Beef message to the owner ... sick

A research project in the UK will equip dairy cows with a sensor system similar to that of the Nintendo Wii, whereby farmers will receive a warning message when they feel sick or overheated.

These smart necks are embedded with 3D sensors

Scientists are trying to extend the magic of the Internet to the animal world. Strathclyde University has launched a $ 2.2 million project to equip 'smart necks' for experimental dairy cows. Farmers will be able to update the health status of the herd easily and promptly through a mobile phone.

CNET said the smart neck will use the same 3D sensor that is still being equipped for the Wii portable game console and detect changes in the head position of the cow. It will check against the database to diagnose health abnormalities, then send messages over the cellular or fixed network to the farm owner.

For example, if the cow is bowing moody, it will be an underlying symptom of being sick.

"This technology can be very effective for agriculture in the future as farmers will be able to more easily and accurately track the health status of individual cattle in the herd than today." , said Annette MacDougall, representative of Strathclyde University.