Computerized process and system for assigning and delivering feed to animals in a feedlot

摘要

The system includes a portable computer for recording assignment data for each cattle pen and a host computer that stores feed consumption data for each of the plurality of cattle pens in the feedlot. The portable computer includes means for entering data such as a keyboard or other machine that enables a driver reading the feed bunks to identify each cattle pen and enter the assignment data as he views the feed bunks. The cattle pens may be identified by a conventional alphanumeric symbol or may have automated means such as an RF signal from a transmitter or a bar code that can be read from the truck cab. The driver has the option of reviewing the feed consumption data on the computer screen as he makes a feed assignment. The assignment data is used by the host computer to update its feed consumption data and to generate feed delivery data for feed trucks. This data may include a ration number and ration quantity for each cattle pen as well as a feeding route for each feed truck. During the feed delivery, the dispensing of the ration quantity at each feed bunk is monitored by a portable computer to check if the cattle pen is receiving the correct ration number and ration quantity. The portable computer is also adpated to record for each cattle pen the actual feed dispensed into its feed bunk for comparison against the desired ration quantity.