Atrium
UX/UI Design
Prototyping
3D Modeling
SolidWorks
Keyshot
New backyard beekeepers are frustrated by the sudden collapse of their colonies
This increase in Colony Collapse Disorder
is influenced by Varroa Mite infestations
Varroa mites are tiny red-brown external parasites of honey bees. These parasites weaken bees by feeding on their bodies
Bees may get varroa mites from:
- Flowers
- Other infected bees
- Beekeeping equipment
- Swarms
Products for monitoring sensor metrics and remote treatment exist, but none combine both functionalities in one solution
Critical Needs of the Stakeholder
EFFECTIVE MITE DETECTION
Backyard beekeepers need a reliable and easy-to-use method for detecting varroa mites. Current methods like alcohol washing are effective but harm the bees, and sugar testing is unreliable.
SUSTAINABLE TREATMENT
Beekeepers require treatment methods that don't harm the bees or contaminate the hive's environment, while also being effective against varroa mites.
EASE OF APPLICATION
Backyard beekeepers, especially those who are new to beekeeping, need treatments that are simple to apply and don’t require advanced beekeeping knowledge or complicated equipment.
A product that monitors hive health and treats infected bees individually, with a mobile app for remote management
Key Features: Mobile App
Health Metrics
The Atrium app delivers real-time insights into the bee colony's health, signalling any risks of collapse. Detailed graphs on metrics like mites, temperature, humidity, and sound help to track trends and anticipate threats.
Beekeeper’s Logbook
Traditionally, beekeepers use a book to record hive visits and observations. The Atrium app offers a digital logbook, allowing users to conveniently document their hive inspections and track observations in one place.
Inspection Reminders
Notifications keeps users informed with real-time alerts tailored to the hive’s needs. These reminders ensure users that they’re always one step ahead in maintaining a healthy apiary.
Key Features: Hive Attachment
One Way Entrance/Exit
Atrium utilizes two hole sizes tailored to bees' dimensions, ensuring that only incoming bees are directed through a specific path for mite inspection
Infrared Mite Detector
Mites are hard to see under visible light, but with 870-nanometer infrared light, they appear much lighter than bees. Since bees can’t detect infrared, it doesn’t disturb them.
Oxalic Acid Treatment
Oxalic acid treatment, a natural organic compound, helps beekeepers control varroa mites by targeting mites on adult bees without harming the bees, killing them within 3 days.
How it works
A. Monitoring health status of the hive
via internal sensors
B. Applying treatment only to the infected bees (section view)
1. Infected bee enters the atrium
2. IR camera detects the mite
3. Dribble of oxalic acid is applied
4. Healthy bee exits the hive
Research
PERSONA
USER JOURNEY
- Collaborate with an engineer to optimize the device's scale for integrating electronics.
- Consider expanding the oxalic acid container for longer treatment periods.
- Develop solutions to prevent oxalic acid from freezing during winter months.