Gas collecting system, gas collecting device, and gas collecting method

Abstract

To reduce a stress on a ruminant during collection of exhaled gas and to prevent a generation of carbon dioxide from the collected exhaled gas.SOLUTION: A gas collecting system comprises: a detector that is attached to a ruminant and detects that the ruminant is in a rumination state; a positional information acquiring device for acquiring positional information indicating a position of the ruminant; and a gas collecting device that moves to the position of the ruminant based on the positional information acquired by the positional information acquiring device and collects exhaled gas emitted from the ruminant when the detector detects that the ruminant is in the rumination state. The gas collecting device includes: a suction part for sucking the exhaled gas; a storage part for storing the exhaled gas sucked by the suction unit; and a move part for enabling movement of at least a portion of the gas collecting device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a gas collection system, a gas collection apparatus, and a gas collection method. [Background technology]

[0002] Ruminants such as cows, sheep, and goats emit burps that contain methane. Methane is a greenhouse gas that is about 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. For decarbonization, it is important to collect the gases released by ruminants, including methane.

[0003] Patent documents 1 and 2 disclose devices that suck in the cow's breath gases through a head harness attached to the cow's head and collect the breath gases in a capsule attached to the cow's back. Patent document 3 discloses a device that is attached to the cow's nostrils and oxidizes methane in the breath. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,071,342 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 8,945,915 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 9,199,193 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, devices attached to the head, nasal cavity, or back of ruminants may cause stress to the ruminants, or the device may be damaged by the movements of the ruminants. In devices that oxidize methane, the carbon dioxide produced by the oxidation is also a greenhouse gas, so in order to suppress the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, it is necessary to treat the produced carbon dioxide. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A gas collection system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a detection device that is attached to a ruminant and detects that the ruminant is in a ruminant state where it is chewing its cud; a location information acquisition device that acquires location information indicating the location of the ruminant; and a gas collection device that, when the detection device detects that the ruminant is in the ruminant state, moves to the location of the ruminant based on the location information acquired by the location information acquisition device and collects exhaled gas released from the ruminant, wherein the gas collection device includes an suction unit that aspirates the exhaled gas, a storage unit that stores the exhaled gas aspirated by the suction unit, and a moving unit that enables movement of at least a part of the gas collection device. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure does not require ruminants to be fitted with devices to collect exhaled gases and does not produce carbon dioxide. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an overall configuration of a gas collection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a plan view showing a first example of the configuration of a gas collecting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a side view showing a first example of the configuration of a gas collecting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a plan view showing a second example of the configuration of a gas collecting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a plan view showing a third example of the configuration of the gas collecting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the control unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the processing facility and the charging facility according to the embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a tag according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a management device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of the management device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the gas collection system 10 according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first modified example of a gas collecting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the gas collecting device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] <Overview of the embodiment of the present disclosure> Below, an overview of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0010] (1) The gas collection system according to the present embodiment includes a detection device attached to a ruminant and detecting that the ruminant is in a ruminant state, that is, chewing the cud, a position information acquisition device that acquires position information indicating the position of the ruminant, and a gas collection device that moves to the position of the ruminant based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition device when the detection device detects that the ruminant is in the ruminant state, and collects the exhaled gas released from the ruminant. The gas collection device includes an intake unit that draws in the exhaled gas, a storage unit that stores the exhaled gas drawn in by the intake unit, and a moving unit that allows at least a part of the gas collection device to move. This eliminates the need to attach a device for collecting the exhaled gas of the ruminant to the ruminant, and can suppress stress on the ruminant. Furthermore, since the exhaled gas is collected by the gas collection device, the collected exhaled gas can be subjected to a process that does not generate carbon dioxide or suppresses the generation of carbon dioxide.

[0011] (2) In the above (1), the detection device may be a methane sensor that detects methane emitted from the ruminant. This makes it possible to detect the rumination state by detecting methane emitted from the ruminant.

[0012] (3) In the above (1), the detection device may detect the rumination state based on a movement of the ruminant. This makes it possible to detect the rumination state by, for example, throat movement of the ruminant.

[0013] (4) In any one of the above (1) to (3), the moving unit may be a propulsion unit for propelling the gas collecting device. This allows the gas collecting device to be moved to a location where ruminants are present, and allows exhaled gases to be collected near the ruminants.

[0014] (5) In the above (4), the gas collecting device may be a flying object, and the propelling unit may include a propeller for enabling the gas collecting device to fly. This makes it possible to collect exhaled gas even when the ruminant is in a place where it is difficult to travel by vehicle.

[0015] (6) In the above (5), the suction section may include a suction tube extending to a side of the gas collecting device and for suctioning the exhaled gas released from the ruminant, thereby making it possible to collect the exhaled gas without being affected by turbulence of the airflow caused by a propeller of the gas collecting device.

[0016] (7) In the above (5) or (6), the gas collecting device may collect the exhaled gas above the ruminant, thereby making it possible to collect methane, which is lighter than air, above the ruminant.

[0017] (8) In the above (4), the gas collecting device may be a vehicle, and the propulsion unit may include wheels for enabling the gas collecting device to travel. This makes it easy to increase the size of the gas collecting device, and allows a larger amount of exhaled gas to be collected.

[0018] (9) In the above (8), the suction section may include a suction tube extending above the gas collecting device and suctioning the exhaled gas emitted from the ruminant, thereby making it possible to collect methane, which is lighter than air, above the ruminant.

[0019] (10) In any one of the above (1) to (9), the gas collection system further includes a management device that manages the operation of the gas collection device, and the management device includes a receiving unit that receives each of the detection result by the detection device and the location information acquired by the location information acquisition device, and a transmitting unit that transmits a movement command for the gas collection device to move to the location of the ruminant in the ruminant state based on the detection result and the location information received by the receiving unit, and the gas collection device may move to the location of the ruminant in the ruminant state based on the movement command transmitted from the management device. This allows the management device to centrally manage the operation of the gas collection system. For example, when multiple gas collection devices are in operation, the management device can determine a movement route according to the location of each gas collection device.

[0020] (11) In any one of the above (1) to (10), the gas collection system may further include a processing facility that generates electricity by processing the exhaled gas collected by the gas collection device, and a charging facility that charges the gas collection device with the electricity obtained by the processing facility. This allows the gas collection device to be charged by the collected exhaled gas, and allows the exhaled gas containing greenhouse gases to be effectively utilized.

[0021] (12) The gas collecting device according to this embodiment is a gas collecting device that moves to the position of a ruminant in a ruminant state and collects exhaled gas released from the ruminant, and includes a suction unit that sucks in the exhaled gas, a storage unit that stores the exhaled gas sucked in by the suction unit, and a moving unit that enables at least a part of the gas collecting device to move. This eliminates the need to attach a device for collecting the exhaled gas of a ruminant to the ruminant, and can reduce stress on the ruminant. Furthermore, because the exhaled gas is collected by the gas collecting device, no oxidation process of methane is performed, and no carbon dioxide is produced.

[0022] (13) The gas collection method according to this embodiment includes the steps of attaching a gas collection device to a ruminant and detecting that the ruminant is in a ruminant state, that is, chewing the cud, acquiring location information indicating the location of the ruminant, and, when it is detected that the ruminant is in the ruminant state, moving at least a part of the gas collection device to the location of the ruminant based on the acquired location information and collecting the exhaled gas released from the ruminant. This eliminates the need to attach a device for collecting the exhaled gas of the ruminant to the ruminant, and can suppress stress on the ruminant. Furthermore, since the exhaled gas is collected by the gas collection device, there is no need to carry out an oxidation process of methane, and no carbon dioxide is produced.

[0023] <Details of the embodiment of the present disclosure> Hereinafter, the details of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that at least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any desired manner.

[0024] [1. Gas collection system] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a gas collection system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gas collection system is a system for collecting exhaled gas from cows.

[0025] The gas collection system 10 includes a gas collection device 100 , a tag 200 , and a management device 300 .

[0026] A tag 200 is attached to the cow 20. The cow 20 is an example of a ruminant animal. The tag 200 is attached, for example, to the collar of the cow 20. The tag 200 includes a sensor 202 and a GNSS receiver 203 (see FIG. 3).

[0027] The sensor 202 is, for example, a methane sensor, and can detect methane contained in the breath gas of the cow 20. Methane is produced by the rumination of the cow 20, and is released into the atmosphere as the breath gas of the cow 20. The sensor 202 detects that the cow 20 is in a ruminating state by detecting methane. The sensor 202 is an example of a "detection device."

[0028] In another example, the sensor 202 is a motion sensor that detects the movement of the cow 20, and includes a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor. The sensor 202 monitors the movement of the cow 20 and detects the rumination state of the cow 20. For example, the sensor 202 detects the rumination state of the cow 20 by detecting the movement characteristic of the rumination state.

[0029] The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 203 receives signals from positioning satellites and calculates the position of the tag itself (the tag 200). The GNSS receiver 203 outputs the position information obtained by the calculation. The GNSS receiver 203 is an example of a "position information acquisition device."

[0030] The tag 200 has a wireless communication function and transmits the detection results by the sensor 202 and the location information acquired by the GNSS receiver 203.

[0031] In this embodiment, the gas collection device 100 is a drone, that is, a flying object. The gas collection device 100 is capable of moving by flying. The gas collection device 100 moves to the position of the cow 20 and collects the exhaled gas of the cow 20.

[0032] The management device 300 manages the operation of the gas collection device 100. The management device 300 receives the detection result of the rumination state and the location information of the cow 20 (tag 200) transmitted from the tag 200. When the management device 300 detects the rumination state of the cow 20, it commands the gas collection device 100 to move to the location of the cow 20. When the gas collection device 100 reaches the location of the cow 20, the management device 300 commands the gas collection device 100 to collect exhaled gas.

[0033] A base 30 for the gas collection device 100 is provided on a ranch where a plurality of cows 20 are grazing. The base 30 is provided, for example, within the grounds of the ranch. The base 30 can accommodate a plurality of gas collection devices 100.

[0034] A charging facility 50 (see FIG. 4) for the gas collection device 100 is disposed in the base 30. The gas collection device 100 can charge a built-in battery in the charging facility 50.

[0035] At the base 30, a processing facility 40 (see FIG. 4) is installed that processes the exhaled gas collected by the gas collecting device 100. The gas collecting device 100 that has collected the exhaled gas returns to the base 30. At the base 30, the exhaled gas is collected from the returned gas collecting device 100. The collected exhaled gas is processed by the processing facility 40.

[0036] [2. Gas collection device] FIG. 2A is a plan view showing a first example of the configuration of a gas collecting device according to an embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a side view thereof.

[0037] The gas collecting device 100 includes a disk-shaped main body 110. The main body 110 is circular in plan view (see FIG. 2A) and has a constant thickness in side view (see FIG. 2B).

[0038] The gas collection device 100 according to the first example includes a plurality of propellers 112 and suction fans 114. Specifically, six propellers 112 and two suction fans 114 are provided. The propellers 112 and the suction fans 114 are arranged in the main body 110 concentrically with the outer edge of the main body 110 in a plan view. More specifically, the main body 110 is provided with a plurality of (eight in the example of FIG. 2A ) circular through-holes at equal intervals around the circular center of the main body 110. The propellers 112 and the suction fans 114 are arranged inside these through-holes.

[0039] The propeller 112 is included in a propulsion unit for propelling the gas collection device 100. The propeller 112 generates a propulsive force by rotating.

[0040] A suction tube 111 extends in an arm shape from the side of the main body 110. The suction tube 111 protrudes laterally from the side of the main body 110 and bends downward midway (see FIG. 2B). The end of the suction tube 111 is provided with a suction port 111A that opens downward.

[0041] For example, the two suction pipes 111 face each other across the center of the main body 110. That is, the two suction pipes 111 are disposed at opposite positions on the main body 110. This allows the weight balance of the gas collection device 100 to be maintained.

[0042] The suction tube 111 is connected to a storage section 113 that stores the exhaled gas through an internal passage of the main body 110. The storage section 113 includes a space for storing the exhaled gas. A suction fan 114 for suctioning the exhaled gas is disposed in the middle of the passage connecting the suction tube 111 and the storage section 113. A suction section is formed by a pair of the suction tube 111 and the suction fan 114. When the suction fan 114 rotates, an airflow is generated inside the suction tube 111, and the exhaled gas is sucked into the suction tube 111 from the suction port 111A. The sucked exhaled gas is stored in the storage section 113.

[0043] A control unit 120 is housed inside the main body 110. The control unit 120 controls the flight of the gas collection device 100 by the propeller 112 and the collection of exhaled gas by the suction fan 114.

[0044] 3A is a plan view showing a second example of the configuration of a gas collecting device according to an embodiment. Note that a side view of the second example is omitted because it is the same as the first example.

[0045] In the gas collection device 100 according to the second example, a suction fan 115 is disposed inside the suction passage for the exhaled gas. That is, two suction fans 114, 115 are disposed in series in one suction passage. In the second example, the rotation of the suction fans 114, 115 generates an airflow inside the suction tube 111, which causes the exhaled gas to be sucked into the suction tube 111 from the suction port 111A.

[0046] 3B is a plan view showing a third example of the configuration of the gas collecting device according to the embodiment. Note that a side view of the third example is omitted because it is the same as the first example.

[0047] In the gas collecting device 100 according to the third example, eight propellers 112 are arranged in a circular ring shape. A suction passage is arranged between two adjacent propellers 112, and the suction passage does not overlap with the through-hole. In other words, the suction passage is a closed passage that is not opened midway. A suction fan 114 is arranged inside the suction passage. In the third example, the suction fan 114 rotates to efficiently generate an air flow in the suction passage. The air flow generated inside the suction tube 111 causes the exhaled gas to be sucked into the suction tube 111 from the suction port 111A.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the control unit 120. As shown in FIG.

[0049] The control unit 120 includes a processor 121, a non-volatile memory 122, a volatile memory 123, and an input / output interface (I / O) .

[0050] The volatile memory 123 is, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a static random access memory (SRAM) or a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The non-volatile memory 122 is, for example, a flash memory, a hard disk, a read only memory (ROM), etc. The non-volatile memory 122 stores a control program 130, which is a computer program, and data used for executing the control program 130. The control program 130 can be stored in a recording medium such as a flash memory, a ROM, or a CD-ROM. The processor 121 can control the flight of the gas collection device 100 and the collection of exhaled gases by the control program 130.

[0051] The processor 121 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). However, the processor 121 is not limited to a CPU. The processor 121 may be a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processor 121 may be, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In this case, the ASIC or the programmable logic device is configured to be able to execute the same process as the control program 130.

[0052] For example, the processor 121, the non-volatile memory 122, the volatile memory 123, and the input / output interface 124 are configured as a microcontroller, which is a one-chip semiconductor integrated circuit.

[0053] The input / output interface 124 inputs and outputs data between the microcontroller and external peripheral devices. The control unit 120 includes a drive circuit 131, a GNSS receiver 132, and a wireless communication interface (I / F) 133. The input / output interface 124 is connected to each of the drive circuit 131, the GNSS receiver 132, and the wireless communication interface 133.

[0054] The GNSS receiver 132 receives signals from positioning satellites and calculates the position of the device itself (the gas collecting device 100). The GNSS receiver 132 outputs the position information obtained by the calculation.

[0055] The wireless communication interface 133 is an interface for a mobile communication system such as a fifth generation mobile communication system (5G) or a fourth generation mobile communication system (4G). In another example, the wireless communication interface 133 may be an interface for a wireless local area network (LAN).

[0056] The drive circuit 131 is a circuit for driving the propeller 112 and the suction fan 114 in accordance with a control command given from the processor 121. The drive circuit 131 is connected to the propeller 112 and the suction fan 114. The drive circuit 131 is connected to a power source (battery) not shown, converts power from the power source in accordance with a control command given from the processor 121, and outputs the converted power to the propeller 112 and the suction fan 115 (their motors).

[0057] [3. Processing equipment] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the processing facility and the charging facility according to the embodiment.

[0058] The treatment facility 40 includes a recovery device 41, a separation device 42, a storage tank 43, and a biogas engine 44.

[0059] The gas collecting device 100 that has returned to the base 30 is connected to the collecting device 41. The collecting device 41 collects the exhaled gas stored in the storage section 113.

[0060] The separation device 42 is connected to the recovery device 41 via a gas pipe. The separation device 42 separates methane in the exhaled gas recovered by the recovery device 41 from other gases (carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, etc.). Furthermore, the separation device 42 separates moisture in the exhaled gas from the gas components. The water separated from the gas components is discharged to the outside of the separation device 42. For example, the separation device 42 generates a fuel gas in which methane and other gases are mixed at a mixture ratio suitable for combustion.

[0061] The storage tank 43 is connected to the separation device 42 via a gas pipe. The storage tank 43 stores the fuel gas generated by the separation device 42.

[0062] The biogas engine 44 is connected to the storage tank 43 via a gas pipe. The biogas engine 44 is an internal combustion engine that uses the fuel gas stored in the storage tank 43 as fuel. The biogas engine 44 includes a generator (not shown), which burns the fuel gas to convert thermal energy into mechanical energy, and generates electricity by driving the generator using the mechanical energy.

[0063] The charging equipment 50 includes a power converter 51 , a battery 52 , and a charging device 53 .

[0064] The biogas engine 44 and the power converter 51 are connected by a power line. The power converter 51 includes an AC / DC converter, and converts the AC power output from the biogas engine 44 into DC power of a constant voltage.

[0065] The battery 52 is connected to the power converter 51 via a power line. DC power is output from the power converter 51 to the battery 52, and the battery 52 is charged.

[0066] The charging device 53 can be connected to the gas collecting device 100, for example, via a connector. The charging device 53 is connected to the battery 52 via a power line. The charging device 53 includes a DC / DC converter, converts the voltage of the DC power discharged from the battery 52, and outputs the converted DC power to the gas collecting device 100. This charges the battery of the gas collecting device 100.

[0067] [4. Tags] 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a tag according to an embodiment. The tag 200 includes a control circuit 201, a sensor 202, a GNSS receiver 203, and a wireless communication interface 204.

[0068] As described above, the sensor 202 is a sensor that detects the rumination state of the cow 20. The GNSS receiver 203 acquires location information indicating the location of the cow 20.

[0069] The wireless communication interface 204 is, for example, an interface for a mobile communication system, or, in another example, may be an interface for a wireless LAN.

[0070] The control circuit 201 includes, for example, a processor and a memory. The control circuit 201 is connected to a sensor 202, a GNSS receiver 203, and a wireless communication interface 204. The control circuit 201 transmits the detection result of the rumination state of the cow 20 by the sensor 202 and the position information of the cow 20 acquired by the GNSS receiver 203 to the management device 300 via the wireless communication interface 204.

[0071] [5. Management device] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a management device according to the embodiment.

[0072] The management device 300 includes a processor 301, a non-volatile memory 302, a volatile memory 303, and a wireless communication interface 304. The processor 301, the non-volatile memory 302, the volatile memory 303, and the wireless communication interface 304 are connected to each other by a bus that transmits data.

[0073] The volatile memory 303 is, for example, a semiconductor memory such as an SRAM or a DRAM. The nonvolatile memory 302 is, for example, a flash memory, a hard disk, a ROM, or the like. The nonvolatile memory 302 stores a management program 310, which is a computer program, and data used for executing the management program 310. The management program 310 can be stored in a recording medium such as a flash memory, a ROM, or a CD-ROM. The processor 301 can manage the operation of the gas collecting device 100 by the management program 310.

[0074] The processor 301 is, for example, a CPU. However, the processor 301 is not limited to a CPU. The processor 301 may be a GPU. The processor 301 may be, for example, an ASIC or a programmable logic device such as an FPGA. In this case, the ASIC or the programmable logic device is configured to be able to execute the same process as the management program 310.

[0075] The wireless communication interface 304 is, for example, an interface for a mobile communication system, or, in another example, may be an interface for a wireless LAN.

[0076] 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the management device according to the embodiment. When the processor 301 executes the management program 310, the management device 300 functions as a receiving unit 311, a target determining unit 312, a path determining unit 313, a command generating unit 314, and a transmitting unit 315.

[0077] For example, when the sensor 202 detects the rumination state of the cow 20, the control circuit 201 causes the detection result of the sensor 202 and the position information of the cow 20 to be transmitted to the wireless communication interface 204. The receiving unit 311 receives the detection result of the rumination state of the cow 20 and the position information of the cow 20 transmitted from the tag 200. The receiving unit 311 is realized mainly by the processor 301 and the wireless communication interface 304.

[0078] The receiving unit 311 also receives the location information transmitted from the multiple gas collection devices 100. The location information of each gas collection device 100 is stored in the non-volatile memory 302 or the volatile memory 303, for example.

[0079] The target determination unit 312 determines a gas collection device 100 (hereinafter also referred to as a “target device”) that collects exhaled gas from a cow 20 for which a rumination state has been detected, from among a plurality of gas collection devices 100. The target determination unit 312 is mainly realized by the processor 301.

[0080] For example, the target determination unit 312 determines, as the target device, the gas collection device 100 closest to the cow 20 in which the rumination state has been detected, based on the position information of each of the multiple gas collection devices 100. More specifically, the target determination unit 312 excludes, from the multiple gas collection devices 100, the gas collection device 100 that is currently operating to collect exhaled gas from another cow 20, i.e., the gas collection device that has already been determined as the target device, and determines, from the remaining gas collection devices 100, the gas collection device 100 closest to the cow 20 in which the rumination state has been detected, as the target device.

[0081] In another example, the target determination unit 312 may determine the target device from among the gas collection devices 100 waiting at the base 30.

[0082] The route determination unit 313 determines a movement route of the target device for moving to the position of the cow 20 in which the rumination state has been detected. For example, the route determination unit 313 can determine a movement route based on the positions of multiple gas collection devices 100 so that the target device does not collide with other gas collection devices 100. In this embodiment, since the gas collection device 100 is a drone capable of flying, the route determination unit 313 may determine the movement route including the flight altitude of the target device. The route determination unit 313 is mainly realized by the processor 301.

[0083] The command generating unit 314 generates a movement command for instructing the target device to move along the movement path determined by the path determining unit 313. The command generating unit 314 is mainly realized by the processor 301.

[0084] The transmitting unit 315 transmits the movement command generated by the command generating unit 314 to the target device. The transmitting unit 315 is mainly realized by the processor 301 and the wireless communication interface 304. The movement command includes, for example, position information of the cow 20 from which the exhaled gas is to be collected. The movement command may also include information indicating a movement route to the cow 20 from which the exhaled gas is to be collected.

[0085] When the target device receives the movement command transmitted from the management device 300, it moves to the position of the cow 20 that is the target of collection of exhaled gas in accordance with the received movement command.

[0086] For example, when the target device reaches the position (destination) of the cow 20 from which the exhaled gas is to be collected, the target device transmits arrival information indicating that the destination has been reached to the management device 300. The arrival information may include, for example, location information of the target device at that time.

[0087] The receiving unit 311 receives the arrival information transmitted from the target device.

[0088] When the receiving unit 311 receives the arrival information, the command generating unit 314 generates a collection command for instructing the target device to collect exhaled gas. The transmitting unit 315 transmits the collection command generated by the command generating unit 314 to the target device.

[0089] When the target device receives the collection command transmitted from the management device 300, it drives the suction fan 114 in accordance with the received collection command to suck the exhaled gas from the suction tube 111. Collection of the exhaled gas is performed with the gas collecting device 100 stationary at a fixed position in the air. When collection of the exhaled gas is completed, the target device transmits completion information indicating that collection of the exhaled gas has been completed to the management device 300.

[0090] The receiving unit 311 receives the completion information transmitted from the target device.

[0091] When the receiving unit 311 receives the completion information, the command generating unit 314 generates a return command for instructing the target device to return to the base 30. The transmitting unit 315 transmits the return command generated by the command generating unit 314 to the target device.

[0092] When the target device receives the return command transmitted from the management device 300, it returns to the base 30 in accordance with the received return command. After returning to the base 30, the exhaled gas stored in the storage unit 113 of the target device is collected by the collection device 41.

[0093] [6. Operation of the Gas Gathering System] The operation of the gas collection system 10 according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0094] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the gas collection system 10 according to the embodiment.

[0095] The gas collecting devices 100A and 100B transmit their own position information acquired by the GNSS receiver 132 to the management device 300 (steps S1 and S2). For example, the gas collecting device 100A is on standby at the base 30, and the gas collecting device 100B is collecting exhaled gas.

[0096] When the cow 20 ruminates and releases exhaled gas containing methane, the sensor 202 detects the rumination state of the cow 20 (step S3). When the rumination state is detected by the sensor 202, the control circuit 201 of the tag 200 transmits the detection result of the sensor 202 and the position information of the cow 20 acquired by the GNSS receiver 203 to the management device 300 (step S4).

[0097] When the management device 300 receives the rumination state detection result by the sensor 202 and the position information of the cow 20, the processor 301 of the management device 300 determines the target device based on the position information of each gas collection device 100 and the position information of the cow 20 (step S5). For example, the gas collection device 100A waiting at the base 30 is determined as the target device.

[0098] The processor 301 determines a moving route for the target device to move to the position of the cow 20 from which the exhaled gas is to be collected (step S6).

[0099] After determining the movement route, the processor 301 transmits a movement command to the gas collecting apparatus 100A, which is the target apparatus (step S7).

[0100] When the gas collection device 100A receives the movement command, it moves to the location (destination) of the cow 20 from which the exhaled gas is to be collected (step S8). When the gas collection device 100A reaches the destination, it transmits arrival information to the management device 300 (step S9).

[0101] When the processor 301 receives the arrival information, it transmits a collection command to the gas collection device 100A, which is the target device (step S10).

[0102] When the gas collection device 100A receives the collection command, it rotates the suction fan 114 to collect the exhaled gas from the suction tube 111 (step S11). When the collection of the exhaled gas is completed, for example, when the collected amount of the exhaled gas reaches a predetermined amount, the gas collection device 100A transmits completion information to the management device 300 (step S12).

[0103] When the processor 301 receives the completion information, it transmits a return command to the gas collection apparatus 100A (step S13).

[0104] When the gas collection device 100A receives the return command, it returns to the base 30 (step S14). After returning to the base 30, the exhaled gas collected by the gas collection device 100A is collected by the collection device 41. Fuel gas is generated from the collected exhaled gas, and the generated fuel gas is consumed by the biogas engine 44 to generate electricity. The generated electricity is stored in the battery 52 and used to charge the gas collection device 100.

[0105] [7. Modifications] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first modified example of a gas collecting device according to the embodiment.

[0106] The gas collecting device 100a according to the first modified example is a vehicle. The gas collecting device 100a is movable by running. The gas collecting device 100a moves to the position of the cow 20 and collects the exhaled gas of the cow 20.

[0107] The gas collecting device 100 a includes a vehicle body 150 , a suction pipe 151 , a storage unit 152 , wheels 153 , a power unit 154 , and a control unit 160 .

[0108] The vehicle body 150 has, for example, a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. A suction pipe 151 extends upward from the top surface of the vehicle body 150. The suction pipe 151 bends forward midway. A suction pump connected to the suction pipe 151 is housed in the vehicle body 150, and the suction pipe 151 and the suction pump form a suction unit.

[0109] The suction tube 151 is connected to a storage section 152 that stores the exhaled gas through an internal passage of the body 150. The storage section 152 includes a space for storing the exhaled gas. The exhaled gas sucked from the suction tube 151 is stored in the storage section 152.

[0110] The power unit 154 and the wheels 153 are included in a propulsion unit for propelling the gas collecting apparatus 100a. The power unit 154 is an internal combustion engine or a motor, and generates power for propelling the gas collecting apparatus 100a. An output shaft of the power unit 154 is connected to the wheels 153. The power generated by the power unit 154 is transmitted to the wheels 153, causing the wheels 153 to rotate. The wheels 153 can change their steering angle, thereby changing the traveling direction.

[0111] The control unit 160 controls each unit of the gas collecting device 100a. The configuration of the control unit 160 is similar to the configuration of the control unit 120 shown in Fig. 4, except that an input / output interface is connected to a power unit and a steering unit (not shown). That is, the control unit 160 includes a GNSS receiver and a wireless communication interface.

[0112] In the first modification, the gas collection device 100a moves by traveling. When determining a travel route of the gas collection device 100a, the management device 300 determines a travel route for traveling. For example, the management device 300 can determine the travel route of the gas collection device 100a by using a map.

[0113] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the gas collecting device according to the embodiment.

[0114] In the second modified example, the exhaled gas is collected from a cow 20 kept in a barn, not from a cow 20 that is grazing. As in the above-described embodiment, a tag 200 is attached to the cow 20, for example, on its collar.

[0115] For example, the gas collecting device 100b is fixed to the wall of a cowshed. The gas collecting device 100b includes an arm 170, a storage portion 172, and a control portion 180.

[0116] The arm 170 extends from the inner wall of the barn. The arm 170 is an articulated robot arm having multiple joints and links. The links are rod-shaped members, and two links are connected to each other by a joint. The joint can change the angle between the links.

[0117] A suction tube 171 is provided at the tip of the arm 170. A through passage is provided inside the arm 170, and the suction tube 171 is connected to a storage section 172 that stores the exhaled gas via the internal passage of the arm 170. The storage section 172 includes a space for storing the exhaled gas. The exhaled gas sucked from the suction tube 171 is stored in the storage section 172.

[0118] Each joint of the arm 170 is driven by a motor (not shown). The arm 170 is a moving part for moving a part (suction pipe 171) of the gas collection device 100b. The suction pipe 171 moves as the arm 170 of the gas collection device 100b operates.

[0119] The control unit 180 controls each unit of the gas collection device 100b. The configuration of the control unit 180 is similar to the configuration of the control unit 120 shown in FIG. 4, except that the input / output interface is connected to a drive circuit (not shown) of the arm 170. However, since the gas collection device 100b is a fixed device, the control unit 180 does not need to include a GNSS receiver. Furthermore, the control unit 180 may include a wired communication interface instead of a wireless communication interface.

[0120] In the second modification, for example, the movement range of each cow 20 is restricted by a fence, a chain, or the like, and a breeding space is defined for each cow. One gas collection device 100b is provided in each breeding space. For example, each gas collection device 100b is assigned a unique ID, and the management device 300 identifies the gas collection device 100b by the ID.

[0121] When the management device 300 detects the rumination state of the cow 20, it determines the gas collection device 100b installed in the rearing space of the cow 20 whose rumination state has been detected as the target device. The management device 300 transmits a collection command to the target device. When the target device receives the collection command, it drives the arm 170 to position the suction tube 171 above the cow 20 and collects the exhaled gas. The collected exhaled gas is stored in the storage section 172.

[0122] [8. Other Modifications] In the above-described embodiment, the management device 300 determines the movement route of the target device (gas collection device 100), but this is not limited to the above. The gas collection device 100 determined as the target device may determine its own movement route based on position information of the cow 20 from which gas is to be collected and its own position information. Also, instead of the management device 300 transmitting a movement command, a collection command, and a return command to the gas collection device 100, the gas collection device 100 may autonomously move, collect exhaled gas, and return to the base 30.

[0123] [9. Supplementary Note] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the above-described embodiments, and includes the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 10 Gas collection system 20 Cattle (ruminants) 30 base 40 Processing Facilities 41 Recovery Device 42 Separation device 43 Reservoir 44 Biogas Engine 50 Charging equipment 51 Power Converter 52 Battery 53 Charging device 100, 100A, 100B Gas collection device 110 Main unit 111 Suction tube 111A Suction port 112 Propeller 113 Storage unit 114 Suction fan 120 Control section 121 processors 122 Non-volatile memory 123 Volatile Memory 124 Input / Output Interface 130 Control Program 131 Drive circuit 132 GNSS receiver 133 Wireless communication interface 200 Tags 201 Control circuit 202 Sensor 203 GNSS receiver 204 Wireless communication interface 300 Management device 301 Processor 302 Non-volatile memory 303 Volatile Memory 304 Wireless communication interface 310 Management Program 311 Receiving unit 312 Target Determination Division 313 Route Determination Unit 314 Command generation section 315 Transmitter 100a Gas collection device 150 Body 151 Suction tube 152 Storage unit 153 Wheels 154 Power plant 160 Control section 100b Gas collecting device 170 Arm 171 Suction tube 172 Storage unit 180 Control Unit

Claims

1. A detection device that is attached to a ruminant and detects that the ruminant is in a rumination state, a location information acquisition device for acquiring location information indicating the location of the ruminant; a gas collecting device that, when the detection device detects that the ruminant is in the rumination state, moves to the location of the ruminant based on the location information acquired by the location information acquisition device and collects exhaled gases emitted from the ruminant; Equipped with The gas collecting device includes: A suction unit that suctions the exhaled gas; a storage section that stores the exhaled gas sucked by the suction section; a moving part for allowing at least a part of the gas collecting device to move; Including, Gas collection system.

2. The detection device is a methane sensor that detects methane emitted from the ruminant. The gas collection system of claim 1 .

3. the detection device detects the rumination state based on a movement of the ruminant. The gas collection system of claim 1 .

4. The moving unit is a propulsion unit for propelling the gas collecting apparatus. The gas collection system of claim 1 .

5. The gas collecting device is a flying object, The propulsion unit includes a propeller for enabling the gas collection device to fly. The gas collection system of claim 4 .

6. The suction section includes a suction tube extending laterally from the gas collecting device and configured to suction the exhaled gas released from the ruminant. The gas collection system of claim 5 .

7. The gas collection device collects the exhaled gas above the ruminant. The gas collection system of claim 5 .

8. the gas collection device is a vehicle; The propulsion unit includes wheels for enabling the gas collecting apparatus to travel. The gas collection system of claim 4 .

9. The suction section includes a suction tube extending above the gas collecting device and suctioning the exhaled gas released from the ruminant. The gas collection system of claim 8 .

10. The gas collecting system further includes a management device that manages the operation of the gas collecting device, The management device includes: a receiving unit that receives the detection result by the detection device and the location information acquired by the location information acquisition device; a transmitter that transmits a movement command for moving the gas collecting device to the location of the ruminant in the rumination state based on the detection result and the location information received by the receiver; Including, the gas collecting device moves to a location of the ruminant in the rumination state based on the movement command transmitted from the management device. The gas collection system of claim 1 .

11. The gas collection system includes a processing facility that generates electricity by processing the exhaled gas collected by the gas collection device; a charging facility that charges the gas collecting device using power obtained by the treatment facility; Further comprising: A gas collection system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A gas collection device that moves to a location of a ruminant animal that is in a ruminant state and is performing rumination, and collects exhaled gases released from the ruminant animal, comprising: A suction unit that suctions the exhaled gas; a storage section that stores the exhaled gas sucked by the suction section; a moving part for allowing at least a part of the gas collecting device to move; Equipped with Gas collection device.

13. a step of attaching the device to a ruminant animal and detecting that the ruminant animal is in a rumination state in which the ruminant animal is chewing the cud; obtaining location information indicative of a location of the ruminant; When the ruminant is detected to be in the rumination state, at least a portion of a gas collection device moves to a location of the ruminant based on the acquired location information and collects exhaled gases released from the ruminant; Including, Gas collection method.

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