Beekeeping is a vital source of sustenance for many families in Petén, Guatemala. Unfortunately, in recent years, 300 registered beekeepers have reported low productivity in their honey production. This can be attributed to the constant threat of ant invasions, and the adverse effects of climate change, a lack of control over similar variables that hurt their income.
A team of students from a student branch in Guatemala, in collaboration with the Cooperative of Forest Products Production (COOPROB RL), the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food (MAGA) of the Guatemalan Government, local apiaries, and the Mariano Gálvez University of Guatemala, have created a smart beehive called HiveGuard.
HiveGuard uses digital sensors to collect vital data and compile information to create analog and digital alerts for beekeepers. To accomplish this feat, HiveGuard uses multiple types of sensors.
First, the sensing module monitors humidity, temperature, sound, weight, and environmental variables near the beehive. It also uses an actuator module that controls humidity and temperature, dispensing nutrients for bees, and providing water to the bees. It also has an energy module that combines technology with manual practices, such as using alternative heating methods like candles or ceramics. Solar panels are utilized to make the system independent of the electrical grid.
There are also the analog indicator module, the communication module, and the data module, all of which help the beekeepers monitor their hives.
The team will conduct pilot testing and feedback sessions to hear from community members using their devices to see how it can be improved.
This project was made possible by a $4,500 grant from EPICS in IEEE.