EP3027014A1 - Dispositif, système et procédé d'alimentation du bétail - Google Patents

Dispositif, système et procédé d'alimentation du bétail

Info

Publication number
EP3027014A1
EP3027014A1 EP14831468.5A EP14831468A EP3027014A1 EP 3027014 A1 EP3027014 A1 EP 3027014A1 EP 14831468 A EP14831468 A EP 14831468A EP 3027014 A1 EP3027014 A1 EP 3027014A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
feed
livestock
data
dispenser
sensor
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP14831468.5A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP3027014A4 (fr
Inventor
Ziv Dubinsky
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Kai-Zen Robotic Feeding (2013) Ltd
Original Assignee
Kai-Zen Robotic Feeding (2013) Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US13/952,740 external-priority patent/US9408369B2/en
Application filed by Kai-Zen Robotic Feeding (2013) Ltd filed Critical Kai-Zen Robotic Feeding (2013) Ltd
Publication of EP3027014A1 publication Critical patent/EP3027014A1/fr
Publication of EP3027014A4 publication Critical patent/EP3027014A4/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K39/00—Feeding or drinking appliances for poultry or other birds
    • A01K39/01—Feeding devices, e.g. chainfeeders
    • A01K39/012—Feeding devices, e.g. chainfeeders filling automatically, e.g. by gravity from a reserve
    • A01K39/0125—Panfeeding systems; Feeding pans therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K5/00—Feeding devices for stock or game ; Feeding wagons; Feeding stacks
    • A01K5/02—Automatic devices

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device, system and a method for livestock feeding, and in particular, to such a device, system and method in which, the meal size and frequency of meal delivery are controllable based on measureable parameters and expected livestock growth curve and real time parameters.
  • Livestock and in particular poultry are bred, and grown en-masse to meet the growing needs for their consumable products primarily in the form of meat, eggs, and the like foods.
  • an automatic growing and feeding system has been developed for example to allow for mass production of meat, allowing poultry farmers to grow their livestock in cycles of about 45 to 60 days.
  • Such early systems dating back to 1958, as for example taught by GB 802421 A to James MFG. Co., incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth, depicts an automated feeding system that allows such mass growth of poultry livestock for the meat market.
  • Such system teach a centralized feeding system that may supply feed to thousands of birds simultaneously, which greatly reduced the human intervention required in growing and raising livestock, such as poultry, allowing mass production to meet the increasing need for meat.
  • Poultry for example in the form of chicken or turkey are generally grown en-mas se for varying markets such as the meat market, breeding market, egg market or the like utility market.
  • markets such as the meat market, breeding market, egg market or the like utility market.
  • poultry mass production is required whereby poultry is grown in large coops or poultry housing allowing the simultaneous growth of many birds.
  • Such mass poultry production is greatly dependent on continuous livestock yield, large flock turnaround, and quick growth period in order to meet market demand while maintaining livestock welfare and bird size uniformity.
  • Prior art en-masse poultry and livestock feeding systems have a fixed feed dispensing points within the poultry house, where the feed is dispensed to individual plates and /or troughs by conveying the feed from a central storage place.
  • a pipe conveyor system comprising one or more substantially horizontally directed feed conveyor pipes, which are disposed substantially parallel to each other, and are provided with means for conveying feed through them forming a poultry production line.
  • the feed distribution points are situated along the feed conveyor pipes.
  • Poultry are generally fed with a powder form and/or granular form of feed.
  • the feed is distributed by an automatic feeding system to feed a flock of birds within a dedicated living area or coop, as described above.
  • a prior art automatic poultry feeding system as described in US Patent No. 6,786,178 is shown in Figure 1.
  • the automatic poultry feeding system 70 comprising a central feed supply trough 40 placed externally to the coop 60 housing a plurality the poultry flock members 10.
  • the automatic poultry feeding system 70 further comprises feed supply infrastructure 50 including a piping distribution system able to automatically distribute animal feed on three individual production lines 50a, 50b and 50c, where each line comprises a plurality of feed dispensers 90.
  • the feed is distributed to individual production lines 50a-c using a central feed distributor 42 and line specific distributors 44 to line 50a, 46 to line 50b, and 48 to line 50c, respectively.
  • Line specific distributors optionally comprise a mechanism to push feed down the line such as a motor that actuates a conveyor mechanism.
  • the feed is thereafter distributed to individual feed dispensers 90 according to the rate the livestock 10 eat at master feed dispenser 90m that is provided to sense and uniformly control the feed distribution to all slave feed dispensers 90s about the line.
  • the rate at which the livestock eat the available feed at master feed dispenser 90m determines the frequency and availability of feed provided through the dedicated line 50a-c, therein master feed dispenser 90m controls the activation of the dedicated distributor 44, 46, 48.
  • Master feed dispenser 90m is placed at the end of the line based on the assumption that feed is consumed evenly along the line since the flock is evenly distributed around the dispensers on a line. Consumption of feed in master dispenser 90m is therefore considered to be representative of consumption along the line.
  • a feed dispenser 90 is disposed at each feed point.
  • a feed dispenser comprises a tray 92 on which feed comes to rest, which feed can be pecked off tray 92 by the birds.
  • Some feed dispensers 90 comprise feed dispersion guide 94 for guiding a part of the feed out of the horizontal feed conveyor pipe 50 and into the tray 92 of the dispenser 90 in an even manner around tray 92.
  • Guide 94 comprise in general a suitably dimensioned, substantially vertically oriented within the feed down pipe 150, the top end of which is connected to an outlet 160 of the feed conveyor pipe 50, and the bottom end of which is situated above a central part of tray 92
  • the feed dispenser comprising the tray 92 and the down pipe form a modular unit that can be attached as a whole or in part to a feed conveyor pipe 50. In this way, during use, feed is conveyed into the tray, which feed is pecked out of said tray 92 by the birds 10.
  • FIG. 2A Prior art feed dispensers are schematically depicted in Figure 2A -2C.
  • the down pipe 150 of dispenser 90 has a set volume that determines the amount of feed that may be delivered and distributed to each tray 92.
  • Current system such as that depicted in Figure 1, utilize a master feed dispenser 90m, as shown in Figure 2C, to control and determine when dispensers 90 and/or slave dispensers 90s, as shown in Figure 2B, in a feed line 50a-c, are to be replenished, with a volume equal to a pre-set and predetermined feed volume that is equivalent to the volume of down pipe 150.
  • Figure 2A shows a feed dispenser 90 that comprise a tray 92 and a feed dispersion guide 94 to evenly disperse the feed about plate 92.
  • Figure 2B shows a slave feed dispenser 90s that comprise a tray 92
  • Figure 2C shows a master feed dispenser 90m comprising a tray 92 and level sensor 96 to determine when to activate feed delivery through infrastructure 50.
  • the prior art does not provide for fine control of the down pipe area 150 where the delivered feed is of a set volume for the entire production line 50a, 50b, and 50c, and sometimes for an entire poultry housing 60. Furthermore the automatic feeding systems of the prior art has a uniform feed delivery frequency within a poultry housing 60.
  • predetermined feeding volumes and delivery frequencies causes random stops in feeding as all the feed on a line may be consumed before the next feeding time. These periods where portions of the flock are not feeding result in loss of growth potential, loss of growing days, and loss of vitality.
  • the flock may migrate to feeding lines that are not empty, causing overcrowding, fighting, and a related decrease in flock welfare and increase in the stress of the members of the flock.
  • a level sensor 96 this is operative to activate feed delivery but does not allow control of feed frequency and volume per feed.
  • feeding systems of the prior art do not include mechanisms to optimize feed delivery frequency and volume based a plurality of parameters including but not limited to livestock type and gender, environmental factors, feed data, market data, livestock psychological data, livestock behavioral data, livestock housing data, livestock eating frequency, livestock metabolic data, and any combination thereof. Further, prior art systems do not include methods to track and record flock response to changes in the feed regimen so that the feed regimen can be analyzed and improved.
  • kits, apparatus, device, system and a method providing for fine control of a livestock automatic feeding system for example including but not limited to poultry automatic feeding system provided by a controllable feed volume and frequency actuating device.
  • the present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the background art by providing a kit, apparatus, device, system and method for fine control of livestock automatic feed systems with respect to at least one and more preferably a plurality of parameters, with a controllable feed volume and feed frequency actuating device and a system and method for monitoring and controlling such device thereby providing for improved livestock production yield, livestock welfare, livestock feed affinity, and feed conversion ratio ('FCR') and feed conversion efficiency ('FCE').
  • Embodiments of the present invention may be applied to and/or adapted for any livestock for example including but not limited to pigs, sheep, goats, cows, emu, ostrich, other poultry, goose, duck, or the like livestock.
  • feed conversion ratio may interchangeably used to refer to feed conversion rate
  • feed conversion efficiency 'FCE'
  • livestock's ability to conversion of feed into meat and/or livestock body mass as is known and accepted in the art.
  • livestock quarters, livestock housing, poultry housing, coop, poultry coop, chicken coop may be used interchangeably to refer to the a housing structure for housing livestock optionally and preferably in the form of poultry for example including but not limited to chicken, turkey, quail, ducks, geese, emu, ostrich or the like poultry.
  • master feed dispenser refers to a control feed dispenser that is adapted for controlling the timing of feed delivery into at least one or more feed dispenser disposed in an automatic livestock feed delivery system and more specifically a production line within such an automatic livestock feed delivery system.
  • a master feed dispenser comprises at least one sensor for detecting feed level and/or feed volume.
  • a master feed dispenser may control and/or otherwise activate feed delivery within the feed delivery system along at least one or more production lines.
  • slave feed dispenser refers to a feed dispenser that is controlled by a master feed dispenser or by the automatic livestock delivery system.
  • a slave feed dispenser does not comprise a sensor.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention comprises an apparatus and/or kit for retrofitting existing livestock automatic feeder systems with a device provided for fine control of the livestock feed volume and frequency of feed delivery.
  • kit and/or apparatus may provide for manual, automatic and/or semi-automatic control of the feed delivery size and frequency of delivery.
  • the kit and/or apparatus may comprise at least one or more sensor, for example including but not limited to a level sensor, volume sensor and/or weight sensor, motion sensor, camera or the like.
  • the sensor may be based on various different technology for example including but not limited to an optical, piezoelectric, mechanical, capacitance , magnetic, infrared ('IR'), radio frequency ('RF'), MEMS or the like sensor.
  • the senor may provide for controlling a gate or switch.
  • the sensor may be coupled with an actuator for example for activating, stopping or otherwise controlling the actuator associated with the sensor.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides a device for fine control of the livestock feed volume and frequency of feed delivery that may be installed, coupled or otherwise integrated with a feed dispenser within an automatic livestock feed delivery system.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with a feed dispenser, for example including but not limited to a master feed dispenser or a slave feed dispenser.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more master feed dispenser.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one master feed dispenser and a plurality of slave feed dispensers.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more master feed dispenser per production line within the automatic feed dispensing system.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more production line of the automatic feed dispensing system through at least one feed dispenser.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system through at least one feed dispenser.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system through at least one or more master feed dispenser.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system within one master feed dispenser and a plurality of slave feed dispensers.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with all feed dispensers associated with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system.
  • the actuating device may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more master feed dispenser per production line within the automatic feed dispensing system, therein preferably producing independently controllable sub-production lines segments within a production line.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides for a feed dispenser comprising fine control device of feed volume and frequency of delivery.
  • the feed dispenser may provide for manual, mechanical automatic and/or semi-automatic control of the feed delivery size and frequency of delivery.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides for an automatic livestock feed system comprising a controller, data processor, a feed volume and feed frequency actuator, and a communications module allowing communication between the components of the invention and also with external systems.
  • a controller may for example included but is not limited to at least one or more of or a computer, including but not limited to a PC (personal computer), a server, a minicomputer, a cellular telephone, a smart phone, a PDA (personal data assistant), a pager, a robot, an android or the like.
  • controller may be provided with at least one or more selected from the group comprising of wired, wireless, cellular, optical, IR, RF or the like communication devices and protocols as is known in the art.
  • controller may communicate through an association with an appropriate communication module.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides a method for improving livestock growth, livestock feed utilization, quality of meat, quality of life, vitality, increasing metabolism, reducing disease, increasing livestock yield, optimizing livestock environment, and optimizing livestock care most preferably by providing for fine control of feed volume and frequency with respect to at least one and more preferably a plurality of parameters.
  • parameters utilized for improving livestock growth may for example include but are not limited to environmental parameters such as climate and lighting regimens, livestock parameters, market parameters, feed parameters, livestock behavioral parameters, livestock psychological parameters, livestock eating demand, livestock drinking, livestock cleaning behavior, livestock social activity, pavlovian behavior or the like alone or in any combination thereof.
  • livestock psychological and/or behavioral parameters comprises flock migration and/or movement within housing, flock migration and/or movement relative to productions lines, eating demand in response to the system, imprinting behavior in response to the system, pavlovian behavior with respect to the system, or the like. Imprinting and pavlovian behavior may be in response to optional system noises such as motor noise or audio cues such as beeping noises introduced at the start of feeding time.
  • livestock psychological and or behavioral parameters may be monitored to determine flock eating demands and/or individual flock member eating demand as it varies at different points during the growth period, most preferably in order to optimize the available growth periods.
  • the system may determine the changes in feed demand and or eating demand based on location within livestock housing.
  • the system and method of the present invention may provide for sensing livestock behavior, environmental conditions, for example particular affinity to a location within the housing or a particular feed dispenser or type of dispenser, in order to adjust the automatic feeding system to accommodate and/or change such behavior, most preferably to control, maintain, and/or improve livestock growth and/or flock uniformity, relative to expected growth curve, optionally and preferably established by variably controlling the feed volume and feed frequency within the livestock housing and about the individual production lines.
  • the system may monitor feed demand in order to determine whether this is different to expected or historical feed consumption patterns.
  • external systems for example the climate control system within the housing may be adjusted based on observation of feeding patterns correlated with temperature and humidity changes.
  • Other environmental control systems such as lighting systems may optionally calibrate -the provision of light so as not to collide with feeding patterns; in other words, the lighting system may optionally receive feedback from the feeding system so as to determine when the lights should be turned on and off.
  • the system further comprises an environmental sensor for providing information on the environment for the livestock in communication with said feedback monitor, wherein any changes in said environment are correlated with the amount of feed eaten on a historical or actual basis to determine whether said change increases or decreases the amount of food eaten.
  • the data processing module may also optionally receive one or more feeding parameters, animal behavior parameters or both according to a predetermined goal, and wherein said data processing module further determines an amount of feed to provide according to data from said environmental sensor.
  • the predetermined goal is optionally selected from the group consisting of reaching a predetermined maximum weight, reaching a predetermined minimum weight within a predetermined period of time or maximizing welfare of the animals.
  • maximizing welfare of the animals it is meant reducing stress, physical illness or fighting between the animals.
  • the actuating device of the present invention provides for controlling feed frequency and feed volume in an inversely proportional manner, such that high frequency feed delivery is provided for smaller feed portion, and low frequency feed delivery is provided for larger feed portions.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides for a feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device for controlling the feed volume and feed frequency of feed delivered to livestock through an automatic feed dispenser system wherein the actuating device may be retrofit and/or integrated with a feed dispenser about a feed drop zone, the actuating device comprising: a divider for dividing the feed drop zone internal to the feed dispenser and along the horizontal cross-section of the drop zone , into at least two size controllable zones, including a feed delivery closed zone ; and a feed delivery open zone ; and wherein the divider may be displaced along a distance equal to about the horizontal cross-section of the drop zone for defining the at least two size controllable zones; and wherein the divider may be displaced about the drop zone with an actuator , wherein the actuator may be associated with the divider through at least one driving shaft ; and wherein the upper edge of the divider may be further removably associated with a hinged cover for defining the feed delivery closed zone.
  • the hinged cover may be coupled with an external face of the feed dispenser with a hinge.
  • the actuator may be disposed on an external surface of the feed dispenser.
  • the actuator may be provided in the form for example including but not limited to a manual actuator, a mechanical actuator, an electronic actuator, an automatic actuator or any combination thereof.
  • the automated actuating device may be controllable from at least one for example including but not limited to a remote location, wirelessly, cellular, optical, IR, RF or any combination thereof.
  • the automated actuating device may be controlled by a controller.
  • the feed dispenser may preferably comprise at least one actuating device, may be a master feed dispenser or slave feed dispenser; and wherein the hinged cover may be coupled with an external face of the feed dispenser with a hinge ; and wherein the actuator may be disposed on the external surface.
  • a feed dispenser may including at least two actuating devices, wherein the feed dispenser may be a master or slave feed dispenser and wherein a first actuating device may be associated with a first face of the feed dispenser and wherein a second actuating device may be associated with a second face of the feed dispenser wherein the first and second face are disposed on opposite faces of the feed dispenser, therein defining at least three size controllable zones comprising one central feed delivery open zone and two feed delivery closed zone on either side of the central feed delivery open zone.
  • the feed dispenser may further comprise at least one sensor for example including but not limited to a volume sensor, level sensor or weight sensor, or the like.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides for an apparatus for controlling the feed volume and feed frequency of feed delivered to a plurality of feed dispensers as part of an automatic livestock feed dispenser system, the apparatus comprising: a feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device optionally and preferably associated with at least one feed dispenser; and at least one sensor for example including but not limited to a volume sensor, level sensor or weight sensor; wherein the sensor may be disposed internally to the feed dispenser.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a controller for controlling the actuating device based on data optionally and preferably obtained and processed with a data processing module and wherein the data may optionally and preferably be communicated to the controller or to an external system with a communication module.
  • the communication module may provide for communication between the controller, the actuating device, and an external storage or controlling device.
  • the data processing module may provide for obtaining and processes data for example including but not limited to livestock data, feed data, environmental data, market data, livestock psychological data, livestock behavioral data, livestock housing data, livestock eating frequency, livestock metabolic data, or the line in any combination thereof.
  • An optional embodiment of the present invention provides for an automatic livestock feed delivery system for automatically dispensing feed to livestock, being raised within livestock housing, the system comprising: feed supply infrastructure to convey livestock feed from a central feed supply to a plurality of feed dispensers, wherein each of the feed dispensers are disposed about a feed outlet point; a feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device for controlling the feed volume and frequency of delivering the feed volume to livestock; and at least one sensor for example including but not limited to a volume sensor, level sensor or weight sensor; wherein the sensor may optionally and preferably be disposed internally with the feed dispenser ; and a controller for controlling the actuating device based on data obtained and processed with a data processing module and wherein the data may be communicated to the controller with a communication module.
  • the communication module may provide for communication between the controller and the actuating device.
  • the data processing module may obtain and processes data for example including but not limited to livestock data, feed data, environmental data, market data, livestock psychological data, livestock behavioral data, livestock housing data, livestock eating frequency, livestock metabolic data, and any combination thereof.
  • the actuating device may be associated with the feed dispenser or with the infrastructure system at feed outlet points.
  • a plurality of feed dispensers may be provided in the form of master feed dispensers including a feed level sensor and the feed supply infrastructure may be a closed loop system for circulating the feed.
  • feed supply infrastructure may comprise at least one and more preferably a plurality of individual production lines and most preferably at least three or more production lines.
  • At least two actuating devices may be associated with at least two or more individual master feed dispenser within at least one or more production line, providing for at least one or more sub-production line within the at least one or more production line.
  • An optional embodiment provides for a method for optimizing livestock yields and livestock parameters by utilizing a feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device within an automatic feed delivery system, the method comprising:
  • Obtaining data selected from the group consisting of livestock data, environmental data, livestock housing data, grower data, marketing data, environmental data, weather data, feed data, livestock growth chart or any combination thereof;
  • Adjusting controllable conditions associated with the automatic feeding system for example including but not limited to feeding frequency, meal size, livestock housing environmental conditions, livestock system activation frequency, to optimize feed frequency, livestock metabolism and livestock distribution about the feed supply infrastructure within livestock housing; wherein feed frequency and feed volume are controlled in an inversely proportional manner; and
  • inventions of the present invention may be adapted for providing a kit, apparatus, device, system and method for automated, semi- automated and/or regulated human feeding and/or food consumption for example in the form of food rationing and/or food dispensing for rationing.
  • control of human food consumption and dispensing may for example be implemented in military setting, hospital setting, or the like en- mass feeding environment, or weight controlled feeding.
  • human food consumption and dispensing control may be utilized for dispensing and distributing food for babies and/or premature babies such that data may be correlated to improve survival rate.
  • the system may for example be utilized for food rationing and control in regions with starvation problems, drought stricken regions, and/or during natural disasters, or the like.
  • the various embodiment of the present invention may be provided to an end user in a plurality of formats, platforms, and may be outputted to at least one of a computer readable memory, computer readable media, a computer display device, a printout, a computer on a network or a user.
  • any device featuring a data processor and/or the ability to execute one or more instructions may be described as a computer, including but not limited to a PC (personal computer), a server, a minicomputer, a cellular telephone, a smart phone, a PDA (personal data assistant), a pager, a robot, an android or the like. Any two or more of such devices in communication with each other, and/or any computer in communication with any other computer or device comprising a processor, may optionally comprise a "computer network”.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of prior art automatic poultry feed delivery system
  • FIG. 2A-C are schematic illustrative diagrams of prior art poultry feed dispenser as part of an automatic poultry feeder delivery system;
  • FIG. 2A depicts prior art feed dispenser with a central feed guide;
  • FIG. 2B depicts a prior art slave feed dispenser and
  • FIG. 2C depicts a prior art master feed dispenser.
  • FIG. 3A-F are schematic diagrams of feed dispenser comprising a feed volume and feed delivery frequency device according to an optional embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3A-B depict optional master feed dispensers associated with optional feed actuating device according to optional embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 3C depicts an existing feed dispenser retrofitted with a sensor and actuating mechanisms allowing it to function as a master feed dispenser
  • FIG. 3D-E depicts an optional master feed dispenser associated with the actuating device of the present invention comprising a vertical feed volume control actuator
  • FIG 3F depicts an optional master feed dispenser associated with the present invention comprising several vertically distributed sensors.
  • FIG. 4A-B are schematic block diagrams of optional apparatus and/or kits for retrofitting a feed volume and feed frequency actuating device according to an optional embodiment of the present invention with an automatic feed delivery system dispenser.
  • FIG 4A depicts a manually controllable feed volume and feed frequency device
  • FIG. 4B depicts an automatic controllable feed volume and feed frequency device according to an optional embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5A-B are schematic block diagrams of optional automatic poultry feed delivery system comprising a feed volume and feed frequency device according to optional embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 6A-B are schematic block diagrams of an optional closed loop automatic poultry feed delivery system comprising a feed volume and feed frequency device according to optional embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 7 is an optional method according to the present invention for improving livestock yields.
  • the present invention overcomes the deficiencies of prior art livestock automatic feed system by providing a kit, apparatus, device, system and method for fine control of livestock automatic feed systems providing for improved livestock production yield.
  • Optional embodiments of the present invention provide fine control over the feed volume and feed frequency delivered to the livestock, for example at individual lines and optionally customizing feed volume and frequency according to a plurality of parameters.
  • Control over feed volume and frequency delivered to the individual lines may also help with controlling the amount of manure (fecal waste, such as droppings) deposited at any particular location.
  • manure meat waste, such as droppings
  • litter needs to be maintained at acceptable levels.
  • Litter is defined as excreted manure mixed with bedding material.
  • litter is not kept at an acceptable level, very high bacterial loads and unsanitary growing conditions may result producing odors (including ammonia), insect problems (particularly flies), soiled feathers, footpad lesions and breast bruises or blisters.
  • the amount and location of litter can also be controlled and maintained at a desirable level.
  • prior art poultry automatic feed systems result in problems such as lack of flock uniformity, where some birds will be significantly larger than others, competition for feed between birds, high flock mortality rate, disease spread amongst weaker birds, variable feed demand, uneven bird market size, underutilization of feed, waste of feed, unpredictable bird market size and uneven production line distribution.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide for improvement in a number of parameters associated with livestock production and in particular with respect to poultry for example providing for improved flock vitality, reduced flock stay period, ability to reach targeted market weight faster, more even flock weight distribution, reduced competitions among flock members, improved flock welfare and reduced stress, reduced cost of production, improved flock health, reduced mortality within the flock, faster time to market, increased feed consumption, increased feed utilization, improved flock uniformity, increased growth, increased flock member metabolism, higher quality meat, and a more equitable utilization of all production lines.
  • Figure 3A is schematic block diagram of an optional master feed dispenser 90m comprising one feed volume and feed delivery actuating device 100, according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • Device 100 most preferably comprises actuator 110, shaft 112, divider 102, hinge 106 and cover 104
  • actuator 110 provides for moving divider 102 along shaft 112 within the cross-section of drop tube 150 as depicted by arrow 151.
  • actuator 110 provides for defining a dispenser volume zone 155 defined as the zone between divider 102 and level sensor 96, as shown.
  • hinge 106 and actuator cover 104 are provided to prevent feed from falling behind divider 102 as defined by arrow 154 while ensuring that feed is dispensed into the feed delivery zone 152.
  • the movement of divider 102 is associated with cover 104 such that as divider 102 is displaced within zone 151 so does cover 104 to ensure that feed does not enter zone 154.
  • sensor 96 optionally and preferably in the form of a level sensor and/or a volume sensor, is provided to time and activate food delivery into plate 92, by activating feed delivery through infrastructure 50, along a production line 50a or 50b or 50c. For example as feed is consumed by poultry 10 the feed level gradually drops to a level that is below sensor 96 causing a trigger. Most preferably, sensor 96 then activates infrastructure 50 to circulate feed about production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c and deliver feed into drop zone 150, and more specifically zone 152.
  • Sensor 96 may optionally be provided in the form a level sensor as shown, volume sensor and/or weight sensor, or the like.
  • the sensor may be based on at least one or more sensor technologies for example including but not limited to acoustic, optical, piezoelectric, mechanical, capacitance, magnetic, RF, MEMS or similar technology sensor technology for determining weight and/or volume and/or level of a substance.
  • Optionally device 100 may be provided in a manual form where divider 102 is set within zone 151 by manually displaced divider 102 about shaft 112.
  • divider 102 is set within zone 151 by manually displaced divider 102 about shaft 112.
  • manual manipulation and/or control of divider 102 is provided on the external surface of dispenser 90m for example by displacing shaft 112 backwards.
  • device 100 may be provided in an automatic and/or semi-automatic form where divider 102 is automatically displaced about shaft 112 within zone 151 utilizing actuator 110.
  • actuator 110 may be provided in the form of a motor, actuator or the like that may controllably manipulate the movement of divider 102 within zone 151.
  • actuator 110 may be controlled via wired, wireless, cellular means.
  • Figure 3B is schematic block diagram of an optional master feed dispenser 90m comprising a feed dispersion guide 94, and at least two feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating devices 100, disposed about at least two opposite faces of dispenser 90m.
  • dispenser 90m comprises a level and/or volume sensor 96.
  • a first actuating device 100L may be disposed on the left inner face of dispenser 90m and a second actuating device 100R may be on the right inner face of dispenser 90m, as shown.
  • each actuating device 100L and 100R comprises actuator 110, shaft 112, divider 102, hinge 106 and cover 104.
  • actuating device 100R comprises actuator 11 OR, shaft 112R, divider 102R, hinge 106R and cover 104R while actuating device 100L comprises actuator 110L, shaft 112L, divider 102L, hinge 106L and cover 104L.
  • the use of at least two actuating devices provides for directing feed delivery centrally through zone 152, for example to allow feed delivery above feed dispersion guide 94.
  • the size and volume of feed to be delivered in zone 152 is determined by adjusting the relative respective locations of divider 102R and 102L relative to one another.
  • feed dispenser 90m of Figure 3B comprises at least one or more level and/or volume sensor 96 provided for most preferably sensing the level of feed disposed within dispenser 90m.
  • sensor 96 may be disposed on a third (not shown) and/or fourth face (not shown) within dispenser 90m.
  • actuating device 100L and/or 100R may be provided in a manual, semiautomatic and/or automatic form to provided for a controlled feed volume and feed delivery frequency.
  • device 100L and/or 100R may be individually controlled, where for example, one device (100L for example) is manipulated, adjusted and/or moved while the other device (100R for example) remains stationary.
  • devices 100L and 100R may be controlled relative to each other and most preferably essentially simultaneously, where for example both devices 100L and 100R are displaced by the same amount in opposite direction so as to expand and/or reduce feed delivery zone 152.
  • timing, size, shape, volume of feed delivery zone 152 may be controlled by manipulating devices 100L and/or 100R in a symmetric and/or asymmetric manner.
  • control of feed delivery zone may be related to at least one and more preferably a plurality of parameters for example including but not limited to growth curve, feed demand, environmental parameters, livestock parameters, market parameters, feed parameters, livestock behavioral parameters , livestock psychological parameters, livestock eating demand, livestock drinking, livestock cleaning behavior, livestock social activity, pavlovian behavior or the like alone or in any combination thereof.
  • the actuating device 100 provides for controlling feed frequency and feed volume in an inversely proportional manner, such that high frequency feed delivery is provided for smaller feed portion, and low frequency feed delivery is provided for larger feed portions.
  • feed delivery zone 152 and/or 155 by use of at least one or more feed actuating devices 100, for example as described and shown in Figures 3A-B, provide control both in term of the frequency of feed delivery and the size of the dispensed feed.
  • Figure 3C is a schematic block diagram of an existing feed dispenser 90 that has been retrofitted with a feed volume and feed delivery actuating device 100 and a level sensor 96 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • Device 100 most preferably comprises actuator 110, shaft 112, divider 102, and hinge 106.
  • actuator 110 provides for moving divider 102 along shaft 112 within the cross-section of drop tube 150. Most preferably use of actuator 110 provides for limiting dispenser volume zone 150 defined as the zone between divider 102 and level sensor 96, as shown.
  • sensor 96 optionally and preferably in the form of a level sensor and/or a volume sensor, is provided to time and activate food delivery into plate 92, by activating feed delivery through infrastructure 50, along a production line 50a or 50b or 50c. For example as feed is consumed by poultry 10 the feed level gradually drops to a level that is below sensor 96 causing a trigger. Most preferably, sensor 96 then transmits data to the previously described data processor, for example through the previously described communicator, to determine whether to send infrastructure 50 to circulate feed about production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c and deliver feed into drop zone 150.
  • Sensor 96 may optionally be provided in the form a level sensor as shown, volume sensor and/or weight sensor, or the like.
  • the sensor may be based on at least one or more sensor technologies for example including but not limited to acoustic, optical, piezoelectric, mechanical, capacitance, magnetic, RF, MEMS or similar technology sensor technology for determining weight and/or volume and/or level of a substance.
  • Optionally device 100 may be provided in a manual form where divider 102 is set within zone 150 by manually displaced divider 102 about shaft 112.
  • divider 102 is set within zone 150 by manually displaced divider 102 about shaft 112.
  • manual manipulation and/or control of divider 102 is provided on the external surface of dispenser 90m for example by displacing shaft 112 backwards.
  • device 100 may be provided in an automatic and/or semi-automatic form where divider 102 is automatically displaced about shaft 112 within zone 150 utilizing actuator 110.
  • actuator 110 may be provided in the form of a motor, actuator or the like that may controllably manipulate the movement of divider 102 within zone 150.
  • actuator 110 may be controlled via wired, wireless, cellular means.
  • FIG. 3D is schematic block diagram and Figure 3E is a non-limiting illustrative depiction of a master feed dispenser 91 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention that functions in a similar way to the dispensers described above.
  • Master feed dispenser 91 is provided for controlling the meal size provided to livestock for example poultry, comprising one feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device 100 that is capable of controlling feed volume delivery, relative to a static, angled internal wall 120, as shown.
  • Wall 120 is positioned at an angle within the down pipe 150 therein diagonally bisecting the available feed volume within down pipe 150, defining a feed volume controllable area/zone 155 and a non-active zone closed area 154.
  • feed volume controllable zone 155 provides a gradually decreasing feed volume (top to bottom) along the slope of wall 120, such that the top of wall 120 essentially the full width of down pipe 150, is available for feed allowing for the largest feed volume, while the bottom of wall 120 defines the smallest feed volume made available for dispensing.
  • feed actuating device 100 comprises actuator 110, feed volume drive shaft 112, vertical drive shaft switch 114, vertical drive feed volume indicator 116 and vertical drive slot 118.
  • dispenser 91 is provided with feed actuating device 100 configured to control feed volume by moving vertically along a portion of the length of dispenser 91.
  • feed volume is controlled by displacing feed drive shaft 112 vertically (up or down) as shown by arrows 112v.
  • Vertical drive shaft 112 is controlled with actuator 110 and vertical drive shaft switch 114, to displace drive shaft 112 up or down vertical drive slot 118.
  • drive slot 118 is graduated comprising a plurality of stop location along its length opposite wall 120 to define a plurality of feed volume sizes.
  • Most preferably vertical drive slot 118 comprise at least 3 or more stop location about its length, therein providing a large, medium and small feed volume size.
  • Actuator 110 optionally and most preferably comprises a gear (not shown) to control the vertical movement of drive shaft 112 and switch 114, as shown with arrows 112v.
  • actuator 110 may be provided in the form of a motor, actuator or the like that may controllably manipulate the movement of drive shaft 112 in the direction depicted by arrows 112v.
  • actuator 110 may be controlled via wired, wireless, cellular means.
  • actuator 110 may be controlled via communication module 215.
  • actuator 110 provides for controlling vertical drive shaft switch 114 to allow for vertical movement about slot 118. For example, when switch 114 is open is allows shaft 112 to move from a first position to a second position along slot 118, when second position is reached switch 114 is closed locking shaft 112 into place at a second position along slot 112.
  • the feed level may be indicated with level indication 116 where its position along slot 118 reveals the feed volume size. For example if indicator 116 is about the upper portion of slot 118 the feed volume size is large, if indicator 116 is about the lower portion of slot 118 the feed volume size is small.
  • drive shaft 112 may be manually manipulated with indicator 116 to move up or down slot 118.
  • dispenser 91 is provided with a communication module 215 (described below with reference to Figures 4B to 6A) for communicating parameters relating to the functioning of switch 114, the position of drive shaft 112 along slot 118 or similar parameters that may be communicated to processing centers for example including but not limited to a processor, computer, data processor 220 (described below with reference to Figures 4B to 6A), controller 210 (described below with reference to Figures 4B to 6A), or the like.
  • communication module 215 may communicate to processor 210 each time switch 114 is toggled from an open to closed position, or from closed to open, or alternatively the length of time it is open and/or closed in order to correlate the feed activity at plate 92 of dispenser 91, for further analysis and control.
  • sensor 96 optionally and preferably provided in the form of a level sensor and/or a volume sensor, is provided to time and activate food delivery into plate 92, by activating feed delivery through infrastructure 50, along a production line 50a or 50b or 50c. For example as feed is consumed by poultry 10 the feed level gradually drops to a level that is below sensor 96 causing a trigger. Most preferably, sensor 96 then activates infrastructure 50 to circulate feed to production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c thus delivering feed into drop zone 150, and more specifically zone 152.
  • S sensor 96 may optionally be provided in the form a level sensor as shown, volume sensor and/or weight sensor, or the like.
  • the sensor may be based on at least one or more sensor technology for example including but not limited to acoustic, optical, piezoelectric, mechanical, capacitance, magnetic, RF, MEMS or the like technology sensor technology for determining weight and/or volume and/or level of a substance.
  • Dispenser 91 may, for example, be utilized to control the feed volume and frequency dispensed to a line.
  • controller 210 may signal to feed control device 100 via communication module 215 to decrease the feed volume so as to increase the feed frequency at dispenser 91 and thereby all of line 50a.
  • FIG. 3E is schematic block diagram of a master feed dispenser 92 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention that functions in a similar way to the dispensers described above.
  • Master feed dispenser 92 is provided for controlling the meal size provided to livestock for example poultry, comprising one feed volume and feed delivery frequency actuating device 100 that is capable of controlling feed volume delivery, relative to a static, angled internal wall 120, as shown.
  • Wall 120 is positioned at an angle within the down pipe 150 therein diagonally bisecting the available feed volume within down pipe 150. Most preferably wall 120 provides a gradually increasing feed volume (top to bottom) such that at the bottom of wall 120 essentially the full width of down pipe 150 is available for feed allowing for the largest feed volume, while the top of wall 120 defines the smallest feed volume made available for dispensing.
  • feed actuating device 100 comprises a plurality of sensors.
  • the plurality of sensors may consist of 3 sensors 96a, 96b, and 96c positioned at varying heights in pipe 150 such that each sensor essentially detects different volumes of feed;
  • Sensor 96a detects volume defined by area 155a;
  • sensor 96b detects volume define by area 155b;
  • sensor 96c detects volume defined by area 155c.
  • Sensors 96a, 96b, and 96c optionally and preferably are provided in the form of a level sensor and/or a volume sensor, to time and activate food delivery into plate 92, by activating feed delivery according to an algorithm performed by the previously described data processor, through infrastructure 50, along a production line 50a or 50b or 50c.
  • actuating device 100 is operative to activate only one sensor at any given time. For example as feed is consumed by poultry 10 the feed level gradually drops to a level that is below the active sensor 96a, or 96b, or 96c causing a trigger. Most preferably, the active sensor 96a, or 96b, or 96c then activates infrastructure 50 to circulate feed to production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c thus delivering feed into drop zone 150, and more specifically zone 152.
  • sensor 96a detects the largest volume defined by area 155a requiring less frequent but longer activation of feed delivery through infrastructure 50.
  • Sensor 96c detects a smaller volume defined by area 155c requiring more frequent but shorter activation of feed delivery through infrastructure 50.
  • a similar result may be obtained by making the feed area larger to permit more animals to feed simultaneously, optionally by retaining the same volume of feed delivery but with more rapid frequency of feeding.
  • Sensors 96a, 96b, and 96c may optionally be provided in the form a level sensor as shown, volume sensor and/or weight sensor, or the like.
  • the sensors may be based on at least one or more sensor technology for example including but not limited to acoustic, optical, piezoelectric, mechanical, capacitance, magnetic, RF, MEMS or the like technology sensor technology for determining weight and/or volume and/or level of a substance.
  • dispenser 92 is provided with a communication module 215 for communicating triggers from sensors 96a, 96b, and 96c to processing centers and/or activating the sensor that should act as the active sensor via actuating device 100 based on communication from processing centers for example including but not limited to a processor, computer, data processor 220, controller 210, or the like.
  • Dispenser 92 may, for example, be utilized to control the feed volume and frequency dispensed to a line.
  • dispenser 92 was installed at the end of line 50a (in Figure 1, instead of 90m as shown), such that if controller 210 in communication with communication module 215 determines that dispenser 92 is not sufficiently frequented by livestock as there is no active change in the feed volume, controller 210 may signal to actuating device 100 via communication module 215 to activate sensor 96c so as to increase the feed frequency while decreasing the feed volume at dispenser 92 and thereby all of line 50a in order to urge and/or attract livestock to dispenser 92 and line 50a more frequently, therein increasing their metabolism, improving their general health and most preferably improving the feed conversion ratio FCR.
  • FIG 4A depicts an apparatus and/or kit 200 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention for retrofitting an existing and/or working automatic livestock feeder system 70, as described with respect to Figure 1, with at least one or more feed sizing actuating device 100 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • apparatus and/or kit 200 comprise a feed actuating device 100 (as described in Figure 3A-3E) and at least one or more sensors for example including but not limited to a volume sensor and/or weight sensor and/or level sensor or the like sensor for sensing the feed level within feed dispenser 90/91/92.
  • actuating device 100 is associated with at least one feed dispenser 90/91/92, optionally a slave dispenser 90s and more preferably but optionally a master feed dispenser 90m.
  • Most preferably actuating device 100 is associated, installed and/or otherwise coupled with a master feed dispenser 90m associated in at least one and most preferably all production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c associated with feed supply infrastructure 50.
  • Figure 4B depicts an apparatus and/or kit 202 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention for retrofitting an existing and/or working automatic livestock feeder system 70, as described with respect to Figure 1, with at least one or more feed sizing actuating devices 100 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • apparatus and/or kit 202 comprise an automatic feed actuating device 100, controller 210, sensor 130, communication module 215, and data processor module 220.
  • controller 210 is provided to control the activity of automatic feed actuating device 100 and integrate its activity with respect to sensor module 130 and data processor module 220.
  • controller 210 may activate device 100 based on sensed parameters associated with sensor module 130 while the sensed data is processed with data processor module 220, which is communicated with communication module 215.
  • sensor module 130 may comprises at least one or more sensors associated with the feed dispenser 90/91/92 for example including but not limited to feed volume sensor, feed level sensor or weight sensor levels.
  • sensor module 130 may further comprise a temperature sensor, motion sensor, or similar sensor (not shown) that may be disposed within livestock housing 60, to determine livestock behavior and/or parameters.
  • a motion sensor may optionally be placed near a production line 50a-c to determine the level of activity about the production line so as to determine, most preferably with controller 210 and data processing module 220, how to adjust feed volume and feed frequency with device 100 so as to optimize the overall functionality of the production line.
  • a temperature or humidity or light sensor may optionally be placed within livestock housing 60 to determine the climate within the housing 60 so as to determine, most preferably with controller 210 and data processor 220, whether changes in feed consumption are related to climate changes in the housing 60 and further to optimize climate conditions based on gathered feeding data.
  • controller 210 and data processor 220 may optionally be placed within livestock housing 60 to determine the climate within the housing 60 so as to determine, most preferably with controller 210 and data processor 220, whether changes in feed consumption are related to climate changes in the housing 60 and further to optimize climate conditions based on gathered feeding data.
  • Optionally communication module 215 may provide wireless, wired, cellular, radio, optical communication between controller 210, actuating device 100, sensor module 130 and data processing module 220.
  • Optionally communication module 215 may further provide communication with automatic feeder system 70.
  • Optionally data processor module 220 may comprise at least one and more preferably a plurality of data repositories and/or parameter, and provide for data analysis, data abstraction and decision making capabilities with respect to the available data and sensed events optionally and preferably sensed with at least one sensor comprising sensor module 130.
  • daily feed consumption patterns based on operating times collected from different feed lines, may be stored to build up a history of expected feeding behavior. This history can then be analyzed to highlight changes in feed consumption. For example, if feeding levels drop below average previously recorded consumption this could be an indicator of flock disease. It could also indicate a change in the number of animals (for example, if some are sold early), which would cause a drop in general population and a drop in demand for food.
  • a drop in food demand can also be caused in a malfunction of the climate control or light control systems, which would also be detectable visible by continuously monitoring flock feeding patterns. Conversely, if feeding levels increase above average previously recorded levels then this could be an indicator of improved environmental conditions, or alternatively of a reduction in feed quality and calories - causing the growing animals to consume more feed than with high calorie food.
  • Data processor module 220 may obtain data with respect to and/or comprise a plurality of data repositories, for example including but not limited to livestock data 222, feed data 224, environmental data 226, market data 228, or the like.
  • livestock data 222 may for example include but is not limited to livestock growth charts, health history, age, livestock welfare data, vitality data, metabolic data, timing data or the like data specific and associated with the livestock.
  • feed data 224 may for example include but is not limited to expiration date, behavior at different temperatures, quality of product, expected consumption data, real consumption data, volume, availability, stock or the like.
  • market data 228 may for example include but is not limited to data associated with the marketing information associated with the livestock.
  • data may include, preferred market size, livestock prices, growth curves, feed prices, length of stay data or the like.
  • environmental data 226 may for example include any data associated with the internal environment that the livestock are exposed to or external environmental data that may affect the livestock or feed.
  • environmental data may include but is not limited to weather information, outdoor temperature, indoor temperature, humidity, livestock housing specific temperature, livestock housing environmental data, housing lighting regimen, data relating to livestock circadian rhythms or the like.
  • communication module 215 may provide for uploading and or downloading information from the internet, a server, an intranet or the like using communication protocols.
  • controller module 210, communication module 215 and data processing module 220, sensor module 130 may be for example be realized through a device comprising a processor for example including a computer, laptop computer, PDA, smart phone, android phone, a mobile telephone, server, a dedicated device or the like.
  • Apparatus and/or kit 202 may optionally include actuating device 100 which may be associated with a feed dispenser 90/91/92, optionally a slave unit and more preferably a master unit, while the controller 210 and data processor 220 and communication module 215 may be a stand-alone device and/or unit or incorporated, coupled and/or otherwise associated with automatic feeder system 70, for example with wired, wireless, cellular, optical, acoustic or the like communication protocols.
  • actuating device 100 which may be associated with a feed dispenser 90/91/92, optionally a slave unit and more preferably a master unit
  • the controller 210 and data processor 220 and communication module 215 may be a stand-alone device and/or unit or incorporated, coupled and/or otherwise associated with automatic feeder system 70, for example with wired, wireless, cellular, optical, acoustic or the like communication protocols.
  • FIG. 5A depicts an automatic livestock feeder system 300 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention comprising central feed supply 40, feed supply infrastructure 50, a plurality of feed dispensers 90, feed size and frequency actuating device 100, data processor module 220, communication module 215, sensors module 130 and controller module 210.
  • System 300 optionally comprises sensor module 130 that is incorporated with and/or associated with or at least one or more feed dispensers 90, optionally at least one master dispenser 90m or slave dispenser 90s.
  • feed supply infrastructure 50 may directly or indirectly be coupled, connected to, associated with and or otherwise incorporated with a feed actuation device 100, optionally at feed outlet point 160 (Figure 2B).
  • feed supply actuating device 100 may be incorporated into the piping utilized as part of the feed supply infrastructure 50 at feed outlet 160.
  • feed supply infrastructure 50 may comprise at least one and more preferably a plurality of individual production lines and most preferably at least three or more production lines.
  • Figure 5B depicts an optional embodiment of the present invention for an automatic livestock feeder system 302 comprising central feed supply 40, feed supply infrastructure 50, a plurality of feed dispensers 90, feed size and frequency actuating device 100, data processor module 220, communication module 215, sensors module 130 and controller module 210.
  • System 302 may optionally and preferably provide for an actuating device 100, as previously described, that is associated with a feed dispenser 90/91/92 and sensor module 130.
  • At least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one of feed dispenser 90/91/92 for example including but not limited to a master feed dispenser 90m and/or a slave feed dispenser 90s.
  • At least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one master feed dispenser 90m and a plurality of slave feed dispensers 90s.
  • feed supply infrastructure 50 may comprise at least one and more preferably a plurality of individual production lines and most preferably at least two or more production lines, of which three are shown for the purpose of illustration only and without any intention of being limiting: 50a, 50b and 50c.
  • At least one or more of actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more master feed dispensers 90m per production line 50a, 50b, 50c within the automatic feed dispensing system 302.
  • At least one actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more production line 50a, 50b, 50c of the automatic feed dispensing system 302 through at least one feed dispenser 90/91/92.
  • At least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system 302 through at least one feed dispenser 90/91/92.
  • at least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system 302 within one master feed dispenser 90m and a plurality of slave feed dispensers 90s.
  • At least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with all feed dispensers 90 associated with each production line of the automatic feed dispensing system 302.
  • At least one or more actuating device 100 may be installed, integrated or otherwise coupled with at least one or more master feed dispenser 90m per production line within the automatic feed dispensing system 302, therein preferably producing independently controllable sub- production lines segments within a production line.
  • sub- production lines within system 302 may be provided such that a sub-group utilizing system 302 is provided with its own customized sub-production line based on individual control of feed delivery frequency and feed volume with device 100 according to the present invention.
  • a flock comprising male and female birds of two different poultry breeds for example, fryers and broilers, may utilize system 302 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention by providing individual sub-production lines for each poultry type grown with system 302.
  • a first production line may be set up for the fryers and a second broiler.
  • two sub production lines may be set up for the male and female members.
  • each production line and sub-production line is provided with customizable feed volume and feed frequency.
  • a sub-production line of broiler male members may be provided with a low frequency feed delivery and a large volume feed at each delivery; a sub-production line of broiler female members may be provided with a medium frequency feed delivery and a medium volume feed at each delivery; a sub-production line of fryer male members may be provided with a high frequency feed delivery and a medium volume feed at each delivery; a sub-production line of fryer female members may be provided with high frequency feed delivery and a small volume feed at each delivery.
  • Figures 6A and 6B depict an optional embodiment of the present invention for an automatic livestock feeder system 304 comprising central feed supply 40, a closed loop feed supply infrastructure 52, a plurality of master feed dispensers 90m, feed size and frequency actuating device 100, data processor module 220, communication module 215, sensors module 130 and controller module 210.
  • Figure 6A provides a schematic block diagram of system 304 while Figure 6B provides an illustrative schematic floor plan of system 304 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention, for example comprising three livestock production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c.
  • System 304 preferably provides for a closed loop feed supply infrastructure so as to minimize feed waste while providing each feed dispenser with master control 90m, for example to provide the entire livestock flock with individualized control over their own dispenser plate 92.
  • FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method according to an optional embodiment of the present invention for optimizing livestock yields and parameters by utilizing a device and system for controlling livestock feed volume and feed delivery frequency.
  • livestock feed volume and feed delivery frequency are controlled in relation to at least one and more preferably a plurality of parameters for example including but not limited to environmental parameters, for example, enclosure climate, livestock parameters, market parameters, feed parameters, livestock behavioral parameters, livestock psychological parameters, livestock eating demand, livestock drinking, livestock cleaning behavior, livestock social activity, pavlovian behavior, flock migration and/or movement within housing, flock migration and/or movement relative to productions lines, eating demand in response to the system, imprinting behavior in response to the system, pavlovian behavior with respect to the system or the like alone or in any combination thereof.
  • environmental parameters for example, enclosure climate, livestock parameters, market parameters, feed parameters, livestock behavioral parameters, livestock psychological parameters, livestock eating demand, livestock drinking, livestock cleaning behavior, livestock social activity, pavlovian behavior, flock migration and/or movement within housing, flock migration and/or
  • livestock are introduced to the livestock housing 60.
  • data associated with data processing module 220 is uploaded for example with communication module 215, searched for and or otherwise attained.
  • data associated with the livestock, environment, housing, the grower, market data, weather, and/or feed data are obtained and associated with data processor 220 and/or controller 210.
  • livestock data may for example include the genotype, livestock growth chart, number of member in the flock, and expected weather forecast over the growing period.
  • stage 704 the data obtained or otherwise gathered in stage 702 is processed to integrate all aspects of the growing process, so as to optimize the growing process and to optimize livestock yields based on a number of parameter.
  • data processing may be performed by controller 210 and/or data processing module 220.
  • all available data is integrated to optimize at least one or more parameters that may optionally be selected by a user. For example a user may select to optimize the length of stay to reduce the stay from 42 days to 37 days. For example a user may elect to optimize flock size and weight, or the like.
  • Most preferably all controllable parameters for example feed meal size and feed delivery frequency are determined in order to optimize at least one or more user selected parameters.
  • stage 706 all adjustable parameters are adjusted accordingly to optimize livestock yield and/or uniformity.
  • the feed supply system is adjusted to optimize feed volume and frequency of feed delivery to provide continuous and/or constant feed demand about all production lines (50a, 50b, and 50c) and most preferably to increase livestock metabolism, welfare, FCR and FCE.
  • individual production lines 50a, 50b, and 50c may be individually controlled so as to provide optimal conditions for each of the production lines and provide flock growth rate uniformity by accounting for flock member variability while optimizing overall flock uniformity and flock growth rate.
  • production line 50a may have a high frequency small feed volume delivery accounting for smaller birds requiring continuous feeding; while production line 50b may have a medium frequency feed delivery and mediums feed volume delivered accounting for the average birds within the flock; while production line 50c may have low frequency feed delivery and large feed volume delivered so as to meet the variable needs of individual flock members within the livestock housing.
  • feed volume and feed frequency may be controlled about production lines 50a, 50b,and 50c, by coordinating the function of dispensers, for example dispenser 91, and data available via data processor module 220.
  • operation of dispenser 91 may be controlled by integrating a plurality of parameters relating to the livestock and dispensers for example including but not limited to livestock growth curve/potential, livestock intended growth stage, line specific distributors 44, 46 and 48 on-time, dispenser actuator (110 of Figures 3A to 3D) on-time, drive shaft switch (114 of Figures 3A to 3D) on time, or the like.
  • Dispenser 91 may, for example, be utilized to control the feed volume and frequency dispensed to a line 50a, 50b, or 50c such that if controller 210, based on data available through processor module 220, and in communication with communication module 215 and dispenser 91 determines that livestock are not adequately utilizing feed available at line 50a, controller 210 may signal to feed actuator device 100 via communication module 215 to decrease the feed volume so as to increase the feed frequency at dispenser 91 and thereby the feed frequency for all of line 50a.
  • the feed volume is preferably decreased by activating actuator 110 to manipulate drive shaft 112 down slot 118 via switch 114, relative to a wall 120, until it reaches a minimal feed level of slot 118 at the bottom of wall 120, therefore dispensing smaller volume feed at higher frequency to urge and/or attract livestock to dispenser 91 and line 50a more frequently therein increasing their metabolism, improving their general health and most preferably improving the feed conversion ratio (FCR).
  • FCR feed conversion ratio
  • the noise resultant from motor activation of line specific distributors 44, 46 and 48 urges livestock to a feeding plate therein leveraging the livestock's imprinting and/or pavlovian response behavior to feed in response to or when hearing the motor activation at a particular dispenser.
  • the motor activation of line specific distributors 44, 46 and 48 may optionally be preceded or followed by an audible cue such as a series of beeps that will likewise be associated by the flock with the onset of feed and feeding time. It can be also integrated by light effects generated by controller 220.
  • controller 210 and data processor module 220 determine the need to change feed volume and/or frequency of a particular line, for example 50a, 50b, or 50c, by comparing the relative time switch 114 is in the open position in each of the lines 50a, 50b, or 50c in order to regulate the activity of actuator 110.
  • a particular line for example 50a, 50b, or 50c
  • controller 210 manipulates the activity of actuator 110 according to the following rationale:
  • actuator 110 in line 50b to manipulate drive shaft 112 down one level along slot 118;
  • actuator 110 in line 50a to manipulate drive shaft 112 down one level along slot 118.
  • controller 210 and data processor module 220 may further control functioning of a production line, for example 50a, 50b, or 50c, by comparing the relative activation time and/or run time and/or On time' of actuator 110, to a default time threshold defining alarm state, upon which an alarm or the like indicator will be automatically communicated to controller 210 or user.
  • a default time threshold defining alarm state, upon which an alarm or the like indicator will be automatically communicated to controller 210 or user.
  • the time threshold and resultant activity may be user defined.
  • the threshold time is 50 minutes. For example, if actuator 110 continuously runs for a pre-defined period of time, for example more that 50 minutes or as defined by a user, an alarm will be sent to a user or controller to disable the functioning actuator 110.
  • a particular production line, 50c runs past the defined time threshold, for example 50 minutes, triggering an alarm or similar indicator that is communicated to controller 210 and/or user.
  • controller 210 and data processor module 220 may further control functioning of a production line, for example 50a, 50b, or 50c, by defining relative activation time limits a dispenser, for example dispenser 91, is activated at a particular feed volume.
  • a dispenser for example dispenser 91
  • a user may set time limits for example, minimum and/or maximum and/or interval, and/or net time, feed volume may remain at a particular feed volume before the feed volume is adjusted to a default, preferably user defined, feed volume.
  • a production line may deliver a particular feed volume for up to 6 hours without changing before controller 210 changes it to a default value.
  • stage 708 continuous monitoring and feedback control is provided most preferably by continuously gathering data and adjusting according to optimizable conditions as determined by the user.
  • the monitoring and relative adjustments may be done in real time.
  • stage 710 the flock is delivered to market.
  • flock is delivered in a substantially uniform size so as to meet market needs for size uniformity due to other automatic livestock handing processes for example slaughtering.
  • Table 1 reveals that the device, system and method of the present application lead to an increase in profit of about 2%.
  • Other savings have also been reported with respect to reduced energy bills, reduced livestock housing heating, cleaning, upkeep, gas for powering infrastructure 50, human resources have all shown vast improvement in terms of savings.
  • Table 2 reveals that the device, system and method of the present application lead to overall improved livestock yield as measured, and, for example a net profit increase of about 1.5%.
  • Other savings have also been reported with respect to reduced energy bills, reduced livestock housing heating, cleaning, upkeep, gas for powering infrastructure 50, human resources have all shown vast improvement in terms of savings.
  • Table 3 reveals that the device, system and method of the present application lead to overall improved livestock yield as measured, and, for example a net profit increase of about 3%.
  • Some of the increased profit has been attributed to savings with respect to reduced energy bills, reduced livestock housing heating, cleaning, upkeep, gas for powering automatic infrastructure system 50; human resources have all shown vast improvement in terms of savings.
  • Further statistical analysis further show that there was an increase in production line output where birds increased their weight gain by about 5.5% while reducing the mortality rate of the coop by 24%, all the while saving 9% of the used feed costs. The flock reached expected goal market weight on day 41, therefore allowing the flock to reach market size 4 days earlier than scheduled.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Birds (AREA)
  • Animal Husbandry (AREA)
  • Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
  • Feeding And Watering For Cattle Raising And Animal Husbandry (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif, un système et un procédé d'alimentation du bétail, et se réfère en particulier à un tel dispositif, système et procédé permettant de régler la taille et la fréquence d'apport des repas sur la base de paramètres mesurables et d'une courbe de croissance prévue du bétail, et de paramètres en temps réel.
EP14831468.5A 2013-07-29 2014-07-29 Dispositif, système et procédé d'alimentation du bétail Withdrawn EP3027014A4 (fr)

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US13/952,740 US9408369B2 (en) 2010-02-01 2013-07-29 Device, system and method for livestock feeding
PCT/IL2014/050686 WO2015015491A1 (fr) 2013-07-29 2014-07-29 Dispositif, système et procédé d'alimentation du bétail

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EP3027014A1 true EP3027014A1 (fr) 2016-06-08
EP3027014A4 EP3027014A4 (fr) 2017-07-12

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IL267887B2 (en) * 2019-07-07 2023-05-01 Ambar Feed Mills Acs Ltd System and method for preparing feeding mixtures
CN113455415B (zh) * 2021-06-29 2023-04-07 长沙瑞和数码科技有限公司 猪场食料给送方法、装置、终端设备及可读存储介质
CN113875643B (zh) * 2021-10-09 2022-11-01 安徽科瑞达禽业有限公司 一种大层叠育雏设备食槽调节板高度改进装置

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US1684334A (en) * 1927-04-07 1928-09-11 Robert F Toope Automatic poultry feeder
US20120116832A1 (en) * 2010-02-01 2012-05-10 Dubinsky Ziv Device, system and method for livestock feeding

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EP3027014A4 (fr) 2017-07-12
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