SowWatch: Sow what?

SowWatch is a scanner that measures the hind-end girth of a sow. The measurements taken from this device are more informative than measuring the animal's actual weight. The size of the animal is a better indication of it's health, well-being and growing characteristics. The product is shown here above the feeding station and is sold as an part of new installations or can be retrofitted existing systems.  

SowWatch measures the surface of the sow in 3-dimensions and objectively extracts a feeding condition index. The index is transmitted via P-net to control and management software such as for example the AgroSoft WinPig application. Within the management software the index may be used for detection of sows in poor feeding condition and development of feeding schedules.

The measurement is non-contact and optical. The sensor device is mounted 180cm above the floor level and as result out of reach for the sows. The device is protecting by a shield on the lower side in order to secure consistent long-term performance.

The built in diode lighting does not require any maintenance hence the service is limited to occasional washing of the glass on the lower side of the device.