Animal safety harness

Abstract

A self-righting apparatus for an animal such as a sheep 100, comprising a harness 105, a sensor 110 operable to detect when an animal is in a first orientation, and a corrective mechanism 115 which ap

Description

Background

[001] Livestock welfare is a significant concern for farmers and animal caretakers, particularly in extensive grazing systems where animals are left unattended for extended periods. One common issue affecting livestock, particularly sheep, is accidental rollover, commonly referred to as “cast sheep”. When a sheep, or other animal such as a cow, tortoise, or beetle, ends up on its back, it can struggle to regain its footing owing to its body shape, fleece weight, or underlying health conditions. Without timely intervention, this situation can lead to severe distress, circulation issues, and even death from suffocation or predation.

[002] Traditional methods for addressing this issue rely on regular human monitoring, which is labour-intensive and impractical for large-scale operations. In many cases, farmers must physically check on livestock multiple times per day, which can be time-consuming, inefficient, and still fail to prevent fatalities. Environmental factors, such as uneven terrain, muddy conditions, and strong winds, can exacerbate the problem by making it even more difficult for a cast animal to right itself, or for a farmer to notice the issue at all. This issue is particularly pressing in harsh weather conditions, where exposure and exhaustion can lead to rapid deterioration in an animal’s condition. Summary

[003] The invention is defined by the appended claims.

[004] A first aspect provides a self-righting apparatus for an animal, comprising: a harness; a sensor operable to detect when an animal is in a first orientation; and a corrective mechanism, wherein the corrective mechanism applies a force sufficient to move the animal to a second orientation.

[005] A further aspect provides a method using the abovementioned apparatus. Brief Description of the Drawings

[006] Embodiments of the invention will be explained as examples, with reference to the following drawings:

[007] Figure 1 shows a sheep wearing the apparatus;

[008] Figure 2 is a flow diagram showing an exemplary chain of events when the apparatus is in use;

[009] Figures 3A and 3B show a sheep in a first orientation and a second orientation respectively;

[0010] Figure 4 shows a first example of a corrective mechanism; and

[0011] Figure 5 shows a further example of a corrective mechanism.

[0012] The same reference numbers are consistently used across the figures to represent similar components. Detailed Description

[0013] The following embodiments of the invention are provided as examples only. These represent one or more known arrangements for implementing the invention, but they are not the only possible approaches. The description outlines the functions of the examples and the steps involved in their construction and operation. However, similar or equivalent functions and processes may be achieved through alternative implementations.

[0014] The present invention provides a wearable, self-righting apparatus for livestock, which may reduce or even eliminate the need for external machinery or human intervention. Unlike current conventional solutions that require reactive manual operation, this arrangement remains affixed to the animal and automatically detects undesirable orientations.

[0015] There is shown in Figure 1 a sheep 100 wearing a harness 105. For clarity, the apparatus is described in reference to its use with sheep, although it is appreciated that any animal may have an appropriately sized apparatus fitted and used. The harness 105 allows for a plurality of modules to be safely yet securely worn by the sheep 100. One such module is a sensor 110, operable to detect if the sheep 100 is in a particular orientation such as being on its back. In one example, this would subsequently trigger a corrective mechanism 115. The corrective mechanism 115 shown in Figure 1 is an airbag, which may be rapidly filled with air so as to propel the sheep 100 from an inverted position back to a preferred, upright position.

[0016] To achieve this, the sensor 110 may incorporate an inertial measurement unit (IMU), comprising one or more of an accelerometer, a magnetometer, and / or a gyroscope. The accelerometer may continuously measure changes in gravitational forces acting on the sensor 110, allowing it to determine the absolute orientation of the sheep 100 relative to the ground. The gyroscope, in turn, may detect angular velocity, enabling the sensor 100 to track changes in position over time and distinguish between normal movements such as when the sheep 100 is grazing, and a state in which the sheep 100 has become stuck in a non-recoverable position. A magnetometer can assist the IMU by improving orientation accuracy, particularly in challenging conditions where accelerometer and gyroscope data alone may be insufficient.

[0017] To enhance accuracy and prevent false triggers, the sensor may employ a microcontroller with embedded software that processes data from the IMU. The microcontroller may continuously analyse real-time readings, comparing them against a predefined threshold indicative of an undesirable orientation. A filtering algorithm, such as a Kalman filter or other complementary filter, may be utilised to refine the sensor data, reducing the impact of transient movements or sudden jolts that may otherwise cause erroneous detections. The arrangement may also incorporate a timer module for use in a time-delay mechanism, ensuring that brief but recoverable positioning changes, such as a sheep rolling during normal behaviour, do not immediately activate the corrective mechanism. Instead, the sensor 110 may require the sheep 100 to remain in the detected orientation for a preset duration before initiating a response, further minimising unnecessary activations.

[0018] To ensure reliability in outdoor conditions, the sensor 110 may be enclosed in a weather-resistant housing that protects it from moisture, dirt, and temperature extremes. The sensor 110 may be powered by a rechargeable battery, which is either replaceable or supplemented by a solar panel and / or kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) to capture kinetic energy from the sheep 100 and store it for later use to extend operational longevity. The battery may be in electronic communication with any electronic device included within the apparatus as described herein.

[0019] A low-power mode may be implemented to conserve energy when the animal is upright, only activating full data sampling and processing when a change in orientation is detected. In some embodiments, the sensor 110 may also include wireless communication capabilities, allowing data to be transmitted to a remote monitoring system or mobile device for additional oversight by a farmer or veterinarian. This communication feature enables real-time alerts to be sent when a sheep 100 remains in a problematic orientation for an extended period, providing an additional safeguard and allowing for human intervention if required.

[0020] Figure 2 outlines a method of use of the apparatus, beginning with the attachment of a harness or securing apparatus 105 to the sheep 100, ensuring a stable and comfortable fit. The harness 105 may be designed to remain in place during regular activity and may be constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials suitable for prolonged use in outdoor conditions. The apparatus contains an integrated sensor system 110, allowing it to determine when the sheep 100 has transitioned into an undesirable orientation, such as being cast onto its back. The system is calibrated to distinguish between normal postures, such as lying down naturally, and situations where the animal is unable to correct its own position.

[0021] Upon determining that the sheep 100 is in a first orientation that is undesirable and potentially dangerous, such as on its back for more than a predetermined amount of time, the apparatus initiates a corrective response. This response may be triggered automatically by an electronic control unit processing data from the sensor 110, or it may be mechanically activated by a physical sensor that responds directly to changes in weight distribution or pressure. In an electronic activation scenario, a microprocessor analyses real-time sensor data, confirming that the detected position is beyond a predefined threshold before triggering the corrective mechanism 115. In a mechanical activation scenario, a simple mechanical switch or pressure-activated system engages the corrective mechanism 115 without requiring electronic processing. Optionally, the corrective mechanism 115 may be triggered remotely, following the transmission of sensor 110 data to another device.

[0022] The corrective mechanism itself may take various forms, including but not limited to an inflatable bladder, a mechanical lever, a motorised rolling system, or a propulsion-based compressed gas mechanism that provides sufficient force to roll the sheep 100 back into a stable position. The force applied may be carefully controlled to avoid injury or distress while ensuring effective reorientation, and optionally the corrective mechanism 115 has a number of predetermined levels of force which can be applied depending on the weight and / or species of the animal.

[0023] Once the corrective mechanism 115 has been deployed, the applied force restores the sheep 100 to a second orientation in which it is able to regain its footing and move independently. The system may be designed to ensure that once the animal is righted, it does not inadvertently trigger another activation, preventing unnecessary energy expenditure or stress to the sheep 100. Some implementations may include a delay or reset mechanism to prevent repeated activations within a short time frame. After the animal returns to a preferred stance, the sensor 110 system may continue to monitor its orientation, remaining in standby mode until another rollover event is detected.

[0024] Figures 3A and 3B show two orientations in which a sheep 100 might find itself. In the first orientation of Figure 3A, the sheep 100 is positioned on its back with its legs in the air. In this orientation, the sheep 100 may be unable to regain footing. Often referred to as being “cast”, this can occur due to the shape of the sheep’s body, the weight of its fleece, or external environmental factors such as uneven ground. In this state, the sheep 100 is vulnerable to suffocation, circulatory issues, and predation, as it lacks the ability to roll over or push itself upright effectively. Without timely intervention, prolonged exposure in this position can lead to serious distress, injury, or fatality.

[0025] In a second orientation of Figure 3B, the sheep 100 is on its feet in a stable, upright stance, able to move freely and engage in normal behaviours such as grazing, walking, or interacting with its environment. In this position, the sheep 100 has full control over its body, allowing it to adjust its posture as needed and respond to external stimuli. This second orientation is essential for the animal’s health and well-being, as it ensures proper circulation, respiration, and mobility, reducing the risk of injury or environmental hazards.

[0026] In Figure 4, a scenario has occurred in which a sheep 100 grazing on a hillside has stumbled and, owing to the slope and the weight of its fleece, was unable to right itself. The sheep 100 was equipped with the apparatus as described herein, equipped with a corrective mechanism 115 specifically in the form of an airbag.

[0027] The sensor 110 detected the first orientation and triggered the corrective mechanism 115. Within moments, the compact airbag inflated rapidly, exerting enough controlled force to roll the sheep back onto its feet. The airbag may then deflate automatically, allowing the sheep 100 to stand and resume its normal activities. The entire process may occur swiftly, minimising distress to the animal while ensuring its safety.

[0028] In Figure 5, a similar scenario has occurred, but this time the apparatus was equipped with a corrective mechanism 115 specifically in the form of a mechanical arm. As in relation to Figure 4, the sensor 110 detected the first orientation and triggered the corrective mechanism 115. The mechanical arm extended and engaged with the ground, generating a controlled pushing force sufficient to roll the sheep 100 back onto its feet. The arm may then retract automatically into its default position, allowing the sheep 100 to stand and resume its normal activities. The harness 105 may provide an insulating layer between the corrective mechanism 115 and the sheep 100, to protect the sheep 100 from any abrupt temperature changes or mechanical impacts caused when the corrective mechanism 115 is in use.

[0029] The apparatus of any example described herein may further comprise a long-range communication module (not shown in the Figures), configured to interface with the corrective mechanism 115 either electronically or mechanically. This module enables the apparatus to communicate with external systems over extended distances, facilitating remote monitoring and intervention. The long-range communication module may be integrated within the apparatus and linked to the corrective mechanism 115, allowing it to transmit and receive signals that influence the operation of the device.

[0030] In one or more examples, the long-range communication module is configured to receive an external command to remotely activate the corrective mechanism. This allows a user, such as a farmer or veterinarian, to manually trigger the corrective mechanism 115 if the animal is detected in distress. The activation command may be transmitted via various means, such as a mobile application, a web-based interface, and / or a dedicated radio control device. This remote control functionality enhances flexibility and responsiveness, particularly in cases where the automatic detection system is supplemented by human oversight.

[0031] Optionally, the long-range communication module is electronically linked to a camera, which provides visual monitoring of the animal's condition. The camera may be programmed to identify when the animal is in an undesirable orientation, using image recognition, artificial intelligence (Al), and / or motion analysis techniques. Upon detecting that the sheep 100 has rolled over and is unable to regain its footing, the camera may issue a command to the long-range communication module, which in turn activates the corrective mechanism 115. Further, the long-range communication module may be configured to send alerts when the corrective mechanism 115 has been triggered. These alerts may be delivered via SMS, smartphone notifications, and / or radio communication, ensuring that the farmer and / or owner of the sheep 100 is informed of an event in real-time. This functionality enables continuous oversight, even in remote or unattended farming environments, enhancing animal welfare and reducing response times in critical situations.

[0032] Optionally, an alarm (not shown in the Figures) is included in the arrangement as described herein, and set up to emit a noise when the corrective mechanism 115 has been activated. This provides a clear and immediate local signal that an issue has arisen with the sheep 100.

[0033] The apparatus may further comprise a biometric sensor, configured to monitor the health of the animal while the apparatus is in use. This sensor may be integrated into the fastening system, harness, or another suitable part of the apparatus to ensure continuous contact if required with the sheep’s body. The biometric sensor may be capable of measuring various physiological parameters, including but not limited to heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, and movement patterns. By continuously monitoring these metrics, the system may provide valuable insights into the overall well-being of the animal, allowing early detection of health issues such as illness, stress, or injury. The biometric sensor may be configured to store data locally within the apparatus or transmit it wirelessly to an external monitoring system, enabling real-time health tracking and intervention of the corrective mechanism 115 if necessary.

[0034] The apparatus may also include a Global Positioning System (GPS) module, which allows for precise location tracking of the animal. This functionality can be beneficial for both general livestock management and for responding to specific incidents where a sheep 100 may become cast or otherwise immobile. The GPS module may provide real-time positional data, allowing farmers or caretakers to track the movement patterns of a herd over time. The location data may be transmitted via a long-range communication module to a central monitoring system, enabling remote observation of the sheep’s behaviour and activity. This tracking capability can also serve as an additional safeguard, ensuring that corrective interventions are applied appropriately based on both the sheep’s condition and its environmental context.

[0035] In one or more examples, the corrective mechanism is operable only within predefined geographic zones, which may be established using the GPS module. This feature ensures that the corrective system does not activate in locations where it may pose a risk to the animal or its surroundings, such as near cliffs, bodies of water, or dense vegetation where sudden movement could be hazardous. The system may be configured to recognise geofenced boundaries, preventing activation outside of designated safe areas. These zones may be pre-programmed by the user or dynamically updated based on environmental conditions. By restricting activation to specific geographic areas, this feature provides an additional layer of safety and control, ensuring that the apparatus functions effectively while mitigating potential risks associated with automated intervention.

[0036] Optionally, the harness 105 comprises a quick-release mechanism. A quick-release mechanism may allow for rapid removal of the apparatus in emergency situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the sheep 100. For example, if the apparatus becomes tangled in vegetation, fencing, or other obstacles, the quick-release feature enables immediate detachment, reducing the risk of injury or distress for the sheep 100. Additionally, it facilitates easier handling for human operators, allowing them to quickly remove the device for maintenance, battery replacement, and / or medical examinations without causing undue stress to the animal.

[0037] Any numerical range or device specification mentioned herein may be modified or expanded without affecting the intended functionality, as would be evident to a skilled person in the field.

[0038] The benefits and advantages described above may apply to a single embodiment or multiple embodiments. These embodiments are not strictly limited to solving any or all of the issues identified, nor must they necessarily include all of the stated benefits and advantages.

[0039] Any reference to "an" item should be interpreted as referring to one or more of those items. The term "comprising" indicates that the identified method steps or components are included, but it does not imply an exhaustive list, and additional steps or components may be present.

[0040] The steps of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in any appropriate order or simultaneously where applicable. Furthermore, individual steps may be omitted without deviating from the intended scope of the invention. Features from different embodiments may also be combined to create further variations without compromising the desired effect.

[0041] The description of the embodiments provided above serves as an example only, and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. While the embodiments have been detailed with a certain level of specificity or in relation to particular examples, numerous variations and adaptations can be made without departing from the essence or scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A self-righting apparatus for an animal, comprising:a harness;a sensor operable to detect when an animal is in a first orientation; and a corrective mechanism, wherein the corrective mechanism applies a force sufficient to move the animal to a second orientation.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the corrective mechanism comprises one or more of: an inflatable bladder; an airbag; a mechanical lever; a compressed gas jet; and / or a motorised rolling system.

3. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein, in use, the corrective mechanism is automatically activated in response to the sensor detecting an animal in a first orientation.

4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU).

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the IMU comprises one or more of: a gyroscope; a magnetometer; and / or an accelerometer.

6. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a pressure sensor.

7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the harness comprises an insulating layer, which, when in use, is located between the animal and the corrective mechanism.

8. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a long-range communication module in electronic and / or mechanical communication with the corrective mechanism.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the long-range communication module is operable to receive a command to remotely activate the corrective mechanism.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the long-range communication module is in electronic communication with a camera.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the camera is operable to detect when an animal is in the first orientation, and when such a detection is made, issue the command to remotely activate the corrective mechanism.

12. The apparatus of any of claims 8 to 11, wherein the long-range communication module is operable to send an alert when the corrective mechanism has been activated, optionally wherein the alert comprises one or more of: a Short Message Service (SMS) communication, a smartphone notification, and / or a radio communication.

13. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising an alarm, wherein the alarm is operable to generate a noise alert when the corrective mechanism has been activated.

14. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a timer module, which, in use, is operable to monitor the length of time that an animal has been in the first or second orientation.

15. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a battery.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a solar panel operable to recharge the battery.

17. The apparatus of claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS), which, in use, is operable to recharge the battery using kinetic energy harvested from the animal.

18. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the corrective mechanism comprises a plurality of different levels of force application.

19. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of the harness is made from a waterproof material.

20. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a biometric sensor, which, in use, is operable to monitor the health of the animal.

21. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a Global Positioning System (GPS) module.

22. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the corrective mechanism is only operable to activate within predefined geographic zones.

23. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein, in use, the first orientation is an animal having rolled onto its back and the second orientation is when the animal is on its feet.

24. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the harness comprises a quick-release mechanism.

25. A method of changing the orientation of an animal using the apparatus of any preceding claim.

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