WO2011082208A2

WO2011082208A2 - Animal containment and monitoring systems

Info

Publication number: WO2011082208A2
Application number: PCT/US2010/062308
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jason A. Hardi; Vincent K. Gustafson
Original assignee: Titan Pet Products Inc
Current assignee: Titan Pet Products Inc
Priority date: 2010-01-04
Filing date: 2010-12-29
Publication date: 2011-07-07
Anticipated expiration: 2012-07-04
Also published as: WO2011082208A3

Abstract

Multiple radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations are spatially separated and adapted for wireless RF communication with, and to determined position of, at least one electronic animal collar or tag. Marking signals may be defined by at least one RF communication device to define at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary, and information indicative of sensed properties of at least one RF signal may be used for position sensing. Automated actions and/or alarms may be triggered by presence or absence of an animal tag within a defined zone or boundary. An antenna associated with an animal collar or tag, or a premises alarm sensor, is arranged to receive a wireless charging signal from a RFTR station for charging a battery. An electronic communication device may be used to control one or more accessory devices (including an animal toy and/or an animal feeding apparatus) operatively coupled to a RFTR station, such as via a local or wide-area network.

Description

ANIMAL CONTAINMENT AND MONITORING SYSTEMS

STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/292,073 filed on January 4, 2010.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to systems and methods for containing, monitoring, training, and interacting with animals (including pets) and for promoting premises security.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Companion animals or pets provide numerous benefits to their caregivers. Caring for a companion animal provides purpose and fulfillment, and lessens feelings of loneliness and depression in people of all age groups. Various animal and animal behaviors, however, can present challenges and frustrations to animal owners. It can be difficult and expensive to train or condition animals to refrain from unwelcome behaviors, including wandering into off-limits areas of a home or area, damaging furnishings, barking uncontrollably, escaping outside beyond the confines of a yard, and exhibiting aggression toward other animals. It can also be devastating to learn of the escape and possible loss of an animal.

[0004] Certain systems targeting specific unwelcome animal behaviors are known. In-ground outdoor boundary wire systems arranged to communicate with animal collars (e.g., as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,753,421) dissuade animals from escaping pre-defined outdoor areas, but such systems are difficult to install and reconfigure, and do little or nothing to address animal behavior within the confines of enclosed premises, such as within a home. Anti-bark collars can deliver audible stimulus (e.g., a tone) or tactile stimulus (e.g., a shock or vibration) to an animal upon detection of a barking condition, and/or stimulus may be delivered by collar to an animal upon activation of an associated handheld radio frequency (RF) remote control unit for training purposes (as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,860,240), but anti-bark collars address only limited aspects of animal misbehavior. Stationary infrared transmitters emitting different command signals may be mounted in groups to define overlapping zones for communicating with an animal wearing an electronic collar to provide warning and discipline signals, respectively (e.g., via audible or tactile feedback), to dissuade animals from entering designated areas (such as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,642,690). The effect of infrared transmitters is typically limited to line-of-sight interaction with an electronic collar. A global positioning unit and a wireless communication apparatus may be embodied in an animal collar to facilitate locating or tracking an animal (such as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,720,869).

[0005] The foregoing and other conventional systems suffer from restrictions that limit their utility. It would be desirable to provide systems and methods that address unwelcome animal behaviors and may be tailored to different animals and owner preferences. It would be desirable to provide systems that may be utilized indoors and outdoors, and that are easy to install, configure, and use. It would be desirable to provide systems with enhanced portability and durability. It would be desirable to enhance battery life and/or reduce the size of electronic animal collars. It would be desirable to provide enhanced capabilities for detection and reporting of conditions indicative of unwelcome animal behaviors. It would also be desirable to avoid duplication of cost and equipment in providing animal monitoring and premises monitoring functions. It would be desirable to reduce boredom of animals when such animals are left alone for extended periods. In consequence, the art continues to seek improvements in animal containment and monitoring systems. SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention relates to animal containment systems and methods that utilize at least one radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station adapted for wireless RF communication with an electronic animal collar or tag having, to provide enhanced animal monitoring, containment, and training capabilities.

[0007] In one aspect, the invention relates to an animal containment system comprising a plurality of radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, wherein each RFTR station is arranged to communicate with at least one other RFTR station, and the plurality of RFTR stations is arranged to generate a signal indicative of position of the animal collar or tag.

[0008] In another aspect, the invention relates to an animal collar or tag wearable by an animal and adapted to receive at least one RF signal, the animal collar or tag comprising: a charge storage element; a RF receiver; a microprocessor operatively coupled with the RF receiver and arranged to receive power from the charge storage element; and an antenna adapted to wirelessly receive a RF charging signal while the animal collar or tag is worn by an animal, wherein electric charge is generated from the received RF charging signal and is supplied to the charge storage element.

[0009] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method utilizing an animal containment system comprising a plurality of radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, the method comprising: positioning a RF communication device in at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary in reception range of RF signals generated by at least one RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations; generating at least one marking signal using the RF communication device positioned in the at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary; and responsive to generation of the at least one marking signal, storing information indicative of sensed properties of at least one RF signal communicated between the RF communication device and the plurality of RFTR stations.

[0010] A further aspect of the invention relates to a radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter, a mobile RF receiver, and a mobile charging signal antenna, the RFTR station comprising: a station RF receiver adapted to communicate with the mobile RF transmitter; and a station RF transmitter adapted to communicate with the mobile RF receiver; wherein the RFTR station is adapted to generate a RF charging signal for reception by the mobile charging signal antenna to charge a charge storage element associated with the animal collar or tag while the animal collar or tag is worn by an animal.

[0011] A still further aspect of the invention relates to radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, the RFTR station comprising: a station RF receiver adapted to communicate with the mobile RF transmitter; a station RF transmitter adapted to communicate with the mobile RF receiver; and at least one premises monitoring element.

[0012] Another aspect of the invention relates to an animal toy arranged for interaction with an electronic communication device located remotely from the animal toy, the animal toy comprising: at least one user-controllable activation element arranged to trigger animal-perceptible activity by the animal toy; at least one user output element arranged to generate an output signal for transmission or forwarding to a user; and at least one RF communication element operatively coupled to the at least one user-controllable activation element and the at least one user output element, wherein the at least one RF communication element is arranged for at least one of direct RF communication and indirect communication with the electronic communication device

[0013] In a further aspect, any features of the foregoing aspects may be combined for additional advantage.

[0014] Other aspects, features and embodiments of the invention will be more fully apparent from the ensuing disclosure and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0015] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a first radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station according to one embodiment of the present invention and adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag, the RFTR station including protruding electrical connectors and a rotatable portion that is selectively movable by a user.

[0016] FIG. IB is a side elevation view of the RFTR station of FIG. 1 A.

[0017] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station according to one embodiment of the present invention and adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag.

[0018] FIG. 2B is a rear elevation view of the RFTR station of FIG. 2A.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing functional relationships between various elements of radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a simplified top view schematic of at least a portion of an animal containment apparatus including the RFTR station of FIGS. 1A-1B coupled with a battery receptacle having an associated surface mounting element.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a simplified top view schematic of at least a portion of an animal containment system including the RFTR station of FIGS. 1A-1B engaged with an electrical outlet and arranged to transmit a wireless signal proximate to multiple electronic animal tags each including a wireless receiver.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a rear elevation view of a third radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station according to one embodiment of the present invention and adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag, the RFTR station including separable first and second housing portions connectable by an electrical cord.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of a fourth radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station according to one embodiment of the present invention and adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag, the RFTR station including two independently rotatable portions that are selectively movable by a user.

[0024] FIG. 8A is a top plan view of an animal collar having an associated electronic animal tag.

[0025] FIG. 8B is a front elevation view of the animal collar and electronic animal tag of FIG. 8A.

[0026] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of the animal collar and electronic animal tag of FIGS. 8A- 8B.

[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electronic animal tag depicted in FIGS. 8A-8C.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing functional relationships between various elements of the electronic animal tag depicted in FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 9. [0029] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device including a wireless charging module adapted to receive a radio frequency charging signal and supply charge to a charge storage element.

[0030] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system including multiple radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations arranged to communicate with at least one electronic animal tag as disclosed herein.

[0031] FIG. 13 is a plan view schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system including multiple radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations defining multiple containment zones inside and outside of a building, arranged to communicate with at least one electronic animal tag, and arranged to interact with elements of a premises security system.

[0032] FIG. 14 is a plan view schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system including multiple radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations, showing positions of an electronic marking element employed to establish a containment zone or boundary subject to monitoring by the RFTR stations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present invention relates in various aspects to systems and methods for containing, monitoring, and/or training of animals, utilizing electronic animal tags (optionally embodied in collars incorporating same), and related electronic communication devices. Such devices may be utilized with various types of animals, including pets. An electronic animal tag as described herein is arranged for wearing by an animal and preferably includes at least one wireless receiver (e.g., a mobile RF receiver), at least one wireless transmitter (e.g., a mobile RF transmitter), a microprocessor, a charge storage element, at least one stimulus element for applying stimulus to an animal, at least one sensor, and may include additional elements. A mobile RF receiver and a mobile RF transmitter may be combined in a mobile RF transceiver. In one embodiment, a RF receiver and a RF transmitter operate at 433 MHz. Additional and/or other frequency ranges may be used.

[0034] In various embodiments, an animal containment system includes at least one radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station (preferably multiple RFTR stations). A RFTR station preferably includes a RF transmitter and a RF receiver (optionally integrated within a RF transceiver) arranged to communicate wirelessly in two-way fashion with one or more electronic animal tags as described herein. At least three RFTR stations are provided in a single region in a preferred embodiment. When multiple RFTR stations are provided, such stations are preferably arranged for communication with one another, preferably on a wireless (e.g., RF) basis, but optionally by wired communication, such (but not limited to) power line communication when such RFTR stations are coupled to an interconnected power supply system (such as an electrical system within a home or other building). Wired or wireless communications between RFTR stations may utilize any suitable protocol. In one embodiment, Wireless Application Protocol communications are utilized. In one embodiment, Zwave wireless communication protocol is used. In one embodiment, each RFTR station includes a static Internet protocol (IP) address to facilitate access of such stations via a distributed electronic communication network.

[0035] In one embodiment, multiple RFTR stations may embody similar or substantially identical functionality and engage in peer-to-peer communications. In another embodiment, one or more master RFTR stations may be utilized in conjunction with one or more satellite RFTR stations, with master and satellite RFTR stations embodying different combinations of features. For example, a master RFTR station may include a network communication element arranged to communicate with a network communication terminal via an intervening communication network. Communications between RFTR stations may be initiated, controlled, and/or regulated by a master RFTR station, such as by polling one or more satellite RFTR stations.

[0036] In one embodiment, at least one satellite RFTR station may function to relay signals between a distant RFTR satellite station and a master RFTR station, wherein the distant RFTR satellite station would otherwise be out of reliable signal reception range of the master RFTR station.

[0037] When multiple RFTR stations are employed, such stations are preferably spatially segregated from one another within a structure and/or area. In various embodiments, spatially segregated RFTR stations are disposed preferably at least about 5 meters apart, more preferably at least about 10 meters apart, more preferably at least about 15 meters apart, or at least about 20 meters apart. Utilization of multiple spatially segregated RFTR stations arranged to simultaneously communicate with one or more electronic animal collars or tags is advantageous to enable wireless detection and monitoring of position of the one or more electronic animal tags or collars. Position of an animal collar or tag may be determined by simultaneous communication with multiple RFTR stations, for example, by assessing instantaneous signal strength relative to the RFTR stations, by ascertaining delay in reception of a timed signal emitted by the RFTR stations, or by other triangulation methods well-known to a person or ordinary skill in the art. Multiple RFTR stations preferably provide a mesh of overlapping signal coverage between the RFTR stations and at least one electronic animal tag or collar spanning one or more desired animal containment and/or monitoring areas, which may include one or more containment zones disposed inside and or outside of a building.

[0038] Using multiple RFTR stations, one or more physical zones or boundaries within reception range of the RFTR stations may be wirelessly defined by a user, and the RFTR stations may wirelessly detect the presence or absence of at least one animal collar or tag relative to one or more user-defined zones or boundaries. A RF communication device may be placed at a first position in or along a desired physical zone or boundary, and a user may generate a marking signal indicative of such position using the RF communication device. A RF communication device useful for generating such a marking signal may include, for example, any of an electronic animal tag or collar (e.g., by user manipulation of an input element associated with the tag or collar), a handheld remote controller adapted for RF wireless communication with said animal collar or tag, a personal computer, portable phone, or personal data assistant (PDA) device. In one embodiment, a first marking signal is generated with a RF communication device positioned at a first location in or along a first user- defined physical zone or boundary, and a second marking signal is generated using the RF communication device positioned at a second location in or along the first user-defined physical zone or boundary. Additional marking signals (e.g., third, fourth, fifth, and so on) may be generated with the marking device disposed at different locations to bound multiple sides of a physical (e.g., enclosed) zone. In one embodiment, an additional (e.g., third) marking signal may be generated using the RF communication device as indicative of a location outside a first user-defined physical zone or boundary. Yet another (e.g., fourth) marking signal may be generated using the RF communication device as indicative of the location within a first user-defined physical zone or boundary. Multiple user-defined physical zones or boundaries, whether within or outside of a building (such as a house) may be wirelessly established and easily reconfigured, without requiring buried signal cables commonly associated with conventional outdoor animal containment systems. One or more actions may be selected to be automatically initiated upon wireless detection of presence or absence of said animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary.

[0039] In response to generation of the marking signal, information indicative of sensed properties of at least one RF signal communicated between the RF communication device and multiple RFTR stations is stored in a memory element preferably associated with at least one RFTR station (or optionally stored in a memory element associated with an electronic tag or collar). Such a memory element preferably comprises nonvolatile memory. Sensed properties may include, for example, at least one of (a) strength of a RF signal transmitted by the RF communication device and received by a plurality of RFTR stations, and (b) strength of RF signals transmitted by the RFTR stations and received by the RF communication device. Following storage in memory of sensed properties indicative of at least one user-defined zone or boundary, properties of at least one RF signal communicated between an electronic animal collar or tag and multiple RFTR stations are sensed on an ongoing basis, and instantaneously sensed properties are compared with one or more stored properties to ascertain location of an electronic animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user- defined zone or boundary.

[0040] In addition to position, other attributes of an animal wearing an electronic animal tag or collar may be monitored via two-way communication between such tag or collar and at least one RFTR station. An electronic animal tag or collar may include one or more sensors of various types adapted to sense conditions experienced by the tag and/or physiological conditions of an animal wearing the electronic tag. Multiple sensors may be provided. In various embodiments, one or more sensors associated with an electronic tag or collar may be arranged to sense any one or more of temperature, pressure, moisture, motion, stasis, acceleration, noise, pulse/heartbeat, and the like. Signals from such sensors may be used to trigger alarms and/or implement other actions. User- perceptible alarm outputs may be generated by an electronic tag or collar, by at least one RFTR station in communication with the electronic tag or collar, a RFTR remote controller station, a local communication device, and/or a network communication terminal in direct or indirect communication with at least one RFTR station. Messages of various forms may be communicated to a network communication terminal, such as audible tones, prerecorded messages, email messages, SMS (text) messages, facsimile transmissions, and so on. As one example of a condition that may trigger an alarm, sensing of excess temperature by at least one sensor associated with an electronic tag or collar may indicate that an animal is located in a dangerously hot environment (e.g., a hot car interior). In another example, sensing of moisture by at least one sensor associated with an electronic tag or collar may indicate that an animal has fallen into a pool or lake. In another example, sensing of movement and/or acceleration by at least one sensor associated with an electronic tag or collar may indicate that the animal is awake, whereas lack of motion and/or acceleration for a specified period may indicate that the animal is asleep. Sensing of noise with at least one sensor associated with electronic tag or collar may be used to augment signals received from a tag- or collar-mounted piezoelectric element (useful for both bark detection and administering vibration) to discriminate between barks and other sounds (e.g., whines, growls) emitted by an animal wearing an electronic tag or collar, and/or to confirm whether a bark or other sound is emanating from the animal wearing the electronic tag or collar. Actions such as triggering of alarms, triggering of (e.g., user) notification events, activation of lights, depowering of the tag or collar, activation of at least one camera or microphone, logging data (or logging data at higher frequency), and the like may be implemented in response to receipt of signals from the sensors associated with an electronic tag or collar.

[0041] Based on presence (or absence) of an electronic animal tag or collar in a user-defined zone or boundary, and/or upon receipt of a signal indicative of a condition sensed by at least one sensor associated with the electronic animal tag or collar, various actions may be automatically initiated. In one embodiment, corrective action may be administered to the animal by the electronic animal tag or collar. Examples of such corrective action include administration of vibration and/or electric shock to deter or prevent unwanted animal behavior such as, but not limited to, movement into or out of a user-defined zone or boundary, barking, whining, jumping, or the like. The electronic animal tag or collar may be placed into an alarm condition, such as by triggering any one or more of the following functions associated with the tag or collar: activation of flashing lights; activation of audible alarm signals or messages; activation of a RF beacon differing in strength, frequency, and/or character from RF signals typically emitted by the tag or collar; and activation of a global positioning system (GPS) receiver associated with the electronic tag or collar. In one embodiment, an alarm signal generator (whether associated with an animal tag or collar, at least one RFTR station, or at least one device in communication therewith) generates an alarm signal responsive to receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, proximity of the animal to any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations, and lack of communication between the animal collar or tag and any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR station. In one embodiment, a network communication element is arranged to automatically communicate with at least one network communication terminal responsive to receipt or generation of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of an animal with which the animal collar or tag is associated, behavior of the animal, proximity of the animal to any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations, and lack of communication (loss of signal) between the animal collar or tag and any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR station. The at least one network communication terminal may include one or more communication devices (e.g., phone, pager, PDA, personal computer or the like) associated with one or more users, home alarm monitoring companies, animal shelters, animal tracking organizations, law enforcement agencies, and designated third parties. A network communication terminal may further include a RFTR remote controller station as described herein. Various actions triggered by an electronic animal tag or collar, and/or at least one RFTR station, may be configured by a user. In one embodiment, a graphical user interface associated with a computing device is used to select and/or configure such actions.

[0042] In order to reduce incidence of false alarms, one or more delays may be predefined or programmed to elapse prior to triggering on alarm. For example, if any electronic animal tag should go out of communication range with one or more RFTR stations for a threshold period of time, such event may indicate that an animal wearing the tag has escaped a specified area (e.g., a home or yard), and at least one RFTR station may activate one or more alarms, initiate automatic notification procedures, and/or initiate tracking procedures.

[0043] An animal containment and monitoring system including at least one RFTR station and an electronic animal tag or collar as described herein may be subject to multiple different operating modes to regulate or affect behavior of an animal wearing such a tag or collar. In one embodiment, at least one operating mode causes the animal collar or tag to administer vibration, and at least one other operating mode causes the animal collar or tag to administer electric shock. Such adjustment permits a user to select an action appropriate to a specific animal to deter unwanted behavior.

[0044] In one embodiment, a plurality of operating modes includes (i) at least one "anti-bark" mode to cause the animal collar or tag to administer any of a warning signal and a correction signal upon detection of sound or vibration emitted by an animal (e.g., a bark) wearing the animal collar or tag, and (ii) at least one other "permissive bark" mode to cause the animal collar or tag to neither administer a warning signal nor administer a correction signal upon detection of sound or vibration emitted by an animal wearing the animal collar or tag.

[0045] In one embodiment, a plurality of operating modes includes at least one mode in which, upon detection of sound or vibration emitted by the animal wearing the animal collar or tag prior to entry of the animal collar or tag into a "no-entry" or "response" zone or boundary (as user-defined via electronic marking, described herein), the animal collar or tag is caused to temporarily suspend administration of a warning signal or a correction signal after entry of the animal collar or tag into the response zone. Such mode may be useful so as not to deter an animal dog from barking upon hearing a suspicious noise suggestive of an intruder, or confronting an intruder near a point of entry. For example, a response zone may be defined by a user near a door or other point of entry into a home. A dog located outside the response zone may hear a noise suggestive of an intruder seeking forced entry. If the dog should start barking before entering the response zone, then administration of a warning signal or a correction signal to the dog may be suspended while the dog is in the response zone (or for a specified period after entry into or exit from the response zone). In one embodiment, a suspension of warning and/or correction signal may be restricted only to barking, to maintain containment functionality so as to prevent escape of the animal if a door or window is opened. The foregoing operating mode (temporary suspension of warning or correction if an animal barks before entering a response zone) may be automatically terminated upon a specified condition, such as expiration of time, cessation of barking for a specified time, and/or absence from the response zone for a specified time. The foregoing operating mode may be desirably implemented at night when occupants of a home are normally sleeping, and when it may be useful for a dog to bark and/or confront an intruder. In one embodiment, an automatic input (e.g., ambient light sensor, timer, etc.) may be integrated or operatively coupled to a RFTR station, and the RFTR station may be programmed to automatically adopt the foregoing operating mode upon detection of an automatic input suggestive of a nighttime (or other) condition.

[0046] In one embodiment, a RFTR station may include the following operating modes, with associated user-perceptible output signals optionally provided by at least one indicator lamp (e.g., by combinations of lit lamp colors, flashing lamp patterns, alternating lamp color patters, and the like):

(1) Zone containment only with administration of warning signal only by animal

collar or tag;

(2) Zone containment only with administration of warning signal, followed with

correction signal, by animal collar or tag;

(3) Zone containment only with administration of correction signal only by animal

collar or tag;

(4) Animal noise (e.g., bark) deterrence only with administration of warning signal

only by animal collar or tag; (5) Animal noise deterrence only with administration of warning signal, followed with correction signal, by animal collar or tag;

(6) Animal noise deterrence only with administration of correction signal only by

animal collar or tag;

(7) Zone containment and independent noise deterrence with administration of

warning signal only by animal collar or tag;

(8) Zone containment and independent noise deterrence with administration of

warning signal, followed by correction signal, by animal collar or tag;

(9) Zone containment and independent noise deterrence with administration of

correction signal only by animal collar or tag;

(10) Zone-dependent noise deterrence, with administration of warning signal only by

animal collar or tag;

(11) Zone-dependent noise deterrence, with administration of warning signal,

followed by correction signal, by animal collar or tag; and

(12)Zone-dependent noise deterrence, with administration of correction signal only.

[0047] Any of the foregoing exemplary operating modes may be omitted or supplemented with additional response, expiration, and/or sensor-dependent features, as may be readily implemented in a processor-readable instruction set stored in an animal tag or collar according to the present invention.

[0048] In one embodiment, an RFTR station includes at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element (collectively "media capture elements"). Operation of one or more media capture elements may be triggered by one or more events, such as condition of an animal with which the animal collar or tag is associated, behavior of the animal, proximity of the animal to any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations, and lack of communication between the animal collar or tag and any one or more RFTR stations. Media capture elements may perform any of the following: (a) digitally store at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element, and (b) transmit to a network communication terminal at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element. In one embodiment, a media capture elements includes at least one camera, and the at least one camera is selectively positioned by user. In one embodiment, operation and/or positioning of a camera, modification of media capture sampling rate, and/or initiation or modification of storage of media captured by one or more media capture elements, may be triggered responsive to one or more sensed conditions. If multiple audio capture elements are provided to enable origination correction of sound to be determined, a camera may be automatically positioned in the direction from which the sound is originated, responsive to receipt of the least one audio signal. In one embodiment, a camera may be manually positioned by a user. In another embodiment, a camera may be selectively activated and/or positioned by a user manipulation of a network communication terminal (e.g., portable phone, PDA, personal computer, RFTR remote controller station, etc.) to permit a user to investigate an alarm state and/or check on an animal. A user may also acknowledge or clear an alarm state either locally (e.g., by manual interaction with a RFTR station) or remotely (e.g., using a network communication terminal). In one embodiment, a camera may include an infrared emitter and at least one infrared responsive sensor to provide night vision sensing capability that may be automatically triggered upon detection (e.g., using an ambient light sensor) of a low ambient light condition, or may be activated by a user, with conventional visible light reception provided by the camera under other ambient conditions.

[0049] RFTR stations may be arranged for placement and/or mounting on various surfaces. In one embodiment, a RFTR station includes a body structure and at least one electrical connector protruding from the body structure and arranged to engage a corresponding receptacle for receiving electric power and mounting the body structure. This permits a RFTR station to both receive power and physical support from an electrical outlet. To address a situation where an electrical outlet is not disposed at a suitable position for one or more functions provided by the RFTR station, a RFTR station may include an electrical connector portion arranged to engage an electrical receptacle, a body structure including one or more signaling and/or sensing elements, and an electrical extension cord operatively connected between the body structure and the electrical connector thereby permitting the body structure to be mounted remotely from the receptacle. The electrical connector portion and body structure may be arranged for removably mating with one another. A cord winding structure may be associated with one or both of the body structure and electrical connector to retain excess length of electrical cord. The electrical connector portion may include an integral AC/DC power converter and appropriate power conditioning elements.

[0050] In one embodiment, a RFTR station may have an associated charge storage element (e.g., a battery) to permit an RFTR station to be operated without constant external supply of power. In one embodiment, the charge storage element may be integrated with a RFTR station. In another embodiment, a charge storage element may be disposed within a battery pack arranged to be removably engaged with a RFTR station. In one embodiment, a charge storage element associated with a RFTR station may be operatively coupled with a photovoltaic element (e.g., solar panel), to permit a RFTR station to be operated without need for connection to an AC power grid.

[0051] In one embodiment, a RFTR station having an associated (e.g., internal or external) battery may be carried by a user and used as a RF wireless remote controller providing two-way RF wireless communication with an electronic animal tag or collar. A battery operated RFTR station arranged for operation as a wireless RF remote controller may be termed a RFTR remote controller station. A RFTR remote controller station may be utilized as a stationary RFTR station inside a building or outdoors, and may be selectively employed as a mobile remote controller. A user may activate a selector switch to trigger a "walk" function to utilize a RFTR station as a RFTR remote controller station. Activation of the walk function may deactivate any animal-station proximity based correction signal. Activation of the walk function may also temporarily suspend communication with one or more other RFTR stations to permit the RFTR remote controller station to be transported outside of signal reception range of one or more other RFTR stations without triggering an alarm or error condition.

[0052] A RFTR remote controller station may include a tag selector switch to enable selective communication with multiple electronic animal tags. In one embodiment, a RFTR remote controller station is adapted for use with only one electronic animal tag at a time following establishment of synchronous communication therewith. A RFTR remote controller station may be used to control operation of an electronic animal tag as described herein (e.g., including bark control features, warning administration, correction administration) thereby affecting behavior of an animal wearing same.

[0053] A RFTR remote controller station preferably includes a microprocessor, a RF transmitter, and a RF receiver, as well as a charge storage element such as a battery. A battery may be integrated into a common body structure that also houses the microprocessor, RF transmitter, and RF receiver, or a battery may be contained in a secondary housing that is coupleable to a primary housing including operative components, with one or more electrical connectors (optionally supplemented by one or more mechanical connectors) provided between primary and secondary housings. A RFTR remote controller station may include multiple input elements, and at least one indicator and/or display, arranged to communicate with the microprocessor. At least one input element may be operable to adjust warning and/or correction level or duration (e.g., using a slider, dial, or digital selector). At least one input element may be arranged to enable selective administration of warning and/or correction signals by an electronic animal tag or collar. At least one input element may be arranged to generate a reward signal. An ultrasonic emitter may be provided to selectively emit a signal causing animals (whether or not wearing an electronic animal tag) proximate to the RFTR remote controller station to disengage in unwanted or aggressive behavior (such as fighting, running of an animal away from the user, etc.). At least one indicator and/or display may be used to identify status or operating mode of the electronic animal tag, and/or warning or correction level. Such a display may constitute a LCD display facilitating viewing of text, images, and/or video. A display may further include an video decoder and/or video driver.

[0054] A RF transmitter and RF receiver within a RFTR remote controller station may be integrated within a RF transceiver. Such components are arranged to communicate with the microprocessor. A computer-readable or processor-readable instruction set (e.g., operating instructions) for execution by the microprocessor may be stored on an internal memory element. A memory reader or similar memory interface may be provided to enable communication with a removable memory element (e.g., flash memory card or stick). In one embodiment, internal memory and/or removable memory may include media-based training instructions, such as text instructions, audio instructions, and/or video instructions to enable a user to listen to perceive instructions and follow direction to training an animal. Such instructions may be embodied in a pre-loaded training guide. A memory may further store digital entertainment media such as music files and the like. An audio decoder (e.g., for decoding digital audio files in .MP3, .WAV, or similar formats) may be provided to facilitate playback from either memory element of files containing audio information. An AM/FM tuner may also be provided. Outputs of the audio decoder and AM/FM tuner may be provided to an audio output element, which may provide amplification and/or signal conversion utility to provide audio-containing output signals to any of a wired port or headphone jack, wireless port (e.g., Bluetooth, zigBee, or the like), and/or an integral speaker associated with the RFTR remote controller station. The audio output element thereby facilitates delivery to a user of an audible signal including animal training instructions upon playback of stored animal training instructions from either memory element.

[0055] In one embodiment, a RFTR remote controller station may be used to provide any functions associated with a network communication terminal as described herein. A RFTR remote controller may include WiFi, WiMax, and/or cellular telephone capability to facilitate communication via a distributed communication network, to permit a RFTR remote controller station located beyond conventional RF reception range with one or more other RFTR stations installed at a given facility to continue to communicate with the one or more other RFTR stations via such communication network.

[0056] In one embodiment, a RFTR station may have an associated environment light arranged to illuminate an environment surrounding or proximate to the RFTR station. Such light may be operated responsive to receipt of an incident light sensor, to automatically eliminate an environment in a low light condition. The RFTR station may therefore serve as an interior night light and/or a landscape light. An environment light associated with a RFTR station may also be selectively operated by user, whether by local manual operation or remotely through manipulation of a network communication terminal. In one embodiment, an environment light associated with a RFTR station may flash and/or change color to indicate an alarm condition.

[0057] In one embodiment, an electronic animal tag or collar includes an infrared (IR) receiver arranged to receive an IR signal from at least one IR emitter arranged to define a boundary, and upon receipt of such an IR signal, to automatically undertake a predetermined or user-defined action such as administration of stimulus to the animal, generation of an alarm signal, and/or contacting one or more users or third parties. An IR emitter may be provided in a dedicated IR directional zone defining unit (as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/241,866 and International Patent Application No. PCT/US 10/48543, which are hereby incorporated by reference), or in a RFTR station as described herein. [0058] In one embodiment, a RFTR station may be arranged to emit a RF charging signal (e.g., preferably an oscillating signal, such as with a sinusoidal, quasi-sinusoidal, or square waveform) that may be supplied to a charging signal receiving device including at least one of (a) and electronic animal tag or collar while such tag or collar is worn by an animal and (b) a premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the at least one RFTR station. A charging signal receiving device preferably includes an antenna for receiving a RF charging signal, a rectification element to generate a DC voltage from the received charging signal, a voltage conversion element (e.g., transformer) to step-up the rectified DC voltage, a capacitor or other short-term charge storage element to temporarily store charge, and a switching element to regulate supply of charge to a primary charge storage element such as a battery. Wireless charging of a charge storage element associated with a charging signal receiving device may extend time between physical wired recharge events, or eliminate such events altogether. Details of wireless RF battery charging systems and methods are provided in U.S. Patent No. 7,288,918, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. In one embodiment, at least one of a RFTR station and a charging signal receiving device includes an indicator element arranged to generate a user -perceptible signal indicative of reception of the RF charging signal by the charging signal receiving device. Such an indicator element (or an additional indicator element) may also generate a user perceptible signal indicative of the need to charge a charge storage element associated with the charging signal receiving device.

[0059] In certain embodiments, communication and/or integration is provided between one or more RFTR stations and a premises alarm system or premises alarm sensors. As mentioned previously, a RFTR station may provide a wireless RF charging signal to at least one premises alarm sensor located remotely from the RFTR station. In one embodiment, at least one premises alarm sensor may be integrated with or otherwise associated with a RFTR station. Such a premises alarm sensor may include at least one of: an audio capture element, an image capture element, a video capture element, a motion sensor, a contact sensor, a proximity sensor, a shock sensor, a photoelectric beam sensor, and a sensor adapted to detect the condition indicative of glass breakage. Multiple premises alarm sensors may be integrated with a single RFTR station. In one embodiment, a RFTR station having at least one premises alarm sensor further includes a network communication port arranged to permit communicate with at least one network communication terminal located remotely from the RFTR station. In one embodiment, signals obtained from one or more RFTR station- integrated premises alarm sensors may be transmitted wirelessly by the RFTR station to a RF signal receiver operatively coupled with a premises alarm system. Such an RF signal receiver may be arranged in or in communication with a premises alarm panel. In one embodiment, signals obtained from one or more RFTR station-integrated premises alarm sensors may be transmitted via powerline communication to at least one input element associated with a premises alarm system. Memory may be provided within or associated with a RFTR station to store signals received from the at least one premises monitoring element.

[0060] In one embodiment, at least one RFTR station is operatively coupled to a communications network and comprises a wireless communication hub arranged to permit wireless communication by and/or among a variety of different radio frequency communication devices, including mobile telephones, personal computers, appliance remote control systems, and premises lighting remote control systems. Such wireless communication hub may operate according to IEEE 802. xx wireless network protocols and standards. In one embodiment, a master RFTR station comprises a wireless communication hub, and multiple spatially segregated satellite RFTR stations provide signal relaying functionality for wireless communications. Through use of multiple spatially segregated RFTR stations dispersed within a facility or premises, dead spots or regions of low signal strength within a facility or region are minimized or eliminated altogether.

[0061] Notification procedures may be configured by a user upon initial set-up and registration of one or more RFTR stations. A RFTR station synchronizes with any other RFTR stations in signal reception range. Password and/or firewall protection may be integrated into at least one RFTR station. A RFTR station automatically synchronizes with one or more electronic animal tags and/or premises alarm sensors in proximity upon power-up, and identifying information for each electronic tag and/or premises alarm sensor is communicated automatically to the RFTR station. An output element (e.g., lamp) of the RFTR station may provide one or more signals indicative of electronic animal tag or premises alarm sensor synchronization status, electronic tag or premises alarm sensor battery status, network communication status, and the like. Each RFTR station, and optionally each electronic animal tag or collar and one or more components of an alarm system, may include a static IP address or other network identifier. A RFTR station may automatically register itself, any synchronized RFTR stations, any synchronized electronic animal tags, and any synchronized premises alarm components via one or more websites. A user may utilize a communication device such as a personal computer, portable phone, or PDA to connect to a website providing one or more templates or form eliciting the following: (A) animal information (including animal description, animal photos, animal microchip information, and veterinary information), (B) premises information (address, special emergency instructions including user family medical conditions, locations of bedrooms within a home, location of water sources for combating fire, location of utility shutoffs, etc.) (C) user contact information and communication preferences (e.g., order of contact, format of electronic contact, priority of contact), and (D) third party contact information (e.g., home alarm monitoring company).

[0062] Any of various stationary or mobile terminals remotely located from one or more RFTR stations may be contacted via at least one communication network (e.g., Internet, telephone network, WiFi, WiMax, etc.) as part of an automatic notification procedure. Third parties susceptible to receiving notifications include, but are not limited to, one or more system users (e.g., owners of the animal to which the electronic animal tag is attached), family members or neighbors of system users, premises alarm monitoring companies, animal shelters, veterinary hospitals, law enforcement agencies, fire protection organizations, electronic animal tag manufacturers, and third party monitoring agencies. Automatic notifications may relate to animal monitoring or condition, premises monitoring or condition, or (human) user monitoring or condition. Notifications are preferably sent automatically without requiring human intervention. In one embodiment, communication is sent as a text message, SMS, and/or electronic mail to one or more users. In one embodiment, communication is sent via telephone including a recorded or machine-generated message. If animal-related monitoring triggers an alarm condition, in one embodiment, animal identifying information (e.g., including vital animal information, and preferably including one or more animal photographs) and owner contact information is automatically transmitted to animal shelters within a desired vicinity of the user within a specified time period of loss of communications between at least one RFTR station and an electronic animal tag. In one embodiment, a "lost animal" flyer or poster is automatically generated and transmitted to or otherwise accessed by a user. If premises-related monitoring triggers an alarm condition, in one embodiment, a message identifying the nature and type of the alarm, optionally including identification of alarm frequency and history of any associated alarms, may be communicated.

[0063] If an electronic animal tag should return to normal communication with at least one RFTR station, then an alarm may be cleared automatically, and communications indicating that the animal is safe may be automatically generated and distributed according to a communication procedure using contact information and preferences defined by a user. Additionally, or alternatively, an alarm may be cleared, reset, or overridden by a user via manual intervention at one or more RFTR station, or remotely using a network communication terminal, and such event may similarly trigger automated communications indicative of the alarm and/or animal status. In one embodiment, a website maintains and displays an automatically incrementing counter identifying the number of lost animals recovered by use of electronic animal tags and RFTR stations as described herein, through use of data communicated by RFTR stations to the website owner or operator.

[0064] Tracking procedures that may be initiated upon severing of contact between a RFTR station and an electronic animal tag include initiation of GPS communication with an animal tag. Under circumstances when an animal is safely located in a home or fenced yard, communication between a GPS satellite and a GPS element associated with an electronic animal tag would be unnecessary and would dramatically shorten battery life of the animal tag. By selectively activating a GPS element only when an animal has escaped a house or yard, as detected by at least one RFTR station 80, the benefits of GPS tracking may be employed only as necessary without unduly shortening battery life. [0065] Two-way communication may be established between not only RFTR stations and each electronic animal tag (e.g., via RF communication), but also between one or more RFTR stations and remote electronic terminals (e.g., via a communication network involving wired or wireless access), and also between at least one RFTR station and one or more accessory elements, whether by wired or wireless communication. Various communication paths that may therefore be established via at least one RFTR station include, but are not limited to: (i) communications between different RFTR stations; (ii) communications between remote communication terminals and electronic animal tags, (iii) communications between remote communication terminals and premises alarm elements; (iv) communications between accessory devices and electronic animal tags, and (v) communications between remote communication terminals and accessories. Such communication paths may be used for any of remote data transfer, remote monitoring, remote control, remote updating (e.g., for software updates), remote acknowledging and clearing of alarms, and the like.

[0066] In one embodiment, data relating to information received from an electronic animal tag and/or a premises alarm system or sensor is saved and may be transmitted to a user by way of a RFTR station and communication network. Such information may be presented in any desirable format, including tables, charts, and graphs, with respect to time. Trends may be established and monitored for animal location, animal barking time, animal barking frequency, animal barking duration, animal barking intensity, animal movement, animal sleeping, animal temperature, and the like. Trends may also be established and monitored for any of various premises alarm conditions or triggered premises alarms. Ambient conditions experienced by premises and/or an electronic animal tag may also be logged and or presented. Periodic reports may be generated, and alarms may be configured for conditions that deviate from established trends, with automatic issuance of notifications to local or remote communication terminals of any suitable type.

[0067] In one embodiment, an electronic animal tag or collar may include one or more sensors of various types adapted to sense conditions experienced by the tag, physiological conditions of an animal wearing the electronic tag, and/or activity of an animal wearing the electronic tag. Signals from one or more sensors may be stored (e.g., in memory associated with a tag or collar, and/or memory associated with one or more RFTR stations, and/or memory accessible via a network in at least periodic communication with one or more RFTR stations), and trends and reports may be established. Sensed conditions deviating from established trends or patterns (e.g., normal conditions) may automatically trigger notification and/or alarms, with notifications and/or alarms being issuable by the animal tag or collar, one or more RFTR stations, and/or one or more network communication terminals in communication with one or more RFTR stations. For example, conditions indicative of an animal being awake (e.g., as may be sensed by one or more accelerometers and/or heart rate sensors associated with an electronic animal tag or collar) may be sensed and logged, and periods that the animal is aware or asleep may be compared with similar periods on previous specific days, portions of days, or other applicable periods of time. If conditions indicative of an animal being asleep or awake deviate from previously established patterns or trends, one or more alarms and/or reports may be generated. Reports may be generated and communicated to a network communication terminal whether or not an alarm condition is triggered.

[0068] Desirable accessory elements for use with one or more systems according to the present invention include both animal-related accessories (e.g., animal doors, automated animal feeding apparatuses, automated animal treat dispenser, animal toys, automated animal watering apparatuses, animal monitoring cameras) and animal-independent accessories (e.g., lamps, home appliances, HVAC systems, entertainment systems, home alarm systems, garage doors, entry gates, premises monitoring cameras, garden sprinkler systems, outdoor lighting systems, remote automotive starting systems). Operation of one or more accessory elements such as a treat dispenser and/or one or more animal toys may be configured by a user (optionally using one or more network communication devices) to automatically dispense food or treats to an animal responsive to certain animal behavior (e.g., incessant barking, elevated heart rate, detection via one or more accelerometers of repeated animal movement indicative of jumping or other agitated behavior) to distract and/or calm an animal to promote cessation of the animal behavior. In one embodiment, a food or treat dispenser and/or one or more animal toys may be remotely actuated by a user on a scheduled and/or substantially instantaneous basis. Operation of one or more accessory elements may be controlled by an animal monitoring and/or premises alarm system including one or more RFTR stations. In one embodiment, any or all programming, monitoring, control, feedback, and reporting functions may be performed with a wireless remote controller and/or network communication terminal (including but not limited to a personal computer, portable phone, personal data assistant (PDA) device, computer workstation, network server, RFTR remote controller station, and the like) operatively coupled to one or more RFTR devices, optionally via an intervening local or wide area network.

[0069] In one embodiment, an animal toy includes at least one RF communication element (e.g., RF transmitter and/or RF receiver, optionally integrated as a RF transcriber) and operation of one or more animal toys may be initiated and/or continuously controlled via an electronic communication device (e.g., network communication terminal or RFTR remote controller station as described herein). Communication between an animal toy and one or more electronic communication devices may be facilitated via at least one RF communication element associated with an animal toy, arranged to communication with at least one RFTR station as described herein, and/or arranged to communication one or more local networks or wide-area networks such as (but not limited to) a telephone network and/or the Internet. For example, an animal toy may include one or more user-controllable activation elements (e.g., motors, vibration elements, visual output elements, and/or audible output elements) that may be controlled based on signals generated by a network communication terminal or RFTR remote controller station. One or more user controllable activation elements may be controlled with respect to speed and/or direction. In one embodiment, a user controllable activation element may be operated to cause an animal toy to jump. In one embodiment, an animal toy may include an integral camera and/or microphone to provide video and/or audio signals for reproduction by a network communication terminal or other electronic communication device. Audible signals, voice signals, and toy control signals may be transmitted on a substantially instantaneous basis between an animal toy and a network communication terminal and/or RFTR station to enable interactive play between an animal and owner (or third party) even when the owner or third party is located remotely from the animal. Remote location may include separation between the animal toy and network communication device beyond reception range of any non-networked RF transmitter / receiver pair associated with the animal toy and network communication terminal or network communication device, such that communication is facilitated by one or more wireless networks (e.g., telephone, WiFi, WiMax, or the like) using wireless network communication elements associated with the network communication terminal or network communication device. In one embodiment, an animal toy may include a static IP address to facilitate communication and configuration via a distributed communication network.

[0070] In one embodiment, accessories may be operated by electronic animal tags as worn by animals in proximity to such accessories (e.g., animal access doors). In one embodiment, accessories may be selectively operated by electronic animal tags as worn by animals, depending upon condition of one or more sensors associated with such animal tags. For example, a dog may be kept in a fenced backyard without access to a garage via an animal door under normal circumstances, but if the dog barks or whines for a specified duration, then a sensor associated with an animal tag worn by the dog may identify same and enable opening of the animal door to provide the animal with access to an indoor space and avoid potential complaints from neighbors due to animal noise. In another example, a moisture sensor associated with an electronic animal tag may sense that an outdoor animal is getting wet (indicative of ambient rain) and therefore enable opening of an animal door to provide the animal with access to an indoor space. Animal doors may include powered doors, and doors including one or more sensing elements such as a RFID reader, a magnetic reader, bar code reader, proximity sensor, or other type of code reader or signal receiver to sense a signal or code associated with an electronic animal tag or similar device associated with or wearable by an animal. In one embodiment, a system including one or more RFTR stations as disclosed herein may be operatively coupled to at least one animal door to control operation of the animal door(s). In one embodiment, an animal door may be operated with a timer that is set or configured via a network communication terminal, to cause the door to open at one or more user-defined time intervals. An animal door may also be operated on a substantially instantaneous basis using a network communication terminal.

[0071] In one embodiment, an animal treat dispenser or feeding apparatus of any desirable shape (e.g., a fire hydrant) includes a speaker, a treat release mechanism (e.g., actuated door), and a sensing element arranged to sense location of animal, conditions experienced by an electronic animal tag, and/or physiological conditions of an animal wearing an electronic tag. Any sensing element as disclosed herein may be used, including but not limited to a RFID reader, a magnetic reader, bar code reader, proximity sensor, or other type of code reader or signal receiver to sense a signal or code associated with an electronic animal tag, or sensors arranged to sense conditions indicative of temperature, pressure, moisture, motion, stasis, acceleration, noise, pulse heartbeat, and the like. An animal treat dispenser may be operatively coupled with one or more RFTR stations as disclosed herein, whether by wired or wireless communication. An animal treat dispenser may include a wireless receiver and wireless transmitter to provide one-way or two-way communications with one or more RFTR stations, with the RFTR station enabling communication (e.g., including programming, monitoring, control, feedback, and reporting functions) between the animal treat dispenser and at least one network communication terminal as disclosed herein. In one embodiment, animal treat dispenser arranged to communicate with a network communication terminal may dispense a treat upon generation of a signal by the network communication terminal. In one embodiment, an animal treat dispenser may emit an audible signal to alert an animal to dispensation of a treat; such signal may include one or more tones or beeps, or a pre-recorded or live voice signal generated by the owner, such as may be generated with a network communication terminal. In one embodiment, an animal treat dispenser, water dispenser, or feeding apparatus may automatically sense a condition of depletion or near-depletion of animal treats, water, or food, and automatically notify an owner or third party (whether locally or via a network communication device) of such condition, to facilitate restocking of the treat dispenser, water dispenser, and/or feeding apparatus to minimize interruption in feeding or watering of the animal.

[0072] In one embodiment, one or more electronic information device readers (optionally integrated into at least one RFTR station) are operatively arranged to communicate with an implanted electronic information device (e.g., RFID tag) implanted in an animal, and to communicate information read from an implanted information device to at least one RFTR station as described herein, or to another network-based monitoring device (e.g., a premises alarm monitoring system). An electronic information device reader (e.g., RFID transmitter adapted to stimulate resonant emission of information from an implanted passive RFID tag) may be positioned in proximity to a door or other point of access to a desired space. In one embodiment, such an electronic information device reader may be integrated with a doormat, doorbell, doorstop, or animal door. An electronic information device reader may be integrated with or in wireless communication with at least one RFTR station as described herein. Movement of an animal containing the implanted electronic information device proximate to the electronic information device reader may cause the implanted electronic information device to emit a signal that may be read by the reader. Such information may be transmitted via wired or wireless communication to a RFTR station or other network-based monitoring device (e.g., a home alarm monitoring system) to provide or supplement information regarding animal location, and to activate one or more alarms, initiate automatic notification procedures, and/or initiate tracking procedures.

[0073] Embodiments of systems and components as described hereinabove are embodied in the figures.

[0074] A RFTR station 10 according to one embodiment is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. The illustrated RFTR station 10 may be embodied as a satellite RFTR station arranged to communication with at least one other RFTR station 10 including a master RFTR station having a wired connection to a communications network. The RFTR station 10 includes a lower body structure 12 of generally cylindrical shape, with first and second electrical connectors 20A, 20B protruding from a bottom surface 11 of the lower body structure 12. The electrical connectors 20A, 20B are preferably adapted to mate with a wall receptacle for providing AC electrical power, and sufficiently sized and shaped so as not to obscure a second outlet of a standard dual outlet wall plate with center-to-center outlet spacing of 1.5 inches. In one embodiment, at least a portion of a the RFTR unit 10 has an external diameter or lateral width of less than two inches to avoid interference with a second outlet of a standard dual outlet wall plate. Although only two connectors 20A, 20B are shown, it is to be appreciated that additional connectors (e.g., including a ground connector) may be provided. At least a portion of the RFTR station may be paintable to enable a user to match a desired decor.

[0075] A front portion of the lower body structure includes at least one user input element 18 (e.g., a button), and at least one output element 19 (e.g., an environmental light, such may include one or more LEDs of various colors). An audible output element may be additionally or alternatively provided. Multiple user input elements of like or different types may be provided. In one embodiment, a user input element may be provided, including a signal receiver operatively arranged to receive a remote user input, such as from a wireless remote controller, and/or a data signal transmitted via a power line (also known as power line communications). Such a user input element 18 allows a user to control a mode of operation of the RFTR station 10 relative to an associated electronic animal collar or tag; similarly, the output element(s) preferably provide a user-perceptible signal indicative of current operational status and/or a currently selected mode of operation of the RFTR station 10 relative to an electronic animal collar or tag, and/or relative to a premises alarm sensor.

[0076] Along an upper edge of the lower body structure 12 is a rotatable joint 13 between the lower body structure 12 and a rotatable upper body structure or turret 14, with the joint 13 permitting the turret 14 to rotate along a first axis (e.g., a longitudinal axis definable through a center point of the bottom surface 11). The turret 14 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B is generally hemispherical in shape, with a recess 15 containing therein a wheel element 16 defining a directional element 17 that may be oriented in a direction selected by a user. A sliding element (not shown) may be used in place of a rotatable wheel element 16 in an alternative embodiment. The wheel element 16 is preferably mounted along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis (e.g., a latitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). The wheel element 16 and recess 15 define a joint 15A therebetween. The turret 14 preferably has an internal travel stop to prevent continuous rotation from damaging electrical connections; preferably the turret may be rotated around the longitudinal axis within a range of motion of at least about 320 degrees, more preferably at least about 340 degrees, and more preferably still at least about 355 degrees. Such travel stop prevents continuous rotation of the turret 14 relative to the lower body structure 12 to prevent damage to electrical conductors disposed inside the RFTR station 10. The wheel element 16 preferably has a range of motion of at least about 90 degrees. A user may selectively rotate the wheel element 16 and/or the turret 14 along the respective two axes of rotation thereof.

[0077] In one embodiment, the directional element 17 embodies a camera arranged to capture images and/or video of an environment proximate to the RFTR station 10. In one embodiment, the directional element 17 comprises an emitter arranged to emit a wireless charging signal, which may be aimed toward an area where an animal routinely rests, or toward a stationary premises alarm sensor to facilitate charging thereof. In one embodiment, the directional element 17 comprises an environmental light that may be aimed in a desired direction by a user. In one embodiment, the directional element comprises a premises alarm sensor of any suitable type as disclosed herein for directing same toward a desired zone or region. In one embodiment, the directional element comprises an IR beam transmitter that may be arranged to emit a signal to be received by an IR receiver associated with an electronic animal tag or collar, with the IR beam being capable of directional aiming to define a desired response zone within a space.

[0078] A RFTR station 80 according to another embodiment is shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. The RFTR station 80 includes a body structure 81, an antenna 82, an antenna interface 83, at least one user input element 88, at least one user -perceptible output element and/or environmental light 89, a power input port 87, and at least one network port 86. In one embodiment, the network port 86 comprises an Ethernet port; a network port 86 may further comprise a telephone cable port. A speaker opening or vent 84 may be defined in the body structure 81 to allow propagation of heat and/or audible alarm signals outside the body structure 81. Pads and mounting holes may be defined in a bottom surface of the RFTR station 80 to facilitate mounting thereof.

[0079] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing functional relationships between various elements of a RFTR station 180. At least one power input terminal 187 receives power from a power source (e.g., AC outlet or battery pack). A power conditioning element 191 may provide power conditioning and/or regulating utility, including AC/DC power conversion. Although only a microprocessor 190 is shown in direct electrical communication with the power conditioning element 191, it is to be appreciated that electrical power may be conducted to any of various electrically operated elements in the RFTR station 180, whether or not through the microprocessor 190. At least one input element 188 and at least one output element 189 are arranged to communicate with the microprocessor 190. An alarm generator 195 may output an audible alarm, output a visible alarm, and/or trigger a remote alarm, such as notification of one or more users, home alarm monitoring companies, animal shelters, law enforcement agencies, and third parties (e.g., via a network interface 186).

[0080] A computer-readable or processor-readable instruction set (e.g., operating instructions) for execution by the microprocessor 190 may be stored on one or more memory elements 196. Operating instructions for the RFTR station 180 may be updated via a network interface 186 and/or an optional update port 197 (e.g., USB port, miniature USB port, or the like). The update port 197 may further be used to read or extract information logged to the at least one memory element 196, as the memory 196 may be used to store information received from the RF receiver and/or from an external network via the network interface 186. The at least one memory element 196 may also be used to store signal property information (e.g., corresponding to one or more marked zones or boundaries) to provide basis for comparison to instantaneously received signal property information for animal position sensing, and to store signals and information received from premises alarm sensors 199 associated with the RFTR station 180. Although only a single memory element 196 is illustrated in FIG. 3, it is to be appreciated that multiple memory elements of various types may be provided and dedicated to suitable tasks.

[0081] A RF transmitter 193 and a RF receiver 192 (optionally integrated within a RF transceiver) are further arranged to communicate with the microprocessor 190, and may communicate wirelessly in two-way fashion with one or more electronic animal tags or collars as described herein, and may also communicate with one or more premises alarm sensors disposed remotely from the RFTR station 180. In one embodiment, the RF transmitter 193 and RF receiver 192 of a single RFTR station 180 may simultaneously communicate with up to eight different electronic animal tags as described herein, and a multitude of different premises alarm sensors. Multiple RF transmitters 193 and/or RF receivers 192 (e.g., of different frequencies) may be provided in a single RFTR station, such as may be desired to facilitate separate or redundant communication with one or more electronic animal tags or collars, one or more components of a premises alarm system, and one or more wireless communication devices.

[0082] The RFTR station 180 further includes a RF charging transmitter 195 arranged to output at least one RF charging for reception by an electronic animal tag or caller while such tag or collars worn by an animal, and/or for reception by at least one premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the RFTR station 180. Multiple RF charging transmitters may be provided within a RFTR station 180.

[0083] As mentioned previously, a RFTR station 180 may include an IR transmitter 198 arranged to transmit a directional IR signal for reception by an IR receiver associated with electronic animal tag or collar. Such IR transmitter 198 may be used to define one or more response zones within a line of sight of the RFTR station 180, such as across the doorway or a similar region. A RFTR station 180 may further include an environmental light 185 arranged to eliminate an environment proximate to the RFTR station 180.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 4, a RFTR station 10 may be operatively coupled to a power supply element 6 (e.g., battery pack or solar panel) using electrical connectors 20A, 20B, or other dedicated mechanical and/or coupling means, and an engaging element 8 (e.g., a clamp, a suction cup, a magnet, an adhesive surface, a mechanical fastener, a twist tie, or the like) may be associated with the power supply element 6 to permit the power supply element 6 and associated RFTR station to be temporarily or permanently affixed to a desired surface or object if an electrical power outlet is not otherwise available.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4, a RFTR station 10 may be engaged to an electrical receptacle 5 via electrical connectors 20A, 20B protruding from the body structure of the RFTR station 10. Multiple electronic animal collars 50A, 50B are arranged in communication range of the RFTR station. A directional element associated with the RFTR station 10 may emit or receive a signal 29 bounded by zone edges 29 A, 29B. In one embodiment, the directional element comprises an IR emitter arranged to emit an IR beam to be received by an electronic animal collar (e.g., collar 50A) disposed between zone edges 29 A, 29B. In one embodiment, the directional element comprises a camera arranged to receive at least one image representing objects disposed between zone edges 29A, 29B. In one embodiment, the directional element comprises an emitter arranged to emit a wireless RF charging signal, that may be received by at least one electronic animal collar or tag while worn by an animal, and or at least one premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the RFTR station 10.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 6, a RFTR station 210 according to one embodiment includes separable first and second housing portions that are connectable by an electrical cord 221. A first (e.g., upper) portion of the RFTR station 210 includes a body portion 212, a rotatable body structure or turret 214, and a joint 213 permitting the turret 214 to rotate along a first axis, with a rotatable wheel element 16 disposed in the turn at 214 and arranged to rotate along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis. A second (e.g., lower) portion of the RFTR station 210 include a body portion 211 having an integral cord winding structure in the form of a stem 222 and a flange 222A, arranged to permit a cord 221 connecting the first and second body portions 211, 212 to retain excess length of the electrical cord 221. First and second electrical connectors to 220A, 220B protrude from a surface of the lower body portion 211. The upper body portion 212 preferably has one or more associated signaling and/or sensing elements, and the lower body portion 211 preferably includes an AC/DC power converter. The illustrated two-part RFTR unit 210 enables one body portion to receive power from an electrical outlet, and another body portion to be mounted at a more suitable position to provide one or more desired sensing, communicating, and/or charge signaling functions. [0087] In one embodiment, a RFTR station may include multiple directional elements. Referring to FIG. 7, a RFTR station 310 includes a lower body structure 311 having associated electrical elements 320A, 320B, and first and second upwardly protruding body portions 312A, 312B. The first protruding body portion 312A supports a first rotatable turret 314A along a joint 313A, with the first turret 314A having an associated first rotatable wheel element 316A supporting a first directional element. The second protruding body portion 312B supports a second rotatable turret 314B along a joint 313B, with the second turret 314B having an associated second rotatable wheel element 316B supporting a second directional element. Either or both of the body portions 312A, 312B may be detachable from the lower body structure 311 with intervening electrical cords, such as illustrated in FIG. 6. Although only two wheel elements 316A, 316B having associated directional elements are shown, it is to be appreciated that any suitable number of independently positionable directional elements could be provided in a single structure. Presence of multiple independently positionable directional elements promotes flexibility in providing directional RF wireless charging utility, directional IR beam propagation utility, directional camera image capturing utility, and the like.

[0088] An electronic animal collar 35 having an electronic animal tag 50 is shown in FIGS. 8A- 8C, with the electronic animal tag 50 alone shown in greater detail in FIG. 9. The collar 35 includes securable clasp portions 32, 33 affixed to a strap 31. Portions of the strap 31 may be inserted through hole-defining mounting tabs 55 A, 55B secured to a body 51 of the collar. Preferably, the tabs 55 A, 55B are formed of a continuous piece of durable material (e.g., steel) that extends through the body 51 to minimize possibility of separation of either tab 55A, 55B from the body 51. The electronic tag 50 has affixed thereto an animal identification plate 52, which may include an animal name, address, telephone number, email address, and similar identifying information. The electronic tag 50 further includes lamp windows (or lamps) 53A, 53B that may be activated upon escape of an animal wearing the tag 50 from a specified area (e.g., as detected by a base station upon severing of communications between the base station and the electronic tag), in order to increase visibility of the animal (e.g., to help locate the animal, and further to enable motorists to steer clear of the animal in low light conditions).

[0089] The electronic tag 50 includes multiple shock terminals 56A-56D removably mounted to receptacles 57A-57D. Four shock terminals 56A-56D are preferably provided to distribute contact force over a significant area and thereby reduce contact stress that may otherwise lead to animal skin abrasion. Removable mounting of the shock terminals 56A-56D permits such terminals to be interchanged with terminals of different length, width, tip shape, and the like, depending on the hair length and type of the animal to promote, and also depending on the sensitivity of the animal' s skin to the size and/or shape of the terminals 56A-56D. In one embodiment, the shock terminals may be removed and replaced with non-conducting caps (not shown) to promote appeal of the electronic tag 50 to animal owners not comfortable with the possibility that electric shock may be administered to an animal wearing the tag 50. The body 51 may be coated with rubberized material (e.g., rubberized paint) to hold on to dog dander for more comfortable fit. A removable battery cover 54 is preferably a screw-type cover with an associated gasket or O-ring (not shown) to promote water-tight sealing of the body 51. A battery (e.g., rechargeable lithium ion 3.0 volts, or one or more other conventional batteries) may be disposed within the body 51 behind the battery cover 54.

[0090] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing functional relationships between various elements of the electronic animal tag 50. A charge storage element (e.g., battery) 62 may be charged with at least one optional charging terminal 61 or a wireless charging module 100. In one embodiment, two or more of the shock terminals 56A-56D may be used as recharging terminals in order to charge the battery with via a mating charging base (not shown). A power conditioning element 63 may provide any desirable power conditioning and/or regulating utility, and supply power to the microprocessor 60. Although only the microprocessor 60 is shown in direct electrical communication with the power conditioning element 63, it is to be appreciated that electrical power may be conducted to any of various electrically operated elements in the electronic tag 50, whether or not through the microprocessor 60. A computer-readable or processor-readable instruction set (e.g., operating instructions) for execution by the microprocessor 60 may be stored in at least one memory element 66. Operating instructions for the electronic tag 50 may be updated via an optional update port 67 (e.g., a miniature USB port or similar interface), or alternatively via a RF receiver 72. The update port 67 may further be used to read or extract information logged to the memory 66, as the memory 66 may be used to store information received from various sensors 65A, 65B and/or signal receivers 70, 72, 75.

[0091] Various sensors 65A, 65B may be associated with the electronic tag 50 to sense conditions experienced by the tag 50 and/or physiological conditions of an animal wearing the electronic tag 50. While only two sensors 65A, 65B are shown, it is to be appreciated that additional sensors (or fewer sensors) may be provided. In certain embodiments, the sensors 65A, 65B may be arranged to sense any one or more of temperature, pressure, moisture, motion, acceleration, noise, pulse/heartbeat, and the like. Signals from the sensors 65 A, 65B may be used to trigger alarms and/or implement other actions. For example, sensing of excess temperature by the sensors 65A, 65B may indicate that an animal is located in a dangerously hot environment (e.g., a hot car interior). Sensing of moisture by the sensors 65A, 65B may indicate that an animal has fallen into a pool or lake. Sensing of movement and/or acceleration by the sensors 65A, 65B may indicate that the animal is awake, whereas lack of motion and/or acceleration for a specified period may indicate that the animal is asleep. Sensing of noise with the sensors 65 A, 65B may be used to augment signals received from a piezoelectric element 70 (useful for both bark detection and administering vibration) to discriminate between barks and other sounds (e.g., whines, growls) emitted by an animal wearing an electronic tag 50, and/or confirm whether a bark or other sound is emanating from the animal wearing the electronic tag 50. Actions such as triggering of alarms, triggering of (e.g., user) notification events, activation of lights 53, depowering of the tag 50, logging data (or logging data at higher frequency), and the like may be implemented in response to receipt of signals from the sensors 65 A, 65B.

[0092] The electronic tag 50 may include an IR receiver 70 (e.g., for communication with an IR beam emitting device 10 as described hereinabove. The electronic tag 50 further includes a RF receiver 72 and RF transmitter 73 operatively coupled with the microprocessor 60 and arranged for wireless two-way communication with any of (1) a RFTR station as described above and (2) a handheld RF remote controller (such as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/241,866 and International Patent Application No. PCT/US 10/48543). Various information communicated from the electronic tag to a RFTR station includes tag status, sensor information, battery life, and reception status of a wireless RF charging signal. A charge indicator element 59 may be provided to indicate battery charge and/or charging status, including reception of a wireless RF charging signal. In one embodiment, content and frequency of transmission of sensor information from an electronic animal tag 50 to a RFTR station, or logging of such information, may be configured by a user.

[0093] The RF receiver 72 and RF transmitter 73 may be optionally combined in an integrated transceiver, and may be associated with an optional antenna (not shown). In one embodiment, the RF receiver 72 and RF transmitter 73 operate at 433 MHz. The electronic tag 50 may further include an associated Global Positioning System (GPS) element 75 arranged to receive satellite signals. In one embodiment, the GPS element 75 may be integrated into the electronic tag 50. In another embodiment, the GPS element 75 may be mechanically coupleable to the electronic tag. In one embodiment, the GPS element may interface with the electronic tag via the shock terminals 56A-56D or another electrical interface (not shown).

[0094] The electronic tag 50 further includes a shock element 68 (such as may be coupled to the shock terminals 68A-68D), a piezoelectric element 70 (useable as both a vibration (bark) detection sensor and a vibration administering element), one or more lights 53, and an audio output element 69 such as a tone generator or speaker.

[0095] FIG. 11 provides a schematic diagram of an electronic device 150 including a wireless charging module 100 adapted to receive a wireless RF charging signal and supply charge to a charge storage element 162. Such an electronic device 150 may be embodied in an electronic animal tag 50, or in a premises alarm sensor, arranged to receive a wireless RF charging signal from a RFTR station as disclosed herein. The wireless charging module 100 includes an antenna 101 adapted to receive a RF charging signal, a rectification element 102 to generate a DC voltage from the received charging signal, a voltage conversion element (e.g., transformer) 103 to step-up the rectified DC voltage, a capacitor 104 or other short-term charge storage element to temporarily store charge, and a switching element 105 to regulate supply of charge to a primary charge storage element 162 such as a battery. A charge indicator element 159 may receive a signal from the wireless charging module 100 and indicate status of reception of a wireless RF charging signal and/or supply of charge to the charge storage element 162. A microprocessor 160 may receive charge from the charge storage element 162 and control operation of the wireless charging module 100 and any one or more functional elements 199, such as associated with an electronic animal tag 50 or premises alarm sensor as described herein. Wireless charging of a charge storage element associated with a charging signal receiving device may extend time between physical wired recharge events, or eliminate such events altogether. Provision of wireless charging signals to premises alarm sensors may dispense with the difficulty and cost of routing wires to premises alarm sensors.

[0096] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system 400 including multiple RFTR stations 41 OA, 410B, 401C arranged to communicate with at least one electronic animal tag 450A. Position of the animal collar or tag 450A may be determined by simultaneous communication with the multiple RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C, for example, by assessing instantaneous signal strength relative to the RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C, by ascertaining delay in reception of a timed signal emitted by the RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C, or by other known triangulation methods. Multiple RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C preferably provide a mesh of overlapping signal coverage between the RFTR stations and at least one electronic animal tag or collar 450A spanning one or more desired animal containment and/or monitoring areas, which may include one or more containment zones disposed inside and or outside of a building. Each RFTR station 410A, 410B, 401C preferably communications with each other RFTR station 410A, 410B, 401C, whether wirelessly via radio frequency, or via wires (e.g., by power line communication). Various accessory elements 411, 412, 413 may be arranged in communication with the RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 401C, either by wired or wireless (e.g., RF) communication. A least one RFTR station 4 IOC is operatively coupled (either by wired or wireless communication) with at least one local and/or remote communication network 425 (e.g., Internet, telephone network, WiFi, WiMax, etc.). Communication terminals 401, 402 are arranged to communication with the RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C via the at least one communication network 425, and thereby establish communication with the electronic animal tag or collar 450A and the accessory devices 411, 412, 413.

[0097] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system including multiple RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C, 410D defining multiple zones 461, 462, 463 inside and outside of a building 460, arranged to communicate with at least one electronic animal tag 450A, 450B, 450C, 450D, and arranged to interact with sensors 472 A, 472B and an alarm panel 407 of a premises alarm system. The building 460 includes two points of entry 471 A, 47 IB, each having an associated premises alarm sensor 472A, 472B. One RFTR station 410A is arranged to emit a wireless RF charging signal for reception by the first premises alarm sensor 472A, and another RFTR station 4 IOC is arranged to emit a wireless RF charging signal for reception by the second premises alarm sensor 472B. One RFTR station 410D is installed outdoors relative to the building 460, and receives operating power from a photovoltaic element 409 and a battery (not shown). Each RFTR station is arranged to simultaneously communication with each electronic animal tag or collar 450A-450D. The four RFTR stations 410A, 410B, 410C, 410D are spatially distributed to provide a basis for assessing aggregated properties of signals exchanged with the electronic animal tags or collars 450A-450D and thereby instantaneously assess position of each electronic animal tag or collar 450A-450D. A user may establish a first exclusion zone 461 within the building 460 as a no-entry or response zone. Entry of an animal tag or collar 450 worn by an animal into the exclusion zone 461 automatically triggers corrective action (e.g., vibration and/or shock) administered from the electronic tag or collar to the animal to motivate the animal to leave the exclusion zone 461. Additional electronic tags or collars 450A, 450B is disposed within both containment zones 462, 463 and outside of the exclusion zone 461 ; accordingly, no corrective action is administered by such electronic tags or collars 450A, 450B. Another electronic tag or collar 450D is disposed outside the first containment zone 462 but within a second containment zone 463. Different corrections may be applied to the different containment zones 462, 463; for example, vibration only and/or a low level of shock may be administered as a warning for violating the first containment zone 462, whereas a high level of shock may be administered upon violation of the second containment zone 463. Any number of containment zones and/or exclusion zones may be defined by a user, and associated with appropriate corrective actions. Software may check whether any conflicts are presented upon attempt to define containment and exclusion zones to prevent system errors.

[0098] FIG. 14 is a plan view schematic diagram showing various elements of an animal containment and monitoring system including multiple RFTR stations 41 OA, 410B, 4 IOC arranged in relation to locations of an electronic marking element 480. To initiate electronic marking, a user positions a marking element 480 at a first position 480A and actuates an input element associated with the marking element to signal the start of a marking process. The user then travels to a second position 480B and actuates an input element associated with the marking element to signal another point of the marking process. Additional points may be marked in sequence to define a closed area, and the resulting zone may be defined as an exclusion zone or a containment zone. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 14, two points 480A, 480B may be used to define a boundary 470, which may be proximate to a point of entry 471 to a room or building 459. Thereafter, at least one position 480C outside the boundary may be marked, and at least one position 480D inside the position may be marked, to provide reference signal basis for comparison when determining whether an electronic animal tag or collar subsequently crosses the boundary 470. Any of various boundaries, containment zones, and/or exclusion zones may be defined by a user. Multiple user-defined physical zones or boundaries, whether within or outside of a building (such as a house) may be wirelessly established and easily reconfigured. Following storage in memory of sensed properties indicative of at least one user-defined zone or boundary, properties of at least one RF signal communicated between an electronic animal collar or tag and multiple RFTR stations are sensed on an ongoing basis, and instantaneously sensed properties are compared with one or more stored properties to ascertain location of an electronic animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user-defined zone or boundary.

[0099] While the invention has been has been described herein in reference to specific aspects, features and illustrative embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated that the utility of the invention is not thus limited, but rather extends to and encompasses numerous other variations, modifications and alternative embodiments, as will suggest themselves to those of ordinary skill in the field of the present invention, based on the disclosure herein. Any of various elements or features recited herein are contemplated for use in combination with other features or elements disclosed herein, unless specified to the contrary. Correspondingly, the invention as hereinafter claimed is intended to be broadly construed and interpreted, as including all such variations, modifications and alternative embodiments, within its spirit and scope.

Claims

THE CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An animal containment system comprising a plurality of radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, wherein each RFTR station is arranged to communicate with at least one other RFTR station, and the plurality of RFTR stations is arranged to generate a signal indicative of position of the animal collar or tag.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein each RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations comprises (a) a station RF receiver adapted to communicate with the mobile RF transmitter, and (b) a station RF transmitter adapted to communicate with the mobile RF receiver.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of RFTR stations includes a master RFTR station and at least one satellite RFTR station, and wherein the master RFTR station comprises a network communication element arranged to automatically communicate with at least one network communication terminal responsive to receipt or generation of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of an animal with which the animal collar or tag is associated, behavior of the animal, proximity of the animal to any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations, and lack of communication between the animal collar or tag and any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations comprises an alarm signal generator adapted to generate an alarm signal responsive to receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, proximity of the animal to any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations, and lack of communication between the animal collar or tag and any one or more RFTR stations of the plurality of RFTR stations.

5. The system of claim 1, comprising memory arranged to store information indicative of at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary in reception range of RF signals generated by at least one RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations, wherein the plurality of RFTR stations is adapted to wirelessly detect presence or absence of the animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user- defined physical zone or boundary.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein presence or absence of the animal collar or tag is detected by comparing sensed properties of RF signals communicated between the animal collar or tag and the plurality of RFTR stations to stored properties of RF signals communicated between a RF communication device or the animal collar or tag and the plurality of RFTR stations.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the sensed properties and stored properties comprise at least one of (a) strength of a RF signal transmitted by the animal collar or tag and received by the plurality of RFTR stations, and (b) strength of RF signals transmitted by the RFTR stations and received by the animal collar or tag.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations comprises at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element.

9. The system of claim 8, being adapted to perform any of the following: (a) digitally store at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element, and (b) transmit to a network communication terminal at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein at least one of an image capture element and a video capture element comprises at least one camera, and the at least one camera is selectively positionable by a user.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises:

a body structure; and

at least one electrical connector protruding from the body structure and arranged to engage a corresponding receptacle for receiving electric power and mounting the body structure.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises:

a body structure;

an electrical connector arranged to engage a corresponding receptacle for receiving electric power;

an extension cord operatively connected between the body structure and the electrical connector, permitting the body structure to be mounted remotely from the receptacle.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein each RFTR station is arranged to communicate with at least one other RFTR station via power line communications.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises a motion sensor.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises a sensor adapted to detect a condition indicative of glass breakage.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station is operatively coupled to a communication network arranged to permit communication with at least one network communication terminal.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of RFTR stations comprises at least three RFTR stations.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises a charge storage element, and the at least one RFTR station is operatively coupled to a photovoltaic element arranged to at least intermittently supply charge to the charge storage element.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one RFTR station comprises an environment light adapted to light an environment proximate to the at least one RFTR station.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one RFTR station is adapted to generate a RF charging signal for charging a charge storage element associated with the animal collar or tag while the animal collar or tag is worn by an animal.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one RFTR station is adapted to communicate wirelessly with a premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the at least one RFTR station.

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one RFTR station is adapted to generate a RF charging signal for charging a charge storage element associated with a premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the at least one RFTR station.

23. An animal collar or tag wearable by an animal and adapted to receive at least one RF signal, the animal collar or tag comprising:

a charge storage element; a RF receiver;

a microprocessor operatively coupled with the RF receiver and arranged to receive power from the charge storage element; and

an antenna adapted to wirelessly receive a RF charging signal while the animal collar or tag is worn by an animal, wherein electric charge is generated from the received RF charging signal and is supplied to the charge storage element.

24. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising a RF transmitter operatively coupled with the microprocessor.

25. The animal collar or tag of claim 24, adapted for two-way communication with at least one radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station, wherein the at least one RFTR station is adapted to generate a signal indicative of position of the animal collar or tag.

26. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising an indicator element adapted to generate a user -perceptible signal indicative of reception of the RF charging signal.

27. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising an indicator element adapted to generate a user -perceptible signal indicative of a need to charge the charge storage element.

28. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising a sensor adapted to generate a signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, and position of the animal;

wherein the animal collar or tag is adapted to transmit a RF signal including information indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, and position of the animal.

29. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising a rectification element arranged to rectify the RF charging signal, and comprising at least one of a voltage conversion element and a voltage regulation element operatively arranged between the rectification element and the charge storage element.

30. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising an IR receiver operatively coupled with the microprocessor and adapted to receive an IR signal from a directional zone defining unit that is remotely located from the animal collar or rag.

31. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, further comprising at least one of: (a) at least one electrode to administer electric shock to an animal., and (b) a vibration element to administer vibration to an animal.

32. The animal collar or tag of claim 23, adapted for two-way communication with at least one radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station, wherein the animal collar or tag comprises a light that is automatically activated following loss of communication between the animal collar or tag and the at least one RFTR station.

33. A method utilizing an animal containment system comprising a plurality of radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) stations adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, the method comprising:

positioning a RF communication device in at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary in reception range of RF signals generated by at least one RFTR station of the plurality of RFTR stations;

generating at least one marking signal using the RF communication device positioned in the at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary; and

responsive to generation of the at least one marking signal, storing information indicative of sensed properties of at least one RF signal communicated between the RF communication device and the plurality of RFTR stations.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the sensed properties comprise at least one of (a) strength of a RF signal transmitted by the RF communication device and received by the plurality of RFTR stations, and (b) strength of RF signals transmitted by the RFTR stations and received by the RF communication device.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein the RF communication device comprises said animal collar or tag.

36. The method of claim 33, wherein the RF communication device comprises a handheld remote controller adapted for RF wireless communication with said animal collar or tag.

37. The method of claim 33, wherein the RF communication device comprises a personal computer, portable phone, or personal data assistant device.

38. The method of claim 33, wherein said generating of at least one marking signal comprises generating a first marking signal using the RF communication device positioned at a first location in or along a first user-defined physical zone or boundary, and generating a second marking signal using the RF communication device positioned at a second location in or along the first user-defined physical zone or boundary.

39. The method of claim 38, further comprising positioning the RF communication device at a location outside the first user-defined physical zone or boundary, and generating a third marking signal using the RF communication device as indicative of a location outside the first user-defined physical zone or boundary.

40. The method of claim 33, wherein said generating of at least one marking signal comprises generating a plurality of marking signals using the RF communication device positioned at different locations to bound multiple sides of a physical zone.

41. The method of claim 33, comprising defining a first user-defining physical zone or boundary, and defining a second user-defined physical zone or boundary.

42. The method of claim 33, further comprising selecting one or more actions to be automatically initiated upon wireless detection of presence or absence of said animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary.

43. The method of claim 33, further comprising wirelessly sensing presence or absence of said animal collar or tag relative to the at least one user-defined physical zone or boundary using the plurality of RFTR stations.

44. The method of claim 43, further wherein said sensing comprises sensing properties of at least one RF signal communicated between the animal collar or tag and the plurality of RFTR stations, and comparing the sensed properties of the least one RF signal communicated between the animal collar or tag and the plurality of RFTR stations to stored information indicative of sensed properties of at least one RF signal communicated between the RF communication device and the plurality of RFTR stations.

45. A radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter, a mobile RF receiver, and a mobile charging signal antenna, the RFTR station comprising: a station RF receiver adapted to communicate with the mobile RF transmitter; and a station RF transmitter adapted to communicate with the mobile RF receiver;

wherein the RFTR station is adapted to generate a RF charging signal for reception by the mobile charging signal antenna to charge a charge storage element associated with the animal collar or tag while the animal collar or tag is worn by an animal.

46. The RFTR station of claim 45, further being adapted to communicate wirelessly with a premises alarm sensor disposed remotely from the at least one RFTR station.

47. The RFTR station of claim 45, further being adapted to generate a RF charging signal for reception by a charging signal antenna associated with a premises alarm sensor located remotely from the RFTR station.

48. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising an indicator element adapted to generate a user -perceptible signal indicative of reception of the RF charging signal by an animal collar or tag or a premises alarm sensor.

49. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element.

50. The RFTR station of claim 49, being adapted to perform any of the following: (a) digitally store at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element, and (b) transmit to a network communication terminal at least one of audio, images, and video captured by the at least one of an audio capture element, an image capture element, and a video capture element.

51. The RFTR station of claim 49, wherein at least one of an image capture element and a video capture element is embodied in at least one camera, and the at least one camera is selectively positionable by a user.

52. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising:

a body structure; and

53. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising: a body structure;

54. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising at least one of a motion sensor, a shock sensor, and a sensor adapted to detect a condition indicative of glass breakage.

55. The RFTR station of claim 45, operatively coupled to a communication network arranged to permit communication with at least one network communication terminal remotely located from the RFTR station.

56. The RFTR station of claim 45, being adapted to communicate wirelessly with at least one other RFTR station.

57. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising a light adapted to light an environment proximate to the RFTR station.

58. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising a charge storage element, and being operatively coupled to a photovoltaic element arranged to at least intermittently supply charge to the charge storage element.

59. The RFTR station of claim 45, further comprising an alarm signal generator adapted to generate an alarm signal responsive to receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the animal, behavior of the animal, position of the animal collar or tag, and lack of communication between the animal collar or tag the RFTR station.

60. A radio frequency transmit / receive (RFTR) station adapted for wireless RF communication with an animal collar or tag that includes a mobile RF transmitter and a mobile RF receiver, the RFTR station comprising:

a station RF receiver adapted to communicate with the mobile RF transmitter;

a station RF transmitter adapted to communicate with the mobile RF receiver; and at least one premises monitoring element.

61. The RFTR station of claim 60, wherein the at least one premises monitoring element comprises at least one of:

(a) an audio capture element;

(b) a video capture element;

(c) a motion sensor;

(d) a proximity sensor;

(e) a shock sensor;

(f) a photoelectric beam sensor; and

(g) a sensor adapted to detect a condition indicative of glass breakage.

62. The RFTR station of claim 60, further comprising network communication port arranged to permit communicate with at least one network communication terminal located remotely from the RFTR station.

63. The RFTR station of claim 60, operative ly coupled to a memory element adapted to store information generated by the at least one premises monitoring element.

64. The RFTR station of claim 60, adapted to wirelessly communicate signals received from the at least one premises monitoring element to a RF signal receiver operatively coupled with a premises alarm system.

65. An animal toy arranged for interaction with an electronic communication device located remotely from the animal toy, the animal toy comprising:

at least one user-controllable activation element arranged to trigger animal-perceptible activity by the animal toy;

at least one user output element arranged to generate an output signal for transmission or forwarding to a user; and

at least one RF communication element operatively coupled to the at least one user- controllable activation element and the at least one user output element, wherein the at least one RF communication element is arranged for at least one of direct RF communication and indirect communication with the electronic communication device.

66. The animal toy of claim Fl, wherein the at least one RF communication element is arranged to communicate with the electronic communication device via a local or wide-area network.

67. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one RF communication element is arranged to communicate with the electronic communication device via at least one a radio frequency transmit- receive (RFTR) station.

68. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user controllable activation element comprises at least one of a motor and a vibration element.

69. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user controllable activation element is controllable with respect to speed.

70. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user controllable activation element is controllable with respect to direction.

71. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user controllable activation element is controllable to cause the animal toy to jump.

72. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user output element comprises a camera arranged to communicate a video signal for reproduction by the electronic communication device.

73. The animal toy of claim 65, wherein the at least one user output element comprises a microphone arranged to communicate an audio signal for reproduction by the electronic communication device.