Behavioral analysis method based on infrared grating principle

Abstract

The application provides a behavior analysis method based on infrared grating principle, cage with experimental animals is placed on activity monitoring device, sensor assembly is arranged in the cage, infrared grating assembly is arranged on the activity monitoring device; the weight of the food trough in the cage is measured, whether the experimental animals have feeding behavior is analyzed; the weight of the water trough in the cage is measured, whether the experimental animals have drinking behavior is analyzed; the movement of the experimental animals is measured, whether the experimental animals have sleeping behavior is analyzed; the movement of the experimental animals is measured, whether the experimental animals have resting behavior is analyzed according to the measured movement data; the movement of the experimental animals is measured, whether the experimental animals have exercise behavior is analyzed according to the measured movement data. The application realizes the monitoring of five core behaviors of feeding, drinking, sleeping, resting and exercise through the cooperation of the infrared grating assembly and the sensor assembly, and avoids one-sidedness of a single index.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the following original application: Original application filing date: September 9, 2025; Original application... Application No.: 202511282497.5; Original Invention Title: Behavioral Analysis Method Based on Infrared Grating Principle. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the field of experimental animal behavior technology, specifically to a behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings, and more particularly to a behavioral analysis method applying the principle of infrared gratings. Background Technology

[0003] Technological research and development require numerous experiments, making the acquisition of the most objective and scientific experimental data crucial. Animal research experiments include studying and experimenting with animal behavioral rhythms. By recording animal behavior patterns, we can investigate behavioral patterns under different environmental conditions. Animal behavior experiments are used to assess the effects of drugs on animal behavior and screen for drugs with potential therapeutic effects. Furthermore, by observing changes in animal behavior, we can evaluate the efficacy and side effects of drugs.

[0004] Traditional experimental animal behavior analysis methods mostly monitor only a single behavior (such as movement or eating), making it difficult to fully capture the complex behavioral patterns of animals and the relationships between various behaviors. Furthermore, behaviors such as eating and drinking rely on manual observation or simple weighing, which have long time intervals and are easily affected by human error. Judgments on behaviors such as sleep and rest are mostly based on subjective definitions (such as rest time) and lack objective evidence combined with physiological indicators.

[0005] Patent document CN116245905A discloses a method and system for analyzing animal behavior videos based on body part tracking. It obtains the location of at least one specific body part of the animal from the video of the animal's behavior to be analyzed, processes anomalies in the location information in the video, and uses the location information of the specific body part and the corresponding video frame rate to time the animal's social behavior and extract time segments of the animal's social behavior. However, this patent document still has the drawback of monitoring only a single behavior. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, the purpose of this invention is to provide a behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings.

[0007] A behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared grating provided by the present invention includes the following steps: Steps for setting up the analysis station: Place the cage containing the experimental animal on the activity monitoring device. The cage is equipped with sensor components, and the activity monitoring device is equipped with infrared grating components. Feeding behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the feed trough in the cage is measured using sensor components. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the presence of feeding behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Drinking behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the water tank in the cage is measured by the sensor component. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the experimental animals are analyzed to determine whether they are drinking. Sleep behavior analysis steps: The movement of the experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data and the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps and the drinking behavior analysis steps, the presence of sleep behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Resting behavior analysis steps: The movement of experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data, and combined with the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps, drinking behavior analysis steps, and sleep behavior analysis steps, the presence of resting behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Motion behavior analysis steps: Measure the movement of the experimental animal using an infrared grating assembly, and analyze whether the experimental animal exhibits motion behavior based on the measured movement data; The steps of comprehensive behavioral analysis are as follows: By combining data on feeding behavior, drinking behavior, sleep behavior, rest behavior, and movement behavior, the behavioral analysis results of the experimental animals are obtained.

[0008] Preferably, in the eating behavior analysis step, the average weight data measured in two unit time periods before and after the analysis are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no eating behavior; if not, it is determined that there is eating behavior. In the drinking behavior analysis step, it is determined whether the average weight data measured in two unit time periods before and after are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no drinking behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is drinking behavior.

[0009] Preferably, in the sleep behavior analysis step, the analysis determines whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a first preset time period is less than or equal to a first preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data from the sensor components, it is determined that there is no eating or drinking behavior, then it is determined that there is sleep behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is no sleep behavior.

[0010] Preferably, in the rest behavior analysis step, the experimental animal is analyzed to determine whether the distance it moves within a second preset time is less than or equal to a second preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data of the sensor components, it is determined that there is no eating or drinking behavior, and based on the measurement data of the infrared grating components, it is determined that there is no sleeping behavior. If not, it is determined that there is no rest behavior. The second preset time is less than the first preset time, and the second preset distance is the same as the first preset distance.

[0011] Preferably, in the movement behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a third preset time period is greater than a third preset distance. If it is, it is determined that there is movement behavior; if not, it is determined that there is no movement behavior. The third preset time is less than the second preset time, and the third preset distance is the same as the second preset distance.

[0012] Preferably, the activity monitoring device includes: Base; The first adjustment bracket is disposed at one end of the base along the Y-axis direction, and the adjustment bracket is provided with a first adjustment serration structure along the Z-axis direction; The second adjustment bracket is disposed at the other end of the base along the Y-axis direction, and the second adjustment bracket is provided with a second adjustment serration structure along the Z-axis direction. A first detection grating, wherein a first left limiting sawtooth structure is provided at one end of the first detection grating along the Y-axis direction, and a first right limiting sawtooth structure is provided at the other end of the first detection grating along the Y-axis direction, and the first right limiting sawtooth structure can move on the first detection grating along the Y-axis direction. The second detection grating has a second left limiting sawtooth structure at one end along the Y-axis and a second right limiting sawtooth structure at the other end along the Y-axis. The second right limiting sawtooth structure can move along the Y-axis on the second detection grating. The first left limiting sawtooth structure and the second left limiting sawtooth structure can engage with the first adjusting sawtooth structure. The first right limiting sawtooth structure and the second right limiting sawtooth structure can engage with the second adjusting sawtooth structure.

[0013] Preferably, a first fixing plate is provided at one end of the first detection grating along the Y-axis direction, and the first left limiting sawtooth structure is provided on the first fixing plate; The other end of the first detection grating along the Y-axis is provided with a first movable plate and a first fastener. The first movable plate can move along the Y-axis on the first detection grating, and the first fastener can fix the first movable plate. The first right limiting sawtooth structure is disposed on the first movable plate; The first movable plate is provided with a first waist-shaped groove, the length direction of the first waist-shaped groove is along the Y-axis direction; The first fastener is a first fastening bolt, which passes through the first waist-shaped groove and is threadedly connected to the first detection grating.

[0014] Preferably, a second fixing plate is provided at one end of the second detection grating along the Y-axis direction, and the second left limiting sawtooth structure is provided on the second fixing plate; The other end of the second detection grating along the Y-axis is provided with a second movable plate and a second fastener. The second movable plate can move on the second detection grating along the Y-axis, and the second fastener can fix the second movable plate. The second right limiting serrated structure is disposed on the second movable plate; The second movable plate is provided with a second waist-shaped groove, the length direction of the second waist-shaped groove is along the Y-axis direction; The second fastener is a second fastening bolt, which passes through the second waist-shaped groove and is threadedly connected to the second detection grating.

[0015] Preferably, the first detection grating is located below the second detection grating; The first detection grating is used for detection in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the second detection grating is used for detection in the Z-axis direction; The base is used to hold the feeding cage; When the breeding cage is placed on the base, the first detection grating and the second detection grating surround the periphery of the breeding cage; The first detection grating is a rectangular frame structure, and the second detection grating is a rectangular frame structure missing one short side.

[0016] Preferably, the adjusting bracket is provided with a first scale line along the Z-axis direction, and the first scale line is provided adjacent to the first adjusting sawtooth structure; The second adjustment bracket has a second scale line along the Z-axis direction, and the second scale line is located adjacent to the second adjustment sawtooth structure.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. This invention achieves simultaneous monitoring of five core behaviors—eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and exercising—through the collaboration of infrared grating components and sensor components, thus avoiding the one-sidedness of a single indicator.

[0018] 2. This invention can uncover potential correlations between different behaviors, such as changes in food intake before and after exercise, and the impact of sleep quality on water drinking frequency, providing more comprehensive data support for the study of animal physiological rhythms and behavioral motivations.

[0019] 3. The infrared grating and weight sensor in this invention are both non-contact monitoring methods, which do not require marking or implanting sensors in animals, thus avoiding interference with animal behavior by invasive operations and ensuring that the data reflects the true behavior under natural conditions.

[0020] 4. This invention can combine the autonomous activity trajectory measured by infrared grating with the monitoring of physiological indicators such as feeding, drinking, and excretion to analyze the overall behavioral activity rhythm of experimental animals or animal disease models. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure for placing the activity monitoring device in the breeding cage Figure 1 ; Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure for placing the activity monitoring device in the breeding cage Figure 2 ; Figure 3 Front view of the activity monitoring device placed in the breeding cage; Figure 4 A side view of the activity monitoring device placed in the breeding cage; Figure 5 Rear view of the activity monitoring device placed in the breeding cage; Figure 6 A top view of the activity monitoring device placed in the breeding cage; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an explosion that houses the activity monitoring device for the breeding cages; Figure 8 Side view of the first and second detection gratings Figure 1 ; Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the first and second detection gratings Figure 1 ; Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the first and second detection gratings Figure 2 ; Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the first and second detection gratings Figure 3 ; Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the first and second detection gratings Figure 4 ; Figure 13 This is a back view of the first and second detection gratings; Figure 14 Side view of the first and second detection gratings Figure 2 ; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the scanning of the first detection grating; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the scanning of the second detection grating; Figure 17 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the breeding cage Figure 1 ; Figure 18 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the breeding cage Figure 2 ; Figure 19 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the module locking knob, gas detection sampling tube, and feeding cage; Figure 20 Side view of the module locking knob, gas detection sampling tube, and feeding cage; Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings. Figure 22 Diagram of rhythms for behavioral activities involving eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and exercising. Figure 1 ; Figure 23 Diagram of rhythms for behavioral activities involving eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and exercising. Figure 2 ; Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating the distance traveled.

[0022] The diagram shows: Detailed Implementation

[0023] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments. These embodiments will help those skilled in the art to further understand the present invention, but do not limit the invention in any way. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several changes and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention. These all fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0024] Example 1 like Figures 1 to 24 As shown, this embodiment provides a behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings, including the following steps: Steps for setting up the analysis station: Place the cage containing the experimental animal on the activity monitoring device. The cage is equipped with sensor components, and the activity monitoring device is equipped with an infrared grating component.

[0025] Feeding behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the feed trough in the cage is measured using sensor components. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the presence of feeding behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. In the eating behavior analysis step, the average weight data measured in two consecutive time units are analyzed to see if they are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no eating behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is eating behavior.

[0026] Drinking behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the water tank in the cage is measured by the sensor component. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the experimental animals are analyzed to determine whether they are drinking. In the water drinking behavior analysis step, it is determined whether the average weight data measured in the two unit time periods before and after are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no water drinking behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is water drinking behavior.

[0027] Sleep behavior analysis steps: The movement of the experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data and the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps and the drinking behavior analysis steps, the presence of sleep behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. In the sleep behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a first preset time is less than or equal to a first preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data of the sensor components, it is determined that there is no eating or drinking behavior, then it is determined that there is sleep behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is no sleep behavior.

[0028] Resting behavior analysis steps: The movement of experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data, and combined with the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps, drinking behavior analysis steps, and sleep behavior analysis steps, the presence of resting behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. In the resting behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a second preset time is less than or equal to a second preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data of the sensor components, it is determined that there is no eating or drinking behavior, and based on the measurement data of the infrared grating components, it is determined that there is no sleeping behavior, then it is determined that there is resting behavior. If not, it is determined that there is no resting behavior. The second preset time is less than the first preset time, and the second preset distance is the same as the first preset distance.

[0029] Motion behavior analysis steps: Measure the movement of the experimental animal using an infrared grating assembly, and analyze whether the experimental animal exhibits motion behavior based on the measured movement data; In the movement behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a third preset time period is greater than a third preset distance. If it is, it is determined that there is movement behavior; if not, it is determined that there is no movement behavior. The third preset time period is less than the second preset time period, and the third preset distance is the same as the second preset distance.

[0030] The steps of comprehensive behavioral analysis are as follows: By combining data on feeding behavior, drinking behavior, sleep behavior, rest behavior, and movement behavior, the behavioral analysis results of the experimental animals are obtained.

[0031] like Figures 1 to 20As shown, this embodiment provides a behavioral analysis stage based on the principle of infrared grating, including: a base 1, a first adjustment bracket 2, a second adjustment bracket 3, a first detection grating 4, and a second detection grating 5.

[0032] An adjustment bracket 2 is located at one end of the base 1 along the Y-axis, and a first adjustment serration structure 21 is provided on the adjustment bracket 2 along the Z-axis. An adjustment bracket 3 is located at the other end of the base 1 along the Y-axis, and a second adjustment serration structure 31 is provided on the second adjustment bracket 3 along the Z-axis. A first detection grating 4 has a first left limiting serration structure 41 at one end along the Y-axis and a first right limiting serration structure 42 at the other end along the Y-axis. The first right limiting serration structure 42 can move along the Y-axis at the first detection grating. The second detection grating 4 moves along the Y-axis; one end of the second detection grating 5 along the Y-axis is provided with a second left limiting sawtooth structure 51, and the other end of the second detection grating 5 along the Y-axis is provided with a second right limiting sawtooth structure 52. The second right limiting sawtooth structure 52 can move along the Y-axis on the second detection grating 5; the first left limiting sawtooth structure 41 and the second left limiting sawtooth structure 51 can engage with the first adjusting sawtooth structure 21; the first right limiting sawtooth structure 42 and the second right limiting sawtooth structure 52 can engage with the second adjusting sawtooth structure 31.

[0033] The first detection grating 4 is located below the second detection grating 5. The first detection grating 4 is used for detection in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the second detection grating 5 is used for detection in the Z-axis direction. The base 1 is used to place the breeding cage 6; when the breeding cage 6 is placed on the base 1, the first detection grating 4 and the second detection grating 5 surround the periphery of the breeding cage 6.

[0034] The first detection grating 4 is a rectangular frame structure, and the second detection grating 5 is a rectangular frame structure missing one short side. The adjustment bracket 2 is provided with a first scale line 22 along the Z-axis direction, and the first scale line 22 is located adjacent to the first adjustment sawtooth structure 21; the second adjustment bracket 3 is provided with a second scale line 32 along the Z-axis direction, and the second scale line 32 is located adjacent to the second adjustment sawtooth structure 31.

[0035] A first fixed plate 43 is provided at one end of the first detection grating 4 along the Y-axis, and a first left limiting serrated structure 41 is provided on the first fixed plate 43. A first movable plate 44 and a first fastener 45 are provided at the other end of the first detection grating 4 along the Y-axis. The first movable plate 44 can move along the first detection grating 4 along the Y-axis, and the first fastener 45 can fix the first movable plate 44. A first right limiting serrated structure 42 is provided on the first movable plate 44. A first waist-shaped groove 441 is provided on the first movable plate 44, and the length direction of the first waist-shaped groove 441 is along the Y-axis. The first fastener 45 is a first fastening bolt, which passes through the first waist-shaped groove 441 and is threadedly connected to the first detection grating 4.

[0036] A second fixed plate 53 is provided at one end of the second detection grating 5 along the Y-axis, and a second left limiting serrated structure 51 is provided on the second fixed plate 53. A second movable plate 54 and a second fastener 55 are provided at the other end of the second detection grating 5 along the Y-axis. The second movable plate 54 can move along the Y-axis on the second detection grating 5, and the second fastener 55 can fix the second movable plate 54. A second right limiting serrated structure 51 is provided on the second movable plate 54. A second waist-shaped groove 541 is provided on the second movable plate 54, and the length direction of the second waist-shaped groove 541 is along the Y-axis. The second fastener 55 is a second fastening bolt, which passes through the second waist-shaped groove 541 and is threadedly connected to the second detection grating 5.

[0037] In this embodiment, the feeding cage 6 includes a cover 61 and a cage body 62. The cover 61 is provided with a feed compartment 611, a weighing module 612, a weighing chamber 613, a drinking water compartment 614, a temperature and humidity detection module 615, a movement distance detection module 616, a running wheel 617, a module locking knob 618, and a gas detection sampling tube 619.

[0038] The cover 61 is provided with a first mounting hole, a second mounting hole, a third mounting hole, a fourth mounting hole, and a fifth mounting hole. The feed compartment 611 is mounted on the cover 61 through the first mounting hole and locked in place by the module locking knob 618. The weighing module 612 and the weighing compartment 613 are assembled together, mounted on the cover 61 through the second mounting hole, and locked in place by the module locking knob 618. The drinking water compartment 614 is mounted on the cover 61 through the third mounting hole and locked in place by the module locking knob 618. The movement distance detection module 616 and the running wheel 617 are assembled together, mounted on the cover 61 through the fourth mounting hole, and locked in place by the module locking knob 618. The temperature and humidity detection module 615 is mounted on the cover 61 through the fifth mounting hole. The gas detection sampling tube 619 is located on the cover 61 and inside the cage 62.

[0039] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, Figure 15 The arrows in the figure indicate the scanning direction and area of ​​the first detection grating 4. The animal position is detected by alternating scanning along the X and Y axes. The left side of the figure shows the alternating scanning along the Y axis, and the right side shows the alternating scanning along the X axis. Figure 16 The arrows in the diagram indicate the scanning direction and area of ​​the second detection grating 5. The height and position of the animal being tested are detected by alternating scanning along the Z-axis. The diagram shows an alternating scanning along the Z-axis.

[0040] The first detection grating is located between the second detection grating and the base in the height direction; detection units are respectively arranged on the first detection grating along the X and Y directions, and a height triggering unit is arranged on the second detection grating; both the detection unit and the height triggering unit are infrared gratings; the infrared grating includes a transmitter and a receiver.

[0041] The rearing cage includes: a lid, a cage body, a feeding box, and a water box; the feeding box and water box are located inside the cage body, which is used to hold the laboratory animals. The cage body is transparent. A carbon dioxide meter is installed on the lid to measure the carbon dioxide concentration inside the cage. An oxygen meter is also installed on the lid to measure the oxygen concentration inside the cage.

[0042] The detection unit's recognition area covers the animal's activity area; when the animal is standing, the height-triggered unit's recognition area covers the animal's head area; infrared gratings are arranged along the X and Y directions on the first detection grating; infrared gratings are arranged along either the X or Y direction on the second detection grating; infrared gratings are evenly spaced on both the first and second detection gratings. A set of infrared gratings is arranged every 1–10 mm on both the first and second detection gratings.

[0043] Both the first and second detection gratings are infrared gratings. Each infrared grating includes a transmitter and a receiver; the transmitter contains one or more infrared light-emitting diodes; the receiver contains one or more infrared photodiodes or phototransistors. The receiver of the infrared grating may have a bandpass filter or a light-shielding cover.

[0044] The transmitter includes one or more infrared light-emitting diodes; the receiver includes one or more infrared photodiodes or phototransistors. The receiver with the infrared grating may have a bandpass filter, or a light shield may be provided on the receiver with the infrared grating.

[0045] The first and second detection gratings can acquire the coordinates (X, Y, Z) of the experimental animal. Based on the changes in coordinates, the behavioral information of the experimental animal can be analyzed. This process can be achieved based on existing software processing. The focus of this embodiment is to provide the hardware structure foundation.

[0046] Example 2 Those skilled in the art can understand this embodiment as a more specific description of Embodiment 1.

[0047] The purpose of this embodiment is to provide a behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings. The analysis method combines positional change information obtained from the infrared grating with monitoring of physiological indicators such as feeding, drinking, and excretion. The method is as follows: 1. Eating behavior Food contact: Changes in food intake; Contact with food: Reduced food intake (compared to average intake per minute); Contact with non-food: No reduction in food intake (compared to average per minute).

[0048] 2. Drinking behavior Contact with drinking water: Changes in water intake; Contact with drinking water: Reduced water intake (compared to average per minute); Contact with non-drinking: No decrease in water intake (compared to the average per minute).

[0049] 3. Sleep behavior The mouse moves a distance of less than or equal to one unit within the designated location, and remains in this state for at least 5 minutes; and there is no contact with food or water.

[0050] 4. Resting behavior If a mouse moves less than or equal to 1 unit within a given location every 2 minutes and is not in contact with food or water, it is considered to be in a non-sleep state.

[0051] 5. Motor behavior The distance traveled per minute was greater than 1 unit, excluding contact with food and drink.

[0052] like Figure 24 As shown, the formula for calculating the distance traveled is:

[0053] Where (X11, Y11) represents the coordinates of point A, (X12, Y12) represents the coordinates of point B, (X21, Y21) represents the coordinates of point C, and (X22, Y22) represents the coordinates of point D.

[0054] Step S1: Organize the data.

[0055] The behavioral activities of mice were categorized into five states: eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and moving. Physiological indicators were analyzed based on location data obtained from infrared gratings and weight changes monitored by weight sensors in the food and water troughs.

[0056] Step S2: Determine the criteria for classifying each activity behavior.

[0057] a. Dietary and water-drinking behaviors First, the amount of food and water consumed can be determined by monitoring weight changes through weight sensors in the food and water troughs. Whether the weight of food and water decreases indicates the presence of these behaviors. To prevent errors caused by mice touching the weight sensors during activity, the average value over a unit of time is used as a reference. Furthermore, if the reference average value changes but does not decrease, it is considered to be caused by the mouse touching the weight monitoring device during activity, i.e., contact with uneaten or undrinked food or water. However, this can still be used as a reference indicator for motor behavior.

[0058] b. Motor behavior The mouse movement behavior was considered in light of the fact that its movement would inevitably cause changes in the position information of the infrared grating. The movement distance was set to be more than two units, and the movement behavior standard obtained from the analysis of food and water indicators was taken into account.

[0059] c. Sleep behavior To determine mouse sleep behavior, according to literature, the sleep cycle time of mice is at least 5 minutes, so the criterion is set at 5 minutes. Considering the movement of mice during sleep, the location information data obtained by infrared grating is specified, and the activity range is within a circle of one unit distance. It is also important to exclude interference from behaviors that have been identified as eating, drinking and moving behaviors.

[0060] d. Resting behavior Based on the judgment of sleep behavior, the mouse scratches its head and rubs its hands in place to rest, and considers the movement of the mouse during sleep. The position information data obtained by the infrared grating is specified to be within a circle of one unit distance, and interference from behaviors judged as sleep behavior and movement behaviors such as eating and drinking is excluded.

[0061] This embodiment can combine the autonomous activity trajectory measured by infrared grating with the monitoring of physiological indicators such as feeding, drinking, and excretion to analyze the overall behavioral activity rhythm of experimental animals or animal disease models; This embodiment can last for a long time 7 The animals' autonomous activity trajectories were collected continuously for 24 hours.

[0062] This embodiment can classify animal behavior and automatically analyze five categories of behavioral activities: eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and exercising, based on the collected experimental data.

[0063] This embodiment can obtain a behavioral rhythm activity diagram. All behaviors are binary, and within a 24h / 48h period, the occurrence of drinking, eating, sleeping, resting, and exercising behaviors is measured every minute. If a behavior occurs, it is marked as 1 in that minute, and if it does not occur, it is marked as 0. Then, each minute is measured one by one, thus obtaining a binary state of behavior with time as the axis. Plotting the graph yields the rhythm activity diagram.

[0064] Compared with methods that use cameras to collect animal behavior, this embodiment has lower requirements for lighting, higher tolerance for complex environments within the cage, and generates much less data than video, making data processing easier.

[0065] This embodiment also provides a laboratory animal activity monitoring device for implementing the above-described behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings.

[0066] The device consists of a base, an adjustable-height support frame, an XY-plane grating frame, and a Z-plane grating frame. Experimental animals are placed in cages, which are then positioned within the XY-plane frame area and on the base.

[0067] The base is connected to the support frame via screws. The support frame supports and connects the XY-plane grating frame and the Z-plane grating frame via knobs. The knobs on the support frame are used to adjust the height of the XY-plane and Z-plane grating frames. The screws serve to secure and stabilize the various components. In the height direction, the XY-plane grating frame is located between the Z-plane grating frame and the base. Infrared gratings are installed on both the XY-plane and Z-plane grating frames to monitor the activities of the experimental animals in the XY and Z directions, respectively.

[0068] Infrared grating detection principle: An infrared grating is a device that uses infrared light for detection, commonly used in security protection, automation control, and other fields. It consists of a transmitter and a receiver, and determines whether an object has entered the monitored area by emitting infrared light and detecting whether it is blocked.

[0069] Transmitter: The transmitter contains one or more infrared light-emitting diodes (IR LEDs) that emit infrared light. This infrared light is usually modulated to distinguish it from background noise and other interfering signals.

[0070] Receiver: The receiver contains one or more infrared photodiodes or phototransistors, which detect infrared light. When the infrared light is unobstructed, the receiver can receive the infrared signal, and the system remains in normal operation. If an object enters the path of the infrared light and blocks it, the receiver will not be able to detect the infrared signal.

[0071] The infrared grating of the experimental animal activity monitoring device in this embodiment is an array or multi-pair type, with multiple sets of transmitters and receivers arranged in a fence shape.

[0072] This device employs an array-type grating monitoring principle. An infrared grating is positioned every 2 mm. Each time the animal's body blocks the light source, it causes a change in the grating signal, generating coordinates. As the animal moves, these coordinates change, leading to displacement. The measurement process can thus identify the number of animal movements and the amount of activity. When the animal stands, it triggers a Z-plane grating, allowing the determination of the number of times it stands and the amount of movement.

[0073] When the experimental animal moves horizontally on the monitoring device, it partially blocks the infrared grating on the XY-plane grating frame. Based on the blocked infrared signal, the animal's coordinates (X, Y) are determined. Then, by calculating the changes in the animal's coordinates, the amount of movement can be obtained. During movement, an animal in a standing position will trigger the height trigger unit in the Z-plane grating frame; when the animal sits or lies down to rest, the height trigger unit is not triggered. If the experimental animal does not move in the XYZ directions for an extended period, it is considered to be in a sleeping state.

[0074] Regarding signal strength and stability, infrared grating systems rely on the emission and reception of infrared light to detect the position of objects; therefore, signal strength and stability are crucial. This embodiment employs a high-performance infrared transmitter and a sensitive receiver, along with signal enhancement and filtering techniques, to ensure stable signals in various environments.

[0075] Regarding anti-interference capabilities, environmental factors (such as light, temperature changes, electromagnetic interference, etc.) can affect the performance of infrared grating systems. This embodiment takes the impact of environmental factors into account during the design and takes corresponding measures to reduce interference, such as using low-pass filters, adding light shields, and employing anti-interference signal processing algorithms.

[0076] Signal processing algorithms filter interference signals from the following aspects: (1) Frequency modulation: Infrared gratings can use modulated infrared signals to avoid interference by changing the frequency of the transmitted signal. This allows the receiver to identify specific signal patterns while ignoring other unmodulated or different frequency signals.

[0077] (2) Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): By adjusting the pulse width of the infrared signal, a unique signal characteristic can be created, enabling the system to distinguish between real signals and noise.

[0078] (3) Encoding technology: Adding specific encoding, such as digital encoding or sequence encoding, to the signal can ensure that only the signal with the correct encoding will be recognized, thereby avoiding false alarms.

[0079] (4) Synchronization detection: There is a strict synchronization mechanism between the transmitter and the receiver. Only when a signal matching the transmitted signal is received is it considered a valid signal.

[0080] (5) Signal strength threshold: Set a signal strength threshold. Only when the received signal strength exceeds this threshold is it considered a valid signal. This can filter out weak or background interference signals.

[0081] (6) Physical isolation and shielding: The infrared light measurement method is used, and the environment has a great deal of interference with the signal. There is no need to carry out physical isolation and shielding to reduce the influence of the external environment on the infrared grating.

[0082] (7) Intelligent algorithms: Integrates some intelligent algorithms to analyze signals and distinguish between real targets and interference sources.

[0083] Regarding measurement accuracy, the measurement accuracy of the infrared grating directly affects the accuracy of the entire system. This embodiment optimizes the design of the infrared grating, for example, by reducing the grating spacing, improving the receiver resolution, and employing high-precision signal processing algorithms.

[0084] Regarding response time, the response time of an infrared grating system determines its applicability in detecting high-speed moving objects. This embodiment employs fast-response infrared elements, optimizes the signal processing flow, and reduces latency.

[0085] Regarding adaptability, the infrared grating system needs to be able to adapt to different application scenarios. This embodiment provides flexible configuration options, such as adjustable grating spacing and programmable output signal types.

[0086] Regarding environmental adaptability, infrared grating systems may be affected by environmental factors (such as light intensity, temperature changes, dust, etc.), and it is necessary to ensure that the system can operate stably in various complex environments.

[0087] Regarding multipath reflection, in some environments, infrared light may be reflected multiple times, leading to signal distortion. It is necessary to effectively suppress the influence of multipath reflection to ensure the accuracy of the measurement.

[0088] The following measures can be taken to suppress multipath reflections: (1) System design optimization a. Reduce reflective surfaces: When designing the system, minimize the number of internal reflective surfaces to avoid unnecessary optical paths.

[0089] b. Anti-reflective coating: Applying an anti-reflective coating to the surface of optical components reduces reflectivity, thereby reducing the possibility of multiple reflections.

[0090] c. Light-blocking measures: Add light-absorbing materials to the system to reduce unwanted reflected light paths.

[0091] d. Aperture usage: Adjust the position and size of the aperture appropriately to reduce the amount of light from non-direct paths and reduce the impact of multiple reflections.

[0092] e. Angle design: Design the angle of optical components reasonably to prevent reflected light from re-entering the critical optical path of the system.

[0093] (2) Materials and Surface Treatment a. Low-reflectivity materials: Optical components are made from materials with low reflectivity to reduce the chance of reflection.

[0094] b. Matte or frosted finish: For surfaces that do not require high reflectivity, a matte or frosted finish can be applied to reduce specular reflection.

[0095] (3) Signal processing a. Algorithm compensation: Using signal processing algorithms, such as digital filtering and deconvolution, to correct signal distortion.

[0096] b. Pattern recognition: Pattern recognition technology distinguishes valid signals from noise generated by multiple reflections.

[0097] c. Time resolution: Analyze signals in the time domain to identify and filter out delayed, multiple-reflection signals.

[0098] (4) Detection and calibration a. System calibration: The system is calibrated periodically to compensate for any long-term drift caused by multiple reflections.

[0099] b. Feedback control: Implement a closed-loop feedback control mechanism to dynamically adjust system parameters to minimize the impact of multiple reflections.

[0100] (5) Software and Modeling a. Ray tracing simulation: Using ray tracing software to simulate the optical path within the system, predict multiple reflections, and optimize the design.

[0101] b. Advanced ghost image analysis: Develop specialized software algorithms to analyze and compensate for ghost image effects caused by multiple reflections.

[0102] (6) Cleaning and maintenance a. Regular cleaning: Keep optical components clean to prevent dust and stains from adding extra reflection points.

[0103] b. Temperature control: Controlling the temperature of the working environment reduces the change in refractive index caused by thermal effects, thereby reducing reflection.

[0104] Regarding the impact of obstructions, when the infrared light path is blocked, false alarms or missed alarms may occur, requiring algorithms or other means to identify and address the obstruction issue. This embodiment integrates several intelligent algorithms to analyze the signal and distinguish between real targets and interference sources.

[0105] Regarding reliability during long-term operation, the infrared grating system needs to be able to operate stably for extended periods and maintain good performance even under prolonged operation.

[0106] Regarding cost-effectiveness, a balance needs to be struck between the cost and performance of infrared grating systems. It is necessary to reduce costs while ensuring performance and improving cost-effectiveness.

[0107] Regarding signal synchronization and decoding, multi-beam infrared grating systems require precise synchronization of transmitted and received signals, and need to achieve accurate signal synchronization and correctly decode the received information.

[0108] When measuring the position of an object using an infrared grating, it is necessary to consider both the optimization of hardware design and the improvement of software algorithms. By overcoming these key points and difficulties, the performance and reliability of the infrared grating system can be improved, making it suitable for more application scenarios.

[0109] The activity monitoring device in this embodiment detects and monitors the animal's horizontal activities through the detection unit on the XY plane grating frame, and monitors the animal's vertical activities (such as head raising) through the height triggering unit on the Z plane grating frame, thus realizing automatic and accurate monitoring of experimental animals.

[0110] In this embodiment, the heights of the XY-plane grating frame and the Z-plane grating frame are adjustable, making them suitable for monitoring animals of different heights and sizes.

[0111] In this embodiment, a bandpass filter and a light shield are provided on the infrared grating receiver to reduce the impact of environmental factors on the performance of the infrared grating system.

[0112] This invention achieves simultaneous monitoring of five core behaviors—eating, drinking, sleeping, resting, and exercising—through the synergy of infrared grating components and sensor components, thus avoiding the limitations of a single indicator.

[0113] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0114] Specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications within the scope of the claims, which do not affect the essence of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be arbitrarily combined with each other.

Claims

1. A behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared gratings, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Steps for setting up the analysis station: Place the cage containing the experimental animal on the activity monitoring device. The cage is equipped with sensor components, and the activity monitoring device is equipped with infrared grating components. Feeding behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the feed trough in the cage is measured using sensor components. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the presence of feeding behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Drinking behavior analysis steps: At preset time intervals, the weight of the water tank in the cage is measured by the sensor component. Based on the weight data from the two measurements, the experimental animals are analyzed to determine whether they are drinking. Sleep behavior analysis steps: The movement of the experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data and the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps and the drinking behavior analysis steps, the presence of sleep behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Resting behavior analysis steps: The movement of experimental animals is measured using an infrared grating component. Based on the measured movement data, and combined with the analysis results of the feeding behavior analysis steps, drinking behavior analysis steps, and sleep behavior analysis steps, the presence of resting behavior in the experimental animals is analyzed. Motion behavior analysis steps: Measure the movement of the experimental animal using an infrared grating assembly, and analyze whether the experimental animal exhibits motion behavior based on the measured movement data; Comprehensive behavioral analysis steps: Combining data on feeding behavior, drinking behavior, sleep behavior, resting behavior, and movement behavior, the behavioral analysis results of the experimental animals are obtained. In the sleep behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a first preset time is less than or equal to a first preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data of the sensor components, it is determined that there is no eating or drinking behavior, then it is determined that there is sleep behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is no sleep behavior. In the rest behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a second preset time is less than or equal to a second preset distance. If so, and based on the measurement data of the sensor component, it is analyzed that there is no eating or drinking behavior, and based on the measurement data of the infrared grating component, it is analyzed that there is no sleeping behavior, then it is determined that there is rest behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is no rest behavior. The second preset time is less than the first preset time, and the second preset distance is the same as the first preset distance.

2. The behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared grating according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the feeding behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the average weight data measured in two unit time periods are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no feeding behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is feeding behavior. In the drinking behavior analysis step, it is determined whether the average weight data measured in two unit time periods before and after are the same. If they are the same, it is determined that there is no drinking behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is drinking behavior.

3. The behavioral analysis method based on the principle of infrared grating according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the movement behavior analysis step, it is analyzed whether the distance the experimental animal moves within a third preset time period is greater than a third preset distance. If it is, it is determined that there is movement behavior; otherwise, it is determined that there is no movement behavior. The third preset time is less than the second preset time, and the third preset distance is the same as the second preset distance.

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