Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wild animal deterrence and, more particularly, to a light based wild animal deterrent system and method thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Wild animals live in many different habitats, ranging from forests and jungles to deserts. However, deforestation and industrial development have caused these animals to move to residential areas in search of food and shelter. This has resulted in significant damage to gardens, crops, and property structures, leading to financial losses.
[0003] Various methods such as traps, electric fences, shock machines, guns, chemicals, crude bombs, or poisons have been used over the years to prevent these damages. However, these methods are harmful, can cause environmental pollution, and even result in death of the wild animals. Therefore, there is a need for such a deterrent system that can provide a humane and non-lethal solution for deterring the wild animals.
[0004] At present, there exist many deterrent systems that discourage the wild animals from entering a specific area, preventing damage to crops, and creating a safe environment without causing harm to them.
[0005] However, these deterrent systems have limitations. One of the limitations is their poor effectiveness in deterring the wild animals. The existing deterrent systems generally utilize standard cues that are no longer perceived as threatening or avoidable due to the ability of the animals to adapt and learn these cues over time.
[0006] User-friendliness is another limitation of these existing deterrent systems. The existing deterrent systems often provide complicated interfaces, complex installation processes, or no proper instructions, which can hinder their widespread adoption and use.
[0007] Power consumption is also one of the limitations, as these deterrent systems rely on electricity or batteries.
[0008] Environmental impact is one of the major concerns, as some of these existing deterrent systems use harmful chemicals or physical barriers that can have negative consequences for the environment.
[0009] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the existing animal deterrent systems.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0010] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an efficient, effective, and improved wild animal deterrent system.
[0011] It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide the wild animal deterrent system which deters a diverse range of animals, such as, but not limited to, elephants, nilgai, wild boar, and monkeys.
[0012] It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide a plurality of light emitting units that are positioned at two corners of a housing to simulate eyes of a larger predator to deter the wild animals.
[0013] It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide advanced light control mechanisms, such as flashing plurality of light emitting units in a circular pattern to maintain effectiveness over time.
[0014] The other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to a light-based wild animal deterrent system. The system includes a housing. In an embodiment, the housing is configured to enclose a plurality of components of the system. In an embodiment, the housing is securely mounted on a pole at a desired location.
[0016] The system further includes a light sensor. The light sensor is configured to detect ambient light to determine onset of nightfall. In an embodiment, the light sensor is light dependent resistor sensor which is positioned at an appropriate location in the housing to enable the detection.
[0017] The system further includes one or more batteries. In an embodiment, the one or more batteries are lithium batteries that are configured to provide power to each component of the system.
[0018] The system further includes a solar panel which is configured to receive sunlight and generate power. In an embodiment, the solar panel is positioned on top of the housing and is configured to charge the one or more batteries to provide power for the operation of the system.
[0019] The system further includes a plurality of light emitting units. In an embodiment, the plurality of light emitting units is strategically positioned at two corners of the housing to simulate eyes of a larger predator. The plurality of light emitting units is configured to operate in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 to simulate eyes of the larger predator to effectively deter the wild animals on determining onset of nightfall.
[0020] Thereafter, the system includes a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB includes a microcontroller and a plurality of power transistors to drive and control operation of the plurality of light emitting units in the circular pattern. The circular pattern is randomized at a predefined interval.
[0021] In an embodiment, the microcontroller triggers the plurality of light emitting units to flash light upon detecting nightfall and continues until daylight is detected by the light sensor and enters a power-saving sleep mode during daylight.
[0022] In an embodiment, the microcontroller and plurality of power transistors enable customization of the pattern of the plurality of light emitting units to optimize deterrence effect based on specific requirements or conditions.
[0023] In an embodiment, the microcontroller includes a memory for storing or installing an application program or a software program for driving and controlling the operation of the plurality of light emitting units.
[0024] The present invention further provides a method for deterring the wild animals. The method includes detecting ambient light to determine onset of nightfall. Thereafter, the method includes driving and controlling operation of the plurality of light emitting units in a circular pattern on determining the onset of nightfall, to deter the wild animals away, and protect the specific area including at least an agricultural and farmland from being damaged by the wild animals. The driving and controlling operation is performed by a microcontroller using a plurality of power transistors. In an embodiment, the plurality of light emitting units is driven in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 to simulate eyes of a larger predator to effectively deter wild animals on determining the onset of nightfall.
[0025] In an embodiment, the operation of the plurality of light emitting units is controlled in a circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval.
[0026] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described earlier, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments, and together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components, wherein:
[0028] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a light-based wild animal deterrent system, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of a printed circuit board utilized in the light-based wild animal deterrent system, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 3A depicts a pictorial representation of different components of an exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 3B depicts a pictorial representation of different components of another exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0032] FIG. 3C depicts a pictorial representation of the printed circuit board and one or more batteries in an exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0033] FIG. 4 depicts a flow diagram showing a method for deterring the wild animals, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0034] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that these specific details are only exemplary and not intended to be limiting. Additionally, it may be noted that the systems and/or methods are shown in block diagram form only in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. It is to be understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents may be made as circumstances may suggest or render expedient to cover various applications or implementations without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for clarity of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0035] Furthermore, in the present description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the terms “a” and “an” used herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described, which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, a light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) is disclosed, according to an embodiment. As depicted, the light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) includes a housing (102). The housing (102) is essential to the system's overall function as it is configured to include a plurality of components of the wild animal deterrent system (100). It is important to note that the housing (102) serves as an exterior case or enclosure that protects the components and ensures their proper functioning. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing (102) may have integrated fittings to keep the components in their place. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing (102) is commonly made of materials such as metal or plastic, and its design is specific to the system (100) and its intended use.
[0037] The light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) further includes a light sensor (104) to detect an ambient light. The ambient light is detected to determine the onset of nightfall. In an embodiment, the light sensor (104) is positioned at an appropriate location in the housing (102) to enable detection of ambient light to determine onset of nightfall. In an exemplary embodiment, the light sensor (104) is a light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensor that is positioned on the top of the housing (102) to detect ambient light to determine the onset of nightfall.
[0038] In another exemplary embodiment, the light sensor (104) is a photodiode or a phototransistor or photovoltaic cell that is configured to detect ambient light to determine the onset of nightfall. It is important to note that incorporating the light sensor (104) ensures effective operation of the wild animal deterrent system (100) during nighttime. The use of the light sensor (104) enhances the efficiency of the system (100) and enables it to respond appropriately to deter the wild animals. For example, when the light sensor (104) detects a decrease in ambient light, indicating the onset of darkness, the system (100) initiates its deterrent operation using an advanced light control mechanism.
[0039] Further, the light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) includes one or more batteries (106). In an embodiment, the one or more batteries (106) are configured to provide power to the entire system (100). These batteries are positioned inside the housing (102) and configured to provide power for the functioning of the system (100). In an exemplary embodiment, lithium batteries are utilized as a preferred power source. It is important to note that the lithium batteries have characteristics such as high energy density, long-lasting performance, and reliable power delivery, which make them well-suited for operating the animal deterrent system (100) that requires extended periods of operation. In another exemplary embodiment, alternative battery types may be used instead of lithium batteries which have the same or better characteristics than that of lithium batteries.
[0040] The light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) further includes a solar panel (108). In an exemplary embodiment, the solar panel (108) is installed on top of the housing (102) to receive sunlight and generate power. It is important to note that the solar panel (108) in the wild animal deterrent system (100) is typically used to recharge the one or more batteries (106) for proper functioning of the system.
[0041] The solar panel (108) provides a sustainable and renewable power source for the system (100). It is important to note that the solar panel (108) harnesses sunlight and converts it into electrical energy, which is used to power each component of the system (100). By utilizing the solar panel (108), the system (100) may operate independently without relying on external power sources making it more convenient and cost-effective for long-term use in outdoor environments. The solar panel (108) ensures that the system (100) remains operational and effective even in remote or off-grid locations.
[0042] The light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) further includes a plurality of light emitting units (110). The light emitting units (110) includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are strategically positioned at two corners of the housing (102) to simulate eyes of a larger predator. In an embodiment, the plurality of light emitting units (110) operates in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 to simulate eyes of the larger predator to effectively deter the wild animals on determining onset of nightfall.
[0043] The light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) further includes a printed circuit board (PCB) (112). In an embodiment, the PCB (112) is positioned inside the housing (102) and configured to drive and control operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) in a circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval, which is explained in detail using FIG.2
[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, a block diagram of the printed circuit board (112) utilized in the light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0045] As depicted, the PCB (112) includes a microcontroller (202) and a plurality of power transistors (204) to drive and control the operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) in a circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval. For example, the plurality of light emitting units (110) is driven in a pattern of 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1. In an embodiment, the microcontroller (202) triggers the plurality of light emitting units (110) to flash light upon detecting nightfall and continues until daylight is detected by the light sensor (104), and enters a power-saving sleep mode during daylight.
[0046] In an embodiment, the microcontroller (202) and the plurality of power transistors (204) enable customization of the pattern of the plurality of light emitting units (110) to optimize the deterrence effect based on specific requirements or conditions.
[0047] It is important to note that the microcontroller (202) also includes a memory for storing or installing an application program or a software program for driving and controlling the operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110).
[0048] Referring to FIG. 3A, a pictorial representation of different components of an exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As depicted, the light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) includes the housing (102), the solar panel (108), the plurality of light emitting units (110), and a pole (302). The housing (102) is the main outer structure that encloses and protects the components of the system. The solar panel is a 10x10cm square panel, which is positioned on the top of the housing (102) to charge the lithium batteries used in the system (100).
[0049] The plurality of light emitting units (110), which are positioned at two corners of the housing (102) that gives the perception of a larger predator in motion. This is intended to force the wild animal to leave the area immediately and prevent them from returning. The pole (302) is configured to mount the housing (102) securely at a desired height. It is important to note that the height of the pole (302) is an important consideration that depends on several factors, including the targeted animal species and the environment in which it has to be deployed. The pole (302) is made of a material that has high strength and durability, thus making it an ideal material to mount the housing (102).
[0050] In an embodiment, the pole (302) may utilize a customizable height adjustment mechanism to enable folding of the pole (302). In an embodiment, the customizable height adjustment mechanism may provide flexibility and convenience in adjusting the height of the pole (302) by extending or retracting the pole to different positions according to the needs or preferences. This mechanism is particularly useful when the pole (302) is required to be folded or adjusted for storage, and transportation, or when different mounting heights are needed for specific applications.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 3B, a pictorial representation of different components of another exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0052] As depicted, the light-based wild animal deterrent system (100) includes the housing (102), the light sensor (104) that is positioned on the top of the housing (102) to enable detection of ambient light to determine onset of nightfall, the solar panel (108) that is positioned on the top of the housing (102), and the plurality of light emitting units (110) positioned at two corners of the housing (102).
[0053] Referring to FIG. 3C, a pictorial representation of the printed circuit board and one or more batteries in an exemplary light-based wild animal deterrent system is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As disclosed, the one or more batteries (106) and the PCB (112) are both positioned inside the housing (102). The specific arrangement of the one or more batteries (106) and the PCB (112) within the housing may vary depending on the design and requirements of the system.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 4, a flow diagram showing a method for deterring wild animals using the wild animal deterrent system is disclosed, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0055] The method may be explained in conjunction with the block diagram of the light-based wild animal deterrent system disclosed in FIG.1. In the flow diagram, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the drawings. For example, two blocks shown in succession in FIG. 4 may be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.
[0056] Any process descriptions or blocks in flowcharts should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code that include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included within the scope of the example embodiments in which functions may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. In addition, the process descriptions or blocks in flow charts should be understood as representing decisions made by a hardware structure such as a state machine. The flow diagram starts at step (402) and proceeds to step (404).
[0057] At step 402, an ambient light is detected to determine onset of nightfall. In one embodiment, the ambient light is detected by the light sensor (104).
[0058] Thereafter, driving and controlling operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) is performed, at step 404, in a circular pattern to deter the wild animals away. In an embodiment, an advanced light control mechanism, such as flashing plurality of light emitting units in a circular pattern to maintain effectiveness over time is performed by the microcontroller (202) using a plurality of power transistors (204) on determining the onset of nightfall. It is important to note that the driving and controlling operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 is performed to simulate eyes of a larger predator. This simulation aims to effectively deter wild animals on determining the onset of nightfall. The pattern 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 signifies the activation of specific LEDs in a sequential manner. For example, in the first cycle, LED 1 and LED 2 may turn on initially, followed by LED 2 and LED 3 turning on, and then LED 3 and LED 4 turning on. This cycle may then repeat. The operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) is controlled in the circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval.
[0059] It has thus been seen that the wild animal deterrent system according to the present invention achieves the purposes highlighted earlier. Such a device can in any case undergo numerous modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept, moreover, all of the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements. The scope of protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.

Dated this 6th day of June, 2024

Ankush Mahajan
Agent for the Applicant (IN/PA-1523)
OF CoreIP Legal Services Pvt. Ltd.
, C , Claims:We Claim:
1. A light-based wild animal deterrent system, the system (100) comprising:
a housing (102);
a light sensor (104), wherein the light sensor (104) is positioned at an appropriate location in the housing (102) to enable detection of ambient light to determine onset of nightfall;
one or more batteries (106), wherein the one or more batteries (106) is positioned within the housing (102) and configured to provide power to entire light-based wild animal deterrent system (100);
a solar panel (108), wherein the solar panel (108) is positioned on top of the housing (102) for charging the one or more batteries (106);
a plurality of light emitting units (110), wherein the plurality of light emitting units (110) are strategically positioned at two corners of the housing (102) to simulate eyes of a larger predator; and
a printed circuit board (PCB) (112), wherein the PCB (112) is positioned within the housing (102) and includes a microcontroller (202) and a plurality of power transistors (204) to drive and control operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) in a circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (202) includes a memory for storing or installing an application program or a software program for driving and controlling the operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110).

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprising a pole (302) to mount the housing (102) securely at a desired location.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light sensor (104) is a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensor.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of light emitting units (110) operates in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 to simulate eyes of the larger predator to effectively deter the wild animals on determining onset of nightfall.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (202) triggers the plurality of light emitting units (110) to flash light upon detecting nightfall and continues until daylight is detected by the light sensor (104), and enters a power-saving sleep mode during daylight.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (202) and plurality of power transistors (204) enable customization of the pattern of the plurality of light emitting units (110) to optimize deterrence effect based on specific requirements or conditions.

8. A method (200) for deterring wild animals comprising steps:
detecting ambient light, by a light sensor (104), to determine onset of nightfall; and
driving and controlling operation of a plurality of light emitting units (110) in a circular pattern, by a microcontroller (202), using a plurality of power transistors (204) to deter the wild animal away, on determining the onset of nightfall.

9. The method (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plurality of light emitting units (110) operates in a circular randomized pattern such as 1-1-0-0, 0-1-1-0, 0-0-1-1 to simulate eyes of a larger predator to effectively deter wild animals on determining the onset of nightfall.

10. The method (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the operation of the plurality of light emitting units (110) is controlled in the circular pattern which is randomized at a predefined interval.

Dated this 6th day of June, 2024

Ankush Mahajan
Agent for the Applicant (IN/PA-1523)
OF CoreIP Legal Services Pvt. Ltd.