Next-Gen Stingless Bee Traps with 3D Fabrication for Smart Agriculture Solutions

Abstract

Pollinators such as bees are vital to global food security, with approximately 75% of

food crops depending on pollination. However, colony collapse disorder (CCD), driven by

climate change, habitat loss, and improper bee trap handling, has severely impacted bee

populations. This study introduced a smart farming solution through the development of a new

stingless bee trap (NSBT) designed to minimise human intervention and enable real-time remote

monitoring. A user-needs survey involving small-scale stingless beekeepers informed the design

process, with data analysed and translated into technical specifications through the House of

Quality (HOQ) framework. The prototype was fabricated using biodegradable polylactic acid

(PLA-F) through 3d printing. The NSBT integrated Arduino Iot recorded environmental data,

with temperature and humidity ranging from 32.5°C to 34°C (SD between 0.4°C and 0.6°C) and

mean humidity level from 88% to 85.5% (SD between 1.2 – 1.5), indicating both parameters are

in stable conditions. A Business Model Canvas (BMC) and cost evaluation were developed to

assess commercialisation potential for small-scale beekeepers. The NSBT combines 3d-printed

fabrication, smart sensing and user-centric design, exemplifying smart farming practices

supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) No. 2, Zero Hunger, and SDG No. 13,

Climate Action