The fundamental concept of the EARS program is the ability with RFID to know and manage each animal individually. Figure 4 shows a diagram of the current scope of the EARS program. Each EARS module is designed as a stand-alone application, but can also be integrated into the complete EARS program as part of a system of applications. Automatic estrous detection is now possible and can provide breeding attentions that reduce the workload in breeding and improve estrous recognition. Using RFID, an automated feeder is shared by 12 sows.
Feed is offered on a feed curve to match requirements of each sow.
Sows are kept in free stalls. The FIRE System for performance testing is also an integral part of the EARS program. Combined with an automatic ACCU-WAY , both the feed consumption and animal weight provide daily gain and daily feed efficiency. Eating rate, eating time, and meal sizes are all available for each individual for evaluation as potential genetic value markers. The E-Log System permits single entry data collection.