Modular Animal Tracking System with Local Data Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing animal tracking systems are not economical and flexible enough for efficient area-wide tracking of animals, lacking modularity and computational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A modular animal husbandry system with identical units for local data processing, comprising cameras and computer modules for image analysis, and a hub for global data integration, allowing for flexible expansion and cost-effective operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a centralized tracking system is used to monitor animals across the entire area, then tracking coverage is improved, but system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking coverageVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the large monitoring area into multiple smaller zones, each covered by an independent tracking unit. Each unit processes data locally and only transmits relevant information to the hub, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage. The hub coordinates between units but does not process all raw data centrally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from purely centralized processing to a distributed architecture by adding the spatial dimension of local processing. Each unit operates autonomously within its zone while contributing to the global tracking picture, creating a multi-layered processing structure that reduces complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different types of equipment are used to achieve comprehensive tracking functionality, then system versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Each tracking unit is designed as a universal, multi-functional device that can perform detection, local processing, and communication functions. The same unit design can be deployed throughout the entire area, eliminating the need for different specialized equipment types and reducing manufacturing costs through standardization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses identical or substantially identical tracking units throughout the monitoring area. This homogeneity simplifies manufacturing, maintenance, and calibration while the networked architecture provides the necessary versatility for comprehensive tracking across different zones and conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #33Homogeneity

Data Source

PatentEP4573894A1Animal husbandry system

Publication Date: 2025.06.25 LELY PATENT NV

Figure 1

AI summary

Animal husbandry system configured for tracking objects comprising animals (2) which can move about in an area (1), the system comprising a number of units (11) configured for locally detecting and tracking the position of the objects, each unit comprising sensor means configured for generating images and unit processing means configured for processing data, the system further comprising a hub comprising hub processing means connectable for data communication to all the unit processing means, the units (11) and the hub together being configured for an area-wide tracking of the objects, wherein the system is a modular system, the units (11) are substantially identical and the unit processing means are configured for processing at least data locally obtained from the sensor means in the unit (11). Local data processing in units (11) that are substantially identical allows for a conveniently modular and flexible, yet cheap system.