Abstract: A system for tracking pipe activity on a rig includes a plurality of pipes, each pipe having an asset ID tag containing a code unique to the pipe. A pipe handling space for assembling and disassembling the pipes contains at least one pipe handling apparatus. A first scanning zone located at a first position in the pipe handling space contains a first reader antenna. A second scanning zone located at a second position in the pipe handling space contains a second reader antenna. At least one reader is provided for scanning the asset ID tags in the pipe handling space through at least one of the first reader antenna and the second reader antenna.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the state of a beehive comprises multiple gates configured to be positioned proximate to an entrance of a beehive. Each gate includes one or more sensors configured to capture information indicating a bee is within the gate and information indicating the bee is traveling toward or away from the entrance to the beehive. In addition, each gate includes a sensor configured to capture information identifying the size or shape of a bee within the gate. A corresponding method and computer readable medium are also disclosed.

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 method for health monitoring comprises electronically receiving location information for a dairy livestock that is generated by a plurality of identification devices positioned in a pen that operate in conjunction with a tag worn by the dairy livestock. The method stores the location information associated with the dairy livestock, the location information comprising a location of the dairy livestock within the pen at each of a plurality of times during a first time period. The method determines, based on at least a portion of the stored location information, a turn index parameter indicating a number of times the particular dairy livestock reverses direction during the first time period. The method determines whether the particular dairy livestock is likely to be in estrus based at least in part upon whether the determined turn index parameter is in excess of a baseline turn index parameter by more than a predefined amount.

Abstract: A system for identifying an animal comprises an identification tag/transponder device surgically implanted into tissue of the animal and a scanning unit. As the animal passes in a vicinity of a scanning unit, the system causes the identification device to send a signal to a receiving portion of the scanning unit, and processes the signal, and identifies the animal from the signal. The system is of particular benefit to veterinary surgeries in assisting their smooth operation.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.

Abstract: A kitchen sanitization compliance monitoring system comprises kitchen staff badges, food prep table beacons associated with food prep tables or areas, dispenser beacons associated with sanitization dispensers, and a central unit for wirelessly communicating with the badges.

Abstract: An animal tracking apparatus includes a location determining component; a sensor operable to sense a condition of the animal; memory; and a processor. The processor is operable to automatically store location information corresponding to the current geographic location of the apparatus in response to a sensed condition of the animal. The processor is also operable to monitor the sensor to identify a desired response to a received command and to store response information corresponding to the response.

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 wireless communication device according to embodiments includes a position detection unit configured to detect the position of the wireless communication medium in a moving path, and a control unit configured to control communication based on the detection signal from the position detection unit.

Abstract: A mobile telephone adapts to use as a gundog training tool by interfacing with a dog collar using a wireless communication device, such as a WWAN text or IP interface, a WLAN interface or a radio transceiver that couples to the mobile telephone and is accessible to a training application running on the mobile telephone. The dog collar includes a GPS receiver to provide position information to the mobile telephone and a shock device to provide training stimulus to the dog. A wireless headset interfaces with the mobile telephone to provide audible indications of position to an end user, such as a dog point and tone indicators of directions to the dog. A wireless handset interfaces with the mobile telephone to accept inputs for application to the collar, such as training stimulus.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are an animal training apparatus for locating a collar transceiver using a Global Positioning System (GPS), and a method of controlling the the same. The animal training apparatus includes a portable device, and a collar transceiver. The portable device includes a portable device GPS reception unit, a key input unit, a portable device control unit, a display unit, and a portable device wireless communication unit. The collar transceiver includes a collar wireless communication unit, a collar GPS reception unit, a photodetector, a light output unit, a beep tone output unit, and a collar control unit.

Abstract: A system includes sensors for transmitting data on a low power and/or short range transmission link, and one or more coordinators in wireless communication with the sensors. The coordinators convert signals received via the low power and/or short range transmission link to a longer range transmission link. A base station is in wireless communication with the coordinators via the longer range transmission link so that data generated by the sensors is transferred to the base station via the coordinators.

Abstract: A food source information transferring system for a livestock slaughterhouse and a related method are disclosed. In one embodiment, the food source information transferring system is capable of reading first tag-identifying information in a livestock RFID tag on a body of a carcass and second tag-identifying information in a hook RFID tag incorporated in a hook that can be hung on a hook machine. A food source information database can pair a first set of data associated with the livestock RFID tag with a second set of data associated with the hook RFID tag to preserve producer-level livestock information to meat-processing, distribution, and sales channels. This unique pairing of the first set of data associated with the livestock RFID tag and the second set of data associated with the hook RFID tag in the food source information database can result in seamless, robust, and lossless food source information management.

Abstract: A litter box cleanup monitor, comprising a sensor module that is triggered when an animal uses the litter box, a transmitter that transmits a signal, and a notification device that alerts the user when the litter box has been used. The notification device can be a dedicated device, a smartphone, or an Internet-connected computer. A plurality of notification devices may also be used.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. Each of the base units and the at least one collar includes a TCXO for reducing clock speed variation between the base and collar units, preferably to +/?5 ppm, to effectively eliminate communication errors between the base and collar units.

Abstract: An accidental ingestion detecting apparatus according to the present disclosure includes: a swallowing sensing unit which senses swallowing by an animal; a swallowing detecting unit which detects swallowing based on sensing data outputted by the swallowing sensing unit and which outputs swallowing information that is information related to the swallowing; a feeding information inputting unit which accepts input of information related to feeding of the animal and which outputs the information as feeding information; and an accidental ingestion determining unit which determines accidental ingestion by the animal, wherein the accidental ingestion determining unit determines accidental ingestion by the animal based on date/time information included in the swallowing information and date/time information included in the feeding information.

Abstract: A security and tracking apparatus includes at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein the apparatus is adapted for transmitting the location of each signaling unit when the first and second signaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance. A method to locate a person, animal, or object, includes providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to the person, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location of the signaling units and for transmitting the location of the signaling units when the first and second signaling units are separated more than a preselected distance; and activating the signaling units to transmit the location of the signaling units.

Abstract: An automated pet door system. The system provides a user programmable database and system engine for controlling the passage of selected animals through a portal, such as a door, or screen, or other passage limiting device. The system is permissionable, in that the user may provide a set of dates, times, events, or other instructions, through a user input device to establish a then current operating envelope for each of one or more selected animals. A unique identification tag, which may use active radio frequency identification tag techniques, provides identity information for each candidate animal. Multiple sensor inputs, providing information such as door position, proximity of animals to the door, and direction and velocity of animals, are provided as inputs to a decision engine, which evaluates sensor inputs over time, before determining whether to open or close the pet door.

Abstract: A mobile telephone adapts to use as a gundog training tool by interfacing with a dog collar using a wireless communication device, such as a WWAN text or IP interface, a WLAN interface or a radio transceiver that couples to the mobile telephone and is accessible to a training application running on the mobile telephone. The dog collar includes a GPS receiver to provide position information to the mobile telephone and a shock device to provide training stimulus to the dog. A wireless headset interfaces with the mobile telephone to provide audible indications of position to an end user, such as a dog point and tone indicators of directions to the dog. A wireless handset interfaces with the mobile telephone to accept inputs for application to the collar, such as training stimulus.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring and controlling animal behavior are disclosed. According to an aspect, a system comprises a computing device comprising at least one processor and memory. The system includes a detection electrode and an animal signaling device. The computing device is configured to detect a change of an electrical capacitance at a detection electrode. The computing device is also configured to determine a position of an animal based on the change in the electrical charge. Further, the computing device is configured to control the animal signaling device to communicate a signal in response to determining the position of the animal.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device (ADD) includes a non-yielding base containing an array of animal deterring elements extending outwardly away therefrom. The base of the ADD is configured for deployment on at least one external surface of a transducer associated with a electrical charging system (ECS) used to electrically charge an energy storage device (ESD) on a vehicle. An array of animal deterring elements are respectively spaced apart a sufficient distance one-to-another and have respective heights so as to fill a space so that animals, such as a dog or a cat, are discouraged from residing on, or adjacent to at least one external surface of the transducer when the transducer that includes the ADD is disposed within a ground clearance of the vehicle. A method of using the ADD is also presented that includes a step of the ADD being formed in a mold in a single molding operation.

Abstract: A system and method of tracking animal livestock using electronic frequency signal transmitters and receivers is herein presented. The system involves electronic tags attached to the bodies of livestock. The tags transmit a signal which conveys the location or other pertinent information regarding the status of the animal. The signals are picked up by a receiver attached to a stationary platform, or located in a vehicle, or in a portable hand held receiver device. The information transmitted can be used to locate a specific animal or can be used to monitor the status and condition of the animal. The device contains several modes which minimize power consumption and maximize power supply lifetime.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating a laser beam illuminating a space around an object are provided. The laser beam illuminates an animal that is approaching the object in the space. The laser beam is generated by a laser illuminating at least a first micro-mirror that moves under control of a processor. Additional micro-mirrors are contemplated. The laser beam reflected from the moving micro-mirror illuminates the space around the object. Laser, processor and micro-mirrors are dimensioned to illuminate with a high probability an area with a cross-section perpendicular to a laser beam of 10 cm by 10 cm inside the space at a distance of up to 200 meters from the laser or farther.

Abstract: An animal indicator apparatus that tracks the locations of an animal and alerts nearby persons when the animal approaches a boundary includes a location determining component operable to determine a current geographic location of the apparatus; memory for storing cartographic data representative of at least one boundary; an indicator and a processor. The processor triggers the indicator when the current geographic location of the apparatus is near the location of the boundary.

Abstract: A system and apparatus to track and control an animal, including a tracking unit to track the animal, and a stimulus unit to provide a stimulus to the animal, wherein the tracking unit and stimulus unit are configured to be removably coupled together, and the tracking unit and/or stimulus unit communicate with a common control device.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer code products for monitoring the behavior, health, and/or characteristics of an animal are disclosed herein. In one implementation, the animal is positioned inside a waste container placed on a system that is adapted to determine, record and communicate over a network various animal health parameters. These parameters can be processed to determine trends, statistics and changes of animal physiological functions. The results can be used to access animal health conditions and issue warnings, alarms, messages, and other notifications to designated caretakers. These notifications may be displayed using various means such as computers and/or mobile devices. Data retrieval and review capability can provide improved understanding of an animal's health conditions and facilitate early illness detection.

Abstract: Disclosed is a position tracking apparatus for training an animal. When transmission data including an identification code of a training device is transmitted to a GPS device after the GPS device and the training device are attached to an animal, the GPS device receives the transmission data of the training device and transfers the received transmission data to the training device. Accordingly, it is possible to train the animal to desirably act through an operation of the training device attached to the animal even though the animal is far away from the master when the animal acts with undesirable behavior.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. A virtual fence is defined around the containment area, as well as around optional exclusion zones within the containment area, during system set up through communication between the base units and a trackable device as the user walks around the desired border. Visualization software enables the user to verify that the location of the fence is as desired and that the system is operating properly using a computing device having a display screen. In use, the system employs improved filtering of consecutive distance measurement values taken between the base units and the collar to discount errant measurement values in terms of their contribution to the current calculation of the dog's location.

Abstract: A method and device may comprise transmitting, via a transmitter, a plurality of transmit pings at a transmit interval. A receiver may listen, for a live ping and the receiver may be configured to be turned on at a beginning of the assess interval, and off at an end of the detect duration. The receiver may further receive the live ping. After receiving the live ping, transmission of a new ping may be delayed for a delay duration. The new pings may be transmitted at the transmit interval.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.

Abstract: A system for managing an integrated supply chain of livestock, such as beef cattle, utilizes a networked system solution for interacting various supply chain entities via the Internet. Various livestock producers, feed yards, packers, retailers, and vendors to the livestock industry are interconnected to communicate, manage, market, and transact the livestock from birth to consumer sales at the retail level. Producers are enabled to provide source verification of their livestock to enhance the integrity of the system, and prequalify livestock for value-added retail programs. Retailers are enabled to make real-time changes to characteristics of known future supply through interactions with the decision makers during the production process.

Abstract: A storage device operable to store a plurality of radio signal emitting tracking collars wherein subsequent the tracking collars being engaged with the storage device the storage device operably engages the magnetic switch of the tracking collars to suspend the radio signal emission from the collar. The storage device further includes a mounting member that is substantially hollow being mounted on a base plate in a generally vertical position. Disposed within the mounting member is a bar magnet that has a vector field having a direction and magnitude that extends to at least the perimeter of the base plate so as to operable engage the magnetic switch of the tracking collar placed on the storage device. The storage device further includes two support rods mounted in a generally vertical manner operable to assist in the maintenance of the correct position of the tracking collars once the tracking collars have been placed on the storage device.

Abstract: A navigation system uses a dead reckoning method to estimate an object's present position relative to one or more prior positions. In some embodiments, the dead reckoning method determines a change in position from the object's heading and speed during an elapsed time interval. In embodiments suitable for use with wheeled objects, the dead reckoning method determines the change in position by measuring the heading and the amount of wheel rotation. Some or all of the components of the navigation system may be disposed within a wheel, such as a wheel of a shopping cart.

Abstract: An early alert system and a method for livestock disease detection are disclosed. An activity measurement zone (AMZ) is defined near an incentive device (e.g. food or water dispensing system) with an RFID tag reader and/or an RFID antenna. An animal's access into the AMZ is tracked and counted with an RFID tag attached to the animal. If the animals' activity relative to the AMZ drops to an alarmingly low level (e.g. dropping below an alert trigger point) over time, then a user of the alert system is informed of a potential health problem of the animal and may also be encouraged to inspect the animal in person for further determination of its current health and potential medical issues. The early alert system may be powered by hybrid alternative energy sources for rural or remote areas, which may have inconvenient or expensive access to conventional electrical power lines.

Abstract: An improved system and method for defining an event based upon an object location and a user-defined zone and managing the conveyance of object location event information among computing devices where object location events are defined in terms of a condition based upon a relationship between user-defined zone information and object location information. One or more location information sources are associated with an object to provide the object location information. One or more user-defined zones are defined on a map and one or more object location events are defined. The occurrence of an object location event produces object location event information that is conveyed to users based on user identification codes. Accessibility to object location information, zone information, and object location event information is based upon an object location information access code, a zone information access code, and an object location event information access code, respectively.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and alerting based on animal behavior includes an apparatus to observe one or more animals using a sensor network, a processor to capture tracking information and to interpret animal state based on sensor observations, and a communication device to communicate alerts based on animal state.

Abstract: Position and proximity detection systems and methods are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing device may include a processor configured to determine a position coordinate of a first movable device. Further, the processor is configured to determine whether the position coordinate of the first movable device is a predetermined distance from a second movable device. The processor is also configured to signal the second movable device in response to determining that the position coordinate of the first movable device is a predetermined distance from a second movable device.

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.

Abstract: A business method includes a system for providing notification to a designated pet care provider to ensure that care will be provided to a subscriber's pets, animals, or livestock in the event the subscriber is unable to care for his/her pets due to an injury, hospitalization, death or unexpected delay. The system includes a card that is provided to the subscriber with a unique ID number and telephone number on the card. An authorized person, upon finding the card, calls the telephone number to inform the system of an incapacitation or death of the subscriber. After confirming the validity of the call the system then attempts to contact the designated pet care provider. If a willing pet care provider is not reached within a predetermined period of time a local authority could be contacted to provide temporary care for the subscriber's pets. Optional levels of service are also described.

Abstract: A detecting method for dairy cattle comprises the steps of: automatically measuring lying and standing times for a milking animal by a sensor; automatically comparing the measured lying and standing times for said milking animal with reference values of lying and standing times; and automatically establishing whether said milking animal is in heat or not based on said comparison. The automatic sensor may also be used for measuring a health parameter of the milking animal.

Abstract: Electronic systems and methods provide services in real time and in a user's language to aid transition from a structured environment into a less structured situation and reduce recidivism in released criminal offenders. Embodiments also include systems and methods for improved outcomes for subjects in transition from a structured living situation into a less structured or free society environment, such as subjects in transition out of a hospital, educational institution or military service.

Abstract: A locating and tracking system is provided. The locating and tracking system includes plural pressure sensing modules, each of which includes at least one pressure sensing unit detecting a pressure source and generating a signal; a data processing unit connected with the at least one pressure sensing unit, and processing the signal to generate a module information; a storage unit connected with the data processing unit, and storing the module information and an user information; a communication unit connected with the data processing unit, transmitting the module information, and receiving an outer information; and a power managing unit managing a power needed by the at least one pressure sensing unit, the data processing unit, the storage unit and the communication unit; a bottom board configured on a floor, and bearing the mentioned units; and a top board covering the mentioned units, and transferring the pressure source to the pressure sensing unit.

Abstract: This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock, such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods in which users, such as producers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers, are brought together through shared information and improved communication. Users may access one or more applications, tools, and/or systems to increase the value of each animal, monitor and track each animal, and improve the efficiency of their operation.

Abstract: A displacement device for mapping wireless signal fingerprints includes motion sensors and at least one of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) sensor and a round trip time (RTT) sensor. The motion sensors may include a pedometer and one or more sensors to receive turn information. The start position of the displacement device is initialized and as the displacement device is moved through an environment, the position of each measurement location is determined using the initialized position and data from the motion sensors. The measurement position along with the RSSI and/or RTT measurement is stored in a database, from which a map can be generated. The position of the access point may be determined using the RSSI measurement or RTT measurement. Additionally, accumulated errors in the measurement position may be monitored and when greater than a threshold, a user may be prompted to reinitialize the position of the displacement device.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing and detecting information regarding a person, location, or object includes a power supply, a helicoil dipole antenna, a transmitter, a receiver configured to receive signals from remote transmitters at a designated frequency, a computer processor, and a memory device configured to store an identifier associated with the apparatus. Logic instructions embedded on the memory device are configured to compare an identifier decoded from received signals to the identifier associated with the apparatus. When the identifier decoded matches the identifier associated with the apparatus, the instructions decode a return frequency from the signal, and generate return signals. The return signals include the identifier associated with the apparatus, the transmitter is activated only when the transmitter transmits the return signals at the return frequency.

Abstract: An arrangement is provided for attaching teat cups to teats of a milking animal in a rotary milking system having a milking stall for housing the milking animal during milking. The arrangement comprises a three-dimensional camera configured to be directed towards the udder of the milking animal in the milking stall and to repeatedly record three-dimensional images of the udder of the milking animal in real time. The three-dimensional camera is further configured to be directed towards the teat cups located in a magazine and to repeatedly record three-dimensional images of the teat cups in real time. The arrangement also includes an image processing device configured to repeatedly detect the teats of the milking animal and determine the positions of the teats in three spatial dimensions based on said repeatedly recorded three-dimensional images of the teats.

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: Tracking a pet includes associating a beacon with a responder; polling the responder by transmitting a signal from the beacon; receiving a response from the responder; entering a low power state on the beacon for a predetermined duration; and transalert from miffing an alert the beacon if a subsequent signal from the beacon fails to result in receiving a subsequent response from the responder. Entering a low power state on the beacon decreases the energy requirements. An alert is transmitted from the beacon via a communication network and includes a location message indicating the location of the beacon. The beacon's location is calculated using network-based, SIM-based or device-based methods. Using location determination only after failing to receive the subsequent response and when preparing to transmit the alert prevents accurate location determination being performed when it is not necessary to determine the pet is safe and therefore decreases the energy requirements.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.