NZ776917A - Wearable electronic collar for animals - Google Patents

Abstract

An animal control unit comprising a collar, an electronics module and a biasing means; opposing ends of the collar attachable to the electronics module, the electronics module including at least two electrodes and having a housing, the housing incorporating a solar powered electricity generator, the biasing means disposed along the length of the collar; wherein the animal control unit is configured to selectively deliver an electrical stimulus to an animal wearing the collar via the electrodes.

Description

WEARABLE ELECTRONIC COLLAR FOR ANIMALS Field of the Invention The invention generally relates to wearable electronic collars for animals, such as but not necessarily limited to livestock such as cattle.

Background to the Invention In an existing system a virtual fencing system uses battery powered collar units (in some cases supplemented by solar power) attached to the necks of animals (e.g. cattle) to provide aversive and/or non-aversive stimuli to the animal based on its GPS location. The stimuli prevent the individual animals moving into particular pre-defined areas of a field or pasture, thereby establishing virtual boundaries that the animals will not or are unlikely to cross.

Summary of the Invention In an aspect, the invention provides an animal control unit comprising a collar and an electronics module; opposing ends of the collar attachable to the electronics module, the electronics module having a housing incorporating a solar powered electrical generator and at least two electrodes, wherein the animal control unit is configured to selectively deliver an electrical stimulus to an animal wearing the collar via the electrodes, and wherein at least one electrode is a strip electrode comprising a strip portion shaped to rest along a natural contour of the animal’s neck.

Also disclosed is an animal control unit comprising a collar, an electronics module and a biasing means; opposing ends of the collar attachable to the electronics module, the electronics module including at least two electrodes and having a housing, the housing incorporating a solar powered electricity generator, the biasing means disposed along the length of the collar; wherein the animal control unit is configured to selectively deliver an electrical stimulus to an animal wearing the collar via the electrodes.

In some embodiments, the solar powered electrical generator may comprise one or more solar cells. The one or more solar cells may be disposed on one or more slanted surfaces, wherein each slanted surface has a selected slant angle. The one or more slanted surfaces may have slant angles selected such as to maximise, or at least substantially maximise, an average received solar irradiation. The average received solar irradiation may be estimated based on at least one of: an expected latitude of use of the animal control unit; a modelled behaviour of the animal; a number of solar cells; and a slant angle associated with the solar cells.

In some embodiments, the housing may be shaped such that it rests on the upper side of the animal’s neck when in use. The housing may further comprise an audible stimulus generator, and wherein the electronics module is configured to selectively apply an audible stimulus via the audible stimulus generator. The audible stimulus generator may comprise an exciter coupled to an interior surface of the housing.

In some embodiments, the animal control unit may include a biasing means.

The biasing means may be a counterweight. The counterweight may be substantially centrally located with respect to the collar. The biasing means may be configured to provide a self-righting force such that the housing is biased towards a position atop the neck of the animal during movement. The counterweight may have a mass greater than the mass of the electronics module. Preferably the counterweight may have a mass at least 1.2 times the mass of the electronics module. More preferably, the counterweight may have a mass at least 1.5 times the mass of the electronics module.

In some embodiments, the collar may comprise a plurality of elongate straps.

The collar may include a buckle configured to receive at least 2 of the plurality of elongate straps. The buckle may include a friction means.

The friction means may engage with at least one of the plurality of elongate straps to restrict movement of the strap(s) relative to the buckle. The friction means may be protruding teeth. The buckle may be configured to operate as a ratchet. The buckle may be configured to self-release upon application of a force exceeding a release threshold force. The release threshold force may be approximately 100 kgf.

The collar may have an adjustable length.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method including fitting a collar according to a previous aspect to an animal. The method may include the step of fitting the collar to a neck of an animal. The method may include fitting the collar with sufficient play to enable a self-righting force due to the biasing means and to allow movement of the electronics module with respect to the skin of the animal.

As used herein, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an animal control unit, according to one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2A is a top perspective view of an electronics module of the animal control unit of Figure 1, showing solar cells mounted on an upper surface of the electronics module.

Fig. 2B is a bottom perspective view of the electronics module of Figure 2A, showing a pair of electrodes mounted on an underside of the electronics module.

Fig. 3A is a top perspective view of a strip electrode, showing screw plates for attaching the electrode to the electronics module.

Fig. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the strip electrode of Figure 3A, showing a contoured outer surface for contacting skin of an animal.

Fig. 3C is a bottom perspective view of the strip electrode of Figure 3A mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 3D is a front perspective view of the strip electrode of Figure 3A mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 3E is a bottom perspective view of an alternative strip electrode, including a continuous ridge protruding from the contoured outer surface mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 3F is a front perspective view of the strip electrode of Figure 3E mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 3G is a bottom perspective view of an alternative strip electrode, including a series of discontinuous ridges protruding from the contoured outer surface mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 3H is a front perspective view of the strip electrode of Figure 3G mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 4A is a side perspective view of a knob electrode, showing a thread for mounting the electrode to the electronics module.

Fig. 4B is a side perspective view of the knob electrode of Figure 4A, showing a flat for aiding tightening and removing the electrode from the electronics module.

Fig. 4C is a bottom perspective view of a pair of knob electrodes of Figure 4A mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 4D is a front perspective view of a pair of knob electrodes of Figure 4A mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 5A is a bottom perspective view of a combination electrode, comprising a knob portion and a bar portion, mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 5B is a front perspective view of the combination electrode of Figure 5A mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 5C is a bottom perspective view of a combination electrode, comprising a knob portion and a bar portion having an undulating profile, mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 5D is a front perspective view of the combination electrode of Figure 5B mounted to the underside of the electronics module of Figure 2A.

Fig. 6A is a perspective view of a collar of the animal control unit of Figure 1, showing a pair of buckles providing a means to adjust the length of the collar, and a biasing means attached to a strap of the collar.

Fig. 6B is a front view of the biasing means of Figure 6A, showing a U-shaped wire through which, a strap of the collar is inserted.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a collar of the animal control unit of Figure 1, showing an alternative V-shaped biasing means attached to the collar.

Fig. 8A is a top perspective view of the buckle of Figure 6A, in a closed configuration.

Fig. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the buckle of Figure 8A, illustrating a latch and clasp portion.

Fig. 8C is a perspective view of the latch of Figure 8B, showing a toothed portion.

Fig. 8D is a perspective view of the clasp of Figure 8B, showing a corrugated portion.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the animal control unit, showing a single buckle providing a means to adjust the length of the collar, and a biasing means attached to a collar comprising a single strap.

Fig. 10A is a top perspective view of a clip providing an attachment means of the collar of Figure 9, with a buckle providing a means to adjust the length of the collar.

Fig. 10B is a perspective view of the buckle and clip of Figure 10A, illustrating a latch of the buckle in an open position.

Fig. 10C is a perspective view of the buckle and clip of Figure 10A, illustrating a latch of the buckle in a closed position.

Description of Embodiments In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, a limited number of the example methods and materials are described herein.

The embodiment of the animal control unit 1 shown in the figures is suitable for being worn by livestock such as cattle, sheep, buffalo, camel, and deer. It is understood, however, that other implementations or modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the specification.

In general terms, the animal control unit 1 shown in the figures provides an apparatus for implementing a virtual fencing system (also known as a “virtual herding system”, “virtual shepherding system”, “virtual boundary”, or “virtual paddock system”). As is described in more detail below, the animal control unit 1 comprises a collar 2 configured to be fitted around the neck of an animal such as cattle, an electronics module 3 and a biasing means 4 attached to the collar 2. The electronics module 3 includes two or more electrodes 6 and typically an antenna or antennae (not shown). Electrodes 6 are configured to deliver an electrical stimulus to the animal should it approach a boundary defined by the virtual fence. Biasing means 4 is configured to provide a self-righting action to facilitate substantially consistent alignment of the animal control unit 1—typically, it is desired that the electronics module 3, or at least, solar cells 11 coupled to the electronics module 3, remain substantially atop the neck of the animal. This advantageously increases the likelihood that the solar cells 11 remain facing in a consistent vertical direction— for example, in a general direction of the sun.

The animal control unit 1 is suitable for use within a virtual fencing system, such as described in PCT publication no. A1 by the present Applicant—the entire disclosure of that publication is incorporated herein by reference. The animal control unit 1 can also embody the features described in PCT publication no. A1, again by the present Applicant—the entire disclosure of that publication is also incorporated herein by reference.

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the animal control unit 1, configured to be worn by an animal, in the example shown, the animal being large livestock such as cattle. Opposing ends of collar 2 are releasably attached to electronics module 3.

Biasing means 4 is a counterweight and is positioned centrally (or at least between the opposing ends of the collar 2, preferably substantially centrally) along a length of the collar 2. When fitted to cattle, electronics module 3 sits atop the neck of the animal, and the biasing means 4 hangs below the neck of the animal. Buckles 7 provide a means for adjusting the length of collar 2. Buckles 7 provide a continuous method of adjustment, enabling the animal control unit 1 to be fitted to cattle of varying size. It may be preferred that the animal control unit 1, when in use, is fitted tightly enough to ensure that the animal control unit 1 remains around the neck of the animal while providing enough play to allow for the self-righting action of the biasing means 4. Natural movement of the animal may advantageously assist with alignment of the animal control unit 1. The animal control unit 1 typically should be fitted with enough slack to avoid, or reduce the risk of, lesions and other injuries to the animal.

Components of the electronics module 3 are contained within a housing 8. As illustrated in Figure 2A, the housing 8 can be substantially V-shaped. The housing 8 predominantly comprises at least one slanted surface 9, for example as shown a pair of adjacent slanted surfaces 9, and a concave base surface 10. The housing 8 is made of a resilient material. This material can be a polymer. The material may be a toughened plastic. Preferably, the material may be relatively lightweight and UV and chemically resistant.

One or more outward facing solar cells 11 are disposed on an exterior portion of the one or more upward facing slanted surfaces 9 of the housing 8. In the embodiment shown, two outward facing solar cells 11 are provided, one on each of two slanted surfaces 9. To maximise a surface area of the solar cells 11, the solar cells can extend substantially across the slanted surfaces of the housing 8. A slant angle of the slanted surface 9 is chosen to maximise light absorption by the solar cells 11. The slant angle is selected to provide an optimal incidence angle for the array of solar cells 11 to absorb sun rays when the animal control unit 1 is fitted to the animal. The optimal incidence angle typically provides an optimal (or at least improved) average incidence of sunlight onto the one or more solar cells 11 throughout the day. This advantageously maximises the power generated by the array of solar cells 11, providing a renewable source of power to other components of the electronics module 3 for ensuring operation of the animal control unit 1.

Advantageously, due to the action of the biasing means 4, the slant angle can be selected on the basis that the animal control unit 1 will generally be consistently aligned—therefore, the one or more solar cells 11 will generally be facing in a consistent direction relative to the animal’s neck.

The slant angle for slanted surfaces 9 can be selected based on one or more factors. For example, latitude and sunlight hours associated with a geographic location within which the animal control unit is to be used can affect the optimal incidence angle for solar cells. Similarly, known and observed animal behavioural patterns, such as sustained periods of rumination or grazing, associated with the animal holding its neck in upward or downward poses respectively, can affect the slant angle of the slanted surfaces 9 which provides the optimal incidence angle to the solar cells 11. The optimal angle of the slanted surfaces 9 can therefore differ depending on the size and type of animal upon which the animal control unit 1 is fitted. As such, it is understood that the positioning of the solar cells 11, in an upward facing position on the housing 8 at a predetermined slant angle, is an advantageous feature of the embodiment.

The slant angle for the slanted surfaces 9 can be selected based on the result of a calculation based on a selected model. For example, a model may account for one or more of the factors discussed above, or any other suitable factor. The calculation can be based on known methods, such as a Monte Carlo simulation of the facing direction of the animals and the neck position of the animals during predetermined times of the day. One model simulates, based on a Monte Carlo approach, the average incidence onto the one or more solar cells 11 according to a particular slant angle, a random facing direction of the animal, an observed probability of the animal’s head being lowered to graze or not lowered when not grazing (for example, the probability depending on the time of the day), and a known solar angle and sunlight hours for a particular latitude. Based on the application of the model to a variety of combinations of number of solar cells 11 and slant angle, an optimal (or at least, improved) number of solar cells 11 and slant angle can be selected.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least two slanted surfaces 9 are provided wherein the slanted surfaces 9 are substantially symmetrically arranged on the housing 8—for example, as shown, two slanted surfaces 9 may be symmetrically arranged about an axis of the housing 8 substantially aligned with a direction of the neck of the animal. However, it is envisaged that in some implementations, it may be advantageous to have one or more solar cells 11 substantially upward facing— that is, on a slanted surface 9 having zero slant angle. Such an implementation may be appropriate at a latitude close to the equator.

Within a water-tight interior of the housing 8, electrical components including a GPS module having an antenna (not shown), a radio module having an antenna (not shown) and a processor (not shown) are accommodated. The GPS module is configured to determine positional data related to the location of the animal control unit 1, and therefore, the location of the animal wearing the animal control unit 1.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the antennae are located within a trapezoidal fin-like portion 14 of the housing 8, extending from a vertex between the slanted surfaces 9. Whilst the antennae can be located anywhere within the housing 8, this preferred arrangement may be beneficial as the antennae are located at a top-most portion of the animal control unit 1. This positioning can provide superior signal and reception strength for the antenna, for example whilst also minimising interference and noise from solar cells 11.

In reference to Figure 2B, the concave base surface 10 is contoured to fit snugly along the natural recesses of the back and spine of the animal wearing the control unit 1. Rectangular slits 15 are disposed on opposing sides of the housing 8, close to a vertex between the slanted surfaces 9 and the concave base 10. The slits 15 are sized and shaped to receive the opposing ends of the collar 2, releasably attaching the collar 2 to the electronics module 3. As illustrated, the slits 15 are formed as a pair of rectangular slits. An advantage of this placement of the slits 15 (close to the vertex between surfaces 9 and 10), is that in use, the collar 2 is in contact with the skin of the animal wearing the collar 2 until close to the point where the collar 2 enters the slits 15.

A pair of electrodes 6 are positioned on the concave base surface 10 of the housing 8. The electrodes 6 are configured to provide a stimulus to the animal wearing the collar 2, if the animal strays outside of a predetermined region. The processor compares data received via the GPS module, related to the current position of the animal, and compares this data to pre-stored values accessible to the processor. As such, the animal control unit 1 operates within a virtual fencing system. It is understood that the electrodes 6 may take many forms, and that the number of electrodes may be more than 2, or only 1. In certain embodiments, the housing 8 of the electronics module 3 can also act as an audio source, for example with an exciter (not shown) coupled to an interior surface of the housing providing acoustic vibrations. Such an arrangement may be advantageous in that it provides a more robust housing 8 than would otherwise be allowed in the fitment of a typical loudspeaker within the housing 8, as it reduces or eliminates the need for having holes in the housing 8 to allow passage of the required aural stimulus at sufficient volumes. However, in another example, a standard speaker is located within the housing 8 to act as the audio source. Generally, the resultant sound from the audio source can act as an audible stimulus. As described in, for example, United States patent no. 9,107,395, the animal may learn to respond to the audible stimulus, thereby minimising the use of an electrical stimulus.

Figures 3A-3H illustrate a preferred embodiment of the electrodes 6. The electrodes 6 are made from a conductive material, for example stainless steel. At least one electrode 6 is a strip electrode. In the embodiment shown, both electrodes 6 are strip electrodes- with each being in the shape of an arch. The electrodes 6 can be shaped to ergonomically sit within natural contours within the neck of the animal. For example, the strip electrodes 6 can include a ridge that runs substantially along a length of the arch. The ridge may comprise a single continuous tubular body (e.g. as per Figures 3E-3F) or alternatively, a series of discrete protrusions (e.g. as per Figures 3G-3H). An advantage of these shapes may be that the likelihood of at least a portion of the surface area of the electrode 6 being in contact with the surface of the animal is maximised, providing for a consistent and predictable delivery of stimulus. This may reduce the chance of injury and discomfort to the animal that may occur due to concentrations of transmissions of a conductive charge or stimulus. Additionally, the ergonomic shaping of the strip electrodes 6 may reduce the required tightness of the collar 2 while ensuring that the electrodes remain predominantly in contact with the skin of the animal, maximising the effectiveness of the aversive stimulus whilst maintaining animal comfort and wellbeing. That is, such strip electrodes 6 can advantageously avoid, or at least reduce, instances wherein the electrode 6 is not in contact with the surface of the animal due to movement of the animal control unit 1. Consistent delivery and application of pulse is required for successfully training the animal a desired learned behaviour. This may be particularly advantageous for animals of narrow neck profile.

The electrodes 6 are secured to the curved base surface 10 of the housing 8 via screw plates 16, through which a screw is inserted and received within similarly sized tapped holes 17 positioned on the concave surface 10. The tapped holes 17 provide a means of interchangeably fitting different shaped and sized electrodes 6, to best suit the size and shape of the animal wearing the animal control unit 1.

Further, this method of attachment advantageously maintains a smooth outer surface to the electrodes 6, which may minimise the likelihood of the electrodes 6 and connected housing 8 becoming snagged on environmental obstacles such as fences and branches.

A further embodiment of the electrodes 6 is shown in Figures 4A-4D. In this embodiment, at least one electrode 6 is a knob-shaped electrode (in the embodiment shown, there are two knob-shaped electrodes 6). The knob-shaped electrodes 6 are made of a conductive material. The knob-shaped electrodes 6 have a threaded shaft 18 which is received within a similarly sized tapped holes 17 on the concave surface of the housing 8. A flat 19 on the threaded shaft provides a means for tightening and gripping the electrode using a conventional wrench or the like. A knob-shaped electrode 6 may provide an advantage when used with animals with relatively thick wool or hair, such as sheep’s wool.

Yet a further embodiment of the electrodes 6 is shown in Figures 5A-5D. In this embodiment, at least one electrode 6 is a combination electrode (in the embodiment shown, there are two combination electrodes 6). The combination electrodes comprise a knob-shaped portion 6a and a spatially separated bar portion 6b. The knob 6a and bar 6b portions are electrically coupled to one another. As illustrated, the knob portions 6a are similar to those described in respect to the knob electrodes of Figures 4A-4C. The bar portion 6b can have a smooth outer surface (for example, as shown in Figure 5C). In an alternative, the bar portion can have an undulating outer surface (for example, as shown in Figure 5D). The bar portion 6b of the combination electrode 6 may provide an advantage in providing additional contact area between the electrode 6 and the skin of the animal, to that offered by the knob portion 6a if used alone.

Figure 6A is a representation of one embodiment of the collar 2. As shown, collar 2 comprises of three straps 20. The straps 20 are resistant to substantial stretching. The straps 20 can be made of a nylon material or similar. A first 20a and a second 20b of the straps 20 are attached at one end to the electronics module 3 through the slits 15. Opposing ends of the first and second straps 20a, 20b, are received and constrained within a pair of buckles 7. The length of the collar 2 can thus be adjusted by releasing buckles 7, and sliding the ends of straps 20a, 20b respectively in either a forward or rearward direction through the buckles 7. A third strap 20c completes the collar 2. Opposing ends of the third strap 20c are received within each of the buckles 7, and provide a means for adjusting the length of the collar 2. Disposed mid-way along strap 20c, and thus at a centre point of the collar 2 when being worn by the animal, is biasing means 4.

Biasing means 4, in an embodiment shown in Figure 6B, is a circular counterweight. The counterweight 4 can include a high-density metal such as mild steel. The counterweight 5 should be heavier than the electronics module 3—it has been found that a ratio of counterweight 4 mass to electronics module 3 mass of at least 1.2 and more preferably 1.5 may be suitable for allowing correct operation of the biasing means 4. In one example, the counterweight 4 mass is 1.5kg, being twice the mass of the electronics module 3. This weight enables the counterweight 4 to provide a self-righting force to the electronics module 3. As such, during movement of the animal’s neck or, for example, running or other movements, the electronics module 3 is biased to remain atop the animal’s neck. This advantageously provides optimal positioning for the solar cells 11 and GPS module, and also ensures maximum antenna reception signal strength and exposure. It is understood, however, that dependent on the size of animal, and the size and weight of the electronics module 3, the counterweight 4 can weigh more or less. Counterweight 4 can be enclosed within a water-proof and soft-finish coating. The coating can be a polymer coating. The coating can be a powder coating. The polymer coating ensures that there are no sharp edges that could cause abrasions or discomfort for the animal. The coating also ensures that no rust or similar affects the counterweight 4. Counterweight 4 is attached to the collar 2 through a U-shaped wire 21, both ends of which are rigidly attached to the counterweight 4. Collar 2 is thus threaded through an aperture created between the counterweight 4 and the wire 21. The attachment of counterweight 4 to the collar 2 embodies the counterweight 4 with a necessary degree of play, providing a pendulum-like swinging motion during movement of the animal, in order to facilitate the self-righting force.

In an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 7, a V-shaped biasing means 4’ is attached to the collar 2. The V-shaped biasing means 4’ is configured to provide the self-righting force to the electronics module 3. The V-shaped biasing means 4’ is attached to the straps 20 of the collar 2, such that in use the biasing means 4’ fits snugly under the neck of the animal. The fit and shape of the biasing means 4’ reduces a forward trajectory of the associated swinging motion of the biasing means 4’, whilst still allowing for a side-to-side pendulum, motion. This embodiment may be particularly advantageous for animals with an inherent erratic grazing pattern, characterised by quick, short aggressive neck movements.

Figures 8A-8D show an embodiment of the buckles 7. Buckles 7 will be discussed in the following section in reference to one of the pair of buckles 7, into which the first strap 20a is inserted. It is thus understood that the following discussion is equally applicable to the second of the pair of buckles 7, into which the second strap 20b is inserted. For the discussion below, the buckle 7 will be discussed as having a front end and a rear end. The rear end of the buckle 7 is understood to be the end closest to the electronics module 3.

Buckle 7 is comprised of a latch 23 and a clasp 24. Buckle 7 is arranged such that in a closed, or locked configuration, engagement between the latch 23 and clasp 24 prevents movement of strap 20a, hence fixing the length of the collar 2.

Latch 23 comprises a square flat plate, perpendicularly attached at one end to the body of a cylindrical shaft 25.

Clasp 24 is rectangular and includes four cross members 30,31,32,33 disposed between the rear end and front end, parallel to the cylindrical body 25 of the latch 23. The arrangement of the cross-members 30,31,32 and 33 are such that the first cross member 30 is located rear-most in the buckle 7, and the fourth cross member 33 is the forward most, in a direction of movement from the rear end to the front end of the buckle 7.

Latch 23 is pivotably attached to clasp 24, enabling the latch 23 to be lifted into an open position, or pushed down onto clasp 24 to a locked position. In an open, or unlocked configuration, the arrangement of the buckle 7 is such that the length of the collar 2 can be adjusted via pulling either straps 20a or 20c through the buckle in a forward or rearward direction, depending on the sizing adjustment required.

A friction means 26 provides a mechanism through which straps 20 are securely held within the buckle 7. The friction means 26, in the illustrated embodiment includes a primary toothed portion 27. The primary toothed portion 27 is a row of cone shaped teeth, and taper to a point. The primary toothed portion 27 is disposed on the cylindrical shaft 25 of latch 23. Teeth of the primary toothed portion 27 engage against first strap 20a, friction generated therebetween securely holding the first strap 20a in position, restricting movement. As such, it is understood that the buckles 7 provide continuous adjustment, limited only by the lengths of straps 20a and 20c. This is advantageous when compared to other fastening mechanisms such as holed belts, which feature much more finite adjustment levels. The friction means 26 is configured such that a force above a threshold level can overcome the friction means 26, such that the collar 2 can be released. The threshold level can be determined dependent on the animal for which the animal control unit 1 is to be fitted. For example, a force of approximately 100 kgf may be suitable for cattle. As such, if the animal was to become entangled, application of a pulling force (in this example, exceeding 100 kgf) would result in the collar releasing. This feature may advantageously reduce the likelihood of injury or distress caused upon the animal in such an instance.

The first toothed portion 27 extends axially along the cylindrical shaft 25. The first toothed portion 27 does not extend around the full circumference of the cylindrical shaft 25. As such, the first toothed portion 27 provides both an engaged, or closed configuration, and a non-engaged, or open configuration.

The friction means 26 of the latch 23 includes a second toothed portion 35.

The first toothed portion 27 and second toothed portion 35 are arranged such that when viewed in isolation, the latch 23 appears to have a first row of teeth (first toothed portion 27) and a second row of teeth (second toothed portion 35). The second toothed portion 35 comprises a flat face extending tangentially from the cylindrical portion 25, topped with rounded blunted teeth. With the buckle 7 in a closed configuration, the second toothed portion 35 engages against the third strap 20c. This engagement can provide a ratchet-like mechanism, such that the collar 2 can be tightened by pulling in a downwards direction on either of the free end of the third strap 20c, but not loosened. This can be advantageous, as it enables the collar 2 to be placed over the head of the animal, and then tightened in a simple manner, minimising the potential for distress for the animal. Another advantage of the attachment mechanism described may be that it can allow relatively quick fitting of the collar 2 to the animal—for example, this helps to reduce risk to the operator fitting the collar 2 due to animal movement from distress. For example, this may help to reduce risk to the operator as livestock, even when restrained individually in a crush and headbail, can still be very dangerous when distressed.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first strap 20a is fed through a rear aperture 28 of the buckle 7. The rear aperture 27 is formed between the cylindrical shaft 25 of the latch 23 and a first cross member 30 of the clasp 24. The first strap 20a is then threaded over a third crossmember 32, and out through a front aperture 29, at the opposing front end of the buckle 7. It is thus understood that in a closed configuration, teeth of the primary toothed portion 27 engage against the first strap 20a, such that it is secured against cross member 30. The first crossmember 30 includes a corrugated portion 34. The corrugated portion 34 is arranged such that in the closed configuration, the first strap 20a is also in frictional contact with the corrugated portion 34.

Concurrently, an end of the third strap 20c is fed through the front aperture 29 of the clasp 24. The front aperture 29 is defined by the gap between third cross member 23 and a fourth cross member 33. The third strap 20c is fed into the buckle through aperture 29, and wrapped around a second crossmember 31, and back out of the buckle 7 through the second aperture 29.

Figure 9 is a representation of another embodiment of an animal control unit 101. As shown, collar 102 comprises of a single strap 120. Strap 120 runs through a slotted channel 112 that extends along the concave surface 10 from one side of the housing 8 to another. A retention device 113 is mounted onto a side of the housing 8, adjacent to an end of the slotted channel 112. The retention device 113 has a fixed and a released configuration. In the fixed configuration, the strap 120 is restrained from movement relative to the housing 8. As such, the retention device 113 enables the housing 8 to be secured on the collar 102 such that it is positioned substantially opposite to biasing means 4. The present embodiment may offer an advantage by providing a single point on the collar 102 required for adjustment when fitting to the animal.

Figures 10A-10C illustrate an adjustment means by which the collar 102 can be secured around the neck of an animal, and its length altered. The adjustment means comprises a clip 140 and a buckle 107. As shown, buckle 107 is of similar type to buckle 7 previously described. Clip 140 can be a snap fit side-release clip.

A first end 121 of the strap 120 is attached to a first portion 141 of clip 140.

An opposing second end 122 of the strap 120 is threaded through buckle 107. A second portion 142 of clip 140 is fixedly connected to the buckle 107.

As shown in Figure 10A, the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 of the clip 140 are correspondingly configured to provide a quick release mechanism.

Accordingly, an advantage of the clip 140 is that it may be simple and fast to secure the collar 102 around the neck of the animal. The buckle 107 comprises a latch 123 pivotably connected to a clasp 124. As shown in Figure 10B, in an open position, the latch 123 is lifted away from clasp 124. The length of the collar 102 can be reduced by pulling the second end 122 of the strap 120 through the clasp 124, in a direction indicated by dotted arrow A. Likewise, the length of the collar 102 can be increased by pulling the second end 122 of the strap 120 in the opposite direction.

Once the length of the collar 102 is adjusted to an appropriate length, an operator can push down the clasp 124 into the closed configuration, as shown in Figure 10C, locking the length of the collar 102.

Several of the features of the animal control unit 1 provide an interworking advantage with each other. The shape of the housing 8, in addition to the self- righting force provided by the biasing means 4, may advantageously ensure that the electronics module 3 remains atop of the animal at all times. As such, the effectiveness of the array of solar cells 11 affixed to the housing 8, and hence the longevity of power supply to the electronics module 3, may be maximised by mounting the solar cells 11 at an upward facing slant angle. Furthermore, the profile of a strip electrode 6 may maximise the likelihood of a surface area of the electrode 6 being in contact with the skin of the animal, whilst also reducing the required tightness of the collar 2 needed to ensure that this contact is maintained. Reducing the required tightness of the collar 2 may advantageously improve the effectiveness of the biasing means 4, which utilises natural movement of an animal to provide the required self-righting action, whilst also providing a more comfortable fit for the animal. Also, accordingly, the strip electrode 6 shape may advantageously provide for the consistent delivery of an electrical stimulus required for a successful virtual fencing system.

Claims (17)

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. An animal control unit comprising a collar and an electronics module; opposing ends of the collar attachable to the electronics module, the electronics module having a housing incorporating a solar powered electrical generator and at least two electrodes, wherein the animal control unit is configured to selectively deliver an electrical stimulus to an animal wearing the collar via the electrodes, and wherein at least one electrode is a strip electrode comprising a strip portion shaped to rest along a natural contour of the animal’s neck.

2. The animal control unit of claim 1, wherein the housing is shaped such that it rests on the upper side of the animal’s neck when in use.

3. The animal control unit of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the solar powered electric generator comprises one or more solar cells.

4. The animal control unit of claim 3, wherein the one or more solar cells are disposed on one or more slanted surfaces, wherein each slanted surface has a selected slant angle.

5. The animal control unit of claim 4, wherein the one or more slanted surfaces have slant angles selected such as to maximise, or at least substantially maximise, an average received solar irradiation.

6. The animal control unit of claim 5, wherein the average received solar irradiation is estimated based on at least one of: an expected latitude of use of the animal control unit; a modelled behaviour of the animal; a number of solar cells; and a slant angle associated with the solar cells.

7. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one electrode comprises a knob-shaped portion.

8. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one electrode comprises of two spatially separated portions.

9. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a biasing means disposed along a length of the collar.

10. The animal control unit of claim 9, wherein the biasing means is configured to provide a self-righting force such that the housing is biased towards a position atop the neck of the animal during movement.

11. The animal control unit of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the biasing means is a counterweight.

12. The animal control unit of claim 11, wherein the counterweight is substantially centrally located with respect to the collar.

13. The animal control unit of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the counterweight has a mass greater than the mass of the electronics module.

14. The animal control unit of any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the counterweight has a mass at least 1.5 times the mass of the electronics module.

15. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the collar comprises a plurality of elongate straps.

16. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 15, the collar having an adjustable length.

17. The animal control unit of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the collar includes a buckle configured to adjust the length of the collar.