🇦🇺 Purple Hive

Overview

Purple Hive is an Australian project focused specifically on varroa mite detection using computer vision. Uses dual cameras (top and bottom) for comprehensive mite monitoring.

Product Features

• Focus on varroa mite detection from 2 video cameras (top and bottom)
• NOT a bee counter (specialized use case)
• Makes photo every 1 second
• Low power consumption
• 3D printed outer case (ABS plastic)
• SMS notification system
• 4G connectivity
• Solar powered (autonomous operation)

Technical Specifications

• Dual camera setup for better mite detection
• Edge processing for privacy and low bandwidth
• Image capture every second (high frequency)
• Designed for Australian biosecurity context

Competitive Analysis

Strengths

• Specialized focus on critical problem (varroa)
• Dual camera approach (more comprehensive than single entrance camera)
• Solar powered (excellent for remote locations)
• Low power design (practical for field deployment)
• SMS notifications (works without internet)
• 4G connectivity (no WiFi required)
• 3D printed case (cost-effective, customizable)

Weaknesses vs Gratheon

• Single-purpose device (varroa only, not general monitoring)
• NOT a bee counter (limited functionality)
• Australia-focused (varroa recently arrived there)
• Smaller project (less funding/resources)
• Limited to entrance monitoring
• No internal frame inspection

Strategic Implications

• Validates importance of varroa detection features
• Dual camera approach is interesting (consider for Gratheon)
• Solar power and low-power design are valuable lessons
• SMS fallback is smart for connectivity issues
• Geographic separation (Australia vs Europe)
• Could partner for varroa detection algorithms
• Gratheon can offer more comprehensive solution (counting + varroa + more)

Lessons for Gratheon

• Varroa detection is critical feature to include
• Consider solar power option for remote apiaries
• SMS notifications as backup to app notifications
• Low power consumption extends deployment options
• 3D printed cases can reduce hardware costs

Photo sources - public website, https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/16/ai-powered-hives-latest-weapon-in-fight-to-protect-australian-bees-from-varroa-mite, https://createdigital.org.au/purple-hive-uses-artificial-intelligence-to-keep-bees-parasite-free/