Virtual fencing for grazing animals

Important results from the project

The project´s purpose was to verify that the concept virtual fencing is working and that the unit wouldn’t need to be charged for the entire grazing season. We had to perform electronic and software development to build prototypes with the right logic to send alarm noise and electrical stimuli when the unit was leaving the production site. Power consumption calculation was performed and compared to gain data from our integrated solar cells. A comparison of these data proved that it is possible to add a virtual fence functionality to our existing cow collar. The Purpose and goal is achieved.

Expected long term effects

The result of the project visualizes that this is a function that is applicable for our existing product. This is shown with our measurements with the high energy net that is so big that the unit can deliver over 9 electrical shocks an hour and still don´t drain the battery more than it is gaining. According to studies regarding virtual fencing, 9 shocks an hour is a high number. Of course it is individual for each animal, but in general, it is a high number. And especially if the animals are in big production sites, which are the animals that these products are most feasible for.

Approach and implementation

This project was performed in three phases. Firstly the technical conditions to build an electrical stimuli unit that generates warning noise and electrical shocks was investigated. Secondly a firmware was programmed to steer these. Then data from existing solar cells data from summertime was analyzed to verify that the expected gain during summer is higher than the drain. We can ascertain that the electronics can be produced and integrated in our existing product and that the energy consumption for virtual fence application will be lower than the charging energy from the sun.