July 21, 2011

5 Min Read
FeedMeter

 

FeedMeter uses a patent-pending, mass-flow sensing technology to measure feed flow by weight as it passes through a feed line. The system provides instant access to feed flow information on any feed line in any barn at any time. All feed flow data is recorded, allowing feed data to be analyzed.  “This product is designed to address the challenge the industry faces when it comes to managing feed properly,” says Drew Ryder, Feedlogic Corporation.

The system allows remote access to feed data and can alert production managers to empty feed bins or feed bridging with a call, email or text message in order to help reduce out-of-feed events. Tracking total feed in bins and predicting when the bin will be empty helps producers schedule feed delivery efficiently.

FeedMeter tracks total feed consumption every day and can be used to calculate growth rate and make better marketing decisions.

“Initially, we expect producers to use the system as a reporting tool — seeing problems such as feed bridging or feed outages quickly, identifying feed waste stemming from poorly adjusted feeders, for example,” Ryder explains. “Producers can accurately determine when feed needs to be ordered instead of climbing a bin or banging on the side of the bin to determine current inventory. Long-term, the system will be a key part of feed supply chain management, linked to feedmill software and production management software to drive out inefficiency in the production process.”

Ryder says the FeedMeter is simple to calibrate, requires a 110-volt electrical connection and can be installed in 40 minutes. One meter is required per feed line. The unit is mounted above the feed line, between the wall and the first feeder drop. The system is designed to fit into space available in almost any facility. The meter should be able to withstand pressure washing and is grounded to prevent stray voltage.

Hugoson asked how often the FeedMeter needs to be calibrated. Ryder says the unit is sensitive enough to automatically detect changes in feed density and feed types, but may need recalibration in the event of a significant, rapid change in feed types.

Ease-of-use and cost savings were considered in the design of the FeedMeter system. “We’ve taken out as much hardware as possible in order to keep the initial cost down and reduce maintenance,” Ryder explains.

The system is designed to push all data to a Web server. “We provide a base Web interface to access the data. This allows the user to access via any Web-enabled device — PC, laptop or smart phone,” he adds.

The FeedMeter is covered by a one-year warranty. Three different models of the FeedMeter are available and will work with most common feed lines. The FM750 is designed for 75 mm (3 in.) lines; FM900 for 90 mm (3.5 in.) lines; and FM1200 for 120 mm (4.75 in.) lines. There are no limits to the number of feeders per line. However, if a producer wants more precision — fewer animals per foot for example — a shorter line is better, Ryder says.

The cost of the FeedMeter system is $2,795 for the base system, including a communications hub, one meter, and software; each additional meter costs $950.

“Measuring feed through the auger is an interesting and different concept,” Kerkaert observes. The panel felt the concept could benefit the pork industry and may encourage more on-farm testing.

Learn more at www.feedlogic.com. Call (320) 222-3008 or email[email protected].

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