Livestock temperature measurement probe integrated with temperature monitoring function

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of livestock breeding, and particularly relates to a livestock body temperature measuring probe integrated with a temperature monitoring function, which comprises a temperature measuring main body, a fixing assembly and a signal transmission module. The temperature measuring main body is a flexible heat-conducting tubular structure and inlaid with a temperature sensor; the fixing assembly is composed of an elastic clamping piece and an external wrapping layer, so that the device can be stably attached to the surface of livestock; and the signal transmission module comprises a low-power Bluetooth unit and a data processing chip and is used for collecting and wirelessly transmitting body temperature data in real time. The application improves the measurement accuracy through a multilayer material composite design, enhances the wearing reliability by using an anti-skid structure, and is suitable for continuous monitoring of the core body temperature of large livestock such as pigs and cows. The application has the characteristics of simple structure, convenient installation and accurate measurement, solves the problems that ear temperature measurement is greatly disturbed by the environment and anal temperature measurement is easy to fall off in the prior art, and provides technical support for intelligent management of livestock breeding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of livestock breeding and intelligent monitoring technology, specifically a livestock body temperature measurement probe with integrated temperature monitoring function. Background Technology

[0002] In the livestock farming sector, animal body temperature is an important physiological indicator reflecting animal health status, and its accurate acquisition is of great significance for early disease warning, estrus monitoring, and health management. With the continuous improvement of intelligent farming, the demand for real-time and continuous body temperature monitoring is increasing, especially in large-scale farms such as pig and cattle farms. Existing technologies have developed a variety of devices for body temperature measurement, aiming to achieve automated and long-term monitoring.

[0003] A search revealed a livestock anal temperature measurement device with publication number CN112880878B, published on August 2, 2022. This technology uses a tail-mounted component at the base of the tail, connected to a sliding anal temperature measurement component. The animal's tail-raising and lowering movements cause the temperature-measuring segment to extend or retract from the anus, thus achieving continuous body temperature monitoring. This structure can, to some extent, prevent infection caused by prolonged retention. However, its mechanical linkage design is complex, and installation and debugging are challenging. Furthermore, the device is prone to displacement or detachment during frequent activity or lying down in animals such as pigs and cattle, leading to unstable temperature data. In addition, the device relies on tail movement for activation; for slow-moving, weak, or resting animals (such as postpartum sows or sick cattle), it is difficult to effectively trigger the temperature measurement action, easily causing data loss and affecting the actual effectiveness of continuous monitoring.

[0004] A search revealed a temperature measurement device for the auricle, with publication number CN106137140B and publication date July 2, 2019. This technology embeds a temperature sensor into the ear tag structure, transmits ear tissue temperature through a thermally conductive material, and combines wireless signal transmission to achieve body temperature monitoring. This solution has the advantages of simple installation and low cost, making it suitable for preliminary screening of groups. However, auricle temperature is greatly affected by ambient temperature, humidity, wind speed, and the state of blood circulation in the ear, especially in cold seasons or poorly ventilated pigsties, where ear temperature deviates significantly from core body temperature, making it difficult to guarantee measurement accuracy. In addition, ear tag devices are easily damaged or detached due to friction and biting between livestock, leading to data interruption, and cannot directly measure deep body temperature, limiting their application value in veterinary clinical diagnosis.

[0005] The aforementioned existing technologies indicate that current mainstream rectal and ear temperature measurement devices suffer from insufficient adaptability, limited measurement accuracy, and low stability, respectively, making it difficult to simultaneously ensure comfort during long-term wear, measurement accuracy, and convenience for clinical use. In particular, grassroots veterinarians engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of swine and bovine diseases urgently need a measurement probe that is simple in structure, reliable in installation, can directly reflect core body temperature, and has integrated temperature monitoring functions to achieve continuous and accurate temperature tracking of key individuals. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a livestock body temperature measurement probe with integrated temperature monitoring function, so as to solve the technical problems of the complex mechanical structure of the anal temperature measurement device, which is prone to displacement or detachment, and the ear temperature measurement device, which is greatly affected by environmental factors and cannot directly reflect the core body temperature.

[0007] This utility model provides a livestock body temperature measurement probe with integrated temperature monitoring function, comprising: a temperature measuring body, a fixing component, and a signal transmission module; wherein, the temperature measuring body is a flexible heat-conducting tubular structure, in which a temperature sensor is embedded, and the temperature sensor is connected to the signal transmission module via a wire; the fixing component includes an elastic clamping member and an outer wrapping layer, the elastic clamping member is disposed on the outside of the temperature measuring body and fixed in the annular groove in the middle of the temperature measuring body by a threaded connection, and the outer wrapping layer is made of a biocompatible material and covers the outer surface of the elastic clamping member; the signal transmission module includes a wireless transmitting unit and a data processing chip, the wireless transmitting unit is electrically connected to the temperature sensor via a wire, and the data processing chip is integrated and packaged with the wireless transmitting unit and fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body by a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0008] The flexible thermally conductive tubular structure of the temperature measuring body is composed of multiple layers of composite materials. The inner layer is a high thermal conductivity metal material for rapidly transferring body heat to the temperature sensor; the middle layer is a heat-insulating material to isolate external environmental temperature interference; and the outer layer is a flexible silicone material to improve wearing comfort and adapt to the curved surfaces of livestock. The temperature sensor uses a miniature thermistor element, with its sensing end tightly attached to the inner wall of the flexible thermally conductive tubular structure and fixed with thermally conductive adhesive. The other end is led out via a wire and connected to the signal transmission module.

[0009] The elastic clamping component is an arc-shaped sheet structure with outwardly extending protrusions at both ends. Each protrusion has a through hole for engaging with positioning posts on the outer wrapping layer for fixation. The inner surface of the elastic clamping component has multiple evenly distributed protrusions to increase friction and prevent slippage during livestock movement. The outer wrapping layer is 1-2 mm thick, has an anti-slip texture on its surface, and a groove at the end near the temperature measuring body to accommodate the protrusions of the elastic clamping component.

[0010] The wireless transmitting unit in the signal transmission module uses a low-power Bluetooth module, with its antenna extending along the axial direction of the temperature measuring body and connected to the temperature sensor via a wire. The data processing chip incorporates a filtering circuit and calibration algorithm to process the data collected by the temperature sensor in real time and transmit it to an external receiving device. The snap-fit ​​structure includes a slot on the outer shell of the signal transmission module and a flange at the end of the temperature measuring body, which are fixedly connected by an interference fit.

[0011] One end of the temperature measuring body is equipped with a sealing cap, which is fixed to the end opening of the temperature measuring body by a threaded connection. The sealing cap is filled with waterproof sealant to prevent liquid from seeping in and damaging the internal components. The outer surface of the sealing cap is provided with an identification area for marking the device number or livestock information.

[0012] When the probe is installed on the animal's body, the flexible, heat-conducting tubular structure of the temperature measuring unit fits tightly against the animal's skin. The temperature sensor quickly detects changes in body temperature through the heat-conducting inner layer and transmits the collected temperature signal to the signal transmission module via a wire. The data processing chip in the signal transmission module filters and calibrates the received signal before transmitting the data to an external receiving device via a wireless transmission unit. The elastic clamping element and the outer wrapping layer work together to ensure the probe remains stable during the animal's movement, preventing the device from falling off or shifting due to frequent animal movement.

[0013] This invention addresses the problem of existing ear temperature measurement devices being greatly affected by environmental factors through a flexible, heat-conducting tubular structure. Furthermore, the combination of an elastic clamping element and an external wrapping layer overcomes the tendency for rectal temperature measurement devices to shift or detach. In addition, the low-power design and efficient data processing capabilities of the signal transmission module enable the probe to perform continuous monitoring over extended periods and transmit data wirelessly to external devices in real time, facilitating timely monitoring of livestock health by veterinarians.

[0014] This invention also improves the wearing comfort and reliability of the device through a multi-layered composite structure and anti-slip design, making it suitable for the core body temperature monitoring needs of large livestock such as pigs and cattle. Its compact structural design and modular assembly method facilitate manufacturing, maintenance, and replacement, giving it high practicality and promotional value.

[0015] Furthermore, this invention reduces the impact of environmental noise on temperature measurement through a built-in calibration algorithm and filtering circuit, further improving measurement accuracy and stability. Compared to existing technologies, this probe can maintain high measurement consistency under different environmental conditions, making it particularly suitable for cold seasons or poorly ventilated aquaculture scenarios, meeting the needs of grassroots veterinarians for continuous and accurate body temperature tracking of key individuals.

[0016] In summary, this utility model provides an integrated livestock body temperature measurement probe that is simple in structure, reliable in installation, and can directly reflect the core body temperature, solving many problems existing in the prior art and providing effective technical support for intelligent management of livestock breeding. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention, showing the assembly relationship of the temperature measuring body, the fixing component and the signal transmission module.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the temperature measuring body, which shows in detail the multi-layer material distribution of the flexible heat-conducting tubular structure and the installation position of the temperature sensor.

[0019] Figure 3 This is an exploded structural diagram of the fixing component, showing the way the elastic clamping part and the outer wrapping layer cooperate and the anti-slip texture design on its surface.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the signal transmission module, which focuses on the integrated packaging of the wireless transmitting unit and the data processing chip and their connection with the temperature measuring body.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the sealing cap, showing its threaded connection structure and the filling method of the internal waterproof sealant.

[0022] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0023] 1. Temperature measuring body; 2. Fixing component; 3. Signal transmission module; 4. Temperature sensor; 5. Elastic clamping component; 6. Outer wrapping layer; 7. Wireless transmission unit; 8. Data processing chip; 9. Sealing cover; 10. Waterproof sealant. Detailed Implementation

[0024] This utility model provides a livestock body temperature measurement probe with integrated temperature monitoring function. Its structure and operating principle are described in the attached diagram. Figure 1 To be continued Figure 5 A detailed description is provided below. The specific embodiments of this utility model are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and the connection relationships, positional relationships, and mutual cooperation relationships between the various components are explained to ensure that those skilled in the art can fully implement this technical solution based on the contents of the specification.

[0025] As attached Figure 1As shown, the overall structure of this utility model includes a temperature measuring body 1, a fixing component 2, and a signal transmission module 3. The temperature measuring body 1 is a flexible heat-conducting tubular structure, with a temperature sensor 4 embedded inside. The temperature sensor 4 is electrically connected to the signal transmission module 3 via a wire. The fixing component 2 includes an elastic clamping member 5 and an outer wrapping layer 6. The elastic clamping member 5 is disposed on the outside of the temperature measuring body 1 and is fixed to the annular groove in the middle of the temperature measuring body 1 by a threaded connection. The outer wrapping layer 6 is made of a biocompatible material and covers the outer surface of the elastic clamping member 5. The signal transmission module 3 includes a wireless transmitting unit 7 and a data processing chip 8. The wireless transmitting unit 7 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 4 via a wire. The data processing chip 8 is integrated and packaged with the wireless transmitting unit 7 and fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body 1 by a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0026] The specific structure of temperature measuring body 1 is shown in the attached figure. Figure 2 As shown, its flexible heat-conducting tubular structure is composed of multiple layers of materials. The inner layer is a metal material with a high thermal conductivity, the middle layer is a heat-insulating material, and the outer layer is a flexible silicone material. The inner metal material is in close contact with the temperature sensing end of the temperature sensor 4, which is fixed to the inner wall of the flexible heat-conducting tubular structure by thermally conductive adhesive. The other end is led out by a wire and connected to the signal transmission module 3. The function of the middle heat-insulating material is to isolate external ambient temperature interference, while the outer flexible silicone material is used to improve wearing comfort and adapt to the curved surface of the animal's body. One end of the temperature measuring body 1 is provided with a sealing cap 9, which is fixed to the end opening of the temperature measuring body 1 by a threaded connection. Its interior is filled with waterproof sealant 10 to prevent liquid from seeping in and damaging the internal components. The outer surface of the sealing cap 9 is provided with an identification area for marking the device number or animal information.

[0027] The specific structure of fixed component 2 is shown in the attached figure. Figure 3 As shown, the elastic clamping member 5 is an arc-shaped sheet structure with outwardly extending protrusions at both ends. Through holes are provided on the protrusions for engagement and fixation with positioning posts on the outer wrapping layer 6. Multiple evenly distributed protrusions are provided on the inner surface of the elastic clamping member 5. These protrusions are designed to increase friction and prevent the device from slipping during livestock movement. The outer wrapping layer 6 is 1-2 mm thick, with an anti-slip texture on its surface, and a groove is provided at the end near the temperature measuring body 1 to accommodate the protrusions of the elastic clamping member 5. The outer wrapping layer 6 is made of biocompatible material to ensure that it will not cause allergies or other adverse reactions when in contact with livestock skin.

[0028] The specific structure of signal transmission module 3 is shown in the attached figure. Figure 4As shown, the wireless transmitting unit 7 uses a low-power Bluetooth module, with its antenna extending along the axial direction of the temperature measuring body 1 and connected to the temperature sensor 4 via a wire. The data processing chip 8 incorporates a filtering circuit and calibration algorithm to process the data collected by the temperature sensor 4 in real time and transmit it to an external receiving device. The data processing chip 8 is integrated with the wireless transmitting unit 7 and fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body 1 via a snap-fit ​​structure. The snap-fit ​​structure includes a slot on the housing of the signal transmission module 3 and a flange at the end of the temperature measuring body 1, which are fixedly connected by an interference fit.

[0029] The specific structure of the sealing cap 9 is shown in the attached figure. Figure 5 As shown, its threaded connection structure matches the opening at the end of the temperature measuring body 1. The waterproof sealant 10 inside is filled into the gap between the sealing cover 9 and the temperature measuring body 1 through an injection process, thereby forming an effective waterproof barrier. The outer surface of the sealing cover 9 is provided with an identification area, which can be marked with the device number or livestock information by means of laser engraving, etc., to facilitate management and tracking.

[0030] The working principle of this invention is as follows: When the probe is installed on the surface of a livestock, the flexible heat-conducting tubular structure of the temperature measuring body 1 fits tightly against the livestock's skin, and the temperature sensor 4 quickly senses changes in body temperature through the heat-conducting inner layer. The temperature sensor 4 transmits the collected temperature signal to the signal transmission module 3 via a wire. The data processing chip 8 in the signal transmission module 3 filters and calibrates the received signal, and then transmits the data to an external receiving device via the wireless transmission unit 7. The elastic clamp 5 and the outer wrapping layer 6 work together to ensure that the probe remains stable during the livestock's activities, preventing the device from falling off or shifting due to frequent movement of the livestock.

[0031] In practical applications, the probe of this invention can be installed and used through the following steps: First, the elastic clamping member 5 is fixed to the annular groove in the middle of the temperature measuring body 1 by a threaded connection. Then, the outer wrapping layer 6 is fitted onto the outer surface of the elastic clamping member 5 and fixed by the positioning post engaging with the protrusion of the elastic clamping member 5. Next, the signal transmission module 3 is fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body 1 by a snap-fit ​​structure, ensuring that the antenna part of the wireless transmitting unit 7 is aligned with the axial direction of the temperature measuring body 1. Finally, the sealing cover 9 is fixed to the end opening of the temperature measuring body 1 by a threaded connection, and waterproof sealant 10 is injected to complete the assembly.

[0032] After installation, place the probe in a suitable location on the animal's body, such as behind the ear or on the neck, ensuring that the flexible heat-conducting tubular structure of the temperature measuring body 1 fits tightly against the skin. During the animal's movement, the anti-slip design of the elastic clamp 5 and the outer wrapping layer 6 effectively prevents the probe from slipping or falling off. The signal transmission module 3 transmits the real-time collected body temperature data to an external receiving device, such as a smartphone or monitoring terminal, via the wireless transmission unit 7. Veterinarians can then monitor the animal's body temperature changes through the receiving device, thereby gaining timely insight into its health status.

[0033] This invention's probe is suitable for core body temperature monitoring needs in large livestock such as pigs and cattle. Its compact structure and modular assembly facilitate manufacturing, maintenance, and replacement. The multi-layered composite material structure and anti-slip design improve the device's wearing comfort and reliability. Furthermore, the built-in calibration algorithm and filtering circuit reduce the impact of environmental noise on temperature measurement, further improving measurement accuracy and stability.

[0034] To enable those skilled in the art to fully understand and implement this utility model, the specific implementation principle of this utility model is further explained below in conjunction with a specific application scenario.

[0035] First, the elastic clamping member 5 is fixed to the annular groove in the middle of the temperature measuring body 1 via a threaded connection. At this time, the arc-shaped sheet structure of the elastic clamping member 5 fits tightly against the outer surface of the temperature measuring body 1, and the protrusions at both ends engage with the positioning posts on the outer wrapping layer 6 through through holes. The multiple protrusions on the inner surface of the elastic clamping member 5 increase friction, thereby improving the stability of the device on the animal's body. Next, the outer wrapping layer 6 is fitted onto the outer surface of the elastic clamping member 5, ensuring that the groove of the outer wrapping layer 6 fully accommodates the protrusions of the elastic clamping member 5. The anti-slip texture and biocompatible material properties of the outer wrapping layer 6 not only improve the wearing comfort of the device but also avoid adverse reactions caused by animal skin sensitivities.

[0036] Subsequently, the signal transmission module 3 is fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body 1 using a snap-fit ​​structure. The wireless transmission unit 7 in the signal transmission module 3 adopts a low-power Bluetooth module, and its antenna extends along the axial direction of the temperature measuring body 1 to achieve data transmission over a longer distance. The data processing chip 8 has a built-in filtering circuit and calibration algorithm for real-time processing of the signals collected by the temperature sensor 4. This module achieves an interference fit with the flange at the end of the temperature measuring body 1 through a slot, ensuring the connection is firm and stable. Finally, the sealing cover 9 is fixed to the end opening of the temperature measuring body 1 by a threaded connection, and waterproof sealant 10 is injected to fill the internal gaps, thereby forming an effective waterproof barrier. The marking area of ​​the sealing cover 9 can be marked with device number or livestock information by laser engraving for easy subsequent management and tracking.

[0037] After installation, place the probe in a suitable position, such as behind the animal's ear or on its neck. The flexible, heat-conducting tubular structure of the temperature measuring body 1 is composed of multiple layers of composite materials. The inner layer, a high-thermal-conductivity metal material, directly contacts the temperature sensing end of the temperature sensor 4 and is fixed with thermally conductive adhesive, ensuring that body heat can be quickly transferred to the sensor. The middle layer of heat-insulating material isolates external environmental temperature interference, while the outer layer of flexible silicone material adapts to the curved surface of the animal's body, improving wearing comfort. When the probe is in close contact with the animal's skin, the temperature sensor 4 senses changes in core body temperature and transmits the collected signal to the signal transmission module 3 via a wire. The data processing chip 8 filters and calibrates the received signal to reduce the impact of environmental noise on the measurement results, and then transmits the processed data to an external receiving device, such as a smartphone or monitoring terminal, via the wireless transmission unit 7.

[0038] In practical use, the elastic clamp 5 and the outer wrapping layer 6 work together to effectively prevent the probe from shifting or falling off due to frequent movement or lying down of livestock. The outer wrapping layer 6 is 1-2 mm thick, and its anti-slip textured surface further enhances the stability of the device. In addition, the flexible heat-conducting tubular structure of the temperature measuring body 1 can adapt to the dynamic changes of the livestock's body surface, ensuring that the temperature sensor 4 always maintains close contact with the skin, thereby achieving continuous and accurate core body temperature monitoring.

[0039] Through the above steps, the probe of this invention can be widely used in core body temperature monitoring scenarios for large livestock such as pigs and cattle. Especially in cold seasons or poorly ventilated farming environments, the multi-layered composite structure of the temperature measuring body 1 effectively isolates external environmental temperature interference, ensuring the accuracy of the measurement results. Simultaneously, the low-power design and efficient data processing capabilities of the signal transmission module 3 enable the probe to operate stably for extended periods, meeting the needs of grassroots veterinarians for continuous and accurate body temperature tracking of key individuals.

[0040] It should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. At the same time, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] The above content is only a preferred embodiment of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, many changes can be made in the specific implementation and application scope based on the ideas of this technical content. As long as these changes do not depart from the concept of this utility model, they all fall within the protection scope of this patent.

Claims

1. A livestock body temperature measurement probe with integrated temperature monitoring function, characterized in that, include: Temperature measuring body; A fixing component is disposed on the outside of the temperature measuring body; A signal transmission module, which is connected to one end of the temperature measuring body; The temperature measuring body is a flexible, heat-conducting tubular structure with a temperature sensor embedded inside. The temperature sensor is electrically connected to the signal transmission module via a wire. The fixing component includes an elastic clamping member and an outer wrapping layer. The elastic clamping member is fixed to the annular groove in the middle of the temperature measuring body via a threaded connection, and the outer wrapping layer covers the outer surface of the elastic clamping member. The signal transmission module includes a wireless transmitting unit and a data processing chip. The wireless transmitting unit is electrically connected to the temperature sensor via a wire, and the data processing chip is integrated and packaged with the wireless transmitting unit and fixed to one end of the temperature measuring body via a snap-fit ​​structure.

2. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature measuring body is composed of multiple layers of composite materials, with an inner layer of metal, a middle layer of heat insulation material, and an outer layer of flexible silicone material. The temperature sensing end of the temperature sensor is attached to the inner wall of the temperature measuring body and fixed with thermally conductive adhesive, while the other end is led out through a wire and connected to the signal transmission module.

3. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic clamping member is an arc-shaped sheet structure with outwardly extending protrusions at both ends, and through holes are provided on the protrusions; the inner surface of the elastic clamping member is provided with a plurality of evenly distributed protrusions.

4. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wrapping layer is 1 to 2 millimeters thick, has an anti-slip texture on its surface, and has a groove at one end near the temperature measuring body to accommodate the protrusion of the elastic clamping member.

5. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wireless transmitting unit uses a low-power Bluetooth module, and its antenna extends along the axial direction of the temperature measuring body and is connected to the temperature sensor through a wire; the data processing chip has a built-in filtering circuit and is integrated with the wireless transmitting unit in a package.

6. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​structure includes a slot on the outer shell of the signal transmission module and a flange at the end of the temperature measuring body, which are fixedly connected by an interference fit.

7. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sealing cap is provided at one end of the temperature measuring body. The sealing cap is fixed to the end opening of the temperature measuring body by a threaded connection and is filled with waterproof sealant. A marking area is provided on the outer surface of the sealing cap.

8. The livestock body temperature measurement probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wrapping layer is made of a biocompatible material, and the protrusion of the elastic clamping member engages with the positioning post on the outer wrapping layer for fixation.

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