2121. A Comparative Study of Evaluating the Efficiency of Feeding Robots for Pig Fattening
Invited abstract in session TB-16: Optimization of complex systems in Agriculture, stream Sustainable Food & Agroforestry.
Tuesday, 10:30-12:00Room: Esther Simpson 2.07
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Pol Llagostera Blasco
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| Mathematics, University of Lleida | |
| 2. | Ijaz Ul-Haq
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| University of Lleida | |
| 3. | Pau Font Farre
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| University of Lleida | |
| 4. | Daniel Babot Gaspa
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| University of Lleida | |
| 5. | Lluís Miquel Pla Aragonès
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| University of Lleida |
Abstract
Digital transformation in the pig industry enhances efficiency, sustainability, and animal welfare, driven by the increasing adoption of sensors and automated feeding robots. These technologies enable continuous monitoring and data collection but raise concerns about consistency in measuring feed intake and live weight due to machine and pig behavior variations. This study compares different feeding robots and manual methods in tracking feed consumption and weight. Conducted at the Centre d'Estudis Porcins in Spain, the experiment monitored 120 pigs using five commercial feeding systems. Data on feeding behavior, weight progression, and feed intake were analyzed with ANOVA, paired t-tests, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results show no significant differences in weight measurements, confirming feeding robots’ reliability. However, feed intake records varied due to machine operation and animal behavior inconsistencies, partly linked to software limitations. These findings highlight the need for improved control algorithms while supporting automated feeding systems' role in precision livestock farming. This study contributes to the broader adoption of precision livestock farming technologies by providing insightful information to farmers, technology developers, and policymakers.
Keywords
- OR in Agriculture
Status: accepted
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