GB2480271A

GB2480271A - Scented training dummy and launcher

Info

Publication number: GB2480271A
Application number: GB1007840A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Chamberlain; Helen Chamberlain; Nicholas Andrew James Smith
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-05-11
Filing date: 2010-05-11
Publication date: 2011-11-16
Anticipated expiration: 2030-05-11
Also published as: GB2480271B; GB201007840D0

Abstract

A dummy 20 for use in training animals the dummy having a scent. A training device 10 for an animal comprising, a dummy which is scented and a launcher 30 for launching the dummy. A method of training an animal comprising using the training device described. A training device comprising a dummy, a launcher for the dummy, the launcher comprising propulsion means 38 for propelling the dummy from the launcher, and a release mechanism for releasing the dummy from the launcher. The propulsion means may comprise biasing means and an electromagnetic latching mechanism. Alternatively, the propulsion means comprises an air or other gas which is released on trigger of a switch the resulting pressure forcing the dummy from the launcher. Remote emission of light, sound or additional odour from the launcher and/or dummy/ball to assist with early training or training in conditions of reduced light are also covered.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TRAINING ANIMALS

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to methods and devices for training animals and in particular to methods and devices for training dogs.

Background of the Invention

Many reasons exist for training animals. Sometimes animals were trained to perform a particular task for example, locating an item from a scent given off.

This includes using dogs in the detection of harmful or illegal substance or a missing person. Alternatively, in the case of a pet, training techniques were used to promote good behaviour or even just to provide a stimulating environment for engaging the animal in exercise and play.

Prior Art

US Patent 6571743 discloses a training device for training a dog to recognise an object having a distinct odour. The object is placed where the dog cannot access it, when the animal shows recognition of the object, a trainer positioned remotely ejects a reward object for the dog to play with. This invention divorces the association between the smell and the reward, however, to facilitate remote ejection, a large device having two sets of batteries is required which makes this device cumbersome and expensive to operate.

GB Patent 2 434 072 discloses a remote controlled dog training device. A box having a lid is provided and this contains a spring loaded launch device that ejects a tennis ball. A radio signal causes the lid to be unlatched resulting in release of the ball. A device for adding a scent to the ball can be attached to the box, or for more advanced training removed from it and located remotely from the box. The reward is again divorced from the trainer.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a training device for an animal comprising: a dummy which is scented; and a launcher for launching the dummy.

Preferably, the launcher includes an adjuster for adjusting the launch characteristics of the dummy. These characteristics include the angle of projection and the force of projection. These allow for different launch heights and distances to be achieved.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of training an animal comprising the steps of: providing a launcher for launching a dummy; inserting the dummy into the launcher; and initiating propulsion means for propelling the dummy from the launcher characterised in that the dummy has a scent.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a training device for an animal comprising: a dummy; and a launcher for the dummy, the launcher comprising propulsion means for propelling the dummy from the launcher; and a release mechanism for releasing the dummy from the launcher.

Preferably, the propulsion means comprises: a spring or an alternative biasing means and an electromagnetic latching mechanism whereby upon de-energising of the electromagnet is turned off or on, the spring or alternate biasing means is released resulting in launch of the dummy from the launcher.

Alternatively, the propulsion means comprises compressed air or other gas which is released on trigger of a switch the resulting pressure forcing the dummy from the launcher. The gas supply may be from a cartridge or a piped supply could be used. The gas may be compressed air and so rely upon the potential energy stored in a compressed vessel. Alternatively the gas may be flammable and in which case the energy is released as a result of combustion of the gas.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a dummy for use in the training of animals, the dummy having a scent.

In a fifth embodiment the various piopulsion/trigger mechanisms are housed or constructed completely within the dummy/ball. The various propulsion/trigger mechanisms may be incorporated into both the launcher and the dummy/ball.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a cross section through a first embodiment of training device according to the invention; Figure 2 is a perspective of an alternative embodiment of a training device according to the invention; Figure 3 is a cross section through a further embodiment of training device according to the invention; Figure 4 a perspective of an alternative launcher according to the invention; and Figures 5a to 5e are perspective views of various dummy designs according to the invention.

Detailed Description of the illustrated embodiment

Referring to the Figures, Figure 1 shows a training device 10 having a dummy and a launcher 30. In this example, the dummy 20 is a ball although alternate shapes could be utilised. The launcher 30 includes a launching tube 32 having a seat 34 on which the dummy 20 is placed prior to launch.

The launching tube 32 has a base 46 which is mechanically connected to the seat 34 via the propulsion mechanism 36, 38. The launching tube base 46 is located distal to a launch tube opening 48 through which the dummy 20 is propelled on launch.

The electromagnet trigger mechanism may be adapted to hold a compressed spring in a passive state. A short period of activation may be arranged to weaken or reverse the magnetic attraction, causing the trigger to release.

Alternatively a pin, spring or release catch may be disengaged so as to enable the spring to deploy. In this way the energy required for the trigger operation and release is minimal.

The propulsion mechanism 36, 38 comprises a spring compressible between the seat 34 and the launching tube base 46 and an electromagnet 36a,36b which, when activated draws the seat 34 to the launching tube base 46 causing compression of the spring 38.

The spacing 50 between the two parts of the electromagnet 36a, 36b is adjustable via an adjusting knob 44. This enables adjustment of the compression of the spring 38 (when the electromagnet is on or off) which results in different launch forces being available thus allowing variable height and distance of the dummy 20 when launched.

The launching device 30 also includes a power source (not shown) which comprises one or more batteries or a mains source, a switch for switching the electromagnet on or off and a receiver for receiving signals to switch the electromagnet on and off to cause either attraction or repulsion. A radio frequency or opto-electronic transmitter may also be provided to confirm a change in state of the electromagnet to the user of the device.

The launching tube base 46 sits on legs 40 and a launcher base 42. This allows for space for and access to the adjusting knob 44.

The electromagnet 36a, 36b is mounted on a coarse threaded mounting which achieves variable compression of the spring 38 to achieve different launch heights. Essentially the embodiment is spring powered with an electromagnetic latching mechanism and uses a conventional spring powered piston latched by a switchable electromagnet.

Figure 2 shows in perspective an alternative launcher 130, having a tube portion 132 attached to legs 140 and a launcher base 142. The internal mechanism is similar to that shown in Figure 1 and the force of the compression of the spring (not shown) is adjustable via an adjusting knob 144.

In this embodiment the launcher base is manufactured from a one piece die cast aluminium frame. This version is based on a single piece die-cast aluminium frame which would require tooling to manufacture the device but would require less assembly when compared to a multi-piece fabricated frame.

Figure 3 shows a training device 210 having a dummy 220 and a launcher 230. In this example, the dummy 220 is a ball although alternate shapes could be utilised. The launcher 230 includes a launching tube 232 having a launch tube opening 248 through which the dummy 220 is propelled on launch.

The dummy 220 sits on a gas cartridge 234 which has openings 236 from which a gas is ejected on activation of the gas cartridge 234, causing a build up in pressure within the launching tube 230 which results in propulsion of the dummy 220 from the launch tube opening 248.

The gas pressure produced by the gas cartridge 234 is controlled and varied using a vent collar 238 which at least partially rotates around the launch tube 232 and includes a plurality of slots 240 which can be aligned with cooperating slots in the launcher tube 232 (not shown) to reduce the pressure within the launch tube or misaligned with the cooperating slots to maximise the generated gas pressure.

If the gas cartridge type can be changed to additionally vary the pressure range which is available to a user. A gas supply from a larger gas bottle could be used if the gas cartridge were provided with a supply line connection (not shown). This could either be used to provide extra pressure and so force on a dummy 220, or to replenish the gas cartridge during training sessions.

A servo 242 operated firing trigger helps to minimise mechanical complexity of the device. The launcher 230 is provided with a battery pack 244 or other power supply and on receipt of a control signal by a receiver 246, the servo 242 activates the gas cylinder 234 causing a build up of gas inside the launcher tube 232 which in turn launches the dummy 229. Projectile launch height is controlled by means of a simple rotating collar 238 which alters venting in the launcher barrel 232 to adjust firing pressures and therefore power.

The gas cartridge 234 could, for example be a modified compressed gas cartridge from a paintball gaming weapon for economies of scale.

Figure 4 shows a modified launcher 320, with an internal mechanism similar to that shown in Figure 3. This launching unit is shorter than that shown in Figure 3 due to a number of modifications. The launching tube 332 includes a plurality of holes 334 circumferentially spaced near the opening 348 of the launching tube 332.

A scale 336 is provided on the vent collar 338 to give more repeatability and accuracy to setting the equipment to achieve a required propulsion force for the dummy (not shown).

This version of the launcher 320 utilises a multi-piece assembled frame based mostly on machined flat aluminium stock and folded steel legs 340. This approach minimises any need for tooling and initial investment. The general arrangement of the frame may be used for any of the three options presented.

Stabilising legs on the launcher may be folded down and locked in various positions either with a ratchet mechanism or positioned with tightening wing nuts. This facilitates both transport and variation of the angulations of the launch tube and the trajectory of the dummy.

In this particular embodiment, the launch tube base 346 and launcher base 342 are manufactured from slab stock aluminium. Connecting the two bases 346,242 are a number of folded legs 340. Cap head screws 360 attach the launch tube base 346 to the folded legs 340. Button head screws 362 with acorn nuts 364 attach the folded legs 340 to the launcher base 342. The trigger can be controlled by a radio signal as described with respect to Figure 3 or can be manually operated by pressing button 370.

Although conventional training objects such as balls can be used with any of the launching devices herein described, it is preferred that the novel dummy of this invention is used in conjunction with the launch devices of the invention to obtain maximum benefit.

Figures 5a to 5e show various dummies according to the invention. The main feature is that the dummy retains the scent used in the training of the animal.

The scent can be replenished by either purchase of further dummies -perhaps having alternate scents -or by purchase of scent replacement packs for dummies having internal scent cartridges.

The dummy can contain or incorporate a scent cartridge or the outer material of the dummy itself contains the scent and releases it on contact with another object.

The dummy may be a ball, however it is preferred that the surface texture of the dummy is both tactile and comfortable for an animal when carried in the mouth so a rubberised ball rather than a tennis ball is preferred. Additionally, the dummy is also preferably not a ball; the shape can have more than one function firstly, it can be chosen/designed to be an ergonomic shape for the animal to carry; secondly it can be aerodynamic to a certain degree; and thirdly it could replicate the shape of an object to be retrieved (if feasible). For search and rescue dogs this last option is not realistic however for hunting dogs or animals used to find drugs it could augment the training process.

Figure 5a shows a dummy which is a ball 520 having an internal cavity 522 into which a scent cartridge can be placed.

Figure 5b shows a dummy which is a ball 520 having an internal cavity 522 which includes a scent cartridge 526 a spring 524 and part of an electromagnet 536a. The ball 520 sits in a modified seat 534 in a launching tube 530. The second part of the electromagnet 536b is located in the launching tube 530 on the distal side of the seat 534 from the ball 520.

Activation of the electromagnet 536a, 536b compresses the spring 524 and when the electromagnet 536a,536b is re'eased the ball is propelled out of the launching tube 530. The dummy is modified to contain a significant part of the launching mechanism. Alternatively magnets of the trigger can be arranged so they attract and hold the compressed spring in their passive phase. A short activation period of one of the electromagnets would cause weakening or repulsion causing the trigger mechanism to release.

In an alternative embodiment, the centre of the dummy can include a plastic cylinder 528 with a spring 524 attached at one end. The other end is open and designed to fit on to a rod and trigger mechanism within the launcher. In this way different dummies could have different springs which would launch to different heights, these differences could be indicated by colour coding for example. This embodiment enables launch of the object an upside down position as the dummy is retained within the launching tube.

Figure 5c shows an alternate dummy 550 in the shape of a bone and having an internal cavity 552 which extends from one end of the longitudinal axis of the bone at least part-way along this axis, preferably all the way along. The cavity can be used to house a scent cartridge and/or part of a propulsion system.

Figure 5d shows a dummy that resembles a bird 560. The dummy again has an internal cavity 562 extending at least partway through the body of the bird for a scent cartridge and/or part of a propulsion mechanism.

Figure 5e shows a dummy which resembles a rocket 570. In this case the internal cavity 572 could be accessed by unscrewing the tail 574 of the rocket 570 or the internal cavity 572 can extend along the length of the rocket.

Other shapes of dummy could be utilised, for example a rocket with soft wings which retract when the animal mouths the object or a cone shape, the person skilled in the art will readily appreciate the range of possible designs.

Dummy may for example have an on-board replaceable scent cartridge and it is possibly aerodynamic. Optionally the dummy may incorporate part of the projection mechanism or may include a transmitter/locator e.g. a GPS beacon and is easier and/or softer for a dog to carry in its mouth.

Hunting dogs are trained to pick up the scent of the prey, locate it then retrieve it to their trainer. Rescue dogs are trained to indicate for example by barking when they find their target. An advantage of the dummies of the invention compared to that known in the prior art, namely balls is that a scent trail is created by the dummy when propelled from the launcher.

Training typically starts at the visual level where the animal plays with the dummy, then move on to the animal seeing the dummy launched and retrieving or finding the dummy depending on requirement, to an invisible launch where scent alone is used to locate the dummy. This adds further dimensions to the training program as the animal cannot use a possible sighting of a launcher as with previous training systems where the scent is associated with the launcher. Furthermore as the dummy has the scent rather than the dummy/ball being provided as a reward on finding the scent it is simpler for an animal to understand and he finds the reward itself. Thus training may be quicker and easier.

These "Dummies" have a nice weight, hold a scent and are comfortable for a dog to carry.

The launch mechanism and novel dummy' can be used to train hunting dogs, police dogs and dogs used by explosives and drug detection agencies.

The dummies come in two sizes, the puppy one is smaller and would suit pet dogs and puppies.

It is to be appreciated that these Figures are for illustration purposes only and other configurations are possible.

Optionally the device and/or dummy may be used in low light levels or at night. The remote controller may include a facility to illuminate a small light, such as a light emitting diode (LED), on the launcher and/or a remote controllable dog's collar to enable them to be identified/located in reduced light by the trainer.

Illumination of the launcher alone assists to guide a dog towards the launcher in reduced light conditions. The period of illumination is variable and may be determined by continued pressure on the button of the remote controller by the trainer.

Certain dummies/balls may include an arrangement which illuminates the dummy/ball upon launch. Again this facilitates the dog to catch/locate the dummy in reduced light conditions and during early phases of training. The illumination of the dummy/ball can be arranged to occur as a result of launch or could be controlled by the remote controller.

Illumination of the dummy/ball may be activated as a result of launch controlled by an accelerometer within the dummy/ball or as a result of movement of the dummy/ball away from the launcher or under the control of a remote (hand held) transmitter which might employ a radio frequency (RF) transmitter or an infra-red (lR) transmitter. The light source can be arranged to flash on and off or strobe with different intensities and/or colours.

The illumination mechanism for the dummy/launcher is preferably sealed.

The dummy/launcher may be charged by way of an inductive coupler located within the launcher and by way of a capacitor enclosed within the dummy/ball.

Alternatively the dummy/ball could contain a replaceable or rechargeable battery to power the illumination mechanism.

As well as controlling illumination of the launcher, collar and dummy/ball the trainer has the option of remotely controlling the activation of an audible emission from the launcher, collar and dummy/ball for the same purposes as the illumination.

Furthermore the trainer has the option of remotely releasing additional odoriferous compound from the launcher or dummy/ball to assist in the dog's location of the launcher or dummy/ball in the early training process.

A radio frequency (RF) transmitter may be located in the dummy/ball and arranged to emit a signal after a specified period or on request from a remote interrogator. The interrogator has an RF receiver tuned to receive the RF signal and ideally is also equipped with a direction finder so that, in the event that the dog cannot locate the dummy, the trainer may direct the dog to the dummy so that it can be retrieved. This helps to build the confidence of the dog by encouraging a successful location and avoids the risk of the dummy being launched into in accessible areas, such as dense undergrowth, in which it might get lost.

The invention has been described by way of several embodiments, with modifications and alternatives, but having read and understood this description, further embodiments and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such embodiments and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A dummy (20,220,520,550,560,570) for use in the training of animals, the dummy having a scent.
2. A training device (10,130, 210, 320) for an animal comprising: a dummy (20,220) which is scented; and a launcher (30,230) for launching the dummy.
3. A training device according to claim 2 wherein, the launcher (20,230) includes an adjuster (44,240) for adjusting the launch characteristics of the dummy.
4. A method of training an animal comprising the steps of: providing a launcher (20,130,210,320) for launching a dummy (20,220,520,550,560,570); inserting the dummy (20,220,520,550,560,570) into the launcher (20,130,210,320); and initiating propulsion means (36,38,234) for propelling the dummy from the launcher characterised in that the dummy has a scent.
5. A training device (10, 130, 210, 320) comprising: a dummy (20,220,520,550,560,570); a launcher (20,130,210,320) for the dummy, the launcher comprising propulsion means (38,234) for propelling the dummy from the launcher; and a release mechanism (36, 242, 370) for releasing the dummy from the launcher.
6. A training device according to claim 5 wherein, the propulsion means comprises a spring (38) or alternative biasing means and an electromagnetic latching mechanism (36a,36b) whereby when the electromagnet is turned off, the spring or alternate biasing means is released resulting in launch of the dummy from the launcher.
7. A training device according to claim 5 wherein, the propulsion means comprises a pressurised gas which is released from a cartridge (234) on trigger of a switch (242) the resulting pressure forcing the dummy from the launcher.
8. A training device according to any of claims I to 3 and 5 to 7, wherein the dummy includes an illumination means and an energy supply for energising said illumination means.
9. A training device according to any preceding claim wherein an illumination means is provided for energising a collar worn by the dog.
10. A training device ac according to claim 8 wherein the illumination means is activated by an accelerometer.
11. A training device according to claim 8 wherein the illumination means is activated by a remote controller operated by the user.
12. A training device according to claim 11 wherein the remote controller has a radio frequency (RF) transmitter.
13. A training device according to claim 11 wherein the remote controller has an infra-red (IR) transmitter.
14. A training device according to any preceding claim includes an audible device capable of being remotely activated, said audible device being located in the launcher and/or dummy/ball.
15. A training device according to any preceding claim wherein a means for releasing an odoriferous compound is provided in the launcher and/or dummy/ball.SC
16. A training device substantially as herein described and with reference to the drawings.