U.S. patent application number 16/690192 was filed with the patent office on 2020-03-26 for method, a device and a system for detecting a state of an animal.
This patent application is currently assigned to DAIRYMASTER. The applicant listed for this patent is DAIRYMASTER. Invention is credited to John Gerard Daly, EDMOND PATRICK HARTY, Liam Eoghan Mullane.
Application Number | 20200093101 16/690192 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52021733 |
Filed Date | 2020-03-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200093101 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HARTY; EDMOND PATRICK ; et
al. |
March 26, 2020 |
METHOD, A DEVICE AND A SYSTEM FOR DETECTING A STATE OF AN
ANIMAL
Abstract
A device (5) attached to the neck (6) of an animal (2) includes
an accelerometer (28) which produces first and second signals
indicative of movement of the animal (2) and the raised and lowered
states of the head of the animal. A microprocessor (30) in the
device (5) processes the first and second signals to detect
ruminating, resting, feeding and three activity states of the
animal during respective second predefined time periods of
approximately 15 minutes duration. Data indicative of the states of
the animal is stored by the microprocessor (30) in the device (5)
and periodically transmitted to a cloud computer server which
further processes the data to determine various health states and
other issues of the animal.
Inventors: |
HARTY; EDMOND PATRICK;
(Ballyheigue, IE) ; Mullane; Liam Eoghan;
(Newcastlewest, IE) ; Daly; John Gerard; (Tralee,
IE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DAIRYMASTER |
Causeway |
|
IE |
|
|
Assignee: |
DAIRYMASTER
Causeway
IE
|
Family ID: |
52021733 |
Appl. No.: |
16/690192 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14897496 |
Dec 10, 2015 |
10517276 |
|
|
PCT/IE2014/000009 |
Jun 16, 2014 |
|
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|
16690192 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61D 17/002 20130101;
A61B 2562/0219 20130101; A61B 5/0022 20130101; A01K 29/005
20130101; A61B 5/1114 20130101; A61B 5/1123 20130101; A61B 2503/40
20130101; A61B 5/1121 20130101; A61B 5/7278 20130101; A01K 11/006
20130101; A61B 5/1118 20130101; A61B 5/7246 20130101; A61B 5/7282
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01K 29/00 20060101
A01K029/00; A01K 11/00 20060101 A01K011/00; A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00; A61B 5/11 20060101 A61B005/11 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 14, 2013 |
IE |
S2013/0193 |
Jun 14, 2013 |
IE |
S2013/0194 |
Claims
1. A method for determining a state of an animal, the method
comprising storing data indicative of at least one predefined
location visited by the animal.
2. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the time at which the
animal visited the at least one predefined location is stored.
3. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the duration of the
visit to the at least one predefined location is stored.
4. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the identity of the at
least one predefined location is determined from an identification
signal received when the animal is adjacent the at least one
predefined location.
5. A method as claimed in claim 4 in which the identification
signal is received wirelessly.
6. A method as claimed in claim 4 in which the identification
signal is generated adjacent the at least one predefined
location.
7. A method as claimed in claim 4 in which the identification
signal is derived from a means adjacent the at least one predefined
location capable of producing or configuring a signal to be
indicative of the at least one predefined location.
8. A method as claimed in claim 7 in which the means for producing
or configuring the signal to be indicative of the at least one
predefined location comprises a means for wirelessly transmitting a
signal indicative of the at least one predefined location.
9. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which data indicative of a
plurality of respective predefined locations visited by the animal
is stored.
10. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which data indicative of the
time and the duration of the visit to each predefined location is
stored and cross-referenced with the identity of the corresponding
predefined location.
11. A method as claimed in claim 10 in which the state of the
animal is determined from the stored data indicative of the time
and the duration of each visit of the animal to each predefined
location.
12. A method as claimed in claim 10 in which the data indicative of
the identity of each predefined location visited by the animal is
communicated to one of a smart mobile device, a remote computing
means and a cloud computer server.
13. A method as claimed in claim 12 in which the times and the
durations at which each predefined location is visited by the
animal is communicated to the one of the smart mobile device, the
remote computing means and the cloud computer server
cross-referenced with the identity of the corresponding predefined
location.
14. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which signals from a sensor
indicative of two sensed conditions of the animal are read, and at
least one state of the animal is determined in response to the read
signal being indicative of one of the sensed conditions being in a
predefined state.
15. A method as claimed in claim 14 in which a first one of the
sensed conditions of the animal comprises the level of activity of
the animal, and a second one of the sensed conditions of the animal
comprises the state of the head of the animal.
16. A method as claimed in claim 14 in which the signals are read
from the sensor during respective first predefined time periods,
and the state of the animal during each first predefined time
period is determined from the read signals at the end of the
corresponding first predefined time period and is stored.
17. A method as claimed in claim 16 in which the numbers of the
first predefined time periods the animal is detected as being in
the respective states is stored and cross-referenced with the
identity of the corresponding states at the end of each of a
plurality of second predefined time periods.
18. A method as claimed in claim 17 in which the data indicative of
the predefined locations visited by the animal during each second
predefined time period, the times at which the predefined locations
are visited and the durations of the visits to the respective
predefined locations are stored for each corresponding second
predefined time period.
19. A method as claimed in claim 14 in which the at least one state
of the animal is communicated to the one of the smart mobile
device, the remote computer and the cloud computer server along
with the data indicative of the predefined locations visited by the
animal, the times at which the predefined locations are visited and
the durations of the visits to the respective predefined
locations.
20. A method as claimed in claim 14 in which the sensor comprises
an accelerometer configured to produce signals indicative of
acceleration to which the accelerometer is subjected along two axes
perpendicular to each other, and the accelerometer is configured
for attaching to the animal so that the signal produced by the
accelerometer indicative of the acceleration to which the
accelerometer is subjected along one of the axes thereof is
indicative of the state of the head of the animal, and the signal
indicative of the acceleration to which the accelerometer is
subjected along the other one of the axes is indicative of the
level of activity of the animal.
21. A device for carrying out the method of claim 1 to determine
the state of an animal, the device comprising a signal processor
configured for reading an identification signal indicative of at
least one predefined location visited by the animal.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/998,496
filed Dec. 10, 2015, which is a National Stage of International
Application No. PCT/IE2014/000009 filed Jun. 16, 2014 claiming
priority based on Irish Patent Application Nos. S2013/0193 filed
Jun. 14, 2013 and S2013/0194 filed Jun. 14, 2013, the contents of
each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a method for detecting the
state of an animal, and the invention also relates to a device for
detecting the state of the animal. Further, the invention relates
to a system for detecting the state of an animal.
[0003] Devices and methods for detecting the state of an animal are
known. Such devices, typically, are electronic devices and they may
include sensors, for monitoring, for example, the temperature,
heart rate, blood pressure and the like of an animal. Other such
devices are provided for detecting when an animal is in a state of
relatively high activity in order to facilitate in the detection of
oestrus in the animal. Attempts have been made to provide methods
and devices for detecting other states of an animal, for example,
for detecting when an animal is feeding or ruminating. However, to
date such methods and devices lack accuracy.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] There is therefore a need for a method for detecting at
least one state of an animal, for example, ruminating, resting,
feeding or the like, which addresses lack of accuracy issues of
known methods and devices. There is also a need for a device and a
system for detecting at least one of such states of an animal which
addresses accuracy issues of known methods and devices.
[0005] The present invention is directed towards providing such a
method, a device and a system.
[0006] According to the invention there is provided a method for
detecting at least one detectable state of an animal, the method
comprising:
[0007] computing a mean magnitude value of a first signal
indicative of movement of the head of the animal from an
acceleration sensor attached to the animal during each first
predefined time period of a plurality of first predefined time
periods,
[0008] counting the numbers of positive and negative peaks of the
first signal during each first predefined time period, the absolute
magnitude values of which with reference to the mean magnitude
value lie within a predefined range of absolute magnitude
values,
[0009] computing the maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
during each first predefined time period as the sum of the absolute
magnitude values of the maximum positive peak value with reference
to the mean magnitude value and the maximum negative peak value
with reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0010] detecting the at least one detectable state of the animal
during each first predefined time period in response to at least
one of
[0011] the value of the count of the positive and negative peak
values of the first signal which lie within the predefined range of
absolute magnitude values during the corresponding first predefined
time period, and
[0012] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0013] In one aspect of the invention lower and upper absolute
magnitude values of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values of the first signal for each first predefined time period
are defined as respective functions of the mean magnitude value of
the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0014] Preferably, the lower absolute magnitude value of the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values of the first signal
for each first predefined time period lies within a first
predefined range of percentage values of the mean magnitude value
of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0015] In one embodiment of the invention the first predefined
range of percentage values within which the lower absolute
magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values of the first signal for each first predefined time period is
0.1% to 1% of the mean magnitude value of the first signal during
the corresponding first predefined time period. Preferably, the
first predefined range of percentage values within which the lower
absolute magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute
magnitude values of the first signal for each first predefined time
period is 0.3% to 0.7% of the mean magnitude value of the first
signal during the corresponding first predefined time period.
Advantageously, the lower absolute magnitude value of the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values of the first signal
for each first predefined time period is approximately 0.5% of the
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period.
[0016] In another aspect of the invention the upper absolute
magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values of the first signal for each first predefined time period
lies within a second predefined range of percentage values of the
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period.
[0017] In another embodiment of the invention the second predefined
range of percentage values within which the upper absolute
magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values of the first signal for each first predefined time period is
7% to 13% of the mean magnitude value of the first signal during
the corresponding first predefined time period. Preferably, the
second predefined range of percentage values within which the upper
absolute magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute
magnitude values of the first signal for each first predefined time
period is 8% to 12% of the mean magnitude value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
Advantageously, the upper absolute magnitude value of the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values of the first signal
for each first predefined time period is approximately 10% of the
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period.
[0018] In one embodiment of the invention one of the detectable
states of the animal is ruminating, and ruminating is detected in
any one of the first predefined time periods in response to at
least one of:
[0019] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal which lie within the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values exceeding a predefined ruminating threshold count during the
corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0020] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
lying between a lower predefined peak to peak threshold value and
an upper predefined peak to peak threshold value during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0021] In another embodiment of the invention ruminating is
detected in any one of the first predefined time periods in
response to
[0022] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal which lie within the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values exceeding a predefined ruminating threshold count during the
corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0023] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
lying between the lower predefined peak to peak threshold value and
the upper predefined peak to peak threshold value during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0024] In one aspect of the invention the predefined ruminating
threshold count is a function of the duration of the first
predefined time period.
[0025] In another aspect of the invention the lower predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a function of the computed
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period. Preferably, the lower predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a percentage value of the
computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0026] In one embodiment of the invention the lower predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period lies in the range of 1% and 7% of the
computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period. Preferably, the lower
predefined peak to peak threshold value of the first signal for
each first predefined time period lies in the range of 2% and 6% of
the computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period. Advantageously, the
lower predefined peak to peak threshold value of the first signal
for each first predefined time period is approximately 4% of the
computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0027] In another aspect of the invention the upper predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a function of the computed
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period. Preferably, the upper predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a percentage value of the
computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0028] In another embodiment of the invention the upper predefined
peak to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period lies in the range of 16% to 22% of the
computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period. Preferably, the upper
predefined peak to peak threshold value for each first predefined
time period lies in the range of 18% to 21% of the computed mean
magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding first
predefined time period. Advantageously, the upper predefined peak
to peak threshold value for each first predefined time period is
approximately 19.5% of the computed mean magnitude value of the
first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0029] In another embodiment of the invention one of the detectable
states of the animal is resting, and resting is detected in any one
of the first predefined time periods in response to at least one
of
[0030] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal which lie within the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values not exceeding the ruminating predefined threshold count
during the corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0031] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
not exceeding a resting predefined peak to peak threshold value
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0032] In a further embodiment of the invention one of the
detectable states of the animal is resting, and resting is detected
in any one of the first predefined time periods in response to
[0033] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal which lie within the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values not exceeding the ruminating predefined threshold count
during the corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0034] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
not exceeding the resting predefined peak to peak threshold value
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0035] In one aspect of the invention the resting predefined peak
to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a function of the computed
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period. Preferably, the resting predefined
peak to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is defined as a percentage of the computed
mean magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding
first predefined time period.
[0036] In one embodiment of the invention the resting predefined
peak to peak threshold value of the first signal for each first
predefined time period is not greater than 30% of the computed mean
magnitude value of the first signal during the corresponding first
predefined time period. Preferably, the resting predefined peak to
peak threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined
time period is not greater than 23% of the computed mean magnitude
value of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined
time period. Advantageously, the resting predefined peak to peak
threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined time
period is approximately 20% of the computed mean magnitude value of
the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0037] In one embodiment of the invention one of the detectable
states of the animal is a feeding state, and feeding is detected in
any one of the first predefined time periods in response to at
least one of
[0038] the maximum peak to peak value of the first signal being
greater than or equal to the resting predefined peak to peak
threshold value during the corresponding first predefined time
period, and either one of the following:
[0039] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal, the absolute magnitude values of which lie within the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values exceeding a
predefined feeding threshold count during the corresponding first
predefined time period, and
[0040] a second signal from a head status sensor attached to the
animal indicative of raised and lowered states of the head of the
animal being indicative of the head of the animal being in the
lowered state during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0041] In one aspect of the invention the acceleration sensor
comprises the head status sensor, and the acceleration sensor
produces the second signal indicative of the raised and lowered
states of the head of the animal.
[0042] In another aspect of the invention the mean magnitude value
of the second signal is computed during each first predefined time
period, and the raised and lowered states of the head of the animal
is detected in response to the computed mean magnitude value of the
second signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0043] In one embodiment of the invention the head of the animal is
detected as being in the lowered state in response to the computed
mean magnitude value of the second signal being one of greater than
and lower than a predefined mean magnitude value.
[0044] In another aspect of the invention the predefined mean
magnitude value of the second signal for each first predefined time
period is defined as a function of the respective magnitude values
of the second signal corresponding to the head of the animal being
in the lowest of the lower states and the highest of the raised
states.
[0045] Preferably, the predefined mean magnitude value of the
second signal for each first predefined time period is a value
indicative of the head of the animal being at a level sufficient
for grazing or feeding from a trough at ground level.
[0046] In one aspect of the invention the predefined feeding
threshold count is a function of the duration of the first
predefined time period.
[0047] In a further embodiment of the invention one of the
detectable states of the animal is an active state, and the active
state is detected at the end of any one of the first predefined
time periods in response to the animal being detected as not being
ruminating, resting or feeding.
[0048] In a still further embodiment of the invention one of the
detectable states of the animal is a high activity state, and the
high activity state is detected during any one of the first
predefined time periods in response to the count of the positive
and negative peaks of the first signal, the absolute magnitude
values of which with reference to the mean magnitude value of the
first signal exceed a first predefined peak threshold value during
the corresponding first predefined time period exceeding a first
predefined peak threshold count during that corresponding first
predefined time period.
[0049] In one aspect of the invention the first predefined peak
threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined time
period is defined as a function of the computed mean magnitude
value of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined
time period. Preferably, the first predefined peak threshold value
of the first signal for each first predefined time period is
defined as a percentage value of the computed mean magnitude value
the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0050] In one embodiment of the invention the first predefined peak
threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined time
period is not less than 30% of the computed mean magnitude value of
the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period. Preferably, the first predefined peak threshold value of
the first signal for each first predefined time period is not less
than 33% of the computed mean magnitude value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
Advantageously, the first predefined peak threshold value of the
first signal for each first predefined time period is approximately
35% of the computed mean threshold value of the first signal during
the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0051] In another embodiment of the invention the first predefined
peak threshold count is a function of the duration of the first
predefined time period.
[0052] In one embodiment of the invention one of the detectable
states of the animal is a medium activity state, and the medium
activity state is detected in any one of the first predefined time
periods in response to one of
[0053] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal, the absolute magnitude values of which with reference to
the mean magnitude value of the first signal exceed the first
predefined peak threshold value lying between a second predefined
peak threshold count and one less than the first predefined peak
threshold count during the corresponding first predefined time
period, and
[0054] the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal, the absolute magnitude values of which with reference to
the mean magnitude value of the first signal exceed a second
predefined peak threshold value during the corresponding first
predefined time period exceeding a third predefined peak threshold
count during that corresponding first time period.
[0055] In one aspect of the invention the second predefined peak
threshold count is a function of the duration of the first
predefined time period.
[0056] In another aspect of the invention the third predefined peak
threshold count is a function of the duration of the first
predefined time period.
[0057] In a further aspect of the invention the second predefined
peak threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined
time period is defined as a function of the computed mean magnitude
value of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined
time period. Preferably, the second predefined peak threshold value
of the first signal for each first predefined time period is
defined as a percentage value of the computed mean magnitude value
of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0058] In one embodiment of the invention the second predefined
peak threshold value of the first signal for each first predefined
time period is greater than 5% of the computed mean magnitude value
of the first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period. Preferably, the second predefined peak threshold value of
the first signal for each first predefined time period is greater
than 8% of the computed mean magnitude value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
Advantageously, the second predefined peak threshold value of the
first signal for each first predefined time period is approximately
10% of the computed mean magnitude value of the first signal during
the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0059] In another embodiment of the invention one of the detectable
states of the animal is a low activity state, and the low activity
state is detected in response to
[0060] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
exceeding the resting predefined peak to peak threshold value
during the corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0061] the count of the positive and negative peaks, the absolute
magnitude values of which with reference to the mean magnitude
value of the first signal exceed the second predefined peak
threshold value during the corresponding first predefined time
period being less than the third predefined peak threshold count
during that corresponding first time period.
[0062] In another embodiment of the invention the first signal is
sampled to obtain a plurality of sampled values indicative of the
magnitude of the first signal at respective sampling points during
each first predefined time period.
[0063] In another embodiment of the invention the mean magnitude
value of the first signal is computed for each first predefined
time period from the sampled magnitude values of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0064] In a further embodiment of the invention the absolute values
of the positive and negative peaks of the first signal with
reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal are
computed for each first predefined time period from the sampled
magnitude values of the first signal during the corresponding first
predefined time period.
[0065] In a still further embodiment of the invention the maximum
peak to peak value of the first signal is computed for each first
predefined time period from the sampled magnitude values of the
first signal during the corresponding first predefined time
period.
[0066] Preferably, the second signal is sampled to obtain a
plurality of sampled values indicative of the magnitude of the
second signal at respective sampling points during each first
predefined time period.
[0067] Advantageously, the mean magnitude value of the second
signal is computed for each first predefined time period from the
sampled magnitude values of the second signal during the
corresponding first predefined time period.
[0068] In one embodiment of the invention the acceleration sensor
comprises an accelerometer configured to produce the first signal
indicative of acceleration to which the accelerometer is subjected
along a first axis thereof, and the second signal indicative of
acceleration to which the accelerometer is subjected along a second
axis thereof perpendicular to the first axis.
[0069] Preferably, the accelerometer is attached to the animal with
the first axis thereof extending substantially perpendicularly to
the back of the neck of the animal, and in a generally upwardly,
downwardly direction. Advantageously, the accelerometer is attached
to the animal with the second axis thereof extending substantially
parallel to the back of the neck of the animal. Ideally, the
accelerometer is attached to the neck of the animal.
[0070] In one embodiment of the invention the accelerometer is
attached to the animal by a securing ligature extending around the
neck of the animal.
[0071] In one embodiment of the invention the acceleration sensor
is located in a housing.
[0072] Preferably, a signal processor is provided in the housing
for processing the first and second signals and for determining the
state of the animal during the respective first predefined time
periods.
[0073] In one embodiment of the invention the numbers of the first
predefined time periods the animal is detected as being in the
respective states is stored and cross-referenced with the identity
of the corresponding states. Preferably, the numbers of the first
predefined time periods the animal is detected as being in the
respective states is stored and cross-referenced with the identity
of the corresponding states at the end of each of a plurality of
second predefined time periods. Advantageously, the numbers of the
first predefined time periods the animal is detected as being in
the respective states is stored and cross-referenced with the
identity of the corresponding states and is analysed. Ideally, the
numbers of the first predefined time periods the animal is detected
as being in the respective states is stored and cross-referenced
with the identity of the corresponding states and is analysed by a
computing means.
[0074] In one embodiment of the invention the computing means is a
remotely located computing means. Preferably, the stored data
relating to the numbers of first predefined time periods the animal
is in the respective states cross-referenced with the respective
states during the second predefined time periods is wirelessly
communicated to the remotely located computing means.
Advantageously, the stored data relating to the numbers of first
predefined time periods the animal is in the respective states
cross-referenced with the respective states during the second
predefined time periods is wirelessly communicated to the remotely
located computing means by a relay station.
[0075] In one aspect of the invention the computing means comprises
one of a cloud computer server and a computer.
[0076] In one embodiment of the invention the health condition of
an animal is determined from the stored data comprising the
respective states of the animal cross-referenced with the numbers
of first predefined time periods the animal is in the respective
states during the corresponding second predefined time periods.
[0077] In another embodiment of the invention the first predefined
time period lies in the range of 5 seconds to 25 seconds.
Preferably, the first predefined time period is approximately 11.5
seconds.
[0078] In another embodiment of the invention the second predefined
time period is of duration up to 60 minutes. Preferably, the second
predefined time period is of duration of approximately 15
minutes.
[0079] In a further embodiment of the invention the sampling rate
at which the first and second signals are sampled lies in the range
of 6 Hz to 50 Hz. Preferably, the sampling rate at which the first
and second signals are sampled is approximately 11 Hz.
[0080] Preferably, the first predefined time periods run
consecutively one after the other. Advantageously, the second
predefined time periods run consecutively one after the other.
[0081] In one embodiment of the invention data indicative of at
least one predefined location visited by the animal is stored.
Preferably, the time at which the animal visited the at least one
predefined location is stored. Advantageously, the duration of the
visit to the at least one predefined location is stored.
[0082] In one aspect of the invention the identity of the at least
one predefined location is determined from an identification signal
received when the animal is adjacent the at least one predefined
location. Preferably, the identification signal is received
wirelessly. Advantageously, the identification signal is generated
adjacent the at least one predefined location.
[0083] In one embodiment of the invention the identification signal
is derived from a means adjacent the at least one predefined
location capable of producing or configuring a signal to be
indicative of the at least one predefined location. Preferably, the
means for producing or configuring the signal to be indicative of
the at least one predefined location comprises a means for
wirelessly transmitting a signal indicative of the at least one
predefined location.
[0084] In one aspect of the invention data indicative of a
plurality of respective predefined locations visited by the animal
is stored. Preferably, data indicative of a plurality of the
respective times and the respective durations of the visits to the
respective ones of the predefined locations are stored.
[0085] In another aspect of the invention the data indicative of
the predefined locations, and preferably the times at which the
predefined locations are visited, and advantageously, the durations
of the visits to the predefined locations are transmitted to one of
the base station and the cloud computer server.
[0086] In a further aspect of the invention the data indicative of
the locations visited by the animal, the times at which the
predefined locations are visited and the durations of the visits to
the respective predefined locations are stored for each second
predefined time period, and advantageously, are transmitted along
with the data stored relating to the states of the animal for each
of the second predefined time periods.
[0087] Additionally the invention provides a device for detecting
at least one detectable state of an animal, the device being
configured for locating on or in an animal and comprising an
acceleration sensor, and a signal processor for carrying out the
method according to the invention.
[0088] The invention also provides a device for detecting at least
one detectable state of an animal, the device being configured for
locating on or in the animal and comprising an acceleration sensor,
and a signal processor, the signal processor being configured
to
[0089] compute a mean magnitude value of a first signal indicative
of movement of the head of the animal from the acceleration sensor
attached to the animal during each first predefined time period of
a plurality of first predefined time periods,
[0090] count the numbers of positive and negative peaks of the
first signal during each first predefined time period, the absolute
magnitude values of which with reference to the mean magnitude
value lie within a predefined range of absolute magnitude
values,
[0091] compute the maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
during each first predefined time period as the sum of the absolute
magnitude values of the maximum positive peak value with reference
to the mean magnitude value and the maximum negative peak value
with reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period, and
[0092] detect the at least one detectable state of the animal
during each first predefined time period in response to at least
one of
[0093] the value of the count of the positive and negative peak
values of the first signal which lie within the predefined range of
absolute magnitude values during the corresponding first predefined
time period, and
[0094] the computed maximum peak to peak value of the first signal
during the corresponding first predefined time period.
[0095] In one embodiment of the invention the device comprises a
housing, and preferably, the acceleration sensor is located in the
housing.
[0096] In one aspect of the invention the signal processor is
located in the housing. Preferably, the signal processor is
configured to store and cross-reference the numbers of the first
predefined time periods the animal is detected as being in the
respective states with the identity of the corresponding
states.
[0097] In one embodiment of the invention the signal processor is
configured to store data indicative of at least one predefined
location visited by the animal.
[0098] Preferably, the time at which the animal visited the at
least one predefined location is stored. Advantageously, the
duration of the visit to the at least one predefined location is
stored.
[0099] Preferably, the identity of the at least one predefined
location is determined from an identification signal received when
the animal is adjacent the at least one predefined location.
[0100] In another embodiment of the invention the device comprises
a memory chip for storing an identifying code for identifying the
device.
[0101] In a further embodiment of the invention the device
comprises a wireless transceiver for transmitting data stored in
the device relating to the numbers of the first predefined time
periods that the animal is in the respective states
cross-referenced with the corresponding states for reception by a
remote computing means. Preferably, the wireless transmitter is
selectively operable in a high power mode and a low power mode.
[0102] In another embodiment of the invention the device comprises
an NFC module for facilitating communicating in an NFC protocol
between the device and a powered mobile smart device.
[0103] In a further embodiment of the invention the device
comprises a receiver for receiving an identification signal
indicative of a predefined location visited by the animal.
[0104] Further the invention provides a system for determining at
least one detectable state of an animal, the system comprising the
device according to the invention, and a remote computing means
configured to wirelessly receive data from the device indicative of
the state of the animal.
[0105] Preferably, the remote computing means comprises one of a
cloud computer server and a computer.
[0106] Advantageously, a relay station is provided for relaying
data wirelessly received wirelessly from the device to the remote
computing means.
[0107] Preferably, the relay station comprises a wireless
transmitter for communicating with the device.
[0108] Advantageously, the relay station comprises a GSM module for
communicating with the computing means.
[0109] Advantageously, the computing means is configured to
determine the health condition of the animal from the data received
from the device.
[0110] Preferably, the computing means is configured to determine
issues relating to the animal from the data received from the
device.
[0111] The advantages of the invention are many. One of the
advantages, and in particular, one of the most important advantages
of the invention is that it provides a device, a method and a
system for detecting at least one state of an animal which detects
the state with a relatively high degree of accuracy. Another
advantage of the invention is that the device according to the
invention is a relatively low power device, and accordingly,
operates with a relatively long battery life. Indeed, it is
envisaged that under normal use the device according to the
invention could have a battery life of up to ten years. The fact
that in general, transmission of data from the device only occurs
when the device is in relatively close proximity to the relay
station, the power required to drive the transceiver for
communicating data with the relay station is relatively low.
Furthermore, by virtue of the minimal processing of the sampled
values of the first and second signals, the power requirement for
processing the first and second signals by the microprocessor on
board the device is also relatively low. Further energy saving by
the device is achieved by virtue of the sequence with which the
various states of the animal are detected.
[0112] The provision of the Near Field Communications module allows
for uploading and downloading data to and from the device by a
smart phone or other powered smart device with minimal usage of
energy.
[0113] The provision of the wireless transceiver in the device to
be operable in both a high power mode and a low power mode further
facilitates in minimising the energy requirement of the device. The
provision of the receiver for receiving identity data of respective
predefined locations visited by an animal to which the device is
attached allows for monitoring the locations visited by an animal,
and the data relating to the locations visited by the animal also
facilitates in determining the health and other issues of the
animal.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0114] The invention will be more clearly understood from the
following description of some preferred embodiments thereof, which
are given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0115] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a system according to the
invention for detecting detectable states of an animal,
[0116] FIG. 2 is a block representation of a device also according
to the invention for detecting detectable states of an animal of
the system of FIG. 1,
[0117] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a portion of an animal
with the device of FIG. 2 attached thereto,
[0118] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a portion of the animal
similar to FIG. 3 with the device attached to the animal, and with
the portion of the animal in a different state to that of FIG.
[0119] 3,
[0120] FIGS. 5a to 5e are flowcharts of a routine carried out by
the device of FIG. 2 for detecting detectable states of the animal,
and
[0121] FIGS. 6a to 6d are graphical representations of signals
produced by the device of FIG. 2 and processed by the device of
FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0122] Referring to the drawings, there is illustrated a system
according to the invention, indicated generally by the reference
numeral 1, for determining detectable states of a plurality of
animals 2, which in the case are cows, and may be dairy cows. In
this embodiment of the invention the detectable states of the
animals 2 include the states of ruminating, resting, feeding and
active states, which include a state of high activity in which the
animal is highly active, a state of low activity in which the level
of activity of the animal is relatively low, but would be more
active than if the animal were ruminating, resting or feeding, and
a state of medium activity in which the level of activity of the
animal is substantially midway between the state of high activity
and the state of low activity. The system 1 comprises a plurality
of devices also according to the invention, indicated generally by
the reference numeral 5, for attaching to the animals, one device 5
being provided for each animal. In this embodiment of the invention
the devices 5 are configured for attaching to the neck 6 of the
animals 2 for detecting acceleration of the animals, and also for
detecting the raised and lowered state of the head 7 of the
animals. It has been found that by monitoring the acceleration of
an animal and the raised and lowered states of the head of an
animal, detectable states of an animal, such as ruminating,
resting, feeding and active states can be detected as will be
described in detail below.
[0123] The system 1 as well as comprising the devices 5 also
comprises a remote computer 10, which may be a cloud computer
server or alternatively may be a personal computer, a desktop
computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer or the like of a
farmer. The computer 10 may also comprise a mobile smart phone,
with computing capacity, or indeed, the computer 10 may comprise
any other suitable computing device. In this embodiment of the
invention the computer comprises a cloud computer server 10.
[0124] One or more relay stations 12 are located strategically
around a field or fields in which the animals 2 are free to roam,
or in an animal house or a milking parlour and the like in which
the animals are housed or located. In general, a single relay
station 12 would be provided adjacent a drinking trough or a
milking parlour where the animals 2 would visit with known
regularity. In this embodiment of the invention only one relay
stations 12 is provided. The relay station 12 is configured to
receive data transmitted by the devices 5, and to relay the
transmitted data to the cloud computer server 10. The relay station
12 comprises a wireless transceiver 14 for transmitting and
receiving data to and from the devices 5 as will be described
below. A GSM module 15 is also located in the relay station 12 for
communicating between the relay station 12 and the cloud computer
server 10, and for relaying data received from the devices 5 to the
cloud computer server 10, as also will be described below. The
relay station 12 also comprises computing power to support and
control the operation of the transmitter 14 and the GSM module 15,
and to store data received from the devices 5 cross-referenced with
the identity of the devices 5 for subsequent relaying to the cloud
computer server 10. Such computing power may be provided by a
microprocessor, a logic controller or any other computer or signal
processor.
[0125] Turning now to the devices 5, and referring in particular to
FIG. 2, each device 5 comprises a housing 20 which is adapted for
securing to the neck 6 of the animal 2 by a ligature, namely, a
strap 21 which extends around the neck 6 of the animal 2. The strap
21 is adapted for securing the device 5 to the neck 6 of the animal
2 with the housing 20 of the device 5 adjacent one side of the neck
6 of the animal 2 and also just behind the head 7 of the animal 2,
as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, and with the device retained
relatively tightly to the neck of the animal 5 so that the
orientation of the housing 20 follows the orientation of the neck 6
of the animal 2, for a reason to be described below. Strap engaging
brackets 24 are provided on the housing 20 through which the strap
21 is passed for securing the housing to the strap 21.
[0126] An acceleration sensor, which in this embodiment of the
invention comprises a three-axis accelerometer 28 defining X, Y and
Z axes, respectively, extending orthogonally relative to each other
is located within the housing 20 of each device 5. The
accelerometer 28 of each device is oriented in the housing 20 so
that when the device 5 is attached to the neck 6 of the animal 2 by
the strap 21, the Y-axis of the accelerometer extends substantially
parallel to the back 29 of the neck 6 of the animal, and the X-axis
extends substantially perpendicularly to the back 29 of the neck 6
of the animal 2 in a generally upwardly downwardly direction. The
Z-axis of the accelerometer 28 extends substantially horizontally
in a direction transversely of the neck 6 of the animal. As
discussed above the device 5 is held relatively tightly to the neck
6 of the animal 2, so that the Y-axis of accelerometer 28 remains
substantially parallel to the back 29 of the neck 6 of the animal,
as the head of the animal is raised and lowered. Similarly, the
X-axis of the accelerometer remains substantially perpendicular to
the back of the neck of the animal as the animal raises and lowers
its head.
[0127] The accelerometer 28 produces a first signal which is
indicative of acceleration to which the accelerometer 28 is
subjected along the X-axis, which in turn is indicative of
acceleration of the head 7 and neck 6 of the animal 2, and which
accordingly is indicative of the movement of the head 7 and neck 6
of the animal 2 as well as general motive movement of the animal.
The accelerometer 28 produces a second signal which is indicative
of acceleration to which the accelerometer 28 is subjected along
the Y-axis, which in turn is indicative of the raised and lowered
states of the head 7 of the animal 2. In this embodiment of the
invention signals produced by the accelerometer 28, which are
indicative of acceleration to which the accelerometer 28 is
subjected along the Z-axis is not used, although it is envisaged
that in some embodiments of the invention, as will be discussed
briefly below, the third signal produced by the accelerometer 28
may be used.
[0128] A signal processor, in this embodiment of the invention a
microprocessor 30 is located within the housing 20 of each device 5
and is programmed to continuously sample the first and second
signals from the accelerometer 28 at a predefined sampling rate,
which in this embodiment of the invention is approximately 11 Hz
during consecutive first predefined time periods, each of
approximately 11.5 seconds duration. As the sampled values of the
first and second signals are read by the microprocessor 30, they
are sequentially written into a buffer 31 during each first
predefined time period. The buffer 31 is also located in the
housing 20. At the end of each first predefined time period, the
microprocessor 30 reads the sampled values of the first and second
signals which were sampled during that first predefined time period
from the buffer 31 and processes the read sampled values as will be
described below. From the processed sampled values of the first and
second signals which are processed at the end of each first
predefined time period, the microprocessor 30 is configured to
detect which of the states the animal had been in for that first
predefined time period.
[0129] The microprocessor 30 is configured to form six counters for
counting the numbers of first predefined time periods that the
animal 2 is in the respective states of ruminating, resting,
feeding, high activity, medium activity and low activity states
during consecutive second predefined time periods. Each second
predefined time period in this embodiment of the invention is of
duration of 15 minutes. The counters are identified by the
reference numerals 34 to 39 for counting the ruminating, resting,
feeding, high activity, medium activity and low activity states,
respectively. At the end of each second predefined time period the
counts of the counters 34 to 39 are stored in a memory chip 40
located in the housing 20. The counts of the counters 34 to 39 are
stored in the memory chip 40 cross-referenced with the times of the
respective second predefined time periods.
[0130] An identifying code of the corresponding device 5 is stored
in the memory chip 40, and data relating to the states of the
corresponding animal 2 when being transmitted from the device 5 is
cross-referenced with the identifying code of the device 5.
[0131] A communicating means, which in this embodiment of the
invention comprises a wireless transceiver 41, a short range
wireless receiver 42 and a wireless Near Field Communications
module 43 are located in the housing 20 of each device 5. The
transceiver 41 is adapted for two-way communications between the
device 5 and the relay station 12, and transmits data indicative of
the stored states of the corresponding animal 2 to the transceiver
14 of the relay station 12 in response to a wake-up signal received
from the transceiver 14 of the relay station 12, when the animal 2
comes within range of the relay station 12, for subsequent
transmission to the cloud computer server 10 through the GSM module
15. In this embodiment of the invention the wireless transceiver 41
is operable under the control of the microprocessor 30 in two power
modes, namely, a low power mode for transmitting data to the relay
station 12 in response to the wake-up signal from the relay station
12, when the animal and in turn the device 5 is within range of the
relay station 12, and a high power mode for transmitting data to
the transceiver 14 of the relay station 12 when the device is
outside the normal range of the relay station.
[0132] The microprocessor 30 is configured so that on a wake-up
signal from the relay station 12 being received by the transceiver
41 when the animal is within range of the relay station 12, the
microprocessor 30 operates the transceiver 41 in the low power
mode, and transmits data indicative of the states of the animal
during the second predefined time periods stored in the memory chip
40 since the last transmission to the relay station 12 for
subsequent relaying to the cloud computer server 10. The
transceiver 41 is operable in the high power mode for transmitting
data indicative of the states of the animal directly to the relay
station 12 in response to the microprocessor 30 detecting from the
processed data from the first and second signals that an emergency
may exist in the state of the animal.
[0133] In order to minimise the energy requirement of the device 5,
the microprocessor 30 is programmed only to transmit the data
indicative of the states of the animal during the second predefined
time periods stored in the memory chip 40 in response to the
wake-up signal from the relay station 12 if the time which has
elapsed since the last transmission of data indicative of the
states of the animal during the second predefined time periods is
greater than a predefined elapsed time period. In other words,
after a transmission of the data indicative of the states of the
animal during the second predefined time periods by the device 5,
the microprocessor 30 commences timing the predefined elapsed time
period, and during the timing of that predefined elapsed time
period, the microprocessor 30 does not respond to any of the
wake-up signals received from the relay station 12 until that
predefined elapsed time period has timed out. Once the predefined
elapsed time period has timed out, the microprocessor 30 is then
responsive to the next one of the wake-up signal which it receives
from the relay state and transmits the storage data indicative of
the states of the animal during the second predefined time periods
since the last transmission was made. The predefined elapsed time
period may be of any suitable or desired duration, and typically
would be of duration in the range of 1 hour to 12 hours, and more
typically, would be of duration in the range of 4 to 8 hours.
[0134] It is envisaged in some embodiments of the invention the
transceiver 41 may be of the type which operates in a single power
mode only, and in which case, in general, the transceiver would be
a relatively low power consumption transceiver, and would have a
relatively short transmission and receiving range, although it is
envisaged in certain cases that the transceiver 41 may have a
relatively long transmission and receiving range. However, it is
also envisaged that in certain cases, two wireless transceivers may
be provided, one of which would have a relatively long transmission
range, and a second transceiver which would have a relatively short
transmission range, and would operate with a significantly lower
power requirement than the transceiver with the relatively long
transmission range.
[0135] The Near Field Communications module 43 is configured for
two-way communications with a portable hand-held powered device,
for example, a mobile smart phone 44 which is programmed for and is
capable of communicating in a Near Field Communications protocol.
The smart phone 44 is programmed with a software application,
namely, an app, in order to facilitate two-way communications in
the Near Field Communications protocol with the Near Field
Communications module 43 and with the microprocessor 30. The
communication range of the Near Field Communications module 43 is
approximately 40 mm to 50 mm. The microprocessor 30 and the Near
Field Communications module 43 are configured to facilitate
programming and reprogramming of the microprocessor 30 through the
Near Field Communications module 43 by the smart phone 44 operating
under the control of the app. Additionally, the microprocessor 30
and the Near Field Communications module 43 are configured so that
the identifying code of the device 5 which is stored in the memory
chip 40 for identifying the device 5 can be read out of the memory
chip 40 through the Near Field Communications module 43 and into
the smart phone 44 to facilitate cross-referencing of the
identifying code of the device 5 with an identifying code of the
animal, which would identify the animal 2 to which the device 5 is
attached. The identifying code of the animal may be, for example,
the identification number of the animal by which the animal is
identified by an ear tag or other suitable identifying tag. This
enables the identity of the animal to be cross-referenced with the
identifying code stored in the memory chip 40. The identifying code
of the device 5 is cross-referenced with the identity of the cow in
both the smart phone 44 and in the cloud computer server 10.
Additionally, the smart phone 44 may store the identifying code of
the device cross-referenced with the identity of the animal, and
any other relevant data relating to the animal under the control of
the app with which the smart phone 44 is programmed, such other
data relating to the animal may be downloaded from the cloud
computer server 10, or from a cloud database of the cloud computer
server 10 in which such other data related to the animal is stored.
The Near Field Communications module 43 is also configured so that
data may be downloaded from and uploaded to the device 5 by the
smart phone 44 under the control of the app with which the smart
phone 44 is programmed. Such data which may be downloaded from the
device 5 to the smart phone 44 may include the states of the animal
cross-referenced with the corresponding second predefined time
periods over a desired length of time, and also cross-referenced
with the identifying code of the device 5 and the identifying code
of the animal 2.
[0136] The wireless receiver 42 comprises an inductively coupled
low frequency signal receiver coil which typically operates at 120
kHz to 140 kHz. The receiver 42 is provided for receiving
identification signals from short range wireless transmitters 45
located at predefined locations 46 visited by the animal. The
microprocessor 30 is programmed so that on reading an
identification signal of a predefined location 46 received by the
receiver 42 from the transmitter 45 at that location, the
microprocessor 30 records the identity of the location 46 from the
received identification signal, the time at which the
identification signal is received, and the duration of reception of
the identification signal. The identity of the location 46, the
time of the visit to the location 46 by the animal and the duration
of the visit by the animal to the location 46 is stored by the
microprocessor 30 in the memory chip 40 for subsequent transmission
through the transceiver 41 to the relay station 12, or through the
Near Field Communications module 43. The transmitters 45 which are
located at the predefined locations 46, for example, drinking
troughs, feeding troughs and other locations to which a visit by
the animal would be of interest are transmitters with a relatively
short range, typically no more than a few metres, depending on the
size and length of the drinking trough or feeding trough or other
such location 46, as the case may be, and are configured to
wirelessly and intermittently transmit an identification signal
containing data identifying the corresponding predefined location
46 for reception by the receiver 42 of the device 5 when the animal
2 comes within range of the transmitter 45. Typically, the
transmitters 45 transmit their respective identification signal at
one-second intervals at a frequency in the range of 120 kHz to 140
kHz corresponding to the receiving frequency to which the receiver
42 is tuned.
[0137] The microprocessor 30 transmits the stored data relating to
the locations visited by the animal, the times at which the
locations were visited and the durations of each visit along with
the data relating to the states of the animal during the relevant
second predefined time periods to the relay station 12 for a
subsequent relay to the cloud computer server 10.
[0138] A battery 47 powers the device 5.
[0139] The microprocessor 30 of each device 5 is configured by a
software programme, a routine of which is illustrated in FIGS. 5a
to 5e for detecting the state of the corresponding animal 2 at the
end of each first predefined time period. The microprocessor 30 is
configured by the routine of FIG. 5 of the software programme, so
that at the end of each first predefined time period the sampled
values of the first and second signals from the accelerometer 28
sampled during that first predefined time period are processed to
firstly ascertain if the animal is ruminating. If the animal is
found not to be ruminating, the sampled values of the first and
second signals sampled during that first predefined time period are
further processed to detect if the animal is resting. If the animal
is found not to be ruminating or resting, the sampled values of the
first and second signals are further processed by the
microprocessor 30 to ascertain if the animal is feeding. If the
animal is not detected as ruminating, resting or feeding, the
sampled values of the first and second signals sampled during that
first predefined time period are then further processed to
ascertain if the animal is in one of the three activity states,
namely, a state of high activity, a state of medium activity and a
state of low activity, as will be described below.
[0140] Graphical representations of the first and second signals
sampled from the accelerometer 28 are illustrated by the graphs A
and B, respectively, of FIGS. 6a to 6d, which illustrate the first
and second signals during parts of different first predefined time
periods. In FIGS. 6a to 6d time is plotted on the horizontal X axis
of the graphs. Acceleration to which the accelerometer 28 is
subjected along its X axis and Y axis is plotted in arbitrary units
on the vertical Y axis of the graphs. In FIG. 6a the graphs A and B
are typically representative of values of the first and second
signals, respectively, which are indicative of an animal
ruminating. In FIG. 6b the graphs A and B are typically
representative of values of the first and second signals,
respectively, which are indicative of an animal resting. In FIG. 6c
the graphs A and B are typically representative of values of the
first and second signals, respectively, which are indicative of an
animal feeding. In FIG. 6d the graphs A and B are typically
representative of values of the first and second signals,
respectively, which are indicative of an animal in the three
activity states. The parts of the graphs A and B of period 3 of
FIGS. 6d are indicative of an animal in a state of high activity,
while the parts of the graphs A and B of period 1 are indicative of
an animal in a state of medium activity, and the parts of the
graphs A and B of period 2 are indicative of an animal in a state
of low activity.
[0141] Turning now specifically to FIGS. 5a to 5e, block 50 starts
the routine for detecting the state of the animal at the
commencement of each second predefined time period of 11.5 seconds,
and resets the counters 34 to 39 to zero. The routine then moves to
block 51, which checks if the current first predefined time period
has ended. If not, the routine returns to block 51. If block 51
determines that the current first predefined time period has ended,
the routine moves to block 52. Block 52 reads the sampled magnitude
values of the first signal from the buffer 31, which had been
stored in the buffer 31 during the first predefined time period
which has just ended, consecutively into the microprocessor 30.
Block 53 computes a moving mean magnitude value of the magnitude of
the sampled values of the first signal. Block 52 reads the sampled
values of the first signal in blocks of sampled values, for
example, in blocks of sampled values of from five to seven
consecutive sampling points. During reading of the blocks of the
sampled values of the sampling points of the first signal, the
routine shuttles between blocks 52 and 53 to compute the mean
magnitude value of the magnitude of the sampled values of the first
signal for each of the blocks of sampled values of the first
signal, in order that the computed mean magnitude value is a moving
mean magnitude value.
[0142] On completion of the computation of the mean magnitude value
of the sampled values sampled from the first signal during the just
ended first predefined time period by block 53, block 53 also
stores the computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values of
the first signal for the just ended first predefined time period in
memory of the microprocessor 30. On the mean magnitude value of the
first signal being stored in the microprocessor 30 by block 53, the
routine moves to block 54.
[0143] Block 54 counts the number of the positive and negative
peaks of the sampled values of the first signal above and below the
computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the first
signal during the just ended first predefined time period, the
absolute magnitude values of which with reference to the just
computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the first
signal are within a predefined range of absolute magnitude values.
The upper and lower absolute magnitude values of the predefined
range of absolute magnitude values are defined as respective
functions of the computed mean magnitude value of the sampled
values of the first signal for the just ended first predefined time
period, and ideally, are defined as percentage values of the
computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the first
signals. The percentage values of the computed mean magnitude value
which represent the upper and lower values of the predefined range
of absolute magnitude values are dependent on the type of animal to
which the device 5 is attached and also on the type of cow. It has
been found that for a dairy cow when ruminating, typical absolute
magnitude values of the positive and negative peaks of the sampled
values of the first signal range between a lower absolute magnitude
value of approximately 0.5% of the computed mean magnitude value of
the first signal and an upper absolute magnitude value of
approximately 10% of the computed mean magnitude value of the
corresponding first signal for the first predefined time
period.
[0144] Referring in particular to FIG. 6a, it can be seen from
graph A, which represents a plot of the sampled values of the first
signal during a part of one of the first predefined time period
that the mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the first
signal for that first predefined time period has been computed to
be an arbitrary value of approximately 200 arbitrary units. In this
embodiment of the invention a reading of 200 arbitrary units
equates to one G force, namely, the acceleration due to gravity.
This is the magnitude value of the first signal when the X axis of
the accelerometer 28 is extending substantially vertically, in
other words, when the back 29 of the neck 6 of the animal 2 is
extending substantially horizontally. Prior to counting the
positive and negative peaks which lie within the predefined range
of absolute magnitude values, block 54 computers the lower and
upper absolute magnitude values of the predefined range of absolute
magnitude values as 0.5% and 10%, respectively, of the computed
mean magnitude value of the first signal, which had been computed
by block 53 for the just ended first predefined time period.
Accordingly, since for the just ended first predefined time period
block 53 computed the mean magnitude value to be 200 arbitrary
units, block 54 for this just ended first predefined time period
computes the lower and upper absolute magnitude values of the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values as 1 arbitrary unit,
and 20 arbitrary units, respectively, which are stored for this
just ended first predefined time period in memory in the
microprocessor 30. Block 54 then counts the number of positive and
negative peaks, the absolute values of which lie between 1
arbitrary unit and 20 arbitrary units.
[0145] However, in general, it is envisaged that the lower absolute
magnitude value of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values may lie from 0.1% to 1% of the computed mean magnitude
value, while the upper absolute magnitude value of the predefined
range of absolute magnitude values may lie in the range of 7% to
13% of the computed mean magnitude value, although the invention is
not limited to any such ranges of lower and upper absolute
magnitude values of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values, since as discussed above, the upper and lower absolute
magnitude values of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values vary depending on the type of animal, and may also vary
depending on the type of accelerometer.
[0146] On completing the count of the number of positive and
negative peaks, the absolute magnitude values of which with
reference to the computed mean magnitude value are within the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values, block 54 stores the
count of the number of the positive and negative peaks in the
microprocessor 30 for the just ended first predefined time
period.
[0147] The routine then moves to block 55. Block 55 computes the
maximum peak to peak value of the sampled values of the first
signal during the just ended first predefined time period as the
sum of the absolute magnitude values of the maximum positive peak
with reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal, and
the absolute magnitude value of the maximum negative peak with
reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal, in other
words, the negative peak with the maximum absolute value with
reference to the mean magnitude value. Block 55 then stores the
computed maximum peak to peak value in memory of the microprocessor
30. The routine then moves to block 56.
[0148] Block 56 compares the computed maximum peak to peak value of
the sampled values of the first signal with lower and upper
predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold values.
[0149] The lower and upper predefined peak to peak threshold values
are defined as functions of the computed mean magnitude value of
the sampled values of the first signal during each first predefined
time period, and in this embodiment of the invention are defined as
respective percentage values of the computed mean magnitude value
for each first predefined time period. It has been found that the
lower and upper predefined peak to peak threshold values depend on
the type of animal. It has also been found that in this embodiment
of the invention for animals which are ruminating the maximum peak
to peak value of the sampled values of the first signal does not
fall below a lower peak to peak value in the range of 1% to 7% of
the mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the first signal,
and does not exceed an upper peak to peak value in the range of 16%
to 22% of the mean magnitude value of the first signal. In this
embodiment of the invention it has been found that for dairy cows
when ruminating the maximum peak to peak value of the sampled
values of the first signal lie within lower and upper peak to peak
values of 4% and 19.5% respectively, of the mean magnitude value of
the sampled values of the first signal. Accordingly, in this
embodiment of the invention the lower predefined peak to peak
ruminating threshold value is set at 4% of the computed mean
magnitude value of the sampled values of the first signal and the
upper predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold value is set at
19.5% of the mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the
first signal for each first predefined time period. Since block 53
computed the mean magnitude value for this just ended first
predefined time period to be 200 arbitrary units, block 56 computes
the lower and upper predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold
values for this first predefined time period as 8 arbitrary units
and 39 arbitrary units, respectively, which are stored in memory of
the microprocessor 30.
[0150] Block 56 then compares the maximum peak to peak value of the
first signal computed by block 55 with the just computed lower and
upper predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold values.
[0151] If block 56 determines that the maximum peak to peak value
of the sampled values of the first signal during the just ended
first predefined time period lies between the lower and upper
predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold value, the routine
moves to block 57. If block 56 determines that the maximum peak to
peak value of the sampled values of the first signal is greater
than the upper predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold value
or less than the lower predefined peak to peak ruminating threshold
value, the routine moves to block 58, which is described below.
[0152] Block 57 compares the count of the peak values determined by
block 54 with a predefined ruminating threshold count. The
predefined ruminating threshold count is predefined and stored in
the microprocessor 30. It has been found that during any one of the
first predefined time periods of 11.5 seconds when a dairy cow is
ruminating, the count of positive and negative peak values
determined by block 54 would not be less than fifty peaks, and in
this embodiment of the invention the predefined ruminating
threshold count is set and stored in the microprocessor 30 as a
count of fifty. However, it will be appreciated that the predefined
ruminating threshold count may vary upwardly or downwardly from
fifty, depending on the animal, and indeed, the type of cow.
Needless to say, the predefined ruminating threshold count will
vary depending on the duration of first predefined time period.
However, for a first predefined time period of 11.5 seconds, the
count of positive and negative peak values of the sampled values of
the first signal determined by block 54 for a ruminating dairy cow
will exceed fifty. However, the invention is not to be limited to a
predefined ruminating threshold count of fifty peaks.
[0153] If block 57 determines that the count of peak to peak values
determined by block 54 exceeds the first predefined ruminating
threshold count, the routine moves to block 59. Block 59 detects
that the animal is ruminating and moves to block 75, which is
described below. If block 57 determines that the count of positive
and negative peak values, the absolute magnitude values of which
with reference to the mean magnitude value are within the
predefined range of absolute magnitude values, which is computed by
block 54, does not exceed the predefined ruminating threshold count
of fifty, the subroutine moves to block 58.
[0154] While the mean magnitude value of the first signal for the
just ended first predefined time period of FIG. 6a has been
computed by block 53 as being 200 arbitrary units for this example
of ruminating, the mean magnitude value of the first signal may be
of other values besides 200 arbitrary units during ruminating of an
animal.
[0155] Block 58 compares the maximum peak to peak value of the
sampled values of the first signal computed by block 55 with a
predefined peak to peak resting threshold value. It has been found
that if the count of positive and negative peak values, the
absolute magnitude value of which with reference to the mean
magnitude value are within the first predefined range of absolute
magnitude values as determined by block 54 does not exceed the
predefined ruminating threshold count of fifty, it is possible that
the animal is resting. It has also been found that if the maximum
peak to peak value of the sampled values of the first signal does
not exceed the predefined peak to peak resting threshold value, the
animal would be resting. The predefined peak to peak resting
threshold value varies from type of animal to type of animal, and
indeed, from type of cow to type of cow. In this embodiment of the
invention the predefined peak to peak resting threshold value is
defined as a function of the computed mean magnitude value of the
sampled values of the first signal during each first predefined
time period, and preferably, is defined as a percentage value of
the computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values of the
first signal during each first predefined time period. It has been
found that in a resting animal the maximum peak to peak value of
the sampled values of the first signal will not exceed 30% of the
computed mean magnitude value. In this embodiment of the invention
it has been found that the maximum peak to peak value of the
sampled values of the first signal do not exceed a predefined value
of 20% of the computed mean magnitude value for a resting dairy
cow. Since block 53 computed the mean magnitude value at 200
arbitrary units block 58 computes the predefined peak to peak
resting threshold value to be 40 arbitrary units which is stored in
memory in the microprocessor 30. Block 58 then compares the maximum
peak to peak value of the first signal computed by block 55 with
the computed predefined peak to peak resting threshold value.
[0156] Accordingly, if block 58 determines that the maximum peak to
peak value computed by block 55 does not exceed the predefined peak
to peak resting threshold value, the routine moves to block 60,
which determines that the animal is resting. The routine is then
moved to block 77, which is described below. If block 58 determines
that the maximum peak to peak value of the sampled values of the
first signal computed by block 55 during the just ended first
predefined time period does exceed the predefined peak to peak
resting threshold value, the routine moves to block 61.
[0157] Graph A of FIG. 6b is a part of a typical graph representing
the first signal from another first predefined time period of a
resting animal. As can be seen from graph A of FIG. 6b block 53
would have computed the mean magnitude value of the sampled values
of the first signal of graph A to be in the order of 210 arbitrary
units. Block 54 would have computed the lower and upper absolute
magnitude values of the predefined range of absolute magnitude
values based on the computed mean magnitude value of 210 arbitrary
units. Block 54 would then have counted the number of positive and
negative peaks of the first signal which were within that
predefined range of absolute magnitude values. Block 55 would have
computed the maximum peak to peak value of the first signal based
on the computed mean magnitude value of 210 arbitrary units. In
processing the sampled values of the first signal of graph A
through blocks 56 and 57 the microprocessor would have detected
that the animal was not ruminating. The routine would then have
moved to block 58 which would have computed the predefined peak to
peak resting threshold value based on the computed mean magnitude
value of 210 arbitrary units, and block 58 would have determined
that the maximum peak to peak value of the first signal of graph A
of FIG. 6b was less than computed predefined peak to peak resting
threshold value, and the routine would have moved to block 60,
which would have detected that the animal was resting.
[0158] Returning now to block 61, block 61 reads into the
microprocessor 30 the sampled magnitude values of the second signal
consecutively from the buffer 31, which had been stored in the
buffer 31 during the first predefined time period which has just
ended. The reading in of the sampled magnitude values of the second
signal from the buffer 31 to the microprocessor 30 may be carried
out at any suitable stage in the routine, either at this stage, or
earlier in the routine, for example, before or after the reading of
the sampled magnitude values of the first signal into the
microprocessor 30. The routine then moves to block 62, which
computes the mean magnitude value of the sampled magnitude values
of the second signal, and the routine moves to block 63.
[0159] Block 63 compares the mean magnitude value of the sampled
values of the second signal which has been computed by block 62
with a predefined mean magnitude value to ascertain the raised or
lowered state of the head of the animal. The value of the second
signal when the back 29 of the neck of the animal 2 is extending
substantially horizontally is zero arbitrary units, since the
second axis of the accelerometer 28 would also be extending
substantially horizontally. It has been found in this embodiment of
the invention that with the monitoring device 5 attached to the
neck 6 of an animal, with the second axis of the accelerometer
extending substantially parallel to the back of the neck of the
animal, when the head of the animal is in a lowered state
sufficient for grazing or feeding from a ground level trough, the
mean magnitude value of the second signal should be greater than 60
arbitrary units. Accordingly, in this embodiment of the invention
the predefined mean magnitude value of 60 arbitrary units is stored
in the microprocessor 30. Accordingly, if block 63 determines that
the mean magnitude value of the second signal computed by block 62
exceeds the predefined mean magnitude value of 60 arbitrary units,
the routine moves to block 64, which detects the animal as feeding.
The routine then moves to block 78, which is described below.
[0160] Referring now to FIG. 6c, graphs A and B of FIG. 6c are
parts of typical graphs of the first and second signals,
respectively of a part of another first predefined time period in
which the animal is feeding. Block 53 would have computed the mean
magnitude value of the second signal, namely, graph B of FIG. 6b to
have a mean value greater than 100 arbitrary units, which is
greater than the predefined mean magnitude value of 60 arbitrary
units of the second signal, and thus, block 63 would have
determined the mean magnitude value of the second signal to have
exceeded the predefined mean magnitude value of 60 arbitrary units,
and the routine would have moved to block 64 and determined that
the animal was feeding.
[0161] If however block 63 determines that the mean magnitude value
of the second signal computed by block 62 is less than the
predefined mean magnitude value, indicating that the head of the
animal is either raised above a normal grazing level, or at a level
at which the head of the animal would be if feeding from a ground
level trough, the routine moves to block 65.
[0162] Block 65 compares the count of positive and negative peak
values of the first signal, the absolute magnitude values of which
with reference to the mean magnitude value of the first signal are
within the first predefined range of absolute magnitude values,
which has already been determined by block 54, with a predefined
feeding threshold count. It has been found that in certain cases,
an animal can be feeding even when the head of the animal is not in
the lowered state. For example, in certain feeding systems,
particularly those used in intensive rearing of animals, the animal
feed is presented to the animal at a level at which the head of the
animal could be in a raised state. Accordingly, block 65 is
provided to detect such feeding. It has been found that if the
maximum peak to peak value of the first signal which is computed by
block 55 exceeds the predefined resting threshold value, the animal
could be feeding. It has also been found that if the count of
positive and negative peak values of the first signal as determined
by block 54 exceeds a predefined feeding threshold count, the
animal would be feeding. In this embodiment of the invention the
predefined feeding threshold count is similar to the predefined
ruminating threshold count for each first predefined time period,
and thus, in this case the predefined feeding threshold count is
also stored in memory of the microprocessor 30 as fifty. However,
as discussed above with reference to the predefined ruminating
threshold count, the predefined feeding threshold count is also
dependent on the duration of the first predefined time period, and
may also vary depending on the type of animal. It will also be
appreciated that the predefined feeding threshold count and the
predefined ruminating threshold count may be different for some
animal.
[0163] Accordingly, if block 65 determines that the count of the
positive and negative peak values of the first signal computed by
block 54 exceeds the predefined feeding threshold count of fifty,
the routine moves to block 64, which as discussed above, detects
that the animal is feeding. If block 65 determines that the count
of the positive and negative peak values of the first signal
computed by block 54 does not exceed the predefined feeding
threshold count of fifty, the routine moves to block 66.
[0164] At this stage, the animal has been determined as being
neither ruminating, resting nor feeding. Thus, the only other state
of the animal would be an active state. In this embodiment of the
invention the routine is configured to identify three active states
of the animal, namely, a high activity state, a medium activity
state, and a low activity state.
[0165] Block 66 counts the number of positive and negative peaks of
the sampled values of the first signal of the just ended first
predefined time period, the absolute magnitude values of which with
reference to the mean magnitude value exceeds a first predefined
peak threshold value. The reason for counting the number of
positive and negative peaks, the absolute magnitude values of which
with reference to the computed mean magnitude value exceed the
first predefined peak threshold value is to determine if the animal
is in a high activity state. It has been found that when an animal
is in a state of high activity, the absolute magnitude value of a
number of the positive and negative peaks of the sampled values of
the first signal during each first predefined time period will
exceed a first predefined peak threshold value, which will vary
depending on the type of animal, and indeed on the type of cow.
[0166] The first predefined peak threshold value is defined as a
function of the computed mean magnitude value of the sampled values
of the first signal during each first predefined time period.
Preferably, the first predefined peak threshold value is defined as
a percentage value of the computed mean magnitude value. It has
been found that in an animal in a state of high activity, a number
of the positive and negative peaks of the sampled values of the
first signal during each first predefined time period will be
greater than 30% of the computed mean magnitude value. In this
case, it has been found that for a dairy cow in a state of high
activity, the absolute magnitude value of many of the positive and
negative peak values of the sampled values of the first signal will
be greater than 35% of the computed mean magnitude value.
Accordingly, in this case, for each first predefined time period
the first predefined peak threshold value is computed by block 66
to be 35% of the computed mean magnitude value and stored in the
microprocessor 30. From the graph A of FIGS. 6a to 6d, 350
arbitrary units represents a value of approximately 35% of the
computed mean magnitude value, namely, 70 arbitrary units, and this
value for the first predefined peak threshold value is stored in
memory in the microprocessor for this just ended first predefined
time period.
[0167] On completion of the count by block 66, the routine moves to
block 67. Block 67 checks if the count of the positive and negative
peaks from block 66 is greater than or equal to a first predefined
peak threshold count. The first predefined threshold count is
predefined and stored in the microprocessor 30, and is dependent on
the duration of the first predefined time period, and also on the
type of animal, and in the case of cows on the type of cow. In
general, it has been found that for a first predefined time period
of 11.5 seconds, if the count of the positive and negative peak
values determined by block 66 is greater than or equal to a first
predefined peak threshold count of three, then the animal is in a
state of high activity. Accordingly, the first predefined peak
threshold count is set and stored in the microprocessor 30 at
three.
[0168] If block 67 determines that the count of the positive and
negative peaks from block 66 is greater than or equal to the first
predefined peak threshold count of three, the routine moves to
block 68, which detects the animal as being in a state of high
activity, and the routine moves to block 79, which is described
below. If block 67 determines that the count of the positive and
negative peak values of the first signal of block 66 is not greater
than or equal to the first predefined peak threshold count of
three, the subroutine moves to block 69.
[0169] Referring now to FIG. 6d, which as discussed above
illustrates graphs A and B which are representative of first and
second signal, respectively, for parts of three different first
predefined time periods. Graph A of FIG. 6d during period 3 is a
typical representation of the first signal for an animal in a state
of high activity. As can be seen block 53 would have computed the
mean magnitude value of the sample values of FIG. 1 for graph A of
the third period of FIG. 6d to be 200 arbitrary units, and as can
be seen there are at least three peaks of the positive and negative
peak which exceed the first predefined peak threshold value which
would have been computed based on the computed mean magnitude value
of 200 arbitrary units, which would have produced a first
predefined peak threshold value of 70 arbitrary units. Thus, in
this first predefined time period, block 67 would have moved the
subroutine to block 68 which would detect the animal as being in
the high activity state.
[0170] Returning now to block 69, block 69 checks if the count of
positive and negative peaks of the first signal from block 66 lies
between a second predefined peak threshold count and one less than
the first predefined peak threshold count. In this case, the second
predefined peak threshold count is one, and block 69 checks if the
count of positive and negative peaks of the first signal from block
66 is one or two. It has been found that an animal is in a state of
medium activity if the count of the positive and negative peaks of
the first signal from block 66 lies between one and one less than
the first predefined peak threshold count. If block 69 determines
that the count of the positive and negative peaks of the first
signal from block 66 is equal to one or two, the routine moves to
block 70, which detects the animal as being in a state of medium
activity. The routine then moves from block 70 to block 80, which
will be described below.
[0171] If block 69 determines that the count of the positive and
negative peaks of the first signal from block 66 is not equal to
one or two, the routine moves to block 71, in order to determine if
the animal could still be in a state of medium activity based on
alternative parameters to those applied in block 69.
[0172] Block 71 counts the number of positive and negative peaks of
the sampled values of the first signal sampled during the just
ended first predefined time period, the absolute magnitude values
of which with reference to the mean magnitude value exceeds a
second predefined peak threshold value. It has been found that an
animal would also in a state of medium activity, if the absolute
magnitude of a number of the positive and negative peaks of the
first signal were greater than a second predefined peak threshold
value, which is defined as a function of the computed mean
magnitude value, and preferably as a percentage of the computed
mean magnitude value. It has been found that an animal is also in a
medium active state if the absolute magnitude values of a number of
the positive and negative peaks of the samples values of the first
signal are greater than a second predefined peak threshold value of
10% of the computed mean magnitude value of the first signal.
However, this value of the second predefined peak threshold value
depend on the type of animal and in the case of cows, on the type
of cows.
[0173] In the just ended first predefined time period of FIG. 6a,
the computed mean magnitude value computed by block 53 is computed
as 200 arbitrary units, block 71 computes the second predefined
peak threshold value for this just ended predefined time period of
FIG. 1 to be 20 arbitrary units. Block 71 then counts the number of
positive and negative peaks of the sampled values of the first
signal during the just ended first predefined time period, the
absolute magnitude peak values exceed 20 arbitrary units.
[0174] On completion of the count by block 71, the routine moves to
block 72, which checks if the count of the positive and negative
peak values of the first signal counted by block 71 is greater than
or equal to a third predefined peak threshold count. The third
predefined peak threshold count will vary from animal to animal and
indeed from cow to cow, and also will vary depending on the
duration of the first predefined time period. However, in this
case, it has been found that a third predefined peak threshold
count of 12 would indicate that an animal is in a state of medium
activity. In this embodiment of the invention the third predefined
peak threshold count is computed and stored at a value of 12 in the
microprocessor 30.
[0175] If block 72 determines that the count of the positive and
negative peaks computed by block 71 is greater than or equal to the
third predefined peak threshold count, the routine moves to block
70, which as already described, detects the animal as being in a
medium active state.
[0176] In the event that block 72 determines that the count of the
positive and negative peak values counted by block 71 is not
greater than or equal to the third predefined peak threshold count,
the routine moves to block 73, which detects the animal as being in
a state of low activity. The routine then moves to block 81, which
will be described below.
[0177] Referring again to FIG. 6d, graph A of period 1 of FIG. 6d
represents a first signal of a part of another first predefined
time period in which the animal is in a state of medium activity.
In the first predefined time period of the first period of FIG. 6d
block 53 would have computed a mean magnitude value of the sample
values of the first signal to be in the order of 200 arbitrary
units. 35% of the mean magnitude value of 200 units would have been
70 units, and 10% of the mean magnitude value would have been 20
units. Thus, in this case the first predefined peak threshold value
would have been computed to be 70 arbitrary units, and the second
predefined peak threshold value would have been computed to be 20
arbitrary units. In graph A of period 1 of FIG. 6d the graph
includes two peaks which exceed 70 arbitrary units, and 12 peaks
which exceed 20 arbitrary units. Accordingly, under both criteria,
namely, that of block 69 and 72 the animal would have been detected
as being in a state of medium activity during the first predefined
time period of period 1 of FIG. 6d. However, it is to be understood
that once either block 69 or block 72 detect that the animal is in
a state of medium activity the animal is deemed to be in the state
of medium activity.
[0178] Turning now to block 75, block 75 increments the counter 34
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods
during each second predefined time period during which the animal
is ruminating. The routine then moves to block 76, which is
described below.
[0179] Turning now to block 77, block 77 increments the counter 35
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods
during the second predefined time period that the animal is
detected as being in a resting state. The routine then moves to
block 76, which has already been described.
[0180] Turning now to block 78, block 78 increments the counter 36
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods
that the animal has been detected as feeding during the second
predefined time period. The routine then moves to block 76, which
has already been described.
[0181] Turning now to block 79, block 79 increments the counter 37
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods
during the second predefined time period that the animal is in the
state of high activity. The routine then moves from block 76, which
has already been described.
[0182] Turning now to block 80, block 80 increments the counter 38
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods
during the second predefined time period that the animal is in a
state of medium activity. The routine then moves to block 76, which
has already been described.
[0183] Turning now to block 81, block 81 increments the counter 39
by one, which counts the number of first predefined time periods in
which the animal has been detected in a state of low activity
during the second predefined time period. The routine then moves to
block 76, which has already been described.
[0184] Turning now to block 76, block 76 checks if the current
second predefined time period has ended. If block 76 determines
that the current second predefined time period has ended, the
routine moves to block 82. Block 82 stores the counts from blocks
75 and 77 to 81, which are the counts in the counters 34 to 39 at
the end of that second predefined time period. Block 82 stores the
counts of the counters 34 to 39 cross-referenced with the
corresponding states of the animal during that second predefined
time period, and cross-referenced with the identity of the
corresponding second predefined time period. Block 82 then returns
the routine to block 50. If, however, block 76 determines that the
current second predefined time period has not yet ended, block 76
returns the routine to block 51.
[0185] Turning now to the recovery of data from each device 5. In
normal operation of the devices 5, no data is transmitted by the
devices 5 until the animal 2 to which the device 5 is attached
comes within range of the relay station 12. On receiving a wake-up
signal from the transceiver 14 of the relay station 12 through the
transceiver 41 of the device 5, the microprocessor 30 of that
device operates the transceiver 41 in the low power mode, and
transmits through the transceiver 41 the stored data relating to
the states of the animal 2 during each one of the second predefined
time periods, and the number of the first predefined time periods
the animal 2 was in each of those states for each of the second
predefined time periods since the last transmission of data from
the device 5 occurred. Additionally, the stored data since the last
transmission relating to the identity of the respective locations
visited by the animal, the times at which the visits took place,
and the duration of the respective visits is also transmitted by
the device 5 through the transceiver 41 along with the data
relating to the states of the animal. The transmitted data is
received by the transceiver 14 of the relay station 12, which in
turn relays the data to the cloud computer server 10 through the
GSM module 15.
[0186] Prior to transmission from the device 5 the data is packaged
for transmission by the microprocessor 30 into data packets, with
the data packets comprising the identifying code of the device 5
stored in the memory chip 40 along with the data relating to the
states of the animal 2 and the locations visited by the animal 2.
Typically the relay station 12 will be located at a location which
will be visited by the animals at least twice per day, so that the
stored data relating to each animal in the corresponding device 5
will be transmitted to the relay station 12, and in turn relayed to
the cloud computer 10 at least twice per day.
[0187] In the event that a period greater than a predefined time
period of, for example, fifteen hours has elapsed since the last
transmission from any one of the devices 5 has been received by the
cloud computer server 10, the cloud computer server 10 through the
GSM module 15 requests the relay station 12 to transmit a wake-up
signal identifying that device 5 of sufficient strength to be
received by the transceiver 41 of that device 5, in order to
activate the microprocessor 30 of that device 5 to transmit the
stored data relating to the states of the animal and the locations
visited by the animal since the last transmission from that device
5 was made. On receipt of the wake-up signal, the microprocessor 30
of that device 5 operates the transceiver 41 in the high power
mode, and transmits through the transceiver 41 the stored data
relating to the states of the animal 2 during each one of the
second predefined time periods and the stored data relating to the
locations visited by the animal 2 since the last transmission of
data from that device 5 was made. On receipt of the transmitted
data by the relay station 12 the received data is relayed to the
cloud computer server 10 by the relay station 12 through the GSM
module 15.
[0188] By operating the transceiver 41 in the low power mode for
transmissions of data to the relay station 12 when the devices 5
are within range of the relay station 12, significant power saving
is achieved both in the devices 5 and the relay station 12, and in
particular in the devices 5. Accordingly, provided that the
interval between transmissions of data indicative of the states of
the animal made by the devices 5 to the relay station 12, and in
turn to the cloud computer server 10 are less than the predefined
time periods of, for example, fifteen hours, the transmissions of
the data indicative of the states of the animal 2 are made with the
transceiver 41 operating in the low powered mode.
[0189] In the event that the microprocessor 30 determines that
during a number of consecutive second predefined time periods the
state of the animal has remained in a state of high activity, which
could be indicative of the onset of oestrus, or over an abnormally
long period of time the animal has remained in a resting state,
which could be indicative of an injured or an ill animal, the
microprocessor 30 is programmed to operate the transceiver 41 in
the high powered mode and to output an alert signal through the
transceiver 41 for reception by the relay station 12 for relaying
to the cloud computer server 10. The alert signal includes the
identifying code of the device 5 together with a signal alerting to
the continuous highly active state or the continuous resting state
of the animal.
[0190] Turning now to the cloud computer server 10. The cloud
computer server 10 is programmed to determine various health states
of the animal 2, for example, the onset of oestrus, which would be
determined by comparing the high activity state of the animal 2 to
historical activity states of the animal 2 and to the activity
states of other animals in the same herd or group of animals, which
are in a similar environment to that of that particular animal 2.
In the event of the animal being in the state of high activity
greater than its normal active state and being greater than the
state of high activity of the other animals in the herd or group,
then the onset of oestrus could be determined, as could other
reproductive issues, for example, cystic ovarian diseases. Lameness
or other injuries or illnesses would be determined in the case of
an animal resting for excessively long time periods. Lack of
ruminating and/or feeding of an animal would indicate an animal as
being in poor health.
[0191] The data relating to the identity of the locations visited
by each animal, the times of the visits and the durations of the
visits is also processed by the cloud computer server 10 to also
identify the health state of the animal. For example, if an animal
has not visited a drinking trough for an extended period, this
could also be an indication of ill health of the animal. If an
animal is found not to have visited a feeding trough, for example,
where nutrients in concentrated form are provided for the animals,
corrective action could be taken to ensure that that particular
animal received appropriate nutrients.
[0192] In use, each animal 2 of a herd or group of animals is
provided with one of the devices 5 attached to the neck 6 of the
corresponding animal 2 by the corresponding strap 21 as already
described. Initially, as the devices 5 are being attached to the
animals 2, the identifying codes of the respective devices 5 are
sequentially read from the memory chips 40 of the devices 5 by the
smart phone 44 which is programmed with the appropriate app. The
identifying codes of the devices 5 are read out from the memory
chips 31 by the smart phone 44 through the NFC modules 43 of the
respective devices 5 in NFC protocol. The identifying codes of the
respective devices 5 are stored and cross-referenced in the smart
phone 44 with identifying codes of the corresponding animals 2. The
identifying codes of the animals may be codes assigned to the
animals by the farmer, or alternatively, may be national
identifying codes issues by the State which identify the respective
animals. The cross-referenced identifying codes of the devices 5
and the corresponding animals 2 are uploaded to the cloud computer
server 10 by the smart phone 44 and stored also in the cloud
computer server 10 so that the cloud computer server 10 can readily
identify the animals from the corresponding identifying codes of
the respective devices 5.
[0193] If any programming or reprogramming of the microprocessors
30 in the respective devices 5 is required, the necessary
programming and reprogramming is carried out by the smart phone 44
operating under the control of the app through the NFC modules 43
of the respective devices 5.
[0194] The microprocessor 30 of each device 5 continuously samples
the first and second signals from the accelerometer 28 as already
described, and at the end of each first predefined time period
determines the state of the animal for that first predefined time
period, be it ruminating, resting, feeding, or be it in one of the
three activity states. The number of times the animal is in the
respective states during each second predefined time period is
stored in the memory chip 31 cross-referenced with the
corresponding states for subsequent transmission by the device 5.
As the animal 2 visits the locations at which transmitters 45 are
located, and a signal identifying the location is received by the
receiver 42 of the corresponding device 5, the identity of the
location is read by the microprocessor 30, and is stored in the
memory chip 31, together with the time of the visit to the location
and the duration of the visit to the location. It will be
appreciated that the data relating to the states of the animal and
the locations visited by the animal may be stored in memory of the
microprocessor 30 or in a separate memory chip to the memory chip
40, instead of the memory chip 40.
[0195] As each animal 2 comes within range of the transceiver 14 of
the relay station 12, the device 5 of that animal is activated in
response to the wake-up signal transmitted by the transceiver 14 of
the relay station 12, and the device 5 transmits through the
transceiver 41 operating in the low powered mode the data relating
to the states of the animal 2 during the second predefined time
periods since the last transmission from that device 5 was made, as
well as the data relating to the locations visited by the animal 2
since the last transmission from that device was made. The data
relating to the state of the animal 2 and the locations visited by
the animal 2 received by the transceiver 14 of the relay station 12
is then relayed through the GSM module 15 of the relay station 12
to the cloud computer server 10. The cloud computer server 10 then
carries out further analysis of the received data to determine the
state of the health of the animal 2 from the received data and
other issues relating to the animal.
[0196] If the microprocessor 30 of any of the devices 5 determines
that the corresponding animal 2 remains in a highly active state
during a predefined number of consecutive second predefined time
periods which could be indicative of oestrus, the transceiver 41 is
operated in the high power mode, and the alert signal is
transmitted for reception by the relay station 12, which is then
relayed to the cloud computer server 10 by the relay station 12.
The alert signal includes the identifying code of the device 5 and
data relating to the highly active state of the animal 2 over the
relevant predefined number of second predefined time periods.
[0197] If the microprocessor 30 of any of the devices 5 determines
that the corresponding animal remains in a resting state
continuously for a predefined number of consecutive second
predefined time periods, which could be indicative of an injured,
lame or ill animal, the microprocessor 30 operates the transceiver
41 in the high power mode to transmit the alert signal, which in
this case includes the identifying code of the device 5 and data
relating to the resting state of the animal over the relevant
predefined number of second predefined time periods for reception
by the relay station 12. The relay station 12 then relays the alert
signal to the cloud computer server 10.
[0198] On receipt of the alert signal or signals from corresponding
ones of the device 5, the cloud computer server analyses the alert
signals, and the data contained therein, and determines whether an
emergency state exists in the relevant animal 5. If so, the cloud
computer server 10 alerts the farmer by any suitable communication
means, for example, by an SMS message transmitted to the smart
phone 44 or a mobile phone of the farmer over a telecommunications
network, or by a voice message transmitted to a mobile phone or a
landline phone of the farmer.
[0199] If on analysing the data periodically received from any of
the devices 5 relating to the states of the corresponding animals,
and the locations visited by the corresponding animals, the cloud
computer server detects any issues relating to any of the animals 2
which should be brought to the attention of the farmer, an
appropriate message is transmitted by the cloud computer 10 by any
suitable means for reception by the farmer, which may be an SMS
message or a voice message transmitted by a telecommunications
network to the smart phone 44, a mobile phone or a landline phone
of the farmer.
[0200] Additionally, or alternatively, messages from the cloud
computer server 10 to be communicated to the farmer may be
communicated via the internet to the smart mobile phone 44 of the
farmer, or to a computer of the farmer, for example, a desktop
computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer or indeed any other
suitable computer device.
[0201] The cloud computer server 10 is also configured to permit
downloading of data by a farmer to the smart phone 44 of the
farmer, and/or to a computer of the farmer, such as a desktop
computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer or the like. Such
data which would be downloadable from the cloud computer server 10
to the farmer would be similar to that uploaded to the cloud
computer server by the relay station 12, as well as data relating
to and/or resulting from analysis carried out by the cloud computer
server 10 on the data received from the devices 5.
[0202] All data stored in the devices 5 is downloadable directly
onto the smart phone 44 or indeed any smart device, for example, a
tablet computer or the like by NFC protocol. To download data
stored in any one of the devices 5 to the smart phone 44 or any
other such smart device, the smart phone 44 or smart device
operating under the control of the app is brought into close
proximity within 50 mm of the device 5 from which the data is to be
downloaded. An activation signal is produced by the smart phone 44
and is transmitted in an NFC protocol for reception by the NFC
module 43 of the device 5. On receipt of the activation signal, the
microprocessor 30 is operated to download the data in an NFC
protocol through the NFC module 43 to the smart phone 44 or smart
device. The data relating to the states of the animal and the
locations visited by the animal which is stored in the memory chip
31 is packaged in data packets which include the identity code of
the device 5 and the data relating to the states of the animal and
the locations visited by the animal 2 as already described prior to
downloading to the smart phone 44 or smart device.
[0203] Other data relating to the animals may be uploaded to the
devices 5 of the corresponding animals 2 by the smart phone 44, and
this data may also be uploadable to the cloud computer server
10.
[0204] While the signals indicative of the acceleration to which
the accelerometer is subjected along the X and Y axes only have
been used in detecting the states of the animal, it is envisaged
that the signals indicative of the acceleration to which the
accelerometer is subjected along the three axes at right angles to
each other, namely, the X, Y and Z axes, may be used in detecting
the states of the animal. It is envisaged that an animal lying on
its side could be detected from signals indicative of the
acceleration to which the accelerometer is subjected along the Z
axis. It is also envisaged that a more accurate indication of the
activity of the animal could be determined by using the signals
from the accelerometer indicative of the acceleration to which the
accelerometer is subjected along both the X and the Z axes. In
particular, it is possible that by using the signals indicative of
the acceleration to which the accelerometer is subjected along the
X and Z axes, it may be possible to differentiate between motive
movement of the animal, and other movement of the animal, such as
movement of the head and neck of the animal relative to the trunk
of the animal.
[0205] It is also envisaged that by reading signals from the
accelerometer indicative of the acceleration to which the
accelerometer is subjected along the Z axis, if the devices are
secured to the animal with the Z axis appropriately located and
extending substantially horizontally and transversely relative to
the neck of the animal, the signals read from the accelerometer
indicative of the acceleration to which the accelerometer is
subjected along the Z axis would be indicative of an animal lying
on its side if the animal were lying on its side. This data could
also be subsequently analysed by the cloud computer server, and if
the animal were detected to be lying on its side for extended
periods, this could be an indication of an injury or ill health of
the animal.
[0206] While the devices 5 have been described as comprising an
acceleration sensor provided by a three axis accelerometer, any
other suitable acceleration sensor could be provided, for example,
a single axis accelerometer would be sufficient for producing the
first signal indicative of movement of the head of the animal, or a
two axis accelerometer would be sufficient for producing both the
first and second signals. Alternatively, a single axis
accelerometer may be provided for producing the first signal, and
any suitable sensor may be provided for producing the second signal
which is indicative of the raised or lowered state of the head of
the animal, for example, it is envisaged that a tilt switch could
be provided for producing a signal indicative of the state of the
head of the animal.
[0207] Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the devices
according to the invention have been described as comprising a
microprocessor for processing the signals read from the
accelerometer, in certain cases, it is envisaged that the
microprocessor may be dispensed with, and the processing of the
signals produced by the accelerometer would be carried out
remotely, for example, in the cloud computer, a mobile smart phone
or the like, or in a computer in the relay station or in a base
station computer. In which case, it is envisaged that the raw data
produced by the accelerometer would be transmitted unprocessed by
the devices to the relay station, the cloud computer server, mobile
smart phone or other such remote device.
[0208] Additionally, the microprocessor 30 in the devices could be
of sufficient capacity, and could be programmed to carry out
further analysis on board on the devices whereby the states of the
animals during the second predefined time periods, and the
locations visited by the animal during the second predefined time
periods would be further analysed in order to determine the health,
and other issues relating to the relevant animal. In which case,
the further processed data would be transmitted to the relay
station 12 and in turn relayed to the cloud computer server.
Alternatively, the devices may be configured to communicate with a
remote computer, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop
computer, a tablet computer, or a smart mobile phone of the farmer
to provide the farmer with the analysis of the relevant data, and
to alert the farmer to any emergencies.
[0209] It will also be appreciated that while the devices have been
described as being secured to the side of the neck of the animal by
a strap, the devices may be secured in any suitable position on the
neck of the animal. Indeed, it is envisaged that the devices may be
secured to the head or on any other suitable part of the
animal.
[0210] It will also be appreciated that while the system has been
described as comprising a single relay station, in certain cases, a
plurality of the relay stations may be provided spaced apart at
suitable locations in a field or fields. Alternatively, the relay
station may be omitted, and each device would be provided with a
GSM module or other suitable communicating means to communicate
with the cloud computer server.
[0211] While it is desirable, it is not essential that the devices
should comprise an NFC module, and the receiver 42 could also be
dispensed with if a record of predefined locations visited by the
animal is not required.
[0212] It will be appreciated that while the devices, the method
and the system according to the invention have been described for
detecting a number of specific states of a cow, the devices, method
and system may be provided for detecting only one or some of the
specific states described. Indeed, it is also envisaged that the
devices, the method and system according to the invention may be
provided for detecting additional other states of a cow or other
animal. Needless to say, it will be appreciated that the device,
the method and the system according to the invention may be used
for detecting states of any other animals besides cows.
[0213] It is also envisaged that the devices may be secured to the
animals by other means besides a strap, for example, in certain
cases, it is envisaged that the devices may be implanted in the
animals at appropriate locations, and when implanted could be
located relatively closely to the skin of the animal in order to
facilitate Near Field Communications with the devices.
[0214] While the devices 5 have been described as receiving
transmitted identification signals of the respective predefined
locations on visiting of such predefined locations by an animal, it
is envisaged that instead of transmitters for transmitting
identification signals being provided at each predefined location,
an RFID device may be provided at each predefined location, which
on transmission of a signal by the transceiver 41 of the devices 5
would reflect and alter the transmitted signal so that the
reflected signal would include the identification of the
corresponding predefined location.
[0215] Additionally, it is envisaged that in order to save power,
the devices 5 may be operated to minimise the number of
transmissions of data from the devices 5 to the relay station. This
would be carried out by preventing transmissions to the relay
station unless a predefined time period had elapsed since the last
transmission had been made by the device 5.
[0216] While the relay station has been described as communicating
with a cloud computer server through a GSM module, any other
suitable communicating means for communicating between the relay
station and the cloud computer may be provided. Indeed, it is also
envisaged that instead of or as well as communicating with a cloud
computer server, the relay station, or indeed the devices
themselves may be configured to communicate directly with a
computer of the farmer, for example, with a desktop computer, a
laptop computer, a tablet computer or the like which could be
housed in the house of the farmer or the office of the farmer. In
which case, the computer of the farmer would be appropriately
programmed and configured to produce similar data to that produced
by the cloud computer server, and the computer of the farmer would
also be configured to communicate directly with the smart phone or
other smart mobile device for uploading data to the computer of the
farmer, or for downloading data from the computer of the
farmer.
[0217] It is also envisaged that instead of the Near Field
Communications Module, other suitable communication modules which
are capable of communicating with a mobile smart device within a
relatively short range could be provided in the devices. Such a
communication module which would be suitable for communicating with
a smart phone or other smart phone mobile device would be a
Bluetooth low energy communication module.
[0218] While the routine described with reference to FIGS. 5a to 5e
has been described with the steps of the routine being carried out
in a particular order, it will be readily apparent to those skilled
in the art that the steps of the routine may be carried out in any
other suitable or desired order without departing from the scope of
the invention.
* * * * *