Overview

This project demonstrates how to build a real-time elephant tracking system using the Particle B Series SoM. The system enables live GPS tracking of elephants and implements geofencing to notify forest rangers if the animal leaves a predefined boundary. Data is displayed on a web interface with OpenStreetMap integration and stored in Firebase for analysis.

Motivation

The tragic loss of a 40-year-old man in our locality due to a wild elephant attack has deeply shaken our community. This heartbreaking incident is not isolated; it reflects a growing global crisis of human-elephant conflicts that threaten both human lives and the survival of these majestic animals. Such conflicts are becoming increasingly frequent, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions to mitigate these encounters and foster coexistence.

In many regions around the world, human-elephant conflicts have reached alarming levels, often resulting in devastating consequences such as crop destruction, property damage, and the loss of both human and animal lives. For instance:

  • In Sri Lanka, approximately 70 humans and 300 elephants die annually due to conflicts.
  • In Kenya, elephants frequently stray into villages in search of food, leading to property damage and fatalities.
  • In Thailand, rapid urbanization and habitat loss have intensified human-elephant conflicts, endangering both communities and wildlife.

These incidents underscore the critical need for sustainable and humane solutions to address human-elephant conflicts. This project aims to contribute to such efforts by developing an elephant tracking and geofencing system powered by advanced IoT technology

Key Features

  • Live Tracking: Continuously fetch GPS data from the B Series SoM.
  • Geofencing: Define a circular boundary (latitude, longitude, and radius). Notify if the elephant exits this boundary.
  • Sustainable Power: Powered by solar panels for extended field operation.

Setting Up the Particle B Series SoM

The B-SoM module serves as the heart of this project, tailored for cellular IoT applications. It is Particle's flagship IoT module, designed to work seamlessly with the Particle IoT Platform-as-a-Service, which offers free usage for up to 100 devices. Additionally, it includes a global embedded SIM card and data plan, ensuring reliable cellular connectivity worldwide.

We specifically chose the B524 SoM for this project due to its robust cellular connectivity, as Wi-Fi is not a feasible option in remote wildlife areas. The cellular capability ensures uninterrupted communication, even in challenging outdoor environments where other connectivity options are unavailable.

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To fully harness the capabilities of the B524 SoM, the M.2 Evaluation Board is an essential tool. This breakout board simplifies development and streamlines prototyping, enabling seamless access to the full potential of the module. The board includes USB ports for both the nRF52840 MCU and the cellular modem, an SD card connector, an Ethernet connector, a barrel jack power connector, buttons, an RGB LED, a charge status LED, and a connector for a LiPo battery (battery not included).

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Here is how we connect the B524 SoM to the Eval Board.

  • Attach the cellular antenna to the U.FL connector labeled CELL on the SoM. This step is crucial for enabling reliable cellular connectivity.
  • Align the B524 SoM with the M.2 NGFF connector on the Eval Board.
  • Carefully insert the module into the connector, ensuring it is properly seated.
  • Secure the module using the screws provided in the eval board kit to prevent movement or disconnection.
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To utilize the full capabilities of the B524 SoM with the Particle platform, you’ll need to set up your Particle.io account and configure your device. Follow the steps below:

1. Access the Particle Setup Website:

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2. Log Into Your Particle Account:

  • If you already have an account, enter your credentials...
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