Multi-Checkpoint Fruit Fly Counter with Triggered Dual Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for ecological data collection, such as pest counting in farmlands, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to inaccuracies due to manual counting and single-sensor systems that can lead to erroneous results from pest movement and wing flapping.
Innovation Solution
A multi-checkpoint type clustered animal counting device using at least two object sensors, where the first sensor is always on and the second is initially off, triggering only when the first is activated, to provide accurate counting and reduce power consumption, integrated with a wireless sensing network for remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single object sensor is used for pest counting, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to erroneous counting from pest retreat or wing flapping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the counting process into multiple checkpoints using at least two object sensors positioned at different locations. The first sensor detects approach and the second sensor confirms entry, segmenting the detection process to eliminate false counting from retreat or wing flapping events.
2Measurement precision
If multiple object sensors are always on for accurate counting, then the measurement precision improves, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of the second object sensor based on trigger signals from the first sensor. Instead of continuous operation, the second sensor is activated only when needed (when the first sensor detects a pest), achieving accurate counting while minimizing energy consumption through event-driven periodic action.
3Device complexity
If manual counting methods are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity deteriorates due to tedious and time-consuming labor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a self-service automated system where object sensors automatically detect pests, the control unit automatically processes signals and performs counting, and the system self-regulates through trigger mechanisms. This eliminates the need for manual labor while maintaining high productivity through automated ecological data collection.
4Measurement precision
If remote farmland monitoring is performed manually, then the measurement precision is maintained through direct observation, but the loss of time increases due to travel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human travel and manual observation with an automated sensor-based detection system. Object sensors, control units, and wireless communication modules substitute for human physical presence, enabling accurate remote monitoring without travel time while maintaining data precision through automated detection and transmission.
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 device offers accurate and efficient pest counting with reduced power usage, enabling remote monitoring of ecological environments, improving data collection efficiency and accuracy compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first object sensor, for detecting, at a first checkpoint, a presence of a pest
Implementation Method 2
a second object sensor, for detecting, at a second checkpoint, a presence of the pest
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-checkpoint type clustered animal counting device is proposed, which is capable of providing a counting function that can be used for statistically determining the number of animals (such as fruit flies) within a region such as farmland or garden. The proposed animal counting device is characterized by the utilized to at least two object sensors, wherein the first object sensor is disposed at a first checkpoint while the second object sensor is disposed at a second checkpoint, and wherein the first object sensor is initially set to power-on state while the second object sensor is initially set to power-off state and can be switched on only when the first object sensor is triggered. When the second object sensor is triggered, the counting operation will increase the output count number by one. This feature allows a more accurate result and can help save power consumption.