AUTOMATIC BODY CONDITION SCORING USING THERMAL CAMERAS AND PRECISION FOGGING

Abstract

The invention is an automated livestock body condition monitoring system that utilizes high-resolution thermal imaging to assess the health of individual animals in real time. The system continuously captures temperature data, which is analyzed by advanced machine learning algorithms to generate accurate body condition scores (BCS). Integrated with a precision fogging mechanism, the system delivers targeted cooling or hydration to animals based on their specific needs, optimizing resource use and enhancing animal welfare. By enabling continuous monitoring and timely interventions, the invention improves overall livestock management, reduces labor costs, and supports sustainable farming practices while mitigating the risks associated with heat stress and dehydration.

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The invention falls within the technical fields of agricultural technology and livestock management, specifically focusing on automated monitoring systems for animal health and welfare. It integrates thermal imaging, machine learning, and precision fogging techniques to enhance body condition scoring and resource efficiency in livestock care. By leveraging real-time data analysis, the system aims to improve the management of heat stress and hydration needs in animals, contributing to overall productivity and sustainability in farming operations.
BACKGROUND
[002] Traditional methods of body condition scoring (BCS) rely heavily on manual assessments, which are subjective and labor-intensive. Trained personnel visually inspect livestock to estimate fat reserves, leading to inconsistent results that vary between assessors. This process becomes impractical for large herds, where regular monitoring is essential for ensuring optimal animal health and productivity.
[003] US9512434, utilize imaging techniques for monitoring livestock health but often lack integration with real-time thermal data and automated responses. While these patents provide advancements in monitoring, they do not offer a comprehensive solution that combines accurate BCS with targeted interventions based on the specific thermal profiles of individual animals.
[004] US10308916 discusses environmental monitoring in livestock operations, focusing primarily on external conditions rather than individual animal assessments. This approach misses the opportunity for personalized care strategies that could enhance animal welfare and productivity, indicating a significant gap that needs to be addressed through innovative technological solutions.
[005] Heat stress and dehydration are critical challenges in livestock management, particularly in hot climates. Research shows that when animals cannot cool effectively, it can lead to decreased feed intake, poor growth rates, and increased mortality. Existing methods typically apply blanket solutions, such as general misting systems, which do not account for the varying needs of different animals.
[006] Efficient resource use is increasingly vital in agriculture, especially in regions facing water scarcity. Traditional cooling methods often waste water by applying uniform treatment across herds, exacerbating resource challenges. A system that delivers targeted cooling only to animals that need it can significantly improve water and energy efficiency, aligning with sustainable farming practices.
[007] Delayed detection of health issues can lead to severe consequences in livestock, including increased veterinary costs and reduced productivity. Without continuous monitoring, subtle changes in body condition or early signs of illness may go unnoticed, emphasizing the need for a proactive monitoring system that can provide timely alerts and enable quick interventions.
[008] The overuse of antibiotics and medications in livestock management stems from generalized treatment approaches that do not consider individual animal needs. This can contribute to antimicrobial resistance and increased stress among animals. A system focusing on individual assessments can reduce reliance on medications and improve overall animal health and welfare.
[009] The integration of advanced technology in livestock management is increasingly recognized as a key factor in enhancing productivity and animal welfare. The invention's combination of thermal imaging, machine learning, and precision fogging addresses significant gaps in existing patents and practices, promoting a more efficient and sustainable approach to livestock care.
SUMMARY
[010] The invention presents an automated system for assessing the body condition of livestock using thermal imaging technology. High-resolution thermal cameras continuously monitor animals, capturing temperature variations that correlate with body fat levels, hydration, and metabolic rates. This data is processed using machine learning algorithms to generate accurate body condition scores (BCS), allowing for real-time assessment of each animal's health status.
[011] A precision fogging mechanism is integrated into the system, enabling targeted cooling and hydration based on the specific needs of individual animals. By activating misting only for those flagged as requiring intervention, the system minimizes resource waste, ensuring efficient use of water and energy. This tailored approach addresses the inefficiencies of traditional cooling methods that treat all animals uniformly.
[012] The system continuously tracks changes in body temperature and BCS, providing a dynamic monitoring capability that allows for prompt identification of heat stress, dehydration, or other health issues. Alerts can be sent to farm managers when animals show signs of distress or declining condition, facilitating timely intervention. This proactive management enhances animal welfare by ensuring that at-risk animals receive immediate care.
[013] The automated processes significantly reduce the labor required for manual body condition assessments and interventions, allowing farm staff to focus on other critical tasks. By streamlining livestock management through real-time monitoring and targeted interventions, the system supports large-scale operations even with limited personnel, enhancing overall productivity.
[014] The invention promotes sustainable farming practices by improving resource efficiency and reducing the overuse of medications. The combination of accurate monitoring and individualized care contributes to healthier livestock, better growth rates, and improved economic outcomes for farms, addressing the pressing challenges of modern agricultural practices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1 provides the working prototype of the invention.
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The invention consists of an integrated system featuring a high-resolution thermal imaging unit, a data processing module, and a precision fogging mechanism. The thermal cameras are strategically positioned in areas where livestock congregate, such as feeding zones and rest areas, enabling continuous monitoring of the animals' surface temperatures to assess their body condition and hydration levels.
[021] The thermal imaging unit captures detailed temperature data, which reflects variations associated with body fat, hydration status, and metabolic rates. These cameras operate effectively in various environmental conditions, ensuring reliable data capture even under low light or high humidity, making them suitable for year-round use in different farming settings.
[022] The data processing module is equipped with advanced machine learning algorithms that analyze the thermal images in real time. These algorithms are designed to interpret temperature patterns and correlate them with established body condition scores (BCS), enabling the system to assess each animal's health status objectively and accurately.
[023] In one embodiment it is provided that, Upon analysis, the system calculates a BCS for each animal based on its thermal profile. Animals displaying temperatures outside the optimal range are flagged for further intervention, allowing for a quick response to potential health issues, such as heat stress or dehydration, that may affect livestock productivity.
[024] The precision fogging mechanism comprises adjustable nozzles that can vary mist intensity, coverage area, and duration. This allows for tailored cooling and hydration based on the specific needs of individual animals identified by the thermal imaging system, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and only where necessary.
[025] The operational process begins with the continuous scanning of livestock by the thermal imaging unit. As animals move through the monitored areas, temperature data is captured and transmitted to the data processing module, which analyzes the information and generates real-time BCS assessments for each animal.
[026] In one embodiment it is provided, that If an animal is identified as needing cooling or hydration based on its thermal profile, the control unit activates the precision fogging system. The system can operate in individual-targeting mode for specific animals or group mode for multiple animals showing similar needs, enhancing overall efficiency in resource use.
[027] Continuous monitoring allows for a feedback loop where the system adjusts misting outputs based on the observed effects on animal temperatures. If an animal's temperature decreases post-misting, the system can reduce or cease mist output, ensuring optimal conditions are maintained without unnecessary resource expenditure.
[028] Results from initial implementations of the system have shown a significant reduction in water consumption, achieving up to 30-50% savings compared to traditional misting methods. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in regions where water resources are limited, addressing critical environmental concerns in agricultural practices.
[029] In one embodiment it is provided, that the system has demonstrated improvements in animal health and productivity, with studies indicating a reduction in heat stress and associated illnesses. Enhanced management of body condition has led to increased growth rates, improved feed intake, and better overall welfare for the livestock, contributing to higher farm productivity.
[030] By automating body condition assessments and cooling interventions, the system reduces labor costs and the time required for manual inspections. This automation allows farm staff to allocate their time to other essential tasks, streamlining operations and enhancing the overall efficiency of livestock management.
[031] The invention ultimately supports sustainable farming practices by minimizing resource waste, improving animal welfare, and reducing dependency on broad-spectrum medications. By fostering a proactive approach to livestock care, the system contributes to healthier animals and better economic outcomes, aligning with the goals of modern agriculture.
[032] Referring to figure 1, depicts a comprehensive automated livestock monitoring system that integrates a high-resolution thermal imaging unit, a data processing module, and a precision fogging mechanism. In the foreground, thermal cameras are strategically positioned to continuously capture temperature variations of livestock as they move through feeding and resting areas, generating detailed thermal maps that indicate body condition and hydration levels. The data processing unit, represented as a digital interface, showcases real-time analytics driven by advanced machine learning algorithms, which interpret the thermal data to assign accurate body condition scores. Additionally, the precision fogging system is illustrated with adjustable nozzles, highlighting its ability to deliver targeted misting to specific animals based on their individual needs, thereby optimizing water usage. The background emphasizes the operational efficiency of the system, showcasing a modern farming environment where technology enhances animal welfare and productivity. Overall, the image conveys the innovative integration of technology in livestock management, underscoring its potential to revolutionize traditional farming practices.
, Claims:1. An automated livestock body condition monitoring system comprising:
A. a high-resolution thermal imaging unit configured to continuously capture surface temperature data of individual animals in a livestock area;
B. a data processing module equipped with machine learning algorithms to analyze the captured thermal data and generate a body condition score (BCS) for each animal;
C. a precision fogging mechanism with adjustable nozzles that deliver targeted cooling or hydration to animals based on their individual BCS and thermal profiles, thereby optimizing resource use and improving animal welfare.
2. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the thermal imaging unit is capable of operating under varying environmental conditions, including low light and high humidity.
3. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the data processing module stores historical thermal data and BCS for trend analysis over time.
4. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the precision fogging mechanism is configured to operate in both individual-targeting mode for single animals and group mode for multiple animals exhibiting similar thermal profiles.
5. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, further comprising an alert system that notifies farm managers when animals exhibit abnormal temperature patterns or persistently low BCS.
6. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the machine learning algorithms are trained to recognize specific temperature profiles associated with heat stress, dehydration, and other health issues.
7. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the fogging mechanism adjusts the mist output intensity based on real-time feedback from the thermal imaging data.
8. The automated livestock body condition monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the system integrates with existing farm management software to provide centralized monitoring and record-keeping of animal health data.

Documents