Livestock parturition guidance system and method using same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a livestock parturition guidance system including: a parturition monitoring device that is inserted into the cervix and monitors biometric information of livestock; a server that can transmit and receive data to and from the parturition monitoring device and analyzes, on the basis of livestock information, the biometric information received from the parturition monitoring device to determine signs of parturition; and a user terminal that receives information about the signs of parturition.

Description

Livestock parturition guidance system and method using the same

[0001] This article relates to a livestock parturition guidance system and a method using the same.

[0002] In large-scale livestock farming environments, farrowing managers often cannot accurately predict the exact timing of individual calving, requiring them to constantly monitor and respond to each animal's progress. A system that automatically notifies farrowing managers of individual calving dates in real time plays a crucial role in reducing their inconvenience and minimizing damage during farrowing.

[0003] Regarding livestock parturition management, the prior art, Republic of Korea Utility Model Registration No. 20-0438778 (February 26, 2008), discloses a temperature-sensing, implantable parturition start automatic notification device.

[0004] However, the above-mentioned prior art has the following limitations: As the number of livestock births increases, the elasticity of the cervix decreases, or when the rupture of membranes and the first stage of labor begin, the inserted device may be dislodged from the body due to expansion and pressure changes in the vaginal space, which may provide inaccurate information to the farrowing manager.

[0005] Additionally, repeated reuse of exposed sensors inserted into the cervix significantly increases the risk of contamination and infection, which carries the risk of transmitting diseases to other livestock.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention relates to a livestock parturition guidance system that guides parturition by utilizing a parturition monitoring device that collects biometric information while stably positioned within the uterine cervix of a livestock and allows a user to appropriately monitor and control it.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a farrowing guidance system for a livestock scheduled to farrow includes: a farrowing monitoring device inserted into the cervix of the livestock to detect the livestock's bio-information; a server capable of transmitting and receiving data with the farrowing monitoring device and determining signs of farrowing based on a plurality of wireless packets associated with the bio-information received from the farrowing monitoring device; and a user terminal capable of receiving information on signs of farrowing and alarm information from the server and controlling the operation of the farrowing monitoring device.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the parturition monitoring device may include a monitoring control module including a controller; a biosensor module connected to the controller and detecting bio-information including body temperature, activity level, and pressure changes of livestock; and a communication module capable of transmitting and receiving data with the outside, the communication module being connected to the controller and transmitting the bio-information to the outside and selectively receiving a control signal from the outside; a housing module in which the monitoring control module is accommodated; one or more fixing modules fitted into the housing module and elastically fixing the housing module to the inner wall of the cervix; and a plurality of holder rings formed in a ring shape and fitted into the housing module to fix the fixing module in a fixed position on the housing module.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the housing module may include a first housing including a first body in which the monitoring control module is accommodated therein, and a first sealing cap for sealing the inlet of the first body; and a second housing including a second body in which the first housing is accommodated therein and a fixing module or a holder ring is coupled to an outer surface thereof, and a second sealing cap for sealing the inlet of the second body.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first housing can be accommodated in the second housing such that the first sealing cap faces the second sealing cap.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixed module or holder ring can be fitted in a direction toward the bottom surface at the entrance of the second main body.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixed module may include a base holder formed in a ring shape and fitted into the second body, and tightly fixed by interlocking with the holder ring on one or both sides along the circumference; and a plurality of flexible arms arranged radially at regular intervals along the circumference of the base holder.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible arm may have a curved end to prevent damage to the cervical wall, or a support disk may be fitted to the end to increase the contact area with the cervical wall.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fixed module includes a first fixed module and a second fixed module arranged in the upper and lower direction of the second housing, and the flexible arms of each fixed module can be arranged to face opposite directions.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the holding rings is disposed between the first and second fixed modules, and may be disposed above or below the fixed modules for vertical position adjustment of the fixed modules.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring control module may further include a vibration module connected to the controller to generate vibration.

[0017] The present invention may further include an operating method of the aforementioned childbirth guidance system.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a parturition guidance system includes: a step in which the parturition monitoring device requests service activation through a server; a step in which the parturition monitoring device switches to a standby mode and transmits a signal to the server in a first cycle when the service activation is approved within a preset time; a step in which the parturition monitoring device is inserted into a cervix within a preset time and switches to an activation mode; a step in which the parturition monitoring device switches to a monitoring mode, collects biometric information within the cervix, and transmits a plurality of wireless packets associated with the biometric information in a second cycle; a step in which the server determines a parturition sign of a livestock based on a wireless packet received from the parturition monitoring device; and a step in which, as a result of determining the parturition sign or when the parturition monitoring device is discharged from the body, an event is reported to have occurred and a user confirms the occurrence of the event.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, by collecting biometric information using a birthing monitoring device stably installed in the cervix of a livestock, predicting signs of birth based on wireless packets associated with the biometric information received from the birthing monitoring device, and providing the predicted signs to the user, the user can recognize the exact expected time of birth.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the delivery monitoring device can efficiently use power by setting different cycles for transmitting signals to the server according to the stage of excretion from the body before and after insertion into the body of the livestock and upon occurrence of an event.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when it is determined that delivery has occurred based on biometric information or when actual delivery has occurred, an event is deemed to have occurred, and an alarm, caution, warning, or emergency alarm is sounded in stages to the user, so that the user can immediately confirm the delivery subject.

[0022] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described effects, and should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the composition of the invention described in the detailed description or claims of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 1 is a drawing showing the location where the cervix and parturition monitoring device of a livestock is inserted.

[0024] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a livestock parturition guidance system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a delivery monitoring device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the delivery monitoring device of Figure 3.

[0027] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a monitoring control module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a second sealing cap according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a fixed module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a holder according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 is an example of a combination of arrangements of a fixed module and a holding ring that constitute a delivery monitoring device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are flowcharts explaining the operation of a livestock parturition guidance system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 12 is an exemplary diagram of a signal transmission cycle of a childbirth monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted for clarity of description, and the same reference numerals designate identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0035] Additionally, throughout the specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0036]

[0037] The present invention relates to a livestock parturition guidance system that guides the start of parturition by utilizing a parturition monitoring device inserted into the cervix of a pregnant livestock scheduled to parture.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a livestock calving guidance system using a calving monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a livestock calving guidance system using a calving monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a calving monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the calving monitoring device of FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a monitoring control module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, the livestock parturition guidance system (1) may include a plurality of parturition monitoring devices (M1, M2,..., Mn), a server (20), and one or more user terminals (30).

[0040] The parturition monitoring device (10) of Fig. 3 may correspond to any one of the plurality of parturition monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn) of Fig. 2. The parturition monitoring devices (10) are each inserted into the cervix of livestock of various breeds or numbers of births, and each parturition monitoring device (10) can detect biometric information related to parturition signs and individually generate wireless packets.

[0041] The server (20) is connected to a plurality of parturition monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn) and can generate event information for guiding the status of livestock based on a plurality of wireless packets received from the plurality of parturition monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn). The server (20) can generate alarm information for a user based on the generated event information. The server (20) can transmit event information or alarm information for parturition guidance to a user terminal (30).

[0042] The above user terminal (30) can receive event information or alarm information for childbirth guidance from the server (20) and control the operation of the childbirth monitoring device (10) according to the user's instructions.

[0043] Here, the parturition monitoring device (10) is structured to prevent the uterine cervix from being naturally removed from the body while inserted into the body of livestock with different cervical sizes depending on the number of births and breed.

[0044] Additionally, the delivery monitoring device (10) is structured to combine a single-use part with a reusable part, thereby preventing contamination and infection and reducing the unit price of the product. The structure and function required to achieve these effects will be described later.

[0045] Referring to Fig. 1, the parturition monitoring device (10) can be inserted into the cervix of a livestock that is pregnant or about to parture. The livestock parturition manager (hereinafter referred to as the "user") can sufficiently apply medical lubricant to the surface of the parturition monitoring device (10) to prevent damage to the cervix, then insert his / her hand into the anus to determine the insertion location between the vagina and the cervix, and then insert the parturition monitoring device (10).

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, the parturition monitoring device (10) may include a monitoring control module (100) that collects bio-information (temperature, pressure, activity level) within the cervix and allows a user to appropriately monitor and control it, a housing module (200) that blocks body fluids from penetrating into the monitoring control module (100), and a fixing module (300) that allows the parturition monitoring device (10) to be stably fixed without being removed within the cervix of livestock of various sizes depending on the number of births, the dilatation state of the cervix, and / or the breed.

[0047]

[0048] Let us first look at the monitoring control module (100) with reference to Fig. 5.

[0049] The monitoring control module (100) may include a controller (110), a bio sensor module (120), a communication module (130), a battery (140), a vibration module (150), a USB interface (160), and a display (170), and the components constituting the monitoring control module (100) may be integrated into a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0050] The controller (110) can collect and analyze bio-information detected by the bio-sensor module (120), and determine the condition of the livestock based on the analysis results. The controller (110) can receive signals from the outside through the communication module (130), and control the components of the surveillance control module (100) according to the received signals. Accordingly, the user can turn the surveillance control module (100) on / off through the controller (110). Alternatively, the switch can be turned on / off by the sensor of the bio-sensor module (120) by shaking the surveillance control module (100) a predetermined number of times.

[0051] The above communication module (130) communicates with the monitoring control module (100) and an external device (management server or user terminal), and can transmit and receive data (signals) to and from each other. The communication module (130) can use a communication method of Bluetooth, a low-power long-distance communication network LPWAN (Low-Power Wide Area Network), and in particular, low-power BLE, or LoRa, an LPWAN method, can be used.

[0052] The above biosensor module (120) is connected to the controller (110) and may include an acceleration sensor (121), a gyro sensor (122), a temperature sensor (123), a pressure sensor (124), and a pH sensor (125) to detect bioinformation including body temperature, activity level, and pressure changes of livestock.

[0053] The acceleration sensor (121) can obtain acceleration information of livestock. For example, the acceleration sensor (121) can detect the acceleration value of livestock in real time and generate acceleration information.

[0054] The gyro sensor (122) can obtain angular velocity information of livestock. For example, the gyro sensor (122) can detect the angular velocity value of livestock in real time and generate angular velocity information. The gyro sensor (122) is implemented in the form of a chip using MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology based on the principle of a gyroscope, and is therefore very small in size, so that it can be easily integrated into a biosensor module (120).

[0055] By using an acceleration sensor (121) and a gyro sensor (122), the movement of a parturition monitoring device (10) equipped with a bio sensor module (120) can be detected, and as a result, the movement (activity) of livestock can be detected. The roll, pitch, and yaw of the bio sensor module (120) can be detected by combining the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor (121) and the angular velocity of the gyro sensor.

[0056] The temperature sensor (123) can obtain temperature information within the cervix of livestock. For example, the temperature sensor (123) can detect the temperature value within the cervix in real time and generate temperature information. The temperature sensor (123) can include an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor, a thermistor sensor, a thermocouple sensor, or a bio-implant sensor.

[0057] The above pressure sensor (124) can obtain pressure information generated by contraction and / or relaxation of the uterus in real time.

[0058] The above pH sensor (125) can obtain pH information inside the uterus. For example, the pH sensor (125) can detect the pH concentration of the uterus of livestock in real time and generate pH information.

[0059] As described above, acceleration, angular velocity, temperature, pressure and pH information obtained from various sensors for collecting bio-information can be transmitted to a management server (not shown) through a communication module (130).

[0060] The above battery (140) can supply power to each component constituting the biosensor module (120) and can be implemented as various types of energy storage devices such as a lithium-ion battery, a lead battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, etc. The battery (140) can be charged via a USB interface.

[0061] The vibration module (150) is connected to the controller (110) and can selectively generate vibrations in response to a control signal received from a user. The vibration module (150) may include a small vibration motor that can operate with low power, or a piezoelectric vibrator that converts an electric signal into mechanical vibration using a piezoelectric element.

[0062] If the user determines that childbirth is imminent based on the collected biometric information, the user can transmit a vibration generation signal to the childbirth monitoring device (10). The controller (110) that receives the vibration generation signal can promote childbirth by generating vibration in the vibration module (150).

[0063] The USB interface (160) may support a USB interface for power supply and / or data transfer, and may include a USB 2.0 interface and a USB Type-C interface. For example, the USB interface (160) may be a USB-C port, and the USB-C port may be connected to a computing device and used for data transfer or firmware update purposes. Here, the computing device may be an electronic device composed of a central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage device, input / output device, and communication device.

[0064]

[0065] Next, let's look at the housing module (200).

[0066] The above housing module (200) can house the monitoring control module (100) in a watertight manner therein, thereby preventing the monitoring control module (100) from being contaminated by bodily fluids within the cervix.

[0067] To achieve this purpose, the housing module (200) is designed to be divided into a single-use part and a reusable part, and can be composed of a first housing (210) in which the monitoring control module (100) is stored, and a second housing (220) in which the first housing (210) is stored inside and a fixed module (300) is coupled outside.

[0068] The first housing (210) is housed in a watertight state inside the second housing (220) and does not come into contact with body fluids, so it can be reused. The second housing (220) is directly exposed to the cervix and can be contaminated with body fluids, so it can be immediately disposed of when discharged from the cervix.

[0069] The above first housing (210) may be composed of a first main body (211) in which the monitoring control module (100) is stored and a first sealing cap (215) that seals the inlet (211a) of the first main body (211).

[0070] The first main body (211) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with one side open, and a monitoring control module (100) may be housed inside through the opened first inlet (211a). The monitoring control module (100) may be housed such that a communication means (not shown) related to the communication module (130) faces the inlet (211a) of the first main body (211), and a biosensor module (120) or a vibration module (150) faces the bottom surface of the first main body (211).

[0071] In a state stored in this manner, the delivery monitoring device (10) is inserted into the bottom part of the first main body (211) so that the bottom part faces the uterus and cervix, and the first sealing cap (215) located at the top of the first main body (211) can face the vulva.

[0072] Accordingly, the biosensor module (120) and vibration module (150) face the uterus and cervix, so that they can effectively perform bioinformation detection and vibration transmission, and the communication means faces the vulva, so that data transmission and reception with an external device can be smoothly performed.

[0073] The second housing (220) may be composed of a second body (221) and a second sealing cap (225). The second body (221) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with a second inlet (221a) provided on one side, and the first housing (210) inserted through the second inlet (221a) may be accommodated in the internal space of the second body (221). The first housing (210) may be inserted into the second body (221) so that the first sealing cap (215) and the second sealing cap (225) may face each other.

[0074] The second sealing cap (225) can be coupled to the second body (221) to seal the second inlet (221a). The second sealing cap (225) can have one or more first fastening protrusions (227a, 227b) formed along the lower circumference thereof to protrude toward the second inlet (221a). The second sealing cap (225) can have a plurality of catches (226) formed along the inner circumference thereof to protrude.

[0075] The above-mentioned catch (226) can be fitted into the catch groove (223) of the second body (221) and connected when the second sealing cap (225) is connected to the second body (221). Accordingly, the number of catch grooves (226) and the spacing between the catch grooves can be provided to correspond to the number of catch grooves (223) and the spacing between the catch grooves.

[0076] The second main body (221) may include one or more second fastening jaws (222) formed along the outer circumference of the lower portion.

[0077] The above first fastening jaw (227) and second fastening jaw (222) are configured to prevent the fastening module (300) or holder ring (400) described later from rotating when fitted into the second body (221).

[0078]

[0079] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fixed module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a holding ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to the drawing, the fixed module (300) can be detachably attached to the housing module (200) and can be joined by a fitting method. When the fixed module (300) is joined to the housing module (200), the housing module (200) can be stably fixed to the cervix.

[0081] The above-mentioned fixed modules (300) may be provided in one or more forms and coupled to the housing module (200). The number of the fixed modules (30) may vary depending on the size of the cervix, the condition of the cervical wall according to the number of deliveries, the type, or the position of insertion. For example, a pair of fixed modules (300A, 300B) may be coupled to the housing module (200) in a vertical direction (see FIG. 2).

[0082] The above fixed module (300) may include a base holder (310) that is fitted into the housing module (200) and a flexible arm (320) that is provided on the base holder (310) and elastically fixes the housing module (200) to the inner wall of the uterus.

[0083] The above base holder (310) is formed in a ring or cylindrical shape with a central portion that is perforated, and can be fitted and connected to the second body (221). The base holder (310) connected to the second body (221) can be fixed in a form that surrounds a portion of the outer circumference of the second body (221).

[0084] The above base holder (310) may include a pair of fastening grooves (311a, 311b) that are formed along the circumference at the top and bottom and face each other. The fastening grooves (311a, 311b) may be provided in a plurality of pairs (311, 312, 313, 314) and arranged at a constant interval along the circumference of the base holder (310). The fastening grooves (312a, 312b) are configured to engage with the fastening pieces (412a, 412b) of the holder ring (400) when the holder ring (400) described below is arranged on either the upper or lower side of the base holder (310).

[0085] The above flexible arms (320) may be provided in multiple numbers (320a, 320b, 320c, 320d) and arranged along the outer circumference of the base holder (310) and formed in a radially extending shape.

[0086] The flexible arm (320) may be formed in a smooth S-curve shape from one end (fixed end) connected to the base holder (310) to the other end (hereinafter referred to as the “contact end”) (321). The contact end (321) of the flexible arm (320) may be formed in a curved shape to prevent damage to the inner wall of the cervix during the process of contacting or adhering to the inner wall.

[0087] At this time, the flexible arm (320) can be elastically bent or stretched during the process in which the contact end (321) is in contact with the inner wall of the cervix, and for this purpose, can be made of a biocompatible elastic material.

[0088] Accordingly, the housing module (200) can be elastically fixed to the uterine wall through the flexible arm (320).

[0089] The fastening grooves (312a, 312b) and flexible arms (320) of the above base holder (310) may be arranged alternately along the outer circumference. For example, a pair of fastening grooves (312a, 312b) and a flexible arm (320) may be arranged alternately along the outer circumference of the base holder (310). Referring to the drawing, a structure in which four pairs of fastening grooves (311, 312, 313, 314) and four flexible arms (320a, 320b, 320c, 320d) are arranged along the circumference can be confirmed.

[0090] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a holder ring (400) is configured to fix a fixed module (300) coupled to a housing module (200) in a fixed position so that it does not move, and may be formed in a ring shape with a central portion that is perforated. The holder ring (400) may be fitted into the second body (221) of the housing module (200). The holder ring (400) coupled to the second body (221) may be fixed in a form that surrounds a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second body (221).

[0091] By fixing the fixing module (300) to the housing module (200) in the above-mentioned holding ring (400), the labor monitoring device (10) can be stably positioned within the cervix.

[0092] Specifically, the holder ring (400) may include a pair of fastening pieces (411a, 411b) that protrude along the circumference at the top and bottom and face each other. The fastening pieces (411a, 411b) may be provided in multiple pairs (411, 412, 413, 414) and arranged at regular intervals along the circumference of the holder ring (400).

[0093] A holder ring (400) of this structure can be fitted into a housing module (200) so that the fastening pieces can engage with the fastening grooves formed at the top or bottom of the base holder. In this specification, a configuration in which the fastening grooves of the base holder and the fastening pieces that engage with them are provided in four pairs has been described, but it should be noted that the number is not limited thereto.

[0094]

[0095] The number or installation location of the aforementioned fixed modules installed in the housing module can be adjusted so as to correspond to various types of cervixes, and accordingly, the fixed modules and the holder ring can be combined with the housing module in various ways.

[0096] Figure 9 is an example of a combination of arrangements of a fixed module and a holding ring that constitute a delivery monitoring device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to the drawing, on the outer surface of the second main body (221) of the delivery monitoring device, the fixed modules and the holding rings can be combined through various arrangement combinations, and the first and second fixed modules (300A, 300B) and the first to third holding rings (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) can be arranged in various combinations. In this structure, the second main body (221) is fitted with the second fixed module (300B), the first fixed module (300A) is coupled last, and the second fixed module (300B) can be fastened by engaging with the fastening jaw (222) of the second main body (221).

[0098] Looking at <Layout Combination 1>, three holder rings (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) can be positioned between the first and second fixed modules (300A, 300B). The three holder rings (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) are structured to be positioned on the lower side of the first fixed module (300A) and on the upper side of the second fixed module (300B).

[0099] Looking at <Layout Combination 2>, the first holder ring (400-1) is positioned on the upper side of the first fixed module (300A), and two holder rings (400-2, 400-3) can be positioned between the first and second fixed modules (300A, 300B). The two holder rings (400-2, 400-3) are structured to be positioned on the lower side of the first fixed module (300A) and on the upper side of the second fixed module (300B).

[0100] Looking at <Layout Combination 3>, two holder rings (400-1, 400-2) are positioned between the first and second fixed modules (300A, 300B), and a third holder ring (400-3) can be positioned on the lower side of the second fixed module (300B).

[0101] Meanwhile, the flexible arm (320) has a wiring (not shown) inserted therein that is electrically connected to the monitoring control module (100), and the wiring can be electrically connected to a microscopic vibration device (not shown) provided at the contact end (321).

[0102] The above monitoring control module (100) can induce effective promotion of parturition by independently controlling whether vibration occurs at each contact end (321) of the flexible arm (320) and applying a customized vibration pattern according to the breed of livestock or the progress of parturition.

[0103]

[0104] A server (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention can generate event information that guides signs of labor based on a plurality of wireless packets received from a plurality of labor monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn).

[0105] The aforementioned multiple parturition monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn) can individually generate multiple wireless packets related to parturition signs while inserted into the cervix of various types of livestock. For example, the multiple wireless packets can be generated according to a pre-established communication protocol (e.g., BLE, LoRa) between each parturition monitoring device (10) and a server (20).

[0106] Accordingly, the server (20) can be connected according to a preset communication protocol to receive wireless packets from multiple delivery monitoring devices (M1, M2, ..., Mn), and can generate event information that guides delivery signs based on multiple wireless packets individually received from each delivery monitoring device (10).

[0107] In addition, the server (20) can generate alarm information to guide the user based on the generated event information, and can transmit the generated event information and / or alarm information to the user terminal (30).

[0108]

[0109] How the Livestock Calving Guidance System Works

[0110] The method of operating a livestock parturition guidance system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. FIGS. 10 and 11 are flowcharts explaining the operation of a livestock parturition guidance system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is an exemplary diagram regarding a signal transmission cycle of a parturition monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] First, in the service activation preparation step (S100), the delivery monitoring device (10) and the server (20) may attempt to activate the service through a pre-established communication protocol (e.g., LoRa) for delivery guidance. In this step (S100), the delivery monitoring device (10) that is sufficiently charged may be turned on and then wirelessly connected to the server (20).

[0112] When the above-mentioned delivery monitoring device (10) attempts to activate the service, the user can approve the service activation of the delivery monitoring device (10) through the server (20). If the user does not approve the service activation, the delivery monitoring device (10) may be automatically powered off after a certain period of time has elapsed. Here, the server (20) may include a cloud server and may be configured so that the user can access the server (20) through a user terminal (30) to monitor and control it.

[0113] Next, after service activation is approved, the delivery monitoring device (10) switches to standby mode (standby) in the standby mode step (S110) and can then transmit a signal to the server (20) in a first cycle (T1). For example, the first cycle (T1) can be set to 10 minutes, so that data can be transmitted to the server (20) at 10-minute intervals.

[0114] Next, in the body insertion step (S120), the birth monitoring device (10) in standby mode can be inserted into the cervix of the livestock within a preset time and switched to activation mode. Here, the conversion of the birth monitoring device (10) to activation mode may include both a case where the user switches it through the user terminal (30) and a case where the birth monitoring device (10) is automatically switched when inserted into the body of the livestock.

[0115] If the parturition monitoring device (10) is not inserted into the livestock body even after a certain period of time has passed while in standby mode, the parturition monitoring device (10) may be automatically turned off. In addition, since the parturition monitoring device (10) must not be turned off after being inserted into the livestock body, if the parturition monitoring device (10) in standby mode is not switched to active mode inside the livestock body, the parturition monitoring device (10) may not be turned off and may remain in standby mode.

[0116] This automatic power-off setting is to prevent the battery of the farrowing monitoring device (10) from being consumed or discharged in standby mode when insertion of the farrowing monitoring device (10) is delayed due to neglect during the process of managing a large number of livestock in a barn, or when insertion of the device is missed due to circumstances such as user negligence.

[0117] Next, in the internal monitoring step (S130), the labor monitoring device (10) inserted into the cervix is ​​switched to monitoring mode, collects biometric information within the cervix, and can transmit a signal to the server (20) in the second cycle (T2).

[0118] The second period (T2) may be set shorter than the first period (T1), for example, the second period (T2) may be set to 5 minutes so that data may be transmitted to the server (20) at 5-minute intervals.

[0119] Next, in the labor sign prediction step (S140), the server (20) can predict labor signs based on a plurality of wireless packets each received from a plurality of labor monitoring devices (10).

[0120] For example, when the server (20) receives n temperature data from the childbirth monitoring device (10), it can calculate the absolute value of the difference between the average value of n-1 temperatures and the nth temperature, and compare the calculated absolute value with a preset value (m1). If the number of times that the comparison result is greater than or equal to the preset value (m1) reaches a preset number (x1), it can be determined that the first condition based on temperature is satisfied. This can be expressed in a mathematical formula as follows.

[0121]

[0122] Here, a is a temperature value, I is an indicator function that represents 1 if the condition is satisfied and 0 if not satisfied, and E represents the average of n-1 temperature values.

[0123] Likewise, when the server (20) receives n pressure data from the labor monitoring device (10), it can calculate the absolute value of the difference between the average value of n-1 pressures and the nth pressure, and compare the calculated absolute value with a preset value (m2). If the number of times that the comparison result is greater than or equal to the preset value (m2) reaches a preset number (x2), it can be determined that the second condition based on pressure is satisfied. This can be expressed in a mathematical formula as follows.

[0124]

[0125] Here, b is the pressure value, I is an indicator function that represents 1 if the condition is satisfied and 0 if not satisfied, and E represents the average of n-1 pressure values.

[0126] Likewise, when the server (20) receives n pieces of yaw, roll, and pitch data from the delivery monitoring device (10), it can calculate the absolute value of the difference between the n-1 average values ​​and the nth value for each piece of data, and compare the calculated absolute values ​​with preset values ​​(y1, r1, p1). When the number of times that the comparison result is greater than or equal to the preset values ​​(y1, r1, p1) reaches the preset number (x3), it can be determined that the third condition based on yaw, roll, and pitch is satisfied. This can be expressed in a mathematical formula as follows.

[0127]

[0128]

[0129]

[0130] Here, c is the yaw value, d is the roll value, e is the pitch value, I is an indicator function that represents 1 if the condition is satisfied and 0 if not satisfied, and E represents the average of n-1 yaws, rolls, and pitches.

[0131] As described above, the server (20) can determine whether an event has occurred by combining the results of the judgment regarding whether the first, second, and third conditions have been met in a preset manner. For example, if the first condition has been met, an event can be determined to have occurred if either the second or third conditions are met.

[0132] Meanwhile, the user can optionally perform a vibration generation step (S150) that generates vibrations in the labor monitoring device (10) during the in-vivo monitoring process to provide stimulation to the cervix for a preset period of time. That is, the vibration generation step (S150) can be omitted according to the user's choice.

[0133] For example, when a user receives a labor sign prediction result from a server (20) through a user terminal (30), the user can optionally transmit a vibration generation signal to a labor monitoring device (10) to stimulate the cervix through a vibration module (150).

[0134] Meanwhile, if the server (20) does not receive a signal from the delivery monitoring device (10) according to the second cycle (T2), the user can wirelessly shut down the delivery monitoring device (10) and then reboot it.

[0135] Next, in the user event confirmation step (S160), if an event occurs, the labor monitoring device (10) transmits a signal to the server (20) in the third cycle (T3) and can wait for the user's confirmation of the event occurrence. Here, the occurrence of an event may include both a case where the server (20) determines that an event has occurred as a result of the labor sign prediction, or a case where an event has actually occurred (for example, the labor monitoring device (10) is discharged from the body).

[0136] The third cycle (T3) may be set shorter than the second cycle (T2), for example, the third cycle (T3) may be set to 60 seconds so that data may be transmitted to the server (20) at 60-second intervals.

[0137] When the user confirms that an event has occurred and confirms it, the delivery monitoring device (10) is automatically turned off.

[0138] However, if an event has occurred but the occurrence of the event is not confirmed by the user, the delivery monitoring device (10) may generate an alarm to request a response from the user.

[0139] The above user event confirmation step (S160) may include an alarm alarm generation step (S161), a caution alarm generation step (S162), a warning alarm generation step (S163), and an emergency alarm generation step (S164). As described above, from the time of event generation, the delivery monitoring device (10) and the server (20) transmit and receive signals in the third cycle (T3), so in the above steps (S161 to S164), the server (20) can receive signals in the third cycle (T3).

[0140] In the alarm alarm generation step (S161), an alarm can be generated for a first preset time (t1) from the event occurrence point (EOP). While the alarm alarm is ringing, the delivery monitoring device (10) can transmit a signal to the server (20) in a 3-1 cycle (T3-1). If the occurrence of a user event is not confirmed even after the first time (t1) has elapsed, a caution alarm can be generated, and a display lamp provided on the outer surface of the delivery monitoring device (10) can blink in blue.

[0141] The caution alarm generation step (S162) can generate a caution alarm for a second time (t2) from a time point (EOP+t1) when t1 has elapsed from the time point of event occurrence. While the caution alarm is ringing, the delivery monitoring device (10) can transmit a signal to the server (20) in a 3-2 cycle (T3-2). If the occurrence of a user event is not confirmed even after the second time (t2) has elapsed, a warning alarm can be generated, and a yellow light can flash on an indicator lamp provided on the outer surface of the delivery monitoring device (10).

[0142] The warning alarm generation step (S163) may generate a warning alarm for a third time (t3) from a time point (EOP+t1+t2) when the time points t1 and t2 have elapsed from the time point of event occurrence. While the warning alarm is ringing, the delivery monitoring device (10) may transmit a signal to the server (20) in a 3-3 cycle (T3-3). If the occurrence of a user event is not confirmed even after the third time (t3) has elapsed, an emergency alarm may be generated, and a red light may flash on an indicator lamp provided on the outer surface of the delivery monitoring device (10).

[0143] In the emergency alarm generation step (S164), an urgent alarm can be generated for a fourth time (t4) from a time point (EOP+t1+t2+t3) when the times t1, t2, and t3 have elapsed from the time of event generation. Here, the fourth time (t4) refers to the time required until the battery of the labor monitoring device (10) is discharged. In the emergency alarm generation step (S140), the indicator lamp of the labor monitoring device (10) can remain lit in a red state. If the user confirms the occurrence of the event before the battery is discharged, the labor monitoring device (10) can be terminated before the fourth time (t4) elapses.

[0144]

[0145] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the patent claims, the detailed description of the invention, and the attached drawings, and it is obvious that this also falls within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. As a parturition guidance system for livestock scheduled to parturite, A parturition monitoring device that is inserted into the cervix of the livestock to detect the vital information of the livestock; A server capable of transmitting and receiving data with the above-mentioned delivery monitoring device and determining the signs of delivery based on a plurality of wireless packets associated with bio-information received from the delivery monitoring device; and A user terminal capable of receiving information on labor signs and alarm information from the above server and controlling the operation of a labor monitoring device; Livestock calving guidance system.

2. In paragraph 1, The above delivery monitoring device is, controller; A bio sensor module connected to the above controller and detecting bio information including body temperature, activity level and pressure changes of livestock; and A communication module capable of transmitting and receiving data with the outside, which is connected to the controller, transmits the biometric information to the outside, and selectively receives a control signal from the outside; A supervisory control module including; A housing module in which the above surveillance control module is stored; One or more fixing modules fitted into the housing module and elastically fixing the housing module to the inner wall of the cervix; and A plurality of holder rings formed in a ring shape and fitted into the housing module to secure the fixed module in place on the housing module; Including, Livestock calving guidance system.

3. In paragraph 2, The above housing module, A first housing including a first main body in which the above-mentioned monitoring control module is stored, and a first sealing cap that seals the inlet of the first main body; and A second housing including a second body having the first housing accommodated therein and a fixing module or holder ring coupled to an outer surface thereof, and a second sealing cap for sealing an inlet of the second body; Including, The above first housing, The first sealing cap is accommodated in the second housing so as to face the second sealing cap, The above fixed module or holder, Fitted in the direction toward the bottom surface at the entrance of the second main body, Livestock calving guidance system.

4. In paragraph 3, The above fixed module, A base holder formed in a ring shape and fitted into the second body, and interlocked with the holder ring on one or both sides along the circumference and fixed in close contact; and A plurality of flexible arms arranged radially at regular intervals along the periphery of the above base holder; Including, Livestock calving guidance system.

5. In paragraph 4, The above flexible arm, The end is curved to prevent damage to the cervical wall, or a support disc is fitted to the end to increase the contact area with the cervical wall. Livestock calving guidance system.

6. In paragraph 4, The above fixed module, Including a first fixed module and a second fixed module arranged in the upper and lower direction of the second housing, The flexible arms of each fixed module are positioned so that they face opposite directions. Livestock calving guidance system.

7. In paragraph 6, The above holding ring is, At least one or more fixed modules are arranged between the first fixed module and the second fixed module, and are arranged above or below the fixed modules for adjusting the position of the fixed modules in the vertical direction. Labor monitoring device.

8. In paragraph 1, The above monitoring and control module, Further comprising a vibration module connected to the above controller and generating vibration, Livestock calving guidance system.

9. As an operating method of the childbirth guidance system according to Article 1, A step in which the above-mentioned delivery monitoring device requests service activation through a server; If the service activation is approved within the preset time, the delivery monitoring device switches to standby mode and transmits a signal to the server in the first cycle; A step in which the above labor monitoring device is inserted into the cervix within a preset time and switched to an active mode; The above-described labor monitoring device is switched to a monitoring mode, collects biometric information within the cervix, and transmits a plurality of wireless packets associated with the biometric information in a second cycle; The above server determines signs of calving of livestock based on wireless packets received from a calving monitoring device; and A step of reporting an event as having occurred and waiting for the user to confirm the occurrence of the event when the above-mentioned labor signs are determined or the labor monitoring device is discharged from the body; A method of operating a childbirth guidance system including:

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