The system works initially with the fitting of a specially designed ear tag, which monitors animal body temperature and heart rate every 5 minutes, 24/7.  If an unusual reading is detected outside the pre-set parameters, a notification is sent to the farmer’s phone.  This notification not only tells the farmer there is a problem, but also provides an accurate location for the animal so he can get to it quickly.

 

The ear tag works with wireless communication, sending signals up to 1.2 miles away.  However the clever design also incorporates a signal boosting device which detects the signal from the ear tag and sends it on, up to 15 miles away.  These signal boosters are easy to network, enabling accurate monitoring from long distances.

 

This pioneering system was inspired by his family’s flock of pedigree sheep.  I observed that when the sheep were due to give birth my mother was forced to check on the sheep in the very early hours of the morning over many days, which seemed rather unproductive.  With the introduction of my system it would be easy to accurately pinpoint when a sheep had gone into labour, as their temperature normally changes an hour before going into labour.  The system also provides an accurate digital record of each sheep’s temperature and heart rate, making it easier than ever before to monitor the health of a flock.

 

My project has been initially developed with sheep in mind, although it is clear the device could be adapted to work with other animals. Its flexibility is a clear advantage and could potentially provide greater efficiencies and productivity to farmers all over the world.

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Patent Pending: 1609318.9