In the vast, rugged landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where traditional grazing methods have long been the norm, a groundbreaking innovation is set to revolutionize the way livestock is managed. Researchers, led by Ji Li of the Chenghang Innovation Institute of Intelligent Aerocraft at Chengdu Aeronautic Polytechnic, have developed a prototype of a Space-Air-Ground integrated Grazing IoT (SAG-GIoT) system. This cutting-edge technology promises to transform the grazing industry, particularly in remote and challenging terrains, with significant implications for the energy sector.
The SAG-GIoT system is designed to address the unique challenges of grazing in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where geographical conditions, poor network infrastructure, and low economic output have traditionally hindered the application of conventional IoT systems. The system integrates space, air, and ground components to create a robust, flexible, and cost-effective solution for smart grazing management.
At the heart of the SAG-GIoT system is a three-tier technical architecture that includes collars for the yaks, base stations, and a comprehensive grazing management system. The collars, equipped with advanced sensors and communication modules, continuously monitor the yaks’ health, location, and grazing patterns. The base stations, strategically placed across the pasture, act as data collection points, relaying information to the grazing management system.
One of the most innovative aspects of the SAG-GIoT system is its use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for grazing management. These UAVs, equipped with specialized communication modules, can dynamically adjust their positions to ensure seamless data transmission, even in the most remote areas. “The UAV-based station (UAV-BS) allows for flexible communication networking, ensuring that data is transmitted efficiently and reliably,” explains Li. This capability is particularly crucial for the energy sector, where remote monitoring and management of livestock can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
The system also includes a unique all-terrain network service scheme that leverages the BeiDou Satellite-Base Station Sender (BDS-BSS) and Small Base Stations (SBSs). This scheme ensures that the system can operate effectively in areas with limited or no network infrastructure, making it ideal for the harsh conditions of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. “The integration of BDS-BSS and SBSs provides a reliable and robust communication network, even in the most challenging environments,” says Li.
The SAG-GIoT system has been tested in various scenarios, including daily grazing supervision, UAV grazing, and searching for lost yaks. In each scenario, the system demonstrated its ability to provide real-time data and accurate monitoring, significantly enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of grazing management.
The commercial impacts of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, the ability to monitor and manage livestock in remote areas can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency. The system’s low cost, flexible deployment, and global service capabilities make it an attractive option for energy companies looking to optimize their operations in challenging environments.
The research, published in Discover Internet of Things (translated to English as Discover Internet of Things), highlights the potential of the SAG-GIoT system to revolutionize the grazing industry. As the technology continues to evolve, it is poised to shape future developments in the field, paving the way for more efficient, sustainable, and profitable grazing practices. The integration of space, air, and ground components in the SAG-GIoT system represents a significant leap forward in the application of IoT technology in agriculture, with the potential to transform the way we manage livestock in remote and challenging environments.