Solar-Powered GPS Ear Tag for Animal Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic ear tags for animal tracking lack advanced features and reliable power sources, limiting their effectiveness in monitoring animal health and location over extended periods.
Innovation Solution
The development of an ultra-low power, lightweight electronic ear tag equipped with a GNSS module, wireless communication, and solar charging capabilities, along with a user-friendly app interface for data transmission and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a rechargeable battery is used as the main power source, then the device can operate for extended periods, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a rechargeable battery with a solar panel in a single device, merging two power sources that work together. The solar panel captures solar energy to charge the rechargeable battery, creating a hybrid power system that extends operational duration without requiring a excessively large battery alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel enables the device to recharge itself using solar energy from the environment. This self-service mechanism allows the device to maintain operation over extended periods by continuously capturing and storing energy from sunlight, eliminating the need for external charging infrastructure.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a solar panel is added for continuous power charging, then the operational duration is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel serves multiple functions: it generates electrical energy to charge the battery, and can potentially power the device directly when sunlight is available. This multi-functionality approach extends operational duration while adding minimal complexity compared to implementing multiple separate power systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If advanced monitoring features are integrated into the ear tag, then the monitoring capability is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs periodic action by transmitting location and monitoring data at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. The microcontroller and GNSS module activate only when needed to capture and transmit data, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining effective monitoring capability over extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel provides continuous power replenishment throughout the day, ensuring the battery remains charged even as the device periodically activates its monitoring and communication features. This continuous energy input offsets the periodic energy consumption of advanced monitoring functions.
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 electronic ear tag provides reliable, real-time tracking and monitoring of animal health and location, with extended battery life and robust communication options, enhancing animal husbandry practices.
Implementation Method 1
The solar panel is responsible for converting solar energy into electrical energy used to charge the rechargeable battery
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a solar-powered GPS Sim card tracking and monitoring features device for animals and assets.


