GB2615542A

GB2615542A - Equine fitness monitor system

Info

Publication number: GB2615542A
Application number: GB2201666.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kurt Mehmet
Original assignee: Kurt Systems Uk Ltd
Current assignee: Kurt Systems Uk Ltd
Priority date: 2022-02-09
Filing date: 2022-02-09
Publication date: 2023-08-16
Also published as: WO2023152483A1

Abstract

An equine animal training system for developing a training programme based on physiological attribute of the animal. The training system has at least one moveable carriage 7 suitable for attaching to and guiding to an animal, most likely a horse. The training system also has a system for monitoring at least one physiological attribute of the animal using at least one sensor and a computing means. The computing means is connected to the sensor such that measurement data is recordable and storable on the computing means, which is configured to calculate an indication of fitness based on the measurement data. The computing means may determine a training routine in response to a numerical indication of fitness. Also provided is a method for monitoring physiological attribute of a horse, measuring multiple attributes using multiple horse data sensors. The physiological data is transmitted to a data communication hub which transmits the data to a remote server, displaying at least a portion of the physiological data to a trainer while the horse is exercising.

Description

EQUINE FITNESS MONITOR SYS IEM

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to equine or horse training systems and more particularly to systems monitor horse data during training.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Animals, such as horses, are exercised and trained under controlled conditions. One way to exercise the animal is to connect the animal to an automated training system, which guides the animal through exercises (e.g., running). For example, an automated training system for horses may guide the horse around a track at a controlled speed.

SUMMARY

[0003] In one aspect, a horse training system comprises at least one movable carriage configured to connect to a horse for guiding the horse as the at least one carriage moves. The horse training system also includes a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the horse as the horse is guided by the at least one carriage. The horse monitoring system comprises a data collection and communication hub associated with the horse. The data collection and communication hub includes a hub processor and a non-transitory tangible storage medium including processor-executable instructions for controlling the operation of the hub processor. The hub processor executes the instructions. The horse monitoring system includes a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub. The data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors. The data collection and communication hub is configured to transmit the physiological data to a server remote from the data collection and communication hub.

[0004] Tn another aspect, a method for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse comprises measuring physiological attributes of the horse while the horse is exercising using a plurality of horse data sensors. The method comprises transmitting physiological data corresponding to the measured physiological attributes from the plurality of horse data sensors to a data collection and communication hub associated with the horse. The method comprises transmitting the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to a server remote from the data collection and communication hub. At least a portion of the physiological data is displayed to a trainer while the horse is exercising.

[0005] In another aspect, a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse as the horse is exercising comprises a server hosting a database for storing physiological data. A plurality of horse data sensors are configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors are communicatively coupled to the server to transmit the physiological data to the server. A horse identification scanner is configured to obtain an identity of the horse. The horse identification scanner is communicatively coupled to the server to Uansmit the identity of the horse from the horse identification scanner for associating the physiological data with the horse in the database.

[0006] In another aspect, a method for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse comprises scanning, with a horse identification scanner, a horse identifier associated with the horse to obtain a horse identity of the horse. The method comprises transmitting the horse identity from the horse identification scanner to a data collection and communication hub mounted on the horse. The method comprises transmitting physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to a server. The physiological data is generated by a plurality of horse data sensors sensing physiological attributes of the horse while the horse is exercising. The physiological data represents the sensed physiological attributes. The horse identity is transmitted from the data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data with the horse via the horse identity.

[0007] In another aspect, a horse monitoring system is for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse as the horse is exercised by a horse training system. The horse training system includes a carriage for guiding the horse as the horse is exercising. The horse monitoring system comprises a sewer hosting a database for storing physiological data associated with the horse. The system comprises a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors are communicatively coupled to the server to transmit the physiological data to the server. A carriage identifier includes a carnage identity. The carnage identifier is communicatively coupled to the server such that the server receives the carriage identity for associating the physiological data with the carriage.

[0008] In another aspect, a method for determining the position of a horse within a horse training system comprises transmitting physiological data generated by a plurality of horse data sensors sensing physiological attributes of the horse to a data collection and communication hub on the horse. The physiological data corresponds to the sensed physiological attributes. The method comprises transmitting a carriage identity from a carriage identifier mounted on a carriage of the horse training system to the data collection and communication hub.

[0009] In another aspect, a horse training system comprises at least one movable carriage configured to connect to a horse for guiding the horse as the at least one carriage moves. The system further comprises a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the horse as the horse is guided by the at least one carriage. The horse monitoring system comprises a wireless network having a range covering the at least one carriage. The horse monitoring system includes a server hosting a database for storing physiological data. The server is connected to the wireless network. A data collection and communication hub is associated with the horse and connected to the wireless network. The wireless network communicatively couples the server and data collection and communication hub The data collection and communication hub is configured to automatically connect to the wireless network when the data collection and communication hub is within the range of the wireless network. A plurality of horse data sensors is configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors are communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub. The data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors and is configured to transmit the physiological data to the server via the wireless network.

[0010] In another aspect, horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of a plurality of horses as the horses are exercised by a horse training system. The horse monitoring system comprises a server hosting a database for storing physiological data. The horse monitoring system includes a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horses and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors are communicatively coupled to the server such that the server receives the physiological data. A user interface is communicatively coupled to the server. The user interface includes a display configured to display at least one physiological attribute of each horse of the plurality of horses at the same time.

[0011] In another aspect, a horse training system comprises a train including a plurality of carriages. Each carriage is configured to connect to at least one horse of a plurality of horses. The plurality of carriages guide the plurality of horses along a track as the plurality of carriages move along the track to exercise the plurality of horses. The horse training system comprises a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the plurality of horses as the plurality of horses are guided along the track by the train. The horse monitoring system comprises a server and a plurality of horse monitoring units. Each horse monitoring unit is associated with one horse of the plurality of horses and configured to monitor the physiological attributes of said one horse as the horse is guided along the track by the train. Each horse monitoring unit comprises a data collection and communication hub communicatively coupled to the server. A plurality of horse data sensors is configured to sense physiological attributes of said one horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communications hub. The data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors and transmits the received physiological data to the server. The server stores the physiological data received from each data collection and communication hub [0012] In another aspect, a method of monitoring a plurality of horses during an exercise comprises attaching a plurality of horse data sensors to each horse. Each horse data sensor is configured to sense a physiological attribute of the horse to which the horse data sensor is attached and to generate corresponding physiological data. The method comprises mounting a data collection and communication hub on each horse. The data collection and communication hub is communicatively coupled to the plurality of horse data sensors attached to the horse. The plurality of horses are connected to at least one carriage. The at least one carriage guides the horses during the exercise. The method comprises transmitting the physiological data from each data collection and communication hub to a server while the horses are exercising. The method comprises transmitting a horse identity from each data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data from the respective data collection and communication hub with the horse to which the data collection and communication hub is mounted. At least some of the physiological data is displayed on a user interface communicatively coupled to the server while the horses are exercising.

[0013] In yet another aspect, a method of monitoring a horse during an exercise comprises attaching a plurality of horse data sensors to the horse. Each horse data sensor is configured to sense a physiological attribute of the horse and to generate corresponding physiological data. The method comprises mounting a data collection and communication hub on the horse. The data collection and communication hub is communicatively coupled to the plurality of horse data sensors. The method comprises scanning the horse to obtain a horse identity and sending the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub. The method comprises positioning the horse within a horse receiving space of a carriage. The carriage guides the horse during the exercise. A carriage identity is sent to the data collection and communication hub. The physiological data is transmitted from data collection and communication hub to a server while the horse is exercising. At least some of the physiological data is displayed on a user interface communicatively coupled to the server while the horse is exercising.

[0014] Other objects and features of the present disclosure will be in part apparent and in part pointed out herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

100151 FIG. I is a plan view of a rail line of an automated training system; 100161 FIG. 2 is a partial elevation view of the rail line with a train of the automated training system on the rail line; 100171 FIG. 3 is a plan view of a cab of the train of the automated training system; [0018] FIG. 4 is a plan view of one of the carriages of the train connected to two horses; [0019] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the train showing the cab in relation to one of the carriages; [0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a horse monitoring system accordingly to one embodiment of the present disclosure for use with the automated training system shown in FIGS. 1-5; [0021] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a horse monitoring unit of the horse monitoring system; [0022] FIG. 8 is a section view showing a horse positioned within one of the carriages of the automated training system; [0023] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a home screen of a graphic user interface of the horse monitoring system; [0024] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a data analysis screen of the graphic user interface; [0025] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a train data screen of the graphic user interface; and [0026] FIG. 12 is an electrocardiogram screen of the graphic user interface.

[0027] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1-5 illustrate one embodiment of an automated training system, designated generally by reference number 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the automated training system 10 is used to train horses or equines H (broadly, animals). Referring to FIG. 6, an equine monitoring system, designated generally by reference number 100, allows an operator of the automated training system to monitor the performance and physiological attributes of the horses H while the horses are being trained by the automated training system. Although the present disclosure primarily uses horses H as the exemplary animal being trained and monitored with the automated training system 10 and monitoring system 100, it is understood the systems and methods set forth herein can be applied to the training and monitoring of other animals as well, such as dogs and camels, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] The automated training system 10 includes a rail line 1 extending along a track 12 (e.g., a horse track) on which one or more horses H can run In the illustrated embodiment, the rail line 1 includes a main loop having an oval shape and is disposed above the track 12. The rail line I supports a train 14 of the automated training system 10. The train 14 is movably coupled to the rail line 1 and is configured to move along the rail line. As the train 14 moves along the rail line 1, the train moves along the track 12 and, in particular, over the track as shown in FIG. 2. The rail line 1 includes a reversing loop 2 connected to the main loop by switches 3, 4 to allow the train to change its direction Di, D2 of travel around the main loop. The train 1 includes at least one carriage 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the train 14 includes five carriages 7, although more or fewer carriages can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Each carriage 7 is movably coupled to the rail line 1 and is configured to move along the rail line and the track 12. Each carriage 7 is configured to connect to at least one horse H for guiding the horse along the track 12 as the train 14 moves along the rail line. In the illustrated embodiment, each carriage 7 can connect to two horses H. As the carriage 7 moves along the rail line 1, the horse H runs on the track 12.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, each carriage 7 has two yokes, each yoke defining an animal space 77 sized and shaped to receive the horses H. Gates or doors 73 and 76 close front and rear openings, respectively, to each animal space 77 to secure the horse H therein. One set of doors 73, 76 is shown closed in FIG. 4 and the other set of doors is shown open. Each animal space 77 is large enough to permit the horse H to run while the carriage 7 moves along the track 12. Each horse H is connected to the carriage 7 (specifically, the yoke) with a harness 74. A harness release button 75 is included to quickly release the harness 74 and, therefore the horse H, from the carriage 7. The carriage 7 may also include a seat 71 to allow a trainer to ride on the carriage. The trainer may press an emergency stop button 72 on the carriage 7 to stop the movement of the train 14, and therefore the carriage, in an emergency situation. Carriages having other arrangements and configurations can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the carriage 7 may only have more or fewer than two yokes. The carriages 7 are connected to one another to form part of the train 14.

[0031] The train 14 also includes a cab 6 (e.g., control cabin) at the rear of the train. The cab 6 is connected to the rearmost carriage 7 and includes a motor (e.g., an electric motor) to drive movement of the train 14 along the rail line 1. The cab 6 is configured to carry one or more people. The cab 6 includes a control seat 62 and a control console 61. The operator or trainer sits in the control seat 62 and controls the operation (e.g., speed, direction) of the train 14 via the control console 61. The control console 61 may also include a display of the horse monitoring system IOU showing the performance (e.g., physiological attributes) of the horses H as the train 14 moves along the rail line 1, as described in more detail below. The cab 6 may also include guest chairs 63, 64 and benches 65 for additional riders. A control cabinet 67 at the back of the cab 6 houses various operational components of the train 14, such as batteries. In one embodiment, a server 104 of the horse monitoring system 100 is housed in the control cabinet 67.

[0032] The automated training system 10 may also include a control room 5 from which operations of the train 14 may be controlled and/or monitored. Further details on automated training systems may be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,089,720 and 6,817,318, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the horse (e.g., equine) monitoring system 100 (e.g., equine fitness monitoring system) monitors the horses H as the horses are exercised by the automated training system 10. Specifically, the horse monitoring system 100 monitors (e.g., measures) physiological attributes of each horse H of a plurality of horses as the plurality of horses are guided by the carriages 7 (e.g., automated training system 10). The horse monitoring system 100 includes a user interface 102, a server 104, and at least one horse monitoring unit 106 (broadly, animal monitoring unit). Each horse monitoring unit 106 is configured to monitor physiological attributes of one of the horses H connected to the automated training system 10 as the horse is guided by the carriage 7. The server 104 stores the physiological attributes in a database (e.g., the server hosts the database). An operator uses the user interface 102 to access the physiological attributes stored in the server 104. The operator may access or view the physiological attributes in real time, as discussed in more detail below. Moreover, as explained in more detail below, a horse identity (horse ID) of each horse H may be transmitted to the server 104 so that the physiological data in the database can be associated with a particular horse and shown on the user interface. Similarly, as explained in more detail below, a carriage identity (carriage ID) for each carriage 7 may be transmitted to the sever 104 so that the position of the horse H in the train 14 can be recorded in the database and shown on the user interface. Other types of information may also be stored in the database, such as velocity, track slope, position, time, date, temperature, barometric pressure, relative humidity, etc., as described in more detail below. Other types of data may be collected and stored without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the user interface 102 and server 104 may be incorporated into a single device (e.g., a laptop computer, tablet, etc.). In one embodiment, the user interface and/or server 104 may be remote of the train 14.

[0034] The horse monitoring system 100 can include as many horse monitoring units 106 needed to monitor the number of horses to be exercised. In the illustrated embodiment, the horse training system 100 includes ten horse monitoring units 106 because the automated training system 10 is configured to exercise ten horses at one time. A horse monitoring system 100 including more or fewer horse monitoring units 106 (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or more) so that the horse monitoring system can monitor more or fewer horses can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, if only seven horses H are being trained by the automated training system 10, the horse monitoring system 100 will only include seven horse monitoring units 106, one for each horse being trained.

[0035] A single horse monitoring unit 106 will now be described, with the understanding that the other horse monitoring units of the horse monitoring system 100 are identical, except where differences are discussed below. The horse monitoring unit 106 includes a data collection and communication hub 108 and a plurality of horse data sensors 110 (e.g., physiological data sensors) (broadly, at least one horse data sensor). Broadly, the horse data sensors 110 measure physiological, behavioral and/or motion attributes of the horse H. The data collection and communication hub 108 is associated with a single horse H. The plurality of horse data sensors 110 are configured to sense physiological attributes (e.g., one or more physiological attributes) of the horse H and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes. The plurality of horse data sensors 110 are associated with the same horse H as the data collection and communication hub 108 and sense the physiological attributes of said horse. The plurality of horse data sensors 110 are communicatively coupled to the data collection and communications hub 108. As described in more detail below, the plurality of horse data sensors 110 can be in wired and/or wireless communication with the data collection and communication hub 108. The plurality of horse data sensors 110 transmit the physiological data corresponding to the measured physiological attributes of the horse to the data collection and communication hub 108. As described in more detail below, the data collection and communication hub 108 is communicatively coupled to the server 104 and facilitates communication between the plurality of horse data sensors 110 (as well as other components) and the server.

[0036] The plurality of the horse data sensors 110 measure the performance of a horse H during training and provide an operator with real time information about one or more physiological conditions of the horse during the training. The plurality of horse data sensors 110 may include at least one of a heart rate sensor 114, a gait sensor 116 and/or a spirometry sensor 118 (e.g., part of a spirometry mask). In one embodiment, the plurality of horse data sensors 110 includes a heart rate sensor 114, a gait sensor 116, and a spirometry sensor 118. The heart rate sensor 114 is configured to sense the horse's heart rate and generate heart rate data (e.g., physiological data).

[0037] The gait sensor 116 is configured to sense the horse's gait and generate gait data (e.g., physiological data). The information detected by the gait sensor 116 may be used to determine the horse's stride pattern, regularity of the horse's gait, and symmetry balance of the horse's step. In one embodiment, the gait sensor 116 is an inertial measurement unit (IMU). In one embodiment, the inertial measurement unit includes an accelerometer (e.g., a triaxial accelerometer (X, Y, and Z axes)), a gyroscope (e.g., a triaxial gyroscope (pitch, roll and yaw)) and a magnetometer (e.g., a triaxial magnetometer). In one embodiment, the inertial measurement unit includes three accelerometers to measure acceleration in three planes, three gyroscopes to measure the pitch, roll and yaw, respectively, of the horse H and a magnetometer for measuring the relative change of the earth's magnetic field due to the movement of the horse. Such an inertial measurement unit provides a more accurate measurement of the gait of a horse, over gait sensors which may only have accelerometers. However, various types of gait sensors can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. To achieve the best gait measurements, the gait sensor 116 is secured to a girth strap of a saddle mounted on the horse H and aligns with the horse's sternum. The attributes measured by the gait sensor 116 may be used to determine the horse's H stride pattern, regularity of the horse's gait, and symmetry balance of the horse's step. Other types of information, such as information on the horse's motion, gait dysfunction and locomotion efficiency, may also be determined using the data collected by the gait sensor 116.

[0038] The spirometry sensor 118 is configured to sense (e.g., measure) the horse's respiratory activity and generate spirometry data (e.g., physiological data). For example, the spirometry sensor 118 can measure inspiratory and expiratory air flow and breath by breath temperature of the air. The spirometry sensor 118 may be part of a mask that fits over the horse's flares. The spirometry sensor 118 measures the flow of air into the horse H as well as the horse's body temperature and thus can also be referred to as a temperature sensor. The use of other types of horse data sensors to measure other physiological attributes of the horse H can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example the horse data sensors can include behavioral sensors, metabolic sensors, respiratory gas composition sensors, hormone sensors, and/or enzyme sensors.

[0039] In some embodiments, different ones of the horse monitoring units 106 in the system 100 may have different types and/or combinations of horse data sensors 110 depending on the physiological attributes that are to be monitored for each horse H. For example, one horse monitoring unit 106 of the horse monitoring system 100 may only include the heart rate and gait sensors 114, 116 and another horse monitoring unit of the horse monitoring system may include the heart rate, gait, and spirometry sensors 114, 116, 118. Other variations can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] The plurality of horse data sensors 110 are communicatively coupled to the server 104, and the server receives the physiological data generated by the horse data sensors 110. As explained in more detail below, the server 104 hosts a database for collecting and storing the physiological data generated by the horse data sensors 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of horse data sensors 110 are communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the data collection and communication hub 108. Thus, the data collection and communication hub 108 acts as a bridge between the plurality of horse data sensors 110 and the sewer 104. The data collection and communication hub 108 may not store the physiological data from the horse data sensors 110 for any appreciable amount of time (e.g., a hub may only store the physiological data for the time required to transmit the physiological data). However, in other configurations, the hubs 108 can store some or all of the physiological data for later retrieval without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, one or more of the plurality of horse data sensors 110 may be directly communicatively coupled to the server 104. Desirably, the hub 108 automatically detects when one or more horse data sensors are communicatively coupled to it.

[00411 The data collection and communication hub 108 is configured to facilitate communication between the various other components of the horse monitoring system 100. For example, the data collection and communication hub 108 facilitates communication between the plurality of horse data sensors 110 and the server 104. As will become apparent, the data collection and communication hub 108 facilitates communication between other components and the server 104 as well. Broadly, the data collection and communication hub 108 is a hardware and software solution designed to facilitate communication with the sewer 104 so that information can be sent to the server and stored. Referring to FIG. 7, the data collection and communication hub 108 includes a computer 120 having a CPU or processor 122 (e.g., a hub processor) and RAM or memory 124 (broadly, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium). The computer 120 provides the computing engine that drives the operation of the data collection and communication hub 108. Broadly, the memory 124 includes (e.g., stores) processor-executable instructions for controlling the operation of the hub processor 122. The instructions embody one or more of the functional aspects of the data collection and communication hub 108, with the hub processor 122 executing the instructions to perform said one or more functional aspects. The data collection and communication hub 108 may also include a power source (not shown), such as a battery to supply power to the computer 120.

[0042] The data collection and communication hub 108 also includes at least one (e.g., a plurality) of communication gateways or ports 126A-126F. The communication ports 126A-126F are connected to the computer 120. Each port 126A-1260 may be used to communicatively couple the data collection and communication hub 108 to another device such as the server 104 and the plurality of horse data sensors 110. The data collection and communication hub 108 can take various physical forms. For example, the data collection and communication hub 108 may include a housing (e.g., represented schematically in FIG. 7) for housing the various components, and ports may be mounted on the housing to be accessible from the exterior for making connections with the various components. For example, in one embodiment, the data collection and communication hub 108 is a portable device that can be secured to the saddle mounted on the horse H. In this manner, the data collection and communication hub 108 can be carried by the horse H as the horse is exercising or training (e.g., running, walking).

[0043] Various types of communication ports 126 are contemplated. For example, the communication ports 126 can include an infrared (IR) port, a hardwire port, a Bluetooth port, and/or a Wi-Fi port, and it is understood that various other types of communication ports (e.g., near field communication) can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The ports 126 may include wired and/or wireless ports. Moreover, the data collection and communication hub 108 can include any number of each type of port 126 and any combination of types of ports. The data collection and communication hub 108 may also have more ports 126 than devices connected (e.g., communicatively coupled) to the hub in order to provide capacity for additional devices, such as additional horse data sensors 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the data collection and communication hub 108 includes an IR port 126A, hardwire ports 126B, 126D, 126E, a Bluetooth port 126C and a Wi-Fi port 126F. Broadly, each port 126 may be considered a receiver or sensor configured to receive data from a device (e.g., heart rate sensor 114) communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108, a transmitter configured to send or transmit data to a device (e.g., server 104) communicatively coupled to the hub, and/or a transceiver configured to both receive and transmit data to a device communicatively coupled to the hub.

[0044] The IR port or gateway 126A provides infrared connection (e.g., wireless communication or optical communications connection) to infrared enabled components or devices, such as a horse identification scanner 128 described in more detail below. In one embodiment, the IR port 126 may be an IR sensor (e.g., receiver) configured to receive an IR signal from an infrared light source (e.g., transmitter), although other configurations (e.g., the IR port is a transmitter and/or transceiver) can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Each hardwire port or gateway 126B, 126D, 126E provides wired connection (e.g., wired communication) to other components or devices, such as gait sensor 116, via a wired connection. In one embodiment, one or more of the hardwire ports 126B, I 26D, I 26E form a releasable wired connection. In other embodiments, one or more of the hardwire ports 126B, 126D, 126E form a fixed wired connection. The Bluetooth port or gateway 126C provides Bluetooth connection (e.g., wireless communication) to Bluetooth enabled components or devices, such as the spirometer sensor 118. The Wi-Fi gateway or port 126F provides Wi-Fi connection (e.g., wireless communication) to Wi-Fi enabled components and devices, such as the server 104. In one embodiment, the Wi-Fi port 126 may be a transmitter configured to transmit data over a Wi-Fi network, although other configurations (e.g., the Wi-Fi port is a receiver or transceiver) can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Broadly speaking, the ports 126A-126F described above can be said to communicatively couple (e.g., provide communication connections between) the data collection and communication hub 108 and other components of the horse monitoring system IOU.

[0045] As an example, in the illustrated embodiment, the gait sensor 116 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108 through hardwire port 126B via a wired connection. Similarly, the heart rate sensor 114 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108 through hardwire port 126E via a wired connection. The spirometry sensor 118 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108 through Bluetooth port 126C via a Bluetooth connection. As described in more detail below, IR port 126A is used to communicatively couple the data collection and communication hub 108 to the horse identification scanner 128 and a carriage identifier 130 (e.g., carriage ID transmitter) via an infrared connection and infrared communications (broadly, wireless optical communications). Likewise, Wi-Fi port 126F is used to communicatively couple the data collection and communication hub 108 to the server 104 via a Wi-Fi connection. Other types of wired and wireless connections can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the communicative connections formed between components and devices described herein are not limited to the specific types of connections (e.g., wired, Bluetooth, IR, Wi-Fi, etc.) described herein, as any type of suitable communicative connection may be used.

[0046] The data collection and communication hub 108 is communicatively coupled to the sewer 104. The data collection and communication hub 108 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the sewer 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the data collection and communication hub 108 is wirelessly connected to the server 104 via a Wi-Fi connection (formed through Wi-Fi port 126F). In the illustrated embodiment, the horse monitoring system 100 includes a router 132 (FIG. 6) configured to generate a local area network, such as a Wi-Fi network. The server 104 and data collection and communication hub 108 are connected to the local area network to communicatively couple the server and hub together. This permits the data collection and communication hub 108 to transmit the physiological data to the server 104. In one embodiment, the router 132 generates a 5 Ghz Wi-Fi network. The 5 Ghz Wi-Fi network allows for a much more robust wireless environment able to operate within the harsh electrical environment (e.g., static, noise) generated by the moving train 14, due to the train's electric motors. When the horse monitoring system 100 includes the router 132, desirably the router is centrally located on the train 14. For example, the router 132 may be mounted on a middle one of the carriages 7, behind the front-most carriage and behind the rear-most carriage, and generate a local area network with a range extending at least from the first or front carriage to the cab 6 (e.g., a range covering the entire train 14).

[0047] The data collection and communication hub 108 stores instructions for automatically establishing a connection with the server 104 over the local area network. The data collection and communication hub 108 is programmed to work toward full connectivity with the server 104, maintain that connectivity after it is established, and re-establish such connectivity if a break subsequently occurs. The ability for the data collection and communication hub 108 to automatically connect to the server 104 over the local area network, simplifies and streamlines the data collection process and prevents a trainer or operator from having to connect the hub to the server when the horse H is connected to a carriage 7 of the automated training device 10. For example, the data collection and communication hub 108 includes instructions for automatically connecting to the server 104 when the hub is within the range of the local area network, such as when the horse H is brought from the stables to the automated training system 10.

[0048] In operation, the horse monitoring system 100 is configured to collect and store the physiological data for each horse H being exercised by the automated training system 10. During operation, each data collection and communication hub 108 associated with one horse H receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors 110 also associated with said one horse. Each data collection and communication hub 108 then sends or transmits the received physiological data to the server 104. In particular, the processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 includes instructions for sending the received physiological data to the server 104 in real time. Physiological data can be streamed in real time or the physiological data can be transmitted in real time in distinct data transmissions on regular timed intervals (e.g., every 1/100 of a second), and the data can be tagged with identity information, as will become apparent. The server 104 receives the physiological data from each data collection and communication hub 108 (broadly, from the plurality of horse data sensors 110 via or through each data collection and communication hub). The server 104 hosts a database for collecting and storing the physiological data for all the horses H. The server 104 collects and stores the physiological data received from each data collection and communication hub 108 in the database. The stored data can be accessed by the operator or trainer using the user interface I 02, as described in more detail below.

[0049] Still referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the horse monitoring system 100 may also include a horse identification scanner 128. The horse identification scanner 128 is configured to obtain a horse identity or horse ID (e.g., a number, such as a 32-character string) associated with the horse H. In one embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 is a radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner. The horses H are implanted with an RFID microchip or identity tag (broadly, an identifier) in their necks. The RFID microchip stores the horse identity used to identify the horse H. The horse identification scanner 128 can read or scan the RFID microchip when the scanner is brought into close proximity (e.g., 2 inches (5 cm)) with the RFID microchip by the operator in order to obtain the horse identity.

[0050] The horse identification scanner 128 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The server 104 receives the horse identity from the horse identification scanner 128 for associating (e.g., linking) the physiological data with the horse H. In particular, receiving the horse identity allows the server 104 to associate the physiological data in the database with a particular horse H. In this manner, the database hosted by the server 104 can store and group all of a horse's physiological data from a particular training session and from different training sessions performed over time. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 is communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the data collection and communication hub 108. This way, the server 104 automatically associates the horse identity received from the data collection and communication hub 108 with the other data (e.g., physiological data) also received from the hub. In other embodiments, the horse identification scanner 128 may be directly communicatively coupled to the server 104.

[0051] in the illustrated embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108. In operation, the horse identification scanner 128 scans the microchip to obtain the horse identity. The horse identification scanner 128 sends or transmits the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108. The data collection and communication hub 108 receives the horse identity from the horse identification scanner 128. The data collection and communication hub 108 sends or transmits the received horse identity to the server 104. In particular, the processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 includes instructions for sending the received horse identity to the server 104. The server 104 receives the horse identity from each data collection and communication hub 108 (broadly, from the horse identification scanner 128 via or through each data collection and communication hub). The server 104 associates the horse identity with the appropriate physiological data to associate the physiological data with the correct horse H and stores the horse identity in the database hosted by the server. For example, the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub 108 is tagged with the horse identity. Sending the horse identity to the server 104 also allows the server to identify and distinguish between the different horses H connected to the horse monitoring system 100 and the automated training system 10. The horse monitoring system 100 may include one or more horse identification scanners 128. Further, each horse identification scanner 128 can communicatively couple and send (e.g., transmit) the horse identity to any of the data collection and communication hubs 108 of the horse monitoring system 100.

[0052] The horse identification scanner 128 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the data collection and communication hub 108. In one embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 includes a transmitter 129 to wirelessly transmit the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 includes an infrared transmitter 129. The horse identification scanner 128 sends the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 via the connection (e.g., wireless connection or wireless optical communications connection) established between the infrared transmitter 129 and the IR port 126A (FIG. 7). Other ways of transferring the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 and/or the server 104 can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the horse identification scanner 128 includes a user interface configured to receive operator input instructing the horse identification scanner to obtain and send the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108. In use, a horse fitted with a hub 108 can be scanned with the scanner 128 to obtain the identity of the horse. The scanner 128 then transmits the identity of the horse to the hub 108, which stores the horse identity and tags the physiological data collected by the hub 108 with the horse identity and transmits the tagged physiological data to the server 104. The horse identity can be transmitted to the server in other ways than tagging the physiological data without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The scanner can be moved to different horses H fitted with hubs 108 to obtain each horse's identity and transmit that identity to the horse's hub to be stored in the hub for tagging physiological data associated with the horse and/or to be transmitted to the server 104.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 8, the horse monitoring system I 00 may also include a carriage identifier 130 (e.g., a carriage identification transmitter or carriage tag). The carriage identifier includes (e.g., stores) a carnage identity (e.g., a number or code) associated with one of the carriages 7 and/or one of the horse receiving spaces of a particular carriage. In this embodiment, each carriage 7 includes (e.g., carries) at least one carriage identifier 130 that stores the carriage identity used to identify the carriage (e.g., the carriage identifier is mounted on the carriage). Specifically, each carriage 7 carries a carriage identifier 130 for each horse receiving space 77 of the carriage. Accordingly, the carriage identifier 130 may be considered as a yoke identifier (e.g., a yoke identification transmitter or yoke tag) that includes (e.g., stores) a yoke identity (e.g., a number or code) associated with the yoke the horse H is attached to. In the illustrated embodiment, each carriage 7 includes two carriage identifiers 130, each identifier associated with one of the horse receiving spaces 77. The carriage identity stored by the carriage identifier is used by the horse monitoring system 100 to identify the particular positon of the horse H in the train 14 (e.g., the specific receiving space 77 and carriage 7 where the horse is located).

[0054] The carriage identifier 130 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The server 104 receives the carriage identity from the carriage identifier 130 for associating (e.g., linking) the physiological data with the carriage 7 the horse H is coupled to (specifically, the horse receiving space 77 the horse is disposed in). In particular, receiving the carriage identity allows the server 104 to associate the physiological data with the particular position of the horse H in train 14. The server 104 stores the carriage identity in the database. In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the data collection and communication hub 108. This way, the server 104 automatically associates the carriage identity received from the data collection and communication hub 108 with the other data (e.g., physiological data, horse identity, etc.) also received from the hub. In other embodiments, the carriage identifier 130 may be directly communicatively coupled to the server 104 or communicatively coupled to the server in another way.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is configured to transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 (e.g., the carriage identifier includes a transmitter). In operation, the carriage identifier 130 sends or transmits the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108. The data collection and communication hub 108 receives the carriage identity from the carriage identifier 130. The data collection and communication hub 108 sends or transmits the received carriage identity to the server 104. In particular, the processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 includes instructions for sending the received carriage identity to the server 104. The sewer 104 receives the carriage identity from each data collection and communication hub 108 (broadly, from the carriage identifier 130 via or through each data collection and communication hub). The sewer 104 associates the carriage identity with the appropriate physiological data (and horse identity) to associate the physiological data with the position of the horse H in the train 14 and stores the carriage identity in the database hosted by the server. For example, the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub 108 is tagged with the carriage identity (e.g., along with the horse identity). Sending the carriage identity to the server 104 also allows the server to identify the position in the train 14 from which the data is being received (i.e., the location of the horse H in the train 14). This allows the operator to use the user interface 102 to view the position of the horse H in the train 14.

[0056] The carriage identifier 130 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the data collection and communication hub 108. As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 includes a transmitter that can wirelessly transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 includes an infrared transmitter, for reasons explained below. The carriage identifier 130 sends the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 via the infrared connection (broadly, wireless optical communications connection) established between the infrared transmitter and the IR port 126A (FIG. 7). Other ways of transmitting the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 and/or the server 104 can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] The data collection and communication hub 108 and the carriage identifier 130 are configured to automatically communicatively couple to one another in order to transmit the carriage identity to the hub. In particular, the data collection and communication hub 108 and the carriage identifier 130 are configured to automatically communicatively couple to one another when the data collection and communication hub 108 is within a range of the carriage identifier. The data collection and communication hub 108 stores instructions for automatically establishing a connection (e.g., wireless connection or wireless optical communications connection) with the carriage identifier 130. The ability for the data collection and communication hub 108 to automatically connect to and/or read the carriage identifier 130, simplifies and streamlines the data collection process and prevents a trainer or operator from having to connect the hub to the carriage identifier or otherwise manually obtaining or inputting the carriage identity when the horse H is connected to a carriage 7 of the automated training device 10. For example, the data collection and communication hub 108 includes instructions for automatically connecting to or reading the carriage identifier 130 when the hub is within the range of the identifier, such as when the horse H is brought from the stables and positioned in one of the horse receiving spaces 77 of the automated training system 10.

[0058] As mentioned above, it is desirable that the carriage identifier 130 includes an infrared transmitter to transmit the carriage identifier. Wireless optical communication such as IR communication is not subject to interference from electrical noise created by the training system. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the infrared transmitter of the carriage identifier 130 repeatedly or continually transmits an infrared signal (in this case the carriage identity) in a cone of infrared light (broadly, a beacon), generally indicated at 131. As long as the data collection and communication hub 108 (specifically, the IR port 126A) is within the beam of infrared light 131 (within range of the beacon), the hub will receive the carriage identity transmitted by the carriage identifier 130 (read the carriage identity). In other words, the data collection and communication hub 108 is within a range of the carriage identifier 130 as long as the hub is within the beam of infrared light 131. As shown in FIG. 8, the carriage identifier 130 is mounted on the carriage 7 in a position such that when the horse H is positioned in the horse receiving space 77, the data collection and communication hub 108 on the horse's back is in registration with (e.g., generally vertically aligned) with the carriage identifier. Thus, the data collection and communication hub 108 is within the beam of infrared light 131 and will receive or read the carriage identity. In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is mounted to the carriage 7 above the horse receiving space 77.

[0059] It is desirable to have the carriage identifier 130 include the infrared transmitter (broadly, wireless optical signal transmitter) because of the clear, controllable and easily determinable range of the infrared transmitter not subject to interference by electrical noise generated by the training system. The infrared transmitter can be configured to transmit the beam of infrared light 131 in an area including only one horse receiving space 77, which is the horse receiving space associated with the carriage identity transmitted by the transmitter, thereby ensuring only the data collection and communication hub 108 disposed within the horse receiving space will receive the carriage identity (instead of other data collection and communication hubs of the horse monitoring system 100 receiving the carriage identifier). The beam of IR light can be smaller than, coextensive with, or larger than the horse receiving space 77, but desirably does not overlap another horse receiving space. This prevents any signal crossing between the data collection and communication hub 108 and the other carriage identifiers 130 on the train (and vice versa). Specifically, it prevents the data collection and communication hub 108 from receiving a carriage identity associated with another horse receiving space 77 (e.g., a horse receiving space the horse is not positioned in). Other types of wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi, generally transmit signals in all directions and do not have the areas or ranges that have sizes and positions that are as controllable as the beam of infrared light 131. Accordingly, using other types of wireless communication may result in impermissible signal crossing between a data collection and communication hub 108 and the wrong carriage identifier 130. Other types of optical communication or other means for conveying the carriage identity can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0060] Tn one embodiment, reception of the carriage identity by the data collection and communication hub 108 from the carriage identifier 130 initiates sending of the physiological data to the server 104. Even though the data collection and communication hub 108 may automatically connect to the server 104, as described above, the hub is configured to not transmit any of the physiological data received from the plurality of horse data sensors 110 until after the hub has received the carriage identity. This ensures that the horse monitoring system 100 is only storing physiological data measured during training or while the horses H are exercising (e.g., connected to the automated training system 10). Thus, the IR port 126A acts as a position sensor to detect a location of the horse with respect to the carriage, and more specifically, when the hub 108 carried by the horse is within the horse receiving space 77. In this embodiment, the processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 of the data collection and communication hub 108 includes instructions for the hub processor to initiate sending of the received physiological data to the server 104 based on the reception of the carriage identity. The sending of the physiological data based on the receipt of the carriage identity can be triggered immediately after or in a delayed manner after receiving the carriage identity. As mentioned above, because the carriage identifier 130 includes an infrared transmitter, the data collection and communication hub 108 will only receive the carriage identity when the horse H is positioned in the horse receiving space 77.

[00611 In one embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is configured to repeatedly transmit the carriage identity. For example, the carriage identifier 130 is configured to repeatedly transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 (broadly, to the server 104 via the hub). In one embodiment, the carriage identifier 130 is configured to continuously (e.g., non-stop) transmit the carriage identity. For example, the carriage identifier 130 is configured to continuously transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub 108 (broadly, to the server 104 via the hub). The data collection and communication hub 108 can be configured to transmit the physiological data (and other data such as the horse identity) to the server 104 only while receiving the carriage identifier. The processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 of the data collection and communication hub 108 can include instructions for the hub processor to send the received physiological data to the server 104 while receiving the carriage identifier. The data collection and communication hub 108 can be configured to stop transmitting the physiological data (and other data such as the horse identity) to the server when the hub no longer receives the carriage identifier. In other words, the data collection and communication hub 108 is configured to stop transmitting the physiological data when the carriage identifier 130 is no longer transmitting the carriage identity, when the hub is out of range of the carriage identifier 130 (but may still be connected to the local area network), and/or when the hub is out of the horse receiving space 77. Broadly, the processor-executable instructions stored in the memory 124 of the data collection and communication hub 108 can include instructions for the hub to stop sending physiological data to the server 104 based on the carriage identity no longer being received (i.e., the horse is moved out of the receiving space, out of range of the IR beacon). For example, there is no need to transmit the physiological data to the server 104 when the horse H is disconnected from the automated training system 10. Such a situation occurs before a horse begins training or when a horse has finished training with the automated training system 10 and has been removed from the horse receiving space 77 and taken back to the stables. Thus, the transmission of the carriage identity by the carriage identifier 130 acts as a beacon signal for the data collection and communication hub 108, and the hub may transmit the physiological data to the server 104 only when receiving the beacon signal. It will be appreciated in the illustrated embodiment, the IR port of the data collection and communication hub serves multiple purposes, including as a wireless optical IR port for receiving the carriage identity from the carriage identifier and as a position sensor for detecting a location of the horse with respect to the carriage. It will be appreciated that the carriage identity receiver and the position sensor functions of the IR port can be divided among two different ports or sensors of the data collection and communication hub, and that the position sensor could be located on the carriage or elsewhere, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0062] In one embodiment, each data collection and communication hub 108 includes one or more indicators (127A-127F configured to visually indicate whether or not a component or device of the horse monitoring system 100 is communicatively coupled to the hub. Each indicator 127A-127F indicates whether or not a particular device is connected to the data collection and communication hub 108. For example, one indicator 127E may be used to indicate if the heart rate sensor 114 is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108, one indicator 127B may be used to indicate if the gait sensor 116 is communicatively coupled to the hub and one indicator 127C may be used to indicate if the spirometry sensor 118 is communicatively coupled to the hub. Each indicator 127A-I 27F may have one state when a corresponding device is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108 and a different state when the device is not communicatively coupled. For example, in one embodiment the indicators 127A-127F are lights and are illuminated (e.g., energized or in an active state) when a corresponding device is communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub 108 and not illuminated (e.g., de-energized or in an inactive state) when the device is not communicatively coupled to the hub. It is appreciated that other types of states, such as flashing and different colors are within the scope of the present disclosure. The indicators 127A-127F may be used to indicate other information as well. For example, one indicator 127A may be used to indicate when the data collection and communication hub 108 has received a horse identifier from the horse identification scanner 128. Similarly, one indicator I 27A may be used to indicate when the data collection and communication hub 108 is receiving or has received a carriage identifier from the carriage identifier 130 or is in communication with the carriage identifier 130. Yet another indicator 127E can be provided to indicate whether the hub is connected to the local area network (e.g., the Wi-Fi network). The indicators may be mounted on the housing of the data collection and communication hub 108.

[0063] Still referring to FIG. 6, the horse monitoring system may also include a global positioning system (GPS) sensor 134. The GPS sensor 134 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The GPS sensor 134 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the server 104. In one embodiment, the GPS sensor 134 is communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the local area network generated by the router 132. The GPS sensor 134 provides position information (e.g., GPS data) about the train 14 as the train moves along the rail line 1 and the track 12. The GPS data may be used to map the track 12 and determine the position of the train 14 along the track during training. The GPS data may be collected and stored in the database hosted by the server 104 and be correlated with the physiological data generated by the plurality of horse data sensors 110 (or any other types of data described herein). For example, an operator may use the correlated data to analyze the horse's physiological attributes along or at particular section of the track 12, such as a curve or incline. The GPS sensor 134 is mounted on the train 14.

[0064] The horse monitoring system 100 may also include a speed sensor 136. The speed sensor 136 is configured to measure the speed of the train 14 (e.g., carriages 7), and therefore the horse H, as the train moves along the rail line 1. The speed sensor 136 generates speed data corresponding to the measured speed of the train 14. In one embodiment, the speed sensor 136 is mounted on the train 14 next to the rail line 1 and measures the speed of the train relative to the rail line (e.g., via rotation of a wheel with respect to time). The speed sensor 136 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The speed sensor 136 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the server 104. In one embodiment, the speed sensor 136 is communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the local area network generated by the router 132. The speed data may be used to determine the speed of the horses H as the horses are guided by the automated training system 10. The speed data may be collected and stored in the database hosted by the server 104 and be correlated with the physiological data generated by the plurality of horse data sensors I 10 (or any other types of data described herein). For example, an operator may use the correlated data to compare the horse's physiological attributes at different velocities of the horse.

[0065] The horse monitoring system [00 may also include a weather condition sensor 138. The weather condition sensor 138 is configured to generate weather data corresponding to the weather conditions occurring while the horses H are exercising. The weather condition sensor 138 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 140, a barometric sensor 142 and a humidity sensor 144. The temperature sensor 140 measures the ambient air temperature and generates temperature data (broadly, weather data) corresponding to the measured outside air temperature. The barometric sensor 142 measures air pressure and generates pressure data (broadly, weather data) corresponding to the measured air pressure. The humidity sensor 144 measures the outside humidity and generates humidity data (broadly, weather data) corresponding to the measured humidity. Other types of weather sensors can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The weather condition sensor 138 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The weather condition sensor 138 may be wired or wirelessly connected to the server 104. In one embodiment, the weather condition sensor is communicatively coupled to the server 104 via the local area network generated by the router 132. In one embodiment, the individual weather sensors are directly communicatively coupled to the server 104. The weather data may be collected and stored in the database hosted by the server 104 and be correlated with the physiological data generated by the plurality of horse data sensors 110 (or any other types of data described herein). For example, an operator may use the correlated data to compare the horse's physiological attributes under different weather conditions. The weather module 138 is mounted on the train 14.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 9-12, the user interface 102 of the horse monitoring system 100 provides access to the information (e.g., physiological data, speed data, etc.) stored by the server 104. The user interface 102 is communicatively coupled to the server 104. The user interface 102 allows information to be accessed from the database 104 in real time and/or after the exercise. The user interface 102 includes a display configured to display at least a portion of the physiological data in real time along with the associated horse identities and/or carriage identities. This allows at least a portion, if not all, of the physiological data to be displayed to an operator or trainer while the horses H are being exercised with the automated training system 10. The displayed information may be textural, numerical, and/or graphical representations of the information contained in the database and may also be statistical extractions of such information. The display is communicatively coupled to the server 104. This may be done wired or wirelessly using any of the methods described herein, such as by using the local area network generated by the router 132. The user interface may also include an input device, such as a keyboard, buttons, touch screen, and/or any other suitable input device, to allow the operator to interact with and/or manipulate the physiological data. The display and input device may be a single component, such as a touch screen display. In one embodiment, the user interface 102, or any part thereof such as the display, may be part of or integrated with the cab 6, as mentioned above. In another embodiment, the user interface 102, or any part thereof such as the display, may take the form of various types of computers, including a tablet or hand-held computing device (e.g., tablet or smartphone), a desktop computer, a laptop computer, etc. The user interface 102, or any part thereof such as the display, can be free-standing, mounted within the cab 6 or part of the cab. In one embodiment, the user interface 102, or any part thereof such as the display, is remote of the cab 6 and can be remote from the train and even be remote from the track or training grounds.

[0067] FIG. 9 shows a screen shot of an example view of a home screen 200 of a graphic user interface that may be displayed on the user interface 102 (e.g., a touch screen display). Broadly, the graphic interface displays the physiological data on the display of the user interface 102 to an operator or trainer. The home screen 200 includes a horse data section 202. The horse data section 202 includes an array of horse tiles 206 representing respective individual horses H attached to the automated training system 10 and on which information associated with each horse H is displayed. In one embodiment, the horse tiles 206 are arranged in an array (e.g., columns and rows) corresponding to an arrangement of the horse receiving spaces 77 of the train 14, and the horse tiles are positioned in the array corresponding to the position of the horse receiving space in the train. In one embodiment, each horse tile 206 includes a train position indicator 208 indicating the horse receiving space 77 of the train 14 the horse H is positioned in. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the train position indicator 208 in the upper left corner horse tile 206 of the horse data section 202 is "Yl," which indicates that the horse associated with that horse tile is in yoke position 1 on the train. The yoke position can be or can be determined based on the carriage identity (horse receiving space identity). In addition, each horse tile 206 may include a horse name indicator 210 indicating or displaying the horse name associated with the horse tile. The horse's name may be determined and displayed by using the horse identity transmitted to the server 104, described above. In addition, each horse tile 206 may include a physiological data indicator 212 (broadly, one or more physiological data indicators) indicating the physiological attribute of the horse H associated with the horse tile 206, based on the physiological data. In the illustrated embodiment, each horse tile 206 displays the heart rate (e.g., physiological attribute) of the horse H associated with the horse tile. It is understood that the horse tiles 206 may display more and/or other types physiological attributes, such as the physiological attributes described herein.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, each horse tile 206 includes a touch sensitive area that the operator or trainer may press to view more information about a particular horse. For example, in one embodiment, pressing a horse tile opens a data analysis screen 220 which may show additional and/or more detailed physiological attributes of the horse H. In the illustrated embodiment, the data analysis screen 220 graphically shows the spirometry data (e.g., air flow) and heart rate data of a particular horse H over time (e.g., over the course of the exercise). In other embodiments, other types of data, such as other data described herein, may be displayed. Further still, other arrangements are possible. For example, in one embodiment, the heart rate data may be shown by itself. In another embodiment, the spirometry data is shown with the gait data. In another embodiment, the gait data is shown with the train's speed data. Any other combination of two or more types of data disclosed herein may be used. Accordingly, it is understood that any of the data described herein may be graphically displayed as shown in the data analysis screen 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the data analysis screen 220 includes additional data box 222 that may include the horse's name, other information about the horse and the train's speed. Other types of information can be displayed in the additional data box 222. All of this may be done in real time, allowing an operator or trainer to see the physiological condition of the horse H as the horse is exercising using the automated training system 10.

[0069] In one embodiment, the data analysis screen 220 may include additional buttons (e.g., navigation buttons) to allow the operator or trainer to open up other screens showing other types of information. For example, in one embodiment, the operator may press a button on the data analysis screen 220 to open a detailed view of a particular physiological attribute, such as a graph showing the horse's electrocardiogram (EKG) (e.g., EKG screen), as shown in FIG. 12.

[0070] As shown in in the illustrated embodiment, the home screen 200 may also include a settings section 204 (FIG. 9). The setting section 204 may include a plurality of different tiles related to other aspects of the horse monitoring system. For example, the settings section 204 may include a database input'edit tile 250, a system recording control tile 252, a default chart selection tile 254, a calibration tile 256, a system setup tile 258, a data analysis tile 260, a train data tile 262, and an environmental data and spirometry setup tile 264. These tiles are used to control/edit other aspects of the horse monitoring system 100. The database input/edit tile 250 can be used to access the database hosted by the server 104 storing all the physiological data to input and/or edit the data. The system recording control tile 252 can be used to edit how the system records information. The default chart selection tile 254 can be used to set a default chart that appears when the operator presses a horse tile 206. The calibration tile 256 can be used to calibrate the various sensors and other aspects of the system described herein. The system setup tile 258 may be used to edit general settings of the system. The data analysis tile 260 may be used to perform more complex data analysis. The train data tile 262 may be used to view information about the train 14. For example, pressing the train data tile 262 can open up a train data screen 266 (FIG. 11) which can show a variety of different information about the train 14. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the train data screen 266 includes two graphs showing the speed and gradient (respectively) of the train 14 over time. The train data screen 266 may also include a train position indicator 268 that shows the position of the train 14 on the rail line 1. The train position indicator 268 includes a graphical depiction 270 of the rail line and a position indicator 272 on the graphical depiction of the rail line at a position that corresponds to the position of the train 14 on the rail line 1. Accordingly, as the train 14 moves along the rail line 1, the position indicator 272 moves along the graphical depiction 270 of the rail line. Other types of information may be displayed. Finally, the environmental data and spirometry setup tile 264 may be used to format the various environmental (e.g., weather) sensors disclosed herein and the spirometry sensor. Other configurations and arraignments of the graphic interface are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] The horse monitoring system 100, described herein, can monitor the physiological attributes of a plurality of horses H in real time, while the horses are exercising. The database of the horse monitoring system 100 allows the system to record the physiological data, allowing an operator to review the data and to monitor any changes in the horse's performance over time. By regularly recording and analyzing physiological attributes of the horses H during training, the horse monitoring system 100 can track long term changes in a horse's fitness. This allows a trainer to optimize an exercise regimen for a particular horse. This also allows a trainer to more effectively gauge when a horse is ready to increase exercise intensity. Moreover, viewing the physiological data in real-time enables a trainer to quickly identify any issues with the horses. For example, the gait data can be analyzed by the trainer to provide an indication of the horse's strength, conditioning and potential lameness. In addition, the horse's heart rate can be used to compare the horse's fitness over time and improvement in heart conditioning over the course of the training. Moreover, the trainer can also determine a horse's fitness by comparing data. For example, the trainer can set the rate of 200 beats per minute (bpm) (e.g., heart rate) as a standard to measure fitness, and cross-reference against the speed at which the horse runs while the horse's heart beats at this rate. Overtime, a horse's fitness is shown to improve as the speed at which the horse runs increases while the horse's heart rate of 200 bpm is maintained (e.g the horse is able to run faster without exerting more energy). Moreover, the weather data is collected to be cross-referenced with the physiological data to determine the effect of weather (e.g., temperature, pressure, humidity) on the horse. In addition, all of this can be done for every horse connected to the automated training system 10 during training. It is understood the horse monitoring system 100 may provide other benefits and advantages as well, not explicitly mentioned herein but recognized by one having ordinary skill in the art.

[0072] Embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise a special purpose computer including a variety of computer hardware, as described in greater detail below.

[0073] Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure also include computer-readable media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a special purpose computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a computer, the computer properly views the connection as a computer-readable medium. Thus, any such a connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions [0074] The following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which aspects of the disclosure may be implemented. Although not required, aspects of the disclosure will be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by computers in network environments. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Computer-executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of the program code means for executing steps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of such executable instructions or associated data structures represent examples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions described in such steps.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that aspects of the disclosure may be practiced in network computing environments with many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Aspects of the disclosure may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices that are linked (either by hardwired links, wireless links, or by a combination of hardwired or wireless links) through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0076] An exemplary system for implementing aspects of the disclosure includes a general purpose computing device in the form of a conventional computer, including a processing unit, a system memory, and a system bus that couples various system components including the system memory to the processing unit. The system bus may be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. The system memory includes read only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). A basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routines that help transfer information between elements within the computer, such as during start-up, may be stored in ROM. Further, the computer may include any device (e.g., computer, laptop, tablet, PDA, cell phone, mobile phone, a smart television, and the like) that is capable of receiving or transmitting an IP address wirelessly to or from the internet.

[0077] The computer may also include a magnetic hard disk drive for reading from and writing to a magnetic hard disk, a magnetic disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable magnetic disk, and an optical disk drive for reading from or writing to removable optical disk such as a CD-ROM or other optical media. The magnetic hard disk drive, magnetic disk drive, and optical disk drive are connected to the system bus by a hard disk drive interface, a magnetic disk drive-interface, and an optical drive interface, respectively. The drives and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the computer. Although the exemplary environment described herein employs a magnetic hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, and a removable optical disk, other types of computer readable media for storing data can be used, including magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoulli cartridges, RANIs, ROMs, solid state drives (SSDs), and the like.

[0078] The computer typically includes a variety of computer readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media may comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media are non-transitory and include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, SSDs, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired non-transitory information, which can accessed by the computer. Alternatively, communication media typically embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media.

[0079] Program code means comprising one or more program modules may be stored on the hard disk, magnetic disk, optical disk, ROM, and/or RAM, including an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. A user may enter commands and information into the computer through a keyboard, pointing device, or other input device, such as a microphone, joy stick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit through a serial port interface coupled to the system bus. Alternatively, the input devices may be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, a game port, or a universal serial bus (USB). A monitor or another display device is also connected to the system bus via an interface, such as video adapter 48 In addition to the monitor, personal computers typically include other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers and printers.

[0080] One or more aspects of the disclosure may be embodied in computer-executable instructions (i.e., software), routines, or functions stored in system memory or non-volatile memory as application programs, program modules, and/or program data. The software may alternatively be stored remotely, such as on a remote computer with remote application programs. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types when executed by a processor in a computer or other device. The computer executable instructions may be stored on one or more tangible, non-transitory computer readable media (e.g., hard disk, optical disk, removable storage media, solid state memory, RAM, etc.) and executed by one or more processors or other devices. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the functionality of the prop-am modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments. In addition, the functionality may be embodied in whole or in part in firmware or hardware equivalents such as integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), and the like.

[0081] The computer may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers. The remote computers may each be another personal computer, a tablet, a PDA, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device, or other common network node, and typically include many or all of the elements described above relative to the computer. The logical connections include a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN) that are presented here by way of example and not limitation. Such networking environments are commonplace in office-wide or enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and the Internet.

[0082] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer is connected to the local network through a network interface or adapter. When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer may include a modem, a wireless link, or other means for establishing communications over the wide area network, such as the Internet. The modem, which may be internal or external, is connected to the system bus via the serial port interface In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer, or portions thereof, may be stored in the remote memory storage device. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing communications over wide area network may be used.

[0083] Preferably, computer-executable instructions are stored in a memory, such as the hard disk drive, and executed by the computer. Advantageously, the computer processor has the capability to perform all operations (e.g., execute computer-executable instructions) in real-time.

[0084] The order of execution or performance of the operations in embodiments of the disclosure illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the operations may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the disclosure may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the disclosure.

[0085] Embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented with computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions may be organized into one or more computer-executable components or modules. Aspects of the disclosure may be implemented with any number and organization of such components or modules. For example, aspects of the disclosure are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or the specific components or modules illustrated in the figures and described herein. Other embodiments of the disclosure may include different computer-executable instructions or components having more or less functionality than illustrated and described herein.

[0086] The following provides a brief general description, for example without limitation, of a system and methods embodying aspects described above.

[00871 The horse fitness monitoring measures physiological, behavioral and motion responses and interactions (e.g., physiological attributes) to a measured exercise and environmental workload of a horse during training.

[00881 In one aspect, a horse training system 10 comprises at least one movable carriage 7 and for example five coupled carriages. Each carriage 7 is configured with one or more yokes which tether and guide a horse H as the carriage moves. The horse training system 10 also includes a horse monitoring system 100 for measuring physiological, behavioral and motion attributes of the horse as it is guided on a track 12 in a controlled manner. Carriages 7 are typically controlled from a control cabin 6 also coupled to the carriage train. In an alternative configuration the control cabin is stationary and close to the exercise track 12.

[0089] The horse monitoring system 100 comprises a data hub 108 associated with each horse H in the training system and a plurality of sensors 110 configured to generate data to measure the physiological, behavioral and motion attributes of that horse. Each data hub 108 comprises hardware and software configured for data acquisition, data storage, data analysis and data communication of the sensed physiological, behavioral and motion data. Therefore, data from the plurality of sensors 110 may be manipulated and stored locally within the data hub 108 for post training exercise collection and analysis. Data from the plurality of sensors 11 0 may also be transmitted, for example via a radio frequency telemetry network, for collection and analysis by a remote computer or server 104, both during training exercise in real time or post exercise.

[0090] The horse training system 10 comprises of multiple yokes with a hub 108 associated with each yoke. Data from all hubs 108, and therefore all horses Hon the training system 10 will be recorded simultaneously by the remote computer server 104 running a database.

[00911 To allow data source identification of physiological, behavioral and motion data received by the server 104, the data must be labelled with a horse identifying label (e.g., horse identity), a carriage identifying label (e.g., a carriage identity) and a hub identifying label (e.g., a hub identity). The horse H, hub 108 and carriage identifying labels are stored in a memory device 124 in the data hub and are each available for transmission to the server 104.

[0092] Typical animal sensor data may include, but is not limited to heart rate, gait, respiratory function, body temperature, behavior and metabolic functions. Typical exercise condition sensor data may include, but is not limited to vehicle velocity, vehicle position, track incline, ambient temperature, air pressure, relative humidity, time and date.

[0093] A selected portion of the server collected data from all horses on the training system is displayed while horses H are exercising in real time to a trainer. This real time displayed data allows a trainer to modify the exercise regimen during training for horse H safety, welfare and training purposes.

[0094] The horse's identity is collected typically prior to a training exercise session. In one embodiment, the horse identity is derived from an RFID scanner 128 (Radio Frequency Identification Device) of the animals' implanted RFID tag. The RFID scanner 128 output is communicatively coupled to the data hub 108 where the horse identity is stored during the training exercise. Other horse identification methods are possible such as manual input and other scanning methods (e.g. Barcode) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0095] The hub identity is held in a data hub memory device 124 and is typically preprogrammed during manufacture. In another embodiment, the hub identity may be communicatively coupled to the data hub 108 when required [0096] The carriage identity is collected when the horse H is tethered or closely associated with the carriage 7 (e.g., positioned within the horse receiving space 77). The carriage identity coupling methods are chosen such as to uniquely associate a particular horse's data hub 108 with a carriage (in particular, yoke) without interference from another hub or yoke in close proximity. Examples of carriage identity coupling methods are Infra-Red beacons, Bluetooth or other short-range RF beacons, or RFID devices.

[0097] An additional function of the carriage identification signal is to identify to the server 104 when the horse H is no longer in close proximity to the carriage 7.

Indications of Fitness In addition to the above-described indications of fitness such as heart rate, gait and respiratory activity, a method or system of the present disclosure may further be configured to determine or calculate further indications of fitness of an animal such as blood pressure, body temperature, bone dimension, bone density, maximum heart rate, velocity at a heart rate of 200 beats/minute (VIIR200), stride regularity, maximal oxygen uptake (V02max), tendon health, heart rate recovery rate.

The indications of fitness may be based on a measurement from a sensor as described above, for example an attribute sensor arranged for measuring a physiological attribute of an animal. Such a measurement may, preferably. be a non-invasive measurement.

Heart Rate Heart rate may be measured using a heart rate monitor equipped with two electrode pads. The heart rate monitor may be located on a roller on the animals back. Measurements taken by the heart rate monitor may be sent toa computing means via WiFi or some other means of telecommunication.

1/HR2oo Heart rate measurements/data acquired by the above-mentioned means can also be used to calculate VHR200 in combination with data from an odometer located on the movable carriage.

The computing means may produce a graph of velocity v heart rate An advantage to a training system or method according to the present disclosure may be to develop the musculoskeletal tissue of animals in a controlled manner, thereby reducing the likelihood of injury to the animals, improving the resistance of the animals to future injury and to better rehabilitate animals after injury.

A further advantage of monitoring a physiological attribute of the animal when the animal is in attachment with the movable carriage may be to provide a real-time monitoring of health of the animal which may increase the safety of training the animals by providing an early indication of injury.

[0098] [00991 When introducing elements of aspects of the disclosure or the embodiments thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[001001 Having described aspects of the disclosure in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of aspects of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

THE DISCLOSURE OF THIS APPLICATION ALSO INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING NUMBERED CLAUSES: 1. A horse training system comprising: at least one movable carriage configured to connect to a horse for guiding the horse as the at least one carriage moves; and a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the horse as the horse is guided by the at least one carriage, the horse monitoring system comprising: a data collection and communication hub associated with the horse, the data collection and communication hub including a hub processor and a non-transitory tangible storage medium including processor-executable instructions for controlling the operation of the hub processor, the hub processor executing the instructions; a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub; wherein the data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors, and wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to transmit the physiological data to a server remote from the data collection and communication hub.

2. The horse training system of clause 1, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to transmit at least one of a horse identity or a carriage identity to the server to be associated with the physiological data of the horse.

3. The horse training system of clause 1 or 2, wherein the data collection and communication hub includes a plurality of ports to communicatively couple the data collection and communication hub with the plurality of horse data sensors.

4. The horse training system of clause 3, wherein at least one of the ports of the plurality of ports is an optical communications port.

5. The horse training system of clause 4, wherein the optical communications port comprises an infrared communications port.

6. The horse training system of any one of clauses 3-5, wherein at least one of the ports of the plurality of ports comprises a Bluetooth port.

7. The horse training system of any one of clauses 3-6, wherein at least one of the ports of the plurality of ports comprises a port configured to communicatively couple the data collection and communication hub to a wireless local area network for transmitting the physiological data to the server.

8. The horse training system of any one of clauses 3-7, wherein the data collection and communication hub includes a plurality of indicators, each indicator associated with one of the plurality of ports and configured to visually indicate if said one of the plurality of ports is communicatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of horse data sensors, the server, or another component of the horse training system.

9. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-8, wherein the plurality of horse data sensors includes a heart rate sensor, a gait senor, and a spirometry sensor.

10. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-9, wherein the plurality of horse data sensors includes a gait sensor, and wherein the gait sensor comprises an inertial measurement unit.

11. The horse training system of clause 10, wherein the inertial measurement unit includes an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer.

12. The horse training system of any one of clauses I -1 I, wherein the data collection and communication hub includes a horse identification port configured to receive an identity of the horse, the data collection and communication hub configured to transmit the horse identity to the server for associating the physiological data with the horse.

13. The horse training system of clause 12, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a horse identification scanner configured to obtain the identity of the horse, the data collection and communication hub configured to receive the horse identity from the horse identification scanner via the horse identity port.

14. The horse training system of clause 13, wherein the horse identification scanner is separate from and movable with respect to the data collection and communication hub, the horse identification scanner being movable to and usable with other data collection and communication hubs for transmitting different horse identities to said other data collection and communication hubs.

15. The horse training system of any one of clauses 13 or 14, wherein the horse identification scanner includes a transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit the horse iden tY to the data collection and communication hub.

16. The horse training system of clause 15, wherein the wireless transmitter of the horse identification scanner comprises an optical communications transmitter.

17. The horse training system of any one of clauses 15 or 16, wherein the wireless transmitter of the horse identification scanner comprises an infrared transmitter.

18. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-17, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a position sensor configured to detect whether the horse is in a horse receiving space of the at least one carriage.

19. The horse training system of clause 18, wherein data collection and communication hub is carried by the horse, and the hub includes the position sensor.

20. The horse training system of any one of clauses 18 or 19, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to initiate transmitting the physiological data to the sewer based on the position sensor detecting whether the horse is in the horse receiving space.

21. The horse training system of any one of clauses 18-20, wherein the position sensor comprises an optical sensor.

22. The horse training system of any one of clauses 18-21, wherein the position sensor comprises an infrared sensor.

23. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-22, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a carriage identifier carried by the at least one carriage, the carriage identifier storing a carriage identity associated with said at least one carriage, the data collection and communication hub configured to receive the carriage identity from the carriage identifier and to transmit the carriage identity to the server to be associated with the physiological data of the horse.

24. The horse training system of clause 23, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to automatically obtain the carriage identity when the hub is within a range of the carriage identifier.

The horse training system of any one of clauses 23 or 24, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub.

26. The horse training system of clause 25, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to repeatedly transmit the carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub.

27. The horse training system of any one of clauses 23-26, wherein the processor-executable instructions further includes instructions for the hub processor to initiate transmitting the physiological data to the server based on the hub receiving the carriage identity.

28. The horse training system of any one of clauses 23-27, wherein the carriage identifier comprises an infrared transmitter, and the data collection and communication hub comprises an infrared receiver configured to receive the carriage identity from the infrared transmitter.

29. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-28, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises the server, the server being communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub, the server hosting a database for storing the physiological data received from the data collection and communication hub.

30. The horse training system of any one of clauses clause 1-29, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a wireless local area network to which the data collection and communication hub is connected for transmitting the physiological data to the server, the data collection and communication hub configured to automatically communicatively couple to the wireless local area network when the data collection and communication hub is within a range of the wireless local area network.

31. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-30, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a user interface communicatively coupled to the server and configured to display at least a portion of the physiological data in real time.

32. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-31, wherein the horse monitoring system is configured to monitor physiological attributes of multiple horses at the same time as the multiple horses are guided by the at least one carriage, the user interface configured to display at least one of a horse identity or a carriage identity associated with each horse and at least a portion of the physiological data for each horse in real time.

33. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-32, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises a speed sensor configured to measure the speed of the at least one carriage as the at least one carriage moves along the rail line and to generate speed data speed representing the speed of the at least one carriage.

34. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-33, wherein the horse monitoring system further comprises at least one of a barometric sensor, a humidity sensor, or an ambient temperature sensor.

35. The horse training system of any one of clauses 1-34, wherein the horse is a first horse of a plurality of horses and the horse monitoring system includes a plurality of horse monitoring units associated with respective individual horses of the plurality of horses, a first horse monitoring unit of the plurality of horse monitoring units including the data collection and communication hub and the plurality of horse data sensors, each of the other horse monitoring units including a respective data collection and communication hub and a respective plurality of horse data sensors, each horse monitoring unit carried by the a respective individual horse of the plurality of horses and configured to monitor the physiological attributes of the horse as the horse is guided by the at least one carriage, each horse monitoring unit configured to transmit physiological data of the respective individual horse to the server.

36. The horse training system of clause 35, wherein the plurality of horse monitoring units includes at least six horse monitoring units for monitoring physiological attributes of at least six horses.

37. A horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse as the horse is exercising, the horse monitoring system comprising: a server hosting a database for storing physiological data, and a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the sewer to transmit the physiological data to the sewer; and a horse identification scanner configured to obtain an identity of the horse, the horse identification scanner communicatively coupled to the server to transmit the identity of the horse from the horse identification scanner for associating the physiological data with the horse in the database.

38. The horse monitoring system of clause 47, wherein the physiological data is tagged with the horse identity.

39. The horse monitoring system of clause 47 or 48, wherein the horse identification scanner includes a transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit the horse identifier.

40. The horse monitoring system of clause 49, wherein the transmitter comprises an optical communications transmitter.

41. The horse monitoring system of clause 49 or 50, wherein the transmitter comprises an infrared transmitter.

42. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 47-51, wherein the horse identification scanner is a portable, hand-held device usable with different pluralities of horse data sensors to associate each plurality of horse data sensors with different horse identities.

43. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 37-42, further comprising a data collection and communication hub communicatively coupled to the server, the plurality of horse data sensors, and the horse identification scanner such that the physiological data and horse identity are transmitted to the server via the data collection and communication hub.

44. The horse monitoring system of clause 43, wherein the data collection and communication hub includes an optical port configured to receive the horse identity from the horse identification scanner.

45. The horse monitoring system of clause 44, wherein the optical port is an infrared port.

46. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 43-45, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to receive a carriage identity associated with a location of the horse.

47. The horse monitoring system of clause 46, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to transmit the carriage identity to the server.

48. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 46 or 47, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to initiate transmitting the physiological data or horse identifier to the server based on reception of the carriage identity.

49. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 37-48, wherein the plurality of horse data sensors includes at least one of a heart rate sensor, a gait sensor and a spirometry sensor.

50. The horse monitoring system of clauses 37-49, further comprising a display communicatively coupled to the server and configured to display at least a portion of the physiological data in real time while the horse is exercising.

51. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 37-50, further comprising a speed sensor configured to measure the speed of the horse as the horse is exercising.

52. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 37-51, further comprising at least one of a barometric sensor, a humidity sensor or a temperature sensor.

53. The horse training system of any one of clauses 37-45 and 49-52, in combination with at least one movable carriage, the at least one movable carriage configured to connect to the horse for guiding the horse while the horse is exercising.

54. The horse monitoring system of clause 53, further comprising a carriage identifier carried by the at least one carriage and including a carriage identity associated with said at least one carriage, the carriage identifier communicatively coupled to the server such that the sewer receives the carriage identity for associating the physiological data with said at least one carriage.

55. The horse monitoring system of clause 54, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to transmit the carriage identity.

56. The horse monitoring system of clause 55, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to repeatedly transmit the carriage identity.

57. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 53-56, wherein the carriage identifier comprises an infrared transmitter.

58. A method for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse, the method comprising: scanning, with a horse identification scanner, a horse identifier associated with the horse to obtain a horse identity of the horse; transmitting the horse identity from the horse identification scanner to a data collection and communication hub mounted on the horse; transmitting physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to a server, wherein the physiological data is generated by a plurality of horse data sensors sensing physiological attributes of the horse while the horse is exercising, the physiological data representing the sensed physiological attributes; and transmitting the horse identity from the data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data with the horse via the horse identity 59. The method of clause 58, wherein scanning the horse identifier comprises scanning a tag on the horse.

60. The method of any one of clauses 58-59, wherein transmitting the horse identity from the horse identity scanner comprises wireless transmitting the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub.

61. The method of clause 60, wherein wirelessly transmitting the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub comprises transmitting the horse identity via infrared communication to the data collection and communication hub.

62. The method of any one of clauses 58-61, wherein the horse is a first horse and the horse identifier is a first horse identifier, and the data collection and communication hub is a first data collection and communication hub, and the method further comprises scanning, with the horse identification scanner, a second horse identifier associated with a second horse to obtain an identity of the second horse, transmitting physiological data representative of physiological attributes of the second horse from the second data collection and communication hub to the server, and transmitting the horse identity of the second horse from the data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data of the second horse with the second horse via the identity of the second horse.

63. The method of any one of clauses 58-62, further comprising: transmitting a carriage identity from a carriage identifier mounted on a carriage to the data collection and communication hub, wherein the data collection and communication hub receives the carriage identity when the data collection and communication hub is within a range of the carriage identifier.

64. The method of clause 63, wherein the carriage identity is repeatedly transmitted by the carriage identifier to the data collection and communication hub.

65. A horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse as the horse is exercised by a horse training system, the horse training system including a carriage for guiding the horse as the horse is exercising, the horse monitoring system comprising: a server hosting a database for storing physiological data associated with the horse; a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the server to transmit the physiological data to the server; and a carriage identifier including a carriage identity, the carnage identifier communicatively coupled to the server such that the server receives the carriage identity for associating the physiological data with the carriage.

66. The horse monitoring system of clause 65, wherein the carnage identifier is configured to wirelessly transmit the carriage identity.

67. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 65-66, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to transmit the carriage identity by optical communication.

68. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 66-67, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to transmit the carriage identity by infrared communications.

69. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 66-68, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to repeatedly transmit the carriage identity.

70. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 66-68, wherein the carriage identifier is configured to continuously transmit the carriage identity.

71. The horse monitoring system of any one of clauses 65-70, further comprising a data collection and communication hub including a carriage identity receiver configured to receive the carriage identity from the carriage identifier, said data collection and communication hub configured to transmit the carriage identity to the server.

72. A method for determining the position of a horse within a horse training system, the method comprising: transmitting physiological data generated by a plurality of horse data sensors sensing physiological attributes of the horse to a data collection and communication hub on the horse, the physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes; transmitting a carriage identity from a carriage identifier mounted on a carriage of the horse training system to the data collection and communication hub.

73. The method of clause 72, wherein the carriage identity is repeatedly transmitted by the carriage identifier to the data collection and communication hub.

74. The method of clause 72, wherein the carriage identity is continuously transmitted by the carriage identifier to the data collection and communication hub.

The method of any one of clauses 72-74, further comprising transmitting the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to a sewer remote from the data collection and communication hub.

76. The method of clause 75, wherein the data collection and communication hub initiates transmitting the physiological data to the server based on receiving the carriage identity from the carriage identifier.

77. The method of any one of clauses 75-76, further comprising stopping transmitting the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to the server when the data collection and communication hub no longer receives the carriage identity.

78. The method of any one of clauses 72-77, further comprising transmitting the carriage identity from the data collection and communication hub to the sewer for associating the physiological data with the carriage via the carriage identity.

79. A horse training system comprising: at least one movable carriage configured to connect to a horse for guiding the horse as the at least one carriage moves; and a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the horse as the horse is guided by the at least one carriage, the horse monitoring system comprising: a wireless network having a range covering the at least one carriage; a server hosting a database for storing physiological data, the server connected to the wireless network; a data collection and communication hub associated with the horse and connected to the wireless network, the wireless network communicatively coupling the server and data collection and communication hub, the data collection and communication hub configured to automatically connect to the wireless network when the data collection and communication hub is within the range of the wireless network; a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the data collection and communication hub; wherein the data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors and is configured to transmit the physiological data to the server via the wireless network.

80. The horse training system of clause 79, wherein the monitoring system further comprises a position sensor configured to detect a location of the horse with respect to the at least one carriage, and wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to initiate transmitting the physiological data to the server based on a signal from the position sensor.

81. The horse training system of clause 80, wherein the data collection and communication hub includes the position sensor, and the data collection and communication hub is carried by the horse.

82. The horse training system of any one of clauses 80-81, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to initiate transmitting the physiological data to the server based on the position sensor indicating a location of the horse with respect to the carriage.

83. The horse training system of any one of clauses 80-82, wherein the data collection and communication hub is configured to initiate transmitting the physiological data to the server based on the position sensor indicating the horse is in a horse receiving space of the carriage.

84. The horse training system of any one of clause 80-83, wherein the position sensor comprises an infrared sensor.

85. A horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of a plurality of horses as the horses are exercised by a horse training system, the horse monitoring system comprising: a server hosting a database for storing physiological data, a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense the physiological attributes of the horses and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the server such that the server receives the physiological data; and a user interface communicatively coupled to the server, the user interface including a display configured to display at least one physiological attribute of each horse of the plurality of horses at the same time.

86. The horse monitoring system of clause 85, wherein the user interface is configured to display said at least one physiological attribute of each horse and at least one of a horse identity or a carriage identity associated with each horse.

87. A horse training system comprising: a train including a plurality of carriages, each carriage configured to connect to at least one horse of a plurality of horses, the plurality of carriages guiding the plurality of horses along a track as the plurality of carriages move along the track to exercise the plurality of horses; a horse monitoring system for monitoring physiological attributes of the plurality of horses as the plurality of horses are guided along the track by the train, the horse monitoring system comprising: a server; and a plurality of horse monitoring units, each horse monitoring unit associated with one horse of the plurality of horses and configured to monitor the physiological attributes of said one horse as the horse is guided along the track by the train, each horse monitoring unit comprising: a data collection and communication hub communicatively coupled to the serve and a plurality of horse data sensors configured to sense physiological attributes of said one horse and to generate physiological data corresponding to the sensed physiological attributes, the plurality of horse data sensors communicatively coupled to the data collection and communications hub; wherein the data collection and communication hub receives the physiological data from the plurality of horse data sensors and transmits the received physiological data to the server; wherein the server stores the physiological data received from each data collection and communication hub.

88. A method of monitoring a plurality of horses during an exercise, the method comprising: attaching a plurality of horse data sensors to each horse, each horse data sensor configured to sense a physiological attribute of the horse to which the horse data sensor attached and to generate corresponding physiological data; mounting a data collection and communication hub on each horse, the data collection and communication hub being communicatively coupled to the plurality of horse data sensors attached to the horse; connecting the plurality of horses to at least one carriage, the at least one carriage guiding the horses during the exercise; transmitting the physiological data from each data collection and communication hub to a server while the horses are exercising; transmitting a horse identity from each data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data from the respective data collection and communication hub with the horse to which the data collection and communication hub is mounted; and displaying at least some of the physiological data on a user interface communicatively coupled to the server while the horses are exercising.

89. The method of clause 88, further comprising transmitting a carriage identity from each data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data from the respective data collection and communication hub with the carriage to which the horse associated with the data collection and communication hub is connected.

90. A method of monitoring a horse during an exercise, the method comprising: attaching a plurality of horse data sensors to the horse, each horse data sensor configured to sense a physiological attribute of the horse and generate corresponding physiological data; mounting a data collection and communication hub on the horse, the data collection and communication hub being communicatively coupled to the plurality of horse data sensors; scanning the horse to obtain a horse identity; sending the horse identity to the data collection and communication hub; positioning the horse within a horse receiving space of a carriage, the carriage guiding the horse during the exercise; sending a carriage identity to the data collection and communication hub; transmitting the physiological data from data collection and communication hub to a server while the horse is exercising; displaying at least some of the physiological data on a user interface communicatively coupled to the server while the horse is exercising.

Claims

CLAMS: 1. An animal training system suitable for training Equus animals comprising: at least one movable carriage suitable for attachment to an animal for guiding the animal in movement along with the at least one movable carriage; and a monitoring system for monitoring at least one physiological attribute of the animal, the monitoring system comprising: at least one attribute sensor arranged for measuring at least one physiological attribute of the animal; a computing means in communicative connection with the attribute sensor such that measurement data of the attribute sensor is recordable and storable on a storage means of the computing means; wherein the computing means is configured to calculate an indication of fitness of the animal based on at least one measurement of the measurement data of the at least one attribute sensor.
2. An animal training system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring system is arranged and configured for monitoring at least one physiological attribute of the animal when the animal is in attachment with the movable carriage.
3. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system further comprises training means.
4. An animal training system according to claim 3, wherein the training means comprises at least one of means for increasing or decreasing the speed of a movement of the movable carriage, means for increasing or decreasing a load on the animal, means for varying intervals of speeding up and slowing down of the movable carriage.
5. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein the computing means is further configured to determine a training routine in response to a numerical indication of fitness.
6. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein the indication of fitness of the animal comprises at least one of: heart rate, blood pressure, gait, body temperature, bone dimension, bone density, maximum heart rate, velocity at a heart rate of 200 beats/minute (VHR200), stride regularity, maximal oxygen uptake (V02max) heart rate recovery rate,
7. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the attribute sensors is mounted in connection with the animal by means of at least one of: a roller, a harness, a saddle.
8. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least part of the computing means is mounted on the animal by means of at least one of a roller, a harness, a saddle.
9. An animal training system according to any preceding claim, wherein the attribute sensor comprises at least one of: a heart rate sensor, a gait sensor, a spirometry sensor, an inertial measurement unit, a speed sensor, a temperature sensor, animal identification means.
10. A method for monitoring physiological attributes of a horse, the method comprising: measuring physiological attributes of the horse while the horse is exercising using a plurality of horse data sensors; transmitting physiological data corresponding to the measured physiological attributes from the plurality of horse data sensors to a data collection and communication hub associated with the horse; transmitting the physiological data from the data collection and communication hub to a server remote from the data collection and communication hub; and displaying at least a portion of the physiological data to a trainer while the horse is exercising.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising transmitting a horse identity from the data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data with the horse via the horse identity.
12. The method of any one of claims 10-11, further comprising transmitting a carriage identity from the data collection and communication hub to the server for associating the physiological data with a carriage via the carriage identity, the carriage guiding the horse while the horse is exercising.
13. The method of any one of claims 10-12, further comprising transmitting the carriage identity from a carriage identifier to the data collection and communication hub.
14. The method of any one of claims 10-13, further comprising repeatedly transmitting the carriage identity from the carriage identifier to the data collection and communication hub.
15. The method of any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the carriage identity is transmitted to an area in which only one horse is located.
16. The method of any one of claims 10 to 15, further comprising automatically communicatively coupling the data collection and communication hub to a wireless local area network to which the sewer is connected when the data collection and communication hub is in range of the wireless local area network.
17. The method of any one of claims 10 to 16, further comprising automatically initiating transmitting the physiological data from the data and collection hub to the server based on a location of the horse.
18. The method of any one of claims 10 to 17, further comprising automatically discontinuing transmitting the physiological data from the data and collection hub to the server based on a location of the horse.
19. The method of any one of claims 10 to 18, further comprising providing a visual indicator on the data collection and communication hub indicating whether the hub is communicatively coupled with another component of a horse monitoring system.