (76).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Turocy
  • Patent number: 9883656
    Abstract: An improved house training harness for a puppy or a dog that detects canine urination, defecation, and territory marking body positions. If any of these forbidden body positions are detected inside the house, the dog receives an immediate inhibiting rib vibration that prevents liquid or solid elimination or marking and the owner is notified that the dog needs to go outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Inventor: Phillip Turner
  • Patent number: 9807979
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for the impregnation of air with the vapor or aerosol of a substance in a ‘controllable manner to enable the testing or training of detection means to evaluate and quantify the presence of the substance in an enclosed volume, and i?• particular to enable production of training aids and quality assurance test items for use in canine-olfaction based security screening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence
    Inventors: Timothy Graham Foat, Steven Walker, Christopher Coffey, Matthew Brookes
  • Patent number: 9740691
    Abstract: The Interspecies Language (ISL) is a method for communicating that includes a visual language, as tonal language, a training protocol that integrates them, and an enabling apparatus. The ISL visual language communicates through a display that creates a “picture” of a sentence on a touchscreen. This visual display embodies the ISL's syntax and structures how the user employs it to build sentences. Sentences are constructed by dragging icons, which are pictures or abstract images representing objects or concepts, into the structured areas of the visual array. The ISL tonal language communicates through a structured series of tones that are grouped so that tones within a grouping are members of a class of objects or concepts. The tones are sounded when an icon is placed into the visual array in the course of building a sentence. The ISL is deployed through an apparatus that includes a touchscreen, computer, chute, and industrial controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: John Archibald McCann
  • Patent number: 9700018
    Abstract: An automatically retractable pet leash, comprises a casing or guard (10) inside which is a winding device of a cord or ribbon that protrudes from the casing or guard (10) through an aperture (13), and a braking mechanism operated by a pushbutton (12), and also comprises a handle (11) for gripping the leash with one hand. It also comprises a protective shell (14) designed to protect the casing or guard (10) from knocks or blows that can damage it; the casing or guard comprises at least one housing designed to accommodate by snap-fitting, when used, at least one coupling or ribbing element foreseen on the body of the protective shell (14) in such a way as to hold the protective shell (14) locked against the casing or guard (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: FERPLAST S.P.A.
    Inventor: Carlo Vaccari
  • Patent number: 9668459
    Abstract: An animal fitness monitoring system and an animal-worn device that is capable of receiving and sending various inputs and outputs, respectively, from/to a wireless mobile device. The wireless mobile device has a software application that allows a human user to wirelessly communicate with the animal-worn transceiver via direct, networked or cellular wireless protocols. The animal-worn device interacts with the applications on the wireless mobile device to allow for a variety of functions, such as the transfer of commands or stimuli to the animal, the transfer of data regarding the fitness or activity level of the animal to the wireless mobile device, and/or the transfer of instructions from the animal-worn device to an external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: Nicholas Jay Bonge, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9609877
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a composition for exterminating insects and prevent insect infestations. In one or more embodiments, the composition comprises Neem Oil, Clove Oil, and Diatomaceous Earth. Also disclosed is method for making the disclosed composition. Also disclosed are methods using and/or applying the composition to prevent and/or exterminate insect infestations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
  • Patent number: 9597017
    Abstract: A device and method for detecting lameness in a standing animal uses at least one optical imaging device coupled to processing arrangement. The optical imaging device is arranged in a position to capture at least one image showing the lower portions of at least one leg of an animal and to forward the image to the processing arrangement, which, in turn, analyses the image to determine a condition of lameness when said at least one leg is held in a raised position on or above ground level. The system is particularly suited to detecting lameness in dairy animals and can be integrated in a milking or feeding stall or with an automatic or semi-automatic milking system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: DeLaval Holding AB
    Inventors: Thomas Axelsson, Gunnar Brostedt
  • Patent number: 9591830
    Abstract: Single or multiple jointed bit (1) with at least two mouthpieces (10), characterized by the fact that at least one mouthpiece (10) comprises at least one channel (100) which extends longitudinally with or without slope through this mouthpiece from one end to the other end, to enable the sending of a viscous and/or liquid substance (72) directly into the middle of the mouth of an animal (2) without changing the feeling in the animal's mouth or on its tongue (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Inventor: Heidi Hall
  • Patent number: 9585370
    Abstract: A animal restraint harness having a two part pivotable frame having a set of fingers or arms extended therefrom to encircle or saddle an animal body, a spring hinge to force the fingers together, tabs or opening handles to separate the fingers, one or more harness straps, and a leash clip positioned thereon the frame and, thus such harness enables a single person to quickly and/or efficiently place the harness assembly on the animal using one hand and such harness enables safe restraint of the animal without causing the animal to choke or wheeze.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Darius S. Lajoie
  • Patent number: 9545083
    Abstract: Disclosed are harness assemblies for use in tethering a pet, such as a dog, to a leash. The harness assemblies distribute the forces associated with restraining the animal over the animal's entire body. The harness assemblies also provide a wide range of adjustability and are easy to position upon or take off the animal. Various buckle constructions are also disclosed for use in easily securing the harness onto an animal. The various components of the present invention, and the manner in which they interrelate, are described in greater detail hereinafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: WFK & Associates, LLC
    Inventor: Waldemar F. Kissel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9504387
    Abstract: A device or assortment of devices is provided for measuring temperature and/or other biological parameters, and locating cattle or other types of animals in a remote, continuous and autonomous way. This allows early detection of sickness and other biological states, especially epidemic outbursts or cattle rustling, thus facilitating the early reaction of owners and/or authorities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Inventor: Maria Victoria Alonsoperez Lanza
  • Patent number: 9402369
    Abstract: A device for connecting to a window comprising a unitary support member configured for secure engagement with an interior portion of a door and a cushioning member removably attached to the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Inventor: Kimberly Burns Baker
  • Patent number: 9398756
    Abstract: A leash training device embodying a non-invasive and non-threatening method of using the same to train a dog is provided. The leash training device may include a liquid sprayer having a housing forming a handle portion and a leash assembly. While grasping the handle portion so as to manage the dog on the other end of the leash assembly, the liquid sprayer is adapted so that the user may discharge a jet of liquid from a reservoir secured within the housing. The method includes discharging the jet at or on the dog engaged in bad behavior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Inventor: Cheryl Eckert
  • Patent number: 9307745
    Abstract: Systems and methods of desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing event, including an output unit to communicate with a media player to output a conditioning media signal and an anxiety inducing media signal, a conditioning element dispenser to dispense a conditioning element, a detector to determine when an animal has taken the conditioning element, and a control module to selectively control operation of the output unit and the conditioning element dispenser to cause the conditioning element dispenser to dispense a first conditioning element in association with the media player outputting the conditioning media signal. The output unit can cause the media player to output the anxiety inducing media signal in association with the conditioning media signal, and the control unit can cause the conditioning element dispenser to dispense a second conditioning element from the conditioning element dispenser in association with the anxiety inducing media signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Radio Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher E. Mainini
  • Patent number: 9301502
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for monitoring the movement of an animal. An animal transceiver unit is placed on the animal for transmitting and receiving signals. A base transceiver unit for transmitting and receiving signals relative to the animal transceiver unit is operated to monitor relative movement of the animal transceiver unit and the base transceiver unit. An indication of the relative distance between the base transceiver unit and the animal transceiver unit is provided in response to signal communication between the animal and base transceiver units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: PERIMETER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Scott F. Touchton, James T. Deery
  • Patent number: 9250222
    Abstract: A method of calibrating a biological detector can include training a biological detector to detect a calibration compound, wherein the calibration compound has an odor that is detectable by the biological detector and is not used in an environment for which the biological detector is trained to detect odors, presenting the biological detector with a device comprising the calibration compound, and determining whether the biological detector will alert to the calibration compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Furton, Katylynn Beltz