At the recent National Ploughing Championships (NPC), a game-changing innovation in the cattle industry was unveiled – a smart cattle drinker with the ability to record cattle weights. This revolutionary technology, known as BovinePlus, was developed by Reap Interactive, with the brains behind it being Kieran Supple from Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
When Agriland caught up with Kieran Supple at the event, he shared insights into the development process and the capabilities of the new device. According to the CEO of Reap Interactive, they had previously tested the concept two years ago and used the feedback received to refine and enhance the product. The version showcased at Ploughing 2024 marked the first public appearance of the commercial unit.
One of the key features of the BovinePlus technology is its ability to record cattle weights in real-time while the animals are using the drinker. This provides valuable individual data instead of relying on herd averages. As Supple explained, the device captures a range of information, including weight, water consumption, and tag identification, enabling a more in-depth analysis of each animal’s performance and health.
The technology operates on a unique system where only two of the animal’s four legs are on the weighbridge during the recording process. This approach allows for a detailed behavioral analysis of the cattle, with the system being able to detect any deviations from the animal’s usual patterns. By monitoring changes in weight and behavior, the device can alert farmers to potential health issues, ensuring early intervention and care for the animals.
The innovative cattle drinker serves as an incentive for cattle to utilize the machine regularly, as they naturally visit it to drink water. This feature is particularly beneficial for increasing water consumption, which has been linked to improved feed conversion rates. Whether for beef cattle or dairy cows, encouraging higher water intake can lead to better overall performance and productivity.
The versatility of the BovinePlus technology is another highlight, as it can be used both indoors and outdoors. For indoor settings, the device simply needs to be plugged in, whereas outdoor use requires a solar panel attachment and a sim card for data transmission. The collected data is then stored in the cloud and accessible to farmers via a dedicated app on their smartphones, providing valuable insights into individual animal performance.
Moving the unit from one location to another is made easy with various transportation options such as trailers, lifting eyes, or bale carriers. This mobility feature allows farmers to monitor cattle in different paddocks and environments, maximizing the benefits of the technology. Currently, there is a growing interest in using the BovinePlus system in indoor settings, where the costs of feed are high, and the need to optimize animal performance is paramount.
The BovinePlus technology has garnered significant attention from the farming community, with its potential to revolutionize cattle management practices. By offering detailed insights into individual animal performance, health, and behavior, this innovative device empowers farmers to make informed decisions and optimize their operations for increased efficiency and productivity.
As the agriculture industry continues to evolve with advancements in technology, inventions like the BovinePlus smart cattle drinker are paving the way for smarter and more sustainable farming practices. With its ability to provide real-time data on cattle weights and behavior, this device promises to transform the way farmers monitor and manage their livestock, ultimately leading to healthier and more productive animals.
In conclusion, the introduction of the BovinePlus technology at the National Ploughing Championships represents a significant milestone in the evolution of cattle management in Australia. By harnessing the power of data and technology, farmers can now gain deeper insights into their cattle’s performance, enabling them to make more informed decisions and improve overall productivity on their farms.
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