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Farmex to investigate piggery systems
Computer systems specialist, David Dobson, has been
appointed by Farmex — the Reading-based high-tech company — to research methods
which could change the way piggery systems are controlled and
monitored.
Dobson will be looking into wireless communication methods in a two-year,
£100,000 (€135,000) project which has attracted almost 70% UK government
funding.
The biggest problem with wireless communication in a harsh farm environment
is the ability to form reliable links. To accomplish this Dobson hopes to create
a "self-healing mesh system" which will function regardless of atmospheric
conditions.
Advantages
The advantages of such a system could be
numerous. Cost would be dramatically reduced because there would be no need to
lay wires and cables, particularly over problem areas such as roads. The network
would also be less susceptible to lightning strikes or other physical
disruptions.
"In addition to reducing installation costs for normal heating and
ventilation controls, wireless connection could make the monitoring of crucial
performance indicators, such as feed and water consumption, cheaper and easier,"
commented Farmex managing director, Hugh Crabtree. "With ever-tightening margins
in pig production this will become increasingly important."
Related website:
• Farmex Control Systems
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