ALT pedometer-New sensor-aided measurement system for improvement in oestrus detection

Without sensor-aided animal data measuring systems far fewer oestrus cycles are recognized because cycle length, oestrus duration and oestrus intensity have developed negatively at high-animal performance rates. This development makes it eminently clear that observation of the mating season in the dairy cattle sector is even more important than assumed so far if the financial losses due to insufficient herd fertility are not to become a business problem. Electronic identification and measuring systems represent key technologies for progressive automation in animal husbandry in modern, future-oriented livestock farming. Suitable objective measuring systems are needed in animal husbandry to quickly and safely recognize illness, normal oestrus cycle, quiet heat or stress in animals. Pedometers and transponders from various companies play an important role in collecting data from animals and assessing animal health and oestrus. Modern sensors (sensors, bio-sensors), increasingly utilize non-invasive measuring and transfer methods to make crucial improvements in the potential for collecting animal data. A new type of pedometer, called ALT pedometer, for three measurement parameters (activity, lying time, and temperature), a real-time watch and a changeable measuring time interval was developed. With this system it is possible to select different time intervals between 1 and 60min for continuous monitoring. The results for oestrus detection were excellent. The high correspondence between the measurement parameters, activity and lying time, allow a statement to be made early and safely on animal illnesses and the time of the oestrus cycle.