Dinamització sectorial 2023

Challenge 4. Robotization of the ultrasound process in pregnant pigs

Goal of the challenge

Developing a robotic arm with an ultrasound machine that will need to analyze if the pig is pregnant, the system will be installed on animal feeding machines to carry out the process.

Challenge's description

Current Situation

Currently, the process is done manually on the animals.

Desired Situation

A collaborative robotic arm with an ultrasound machine that sends images to a software. These are evaluated to identify signs of pregnancy in the animal. If signals indicating that the animal is indeed pregnant are detected, the system considers this information as valid.

In addition to image analysis, the system performs an additional data correlation step. This involves the association of the image obtained through ultrasound with other identification elements of the animal, such as its chip and ear tag. The chip is an electronic identification device implanted in the animal, while the ear tag is a physical identification tag that is placed on the animal's body. This data correlation is essential to ensure that the information collected corresponds precisely and uniquely to the animal in question.

Once data correlation has been performed and the animal has been confirmed to be pregnant, all of this information is integrated and communicated with an animal handling management program. This management program uses the data provided to maintain a detailed record of the reproductive status of the animals. This can be especially useful in agricultural, livestock or animal care settings, where accurate monitoring of gestation and other aspects of animal health is essential for efficient management.