Unlike systems that operate on a set schedule or respond solely to temperature readings, the Smart Farrowing Pen takes animal behaviour into account. Cameras monitor their activity round the clock, whilst artificial intelligence analyses the data and sends commands to the equipment.
In particular, the system can detect when farrowing is imminent by changes in the sow’s behaviour. In this case, staff receive a notification and feed supply is automatically suspended. After farrowing, the system switches to a feeding programme designed for lactating sows. The AI also analyses how the piglets lie and group together in the resting area. If their behaviour indicates thermal discomfort, the system automatically adjusts the heating.
According to WEDA, the technology should help reduce piglet losses, optimise feed utilisation and reduce the need for constant manual monitoring of the animals. The developer also notes that automatic heating control could allow the temperature of the heat transfer fluid to be reduced by 6°C in practical conditions, reports Latifundist.com.
This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.
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