US 8,771,035 B2 · Apparatus for continuous weight monitoring of beehives

Abstract

An apparatus and method for continuously monitoring the weight of an object. The apparatus does not obstruct a central portion of the bottom of the object being monitored, and is especially well-suited for monitoring the weight of a beehive. In the illustrative embodiment, a ring-shaped fluid-filled bladder is sandwiched between a ring-shaped top surface and a ring-shaped base, and a pressure hose connects the bladder to a pressure gauge. Beehive weight data can be obtained in a continuous fashion, without requiring any moving of the beehive or of the apparatus, and without any other type of disruption. Moreover, the apparatus provides a stable platform that keeps the beehive immobile during monitoring, which is beneficial for the health of the colony. Advantageously, the apparatus can be constructed from inexpensive, off-the-shelf components and materials, and is capable of obtaining accurate measurements over a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions.

Claims25

Dependent claims

An apparatus for continuously monitoring the weight of a beehive, said apparatus comprising:

a surface for stably supporting said beehive, wherein a marginal portion of a bottom of said beehive is disposed on said surface and a central portion of the bottom of said beehive is not disposed on said surface;
one or more load cells on which said surface is disposed;
and
pressure-measuring means connected to said one or more load cells, wherein a change in pressure measured by the pressure-measuring means is correlatable to a change in the weight of said beehive.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Apparatus for continuous weight monitoring of beehives

Life of this patent

Apparatus for continuous weight monitoring of beehives

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims25