The access control system is used to develop modern feeding stations and also to convert older feeding stations into modern feeding stations. An inexpensive way to ensure optimal feeding and stress reduction in the pigsty.
Modern technology can make a significant contribution to improving animal welfare in agricultural livestock farming. In order for it to be accepted by the target group, it must be reliable and, above all, intuitive to use.

The system is based on our panel PC piA-SF with a 10.1" multi-touch display, which was specially developed for harsh environments with high humidity. The panel PC ensures continuous operation at a temperature of up to +60°C, is fanless and supports the following Interfaces: CAN / CANOpen, Ethernet, WLAN, RS485, USB, GSM/UMTS/LTE Accessories for antennas and fastening material are standardized for the Linux terminal.

The sensor and transmitter unit is based on a Bluetooth LE or 868 MHz radio module. The electronics and software developed were integrated into an ear tag from Smartbow. All ear tags are optimized for the lowest energy consumption. In addition to the radio unit, a button cell supplies a buzzer and a vibration module. During normal operation, the ear tag is in a stand-by mode. If the higher-level control computer sends an activation signal by radio, the pig is activated by acoustic signals and the vibration motor.

From the animal behavior and known animal parameters such as age and body weight, the control program estimates the approximate rank of each sow in the social hierarchy of the group. Social rank is used to account for natural feeding order in calling order, further reducing feeding-related duels. The calculations are carried out directly in the Linux control computer and used as the basis for controlling the ear tags - sensor nodes.