Claims:CLAIMS

We claim,

1. A system (100) for tracking and monitoring the activity of a pet, the system (100) comprising a wearable device (102) and a remote data processing system, (106) wherein,
the wearable device (102) comprises:
an image-capturing module (502) to capture images of the surroundings of the pet;
a step count module (504) to detect and count steps walked by the pet in a predetermined time interval;
a temperature sensing module (506) to detect the body temperature of the pet;
a heart rate monitoring module (508) to calculate the heart rate and blood pressure of the pet;
a wireless communication module (230) for communicating information obtained from different modules of the wearable device (102); and
the remote data processing system (106) configured to receive information through the wireless communication module (230) of the wearable device (102).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises an activity tracking module (602) to monitor the physical activity of the pet and track at least one of resting patterns, movement patterns, barking patterns, position patterns, feeding patterns, sleeping patterns, scratching patterns and lameness.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises a drowning sensor (604) to alert if the pet is drowning and communicate the emergency condition of the pet.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises an altitude detection module (606) to detect and alert if the pet moves beyond a preconfigured altitude.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises an anti-barking module (608) to stop the pet from barking.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) further comprises a GPS module (226) to identify location of the device (102), wherein the data processing system (106) is configured to receive information from the GPS module (226).

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) further comprises a geo-fencing module (228), wherein the system (100) generates an alert, both at the device (102) and at the data processing system (106), if the pet enters or exits a predefined geographical boundary.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) is configured to generate an alert, at the wearable device (102) and at the data processing system (106), if the device (102) is not fixed to the pet for a predetermined time.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) is configured to generate an alert, at the wearable device (102) and at the data processing system (106), to remind the pet owner on at least one of food, medication, vaccination, breeding and grooming, at predetermined time intervals.

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises an in-built battery system (702), wherein the in-built battery system (702) provides the required power to different modules and sensors of the wearable device (102).

11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises an external power supply unit to perform at least one of, recharging the in-built battery system (702) and supply required power directly to different modules and sensors of the wearable device (102), and combination thereof.

12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the external power supply unit (704) is a solar panel, arranged across the wearable device (102).

13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device (102) comprises a digital display (802), wherein the digital display (802) is configured to display information based on the data obtained from different modules and sensors.

14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data processing system (106) is configured to receive, exchange and communicate instructions to the wearable device (102), wherein the wearable device (102) is configured as per the instructions received from the data processing system (106).

Dated this the 17th day of April, 2021

(Digitally Signed)
RANJITH REDDY KONDETI
Patent Agent: IN/PA-2768 , Description:BACKGROUND
[0001] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to this application and are not admitted to being prior art by inclusion in this section.

Field of the invention:
[0002] The subject matter in general relates to a system for tracking and monitoring a pet. More particularly, but not exclusively, the subject matter relates to a wearable device for tracking and monitoring the physical activity, health, location and other needs of the pets.

Discussion of the related art:
[0003] People own or adopt pets as companions resulting in the development of mutual relationship and attachment over a period of time. A pet owner has to take care of health and monitor the activities of the pet regularly. However, it may at times be difficult for the pet owners or attendants to stay continuously with pets and monitor their health and other activities.

[0004] Pet owners are primarily worried about the health and habits of their pets. It may become difficult for the owners to identify and understand the abnormalities in the health and habits of the pets. Moreover, the owners are also concerned about the pets wandering away from home, getting lost, or otherwise harmed. In such situations, it becomes very difficult for the pet owner to track and identify the exact location and monitor the condition of the pet.

[0005] Conventionally, several tracking devices have been proposed to monitor the activities and track the location of the pets. However, these conventional systems utilize existing wireless communication capabilities, which are bulky, cumbersome and expensive. The existing systems also fail to effectively track and monitor the health, habits, patterns, activities and other needs of the pets continuously and/or at regular intervals.

[0006] In light of the foregoing discussion, there is a need for an improved system to track and respond to the health, habits, activities and needs of the pet at regular intervals, without the physical presence of the pet owner, from the remote location.

SUMMARY
[0007] In one aspect, a system is provided for monitoring health, activities and other needs of a pet, comprising a wearable device and a remote data processing system. The wearable device comprises an image capturing module to capture images of the surrounding areas of the pet, a step count module to detect and count the number of steps walked, a temperature sensing module to detect the body temperature of the pet and a heart rate monitoring module to calculate the heart rate and blood pressure of the pet. The wearable device may further comprise an activity tracking module, a drowning sensor, an altitude detection module and an anti-barking module. The system further comprises a wireless communication module for communicating information obtained from different modules and sensors of the wearable device. The remote data processing system is configured to receive information from the wireless communication module, and processes the received information and displays the information using a digital display. The information is further utilized to provide required support and care to the pet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DIAGRAMS
[0008] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which:

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 comprising a wearable device 102 connected to remote data processing systems 106, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the wearable device 102 of the system 100, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an isometric view of the wearable device 102 of the system 100, with central unit 302 and collar band 304, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates the ideal placement of the device 102, wearable to neck 402 in the form of a collar, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates an isometric view of the wearable device 102 comprising an image-capturing module 502, a step count module 504, a temperature sensor 506 and a heart rate monitoring sensor 508, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric view of the wearable device 102 with an activity tracking module 602, a drowning sensor 604, an altitude detection module 606 and an anti-barking module 608, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of the wearable device 102 with an inbuilt battery 702 and an external power supply unit 704, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of the wearable device 102 with a digital display 802 to display information obtained from different modules and sensors.

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates the alternate placement position of the device 102, wearable to chest portion 902 of the pet, in accordance with an embodiment; and

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates another alternate placement position of the device 102, wearable to leg portion 1002 of the pet, in accordance with an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the detailed description. The drawings show illustrations in accordance with example embodiments. These example embodiments are described in enough details to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. However, it may be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practised without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments. The embodiments can be combined, other embodiments can be utilized or structural and logical changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken as a limiting sense.

[0020] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one. In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a non-exclusive “or”, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B”, “B but not A”, and “A and B”, unless otherwise indicated.

[0021] It should be understood, that the capabilities of the invention described in the present disclosure and elements shown in the figures may be implemented in various forms of hardware, firmware, software, recordable medium or combinations thereof.

OVERVIEW
[0022] The present invention deals with a system 100 for tracking and monitoring the activity of a pet. The system 100 comprises a wearable device 102 connected to a remote data processing system 106 through a communication network 104. The device 102 comprises an image capturing module 212 to capture images of surroundings of the pet, a step count module 214 to detect and count steps walked by the pet in a predetermined time interval, a heart rate monitoring module 216 to calculate the heart rate and blood pressure of the pet, and a temperature sensing module 218 to detect the body temperature of the pet. The wearable device 102 further comprises an activity tracking module 220 to monitor various activity patterns of the pet, a drowning sensor module 222 to alert if the pet is drowning and an altitude detection module to detect and alert if the pet moves beyond a preconfigured altitude. The device 102 also includes an anti-barking module 224 to stop the pet from barking. The device 102 further comprises a GPS module 226 to identify the location of the pet and a geo-fencing module 228 to alert if the pet enters or exits a predefined geographical boundary. The device 102 is also designed to generate an alert, to remind the pet owner about food, medication, vaccination, breeding and grooming at predetermined time intervals. The device 102 comprises an in-built battery system 702 to provide required power to different modules and sensors of the wearable device. The device 102 further comprises an external power supply unit 704 to either recharge the in-built battery system 102 or supply required power directly to different modules and sensors of the device 102. The device 102 comprises a display module 210 to display the results and information obtained from different modules and sensors, besides acting as a user interface. The device 102 is connected to the remote data processing system 106 through wireless communication modules 230 such as Bluetooth 232, Wi-Fi 234 or GSM 236. The data processing system 106 is configured to receive, exchange and communicate instructions with the wearable device 102, wherein the wearable device 102 is configured as per the instructions received.

CONSTRUCTION & WORKING OF WEARABLE DEVICE
[0023] The present invention discloses a system 100 for tracking and monitoring the activity of a pet. Referring to FIG. 1, the system 100 comprises a wearable device 102 connected to a remote data processing system 106 through a communication network 104.

[0024] FIG. 2 discloses an exemplary block diagram of the wearable device 102, in accordance with an embodiment. The wearable device 102 may include a processing module 202, a memory module 204, an input module 206, an output module 208, a display module 210, an image capturing module 212, a step count module 214, a heart rate monitoring module 216, a temperature sensing module 218, an activity tracking module 220, a drowning sensor module 222, an altitude sensing module, anti-barking module 224, a GPS module 226, a geo-fencing module 228 and a communication module 230 comprising one or more of a Bluetooth module 232, a Wi-Fi module 234 and a GSM module 236.

[0025] In an embodiment, the device 102 may be designed and fashioned into a wearable accessory that can be worn on neck, chest or any other portion of the pet’s body.

[0026] The wearable device 102 may be designed in the form of a collar, chest belt or any such accessories. The device 102 may be made of fabric, leather, plastic, metal, glass or any other suitable material.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 3, the wearable device comprises a central unit 302 and a band 304. The central unit 302 comprises different modules and sensors for performing the required functions of the device 102, whereas the band 304 helps in attaching or fixing the central unit 302 to the pet. In a preferred embodiment, the device 102 is wearable to neck portion 402 of the pet in the form of a collar, as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0028] The processing module 202 is implemented in the form of one or more processors and may be implemented as appropriate in hardware, computer-executable instructions, firmware, or combinations thereof. Computer-executable instruction or firmware implementations of the processing module 202 may include computer-executable or machine-executable instructions written in any suitable programming language to perform the various functions described.

[0029] The memory module 204 may include a permanent memory such as a hard disk drive, may be configured to store data, and executable program instructions that are implemented by the processor. The memory module 204 may be implemented in the form of a primary and a secondary memory. The memory module 204 may store additional data and program instructions that are loadable and executable on the processor, as well as data generated during the execution of these programs. Further, the memory module 204 may be volatile memory, such as random-access memory and/or a disk drive, or non-volatile memory. The memory module 204 may comprise of removable memory such as a Compact Flash card, Memory Stick, Smart Media, Multimedia Card, Secure Digital memory, or any other memory storage that exists currently or may exist in the future.

[0030] The input module 206 may provide an interface for input devices. Input devices are peripheral devices that helps to communicate with a processing unit. In an embodiment, the input devices may include one or more of keypad, touch screen, mouse, microphone and stylus among other input devices which provides data and control signals to the wearable device 102.

[0031] The output module 208 may provide an interface for output devices. Purpose of the output device is to translate responses from various modules and sensors into a readable form which can be easily understandable by the owner of the pet. In an embodiment, the output devices used in the system include one or more of display screen, speakers, printer and haptic feedback devices, among other.

[0032] Alternatively, or in addition, the communication module 230 may be used by the wearable device 102 to communicate with the remote data processing system 106 via the communication network 104. The communication module 230 may further include different modules that enable telecommunication. The communication module 230 may include a modem, a network interface card (such as Ethernet card), a communication port, or a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) slot, among others. The communication module 230 may include devices supporting both wired and wireless protocols. Data in the form of electronic, electromagnetic, optical, among other signals may be transferred via the communication module. A Bluetooth 232, Wi-Fi 234 or GSM module 236 may also be used by the device to communicate with the server via the communication network 104.

[0033] The wearable device 102 contains a display module 210 that also acts as a user interface. The output can be displayed on display type known in the art, for example, Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD), Light Emitting Diode Displays (LED), Cathode Ray Tube Displays (CRT), Orthogonal Liquid Crystal Displays (OLCD), Organic Light Emitting Diode Displays (OLED) or any other type of display currently existing or which may exist in the future.

[0034] Now, referring to FIG. 5, the wearable device 102 is designed to comprise an image-capturing module 502 to capture images of the surroundings of the pet. The data processing system 106 is configured to receive the captured images from the wearable device 102. This aids in monitoring the condition of the pet from the distant/remote location. This primarily helps in detecting the exact condition of the pet in situations such as wandering away from home, getting lost, or being harmed.

[0035] The wearable device 102 also comprise a module to detect the step count 504 of the pet, wherein the wearable device 102 and the data processing system 106 is configured to receive information from the said module. In an embodiment, the step count module 504 is selected from the group comprising of gyroscope, accelerometer, pedometer and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the step count module 504 is a pedometer.

[0036] The wearable device 102 further comprises a temperature sensing module 506 to detect and monitor the body temperature of the pet, as and when necessary. The information obtained from the temperature sensing module 506 is displayed on the digital display 802. The remote data processing system 106 is also configured to receive the information generated from the temperature sensing module 506. The system 100 is preconfigured to generate an alert if the body temperature of the pet fluctuates beyond a preconfigured range.

[0037] A temperature sensor having the characteristics of small size, high accuracy, low power consuming, wide operating temperature range, suitable for mobile devices and wearables and that provides data in a direct digital format is selected. In an embodiment, the temperature sensing module 506 is selected from the group comprising of pyroelectric detectors, resistive temperature detectors, thermistors and combinations thereof.

[0038] The wearable device 102 also comprises a heart rate monitoring module 508 to calculate the heart rate and blood pressure of the pet. The heart rate monitoring module 508 measures heart rate using an optical LED light source and an LED light sensor in the form of number of heart beats per minute. The light shines through skin and the variations in light reflections are interpreted as heartbeats. Thus the heart rate monitoring module 508 measures the amount of light that reflects back from the skin to measure the heart rate. Both the wearable device 102 and the remote data processing system 106 are configured to receive the information generated from the heart rate monitoring module 508.

[0039] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the wearable device 102 further comprise an activity tracking module 602 to monitor and track various activities and patterns of the pet, such as resting patterns, movement patterns, barking patterns, position patterns, feeding patterns, sleeping patterns, scratching patterns, lameness etc. Regular monitoring of such patterns and habits helps in early detection of diseases, disorders and infections, if any, and take necessary precautions along with timely care, attention and medication. It has been reported that a pet’s walking, sleep and movement patterns and other such behavioural habits are strongly associated with their health condition.

[0040] In an embodiment, the step count module 504, the temperature sensing module 506, the heart rate monitoring module 508 and the activity tracking module 602 are positioned in the wearable device 102, in such a way that they remain in contact with the body of the pet, to continuously detect and monitor their respective activities.

[0041] The wearable device 102 may further comprise a drowning sensor 604 featured to detect if the pet is drowning. This module alerts the pet owner when the wearable device 102 comes in contact with water, thereby prevent and/or protecting the pet from drowning.

[0042] An altitude detection module 606 is also arranged in the wearable device 102 to track the altitude level at which the pet is located. Atmospheric pressure decreases with increase in height above the sea level, and the altitude detection module 606 works based on this principle. In an embodiment, the preferred altitude detection module 606 is a barometer. The system 100 is configured to generate an alert at the wearable device 102 and at the remote data processing system 106 if the pet moves beyond a preconfigured altitude.

[0043] The wearable device 102 may further comprise an anti-barking module 608 to stop and control the pet from barking. In a preferred embodiment, the anti-barking module 608 is an ultrasonic sensor. The system 100 may be configured to generate ultrasonic sound as and when the pet barks. The ultrasonic sound annoys the pet, and acts as a correction. The ultrasonic sound is automatically stopped when the pet stops barking. Therefore, the pet will learn that barking brings on the ultrasonic noise, while the silence makes the noise go away. As the sounds are ultrasonic in nature, humans cannot hear them.

[0044] In another embodiment, the anti-barking module 608 is preconfigured to additionally generate a vibration over the body of the pet. This vibration distracts the pet and make them stop barking.

[0045] The wearable device 102 may further comprise a GPS module 226 to detect the location of the wearable device 102 and the pet. The pet owner may be able to locate exact location of the pet using this application, wherein the data processing system 106 is configured to receive information from the GPS module 226.

[0046] The wearable device 102 may additionally comprise a geo-fencing module 228, wherein the system 100 generates an alert, at the data processing system 106, if the device 102 enters or exits a predefined geographical boundary. This will assist in tracking and taking care of pets in the absence of its owner.

[0047] In an embodiment, the device 102 is configured to generate an alert if the device 102 detects abnormalities beyond the preferred and preconfigured levels various modules and sensors.

[0048] The system 100 is also configured to generate an alert if the wearable device 102 is not fixed or attached to the pet for a predetermined time period. The device may further be configured to generate an alert to remind the pet owner on food, medication, vaccination, breeding, grooming and other requirements of the pet at predetermined time intervals. The device 102 is also configured to generate an alert if the battery level is below the predetermined minimum level. In an embodiment, the device 102 is also configured to generate an alert at the remote data processing system 106 for the above said activities. The alert may be one or more of alarm, vibration, blinker, among others.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 7, the wearable device 102 comprises an in-built battery system 702 to provide necessary power for the functioning of different modules and sensors. In an embodiment, the in-built battery 702 may be replaceable or rechargeable. In an embodiment, the in-built battery 702 may be recharged using an external power supply unit 704.

[0050] In an embodiment, the device 102 may further comprise an external power supply unit 704 to either recharge the in-built battery system 702 or supply required power directly to different modules and sensors of the wearable device, or a combination thereof. The external power supply unit 704 may be selected from the group comprising of solar power supply, unregulated, linear regulated, switching, ripple-regulated types and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the external power supply unit 704 is solar power supply, wherein a solar panel is arranged across the wearable device, to a certain portion or over the entire length of the band.

[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the wearable device 102 also comprises a display module 802 with a digital display that displays the results obtained from different modules and sensors. The amount of charge available in an inbuilt battery 702 is also displayed. In another embodiment, the digital display 802 may also be used to receive an input from the pet owner.

[0052] The digital display 802 may also be used in combination with technologies such as touch screen, tapping or double tapping of display. The digital display 802 may contain a touch screen large enough to incorporate all or a portion of the user interface for the device 102. Contrast and brightness capability can also be added and adjusted on to the display 802.

[0053] The information and data obtained from different modules or sensors of the device may be communicated to the remote data processing system 106. The remote data processing system 106 is configured to receive information from the wireless communication module of the device, process the received information and display information based on the processing. The remote data processing system 106 may be either a mobile device, laptop, computer, tablet, server, mobile app among others. The user operating the remote data processing system 106 may monitor the information obtained as needed.

[0054] In an embodiment, instructions and input to various modules of the device 102 may be communicated from the data processing system 106. The functioning of the device 102 may also be controlled using the data processing system 106. In an embodiment, the communication module 230 is selected from the group comprising of Bluetooth 232, Wi-Fi 234, GSM 236 and combinations thereof.

[0055] The device 102 is designed with a suitable material to make it water and heat resistant. Moreover, the band 304 of the device 102 is designed to make it user friendly and affix the device 102 conveniently on to the pet. In an embodiment, the band 304 may be made of leather, rubber, fabric, plastic, metal or any other suitable material. In another embodiment, the clasp of the band 304 may be either deployant or buckle type. In yet another embodiment, the size of the band 304 may be re-adjustable as per the size and position of wearing.

[0056] The device 102 may be attached or fixed to different body portions of the pet. FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 illustrates alternate placement positions of the device 102, wherein FIG. 9 illustrates the arrangement over chest portion 902 of the pet, whereas FIG. 10 illustrates the arrangement over leg portion 1002.

[0057] The wearable device 102 assists in monitoring the activity of the pet from a distant or remote place, wherein, various health and other needs of the pet can be monitored. The device 102 helps in increased attention towards health and activities of the pet, so that timely care and precautions can be taken. Hence, it is observed that the proposed invention promotes the concept of remote pet monitoring.

[0058] It shall be noted that the processes described above are described as sequence of steps; this was done solely for the sake of illustration. Accordingly, it is contemplated that some steps may be added, some steps may be omitted, the order of the steps may be re-arranged, or some steps may be performed simultaneously.

[0059] Although embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the system and method described herein. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0060] Many alterations and modifications of the present invention will no doubt become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art after having read the foregoing description. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. It is to be understood that the description above includes many specifications; these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the personally preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given.