Livestock Location Tracking via Dynamic Mesh Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID-based livestock tracking systems are limited in determining the location of livestock over time and throughout their lifespan, as they require proximity to the reader and do not provide continuous location history.
Innovation Solution
A livestock location tracking system that includes a management platform, remote computer system, local sensors and transceivers, advanced and basic livestock tags, and mobile devices to record and track locations over time, using dynamic local mesh networks and various communication protocols for continuous data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RFID readers are used to track livestock, then livestock identification is achieved, but continuous location tracking is not possible because the reader must be in close proximity to the tag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces GPS receivers and transceivers as intermediary devices that enable continuous location tracking without requiring direct reader-tag proximity. These intermediaries capture location data autonomously and transmit it to the central system, resolving the limitation of traditional RFID systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical proximity-based RFID reading system with an electronic GPS-based tracking system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical closeness between reader and tag, enabling continuous remote monitoring of livestock locations.
2Loss of information
If a comprehensive location tracking system is implemented, then location history is improved, but system complexity increases due to multiple components including sensors, transceivers, and communication protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functional tags that combine RFID identification, GPS location tracking, and wireless communication capabilities into a single device. This consolidation reduces system complexity by eliminating the need for separate readers, GPS receivers, and transmitters for each animal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple tracking functions (RFID identification, GPS positioning, data transmission) into an integrated livestock management system. The central server consolidates data from various sources, creating a unified platform that manages location history without requiring complex distributed architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A livestock location tracking system is used to establish a history of locations of livestock animals throughout their lifespan to determine time spent in pasture, in pens, at feed stations, and/or other locations of interest. The recordation of locations of livestock occurs within the context of a livestock management system that includes a management system platform, a remote computer system, one or more local sensors and/or transceivers, one or more advanced livestock tags, one or more basic livestock tags and/or enhanced basic livestock tags, and one or more mobile devices.