PROPOSED EAR CUFF HEART RATE MONITOR WITH LIGHT INDICATOR FOR PIGS

Early detection of health issues in sows is critical to reducing mortality, controlling disease spread, and improving herd welfare. Traditional monitoring methods are labor-intensive, often ineffective in early-stage detection, and can stress animals during handling. This study introduces a non-invasive ear-cuff heart rate monitor designed for daily use during farmers’ routine checks, enabling real-time, stress-free monitoring.

A prototype device was developed featuring a waterproof compact housing with an adjustable hypoallergenic strap positioned at the sow’s ear base. A photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor detects blood volume changes, and a NodeMCU microcontroller processes the data to trigger RGB LED indicators—blue for low (<70 bpm), green for normal (70–120 bpm), and red for high (>120 bpm). Intended for daily use during farmers’ routine checks, the system allows real-time monitoring without restraining the animal, reducing stress and enabling timely interventions. A purposive survey of 30 pig farmers from Cebu City and Province was conducted using structured questionnaires covering demographics, farm practices, monitoring challenges, and technology adoption attitudes. The findings show 76.67% consider traditional methods ineffective, 46.67% cite inadequate technology, 93.33% express strong interest in the device, and 90% are willing to join pilot testing. The proposed ear-cuff heart rate monitor provides a potential solution that is cost-effective, user-friendly, and non-invasive for integrating heart rate monitoring into the farmer's daily routines, supporting earlier interventions and improved swine health outcomes.