A device and method for tracking and marking bailed forage material is provided. Predetermined parameters are measured as the forage material enters the intake of a processing machine and prior to the forage material being transferred to a baling chamber of the machine. As the forage material passes through the machine, the locations of discrete portions or flakes of the forage material are linearly tracked so that each portion may receive pre-selected markings indicative of measured parameters of each portion. A plurality of sensor stations is incorporated within the machine to track the locations of the portions of material. After the forage material is baled, a marking station generates markings applied to each bale which corresponds to the measured parameters for the corresponding discrete portions. Observed parameters may include moisture content, volume, density, temperature, nutritional content, an amount and type of conditioning inoculant applied to each flake, among others. Multiple markings can be applied to each bale to indicate moisture content for selected portions of the bale since moisture content may differ between flakes in the bale.
A method and system are provided for preparing micro-ingredient feed additives for use in designated feed rations. A micro-ingredient system of the invention includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to control system components based on programmed commands corresponding to micro-ingredient batches to be prepared. Slide gate mechanisms are used to prevent loss of micro-ingredients delivered to a receiving receptacle of the system. During delivery of the micro-ingredients to the receptacle and during processing, the micro-ingredients can become airborne and subsequently lost. The slide gate mechanisms also provide controlled access to the receiving receptacle to prevent system errors such as contamination of ingredients in the receptacle, or improper batching of a prescribed micro-ingredient mixture to be delivered to a designated feed ration.
A device and method for tracking and marking bailed forage material is provided. The moisture content of forage material entering the intake of a processing machine is measured prior to the forage material being transferred to a baling chamber of the machine. As the forage material passes through the machine, the locations of discrete portions or flakes of the forage material are linearly tracked so that each portion may receive pre-selected markings indicative of measured parameters of each portion. A plurality of sensor stations is incorporated within the machine to track the locations of the portions of material. After the forage material is baled, a marking station generates markings applied to each bale which corresponds to the observed parameters for the corresponding discrete portions. Observed parameters may include moisture content for each flake, an amount and type of conditioning inoculant applied to each flake, among others. Multiple markings can be applied to each bale to indicate moisture content for selected portions of the bale since moisture content may differ between flakes in the bale.
A device and method for tracking and marking bailed forage material is provided. A moisture content of forage material entering a processing machine is measured prior to the forage material being transferred to a baling chamber of the machine. As the forage material advances through the machine, discrete portions or flakes of the forage material are tracked so each portion may receive markings indicative of measured parameters. Sensor stations within the machine track locations of the portions of material. After the forage material is baled, a marking station applies markings to each bale corresponding to measured parameters of the discrete portions. Measured parameters for each portion may include moisture content, an amount and type of conditioning inoculant applied, among others. Multiple markings can be applied to each bale to indicate moisture content for selected portions of the bale since moisture content may differ between portions or flakes in the bale.
A method and system are provided for preparing micro-ingredient feed additives for use in designated feed rations. A micro-ingredient system of the invention includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to control system components based on programmed commands corresponding to micro-ingredient batches to be prepared. Slide gate mechanisms are used to prevent loss of micro-ingredients delivered to a receiving receptacle of the system. During delivery of the micro-ingredients to the receptacle and during processing, the micro-ingredients can become airborne and subsequently lost. The slide gate mechanisms also provide controlled access to the receiving receptacle to prevent system errors such as contamination of ingredients in the receptacle, or improper batching of a prescribed micro-ingredient mixture to be delivered to a designated feed ration.
A method and system are provided for preparing micro-ingredient feed additives for use in designated feed rations. A micro-ingredient system of the invention includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to control system components based on programmed commands corresponding to micro- ingredient batches to be prepared. Slide gate mechanisms are used to prevent loss of micro-ingredients delivered to a receiving receptacle of the system. During delivery of the micro-ingredients to the receptacle and during processing, the micro-ingredients can become airborne and subsequently lost. The slide gate mechanisms also provide controlled access to the receiving receptacle to prevent system errors such as contamination of ingredients in the receptacle, or improper batching of a prescribed micro-ingredient mixture to be delivered to a designated feed ration.
A method and system are provided for preparing micro-ingredient feed additives for use in designated feed rations. A micro-ingredient system of the invention includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to control system components based on programmed commands corresponding to micro- ingredient batches to be prepared. Slide gate mechanisms are used to prevent loss of micro-ingredients delivered to a receiving receptacle of the system. During delivery of the micro-ingredients to the receptacle and during processing, the micro-ingredients can become airborne and subsequently lost. The slide gate mechanisms also provide controlled access to the receiving receptacle to prevent system errors such as contamination of ingredients in the receptacle, or improper batching of a prescribed micro-ingredient mixture to be delivered to a designated feed ration.
A data processing system and method are provided in the form of a livestock management system for specifically managing feeding tasks for a group of animals within a designated location. The system and method incorporate a data processing function wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on individual feed rations which are selectively used to feed a selected group of animals. Functionality of the management system and method include the ability to track amounts of ingredients used for each type of feed ration and any excess or surplus ingredients which may have been withdrawn from storage locations. The management system and method results in improved commodity inventory control to prevent waste of ingredients and to prevent potential cross contamination between different types of feed ration.
A data processing system and method are provided in the form of a livestock management system for specifically managing feeding tasks for a group of animals within a designated location. The system and method incorporate a data processing function wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on individual feed rations which are selectively used to feed a selected group of animals. Functionality of the management system and method include the ability to track amounts of ingredients used for each type of feed ration and any excess or surplus ingredients which may have been withdrawn from storage locations. The management system and method results in improved commodity inventory control to prevent waste of ingredients and to prevent potential cross contamination between different types of feed ration.
44 - Medical, veterinary, hygienic and cosmetic services; agriculture, horticulture and forestry services
Goods & Services
Distributorship services in the field of animal health featuring goods and supplies for raising, caring for and maintaining the health and welfare of farm animals, ranch animals, livestock and domesticated animals, namely, animal and pet supplies, veterinary and farm supplies, animal and pet health products, animal care products, livestock care products, pet care and grooming products, animal feed and nutritional supplements, animal medications and vaccines; Reseller services, namely, distributorship services in the field of animal health featuring goods and supplies for raising, caring for and maintaining the health and welfare of farm animals, ranch animals, livestock and domesticated animals, namely, animal and pet supplies, veterinary and farm supplies, animal and pet health products, animal care products, livestock care products, pet care and grooming products, animal feed and nutritional supplements, animal medications and vaccines; Wholesale distributorships featuring goods and supplies for raising, caring for and maintaining the health and welfare of farm animals, ranch animals, livestock and domesticated animals, namely, animal and pet supplies, veterinary and farm supplies, animal and pet health products, animal care products, livestock care products, pet care and grooming products, animal feed and nutritional supplements, animal medications and vaccines Providing online information in the field of animal health care information to livestock producers, veterinarians, ranchers, farmers, and businesses and individuals involved in providing care to livestock or companion animals; Providing information in the field of animal health to livestock producers, veterinarians, ranchers, farmers, and businesses and individuals involved in providing care to livestock or companion animals
11.
System for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials and measurement of moisture for optimum application
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
B30B 15/20 - Control arrangements for fluid-driven presses controlling the reciprocating motion of the ram controlling the speed of the ram, e.g. the speed of the approach, pressing or return strokes
12.
System and method for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product. In one embodiment, multiple sensors are used to measure moisture over short periods of time in order to provide fine tuning in a control loop that determines the amounts of inoculants to be applied.
B30B 15/20 - Control arrangements for fluid-driven presses controlling the reciprocating motion of the ram controlling the speed of the ram, e.g. the speed of the approach, pressing or return strokes
13.
Method for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials and measurement of moisture for optimum application
Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
B30B 15/20 - Control arrangements for fluid-driven presses controlling the reciprocating motion of the ram controlling the speed of the ram, e.g. the speed of the approach, pressing or return strokes
14.
System for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
A01D 41/127 - Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for combines
A01D 43/14 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing with dispensing apparatus, e.g. for fertilisers, herbicides or preservatives
16.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED APPLICATION OF INOCULANTS ONTO FORAGE MATERIAL
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
A01D 41/127 - Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for combines
A01D 43/14 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing with dispensing apparatus, e.g. for fertilisers, herbicides or preservatives
E21B 21/06 - Arrangements for treating drilling fluids outside the borehole
17.
Method and system for administering micro-ingredient feed additives to animal feed rations including controlled bin access
A method and system are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives wherein controlled access is provided to the bins or containers that store the micro-ingredients prior to delivery thereby preventing inadvertent errors in adding incorrect micro-ingredients to a feed ration as well as to provide a measure of security to prevent tampering with the micro-ingredients in the bins. A micro-ingredient delivery system typically includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. Each bin may have a locking device thereby restricting access to the bin, along with a switch indicating whether the bin access cover is open or closed. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to lock or unlock the locking devices based upon authorizations provided to access the bins in accordance with the particular operating parameters and requirements of the delivery system.
A cattle management system and method for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.
A system and method are provided for flaking grains. The system and method provide for an automated system to minimize manual intervention, yet optimize a steam flaking process. A calibration technique may be included to assist in automatic adjustment of system parameters to account for less than optimal operating conditions. Control of the system may occur from a remote location wherein a user is provided an interface, and a user's computer communicates with an industrial controller such as a PLC, through the Internet or a private network. The PLC is typically located at the site where the grain is to be processed. The PLC may receive various system inputs and generate system control outputs in accordance with programs installed on the PLC, or through some selected manual intervention as controlled by the user at the remote location.
A method and apparatus are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives to animal feed rations. The apparatus may be referred to as a system which includes a number of discrete components which cooperate together to ultimately deliver micro-ingredients to a desired location, such as a feed mixer containing a feed ration. Structure is provided for storing, measuring, dispensing, and conveying the micro-ingredients. Measuring of the micro-ingredients may be achieved by loss in weight, gain in weight, or volumetric metering methods. Transport by a liquid carrier such as water may be achieved by providing one or a plurality of conveyance pumps connected to a transport line. The system is operated by a control unit which controls components of the system to achieve delivery of specified amounts and types of micro-ingredients to the feed ration.
A method and system are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives wherein controlled access is provided to the bins or containers that store the micro-ingredients prior to delivery thereby preventing inadvertent errors in adding incorrect micro-ingredients to a feed ration as well as to provide a measure of security to prevent tampering with the micro-ingredients in the bins. A micro-ingredient delivery system typically includes a plurality of bins that store designated micro-ingredients therein. Each bin may have a locking device thereby restricting access to the bin, along with a switch indicating whether the bin access cover is open or closed. A master controller of the delivery system provides signals to lock or unlock the locking devices based upon authorizations provided to access the bins in accordance with the particular operating parameters and requirements of the delivery system.
A cattle management system and method are provided for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, managing feeding operations at a feed lot wherein ration changes can be automatically triggered by parameters and rules established for each feed lot, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.
A system and method are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives or supplements to feed rations. The amount of each particular micro-ingredient to be delivered to a feed ration may be determined by a bulk density measurement. Alternatively, bulk density measurement may be used in combination with existing weight measurement and volumetric metering methods for multiple micro-ingredients. Delivery by bulk density requires determination of a bulk density value along with use of a dispensing device that dispenses a calculated amount of the micro-ingredient ration. The dispensing calculation may be achieved by analysis of delivery time, pulse count, or some other quantitative measure such as magnitude. Use of bulk density as a measurement technique eliminates the requirement for use of scales in the micro-ingredient delivery system.
A cattle management system and method are provided for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, managing feeding operations at a feed lot wherein ration changes can be automatically triggered by parameters and rules established for each feed lot, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.
A cattle management system and method are provided for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal~s production cycle, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.
A cattle management system and method are provided for managing numerous routine and non-routine management activities. The system and method incorporate a data processing system wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on each individual animal as well as on selected groups of animals. Preferably, a central database is used which allows enhanced functionality with respect to not only data entry and data transfer, but also with respect to providing system generated management recommendations. Some significant functionality of the present invention includes the ability to track the location of each individual animal by utilizing unique identification data for each animal, recording all monitored events that take place at each location during the animal's production cycle, and reporting the events and locations as required to government entities, financial institutions, and other entities within the cattle industry.
A method and apparatus are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives to animal feed rations. The apparatus may be referred to as a system which includes a number of discrete components which cooperate together to ultimately deliver micro-ingredients to a desired location, such as a feed mixer containing a feed ration. Structure is provided for storing, measuring, dispensing, and conveying the micro-ingredients. Measuring of the micro-ingredients may be achieved by loss in weight, gain in weight, or volumetric metering methods. Transport by a liquid carrier such as water may be achieved by providing one or a plurality of conveyance pumps connected to a transport line. The system is operated by a control unit which controls components of the system to achieve delivery of specified amounts and types of micro-ingredients to the feed ration.
G01F 11/00 - Apparatus requiring external operation adapted at each repeated and identical operation to measure and separate a predetermined volume of fluid or fluent solid material from a supply or container, without regard to weight, and to deliver it
