KR101309757B1 - Remote animal training system using voltage-to-frequency conversion - Google Patents

Abstract

The animal training apparatus and system of the present invention using voltage-frequency conversion technology (VFC) precisely outputs a stimulus level suitable for the animal so that the trained animal can learn new behaviors required by the animal manager (owner / trainer). It also provides the ability to quickly increase or decrease in steps. The device of the present invention is housed in a housing worn through a necklace strap or belt adapted to the animal around the neck of the animal. The system of the present invention is mainly used for dogs, but can be applied to all kinds of livestock. VFC technology is implemented by various electronic platforms. One-way or two-way remote control is possible in a variety of ways, including manual operation by a user, automatic operation by a remote sensor detector, or automatic operation performed by an on-board microprocessor circuit to detect animal behavior. In any manner, the animal manager can quickly select the appropriate level of the various stimulus signals without over-taking the animal or causing an overreaction at any given moment.

Description

Remote animal training system using voltage-frequency converter {REMOTE ANIMAL TRAINING SYSTEM USING VOLTAGE-TO-FREQUENCY CONVERSION}

The present invention relates to a remote training apparatus and system for animals.

In the field of animal training, owners and trainers (hereinafter referred to as 'users') have been using various electrical and electronic technologies to encourage or discourage animal behavior since the late 1960s. This allows the animal to learn the desired behavior. These electronic aids, whether remotely controlled by the user, manually controlled by sensor inputs, or automatically controlled by the movement of the animal itself, have evolved to achieve superior effects in today's electronic technology. .

Various kinds of electronic stimulus signals have been employed to vary the degree or level of sound, vibration and electric shock. With these tools and years of experience, the focus has been on creating these stimulus cues that improve animal acceptance and make learning easier on a given task. This experience was mainly for dogs. However, the device of the present invention is not limited to dogs only.

In this development, device manufacturers have provided users with a level of stimulus signals from one hand-held transmitter to a remote dog's collar at any given time. We have provided a device to choose from. One thing I realize in this development is that one level is not appropriate in every case. That is, a large number of levels are available depending on the temperament and attention of individual dogs at any given moment. It would be very useful to have a means of quickly adjusting the stimulus level by focusing on the dog's current state. However, even in the case of a multi-stage selector dial, it is still insufficient to sufficiently select the available levels, and does not match the dog's nerve relaxation or attention level appropriately.

Thus, there has been a need for a device that can quickly adjust levels in rapid increments, such as a volume controller that can overcome ambient noise levels and quickly adapt to an individual's hearing in car audio. In this way, the output of the device needs to be limited to match the dog's nerves and attention at any given moment and at a reasonable distance. In addition to raising the level, the level can be immediately lowered so that the dog is not overpowered or overreacted.

The present invention provides an animal training device and a remote controller that can rapidly increase or decrease the output of a stimulus level suitable for an animal so that a trained animal can learn new behaviors required by an animal manager (owner / trainer). And an animal training system comprising them.

The present invention includes a remote controller carried by a user and a training device worn on a trained animal, the remote controller and the training device providing a remote animal training system configured to communicate with each other by radio frequency (RF) communication. . The remote controller has a stimulation mode selection button and a volume controller for setting the level of electric shock stimulation to be applied to the animal, including a three-terminal potentiometer for volume control. A voltage-to-frequency converter (VFC) converts the voltage level set by the volume controller into a corresponding frequency signal proportional to this voltage level. The RF communication circuit transmits signals to the training device via the transmit antenna including the type and mode of the stimulus and the level of the electric shock stimulus.

The training device may optionally employ additional features including a buzzer and an LED controlled by a remote controller. The charging status of the batteries, the power of both devices, can be displayed on the remote controller.

According to the animal training system of the present invention, the animal manager can quickly and precisely select various levels of stimulus signals to appropriate levels without excessively overwhelming the animal or causing an overreaction at a given moment.

Other additional means and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description.

1 is a perspective view illustrating a remote controller and a training device used in a remote animal training system.
2 is a block diagram showing a remote controller circuit according to the first embodiment.
3 is a block diagram showing a training apparatus according to the first embodiment.
4 is a block diagram showing a remote controller circuit according to the second embodiment.
5 is a block diagram showing a training apparatus according to a second embodiment.
6 is a block diagram showing a training apparatus according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram illustrating a detailed structure of the digital volume shown in FIG. 6 and a connection relationship between a microprocessor and an electric shock stimulation generator.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a remote controller and a training device configuring a training system according to a fourth embodiment.
9 is a block diagram showing a remote controller circuit according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a diagram for describing a process of setting and locking respective stimulus levels for a plurality of animals according to a fourth embodiment.

The remote animal training system according to the present invention comprises a hand-held transmitter (remote controller) for transmitting encoded command signals. These command signals are amplified through the RF system, output through the antenna, and transmitted by the microprocessor. The remote animal training system further includes a training device worn on the trained animal. The RF receiver receives command signals along with the individual output levels of three different kinds of stimuli to the animal's sensory organs to allow the animal to respond or respond appropriately to this stimulus level.

Handheld transmitters use a voltage-frequency converter (VFC) to convert the voltage input from a three-terminal potentiometer to a frequency proportional thereto. This frequency signal is input to the microprocessor. The microprocessor has a security code function to limit the control of the training device to only the corresponding remote controller. Five function switches allow you to select five types of stimuli, these five types of stimuli: 1) instantaneous electric shock stimulation, 2) continuous electric shock stimulation, and 3) continuous stimulation increased by a preset level. Continuous electric shock stimulation increases, 4) magnetic buzzer stimulation, and 5) light stimulation. These switches are connected to the RF circuit so that signals representing the selected stimulus are generated, amplified and sent to the antenna driver and sent to the tuned transmit antenna.

A receiver (training device) worn on the neck of an animal receives RF transmitted coded signals from a transmitter (remote controller). The detector circuit detects the encoded signals and sends them to an on-board microprocessor. The microprocessor converts the encoded signals, activates one of the five driver circuits, and outputs the appropriate level for the selected stimulus and animal. RF circuits on the remote controller and training device can function as paired transceivers to send and receive data to and from each other.

The stimulus regulation controller includes a voltage division network having a three-terminal potentiometer. The potentiometer is connected to a voltage-frequency converter circuit (VFC) that converts the voltage levels into individually separated frequency signals. This separate frequency signal allows the microprocessor to send the appropriate signal so that the individual stimulus means driver for the five individually selectable stimulus means can clearly set the output level of each stimulus means.

Each transmitter and receiver employs a DC battery pack to operate each system through an on-board regulator and power switch. In one embodiment, a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit are provided.

Power on / off switches are provided for each transmitter and receiver to enable and disable each system independently. In one embodiment, the transmitter employs an LCD screen to visually display the level set to the user, display the status of the transmitter battery, and when a particular button of the five function selection buttons is pressed, preferably the button selected by the icon. Display the status.

By providing different styles of stimulation while allowing the level to be adjusted up and down, the system of the present invention gives the animal a successful learning opportunity and allows the user to build a more meaningful relationship with the animal. For higher success of training results, all known types of stimulation means and their driving circuits can be included, including light, infrared, airflow, vibration, gradient, pressure, reflection, magnetism, temperature, voltage, current and frequency. And transducers / sensors using shocks and the like.

This stimulus control activation includes utilizing the following types of stimulus signals.

Acoustics-Mechanical speakers / microphones, relay buzzers, solid-state, piezoelectric, ceramic, ferrite, magnetic, capacitors and vibrations (all frequencies, pulse ratios, duty cycles, pulse widths, amplitudes, durations, repetition rates) Audible, ultrasonic, subsonic sounds produced by the light, etc.).

Light-Color, brightness, etc. of all spectra (all frequencies, pulse ratios, duty cycles, pulse widths, amplitudes, durations, repetition rates, etc.).

Taste-from sweet to strong.

Odor-From irritating odor to aroma.

Electric Shock-Transformer control with low current (50 μA to 100 mA) high voltage (50 VAC to 10,000 VAC) (utilizes all frequencies, pulse ratios, duty cycles, pulse widths, amplitudes, durations, repetition rates, etc.).

Referring to the drawings in more detail, FIGS. 2 and 4 illustrate a hand held remote controller 100. When any one of the first to fifth function buttons (switches) of the remote controller is pressed, corresponding data and ID code set by the ID code setting means are supplied to the oscillator / modulator 151. The RF signal generated by the oscillator / modulator 151 is then amplified in the RF amplifier 152 and the RF output stage 153, filtered by the low pass filter 154, and then emitted as a high frequency through the antenna 155. .

The stimulus control means 130 uses a potentiometer as a "volume" (size) controller that can, unlike the prior art, control and vary the stimulus level very precisely and finely for an animal. Conventional stimulus adjusting means use a mechanical selector switch, which cannot finely subdivide the stimulus level.

3 and 5 show the training device 200. The training device 200 receives the RF signal transmitted from the remote controller 100 of FIGS. 2 and 4 through the built-in antenna 221, respectively. The high frequency amplifier 222 then amplifies the weak high frequency, and the mixer 224 produces a secondary intermediate frequency such that the detector 227 can extract the data transmitted from the transmitter through the filter 226. The extracted data is input to a low frequency amplifier included in the microprocessor 210. The microprocessor 210 outputs a signal to one selected stimulus means, for example, an electric shock stimulus generator, in which the ID code received from the transmitter and the ID code that it has have matched.

Hereinafter, the first and second embodiments of the present invention will be described by describing each component of the remote controller (transmitter) 100 and the training device (receiver) 200 shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 in detail. . In the following description, if the reference to the 'second embodiment' refers to the second embodiment only, and unless otherwise noted, it is commonly applied to the first and second embodiments.

<Components of Remote Controller 100 of FIGS. 2 and 4>

120: button (or switch)

121: Momentary stimulation button (first function button)

Regardless of how long the button is pressed on the remote controller, the training device generates a short (three to five pulses) low frequency electric shock stimulus.

122: continuous stimulation button (second function button)

During the time the button is pressed on the remote controller (up to 12 seconds), a continuous low frequency electric shock stimulus is generated on the training device.

123: +20 level continuous stimulation button (third function button)

During the time the button is pressed on the remote controller (up to 5-7 seconds), the low frequency electric shock stimulus is generated at the training device with a level 20 increased from the current level.

124: buzzer button (fourth function button)

The buzzer sounds briefly (three to five pulses) from the training device, regardless of how long the button is pressed on the remote controller.

125: light button (fifth function button)

Regardless of how long the button is pressed on the remote controller, the first press turns on the LED of the training device, and the second press turns it off.

130: volume controller

Used to adjust the stimulus level of the training device. The low frequency electric shock stimulus at the level set by this volume controller is generated in the training device by means of the first, second and third function buttons.

132: V / F converter

The analog voltage corresponding to the level output from the volume controller 130 is converted into a frequency that is a digital value that can be recognized by the microprocessor of the remote controller, and the converted digital value is transmitted to the microprocessor of the training apparatus. For example, when the volume output voltage is 0.1V (level 1 stage), a 20Hz signal is supplied, and when the volume output voltage is 0.5V (level 5 stage), a 100Hz signal is supplied to the microprocessor.

110: Microprocessor

It controls all functions and ID code signals input from the function buttons 120, and also has a power ON / OFF function.

The microprocessor recognizes and processes the frequency signal supplied according to the stimulus level, operates the display 8, and controls the RF oscillator 151 and the RF amplifier 152 when a specific function is operated. To operate. And in a two-way system (see second embodiment), the microprocessor processes the data received from the training device 200. For example, the microprocessor calculates the distance between the user and the animal based on the location information of the user and the animal.

140, 142: display

The level set by the volume controller 130 and the battery remaining amount of the remote controller are displayed. In the two-way system (second embodiment), the remaining battery capacity of the training device, the distance and direction from the user to the animal, the moving speed of the animal, and the like are displayed on the display 142.

151: Oscillator / Modulator

The remote controller uses a frequency modulation (FM) method and adopts a modifiable VCXO to simultaneously perform RF oscillation and modulation.

152: RF amplifier

Since the RF output of the oscillator / modulator 151 is low, the RF amplifier amplifies the output RF so that the next stage, the output stage, can operate.

153: RF output stage

RF amplified and output so that the remote controller and training device are within communication range.

154: lowpass filter

Cuts harmonics generated outside the fundamental wave in the RF signal.

155: antenna

It is a means for transmitting the RF consisting of the fundamental wave passed through the low-pass filter 154. In a two-way system (second embodiment), the antenna receives the RF signal transmitted from the training apparatus.

156: RF controller

When one of the first to fifth function buttons of the remote controller is operated, the RF controller supplies power to the oscillator / modulator 151 and the RF amplifier 1152 to operate.

161: regulators and power switches

The regulator and the power switch have a function of a constant voltage IC and operate in conjunction with the microprocessor 110. Press the power switch of the remote controller for more than 0.5 seconds to turn the power on. Press and hold it for more than 1 second again to turn it off.

162: battery

Rechargeable batteries are employed.

263: charging means

Since the battery 162 is a rechargeable battery, a charging means is used.

170: GPS module (second embodiment)

The GPS module 170 receives a signal from the GPS of the training device 200 and supplies the location information of the user to the microprocessor 110.

180: 2-way receiver (second embodiment)

The two-way receiver 180 is used to receive information of the training device and sends data to the microprocessor 110.

<Components of Training Device 200 of FIGS. 3 and 5>

221: antenna

The antenna receives the RF signal transmitted from the remote controller 100. In a two-way system (second embodiment), the antenna transmits an RF signal to the remote controller 100. The antenna 221 is preferably a built-in (built-in) antenna, and may further include an external antenna 221 ′ (see FIG. 1) that is detachable in order to extend the communication distance.

222: high frequency amplifier

The high frequency amplifier amplifies the weak RF signal induced by the receiving antenna 221.

223: OSC

The OSC is a self oscillator for obtaining the second intermediate frequency.

224: mixer

The RF signal supplied from the high frequency amplifier 222 and the oscillation signal from the OSC 223 are mixed to produce a secondary intermediate frequency.

225: intermediate frequency amplifier

The amplifier amplifies the intermediate frequency produced by the mixer 224.

226: filter

The noise contained in the intermediate frequency produced by the mixer 224 is filtered.

227: detector

The detector detects the function and ID signal from the remote controller.

210: microprocessor

Amplify the analog signal detected by the detector 227 by a low frequency amplifier inside the microprocessor, and if the previously stored ID and received signal match, the first to fifth buttons 121 to 125 of the remote controller. Outputs a signal selected from And in a two-way system (second embodiment), the microprocessor processes the information of the training device and sends it to the two-way transmitter 280.

231: D / A converter

The D / A converter is a means for outputting the stimulus level set by the volume controller of the remote controller as an analog signal.

232: electric shock stimulation generator

The electric shock stimulation generator uses a transformer to generate a high voltage stimulus and applies a low frequency electric shock stimulus to the animal.

233: magnetic pole terminal

An electrode for applying the generated electric shock stimulus to the animal.

234: stimulus generating circuit controller

When the first to third function buttons of the remote controller are operated, the stimulus generation circuit controller 234 supplies power to the electric shock stimulation generator 232 to operate.

241 buzzer driver

It is used to operate the magnetic buzzer when the fourth function button 124 is pressed on the remote controller.

242: magnetic buzzer

Magnetic buzzer 242 is used to convert an electrical signal into a sound signal.

251: light driver

When the fifth function button 125 is pressed on the remote controller, it is used to operate the light.

252: LED

Two high-brightness LEDs have been applied, a means of converting electrical signals into light signals.

261: Regulators and Power Switches

The regulator and the power switch have a function of a constant voltage IC and operate in conjunction with the microprocessor 110. The power turns on when the magnet contacts the training switch's reed switch for more than 0.5 seconds. If the magnet touches again for more than 0.5 seconds while the power is on, the power is turned off.

262: battery

Rechargeable batteries are employed.

263: charging means

Since the battery 262 is a rechargeable battery, the charging means 263 is used.

270: GPS module (second embodiment)

The GPS module 270 receives a reference signal from at least three satellites and supplies the animal's location information to the microprocessor 210.

280: 2-way transmitter (second embodiment)

The two-way transmitter 280 is used to transmit the information of the training device, and sends data as a high frequency signal.

Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiments, the training apparatus 200 includes a D / A converter 231 for converting the set stimulus level into an analog signal that the electric shock stimulus generator 232 can process. However, the D / A converter may be implemented in various ways, but is generally connected to the number of output pins corresponding to the number of stimulus levels among the output pins of the microprocessor 210. That is, in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the D / A converter 231 is shown as being connected to the microprocessor 210 by one line. For example, when the number of stimulus levels is 256 (= 2 ⁸ ), the microprocessor ( To the eight output pins of 210. Therefore, there is a disadvantage in that the capacity and size of the microprocessor generally composed of ASIC becomes large.

In order to solve this disadvantage, U.S. Patent No. 5,666,908 or 6,637,376 discloses a configuration without using a D / A converter either explicitly or implicitly. That is, these patents output a pulse train corresponding to the stimulus level (strength) in a microprocessor that outputs a digital value, which is then (strictly through the buffer) the primary current of the transformer, which is an electric shock stimulus generator. Is applied to a transistor for controlling. Specifically, in US Pat. No. 5,666,908, a microprocessor allows a pulse period, pulse magnitude and pulse train duration to be constant and pulse width to a stimulus level. Produce pulse trains with proportional changes. In addition, U.S. Patent No. 6,637,376 discloses a constant pulse amplitude and pulse train duration, and changes the number of pulses included in a constant pulse train duration in proportion to the intensity of the stimulus, or pulses. The number is constant but produces a train of pulses with varying separation intervals between pulses (in turn, changing the duty cycle in proportion to the stimulus intensity). The pulse train thus generated is applied to a transistor controlling the primary side current of the transformer, and generates an electric shock stimulus on the secondary side by flowing a current through the primary side of the transformer during the ON period (duty cycle) of the pulse.

These patents simplify the circuitry in the training device and reduce the number of output pins on the microprocessor by eliminating the need for a separate D / A converter. However, since the configuration for generating the pulse train corresponding to the stimulus level must eventually be provided in the microprocessor, the problem of increasing complexity and capacity of the microprocessor is inevitable. In addition, since the intensity (level) of the electric shock, which is the stimulus, is not controlled by the size of the pulse in the pulse train but only by the ON period of the pulse, the intensity of the electric shock stimulus is not controlled in the true sense but the same intensity. It only controls how long the electric shock lasts.

Accordingly, the third embodiment of the present invention adjusts the level (intensity) of the stimulus in a true sense without increasing the complexity of the microprocessor without using the conventional D / A converter. To this end, in the third embodiment, a digitally controllable volume control 330 (hereinafter referred to as a "digital volume") is used instead of the D / A converter as shown in FIG. The digital volume 330 may be implemented by several resistive elements and a CMOS switch, and may be configured as an integrated circuit chip. The digital volume 330 receives a digital signal representing the stimulus level from the microprocessor 210 and outputs a voltage proportional thereto. That is, in terms of the above-described US patents, a pulse whose width, number, or duty cycle is constant but whose amplitude or magnitude is variable is output. The voltage of variable size, which is the output of the digital volume 330, is applied to the transistor controlling the primary current of the transformer of the electric shock stimulation generator as it flows the current proportional to the voltage value to the transformer primary side, A proportional voltage electric shock stimulus is created.

The input, output, and function of the digital volume 330 of the present embodiment are the same as the input, output, and function of the D / A converter 231 of the above-described embodiment, and thus may be referred to as D / A converters in a broad sense. However, while the D / A converter 231 of the above-described embodiment occupies a plurality of output pins of the microprocessor 210, the digital volume 330 of this embodiment has a small number of output pins regardless of the number of stimulus levels. By occupying only the microprocessor, the capacity and size of the microprocessor can be reduced, and the training device 200 worn on the animal can be reduced in weight. For example, if the number of stimulus levels is 256, the D / A converter 231 occupies eight output pins in the above-described embodiment, but the digital volume 330 of this embodiment has three output pins regardless of the number of stimulus levels. Occupies the bay.

Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described by explaining the components of the training device (receiver) 200 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 in detail with respect to other components. In Fig. 6, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 3 and 5 are the same as those in the above-described embodiment. Meanwhile, in FIG. 7, the input / output pins of the microprocessor 210 show only the pins related to the digital volume 330, and the remaining input / output pins are omitted.

330: digital volume

<Description of I / O Pins>

VCC: As a power supply pin, power is supplied from the battery 262 and supplied to a circuit in the digital volume.

GND: Ground Pin

DA: As a data pin, sends and receives instructions and data (including stimulus level data) to and from the microprocessor 210 in serial communication. Commands and data input and output through the data pin DA are command code (identification code) fields such as write and read, address fields specifying registers to which each command is directed, and data values to be written to the registers specified by the address field. It consists of a data field indicating (stimulus level value). The length (bit number) of each field is appropriately determined according to the number of types of instructions, the number of registers, and the number of stimulus levels. For example, if the number of stimulus levels is 256, the length of the data field is 8 bits.

CL: Clock pin, which provides the base clock that defines the timing of operation of each circuit in the digital volume.

WP: Write Protection pin, which must be enabled to write to each register in the digital volume.

VH: High output pin, which outputs the maximum voltage value (voltage value of the power received from the power supply pin VCC) corresponding to the highest stimulus level.

VL: Low output pin, which outputs the lowest voltage value (typically 0V) corresponding to the lowest stimulus level.

VW: As a wiper output pin, a voltage value corresponding to the stimulus level stored in the wiper register 332 is output. The wiper output pin is connected to the base of the transistor 232b that controls the primary side current of the transformer 232a of the stun generator 232 so that the current is proportional to the output voltage (stimulus level) of the wiper output pin. (232a) flows to the primary side, whereby a high voltage proportional to the magnetic pole level is induced on the secondary side of the transformer 232a and applied to the magnetic pole terminal 233.

332: wiper register

A register for storing a stimulus level value input through the data pin DA or stored in the nonvolatile register 333 and implemented as a volatile memory device. The length of the wiper register (the number of bits) is equal to the length of the data field of instructions and data input and output through the data pin. A voltage proportional to the stimulus level stored in the wiper register is output at the wiper output pin (VW). For example, if the number of stimulus levels is 256 (the wiper register is 8 bits long) and the value currently stored in the wiper register is 25, the wiper output pin (VW) is divided by 256 by dividing the maximum voltage (voltage at the high output pin VH) by 25. The second voltage is output through the wiper output pin (VW).

333: nonvolatile register

Store the last stored value in the wiper register 332 when the digital volume 330 or training device 200 is powered off, or when the digital volume 330 or training device 200 is powered on, the wiper register ( A register that stores an initial value (initial stimulus level value) to be loaded in 332). If the initial stimulus level value is not set specifically, or the last value of the wiper register 332 is not stored, and the wiper register 332 is implemented as a nonvolatile memory device, this nonvolatile register may be omitted.

331: control logic

A logic circuit for controlling each component of the digital volume 330, which decodes commands and data input through the data pin DA, and according to the logic values of the clock pin CL and the write inhibit pin WP, The value of the wiper register 332 or the nonvolatile register 333 is read or written.

Meanwhile, in the above description of the third embodiment, the training device 200 is described and illustrated as communicating with the remote controller 100 and applying the electric shock stimulus to the animal according to the stimulus level set in the remote controller 100. The training device 200 of the third embodiment may be used alone without the remote controller 100. That is, the training device 200 has a sensor for detecting a specific behavior of an animal in need of correction, for example, a dog barking or moving out of a set area, and when such a sensor detects a specific behavior of the animal, Depending on the number or degree of specific behaviors, a predetermined algorithm may be applied to the animal to automatically apply a stimulus at a predetermined level. Such an algorithm typically would be to increase the stimulus level as the number or degree of specific behaviors increases, and to decrease the stimulus level when a particular behavior has not been detected for a period of time. In this case, no remote controller is required, no antenna and no circuitry are needed to communicate with the remote controller, and instead a sensor is needed to detect the specific behavior of the animal. In addition, the microprocessor 210 of the training apparatus 200 needs to program and store the predetermined algorithm.

The animal training system of the present invention may be configured to train two or more animals each with one remote controller. That is, it may be composed of one remote controller and two or more training apparatuses capable of communicating with the one remote controller, respectively, by high frequency (RF) communication, and respectively worn on the trained animal. The fourth embodiment relates to a system composed of such a remote controller and a plurality of training devices.

8 to 10, the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with respect to the points different from the above-described embodiment. 8 to 10, the same reference numerals as those of Figs. 1 and 2 are the same as those of the above-described embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 8, the animal training system of this embodiment includes one remote controller 100 ′ and two training apparatuses 200-1 and 200-2. In FIG. 8, the remote controller 100 ′ is illustrated as being two, but only one remote controller is shown in a different direction. In addition, although the appearance of the remote controller 100 ′ of FIG. 8 is much different from that of the remote controller 100 shown in FIG. 1, a detailed configuration for distinguishing and controlling two training apparatuses 200-1 and 200-2 is shown. Except that, the basic functions are the same. In addition, each of the two training apparatuses 200-1, 200-2 is substantially the same as the training apparatus 200 of the above-described embodiment. In addition, the two training devices differ only in detailed configuration for only the selected training device to react to the remote controller, and the basic configuration is the same. In addition, the two training apparatuses 200-1 and 200-2 may be added with a mark for identification between the two training apparatuses.

The remote controller 100 'of the present embodiment is significantly different from the remote controller 100 of the above-described embodiment, in which the training apparatus 200-1, 200-2 to be controlled (trained) with the animal selection switch 126 is provided. ) (That is, animals). That is, the user selects animal 1 (eg dog 1) or animal 2 (eg dog 2) using, for example, an animal selection switch 126 implemented in the form of a toggle switch. Stimulation, such as electric shock stimulation, sound stimulation, and light stimulation, may be applied to the selected animal through manipulations as described in the above embodiments.

At this time, the remote controller 100 ′ controls only the selected training device 200-1 or 200-2 (ie, only the selected training device responds to control by the remote controller), and the training devices 1 and 2. Different communication frequency with or different ID code. Accordingly, detailed configurations of the training apparatuses 1 and 2 200-1 and 200-2 are also configured to be able to communicate with the remote controller 100 ′ at corresponding communication frequencies, respectively, or ID codes are given differently.

According to the animal training system of the present embodiment as described above, a plurality of animals can be controlled (trained) with only one remote controller 100 '. However, a plurality of animals controlled (trained) by one remote controller 100 'often have different sensitivity to stimuli. Therefore, whenever the animal to be controlled changes, the stimulus level appropriate for the selected animal must be adjusted. However, it is not only cumbersome to adjust the stimulus level each time the animal to be selected changes, but in situations where urgent control is required, it may be difficult for the user to adjust to the appropriate stimulus level.

In view of this, the animal training system of the present embodiment finds and memorizes the stimulus level appropriate for each animal through several trials and errors, and when the animal is selected by the animal selection switch 126, Make sure that the appropriate stimulus level you have memorized is set automatically. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a lock function and an unlock function are provided so that the appropriate stimulus level stored for each animal does not change even by the operation of the volume controller 130 '.

Specifically, the remote controller 100 ′ according to the present embodiment includes locking means for locking the level of the electric shock stimulus currently set even by the operation of the volume controller 130 ′. The locking means includes a storage means for storing the level of the electric shock stimulus set by the volume controller 130 ', and the training device 200-1, 200-2 selected by the animal selection switch 126. And a lock button for storing the level of the electric shock stimulus in the storage means.

As shown in FIG. 9, the storage means may be a memory element 111 provided in the microprocessor 110. The memory element 111 may be implemented in the form of a register, which is preferably a nonvolatile memory whose contents are not erased even when the power is turned off.

In the present embodiment, the lock button is not a separate button, and the volume controller 130 'has a function of the lock button. That is, the volume controller 130 'is configured to be rotatable and has a function of adjusting the level of the electric shock stimulus in proportion to the amount of rotation, and by pressing in the axial direction in which the volume controller 130' is rotated ( 10) is configured to realize a locking function. When the volume controller 130 'is pressed in the axial direction, the microprocessor 110 currently sets the level of the electric shock stimulus displayed by the rotation of the volume controller 130' and is displayed at the center of the display 140. The storage means 111 is stored as the stimulus level of the animal currently selected by the animal selection switch 126, and thereafter, even if the volume controller 130 'is rotated, this rotation operation is ignored so that the stimulus level does not change. do. In this case, the display 400 indicates an animal that is currently selected to store the stimulus level and is locked (for example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the stimulus level is locked to Dog 1, an indication such as '1D' is displayed. In the case of locking the stimulus level for Dog 2, an indication such as '2D' is displayed.

When the appropriate stimulus level for each animal is stored and locked in this way, and the animal selected by the animal selection switch 126 is changed, the stimulus level stored for the selected animal is automatically displayed on the display 140. If the stimulus button (for example, the instantaneous stimulus button 121 or the continuous stimulus button 122) is immediately pressed without adjusting the stimulus level in the state, the current stimulus level is transmitted to the selected training device 200-1 or 200-2. And applied to the selected animal.

On the other hand, when the level of the electric shock stimulation for a particular animal as described above is in the locked state, pressing the lock button (volume controller 130 ') again releases the locked state. That is, the microprocessor 110 turns off the indication ('1D' or '2D' in FIG. 10) indicating the selected animal whose stimulus level has been stored and locked on the display, and is turned on by the rotation operation of the volume controller 130. Allow changes in the level of impact stimulation.

As described above, the animal training system according to the present embodiment is convenient by storing and locking each appropriate stimulus level for a plurality of animals and eliminating the need for an operation of adjusting a separate stimulus level when the animal selection is changed. And quick response.

In the description of the fourth embodiment, the number of selectable animals is two (that is, the number of selectable training devices is two), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be three or more. Of course.

In addition, in the above description of the fourth embodiment, the volume controller 130 'is described as serving as a lock button. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the volume controller 130' may be provided with a lock button separate from the volume controller 130 '. It's okay.

Furthermore, the above first to fourth embodiments may be implemented in any combination. For example, the animal training system composed of one remote controller and one training device can implement the stimulus level memory and locking function of the fourth embodiment, and the two-way of the second embodiment in the third or fourth embodiment. A function may be added and the digital volume of the third embodiment may be employed in the first, second or fourth embodiment.

As described above, the improved animal training system of the present invention has been described. Although the present invention has been described by way of example, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to the narrower than the claims set out below.

Claims (25)

In a remote animal training system comprising a remote controller carried by a user, and a training device worn on the trained animal, wherein the remote controller and the training device are configured to communicate with each other by high frequency (RF) communication,
The remote controller,
A stimulation mode selection button for selecting a type and mode of stimulation to be applied to an animal including at least an electric shock stimulus;
A volume controller, comprising a three-terminal potentiometer, for setting the level of electric shock stimulation to be applied to said animal;
A voltage-frequency converter for converting the voltage level set by the volume controller into a corresponding frequency signal proportional to the voltage level;
RF communication circuitry for transmitting signals including the type and mode of the stimulus and the level of the electric shock stimulus to the training apparatus via a transmission antenna; And
And a microprocessor for processing the signals and for controlling the RF communication circuitry. The method of claim 1,
The training device,
RF communication circuitry for receiving signals transmitted from the remote controller via a receive antenna;
An electric shock stimulus generator for generating an electric shock stimulus to be applied to the animal via a stimulus terminal having a level set by the remote controller; And
And a microprocessor for processing the signals and for controlling the stun generator. The method of claim 2,
The training device further includes a buzzer for applying a sound stimulus to the animal and a buzzer driver for driving the buzzer,
And the remote controller includes a buzzer selection button for selecting the sound stimulus. The method of claim 2,
The training device further includes an LED and a light driver for emitting the LED,
And wherein the remote controller includes a light select button for emitting an LED. The method of claim 2,
And the receiving antenna comprises a built-in antenna and a detachable external antenna configured to be connected to the built-in antenna. The method of claim 1,
The remote controller further comprises a display for displaying the level of the electric shock stimulus set by the volume controller. 7. The remote animal training system according to claim 6, wherein said display further shows the battery level of said remote controller. The method of claim 2,
The training device further includes a transmitter for transmitting information of the training device including the remaining battery capacity of the training device to the remote controller,
The remote controller further comprises a receiver for receiving information of the training device sent by the transmitter and a display for displaying the battery level of the training device. The method of claim 2,
The training device further includes a GPS for obtaining the location data of the animal, and a transmitter for transmitting the location data information of the animal,
The remote controller further comprises a module for receiving the location data of the user, a receiver for receiving the location data information of the animal sent from the transmitter, and a display for displaying this information,
The microprocessor of the remote controller calculates relative position information of the animal with respect to the user based on the position data of the animal and the user, and the display displays the position information of the animal. . The method of claim 1,
The stimulation mode selection button is a continuous electric shock stimulation mode, the moment the electric shock stimulation is applied to the animal for a predetermined first time, the continuous application of the electric shock stimulation to the animal for a predetermined second time longer than the first time And at least one of the electric shock stimulation mode and the electric shock stimulation increasing mode in which the level of the electric shock stimulation is increased by a predetermined level. 11. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 10,
The microprocessor of the training device outputs the level of the electric shock stimulus as a digital value composed of a plurality of bits,
The training device has a digitally controllable digital volume that receives a digital value consisting of a plurality of bits input from a microprocessor of the training device and outputs a voltage proportional to the digital value,
And the electric shock stimulus generator receives a voltage input from the digital volume to generate a high voltage electric shock stimulus proportional to the voltage. 12. The method of claim 11,
And the microprocessor of the training device outputs the digital value consisting of the plurality of bits through one output pin. The method of claim 12,
The digital volume,
A wiper register for storing a digital value consisting of the plurality of bits input from the microprocessor; And
And a resistance element for dividing a maximum voltage received from a power supply and outputting a voltage proportional to the digital value stored in the wiper register. An animal training device that is applied to a trained animal and applies an electric shock stimulus having a plurality of stimulus levels to the animal when the animal needs to be corrected.
A microprocessor for outputting a stimulus level of one of the plurality of stimulus levels of the electric shock stimulus as a digital value composed of a plurality of bits when the animal has behaved in need of correction;
A digitally controllable digital volume that receives a digital value consisting of a plurality of bits input from the microprocessor and outputs a voltage proportional to the digital value;
An electric shock stimulus generator for receiving a voltage input from the digital volume to generate a high voltage electric shock stimulus proportional to the voltage; And
And a stimulation terminal for applying the electric shock stimulation generated from the electric shock stimulation generator to the animal. 15. The method of claim 14,
And the microprocessor outputs the digital value consisting of the plurality of bits through one output pin. 16. The method of claim 15,
The digital volume,
A wiper register for storing a digital value consisting of the plurality of bits input from the microprocessor; And
And a resistance element for dividing a maximum voltage received from a power supply and outputting a voltage having a value proportional to the digital value stored in the wiper register. 15. The method of claim 14,
A sensor for detecting that the animal has behaved in need of correction,
And the microprocessor determines a stimulus level of one of the plurality of stimulus levels by applying a predetermined algorithm to the degree or number of behaviors of the animal sensed by the sensor. A remote controller, which is carried by a user and remotely controls a plurality of training devices respectively worn on a plurality of trained animals by high frequency (RF) communication,
An animal selection switch for selecting a training device to be controlled among the plurality of training devices;
A stimulation mode selection button for selecting a type and mode of stimulation to be applied to an animal including at least an electric shock stimulus;
A volume controller, comprising a three-terminal potentiometer, for setting the level of electric shock stimulation to be applied to said animal;
Locking means for locking the current level of the electric shock stimulus to be changed even by the operation of the volume controller;
RF communication circuitry for transmitting signals including the type and mode of the stimulus and the level of the electric shock stimulus to the training apparatus via a transmission antenna; And
A microprocessor for processing said signals and for controlling said locking means and RF communication circuitry. 19. The method of claim 18,
The locking means may include: memory means for storing the level of the electric shock stimulus set by the volume controller; And a lock button, when pressed, to cause the memory means to store the level of the electric shock stimulus set by the volume controller for the training device selected by the animal selection switch.
And the microprocessor is configured to ignore manipulation of the volume controller when the lock button is pressed. 20. The method of claim 19,
The volume controller is configured to be rotatable and configured to set the level of the electric shock stimulus in proportion to the amount of rotation, and to store the level of the electric shock stimulus set when the volume controller is pressed in the axial direction of the rotation. And a lock button for storing in the remote controller. 20. The method of claim 19,
When the level of the electroshock impulse is in the locked state, the microprocessor is configured to release the lock state when the lock button is pressed to allow a change in the level of the electroshock impulse by manipulation of the volume controller. Remote controller. 20. The method of claim 19,
And said storage means is a nonvolatile memory element in which stored contents are not erased even when the power supply is turned off. 19. The method of claim 18,
And a display for displaying the level of the electric shock stimulus set by said volume controller. 24. The method of claim 23,
The display further comprises a symbol indicating a training device in which the level of the stun gun is locked and a level of the stun gun in the locked state. 19. The method of claim 18,
A voltage-frequency converter for converting the voltage level set by the volume controller into a corresponding frequency signal proportional to this voltage level,
And the microprocessor receives a frequency signal converted by the voltage-frequency converter.

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