Estrus Detection Device Using Multi-Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current estrus detection methods in animals are inefficient due to high rates of false positives, require invasive implantation, and rely on visual inspection, making it difficult to accurately determine the optimal breeding time, especially given the short duration of estrus in many species.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a hermetically sealed device with a radio transmitter, pressure switch, accelerometer, and transceiver that sends data to a central server for estrus determination, using a combination of sensors and software to differentiate between true and false mounts, thereby reducing false positives and enabling remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection methods are used to detect estrus, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision is poor due to high false positive rates and difficulty in detecting short-duration estrus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing modalities (accelerometer for motion detection, pressure sensor for mounting force detection, and temperature sensor for physiological state monitoring) into a single integrated estrus detection device. This merging of sensors allows the system to cross-validate signals and reduce false positives by requiring corroboration between multiple sensors, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an electronic sensing system. Instead of relying on human observers to visually detect estrus signs, the system uses accelerometers to detect body motion, pressure sensors to detect mounting forces, and temperature sensors to monitor physiological changes. This substitution eliminates the subjectivity and limitations of visual inspection, providing more accurate and objective estrus detection.
2Measurement precision
If invasive implantable devices are used to detect estrus, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to surgical placement requirements and infection risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing functions from invasive implantable devices and relocates them to external, non-invasive sensors. Instead of implanting devices into the animal's body, the system uses external accelerometers, pressure sensors, and temperature sensors that can be attached to the animal's surface. This extraction eliminates the need for surgical placement while maintaining detection capabilities, thereby improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable or easily replaceable external sensors rather than permanent implantable devices. The sensing components can be attached and removed without surgical intervention, and if needed, can be replaced as simple external units. This approach eliminates the complexity of implant removal and infection management, making the system easier to operate and more safe for the animal.
3Ease of operation
If remote monitoring systems are implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and data transmission components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the estrus detection device with multi-functionality, where a single integrated unit performs sensing (accelerometer, pressure sensor, temperature sensor), data processing, and wireless communication functions. By making the device universal and self-contained, the system reduces overall complexity compared to having separate components for each function. The multi-functional design enables remote monitoring while keeping the individual device units relatively simple.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively reduces false positives and allows for remote, accurate estrus detection, improving the chances of successful breeding by providing timely and reliable data on estrus cycles.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer, a circuit board, an antenna, and a battery
Implementation Method 2
a pressure switch, an encoder, an accelerometer
Implementation Method 3
a radio transmitter... a transceiver comprising a tuner, a power source, an antenna, and a cellular (analog or digital), Radio Frequency (RF), Wi-Fi Wireless
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems are provided for identifying estrus or onset of estrus in a female animal.