Frances Cox Mills

US Patent:

20090241840, Oct 1, 2009

Filed:

Apr 1, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/060290

Inventors:

Frances Kay Mills - Chicago IL, US

International Classification:

A01K 5/02

US Classification:

119 5102, 119 5112, 119 53

Abstract:

An animal feeder and animal feeding system is provided that utilizes radio frequency identification technology to permit animals selective access to food. The animal feeder includes a universal base containing all of the necessary control electronics including a radio frequency transceiver and antenna. A given number of pre-defined codes are associated with sets of removable dishes and transponders. The transponders are arranged for attachment to an animal. All dishes and transponders in a given set are associated with the same code and can be used interchangeably. The dishes are sized and shaped to be fit into the base, and while a given dish is disposed in the base, the dish communicates or programs the control electronics with the pre-defined code associated with the dish. Therefore, when an animal wearing a transponder from the same set as that dish approaches the animal feeder, the control electronics recognize the animal and open a lid to permit access to the food contained within the dish.