Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals developed to assist in monitoring and managing the movement and health of animals within a confined space. Additionally, the proposed device provides an efficient method for performing routine health checks, detecting potential health issues and guiding animal movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The concept behind this approach arises from the need to improve the health monitoring of animals, particularly those living in captive environments such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, and research facilities. In these settings, ensuring that animals receive regular and accurate health assessments is essential for their overall well-being. However, the unique behaviors and physiological differences among species often make routine health checks challenging. A method that enables consistent monitoring without causing unnecessary stress or disturbance to the animals is vital. Such a solution allows caregivers and veterinarians to easily collect health data, track changes over time, and identify potential issues early. By reducing the need for invasive procedures, this approach supports a more humane and efficient way to ensure the health of animals under human care. The focus is on providing a reliable means of health monitoring that enhances animal care while minimizing disruption to their natural behavior, ultimately leading to better management and more effective healthcare in captive environments.

[0003] Traditional methods of monitoring animal health in captivity typically involve manual observation, physical check-ups, and occasional diagnostic tests. Caregivers or veterinarians often rely on visual cues, behavior analysis, or direct handling to assess the animal’s condition, which are time-consuming and sometimes stressful for the animal. Physical examinations, though important, may not always provide real-time data or comprehensive insights into an animal’s health. Invasive tests, such as blood draws or imaging, cause distress and may not be feasible for all animals, especially those with specific temperaments or health conditions. These methods also pose challenges in terms of consistency, accuracy, and timely response to emerging health issues, making regular monitoring difficult and potentially less effective.

[0004] US20190289827A1 discloses about an invention an acoustically enhanced collar for monitoring vital signs of a pet animal, may comprise an elastic band having a working surface configured to wrap around a neck of a pet animal and an oppositely faced rear surface, at least one sensor element situated along a circumference of the band and configured to measure at least one bio parameter from the following bio parameters: temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, movement; at least one acoustic concentrator projecting as a bump toward the neck from the working surface on a first side of the at least one sensor element; at least one acoustic concentrator projecting as a bump toward the portion from the working surface on a second side of the at least one sensor element and acoustic balancers projecting from the rear surface at least partly behind the acoustic concentrators. Preferably, the acoustic concentrators and balancers have a base end having a shape.

[0005] WO2016005911A1 discloses about an invention relates to systems and methods for the provision of recommendations on improved nutrition, health, and/or wellness protocols using animal health, behavior, and/or environmental information. Taken as a whole, therefore, exemplary animal data may include, for example, any observable measure of the health or physical state of an animal determined by various means, and may be quantitative or qualitative, such as a weight of an animal, a weight of a waste deposited by an animal in a waste container, a body temperature of an animal, the weight of a platform before the presence of the animal is detected, the combined weight of the platform and the animal after the presence of the animal was detected, the weight of a platform after the departure of the animal was detected, the weight of the food consumed by the animal, the weight of the water consumed by the animal, the date when presence of the animal is detected, the time when presence of the animal is detected.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are disclosed in prior art that assist in health check-up facilitating however existing devices often lack the ability to continuously monitor health parameters in real-time, difficult to detect issues early also fail to minimize stress or discomfort for the animals during health assessments.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of efficiently monitoring and assisting the movement of animals within a cage, this device enables routine health checks with minimal human intervention.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of provide an efficient solution for safely monitoring and assisting the movement of animals within a cage, enabling routine health checks with minimal human intervention.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of ensures the detection of potential health issues in animals and automatic alerts to caretakers or veterinarians when abnormalities are identified.

[0011] Yet Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of create a mechanism that accurately tracks and guides an animal’s movement and ensuring that the animal’s remains in the correct position for routine procedures through the use of sound cues and gentle guidance.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, 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

[0013] The present invention relates to a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals aimed at monitoring and managing the movement and well-being of animals within a controlled environment. The proposed device offers an effective approach for conducting routine health checks, identifying potential health concerns and guiding the movement of animals.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals, comprises of a rectangular-shaped plate installed with an opening developed to be engaged with feeding door of a cage, the plate is configured with C-shaped clamps at each corner, and electromagnets mounted to inner side of the clamps to maintain a secure grip on the cage surface, an ultrasonic sensor integrated with the plate for detecting dimensions including perimeter of the feeding door, an air compressor installed on the plate to inflate an inflatable cushion padding fabricated around the opening to inflate, allowing an animal present inside the cage to safely move limbs within the opening, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the plate and synced with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively, to detect presence of animal approaching towards the opening.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a robotic link attached with a chamber stored with animal food is installed on the plate, an extendable link attached to a C-shaped clamp installed on front portion of the plate, configured to hold animal's limb during daily health routine check-up, the clamps automatically adjust tightness to secure the limbs in place without causing discomfort, and the clamps release once the check-up is completed, a motorized air blower linked to upper section of the plate, the air blower configured to clean dust from animal’s body before scanning process, an infrared sensor embedded on rear portion of the plate to capture images of animal’s skin, fur, hooves, and eyes, for detecting potential injuries, infections, rashes, or swelling, a speaker unit installed on the plate to guide the animal back into position when the animal deviates from path and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals developed to monitor and support the movement and health of animals in a controlled setting. In addition, the proposed device provides a practical solution for conducting regular health assessments, detecting possible health issues and guiding animals to ensure proper positioning.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals illustrated, comprising a rectangular-shaped plate 101 installed with an opening 102 developed to be engaged with feeding door of a cage, a C-shaped clamps 103 at each corner, and electromagnets 104 mounted to inner side of the clamps 103, an inflatable cushion padding 105 fabricated around the opening 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on the plate 101, a robotic link 107 attached with a chamber 108 stored with animal food is installed on the plate 101, an extendable link 109 attached to a C-shaped clamp 110 installed on front portion of the plate 101, a motorized air blower 111 linked to upper section of the plate 101, and a speaker 112 unit installed on the plate 101.

[0023] The device discloses herein includes a rectangular-shaped plate 101 configured with an opening 102 that aligns with the feeding door of a cage, at each corner of the plate 101, there is a C-shaped clamps 103 that hold the plate 101 in position allowing it to securely fit in place. The clamps 103 are equipped with an electromagnet on the inner side, which are activated to generate a magnetic field The platform is preferably made up of but not limited to stainless steel or aluminum where stainless steel provides stability and resistance to corrosion while aluminum provides better durability. The plate 101 incorporates a push button for activating/deactivating the device.

[0024] The push button is accessed by the user to press. Upon the button, the button completes the electrical circuit, which in response turns the device on. The push button is integrated with an actuator and a spring, which are automatically activated when pressed. They work together to move the internal contact, completing the circuit and allowing electrical current to flow, thereby activating the device. On releasing the push button, the spring resets the button and returns to the open position. The device in turn activates an inbuilt microcontroller.

[0025] The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the components linked to it.

[0026] An ultrasonic sensor is integrated into the plate 101 for detecting the dimensions, including the perimeter, of the feeding door. The sensor continuously measures the size of the door opening 102. The microcontroller is connected to the ultrasonic sensor to actuates, processes the detected measurements. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting ultrasonic waves and then measuring the time taken by these waves to bounce back after hitting the surface of the feeding door. The ultrasonic sensor includes two main parts viz. transmitter, and a receiver for feeding door. The transmitter sends a short ultrasonic pulse towards the surface of feeding door which propagates through the air at the speed of sound and reflects back as an echo to the transmitter as the pulse hits the feeding door. The transmitter then detects the reflected eco from the surface feeding door and calculations is performed by the sensor based on the time interval between the sending signal and receiving echo to determine the dimensions of the feeding door. The determined data is sent to the microcontroller in a signal form, based on which the microcontroller further process the signal to detecting dimensions including perimeter of the feeding door.

[0027] Based on these dimensions, the microcontroller regulates the operation of an air compressor which is installed on the plate 101 to inflates an inflatable cushion padding 105 that is fabricated around the opening 102 of the plate 101. The air compressor works by drawing air in and then compressing the air to increase its pressure. The air compressor used herein consists of an impeller that is configured with a motor and linked with the microcontroller. The mechanical energy from the motor is used to transfer air from surrounding to the inflatable member. The inflatable members are laminated of multiple thin polymeric films, when air is inserted in the inflatable member by means of air compressor, the films are puffed and the member becomes soft and that provides the comfort to the user. On actuation of the motor, the impeller rotates to suck the surrounding air and directs high speed compressed air within the inflatable member to inflate the member for allowing an animal present inside the cage to safely move limbs within the opening 102.

[0028] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 is install on the plate 101, which is synced with a processor. The inbuilt microcontroller actuates The imaging unit 106 for captures and processes multiple images of the surroundings to detect the presence of an animal approaching the opening 102 of the cage. The imaging unit 106 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images in surrounding and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 106 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 106 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines presence of animal approaching towards the opening 102. Based on the detection of the animal’s movement, a robotic link 107 attached to a chamber 108 containing animal food is activated by the microcontroller. The microcontroller controls the robotic link 107 to position the chamber 108 in front of the opening 102.

[0029] The robotic link 107 is made of several segments that are attached together by joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the robotic link 107 to complete a specific motion of the link. Upon actuation of the robotic link 107 by the microcontroller, the motor drives the movement of the link to positioning the chamber 108 in front of the opening 102. This encourages the animal to move its limbs out of the cage to access the food, facilitating a routine check-up. By doing so, the animal is guided safely and efficiently to move through the opening 102, making easier for the concerned individual to carry out the necessary check-up or care tasks.

[0030] The device equipped with an extendable link 109 connected to a C-shaped clamp 110, which is installed on the front portion of the plate 101. This clamp is developed to hold the animal's limb securely during the daily health routine check-up. The clamp automatically adjusts its tightness to ensure the limb is held in place without causing discomfort to the animal. Once the check-up is completed, the clamps 103 release the animal's limb, ensuring the animal is free to move comfortably. This system provides a safe and efficient way to perform routine health checks on the animal while minimizing any potential distress or discomfort.

[0031] A motorized air blower 111 mounted on the upper section of the plate 101, developed. The blower is actuated by the microcontroller to clean dust from the animal's body before the scanning process. The air blower 111 comprises of a vortex, heater, impeller and an outlet duct. The blower increases the pressure of the air drawn for the surrounding of the animal’s body by a series of vortex motions formed by the centrifugal movement of the impeller. Upon actuation of the blower by the microcontroller, the impeller is rotating wherein the channels in the impeller push the drawn air from the surrounding forward through a heating unit, that increase the temperature of the absorbed air by creating the centrifugal movement that generates a helical movement of the air. During this centrifugal movement, the absorbed air is continuously compressed along the channel and the pressure increases linearly. The pressurized air is transferred from the outlet duct of the blower to the surface of the animal’s body before scanning process. The air blower 111 is attached to a motorized ball-and-socket joint, allowing its position to be adjusted in relation to the animal's surface.

[0032] The ball and socket joint mention herein provides a rotation to the air blower 111 's for aiding the adjusted in relation to surface of animal to optimize cleaning process to turn at a required angle. The ball and socket joint is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-dgree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required rotational motion to the air blower 111. The ball and socket joint is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller thus providing multidirectional movement to the air blower 111. This feature ensures that the air blower 111 is positioned optimally to effectively remove dust and debris from the animal's body, enhancing the cleaning process and preparing the animal for the subsequent scanning procedure.

[0033] The device integrates the imaging unit 106 with an infrared sensor embedded on the rear portion of a plate 101, positioned to capture detailed images of an animal’s skin, fur, hooves, and eyes. The sensor is activated by the microcontroller to detects temperature variations indicative of potential injuries, infections, rashes. The infrared sensor embedded on the rear portion of the plate 101 captures the heat emitted from the animal's skin, fur, hooves, and eyes. The sensor detects temperature variations that may indicate injuries, infections, rashes, or swelling. By analyzing these thermal images, the sensor identifies abnormal patterns or hot spots, helping to pinpoint areas of concern. This enables early detection of potential health issues, allowing for timely intervention and care to maintain the animal's well-being. When abnormalities are identified, a microcontroller processes the data and triggers an alert, sending the information to a connected computing unit. This alert notifies the animal's caretaker or veterinarian, ensuring prompt attention and intervention for any detected health issues.

[0034] The ultrasonic sensor on the plate 101, synced with the imaging unit 106, to detect the animal’s movement direction and distance from the plate 101. When the animal deviates from its designated path, the microcontroller processes this information and activates gentle sound emitters via a speaker 112 unit installed on the plate 101. The speaker 112 consists of audio information, which is in the form of recorded voice, synthesized voice, or other sounds, generated or stored as digital data. The digital audio data is converted into analog electrical signals. Further the analog signal is amplified by an amplifier and the amplified electrical audio signal is then sent to a diaphragm, which is typically made of a lightweight and rigid material like paper, plastic, or metal, and is designed to vibrate or move back and forth when electrical signals are fed to it. This movement creates pressure variations in the surrounding air, generating sound waves in order to generate the audible sound. These sound cues serve to guide the animal back into position by emitting audible signals that encourage the animal to return, ensuring stays within the correct area without causing distress or requiring direct intervention.

[0035] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes known as a cathode and an anode. A voltage is generated between the anode and cathode via oxidation/reduction and thus produces the electrical energy to provide to the device.

[0036] The present invention works best in the manner, where the device features a rectangular plate 101 with an opening 102 aligned with the feeding door of the cage, supported by C-shaped clamps 103 equipped with electromagnets 104 to securely hold it in place. The plate 101 incorporates a push button that activates the device, which includes the microcontroller, ultrasonic sensor, and artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106. The ultrasonic sensor measures the feeding door's dimensions, and the microcontroller processes this data to operate an air compressor that inflates the cushioning pad around the opening 102. The imaging unit 106, integrated with the microcontroller, detects the presence of an animal approaching the cage and controls the robotic link 107 to position a food chamber 108 in front of the opening 102. The system includes extendable links 109 connected to clamps 103 that secure the animal's limb for health check-ups. The motorized air blower 111, adjustable via the ball-and-socket joint, cleans the animal’s body before scanning. The infrared sensor captures thermal images of the animal’s skin, fur, and eyes to detect potential injuries or infections. The microcontroller processes these signals and alerts the caretaker if abnormalities are detected. The device is also equipped with sound emitters to guide the animal’s movements. By combining sensors, imaging units 106, and robotic mechanisms, the device provides a safe, efficient method for routine health checks, promoting animal well-being and minimizing human intervention.

[0037] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A routine health check-up facilitating assistive device for captive animals, comprising:

i) a rectangular-shaped plate 101 installed with an opening 102 developed to be engaged with feeding door of a cage, wherein said plate 101 is configured with C-shaped clamps 103 at each corner, and electromagnets 104 mounted to inner side of said clamps 103 to maintain a secure grip on said cage surface;
ii) an ultrasonic sensor integrated with said plate 101 for detecting dimensions including perimeter of said feeding door, wherein a microcontroller linked with said ultrasonic sensor based on said detected dimensions regulates actuation of an air compressor installed on said plate 101 to inflate an inflatable cushion padding 105 fabricated around said opening 102 to inflate, allowing an animal present inside said cage to safely move limbs within said opening 102;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on said plate 101 and synced with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively, to detect presence of animal approaching towards said opening 102, wherein a robotic link 107 attached with a chamber 108 stored with animal food is installed on said plate 101, and based on said approaching animal, said microcontroller actuates said robotic link 107 for positioning said chamber 108 in front of said opening 102, encouraging said animal to move limbs out of said cage via said opening 102, allowing a concerned individual for easy routine check-up;
iv) an extendable link 109 attached to a C-shaped clamp 110 installed on front portion of said plate 101, configured to hold animal's limb during daily health routine check-up, wherein said clamps 103 automatically adjust tightness to secure said limbs in place without causing discomfort, and said clamps 103 release once the check-up is completed; and
v) a motorized air blower 111 linked to upper section of said plate 101, said air blower 111 configured to clean dust from animal’s body before scanning process, wherein said air blower 111 is mounted on a motorized ball-and-socket joint, enabling air blower 111 's position to be adjusted in relation to surface of animal to optimize cleaning process.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 106 is integrated with an infrared sensor embedded on rear portion of said plate 101 to capture images of animal’s skin, fur, hooves, and eyes, for detecting potential injuries, infections, rashes, or swelling, and upon successful detection said microcontroller sends an alert on a computing unit, notifying caretaker or veterinarian.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is integrated on said plate 101 and synced with said imaging unit 106 to detect animal's movement direction and distance from said plate 101, said microcontroller activates gentle sound emitters via a speaker 112 unit installed on said plate 101 to guide said animal back into position when said animal deviates from path.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.