Swine 4.0 - Image-based swine weighing system

• Grant number: 20/05279-7
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: September 01, 2021
• End date: May 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Computer Science
• Principal Investigator: Éderson Antônio Gomes Dorileo
• Grantee: Éderson Antônio Gomes Dorileo
• Company: Dorileo Soluções em Visão Computacional Ltda
• CNAE: Pesquisa e desenvolvimento experimental em ciências físicas e naturais
• City: Indaiatuba
• Associated scholarship(s): 21/10415-0 - Swine 4.0: image-based swine weighing system, BP.PIPE

Abstract

This research project proposes the development of a pig weighing system by video (images). The system will be developed in the form of an application for mobile devices (e.g., iOS). Video weighing will allow the animal to be weighted even when in motion, without the need for physical interaction with the animal. Thus, this portable solution (pocket), dispenses with the use of physical scales and, therefore, contributes to the reduction of animal stress in handling. But why is it important to weigh animals during the breeding period? Because if there is an error in the feed formula, a problem with any ingredient, a failure in mixing the feed components or something like that, it is possible to detect the problem before it causes further damage. If the animals show any kind of disease, the first symptom will be weight loss. Therefore, weighing is the main tool for herd management. If well applied, it increases the productivity of livestock. With regard to weighing itself, the use of classic methods (i.e., physical scales or weighing tapes) is usually associated with situations of high animal stress, often negatively impacting the weight of the herd. For this reason, as a general rule, the rancher prefers to follow the management blindly (i.e., with important weighing gaps), than to stress the herd with more frequent weighing's. The expected impact with the technological change proposed by this project is directly associated with the reduction of time and size of the allocated team, reduction of the number of accidents and loss of weight of the herd. Ultimately, increasing farm productivity and profitability. (AU)