Comprehensive Wireless Verbal Cue Training System for Domesticated Animals

Abstract

Inventor observed a universal pattern within mammal groups regarding acceptable/unacceptable behavioral learning systems used to set the rules for correct coexistence within respective species. Using this same pattern, the inventor developed a very specific communication system based on the human language using verbal cues and tone variations that the domesticated animal can easily understand. This invention is the electronic conversion of the inventors training methods using this stepped process for self-teaching domesticated animals our human verbal cues for various activities using wireless technology to accomplish said tasks.

Claims

1. A wireless based electronic conversion of the inventors training methods configured specifically to consistently and concisely self-teach collared, harnessed or haltered domesticated animal(s) our human verbal cues, human co-existence rules, how to differentiate between acceptable and unacceptable behavioral verbal cues, easily associate the owners pre-recorded verbal cue with the activity and/or task, and with electronic components configured in such a manner to achieve these goals. This system is designed to place the power of control within the owner's verbal cues by use of a stepped reward/deterrent process universal to all mammal groups.

2. The method of claim 1 focuses on using a universal mammal stepped process for the reward/warning system created by nature and converted into consistent human verbiage with various voice tones. The 3 stepped verbal warning system is backed up with a progressively stepped but limited ultrasonic frequency thereby allowing the domesticated animal the ability to “choose wisely” prior to the disciplinary stimulus, with a positive reinforcement verbal cue such as “good” or “yes” for retreat and/or confirmation of a correct choice made thereby humanely and safely teaching the domesticated animals the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behavior verbiage. This stepped process also teaches the owner how to correctly and consistently communicate expectations of co-existence rules.

3. The method of claim 1 is achieved using wireless technology comprised of 2 communicating units; a receiving unit hereinafter known as the “Slave” device fitted within the collar, harness or halter worn by a domesticated animal, and multiple “Master” devices, consisting of either standalone unit(s) or handler operated unit(s).

4. The method of claim 1 for verbal cues consists of owner recording various simple verbal cues with limits of up to 200 individual verbal cues via an online instructional software platform. The verbal cues are recorded once and assigned a computer generated unique line item code, with the code being used for the audio file name/playback on the “Slave” unit, the voice recognition/activation features of the “master” handheld unit as well as the transmitted digital code from the “Master” to the “Slave” devices. The correctly formatted verbal cues are downloaded from the personal computer onto the “Slave” device's SD card or data storage chip via an USB port, and then separately downloaded onto a voice activation chip within the handheld voice activated “Master” device via an USB port. The verbal cue file code, when activated by the “Masters” activation system is sent from the “Master” to the “Slave” via wireless technology where the “Slave” sounds the corresponding audio file on the “Slave” device.

5. The method of claim 3 “Slave” unit consists of a microprocessor connected with an interface to a separate electronic audio component. The primary microprocessor is dedicated to the wireless receiver for managing the digital code transmitted from the “Master”. The 2nd component is responsible for playing the audio file based on the digital code received by the primary. The electronic components are miniaturized and configured in a linear fashion to reduce bulk, correctly align any additional weight without having to overly tighten the collar/harness/halter, and to improve the aesthetics of electronic collars, harness or halters. All broadcasted audio files reside on a SD insertable card within the “Slave” device and triggered by a simple digital code sent from the respective “Master” unit(s).

6. The method of claim 3 includes multiple configurations of a “Master” unit all consisting of a wireless transmitter or transceiver and the necessary components to accommodate required tasks.

7. The method of claim 4 includes standalone units, called Guardians, do not require human interaction and are specifically designed to self-educate the domesticated collared, harnessed or haltered animal owners co-existence rules specifically when an owner is not present. The Guardians are only capable of relaying specific behavioral molding verbal cue codes and are programmed with various proximity ratings in order to calculate the infraction with appropriate warning leveled response sent to the “Slave” device. If a boundary has been breached, the Guardian transmits a digital code via a transmitter or transceiver to the “Slave” device to trigger a specific audio file to be played on the collar, harness or halter. Using the foundational verbiage for molding behavior, three levels of infractions may exist to include an initial warning (That's 1) such as “AAAA”, a secondary or level 2 warning (That's 2) such as “BAD”, “Leave It”, “Off”, “Out”, etc, with increased voice tones, a disciplinary measure (That's 3) of an ultrasonic frequency being triggered for continued infractions, and a verbal reward such as a soothing “good” or “yes” praise with any retreat being calculated signifying a correct choice has been made.

8. A method of claim 4 includes handheld “Master” units, are human operated and comprised of a transmitter or transceiver, depending on the task. The basic handheld “Master” is configured with push button selections for multiple “Slave” recipients, behavioral molding verbal cues and a joystick whereas the x/y positions of the joystick are assigned digital codes for each respective verbal cue. The joystick x/y axis positions can be customized for various activities such as directional verbal cues, agility competition verbal cues for mobility challenged handlers, or verbal cues for the bird hunting dog. This “Master” is limited in the transmission of verbal cue digital codes due to the size of the unit and the restrictions of x/y possible configurations. The joystick configuration can either be a raised unit or accessed via a touch screen OLED device.

9. A method of claim 4 includes the voice activated “Master” unit. In addition to the standard “Master” components this “Master” is owner/handler operated and comprised of a voice recognition chip and a headset for hands free use. Upon speaking the exact pre-recorded verbal cue into the microphone this “Master” transmits the line item code to the “Slave” device where the audio file with same line item number is then sounded from the “Slave” device.

10. A method of claim 4 includes the “Activity Master”, a standalone unit with various electronic sensors designed to protect the unit from mauling and to teach the collared, harnessed or haltered domesticated animal the association between verbal cues and specific activities or tasks. The Activity unit is comprised of touch sensors, RFID readers, tilt switches, vibration sensors, a transmitter or transceiver for “Master/Slave” communication, a wireless chip accessed via wi-fi or Bluetooth for programming daily routines and a treat dispenser in order to teach human verbal cues for specific activities and tasks such as naming an item, turning on/off a light switch, retrieving tagged toys and putting in a basket, etc. The unit can be configured to assist in setting a routine via the wi-fi/computer interface for scheduling events to help prevent separation anxiety. Individual, task specific Activity Masters can be programmed to help set a routine for tasks such as “outside” through a doggie door to assist in toilet training. The unit consists of 3 microprocessors, 1 to control the “Master/Slave” communication, 1 to process the activity associated sensors and 1 to manage the wi-fi routine features each using the 12C interface to establish communication between all microprocessors.

11. A wireless based video miniature device placed on canine goggles for streaming the dogs view. The video cam is miniaturized for weight considerations and placed in the top center of the dog goggles. The miniaturized video cam does not have any controls but instead views are created by training the canine to “look left”, “look right”, “look up”, “look down”. This claim includes the miniaturized video cam, a snapped or Velcro system for goggle placement, a transmitter, its own battery pack, its own antennae and microprocessor. A small cable is ran from the video cam to a small lightweight waterproof enclosure that attaches to the back strap of the goggles.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 The “Slave” unit with a possible layout for the component housing

[0012] FIG. 2 The Masters, includes 5 variations of the Master remote controls

[0013] FIG. 3 The Guardian, standalone master proximity communication

[0014] FIG. 4 Joystick remote possible communication configuration

[0015] FIG. 5 Handheld possible configurations for auto distance communication

[0016] FIG. 6 Potential configuration for video cam on goggles and “slave” placement on harness

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

[0017] FIG. 1 The “Slave” device reside within the collar, harness or halter itself and constructed within a miniaturized linear circuit configuration of electronic components in order to reduce bulk, unwanted rotation and aesthetics. There are several configurations available for progressive accommodations from basic to advanced units. The “Slave” circuitry is housed in individual waterproof enclosure which can be easily removed in order to replace a damaged unit or upgrade the unit without having to replace the entire housing. The “Slave” device is comprised of a microprocessor, a wireless receiver, a sound board with an audio storage card such as an SD card/reader or an audio data chip, a slot for the wireless communication of choice compromising of WiFi, Bluetooth or LoRa specially designed chips, with an interfaced audio playback system to accommodate each components individual requirements for MOSI and MISO ports, a replaceable rechargeable battery system and an on/off switch.

[0018] The “Slave” unit configured in this drawing represents a potential canine collar. In order to distribute the weight of the collar, each component is fitted within its own waterproof containment compartment connected with flex circuitry to accommodate the contours around the neck. FIG. 1a houses the microprocessor, power management system and the wireless communication chip either hard wired within the unit or configured for a port to interchange the various available forms of wireless components. FIG. 1 also contains the USB port for charging the rechargeable lithium replaceable battery and/or to update the software as needed. FIG. 1.2 represents the buzzer for sounding the ultrasonic frequencies as dictated by activity non-response. FIG. 1.3 represents the wireless respective antennae. FIG. 1.4 represents the placement of the speaker that sounds the audio file as triggered by the Master. FIG. 1.5 represents the sound card and amplification units with FIG. 1.5a being a port for inserting the SD audio card. FIG. 6 is the rechargeable battery housing with the power/ground wires running through the center area of 1.6b and when connected to1.6a, turns on the unit or when detached turns off the unit in order to save battery. FIG. 1.6c is used to connect to and adjust the collar for fitting to the canine.

[0019] FIG. 2 The “Masters”

[0020] There are basically five types of “Master” devices, all configured with components for wireless communication and also contain an SD type wireless card slot to accommodate the desired wireless method of the user. The sole purpose of the “Master” is to transmit a digital code to the “Slave” device triggering which audio file is to be sounded on the “Slave” device. Each “Master” is configured with a primary microprocessor specifically programmed to transmit a digital code to the “Slave” device. The Masters are in constant communication with the Slave in order to calculate when to trigger the various codes relating to proximity between the Slave and the Master. Each of the “Masters”, from basic to advanced, are all based on this foundational configuration.

[0021] FIG. 2.1 The Guardian “Master” is designed specifically to protect restricted areas and unauthorized activities, are responsible to calculate the infraction and to automatically transmit the related digital codes to the “Slave” unit(s) indicating which audio file the “Slave” unit is to sound. These are “Master” standalone units and do not require human interaction in order to operate. Each Guardian is programmed with its own specific assignment(s) and configured with specific proximity code. The Guardian system is only capable of instructing the “Slave” for correct/infraction activities, reward/warning verbal cues and ultrasonic disciplinary audio trigger codes with the sole purpose to self-teach the domesticated animals the foundational human language that distinguishes the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Using the mammal universal stepped system, these human verbal cues establish/enforce household rules and the consequences of ignoring the verbal warnings. This teaches the domesticated animal that rules are rules whether a human is present or not.

[0022] FIG. 2.2 This “Master” is a handheld, owner/handler operated remote with limited features to include the behavioral “Guardian” language and obedience type verbal cues. The verbal cues available are limited due to the remotes size and functionality. This “Master” can be configured in a standard style hand held device with selection buttons or a joystick option. For the button option, each push button is individually connected to a dedicated microprocessor pin, thereby limiting the number of available verbal cues based on the microprocessor pin availability. For the joystick type option, this increases the available verbal cues as the joystick requires less dedicated microprocessor pins and verbal cues can be configured for multiple Horizontal/Vertical position (x/y) combinations. In the joystick configuration, (1) represents the microprocessor, (2) represents the transmitter or transceiver, (3) represents a row of buttons for the ability to select 1, 2 or both collared, harnessed or haltered animal, (4) represents the joystick controller, (5) represents the stepped levels of the warning/discipline buttons. Each vertical and horizontal position produces a specific X/Y axis digital number. The combination of this X/Y axis can be used to individually program specific verbal cue activation. This joystick “Master” was configured with the mobility challenged individual in mind in order to compete remotely in agility type events where voice activated devices would not be very effective due to background “crowd” and loud speaker type noise interference. This “Master” can also be configured in a touch screen OLED type remote to scroll through the desired commands as needed.

[0023] FIG. 2.3 This “Master” was designed for advanced wireless communication for off leash liberty work, hunting dogs and/or search and rescue dogs. This device is hands free voice activated allowing up to 200 different voice activated verbal cues. This “Master” is configured with (1) a primary microprocessor connected to (2) a long range transmitter or transceiver, (3) the voice activation module, with connection to (4) a microphone headset. This “Master” unit is powered with a removable rechargeable battery system. The owners verbal cues are recorded onto the voice activation module device via a USB port and accessed through an online instructional software platform. Each voice activation cue is assigned a unique line item digital file code. When the voice activated verbal cue is spoken into the headset microphone, the microprocessor then transmits the correct digital line item code which is received by the “Slave” device to play the corresponding digital numbered audio file. This configuration was conceived and designed for hands free verbal guidance of the working dog.

[0024] FIG. 2.4 This “Master” is configured the same as FIG. 4.3 for voice activated hands free verbal instruction and designed specifically for the hunting and/or Search and Rescue dog. This “Master” includes a toggled viewing screen for the digital map/location stream of the GPS (optional) location of the “Slave” device and a video streaming screen received from the specialty “Slave” video camera goggles. This “Master” is configured in three separate functionalities, each with their own microprocessor, various types of uniquely channeled transmitters or transceivers to accommodate each task, power supply systems required for each unit and each with their own antennae.

[0025] For the Search and Rescue dog, this Master allows the handler the ability to remain in the staging area and verbally instruct the canine through difficult terrain, debris of collapsed buildings, etc. Using both the video stream and the GPS location/altitude the handler can communicate with the canine through various verbal cues to include activities such as simple instructions to assist a victim. This system, given the number of excess verbal cue space available, can be used to communicate with the conscious victim using simple yes/no questions while having the canine direct the camera towards the victim. With the camera located on the S&R canines goggles, the handler can instruct the canine to look left, look right, look up, look down, etc in order to give a better visual of the overall situation. Once the victims situation has been analyzed, the handler can then evaluate the necessary resources required for extraction or if the victim can walk out, the canine can be instructed to “Take me home” and the victim can follow the dog out.

[0026] For the S&R canine at a collapsed building site, especially in a situation where human entry is unsafe, too small or difficult, the canine can be sent in and instructed to “dig”, “go through”, “back up”, “go under”, etc . . . . in order to transport life-saving supplies to a trapped victim.

[0027] For the hunting dog, this system allows the ability to constantly communicate with the canine in order to direct the canine to the appropriate location of a downed bird. With the video goggles this system allows the handler to see exactly what is happening with the long range work for safety measure, i.e. “Leave it” if confronted with a poison snake, a skunk, or another wild animal.

[0028] FIG. 2.5 Activity Unit Master. The “Activity” units are standalone “Master” devices and are used to self-teach the association between specific verbal cues and the programmed activity and/or task. Each unit is configured with a transceiver, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (options), proximity controllers, touch sensor screens, activity hooks, tag sensors, a port for add on activities, a treat dispenser, a power port, and a battery power system option. These are designed with sensors to discourage mauling such as excessive vibration or tilt sensors which if activated will relay the appropriate digital codes using the Guardian system language.

[0029] These units require specific named tasks to be performed in order to activate the treat dispenser unit. The Activity units were designed to start with simple tasks such as “touch it” using the touch sensors and progress through various advanced requests whether associating the name with an item or learning verbal cues for activities such as turning on/off a light switch to finding named toys and putting them in the bucket. At first the verbal code sent from the Activity unit to the “Slave” is triggered as the task is performed and after a preprogrammed number of instances have been met will begin to trigger the associated verbal cue as the close proximity detectors are activated by the “Slave” and “Master” communication thereby becoming “instructions” and connecting the specific activity to the specific verbal cue. The Activity Master can be programmed for setting a training routine via a Wi-Fi computer interface. When activated, a “Here/Come/Dogs name” etc digital code/signal will be sent to the Slave to activate the correct audio file to be played. As the Slave approaches the unit, as determined by the proximity detection, a “good” is sounded and a treat dispensed. This activity teaches a “recall” based on owners verbal cues. Smaller Activity units can be placed around the house or yard for brain game activities to reduce home destruction boredom, separation anxiety and/or setting a daily routine such as placing a condensed unit outside a doggie door that sends the “Slave” unit the code for “Outside” in order to assist in toilet training. Units can also be placed within the crate for “Go to bed” verbal cues and when complied with, a long lasting chew can be dispensed to encourage a “settle” in preparation for sleep.

[0030] The Treat Dispenser (5) is electronically controlled through the Activity units. The treat dispenser is configured with a microprocessor connected to an Activity unit via an interface for individual units and Wi-Fi connectivity or a USB connection for multiple units, a Servo type motor with its own power supply, anti-mauling tilt/vibration sensors that will activate the Guardian language, a dispensing tray and a treat/dry food storage container. The treat/dry food storage container can afford the animal's full daily allotment of dry food or special treats. For the canine that gulps down their food, this system becomes a work/learn for your dinner game which encourages interaction with the units.

[0031] The “Activity” units were designed to accommodate multiple task interaction. The “Touch It” Activity unit is configured with multiple touch (3) screen sensors and when in contact with a nose, will send a “good/yes” digital code to the “Slave” device and trigger a treat to be dispensed. These sensors can also be used for teaching left, right, or away in preparation for outside directional cues. At first whenever the screen is touched whether intentional or out of curiosity the unit will trigger a digital code to be sent to the “Slave” device and a “good/yes” cue is played on the “Slave” and the Activity unit will dispense a treat in order to teach the performance required to achieve the reward. As the domesticated animal starts to make a connection and after a preprogrammed number of instances this “Master” will start to trigger the “touch it” audio file to be played when sensor has been triggered. The instances can be reset to “0” via a reset button. When the Naming activity selection is made by placing (1) tagged item on the associated hooks, this deactivates the touch screen sensor and activates a RFID-RC522 or like tag reader sensors. When a sensored item is placed on the item hook, the tag reader reads the associated item tag that is incorporated into the item, and the weight of the tagged item lowers the hook and activates the vibration sensor within the hook. Instead of triggering the “Touch It” verbal cue via the touch screen, the audio file of “Touch”+“Item Name” is triggered. If the item is touched and/or moved, the verbal cues and treats signify a job well done. As the single item is mastered, a 2nd item is placed on the 2nd hook and read by the tag reader. Touching or moving the correct item triggers the rewards. When 2 items exist on the Activity unit, the unit can instruct to touch the named items randomly. Once the first two items are acknowledged without fail, 1 of the items remains on the Activity unit and the 2nd is replaced with a different tagged item to accommodate learning the names of many items. (4) Individual Activity units can be added to the system for teaching lights on/off, opening doors, closing doors, pushing a handicap door opener button, finding hidden tagged items and placing in the basket, etc

[0032] FIG. 3 Represents the basic behavior shaping system of this invention. As in nature, mammals have a stepped progressive warning system prior to punishment for unacceptable behavior. This invention also uses a stepped system based on verbal cues consisting of stronger tones as each progressive warning has been ignored. These verbal communications consists of an initial unique warning verbal cue “Thats 1” such as “AAAA” signifying the domesticated animal needs to think twice about what they are doing or about to do by breaching the “Thats's 1” boundary. “Thats 2” consists of stronger verbiage to include verbal cues such as “BAD”, “LEAVE IT”, “OFF”, “OUT”, etc, depending on that particular behavioral activity. “Thats 3” consists of an ultrasonic sound that progresses with limitations in both dB and frequency to discourage continued infractions of the “Thats 2” level. With use of a warning system, the domesticated animal has the opportunity to retreat/comply prior to being disciplined. This method encourages the domesticated animal to choose wisely and to understand the process of not challenging the verbal cues. Because this invention is consistent in enforcing the rules, the rules of co-existence become easily understandable and quickly compliant regardless if a human is present or not. The goal of this electronic method is to put power into the verbal warnings so the domesticated animal chooses to immediately comply with the owners verbal cues knowing the ultrasonic sounds will play if non-compliant. Instead of owner having to be heavy handed with other electronic devices, this invention places powerful authority into simple human verbal cues and affords the domesticated animal to learn to associate the verbal cues with their chosen actions. By teaching the domesticated animal the difference between acceptable activities and unacceptable activities they become thinking partners and not reactive partners.

[0033] Each Guardian unit is configured the same but can be set for various tasks. The Counter Guardian, for example, is programmed to send out a That's 1 warning digital code for an initial verbal warning such as “AAAA” to the Slave if a distance such as 3′ has been breached (based on proximity calculations). That's 2 is triggered if a distance such as 2′ has been breached with an audio trigger for a 2nd level audio file such as “LEAVE IT or BAD”. If the “Slave” remains in the Step 2 position for more than 1 instance (calculated in milliseconds), Step 3 will be activated with the sounding of a progressive, but limited, ultrasonic sound and will increase in both dB and frequency until the “Slave” retreats. If the “Slave” retreats at any level, the Guardian will trigger the Slave to play the audio file such as “Good or Yes” to indicate the correct choice has been achieved. This system helps the domesticated animal understand the difference between the human verbiage for acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Since the verbal cues are created in the owners own voice, this gives powerful control to the humans voiced verbal commands outside of using this invention.

[0034] FIG. 4 Is representative of the potential configuration for the joysticks “Master” remote. This remote was developed for long range directional/instructional use. It was also developed for mobility challenged humans that wish to participate in remote controlled activities such as agility type disciplines. The joystick can be custom programmed to meet the needs of the owner/handler. The Joystick “Master” is configured based on using the x/y coordinates of the joystick position. Each x/y axis is programmed to send a specific digital code to the “Slave” device based on the x/y position. This figure demonstrates a “possible” verbal cue, x/y axis configuration but can be customized to fit the requirements of the handler and activity.

[0035] FIG. 5 Is representative of the features that can be used for off leash distance control. Using proximity technology, the “Master” can be set for allowed distances of off leash free work without the worry of having a run away or owner constantly correcting the canine. The distance is calculated based on the proximity of the “Slave” in relationship to the “Master”. If the “heel, On-Me, or GO PLAY” options are selected on the Master, as the canine approaches the respective distance boundaries, “Thats 1” warning will automatically be triggered. If the canine continues toward the respective boundary, a “Thats 2” warning will automatically be triggered. If the canine breaches the boundary, the ultrasonic audio file will progressively increase in both dB and frequency until the “Slave” device retreats to the acceptable distance area. The ultrasonic sound lessens in dB and frequency as the retreat to the acceptable area is approached and will turn off when within the acceptable area. If at any time there is a retreat into the “approved” area, the reward of “Good/Yes” audio file is played to indicate a correct choice has been made. Likewise if a selection has not been made by the handler, the “Slave” can automatically trigger a retreat routine when the signal received falls below a certain level or if communication with the handler has been blocked by obstructions. This feature will keep the “Slave” device within an area of communication. This makes it a self-correcting system so the handler can enjoy a leash free walk.

[0036] FIG. 6 Represents the potential placement for existing canine goggles outfitted with a video cam set up and the potential placement of the “Slave” units within a Search and Rescue type harness. The “Slave” device and the video camera set ups can all be fitted onto existing commercially available canine wrap around goggles and various search and rescue harnesses by use of Velcro or snapped housing units. In order to allow a forward unobstructed view by the line of sight of the S&R canine, the simple video camera was placed centered on the goggles. In order to reduce the weight of a directional handler operated camera, a simple camera is used with positioning of the camera completed using verbal cues to the canine of “look left”, “look right”, “look down”, “look up”, etc. The goggle unit comes with its own antennae.

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