Livestock health monitoring systems and methods of use

Abstract

Systems and methods of using an animal wellness notification system to determine the wellness of an animal, the systems and methods comprising: attaching an animal wellness notification system component to an animal, monitoring the temperature of the animal to determine if the animal's temperature remains outside a selected temperature range for a selected time duration, and providing notice if the animal's temperature remained outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods to determine the health of livestock, and embodiments of the disclosure include a livestock health monitoring system for data collection and detection of abnormal health conditions.

Systems and methods to determine the health of livestock are well known in the art and are effective means to detect illness and implement treatment in livestock. For example, a conventional livestock monitoring system may have a livestock manager overseeing a plurality of livestock and may be in communication with a veterinarian. The livestock manager monitors livestock via visual inspection. When unusual behavior of the livestock occurs, as indicative of illness, the livestock manager contacts a veterinarian, who then makes a prognosis and begins treatment.

One of the problems commonly associated with the above described monitoring system is insufficient monitoring and/or inexperience of the livestock manager. For example, the process of monitoring could involve a large number of livestock, making the monitoring process difficult. In addition, the process suffers a substantial risk of human error, as many livestock illnesses are visually undetectable and/or the livestock manager fails to adequately determine whether the livestock is ill. Accordingly, although great strides have been made in the area of system and methods to determine livestock wellness, many shortcomings remain.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Generally disclosed herein are systems and methods for monitoring livestock health and notifying interested parties as to livestock health-related issues.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments are disclosed a universal radio frequency identification enabled male securing device, comprising: a receptacle, wherein the receptacle is configured to accept a component of an attaching device; a radio frequency identification device, wherein the radio frequency identification communication device is configured to transmit information electronically.

In some embodiments are disclosed an animal wellness notification system, comprising: an attachment body configured to securely engage with an animal's ear; a temperature monitoring component; a housing secured to the attachment body; a power module electrically connected to and configured to provide power to at least one other component of the animal wellness notification system; a charging component; a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device, wherein the RFID device is configured to communicate information concerning an animal; a computer disposed within the housing; and a notification device in data communication with the computer, wherein the notification device is configured to provide notice, and wherein the computer is configured to: receive a selected temperature range; receive a selected time duration; receive temperature data from the temperature monitoring component; determine whether an animal's temperature is outside the selected temperature range; and cause the notification device to provide the notice upon the animal's temperature remaining outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration

In some embodiments are disclosed An animal wellness notification system, comprising: a temperature monitor configured to generate temperature data; a computer configured to determine whether a user set parameter is breached, wherein the user set parameter comprises data related to health conditions, wherein health conditions comprise behavior, temperature, time, or combinations thereof, and wherein the computer is further configured to record a relationship between the temperature data and the time; and a notification device in data communication with the computer, wherein the notification device is configured to provide notice when the user set parameter is breached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some of the novel features believed characteristic of the embodiments of the present application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the embodiments themselves and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a livestock health monitoring system according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of a heath monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4A illustrates a back view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4B illustrates a back view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4C illustrates a side perspective view of a universal RFID enabled male securing component according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4D illustrates a side perspective view of a universal RFID enabled male securing component engaging a female securing component according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4E illustrates a side perspective view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4F illustrates a back perspective view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4G illustrates a side perspective view of a health monitoring device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates a method for monitoring the health of livestock according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a method for monitoring the health of livestock according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 7A illustrates a method for monitoring the health of livestock according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 7B illustrates a method for monitoring the health of livestock according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a communication system according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a method for monitoring the health of livestock according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

While the system and method of use of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Illustrative embodiments of the system and method of use of the present disclosure are provided below. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions will be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The system and method of use in accordance with the present application overcomes problems commonly associated with conventional livestock monitoring systems. Specifically, the present invention provides a rapid and effective means to monitor large numbers of livestock and reduces the risk of human error. Additionally, systems of the disclosure may allow for longer term monitoring provided by rechargeable monitoring devices. These and other unique features of the system and method of use are discussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The system and method of use will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the system are presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless described otherwise.

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters identify corresponding or similar elements throughout the several views, FIG. 8 depicts a front view of a livestock health monitoring system 801. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the monitoring system 601 includes a health monitoring device 100 comprising a temperature monitoring component (e.g., a temperature probe 124 and/or temperature sensor 114) in communication with an animal 603 via an attachment body 104. During use, the attachment body 104 is secured to the ear 605 of the animal 603 via one or more types of fasteners commonly known in the art. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the attachment body 104 may include a body having a hole 106 extending there through. The fastener is secured to the hole 106, which in turn is secured to the ear 605. In some embodiments, the attachment body 104 may comprise a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b configured to attach to one another through the animal's ear to secure the health monitoring device 100 to the animal's ear 605. In an embodiment the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b are attached via an engagement of a tensioning, engagement, and/or locking system 113 having components incorporated into one or both of the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b of the attachment body. In some embodiments, the male portion 104a may comprise an inclined plane disposed on its exterior, a cantilever-styled connecting component, an annular-styled connecting component, a torsional-styled connecting component, or combinations thereof, each configured to engage a female securing device/component. Such system 113 may comprise a screw-type connection system, a spring-loaded-type connection system, a compression/expansion-type connection system, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the male portion 104a comprises a receptacle 112 configured to accept a first component of an attaching tool, wherein the component of the attaching tool is inserted into the receptacle 112. In some embodiments the outer portion of receptacle 112 engages the female portion 104b to secure the health monitoring device 100 to the animal's ear 605. In some embodiments, the pressure applied to the receptacle 112 by the first component of the attaching tool facilitates the securing of the health monitoring device 100 to the animal's ear 605, wherein a second component of the attaching tool engages the female portion 104b (or another part of attachment body 104) and allows for the mating of male portion 104a and female portion 104b.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the health monitoring device 100 comprises a data collection housing 101 comprising an on/off switch 102 (e.g., a depression switch), a rotational device 103 which is rotatably connected to attachment body 104 (e.g., rotatably connected to male portion 104a, female portion 104b, or both male portion 104a and female portion 104b), and a temperature probe 124. The data collection housing 101 may attached to the attachment body 104 and be in communication with a rotational device 103 and a temperature probe 124 via a wire 105. In an embodiment, the elongated temperature probe 124 is positioned through the rotational device 103 and the elongated temperature probe 124 may comprise a material capable of changing hardness upon reaching a particular temperature. In some embodiments, the data collection housing 101 may comprise a notification device 116 and may be enclosed in weather resistant material. In an embodiment, the notification device 116 may comprise a visual alert, an audible alert, and/or a wireless alert that is communicated to another device. For example, the notification device 116 may comprise a light that can be visually seen by a worker, an audible speaker, and/or a transmitter configured to provide notification to a remote device (for example, as depicted in FIG. 8).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4A-4B, the health monitoring device 100 comprises a data collection housing 101 comprising an on/off switch 102 (e.g., a depression switch). The data collection housing 101 may attached to the attachment body 104 and be in communication with a temperature sensor 114 via a wire 105. In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 114 is comprised in a male portion 104a of attachment body 104. In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 114 is comprised in a female portion 104b of attachment body 104. In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 114 is comprised in a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b of attachment body 104. In some embodiments, the data collection housing 101 may comprise a notification device 116 and may be enclosed in weather resistant material. In an embodiment, the notification device 116 may comprise a visual alert, an audible alert, and/or a wireless alert that is communicated to another device. For example, the notification device 116 may comprise a light that can be visually seen by a worker, an audible speaker, and/or a transmitter configured to provide notification to a remote device (for example, as depicted in FIG. 8).

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4E, the health monitoring device 100 (or 400) comprises a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device 111. The RFID device 111 utilizes radio frequency identification, which is a form of wireless communication that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify an object or animal associated with a particular RFID device. RFID systems typically consist of three components: a scanning antenna, a transceiver and a transponder. RFID tags, e.g., a component comprising the RFID device 111, are made up of an integrated circuit (IC), an antenna and a substrate. The part of an RFID tag that encodes identifying information is called the RFID inlay. There are two main types of RFID tags: active RFID and passive RFID. An active RFID tag has its own power source, often a battery. A passive RFID tag, on the other hand, does not require batteries; rather it receives its power from the reading antenna, whose electromagnetic wave induces a current in the RFID tag's antenna. There are also semi-passive RFID tags, meaning a battery runs the circuitry while communication is powered by the RFID reader. Low power, embedded non-volatile memory plays an important role in every RFID system. RFID tags typically hold less than 2,000 KB of data, including a unique identifier/serial number. Tags can be read-only or read-write, where data can be added by the reader or existing data overwritten. The read range for RFID tags varies based on factors including type of tag, type of reader, RFID frequency, and interference in the surrounding environment or from other RFID tags and readers. Generally speaking, active RFID tags have a longer read range than passive RFID tags due to the stronger power source.

When the scanning antenna and transceiver are combined, they are referred to as an RFID reader or interrogator. The RFID reader is a network-connected device that can be portable or permanently attached. It uses radio frequency waves to transmit signals that activate the tag. Once activated, the tag sends a wave back to the antenna, where it is translated into data. The transponder is located in the RFID tag itself. The read range for RFID tags varies based on factors including the type of tag, type of reader, RFID frequency and interference in the surrounding environment or from other RFID tags and readers. Generally speaking, tags that have a stronger power source also have a longer read range.

There are typically three storage types of RFID tags: read-write, read-only and WORM (write once, read many). A read-write tag's data can be added to or overwritten. Read-only tags cannot be added to or overwritten—they contain only the data that is stored in them when they were made. WORM tags can have additional data (like another serial number) added once, but they cannot be overwritten.

In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in the housing 101. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised attachment body 104. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a male portion 104a of attachment body 104. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a female portion 104b of attachment body 104. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b of attachment body 104.

In FIGS. 4C and 4D, an embodiment of a universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 is shown. In an embodiment, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 may be configured to facilitate the attachment of any animal identification and/or information device to an animal while also providing for any required or desired electronic (e.g., radio frequency) and/or visual identification of said device and/or animal. In an embodiment, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 may also be configured to facilitate the attachment of any animal identification and/or information device to an animal while also providing for any required or desired electronic (e.g., radio frequency) and/or visual conveyance of information concerning said device and/or animal

In an embodiment, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 comprises a structure similar to male portion 104a and an RFID device 111 (as described more fully herein). In an embodiment, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 also comprises identification information 414, wherein the identification numbers may be configured and/or correlated to identify a particular universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 and/or a particular animal to which the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 is secured. In an embodiment, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 and the female securing component 413 are attached via an engagement of a tensioning, engagement, and/or locking system (similar to system 113 of FIG. 3) having components incorporated into one or both of the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 and the female securing component 413. In some embodiments, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 and the securing component 413 are attached via a screw-type connection system, a spring-loaded-type connection system, a compression/expansion-type connection system, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 comprises a receptacle 412, wherein receptacle 412 is configured to engage the female securing component 413 to establish a secure connection. In some embodiments, universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 may comprise an inclined plane disposed on the exterior of receptacle 412, a cantilever-styled connecting component, an annular-styled connecting component, an torsional-styled connecting component, or combinations thereof, each configured to engage a female securing device/component. In some embodiments, receptacle 412 is configured to accept a first component of an attaching tool, wherein the component of the attaching tool is inserted into the receptacle 412 via aperture 415. In some embodiments, the first component of the attaching tool engages and/or contacts a terminal end of receptacle 412 to facilitate a transfer of force from the attaching tool to facilitate the connection of the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 to the female securing component 413. In some embodiments an outer portion 416 of receptacle 412 engages the female securing component 413 to attach to, locate on, place on, and/or secure to, a structure, device, apparatus, animal, or combinations thereof, an article or other component associated with, affixed to, or also comprising the female securing component 413. In an embodiment, the article or other component associated with, affixed to, or also comprising the female securing component 413 may comprise a health monitoring device 100. In an embodiment, the article or other component associated with, affixed to, or also comprising the female securing component 413 is affixed to an animal's ear 605 (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6). In some embodiments, the pressure applied to the receptacle 412 by the first component of the attaching tool facilitates the engagement of the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 with the female securing component 413, wherein a second component of the attaching tool engages the female securing component 413 (or another part of an article or device associated with female securing component 413) and allows for the mating of the universal RFID enabled male securing component 411 with the female securing component 413.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4E, the health monitoring device 400 comprises a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device 111. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in the data collection housing 401. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a male attachment component 410. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a female attachment component 420. In an embodiment, the RFID device 111 is comprised in a male attachment component 410 and a female attachment component 420.

In an embodiment, a health monitoring device 100 or 400 comprising an RFID device 111 could be attached to an animal. Data and/or information from the temperature probe 124 (or temperature sensor 114) (e.g., an animal's temperature or temperature profile over a period of time) could be written, made accessible by, or otherwise supplied to the RFID device 111. The RFID device 111 could then be interrogated by an RFID reader/interrogator (e.g., a handheld device used by a veterinarian, cattleman, or other livestock management person) and data/information written, made accessible by, or otherwise supplied to the RFID device 111 could be communicated to a requestor of the data/information.

A health monitoring computer 110 may be positioned within housing 101, wherein the health monitoring computer 110 may comprise software, hardware, and power supply configured to determine if a temperature threshold is reached and/or to activate the notification device 116. The health monitoring computer 110 may receive information from the temperature probe 124 via the wire 105. The computer system may also comprise a wireless communication module configured to wirelessly communicate information to and/or from a remote device (for example, a computer, tablet, and/or smart phone accessed by a worker).

In an embodiment, a health monitoring device 100 or 400 comprising an RFID device 111 could be attached to an animal. The health monitoring computer 110 of health monitoring device 100 or 400 could receive data and/or information (e.g., an animal's temperature or temperature profile over a period of time) from the temperature probe 124 (or temperature sensor 114), further process the data and/or information (or not) and write that data and/or information to the RFID device 111. The RFID device 111 could then be interrogated by an RFID reader/interrogator (e.g., a handheld device used by a veterinarian, cattleman, or other livestock management person) and data/information written and/or otherwise supplied to the RFID device 111 could be communicated to a requestor of the data/information.

In some embodiments, the health monitoring device 100 may comprise one or more power modules 120 incorporated into one or more of the elements of the health monitoring device 100. In some embodiments, the power module(s) 120 may comprise a device and/or system to recharge/trickle charge a battery (e.g., power supply within the health monitoring computer 110) on the health monitoring device (or ear tag) 100. In some embodiments, the power module 110 may comprise an integrated power module 120 configured to be (at least semi) permanently attached to or incorporated into the data collection housing 101. In some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise a removeable/replaceable module configured to connect to the data collection housing 101 and be in electric communication with the health monitoring computer 110.

In some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise a charging component 125 or system configured to be exposed to solar rays while attached to an animal (e.g., while in use) to recharge and/or trickle charge at least one or more elements of the health monitoring device 100 (e.g., battery 118). In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be exposed on the backside 109 of the data collection housing 101. In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be exposed on the frontside 107 of the data collection housing 101. In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be exposed on both sides of the data collection housing 101.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the power module 120 may be incorporated into the attachment body 104, wherein at least a portion of the power module 120 may be positioned on the ear 605 of the animal 603 while the tag 100 is worn by the animal 603. For example, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into the attachment body 104. In some embodiments, the attachment body 104 may comprise a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b configured to attach to one another through the animal's ear to secure the health monitoring device 100 to the animal's ear 605. In an embodiment the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b are attached via an engagement of a tensioning, engagement, and/or locking system 113 having components incorporated into one or both of the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b of the attachment body. Such system may comprise an inclined plane disposed on the exterior of male portion 104a, a cantilever-styled connecting component, an annular-styled connecting component, a torsional-styled connecting component, a screw-type connection system, a spring-loaded-type connection system, a compression/expansion-type connection system, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into a male portion 104a of attachment body 104 (e.g., on a portion of the male portion 104a in proximity to a backside of an animal's ear 605 and therefore the solar panel/array 125 is located on the backside of an animal's ear 605).

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into a female portion 104b of attachment body 104 (e.g., on a portion of the female portion 104b in proximity to a frontside of an animal's ear 605 and therefore the solar panel/array 125 is located on the frontside of an animal's ear 605).

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into a male portion 104a of attachment body 104 (e.g., on a portion of the male portion 104a in proximity to a frontside of an animal's ear 605 and therefore the solar panel/array 125 is located on the frontside of an animal's ear 605).

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into a female portion 104b of attachment body 104 (e.g., on a portion of the female portion 104b in proximity to a backside of an animal's ear 605 and therefore the solar panel/array 125 is located on the backside of an animal's ear 605).

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b of attachment body 104 (e.g., portions of the solar panel/array 125 are located on both the frontside and backside of an animal's ear 605).

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the power module 120 may be incorporated into the attachment body 104, wherein at least a portion of the power module 120 may be positioned on the ear 605 of the animal 603 while the tag 100 is worn by the animal 603. For example, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into the attachment body 104. In some embodiments, the attachment body 104 may comprise a male portion 104a and a female portion 104b configured to attach to one another through the animal's ear to secure the health monitoring device 100 to the animal's ear 605. In an embodiment the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b are attached via an engagement of a tensioning, engagement, and/or locking system 113 having components incorporated into one or both of the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b of the attachment body. Such system 113 may comprise a screw-type connection system, a spring-loaded-type connection system, a compression/expansion-type connection system, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the male portion 104a may comprise an inclined plane disposed on the exterior of the receptacle 412, a cantilever-styled connecting component, an annular-styled connecting component, a torsional-styled connecting component, or combinations thereof, each configured to engage a female securing device/component. In some embodiments, the male portion 104a may comprise a cavity configured to allow engagement with a prong, for example, for placement on the animal's ear. In some embodiments, the system 113 may be configured to provide a route of electrical communication between the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b of the attachment body and/or a route of signal communication between the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b of the attachment body when the male portion 104a and the female portion 104b are engaged. For example, in various embodiments, the system 113 may comprise one or more pairs of contacts configured to provide the electrical and/or signal communication. In various embodiments, the system 113 may provide a route of electrical and/or signal communication between a component associated with the male portion 104a and a component associated with the female portion 104b, for example, electrical and/or signal communication between the solar panel/array 125 and one or more of the health monitoring computer 110, the power modules 120, and the battery 118.

In some embodiments, the health monitoring device 100 may comprise an indicator that is electrically connected to the power module 120 to indicate when the power module 120 is operational and supplying power to the health monitoring device 100. For example, a visual or audible indicator may be activated whenever successful connection is made with the power module 120 and the health monitoring device 100.

In some embodiments, the power module 120 may be configured to wirelessly communicate information (e.g., via the wireless communication module of the health monitoring computer 110) such as operational status, battery status, health of the device, etc.

In some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise a quick charge module configured to temporarily attach to the health monitoring device 100 (e.g., to the housing 101) to recharge one or more elements of the health monitoring device 100. In other embodiments, the quick charge module may be incorporated into the health monitoring device 100 and may be configured to connect to a quick charge source to receive power and recharge one or more elements of the health monitoring device 100.

It should be understood that body temperature measurements in livestock can indicate useful information related to the health of the animal illnesses, disease, distress, and hormone levels.

In some embodiments, the on/off switch 102 may be configured to reduce the risk of the animal deactivating the health monitoring device. In an embodiment where in the switch 102 is a depression switch, during use, the worker can determine whether the system is active by depressing the switch 102.

The rotational feature 103 of the health monitoring device 100 and/or the material of the temperature probe 124 (e.g., capable of changing hardness) may allow for stabilization and comfort of the temperature probe 124 in the animal ear 605.

In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the health monitoring device 100 can function independently by way of the notification device 116 when a user set parameter is breached. For example, if the animal's temperature increases to a certain value and/or remains at or above a certain value for a period of time, as predetermined and set by the user, the notification device 116 (e.g., a light) will signal to the user (via illuminating) that such a parameter has been met, allowing for quick visual identification of ill livestock.

In FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, other embodiments of a health monitoring device 400 are shown. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, the health monitoring device 400 generally comprises a data collection housing 401. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, the data collection housing 401 may comprise an on/off switch 102 (e.g., a depression switch) (not shown), which may be incorporated within the housing 401. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, the data collection housing 401 may optionally comprise an RFID device 111 (as shown in FIG. 4E), which may be incorporated within the housing 401. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4E and 4F, the data collection housing 401 comprises a temperature sensor 114, which may also be incorporated within the housing 401 such that, when the health monitoring device 400 is positioned with respect to an animal, the temperature sensor 114 will be disposed proximate and/or adjacent to a portion of the animal (e.g., the animal's ear). Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4G, in some embodiments the temperature monitoring component may comprise temperature probe 124, for example, such that the temperature monitoring component may be disposed, for example, within the animal's ear canal, as similarly disclosed with respect to one or more other embodiments disclosed herein. Also, in some embodiments, the data collection housing 401 may comprise a notification device 116. As previously disclosed, in various embodiments, the notification device 116 may comprise a visual alert, an audible alert, and/or a wireless alert that is communicated to another device. For example, the notification device 116 may comprise a light that can be visually seen by a worker, an audible speaker, and/or a transmitter configured to provide notification to a remote device (for example, as depicted in FIG. 8).

In the embodiments of FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, the housing 401 generally comprises an integral “clip” configuration 426. For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 4E, 4F, and 4G, both a male attachment component 410 and a female attachment component 420 are incorporated and/or integrated into the housing 401. Generally, the male attachment component 410 and the female attachment component 420 are configured to be engaged with one another, for example, so as to secure a first terminal end of the housing 401 with respect to a second terminal end of the housing 401. In some embodiments, the male attachment component 410 may be configured such that upon engagement with the female attachment component 420, the male attachment component 410 would need to be destroyed in order to remove the health monitoring device from the animal's ear. Such embodiments may be effective to prevent reuse of the health monitoring device 400. In various embodiments, the male attachment component 410 and the female attachment component 420 are configured to attach to one another through the animal's ear to secure the health monitoring device 400 to the animal's ear 605. In an embodiment the male attachment component 410 and the female attachment component 420 are attached via an engagement of a tensioning, engagement, and/or locking system 113 having components incorporated into one or both of the male attachment component 410 and the female attachment component 420 of the attachment body. In some embodiments, the male portion 410 may comprise an inclined plane disposed on the exterior of the receptacle 412, a cantilever-styled connecting component, an annular-styled connecting component, a torsional-styled connecting component, or combinations thereof, each configured to engage a female securing device/component. Such system 113 may comprise a screw-type connection system, a spring-loaded-type connection system, a compression/expansion-type connection system, or combinations thereof.

As also similarly disclosed with respect to FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, in some embodiments the health monitoring computer 110 may be disposed within housing 401 and may comprise software, hardware, and power supply configured to determine if a temperature threshold is reached and/or to activate the notification device 116. The health monitoring computer 110 may receive information from the temperature sensor 114 or temperature probe 124 via a suitable route of communication. The computer system may also comprise a wireless communication module 108 configured to wirelessly communication information to and/or from a remote device (for example, a computer, tablet, and/or smart phone accessed by a worker).

In some embodiments, the health monitoring device 400 may comprise one or more power modules 120 incorporated into one or more of the elements of the health monitoring device 400. In some embodiments, the power module(s) 120 may comprise a device and/or system to recharge/trickle charge a battery (e.g., power supply within the health monitoring computer 110) on the health monitoring device 400 (or ear tag). In some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise an integrated power module 120 configured to be (at least semi) permanently attached to or incorporated into the data collection housing 401. In some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise a removeable/replaceable module configured to connect to the data collection housing 401 and be in electric communication with the health monitoring computer 110.

As also similarly disclosed with respect to FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, in some embodiments, the power module 120 may comprise a charging component 125 or system configured to be exposed to solar rays while attached to an animal (e.g., while in use) to recharge and/or trickle charge at least one or more elements of the health monitoring device 400 (e.g., battery 118 secured via battery cover 419). In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be exposed on one or both sides of the data collection housing 401.

In an embodiment, a solar panel/array 125 of the power module 120 may be incorporated into the data collection housing 401 near the male attachment component 410, near the female attachment component 420, or both.

In some embodiments, the health monitoring device 400 may comprise an indicator 416 that is electrically connected to the power module 120 to indicate when the power module 120 is operational and supplying power to the health monitoring device 100. For example, a visual or audible indicator may be activated whenever successful connection is made with the power module 120 and the health monitoring device 400.

In some embodiments, the power module 120 may be configured to wirelessly communicate information (e.g., via the wireless communication module of the health monitoring computer 110) such as operational status, battery status, health of the device, etc.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, a notification system is disclosed herein wherein a temperature probe 124 is secured within the ear 605 of the animal 603 and provides notification, for example via a light 116, when a threshold temperature 920 reading and/or a duration of time 925 the threshold temperature 920 has been measured is reached. Thus, the health monitoring device 100 is configured to provide notification 930 when the animal 603 falls outside a determined temperature range 920 and/or for a determined duration 925. The notification 930 could be via a light, audible noise, and/or a wireless transmission, as discussed in the below disclosure.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, a notification system is disclosed herein wherein a temperature sensor 114 is secured in proximity with the ear 605 of the animal 603 and provides notification, for example via a light, when a threshold temperature 920 reading and/or a duration of time 925 the threshold temperature 920 has been measured is reached. Thus, the health monitoring device 100 is configured to provide notification 930 when the animal 603 falls outside a determined temperature range 920 and/or for a determined duration 925. The notification 930 could be via a light, audible noise, and/or a wireless transmission, as discussed in the below disclosure.

In FIG. 7A, a flowchart 701 depicts an embodiment of a method for monitoring the health of livestock using the elements described in the system 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. At step 702, the heath monitoring device 100 may be secured to the animal's ear 605 via the attachment body 104. At step 703, the health monitoring device 100 may be turned on by the on/off switch 102. At step 704, a temperature probe 124 of the appropriate length is placed in communication with an animal's ear 605. At step 705, the temperature probe 124 may be configured to transmit temperature recordings to the health monitoring computer 110 within the data collection housing 101 via the wire 105. At step 706, the health monitoring device 100 monitors the animal's body temperature and provides a notification related to the data collected by the health monitoring device 100. For example, the notification may comprise current temperature, and/or the notification may comprise an alert (e.g., via notification device 116) that a threshold and or a duration has been reached, possibly indicating an issue.

In FIG. 7B, a flowchart 711 depicts an embodiment of a method for monitoring the health of livestock using the elements described in the system 100 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. At step 712, the heath monitoring device 100 may be secured to the animal's ear 605 via the attachment body 104. At step 713, the health monitoring device 100 may be turned on by the on/off switch 102. At step 714, a temperature sensor 114 is located in a temperature monitoring proximity of an animal's ear 605. At step 715, the temperature sensor 114 may be configured to transmit temperature recordings to the health monitoring computer 110 within the data collection housing 101. At step 716, the health monitoring device 100 monitors the animal's body temperature and provides a notification related to the data collected by the health monitoring device 100. For example, the notification may comprise current temperature, and/or the notification may comprise an alert (e.g., via notification device 116) that a threshold and or a duration has been reached, possibly indicating an issue.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a communication system 801 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The system 801 may include one or more of the features of the system 801 described above, wherein a health monitoring device 100 may comprise a transmission system 108 (e.g., a wireless communication module) having a transmitter configured to communicate wirelessly to a cloud service 803 and/or database 805 and/or an external computing device 807 such as a smart phone, tablet, computer, server, personal computer, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, during use, the system 801 allows the monitoring of multiple animals simultaneously and reduces the chances of human error. For example, the system 801 may comprise a plurality of health monitoring devices 100 each comprising a transmission system 108 configured to send information to the cloud service 803, database 805, and/or external computing device 807 (which may comprise a device monitored by a user). The external computing device 807 could receive information from the plurality of health monitoring devices 100 and may provide notification when the system 801 (described above) is triggered, which in turn allows a worker to conduct visual inspection of the animal(s).

Referring now to FIG. 9, a flowchart 901 depicting a method of use is shown. At step 903 a health monitoring device 100 may be secured to an animal 603 to be monitored. At step 904, the health monitoring device 100 may be activated (or turned on). At step 905, a temperature sensor 114 (or probe 124) of the health monitoring device may be placed in proximity to the ear 605 of the animal 603 so that, at step 906, the temperature sensor 114 (or probe 124) may measure the animal's temperature 910. These steps may be achieved via one or more of the devices discussed above. At step 907, the temperature 910 measured by the temperature sensor 114 (or probe 124) may be communicated and/or transferred to the health monitoring computer 110 via one or more communicators, transmitters, connections (e.g., wire 105), or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, at step 908, a determination as to whether a temperature threshold 920 which was selected is reached and/or exceeded for a selected time duration 925. One or more computing devices may be used to record and monitor an animal's temperature. In an embodiment, the health monitoring device 100 records and determines whether the animal's temperature remains above the threshold 920 for the selected duration of time 925. If so, at step 909 the health monitoring device 100 provides notice 930. The notice may be in the form of a visual or audible alert, or may be a communication for receipt by an external computing device 807. Further, one or more computers monitoring the animals could provide visual or audible notification via a display. In the alternative, at step 911, if the threshold temperature 920 does not last the selected duration of time 925, the temperature readings are recorded but the health monitoring device 100 does not an alert.

Following are particular, exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

A first embodiment is an animal wellness notification system, comprising: an attachment body configured to securely engage with an animal's ear; a temperature monitoring component; a housing secured to the attachment body; a power module electrically connected to and configured to provide power to at least one other component of the animal wellness notification system; a charging component; a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device, wherein the RFID device is configured to communicate information concerning an animal; a computer disposed within the housing; and a notification device in data communication with the computer, wherein the notification device is configured to provide notice, and wherein the computer is configured to: receive a selected temperature range; receive a selected time duration; receive temperature data from the temperature monitoring component; determine whether an animal's temperature is outside the selected temperature range; and cause the notification device to provide the notice upon the animal's temperature remaining outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

A second embodiment is the system of the first embodiment, wherein the attachment body comprises a male attachment component and a female attachment component.

A third embodiment is the system of the first embodiment or the second embodiment, wherein the male attachment component and the female attachment component are both integrated into the housing.

A fourth embodiment is the system of the second embodiment or the third embodiment, wherein an engagement of the male attachment component and the female attachment component secures the attachment body to the animal's ear and wherein the attachment body cannot be re-secured to the animal's ear subsequent to removal from the animal's ear.

A fifth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the fourth embodiments, wherein the temperature monitoring component is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

A sixth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the fifth embodiments, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the attachment body.

A seventh embodiment is the system of any one of the second through the sixth embodiments, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

A eighth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the seventh embodiments, wherein the notification device comprises a transmitter configured to wirelessly communicate with an external computing device.

An ninth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the eighth embodiments, wherein the selected temperature range is a temperature threshold.

A tenth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the ninth embodiments, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the attachment body.

An eleventh embodiment is the system of any one of the second through the tenth embodiments, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, or combinations thereof.

A twelfth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the eleventh embodiments, wherein the charging component is located on a frontside of the animal's ear, on a backside of the animal's ear, or combinations thereof.

A thirteenth embodiment is the system of any one of the first through the twelfth embodiments, wherein the charging component utilizes solar energy to provide electrical energy to the power module.

A fourteenth embodiment is an animal wellness notification system, comprising: a temperature monitor configured to generate temperature data; a power module configured to supply power for the animal wellness notification system; a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device, wherein the RFID device is configured to communicate information concerning an animal; a charging component configured to provide electrical energy to the power module; a computer configured to receive the temperature data; and a notification device, wherein the animal wellness notification system is configured to: receive a selected temperature range along with a selected time duration; record an animal's temperature for the selected time duration; determine whether the animal's temperature remains outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration; and cause the notification device to provide notice, after the selected time duration, if received temperature data indicates that the animal's temperature remained outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

A fifteenth embodiment is the system of the fourteenth embodiment, further comprising: an attachment body configured to securely engage with an animal's ear, wherein the temperature monitoring component comprises the attachment body.

A sixteenth embodiment is the system of the fifteenth embodiment, further comprising a housing secured to the attachment body.

A seventeenth embodiment is the system of the fifteenth embodiment or the sixteenth embodiment, wherein the attachment body comprises a male attachment component and a female attachment component.

An eighteenth embodiment is the system of the seventeenth embodiment, wherein the male attachment component and the female attachment component are both integrated into the housing.

A nineteenth embodiment is the system of any one of the sixteenth through the eighteenth embodiments, wherein the temperature monitoring component is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

A twentieth embodiment is the system of any one of the seventeenth through the nineteenth embodiments, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the attachment body.

A twenty-first embodiment is the system of any one of the seventeenth through the twentieth embodiments, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

A twenty-second embodiment is the system of any one of the fourteenth through the twenty-first embodiments, further comprising a transmitter, wherein the transmitter is configured to communicate the temperature data with the computer.

A twenty-third embodiment is the system of any one of the fourteenth through the twenty-second embodiments, wherein the computer is configured to determine if the temperature data indicates that the animal's temperature is outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

A twenty-fourth embodiment is the system of any one of the sixteenth through the twenty-third embodiments, wherein the computer is disposed within the housing and operably associated with the temperature monitoring component.

A twenty-fifth embodiment is the system of the twenty-second embodiment, wherein the transmitter is configured to wirelessly communicate the temperature data with the computer, wherein the computer is an external computing device.

A twenty-sixth embodiment is the system of the twenty-fifth embodiment, wherein the computer is configured to determine if the temperature data indicates that the animal's temperature is outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

A twenty-seventh embodiment is the system of any one of the nineteenth through the twenty-sixth embodiments, wherein an engagement of the male attachment component and the female attachment component secures the attachment body to the animal's ear and wherein the attachment body cannot be re-secured to the animal's ear subsequent to removal from the animal's ear.

A twenty-eighth embodiment is the system of any one of the fifteenth through the twenty-seventh embodiments, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the attachment body.

A twenty-ninth embodiment is the system of any one of the fifteenth through the twenty-eighth embodiments, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, or combinations thereof.

A thirtieth embodiment is the system of any one of the fourteenth through the twenty-ninth embodiments, wherein the charging component is located on a frontside of the animal's ear, on a backside of the animal's ear, or combinations thereof.

A thirty-first embodiment is the system of any of the fourteenth through the thirtieth embodiments, wherein the charging component utilizes solar energy to provide electrical energy to the power module.

A thirty-second embodiment is a method of using an animal wellness notification system to determine the wellness of an animal, comprising: attaching an animal wellness notification system component to an animal's ear, wherein the animal wellness notification system component comprises a temperature monitoring component and a housing; providing a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) device, wherein the RFID device is configured to communicate information concerning the animal; providing power to the animal wellness notification system via a power module, wherein the power module comprises a charging component; and selecting, via a computer associated with the animal wellness notification system, a temperature range and a time duration, wherein the computer is configured to: record an animal's temperature for the time duration; determine whether the animal's temperature remains outside the temperature range for the time duration; and cause a notification device associated with the animal wellness notification system to provide notice, after the time duration, if temperature data from the temperature monitoring component indicates that the animal's temperature remained outside the temperature range for the time duration.

A thirty-third embodiment is the method of the thirty second embodiment, wherein the animal wellness notification system component is secured to the animal's ear via an engagement of a male attachment component and a female attachment component and wherein the temperature monitoring component comprises the male attachment component, the female attachment component, a housing, or combinations thereof.

A thirty-fourth embodiment is the method of the thirty-third embodiment, wherein the charging component is exposed on a frontside of the housing.

A thirty-fifth embodiment is the method of embodiment the thirty-third embodiment or the thirty-fourth embodiment, wherein the charging component is exposed on a frontside of the male attachment component.

A thirty-sixth embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-third through the thirty-fifth embodiments, wherein the charging component is exposed on a frontside of the female attachment component.

A thirty-seventh embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-second through the thirty-sixth embodiments, wherein the charging component is exposed on a backside of a housing.

A thirty-eighth embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-third through the thirty-seventh embodiments, wherein the charging component is on a backside of the male attachment component.

A thirty-ninth embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-third through the thirty-eighth embodiments, wherein the charging component is on a backside of the female attachment component.

A fortieth embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-third through the thirty-ninth embodiments, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

A fortieth-first embodiment is the method of any one of the thirty-second through the fortieth embodiments, wherein the power module utilizes solar energy to recharge a battery, wherein the charging component is exposed to solar rays to effectuate providing power to the animal wellness notification system via the power module.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the embodiments may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. Although the present embodiments are shown above, they are not limited to just these embodiments, but are amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.

Claims

1. An animal wellness notification system, comprising: an attachment body configured to securely engage with an animal's ear;a temperature monitoring component;a housing secured to the attachment body;a power module electrically connected to and configured to provide power to at least one other component of the animal wellness notification system;a charging component;a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, wherein the RFID device is configured to communicate information concerning an animal;a computer disposed within the housing; anda notification device in data communication with the computer, wherein the notification device is configured to provide notice, and wherein the computer comprises software which configures the computer to: receive a selected temperature range;receive a selected time duration;receive temperature data from the temperature monitoring component;determine whether an animal's temperature is outside the selected temperature range; andcause the notification device to provide the notice upon the animal's temperature remaining outside the selected temperature range for the selected time duration.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the attachment body comprises a male attachment component and a female attachment component.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the male attachment component and the female attachment component are both integrated into the housing.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein an engagement of the male attachment component and the female attachment component secures the attachment body to the animal's ear and wherein the attachment body cannot be re-secured to the animal's ear subsequent to removal from the animal's ear.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein the temperature monitoring component is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

6. The system of claim 2, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, the housing, or combinations thereof.

7. The system of claim 2, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the male attachment component, the female attachment component, or combinations thereof.

8. He system of claim 2, wherein the charging component is located on a frontside of the animal's ear, on a backside of the animal's ear, or combinations thereof.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the RFID device is integrated into the attachment body.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the notification device comprises a transmitter configured to wirelessly communicate with an external computing device.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the selected temperature range is a temperature threshold.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the charging component is incorporated into the attachment body.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the charging component utilizes solar energy to provide electrical energy to the power module.