CShark and the University of Reggio Calabria: an all-Italian innovation for the smart monitoring of grazing sheep

 

The collaboration between CShark and the University of Reggio Calabria has led to the creation of a pioneering project in the field of precision agriculture: the development and validation of an advanced system of smart collars for monitoring grazing sheep.

The initiative, which has been designed, developed, and completed, introduces a technological solution that integrates biometric sensors, GPS positioning, and behavioral analysis, offering farmers a tool capable of improving animal welfare, farm productivity, and the ability to intervene promptly. At the heart of the system are new-generation wearable devices capable of detecting heart rate, body temperature, rumination, and other typical sheep behaviors in real time.

Added to these is an accurate geolocation component, which is essential for the safe management of flocks in extensive or semi-extensive contexts. To ensure reliable data transmission, the project relies on a terrestrial connectivity infrastructure based on LoRaWAN technology, supported by a dedicated network of gateways installed throughout the territory.

This architecture allows for widespread coverage and extremely low energy consumption, crucial aspects for devices designed to operate for long periods in rural areas. In addition to the results already achieved, the collaboration paves the way for new growth prospects in the livestock sector and the convergence of sustainable farming and technology.

The project is a concrete example of how synergy between technology companies and academia can generate high-impact innovation, contributing to sustainable development in local areas and promoting a more modern, efficient, and animal welfare-friendly model of farming.