In a recent innovation, a team of product designers from Cambridge Industrial Design has developed a smart tracking collar for cows using **3D printing technology**. This collar, though made of a simple plastic casing, integrates cutting-edge IoT (Internet of Things) features that revolutionize livestock management.
The cow tracker was designed at the request of True North Technologies and is equipped with sensors that monitor the animals' movements and daily activities in real time. Through a mobile GSM network, herders can access detailed data about their herd, which is then sent to a central system for analysis. This helps farmers make informed decisions about grazing patterns, health, and productivity.
One of the key features of the device is its ability to create a "virtual electric fence." When a cow approaches a restricted area, the collar triggers a bell sound, guiding the animal back to a designated pasture. This eliminates the need for traditional physical fences and manual monitoring.
The smart collar is the result of a collaboration between Ireland's Teagasc agricultural research institute, France's Laval Institute, and Switzerland's Agroscope. It combines GPS capabilities with advanced sensors that track not only grazing behavior but also social interactions and physiological activities like rumination.
Tim Evans, design director at Cambridge Industrial Design, explained that the inspiration for the collar came from traditional Alpine cowbells. The rounded, compact design ensures durability while making it easy for herders to handle for cleaning and charging.
The collar is made from glass-filled nylon and produced using selective laser sintering (SLS), a 3D printing method that allows rapid prototyping and adjustments during the development process. This flexibility is crucial for testing and refining the product in real-world conditions.
Patrick Halton, Director of Technology and Management at True North Technologies, praised the collaboration, saying that combining GPS technology with Cambridge’s design expertise has led to an innovative and long-lasting solution for modern pastoralists.
Based in Shannon, Ireland, True North Technologies specializes in developing new agricultural technologies. Over the years, they have worked closely with Teagasc to provide advanced solutions for the livestock industry, helping farmers improve efficiency and sustainability.
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