Project Description:

With the return of wolves in Europe, livestock breeders are facing new challenges. Attacks on livestock are increasing, and since wolves are under strict species protection, a non-violent solution is indispensable. “Pherofort” offers an innovative combination of non-invasive herd protection and automated wildlife monitoring.

Functionality and Need:

Over the past few decades, the wolf population in Central Europe has increased significantly, particularly affecting livestock farmers and agriculturists. Pherofort is a system for detecting and non-violently deterring wolves. In addition to protecting herds, it is equally important to monitor and document current wolf populations to ensure proper wildlife management. Our system also includes a corresponding app that supports farmers and can inform relevant authorities about wolf attacks.

The Hardware:

The Pherofort collar system includes two, more precisely three, variations: anchor collars, including a master anchor collar, and tag collars. The anchor collars are primarily responsible for measuring the distance between the collars. The master anchor collar extends this functionality by communicating with the database via MQTT, while the tag collars are specifically designed to deter wolves.

The hardware configuration of the anchor collars includes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and a motion sensor. The master anchor collar is additionally equipped with an LTE-M module that serves to transmit data to the database. These collars use the Qorvo DWM1001C, a UWB module with an integrated antenna and a Nordic Semiconductor nRF52832 Cortex-M4 microcontroller, designed specifically for Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA) applications.

Three collars define positions as anchors through triangulation. Precise position determination is crucial to accurately assess the distances of the tag collars. Data transmission occurs via the LTE-M module of the master anchor collar via MQTT to a document-based database. In the cloud, this data is analyzed using pattern-matching algorithms to control appropriate responses in dangerous situations when necessary.

The tag collars are also equipped with the DWM1001C module and contain pheromone cartridges that are activated in case of danger. These collars mostly remain in deep sleep mode to maximize energy efficiency. In a dangerous situation, the motion sensors of the anchor collars detect unusual activities and send the data to the database. After analysis in the cloud and confirmation of a threat, the master anchor collar awakens the tag collars. They then determine the exact distances to the anchor collars and, if necessary, emit pheromone bursts to form an effective protective shield around the herd and repel the wolf.

Inspiration:

Our engagement with the wolf issue in countries like Germany or Switzerland, where political opinions strongly diverge, has inspired us. Recently, a culling permit was issued for so-called “problem wolves” without prior DNA testing. This stringent measure and the conflict between farmers and conservationists motivated us to develop Pherofort.

Innovation:

Pherofort differs from traditional protection measures by utilizing modern technologies and data-driven approaches. It uniquely uses pheromones as a deterrent, providing non-violent protection. The system autonomously responds to threats and collects data for scientific analysis and improvements in wildlife management. The associated app allows livestock owners to gain better insights into their herds.

Future:

Our project began as a semester assignment in 2023 and continues to be developed beyond the semester’s end. We are currently working on developing the associated app software and striving to optimize our project through discussions with potential investors and applications for funding such as the Exist startup grant.