Polytech S.A. and Biomechanical Solutions Announce Completion of Innovative EU R&D Project: LAMENESS
Polytech S.A., in collaboration with Biomechanical Solutions (BME), is proud to announce the successful implementation of their groundbreaking project, “LAMENESS: Development of a Non-Invasive System for the Automatic Detection of Cattle Lameness.” This innovative system was developed following the approval of their research proposal under the ESPA 2014-2020 “Research-Create-Innovate” business program.
Addressing a Critical Issue in Dairy Farming
Lameness is a significant welfare and economic issue in the dairy cattle industry, particularly in loose housing environments. Limb disorders can lead to severe health problems, decreased milk production, and premature culling of animals. Current detection methods, primarily visual locomotion scoring systems, are subjective, labor-intensive, and require considerable expertise.
The LAMENESS system aims to revolutionize this process by offering an integrated, non-invasive solution for the early detection of lameness in cattle. Utilizing force plate gait analysis and advanced pattern recognition techniques, the system can identify subtle changes in gait indicative of lameness onset. This technology has been rigorously tested in real farm environments, ensuring its reliability and effectiveness.
Enhancing Animal Welfare and Farm Productivity
The increasing global demand for animal products has led to the expansion of livestock production, particularly in medium and large-scale operations. One of the primary challenges in these settings is the early and accurate detection of lameness, which can stem from various musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders, injuries, or accidents.
The LAMENESS system leverages expertise gained from previous research on human musculoskeletal issues to provide a robust solution for cattle. By detecting lameness early, farmers can implement timely treatments, reducing economic losses and enhancing animal welfare.
A Step Forward for the Dairy Industry
This project not only addresses a critical gap in the international market but also positions Greece as a leader in dairy industry innovation. The dissemination of these results will bolster the country’s competitiveness by increasing production efficiency and promoting technological advancement. The LAMENESS system is expected to attract significant interest from livestock operations globally, offering a reliable and cost-effective tool for early lameness detection.
Polytech S.A. and Biomechanical Solutions are excited about the potential of this new product to transform cattle farming practices, improve animal welfare, and boost productivity. This innovative system underscores the importance of continued research and collaboration in advancing agricultural technology.
Project Participants
- Biomechanical Solutions (BME)
- Polytech S.A.
The successful completion of the LAMENESS project marks a significant milestone in agricultural R&D, showcasing the power of innovation in addressing real-world challenges.