1. Automated Sow Estrus Detection Using Machine Vision Technology

Successful artificial insemination for gilts and sows relies on accurate timing that is determined by estrus check. Estrus checks in current farms are manually conducted by skilled breeding technicians using the back pressure test (BPT) method that is labor-intensive and inefficient due to the large animal-to-staff ratio. This study aimed to develop a robotic imaging system powered by artificial intelligence technology to automatically detect estrus status for gilts and sows in a stall-housing... J. Zhou, Z. Xu, T.J. Safranski, C. Bromfield