On the Way to Automated Feeding Systems
DOM Distribution is making waves in the cattle industry with its cutting-edge approach to feeding systems in Australian feedlots. By collaborating with producers and leveraging advanced technology, the company aims to achieve fully automated feeding systems that streamline feedlot operations while improving animal welfare and productivity.
Key Components of the System
The automated feeding system being developed by DOM Distribution incorporates several essential processes:
Gathering Ingredients: Ensuring access to a wide variety of feed components, including grains, roughage, and supplements.
Processing Roughage: Preparing roughage to ensure it is suitable for consumption.
Mixing Feed: Achieving a balanced and well-mixed ration tailored to livestock nutritional needs.
Feed Delivery: Efficiently distributing feed into bunks with high precision.
Feed Pushing: Regularly pushing feed closer to cattle to ensure easy access and reduce waste.
Design Objectives
The automated feeding system addresses critical design objectives to meet both cattle and operator needs:
Continuous access to fresh, palatable feed for cattle.
Minimization of feed waste, spoilage, and environmental impacts.
Prevention of fouling by cattle and ease of pen cleaning.
Simplification of feed delivery and maintenance processes.
Enhanced safety and efficiency for workers.
Less dependence on labour in a tight labour market.
Cattle require consistent access to feed for optimal health and productivity. Dairy cows, for instance, eat 9 to 14 meals daily, emphasizing the importance of timely and frequent feed distribution. DOM Distribution's system ensures feed is pushed up multiple times daily, providing cattle with easy access to fresh feed for up to 24 hours a day.
Advanced Automation in Action
A standout feature of the system is its prototype Autonomous Guided Vehicle (AGV) system, being developed in collaboration with feedlot operators. This advanced automation technology, addresses key challenges in feedlot operations:
Four Core Benefits for Lot Feeders
Even Feed Distribution: Ensures every animal has access to feed, reducing competition and promoting uniform weight gain.
Accurate Feeding: Delivers feed with a precision, enhancing feed management and minimizing waste.
Efficiency Improvements: Achieves feed delivery in a single pass with minimal reversing, saving time and reducing equipment wear.
Ease of Training and Retention: Simplifies feed truck operation, making it easier to train and retain staff.
Real-World Testing and Results
It's not just delivering the feed though. An entire system is undergoing extensive testing and development. The automation improves delivery accuracy, reduced feed competition, and is being fitted with safety systems such as an interlock mechanism that prevents feed delivery to incorrect pens, sensors to prevent damaging collisions with people, livestock, and property.
The Future of Cattle Feeding
DOM Distribution’s automated feeding systems are set to revolutionize the feedlot industry by improving efficiency, animal welfare, and sustainability. With continued advancements in automation and robotics, Australian feedlots are poised to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity and innovation.