AI-ENHANCED ANIMAL RECOGNITION AND ALERT SYSTEM FOR FARM HOUSES

Abstract

The present invention provides an AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that is designed to protect farmers, their families, and their animals from dangerous wild animals, like lions, leopards, or tigers, that might wander near farmhouses or livestock areas. It uses a smart system to quickly detect these animals and warn the people living nearby. Imagine a farmhouse surrounded by fields where animals such as cows or buffaloes graze. If large, dangerous animal like a tiger or leopard comes close, there is a serious risk to both the farmers and their animals. Farmers may not always see or hear the animal in time to react, especially if it’s dark or the area is too large to monitor alone. This system solves that problem by watching for dangerous animals automatically and alerting farmers right away if one is detected nearby.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of artificial Intelligence, and more particularly, the present invention relates to an AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses.
BACKGROUND FOR THE INVENTION:
[002] The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of the application. The details provided herein the background if belongs to any publication is taken only as a reference for describing the problems, in general terminologies or principles or both of science and technology in the associated prior art.
[003] The background of this invention revolves around a significant challenge faced by farmers and rural communities: protecting themselves and their livestock from dangerous wild animals like lions, leopards, and tigers. In many rural areas, farmhouses and grazing fields are close to forests or wildlife reserves, making encounters with predators a real risk. This situation not only endangers the lives of farmers and their families but also puts livestock like cows and buffaloes at risk, leading to economic losses and safety concerns.
[004] Current Challenges and Limitations of Existing Solutions:
[005] Lack of Early Warning Systems: Many farms lack effective early warning systems to alert them of nearby predators. By the time a farmer sees or hears a dangerous animal, it may be too late to take safe action. Some farmers rely on guard dogs or manual patrolling to detect threats, but these methods are limited and can't guarantee constant, effective monitoring.
[006] Non-Targeted Detection and Alert Systems: Traditional methods, such as basic fencing or lights, are not designed to distinguish between different types of animals. They often trigger unnecessarily, even for harmless animals, leading to frequent false alarms and making farmers less responsive to alerts over time.
[007] High Cost and Environmental Impact: Building physical barriers or using electric fences can be costly, harmful to the environment, and dangerous to wildlife. Electric fences pose risks not only to wild animals but also to livestock and humans, especially children. Harmful deterrents, like chemicals or traps, disrupt local ecosystems and often fail to address the root problem without causing additional harm to other species.
[008] Limited Coverage and Effectiveness at Night: Nighttime is often when dangerous animals are most active. However, detecting predators in the dark is challenging for farmers. Many existing solutions lack effective night monitoring and rely on manual observation, leaving farms vulnerable.
[009] Applicant has conducted a worldwide patent prior art search to elucidate the novel and inventive features of the present invention. Following are some of the prior art patent documents:
- US10803312B2: This patent describes an AI-powered autonomous plant-growth optimization system that adjusts input variables to achieve desired harvest traits. It utilizes inputs from sensors, including image and environmental sensors, for real-time optimization of plant growth in indoor farms by adjusting light and other environmental factors.
- US20100030036A1: This patent outlines a method and system for monitoring the condition of livestock. It employs AI-driven applications for monitoring the health and well-being of livestock through image recognition and behavioral analysis, facilitating early detection of illnesses and enhancing animal husbandry.
- US8948921B2: This patent presents a system and method for smart irrigation, integrating AI technologies to optimize water usage in agricultural settings. While focused on irrigation, the methodologies can be adapted for monitoring and managing animal activities on farms.
[010] In light of the foregoing, there is a need for the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that overcomes problems prevalent in the prior art.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[011] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows.
[012] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses.
[013] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that provides an AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that is designed to protect farmers, their families, and their animals from dangerous wild animals, like lions, leopards, or tigers, that might wander near farmhouses or livestock areas.
[014] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that uses a smart system to quickly detect these animals and warn the people living nearby.
[015] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that solves that problem by watching for dangerous animals automatically and alerting farmers right away if one is detected nearby.
[016] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that uses small cameras and motion sensors placed around the farmhouse and grazing areas. These sensors constantly look for any animal that comes close. When they detect movement, the system uses smart technology to decide whether the animal is harmless (like a deer) or potentially dangerous (like a leopard).
[017] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that identifies a dangerous animal, and instantly sends a warning alert to the farmer through a mobile phone notification or a loud alarm. This gives the farmer time to safely gather their animals or move away from the area.
[018] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that can activate lights or sounds to scare the predator away, without causing harm to the animal.
[019] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that provides a safer way for farmers to coexist with wildlife by detecting threats early and allowing non-harmful responses.
[020] Another object of the present invention is to provide the AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that helps prevent unexpected encounters with wild animals, making rural life safer for both humans and livestock.
[021] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[022] The present invention provides an AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that provides an advanced, automated solution that addresses these issues through early, targeted, and safe detection.
- Automated and Real-Time Detection: By using cameras and sensors placed around the farm, the system constantly monitors for any animal movement, without needing human supervision. When movement is detected, the system quickly identifies if the animal is dangerous, like a lion or leopard, providing reliable real-time detection.
- Smart Identification and Targeted Alerts: The system's smart technology can recognize specific predator types and send alerts only when necessary. If it detects a dangerous animal, it instantly sends a warning to the farmer's phone or sounds an alarm, ensuring that alerts are meaningful and timely. This reduces false alarms and ensures the farmer can respond promptly in an emergency.
- Non-Harmful Deterrence Options: The system offers non-lethal deterrents, such as lights or sounds, to scare predators away without harming them. This keeps both the wildlife and farm animals safe, supporting an eco-friendly approach to predator control.
- Night time Monitoring and Safety: Equipped with thermal or infrared capabilities, the system is effective even at night, providing around-the-clock protection. This ensures farmers are alerted to threats, even in low-visibility conditions, enhancing safety at all hours.
[023] By providing targeted, automated alerts and eco-friendly deterrents, this invention offers farmers a safer, more efficient and humane way to protect their families and livestock from wildlife threats. It bridges the gap between traditional methods and modern technology, offering a proactive, reliable solution to a longstanding problem in rural farming communities.
[024] The novelty of this invention lies in its ability to combine intelligent animal recognition with real-time alerts, specifically designed to identify and warn about dangerous predators like lions, leopards, and tigers near farmhouses. Unlike traditional systems that might only detect motion or emit general alarms, this invention takes a smarter, more targeted approach to keep farmers and livestock safe.
[025] Key Elements of the present invention:
[026] Specific Identification of Dangerous Predators: This system doesn't just detect any movement; it recognizes and classifies specific animals known to be dangerous. Using smart technology, it identifies particular predators (such as lions or tigers) while ignoring harmless animals (like deer or rabbits). This targeted recognition reduces false alarms and ensures farmers are alerted only in genuinely risky situations. Example: If a cow wanders near the farmhouse at night, the system won't send an alert. But if a leopard is detected, it will trigger an immediate warning.
[027] Automated, Real-Time Alerts for Quick Action: Once a dangerous animal is identified, the system instantly sends an alert to the farmer's phone or triggers a loud alarm near the farmhouse. This real-time notification gives the farmer enough time to protect themselves and their animals. Example: Imagine a farmer is indoors when a tiger is detected near the livestock area. The system immediately sends an alert, allowing the farmer to respond before the animal gets too close.
[028] Non-Harmful Deterrent Mechanisms: Instead of using harmful methods like traps or electric fences, this invention relies on non-lethal deterrents, such as lights or specific sounds, to scare away predators without hurting them. This makes it environmentally friendly and safe for other animals and humans. Example: If a lion is detected near the livestock area, the system can flash bright lights or play sounds that lions find unpleasant, encouraging the animal to leave the area peacefully.
[029] 24/7 monitoring with Nighttime Capabilities: The system is designed to work around the clock, using thermal or infrared technology to monitor the area even at night when predators are most active. This provides farmers with constant protection, day and night. Example: At midnight, a leopard moves close to the farmhouse. The system detects the heat signature and alerts the farmer, even in complete darkness.
[030] Eco-Friendly and Safe for Wildlife and Livestock: Unlike electric fencing or chemical deterrents that could harm wildlife, livestock, or even humans, this system uses a non-invasive approach. It recognizes the type of animal before acting, ensuring that it only activates when necessary, supporting a balanced ecosystem.
[031] This invention's uniqueness comes from its ability to offer a focused, real-time, and eco-friendly solution to wildlife threats near farmhouses. Its combination of targeted animal recognition, instant alerts, and non-lethal deterrents offers a modern and humane way to protect rural areas, making it a valuable innovation for safe co-existence between humans and wildlife.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[032] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
[033] Figure 1: System Architecture - Shows the high-level architecture of the detection, recognition, and alert system;
[034] Figure 2: Detection, Recognition, and Alert Process Flowchart - Outlines each step from animal detection to farmer notification;
[035] Figure 3: System Workflow - Illustrates the sequence from detection to deterrent activation and alert;
[036] Figure 4: Continuous Improvement Feedback Loop - Shows how logged data contributes to ongoing system enhancements; and
[037] Figure 5: Ideal Setup Layout - Displays recommended sensor and deterrent placements around a typical farmhouse.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
[038] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[039] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one" and the word "plurality" means "one or more" unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[040] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase "comprising", it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases "consisting of", "consisting", "selected from the group of consisting of, "including", or "is" preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[041] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[042] The present invention provides an AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses that is designed to protect farmers, their families, and their animals from dangerous wild animals, like lions, leopards, or tigers, that might wander near farmhouses or livestock areas. It uses a smart system to quickly detect these animals and warn the people living nearby. Imagine a farmhouse surrounded by fields where animals such as cows or buffaloes graze. If a large, dangerous animal like a tiger or leopard comes close, there is a serious risk to both the farmers and their animals. Farmers may not always see or hear the animal in time to react, especially if it's dark or the area is too large to monitor alone. This system solves that problem by watching for dangerous animals automatically and alerting farmers right away if one is detected nearby.
[043] The system uses small cameras and motion sensors placed around the farmhouse and grazing areas. These sensors constantly look for any animal that comes close. When they detect movement, the system uses smart technology to decide whether the animal is harmless (like a deer) or potentially dangerous (like a leopard). If the system identifies a dangerous animal, it instantly sends a warning alert to the farmer through a mobile phone notification or a loud alarm. This gives the farmer time to safely gather their animals or move away from the area.
[044] For example, if a lion is detected near the farmhouse at night, the system's alarm can go off, and a notification can be sent to the farmer's phone. The farmer, now aware of the threat, can quickly take action to ensure their safety and the safety of their livestock. Additionally, the system can activate lights or sounds to scare the predator away, without causing harm to the animal.
[045] This invention provides a safer way for farmers to coexist with wildlife by detecting threats early and allowing non-harmful responses. It helps prevent unexpected encounters with wild animals, making rural life safer for both humans and livestock.
[046] The system is composed of the following key components:
- IoT Sensors and Cameras: These devices are positioned around farmhouses, animal enclosures, and grazing areas to monitor movement.
- Central Control Unit (CCU): This hub receives data from the sensors, processes it with AI to identify the type of animal, and decides if an alert or deterrent is necessary.
- Deterrent Mechanisms: The system includes non-lethal deterrents such as lights and sounds that can be triggered when a dangerous animal is detected.
- Alert and Notification System: Alerts are sent to the farmer's mobile device, and an alarm may sound near the farmhouse for immediate awareness.
[047] IoT Sensors and Cameras: Motion sensors and infrared cameras capture movement and heat signatures around the perimeter of the farm. These sensors activate only when they detect significant movement, conserving energy and ensuring accurate detection.
[048] AI-Based Animal Recognition: The AI module uses computer vision and machine learning algorithms to identify specific predator species (e.g., lion, leopard) from camera footage. When motion is detected, the system compares the captured image with known animal profiles to determine if it's a dangerous predator.
[049] Deterrent Mechanisms: If a dangerous animal is identified, the CCU triggers appropriate deterrents, such as bright flashing lights or specific sounds that discourage the predator from approaching further. These deterrents are safe for animals and humans.
[050] Alert and Notification System: Alerts are sent in real-time to the farmer's mobile device and to any connected smart alarms within the farmhouse. The alerts include the type of animal detected, its location, and any recommended actions.
[051] System Workflow: The process from detection to alert follows these steps:
- Movement Detection: IoT sensors and cameras detect movement around the farmhouse or livestock areas.
- Animal Identification: The AI analyzes captured images or video to identify the type of animal.
- Predator Confirmation: If the animal is identified as dangerous, such as a lion, leopard, or tiger, the system proceeds to the next steps.
- Deterrent Activation: The appropriate deterrent mechanism (light or sound) is activated to discourage the animal from approaching.
- Alert Notification: An alert is sent to the farmer's mobile device, and an alarm sounds near the farmhouse if necessary.
[052] Features and Capabilities:
[053] 24/7 monitoring with Nighttime Capability: The system uses infrared sensors and thermal imaging to detect predators even in low-light conditions, ensuring round-the-clock safety.
[054] Non-Harmful Deterrent Options: The deterrents are eco-friendly and safe for wildlife, relying on light and sound rather than physical or chemical barriers.
[055] Mobile App Integration: Farmers receive real-time alerts on their smartphones, including details about the detected animal, recommended actions, and deterrent status.
[056] Data Logging and Continuous Improvement: The system continuously logs data on animal sightings, deterrent outcomes, and times of day when threats are most likely. This data can be reviewed by the farmer to improve their response strategies and can also enhance the AI's accuracy through machine learning.
[057] System Installation and Configuration:
[058] Sensor Placement: Sensors and cameras are placed around the perimeter of the farmhouse and animal enclosures for maximum coverage. Ideal placement is customized based on the landscape, with sensors focusing on high-risk entry points.
[059] Deterrent Placement: Deterrents are positioned in areas where dangerous animals are most likely to approach. Each deterrent is set to activate only when necessary, ensuring minimal disruption to farm operations.
[060] Examples of Use Cases:
[061] Nighttime Detection of Leopard: A farmer is sleeping when a leopard approaches the animal enclosure. The system detects the predator's heat signature, identifies it as a leopard, and activates flashing lights and sound to scare it away. The farmer receives an alert on their phone and can confirm the area is safe.
[062] Daytime Detection of Lion near Livestock: During the day, a lion is detected close to grazing livestock. The system recognizes the lion and immediately sends an alert to the farmer's phone. The farmer can bring the livestock indoors while deterrents are activated to keep the lion at a distance.
[063] Advantages of the System:
- Targeted Alerts Only for Dangerous Animals: Reduces false alarms by alerting farmers only when dangerous animals are detected.
- Eco-Friendly Deterrents: Uses non-lethal methods to protect both wildlife and farm animals.
- Round-the-Clock Protection: With infrared and thermal capabilities, the system provides reliable protection even at night.
- Data Logging for Improved Safety: Historical data helps farmers understand wildlife patterns and improves the AI's recognition accuracy over time.
[064] The AI-Enhanced Animal Recognition and Alert System for Farmhouses provides several key advantages over existing technologies for protecting farmhouses and livestock from dangerous wildlife:
[065] Targeted Detection of Dangerous Animals: Unlike traditional motion-detection systems that simply detect any movement, this system uses AI to specifically identify dangerous animals like lions, leopards, and tigers. This targeted approach reduces false alarms and ensures that only real threats are flagged, allowing farmers to respond more effectively.
[066] Real-Time Alerts and Notifications: The system instantly alerts farmers through mobile notifications and audible alarms, giving them immediate warning of potential danger. This real-time alerting capability allows farmers to take timely action, potentially saving livestock and lives. Existing solutions, such as physical barriers or manual monitoring, lack this instant communication feature.
[067] Non-Harmful and Eco-Friendly Deterrent Mechanisms: The system uses non-lethal deterrents, like lights and sounds, to scare away predators without harming them. Traditional solutions often rely on electric fencing or traps, which can be harmful to both wildlife and farm animals. This system, therefore, provides an environmentally friendly and humane alternative.
[068] 24/7 Monitoring, Including Nighttime Protection: Equipped with thermal or infrared sensors, the system is designed for continuous operation, including at night when predators are most active. Many traditional methods, such as human or animal guards, struggle with night monitoring and are not as reliable in low-light conditions.
[069] Data Logging and Continuous Improvement: The system records data on animal detections, deterrent outcomes, and time-of-day activity patterns. This data not only helps farmers understand wildlife behavior over time but also allows the AI to improve in accuracy and responsiveness through machine learning, something lacking in most current animal deterrent solutions.
[070] Cost-Effective and Scalable Solution: Compared to high-maintenance physical barriers or labor-intensive monitoring methods, this automated system is more cost-effective in the long term. It can be scaled to cover large areas and can be adjusted easily based on the farm's layout or specific needs, providing flexibility and ease of expansion.
[071] Reduced Dependency on Manual Observation: Traditional approaches often rely heavily on manual observation or guard animals, which are limited by human error, fatigue, and high costs. This system reduces the need for constant human monitoring, freeing up resources for other essential farm operations.
[072] In summary, the AI-Enhanced Animal Recognition and Alert System offer a safer, more humane and cost-effective approach to protecting farms from wildlife threats. Its intelligent detection, eco-friendly deterrence, and real-time alerting capabilities set it apart from traditional methods, making it an ideal solution for farmers in wildlife-prone areas.
[073] The disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.
[074] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully revealed the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.
, Claims:1) An AI-enhanced animal recognition and alert system for farmhouses, the system comprises:
- a plurality of IoT sensors configured to detect movement and heat signatures within a predetermined range around the farmhouse or grazing area;
- one or more cameras configured to capture images or videos of animals detected by the IoT sensors;
- a central control unit (CCU) that receives input from the sensors and cameras, wherein the CCU is equipped with an AI-based animal recognition module that processes the images to identify species and classifies the animal as either dangerous or harmless;
- an alert mechanism configured to send notifications to a mobile device associated with the farmer and to activate an audible alarm if a dangerous animal is identified; and
- a non-lethal deterrent mechanism comprising lights and sounds, configured to activate upon detection of a dangerous animal to discourage it from approaching the farmhouse or livestock area.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT sensors include infrared sensors and thermal imaging cameras, enabling the system to detect animals during night time or low-light conditions to provide continuous, 24/7 monitoring.
3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central control unit is configured to adjust the sensitivity levels of the IoT sensors and cameras based on environmental conditions, such as time of day, weather, and vegetation density, to minimize false detections.
4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system further comprising a mobile application installed on the farmer's mobile device, wherein the mobile application is configured to receive real-time notifications, display the type and location of detected animals, and store data logs of detections and deterrent activations to enable tracking and analysis of wildlife patterns over time.
5) A method for detecting and alerting farmers of dangerous animals approaching a farmhouse or grazing area, the method comprising:
- detecting movement or heat signatures using IoT sensors placed around the farmhouse or grazing area;
- capturing visual data of the detected animal using one or more cameras;
- processing the captured visual data with an AI-based animal recognition algorithm to identify the species of the animal and classify it as either dangerous or harmless;
- activating a non-lethal deterrent mechanism comprising lights and sounds if the animal is identified as dangerous, to discourage it from approaching further; and
- sending an alert to a mobile device associated with the farmer, including information on the detected animal and recommended actions.
6) The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the method further comprising an additional verification step within the AI-based recognition algorithm to cross-reference detected animals against a database of animal profiles, ensuring high accuracy in distinguishing dangerous animals from harmless ones and reducing false alerts.
7) The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the method further comprising the step of logging each detection event, including the time, date, and type of animal identified, wherein this data is used by the AI-based animal recognition algorithm to improve its accuracy and responsiveness over time through machine learning.
8) The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the detection parameters of the IoT sensors and cameras are dynamically adjusted based on external factors, such as weather conditions, time of day, and local wildlife patterns, to enhance the effectiveness of animal detection and minimize unnecessary alerts.

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