CROWD-PROJECT
The challenges
Prototype
Smart hive in progress
We at Phoenix Contact are not only a team of engineers, technicians and production workers. Among us there are also very many hobby beekeepers. We also bring our swarm knowledge together and build a test hive with our internal knowledge from machine and trade fair construction. We equip this with the latest PLCnext Technology hardware and install sensors that are to provide data on heat, humidity and weight, for example. But other things are also conceivable, such as thermal imaging cameras or a camera for checking the flight hole. In spring, a bee colony will move in and support us live with data for the project. The hive is not yet finished and is under construction. It will also be used to integrate ideas and projects from the community. We will report about the construction here and keep you up to date.
The hive is equipped with the latest control technology. In addition to a PLCnext Control (AXC F 3152), a PLCnext Control (AXC F 2152) will also be installed. Thus, simulated projects can be ideally transferred to the prototype.
In order to also be able to run applications that require artificial intelligence, we have connected to the PLCnext Control (AXC F 3152) the new extension module for Machine Learning (AXC F XT ML1000).
To obtain weather data our hive is equipped with a weather station. LoRaWAN Technology is used for energy efficient and cost effective data transmission.
Most important, however, are the sensors. They provide basic data on temperature, humidity and weight. Over time, the hive will be equipped with additional sensors if the projects require it.
