Abstract: One variation of a method for autonomously training animals to respond to oral commands includes: prompting a user to select a training protocol; prompting the user to record a first audio clip of the user reciting a voice command associated with a target pose within the training protocol, the user affiliated with the animal; accessing a video feed recorded by an optical sensor during a first training session; in the video feed, detecting the animal within a working field; while the animal is detected in the working field, playing back the first audio clip; in the video feed, detecting a current pose of the animal; calculating a deviation between the current pose of the animal and the target pose; in response to the deviation falling within a threshold: playing an audio clip of a secondary reinforcer; and dispensing a unit of a primary reinforcer via an integrated dispenser.

Abstract: A method is described that comprises receiving a filtered signal corresponding to an acoustic event, applying one or more tests to the filtered signal in a sequence, wherein each test of the one or more tests assesses the filtered signal for the presence of one or more characteristics, the determining the presence of the one or more characteristics comprising a failure to identify the acoustic event as a first event, terminating the applying the one or more tests when a test determines the presence of the one or more characteristics, and identifying the acoustic event as the first event upon an occurrence of completing all tests of the one or more tests, the completing all tests including each test in the sequence determining the absence of the one or more characteristics.

Abstract: The utility model discloses a dual-purpose dog training device including a remote controller and a receiver. The remote controller is provided with a function switching key. A main control board is connected to at least one of a vibration motor or an ultrasonic generator or an electric shock electrode. The main control board is provided with a dog training control unit and a bark stopping control unit, respectively. The dog training control unit or the bark stopping control unit is separately connected to the vibration motor or the ultrasonic generator or the electric shock electrode, respectively. The main control board receives an instruction of the function switching key to switch a control unit for controlling the vibration motor or the ultrasonic generator or the electric shock electrode between the dog training control unit and the bark stopping control unit, so as to switch an operating mode of the receiver between a dog training mode and a bark stopping mode.

Abstract: A wearable animal training apparatus including a casing having an inner wall, and an outer wall. The apparatus includes a flexible first wire disposed against a proximal surface between the inner wall and the outer wall of the casing, and a flexible second wire disposed against a distal surface between the inner wall and the outer wall of the casing. The apparatus also includes a power source having a positive terminal and a negative terminal, and an electric motor. The first wire is connected to the positive terminal of the power source, and the second wire is connected to the negative terminal of the power source.

Abstract: An pet spray training system is provided. The system includes a sound, vibration or motion sensor that is configured to generate electrical signals in response to an occurrence. The system may include a filter, which is tuned to recognize a dog barking event, and generate an electrical signal in response to recognizing an input signal indicative of a dog's bark. The system further includes a removably pressurized gas reservoir that holds a deterrent fluid under pressure. The system additionally comprises a motor module configured to rotate a shaft in response to the electrical signal from the filter. The canister has a spray nozzle for releasing fluid that affects the dog's senses. In response to rotating the shaft, the spray nozzle is depressed.

Abstract: An animal behavior modification device is provided. The device includes a sound, vibration or motion sensor that is configured to generate electrical signals in response to an occurrence. The device may include a filter, which is tuned to recognize a dog barking event, and generate an electrical signal in response to recognizing an input signal indicative of a dog's bark. The device further includes a canister that holds a deterrent fluid under pressure. The device additionally comprises a motor module configured to rotate a shaft in response to the electrical signal from the filter. The canister has a spray nozzle for releasing fluid that affects the dog's senses. In response to rotating the shaft, the spray nozzle is depressed. A method of modifying the behavior of an animal using the device is also provided herein.

Abstract: Disclosed modular animal collar systems include a D ring exoskeleton system, a breakaway latch tongue system and other systems. Disclosed collars include auto release systems to ensure that collars do not choke or otherwise injure a pet. Collars include sophisticated electronics to commutate with a pet owner's smart phone but also include means of communication not requiring the use of a smart phone. Collars may include a base collar containing a micro controller and other computer related components. Surrounding modular components may contain additional equipment and may be added as needed by a pet owner. Disclosed collar functions are executed by the disclosed collars and facilitate the retrieval, care and training of a pet.

Abstract: A control method for barking prohibition in a barking prohibition piece.

Abstract: A dog bark control device which includes a first sensor, a second sensor, a stimulation applying means, and a control unit. The control unit determines whether the animal barks, and when the animal is determined to bark, operates the stimulation applying means to apply stimulation to the animal. The control unit determines that the animal barks when the first sensing signal of the first sensor is a signal indicating that the animal barks, and at the same time, the animal is determined to make a particular motion accompanied by barking from the second sensing signal of the second sensor.

Abstract: A device for use with a leash and a collar configured to be worn by a pet. The device includes a spray nozzle connected to a tank configured to store a liquid. The device includes first and second connectors configured to be attached to the collar and the leash, respectively. A movable one of the first and second connectors is moved with respect to the tank when the pet pulls on the leash. The device includes an actuator configured to open and close the spray nozzle. The liquid sprays from the tank through the spray nozzle when the spray nozzle is open and remains in the tank when the spray nozzle is closed. The device may include at least one noise-making element or speaker configured to produce at least one warning sound.

Abstract: A collar unit device is described comprising a receiving cavity for receiving a metal electrode probe, wherein at least one elastomeric ring encircles the metal electrode probe, wherein the at least one elastomeric ring mechanically isolates the metal electrode probe from the receiving cavity. The device includes a piezoelectric element. The device includes a grommet component for maintaining the piezoelectric element in a secured position, wherein the secured position comprises the piezoelectric element maintaining contact with the metal electrode probe.

Abstract: A method for training an animal includes the steps of recording, by a user, of a plurality of audio messages encouraging or commanding the animal to engage in, refrain from engaging in or cease engaging in a plurality of user-determined behaviors, storing the plurality of audio messages in a memory of a collar module to be worn by the animal, audibly broadcasting a user-selected audio message simultaneously with the user physically controlling the animal to engage in, refrain from engaging in or ceasing from engaging in the activity referenced by the user-selected audio message, sensing a location of the animal with a location detector, and triggering an audio broadcast from the collar module of a user-selected message particular to the behavior associated with the device and heard by the animal based on the location.

Abstract: A system for training animals includes a hand-held device and a remote device, where the remote device applies a stimulus when a user presses a button or trigger on the hand-held device. The amount of pressure applied is measured by a pressure sensitive transducer and transformed into proportional transducer signals. These transducer signals are transmitted to the remote device, which then applies a stimulus to an animal being trained. The amplitude of the applied stimulus corresponds to the amplitude of the transducer signals; a trainer can thus precisely control the intensity of the stimulus by applying and relieving pressure on the button. The type of stimulus applied is controlled based on the position of a rotary switch on the hand-held device. Sensor data generated by specialized sensors in the remote device may be transmitted to the hand-held device to provide the user with sensory feedback.

Abstract: The invention is a pet training method that uses voice recordings and playback to teach, modify, reinforce or eliminate multiple, user determinable pet behaviors. The user manually records a multiplicity of individual messages in an electronic device attached to the pet that either encourage or discourage certain behaviors in the pet or soothe the pet's anxiety. Playback of the invention's recordings may be user-initiated by manual control or, in a later phase of the training method remotely triggered by proximity detection of one or more discrete location devices. The invention allows the user to control the initial training while providing the flexibility and consistency of an automated training reinforcement process. After the user-controlled initial training process is completed, location devices can be physically positioned anywhere a desired behavior requires modification or reinforcement.

Abstract: An apparatus (100) includes a canine harness (101) with a radio frequency inhibitor (400). A leash (1002) can serve as a control device (102). The leash can selectively mechanically couple to the canine harness and electrically couple an actuator (114) to the radio frequency inhibitor. When the actuator is actuated, the radio frequency inhibitor is to emit one or more radio frequency inhibition signals (405), which can include the emission of all programmed signals simultaneously. Radio frequency inhibitors can also be integrated into clothing or armor (1802), as well as equipment (1901). The radio frequency inhibitor can interrupt, suppress, or halt electronic detonation communications to an explosive device.

Abstract: An animal behavior modification device is provided. The device includes a sound or motion sensor that is configured to generate electrical signals in response to an occurrence. The device may include a filter, which is tuned to recognize sound frequencies received by and emitted in proximity to a microphone, and generate an electrical signal in response to recognizing sound frequencies characteristic of a dog's bark. The device further includes a canister that holds a deterrent fluid at substantially ambient pressure. The device additionally comprises a pump configured to draw fluid from the canister in response to the electrical signal from the filter. The pump has a spray nozzle for releasing an emission of the fluid that affects the dog's senses. A method of modifying the behavior of an animal using the device is also provided herein.

Abstract: Mesh node modules are associated with pet carriers and companion nodes can dynamically form a mesh network which uploads location information of the nodes and in some cases additional information, e.g., temperature or pet physical parameter signals, to a network. The information may be downloaded to an owner's CE device.

Abstract: Described is a mechanically compliant stimulus delivery probe for delivering an electrical stimulus to an animal. The stimulus delivery probe is mechanically secured to an animal training device that is adapted to be carried by the animal and to generate the electrical stimulus. When the animal training device is carried by the animal, the stimulus delivery probe is positioned in physical contact with the animal such that the stimulus delivery probe delivers the electrical stimulus to the animal. The stimulus delivery probe is also mechanically compliant to the extent that the force applied by the animal training device against the stimulus delivery probe is substantially absorbed by the stimulus delivery probe, reducing the localized force realized by the animal. The reduction of the force realized by the animal promotes safety and comfort for the animal.

Abstract: A system for monitoring vital signs of a pet animal comprises an annular band, an accelerometer configured to measure at least one of resting patterns, activity patterns, movement patterns, position patterns relating to, for example the pet animal relieving itself, lameness and scratching, and a non-accelerometer sensor configured to measure at least one of the following non-accelerometer-measured bioparameters of the pet animal: temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate. One or more processors are configured to receive sensor output data and reference data concerning the measured bioparameters of the pet animal or of a population of the pet animal, and determine a suspicion of a specific medical condition by: (i) scoring at least two bioparameters and comparing a cumulative score to a threshold cumulative score or to a threshold cumulative range; or (ii) identifying an abnormal pattern. The processor(s) may send an alert if at least one specific medical condition is suspected.

Abstract: Thus, a method for operating a wind turbine, a wind farm or the like and a power-to-gas unit connected electrically thereto is provided. The wind turbine or the wind farm generates electric power if there is sufficient wind and feeds this power into an electrical grid connected to the wind turbine or to the wind farm. Each wind turbine is operated with a predetermined power curve. Electric power is generated by the wind turbine or the wind farm once a first wind speed (starting wind) has been reached. The wind turbine or the wind farm is in a partial-load operating mode as long as the wind speed is between the first wind speed (starting wind) and a second wind speed (nominal wind). The wind turbine or the wind farm is in a nominal power range when the wind speed is in a range which is greater than the second wind speed (nominal wind speed).

Abstract: A method for animal control includes receiving, at an animal control device, an indication of a direction. The method further includes converting, at the animal control device, the received indication of a direction to a command. The method further includes triggering, at the animal control device, at least a first scent discharge based on the command. The scent discharge includes a liquid mist having an odor that is distracting to at least a first animal.

Abstract: A multifunction dog training collar for pet behavior modification is provided. The collar may operate in multiple modes including a remote training mode, a confinement mode, and an anti-bark mode. In the remote training mode, a dog trainer may use a hand-held remote to apply a stimulus to correct misbehavior. In the confinement mode, the collar will apply a stimulus when the dog approaches or crosses a pre-defined boundary. In the anti-bark mode, the collar will apply a stimulus when the dog barks.

Abstract: An animal emotion display system 100 including: a transmitter 10 which is attached to an animal; and a receiver 20 which is capable of communicating with the transmitter, wherein the transmitter 10 includes: a tail wagging detection sensor 12 to detect a plurality of kinds of tail wagging of the animal as a plurality of kinds of emotion of the animal, respectively; and a transmitting section 15 to transmit emotion data corresponding to the respective kinds of tail wagging detected by the tail wagging detection sensor 12 to the receiver 20, and the receiver 20 includes: a receiving section 22 to receive the emotion data transmitted by the transmitting section 15; a display section 25; and a display control section 24 to display a display content corresponding to the emotion data received by the receiving section 22 on the display section 25.

Abstract: A training system for a pet of a user with a smart phone includes at least one collar module that is adapted to be fixed with and deliver a stimulus to the pet. Each collar module includes an enclosure, at least one stimulus transducer, and a circuit that includes at least a power source, a wireless receiver capable of receiving an instruction signal from the portable electronic device, and a memory. The at least one stimulus transducer may be an audio transducer, a vibration transducer, an electrostatic shock transducer, or the like. A software application resident on the portable electronic device is adapted to display on the display screen a choice of actuators for the user representing one of the at least one stimulus transducers, and a pet's name in the case of multiple pets. A barking control and virtual fence arrangement is further included.

Abstract: A collar mounted bark control device which is positionable about the neck of a dog. The bark control device includes a collar with a housing mounted thereto. The housing contains a power source such as a battery or the like. Microphones are positioned on the housing for detecting the sound produced by the dog while barking. A processing unit (CPU) is provided for receiving the signals from the microphones for making a bark determination. A corrective stimulus is applied to the dog when the CPU makes a positive bark determination. The corrective stimulus can be provided by a pair of electrodes for applying an electroshock to the neck of the dog. Alternatively, the corrective stimulus can be provided by a high frequency emitter, a vibration., a spray, an audible deterrent, or an irritant to the dog.

Abstract: A bark deterrent apparatus with an internal vibration sensor. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus uses an internal mechanical vibration sensor that detects vibrations induced in the housing. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus eliminates the external probe used in conventional bark deterrent devices to pick up vibrations at the dog's throat and communicate them to a mechanical vibration sensor to be eliminated while still allowing accurate bark detection.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for communicating a voice signal or audio message initiated over potentially great distances and deliverable to an unattended animal, and comprises a base unit and a wireless receiver. Voice signals or e-mail messages incorporating embedded audio files or commands for delivering an audio message are sent over a global communication via computer network to the base unit which includes a transmitter. The transmitter sends via wireless communication the voice signal or an audio message from the transmitter to a local receiver secured to a pet collar or the like. The system transmits live audio signals (converted from the audio files or stored audio messages) in real time over great distances. The receiver is preferably worn on the pet and includes a speaker and wireless receiver for converting the wireless signals sent by the transmitter into audio signals emitted by the speakers.

Abstract: An animal data communication system, including a rover unit to be carried by an animal, an animal accessory device to interact with the rover unit and/or animal, at least one detector to detect an occurrence of an action engaged in by the animal, and to generate a signal indicative of a detected action, a processing unit to generate animal data identifying the detected action based on the generated signal, and a communication unit disposed on at least one of the rover unit and the animal accessory device to transmit the animal data over a network in response to an occurrence of one or more particular conditions associated with the detected action.

Abstract: A collar mounted bark control device which is positionable about the neck of a dog. The bark control device includes a collar with a housing mounted thereto. The housing contains a power source such as a battery or the like. Microphones are positioned on the housing for detecting the sound produced by the dog while barking. A processing unit (CPU) is provided for receiving the signals from the microphones for making a bark determination. A corrective stimulus is applied to the dog when the CPU makes a positive bark determination. The corrective stimulus can be provided by a pair of electrodes for applying an electroshock to the neck of the dog. Alternatively, the corrective stimulus can be provided by a high frequency emitter, a vibration, a spray, an audible deterrent, or an irritant to the dog.

Abstract: Systems for containing, training, and tracking pets utilize electronic pet tags or collars, including IR reception and two-way RF communication. An aimable IR directional zone defining unit includes selectable different modes of operation relative to a pet collar or tag. A RF base station arranged to communicate with an pet collar or tar includes is arranged to automatically communicate with at least one terminal responsive to a receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the pet, behavior of the pet, and proximity of the pet to the base station. The base station may further generate a user-perceptible alarm signal. A handheld remote controller adapted to communicate with the electronic pet collar or tag includes memory for digital media files, and an audio output element to deliver audible pet training instructions from the memory element.

Abstract: A pet training tool includes a pet collar configured to be placed around a neck of a pet, a balloon assembly used for stimulating the neck of the pet during training of the pet, and a movable neck plate. Two ends of the neck plate are movably connected to a lower part of the collar. The balloon assembly, the collar, and the neck plate are disposed together. The balloon assembly controls relative movement of the collar and the neck plate through inflation or deflation to tighten or loosen the collar.

Abstract: A non powered, canine barking suppression device that can rapidly altering a dog's behavior so as to visibly reduce anxiousness and unwanted barking. The device subjects the dog to random vibrations and audible tones generated by an enclosed tuning fork that is worn around the dog's neck. The tuning forks when struck, emit a selected frequency selected for a specific purpose and or specific breed of canine. This frequency lies between 0 and 200,000 Hz, which is the range of sound that has been shown that most canines can hear. Since it is non powered it is not prone to failure in wet or cold environments, is durable and inexpensive. The device has claims of additional therapeutic properties and the general physical structure has applications elsewhere, although the preferred embodiment and best mode are directed to stopping unnecessary barking.

Abstract: A bark control device for deterring a dog from barking. The bark control device includes a vibration dampening material forming or covering at least a portion of the bark control device housing. The vibration dampening material reduces the transfer of vibrations through the bark control device housing by reducing the vibrations to levels undetectable by a bark sensor, by preventing the production of vibrations having characteristics sufficiently similar to a bark, and/or by inhibiting the propagation of such vibrations through the bark control device housing. The vibration dampening material of the housing reduces the occurrence of corrections to the dog due to vibrations emanating from a source other than a bark by the dog.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for preventing an animal and method of controlling the apparatus. The apparatus includes a sound sensor for sensing a bark of an animal and converting the bark into an electrical signal. An amplifier amplifies the electrical signal. A vibration sensor senses a vibration occurring on a neck of the animal. A microprocessor performs control such that, when signals are input from the sound sensor and the vibration sensor, voice, ultrasonic or low-frequency stimulation means is output, and has an auto-variable output function and a time band-based output function. A first control switch allows the user to optionally set a type and a stimulation intensity of the stimulation means. A second control switch allows the user to optionally set a time for which the stimulation means is operated. An output unit receives control signals for the stimulation means and outputs corresponding stimulations.

Abstract: A non powered, canine barking suppression device that can rapidly altering a dog's behavior so as to visibly reduce anxiousness and unwanted barking. The device subjects the dog to random vibrations and audible tones generated by an enclosed tuning fork that is worn around the dog's neck. The tuning forks when struck, emit a selected frequency selected for a specific purpose and or specific breed of canine. This frequency lies between 0 and 200,000 Hz, which is the range of sound that has been shown that most canines can hear. Since it is non powered it is not prone to failure in wet or cold environments, is durable and inexpensive. The device has claims of additional therapeutic properties and the general physical structure has applications elsewhere, although the preferred embodiment and best mode are directed to stopping unnecessary barking.

Abstract: A non powered, canine barking suppression device that can rapidly altering a dog's behavior so as to visibly reduce anxiousness and unwanted barking. The device subjects the dog to random vibrations and audible tones generated by an enclosed tuning fork that is worn around the dog's neck. The tuning forks when struck, emit a selected frequency selected for a specific purpose and or specific breed of canine. This frequency lies between 0 and 200,000 Hz, which is the range of sound that has been shown that most canines can hear. Since it is non powered it is not prone to failure in wet or cold environments, is durable and inexpensive. The device has claims of additional therapeutic properties and the general physical structure has applications elsewhere, although the preferred embodiment and best mode are directed to stopping unnecessary barking.

Abstract: An animal training system including a programming apparatus and an animal training collar. The animal training collar is communicatively couplable to the programming apparatus. The animal training collar includes at least one stimulation probe and a programmable device operatively connected to the at least one stimulation probe to activate the at least one stimulation probe. The at least one stimulation probe also transferring data at least one of to and from the programming apparatus.

Abstract: A spray deterrent application type animal training apparatus and its control method is disclosed. The apparatus affixed to the collar of a dog provides a vibration stimulus, stimulus to olfactory sense and visual sense. The transparent spray deterrent reservoir case of the apparatus allows a trainer or an animal owner to simply identify level of spray substance. A light emitting diode (LED) is secured to the vicinity of a spraying nozzle of the spray unit and indicates a spray path by flashing a light on the spray path. Also, an animal is trained using stronger stimulus for a rapid learning at the beginning of training and is warned against an undesired behavior of an animal using light stimulus after being well trained.

Abstract: Described is a vibration stimulus delivery device for delivering a vibration stimulus to an animal and for maximizing the robustness and intensity of the vibration stimulus. The vibration stimulus delivery device is carried by the animal and includes a housing and a vibration probe. The vibration probe is positioned in direct contact with the skin of the animal and generates a vibration, which, when delivered to the animal, is the vibration stimulus. The vibration probe is coupled to the housing such that the coupling minimizes the inherent vibration dampening effect caused by the weight and mass of the housing. The result is a vibration stimulus delivery device that delivers a more robust and intense vibration stimulus to the animal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for preventing an animal and method of controlling the apparatus. The apparatus includes a sound sensor for sensing a bark of an animal and converting the bark into an electrical signal. An amplifier amplifies the electrical signal. A vibration sensor senses a vibration occurring on a neck of the animal. A microprocessor performs control such that, when signals are input from the sound sensor and the vibration sensor, voice, ultrasonic or low-frequency stimulation means is output, and has an auto-variable output function and a time band-based output function. A first control switch allows the user to optionally set a type and a stimulation intensity of the stimulation means. A second control switch allows the user to optionally set a time for which the stimulation means is operated. An output unit receives control signals for the stimulation means and outputs corresponding stimulations.

Abstract: An electronic animal trainer with temperament learning. The electronic animal trainer with temperament learning learns and remembers the response pattern of the animal to the correction stimulus to provide a customized training profile.

Abstract: The invention relates to wind energy systems. A wind energy system is provided having an insect sensor. The insect sensor is adapted for measuring the insect density in the air. Further, a method for operating a wind energy system taking into account the insect density in the air is provided. The wind energy system is curtailed during times with a high insect density. Hence, in periods following times with a high insect density, the wind energy system can be operated without the aero-dynamical performance of the rotor blades being spoiled by smashed insects.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling animal noise, for example, by preventing and/or deterring the barking of dogs, are described herein. A water source is provided in communication with an animal enclosure, such that the water source is configured to provide water to the interior of the enclosure. An audio sensor is disposed proximate to and/or within the enclosure, in communication with the water source. Responsive to detection of animal noise within the enclosure, the audio sensor causes transmission of a signal to cause the water source to provide water into the enclosure, thereby deterring the animal noise. The systems and methods can utilize one or more selected sensitivity/volume thresholds, and can also include a timing mechanism for regulating the length of time that the water is provided.

Abstract: Described is a two-probe bark control device for detecting an animal's bark by way of an electrode that is also used in delivering an electrical stimulus to the animal. The two-probe bark control device includes a housing, a first probe, and a second probe. The first and second probes include first and second electrodes, respectively. The first electrode is secured to the housing by way of a resilient overmolding such that the first electrode extends outwardly from the housing and has the potential to vibrate within the housing. The housing is carried by the animal such that the first probe detects the bark of the animal and the first and second probes deliver an electrical stimulus to the animal in response the first probe detecting the animal's bark such that the first probe both detects the animal's bark and delivers an electrical stimulus to the animal.

Abstract: A bark deterrent apparatus with an internal vibration sensor. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus uses an internal mechanical vibration sensor that detects vibrations induced in the housing. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus eliminates the external probe used in conventional bark deterrent devices to pick up vibrations at the dog's throat and communicate them to a mechanical vibration sensor to be eliminated while still allowing accurate bark detection.

Abstract: This patent discloses a system to train a dog to reduce barking while the dog is kept in an outdoor dog pen. The system may include a bark switch connected between a transformer and a power supply, a water valve operatively connected to the transformer and connected between a supply hose and a spray hose, a water supply connected to the supply hose, and a sprinkler head connected to the spray hose. Those components that may freeze may be located in a heated building. If the bark switch receives a bark of a predetermined intensity, the bark switch allows the power supply to send power to open the water valve so that water sprays a predetermined area of the dog pen. A timer may shut off the water spray and a lack of bark from the dog may keep the water spray from being turned on again.

Abstract: A method of controlling a device for preventing a pet from barking, comprising performing initialization and receiving pulse signals from a pulse-conversion unit for converting signals, output from a sound sensor for sensing a barking sound of a pet, into pulses; determining whether pulse signals are within a range corresponding to signals constituting an actual barking sound of the pet; determining the pulses to be the barking sound when the pulse signals correspond to the signals constituting the actual barking sound of the pet, and a total time, which is obtained by summing generation of the pulse signals is within the range of duration of signals having amplitudes more than ½ of a maximum amplitude Vcc in the barking sound, which belong to the previously measured barking signals; and generating shock voltage or vibration when the pulse signals are determined to be the actual barking sound.

Abstract: A reusable parcel harness for securing a parcel to a dog's chest generally includes at least one pin bar having first and second mounting pins extending therefrom towards a latch housing, a spring-loaded latch to releasably secure the pin bar to the latch housing or pin bar in a closed configuration, a latch release mechanism, and a harness attached to the latch housing to secure the apparatus on a dog. The spring-loaded latch biases the pin bar and the latch housing towards an open configuration. A latch release processor actuates the latch release mechanism upon receipt of a locally or remotely generated latch release signal. A parcel to be secured to the harness includes a parcel body and straps extending from opposing sides of the parcel body. Each strap terminates in a mounting loop that can be secured about a mounting pin on the harness.

Abstract: A device for deterring a dog from barking includes a sensor for detecting a bark from a dog and for generating an activation signal upon detection of the bark and an integral housing. The integral housing includes a reservoir for storing a bark deterrent substance, a bobbin integrated with the reservoir, a wall separating the bobbin from the reservoir, and an aperture extending through the wall for allowing fluid communication between the reservoir and the bobbin. The device further includes a spray mechanism for delivery of a dose of the bark deterrent substance to the dog upon receipt of the activation signal from the sensor.

Abstract: Relatively powerful hand-held computing devices, Digital Signal Processors, Audio signal processing technology, voice recognition technology, expert systems, Hidden Markov Models, and/or neural networks are employed in a device capable of real-time automated species identification by listening to bird vocalizations in the field, analyzing their waveforms, and comparing these waveforms against known reference samples.