Wildfly: Autonomous Feeding System for Tasmanian Devils

The project commenced with comprehensive research, including literature reviews, case studies, and field observations, to understand the unique challenges in conservation feeding practices as well as the injection of technology in such environments

Using the Design Council’s double diamond framework, the project progressed through discovery, definition, development, and delivery phases involving Mind Mapping and Sketch Ideation: Brainstorming sessions and sketches to conceptualise various design solutions. Rapid Prototyping and Electronic Prototyping: Developing and testing prototypes to refine the design and ensure technical feasibility.

After the initial design realisation phase I further developed four key components to meet the briefs requirements: Web-Based Scheduling System: Developed a custom HTML interface for keepers to manage feeding schedules. The system dynamically updates and ensures no overlap, providing a user-friendly and efficient scheduling tool. Synchronised electronic network: Utilized 3x ESP32 microcontrollers for robust communication. With one master hosting the web server and managing overall synchronisation, with 2 slaves handling locomotion, RFID processing and servo functions, ensuring precise control and low latency. RFID-Based Identification and Locomotive System: Implemented RFID tags to accurately identify enclosures, as DC motor drives system movement along the high wire to deliver meals to specified enclosures as scheduled.

Moving Trolley for Food Delivery: Designed a trolley with high-torque servos and gears for food pick-up, transport, and drop-off. The final design was assembled and tested in a simulated environment. The web interface was seamlessly integrated with the hardware, and the communication protocols were validated. The system demonstrated reliable performance in delivering meals accurately and efficiently, with further refinement planned for consistent operation.

The project met the design brief by delivering a robust and innovative solution demonstrating a high level of professional design execution, resulting in a system that effectively automates feeding practice.

This project meets the criteria for good design by emphasizing functionality, user experience, and quality system integration design. The automated feeding system is designed to reliably feed Tasmanian Devils with minimal human intervention, ensuring precision and efficiency. A user-friendly web interface allows keepers to easily schedule feedings, enhancing accessibility and usability.

The project achieved high functionality by integrating ESP32 microcontrollers for synchronized operations, RFID-based identification for precise location targeting, and robust mechanical components for stable movement. Aesthetically, the system’s clean and minimal design fits within the existing infrastructure.

Quality prototyping was prioritized by using durable materials like steel, nylon, and PLA. The prototype provides the bones for robust construction to ensure longevity and reliable performance in real-world conditions. Sustainability was addressed by incorporating rechargeable batteries and exploring the potential for solar panel integration and inductive charging to further reduce the system’s environmental footprint.

The user experience was a central focus with the web-based scheduling system being intuitive and easy to navigate, reducing the learning curve for keepers. Ultimately automation reduces the physical workload on keepers, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks whilst supporting the nocturnal feeding habits of Tasmanian Devils, promoting natural behaviours and enhancing their well-being.

This project sets a new benchmark for design excellence by showcasing how advanced technology can be integrated into animal welfare practices. The system’s ability to automate feeding processes, reduce human intervention, and operate reliably in a sanctuary setting demonstrates the effectiveness of professional design solutions. This approach highlights the potential for similar innovations to improve operational efficiency and animal care standards.

The project addresses the legitimate challenge of feeding Tasmanian Devils in captivity by minimizing human intervention, thereby promoting natural behaviors and supporting reintroduction efforts. The innovative approach involves the integration of advanced technology to create a fully automated feeding system that operates on an existing high-wire infrastructure.

One of the features of this project is the use of a web-based scheduling system integrated with ESP32 microcontrollers and RFID technology. This combination allows for precise timing and location targeting for food delivery, ensuring that each enclosure receives the correct meal at the designated time. The use of RFID tags embedded in the rope for location identification is a unique solution that enhances the system’s accuracy and reliability.

The project is user-centered, designed with the needs of both the keepers and the Tasmanian Devils in mind. The web interface is intuitive and easy to use, enabling keepers to schedule feedings effortlessly. This reduces the physical workload on keepers and allows them to focus on more critical tasks. The system also supports the nocturnal feeding habits of the devils, aligning with their natural behaviors and promoting their well-being.

The project’s originality lies in its holistic approach, combining various technologies to create a seamless and efficient system. The integration of ESP32 microcontrollers for communication and control, RFID for precise identification, and robust mechanical components for stable movement is a novel solution in the field of animal welfare.

This project not only solves a specific problem but also opens up new opportunities for applying advanced technology in animal welfare practices. By automating feeding processes and reducing human intervention, it sets a new standard for how technology can enhance the care and conservation of endangered species.

The outcome of this project is an advanced automated feeding system for Tasmanian Devils, which significantly reduces human intervention and fosters natural behaviors crucial for reintroduction efforts. This design research considers the broader implications within the frameworks of animal welfare, conservation, and service robotics, underscoring the essence of design, technology, and human-animal relationships in reshaping the future of endangered species in captivity.

Socially, the project enhances the welfare of Tasmanian Devils by supporting their natural feeding habits and minimizing human interaction. This approach reduces stress and promotes healthier, more natural behaviors. By automating feeding tasks, keepers can focus on critical aspects of animal care and conservation, improving overall sanctuary operations and animal management.

Environmentally, the project selects durable materials to ensure longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. With steps to will further decrease the system’s environmental footprint by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Automating the feeding process also ensures efficient resource use and waste reduction.

Economically, the project opens new avenues for innovation in animal welfare technology. Its successful implementation can lead to broader applications in zoos and sanctuaries worldwide, creating commercial opportunities and promoting the development of similar technologies for other endangered species. This can enhance the economic viability of conservation efforts and support the growth of the animal welfare industry.

Investing in a professional design process has demonstrated the importance of a holistic approach to problem-solving. The comprehensive research, iterative design, and rigorous testing have resulted in a robust and functional system that addresses complex challenges effectively.

The success of this project contributes to the reputation and status of Victoria’s design and creative culture by showcasing the potential of innovative design to develop practical solutions with significant social, environmental, and economic impacts, reinforcing the importance of design both locally and internationally.