Abstract: Virtual fencing of an animal includes a microprocessor for continuously determining the position of an animal relative to a target and whether the animal is moving relative to the target. A stimulus unit applies a sensory stimulus to the animal in response to signals received from the microprocessor. The microprocessor is programmable such that if the distance between the animal and the target is less than a predetermined distance and if the animal is moving in a direction towards the target a stimulus is applied to the animal and the stimulus is withdrawn when the animal either stops, retreats from the target, or accelerates while the distance between the animal and the target is less than the predetermined distance.

Abstract: A system and method for locating objects in an approximate immediate proximity to a user is disclosed. A two-way radio transponder system is employed with a Coordinator as a parent device and multiple Identification Tags as child devices. The system is low-cost and consumes relatively low power using advancement in microcircuit technology and additionally the system employs predetermined timing cycles to further optimize power consumption. The Coordinator has a microprocessor programmed to compare signal strength in successive communication cycles to help determine the proximity of the Coordinator to the multiple Identification Tags. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, motion sensors are used to assist in determining relative motion between Coordinator and Identification Tags. A USB port is further included for the system to interface with a PC.

Abstract: Enhanced product tracking, in which a data collection interface is established between a first supply management device and a transaction database, the data collection interface providing the transaction database with access to identification data and event data, the identification data uniquely identifying a pharmaceutical, and the event data relating to a supply chain process step for the pharmaceutical. Tracking also includes receiving a tracking request for formatted identification data and/or event data from a second supply management device; and establishing a data conversion interface between the second supply management device and the identification data and/or the event data, the data conversion interface providing the second supply management device with access to the identification data and/or the event data, according to the tracking request.

Abstract: A pet escape notification system for notifying a pet owner when a pet has escaped from a predefined boundary. The escape notification system is used in association with an electronic animal containment system for maintaining a pet within the predefined boundary. A pet unit transmitter is provided for delivering a proximity alert signal to a base unit when the pet unit receives a transmitting antenna signal. After receiving the proximity alert signal, the base unit begins sending a location inquiry signal to the pet unit. Upon receipt of the location inquiry signal, the pet unit broadcasts a location inquiry response signal. If the location inquiry response signal is received by the base unit receiver, the base unit processing unit determines that the pet is still within or close to the boundary. Otherwise the base unit controller activates a communication network to notify the pet owner that the pet has escaped.

Abstract: Agricultural data collection and management, such as for tracking a product in a supply chain. A data collection interface is established between a first supply management device and a transaction database, the data collection interface providing the transaction database with access to identification data and event data, the identification data uniquely identifying the product, and the event data relating to a supply chain process step for the product. A product tracking request for formatted identification data and/or event data is received from a second supply management device. A data conversion interface is established between the second supply management device, and the identification data and/or the event data, the data conversion interface providing the second supply management device with access to the identification data and/or the event data, according to the product tracking request.

Abstract: A GPS data acquisition collar incorporating an individualized rugged watertight collar that monitors factors including GPS location, gazing patterns, elevation, feeding patterns, temperature, movement speed, sleep patterns and signaling or beacon tracking options. Additionally the present invention provides options for visual representation or programming alerting of factors that may affect an animal or herd of animals in a monitored and recorded environment.

Abstract: Individual System Performance Management apparatus employs in one manifestation Sequential Empirical Optimization (SEO) in its illustrative version to manage a sequence of periodic readjustment to adjust inputs of an input/output system with the aim to maximize the cumulative sequence of overall value delivered by the system. SEO continually updates its learning from the stored run data. In this discussion, the term “adjusting” control inputs is used the same as “setting” control inputs, including adjusting or setting things by hand.

Abstract: A business method for conducting pet, death, DNA and other related transactions over a computer network is disclosed. A one-stop site on the Internet permits remote users to establish accounts, run user sessions, obtain information, and order pet, death, DNA and other related products and services from a variety of sources and vendors. The one-stop site performs multiple services that are ordinarily done by many both for the initial user and for subsequent related users that are referenced to the site. Charges for all transactions are made to user accounts and payments need only be made to the one-stop site.

Abstract: A device is disclosed which is configured to startle certain pests which may cause a variety of problems in certain areas of a home or workplace. By limiting the action of the pests, or removing the pests from the area, the invention may prevent the destruction of property, minimize animal droppings, and minimize the spread of disease. The invention includes an external shell in the shape of any desired animal, wherein the external shell also covers internal mechanical, electronic and electrical components. The components are configured to move parts of the animal shell and move other items attached to the shell. The movement may be a result of a motion detector detecting an undesirable pest, programmable timer, a remote control device operated within the safety of a home or by other sensors.

Abstract: An RFID system provides a transponder that can communicate over at least two different frequencies so that the real time performance of the transponder can be improved without losing backwards compatibility. The RFID system allows the end user to customize and program identification tags. The RFID system also provides an ear tag, which may be in button form, for use on livestock with superior durability and overall performance in the field.

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: The present invention relates to an integrated method and system for preventing and solving problems relating to pests of any kind on a site, in a building, in a process, installation or in an area. The system involves complete digitalizing and automation of all functions necessary in order to control the pests such as surveillance, registration, alarms, regulation and remedial actions as well as generating reports etc. The aim is to make the overall effort against the pests more effective by means of fully automating all processes to the furthest possible extent.

Abstract: When playing a sport it is generally difficult to localize (exactly) an accessory requirement for that sport at a determined point in time. The localizing of sports equipment may however be desired in particular situations, for instance to track down lost articles of sports equipment, or to be able to apply the rules of a sport in efficient manner. The invention therefore relates to a system for localizing sports equipment. The invention also relates to a method for localizing sports equipment using such a system.

Abstract: In particular situations it may be desirable to follow, trace or otherwise localize specific (groups of) objects or animals, in particular people. The invention relates to a localization system. The invention also relates to a method for localizing objects or animals using such a localization system.

Abstract: The Tie-Line-Attendant (“TLA”) identifies a distressed animal and alarms its owner for immediate assistance. The TLA Transmitter is connected between the tie line and the tether line. The owner sets the maximum time duration (“MTD”) allowed for an animal to exert pressure on the tether line. When an animal exerts pressure on the tether line, the tether line and tie line will pull the TLA eyelets closing the normally open contacts. A timer will count the duration of the pressure. If the pressure is released before MTD is reached, the timer will reset itself automatically. Otherwise, the transmitter will sound an alarm and send a signal to the owner's receiver. The receiver will then alarm the owner that his animal needs immediate assistance. The transmitter and the receiver contain: control switches, LED indicators, and an audible alarm.

Abstract: A transmitter for a dog training system, the transmitter having a command input device for inputting a training command input into the transmitter, and a transmitter controller connected to the command input device. The transmitter controller translates the training command input into identification data and command data. The transmitter controller also generates at least one forward error correction codeword from the identification data and the command data.

Abstract: A system and method for visualizing the location and movement of people in facilities. The facility is provided with a plurality of sensors such as RF or IR sensors that communicate with a badge worn by each individual and selected physical assets in the facility. The sensors send data to a processor which displays the data on a monitor in a form that permits ready visualization of the individuals, and allows the observer to select information as needed. The display may directly indicate certain specifics about an individual based on data stored in the processor or entered by the observer.

Abstract: An animal deterrent mat with animal detection capability. The animal deterrent mat produces a detection pulse that is attenuated when an object makes contact with the animal deterrent mat. The animal deterrent mat monitors the amplitude of the detection pulse and compares the measured detection pulse amplitude to one or more threshold values. When the amplitude of the detection pulse is below an upper threshold corresponding to the attenuated signal caused by an animal making contact with the animal deterrent mat and, optionally, above lower threshold corresponding to the attenuated signal caused by another object making contact with the animal deterrent mat, such as a human, a deterrent pulse selected to deter the animal from crossing or remaining on the animal deterrent mat is generated. When the amplitude of the detection pulse is below the optional lower threshold, no deterrent stimulus is generated.

Abstract: A detection system includes a mobile unit in the form of a trained/in-training animal controlled, either directly or indirectly, by a handler. The mobile unit carries a portable electronics package linked to a remote unit. The animal is trained to search for target odors originating from a specified object, such as drugs, weapons, chemicals, a person or the like. Once a target odor is detected, data generated by the animal, as determined through body position, biometric or other sensors provided in the portable electronics, is either stored in memory for later review or forwarded to a remote unit for immediate evaluation. In this manner, the handler is provided with confirmation that the animal has sensed a target odor, thereby increasing the overall efficacy of the detection system and reducing the possibility of incorrectly reinforcing responses that are not associated with the desired target odors.

Abstract: A distance determination and alarm system for alarming when a wireless transmitter is either close or distant, having a wireless transmitter for transmitting an emitter signal. A wireless receiver is for receiving the emitter signal. The wireless receiver is for resolving the distance between the wireless transmitter and the wireless receiver. A proximity switch is electrically connected to the wireless receiver for selectable switching between within boundary alarm and out of boundary alarm. An alarm is electrically connected to the wireless receiver.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved RFID system. The system provides a transponder that can communicate over at least two different frequencies so that the real time performance of the transponder can be improved without losing backwards compatibility. The system provides an improved apparatus and method that allows the end user to customize and program identification tags. The system also provides an ear tag, which may be in button form, for use on livestock with superior durability and overall performance in the field.

Abstract: A monitoring device is configured to be attached to an agent to be monitored. The device includes sensor circuitry that detects or measures conditions relating to the environment, the agent or the agent's behavior. A microcontroller processes the conditions to produce event data, and a wireless transmitter transmits the event data to a remote host system. The conditions can include temperature, acceleration, the presence of another tag, or other conditions relating to the agent. The event data may relate to movement of the agent, an encounter with another tag, or other behavior of the agent, and may be stored to an internal memory. The monitoring device may also include a transmitter that transmits a signal, or tag identifier, that identifies the device. The event data may be reported as information relating to the behavior of the agent.

Abstract: An animal electronic data collecting device is disclosed which includes a radio transmitter and a radio receiver, a processor for controlling operation of the device, and memory for storing information including a first identifier associated with the device. The processor is arranged to transmit a signal, using the radio transmitter, and to receive, using the radio receiver, one or more signals, each representing a second identifier from other devices, and the processor is arranged to store in the memory each second identifier. The default operating condition of the device is for the radio receiver to be in a receive condition and, upon receipt of a wakeup call, the processor is arranged to place the radio transmitter into a transmit condition.

Abstract: Described is an antenna proximity determining system for determining the location of an animal with respect to a transmitting antenna utilizing the bit error rate corresponding to a signal transmitted by the transmitting antenna and received by a receiver unit carried by the animal and for delivering a stimulus to the animal based on its location with respect to the antenna.

Abstract: A pet restraint system includes a collar having first and second ends and a fastener to selectively secure the first and second collar ends about a pet. A radio transmitter is coupled to the collar that emits a signal at a predetermined frequency. The system includes a handheld unit separated from the collar that includes a radio receiver configured to receive a radio signal, a GPS receiver for receiving signals from global positioning satellites, a signal indicator, and a CPU in data communication with the radio receiver, GPS receiver, and signal indicator. The CPU includes programming for evaluating a relative strength of signals received by the radio receiver and for outputting the relative strength to the signal indicator indicative of a position of the signal transmitter relative to the handheld unit. The CPU also includes programming for evaluating GPS signals and determining a global position of the handheld unit.

Abstract: An animal management system and scanning access device are disclosed. The scanning access device accesses RFID label disposed on/in animal body, and the information of the accessed RFID label is subsequently processed and transmitted to the animal management system via a communication transmission module for comparison.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a tracking apparatus (100) and method that are operable to efficiently track an animal. The tracking apparatus (100) is operable to be worn by an animal, determine its current geographic location, and transmit information relating to its current geographic location to an external device such as a portable navigation unit (200). The navigation unit (200) is operable to display a representation of the geographic location of the tracking apparatus (100) for consideration by a user.

Abstract: A data collection device (i.e. reader or reader/writer) for the animal husbandry industry that links to a database to accept instruction protocols for listed animals. An operator scans animals and reads data for each listed and/or located animal per pre-determined sets of instructions unique to each RFID. Read operations are confirmed with auditory, tactile and/or visual feedback. The acquired data and/or operator entries and comments are uploadable to the database. The data can also be collected and transferred over a real-time communication link.

Abstract: Computer software for and method of determining livestock ownership comprising inputting an image of a livestock brand whose ownership is to be determined, automatically determining one or more computed closest fits to the image from a database of livestock brands, and outputting owner information from the database of livestock brands concerning one or more of the one or more computed closest fits.

Abstract: A method and system related to pet medical care and pet location which includes an implantable multiple function chip. The chip includes data storage portions for identification, medical notices and GPS location parameters. The method and system further includes first and second wireless receiver and transmitter devices to be utilized by a veterinarian and a pet owner respectively. The business method and system are designed to be marketed through the offices of veterinary medical doctors and animal health clinics.

Abstract: The present invention is a pet actuated signaling device that generally comprises of at least one figurine having a motion detector sensor that is housed within the figurine; and a wireless based remote receiver placed inside the building. The motion detector sensor is activated on at least one stimulus induced when the pet passes across the figurine that subsequently transmits a signal to the wireless based remote receiver. The receiver emits a sound alert that informs the owner that the pet wishes to enter the home. The figurine resembling a pet can be positioned and angled in a way to obtain a wider range. In one preferred embodiment, the sound alert can be in the form of a dog bark or cat meow.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses for providing a pet pressure mat and proximity indicator to provide a notification to a pet owner when a pet is near a door are disclosed. The proximity indicator, in response to a signal from the mat, provides an indication of the pet being positioned on the mat. The mat may include a power source, a bottom exterior layer, and a top exterior layer attached to the bottom layer to substantially enclose the mat. A single layer of dielectric spacer having one or more openings may be positioned between the top layer and the bottom layer. Two conductive foil sheets may be separated when no external compressive force exists and may contact each other within an opening of the spacer when a sufficient external compressive force is applied to the mat. A signal is generated when the two conductive foil sheets contact each other.

Abstract: A pet door having a locking mechanism for normally limiting ingress and egress, the pet door being adapted communicate with a conventional environmental detector to unlock the locking mechanism when a hazard environmental condition is detected. The pet door is adapted to work in cooperation with either a conventional smoke detector or an improved smoke detector. In one embodiment, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter is used in cooperation with a conventional smoke detector to communicate with a pet door of the present invention. In either embodiment, when the smoke detector detects an event such as the presence of smoke and/or fire such that an audible alarm is sounded, the pet door locking mechanism is unlocked. The pet door is also useful in cooperation with other detectors such as a carbon monoxide detector or a security alarm.

Abstract: A receiver for an animal training collar which includes a receiver housing with a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal each accessible from an outside of the receiver housing. A pair of electrodes is connected to the first electrode terminal and the second electrode. A circuit board is connected to the first electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal on the outside of the receiver housing and between the pair of electrodes and the receiver housing, wherein the pair of electrodes extend from the circuit board.

Abstract: The number of piglets dying at birth is reduced by providing a motion or weight sensor in a farrowing crate at the piglet area thereof so that, when the sow is expected to give birth, the motion sensor is located in the crate at a location to detect motion of one or more piglets after birth and, on detection of motion of the one or more piglets, causing the motion sensor to wirelessly communicate a signal to a pager carried by an operator indicating to the operator that birth of piglets is in progress.

Abstract: A signal transmitter system for an animal training system including an electrical impedance loop, a signal generator and a power supply. The signal generator is connected to the electrical impedance loop. The signal generator provides a current signal to the electrical impedance loop. The power supply provides a voltage level to the signal generator. The voltage level is dependent upon a measured characteristic of a voltage signal that results from an interaction of the current signal with the electrical impedance loop.

Abstract: A System and Method for Person or Object Position Location Utilizing Impulse Radio, comprising a plurality of reference impulse radios; an object or person to be tracked having a mobile impulse radio associated therewith; an architecture with an associated positioning algorithm associated with said plurality of impulse radio reference radios and said mobile impulse radio; and display means for displaying the position of the person or object whose position is to be determined.

Abstract: A battery module cooperating with an electronic animal control device for activating and deactivating the electronic animal control device. The battery module switch is a user-replaceable power source providing a rotary switching function while maintaining a hermetic seal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for identifying an entity comprising placing an internal tag within the entity and placing an external tag proximate the entity wherein the internal tag and external tag are coupled.

Abstract: An animal feeder comprising a hopper for storing pieces of food is provided. The hopper includes an opening and a gate movable with respect to the hopper between an open position rendering the opening at least partially accessible to an animal and a closed position at least partially preventing access to the opening by an animal. A switch is coupled for activation by movement of the gate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for locating and tracking persons by use of an implantable device. The described invention is an implantable device composed of biocompatible materials in all areas where contact with organic tissue occurs. The gross anatomic siting of the device includes any limb, the torso, including back and perineum, the neck, and the head. The surgical anatomic siting of the device includes: (1) Supramuscular: for example, deep to the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat, on or attached to muscle and/or muscle fascia. Such a location is currently used for implantation of commercially available buried intravenous access ports, which are positioned on, and attached to, the pectoralis major muscle fascia; (2) Intramuscular: for example, within or between the muscles of a limb; (3) Submuscular: for example, deep to a large muscle.

Abstract: This invention teaches a method and apparatus that combines GPS, map overlays, a means to draw containment perimeters directly over map overlays, and a means to transmit signals to any plurality of electronic stimulus control collars to contain humans or animals within each containment perimeter. A primary aspiration of this invention is to provide hunters with a means to effortlessly operate functions of an animal stimulus collar while hunting. Novel features include a means to specify a containment perimeter that travels with the hunter by drawing the same on a on a touch sensitive graphic user interface that displays a map of the local area. This invention is easy to use and readily accepts new perimeters, perimeter alterations, or a multiple of perimeters at will.

Abstract: A data collection device (i.e. reader or reader/writer) for the animal husbandry industry that links to a database to accept instruction protocols for listed animals. An operator scans animals and reads data for each listed and/or located animal per pre-determined sets of instructions unique to each RFID. Read operations are confirmed with auditory, tactile and/or visual feedback. The acquired data and/or operator entries and comments are uploadable to the database. The data can also be collected and transferred over a real-time communication link.

Abstract: An electronic fence system comprises a fence wire which radiates a radio signal for defining a boundary; a transmitter electrically connected to the fence wire and transmitting a boundary radio signal including a mode selection signal; and a receiver attached to the pet, which receives the boundary defining signal with respect to a pet's approach to the fence wire, and which, depending on receiving the shock mode, applies an electrical shock only to the pet depending on receiving the shock mode, or depending on the shock after vibration mode which indicates a mode giving a shock after vibration, after vibration or vibration with a sound, applies an electrical shock to the pet if the boundary defining signal is continuously received or does not apply an electrical shock to the pet if the boundary defining signal is not received. If the pet has a hearing loss, or the circumference is noisy, a warning signal can be given through a touch to the skin of the pet.

Abstract: A system that allows humans to interact with and send touch remotely to their pets. The system has a tangible interface for humans that allow both visual and tactile modes of communication on one end, and a haptic pet wearable jacket on the other end. It allows humans to interact remotely with pets even when they are not physically at the same place as the pets. On the tangible interface for humans, human views the real time movement of the pet in the form of a pet doll sitting on a mechanical positioning system. The movement of the actual pet is tracked using a web camera. The pet doll has embedded touch sensing circuit that senses and transmit data wirelessly to the computer. This touch data is sent across the Internet to another computer which is connected to the haptic pet wearable jacket. The real pet wears the pet jacket, which is able to reproduce the touching sensation via vibrating motors. The pet owner can tangibly touch the pet doll, sending touch signals to the pet in a remote location.

Abstract: The present invention combines a residential elevator and automatic pet door with an intelligence component comprised of a Programmable Logic Controller with programmed intelligence that enables interoperability between the residential elevator and automatic pet door. In practice a pet will wear a collar with an attached or embedded transmitter. As the pet approaches the elevator door, the swing door will open and the accordion gate will open. If the elevator is at another level when the pet approaches, a call will be submitted to bring the elevator to the pet's level. The swing door and gate will open automatically when the elevator arrives. The gate and door will remain open long enough for the pet to enter the elevator and close automatically. The call to another floor will automatically be submitted to the elevator based on the current floor location.

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: A device for alerting a pet owner that the pet wants to be let outside comprised of: a housing having at least one side surface and a bottom surface; at least one movable plate, each movable plate movable between a first position where no pressure is applied to it and a second position where under a pressure, the movable plate is moved toward the bottom surface of the housing; and at least one biasing member for maintaining the movable plate in the first position when said at least one movable plate is not under pressure such that when said at least one movable plate is depressed, a pre-recorded message is emitted from the device. The device can be mounted to a wall, door, or doorframe, either directly or using a mounting unit, or can be placed on the floor.

Abstract: Described is an antenna proximity determining system for determining the location of an animal with respect to a transmitting antenna utilizing the bit error rate corresponding to a signal transmitted by the transmitting antenna and received by a receiver unit carried by the animal and for delivering a stimulus to the animal based on its location with respect to the antenna.

Abstract: A system for controlling pets utilizes a low power transmitter to create avoidance zones in which one pet wearing an animal control receiver can enter but in which a second pet is deterred from entering.