AU2020202232A1

AU2020202232A1 - Audit and tracing system and related apparatus of or for organisms

Info

Publication number: AU2020202232A1
Application number: AU2020202232A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Michael Stuart Gardner
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2019-03-29
Filing date: 2020-03-30
Publication date: 2020-10-15

Abstract

To improve the audit and tracing trail of or for animals, electronic tags that may come included in halters or collars or bolus or eartags may be used with and/or applied to animals. Electronic tags may be subcutaneous or may be eartags that are 5 commonly applied to the ears of livestock. Despite the increased security resulting from the use of identification tags, there still remains the risk of error, lost tags, fraud or installation or handling error. This may occur during the tagging process if there are insufficient measures to prevent tampering of the tags. The present invention relates to an audit and tracing system, related apparatus and methods of or for organisms 10 such as animals or plants. The system utilising a tag applicator with a timer or geolocation feature to reduce fraud or error. tt~' 4~ (.3 Ii S p C It C Es

Description

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AUDIT AND TRACING SYSTEM AND RELATED APPARATUS OF OR FORORGANISMS

FIELD OFTHEINVENTION The present invention relates to an audit and tracing system, related apparatus and methods of or for organisms such as animals or plants.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION To improve the audit and tracing trail of or for animals, electronic tags that may come included in halters or collars or bolus or eartags may be used with and/or applied to animals. Electronic tags may be subcutaneous or may be eartags that are commonly applied to the ears of livestock. For disease and quality control, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to individually identify each animal with a unique code associated with the animal. This is typically achieved by tagging of livestock which has recently become compulsory in many countries worldwide. The tag, attached to the animal, e.g., to the animal's ear(s), has usually has a visible identifier such as a number or machine readable code and may also have a unique electronic identifier on or transmittable by or readable from the tag. These unique codes can be registered centrally, together with additional data related to the animal (eg, the animal's location over time and treatments received etc) and farm. Accordingly, in an outbreak of a disease, animal identification and some of the animal's history can be more rapidly traced. Despite the increased security resulting from the use of identification tags, there still remains the risk of error, lost tags or fraud. This may occur during the tagging process if there are insufficient measures to prevent tampering of the tags. After tagging tampering can also occur. Further, the tagging process is often labour intensive and prone to errors and inaccuracies, as the process typically requires logging of multiple pieces of information associated with each tag and animal, concurrently whilst tagging. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an audit and tracing system, related apparatus and methods of or for animals that goes at least some way toward overcoming the disadvantages of known methods and/or that will at least provide the public with a useful choice. The invention may be used with animals particularly, including pigs, goats, cattle, sheep, poultry, and fish. The animals may be production animals or companion animals or wild animals and plants. In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect, the present invention may be said to be a system for identifying an individual organism (eg animal or plant) or creating a record of organism identity, the system comprising A) an applicator device comprising; a handheld body to hold at least one component of an organism tag and to facilitate the application of the organism tag to an organism, and B) a data unit (preferably removably engaged to said handheld body) and comprising one or more of: i. a tag reader adapted to read information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag, ii. an ID reader adapted to record identification information (hereinafter "ID") of or associated with at least one of (a) the organism to which the organism tag is to be applied and (b) the user of the applicator device and (c) the geolocation of the applicator device. In a second aspect the present invention may be said to be a tag applicator comprising an applicator device comprising a handheld body to hold (and preferably holding) at least part of an organism tag to be applied to an organism by the handheld body, a data unit (preferably removably) engaged to said handheld body and comprising one or more of: i. a tag reader adapted to read information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag, ii. an ID reader adapted to record identification information (hereinafter "ID") of or associated with at least one of (a) the organism to which the organism tag is to be applied and (b) the user of the applicator device and (c) the geolocation of the applicator device.

Preferably the applicator device comprises an actuator adapted to drive said at least part of the organism tag relative to the handheld body to secure the organism tag to the organism. Preferably tag information is electronic tag information carried in an electronic form by the organism tag. Preferably the organism tag comprises an eartag. Preferably the organism tag comprises an electronic eartag. Preferably the organism tag comprises an eartag that carries an RFID tag. Preferably the organism tag comprises an eartag includes a machine readable code visibly presented on the outside of the eartag. Preferably the data unit comprises memory storage and/or can receive removable memory storage. Preferably the memory storage can store said ID and tag information, that can then become associated with each other. Preferably the data unit comprises a transmitter to transmit said ID and/or tag information to an external device. Preferably the data unit comprises a rechargeable power supply. Preferably, if the data unit, when in the form engageable to the handheld body, is removed, the applicator device is still able to function to apply tags to the organism. Preferably the data unit comprises a tag reader, and wherein said tag information to be read by the tag reader comprises one or more of a machine readable ID and an electronic ID, associated with the tag. Preferably the data unit comprises a tag reader and an ID reader. Preferably said ID reader may capture ID of the organism in the form of electronic data associated with the organism (such as an existing subcutaneous electronic ID carrying device or an previously applied ear tag). Preferably said ID reader may capture ID of the organism in the form of an image of part of the organism. Preferably the ID reader can record ID of the user of the applicator device. Preferably ID reader comprises a camera that may be used to take a photo of at least part of the organism and/or the user or an item associated with such. Preferably ID reader comprises an EID reader such as an RFID reader. Preferably ID reader comprises a code scanner. Preferably ID reader comprises a OCR reader.

Preferably said tag reader is configured to capture respective identification information via compatible EID communication (preferably RFID). Preferably said ID reader is configured to capture respective identification information via compatible EID communication (preferably RFID). Preferably the readers utilise different frequencies for EID communication. Preferably the organism ID reader comprises a camera configured for one or more of: a) capturing an image of at least part of the organism, b) capturing an image of the tag, c) capturing an image of an item engaged to the organism, d) capturing an image of the person using the applicator device. Preferably the ID is EID such as RFID carried information. Preferably the data unit comprises a positional tracking system such as GPS. Preferably the data unit comprises: a) a timer and/or b) means for obtaining and recording and/or transmitting time stamps. Preferably the data unit is configured to measure and/or record time between: a) capturing at least one of said ID and tag in formation, and applying the tag to the organism and/or b) applying the tag to the organism and capturing at least one of said ID and tag information, to compare the measured and/or recorded time against a predetermined time. Preferably if said measured and/or recorded time exceeds the predetermined time the handheld body or data unit provides directly or indirectly (eg to an external device) audio, visual or haptic feedback to the user. Preferably if said measured and/or recorded time exceeds the predetermined time the applicator device (preferably the data unit) prompts the user to not apply the ear tag and reread at least the tag information. Preferably if said measured and/or recorded time exceeds the predetermined time the applicator device (preferably the data unit) makes a record associated with the ID and/or tag information indicating the measured and/or recorded time was exceeded. Preferably if said measured and/or recorded time exceeds the predetermined time the applicator device is deactivated by preventing said actuator(s) from being actuated.

Preferably the data unit can receive information of, carried by or from and/or about the user of the applicator device. Preferably if deactivated, the user is required to perform one or more authorisation steps comprising one or more of inputting user login details and capturing user credentials, and/or to restart the tagging process, in order to reactivate the applicator device. Preferably if said measured and/or recorded time exceeds the predetermined time, the data unit records a warning data tag associated with the tag information, (preferably associated with said tag information and/or ID and stored on memory storage of said data unit). Preferably said predetermined time is between about 2 and 20 seconds. Preferably said predetermined time limit is between about 1 second and 5 minutes. Preferably said time limit is between about 5 and 10 seconds. Preferably the data unit comprises an organism tag reader, wherein the data unit records a time stamp at the time when said tag information is captured, and wherein the data unit records another time stamp at the time the tag is applied to the organism by the applicator device. Preferably the data unit comprises a tag reader, and wherein the time of applying the tag to the organism corresponds to the capturing of said tag information. Preferably the data unit comprises a processor for controlling operation or operability of the applicator device. Preferably the data unit comprises a user interface for receiving and/or capturing user credentials. Preferably the data unit comprises wireless communication means for transmitting data to one or more external devices. Preferably the data unit is able to wirelessly transmit data to one or more external devices. Preferably the memory storage can store at least one of: A) said ID and tag information, and B) GPS data, photographs, time stamps and preferably associate at least two with each other.

In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of applying an identification tag to an organism using an applicator device, said applicator device comprising a handheld body presenting: a holder adapted in use to accommodate at least part of an organism tag to become associated with the organism, an actuator adapted to drive the at least part of an organism tag from the holder, (preferably through the animal) to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, an ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter ID) of or associated with at least one of the organism to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user, the method comprising: a) supplying the applicator device with at least part of an organism tag at the holder, b) driving the actuator to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, c) capturing the ID, wherein the time duration (hereinafter "ID time duration") between steps (b) and (c) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of whether step (b) occurs before or after step (c). Preferably the applicator device is as herein before described. Preferably the applicator device carries a data unit that comprises said ID reader. Preferably the data unit also comprises a tag reader adapted to capture information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag. Preferably the data unit also comprises a tag reader adapted to capture information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag and the method comprises capturing (as step d) the tag information before or after steps b or c and wherein the time duration (hereinafter "tagging time duration") between steps (b) and (c) and (d) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) and (d) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of the order of step (b) and (c) and (d). In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of applying an identification tag to an organism using an applicator device, said applicator device comprising a handheld body presenting: a holder adapted in use to accommodate a at least part of an organism tag to become associated with the organism, an actuator adapted to drive the at least part of an organism tag from the holder, (preferably through the organism) to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, an ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter ID) of or associated with at least one of the organism to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user of the applicator device, the method comprising: a) supplying the applicator device with at least part of an organism tag at the holder, b) driving the actuator to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, c) capturing the ID, wherein the time duration (hereinafter "ID time duration") between steps (b) and (c) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of whether step (b) occurs before or after step (c). In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of recording information of and/or associated with an organism comprising using an organism applicator device, said applicator device comprising a handheld body presenting: a holder adapted in use to accommodate a at least part of an organism tag to become associated with the organism, an actuator adapted to drive the at least part of an organism tag from the holder, (preferably through the animal) to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, an ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter ID) of or associated with at least one of the organism to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user of the applicator device, the method comprising: a) supplying the applicator device with at least part of an organism tag at the holder, b) driving the actuator to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, c) capturing the ID, wherein the time duration (hereinafter "ID time duration") between steps (b) and (c) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of whether step (b) occurs before or after step (c).

In still a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of applying an organism tag to an organism using an applicator device, said applicator device comprising a handheld body comprising a holder adapted in use to accommodate at least part of a tag to be applied to the organism by an actuator adapted to drive the part from the holder, and an animal ID reader (preferably removably engaged to the handheld body or located, during tagging, proximate to the handheld body), the ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter "ID") associated with (and preferably carried by) at least one of the organism to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user of the applicator device, the method comprising: a) supplying the applicator device with said at least part of said tag at the holder, b) driving the actuator to apply said at least part of said tag to said organism, c) capturing the ID, wherein the time duration (hereinafter "ID time duration") between steps (b) and (c) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of whether step (b) occurs before or after step (c). Preferably the ID time duration is compared (and is preferably recorded) with a predetermined time limit. Preferably the method comprising providing at least one of audio, visual and haptic feedback to a user if said ID time duration is longer than said predetermined time limit. Preferably the method further comprising prompting the user to restart the tagging process if said ID time duration is longer than said predetermined time limit. Preferably the ID time duration when step (b) occurs after step (c) is monitored such that if the ID time duration exceeds said predetermined time limit, said driving of the actuator is prevented by said applicator device. Preferably if said ID time duration is longer than said predetermined time limit and said applicator device is deactivated by preventing said actuator(s) from being actuated, the user must perform one or more authorisation steps comprising one or more of inputting user login details and capturing user credentials, and/or to restart the tagging process, in order to reactivate the applicator device.

Preferably the method further comprising recording or assigning a warning data tag associated with the ID if said ID time duration is longer than said respective predetermined limit. Preferably said warning data tag is associated with said ID (preferably on a separate memory storage and/or on memory storage associated with said handheld body). Preferably said warning data tag is associated with information carried by said tag. Preferably the time of steps (b) and (c) taking place, are recorded as time stamps, and said recorded time stamps are associated with said tag (preferably on a separate memory storage and/or on memory storage associated with said handheld body). Preferably said time stamps are recorded and associated with information carried by said tag, preferably on a separate memory storage and/or on memory storage associated with said handheld body. Preferably said time stamps are associated with said ID information recorded preferably on a separate memory storage and/or on memory storage associated with said handheld body. Preferably the method further comprises: capturing identification information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with tag as the at least part of the tag is driven from the holder and, wherein the time of attaching the tag to the organism corresponds to said capturing of said tag information. Preferably the predetermined time limit against which the tag time duration is compared is between about .1 and 20 seconds. Preferably the predetermined time limit against which the tag time duration is compared is between about .1 seconds and 5 minutes. Preferably the predetermined time limit against which the tag time duration is compared is between about 5 and 10 seconds. Preferably the reader includes a location sensor that can sense the geolocation of the reader and record this information associated with information of said ID and/or tag information. In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be an organism tagging system to apply an identification tag to an organism, comprising: an applicator device comprising a handheld body defining a region at where at least part of an organism identification tag can be held (and preferably is held) the handheld body carrying an actuator adapted to drive the at least part of the organism identification tag to engage it to the organism, a data unit removably engageable to said handheld body and comprising one or more of: a. a tag reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the animal, b. an animal ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter "ID") associated with at least one of the animal to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user of the applicator device and geolocation of the applicator, wherein in a first mode of use, the applicator device, with the data unit engaged to the handheld body, presents a holding region where a part of said tag can be held, and wherein in a second mode of use, the applicator device, without the data unit engaged to the handheld body, presents a holding region where a part of said tag can be held. In an even further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of recording information and associating the information with an organism, the method comprising: using a applicator device that includes a data unit (that is preferably removable from the applicator device) that can (a) sequentially receive a plurality of organism tags or part to be applied to the organism and (b) record information of or carried by said organism and (c) record information of or carried by each said tag, (i) recording geolocation information of the applicator device at the time of tagging, (ii) recording information of or carried by said tag and/or organism and (iii) recording information of or carried by said tag and (iv) associating said geolocation information and information of or carried by said tag and information of said organism together. Preferably the time between at least one of (i) recording the geolocation of the tag being applied, (ii) recording tag information and (iii) recording ID of or carried by said organism and/or user is also associated with said geolocation information and information of or carried by said item and information of or carried by said tag. Preferably the data unit carries a GPS or other geolocation sensing/capable device. In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be an audit system for allowing the identification of an animal and associating earlier recorded information about the animal the method comprising

(a) issuing a tag that carries a unique identifier that has been recorded in a database, (b) applying the tag to an organism (c) immediately before, during and/or after step (b) electronically reading/recording organism ID and the unique identifier and optionally the geolocation of such applying (d) associating the read and recorded information of step c with the unique identifier database record. Preferably the organism is an animal. Preferably the organism is an animal such as a cow or sheep or goat or deer. Preferably the organism is an animal such as a companion animal. Preferably the organism is a plant. Preferably the applicator device is an ear tagger. Preferably the organism tag is an ear tag. Preferably the organism tag is or is part of a halter or collar. The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an eartag as an example of an organism tag that may be used with or as part of the present invention. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a different eartag, Figure 3 is a side view of an applicator device and two ear tag components held by it,

Figure 4 is a front view of the bottom jaw of the applicator device of figure 3 showing the interface between the data unit and the applicator device, Figure 5 is shows an applicator device with a data unit engaged, Figure 6 shows the applicator device of figure 5 with the data unit detached. Figures 7 show a sequence of use of the applicator device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention relates to an audit and tracing system, related apparatus and methods of or for organisms such as animals or plants. In example will herein be described of organism tagging and related data recording methods that may utilise different variations of tagging hardware and consumable components such as ear tags able to be applied to animals particularly, including pigs, goats, cattle, sheep, poultry, and fish. Tagging of production and/or companion animals such as cats, dogs and horses is envisaged. The system of the present invention comprises an applicator device 1 that may comprise a body 2 and a data unit 1000. The data unit is able to be attached to the body and detached therefrom. The data unit is designed to work with many applicator devices and may by simple modification be adapted to be secured to a number of applicator devices already in market and in use. The data unit is hence retrofittable. The applicator device 1 may be an existing applicator device to which the data unit is able to be retrofitted. The data unit may be taken on and off an applicator device 1 by a user such a farmer as and when desired. At a farm there may be multiple of the data units. They may have a self contained power source such as a battery. Each may be able to have an onboard battery recharged and this may allow for interchanging of data units with an applicator device as one unit's battery power reduces below usable levels. Given that its envisaged that the data unit it able to be detachably secured to many different shaped bodies of applicator devices, a connector interface may be provided. The connector interface 6 may present two connection regions, one 200 that is complimentary to a region of an applicator device and the other 300 complimentary to a region of the data unit as seen in figure 4. A user may purchase a data unit and specific connector interface for the applicator device that they already own. The connector interface may be fastened to their applicator device and the data unit is then able to conveniently be attached and detached to/from the connector interface. The data unit is, in such manner of facilitating connection to the applicator device, also able to be quickly transferred to other applicator devices that have a connector interface secured. Organism tags such as ear tags are known in the art and have been widely used to provide a unique identification of each organisms such as an animal. Reference will herein after be made to ear tags as a convenient example. But alternatively halters, collars, bolus or other means may be used instead. Ear tag 600 may comprise a human readable identification component 601, such as an alphanumerical sequence printed or otherwise provided on the ear tag. The ear tag may additionally or alternatively comprise a visible machine readable component 602 such as a linear barcode or a matrix barcode such as quick response (QR) codes. The ear tag may additionally or alternatively be an electronic identification (EID) tag 603, e.g., a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a near field communication (NFC) tag, which comprises electronically stored information and means for transmitting this information to the tag reader. In some cases, the tag may be embedded (e.g., subcutaneously) in the animal; in other cases, the tag is attached to the animal (e.g., to the animal's ear) such that at least a portion of the tag is visible to the user; in yet other cases, the tag is marked onto the animal, e.g., via branding, tattooing. Where RFID is used, the RFID system may operate in a suitable frequency range, e.g., low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), ultra high frequency (UHF). The frequency range may be selected according to effectiveness over the distances required, according to regulation or standards, and/or so as not to interfere with other RFID systems (as discussed in more detail below). The data unit 1000 comprises a tag reader that is accordingly configured to read, sense, scan, capture and/or record one or more identification components from the organism tag (eg ear tag). In some embodiments, the organism tag reader is configured to be able to capture identifiers from more than one type of organism tag, for greater versatility across a range of different environments and scenarios. In one embodiment, the tag reader is configured to read electronically stored data from an EID tag. For example, the ear tag may comprise a passive RFID transponder that is powered inductively by the organism tag reader. Alternatively, the ear tag may be an active RFID tag. The tag reader comprises an RFID reader antenna configured to read the electronic ID transmitted by the ear tag across a specific carrier frequency or frequency band. Preferably, the configuration of the RFID system conforms to ISO standards 11784 and 11785. Accordingly, the RFID system is preferably a low frequency (LF) system, and operates across the ISO-compliant carrier frequency of 134.2 kHz.

However, it will be appreciated that the RFID system could be instead compliant with other national or regional standards relating to ear identification and tracing, and may therefore operate at or across other frequencies as appropriate. The tag reader may additionally or alternatively comprise a barcode or QR code scanner for use with tags that have a barcode and may have no RFID capability. In these cases, the tag reader may comprise a barcode scanner, image scanner, a camera or other image capturing means. The tag reader of may further comprise a processor running image recognition software for processing and interpreting the captured barcode image. In other embodiments, the tag reader may simply record the barcode image, to be transferred to a separate storage location, apparatus, database, server, for subsequent processing and interpreting. Additionally or alternatively, the tag reader may be a camera 223 for recording human viewable/readable components, such as alphanumeric serial numbers, from the organism tag. Similarly, the recorded image may be processed using image recognition and processing software, whether this is run on board the data unit, or after the data has been transferred to a remote server. Further, the camera could also be used to take photographs or videos of identifying features of the animal, for example, photographs of the ear tag, biometric data such as a retinal scan of the animal, visual patterns on the animal such as colouring variation or distribution of spots, or other identification features such as visual brands on the animal, ear notches. This may also apply for plants. This biometric identification data may be captured in addition to identification from an organism tag associated with the organsim. The camera may be provided with one or more accessories (whether integrally formed with the camera or not) such as a flash, laser pointers, for use in low-light conditions and/or as a laser "sight" to increase accuracy of focus on the ID component or other identifying features of the animal before/when capturing the photograph. Other accessories may include rangefinders (e.g., laser rangefinders), proximity sensors, infrared sensors, to aid with focusing and capturing of photographs and optionally also to obtain more information about the images captured e.g., distance. The user may be prompted to scan the ear tag and/or capture other ID such as animal and/or user ID immediately before and/or immediately after applying the tag to the animal. This prompting may be by way of visual, audio or haptic feedback. For example, a countdown timer may be visible and/or audible. Timing between the scanning/capturing and application steps may be restricted, regulated, recorded or monitored.

In other embodiments, the scanning/recording and/or transmission of the animal EID may be automatically activated, for example, actuating the trigger of the tagging device to apply the tag may simultaneously activate the tag reader to read the EID and/or capture the image. Preferably the applicator device has a unique machine and/or human readable code or code carrying component. This is preferably engaged or embedded in the applicator device to prevent removal and/or tampering or is tamper evidently associated with the device. It may for example be a barcode 137. It is preferably readable by the data unit, so that the data unit can be paired to the device. It may be that the device and the data unit are a unique pairing and one of the other will not work when not associated as a pair. The data unit may scan the code 137. This may occur often and during use or at the time of engagement to activate the data unit. The code may wireless communicate with the data unit or it may be via wired communication. In preferred embodiments, the applicator device is preferably configured so that there is a predetermined time limit between (a) scanning or reading of the ID and/or tag information and (b) applying the tag or applying of a tag marked as valid (eg a validated tag) and that accordingly will or should be treated as valid in subsequent processing, (or vice versa). This can help reduce the risk of fraud (i.e., prevents the user from scanning one animal's tag and applying a tag to another animal). For example, the user may be provided with between three seconds and ten seconds after scanning the organism tag to complete the application process. This time limit may be factory set. This time limit may be programmable by an authorised user, so that it may be adapted for different scenarios. In some embodiments, if the tag is not applied within the time limit, the user may be notified (via sound, visual, haptic feedback) and the user will need to rescan the organism tag before the tag (or a validated tag) is applied. That is, the applicator device may be blocked or deactivated such application cannot occur unless the organism tag is rescanned. In some embodiments, if the tag is not applied within the time limit, the applicator device may be deactivated, e.g., the actuator 400 (eg the handles of the plier type tagging device of figure 3) may be prevented from being actuated (for example via solenoid pins that lock the push rod), the applicator device may power off or go into standby mode, until the user performs one or more authorisation steps, e.g., by inputting user login details (may be user's login details or a supervisor's login details), or by capturing user (or a supervisor's) credentials e.g., sensing, reading, and/or recognising one or more identifiers associated with the user, such as a barcode, QR code, EID on a user's ID card, and/or biometric data such as the user's thumbprint, eye scan. Further, the user may also be required to restart the application process once the authorisation step(s) have been performed, in order to reactivate the applicator device. Other types of actuator are envisaged also such as push rods to drive a part of an eartag through the ear of an animal. In other embodiments, if the tag is not applied within the time limit, a data warning tag is added to the data associated with the tag information, so that a record is kept (and may be used later that the time limit was breached during that particular application instance. Ie the application is not valid or is not a validated tag. Alternatively, instead of setting a predetermined time limit or timer, the reader could record two time stamps, one at the time the organism tag is scanned, and another at the time the tag is applied. The duration between the two time stamps may then be assessed, e.g., at the laboratory, to determine if too much time elapsed between these two events. The tag may then be treated as non-validated tag. Preferably, the identification of these events (i.e., capturing the animal ID and applying the tag) is performed automatically by the applicator or associated portable device, and cannot be modified by the user. For example, a proximity or magnetic switch may be provided in a suitable location to confirm that the tag has moved, e.g., out of the holder of the applicator device. This automatic detection can therefore be linked unambiguously to the applicator application action. It will be appreciated that other means of detecting the application action may also be suitable, e.g., as will be discussed in more detail below, the tag ID reader may be positioned to only capture the ID of the actual tag while it is moving from the applicator device. Accordingly, the time of the reading of the tag ID could be used as an unambiguous confirmation of the application action. The required recording process may either require the animal/user ID data to be captured before or after applying the tag. Where the recording is done after applying the tag, the procedure would not prohibit a tag from being applied (e.g., by deactivating the applicator device) if the time limit is breached, but the tag information could be tagged with data warning tags as described above. For extra security, a multi-scan process may be implemented. For example, the user may be required to scan the organism tag , apply the tag, then re-scan the organism tag . Optionally, this must all be done within a predetermined time period. This will help to reduce the risk of fraudulent attachment of a tag. In one embodiment, the organism tag reader may be provided integrally with (and permanently attached to) the applicator device.

In another embodiment, the organism tag reader may be provided on a data unit that is removably attachable to the body of the applicator device. In this embodiment, the detachable data unit may also comprise inbuilt memory storage and/or means for receiving removable memory storage, e.g., memory cards, USB, for storing the ID. The ID data and other data such as time stamp data may be written to the memory storage to be recorded thereon. Alternatively, the data unit may transmit the ID and other data to an external device or database without storing the data on the data unit. The detachable data unit may be configured to be reversibly attached to the applicator device via any suitable attachment means, e.g., snap-fit, interference fit, screw-fit, a lug and slot connection clamps. The organism tag reader may be physically separate from the applicator device. The organism tag reader may comprise a smartphone or other portable computing device, having a camera which may function as a barcode/QR code scanner, and/or having RFID/NFC capabilities for receiving EID data from the organism tag .

The smartphone may run software or applications to provide a user interface to facilitate the link between the smartphone and the data unit. Additionally, the smartphone may perform some or all of the image recognition and processing of the captured data. Alternatively, some or all of the raw captured data may individually or collectively be transmitted (whether via a wired or wireless connection) to a server or database for further processing. In preferred embodiments, the data unit when attached or attachable to an applicator device may be wirelessly connectable to a smartphone 2000 via, for example, Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, infrared, NFC, mobile networks such as GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G LTE, to perform one or more of the following functions: user authorisation, data transfer, user interaction. Further, even for the embodiments where the data unit is provided on the applicator device, the applicator device is preferably able to connect wirelessly with a smartphone or other portable computing device to facilitate one or more of these functions. In alternative embodiments, the applicator device may comprise a holder or other means for temporarily attaching a smartphone or other portable computing device to the body of the applicator device. In addition to physically mounting the smartphone to the applicator device, some embodiments may provide means for wired data connectivity between the two devices (for example, a USB plug connection) while the smartphone is mounted to the applicator device.

In preferred embodiments, the applicator device comprises an ID reader to read, sense, scan, capture and/or record one or more animal identification features and/or o the user or associated with the user. The RFID reader may be selected according to the anticipated manufacturing and use conditions of the tag. For example a typical passive tag, active reader system operating at low frequency can provide robust identification devices suitable for embedding in molded plastic components at a unit cost that is appropriate. Other systems, such as NFC, or passive or active tag systems operating in the high frequency (HF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) range may also provide affordable, effective solutions. One advantage of the embodiment is that this provides a means for automatically and unambiguously detecting the application action. The exact time of the application action may therefore be linked to the time that the tag ID reader captures the tag ID, and this data may be used to implement the restricted time limit between capturing the animal/user ID and application , as described above. In cases where the tag ID is not an electronic ID, e.g., it may be a barcode, QR code, the tag ID reader is configured to scan/read the tag ID as appropriate, e.g., the tag ID reader may be a camera, barcode scanner, smartphone with camera. In some embodiments, the data unit may comprise GPS 220 or other 3D positional recording or tracking systems for providing location data. Additionally or alternatively, the unit may also comprise other forms of positioning technology to provide location data, including but not limited to cell phone network based triangulation, Wi-Fi-based geolocation by the correlation of the SSID, MAC address or other identifiers of the Wi-Fi access point with a public or private database of locations associated with the Wi-Fi access point. Where Wi-Fi geolocation is used, this form of positional information may be supplemented with one or more other commonly used localisation techniques. Such techniques may include the estimation of position based on signal strength from one or more access points, fingerprinting, angle of arrival based techniques where more than one antenna or access point is available, or time of flight techniques. For example, the reader may comprise a GPS or other positioning technology module to obtain or estimate the location where a tag was applied to an animal. The positioning technology module may be provided either as a component either separate and preferably connectable or associable with the handheld body of the applicator device, or may be integral with the handheld body of the applicator device. Where provided separate from the handheld body, the positioning technology module may be provided by the smart phone where present. It is contemplated that the positioning technology module may additionally be provided by any other commonly available device. In the case where the positioning technology module is provided by the smart phone, the smart phone may be located near to the applicator device, such that the location data may be transmitted to the applicator device. In order to prevent fraud by the recording of location data not sufficiently close to the actual location of the application , it may be preferable to limit the range within which the smart phone may communicate with the applicator device. Such a range limitation may be provided by using short-distance communication protocol, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Alternatively, it may be provided by requiring a wired connection between the applicator device and smart phone. In these cases, the smart phone may be carried by the user while application , or may be located nearby such as on a fence post, in a nearby vehicle. Additional security measures may optionally be employed, e.g., back-up position tracking systems, additional cell tower metadata, assisted GPS, to prevent GPS spoofing fraud, verify the collected location data, and/or increase accuracy of the location data. In the preferred form is contemplated that the accuracy of location data is desired to be such that it is possible to distinguish between farms or regions within farms, or individual ocean areas, but not necessarily to the level of individual animals or plants. However, in alternative forms more accurate location data may be able to be provided, such that it is possible to determine between specific areas of land or sea. The location data may then be recorded and linked to the tag (e.g. tag ID, animal/user ID, other relevant information associated with the particular tag). This linking of the data may be performed onboard the applicator device, via a connected device such as a smartphone and/or after the datasets have been transferred to a server or database. Where the location data is linked to the tag it may be desirable, in order to prevent fraud, to provide a time limit between the application and the reader acquiring the location data from the positioning technology module. If the time between the application and the acquiring of the location data exceeds the time limit, the reader may either reject the tag or record this information for assessment later. This may go at least some way in preventing fraud by applying to an animal in a first location, but the provision of location information from a second location. In addition to measuring a time between application and the provision of the location information from the positioning technology module the reader may require that the location data be timestamped within a particular time period. This may further prevent the spoofing of positioning information and the recording by the reader of inaccurate location data. At the laboratory the time timestamps and locations of each recorded application location may be compared against the time between each related tag, in order to determine if the distances travelled between each successive application s was possible in that amount of time. Where this analysis is conducted, some leeway may be provided dependent on the accuracy and type of positioning technology that is utilised. In addition to the location data, other information such as time and date, images of the application location, may be captured immediately before, during or immediately after the application, and the data linked with each other to provide a comprehensive collection of data tags associated with a particular tag. For example, actuating the trigger of the applicator device to tag may simultaneously initiate the recording of these additional data. Location data or other information, as described above, that is captured and associated with a particular tag may be stored or may be recorded on the reader itself, or on a connected device such as a smartphone where present. Recorded data may be instantaneously uploaded to a desired location for review at the laboratory, or may be manually uploaded, such as by reading the data off a memory card associated with the reader, at a later time. Where location data or other information is associated with a tag and stored or transmitted, it may first be encrypted by either the applicator device or associated connected device prior to storage or transmission. This encryption may assist in preventing fraudulent modification of the data, such as by the insertion of a falsified data stream. The information required for decrypting the data may be provided at an authorised end source, such as a laboratory where the data is reviewed. An additional layer of security may be provided by requiring operator authentication prior to using the applicator device, and/or prior to application. Operator login may be performed via direct operator input to the applicator device, via switches, touch screens, keypads, provided on the data unit. Alternatively, the operator may instead log in via an application on a connected device such as a smartphone. Alternatively, instead of operator input, the user's credentials may be obtained by sensing, reading, and/or recognising one or more identifiers associated with the user, such as a barcode, QR code, EID on a user's ID card, and/or biometric data such as the user's thumbprint, eye scan.

For particularly high risk situations, the user may be prompted to input user credentials intermittently or regularly throughout the entire application process. Preferably, in such cases, the applicator device and/or connected device may be configurable such that the frequency of the user input prompts may be varied depending on the security required for a particular situation. Where the applicator device operates as a basic, "non-smart" device, a separate smart device may be provided in order to provide at least some of the herein described smarts of the system. For example, where the smart device is capable of reading RFID tags, the smart device may be used to scan a EID tag, such as an RFID tag, then also taken an associated animal ID. The associated animal ID may also be in the form of an RFID tag, or may be in the form of any one or more of the other forms of animal ID herein described. Specifically, the smart device may scan the RFID tag then also take a location data point from the on-board positioning systems of the smart phone. These pieces of information may then be associated with each other and stored on the smart device, for later transfer or analysis. Any one or more other forms of animal ID may also be taken simultaneously, or preferably within a predetermined time period. For example, the user may take a photograph of the animal using the data unit. Where additional animal ID is to be provided by the user, a maximum time threshold after application, or after the scanning of tag, may be required in order for the animal ID to be validly recorded. As herein described, if the time threshold is not met then the data unit may reject the tag and require re-application, or may record the fact that the threshold was surpassed along with the other animal ID information. In the embodiment where the applicator device operates as a "basic", "non smart" device, and a separate smart device is provided, the one or more forms of animal/user ID which may be sensed or captured by the smart device may either be stored on the smart device, for immediate or deferred transmission to a desired repository, such as the laboratory. Once the GPS coordinates have been returned, the user may then insert an ear tag into holder of the applicator device. In some embodiments such inserting triggers a micro switch or other switch, which then triggers the next step of the operation (e.g., reading the organism tag ). Triggering of the micro switch may help to conserve the battery of the reader (by turning the organism tag reader and/or animal/user ID reader off when not needed). In alternative embodiments, a tag may be inserted before or while the GPS module or other positioning technology is obtaining the GPS coordinates or other location information. In this case, a micro switch need not be provided, and the applicator device may be ready to use as soon as the GPS coordinates have been obtained. It will also be appreciated that the GPS requirement may be overridden by an authorised user, e.g., for use in locations where GPS signals may be weak or unavailable. It is preferable that the override to allow application to continue without location data is only able to be operated when the signal or information required to determine positioning is not available, or is below a desired threshold, for a predetermined period of time, or by a user having sufficient privileges. In high-risk environments it may be preferable to omit the override, so that the application may not continue without location data being provided. In such a situation, in order to ensure that the applicator device is able to be used in the maximum number of physical locations, such as indoors or where there is legitimately no capacity to acquire location data, it may be preferable to provide the applicator device with multiple positioning technologies, or provide alternative forms of animal ID that must be provided in place of the location data. Where alternative forms of animal ID may be provided, it is preferable that they are only available after a predetermined time has passed with no location data being able to be acquired. In some embodiments where a magazine of tags is not provided a new tag may be individually inserted before applying the next tag. Corresponding visual, audio or haptic feedback, e.g., via LED may be provided to prompt the user to insert a tag or part of a tag and subsequently to notify the user that the device is ready to scan the organism tag .

The user then scans/captures the animal/user ID (e.g., via RFID, or by taking a picture or barcode scan) and the animal ID is stored in memory. At this stage, a timer may be activated which starts the countdown to the predetermined time limit during which the tag has to be applied to the animal. This countdown may be indicated to the user via audio, visual or haptic feedback. The user then activated the trigger/handle of the applicator device to drive part of the tag through the animal (eg though the ear of the animal). As the part of the tag passes part the tag ID reader the ID of the tag is read and stored in memory, e.g., memory storage of data unit. A time stamp may be recorded simultaneously, or at any other time during the tag application process, as long as the time stamp is unambiguously associated with the individual tag applied. If however, the tag is not applied within the time limit set by the timer, the microprocessor may initialise any one or more of the following responses. In one embodiment, a warning may be displayed to the user via visual, audio or haptic feedback. Micro switch may then switch off and the user is prompted to enter a password to reactivate the micro switch. This may then reactivate the organism tag reader 1500 and the user is then prompted to rescan the organism tag and subsequently apply the tag within the time limit. In another embodiment, after the visual, audio or haptic warning is activated, the user may be prompted to rescan the organism tag, and the rescanned ID replacing the original ID variable in memory. Subsequently the user may then apply the tag within the time limit. In another embodiment, after the visual, audio or haptic warning is activated, the user may continue to apply the tag, but a data warning tag is generated, linked to the tag, and stored in memory. This way, when the data is processed subsequently, the analyst will be alerted to the fact that that particular tag was applied outside of the prescribed time limit. This step of generating a data warning tag may be applied to any of the above response processes. In another embodiment, a first time stamp is recorded at the time when the animal/user ID is captured and a second time stamp recorded at the time the tag is applied (or vice versa depending on the tag procedure). At the laboratory or data center, the time stamp data may be analysed to flag which (if any) tags were processed outside of the required time limit. The time stamp recording may additionally or alternatively be used to record other steps of the application process. In one embodiment, a warning may also be provided if the ID of the tag is not successfully obtained. In such cases, a visual, audio or haptic warning may be activated, and the user may be prompted to insert a new tag, and restart the entire application process. Alternatively, as described above, if the time between applying a tag and reading animal/user ID or tag ID exceeds the time limit, a warning data tag may be recorded and reviewed at the laboratory. Alternatively, a first time stamp may be recorded when the tag is applied and/or a first time stamp may be recorded when the animal/user ID is captured, a second time stamp recorded when the tag ID is capped, and the time stamp data associated with the tag in memory, to be subsequently processed or reviewed. In preferred embodiments, each tag applied has an associated record of data, which may be stored in memory or transmitted to an external device. The record of data comprises at least i) the animal/user ID and ii) tag identification information.. In some embodiments, the record of data further comprises additional information associated with the tag as described above, e.g., time stamps, data warning tags, photographs, GPS data, user credentials. Accordingly, each tag may be automatically associated with a record of multiple pieces of information related to the particular tag, to improve the efficiency and security of the application process and prevent fraud. Once the full tag process for one animal is completed, the data stored in the microprocessor memory may be transferred to memory storage. The device may then be initialised for the next tag, e.g., the microprocessor memory may be erased. To conserve battery, the microprocessor may put the device into sleep or standby mode if the applicator device is not used for a predetermined time period, e.g., 30 minutes. Upon wake up the microprocessor may activate GPS module to update the GPS coordinates, as discussed above. Where a visual, audio or haptic feedback or warning is indicated in the description above, it should be understood that the feedback may be unique to the particular event or a set of related events, e.g., a specific LED colour, a specific number or pattern of audio beeps, to help the user identify the exact issue/event that is occurring. In another example, the feedback or warning may be displayed on the user interface of a connected device, e.g., smartphone. It is envisaged that the invention can be used with many different types of tags. Figure 1 shows an eartag that comprises a main part 609 and a secondary part 610. The secondary part is a button that can become lodges with the main part to capture the tag to an ear of an animal. In the example shown in figure 1, the main part and secondary part are separate. In figure 2 the main part and secondary part are integrally formed. It is envisaged that an issuing authority that issues tags may receive data from the data units. The issuing authority may issue tags with known ID on them (eg RFID and/or visible ID). The tags, when applied will then have the data unit log the data as herein described which will be sent (in real time or later, remotely or not) from the data unit to the issuing authority. The data can then be matched to the data already recorded at the time of issue to make a match and log additional data for each tag. The issuing authority will then have a record of a tag being used as well as data collected at the time of application of each tag. Each tag and/or each data unit may also have geofencing related control provisions. For example each data unit may self control or be remotely controlled to only work, of mark as valid, tags applied when in a certain geographical region. A data unit that is used outside that region may not work in applying tags or may make a recording of tag data that shows an invalid or potentially fraudulent application of a tag to an animal or organism. The issuing authority may issue and/or assign a data unit to a particular farm. It may issue the tags to a particular farm or of application in a specific geographical location. It may be an authority separate to the issuing authority that does the above. The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred forms thereof. Modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A tag applicator comprising A) an applicator device comprising a handheld body to hold at least part of an organism tag to be applied to an organism by the handheld body, B) a data unit engaged to said handheld body and comprising one or more of: i. a tag reader adapted to read information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag, ii. an ID reader adapted to record identification information (hereinafter "ID") of or associated with at least one of (a) the organism to which the organism tag is to be applied and (b) the user of the applicator device and (c) the geolocation of the applicator device.

2. The tag applicator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the applicator device comprises an actuator adapted to drive said at least part of the organism tag relative to the handheld body to secure the organism tag to the organism.

3. The tag applicator as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein tag information is electronic tag information carried in an electronic form by the organism tag, and/or the organism tag comprises an electronic eartag.

4. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data unit comprises memory storage and/or can receive removable memory storage, and the memory storage can store said ID and tag information, that can then become associated with each other.

5. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data unit comprises a tag reader, and wherein said tag information to be read by the tag reader comprises one or more of a machine readable ID and an electronic ID, associated with the tag, and/or the data unit comprises an ID reader .

6. The tag applicator as claimed in claim 5, wherein the ID reader may capture ID of the organism in the form of electronic data associated with the organism.

7. The tag applicator as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein said ID reader may capture ID of the organism in the form of an image of part of the organism.

8. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the ID reader can record ID of the user of the applicator device, and/or the ID reader comprises a camera that may be used to take a photo of at least part of the organism and/or the user or an item associated with such.

9. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the tag reader is configured to capture respective identification information via compatible EID communication.

10. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the ID reader is configured to capture respective identification information via compatible EID communication.

11. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the organism ID reader comprises a camera configured for one or more of: a) capturing an image of at least part of the organism, b) capturing an image of the tag, c) capturing an image of an item engaged to the organism, d) capturing an image of the person using the applicator device.

12. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data unit comprises a positional tracking system such as GPS.

13. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data unit comprises: a) a timer and/or b) means for obtaining and recording and/or transmitting time stamps.

14. The tag applicator as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data unit is configured to measure and/or record time between: a) capturing at least one of said ID and tag in formation, and applying the tag to the organism and/or b) applying the tag to the organism and capturing at least one of said ID and tag information, to compare the measured and/or recorded time against a predetermined time.

15. A method of applying an identification tag to an organism using a tag applicator, said tag applicator comprising a handheld body presenting: a holder adapted in use to accommodate at least part of an organism tag to become associated with the organism, an actuator adapted to drive the at least part of an organism tag from the holder, (preferably through the animal) to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, an ID reader adapted to capture identification information (hereinafter ID) of or associated with at least one of the organism to which the tag is or is to be applied and the user, the method comprising: a) supplying the applicator device with at least part of an organism tag at the holder, b) driving the actuator to apply the at least part of an organism tag to the organism, c) capturing the ID, wherein the time duration (hereinafter "ID time duration") between steps (b) and (c) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of whether step (b) occurs before or after step (c).

16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the tag applicator is as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14.

17. The method as claimed in claim 15 or 16, wherein the tag applicator carries a data unit that comprises said ID reader.

18. The method as claimed in any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the data unit also comprises a tag reader adapted to capture information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag.

19. The method as claimed in claim 17 or 18, wherein the data unit also comprises a tag reader adapted to capture information (hereinafter "tag information") associated with the organism tag and the method comprises capturing (as step d) the tag information before or after steps b or c and wherein the time duration (hereinafter "tagging time duration") between steps (b) and (c) and (d) is monitored and/or the time of each of steps (b) and (c) and (d) are recorded as time stamps, regardless of the order of step (b) and (c) and (d).

20. A method of recording information and associating the information with an organism, the method comprising: using a applicator device that includes a data unit (that is preferably removable from the applicator device) that can (a) sequentially receive a plurality of organism tags or part to be applied to the organism and (b) record information of or carried by said organism and (c) record information of or carried by each said tag, (i) recording geolocation information of the applicator device at the time of tagging, (ii) recording information of or carried by said tag and/or organism and (iii) recording information of or carried by said tag and (iv) associating said geolocation information and information of or carried by said tag and information of said organism together.

21. The method as claimed in claim 20, wherein the time between at least one of (i) recording the geolocation of the tag being applied, (ii) recording tag information and (iii) recording ID of or carried by said organism and/or user is also associated with said geolocation information and information of or carried by said item and information of or carried by said tag.

22. The method as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein the data unit carries a GPS or other geolocation sensing/capable device.

23. An audit system for allowing the identification of an animal and associating earlier recorded information about the animal the method comprising (a) issuing a tag that carries a unique identifier that has been recorded in a database, (b) applying the tag to an organism (c) immediately before, during and/or after step (b) electronically reading/recording organism ID and the unique identifier and optionally the geolocation of such applying (d) associating the read and recorded information of step c with the unique identifier database record.