WO2011110814A2 - Animal exercise apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An animal exercise apparatus (90) includes a projection device arranged to project an image to be chased, under control of a random controller (94). A handover device (96a) is arranged to hand over control of the projection device to a second handover device in a second apparatus, thereby creating the impression that the image is traversing a larger area of ground. A feeding mechanism for animals may include a scanner, microchip and means for regulation and provision of food. In an alternative embodiment the invention also includes an exercise device, which has a projector arranged to shine an image at random over a given area. A sensing means determines how effective an animal is at the device and a score calculated. Upon reaching a given score the animal is rewarded which a treat, which may be food.

Description

ANIMAL EXERCISE APPARATUS

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to an animal exercise apparatus. More particularly the invention relates to an exercise apparatus for exercising animals, such as pets, specifically felines, so as to encourage them to play by employing natural hunting instincts.

Background of Invention

Pets require a degree of commitment from an owner. Occasionally that commitment becomes a problem. An occasion such as this might be when the owner intends to be away from the pet for an extended period of time, returning after a normal mealtime for a pet; if the owner is delayed returning to the pet; or if the owner has to go on holiday. Typically therefore, a pet is often left at home for a period of a few hours or perhaps up to a day. Leaving a pet at home has limitations: pets may become sluggish or bored. This is particularly the case with felines, which are natural predators.

Also animals may be unlikely to ration the food left for them and may finish all the food left for them after just a few hours.

An object of the present invention arose in order to provide an apparatus for providing exercise and stimulation to an animal as well as optionally a means of regulating the provision of food to an animal when there is no human supervision as well as to provide a degree of entertainment to the animal or pet.

A number of systems exist which are intended to address the problem of feeding pets, by for example, providing a timing arrangement which automatically dispenses food at predetermined intervals, so that a pet does not become hungry. Some of these systems are discussed below. Prior Art

US Patent Application US 5 349 925 A1 (ZERATO) discloses a feeder for the presentation of food products for animals. The feeder includes a storage bin for containing animal food with a lidded top and a pressure plate linked to the top. When an animal stepped upon the pressure plate, the lid opens revealing the interior of the bin.

US Patent US 7 124 707 B1 (CLARKE) discloses an apparatus for the provision of food to a first animal. The apparatus includes a container for receipt of the food and a transmitter that is attached to the first animal and a receiver that is operatively attached to the apparatus. The transmitter emits a signal continuously or a signal only when it is proximate to the apparatus. The apparatus receives and responds to the signal to allow access to the food in the container when the signal is present. When the signal is not received by the apparatus, access to the food in the container is denied.

US Patent US 7 395 782 B1 (LINDSAY) discloses a system and method for providing access to animal food utilising identification tags on domestic animals, generally attached to a collar. The identification tag generates a signal that is detected by a receiver mounted on an enclosed food container. When the receiver detects a pre-selected acceptable signal from an animal, it activates a motor that causes a movable portion of the container to move to an open position. If the signal is no longer detected by the receiver, it activates the motor to move the movable portion of the container to a closed position. If the receiver detects a signal from an identification tag that is not one of the pre-selected signals, it activates the motor to move the movable portion of the container to a closed position.

Another device for automatically training animal behaviour is described in US Patent Application US-A1 -2003/0154930 (MADDOX) which describes a system that includes a collar and a reward dispenser. The system discriminates between desirable and undesirable behaviour and encourages desirable behaviour by way of a dispensing a reward, thereby reinforcing such behaviour.

US Patent Application US-A1 -2002/0002955 (LORENZ) discloses a laser pet toy comprising a housing containing a laser source which projects a laser beam into a reflective surface. In turn the reflective surface forecasts the beam through a transparent window set in the housing and projects the beam onto an opaque surface. The random movement of the beam is provided by the motion of the reflective surface.

In US Patent Application US-A1 -2001/0037773 (NATHANSON) there is disclosed a pet toy that projects a moving light beam. A domed cover is pivotally attached to a housing. The housing has an upper opening. A light source within the housing is capable of producing a beam of light which is projected through the upper opening, and an electric motor is capable of moving the light source which is supported on a rotating disk platform.

Other examples of automated animal feeding systems are described in US Patent Application US-A1 -2005/0217591 (TURNER), US Patent Application US-A1 -2005/0284382 (STANCHEV), US Patent Application US-A1- 2005/0061252 (MEEKS), US Patent US-B1-6 044 795 (MATSUURA), UK Patent Application GB 2 454 658 (FRIEDMAN), US Patent Application US-A1- 2006/0249088 (EU).

Whilst all the above mentioned devices provide a way of dispensing food to the pet or animal, there is limited interaction and in some instances the animal or pet may return at will to the device and thereby risk gaining weight.

An object of the present invention is to provide and improve the process of exercising an animal and in one particular embodiment to dispense food to animals.

In particular a particular embodiment of the apparatus provides a means of regulating the provision of food to an animal when there is no human supervision, with the aim of ensuring that pets or animals receive food in a healthy and beneficial manner.

A further object of the invention is to provide an exercise apparatus for animals, particularly pets and more particularly felines.

Summary of Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an animal exercise apparatus including: a projection device arranged to project an image to be chased, under control of a random controller; a handover device provided for handing over control of the projection device to a second handover device, adapted to hand over control to a projection device in a second apparatus

Optionally a dispenser is provided which is operative to dispense feed to an authorised animal upon receipt of a command signal.

In a preferred embodiment a signal is derived from a sensor that senses the presence of an animal, relative to the projected image, and a means is provided for ascertaining how much exercise is done by the animal.

Ideally bi-directional communication from one apparatus to a second apparatus is achieved by way of the handover devices, each of which includes a transceiver, comprising a transmitter and a receiver.

One way in which the transmitter and the receiver are arranged to communicate, one with another, is via radio frequency (RF) channels.

Examples of RF channels include Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or Wi-Fi. Another mode of communication is by ultra sonic signals. An alternative mode of communication uses infra red (IR) signals. Although reference has been made to communication via a transmitter and a receiver in one communication mode - eg via an infra red radio channel - it is understood that communication in one direction may take place in a first mode - eg ultra sonic - and communication in the opposite direction may occur in an RF mode.

Advantageously an exercise system comprises: a plurality of the aforementioned exercise apparatuses which, when in use, are arranged and configured so that the projected image appears to traverse between one apparatus to the adjacent apparatus.

Optionally a locator is provided in the first and the second apparatus, the locators act to orient respective apparatuses with respect to one another, so that control of the handover from the first to the second apparatus is choreographed so that the passage of the image passes seamlessly from the first to the second apparatus.

The term seamlessly is intended to mean that a randomly projected image (projected by a first projector in a first apparatus), at a particular location is momentarily also projected (by a second projector in a second apparatus) at substantially the identical location at the instant (or shortly after) the first projector is switched off, whereby the image is subsequently randomly projected by the second projector. This handover process from one apparatus to another may take place over several apparatuses.

A master controller is ideally provided for overseeing control from one master apparatus to one or more slave apparatuses. Optionally different menus of sequencing are provided, which may include: variations such as speed of traverse of the image; size and shape of the image; whether the image is randomly switched on and off so as to momentarily 'hide' the image and make it 'reappear' somewhere at random; whether the image is projected only on a floor or is projected on wall; whether a sensor is arranged to detect when the image is 'caught'. A sound may be emitted to accompany certain events associated with the image, for example and alert to signify the commencement of an exercise regime or game and a sound to indicate when the image is caught.

Ideally the projection device includes a light source, such as a laser light emitting diode (LED), which scans an outline of an object to be chased and this might be the profile of a mouse or a similar sized animal.

Ideally the projector operates under control of a random controller, which can be programmed so that an image is projected to a defined space or region, for example within a square meter of floor area or a larger area, where there are no obstacles or impediments to the animal playing.

Optionally a reward can be dispensed by the apparatus, which may be animal feed.

The motion or activity of a pet, which is typically a feline, is detected by way of a detector, such as a pixellated infra-red (PIR) detector, which is capable of determining the amount of activity of the feline within the chosen space or area. Alternatively the pet may be detected by a signal detector that detects a signal from an emitter such as a Bluetooth transmitter, ultrasound transmitter, or other means which is ideally carried in a device worn by the pet. The worn device may be a collar. Ideally the emitted signal from the transmitter has an identifying component such a frequency or pattern. This way the identity of the emitter that is detected, can be attributed to a specific animal wearing it. An alternative emitter is an RFID tag implanted in the animal which has the advantage that a collar or other device to carry the emitter is not required.

Ideally each apparatus comprises a signal detector. This enables the motion of the animal tracked to be tracked from animal apparatus to animal apparatus. As the animal comes within range or closest proximity of each apparatus it is identified and associated with that apparatus. Advantageously because the emitter used to detect the proximity of an animal contains identification information about the animal more than one animal may be entertained by a plurality of apparatus simultaneously. A projected image from a first apparatus may be dedicated to a first animal closest to a first apparatus. Another projected image may be dedicated to another animal closest to another apparatus.

The determining means for ascertaining how much exercise is done by the cat is thus able to determine the total distance covered by the cat when chasing the projected image, by way of noting a start position of the cat, following its movement to a first location and to subsequent locations and summing these movements. The processing means compares the actual total distance travelled with a theoretical distance, determined from where an image is shone, and computes from these two an approximate total distance covered in any exercise regime.

Ideally monitoring means is provided to regulate the amount of food that is dispensed within a time period, for example in dependence upon a specific animal (which may have special dietary requirements); or in accordance with one or more other criteria, such as how much exercise has been done, from which a direct calculation of the amount of work done can be obtained. Once this is known an approximate calorific equivalent can be derived, from which a sensible portion of food is obtained so that the animal does not gorge itself.

Likewise if the animal has not chased the image sufficiently far - thereby not performed its minimum amount of exercise; and therefore not had any food during a predetermined time period, an optional failsafe setting provides for dispensation of food, so that a guaranteed minimum amount of food is dispensed.

Animals for which feed is not intended are hereinafter referred to as unauthorised animals. Preferably a means is included in the apparatus to identify whether an animal is an authorised animal, and this may include a radio frequency identification device (RFID), such as an 'RFID' reader which is adapted to authorise the apparatus to a dispense mode, when an authorised pet or animal is detected in the vicinity of the apparatus. In use the 'RFID' reader identifies an animal and sends a signal to a processor identifying the animal or pet as an authorised animal. The processor is then configured to send an authorisation signal to a timer or other override device, receipt of which opens a storage hopper containing animal feed. The hopper then dispenses a predetermined amount of animal feed to an authorised animal thereby ensuring that feed is not dispensed to any unauthorised animals or interlopers.

Preferably the identification device or devices recognised by the animal identification means include: implanted Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) chips or tags. Typically these RFID chips or RFID tags are located sub-dermally, in the animal's body, for example in the head, neck or shoulder region of the animal.

Other animal identification means may be employed, such as image recognition of the image of the face or iris of an animal or some other device or system that unambiguously identifies the animal or pet for which feed is intended.

Typically RFID chips or 'RFID' tags typically have a short operating range. Ideally therefore the apparatus includes a scanner and an antenna, within a module, cowl, bezel or similar arrangement that is dimensioned and shaped for receiving the head of an animal, so that the antenna is optimally positioned to receive signals from the RFID device.

Optionally a means for repelling undesirable animals is provided. This ideally comprises a device for emitting an unpleasant smell or sound, a sound inaudible to human hearing, a light or strobe or a puff of pressurised fluid (such as air, gas or liquid) that is released when the unauthorised animal approaches the apparatus so as to startle the animal. In an alternative embodiment a small electric shock may be given to the unauthorised animal.

The means for repelling undesirable animals may, for example, trigger when the snout of the unwanted animal is detected close to where food is dispensed or it may be triggered by some other detector, such as for example, a pressure sensor and/or scanner that detects an identification implant from an unauthorised animal.

It is understood that although animals are repelled they are not harmed or injured in any way; merely shocked, startled or coerced so as not to be in a location close to where the permitted animal's food has been dispensed.

Ideally the means for repelling an unauthorised animal comprises: a pressurised fluid outlet which may be arranged to produce a noise as well as puff or jet of air, gas or liquid (such as water), so as to repel a speculative animal from attempting to eat the food of an intended recipient animal.

The preferred animal proximity detector is an RFID detector. Another animal proximity detector may be a motion sensor. An alternative animal proximity detector is a pressure sensor operative to sense the weight of an animal. The animal proximity detector may be used in conjunction with the animal identification means and a microprocessor in order to determine whether the animal that is detected at the apparatus is an 'authorised' animal or not and if the animal is not an authorised animal, the optimum moment to startle it.

The animal proximity detector may facilitate the handover from one apparatus to another. Advantageously an exercise system comprises: a plurality of the aforementioned exercise apparatuses which, when in use, are arranged and configured so that the projected image appears to traverse between one apparatus to the adjacent apparatus. As the animal chases the projected laser image it may move farther from one apparatus and closer to another. The relative proximity of the animal to two apparatus is used trigger the handover of the projected image from one to the other. Optionally a locator is provided in the first and the second apparatus, the locators act to orient respective apparatuses with respect to one another, so that control of the handover from the first to the second apparatus is choreographed so that the passage of the image passes seamlessly from the first to the second apparatus.

As the animal comes within range or closest proximity of each apparatus, that animal is identified and associated with that apparatus. The identification and association of that animal with the nearest apparatus may be done with the aid of the master controller or a slave controller. Thus the choreographed handover of image projection from one exercise apparatus to the other is done based on the proximity of the animal to each animal exercise apparatus and arrangement of the controller.

The master controller ideally provided for overseeing control from one apparatus to another may be arranged to pass control to the nearest apparatus to the animal. With this arrangement the animal is encouraged to gradually wend its way from one apparatus to the other as it follows the moving projection.

An alternative arrangement for the master controller is for it to be arranged to pass control to one of the animal exercise apparatus that is farthest away from the animal exercise apparatus to which the animal is detected to be closest. With this arrangement the animal is encouraged to spring further distances to follow the projected image.

It will be understood that the animal identification means in the feeder may be used to determine whether the animal is authorised or not, when for example, an animal with an RFID tag is detected and the identity of the animal is not stored as a permitted animal identity permitted to consume food. Feed is ideally dispensed into a bowl, which is located within the apparatus. Advantageously the bowl is removable from a support so that it can be cleaned when required.

Ideally the apparatus is triggered or enabled to become active at predetermined times or intervals, for example by way of a programmed timer. The activated state of the apparatus is then conveyed to the animal, for example by an audible and/or visual means. Thus a sound or other alarm may indicate to an authorised animal that it is feeding time. One such alarm may be a signal that is sent via a radio frequency link to, for example, the collar worn by the animal, so that it discreetly vibrates, in a similar way to a pager. In this way only the intended recipient of the animal feed is alerted to the fact that feed is about to be dispensed or an exercise regime is about to commence. The completion of an exercise regime may not always result in automatic dispensation of a meal. For example it may be terminated with dispensation of a treat, rewarding the animal for a 'successful' play regime.

Ideally the motion of an identified animal as it moves from being closest to one apparatus to being closest to another projection apparatus may be either recorded by a recording device in the apparatus or transmitted by a transmitting device in the apparatus.

The animal motion may be used by the master controller to determine when an animal should be fed. The feeding interval may be increased for a lethargic animal. An active animal which has demonstrated considerable motion may find the apparatus dispenses feed more often. The motion may be from chasing a projected image from one apparatus to the next.

In addition to this alert signal the apparatus may be configured to an active dispensing state, so that when the authorised animal approaches the apparatus in its active state, the presence of the animal is sensed and an amount of food is then delivered from the hopper to a feeding bowl. Optionally an activator can be provided so that animals can be trained to place the apparatus in an active state, for example when it is hungry and decides when it wants to exercise. Subject to a maximum amount of dispensed food not having been reached and upon completion of a successful exercise regime, the animal is rewarded with a treat. So as to reinforce these activities, a light or sound may be activated, ideally when the animal is detected, so as to engage the animal and stimulate it into interacting with the apparatus.

The processor is capable of operating in a plurality of different modes, thereby enabling the user or pet owner to select a desired food dispensing regime depending upon for example: if the pet owner is going to be away for an extended period (eg a half or full day) - in which case the apparatus is configured to dispense one or two meals. Alternatively the apparatus may be configured to dispense treats, in which case the frequency of dispensation can be set to a maximum of one every hour, two hours or longer.

By activating the apparatus intermittently, and only delivering small amounts of food, a number of objectives are achieved. Feeding little and often mimics the natural feeding habits of many small animals, especially cats. Also little and often feeding can be used to facilitate in the treatment of certain gastrointestinal diseases.

Activating intermittently encourages the pet to visit the apparatus frequently which encourages mobility and weight loss. Also, because smaller amounts of feed can be delivered intermittently; the chances of other animals stealing a large proportion of the authorised animal's daily ration are reduced. Furthermore because feed is not constantly available this discourages neighbouring animals from attempting to steal food.

Optionally different sized modules or cowls may be supplied so as to suit different sized animals. The apparatus encourages exercise and dispenses quantities of foodstuffs in proportion to the amount of animal exercise, dietary requirements, and other factors. Foodstuffs are dispensed from the hopper through a channel that may be sealed or opened by an opening means, such as a plunger, for example controlled by way of a motor and worm gear drive, servo device and actuator, an electromagnetic catch or a sprung door. Likewise liquid may be dispensed from the same or a different apparatus under control of a motorised valve from a sealed reservoir.

In one preferred embodiment a food presence sensor is ideally arranged to detect the presence of unconsumed food and upon receipt of a signal from the sensor, indicating unconsumed food, an override signal is sent to the processor which prevents further dispensation of food. The purpose of this is to ensure that food is not available to other 'unauthorised' animals, as well as ensuring that dispensed food is not exposed to the surroundings for too long a period.

The food presence sensor may take the form of an infra red (IR) source projecting a signal which is reflected from a feeding bowl, from which reflected signal an assessment of unconsumed feed may be obtained.

The processor may be configured to monitor the number of occasions and/or total amount of time feed remains unconsumed in the bowl. In the event that these occasions are too frequent an alarm may be triggered indicating a potential problem with the animal. Optionally the alarm may be relayed, for example via a GPS, to the animal owner or carer.

Ideally the animal apparatus includes an animal identification means which in use scans animal identification implants; and a processor for processing signals derived from an RFID device worn by, or implanted sub-dermally in the animal, and a means for storing, a means for accessing and a means for processing data derived from said RFID device. In this preferred embodiment it will be appreciated that data can be collected, stored and processed relating to the feeding habits of the animal. Information relating to the number of visits from unauthorised animals may also be obtained and available to be reviewed.

Advantages of the invention are therefore that it may be used to measure physiological parameters of the animal; record and display the physiological parameters and/or animal feeding frequency directly to the owner or on a computer connected by wire or wireless means.

Means may also be provided for altering feeding times and/or feeding quantity/frequency dependent upon the result of physiological parameter measurements. This may be readily achieved in one embodiment by maintaining a hatch from the hopper to the bowl open for a longer or shorter period, thereby allowing more or less food to leave the hopper.

Preferably the apparatus may be programmed as to food quantities and timing. This allows provision of food in pre-selected quantities and at preselected timings to pre-selected groups or categories or individual animals. There is hence a user control method linked to, or incorporated on the apparatus. This may consist of a remote control or a control pad or interface on the apparatus, singly or in combination, a 'hard' wire, wireless or GPS connection.

Ideally the apparatus provides an audible or visual stimulus when food has been dispensed for the animal. The audible signal may consist of a recording of the owner's voice. The apparatus may be equipped with a microphone to record sounds or may be compatible with other recording or composing devices. The audio data may be in recordable in mpeg, .avi or other equivalent digital format.

The apparatus optionally is equipped with a data storage facility. In one embodiment the apparatus may record, provide or compile a catalogue of available feeds that an individual animal has accessed. It may also record, provide, or compile a catalogue of exercise. This information may be viewable or printable either on or by the apparatus. Alternatively it is capable of being downloaded to another device. Advantageously the apparatus contains a means for sending and receiving this information from a mobile phone or internet website.

There is optionally provided on the apparatus means for connecting the apparatus to other devices. This may consist of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, Bluetooth (Registered Trade Mark) connector, wireless or wired modem, or other wired or wireless method.

In some embodiments the apparatus may have programmable schedules for more than one animal's feeding or exercise schedule. These may also be configured remotely or on the apparatus itself.

Ideally the apparatus provides a repellent stimulus to unauthorised animals attempting to access food. This may consist of visual, audio or physical stimuli. In some embodiments, expressed gas may be utilised as a negative stimulus, alone or in combination with the above. There may be a compressor on the apparatus or alternatively compressed gas canisters or other containers may be used.

In another embodiment a projection device is included which is arranged to project an image to be chased by an authorised animal, within a predetermined space or volume, under control of a random motion device; and a dispenser, which is operative to dispense the feed to an authorised animal upon receipt of a command signal.

Ideally the monitoring means determines the amount of times the projected image is "caught", for example by way of a motion sensor and/or an image detector, and means is provided to determine the efficacy of chasing of the image by the animal or pet, in accordance with a comparison of the position of the image and the position of the animal or pet and issues the command signal to release a reward. In this further embodiment pets - such as a cat, which are natural predators - are encouraged to engage in games where they chase a projected image. The projected image may be a simple shape or silhouette of an animal, such as a mouse.

The projected image may be from a focussed incoherent source or ideally from a source of coherent light, such as a laser, which is ideally a red laser.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows a diagrammatical cross-section view of the apparatus;

Figure 2 shows a diagrammatical plan view of the apparatus from the front;

Figure 3 shows an overhead view of the apparatus;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatical representation showing the apparatus in use;

Figure 5 shows a diagrammatical cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus;

Figure 6 is a block diagram showing key functional elements of control and operation of the embodiment in Figure 5;

Figures 7a and 7b show views of the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, illustrating a cat chasing a projected image and Figure 7c shows the cat being rewarded after a period of exercise;

Figure 8 is a block diagram, showing examples of decision criteria and operation modes; Figure 9 is a diagrammatical view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a handover device;

Figure 10 is a diagrammatical view of a plurality of devices, of the type shown in Figure 9, and configured as a system; and

Figure 11 is a diagrammatical view of a cat chasing a projected mouse at the moment of handover from one apparatus to the next.

Detailed Description of Figures

The system comprises a number of animal exercise apparatus 90 arranged throughout a space such as in a garden, on a patio or in an enclosed space such as a hall or room or house. The system will be described in general, with reference to Figures 5 to 10.

Exercise is in the form of a game that mimics hunting and so engages the natural stalking and attack instincts of an animal, especially a cat. Typically by teasing/encouraging the cat to chase the light image 100, thereby mimicking the natural desire of an animal to chase prey. This is an ideal way to exercise the cat.

The animal may be required to wear a bespoke collar 1000 for playing the game so that it can be tracked by one or more of the animal exercise apparatus, so as to compute an overall distance travelled as this may be a variable that determines whether and when the cat is given a reward. The collar ideally includes an emitter 1010 device that emits or transponds with a radio frequency (RF) signal on a permitted waveband that is operative over say 5 - 10 meters, such as, for example a Bluetooth (Trade Mark) device. Alternatively the emitter may be an RFID microchip 14 in the animal.

The apparatus comprises a receiver 1020 for receiving the signal from the emitter 1010. This receiver communicates with the master controller 110 or slave controller 90b, 90c in the apparatus. Thereby giving the controller information it uses to identify an track an animal. Alternatively the receiver 1020 may be the same RFID scanner coil 12 as used to authorise the animal to partake from the feed bowl 20.

The RF emitter 1010 or 14 sends a signal to one or more of the animal exercise devices 90 and a location signal is derived, at any instant, of the whereabouts of the animal. In addition standard navigational techniques can be employed between two or more animal exercise devices, using triangulation and range finding, so as to refresh a whereabouts of the animal.

A dedicated microprocessor 30 records sequential locations, using known techniques, and is used to provide a value indicative of the total distance run by the animal and the time of the exercise. Thereby the quality and strenuousness of the exercise is determined. The microprocessor 30 may be in the master controller 110 or in the slave controller 90b, 90c of an apparatus.

The strenuousness of the exercise, involves a summation exercise over a specific duration, for example of an imaging chasing game. The total exercise or feeding time interval can be set by the user, and the user can make the exercise and feeding to be given to be dependent upon the exercise and feeding already accomplished by the animal. Alternatively the user may specify a total distance to be travelled by the animal may before it receives its reward.

A refresh rate in excess of 50 Hz is achievable and is felt to provide sufficient amounts of data to give an accurate estimate of the total distance travelled.

Referring first to Figures 5, 6 and 7, a projected light, such as a laser light, for forming an image 100, emerges from and is formed by a low power light source, which is ideally a coherent light source such as a laser 51. The image is, for example in the form of a silhouette or spot of light, and is projected randomly, from one of the animal exercise devices 90, by reflection off a prismatic mirror 52 or similar device. The mirror 52 is ideally operated by way of a servo, galvanic device, piezoelectric actuator 54 or similar actuator which is arranged to displace the mirror 52 in two planes X-Z and Y-Z.

In one embodiment the projected light image 100 is generated when the animal is detected to be in close proximity by either the receiver 1020 which receives a signal from the emitter 1010 in collar 1000 or the IR sensor 56 detects the heat of a close animal.

As a result light is reflected within a space, typically defined by a locus of a radius of a circle ((shown in Figure 10) extending from animal exercise devices 90, whose diameter (footprint) may be set before commencement of a "game". For example the laser 51 may be reflected onto a surface of a circle of a specified area, say 1 square metre, 2 square metres, 3 square metres or a larger area. In general the size of the area is dictated by the height of the animal exercise device 90 from the floor, the power of the light source and the amount of available area.

The larger the area into which the laser 51 can be directed, the greater the effective distance between animal exercise devices 90. Therefore it is more straightforward to provide relatively longer 'runs' to exercise the cat.

A sensor, such as an infra-red sensor 56, acts as a monitoring means and determines the amount of times the projected image 00 is "caught". This is achieved for example by way of a motion sensor and/or an image detector, and means is provided to determine the efficacy of chasing in accordance with a comparison of the position of the image and the position of the cat and issues the command signal to release a reward.

Each of the animal exercise devices 90 can be adapted to dispense a treat (as shown an the embodiment on Figure 1 ). Alternatively only some of the animal exercise devices 90 are adapted to dispense a treat and so some animal exercise devices 90 merely house a projection device arranged to project an image to be chased, under control of a random controller; a transponder handover device provided for handing over control of the projection device to a second transponder (handover) device in a second apparatus.

Alternatively by placing a narrow wavelength light detector on the face or head of the animal, a reflection of the light spot 100 can be detected during a chase sequence. The apparatus may then be programmed to deliver a small food reward by triggering actuator 60 to open the hopper 16. This can be achieved by the micro-processor 58 which is programmed to over ride the pre-programmed feeding frequency/quantities.

The reward encourages the cat to engage in the chase game and therefore engage in exercise to promote weight loss. It encourages the cat to engage repeatedly in its natural hunting instinct because it provides a reward.

In addition to the above an alternative embodiment encourages certain pets - such as cat, which are predators - to engage in games where they chase a projected image. The projected image may be a silhouette of an animal, such as a mouse.

The projected image may be from a focussed incoherent source or a coherent source such as a laser, which is ideally a red laser light.

Other variations may include two or more projectors acting independently one form the other so as to be capable of exercising two or more animals at the same time.

Variation to the embodiments described may be made by including a compartment for medicine (not shown) which may be refrigerated and have a separate plunger on the exit, to allow separate access to the medicine in order to add it to specified feeds. Likewise liquids may be dispensed from a separate storage vessel. Other embodiments may feature cameras to record the animals, biometric testing combined with weighing scales which can be accessed via the RFID chip, recordable rewritable memory.

Referring to Figure 8 there is an example of flow diagram showing decisions and processes which lead to the animal either being fed by the apparatus or entertained and exercised by a projected image.

Referring to Figures 9 and 10, there is shown an embodiment of an animal exercise device 90a including: a projection device 91 arranged to project an image 92 in an area A, to be chased, under control of a random controller 94. A handover device 96a is provided for handing over control of the controller 94 and the projection device 91. Ideally the projection device 91 is a low power laser (such as an LED laser). Control of the projection device 91 is handed over to a second handover device 96b.

Synchronisation of handover is achieved by way of a transceiver 98 located in a first (master) exercise apparatus 90a which communicates to a second, third or several (slave) exercise apparatuses 90b, 90c, 90d, are depicted in Figure 10.

A locator 100 is provided in at least two of the apparatuses 90a, 90b and they act to orient respective apparatuses 90a and 90b with respect to one another, so that control of the handover of the over control of the projection device 91 , is choreographed so that the passage of the image 92 passes seamlessly from the first apparatus 90a to the second apparatus 90b as the area of projection A from each apparatus overlaps with an adjacent apparatus as is seen in Figure 1Ό. This handover process from one apparatus to another may take place over several apparatuses so creating an extended area of play for the cat.

A master controller 110 oversees control from one master apparatus 90a to one or more slave apparatuses 90b, 90c by way of transceiver 98 and locator 100, In addition one or more imagers may be included in the apparatus so that for example, the pet owner van be alerted as to when their pet is feeding, either by way of a timed alert signal or an activated camera may be activated when the animal is detected (by way of its RFID tag) so that the animal can be viewed remotely, for example on the owner's mobile telephone, via a '3G' or Internet connection.

In another embodiment software may be provided so that an owner may activate and/or monitor and/or record activity of an animal whilst it plays or exercises by way of a mobile communication devoice such as a mobile telephone or cell phone. Such software is often referred to as an Άρρ' and enables a myriad uses to be performed by a mobile phone user in conjunction with the invention.

One particularly successful embodiments that employs an RFID detector and hopper that is able to be used not only to exercise an animal but also to feed it, at prescribed time intervals and according to specified regimes is described below and depicted in Figures 1 - 4.

The embodiment of the apparatus 10 is shown, in diagrammatical form, in Figure 1 from the side, with internal elements visible and Figure 2 from the front, which also shows some normally hidden features. The apparatus 10 is a tower and is generally triangular or square shaped in cross section and is typically segment, which may be a right-angled triangle enabling a perfect fit into a corner, and additionally making the apparatus a discreet, easily eatable unit having minimum interference in a room and permitting it to be used as frequently or infrequently as desired as it may be left outdoors continuously. This has an added benefit in not advertising the absence of the owner. The sides of the apparatus are cut away to enable good side ways vision so that the feeding pet does not feel vulnerable to surprise approaches.

Angled coil of antenna 12 functions to scan Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) microchip 14 implanted in a cat 15 (shown in Figure 4). It is envisaged and illustrated that antenna 12 acts as a microchip 14 scanner by defining an angled "walk under" coil. In alternate embodiments the coil may be vertical or horizontal. In yet further embodiments the coil may be arranged in a "walk through" or at least a "poke head through" arrangement to access a bowl.

Typically in the UK, RFID chips are implanted subcutaneously in the cranial or shoulder blades in a dorsal position of a pet, such as a dog or cat. Typically in the EU these are implanted in the left shoulder region. Either of these areas is capable of being scanned by the angled coil antenna 12.

Receiver 1020 may be on the apparatus as shown in Figure 7a and 7c or it may be remote. The receiver 1020 detects the proximity of an animal by receiving a signal from the emitter 1010 which is, for example embedded in the collar 000 or worn by the animal.

When there is a plurality of apparatus each with a receiver 1020, triangulation or a similar method can be used to find the position of the animal wearing the collar 1000.

When an authorised animal, such as cat 15, is identified and optionally other criteria are met, eg it is a predetermined 'feeding time', the animal is provided with food (not shown). When these criteria are met food stored in hopper 16, after it has been dispensed via shute 18 into a bowl 20. Bowl may be removable for cleaning.

Food is stored in hopper 16 and released into a bowl 20 via feeding recess 17 and shute 18. Shute 8 is opened and shut with an electro-magnetically operated plunger 22. The hopper 16 and the bowl 20 are designed to be removable from the apparatus for cleaning.

In addition the catch 21 provides an airtight space and the hopper 16 may be a cooled container. In this way food can be left fresh for a number of days, and in summer conditions, when typically a user will want to be out of the house. The hopper 16 consists of one space in the pictured embodiment, but in other embodiments the hopper 16 may be divided into multiple spaces, potentially with different properties.

The size, frequency and timing of feeds can all be varied to suit the individual pet. The embodiment of the apparatus that is shown is designed to contain sufficient food for one pet for one day only. This embodiment of the apparatus is so designed as it may not be in an animal's interest to be left unattended for long periods. However, larger systems with larger hoppers are within the scope of the invention.

The plunger mechanism comprises a rod 24, a stopper 26 and a piston 28. This piston 28 is operated by a microprocessor 30 and opens and closes the shute 18 when food is released.

A power supply (not shown) may include batteries that are ideally located in a base portion 32. Alternatively an external mains electricity supply may be used in conjunction with a transformer.

The apparatus is designed to use a low voltage electrical supply. The battery in the base aids the stabilisation of the device and reduces the risks of it toppling over.

Negative stimuli are provided for animals that are not permitted to access particular feeds. For example in the embodiment shown this includes an expellation device 34 which consists of a compressor or canister of compressed gas 36 to provide a blast of gas to frighten an unauthorised animal away from the apparatus, when detected. Another stimulus shown is a light 38 that may be used either to deter unwanted animals or provide a means of attracting an animal when a feed is ready. This may also be used in combination with a recording of the animal's owner's voice. This recording is facilitated by a combined microphone and loudspeaker 40, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively means of downloading externally recorded sounds or clips is provided. This may consist of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. Alternatively the apparatus 10 may be equipped with Bluetooth (Registered Trade Mark) connectivity. In further alternatives wireless modem connectivity may be provided.

The apparatus 10 may also have the possibility of measuring and recording physiological parameters such a glucose levels in tissue fluids. This information could be used to determine feed size and frequency. Such information could be stored and loaded onto a computer (not shown) for analysis either by wireless or wired means and could be used to determine an amount of feed dispensed.

Figure 2 also shows removable bowl 20 that is placed in the feeding recess 17. If this bowl 20 is used as well as the recess there is the possibility of easy removal and cleaning on return of the user.

As can be also seen in Figure 2 the expellation device 34 is located directly above and in front of the feeding recess 17 and below the coil antenna 12, thereby enabling easy deterrence of unwanted animals, even when food has already distributed. This deterrence is achieved by a puff of air or gas in the face of the animal which has no option but to present its face to a puffer42. The puff of air is then repeated each time the unwanted animal returns. The pressure of this puff may be adjustable with embodiments having a compressor. Alternatively the puff may be an unpleasant smelling gas from an aerosol.

As can be seen from Figure 3 the generally triangular segment shape of the apparatus allows it to be conveniently sited in a corner, further minimising the risk of an animal being ambushed successfully by another animal. Any animal attempting to steal food that has been permitted and/or allocated for another animal will first have to remove the feeding animal from the rear. This creates a necessarily harder task. The top of the apparatus is equipped with a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) 44 or similar display interface allowing a user to interface with the apparatus and program meals, animals, frequency, quantities of feed and the like. Different versions of the apparatus may be produced with differing levels of interactivity and programmability. This may depend upon the complexity and sophistication of the microprocessor 30 that is used as well as the software.

In the embodiment pictured the manner of input is shown at control panel 46 having buttons to access menus. Remote controls may be alternatively or additionally provided for users with limited mobility.

Storage hopper 16 is shown with a hinged lid 19, capable of being firmly closed with a catch 21. The hinged lid 19 allows easy access to the hopper 16 for refilling purposes. In addition the lid of the hopper is firmly secured so that it cannot be prised off by pets who are trying to access the full reservoir.

It can be seen that the invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, for example by placing several apparatuses together in a single system.

It is important that it is realised that although use of the apparatus might enable owners to leave their pet for extended periods, this is not to be encouraged. Generally speaking animal care professionals do not encourage or advise owners to leave their pets for more than 24 continuous hours. Therefore a preferred embodiment of the apparatus is designed only to contain sufficient food for 24 hours. Optionally a scratch tower may be incorporated with the apparatus.

Optionally the laser light may be launched from an optical fiber which is arranged to be oriented, under control of a suitable actuator, so as to project laser light in random directions, so that the image to be chased is produced efficiently and projected reliably and with precision.

Claims

Claims

1. An animal exercise apparatus including: a projection device arranged to project an image to be chased, under control of a random controller; a handover device provided for handing over control of the projection device to a second handover device, adapted to hand over control to a projection device in a second apparatus.

2. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a dispenser is provided which is operative to dispense feed to an authorised animal upon receipt of a command signal.

3. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein a signal is derived from a sensor that senses the presence of an animal, relative to the projected image, and a means is provided for ascertaining how much exercise is done by the animal.

4. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein a signal is derived from a transponder which, in use, is worn by the animal and provides an indication of its whereabouts.

5. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 4 wherein a means is provided for ascertaining how much exercise is done by the animal using the signal derived from the transponder.

6. An animal exercise apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein a bi-directional communication means is provided for communicating data from one apparatus to a second apparatus.

7. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the bidirectional communication mean includes a transceiver, comprising a transmitter and a receiver.

8. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 7 in which the transmitter of the first apparatus and the receiver of the second apparatus are arranged to communicate, one with another, via an RF channel including Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or Wi-Fi.

9. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 7 in which the transmitter of the second apparatus and the receiver of the first apparatus are arranged to communicate, one with another, via an RF channel including Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or Wi-Fi.

10. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 7 in which either one of the transmitter and/or the receiver are arranged to communicate, one with another, via ultra sonic signals.

11. An animal exercise apparatus according to claim 7 in which the transmitter and the receiver are arranged to communicate, one with another, via infra red (IR) signals.

12. An animal exercise apparatus according to any of claims 7 to 11 wherein the transmitter in the first apparatus communicates with the receiver in the second apparatus via a first communication channel and the transmitter in the second apparatus communicates with the receiver in the first apparatus via a second communication channel.

13. An animal exercise system comprises: a plurality of the animal exercise apparatuses according to any of claims 1 to 12, whereby, in use, the apparatuses are arranged, by a user, so that the projected image appears to traverse between one apparatus to another apparatus.

14. An animal exercise system according to claim 13 includes a locator provided in the first and the second apparatus, in use, the locators are configured to orient respective apparatuses with respect one to another, so that handover from the first to the second apparatus is controlled.

15. An animal exercise system according to any preceding claim includes a master controller for overseeing control from one apparatus to another apparatus.

16. An animal exercise system according to claim 15 wherein the master controller includes at least one menu for governing the movement of the projected image.

17. An animal exercise system according to claim 16 wherein the menu includes a user's ability to determine such variables from the group comprising: the speed of traverse of the image; the size and shape of the image; random switching of the image on and off; whether the image is projected only on a floor or is projected on wall; and switching a sensor to detect when the image is 'caught'.

18. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 17 includes a sound device arranged to emit a sound.

19. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 18 wherein a feed dispenser is provided which is arranged to dispense feed to the animal.

20. An animal exercise system according to claim 19 wherein a monitoring means provides a dispense signal in dependence upon a specific animal or in dependence upon how much exercise has been done by the animal.

21. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 19 includes a failsafe setting that provides for dispensation of food, so that a guaranteed minimum amount of food is dispensed during any predetermined period.

22. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 21 wherein a means is included in the apparatus to identify whether an animal is an authorised animal.

23. An animal exercise system according to claim 22 wherein the means includes a radio frequency identification device (RFID), such as a RFID reader.

24. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 23 includes a means for repelling undesirable animals.

25. An animal exercise system according to claim 24 wherein the means for repelling undesirable animals is from the group comprising: a device for emitting an unpleasant smell; a device for emitting an unpleasant sound; a device for emitting a sound inaudible to human hearing; a light or strobe; a device for emitting a puff of gas or liquid; and a device capable of giving small electric shock to the unauthorised animal.

26. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 25 wherein the projector is adapted to project an image in the shape of a silhouette of an animal, such as a mouse.

27. An animal exercise system according to claim 26 includes a source of coherent light, such as a laser.

28. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 27 wherein a remote user control interface is included, enabling a user to program the apparatus remotely.

29. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 27 includes an imaging means provided for obtaining an image of the pet.

30. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 27 wherein a communication device is provided for permitting the imaging means to be remotely accessible.

31. An animal exercise apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 12 substantially as herein described and as shown in the Figures

32. An animal exercise system according to any of claims 13 to 30 substantially as herein described and as shown in the Figures.