Indiana Patent of the Month – June 2021
Electric collars have been used to train dogs for decades. These are often controlled by the owner via a remote or a perimeter. These can help train dogs, or other animals, to do tricks, perform good behavior, or stay within a perimeter. Most designs use a transmitter, control device, and a receiver on the collar. These three components are wirelessly connected and require sound connection between all three to work properly. E-Collar Technologies, Inc. has recently developed a better animal training device that is simpler to use and less likely to experience failure.
The two part device includes a collar worn by the dog and an input device worn by the owner. This second part looks like a watch with a wired connection to a ring of sorts. The ring is worn on the index finger with a button along the side. This makes it easy to press the button with your thumb quickly. The wrist portion comprises a transmitter body which wirelessly connects with the receiver portion on the collar. When the button is pressed, it sends a signal to the transmitter which then signals the receiver to employ a stimulus to the animal. Since the control device (the button) and the transmitter are connected through wired connection, this system reduces disconnection error and improves reliability of the device.
The stimulation type can also be changed, so you can select between vibration, audio, or electrical stimulation. When using electricity, E-Collar Technologies uses a light stimulus that targets the neck muscles of an animal which mimics how their mother’s interact with them when young.
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