In the field of herd management, the complexity of multi-sensor systems often hinders extensive assessments of animal welfare parameters. Despite the importance of such assessments, they are often overlooked due to the technical complexities involved. To bridge this gap, conductivity sensors have emerged as a practical solution, albeit with limitations.

However, realizing the need for more comprehensive and affordable solutions, pioneering efforts are being made to develop a sensor and data platform based on the plug & play principle. This initiative aims to streamline the continuous recording of animal welfare parameters in different environments, from stables to pastures. In cooperation with FBN Dummerstorf, • Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Smart Farming develops digital concepts tailored for practical application in a stable environment.

Using advanced computer vision technology, the • Fraunhofer Institute is poised to revolutionize livestock management. By integrating image processing and machine learning algorithms, they extract invaluable information from images and videos, enabling farmers to optimize herd management practices.

By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, the Fraunhofer Institute aims to provide farmers with actionable data to improve animal welfare, productivity and overall farm efficiency. This innovative approach is transforming the livestock industry, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.

The full text of the good practice is available to read and download in PDF format from the AgriSkills 4.0 e-Learning platform, section “Good practices”. You just need to search for it by name using the search box.

You will find additional 45 good practices, initiatives and use cases in the AgriSkills Reference Catalogue titled “AgriSkills Guidebook on Digitalization in Agriculture”.

Cover photo: Copyright (c) Fraunhofer IGD, Rostock, Germany

 

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Project number: 2021-1-DE02-KA220-VET-000034651

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