Animal spraying devices, systems and methods of use

Abstract

The present invention provides a novel and improved animal sprayer for use in cooling livestock and other animals in different hot or dry environments, and methods of using the same. Embodiments of the novel animal sprayers may include a valve which does not require constant electric current to remain open during a spraying session, extending system battery life. The valves may also be self-cleaning, less likely to leak, and easily adjusted to control flow rate, reducing both water use and labor costs in monitoring and repairing the animal sprayer.

Claims

1. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a microprocessor; (ii) a proximity sensor in electronic communication with said microprocessor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor; and (iii) a valve in electronic communication with said microprocessor and in fluid communication with the water source, said valve comprising a body and a stem for controlling a flow of water through said body; b. a motor in electronic communication with said microprocessor for operating said valve stem; c. programming in said microprocessor for: i. operating said motor to open said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor; and ii. operating said motor to close said valve when the presence of an animal is no longer detected by said proximity sensor; and d. a second switch in electronic communication with said microprocessor for controlling a second circuit for providing power to said microprocessor, and programming in said microprocessor for: i. closing said second switch when power is first received through said first circuit to maintain power to said microprocessor through said second circuit should power from said first circuit be lost, and ii. monitoring said first circuit, such that when power through said first circuit is lost, said motor is operated to close said valve after which said second switch is opened.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for operating said motor to close said valve when power is first received through said first circuit.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said proximity sensor is set to detect livestock.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a monitor of the voltage through said first circuit and a light indicator for displaying said voltage.

5. The apparatus of claim 4 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for disabling said proximity sensor if voltage through said first circuit drops below a minimum threshold level.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said valve body comprises an inlet chamber, a seal passage, and an outlet chamber.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said inlet chamber comprises a pressure activated piston and a spring, said spring providing resistance to contact between said pressure activated piston and said pressure switch.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said outlet chamber comprises a bore having threading therein and said valve stem comprises a shaft and a stem, said shaft having threading complementary to the threading in said bore such that said shaft travels into or out of said bore by turning said stem, causing an axial movement of said valve stem.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said valve stem comprises a plug having a shape that is complementary to a shape of a tapered outlet end of said seal passage, such that water may flow between said tapered outlet end and said plug.

10. The animal sprayer device of claim 8, wherein said motor comprises a motor gear with a shape complimentary to a gear on said stem, such that rotational movement of said motor gear turns said stem gear causing axial movement of said valve stem.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said valve body comprises an outlet, said outlet having threading that is complementary to threading of a service line.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a housing for protecting said switch, valve, microprocessor, motor, and sensor, said housing comprising a rigid material and having at least one exterior surface having a shape that is complementary to the shape of a water pipe for secure attachment thereto.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said proximity sensor comprises one of the group of an ultrasonic sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, an area reflective type sensor, a vibration sensor, a dual technology sensor, and combinations thereof.

14. A method for spraying animals in hot or dry weather comprising the steps of: a. detecting that pressure from a water source has reached a threshold level, and activating a microprocessor when said threshold is reached; b. while said pressure is at or above said threshold level, i. said microprocessor activating a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in a given area; ii. said microprocessor opening a valve to a water sprayer if at least one animal of sufficient size is detected by said proximity sensor, and closing said valve if said at least one animal is no longer detected; and c. when said water pressure drops below said threshold level, i. said microprocessor deactivating said proximity sensor; and ii. said microprocessor closing said valve.

15. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor; (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source; and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. a housing for protecting said switch, valve, microprocessor, and sensor, said housing comprising a rigid material and having at least one exterior surface having a shape that is complementary to the shape of a water pipe for secure attachment thereto; and c. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor; and (ii) closing said valve when the presence of an animal is no longer detected by said proximity sensor.

16. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein said proximity sensor comprises one of the group of an ultrasonic sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, an area reflective type sensor, a vibration sensor, a dual technology sensor, and combinations thereof.

17. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for closing said valve when power is first received through said first circuit.

18. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein said proximity sensor is set to detect livestock.

19. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor; (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source; and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor; and (ii) closing said valve when the presence of an animal is no longer detected by said proximity sensor; and c. a second switch in electronic communication with said microprocessor for controlling a second circuit for providing power to said microprocessor, and programming in said microprocessor for (i) closing said second switch when power is first received through said first circuit to maintain power to said microprocessor through said second circuit should power from said first circuit be lost, and (ii) monitoring said first circuit in order to close said valve and open said second switch when power through said first circuit is lost.

20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein said proximity sensor comprises one of the group of an ultrasonic sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, an area reflective type sensor, a vibration sensor, a dual technology sensor, and combinations thereof.

21. The apparatus of claim 19 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for closing said valve when power is first received through said first circuit.

22. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein said proximity sensor is set to detect livestock.

23. The apparatus of claim 19 further comprising a monitor of the voltage through said first circuit and a light indicator for displaying said voltage.

24. The apparatus of claim 23 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for disabling said proximity sensor if voltage through said first circuit drops below a minimum threshold level.

25. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein said valve body comprises an outlet, said outlet having threading that is complementary to threading of a service line.

26. The apparatus of claim 19 further comprising a housing for protecting said switch, valve, microprocessor, and sensor, said housing comprising a rigid material and having at least one exterior surface having a shape that is complementary to the shape of a water pipe for secure attachment thereto.

27. A method for spraying animals in hot or dry weather comprising the steps of: a. detecting that pressure from a water source has reached a threshold level, and activating a microprocessor when said threshold is reached; b. when said pressure reaches said threshold level, said microprocessor activating a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in a given area; c. if at least one animal of sufficient size is detected by said proximity sensor, said microprocessor opening a valve to a water sprayer and deactivating said proximity sensor; and d. when said water pressure drops below said threshold level, said microprocessor closing said valve.

28. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor; (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source; and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. a housing for protecting said switch, valve, microprocessor, and sensor, said housing comprising a rigid material and having at least one exterior surface having a shape that is complementary to the shape of a water pipe for secure attachment thereto; and c. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, and (ii) closing said valve when the water pressure drops below said threshold level.

29. The apparatus of claim 28 wherein said proximity sensor comprises one of the group of an ultrasonic sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, an area reflective type sensor, a vibration sensor, a dual technology sensor, and combinations thereof.

30. The apparatus of claim 28 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for activating said proximity sensor when power is first received through said first circuit, and deactivating said proximity sensor following the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor.

31. The apparatus of claim 28 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for closing said valve when power is first received through said first circuit.

32. The apparatus of claim 28 wherein said proximity sensor is set to detect livestock.

33. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor; (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source; and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, and (ii) closing said valve when the water pressure drops below said threshold level; and c. a second switch in electronic communication with said microprocessor for controlling a second circuit for providing power to said microprocessor, and programming in said microprocessor for (i) closing said second switch when power is first received through said first circuit to maintain power to said microprocessor through said second circuit should power from said first circuit be lost, and (ii) monitoring said first circuit in order to close said valve and open said second switch when power through said first circuit is lost.

34. The apparatus of claim 33 wherein said proximity sensor comprises one of the group of an ultrasonic sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a microwave sensor, an area reflective type sensor, a vibration sensor, a dual technology sensor, and combinations thereof.

35. The apparatus of claim 33 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for activating said proximity sensor when power is first received through said first circuit, and deactivating said proximity sensor following the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor.

36. The apparatus of claim 33 further comprising programming in said microprocessor for closing said valve when power is first received through said first circuit.

37. The apparatus of claim 33 wherein said proximity sensor is set to detect livestock.

38. A method for spraying animals in hot or dry weather comprising the steps of: a. detecting whether pressure from a water source has reached a threshold level; b. upon said threshold level being reached, activating a microprocessor and activating a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in a given area; c. upon at least one animal of sufficient size being detected by said proximity sensor, said microprocessor (i) opening a valve to a water sprayer, and (ii) deactivating said proximity sensor; and d. upon said water pressure dropping below said threshold level, said microprocessor closing said valve.

39. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in fluid communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor, (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source, and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. a housing for protecting said switch, valve, microprocessor, and sensor, said housing comprising a rigid material and having at least one exterior surface having a shape that is complementary to the shape of a water pipe for secure attachment thereto; and c. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, (ii) deactivating said proximity sensor following the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, and (ii) closing said valve when the water pressure drops below said threshold level.

40. An animal spraying apparatus comprising: a. a pressure-operated switch in fluid communication with a water source, the switch closing when water from said source reaches a threshold pressure level, and opening when the pressure level of said water drops below said threshold level, the switch controlling a first circuit for providing power to: (i) a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of an animal in the vicinity of said sensor, (ii) a valve in fluid communication with the water source, and (iii) a microprocessor in electronic communication with said valve and said proximity sensor; b. programming in said microprocessor for (i) opening said valve upon the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, (ii) deactivating said proximity sensor following the detection of the presence of an animal by said proximity sensor, and (ii) closing said valve when the water pressure drops below said threshold level; and c. a second switch in electronic communication with said microprocessor for controlling a second circuit for providing power to said microprocessor, and programming in said microprocessor for (i) closing said second switch when power is first received through said first circuit to maintain power to said microprocessor through said second circuit should power from said first circuit be lost, and (ii) monitoring said first circuit in order to close said valve and open said second switch when power through said first circuit is lost.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(2) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(3) FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(4) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of elements of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(5) FIG. 5 is a side view of elements of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(6) FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of circuitry of an animal sprayer device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

(7) FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a housing for an animal sprayer device of the present invention.

(8) FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a housing for an animal sprayer device of the present invention.

(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a mounting structure for an embodiment of the present invention.

(10) FIG. 9 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

(11) FIG. 10 is a bottom cut-away view of the embodiment of FIG. 9.

(12) FIG. 11 is a side sectional view along line A-A of FIG. 10.

(13) FIG. 12 is partially exploded perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 9.

(14) FIG. 13 is a detail view of an embodiment of a microprocessor of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(15) Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in reference to these embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention. To the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that are included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In the following disclosure, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details.

(16) Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, it is seen that the present invention includes various embodiments of an animal sprayer or soaker device. It is also evident in the drawings that the invention includes methods of using the animal sprayer or soaker device.

(17) Without limiting the invention, FIGS. 1-3 show an exemplary embodiment of an animal sprayer device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, said animal sprayer device 100 may comprise a valve 110 with a valve body 111 and a valve stem 130 for controlling a flow of water through said valve 110, a motor 150 for turning said valve stem 130, a pressure switch 160 for recognizing a threshold water pressure (e.g., 5 psi) from a water pipe, a proximity sensor 180 for detecting the presence of an animal within a target area, a power source 171, a voltage indicator 170 for indicating a power level of said power source 171 below a predetermined voltage, and a microcontroller 161 for: (1) receiving power from said power source 171 via said pressure switch 160, (2) sending a signal to a first transistor switch 164 to close a second circuit 173, bypassing said first circuit 172; (3) sending a signal to a second transistor switch 165 to activating said sensor 180, (4) receiving a positive detection signal from said sensor 180, (5) controlling said motor 150, and optionally, (6) activating said voltage indicator 170.

(18) In some embodiments, said motor 150 may comprise a motor gear 151 and said valve stem 130 may comprise a stem gear 136, said motor gear 151 comprising a shape which is complementary to a shape of said stem gear 136. In some embodiments, said motor gear 151 may be in contact with said stem gear 136, such that when said motor 150 turns, said valve stem 130 also turns.

(19) In some embodiments, said valve body 111 may comprise an inlet 112 with an inlet opening 113, and an outlet 122 with an outlet opening 123. In some embodiments, said inlet 113 opening may allow fluid communication between said water pipe and said valve 110. In some embodiments, said outlet opening 123 may comprise outlet threading 125, said outlet threading 125 comprising a shape which is complementary to a threading of a standard nozzle or service line, such that said valve 110 may be connected in a watertight manner to said standard nozzle or service line, said standard nozzle or service line directing said flow of water to said target area. In some embodiments, said valve 110 may thus provide fluid communication between said water pipe and said target area.

(20) In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may comprise an ultrasonic sensor 181 and a sensor horn 182. In some embodiments, said ultrasonic sensor 181 may be operable to send out pulses of ultrasonic waves and measure the reflection of an object within a predetermined range of said sensor 180 (e.g., between 6 and 15 feet), said predetermined range representing said target area. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may be operable to detect only animals meeting a threshold size (e.g., greater than 100 lbs. or greater than 12 sq. in.), said threshold size preventing said sensor from detecting smaller animals such as dogs, cats, birds, or rodents.

(21) In some embodiments, the pulses of ultrasonic waves transmitted by said sensor 180 may also have the effect of deterring pests. The ultrasonic waves may be offensive to avian and rodent pests within a deterrent area (e.g., within 1 to 48 inches, or up to several feet) around the animal sprayer device 100, causing the pests to leave said deterrent area and thus leave the vicinity of said animal sprayer device 100. Said sensor 180 may thus prevent damage to said animal sprayer device 100 caused by physical contact by the pests, and prevent pest droppings in the vicinity of said animal sprayer device 100.

(22) In some embodiments, said sensor horn 182 may comprise a substantially L shaped passage with a first end 183 and a second end 184, said L shaped passage providing protection for and directing ultrasonic waves to said ultrasonic sensor 181. In some embodiments, said ultrasonic sensor may be located at said first end 183, and said second end 184 may be open and directed toward said target area through one or more openings 186 in housing 101. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may comprise a screen 185 (see FIG. 7A), said screen 185 covering said second end 184 and protecting said ultrasonic sensor 181 from water and debris. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may comprise a plurality of ultrasonic sensors and a plurality of sensor horns. In some embodiments, each sensor horn in said plurality of sensor horns may be directed to said target area. In some embodiments, horn(s) 182 may be eliminated such that the sensor(s) 180 may be mounted flush to the housing 101.

(23) An alternative embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9-12 shows the use of a single sensor 180. In such embodiments, an embodiment of housing 101 having a single sensor opening 186 may be employed. Or, as shown in FIGS. 9-12, any extra openings 186 in housing 101 may be plugged using caps 187. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 9-12, it is seen that sensor 180 may be mounted generally flush with the external surface of housing 101. Sensor 180 is in electronic communication with microprocessor 161. FIG. 13 shows detail of an embodiment of a microprocessor illustrating the circuitry which controls the sensor (180), motor (150), and the battery/button/and voltage indicator (170).

(24) In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may ping said target area multiple times per second (e.g., 20 times per second), and receive a positive detection if an animal moves into said target area. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may require multiple consecutive positive detections (e.g., six consecutive positive detections) before recording a valid positive detection. In some embodiments, upon recording a valid positive detection, said sensor 180 may transmit a positive detection signal to said microcontroller 161, causing said microcontroller 161 to activate said motor 150, opening said valve 110, and spraying said animal.

(25) In some embodiments, upon transmitting said positive detection signal to said microcontroller 161, said sensor 180 may cease pinging the target area, and said valve 110 may remain open for the duration of said spraying period. In other embodiments, said valve 110 may remain open for a predetermined spraying time (e.g. one minute, ten minutes, fifteen minutes, or any other suitable time period) before said microcontroller 161 activates said motor 150 to close said valve 110, thereby creating a spraying session. In some embodiments, said animal spraying device 100 may thus provide zero spraying sessions, or one spraying session, or a plurality of spraying sessions, during said spraying period.

(26) In yet other embodiments, said sensor 180 may continue pinging said target area and upon receiving multiple consecutive negative detections (e.g. 50 consecutive negative detections) said sensor 180 may record a valid negative detection and send a negative detection signal to said microcontroller 161, causing said microcontroller 161 to activate said motor 150 and close said valve 110. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may then continue pinging said target area for the duration of said spraying period, allowing for a second valid positive detection, thus allowing for multiple animals to be sprayed during said spraying period.

(27) In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may receive power via either said first circuit 172 or said second circuit 173, via a second transistor switch 165. In such embodiments, said second transistor switch 165 may be operable to transfer power to said sensor 180 upon receiving an activation signal from said microcontroller 161, or a cut off power to said sensor 180 upon receiving a deactivation signal from said microcontroller 161. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may automatically send said activation signal to said second transistor switch 165 upon said microcontroller 161 entering startup mode. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may send said deactivation signal to said second transistor switch 165 upon entering low power mode.

(28) In some embodiments, said power source 171 may comprise a battery. In some embodiments, said battery may comprise a plurality of commercially available batteries (e.g., AAA, AA, C, or D batteries, etc.). In some embodiments, said power source 171 may be in electronic communication with said pressure switch 160, said pressure switch 160 being in electronic communication with said microcontroller 161.

(29) In some embodiments, said voltage indicator 170 may comprise a light emitting diode (LED) indicator and be operable to receive an activation signal from said microcontroller 161. In some embodiments, upon receiving said activation signal from said microcontroller 161, said LED indicator may be operable to pulse at a regular interval (e.g. one 0.5 second pulse every five seconds). In some embodiments, said LED indicator may continue to pulse at said regular interval until said microcontroller 161 sends a deactivation signal to said LED indicator.

(30) Without limiting the invention, FIGS. 4 and 5 show an exemplary embodiment of an animal sprayer device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, said animal sprayer device may comprise a valve 110 with a valve body 111 and a valve stem 130, and a motor 150 with a motor gear 151. In some embodiments, said valve body 111 may comprise said inlet 112, an inlet chamber 115, a seal passage 118, an outlet chamber 120, and an outlet 122. In some embodiments, said inlet 112 may comprise an inlet opening 113 and an inlet passage 114, said inlet passage 114 allowing fluid communication between said inlet opening 113 and said inlet chamber 115. In some embodiments, said inlet opening 113 may be in fluid communication with said water pipe via a watertight seal, said water pipe providing a threshold water pressure to said inlet 112 during a spraying period.

(31) In some embodiments, said inlet chamber 115 may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape with a proximal end 115a and a distal end 115b. In some embodiments, said inlet passage 114 and said seal passage 118 may be located at said proximal end 115a, and said pressure switch 160 may be located at said distal end 115b.

(32) In some embodiments, said inlet chamber 115 may house a pressure activated piston 116 and a spring 117. In some embodiments, said spring 117 may be located between said distal end 115b and said pressure activated piston 116, wherein said spring 117 provides physical resistance against contact between said pressure activated piston 116 and said pressure switch 160. In some embodiments, said threshold water pressure from said water pipe may overcome said physical resistance from said spring 117, causing said pressure activated piston 116 to contact said pressure switch 160 and close a first circuit 172 between said power source 171 and said microcontroller 161.

(33) In some embodiments, said outlet chamber 120 may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape with a proximal end 120a, and a distal end 120b. In some embodiments, said seal passage 118 and said outlet 122 may be located at said proximal end 120a. In some embodiments, said outlet chamber or bore 120 may comprise a chamber threading 121, said chamber threading 121 being located at said distal end of said bore 120b.

(34) In some embodiments, said valve stem 130 may comprise a first end 130a, a second end 130b, and a shaft 134. In some embodiments, said first end 130a may comprise a head 131, a neck 132, and a shoulder 133, said head 131 and said neck 132 creating a shape complementary to an inner cavity 137a of a plug 137, wherein said plug 137 fits securely onto said first end 130a. In some embodiments, said plug 137 may comprise a substantially hemispherical tip 137b, said substantially hemispherical tip 137b comprising a shape complementary to a shape of said tapered outlet end 119 of said seal passage 118, such that when said substantially hemispherical tip 137b contacts said tapered outlet end 119, a watertight seal is created between said seal passage 118 and said outlet chamber 120.

(35) In some embodiments, an O-ring 138 may be provided on said shoulder 133, said O-ring 138 having an inner diameter and an outer diameter. In some embodiments, said inner diameter of said O-ring 138 may be complementary to an outer diameter of said shoulder 133, and said outer diameter of said O-ring 138 may be complementary to an inner diameter of proximal end 120a of said outlet chamber 120, such that a watertight seal is created between said proximal end 120a and said valve stem 130.

(36) In some embodiments, said shaft 134 may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape with stem threading 135. In some embodiments, said stem threading 135 may comprise a shape complementary to said chamber threading 121, such that said valve stem 130 may be threaded into said outlet chamber 120. In some embodiments, said second end 130b may comprise a stem gear 136, said stem gear 136 comprising a shape complementary to a shape of said motor gear 151.

(37) In some embodiments, said stem gear 136 may be in contact with said motor gear 151, such that when said motor 150 turns said motor gear 151 in first direction, said valve stem 130 may be threaded into said outlet chamber 120, moving along central axis of said valve stem 130, and when said motor 150 turns said motor gear 151 in a second direction, said valve stem 130 may be threaded out of said outlet chamber 120, moving back along said central axis of said valve stem 130 (collectively, an axial movement).

(38) In some embodiments, when said valve stem 130 is threaded into said outlet chamber 120, said plug 137 may come into contact with said seal passage 118, closing said valve 110, and when said valve stem 130 is threaded out of said outlet chamber 120, said plug 137 may disengage from said seal passage 118, opening said valve 110 and allowing said flow of water to pass from said inlet chamber 115 through said sealing passage 118 and around said plug 137 in a symmetrical manner before exiting said outlet chamber 120 through said outlet passage 124 and out said outlet 122 via said outlet opening 123. In some embodiments, the rate of said flow of water passing through said valve 110 may be linearly proportional to said axial movement of said valve stem 130.

(39) Said valve 110 may thus provide a linear increase in water volume as said valve stem 130 is threaded out of said valve body 120. Further, said valve 110 may be self-cleaning, as said symmetrical manner of water flow through said sealing passage 118 and around said plug 137 prevents buildup of debris or sediment in said valve 110, decreasing the need for maintenance and the likelihood of developing a leak.

(40) Without limiting the invention, FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of circuits of an animal sprayer device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, said pressure switch 160 may be capable of opening or closing a first circuit 172 between said power source 171 and said microcontroller 161. In some embodiments, said pressure switch 160 may open said first circuit 172 when said pressure activated piston 116 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) is not in contact with said pressure switch 160, and close said first circuit 172 when said pressure activated piston 116 is in contact with said pressure switch 160.

(41) In some embodiments, said power source 171 may be in electronic communication with a first transistor switch 164, said first transistor switch 164 being in electronic communication with said microcontroller 161. In some embodiments, said first transistor switch 164 may be capable of opening or closing a second circuit 173 between said power source 171 and said microcontroller 161. In some embodiments, said first transistor switch 164 may close said second circuit 173 upon receiving a signal from said microcontroller 161, said microcontroller 161 automatically signaling said first transistor switch 164 to close said second circuit 173 after said microcontroller 161 receives power via said first circuit 172, thus bypassing said first circuit 172. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may not signal said first transistor switch 164 to open said second circuit 173 after said first circuit 172 opens at the end of a spraying period, so that said microcontroller 161 may cause said motor 150 to close said valve 110 after said spraying period has ended. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may then signal said first transistor switch 164 to open said second circuit 173, conserving power from said power source 171.

(42) In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may continuously monitor the voltage level from said power source 171 via said first circuit 172 (first circuit voltage), and enter a low power mode upon said first circuit voltage dropping below a predetermined voltage (e.g., 7.4 volts). In some embodiments, upon entering said low power mode, said microcontroller 161 may not signal said first transistor switch 164 to open said second circuit 173 at the end of a spraying period, but instead may signal a second transistor switch 165 to cut off power to said sensor 180. Thus, said second circuit 173 may remain closed for the purpose of powering a voltage indicator 170, but said sensor may not draw any power from said power source 171, conserving battery power. In some embodiments, said animal sprayer device 100 may be capable of operating in low power mode until said first circuit voltage drops below a minimum voltage (e.g. 4.5 volts).

(43) In some embodiments, if said animal sprayer device 100 is in low power mode, said microcontroller 161 may not close said valve 110 when a spraying period ends, thus conserving power and ensuring that said valve 110 is in an open position for the next spraying period. In other embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may close said valve 110 at the end of a spraying period irrespective of whether said animal sprayer device 100 is in said low power mode.

(44) In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may exit said low power mode upon said first circuit voltage rising above said predetermined voltage.

(45) In some embodiments, said voltage indicator 170 may comprise a light emitting diode (LED) indicator and be operable to receive power from said microcontroller 161 upon said microcontroller 161 entering said low power mode. In some embodiments, upon receiving an activation signal from said microcontroller 161, said LED indicator may be operable to pulse at a regular interval (e.g. one 0.5 second pulse every five seconds), alerting a user that a power level of said power source 171 has dropped below said predetermined voltage. In some embodiments, said LED indicator may continue to pulse at said regular interval until said microcontroller 161 signals said LED indicator to shut down. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may signal said LED indicator to shut down upon said first circuit voltage rising above said predetermined voltage.

(46) In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), said CPU being in electronic communication with said pressure switch 160, said first transistor switch 164, said second transistor switch 165, said motor 150, said sensor 180, and said voltage indicator 170. In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may be operable to receive power from said power source 171 via a first circuit 172 or a second circuit 173, said first circuit 172 being opened or closed by said pressure switch 160, and said second circuit 173 being opened or closed by said first transistor switch 164. In some embodiments, said pressure switch 160 may close said first circuit 172 upon said water pipe delivering said threshold water pressure to said valve 110 during a spraying period, and open said first circuit 172 at the end of said spraying period.

(47) In some embodiments, upon receiving power from said first circuit 172, said microcontroller 161 may automatically signal said first transistor switch 164 to close said second circuit 173, bypassing said first circuit 172. In such embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may continuously monitor a first circuit voltage, and enter a shut-down mode upon said first circuit being opened. In some embodiments, said second circuit 173 may thus provide power to said microcontroller 161 during a spraying period as well as after said first circuit 172 is opened at the end of said spraying period. In such embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may enter said shut-down mode, wherein said microcontroller 161 may cause said motor 150 to close said valve 110, and then signal said first transistor switch 164 to open said second circuit 173. Upon said second circuit 173 being opened, power is cut off to said microcontroller 161, said sensor 180, said motor 150, and said voltage indicator 170.

(48) In some embodiments, said microcontroller 161 may be operable to: (1) receive power from said power source 171 via the closing of said first circuit 172; (2) transmit power to said first transistor switch 164, closing said second circuit 173; (3) automatically transmit a negative detection signal to said motor 150 to initially close said valve 110 and conserve water; (4) send a signal to said second transistor switch 165 to activate said sensor 180; (5) receive a positive detection signal from said sensor 180 upon an animal entering a target area; (6) transmit said positive detection signal to said motor 150 to open said valve 110; (7) receive a negative detection signal from said sensor 180 upon said animal leaving said target area; (8) transmit said negative detection signal to said motor 150 to close said valve 110 and conserve water; (9) monitor a first circuit voltage; (10) upon said first circuit voltage dropping below said predetermined voltage, enter said low power mode and activate said voltage indicator 170, causing said voltage indicator to pulse at a regular interval; (11) upon said first circuit 172 being opened while not in said low power mode, close said valve 110 and signal said first transistor switch 164 to open said second circuit 173, shutting off power to said microcontroller 161; (12) upon said first circuit 172 being opened while in said low power mode, either close said valve 110 to conserve water or leave said valve 110 open to conserve power, and signal said second transistor switch 165 to cut off power to said sensor 180, conserving battery power, and (13) upon said first circuit voltage rising above said predetermined voltage, exit said low power mode.

(49) Without limiting the invention, FIGS. 7A and 7B show an exemplary embodiment of an animal sprayer device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, said animal sprayer device 100 may comprise a housing 101. In some embodiments, said housing 101 may comprise a rigid material (e.g., plastic or metal) and may comprise openings for said inlet 112, said outlet 122, said sensor 180, and said voltage indicator 170. In some embodiments, said sensor 180 may comprise a screen 185, said screen 185 being located at said second end 184 of said sensor horn 182, protecting said ultrasonic sensor 181 from water and debris. In some embodiments, said housing may further comprise a bottom surface 102 with at least one attachment tab 103.

(50) Without limiting the invention, FIG. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of elements of an animal sprayer device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, said housing 101 may further comprise a pipe gasket 104 for mounting said sprayer device 100 to said water pipe. In some embodiments, said pipe gasket 104 may comprise an upper surface 105, a rounded first end 106, and a rounded second end 107. In some embodiments, said upper surface 105 may comprise a substantially flat shape, a passage 108 for said inlet, and at least one attachment slot 109 for attaching to said at least one attachment tab 103. In some embodiments, said rounded first end 106 and said rounded second end 107 may each comprise a shape which is complementary to an outer surface of said water pipe.

(51) It is to be understood that there are several variations in the animal sprayer device, and that the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.