During the first reporting period, we explored methodologies and developed initial prototypes for smart-hive components. This included rethinking hive architecture, investigating novel materials for growing hives, designing systems to control bees' access to specific hive areas, constructing robotic devices to interact with dancing bees, and creating systems for detailed measurements and modulations of the brood nest. Initial mathematical models were developed to understand elements at scales ranging from individual colonies to apiary locations.
The second period saw significant progress. A biotechnological construction method for hives was investigated, and different topological prototypes were tested. A central core prototype was developed, along with bee traffic observation and modulation systems within the hive. Key components for foraging modulation and new iterations of the brood nest module were created. Models were developed to assess brood nest metrics and make long-term predictions about the colony health status. Infrastructure for hive coordination, including data exchange and model-driven decision-making, was established.
During the third reporting period, several key technologies were developed. The honey harvesting system was refined to fit different beehive types, including an observation hive for experimental validation. pyHoPoMo, an ODE model describing key hive processes, was developed in Python with an interface for real-time sensory data, showing excellent accordance with experimental hive development. We improved the designs of the three basic hive types to integrate winter cluster modulation. A 3D printed clay scaffold filled with mycelial composite was tested as an eco-friendly insulation material. The most experimental hive was populated but rejected by the colony, leading to changes in form, assembly, management, and material composition. The "Star-hive" design, distributing hardware throughout the colony, was finalized. Artificial stimuli successfully modulated foraging behavior, influencing entire colonies even with minimal input, with the dance floor as interface between technology and biology.
The fourth reporting period focused on integrating HIVEOPOLIS technologies into operational beehives. The "fungus hive," designed from biotechnological materials, demonstrated successful overwintering, with the colony thriving after a full annual cycle. A honey-harvesting mechanism was assessed over a complete harvest cycle, allowing collection without opening the hive. Bees quickly adapted to this technology, potentially enabling daily honey harvesting with minimal disruption. Technology-driven modulation of foraging behavior was implemented through closed-loop controlled systems, guiding bees away from dangerous foraging sites. Other integrated technologies included a bee counter at the hive entrance, web-based data interfaces, and a smartphone application. A HIVEOPOLIS-derived "community hive" was placed at the Styrian beekeeper school and the University of Graz for observational studies.
Throughout the project, engagement with beekeeping and broader communities was achieved through targeted outreach activities, including symposiums, winter schools for young researchers, courses for beekeepers, public exhibitions and training sessions. The project successfully accomplished its milestones, integrating and evaluating technologies across multiple facets of the initiative, focusing on research with high scientific impact and potential for commercialization.
