Automated Animal Welfare and Behavioral Analysis in Small Groups of Pigs

Technological Approach

The project relies on RGB-based camera monitoring in barn environments, combined with AI-supported image analysis.

The system includes:

• Computer vision methods such as segmentation and object detection to identify individual animals and resource areas
• AI models for analyzing feeding and drinking activities, movement patterns, and group behavior
• derivation of objective parameters related to growth, activity levels, and abnormalities
• alert and escalation mechanisms when deviations are detected
• options for remote monitoring and targeted intervention

The solution is designed for robust operation under real barn conditions and enables continuous data collection without additional stress for the animals.

Benefits, Application, and Exploitation

The system supports automated management processes in pig farming through:

• early detection of signs of disease or deficiencies in supply
• objective monitoring of animal welfare at the group level
• data-driven forecasts and trend analyses
• reduction of documentation workload
• improved working conditions through remote access and targeted intervention

The solution is designed as an extension of existing barn and management systems and addresses agricultural farms as well as providers of automated livestock management technologies.

Practical Environment

Development and validation are carried out together with consortium partners within the framework of the joint research project AI Animal Welfare