MX2007005078A - Cattle management system and method. - Google Patents

Abstract

A cattle management system and method are provided for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, managing feeding operations at a feed lot wherein ration changes can be automatically triggered by parameters and rules established for each feed lot, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUEST This application is a continuation request in part to the Patent application of E. U. A. No. 11 / 228,020, filed on September 14, 2005 entitled "System and Method of Livestock Management", which claims the priority of the Provisional Application of E.U.A. No. 30 / 609,914 filed September 14, 2004, the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the management of animals such as livestock during the livestock production life cycle, and more particularly, to procedures and data management systems that allow the management of livestock on an individual basis from the time in which An animal is born until the time it is killed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Automation in the livestock industry was established by several livestock management systems that track livestock in various stages within a production cycle. These systems were developed in response to economic factors in the industry that demand more efficient and cost-effective livestock management. In these systems, data is collected and processed to allow livestock industry personnel to improve their return on investment. An example of the prior art of a livestock management system is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,673,647. this reference specifically describes an automation system for individual animal identification, measurement and value based on livestock management in a feed batch operation. The invention uses an integrated computer system with automatic individual animal identification, multiple measurement and re-metering system, and a livestock control and classification system. The animals are identified and measured individually by weight, and external dimensions and characteristics of the internal body tissue are taken. This information is coupled with animal physiological characteristics and historical data that allow the calculation of an optimum slaughter weight, economic end point, and marketing date for shipment to a packing plant. After the measurement, the individual animals are classified in response to calculations of the measurements. The computer system also calculates each animal share of the total feed income for the animal feed group. The computer system stores the individual animal measurement, performance and location data, which are used by the feed batch management to select feeding animals for batch feeding for slaughter at the optimum time. Allowing animal boarding to a slaughter facility, identification in the system identification in the computer system is used to correlate physical characteristics of live animal and performance data with the data of corpse characteristics measured and evaluated through the procedure of slaughter. Therefore, a database can be constructed to more accurately identify and measure value-based characteristics and subsequent animals produced and fed at the most effective value based on animal selection and management. While this reference may describe a livestock management system for a feed batch operation, the feed batch operation is only one operation that is included within the life cycle of total livestock production. More broadly, the livestock industry can conceptually fall into two major components, mainly producers and feed lots. Livestock producers include ranch operations that maintain cow herds. Herds produce calves that grow and typically feed on pasture land. The calves are allowed to reach a certain maturity, and the next phase in the cultivation of the cattle is to transfer to a feeding lot where they feed on grain and other products until they reach an optimum size for slaughter. Before transferring to a feed batch, livestock can also be transformed into growth operations where livestock undergo intensive management to achieve the desired growth. The feedlot can be considered a final processing phase before slaughter where not only animals achieve the optimum size for slaughter, but also closely monitored to look for diseases and other physical discomforts that would prevent them from killing themselves in time. Recently, the proposed reporting requirements were developed in the form of a unique federal animal identification and premise identification program. Although this program has not been formalized into federal or state regulations, it is anticipated that the proposed federal program will require that each animal be identified individually by a unique animal identifier that will be used to track farm animal to market and market to slaughter. Additionally, identification programs may require a premise identifier for purposes of identifying the origin premise where each production unit (for example, each ranch operation) would be assigned a unique identifier. Therefore, the premise number and animal number can be used to record and trace all aspects of a production cycle for each animal. This national animal identification system was primarily driven by an issue of outbreaks of animal disease around the world increasing public interest in developing an identification program to protect animal health.

Therefore, a need for a comprehensive data management system was developed where the data can be gathered and processed not only concerning the important economic factors to determine immersion return, but also to comply with proposed regulations concerning animal health. . More specifically, in order to achieve compliance with respect to a national single animal identification reporting program, there must be a system that provides absolute certainty when identifying an animal during any stage of its production life cycle, thereby It requires that animal identification be achieved without loss of identification through a label device that inadvertently separates from the animal. There are many livestock tagging systems in existence that rely on external or internal tagging devices that can be identified visually or by an electronic reading device. For example, an RFID tag can be attached externally or internally to an animal; however, this type of labeling device can be separated from the animal thereby resulting in the inability to continuously check the particular animal. There is also a need for an integrated data processing system that is based on centralized storage of animal information to be verified, thereby enabling some personnel in the livestock industry to access, transfer and process data more easily. Currently, many prior art systems incorporate data gathering at various levels in the production cycle of an animal. Data transfer becomes more difficult in these systems since the data is generated and stored in many different locations and in many different formats. In other words, the gathering and processing of information is currently very divided where each batch of feed, breeder, or producer can have their own identification system that does not allow easy import or export of data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, a data processing system is provided to allow the collection, transfer and processing of data through the complete production cycle of individual animals. Some significant functionality of the present system includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by using unique identification data for each animal, record all verified events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, and report the events and locations when required by government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the livestock industry. Additional functionality of the present system includes the ability to send and receive location and event data concerning each animal between the data processing system of the present invention and the external data processing systems at any stage during an animal production system. The ability to achieve the above functionality is enhanced by incorporating information storage either in feed batch locations, or in a single central database. For example, the location history, treatment history, processing history, and any other significant event that is experienced by the animal may be recorded by the present invention and stored at locations of the feeding lot or in a central database to accommodate the necessary data transfer or handling.

The data entered into the system can be achieved on a multiple facility basis, and unique reports can be generated at each level or facility based on parameters chosen for reporting. The data processing of the present invention includes a computer software program that can be conceptually divided into two modules or main sections. The first module is referred to here as the cow / calf module or ranch module, and the second module is referred to as the feed breeder / batch operation module. The breeder / feedlot module can also be divided into several sub-modules that include animal health, feed management, animal inventory, drug inventory / comfort, data file maintenance, data interfaces, and data reporting. Although the present invention contemplates several known methods for labeling an animal, the preferred method is to incorporate retinal image identification. As understood by those skilled in the art, retinal imaging systems exist to provide reliable identification through retinal verification since each animal has a unique retinal pattern that serves as the basis for absolute identification. A company that provides retinal imaging solutions for the livestock industry is Optibrand Ltd., LLC of Fort Collins, Colorado. In the cow / calf module of the present invention as discussed below, the data is generated, stored, manipulated and transferred based on basic activities that occur in a cow / calf operation. Each of these activities involves actions of an individual animal or groups of animals. These activities can be summarized as follows: a. Reception of cattle, that term refers to animals that are carried to a particular cow / veal operation periodically for various reasons to increase a herd, modify particular characteristics of a herd, etc. b. Receiving inventory, this term refers to the receipt of various supplies that includes medicine, equipment, and the like that is used in a cow / veal operation. The receipt and use of these supplies at least requires an inventory function, and may also require tracking how livestock supplies are administered, particularly with respect to medications. c. Processing, that term generally refers to the standard or routine actions that take place with respect to the introduction of an animal to the herd either through a new birth, or transfer of livestock in an existing herd. Examples of standard actions that occur within the processing include installation of an animal marker (such as a visual tag, RFID tag, retinal check, etc.), separation of animals between baths, and initial physical examinations. d. Treatment, that term refers to preventive or remedial actions taken to return an animal to normal health. Therefore, the treatment would include administration of various medications, procedures performed by a veterinarian, etc. and. Movement, this term refers to the classification of livestock within a particular pen or pasture that occurs over time to group and separate animals as necessary based on the progress of growth, health, and other factors. F. Birth, this term refers to a birth of calves. g. Pregnancy reviews, this term is self-explanatory and although it should be considered a subgroup of treatment, pregnancy reviews are a standard procedure that can be distinguished from treatment. h. Parenting, this term is self-explanatory and generally refers to actions taken with respect to preparing animals for, and conducting breeding. i. Feeding, this term refers to all activities associated with feeding animals to include verification inventory for improved feeding to animals, and the types of feeding provided to animals. j. Boarding, this term refers to the actions taken to move an animal from a cow / calf operation to a breeder / batch operation. With respect to the feed breeder / batch module of the present invention as also discussed below, there are also certain actions / general activities that occur for which the data is generated, stored, manipulated and transferred. These activities are summarized as follows: a. Receiving livestock, this term also refers to animals that are taken to a particular feeding lot or hatchery after the animal was shipped from a cow / calf operation. Detailed data entries occur for this activity to record the type of animal received, its weight, and owner, and other pertinent data. b. Receipt of inventory, this term also refers to the receipt of various supplies that include medications, equipment, labeling devices, and other materials that are used in a hatchery or feed batch. The receipt and use of these supplies requires an inventory function, to include a record of how and when particular medications are administered to livestock. c. Processing, this term generally refers to standard or routine actions that take place with respect to the introduction of the animal in a particular pen or lot within the nursery / feeding lot. A standard action that occurs within the processing here is an initial physical examination and labeling of the animal with another identifier. d. Treatment, this term again refers to preventive or remedial actions taken to return an animal to normal health. and. Called, this term refers to the act of requesting a certain quantity and type of feeding to be delivered to a room or particular location within the nursery / feeding lot. This calling function can be generated by an existing room reader system that generates a feeding order based on the number and types of animals within a particular pen and lot. F. Grouping, this term refers to the act of preparing food and feed additives, medications, and other nutritional supplements to be delivered in response to a call. g. Feeding, this term refers to all activities associated with feeding animals to include verification inventory for feeding provided to animals, and types and amounts of feeding provided to animals, among other information. This term may overlap with the calling and grouping functions. h. Boarding, this term refers to the act of moving cattle from the hatchery / location of a particular feed lot to a slaughterhouse.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is an information flow diagram illustrating a basic flow of information within the data processing system of the present invention; Figure 2 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating an example of implementation of the data processing system of the present invention within various organizations; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating external information systems that can be connected to the data processing system of the present invention; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a central database and several functional modules communicating with the central database for storage, retrieval, data transfer and other functions of the modules; Figure 5 illustrates a user registration screen; Figure 6 illustrates a user screen for a particular location within a facility for accessing the system; Figure 7 is a table that provides examples of pre-assigned criteria; Figure 8 is a user screen for creation of a recommended treatment based on one or more criteria; Figure 9 is a user screen for determining when a serving must be changed based on one or more criteria; Figure 10 is a user interface screen to determine how a ration should be fed to one or more animals in a period of time based on one or more criteria; Figure 11 is a user screen to determine how animals should be classified based on one or more criteria; Figure 12 is a user screen for establishing custom criteria associated with any desired management function to include feeding, processing, and sorting; Figure 13 illustrates a scroll menu for entering new animals in the cow / calf module or for transferring data in or out of the module; Figure 14 illustrates a user screen for selecting the location wizard option of the scroll menu of Figure 13; Figure 15 illustrates a user screen for data entry of particular premise locations; Figure 16 illustrates a user screen for recording livestock movement; Figure 17 illustrates a user screen for selecting individual cattle to move from one location to another location; Figure 18 illustrates another shift menu for input of unique tag identifiers for each animal; Figure 19 illustrates a user screen to select various options to include order labels, load label information from a manufacturer, generate a label range, import label lists, and enter individual label information; Figure 20 illustrates a user screen for entering new tag data to include electronic identification information; Figure 21 illustrates a user screen to choose whether to add a new calf record or to update an existing calf record; Figure 22 illustrates a user screen for entering information on a particular animal in the system where a user establishes a group date; Figure 23 is a user screen for assigning unique animal identification information such as an electronic identification number; Figure 24 illustrates another scroll menu option of a user screen to enable data transfer; Figure 25 is a user screen for sending data to a particular selected location; Figure 26 is another scroll menu of a user screen to receive data from another location; Figure 27 illustrates a user screen for selecting a particular location for importing data; Figure 28 illustrates a user screen for data entry for initial processing of animals while they are received in a feed batch; Figure 29 illustrates a user screen that includes a list of drugs of the drug list button of Figure 28 to modify an existing drug, such as adding or removing a particular drug from an available list of drugs; Figure 30 is a user screen for selecting a report showing the processing history of the particular animal or group of animals; Figure 31 is a user screen for individual animal processing; Figure 32 is a user screen to also enter data about an animal while processing; Figure 33 is a user screen for selecting particular animal processing parameters to be entered and registered; Figure 34 is a user screen for programming animal treatments; Figure 35 is a user screen for indicating pending work orders; Figure 36 is a user screen showing a sample report corresponding to the pending work order chosen from Figure 35; Figure 37 is a user screen for modifying data previously entered with respect to processing for animals; Figure 38 is another user screen for modifying previously entered data with respect to processing / processing of a specific animal; Figure 39 illustrates a user screen for revision of the treatment history and for data entry of the new treatment; Figure 40 is a user screen for modifying treatment data and for entering additional treatment data completed at an earlier date; Figure 41 illustrates a user screen where a user selected from a treatment history list a particular treatment date; Figure 42 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated recommended treatment selection procedure; Figure 43 is a user screen illustrating data entry for recording receipt of animals received from another location; Figure 44 illustrates a user screen for generating a feed batch label; Figure 45 is a user screen for recording group animal movements; Figure 46 is a user screen for recording group movement of multiple pens in an individual pen; Figure 47 is a user screen for registering animals boarding; Figure 48 is a user screen illustrating detailed information for registering shipment of a particular animal; Figure 49 is a user screen for registering shipment by individual animal as opposed to registering the shipment of a group of animals; Figure 50 is a user screen for entering data with respect to a change in status of a particular animal; Figure 51 is a user screen showing an example of an animal that was designed as a detractor; Figure 52 is a user screen illustrating an example of an animal that was designed as a performer; Figure 53 illustrates a user screen that allows data entry for individual animal selection to register as even moving from one location to another; Figure 54 is a user screen that provides information regarding the location of animals at a designated time; Figure 55 is a user screen for modifying existing data with respect to a dead animal; Figure 56 is a user screen for modifying existing information from a detractor record; Figure 57 is a user screen for modifying existing data with respect to a producer record; Figure 58 is a schematic diagram illustrating an automated classification criteria procedure of the present invention; Figure 59 is a user screen showing the manner in which livestock can be classified where the individual animal data appears on the user's screen once the animal's label is read, the screen further illustrates where the animal originates and the location to which the animal is transferred in the sorting operation; Figure 60 is a user screen that illustrates even another example of custom criteria that was developed for both feeding and processing criteria; Figure 61 is a user screen showing a list of diagnostic codes that correspond to a particular malaise or condition; Figure 62 illustrates a user screen for handling similar groupings of criteria used through many different facilities to accommodate comparison and analysis of facilities; Figure 63 is a user screen for viewing the inventory to include items such as drugs, and allowing the user to modify such information as necessary; Figure 64 is a user screen to record the inventory that is received; Figure 65 is a user screen to adjust the inventory; Figure 66 is a user screen to review the inventory of a particular drug; Figure 67 is a user screen illustrating an implant status code that provides a pre-set list of its installed implants for animal identification purposes; Figure 68 is a user screen illustrating a recommended treatment that allows a user to enter particular treatment protocols or recommendations for a specified diagnosis; Figure 69 is another example of a user screen to create a recommended treatment based on several criteria, and a mathematical relationship applied to the criteria; Figure 70 is a user screen to view recommended treatments or to disable the presentation of recommended treatments during animal processing; Figure 71 is a user screen showing another example of data entry to establish another custom criterion; Figure 72 is a user screen for data entry of modifications to any of the individual status fields for a particular animal to include tag information and animal condition; Figure 73 is a user screen for establishing preferences for how data should be configured for transmission to another entity; Figure 74 is a user screen for data entry corresponding to associates within the data processing system; Figure 75 is a data entry screen that reads codes; Figure 76 is a data entry screen to establish particular facilities within the data processing system; Figure 77 is a data entry screen for editing specific data that concerns each facility; Figure 78 is a user screen for configuring a desired type of connection to be established between local or central database servers and a particular facility; Figure 79 is a user screen for establishing a device driver that allows a field device such as a scale to download information directly into the database of the data processing system; Figure 80 is another user screen for establishing another field device assigned to a designated location within the facility; Figure 81 is a user screen for configuration of source descriptions; Figure 82 is a user screen for designating location destinations such as pastures; Figure 83 is a user screen for configuring particular locations such as pen members; Figure 84 is a user screen for configuring sex codes and descriptions of each animal; Figure 85 is a user screen for recording weather data for a particular date and time; Figure 86 is a user screen that allows an administrator to identify and configure access for each and every user of the system; Figure 87 is another user screen that allows an administrator to choose access to the particular facility for each user in the system; Figure 88 is a user screen for establishing an interface with a financial billing system; Figure 89 is another user screen to establish an interface with a financial billing system; Figure 90 is a user screen illustrating options for configuring a billing interface; Figure 91 is a user screen for selecting the particular type of interface and interface application; Figure 92 is a user screen for configuring a packer data interface; Figures 93-137 illustrate illustrative reports that may be generated from data recorded in the data processing system and particularly belonging to the animal health sub-module and animal inventory sub-module; Figure 138 is a user screen for establishing power handling parameters for the power handling sub-module of the present invention; Figure 139 is a user screen for configuring a room reading screen used by room readers in driving power operations; Figure 140 is a user screen for establishing power divides; Figure 141 is a user screen for establishing data elements to be presented on loading cards / feed sheets; Figure 142 is a user screen that lists particular ingredients that may be chosen to be displayed on the load cards / feed sheets; Figure 143 is a ration change criteria screen that allows a user to enter rules that govern when the system will generate a recommendation that a ration change takes place for a selected group of animals; Figure 144 is a feed split criteria screen that allows a user to enter rules that govern how the system will calculate feed values during the change from one assigned ration to another; Figure 145 is a reading supply sequence screen that allows a user to define zones or groups of pens within a feed yard, and the order in which feeding rooms in this area are read and receive rations; Figure 146 is a user screen for entering information with respect to food trucks located at a particular facility; Figure 147 is a custom criteria screen that allows a user to add custom feeding criteria; Figure 148 is a macro-ingredient screen that allows a user to enter and modify available macro-ingredients for use in ration formulations; Figure 149 is a receipt screen that allows a user to place received macro-ingredients; Figure 150 is a macro-ingredients adjustment screen that allows a user to manually adjust inventories of macro-ingredients; Figure 151 is a power supply time table screen that allows a user to enter and modify target delivery times for locations within a feed batch; Figure 152 is a ration master screen that allows a user to enter and modify available rations in the feed yard; Figure 153 is a feed management menu selection screen, primarily, one of two basic formats available to a user for room reading entry screens; Figure 154 allows the other basic format available to a user for a fourth reading input screen; Figures 155 and 156 illustrate the detailed feeding history tabs of the room reading entry screens; Figure 157 illustrates an abbreviated format for a fourth reading input screen; Figure 158 shows a daily scrollable screen that allows a user to prepare feeding tabs for the next feeding date; Figure 159 is a production and power supply screen that allows a user to enter and execute transactions associated with the basic power management functions; Figure 160 shows a projected production sheet of illustrative feed mill; Figure 161 shows a user screen for selecting the order in which data is transmitted to a feed mill / micro-ingredient system grouping system; Figure 162 shows a user screen for presenting power supply options; Figure 163 illustrates a user screen that presents load data for a particular power; Figure 164 is a post-feeding per screen of pens that allow a user to manually place feed quantities to feed calls made; Figure 165 is a global power change screen that allows a user to globally change a selected group of feeds; Figure 166 is a quarter reading night screen that allows a user to enter setup times; Figure 167 is a screen of quarter reading action assignments that allow a user to establish designated actions to be programmed for selected pens; Figure 168 is a supplementary ration allocation screen allowing a user to call a supplementary feeding ration; Figure 169 is a mass ration change screen that allows a user to globally change a called ration code; Figure 170 is a post-feed-through screen of loads that allow a user to manually place delivered feed quantities and charged feed quantities for each load delivered; Figure 171 is a user screen for notifying a user that a change of ration was programmed which may affect a calculated withdrawal time; Figure 172 is a user screen allowing another notification to a user that a ration change was scheduled; Figure 173 is a user screen showing a general notification on a fourth reading input screen with respect to the use of a serving with a recall requirement; Figure 174 is a livestock shipment screen that allows a notice to the user that the selected cattle can not embark as scheduled due to a withdrawal requirement; Figures 175-194 illustrate several screens and parameter selection reports generated from the selected parameters that relate to the values of tables used in the feed management module; Figures 195-214 illustrate various parameter selection screens and generated reports of the selected parameters that relate to power supply functions; Figures 215-229 show additional parameter selection screens and feed management reports generated from selected parameters that include several feed analysis reports that help in the management of animal performance analysis and the effectiveness of the feed delivery procedure. feeding; Figures 230-236 show even other additional parameter selection screens and reports generated from the selected parameters that include other reports that detail information associated with supply of feed to pens in a selected facility.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 1. System review Figure 1 is an information flow chart that shows basic information flow within the data processing system, and the organizations that generate, transfer and receive information. Beginning with a ranch or cow / calf operation 10, the information is generated and requested to be transferred to one or more intermediate breeder operations 20. The breeders generate and transfer information to the feed lots 30. The feed lots 30 generate and transmit information to the packers 40. The information can also be generated and transferred from external sources 50 and integrated into the information that is created, stored, and transferred at each level between the ranch operation and the packers. For example, external source 50 could generate information with respect to new animals that are taken to a particular flock from a third party source. Also as shown in Figure 1, the information transferred to ranchers, breeders, feeding lots and packers does not necessarily travel between associations or exclusive relationships; more than that the ranchers also make periodic business transactions with several breeders, the breeders make business transactions with several batches of feed, and the feed lots will do business transactions with several packers. Also as shown in Figure 1, a corporate entity 60 is shown to have an interest in receiving and transmitting data to various organizations. A corporate entity would include those with performance tracking of feed lots or ranches, or the corporate entity could be a financial institution that calculates the return on investment for a particular feed lot, hatchery or shipper. Figure 2 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the data processing system of the present invention can be incorporated within various organizations of the system. Two ranch 10 operations are illustrated, namely, ranch 12 and ranch 14. Each of the ranches would have a sufficiently powerful computer and local databases to operate the cow / calf module. As further discussed below, the cow / calf module is specifically designed to gather all the data associated with breeding, hatching, and processing operations at a ranch location. The cow / calf module can be considered an isolated herd management tool, and the cow / calf module can cope with the feedlot / breeder module. Two feedlot operations 30 are illustrated, namely, feedlot 32 and feedlot 34. Each of the feed batches may include its own server and local data base (s) for storage of data generated in the module. of breeder / feeding lot. Within the feeding lots, you can find several other computers that enter data directly into the database (s) on the local servers. For example, each of the feed lots 32 and 34 are shown as including separate work stations within the feed batch that directly enter information into the local database. These workstations include a processing station, hospital A and hospital B. These stations would not have their own databases, otherwise they would directly update the local database found on the local server. Figure 2 also illustrates other organizations within the system to include a packer 40 financial institution 60. These organizations are also shown without databases as they would simply request data from local servers in the feed lots, or transfer data to local servers . Figure 2 also illustrates the use of a web server 70 that includes its own central database. It may also be desirable to have a web server with a central database that could eventually serve as the individual repository for data storage within the system. That way, if a web server was used, the local servers in the feed lots could temporarily store data until they are transferred to the central database. Accordingly, each of the organizations within the system could then access data from the central database as opposed to accessing data on each of the separate local servers. In some circumstances, incorporating a central database into a web server could better facilitate the ability to more efficiently store and update system information, as well as improve the ability to transfer data to multiple organizations. Referring again to Figure 2, instead of the web server 70 being a central repository for data storage, the web server 70 could simply act as an FTP server and secure Internet that could provide a secure means of transferring data between organizations in the system, and transferred data are only resident in the server 70 while transferring between the systems and then being removed when the data transfer is complete. In that way, web server 70 could simply be an Internet FTP site. Another important aspect of the present invention is the ability to cope with various other information systems and data acquisition equipment for data entry into the system. Referring now to Figure 3, a schematic diagram is provided to illustrate some illustrative external information systems that may be confronted with the data processing system of the present invention. The system 80 of the present invention is described as an animal management system that deals with a larger number of external information systems to include industry banking market systems 82, feed batch financial systems 84, portable maintenance devices 86, packer 88 data systems, 90 milling cluster systems, uniform 92 supply truck systems, 94 electronic sorting systems, state and federal unique ID systems 96, various RS 232 98 devices, and systems cow / calf 100. Methods d data transfer between the animal management system 80 and external systems can be recording media (such as CD diskettes, etc.), Internet FTP, Intranet, and various network configurations such as wide area and local networks as discussed below. The cow / calf systems 100 refer to third-party cow / calf systems which may be similar to the cow / calf module of the present invention, specifically designed for animal handling at a ranch location. Typically, cow / calf systems 100 are isolated computer systems that are installed and operated at each separate ranch location. These systems record all the data of father and mother together with the records of all the calves born at the ranch location. These systems also record all calf treatment while at the ranch location. These systems can also be designed to analyze herd data and assist ranch management in detailed herd management functions. The herd management function can be designed to receive data associated with feeding, treatment and packer production from other systems and supplies that they report will help in ranch management in fine tuning their breeding programs for better return on investment. Typical interface methods for a cow / calf system may include means of recording or transferring via Internet FTP. With all the interfaces incorporated with the present invention, the preferred method of transfer is a secure Internet FTP server. For many cow / calf systems, the secondary transfer method would probably be a recording medium such as optical disks, magnetic disks, or other similar mass storage devices. In terms of a data format during transfer, a convenient protocol would be for storing the data in a flat ASCII file format. The data can then be reconfigured within the feed batch or web server servers as desired based on the type of resident databases that can be found at each location. A uniform power supply truck system 92 includes those truck-based computer systems that control the uniform supply of power to a feed room. These systems control the amount and speed at which the feeding of the power truck is distributed based on a previous call of each feeding room. The animal handling system of the present invention can send data to the supply truck system to include information such as serving codes, serving call quantities, room locations, and other room specifications dictating the supply of food to the feeding rooms. The feed truck systems in turn record the actual ration quantities supplied to the feed room to include truck identification and driver identification. The preferred method of data transfer between the system of the present invention and the truck systems of The power supply is carried to a radio frequency connection using a network or radio modem. Secondary methods of data transfer may be used as any type of registration means. A portable treatment device 86 is a remote device that is designed to record certain transactions associated with the animal health module of the present invention without a direct connection to the system database while recording the transaction. These types of laptops record individual animal treatments, processing and individual animal receipt transactions. The data validation tables together with active animal identification data are downloaded to these laptops before being used and then the registered transactions will be downloaded to the database of the present invention and placed in the database. The preferred method of transferring data between the invention and the laptop would be through a network protocol that uses a radio frequency connection, a Bluetooth protocol or a cable connection. The cable connection could be a number of known connections such as RS232 / USB connections. A secondary method of transfer could include the use of recording media. The mill cluster systems 90 are computer systems that control the feed mixing equipment located in a feed mill. These systems select ration formula and group sizes to be mixed by the mill equipment. The current system can transfer data to the systems of mill grouping in summary or detailed levels. A summary level d would simply transfer a particular ration code total call quantity to the grouping system, and the grouping system could meet the grouping quantities in the size and content as required. The actual group content for each ration could be transferred back to the system of the group control system. At a more detailed level, the transfer could be obtained for truck group identification numbers, group sizes, pens to supply and group ingredient content to the mill cluster systems, and the actual group ingredient amounts together with the group identification that would be returned to the system. The preferred method of data transfer between the present system and the clustering system would be through the network protocol using a radio frequency connection or a cable connection. A secondary method of transfer could be used as any of the means of registration. Power lot 84 financial systems refer to the various computer systems of industry-specific financial control. The data processing of the present invention sends data associated with livestock inventory, animal health care data and animal feed data for these financial control systems. The data processing system may then receive certain selected data elements associated with livestock groups and individual animals of these financial control systems. The preferred method of data transfer could be through the network protocol using a radio frequency connection or a cable connection. Secondary methods of data transfer from any of the recording means could be used. The packer data systems 88 refer to packer packer production data files in the form of files containing production data identified by the unique animal identification numbers. The current system places such production data into individual animal records in the databases of the present invention. These production data can in turn be used to analyze individual animals or groups of animals to return the investment, producer evaluation, and buyer evaluation or may face the cow / calf system again to assist the ranch administrator with the herd evaluation or return of investment. The preferred method of data transfer or packer data systems could be through a secure Internet FTP server. A secondary method of transfer could be used as any type of recording medium. The federal state unique ID systems 96 refer to the transfer of data between the present system and those federal and state entities that may require unique animal identification data and unique premise data. The present invention could have the ability to transfer unique animal IDs along with premise IDs, as well as certain activities associated with each animal to the various state and federal agencies requesting information on individual animals and individual locations. The preferred method of transferring data between the present invention and the various state and federal agencies could be through a secure Internet FTP server. The secondary method of transfer could be any means of registration. For marking systems of industry group 82, the present invention has the ability to send individual animal data containing treatment, feed and production data to the various industry banking marking systems. Industry reference systems 92 refer to those that analyze data of power letters to determine basic productivity / benefit of organizations within the industry. The preferred method of transferring data between the bank dialing systems and the present invention would be through a secure Internet FTP server. A secondary method of the transfer could be any type of recording means. The electronic order systems 94 refer to those systems of external order that allow the automatic generation of supply orders to meet the supply needs of a particular location such as a ranch or batch of food. The present invention would automatically transfer data to electronic ordering systems based on the current, projected inventory, pre-established order levels, reordering points, and any other criteria established for storage required of any of the supplies. The preferred method of data transfer could be through a secure Internet FTP server. The secondary method of transfer could be to fax the generated order documents to a particular order processing group that controls the consumer orders. The various RS232 98 devices refer to field devices such as scales, label readers, temperature measurement devices, and retinal review devices. These devices can be connected to the pre-sent data processing system through cables, radio frequency connections, or other connections. The data being recorded by these devices can be passed from a particular terminal location or work station directly to the data base (s) of the present invention.

Figure 4 illustrates another schematic diagram illustrating an example of how a central database is incorporated within the present invention. As mentioned above, with respect to web server 70, this central database can receive on the web server, or any other local servers of the system that transfer data to and from several other servers. More specifically, this central database can be incorporated into any or all of the modules that allow a user to provide data entries that are then accessible to all system functions. In the example, the individual or central database is represented as animal management database 81 for the breeder feeding lot module. The four primary functions of the breeder feedlot module are illustrated as being associated with the animal management database, namely, file maintenance 83, animal health 85, animal inventory 87, and feed management 89. All the data that relates to these four primary functions are stored within the animal management database 81. By use of the individual central database, the multiple data entries for the same event or data entries are deleted, and an individual data entry can potentially affect any number of module functions that assume that module functions require data in one or more data fields of the function. For example, when an individual animal is treated in the animal health module and moved to a hospital pen, an entry is made that records that the animal has moved to the hospital pen. This data entry can be created in any number of different ways to include a radio beacon d RFID responses that interrogates the animal tag and then the radio beacon response communicates with the system for input d data of the tag ID. A feeding power module calculation for the animal's home pen after it is affected by the removal of the animal to the hospital pen. That is, the feeding calculation is reduced to an appropriate amount to count the absence of the animal in the home pen. The power calculation function incorporates an algorithm or mathematical expression that requires a daily head count, and the daily head count is determined by data entry analysis that corresponds to the data locations of the animals. The feed management module feeding calculation for the hospital pen is also affected to count the transfer of the animal to the hospital pen, where the feeding call increases an appropriate amount to count the animal arriving at the hospital pen. Accordingly, all movements of livestock activity to include the complete pen or partial pen movements by an individual data entry that records movement results in the automatic adjustment of feed calling functions to both obtain and lose pens. In order to better understand the data processing system, a number of presentations or user interface screens are provided to show the functionality of the system while applying to the various ones that create data inputs, transfer data and manipulate data, and that therefore they result in the ability to track, verify, and report on animal handling. These presentations would typically be provided on a user's screen of a computer monitor. The terms "user screen" or "user interface screen" shall be understood to encompass any visual presentation of data and system information provided to the user. A conventional user ID and password convention can be incorporated with the id to provide each user in the system with a specified excess to several functions of the data processing system. Thus, the present invention specifically contemplates preconfiguration of the total data processing system where users in a particular premise location can only have limited access to data generated from other locations. The system access is discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 76 and 77. Figure 5 illustrates a simplified registration screen that allows a user to select a particular entity / organization that is being addressed and a particular facility within the organization. By the selection of an organization and particular facility, the user identifies the particular database to access. Figure 6 is another screen that allows a user to select the particular location within a facility for accessing systems. There may be multiple locations assigned to a particular facility, each having limited data entry capabilities or system access. For example, a particular location within a feeding lot could be a processing station that has a weight scale and a label reader. This station could therefore have the ability to enter, weigh and label data. Figure 6 specifically shows a hospital location. As mentioned above, it must be understood that there are many ways in which data can be transferred. A common method is simply an Internet connection of a particular station / work location that communicates with the web server or local servers. However, some locations may have the need to incorporate intermediate data that is gathered through devices that do not directly interfere with a server. For example, with respect to the retinal examination of animals once they enter an inventory, the retinal examination device may incorporate a portable unit or that creates a digital image of an animal retina, and then the image is temporarily stored in the portable device until the image can be downloaded to a nearby workstation. A user can choose to enter data according to pre-configured scrolling menus. Alternatively, the user can choose to enter data manually by entering keyboards. Data can also be entered through the integration of remote processing devices, such as the RS 232 devices mentioned above. As another example, RFID tags are interrogated by a scanner, and the scanner can deal with the present system to allow direct entry of data by the scanner. A particularly important aspect of the present invention is the ability to manage livestock by producing recommended management actions driven by previously established logical relationships between gathered data and desired final results. Once a particular relationship between the gathered data and the desired end result is satisfied, the recommended management action can be adapted by the user simply by complying with the recommendation action. The recommended action is some form of an instruction such as a message produced by the user to view on a user interface screen, or a message that appears on a printed management report. Thus, the present invention has an active predictive feature that allows livestock managers to proactively manage livestock as opposed to driving only in a reactive manner. For example, four basic livestock management functions with detailed capabilities are provided within the breeder feedlot module, namely, (1) what treatments should be administered to an animal, (2) when the allowance assigned to a feedlot should be changed. of livestock (3) as the ration allocated for a livestock pen should be distributed during feeding programming, that is, when and how the ration should distributed to the livestock pen based on a prewritten feeding schedule; and (4) classifying livestock based on similar or similar characteristics among livestock. These four functions can be conceptually viewed as subroutines within the module. One or more criteria are established that correspond to categories of animal characteristics or other data gathered about an animal or groups of animals for management purposes. The criteria can be stored as a selected list of pre-assigned data. The criteria are used within the user-defined logic such as algorithms or mathematical expressions. The numerical values of the algorithms / expressions correspond to one or more recommended actions, such as a proposed treatment or a proposed feeding ration. The entered and stored data concerning a particular animal are then matched with the preassigned criteria, and then a recommended action is provided to the user. In this way, the user-defined logic allows the user to adapt the functionality of the system without the need to modify the actual computer source code in a software program application. Additionally, the user can modify the list of pre-assigned criteria in order to provide additional options to build logical relationships necessary to establish recommended management actions. Figure 7 provides an illustrative table of preassigned criteria that corresponds to basic characteristics of an anima and other recorded information that may be valuable for livestock management purposes. These criteria are used as the variable under construction of the algorithms / expressions. The criteria may include separate data elements that concern an animal such as animal weight, and may include algorithm / math relationships applied to data to create custom criteria. The ability of a user to configure how to modify, and implement the four functions of cores mentioned above is now further explained with respect to Figures 8-12. Referring to Figure 8, a user interface screen is illustrated where the user can create a recommended treatment based on one or more criteria. In the example of Figure 8, the recommended treatment is designated R1200. The recommended treatment corresponds to a diagnosis 202 by the attending veterinarian, for example a respiratory distress denoted as "Resp". The recommended treatment "R1" 200 is based on two criteria, mainly the number of days of the last treatment, shown in the entry 204, and the number of days in a particular feeding ration, shown in the entry 206. The menus of Displacement can be activated by clicking buttons 208 and 210. The menus then present the criteria available to build the treatment. In the example of Figure 8, for entry 204, if the number of days since the last treatment is greater than or equal to five and there are fewer than 10, then this particular criterion is satisfied. Additionally, if the number of days in the feed is greater than or equal to 40 and less than 100, then these criteria are also satisfied and therefore the recommended treatment is "R1". The system will preload the treatment, and the user can then observe details of the treatment. The recommended treatment may include an explanation of how the animal should be treated, along with the recommended drugs and assigned doses. The user can observe details of the treatment as necessary in a treatment screen or printed report. The entries 204 and 206 are stored in the central database and are evaluated each time an animal is treated by a diagnosis of "Resp". Accordingly, since the data regarding the treatment detail is already stored in the system, the user does not have to re-enter the treatment details each time the animal is diagnosed. Also, the creation of the recommended treatment can also help patio management with standard treatments administered to similar animals. Referring to Figure 9, a user interface screen of ration change criteria is provided which allows a user to establish recommendations for when a ration should be changed. In the example of Figure 9, there are two data entries or criteria used to build a rule that results in a recommended ration change from ration 1 to ration 2 More specifically, the data entry 220 corresponds to the number of days in a ration particular, and data entry 222 corresponds to the average daily gain, that is, the average daily gain in weight of the animal. If the two criteria are met, then s make a recommendation to change the ration of the particular animal. Each time a pen or batch data is displayed on the feed call screen or printed on a report, the recommended changes appear in a warning message recommending the change. This screen of ration change criteria therefore helps the management of patios in standard ration changes based on animals that perform similarly, thereby maximizing the potential amount of weight gain for each animal. Referring now to Figure 10, a ration change feed method screen is provided which allows a user to create rules or recommendations regarding how a ration assigned to a group of animals is fed over a period of time. In the upper portion of the screen the previous ration code is provided in block 230 (change of ration 6), and the new ration code is presented in block 232 (in ration 7). If the type / ration code did not change, then the change of and rations would show the same ration code. Blocks 234 and 236 are shown as criteria chosen to determine the feeding method of a particular animal or group of animals. In the example, the first criterion in block 234 are days in ration, and the second criterion is the sex of the animal. If these criteria are met, then on the first day of the change of ration the recommended feeding method is for the feeding of 80% of the total daily feeding in the first feeding of the day, and the remaining portion of the daily feeding (20%) in the second feed of the day. Accordingly, block 238 denotes the particular feed of the day, and block 240 denotes total daily feeding must be fed into the designated feed. Block 242 denotes how many kilograms of feed must be fed per head, and block 244 indicates which particular tip of feed must be fed. It is noted that in the first feed of the day, the old ration (serving code 6) is fed and then in the second feed of the day, the new ration (serving code 7) is fed. On the next day, the amount of ration code ratio will then change to feed more than one new ration code minus the old ration code. In this way, the feed ration can be configured to allow a transition period to change the type of ration. Accordingly, blocks 238, 240, 242, and 244 represent the variables that can be modified in order to establish a recommended feeding method that corresponds to one or more criteria. Referring to Figure 11, another user interface screen is provided to establish rules or recommendations on how animals should be classified. Periodically, a group of livestock is checked to see how the cattle should be regrouped based on their most-respected performance. In a livestock grading operation, it is advantageous to have an accurate history of the animal's performance. With the classification criterion function of the present invention, pre-established rules or recommendations are provided to a user to classify similar livestock. In the example of Figure 11, 3 data entries or criteria 250, 251, and 252 are shown. Criterion 250 is the weight of the animal and if the weight is between 272.16 and 317.51 Kilograms, the first criterion is satisfied. The second criterion 251 is breeding (Angus), and the third criterion 252 is sex (cattle). While each animal is processed through a conduit for label reading purposes or otherwise read the label of the animal, the system compares animal data with the criteria, and if the animal's data matches the algorithms / relationships for the criterion, the system assigns the animal to a new lot and pen. The new pen location is shown in Table 254 and the new batch location is shown in Table 256. As a result, the classification of this form ensures that the animal of similar performance is grouped with it, facilitating the management of the cattle during their period of critical growth. Although a new grouping can be recommended for one or more cattle during the classification procedure, the original data for each animal is maintained to provide historical data necessary for the particular animal. For example, the original cargo identification assigned with an animal when received in a particulate yard is even stored in the system to ensure that the identity of each animal can be returned to the original livestock reception group. Block 257 provides an account of how much livestock is classified to a particular pen and batch against the actual capacity of the pen / lot location. If the recommended classification account exceeds capacity, a warning message is provided to the user indicating that the classification criteria should be re-evaluated. Referring to Figure 12, a custom criteria user interface screen is provided to allow the user to construct a formula / algorithm for any particular criteria associated with feeding, processing and sorting. The custom criteria created afterwards can be added to the available criterion list and used to construct rules to generate recommended actions for food, treatment, and storage. The completed formula appears in block 300. The type of criterion is designated in block 301. The user can develop the formula based on the field list available in block 302. The user activates the scroll menu by clicking on it. button 304 and choose the fields for insertion in the formula. The fields may include some of the same criteria listed in Figure 7 as well as any of the available registered data elements stored in the central database. The various mathematical and logical operations are chosen to construct the particular formula, as shown in blocks 306 and 308. The criteria name is entered in block 312, and a short criterion description can be provided in le clue 314. II . Cow / calf module The first module to the present invention to be discussed is the cow / calf module. This module is intended to make an isolated data processing system designed to operate on a computer system located in a cow / calf operation. The module collects all the animal data associated with breeding, birth, processing and treatment. In addition to starting an isolated data processing system, particularly advantageous for use as a herd management tool, it could also interfere with other modules of the present invention so that the data that can be passed between cow / calf module and the others modules of the present invention. For example, the cow / calf module may interfere with any other local server that resides in power lot locations, or the web server, if a web server exists. Figure 13 illustrates a scroll menu to enter new animals into the cow / goat module or to transfer data in and out of the module. For example, it may be necessary to recover data from a feed batch module and send it to a cow / goat module, or vice versa. Figure 14 illustrates a screen for selecting the location wizards of the scroll menu of Figure 13, where the user is allowed to configure particular locations that can be assigned to a single premise ID. Assuming that a national identification program is required by federal or state authorities, unique premise numbers may be required. In particular, a premise ID could correspond to a particular plot of land such as a pasture in a cow / calf operation and a particular feedlot pen in a feed batch operation. One technique that can simplify the last assignment of premise location numbers for various livestock operations could incorporate global positioning satellite (GPS) technology where a particular premise ID corresponds to a gephic coordinate recorded within a GPS system. Those skilled in the art can appreciate other ways in which a particular livestock operation location can be assigned single premise IDs. Figure 15 illustrates a screen for data entry of particular premise locations, which corresponds to premise IDs, and a brief description of the particular premise location. Figures 16-27 are illustrative user interface screens found in the cow / calf module. Each is explained in more detail later. Figure 16 illustrates a user selection screen that allows a user to record the movement of livestock between locations in a cow / calf operation. Figure 17 illustrates a user screen that allows a user to select individual cattle to record movement from one location to another location. As shown in the example, the name of the premise location from which the cattle move is the "north" location and the cattle will be registered as moving to the "south" location. This screen also shows that there are 142 animals Currently in the north location and six animals are in the southern location. Each one of the cattle is identified for its general category (calf), and some corresponding means of identification. The first column identifier could represent a visual tag number, and the second column could represent an RFID tag number. Depending on how the animals are received in the cow / calf operation, and based on how a particular ranch wants to identify animals, the cattle may have one or more tags. As mentioned above, the preferred method of identifying animals would be through a retinal review where a unique number would be assigned to each digital image of an animal retina. Therefore the numbers shown in Figure 17 could also represent a digital file that corresponds to a retina image of a particular animal. Figure 17 also shows other characteristics to include the ability to select all animals within the northern location for transfer, undo a movement or re-establish. To select one or several animals for transfer, a user can click the cursor on an animal (it is particular and then drag the list of animals within the southern location.) Of course, the transfer of animals from the north to the southern location would only occur once an order was fulfilled by a worker in the field who actually transferred the animals, and confirmed that the animals moved in. Figure 18 illustrates another user screen in the form of a scroll menu that allows the user to use a function of label wizard to enter unique tag identifiers to assign to each animal Figure 19 illustrates a user selection screen where a user can select several options to include the ability to order labels, load label information from a manufacturer as a predetermined group of label numbers corresponding to a particular type of label. either allow the user to enter label information in the database, generate a label list from a label range that is pre-configured for a designated location, or import a label list from even another source such as from a third part that already generated a label list. Figure 20 shows the screen of the following selection screen if the labels were chosen to be entered into the system individually. More specifically, Figure 20 shows that the user can enter new calves, load an EID list for cows, or load an EID list for herd bulls.

Figure 21 illustrates a selection screen if the option "load EID list for calf" was chosen from Figure 20. This screen allows a user to choose to add a new calf record or update an existing calf record. Figure 22 illustrates the following user screen obtained once the user requests that a new calf record be added to the system. More specifically, Figure 22 illustrates a data entry screen for entry of a particular animal into the system where a user establishes a group date. The group arrow is simply a date of origin for the animal and is the actual birth date of the animal, or an estimated date of birth. Figure 23 is the next user screen provided once the particular group arrow is chosen where the calf is assigned a unique tag number such as an EID number, a classification identifier corresponding to a particular grouping of animals, another means of identification in the form of a separate calf ID, an identification of the sex of the animal. After data was entered for each animal by the term of the data entry where the screen shown in Figure 23, a particular animal was uniquely identified and can be monitored by the system. Figure 24 illustrates a screen for another scroll menu option that is a transfer data function that allows the user to export data, import data, review data records online, and choose one or more particular operations such as power batch to send data to, or receive data from. Figure 25 illustrates a user screen that allows the user to send data to a particular location for selected animals; for example, transferring data from a cow / calf operation to a feedlot this function is selected when, for example, it is desired to transfer data from a cow / calf operation to a feedlot that must be prepared to receive the animals . Typically, a group of animals is selected in a cow / calf operation for transfer to a feedlot, each animal being listed by its particular label or identification number. For the export function shown in Figure 25, not only is a simple list of all the animals to be transferred sent to the particular feeding yard chosen, but also other corresponding data that was gathered about the animals that must include information such as history of medical treatment, weight, sex, and owner. Figure 26 is a user selection screen indicating that the user chose from the scroll menu to now receive data from another location. The data that a rancher may be interested in receiving from a feedlot would include measures of animal growth and weight with boarding a packer. Figure 27 simply illustrates a screen that allows the user to select a particular food court to import data.

As can be seen from the preceding discussion regarding the cow / calf module, each animal that was received in a particular cow / calf operation is uniquely identified, monitored as movements between locations / premises within a cow operation / particular calf, and the data can be exported to other operations and imported from other operations.

III. Breeder module / feed batch. A. Animal Health Sub-module The first sub-module discussed below is an animal health function that allows a user to record and analyze all treatment and processing events for each individual animal while the animal receives in a location of breeder / batch of particular feeding. The term "feed batch" as used below can also describe breeder operations, therefore, the following discussed functionality is applicable to breeder operations as well. Figure 28 illustrates a user screen that allows data entry for initial processing of animals while they are received in the feed batch. More specifically, Figure 28 allows entry of data for registration of medications administered to animals located in a particular lot and pen number. The animals located in a particular lot and pen number are a known group of animals that are each individually identifiable by their corresponding tags. Figure 28 indicates that each of the animals are registered as receiving the specified list of drugs. The user has an option to print the screen in the form of a work order so that a food batch worker can then administer the drugs. Once the work order is completed, the user can then select the "postprocessing" button that will record that each of the animals within the particular lot and pen number received the drugs. Because each animal within the pen and numbers of batches are known, each of the individual animal records in the local database or central database is updated to reflect that the animal received the drugs. A particular list of drugs to be administered can be chosen from the preselected or pre-configured processing codes that represent their standard protocol treatments, or ready-made treatments can be created by the user. Therefore, the user can select from the processing code lists the various treatments to be completed and placed in the system data base (s). It is also possible to process animals individually by selecting the "process individual animals" button. That way another user screen should show that it allows a user to select a particular animal, and the user can again choose the processing of a processing code, or the user can create a ready-made treatment. Figure 29 illustrates a drug sample list of the drug list button of Figure 28 that allows the user to add or remove a particular drug to the available list of drugs. Therefore, it is evident that the standard treatment protocols as well as the treatments made can be modified by the user if required. Figure 30 illustrates a user screen that allows a user to select a report that shows the processing history of a particular animal or group of animals. Figure 31 is another user screen for individual animal processing wherein instead of processing animals by a particular pen and lot number as initially described with respect to Figure 28, the user also has the ability to individually process animals. As shown, a unique tag ID for a particular pet selected appears on the screen as well as the current location of the animal in the corresponding pen and number of batches. Processing to register is shown in the form of the administration of one or more drugs to the animal according to a particular processing code chosen. Figure 31 also illustrates that within the particular batch and pen, there are 60 animals present within the pen and an animal not present in the pen, which could count for a particular animal that is in a hospital location, or some other location in the pen. batch of food. While the treatment is placed for each animal, the processed head count as shown at the bottom of the screen would update automatically. A user could confirm that all animals within the pen were treated once the head count reaches the total number of animals assigned to the particular pen. The placement of a record indicating that an animal was treated according to the screen in Figure 31 is preferably done on the duct side. In that way, once an animal was treated, the user would simply click on the "post-processing" button that would then place that particular information in the database with it indicating that the animal was treated with the listed drugs. Alternatively, it could be print a report for each animal and a feed batch worker then use the print as a work order. The worker would complete the treatments, and then return to the work station to report that the processing was complete. Then the user would place each of the cuttings in the database. Figure 32 is another example of an individual animal processing screen that allows the user to enter data about the animal being processed. More specifically, Figure 32 illustrates that the user could enter a weight and temperature, as well as information about the owner of the animal. Of course, for all data entry screens, a user can not randomly assign a new or different identification to a particular animal, nor create fictitious animals within the system. In that way, once an animal was initially identified and registered as an active animal within the particular feeding lot location, the identification numbers assigned to the animal can not be altered or changed. In exceptional circumstances, it may be necessary for a user who has administrator-level privileges to make a change to one or more identification numbers; therefore, some improvement could be provided within the system that allows correction or modification to existing identification records. Figure 33 is another user screen that allows the user to select individual animal processing parameters to log in and register. This screen also allows the user to generate special batch labels that can be used for supplementary identification purposes while the animals are in the feed batch. It should be understood that the initial identification of an animal in a cow / calf operation in terms of identify each animal by a unique identification number is not re-entered in the feeding lot; more than that, the additional identification means may be provided in the feed batch which allows a feed batch to move, treat, or ship the animals. Finally, an individual data record is available for each individual animal that allows one to observe a complete medical treatment history for each animal, as well as locations where the animal was located between specific dates. Figure 34 is another user screen that can be used to schedule treatments of individual animals or groups of animals. In the example shown in Figure 27, the user wishes to establish on July 26, 2004, as the fixed date to complete the processing of processing code 1 (PROC1) for the 61 animals that were assigned to lot 444 and pen 513. Figure 35 is another user screen indicating pending work orders, which allow the user to select a particular work order to view. Accordingly, the user in Figure 28 chose to view the scheduled processing for lot 440 pen 513 on July 26, 2004. The user would then observe or print the report to determine what was scheduled. Figure 36 is a user screen that shows a sample report that corresponds to the pending work order chosen from Figure 35. The report lists a head, batch, pen, and explanation of particular processing account to be completed, primarily, the administration of several drugs to each of the animals. Figure 37 is another user screen that can be used to modify previously entered data with respect to a particular processing that has already been set for a group of animals. For example, it can be found later that although a particular work order was instructed to administer a particular amount of a drug, the actual amount of a drug administered was different than ordered. The screen shows the name of the person who originally completed the processing. The user could re-enter data such as dose or use and then add a comment such as why the data was re-entered. Figure 38 is another user screen that can be used to modify previously entered data with respect to processing / processing of a specific animal. As with Figure 37, the user could use the screen shown in Figure 38 to modify previously entered data, such as doses. Figure 39 illustrates another user screen that allows data entry for processing. Figure 39 also shows additional information about the particular animal such as temperature and weight plot, owner information, treatment history of the animal. In the example shown in Figure 39, an animal will be administered two specific drugs identified by the abbreviations "NAX" and "TERR". The user will again preferably be located on the driver's side while the treatment is occurring, and then once the treatment is completed, the user will click on the "post-treatment" button to record the treatment. Figure 40 is another user screen that indicates the data for a particular treatment that is now entered for a treatment that was actually completed at an earlier date. For exampleIf a user is unable to locate the conduit side when the treatment occurs, confirmation that a treatment occurred now is directed to the user for some time after the treatment took place. Therefore, this particular screen simply alerts the user to the fact that he is now entering data with respect to a treatment that occurred previously. In the example of Figure 40, the treatment date was July 25, 2004 (the date shown in the "today" block), and the date on which the user is placed on treatment would be some day subsequent to the 25th July, 2004. Figure 41 illustrates another user screen where a user selected the treatment history that lists a particular treatment date. Once a particular treatment date is selected, another window opens the list of drugs that were administered during that treatment. A user can review a compendium of a treatment code by treatment, and can also review a specific list of each of the drugs that were administered during the treatment. Referring to Figure 42, the schematic diagram illustrates an automated recommended treatment selection procedure. First, the individual animal identification is entered into a treatment screen as per manual entry (write on the tag ID) or through the use of an EID tag reader as shown in block 91. Once the Animal ID, the system then locates all animal data stored in the central database or any other of the peripheral databases associated with your particular individual animal ID. This localized animal data is represented in block 93. The user then enters an identification diagnostic code, shown in block 95 based on the evaluation of the animal. The diagnosis code agrees with a particular symptom or symptom of the animal based on the knowledge of the veterinarian it treats. The combination of the animal data with the diagnosis is compared to the treatment criteria, as shown in block 97. The treatment criteria may comprise a list of animal characteristics or other data recorded about the animal, as well as criteria that they are defined by their own formula / algorithm. If the animal data agree with the established rules for the criteria, a recommended treatment is produced, as shown in block 99. For example, if the particular animal registers as having fever and respiratory problems, those data entries can match a set of criteria where an algorithm / maths relationship is applied to the criteria results in a recommended treatment for pneumonia. The recommended treatment appears on a user interface screen or printed report to include an explanation of how to treat the animal. If the recommended treatment is accepted by the user, then the system then retrieves the associated drugs, drug dose, site of administration, and any other treatment details associated or assigned with the particular treatment, shown in block 101. If the treatment is executed, the user enters data to reflect what treatment was conducted, and the detailed treatment data is then made 93 additional animal data that is stored for the particular animal. Although a recommended treatment and treatment criterion can be established, it should be understood that the treatment veterinarian may also decide and adopt another treatment that is not recommended and in that case, the particular treatment data is also entered for the particular animal data, therapeutics from animals to include a record of any of the drugs or agents.

B. Sub-module of Animal Inventory Figures 43-58 describe an animal inventory sub-module that is used to control, record, and report all transactions that affect the inventory of animals that are entered into the processing system. of data. The basic functionality within the animal inventory module includes detailed management of reception, movements, shipments, deaths, detractors, and filmmakers. The inputs for each of these functions allow the data processing system to assign a location to each individual animal to ensure that the status of an animal is updated within the system. For example, once a feedlot animal is shipped to a packer, no other data pertaining to that particular animal is entered into the feed lot location unless corrections are made for previously entered data. In this way, the data of another animal can not be entered by mistake of an animal on board, and vice versa. Figure 43 is a user screen indicating data entry for recording the receipt of animals being received from another location such as a ranch or breeder operation, and where a specific group of animals are being initially assigned to a pen and individual lot. As shown in the example of Figure 43, a head count of 100 cattle is received on July 26, 2006, the group that has multiple breeds, transportation data indicating that 100 cattle were received at the Order Number of Buy 4502. The user would enter all the appropriate information as shown in Figure 43 and assign the incoming cattle group to the desired pen / lot or pasture. Data entry would be completed by pressing the "save" button. Figure 44 illustrates a user screen where the user can generate a feed label to be assigned to each incoming cattle. Therefore, the "label autogeneration" option is illustrated where the user identifies the group of labels by prefix and fixed sub and a total number of labels to be generated. Figure 45 is a user screen that illustrates how to record the group movements of animals. In the example in this Figure all the animals that are received in the 106 lot 462N pen will be transferred to lot 435. Therefore, the user would review the appropriate block for the 106 lot 462N pen on the left side of the screen, and then enter Lot 435 on the right side of the screen as the desired location to which the animals will be registered as being transferred. Also, the screen displayed at the set serving quantities after the transfer was saved / placed. If there are any remaining animals in the pen and lots that lose animals in the transfer, a smaller amount of ration will be shown in that pen / lot of losses. Accordingly, a gain in the ration amount will be listed for the pen and lot of gain based on the number of animals that are added to that location. An algorithm is provided in the system that automatically calculates the adjusted ration quantities in both loss and gain locations. This algorithm is continually updated based on the number of livestock of each location, the individual animals identified in each of the locations, and the rations prewritten for each animal. It should be understood that based on the organization of a particular feed batch location, the pen number could correspond to a more general or more specific location, and the particular batch number could also correspond to a more general or more specific location. In other words, there could be a number of batch numbers assigned to a particular pen, or a number of pen numbers could be assigned to a particular batch. On the illustrative screen shown in Figure 45, the particular lot number is a subgroup of a particular pen. However, if a feed batch is available for the pens to be subgroups of lots, then the transfers can be recorded as being between several lots. Of course, the transfers could be recorded between pens and lots and even if the corals and lots are subgroups of more general locations. Also as discussed above, the recording of group movements could only occur after a work order was fulfilled, and a feed batch worker is able to confirm that the movement actually took place. Ideally, the workstations would be set up within the feed batch as locations for the people who record the group movements that actually witness the movements. Figure 46 illustrates another group movement, but instead of the movement of only one group of animals from a particular pen, the multiple pens are transferred to another pen. For example, pens 105, 109 and 112 are recorded as moved to pen 305. Figure 47 illustrates another user screen where livestock shipments can be recorded. More specifically, Figure 39 illustrates a situation in which the cattle found several pens that have already been shipped to another location, such as another feedlot, or to a packer. In order to transfer the record, the user could simply check the box in a particular pen that has animals that were shipped and then click on the save button to enter the shipment. In the example of Figure 47, 51 heads of cattle were shipped for pens 125, 511, and 612. Only the selected animals were shipped from each pen as shown in the heads count against the boarding account. Each animal to be shipped from each pen was previously identified by the user in another user screen that allows the user to select each individual animal to embark on a subsequent group shipment. Figure 48 is another user screen that illustrates a more detailed list of information for registration of a particular animal shipment. A user would simply click on the onboard batch and pen when reviewing the appropriate box, and then complete the information to the particular transport data, ie the carrier, vehicle ID, destination, and new premise ID. The shipping data can be entered by clicking on the save button. The individual batch / pen or multiple batch / pen locations can be recorded as shipped with the same transaction. Figure 49 is another user screen that illustrates the ability to record the shipment by the individual animal as opposed to the registration shipment of a group of animals found in a designated lot or pen. More specifically, Figure 49 indicates that a particular animal is to be registered as shipped from Lot 4501 Corral 107 on July 26, 2004. The animal is identified by its primary tag number. Additionally, the weight of the animal is known with the shipment. In order to identify particular animals to embark, the operator would manually enter the tag number on the screen or if the animal has an electronic tag, the animal would "fade" and the reading device would directly interfere with the data processing system to enter the particular electronic tag number on the screen. The user would enter data that could include the carrier, vehicle ID, destination, and new premise ID for which the animal is embarking. Therefore, Figure 41 illustrates those shipments that can be recorded by selecting individual animals. Figure 50 is another user screen available to enter data regarding a change in the status of a particular animal. During the production cycle of an animal, the animal may die unexpectedly. In that way, the record must be made of death. Therefore, as shown in Figure 502, the user would enter the label, death date, death location, death code, and comments as necessary. Once these data were entered, this particular animal could not be programmed for any other processing treatment such as a live animal. A "detractor" status indicates that a decision was made to no longer keep an animal in the feeding lot, with the intention of soon shipping the animal away from the feeding lot. For example, an animal may not be responding to treatment and the cost of conducting another treatment exceeds the market value of the animal. Therefore, by designating the animal as a "detractor", the animal will no longer be programmed for treatments. The status of "maker" indicates that a decision was made to ship an animal for one or more reasons, and the specific reason recorded on another data entry screen for the particular animal. Thus, Figure 50 represents the ability for a user to individually select animals and to change their registered status as necessary. Figure 51 is another user screen that shows an example of an animal that was designated as a detractor. Figure 52 is another user screen that illustrates an example of an animal that was designated as a filmmaker. Figure 53 illustrates a data entry screen that allows the individual selection of animals to be recorded as moving from one location to another. More specifically, the user can select a particular pen or lot, and each of the animals within the pen or lot at that time must be shown by the number of tags. The user then reviews the particular animal (s) to register as moved, and then enters the pen / lot number where the animals moved. In the example of Figure 53, pen 416 was selected from the "de" location, and all animals within pen 416 were listed by their primary tag numbers. Thirty-seven cattle were selected from movement to pen 450. Once the user clicks on the save button, the transfer is recorded and the selected animals are shown as found within pen 450. Figure 54 is an information screen which can be provided to a user with respect to information where the animals can be found at any particular time. In the example of Figure 54, lot 24, stockyard 601 is selected. The screen indicates that there are 16 cattle that were received in this lot on November 29, 2003. This screen also provides shipping information, head accounts, status of cattle, and comments. The user is not able to change the head accounts within this screen, but is able to add additional identification information for the particular batch and pen such as the types of breeding, owners, buyers, etc. Figure 54 shows more specifically that the user selected to further identify animals within the particular batch by breeding. Figure 55 is a data entry screen showing that the user modifies existing data with respect to a dead animal. This type of data entry screen can generally be referred to as a maintenance screen. Figure 56 is an example of a user screen that allows the maintenance of a Detractor record. Figure 57 is an example of a user screen that allows the maintenance of a Director record. An additional function covered under the animal inventory sub-module includes animal classification. Animal classification refers to the continuous evaluation of an individual animal or a group of animals, and which classifies their animals periodically so that animals with similar characteristics are grouped together in order to facilitate total management tasks. For example, one or more animals in a particular food court may not be responding to particular medications administered to return the animals to proper health. Because these animals can continue to carry an infection, they can infect other livestock in the pen or lot; therefore, it is desirable to isolate those animals from others to prevent the spread of the disease. In addition, for example, if there is one or more cattle that do not respond appropriately to the feeding ration in order to obtain a prewritten amount of weight, then those particular animals must be segregated and treated separately, thereby simplifying the so-called feeding parta other animals that respond appropriately to routine feeding rations. Referring now to Figure 58, a simplified schematic diagram is provided to explain the automated classification criteria procedure of the present invention. As shown in block 111, first the individual animal ID is entered into a treatment screen via manual entry or through automated entry eg an ID tag reader. Once this information is entered, the system then locates all animal data associated with the individual animal ID of the animal management database. These historical animal data are shown in block 113. The user can then enter additional animal data, shown in block 115, to further describe the present state of the animal. For example, the animal could be weighed at that time. Based on the data recorded concerning the particular animal, the application of one or more rules of some algorithms for classification criteria 117 results in a recommended location for the animal when purchasing the animal data with the classification criterion. The recommended location is typically another pen and lot location 119. The user can then initiate the transfer of the animal to the recommended pen / lot location. Additionally, it should be understood that while a particular location can be recommended by the classification criteria, the user also has the ability to manually select a particular location in that way exceeding the recommended location. Referring to Figure 59, another user interface screen is provided to explain the greater detail in the way in which livestock can be sorted thereby allowing the user to assign a particular animal to a new group of animals within a facility. When it is desired to conduct a classification operation, the user first obtains information in the particular pens that are to be classified, which may include a new load of cattle that is happening in a receiving pen. In the example of Figure 59, the user chose to classify two numbered pens and a reception pen. More specifically, the top option of the user interface screen includes two small tables containing livestock information in two different feed batch pens shown in tables 270 and 272. The information presented for these two pens includes the head count of the cattle present in the corral, the head count of the cattle not in the corral (for example cattle in a hospital corral), and a tag account. The tag count corresponds to the number of animals in the head count that have a tag that identifies the particular animals. In some cases, an animal can be received in a pen without a label thereby counting the difference between the head count and the tag count. The animals to be classified from the receiving pen are presented in Table 274 which provides a file location, identification of the premise / location where the animal was received from such as another feed yard (the "premise of"), and a livestock account in the receiving pen (the "registration account"). The file location is the temporary location in the central database where the information is classified on the group of cattle received. Afterwards, the user will approach a particular pen and begin the classification procedure. An animal is removed from the pen and guided through a driver or corridor to identify the animal being processed. As discussed above, the label reading can be done automatically by a built-in label reader in and duct / alley, or alternatively by a portable label reader, or the label information can be entered manually.

While the animal tag is read, the registered animal data appears on the user screen. In the example of Figure 59, the tag ID, alternate tag ID, ranch tag, weight and temperature of the animal is presented in Table 276. Table 278 illustrates additional animal detail such as sex, origin and owner of the animal, and table 280 shows details of how the particular drugs will be received by the animal. The user also has several classification criteria also selected to sort the selected pen / file locations. In the example of Figure 59, the chosen classification criteria includes classification criteria for weight and aging. It should be understood that any number of classification criteria may be chosen by the user depending on the purpose of the classification operation in that time, and the classification criteria available within the system. The location to which the animals are to be transferred is illustrated in the lower portion of the screen. Three pens are identified as the locations to which livestock are to be transferred, and the information for these pens is shown in tables 282. These pens are designated as "pens toward." Information for these pens to include the designated poultry and lot numbers, as well as the current head count in the pens, the head count not in the pens (eg, earned in a hospital pen), the tag account , and the average weight of the animals in the pens. After the user observes the animal information in tables 276, 278, and 280, the user can decide to classify the particular animal in the designated pen by clicking on the processing button 284. Optionally, during configuration of the sorting operation, the user can choose to have all records automatically placed once each label is read so that each animal record is automatically placed in the appropriate pen location. The animal is classified in the appropriate pen based on the concordance of the animal data with the classification criteria. While each animal is processed, a processed head count is provided in Table 286 that provides a total run of processed animals against the total number of animals to be processed. The total number of animals processed is a sum of "corral from" and "files from" selected. Additionally, while each animal is processed, the head count in the loss or pen corral will decrease by one, and the gain to the pen account will increase by one. In this way, the user can also observe the progress of the classification operation as each animal is processed. Of course, while the location of each animal changes as the animal moves from one pen to another, the individual animal information is also updated to reflect the location where the animal is currently located. However, the data is also maintained as the animal's previous pen location, as necessary. Maintaining this historical location data will ensure that an animal can be submitted back to the original livestock receiving group for various evaluation purposes. The sort screen in Figure 59 can be accessed during the processing or reception functions within the data processing system. Additionally, a user may change the classification criteria during the classification operation based on the actual results of the classification operation. Accordingly, the user can click on any change classification criterion button 283 or the view classification criterion button 285 to choose another criterion in the list of available classification criteria, or to modify the chosen criteria.

C. File Maintenance sub-module The file maintenance sub-module of the present data processing system refers to the sub-module that allows a user to add, delete, and modify items in the data verification tables, and configuration of operational parameter tables in the system. Many of these tables are preloaded / preconfigured with standard values and can be implemented and modified by authorized users. In order to ensure the integrity of system data, the verification tables and operational parameter tables are incorporated to ensure any of the entered data that can be validated against accepted values and data parameters. For example, if a user manually enters a label number and label number that does not correspond to an available active record, then attempts to input data that would result in the production of an error message for the user indicating that the number of label is not valid. Additionally, the present system has the capacity to establish general rules and parameters to process, treat and treat animals. For example, specific criteria can be established for both feeding and / or treatment protocols in that way, potentially avoiding feeding or improper treatment in terms of excessive use of supplies for an animal that makes an unprofitable investment. More specifically, a particular mathematical relationship or algorithm can be defined to control available feeding or treatment protocols. The variables in the algorithms can be selected from data fields that can be specially configured. Referring now to Figure 60, another example is shown to create custom criteria. More specifically, Figure 60 shows that the user decided to create both feeding and treatment criteria given a "won weight" criterion name. The criterion corresponds to the amount of weight obtained by the animal while in the particular feeding / patio lot. The amount of weight obtained in the yard is calculated by a formula. In this case the formula is ADG multiplied by the number of days in dates. ADG on feeding days are specific data fields that are recorded for each animal. Therefore, Figure 60 simply represents another example of the ability to create criteria by naming particular criteria, and then assign some kind of mathematical relationship to those criteria. In another user screen, the "Livestock Weight" criterion could be presented as an option seen, and selecting this option would allow the user to see the weight gain information for the animal to date. Figure 61 illustrates an example of a list of diagnostic codes that correspond to a particular malaise or condition. The codes can be modified by a user, and diagnostic codes can be arranged or separated by the facility as required. These diagnostic codes can then be used to construct specific treatment protocols based on the diagnosis entered by the user. Figure 62 illustrates a user screen for handling similar groupings of criteria used across many different facilities to accommodate comparison and analysis of facilities, even though each uses different particular criterion names. For example, Figure 62 could allow a financial institution to analyze different supply lots by assigning a class or "super classification" diagnosis to each of the different named criteria that may exist in the different facility locations. More specifically, a feeding lot can code for respiratory diseases such as RSP, R, or P. Another batch of feed may choose to designate respiratory diseases as corresponding to another criterion code. This screen allows a user to identify each of the different facility criteria that correspond to a classification or general condition so that when the information is gathered from the various facilities, similar data is classified for each facility in that way allowing the company and analysis. Figure 63 illustrates a screen that allows a user to view the inventory such as drugs, and which allows the user to change certain information in the drug such as name, manufacturer or standard dose. Figure 64 illustrates a user screen that allows a user to record the inventory that is received. While the supplies arrive, such as drugs, the user would enter the arrival of the drugs in the inventory when completing the information on the screen. Once the quantity and cost data have been entered, the actual inventory is automatically adjusted to show a "Before" and "After" status for the particular drug. Drugs are entered into a drug per drug basis; therefore, if a particular facility received a number of different drugs on a particular day, the user would separately enter the receipt of each drug upon completing an inventory receipt screen for each. Figure 65 illustrates a user screen that allows for food adjustments. For example, if a particular drug remains in the inventory beyond expiration, or a drug is inadvertently lost or destroyed, then the screen in Figure 65 allows the user to adjust the inventory. In the specific example of Figure 65, the reason for the adjustment was to correct an initial account failure of a particular drug when it was recorded as received in the inventory. Clicking the "adjustments" button in Figure 63 brings up the inventory adjustment screen in Figure 65.

Figure 66 is an inventory query screen that allows the user to review the inventory for a particular drug. Clicking on the button "query the screen in Figure 63 leads to the inventory query screen of Figure 66. The user simply enters the drug name, with drug ID and the amount by hand after it is displayed. Figure 67 is an implant status code screen that provides a pre-set list of implant status codes.The pre-established code list can be modified as desired.An implant refers to a device implanted within the animal, such as an RFID tag, and it may be desirable to list the particular state during the processing or treatment In the example of Figure 65, the ABS code indicates that an abscess developed due to the implant, thus the indication of some treatment to heal must occur The abscess Figure 68 illustrates a recommended treatment screen that allows a user to enter a particular treatment protocol for a specific diagnosis. e shows, the particular diagnosis provided is light pneumonia, and the user constructed a treatment protocol upon entering the sequence and types of drugs to be administered. Therefore, once an animal is provided with a diagnosis, the user can then find the recommended treatment by entering the diagnostic code. It may be desirable to limit the user's ability to create or change particular treatments based on the corresponding diagnosis. For example, to prevent an overdose of a potential drug, an algorithm can be established in a parameter frame that does not allow a user to enter an excess amount of the particular drug. Thus, according to the screen shown in Figure 68, a user would be unable to simply enter any type of treatment regime without receiving an error message indicating that the proposed regime was unacceptable with system parameters. Figure 69 is another user screen that illustrates an example to create recommended treatments based on selected criteria. In the example of Figure 69, if the animal has a "C" diagnosis and the animal has the designated temperature range, has the indicated severity level, and has other criteria / symptoms observed, then the recommended treatment is "C2" . Figure 70 is a screen that allows a user to observe recommended treatments or disable the presentation of recommended treatments during animal treatment entry. This screen also allows a user to configure the screen layout for the treatment screen. As shown in Figure 70, the user decided to adopt the recommended treatments when reviewing the table, and also chose to have the treatment screen showing all available fields in both the treatment data entered as well as the treatment data presented. Figure 71 is a user screen showing another example of data entry to establish other custom criteria. In this particular Figure the user develops a feeding criterion described as "Net Energy for Gain", and designated by the name of criterion NEG. A formula is established to calculate the criterion, including the variable TDN that corresponds to a designated data field. Figure 72 is a user screen for animal maintenance that allows the user to enter data regarding modifications to any of the individual status fields for a particular animal to include the animal tag and condition information. For example, it may be necessary to correct data that was entered erroneously initially. Any of the fields opened in the figure can be modified as necessary. Of course only the selected system users are given the authority to change such data. Figure 73 is a user screen that allows one of the established preferences how the data should be configured for transmission to a financial institution, or to receive information back from a financial institution. In this way, the screen shown in Figure 73 allows the user to select how the data is exchanged for the best interface with other data processing systems. In the example of Figure 73, the financial interface is with a system called TurnKey. The weight of a particular animal's report will be for weight payment, the sum feed is based on one record per batch per pen per day, and the days in the feed rule is the simple batch average on dates. Figure 74 is a data entry screen to identify associated with the system. The associates can be defined as buyers, owners, packers, producers (ranchers), etc. Each partner within the system is provided with an associated ID that can finally determine the degree to which you can access data in the system or modify data within the system. The associated screen is periodically updated to identify all the partners that participate in the data processing system. Figure 75 is a data entry screen with respect to parenting codes that can be used within the data processing system. The user can select from the provided list of parenting codes, or add additional parenting codes as required. These breeding codes can be used throughout the system to identify each animal entered into the breeding system. Figure 76 is a screen in the data entry to configure particular facilities within the system to determine what type of system access should be provided, what type of data should be made available for a particular facility, etc. Figure 77 is another data entry screen that allows one to edit specific data about each facility. Figure 78 is a configuration screen that allows the user to determine the required or desired type of connection configuration between the local or central database servers and a particular facility. As shown in the Figure, the user would enter the server name, the form in which the user would register on the server, select a database (s) of particular data on the server that the user wants to access, and also determine the connection grouping. Figure 79 is another user screen that allows the user to configure a device driver that allows a field device such as a scale to download information directly into the data processing system. In the example of Figure 79, the illustrative field device is a GSE scale that has 8 data bits, a band speed 9600, and a high bit. The system provides a device driver that allows the driver to receive the data in the specific format, and then reconfigure the received data so that it can be stored within the corresponding field of the selected data base (s). Figure 80 is another user screen that allows a user to configure field devices assigned to a designated location within the facility. Each field device must be assigned to a particular location so that the data generated from the field device can be recorded correctly. For example, there may be many scales that generate data within the system of several locations, and it must be known for which scale it generates data on what location. Figure 81 is a user screen that allows the configuration of source descriptions. For example, each animal entered into the system will be designated a source code to the birth location. A user can construct several descriptions of origin and codes that correspond to exact locations where the animals were born. Figure 82 is another configuration screen that allows a user to designate pasture names and / or designations of pasture within the system. Figure 83 is another example of a data entry screen that allows a user to configure particular pen numbers and corresponding information about each pen. Figure 84 is a data entry screen that allows a user to configure sex codes and descriptions for each animal. Figure 85 is a data entry screen that allows a user to set climate data for a particular date and time. This climate data can be used within several graphs, such as a power consumption over time. The increased consumption frequently corresponds to significant drops in temperature. Therefore, it may be useful for a feedlot to understand changes in consumption as they relate to changes in climate. Figure 86 is a screen that allows an administrator to identify and configure access for each and every user of the system. Each user in the system is assigned with their own username and password for security purposes. As is also known, this screen allows the administrator to designate the type of access level for each user to include the various modules and system reports. Figure 87 is another administrator screen that allows one to choose the particular facility access for each user of the system. In this way, not all users within the system, is allowed to access the data of each and every facility; if not, the staff can only have access assigned to particular facilities.

D. Interface sub-module The interface sub-module allows all interface transactions; that is, the exchange of data between the system and sources outside the system. As mentioned above, external sources for the data processing system may include various financial systems, external cow / calf systems, packer systems, and unique state and federal identification systems, climate systems, and treatment devices. portable Figure 88 is an illustrative configuration screen that allows interfacing with a financial account system. Figure 89 is another configuration screen that allows interconnection with a financial account system that specifies a type of data to be received and placed from the financial account system. Figure 90 is another configuration screen that illustrates options for configuring a financial account interface. Figure 91 is another configuration screen that allows interconnection with a financial institution where the user can select the particular financial system interface and application to the interface. Figure 92 is another user screen that allows configuration for the packer data interface. More specifically, this screen allows a user to configure a particular file format that corresponds to a particular packer.

E. Replant sub-module The reporting sub-module of the present data processing system includes a variety of standard reports.

Standard reports can be grouped by each sub-module transaction groups within each sub-module. In addition to the standard reports, it is contemplated within the present invention to provide custom reports that can be formatted for particular purposes. Figures 93-137 are a number of sample reports that can be generated from the data processing system. Each different report is shown as having its own unique report number. The extensive number of sample reports illustrates the vast amount of diverse data that is handled by the present invention. Each report is generated by selecting the desired data fields from the central database. The implementation of a central database allows a user to easily generate reports by classifying one or more data fields. The report sub-module allows a user to designate which data fields will be generated in the report, and then modify the report as necessary to add or delete individual data fields. Figure 93 is a hospital corral location report that provides the label number for each animal in the particular hospital pen, and that also illustrates the household, pen, and batch for each individual animal. Figure 94 is another hospital corral report, but the data is classified based on the particular hospital pen, and the animals in each of the hospital corrals listed. Figure 95 is a hospital location report that shows the latest treatment dates for particular animals. Figure 96 is a report of hospital movements classified by batches that show movement of animals identified for a particular day. Figure 97 illustrates another hospital movement report classified by lot, as well as a summary of special hospital / corral movements. Figure 98 is another report of hospital movements by lot, and they also show a summary of the first day's efforts for hospitals. The first day's efforts identify those animals that are transported to the hospital on that particular date. Figure 99 is a report that shows an account of treated animals, average days treated, and average days of feeding. Figure 100 shows a diagnostic closure for selected discomforts, the average days treated, and average days in food. Figure 101 shows a report to treat information on all treatments for a particular lot and pen. Figure 102 is a report that shows information that includes the treatment analysis summary and a compendium of corresponding cost analysis for managed treatments. Figure 103 is a total batch summary report that includes information regarding head accounts, treatment summaries, death summaries, and price summaries.

Figure 104 is another report that shows a batch summary that includes dates, heads, treatments, and mortality information. Figure 105 is a batch comparison report detailing health-related deaths and a description of the corresponding discomforts for a particular location such as a feeding lot. Figure 106 illustrates a batch analysis by owner report that details the location, account, and other information for a particular owner. Figure 107 is a poultry rider analysis report for a designated poultry rider, an identification of the animals and diagnoses that correspond to the poultry rider. Figure 108 is a batch analysis report that details information in a particular batch chosen. Figure 109 is a detailed treatment history report when listing drugs administered during treatments. Figure 110 is a batch summary report that details additional information in a particular batch chosen. Figure 111 illustrates a treatment exception report.

This report captures information on any of the changes made to a preconfigured treatment. For example, if a user decides to adjust the dose or type of drug administered to an animal against which it is recommended in the preconfigured treatment, this report details all the changed data.

Figure 112 illustrates an inventory variation report that details information on the actual amount of a drug in a hand-held drug against an estimated hand amount based on previous inventory and use. Figure 113 is a billing report for a designated lot that includes information on the cost of various drugs administered. Figure 114 is another billing report that details information for individual treatments administered to selected animals. Figure 115 is a quality assurance report that details information on mass treatments and individual treatments for a particular lot. Figure 116 is a morbidity report that summarizes treatments, diagnostic closures, deaths, and movements. Figure 117 is a morbidity report that details information on diseases, treatments, and other information in animals that suffer from the various diagnosed afflictions. Figure 118 is another morbidity report that provides treatment detail for the date by source reported by lot and poultry number. Figure 119 is a summary mortality report for a designated period. Figure 120 is another mortality report that details deaths by date range, to include information on a particular animal's treatment history, Figure 121 is a death notification division report detailing information on the death of a particular animal .

Figure 122 is an active item drug report in inventory for a particular location, the recommended dose, and the unit of measure for administering the dose. Figure 123 is a batch master list report that details consumer information for cattle held at a particular location. Specifically, this report provides the sex, average weight, and head count for each owner in each lot and pen. Figure 124 is a report that shows suggested treatments classified by diagnostic codes, detailed information that includes drugs, doses, and recommended units. Figure 125 is a scheduled processing report that lists particular batch and pen numbers that are scheduled for a particular type of processing on the designated date. Scheduled processing could include any number of livestock management functions to include a scheduled classification operation, animal health checks, and others. Figure 126 is a processing history report that details information on managed treatments at designated poultry and lot numbers. Figure 127 is a list of the active diagnostic codes.

Figure 128 is a weight gain report that shows information on weight gain for a particular batch or pen. Figure 129 is a list of implant status codes. Figure 130 is a detractor summary report that details the number of animal insulted, average days treated, and average days of feeding. Figure 131 is a detractor analysis report detailing reasons for the animal to be insulted. Figure 132 is a detractor notification division that details instructions for the animal to be insulted. Figure 133 is a livestock activity that receives a report that shows the date, lot number, pen number, and head number received on the date. Figure 134 is a livestock activity movement report detailing livestock moving date information between several pens and lots. Figure 135 is a livestock activity death report that details information on livestock that died in varying locations. Figure 136 is a cattle activity boarding report that details information on animals shipped from one location to another location. Figure 137 is a corral master list report that stores the information by pen number.

F. Feed Management Sub-module A feed management sub-module is also provided within the feed batch / breeder module. The purpose of the feed management module is to handle the allocation, call, supply and analysis of an animal feed operation in the feed batch. The module allows recording and reporting of all activities that occur during feeding, and also provides ability to interfere with detailed feed information to external financial systems, power supply systems within a particular feed batch operation or operation of breeder, as well as feed mill grouping systems within a particular operation. In addition, the module also facilitates the assignment of types and quantities of rations to the various locations within the feeding lot, assignments that take into consideration various animal movements, receipt of new animals, shipment of animals from the feeding lot, and many other factors that can alter the type and quantity of rations to be supplied to each location within the feed batch. The feed management module data is stored in the local server databases or the central databases, and therefore, the data can be fully integrated into the animal health module and all modules of the processing system of data. This sub module provides a user with a complete record of how individuals or groups of animals were fed in a period of time to include a record of which animals fed and the particular time period in which the animals were fed. The functionality provided The feeding sub-module of the present invention also allows greater control of the feeding function in order to maximize the production cycle of each and every animal. Because of the control characteristics incorporated in this sub-module of feeding management, feeding problems such as malnutrition, feeding at inappropriate times, as well as many other feeding deficiencies can be identified and remedied more easily. Due to the detailed data that is collected in a timely manner and in real time, such data can be used as prediction tools to maximize nutrition delivered for maximum growth and weight gain. Finally, the feed management sub module allows feed yard operators to maximize the efficiency of basic feed yard operations and to achieve desired weight gain goals for each animal. The logical relations, in the form of rules / algorithms can be applied to the data entered in order to provide data analysis, recommended management actions, and to provide report and other user interface outputs that allow a feedyard operation to optimize management of food. Also like the other sub-modules, the feed management data can be exported to other data processing systems, and the system can also have imported feed handling data in the feed management module. An example of a reference describing the operation of a food court is Patent No. E.U.A. 6,216,053. This patent is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety to describe basic food court operations to include the way in which the feed is supplied to various locations within the yard. Commercial feed lots are used to feed thousands of heads of cattle or other animals in various stages of growth. The biggest reason to use a batch of animal feed to feed livestock more than the "open range" is to issue the cattle growth procedure and thereby allow cattle to be brought to market in a shorter period of time. Within a batch of animal feed, the cattle are physically contained in livestock pens, each of which has a feeding body to receive food. The owner of livestock in the feed lot is defined by unique lot numbers associated with the group (s) of livestock in each pen. The number of livestock in an owner's lot may vary and may occupy a fraction of one or more livestock pens. Within a particular pen, the cattle are fed with the same feed ration (ie, the same type and amount of feed.) In order to accommodate livestock in various stages of growth or requiring special feed because they are sick , undernourished, or the like, the feedlot comprises a large number of pens.Generally, the feedlot cattle in a feedlot involve reviewing each pen daily to determine the amount of feed to feed the livestock with this in each feed cycle Particularly during that day, the condition of the cattle, and the condition of the pen.In a feed mill, the feed trucks after loading with appropriate amounts of feed for supply during a particular feed cycle. Feeding charged are directed to the feeding rooms and the amount of ration assigned for each pen It is distributed in your feeding room. The above procedure is then repeated for each designated feeding cycle. Due to the large number of feed ration quantities to be recorded each day in the feedlot, the feed animals in a large feedlot become an enormously complex and time-consuming process. It is known in the art to use computers to simplify feeding batch handling operations. As previously as in 1984, computers were used to simplify calculations in food, livestock movements, payroll and accounts, billing and lower cost feed mix. From such calculations, market projections, "equilibrium prices" in any livestock head, and analyzable historical records can be easily created while allowing feed batch managers to keep track virtually of all overhead costs, labor costs and team, under the last ton of corn or gram of micro-nutrients. The use of portable computer equipment is also well known in order to facilitate the allocation and supply of food rations. For example, the patent of E.U.A. No. 5, 008,821 for Pratt, et al., Discloses a prior art system in which portable computers are used in feed ration allocation and supply operations. As described, this prior art computer system uses laptops during the feed ration allocation and supply procedure. By using such computers, the feed room reader assigns particular feed trucks and conductors to record specific feed loads for specified feedlot sequences along a priority feed route during each physical feed cycle. After that, the specific feedstocks are loaded into preassigned power supply vehicles, and then the power supply vehicles distribute the feed rations in the feed rooms associated with the corresponding animal pens along the route of priority feeding.

In order to carry out the power supply operations, the known supply supply vehicles use a driven probe to distribute the preassigned amount of feed ration of the vehicle within and along the length of the corresponding feed room. The functionality of the power management sub-module of the present invention will now be described by reference to a number of user interface screens as well as a number of reports that can be generated from input data. These screens and reports show the extreme detail in which each aspect of the feeding operation can be controlled, analyzed and recorded. Referring first to Figure 138, a user interface screen is provided for configuring power handling parameters in accordance with the data processing system of the present invention. As shown, the feed management parameter screen 500 can be conceptually separated in the feed call 501, the feed calculation 502, and the power supply 504. The feed call 500 refers to how the feed will be distributed to individual animals and groups of animals within the various designated locations of the feeding court. Depending on the number of animals found within the feeding yard at that particular time, and their particular state, the feeding call may require adjustment on a daily basis, to include adjustments made between feeds during the same day. Feed calculation 502 refers to the manner in which calculations are made for each feed call in order to provide the correct type and quantity for each individual animal selected or group of animals. The power supply 504 refers to the manner in which the power is physically delivered to the various pen locations, and subsequent actions that must be taken after the power is supplied. Referring first to the feed call 500, a priority code 506 is provided where each pen in the yard is assigned a corresponding code for when the particular pen will be fed for the next feed. For example, a default priority code of 1 means that all the pens assigned this priority code that will be fed first in the next feed. A change of priority codes between pens will therefore alter the order in which the pens are fed. A user can change the predetermined priority code for each pen depending on what happened in the feed yard to include any of the cattle movements, and other factors that may affect the priority for feeding. The automatic adjustment of the feeding call can be achieved by selecting the option shown in table 508, and entitled: allowing the special pen movements to adjust the call. If this option is revised, each time the animals move out of any special pen such as hospital pens, recovery pens, etc., the feeding call will automatically be adjusted based on the number of animals actually found in the pen for the next scheduled feeding time. For example, as long as there is data entry that shows that one or more cattle were moved, the feeding call for the next scheduled feeding call will be adjusted to count those animals that moved. In addition, for example, if one or more animals moved out of a hospital pen and were added to a regular pen, then the call for feeding will decrease in increase in the hospital pen, and increase in increase in the regular pen to count the movement. The dry matter option block 510 refers to material in which the data processing system will calculate the feed if the feed yard uses a dry matter calculation. Many feed yards use consumption calculations based on the amount of dry matter that is contained within a particular type of feed. For example, if the feeding call for a particular pen is 45.36 kilograms, and the prescribed ration has 80% dry matter, then the actual feeding call would be 80 pounds of dry matter, and 20 pounds of liquid will be added in time appropriate. The room reading configuration button 512 when activated provides access to another screen that allows the user to configure the way in which the room reading information will be presented to the responsible food court employee to gather data in the power state delivered to the pens, called the room reader. As discussed below, the room reading configuration can be modified to present a number of different types of information. The room reading configuration is discussed in more detail below with respect to Figure 139. Referring to the power calculation function 502, a number of features is provided in order to establish and modify the power calculation. Block 514 corresponds to a selected rodeo rule that is set to surround the total power call for the next day. Depending on the number of animals in the pens that are fed, the appropriate roping rule can be chosen by the user. As shown in the Figure, the rodeo rule 14 is set to 10, which means that the feed is surrounded by the nearest 4.54 kilogram increase. The scroll menu for the detour rule provides other values for the detour rule as needed based on the type of scales used and other factors. The rodeo rule is limited by the accuracy of the scales used in the food supply trucks. Typically, the power supply trucks are only accurate for roughly 4.54 kilograms; therefore, the most accurate rodeo rule will typically be 4.54 kilograms. For example, if a particular feed call requires a supply of 907.18 kilograms of feed, an assigned rodeo rule of 10 would allow supply between 902.65 and 911.72 kilograms. The support rule 516 corresponds to a particular rule chosen as what must happen for the feed to be supplied to a selected room, but a decision is made at the feeding time to sustain the feeding supply to the room. For example, when reading a feed room, the feed room operator may notice that a particular room contains power from the previous feed. In that case, the room reader may wish to sustain the power, and the particular support rule assigned will govern what happens with the power in the power call that is supported. A number of support rules can be made available that correspond to instructions if a decision is made to sustain a particular feed. For example, a support rule will simply remove the support power from the total power call. Another support rule would take the amount of power support, and then add it to a subsequent feed for the day, or add support power in the subsequent feeds by dividing the support feed equally into the number of subsequent feeds. The redistribution method 518 refers to the method by which the feed will be calculated for the next day's feed.

A number of options are provided that allow an automatic calculation for the next day's feeding. For example, the redistribution method can be calculated based on the consumption of previous days, or consumption averaged over a period of time, such as a period of three or five days. Another way in which the redistribution method is calculated is by pre-call quantities, such as the so-called average for the previous day, or a call quantity averaged over a selected period of time. Even another method of redistribution that can be chosen to fit the amount of redistribution calculated the next day by subtracting the remaining amount in a pen, and then using the amount fed or called actual from the previous day. In the example, the redistribution method selected is the real one of yesterday as fed by head of quantity of cattle. The pro-measured method of feeding 522 corresponds to the method by which the feed is measured / adjusted based on movements within pens in the feed yard. There are two primary methods by which feeding can be adjusted between pens based on the movement of animals within the yard. One method is by the number of the head that moves, and the other is by weight of the animals that move. The per head method changes the feeding calculation for each pen based on the number of animals moving from one pen to another. If the weight option is chosen, then an increase or decrease in increment in the amount of feed provided to the pens is based on the weights of the animals collectively found in each particular pen at that time, which counts any of the movements of animals inside the pens for the next feeding. The redistribution option 524 corresponds to the method by which the feed is to be calculated for next-day supply to special pens within the feed yard, such as breeder pens, hospital pens and detractor pens. Normally, a redistribution takes place for all regular pens in the yard for purposes of preparing food supply for the next day. While the cattle remain in each of the pens fed the previous day, a redistribution feeding call will be created for each pen based on the feeding call from the previous day. The special redistribution option 524 is used to generate an automatic feed call for the next day for the particular pens being tracked. If any special yard in the yard is not checked. A new feed calculation is then required for each non-revised pen (s). For example, if the block of hospital pens is not revised, then a new feeding calculation is made for any livestock in the hospital pen (s). Some yards may be preferred for not having the so-called automatic feed for livestock in special pens, and more than that would inspect each of the pens to determine the appropriate feeding call for the next feeding day. The redistribution day option 520 refers to the number of days chosen in which the particular redistribution will apply to the next day's food. For example, it is assumed that the feeding method does not change, and the same ration will be fed to the designated group of animals within the designated pens, one can choose the number of days in which the particular redistribution parameters should be applied to the feeding the next day. Now referring to the 504 power supply, the truck interface 526 describes the type of interface that is used in the supply trucks, and that selecting the desired option determines how the data will be exchanged between the truck interfaces and the system. data processing. For example, supply trucks can have different types of classifications that provide data output in various formats. Additionally, a scale may require a ration amount and a head count in order to then transmit data to the amount of power actually supplied. Finally, the selection of the truck interface depends on the particular type of software and hardware that is used in the power supply trucks, these systems that generally record the weight of power supplied to each pen in each feed. The data processing system of the present invention is adaptable to any type of truck interface that may be encountered, and allows the user the ability to choose the correct truck interface based on the trucks that are actually used in the feed yard. The data transmission of the trucks to the system of the present invention can take place in a number of ways to include more manual methods such as recording the data in media such as computer disks, or more automated methods such as data recording. in media such as computer disks plus automated methods such as wireless transmission (Internet or RF). If a particular truck can not transmit and receive information electronically (for example, cable, disk, or Internet / radio frequency), then the data processing system can produce load sheets or cards that provide the truck driver with detailed information how the truck should be loaded for each feeding and detailed instructions on how to feed the pens of the loading instructions. The option of 528 loading sheets or cards allows cards or loading sheets to be produced. The loading sheets / cards are simply data impressions that detail the type of ration to be loaded, the ration quantities, the order in which rations are to be delivered, and other information that allows truck drivers to load and supply the type and correct amount of feeding to designated pens, and at designated times. Within the power supply function 504, there is a number of charge definition items 530 that can be chosen. The load definitions 530 define a number of variables within the power calls that detail how the power is to be supplied. The option of maximum corrals 532 designates the maximum number of corrals to feed in an individual load of a truck. Limiting the number of pens per load can be a function of many variables, such as particular feed mixes that can only be mixed for a set period of time, because otherwise, the feed mix can over mix and therefore be unacceptable for supply. For example, typically there is a set amount of liquid that is added to dry feed. The power supply trucks have a rotating feed container in which the feed is maintained before delivery. Mixing the liquid with the dry feed in a very long period of time can cause the feed to become very soaked due to excess liquid absorption. Limiting the number of pens per load can prevent over-mixed feed. The default load size 534 refers to the load size that will always be calculated unless there is a different load size for a specific type of ration. A feed yard wishes to assign a finished load size corresponding to a size that will not risk mixing instructions for any feed mix used, and will not otherwise violate the mix parameters for any feed mix within the feed yard. The last load size 536 corresponds to the minimum load size that a food truck can mix, and even achieve the appropriate required mixing. Due to the rotating feed container in the trucks, without being too small a quantity of feed is used in the last feed charge, the small amount of feed can only remain at the bottom of the mixer and not mix properly. Inappropriate mixing is undesirable for many feed mixes. In that way, depending on the particular feeding call, there may be some excess supply amount remaining in the truck after the last load was delivered, since the amount to be delivered in the last load may be less than the load size minimum that can be transported by the truck to achieve the proper mix. Of course, it is desirable to minimize the excess supply amount in the last charge delivered. The variation option 538 refers to the amount that the predetermined loading size can be varied in order to better accommodate the supply to the desired number of pens for a particular feed. For example, if a predetermined loading size was 9,071.85 kilograms to feed an objective number of pens, but the amount of feed required was 8,845.05 kilograms. It is assumed that the next pen that is supplied only requires 453.59 kilograms, then according to a variation of 500, the load size would increase to 9,298.64 which would allow supply to the first group of pens, and the extra pen that only requires the 453.59 kilograms . If no variation is chosen and the load size remains at 9,071.85 kilograms, then the remaining 226.80 kilograms must be supplied to the last pen. A subsequent load should then be required to complete the feed of the last pen by supplying the remaining 226.80 kilograms required. Alternatively, the excess of 226.80 kg would be removed from the load, and the last pen would be fed into the next truck supply. In option 540, the user can divide a load with respect to pens that are fed. More specifically, using the 540 split option allows the supply of power to be divided between different truck loads in order to satisfy the required amount of power that must be supplied to the particular pen. If the option to use Division 540 is not revised, then the feed can not be divided among different loads for a particular pen, and the full amount of feed for a particular pen must be supplied in a truck. The minimum division 542 refers to the minimum amount of kilogram feed that can be divided into a particular load, it is assumed that the use division option 540 is chosen. The minimum division 542 is chosen based on factors such as the capacity of the scales on the trucks to weigh a minimum amount of food. Option 544 allows a user to select whether a particular truck load of power can pass between more than one priority code. As mentioned above, the priority codes refer to the order in which the feed is going to be supplied to each pen. A power call with a priority code of number 1 would correspond to those pens that must be fed first in the designated feed. If option 544 is revised, this indicates that a particular truck load can supply power to pens that have different priority codes. In some circumstances, it may be desirable for a truck to only supply pens that have the same priority codes. The option of variation fed 546 corresponds to the variation between the actual quantities fed to the pens based on the quantity called. For example, based on reading data from the scales on the feed trucks, the amount of power actually supplied to each pen is recorded. After a truck finished its supply, the actual fed quantities for each pen their information that is automatically transmitted to the data processing system (in the case of electronic truck interfaces), or manually entered by truck drivers / data entry secretaries. Then a percentage is calculated based on the feed call for each particular pen against the amount of feed actually delivered. Option 546 allows a user to set the variation fed to conform to the amount of power that will actually be supplied. If the fed variation exceeds the established percentage, then the feed is placed, a flag in the form of a report or some other user interface is generated showing that the variation exceeded one or more pens. Therefore, remedial actions can be taken to correct the excess or shortage of variation fed. Exceeding a fed variation can be caused by a number of situations, such as a malfunction scale, a malfunction feeding screw of a feed truck supply mechanism, feed truck driver error, etc. The post-feeding option 548 corresponds to the displacement menu that allows a user to choose the post-feeding option in case the variation fed exceeds the threshold amount established. As shown in the example in Figure 138, one option is to distribute the amount of malnutrition equally among the so-called un-fed power supplies remaining of the day so that the total supply actually supplied for the day-feed call is accurate after the last feeding of the day. Similarly, if there was an over-powered amount, the power can be removed equally among the remaining un-fed power calls of the day so that the total power supplied equally is accurate. If there is an observed variation that exceeds the threshold amount established in the last day's power supply, a user has the option of adjusting the amount of redistribution for the next day in order to remedy any over or undernutrition that may have occurred. Figure 139 illustrates a quarter reading configuration screen 550 that is displayed when button 512 of Figure 138 is selected. As mentioned above, each power supply truck or other designated vehicle used in the feed yard can be equipped with a laptop that interferes with the data processing system. The interface is preferably wireless (eg, Internet, RF, or satellite). The truck operator / room reader on the laptop can observe one or more feed room screens. These screens present detailed information in each of the feeding rooms. The truck operator / room reader can adjust feed quantities based on the observed status of a feed room just prior to delivery, as well as based on historical data on the feed room that dictates how the feed room should be fed. The laptops also operate the truck interface software that records the actual weight of the power supplied as integrated with the truck scales. According to Figure 139, there are two basic types of room reading screens that can be established, mainly, type 1 and type 2 screens. The type reading screens of type 1 and type 2 simply represent two general options in terms of how room information can be presented on laptops, with the details of each room reading screen that is controlled by the user. The room reading fields 552 correspond to the data fields within the room reading screens that may be presented, when reviewing the appropriate box. The focus options 554 correspond to those presentation options where the cursor can be located when the screen is presented, and if more than one option 554 is chosen, the user can simply use the reed key in order to change the focus of the screen. cursor between the selected fields. For example, the projected shipping date ration and smoothing time can be selected for a particular approach when the user sees the room reading screen. The cursor will be placed in one of the fields that allow the user to make data entry easier on that screen. Figure 139 also shows the controls that can be used to increase or decrease the amount of power that is supplied to a particular pen when the truck / room reader operator is located at the pen location, and is supplying power. As the example shows, the operator can decrease the amount of power to be supplied in fields 556 either by pressing the minus key or the left bracket key. In order to increase the amount of feed, the operator can press the plus key or the right bracket key in fields 558. In option blocks 560, the increase / decrease can be controlled either by kilograms of head, or kilograms total in the corral. For example, if the option of total kilograms is chosen, then the increase / decrease could be 200, which could correspond to an increase of 90.72 kilograms or decrease in food supply to the particular pen. If the option of kilograms per head is selected, then the increase / decrease, for example, could be 0.45 kilograms per head in which case the feed would be adjusted to 0.45 kilograms per head based on the head number in the pen over time . The power call history grid option 562 allows the user to select the type of information to be presented in the form of a graph on the room reading screen. As shown in the available columns 564, there is a list of different fields that can be presented in the power call history grid. By using the selection arrows 565, the user can decide which columns to present or not to present. The data fields to be presented are those listed in the columns for presentation 566. The consumption presentation 568 allows a user to choose between two different ranges by average day consumption. In the example in Figure 139, the first consumer presentation would cover the 7-day period, while the second consumer presentation would cover a period of 14 days. The default chart format 570 describes the format of the particular chart chosen for view. For example, it is possible to present real fed quantities, actual fed against called quantities, called quantities only, etc. In the example of Figure 139, the operator chose to see the actual fed quantities in the graph. Figure 140 illustrates another maintenance menu selection screen, mainly, a division screen. This screen allows the user to enter rules by which the total daily feeding call for a livestock pen will be divided into separate supplies to the pen. The user may choose to enter a general predetermined rule for the feed yard, division rules for a particular animal pen, division rules for a particular pasture containing the animals, or division rules for particular feed codes. The division rules can be entered as percentages of the total daily call, or as kilograms per head / kilograms per pen if the quantity values are selected. In the example of Figure 140, a particular patio / facility 574 is chosen, and there are three feeds 576 programmed in the daily feed call. The 578 percentages for each feed are shown, mainly, 50% for the first feed, 25% for the second feed, and 25% for the third feed. Based on these designated power divisions, the power calls for each power supply are calculated and supplied. Figure 141 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, shown as a 580 load card options screen. This screen allows a user to define which items will be displayed on the load cards / feed sheets. The loading cards / feeding sheets are the feeding instructions transported by the truck driver that provides detailed information of the ingredients to be loaded on the truck at the feed mill or ingredient loading site, as well as the list of pens that are going to feed on the loaded truck. These cards / printed sheets can be used as the primary means of instruction for drivers when one or more of the supply trucks do not have an electronic truck interface. The truck may also have its own separate power truck interface with the mill computer that allows the loading card / sheet to be displayed on a user interface screen on the truck computer as well as on the mill computer. The loading cards can be provided to the feed mill in the form of a user screen that is generated from the options chosen in Figure 141. As shown there are several load card field options 582 and consumption options 584. The Figure 142 is the user screen that appears when the user selects the macro ingredients button 586. The macro ingredients list 588 allows the user to select the particular ingredients that are capable of being printed on the card / loading sheets. As shown, the user can select all macro ingredients listed, can select specific ingredients, or can remove the selection and then re-select the desired ingredients. Figure 143 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, primarily a 590 ration change criteria screen. This screen allows a user to enter rules that govern when the system will recommend that an individual animal or animal pen you must change a ration code assigned to the next ration code / feed sequence. As shown in the Figure, criterion 591 is provided to establish the rules. The criterion values can be selected from the designated ranges, the range limits defined by the values entered in blocks 592 and 594. The 590 criterion can be chosen from predefined displacement lists by selecting the corresponding displacement cones 595. When a animal yard in any of the room reading screens, the data processing system will evaluate all the listed rules contained in this rule table. The system will generate a note to the user if any of the corral data matches any of the recommended ration change criteria. The note can include a list of the current criterion values for the affected pen. The system does not automatically change the ration code of the affected pen to the recommended ration code, but allows the user to choose whether to adopt the change or continue feeding the ration code currently assigned. If the user chooses not to change the suggested serving code, the system will continue to notify the user each time the affected feed data is presented on the fourth reading screen. The system also records the criterion evaluation in a historical table that can be evaluated by the management of the yard for better control of feeding schedules within the facility. Notification to the user can be achieved by a separate notification screen, similar to the notification screen discussed below with respect to Figure 168. The notification summarizes the criterion of change of ration, and requests that the user confirm if the change of ration should take place (yes / no buttons on the screen ). Additionally, notification could be achieved by automatic generation of a written note (not shown). Figure 144 corresponds to another maintenance menu selection screen, mainly a power divisions criterion screen 600. This screen allows users to enter rules that will govern how the data processing system will calculate the power values during the change from one assigned ration code to another. The criteria for these rules is selected from a predefined list of criteria 602 that can be chosen from the scrolling menus for each criterion block. As with the ration change criteria screen of Figure 143, a user can click on the scroll menu icons 605 in order to view and select the criteria. In that way, the desired criteria are entered into fields 602, and the corresponding desired criterion values are entered into blocks 604 and 606. As shown in the example in Figure 144, the criteria for established food divisions apply to a change from ration code 6 to ration code 7. Along with the criterion to be established, the user can also enter the rules to calculate the feeds to be supplied to the animal pen. As also shown in the example, the first feed 608 results in 80% supply of the feed call for the day, while the second feed 610 results in the remaining 20% of the feed call that is supplied. Instead of supplying a percentage amount for each feed, feeds can be divided based on kilograms per head, shown in data entry blocks 612. Figure 145 illustrates another file maintenance menu selection screen, namely, a screen of supply sequence 614. This screen allows the user to define the physical zones or groups of pens, and the read and supply sequences assigned to the pens within the defined zones. In this way, this screen controls the order in which the pens are presented during the fourth reading procedure as well as the order in which the rations are supplied to the pens. It should be understood that the reading and delivery sequences may be independent of one another. For example, it may be necessary to have the room reader first to gather the information in the status of a selected group of pens before feeding for the day. In that way, the fourth reading order may be different than the actual order of feeding supplied to those rooms. In order to assign the reading sequence, the user enters in the sequence column 616 the numerical sequence that is desired to read the corresponding physical zone / pen 618. As shown in the example, the reading sequence is incremented by 5. , and several corral numbers are listed with their corresponding assigned reading sequence number. The first reading sequence number is shown as the number 5. For the supply sequence, the sequence numbers are also assigned in the supply sequence column 620, and the corresponding zones / pastures are entered in column 622. Supply sequences were also provided in increments of 5, the first supply sequence number of 100. Finally, these read sequence numbers and supply sequence numbers simplify the supply of power by allowing the user to see the physical areas within of the feeding court in a sequence that corresponds to the order in which the pens are fed and read. Figure 146 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, mainly a 630 truck screen to enter detailed information regarding food trucks located at the facility. As shown, the 630 truck screen allows a user to enter the name, description, and capacity of each food truck. This feed truck data controls how the system analyzes and reports truck activities as well as how the feed charges are allocated and calculated by the system to supply the various physical areas within the feed yard. Additionally, trucks can be classified based on their ability to transport certain types of rations designated by the respective ration codes. In the example of Figure 146, truck number 1 has a general capacity of 13,607.77 kilograms; however, for ration code 1, its capacity is 9,071.85 kilograms, and for ration code 2, its capacity is 11, 339.81 kilograms. Figure 147 illustrates even another file maintenance menu selection screen, mainly, a custom criteria screen 632. This screen allows a user to add custom feeding criteria for evaluation by the system. These custom criteria may consist of any combination of items from criterion to table, numerical values, and mathematical calculations. These custom criteria formulas once established afterwards can be added to the criteria tables with an assigned name, and are made available to the user of the respective criterion shift lists for the feed split criteria and the change criteria screens of ration. In the example of Figure 147, the criterion name 634 is designated as NEG. The criterion description 636 corresponds to net energy for gain. Formula 638 provides the numerical relationship to satisfy the criterion. Formula 638 can be constructed from the other data entry blocks shown on the screen, mainly fields, mathematics, logic, and date. Each of these data entry blocks has its own scrolling menus that the user can select from the construction of the formula 638. The verification syntax button 639 is used to validate the mathematical formula syntax so that the formula can calculated in fact when used. Figure 148 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, mainly a 640 macro ingredients screen. This screen allows a user to enter and modify available macro ingredients that can be used in ration formulations. This screen also allows the user to enter receipts and adjustments to the inventory associated with each ingredient macro code. Examples of this screen and associated macro ingredient receipts (Figure 149) and macro ingredients settings (Figure 150) are also presented. More specifically, the 640 screen controls how the system presents the macro ingredients and how the certain data values associated with each macro ingredient are calculated by the system. In the example, the macro ingredient is bales of alfalfa, a unit of measurement in kilograms, 90,718.92 kilograms in hand, zero moisture content, and a dry matter factor of 100. Bales of alfalfa are located inside a loaded orifice. Registered entries for the macro ingredients are used by other data screens within the data processing system in order to calculate other values presented. This screen along with the actual feed data will allow a user to control physical inventories of macro ingredients by hand. Referring to Figure 149, when the receipt button 642 of Figure 148 is activated, the user can observe this receipt screen that allows the user to place the macro ingredients received by entering the appropriate amount and date received, and then by pressing the placement button 644. In the example of Figure 149, 45,400 kilograms of alfalfa were recorded as received on June 6, 2005. Figure 150 illustrates a macro ingredients adjustment screen 646 that can be used to adjust the inventory by hand of a particular macro ingredient. This screen appears if the user presses the settings button 643 of Figure 148. As shown in the example in Figure 150, 453.59 kilograms of alfalfa were damaged in the shipment, and the quantity is subtracted by hand. By pressing the positioning button 648, the adjustment is recorded. Figure 151 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, mainly, a 650 power supply time table screen. This screen allows the user to enter and modify target delivery times for each pen and ration within the batch. feeding. This screen also allows you to report within the system to compare the actual delivery time recorded from the data changed from the power supply to the target times, and also to present variation times for ration supply for each pen in the feeding lot. As shown in the example, ration 2 will be supplied to pens 107-110. The first feeding will take place at 6:30 a.m., and the second feeding will take place at 10:30 a.m. The user can choose the ration, feedlots, feed, and delivery times as shown. Figure 152 is another file maintenance menu selection screen, primarily a 654 ration master screen. This screen allows the user to enter and modify available rations. This screen controls how the system presents the ration details and how certain data values associated with each ration are calculated by the system. As shown, the ration data 656 includes a broad array of information describing various attributes of the ration, as well as how the ration data will be displayed on other user screens (eg, chart color). When a ration code is presented, the corresponding ration formula 658 is also shown and details the composition of the ration formula. The load capacity of the truck for the particular ration is shown in 660, as well as the corresponding financial interface 622 and 664 mill interface. Interfaces with the financial system and the mill allow a direct conversion of the ration code established in the system. Data processing par be transferred to the other data processing systems. In this way, the interfaces 622 and 664 allow the conversion of data with respect to consumed rations that can be reported directly to the various financial institutions or food mills. Figures 153-166 comprise user interface screens for controlling various power handling functions. As discussed in more detail, these screens allow a user to select and tailor power management functions to run in the daily management of the feed yard. More specifically, these basic screen control transactions concern the allocation of power and the supply of power to groups of animals located in the feed yard. Figure 153 shows a selection screen of power management menu 670, mainly, one of the two basic formats for a room reading screen / power call screen. In other words, the primary screen used by the room reader when controlling the food court operations. This screen allows the room reader to change a number of feeding parameters as well as register the status of the pens. The ability to reassign a pen or group of pens to a specific feed load is available to the room reader on your screen (ask the inventors how to do on this screen). As previously discussed with respect to Figure 139, the user can modify the particular presentation format. As shown in the illustrative room 670 reading input screen, the particular pen and batch number of the pen to be fed is shown, along with the head count. The calculated feeding call shown in this example is 871.68 kilograms. The actual fed amount is 948.86 kilograms resulting in a variation of 77.1 kilograms. A historical graph is shown that details the actual fed quantities for a preselected time period, and detailed information on the graph found in the lower right hand corner of the screen details additional historical information such as the fed variation. After the particular pen was fed for the current feed, the room reader / operator enters the actual feed quantity when verifying manually by pen or load of the truck scale or by checking through the user interface associated with the feed. truck scale that indicates the actual amount supplied to the pen in that feed. The actual amount fed is shown in the data entry block 671 located under the current feed data header. If during the observation of the feed room for the pen a decision is made to maintain feeding for the pen, the room reader / operator checks the support box 673 or uses the associated function key which then registers that the power was maintained for that pen. The room reader / operator can also change the assigned ration on the room reading input screen to include add modify feed supplements. The column Act 675 under the current feed data heading refers to activity d fourth to be completed for that pen, if any exists, as designated by the room reader. For example, before delivering the ration to the pen, the truck driver may have to empty clean the pen, as instructed in the Act 675 column. Figure 154 shows the other standard room reading input screen 672. shows, the information provided on the screen is arranged in a slightly different format, with some additional information displayed (such as high consumption data) while other additional information is omitted (such as details of the current day call). In order to enter the actual amount of power supplied, the user would enter the amount in block 671. If the power was maintained for the pen, the user would check the support box 673. As mentioned above with respect to the screen of Fourth reading configuration, the user has the ability to tailor the information displayed on the room reading input screens to meet their specific needs without changing the basic source code in any other way. Figures 155 and 156 illustrate the detailed feed history tabs of the quarter reading input screens. As shown in Figure 155, this power history detail screen 674 provides a historical graph showing consumption for a specific pen in a selected period of time. The detailed screen shows data for each feeding of each day, and allows the view of fed rations and consumption differences between daily feeds. This screen also shows supplements that were fed. The screen can also incorporate the use of a number of symbols or indicators that correspond to actions that took place in the pen. For example, the indicators are available to be presented if the pen was identified as having, for example, room activity, movement of animals in or from the pen, a priority change in terms or when the room was fed for the purpose of feeding , objective consumption data, dry matter percentage data, etc. These indicators are identified by means of symbols such as tables, triangles, circles, and can be colored to differentiate the user's view facility. The power history detail screen 676 of Figure 156 is a spreadsheet that provides power history data to include call quantities, actual fed quantities, head counts, ration types, and identification of the particular location in the yard by farmyard and lot number. The information presented in Figures 155 and 156 can be directed to an output file for exporting the other data processing systems, such as a data processing system of a financial institution. Accordingly, this information can be used by other parties when analyzing the production history of a selected group of animals within the feeding court. Figure 157 illustrates another fourth reading input screen, namely, a shortened fourth reading input screen 678. A user may choose to use the abbreviated format of this screen as opposed to the formats provided in Figures 153 and 154. This particular quarter reading input screen removes some information found in the previous quarter reading input screens, such as the historical chart. As shown in this figure, entering the numerical value in the 671 data entry block completes the actual supply input supplied, and supply support record is achieved by reviewing the table 673. Figure 158 is another selection screen of power management menu, mainly, a 680 daily redistribution screen. This screen allows a user to prepare the power board for the next power date. This transaction can be made at the end of the feeding day when all the reports were produced or at the beginning of the next day before the user enters the standard reading or abbreviated reading screens. Executing this transaction by pressing F10 will move all the current day's feed data to the historical tables and then produce the feed records for the next feed date based on the rules set in the parameters screen, feed split screen , and feeding method criteria screen. If the user wants to see a weather forecast, the user presses the climate button 682. The weather information can be obtained from a link to an online weather prediction service. If the user observes that inclement or climatic changes may occur the next day, the user may wish to change the feeding parameters for the day, or otherwise adjust the feeding call to count the nearby weather conditions. Figure 159 is another screen for selecting power management menu, a power production and supply screen 684. In general, this screen allows the user to enter and execute all transactions associated with the fulfillment of power calls for supply, which produces the loads to be allocated to the feed trucks, which sends those loads to the feed trucks, and which verifies the actual feed quantities supplied by the feed trucks. After the last feeding of the day, the user would access this screen in order to generate the instructions for the next day's feeding. The user would also access this screen to verify the status of the feeding procedure while it is in progress through the feeding day, and to modify any of the feed instructions previously issued. The feed calculation tab 681 provides the user with six options, namely, printing feed sheets 687, receiving data key 691, printing mill sheet 695, committed removal 689, sending data key 693, and sending to mill 697 The option of printed feed sheets 687, if activated, will produce the feed sheets / load cards, the documents that detail the feed instructions for each truck. The option to send to data key 693 also produces the detailed feeding instructions for the selected pens, but sends the information electronically to the power supply trucks, for example, by wireless transmission such as RF communications, or by interface with cards of memory used in laptops on trucks. The option to send to mill 697, if activated, results in electronic transfer of the feed mill instructions to the feed mill grouping system and / or instructions for the micro ingredient system. The micro ingredient system adds micro-designated ingredients to a food group, such as vitamins, pharmaceuticals, etc. The instructions sent provide details on the exact ingredients to be grouped so that each truck is loaded with the appropriate type and quantity of feed ingredients for each of the day feeds. The data transfer can be configured in the desired way to include automatic sending to a designated location on the same computer that operates the feed management module, any computer that is in the livestock management system network, or any type of storage media (eg, disk, snapshot, etc.) that is then manually transported to the computer to process the data. Again, this electronic transfer could be a wireless transmission, or any other type of transmission used in the food court. Figure 161 discussed further shows the user screen that appears when s selects the send to mill tab 701. The option of printed mill sheets 695, if activated, prints the instructions for the feed mill, ie the quantities and types of rations that need to be prepared in the feed mill to lift the feed trucks. The printed feed mill instructions also provide the details for the feed mill system and / or micro ingredient so that each truck is loaded with the appropriate type of ration, feed ingredients, and feed amount for each day feed. The instructions for the feed mill are generated in the form of a projected production sheet of feed mill as discussed below with respect to Figure 160. (Note: you will have to renumber all figures after this figure) . The receipt of the data key option 691, if activated, allows incoming information from the feed trucks and feed mill to be placed for the system to include update of the cake state tables 688 discussed below. For example, a memory card / instant card would be retrieved from one or more power trucks, after they completed the supply of their charges, if that power trucks do not have a wireless connection, and the memory card could be inserted into the Workstation computer to download the power information. The committed option to remove 689, if activated, allows a user to modify the power call for any particular pen if there was already a request for committed feed from the pen for a particular feed. In this way, the original feed request for a selected pen is eliminated in favor of the modified feed request entered and placed by the user in this option. Thus, this option 689 provides manual entry of feed requests when it may be necessary to adjust the programmed feed quantities and / or ingredients for a selected feedlot. To see the calculated loads for any of the pens, the selected filter options 685 would be reviewed, and the lower portion of the screen provides a spreadsheet for the selected data. In the example, the power data for the next power supply is presented (power 1). As shown, the call quantities are listed for each pen, but pens were not fed yet. The user can choose to modify the classification of the spreadsheet by selecting any one or more of the 685 filters. Filters include the feed number, supply priority, feed group, feed type, zone, sex, truck, or load . The data can also be classified by corrale committed or not committed. Corrals compromised or those in which the feed sheet instructions and issued and / or mill instructions that were already issued. Uncommitted corrals are those in which no action has yet been taken to feed those pens to the next scheduled feeding. The check tab 686 as discussed above is used to present and place the actual fed quantities as recorded by the feed truck scale interfaces when manually placing the feed quantities. The user can also verify the actual fed quantities for each pen on screen 684 by clicking on the column fed from the spreadsheet for a selected pen and entering the total fed amount. The system subsequently recalculates the amount of variation for each pen and presents that information on the corresponding line in the spreadsheet for the particular pen. The pie charts 688 show how the state of completion of the three major steps in the feeding procedure, mainly, commitment feed, load calculation, and fed state. As shown in the example, 100% of the pens are committed, 100% of the loads are completed (that is, 100% of the total feed called for the particular feed was loaded on the trucks), and 13% of the pens They fed. As discussed above, the power management parameter display 500 controls the transactions available on this screen, as well as how transactions work. With the functionality available to a user and connection to the user screen shown in Figure 159, the dynamic loading of pens is possible. The dynamic load refers to the capacity to maximize load capacities of the truck by truck. For example, if only one or a few run and are assigned a different truck, this eliminates the need to use the truck for that feed and maximizes loads on other trucks. Accordingly, the user will reassign the loads to one or other trucks that still have some available capacity. To reassign a load, the user simply re-presses the key of the desired load number in the load column for the corresponding pen. When changing the load number for the pen, a message appears on the user screen announcing to the user that the total kilograms for the new load increased by an amount equal to the ration assigned to the pen. The user can accept or deny the requested change. If accepted, the load balance columns and load columns in Figure 159 are updated automatically showing the new load balance sizes and load numbers. Figure 160 shows a projected feed mill sheet illustrative 679 which is generated when the user selects the option of printed mill sheets 695. The particular serving information presented is based on the selection of filter settings 689 of the production d and supply screen 684. Figure 161 shows the user screen 702 presented when milling tab 701 is selected. On this screen, the user can select the order in which the data is sent to the mill of food / micro ingredient system. Specifically, the data can be sent either by order of ration or loading order. The user can also change the same ration order and change the communication settings with the feed mill / micro ingredient system. To change in the order of ration, this corresponds to the Pri (Priority) column in the illustrated data. In that way, a change in the order of ration would result in the pens being fed in a different order from the feed trucks. The communication configurations can be changed to accommodate the specific communication interfaces used by the feed mill / micro ingredient system, ie, wireless protocol, cable connection, etc. Figure 162 illustrates the supplied power option of the check tab 686. When selecting the Feed option on the right side of the screen, this screen is generated. This screen allows the user to verify the feed truck supply data and place the data in the physical feed register for the pen. While each truck completes the supply for each pen, the truck will transfer the data with respect to the actual fed quantities. For trucks with a wireless interface, such data can be transmitted very soon after delivery. For trucks without an electronic interface, the data can be entered manually afterwards or loaded from the storage medium (disk, instantaneous unit, etc.). Then they become available on the screen shown in Figure 162. The data presented is a comprehensive analysis of the ration assigned to each truck, the amount called per pen, the amount fed per pen, date, time, and group number. While the information provided appears on the screen, the user can decide to place the information, by checking the box in the Pst (Pos) column, and then selecting the placement code. Figure 163 illustrates the load data of the load detail option of the check tab 686. When selecting the Load option on the right side of the screen, this screen is generated. While each feed load is placed in a truck as well as micro ingredients placed in a truck, the feed mill grouper and micro ingredient system will respectively transfer data with respect to each load, and such data is made available on the screen shown in Figure 163. As with the data placement discussed above with respect to Figure 162, while the loaded data appears on the screen, the user may decide to place the information, by checking the box in the Pst (Pos) column, and then select the placement button.

For the verification function discussed above with reference to Figures 162 and 163, the user can filter the power data to be verified when configuring values in the filter fields located on the right side of the screen display. As shown, the filter fields include group ID, power number, ration, zone, pen, truck, and load. Normally, the only thing that the filter needs to use is the power number where the user can place the data. feeding by the feeding number. The group ID refers to the unique number given by the feed mill for a load on a particular truck. Before placing the data, the user can observe the variation of the quantity called and the quantity fed, shown on the screen under the column of Va (Variation). If there is a large discrepancy in the variation, the user can then adjust the Fed column of Figure 162 to count the variation based on the information obtained that would explain the variation, or otherwise take the corrective action to determine the discrepancy. For example, large variations could be caused by a malfunctioning truck scale, in which case, it may be appropriate to adjust the actual fed amount. Similarly, for load quantities of Figure 163, if there is a large variation in the expected load amount (Expected column) against the actual loaded quantity (Real column), the user can adjust the actual or expected load quantities based on the information obtained that would explain the variation.

The feed received from the truck buttons shown in Figures 162 and 163 simply allows the user to print the data downloaded from the trucks in a convenient report format so that the user can also analyze the information in order to make a decision as if the data should be placed. The elimination group buttons in these figures allow the user to completely remove the downloaded information received from the feed mill / micro ingredient system, as occasionally such downloaded information will contain obvious errors, and the user may wish to manually place the feed data, Verify and place the functions provided in these verification screens, feeding court management is provided with a detailed history for actual ingredients supplied to each pen. The tracking of loaded and uncharged ingredients as well as the tracking of actual over-nourished and malnourished amounts allows for more timely and effective handling of the feed-calling procedure, and particularly to remedy any of the solutions not met with respect to rules governmental or guide lines. Figure 164 illustrates another selection of power management menu, mainly, a post-feed by 690 pen displays. This screen allows a user to manually place quantities fed to the committed power calls. As shown, the feeding calls can be presented in the pen or feeding order. The screen has the ability to present selected feedlot call records based on the user selecting the feed number, feedlot number and feed code. The user then modifies the actual fed amount and / or the feed ration code. The data will then be used by the system to produce several reports for management. The auto feed button allows the user to accept the amount of ration called for the actual fed quantities on a global basis for the selected feed number. Figure 165 is another power management menu selection screen, mainly, a global power change screen 692. This screen allows the user to globally change a selected group of feeds for the selected criteria loaded in the upper section of the screen . As shown, the selection criteria include the ration group, ration code, sex, calling area, priority, and feeding number. There are two methods of adjustment, mainly, an amount of established power and amount of adjustment power. The amount of power set will set the total power amount for the selected physical power number that maintains the total call for the power day. The amount of adjustment feed will adjust the total feed amount of the selected physical feed number according to the chosen rules. The rules include percentage of call, kilograms per head and kilograms per pen. This screen can be very useful for the user if there is a large group of pens in which the feeding data needs to be adjusted. Otherwise, the user would have to make individual call changes for each pen using the standard reading or abbreviated reading screens. Figure 166 is another power management menu selection screen, mainly, a quarter-night reading screen of room 694. This screen allows the user to enter the date and time that the power room was empty of power (time of smoothing) based on a 24-hour clock measurement. The group of pens that this screen will present will depend on the filters established by the user. The user can choose to present only those pens for an established group of input data filters. These data filters are similar to the filters that can be set for room reading screens. This data is usually entered by the night crew at a facility and will be used by the room reader during the next day's feeding input procedure. This data is also one of the standard criteria items that can be used by the system to control the treatment and feeding procedures at the facility. This data can also be entered into the room reading screens by the room reader during the power call procedure. Figure 167 is another selection of power management menu, primarily a room reading action assignments screen 696. This screen allows the user to set an action to complete in each pen, mainly emptying, cleaning or supporting the pen for the next unencumbered feed These data will produce reports that will list all pens that need to be emptied and / or cleaned before the next feeding. The term "emptying" simply means the removal of existing food within a feeding room. The term "clean" means the removal of food and cleaning of the feeding room. Selecting the support option will result in the selected pen that is removed from the list of available pens that can commit to the power supply. This data can also be entered or modified in the standard room reading screens by the room reader operator during the normal call of the feeding procedure. Figure 168 is another selection of feed handling menu, primarily, a supplementary ration allocation screen 698. This screen allows the user to call a supplementary ration such as hay for a selected group of pens in a much more efficient manner than the Standard room reading screen. According to this screen, the user calls a supplementary ration for a corral presented together with the total call quantity for the feeding day. Also the number of days that the supplement is fed (Days for Feeding (DTF)) can be entered. The Days in Supplement (DOS) are also presented. This data can be modified on this screen or the standard fourth reading screen subsequent to the original entry. Figure 169 is another screen for selecting the power management menu, mainly, a 710 mass ration maintenance screen. This screen allows a user to globally change the so-called ration code for a selected group of pens, which as shown can be filtered by ration group, ration code, sex, calling area and priority code for a selected range of data. This transaction will not change the assigned ration code for the pen in the system and will instead continue to count ration days for the original assigned ration code. This transaction can be used to feed a special ration such as a medicated ration or storm ration to a group of pens for selected date ranges without affecting any criteria that is evaluated during the feeding call procedure. This mass ration change can be used to change the assigned ration code when setting the change to the active state when reviewing the activated frame. Once it is reviewed, and after the procedure corral button has been activated, the change of ration will be placed to change the assigned ration. Figure 170 is another power management menu selection screen, mainly, a load screen post-feeding 714. This screen allows a user to manually place supplied quantities of actual quantities of actual charged macro ingredients for each supplied charge. for each physical feeding. This data can be used to produce feed variation and reports of macro variation of feed mix ingredients for ease of handling. This data will also be used by the system to update any inventory held for ration ingredients. This screen allows the user to select the numbers loaded for the current feeding day per feeding number. The screen will show the total serving amount as well as the amount of total ration fed and the total expected macro ingredient amount and the actual loaded macro ingredient amount with variations for each of the presented loads. These quantities can be updated as the individual pen and quantities of macro ingredients for the load are entered by the user. Another feature of the feed handling anointing of the present invention is the ability to actively handle medicated rations or other special rations that have withdrawal days associated with one or more ingredients used in the rations. Some ingredients used in rations must be digested / completely metabolized by the animals before the animal embarks. The withdrawal days associated with these ingredients may be voluntarily established by the product manufacturer, or may be established by government regulation.

Rations that have withdrawal requirements can be identified in the ration data of the ration master screen of Figure 152, and such rations are provided with their own ration codes. A field of days of withdrawal is associated with the ration data, and this field is used by the system to provide a room reader or other food court personnel with notification that the ration prevents the shipment until the requirement of satisfaction is met. days of retirement. A table of managed ingredient can be provided in the system that details each ingredient handled and the corresponding withdrawal day period. When a ration such as the ration master screen is constructed, the management ingredient table can be accessed to automatically set the withdrawal day requirement within the ration data. The notification for the yard personnel may be in the form of a number of warnings or user interface screen reports as discussed below. For example, a 28-day livestock group is assumed to have a projected shipment date. Livestock is currently assigned a ration code 5 (a finishing ration with no recall requirement), but it is desired to change the ration code for a 5Z serving code (a ration that has a withdrawal requirement of 3 days). Through the ration change criteria screen, (Figure 143) this ration change could be programmed according to the parameters configured here. Referring to Figure 171, the room reader would be notified on a user screen that a diet change was programmed. This notification would appear, for example, when the fourth grade is preparing to establish the feeding call for the next day's feeds. The notification includes the identification of the rations involved and the criterion of change of ration. The room reader can accept or deny the change. If it is denied, the existing ration would be fed that day (ration 5), and the room reader would be driven again the next day if the ration change should take place. If a first notification is accepted, the change of ration would affect for 25 days, and the change of ration would be recorded in the feeding registers. On day 26 before the first feeding, the room reader is notified again that a rotation change is programmed, mainly, from the 5Z ration back to the ration 5. Referring to Figure 172, the notification again shows the rations involved, change criteria, and projected shipping date. If the scheduled boarding date is to be maintained, this change is required to satisfy the three-day withdrawal requirement. If the room reader accepts the change, the ration changed and the projected departure date is not affected. The feed records are updated again to reflect the change of ration back to ration 5. If the room reader does not accept the change, then the notification will be provided for each subsequent day that the cattle contained in the identified pens can not embark until the withdrawal requirement is met. The notification can be in many forms to include a shipment report generated each day for the livestock group scheduled for shipment. Referring to Figure 173, a general notification of the use of a ration that has a withdrawal requirement may be displayed on the fourth reading entry screen. As shown in the upper right-hand portion of the screen, the information is provided with respect to the ration in the broadcast that includes when the ration started and the fastest available boarding date. Any attempt to board a group or individual animal before satisfying a withdrawal requirement that results in a continuous notification that the animal (s) can not embark. As well, if there is any movement of livestock between pens that includes cattle that are fed a ration with a withdrawal requirement, then notifications would also be generated by the system. Referring to Figure 174, a sample notification that warns a user of the existence of cattle scheduled for shipment before satisfying a withdrawal requirement is shown. In this example, a user tried to schedule and execute a cattle shipment through a cattle boarding screen, but was notified of the feed change discrepancy. Additionally, several reports can be generated that detail projected shipment dates and those animals that were fed with a ration that has a withdrawal requirement. The next group of user screens, mainly the screens shown in Figures 175-193, illustrate various types of reports that list table values used in the feed management sub-module. Referring first to Figure 175, a fourth reading call sheet 716 is provided. This screen allows a user to select a group of pens to be presented in a quarter reading call sheet report. As shown, the selection criteria include ration codes, ration groups, zones, and sex codes. A user may also choose to present a selected group of pens in any call or supply sequence. Figure 176 is another screen showing a report call sheet report of illustrative room 718. This report can be used by the room reading staff by manually recording the feed calls for a selected group of pens. As shown, this report lists basic data needed for the room reading staff to make a feed fill for the pens presented. For example, the room reader would record the call for each pen in the call field of each report data line. Subsequently, the call quantities would be placed for each pen using any of the standard room reading screens discussed above. This method of placing call quantities can be used instead of using the laptop in the room reader truck that is typically connected through RF to the server comr. The specific fields in this report include the pen number, the amount of call to be assigned by the room reading staff, the call quantity calculated based on the feed call redistribution rules, the current head count in the pen, the account of head currently in special pens, sex code, feeding days, night reading, assigned ration code, days of ration, consumption in kilograms per head for current day and five days of history, together with an average consumption of five days , and the average weight of cattle in the pens. Figure 177 is a driver list report selection screen 720. This screen allows a user to select the group of truck drivers to be presented in a driver list report. The user can choose to present active, inactive, or both drivers. Figure 178 illustrates the 722 driver list report that can be used by management to present and verify all data associated with the selected group of truck drivers used in the facility. Figure 179 illustrates a screen for selecting power supply target times 724. This screen allows a user to select the desired round / number of feed, group of pens, or ration codes to be presented for a time report of target power supply. Figure 180 is an illustrative 726 power supply time report that can be used to display and verify all target delivery times associated with power rounds / numbers, pens, and ration codes contained in a supply schedule table. Figure 181 is a field code list report selection screen 728 that allows the user to select the user defined codes to be listed in a list report of user defined fields. In the example of the room reader configuration screen in Figure 139, there are three user-defined codes provided (User, User2, and User 3). These user defined codes correspond to some observed state of the power call operation as defined by the user. Figure 182 is an example of a list report of user defined fields 730 that can be used by facility management to present and verify the list of any of the user defined codes established along with the values currently registered in the tables of feeding. As discussed above with reference to Figure 139, the values of these user-defined codes can be displayed on the fourth reading screens, can be recorded for each feeding date, and can be presented on the fourth reading screen boxes for used by room reading staff during a daily feeding procedure. In the example of this figure, the state RA and RB simply corresponds to some user defined codes for the particular food court. Figure 183 is a macro list report selection screen 732. This screen allows a user to select macro ingredients as active, inactive, or both for purposes of presenting the macro ingredients in a macro list report. Figure 184 shows an example of the macro ingredient list report 734 that can be used to present the data status for a selected group of macro ingredients. As shown, this report lists the abbreviation of macro ingredient or short name, full name, percentage of moisture, kilograms per cubic meter of ingredient, location to load ingredient, print control for charge cards or load sheet report, equivalent code of financial interface, ingredient status, and account quality by hand. Figure 185 shows a 736 pen master list report selection screen. This screen allows a user to select the corral group to be presented in a master pen list report. Figure 186 is an illustrative 738 playlist master report that can be used by a user to present status data for the selected group of pens. As shown, this report can list the pen number, pen type, sex, supply zone and sequence number, calling area and sequence number, on date, projected shipping date, lot number, head count. currently in the corral, head counts not in the corral, and special head counts (bull breeder, detractor, chronic, and recovery). Any of the pens that do not have a current head count is presented with an empty state in the head in the pen column. The totals are presented at the end of the report for the head in the pen, head not in the pen, and special head pen accounts. Any of the data fields presented in this report can be modified in the main yard maintenance screen, supply / read sequence screen, or movement and treatment screens discussed above. Figure 187 shows a selection screen for serving list report 740. This screen allows a user to select a type of ration (such as regular, medicated or supplementary), ration group, ration codes, and status code ( such as active, inactive, or both), that you wish to present in a ration list report. This screen also allows a user to select if he presents the ration formula, load sizes, and ration division data for each ration code. Figure 188 is an illustrative ration list report 742. This report can be used by the management to present and verify descriptive data for the selected group of ration codes. As shown, this report can list all the descriptive data associated with each serving code. The data presented in this report can be modified in the feed entry, feed trucks, or food division screens discussed above. Figure 189 shows 744 read / supply list report selection screen. This screen allows a user to select a group of pens to be presented in a read / supply list report. As shown, a user can select to present all or selected zones, all or selected pens, empty pens, and if the report should be classified in the feeding supply or fourth reading sequence. Figure 190 shows an illustrative read / supply list report 746. This report can be used by management to present and verify descriptive data for the selected group of pens. Figure 191 shows a 748 feed truck list report selection screen. This screen allows a user to select a group of feed trucks to present in a feed truck list report. As shown, a user can choose to present active, inactive, or both states for trucks. Figure 192 shows an illustrative 750 truckload list report. This report shows the truck name, truck description, truck capacity, and truck status. Figure 193 shows an illustrative projected consumption report 752. This report can be used to present and verify objective consumption data for each weight range and days in food record. The report can be classified in weight range or days in feeding fields. The data can be used to compare actual consumption with target times in order to illustrate variations. The next group of screens / reports shown in the Figures 194-214 are screens / power management reports that allow a user to select a group of power supply reports. These reports help to facilitate the analysis of the feeding call procedure and the assignment of state codes for each pen. Figure 194 shows a 754 room activity report selection screen. This screen allows a user to select pens with assigned activity codes for a selected date. It allows a user to present the three basic activity codes (clean, empty, hold) or select activity codes together with the report classification order (pen order, call sequence or supply sequence). Figure 195 shows an illustrative activity activity report 756. This report can be used to communicate a list of all the pens that may have an activity code assigned by the room reader. This report can be used by feeding personnel to verify that pens require some activity (such as emptying or cleaning) before the next programmed physical feeding supply. This report is also used by facility management to verify that pens can hold code assigned to a physical feed. For example, this support code can help the staff to subsequently supply the support feed for the enclosed pen (s) or adjust the total feed call for the day for the pen (s) listed. Depending on the support rule selected in the feed management parameter screen 500, the system can automatically adjust the call for full power or movement of the un-fed power account to the next scheduled power supplies. Figure 196 shows a daily feed variation report selection screen 758. This screen allows a user to select a permissible variation amount together with the sort order (pen order, call sequence, or supply sequence) for the data of variation of feeding of corral. Figure 197 shows an illustrative 760 daily feeding variation report. This report can be used by management to present those pens that were supplied with feed that exceeded or fell near the total feed called for the particular feed date. This report specifically defines problems associated with the power supply procedure and not the power calling procedure. This report can be used by room reading staff to highlight those pens that should be observed during the next day's feeding to determine why there were discrepancies in the feed provided. The data in this report can also be presented on the fourth reading screen in the detail history box section. The room reader may wish to adjust the amounts of power supplied during the current day power procedure before the power is redistributed to the next day power call. For example, if a pen is largely under supply, the room reader may wish to adjust the current day's feeding call to form the quantity supplied below the level. Figure 198 illustrates another example of a 762 daily feed variation report, but this report was sorted by supply sequence. Therefore, the first corral shown in the report shows the first corral to receive power for the designated feed. Figure 199 is a 764 daily ration use report selection screen. This screen allows a user to select a sort order in which usage data is listed in a daily ration use report. As shown, the order can be classified by lot, pen, call sequence and supply sequence. Figure 200 shows an illustrative daily ration use report 766. This report is used by facility management to present a current day's feeding data for selected pens, and provides a comparison of two average day consumption categories for the pens. selected. As shown, the report will list the lot, pen, assigned ration code, feed days, feed days, total feed amount for the current day, head count in the pen for the current day, head count not in the pen for the current date, and the consumption of the two average days based on the time periods chosen (shown 95 as 7 days and 14 days). Figure 201 is a 768 daily yard report parameter screen. This screen allows a user to select ration codes, ration groups, and sex codes to be presented in a daily yard report. Figure 202 shows an example of a 770 daily yard report. This report can be used by management to list current pens with their corresponding assigned lots, head accounts in pen, current head accounts not in pen, sex, reading values of night, day of feeding, assigned ration code, days of assigned ration, average consumption for the current day, and a selected history of consumption, the report that shows an average consumption of five days. Additionally, the average dry matter consumption for the five-day average can be shown. The report was classified in order of corral. Figure 203 is a 772 ingredient use report parameter screen. This screen allows a user to select a date range to meet the reporting data in an ingredient use report. Figure 204 shows an illustrative ingredient use report 774. This report can be used by management to show the actual use of each ingredient together with the corresponding calculated formula ration quantities and the variation between the called quantity and the loaded amount. This report provides an indication of how the feeding mix operation was conducted in a range of selected dates. This report is also used for management to control the purchase of ingredients as well as inventory control. Figure 205 is a macro ingredient variation report parameter screen 776. This screen allows a user to select a date range to present a macro ingredient variation report. Figure 206 shows an illustrative macro ingredient variation report 778. This report can be used to facilitate handling to check quantities of variation between quantities of macro-ingredients calculated based on the feed formulas and the quantities of actual mixed macro-ingredients for a range of selected dates. This report particularly helps the management to identify which ration codes produce the largest macro-ingredient variation amounts. It is important to maintain the appropriate mix formula amounts of ration. The correct caloric content maintained in a properly mixed ration formula maximizes the weight gain per head. Ration formulas are typically established by nutritionists who use their experience to recommend rations that provide maximum weight gain per head, and will be cost-effective ration solutions. Figure 207 is a night reading report parameter screen 780. This screen allows a user to select parameters to be reported in a night reading report. As shown, the screen allows the selection of the pens that receive selected ration codes, ration groups, calling zones, and / or selected sex codes. This report can be classified in any of the desired fields shown on the screen. Figure 208 shows an illustrative night reading report 782. This report can be used by a night crew to enter respective night readings for each pen. This recorded night reading time is the time in which the pen is observed as being empty. If a pen is not empty during the nighttime rains, no entry is made in the night reading column. This report can be used when the night crew does not have access to a remote computer for room reading. Night reading times mutually entered in the report can then be placed after a terminal in the yard office or patio mill at the end of the change. As shown, the report presents each yard in the yard, a night reading column for night reading time entry, the previous che reading time, lot number, head count currently in the pen, head count not in corral, assigned ration code, days in assigned ration code, days in feed, total call quantity for the day, in date of corral, and date of scheduled boarding of the corral. Figure 209 is a ration summary report parameter screen 784. This screen allows a user to select a current date or date range, or a sort order either by pens or batches and other presentation details. Figure 210 is an illustrative ration summary report 786. This report can be used by handling for summary ration by batch or pen for the current date or a specified date range. These data can be used by management to verify quantities or rations that will interfere with a financial system as well as to record the use of ration by date for later reference. As shown, the report presents the ration code and summarizes the ration quantities per batch and pen together with the current head count and consumption per head quantities. Figure 211 is a 788 truck group analysis detail parameter screen. This screen allows a user to select a date range for a truck grouping analysis report. Figure 212 is a 790 truck group analysis detail report. This report can be used by management to record each group / ration load along with the assigned pens to be supplied with the corresponding call quantities, actual supplied quantities, and amounts of variation. The report also provides the feed number, load ID, serving code, assigned driver, and truck ID if available. Figure 213 is a user defined field code list reporting parameter screen 792. This screen allows a user to select the date and one of the three user defined codes they wish to present for a status report selected by the user. user. Figure 214 shows an example of a user defined report 794 that lists specific data as selected by the user. More specifically, this illustrative report presents user-defined fields assigned to one or more of the pens, and the report is shown as being classified by days. Only the pens with fields defined by users are presented in the report. Figures 215-229 comprise several additional feed management reports, mainly, feeding analysis reports that help in the management of animal performance analysis and the effectiveness of the feeding supply procedure. Figure 215 is a 796 daily pen supply accuracy reporting parameter screen. This screen allows a user to select a date, report type (truck driver), and amount of variation for an accuracy report of daily pen supply . Figure 216 is an illustrative daily pen 798 supply accuracy report. This report provides a detailed list for each physical feed for each pen of selected dates. The report shows the number of feedlot, feed number, feed code, amount of call for feed, amount fed for feed, amount of variation, and head count in feedlot. As mentioned above, this report can be classified by the driver code or truck code based on selection in the parameter screen. Only these pens that satisfy the criterion of percentage of variations established in the variation parameter screen are presented in the report. This report can be used for management in evaluation of the power truck drivers and their ability to precisely supply the so-called power quantities. Figure 217 is a detail feed history report parameter screen 800. This screen allows a user to select a date range, sort order, batch numbers, and pens for a feed history report. Figure 218 shows an illustrative 802 detail feed history report. This report can be used by management to present feed history details for a group of pens to help manage feed for yard pens. As shown, the report presents details for each date, each batch number in the pen, and all physical feeds for each date. Each line entry presents a head account in a pen, head count not in pen, sex code, change in kilograms per head between the current date and the previous date, change in total kilograms of feed for each date, feed number, call of rotation, amount of call, feed ration and amount of feed fed. The totals for the quantities called and amounts fed are provided for each poultry data. Figure 219 is a driver / truck 804 accounting report parameter screen. This screen allows a user to select the date range for a driver / truck accounting report. Figure 220 shows an illustrative driver / truck accounting report 806. This report lists the output of each driver or truck while the total pens supplied for the selected date range, the total kilograms of feed supplied, total feed amount called, and the variation between the total fed and the total called quantity. The total reports can be provided for each field. This report helps in the management of the driver analysis and truck supply efficiency in a selected period of time. Figure 221 is a feed verification analysis report 808 that may occur for the current feed date. This report helps the management in a daily analysis of the feed verification function. The report shows details for each physical feed for each pen number. The detail line for each pen provides a feeding number, called serving code, called serving quantity, feed code supplied, amount of feed supplied, amount of variation between fed and called quantity, verification code (e = electronically verified , m = manual verification entry), and a user identification code registered during the verification procedure. Figure 222 is a power supply accuracy reporting parameter screen 810. This screen allows a user to select a date range and a group of pens or all pens for a power supply accuracy report. Figure 223 is an illustrative feed supply accuracy report 812. This report assists the management in analyzing the timing of physical supplies for each yard in a range of selected dates. As shown, this report lists a number of pens, date and physical feed per batch number, a change of reading in kilograms per head, the reading made by the fourth reader in kilograms per head, amount called feed, quantity fed of ration, and supply time for each physical feeding. Management can use this report to verify their physical feeds that are supplied approximately at the same time each day of the reporting period. A theory in livestock management is that it gains weight faster if it is fed approximately the same times each day. Figure 224 is a bar consumption consumption report parameter screen 814. This screen allows a user to select the order in which the pen consumption report will be generated. Figure 225 shows an illustrative corral consumption report 816. This report can help the management in consumption history analysis for all active corrals. As shown, this report shows the consumption per head for a period of seven days before the current feeding date, as well as the corresponding lot number, head count in pen, head count not in pen, sex code, animal pen weight, estimated current animal weight, feeding days, current assigned serving code, and current assigned ration code days. Also presented in the report are the two average consumptions in the selected periods, (shown as seven days and fourteen days). As well as the average consumption of date. Fig. 226 is a bar supply supply accuracy reporting parameter screen 818. This screen allows a user to select a date range to operate a pen supply accuracy report., which details the accuracy of the feeding supply by weight or period of time. The user can also select a particular power number or all feeds for the date range. Figure 227 shows an illustrative feedlot supply accuracy by weight report 820. This report shows the total number of pens supplied by drivers or trucks during the selected date range. The report also shows the number of pens for nine accuracy ranges. Each accuracy range shows the total pens that fall within the specified range, along with the percentage of total pens supplied that fall within the specified range. This report also helps the management in analyzing the accuracy of the power truck drivers during a particular period of time. Figure 228 is a setup time analysis report parameter screen 822. This screen allows a user to select a date range to present an enlistment time report. Figure 229 shows an illustrative enlistment time analysis report 824. This report shows a detail for each day of the date range that indicates the total number of active pens on that day along with the number of pens not recorded in time. of enlistment. All pens with registered registration time are totaled for each hour from 6:00 p.m. from the day of feeding until 6:00 a.m. the next day of feeding, together with the percentage of the total number of pen presented. This report helps the management in the evaluation of room readers and their ability to effectively call the food for a range of dates. A theory of nutrition is that each pen should have a set time range in which the pen should enlist in order to ensure maximum weight gain for the animals. The remaining feed in a room at a designated run time indicates a potential feed problem to be addressed. The following group of reports from the feed management reporting module, mainly Figures 230-236, include those reports that detail information associated with the feeding supply to animal pens at a selected facility. Figure 230 is a reporting parameter screen of truck scales of received power quantities 826. This screen allows the user to select the feeding date, feed round, ration code, supply zone, feedlots, feed code, and cargo identification number to be presented in a report of received quantities of food. Figure 231 shows a truck scale report of illustrated power quantities 828. As shown, this report presents power receipt data from the power truck scales. This report records and verifies all the data received from the power truck scales for future reference as well as helping the management in daily control of the accuracy of the feeding procedure in the facility. The report confirms quota supplies to the pens as well as the accuracy of loading the feed ingredients in the feed truck. Figure 232 is a feed mill production loader report parameter screen 830. This screen allows a user to select feed loading details to present in a feed mill production loader sheet report. As shown, the user can select ration codes, ration groups, supply zones, sex codes for which they wish to present the loading data. Figure 233 is an illustrative feed mill production loader blade report 832. This report can be used by the feed mill to assist in the production of rations and the loading of the feed trucks at the facility. Figure 234 is an 834 feed sheet report that is used to direct feed conductors to the appropriate pens in the correct order, and also indicates the ration and the amount to supply to the pen. This report helps to control the movement of food trucks in the feed yard in order to ensure uniform supply and timely feed to the pens. Figure 235 is a projected production sheet report parameter screen of feed mill 836. This screen allows the user to select the feed round, ration codes, ration groups, supply zones, and sex codes to display in a projected production report of feed mill. Figure 236 is a projected production report of illustrative feed mill 838. This report shows the feed code and detailed information for each feed with the total amount of feed needed to complete the feed for the selected criterion. This report helps mill operators and operators in the programming of the ration projection for the day of feeding. The particular embodiments described above are intended to explain the best mode known at the time of practicing the invention and to enable others skilled in the art to use the invention in such and other embodiments and with various modifications required by its particular application or use of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims be constructed invention in such and other embodiments and with various modifications required by their particular application or use of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims be constructed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art. Additionally, although the present invention is discussed particularly with respect to livestock, it should be understood that the invention is applicable also for management of all livestock.

Claims (21)

1. - A method of managing livestock, said method comprising the steps of: providing a data processing system that includes a processor, central data storage, and programming instructions to execute functions in response to data entry; establish a plurality of recommended actions for management based on mathematical relationships applied to a plurality of criteria that correspond to registered animal data, conduct livestock management operations that include conducting livestock feeding; enter initial data into the data processing system that corresponds to information regarding livestock feeding; compare the initial data with the recommendations to determine if the data correspond to a recommended action; provide the recommended action for livestock feed management, said recommended action includes at least one printed report and a user interface screen that prescribes details in the recommended action; and wherein the subsequent data entries made for the system result in providing an updated recommended action in response to a change in value of the mathematical relationships based on the subsequent data entries that differ from the initial data entries.

2. - A method, according to claim 1, wherein: a recommended action of said plurality of recommended actions includes prescribing a change of ration for the animal.

3. - A method according to claim 2, wherein: said ration change includes a change of macro- and micro-ingredients used in the ration.

4. - A method according to claim 3, wherein: said micro-ingredients include an ingredient that has a corresponding withdrawal day requirement, wherein the micro-ingredient consuming livestock can not be shipped until the day requirement of withdrawal is satisfied, and said method further comprises the step of generating an electronic message in the form of a user interface that warns a user that cattle can not be shipped if the cattle are currently scheduled for shipment before said requirement.

5. - A method according to claim 1, wherein: a recommended action of said plurality of recommended actions includes prescribing a recommended feeding action that includes a description of the ration ingredients, a quantity of the ration, and when the ration should be fed during a day of feeding.

6. - A system for managing livestock, said system comprises: a data processor; data storage associated with said data processor; programming instructions that reside in dich data storage to execute instructions based on the input of user data; said programming instructions including a plurality of recommended actions for feeding management provided to the cattle based on mathematical relationships applied to a plurality of criteria corresponding to selected animal data; a data entry device for entering data in said data processing system; means for extracting reflective information from the recommendations of said means of exit that include at least one printed report and a user interface screen that prescribes details in the recommended action; and wherein the data entry into said data processing system is stored in a central database of said data storage, and subsequent data entries made to the system that result in providing an updated recommended action that takes into account a change in value of mathematical relationships based on subsequent data entries that differ from initial data entries.

7. - A system according to claim 6, wherein: a recommended action of said plurality of recommended actions includes prescribing a change of ration for the animal.

8. - A system according to claim 7, wherein: said recommended action includes a change of macro-micro-ingredients used in the ration.

9. - A system according to claim 8, wherein: said micro-ingredients include an ingredient that has a corresponding withdrawal day requirement, wherein the gain consumed by said micro-ingredient can not be shipped until the requirement of day of withdrawal is satisfied, and said method further comprises the step of generating an electronic message in the form of a user interface that warns a user that the cattle can not embark if the cattle are currently scheduled for shipment before said requirement.

10. - A system according to claim 6, wherein: a recommended action of said plurality of recommended actions includes prescribing a recommended feeding action that includes a description of the serving ingredients, a quantity of the ration, and when the ration should be fed during a day of feeding.

11. - A method of generating a recommended action in a data processing system for livestock management, said method comprises the steps of: providing a data processing system that includes a processor, central data storage, and programming instructions to execute functions in response to data entry; establish a plurality of corresponding criteria with individual animal data and group animal data; generate at least one mathematical formula that incorporates at least one criterion; and determining a threshold value for the formula corresponding to a recommended management action, said recommended management action including at least one of a feed change for an animal, and a method for administering the feed to the animal; conduct livestock management operations to include livestock feeding in a period of time; enter data in the reflector system of actions that take place to feed the cattle, at least some actions that correspond to this criterion; calculate the real value of the formula that uses the actions that correspond to this criterion and that compares the real value with the threshold value; generating said recommended management action if said actual value satisfies said threshold value, said recommended handling action comprises at least one of a printed report and an electronic message in the form of a user interface that each describes said recommended management action.

12. A method according to claim 11, wherein: said criterion includes a feeding of the day, a percentage of how much to feed an animal during a particular feeding, a ration code that identifies a type of ration, and an amount of ration per head of cattle.

13. A method according to claim 11, wherein: said mathematical formula includes a plurality of mathematical formulas.

14. - A method according to claim 11, wherein: said threshold value of the formula comprises a range of values.

15. - A method according to claim 11, wherein: said criterion includes at least one of a weight of the animal, a rearing of the animal, and a sex of the animal.

16. - A method of handling livestock feed in a data processing system for livestock management, said method comprising the steps of: providing a data processing system including a processor, central data storage, and instructions for programming to execute functions in response to data entry; establishing a plurality of management parameters including power call, power calculation, and power supply for a selected group of livestock at a selected location, said parameters being stored in said central data storage; record data concerning that livestock that includes the number, type, and locations of said livestock in a feeding lot operation; determine how to feed said cattle based on said management parameters, said tasks include what food to feed, when to feed the cattle, how much to feed the cattle in each feeding, and what other livestock should be fed in the diet; develop instructions to feed the livestock that includes instructions for grouping rations, loading food trucks, and feeding the selected cattle; conduct livestock management operations to include feeding of livestock over a period of time, and observe and record variations in quantities to be fed against actually fed, variations in quantities to be loaded on trucks against actually loaded on trucks, and feed amounts consumed in pens against quantities supplied to pens; adjusting at least one power call, power calculation, and power supply parameters in response to said driving step; and resume that driving step.

17. A method according to claim 16, further comprising the steps of: providing a power supply and user interface display of supply comprising a presentation of calculated loads derived from said handling parameters said recorded data, said The presentation includes a calculation sheet illustrating pens, load numbers, load balances, called quantities, actual fed quantities, and variation between said called quantities and said fed quantities.

18. - A method according to claim 16, wherein said power supply and user interface display of supply further comprises an option of printing feed sheets for printing reflective charge cards of said calculated loads.

19. - A method according to claim 16, wherein said power supply and user interface screen of supply further comprises an electronic interface with a feed mill that sends instructions for grouping said feed mill, said feed mill. preparing food rations that comprise macro-micro-ingredients.

20. A method according to claim 16, wherein said power supply and user interface display of supply also comprises graphs that illustrate the state of a particular power supply, said graphs comprise the percentage term of fulfilling the power supply, load calculation, and power status.

21. - A method according to claim 17, further comprising the steps of: maximizing truck load capacities by dynamic load, said dynamic load includes reassigning load numbers on said user interface screen resulting in loads being reassigned to said trucks and said spreadsheet of said user interface screen that is renewed to present new load numbers assigned to said trucks.