Free-range livestock management server device, system, method, and program

Abstract

This free-range livestock management server device: acquires information pertaining to individuals or locations; identifies individuals on the basis of the acquired information; identifies locations on the basis of the acquired information; ascertains states of the individuals or locations on the basis of the acquired information; monitors for an abnormal state of the individuals or locations on the basis of the acquired information; organizes, for each individual or location that has been identified, information pertaining to the identified individuals or locations, ascertained states, and monitored abnormal state, and thereby associates such information with each individual or location that has been identified; stores the organized and associated information; determines, out of the stored information, the urgency of information pertaining to the abnormal state of the individuals or locations, such determination being on the basis of a preset criterion; and generates notice information on the basis of information determined to be urgent and transmit same to a predetermined terminal.

Description

Free-ranging livestock management server device, system, method, and program

[0001] [Description of Related Applications] The present invention is based on priority claim of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-060310 (filed March 31, 2022), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The present invention relates to a management server device, system, method, and program for free-ranging livestock.

[0002] In the livestock industry, there has been an increasing shift in livestock management methods from traditional stall rearing to free-range rearing on farms that take animal welfare (AW) into consideration. Here, animal welfare is defined as the physical and mental state of animals, and refers to precise management of livestock, striving to understand the ever-changing condition of livestock on a daily basis, preventing disease, and providing a comfortable rearing environment for livestock. In free-range rearing, livestock are able to move around freely, which can change the barn environment and increase the amount of work that producers previously had to do. Therefore, there are systems that monitor free-range livestock to reduce the workload of producers.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a presentation system that includes a server having a memory unit in which location information for each of a plurality of livestock staying at a breeding site is stored in correspondence with attribute information for the livestock, a communication unit that transmits information specifying the attribute information of a specific livestock to the server and acquires the location information of the specific livestock from the server, and a presentation control unit that displays the location of the specific livestock at the breeding site based on the acquired location information of the specific livestock.

[0004] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a livestock management system that includes a stay determination unit that determines whether livestock are staying within a target area corresponding to an individual identification signal based on data regarding a plurality of individual identification signals transmitted from a transmitting device that is attached to the livestock and transmits the individual identification signals associated with the livestock.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses a system for monitoring livestock in a ranch environment, the system comprising: tag sensors attached to animals and configured to collect monitoring data from the animals; a first access point configured to receive the collected monitoring data from the tag sensors and process the collected monitoring data; an Internet of Things (IoT) link established between each of the tag sensors and the access point; an IoT communication protocol overlay enabling a synchronous uplink from the tag sensors to the first access point via the IoT link, the IoT communication protocol overlay managing the transmission of monitoring data by the tag sensors to the access point; and a hub / cloud platform configured to receive the processed monitoring data from the first access point, perform data analysis on the processed monitoring data, and provide a user interface that enables a user to monitor the livestock.

[0006] International Publication No. 2020 / 261927 International Publication No. 2017 / 46997 Special Publication No. 2020-505798

[0007] The following analysis is provided by the present inventors.

[0008] However, with free-range rearing, changes in social activities occur due to the mixing and contact of livestock, which can lead to an imbalance between eating and sleeping and can raise concerns about illness and stress. Therefore, with the systems described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 that monitor the location of livestock within livestock barns and their associated facilities, it is difficult to grasp the condition of free-range livestock that is in line with the concept of animal welfare, or any abnormal conditions that go against it.

[0009] Furthermore, in free-range farming, livestock move freely, so the locations where the livestock stay and the surrounding environment are not constant. For example, the area of ​​excrement and urine cannot be limited, which can lead to unnecessary work such as cleaning and increased feed replacement, or delays in work due to sudden deterioration. Therefore, the systems described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, which monitor the location of livestock, have difficulty in detecting abnormal conditions in farming sites where livestock are allowed to roam free.

[0010] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a management server device, system, method, and program for free-ranging livestock that can contribute to understanding the condition of free-ranging livestock and the breeding site, as well as any abnormal conditions that may be present.

[0011] a status grasping unit configured to grasp the status of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an abnormal condition monitoring unit configured to monitor an abnormal condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an information organizing unit configured to organize and associate various information obtained by the individual identification unit, the location identification unit, the status grasping unit, and the abnormal condition monitoring unit for each identified individual or each location; an information storage unit configured to accumulate the information organized and associated for each individual or each location; an urgency determination unit configured to determine the urgency of information regarding the abnormal condition of the individual or each location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; and a notification unit configured to generate alarm information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmit it to a predetermined terminal.

[0012] The free-range livestock management system according to the second aspect comprises a free-range livestock management server device according to the first aspect, a camera installed at a predetermined location in the breeding site and communicatively connected to the free-range livestock management server device, a sensor installed at a predetermined location in the breeding site and communicatively connected to the free-range livestock management server device, and a terminal communicatively connected to the free-range livestock management server device.

[0013] A method for managing free-range livestock according to a third aspect is a method for managing free-range livestock and the breeding site using hardware resources, and includes the steps of: externally acquiring information about individual livestock or the location of the breeding site; identifying the individual based on the acquired information; identifying the location based on the acquired information; understanding the condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; monitoring any abnormal condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; organizing and associating various information about the identified individual, the identified location, the understood condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or location; accumulating the information organized and associated for each individual or location; determining the urgency of information about the abnormal condition of the individual or the location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; and generating alarm information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmitting it to a specified terminal.

[0014] A program relating to the fourth aspect is a program that causes hardware resources to execute processes for managing free-ranging livestock and breeding sites, and causes the hardware resources to execute the following processes: a process for externally acquiring information about individual livestock or the location of the breeding site; a process for identifying the individual based on the acquired information; a process for identifying the location based on the acquired information; a process for determining the condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; a process for monitoring an abnormal condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; a process for organizing and associating various information about the identified individual, the identified location, the determined condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or location; a process for accumulating the information that has been organized and associated for each individual or location; a process for determining the urgency of information about the abnormal condition of the individual or the location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; and a process for generating alarm information based on the information that is determined to be urgent and sending it to a specified terminal.

[0015] The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transient medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. The present disclosure can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program is input to a computer device from an input device or an external device via a communication interface, stored in a storage device, and drives a processor according to predetermined steps or processes. The processing results, including intermediate states as needed, can be displayed at each stage on a display device, or the computer device can communicate with the outside world via the communication interface. For example, a computer device for this purpose typically includes a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device, all of which can be connected to each other via a bus.

[0016] The first to fourth aspects can contribute to understanding the condition of free-ranging livestock and the breeding site, as well as any abnormal conditions that may be present.

[0017] 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is an image diagram schematically showing an example of a breeding site to which the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1 is applied. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a management server device for free-range livestock in the management system for free-range livestock according to embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is an image diagram schematically showing an example of individual information stored in the management server device for free-range livestock in the management system for free-range livestock according to embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is an image diagram schematically showing an example of site information stored in the management server device for free-range livestock in the management system for free-range livestock according to embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram schematically showing the operation of the management server device for free-range livestock in the management system for free-range livestock according to embodiment 1. FIG. 7 is a sequence chart diagram schematically showing the operation of the management system for free-range livestock according to embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a management server device for free-range livestock according to embodiment 2. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of hardware resources.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, when reference numerals are used in this application, they are intended solely to facilitate understanding and are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated embodiments. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention. Furthermore, connecting lines between blocks in the drawings, etc., referred to in the following description, include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of main signals (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Furthermore, although not explicitly shown, input and output ports exist at the input and output ends of each connecting line in the circuit diagrams, block diagrams, internal configuration diagrams, connection diagrams, etc., shown in this disclosure. The same applies to input / output interfaces. A program is executed via a computer device, which includes, for example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device. The computer device is configured to communicate with internal or external devices (including computers) via the communication interface, whether wired or wireless.

[0019] [Embodiment 1] A free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram that schematically shows the configuration of the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is an image diagram that schematically shows an example of a breeding site to which the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1 is applied. Fig. 3 is a block diagram that schematically shows the configuration of a free-range livestock management server device in the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 4 is an image diagram that schematically shows an example of individual information stored in the free-range livestock management server device in the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 5 is an image diagram that schematically shows an example of site information stored in the free-range livestock management server device in the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1.

[0020] The free-range livestock management system 1 is a system (see FIG. 1) that manages information about livestock (e.g., pigs, cows, chickens, etc.) that are kept free in a breeding site (e.g., see 2 in FIG. 2 ) and the breeding site 2. The free-range livestock management system 1 has a function of detecting abnormal conditions in the livestock and the breeding site 2 and notifying workers of such conditions. The free-range livestock management system 1 comprises a free-range livestock management server device 10, a plurality of (one or more) mobile terminals 30, a plurality of (one or more) cameras 40, a plurality of (one or more) sensors 50, a plurality of (one or more) pieces of equipment 60, a plurality of (one or more) display devices 70, and a network 90.

[0021] Here, the breeding site 2 is a site where livestock are allowed to roam free, and includes, for example, a site that includes free-access stalls with doors that allow livestock to enter and exit freely, a free area where livestock can roam freely, a pasture, and an outdoor exercise area, as shown in Figure 2. The breeding site 2 may also include barns, feeding areas, inspection corridors, etc.

[0022] The free-range livestock management server device 10 is a server device (see FIG. 1) that manages information relating to livestock kept free-ranging at a breeding site (2 in FIG. 2) and the breeding site 2. The free-range livestock management server device 10 may be, for example, a server device equipped with a computer including a processor, memory, network interface, etc. The free-range livestock management server device 10 is connected to a mobile terminal 30, a camera 40, a sensor 50, equipment 60, and a display device 70 via a network 90 so that they can communicate (wirelessly and via wired communication) with each other. In the example of Figure 3, the free-range livestock management server device 10 can be virtually configured to include an information acquisition unit 11, an individual identification unit 12, a location identification unit 13, a health condition assessment unit 14, a breeding condition assessment unit 15, an environmental condition assessment unit 16, an AW condition assessment unit 17, an abnormal condition monitoring unit 18, an information organization unit 19, an information storage unit 20, an equipment control unit 21, an urgency determination unit 22, an alarm unit 23, and an information provision unit 24 by using memory and executing a program on a processor (see Figure 3).

[0023] The information acquisition unit 11 is a functional unit that acquires (collects) various types of information from the outside (such as the mobile terminal 30, camera 40, sensor 50, equipment 60, display device 70, and management terminal 80) (see FIG. 3 ). Examples of acquired information include text information, image information, detection information, and operation information. Types of information include information for identifying individual livestock, information for identifying their location, information for understanding their health status, information for understanding their rearing status, information for understanding their environmental status, information for understanding their compliance with animal welfare concepts, and information for monitoring abnormal conditions. The information acquisition unit 11 can collect information automatically or manually from the outside. Note that information that cannot be collected automatically, such as vaccination information and birth records, is acquired manually from the mobile terminal 30, the management terminal 80, or an information terminal (not shown) of a relevant person (such as a veterinarian). The information acquisition unit 11 distributes and outputs the acquired information to one of the individual identification unit 12, location identification unit 13, health condition grasp unit 14, rearing condition grasp unit 15, environmental condition grasp unit 16, AW condition grasp unit 17, and abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 depending on the type of information.

[0024] The individual identification unit 12 is a functional unit that identifies each individual livestock related to the information from the information acquisition unit 11 based on the information (see FIG. 3). The individual identification unit 12 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract individual feature quantities, and identify the individual by referring to information related to the individual feature quantities that have been preset. The information related to the preset individual feature quantities may be, for example, an individual identification database (not shown) in which unique individual identification information assigned to each individual is associated with the features (feature quantities) of each individual. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the individual identification unit 12 may identify the individual based on the individual identification information included in the information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is, for example, image information including identification information photographed by the camera 40 (for example, a QR (Quick Response) code attached to an individual livestock, a two-dimensional barcode, painted numbers or letters, information marked on the body surface of the livestock (such as a color pattern)), the individual identification unit 12 may perform image analysis of the information to extract identification information (corresponding to characteristics), and extract individual identification information corresponding to the identification information to identify the individual. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is, for example, identification information read by a sensor 50, the individual identification unit 12 may extract individual identification information corresponding to the identification information (corresponding to characteristics) to identify the individual. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information photographed by a camera 40 (such as an RGB camera, a hyperspectral camera, a thermal camera, or a display device 70 with a camera), the individual identification unit 12 may perform image analysis of the information to extract features such as physique, behavior pattern, vein pattern, soiling, and body temperature distribution, and extract individual identification information corresponding to the features to identify the individual. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information detected by a sensor 50 (for example, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) ​​reader or a display device 70 with RFID), the individual identification unit 12 may extract individual identification information corresponding to the information (feature amount) to identify the individual. The individual identification unit 12 outputs information including the extracted individual identification information to the information organization unit 19.The information output from the individual identification unit 12 may include the time information and sender information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11 .

[0025] The location identification unit 13 is a functional unit that identifies the breeding site 2 related to the information from the information acquisition unit 11 by partitioned locations based on the information (see FIG. 3 ). The location identification unit 13 can be used to identify locations where individual livestock are present, locations where abnormalities are present, etc. The location identification unit 13 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract location features and identify locations by referring to information related to preset location features. The information related to preset location features may be, for example, a location identification database (not shown) in which unique location identification information assigned to each location is associated with one or more features (features) for each location. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the location identification unit 13 may identify locations based on the location identification information included in the information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the camera 40, the sensor 50, the equipment 60, or the display device 70 (equipped with a camera or sensor), the location identification unit 13 may extract location identification information corresponding to identification information (feature amounts) related to the camera 40, the sensor 50, the equipment 60, or the display device 70 contained in the information, thereby identifying the location. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the camera 40 and is information capturing multiple locations, the location identification unit 13 may extract location identification information corresponding to identification information (first feature amount) related to the camera 40 contained in the information and the position of the image of the information (second feature amount), thereby identifying the location. The location identification unit 13 outputs information including the extracted location identification information to the information organization unit 19. The information output from the location identification unit 13 may include time information and source information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11.

[0026] The health condition assessment unit 14 is a functional unit that assesses the health condition of livestock based on information from the information acquisition unit 11 (see FIG. 3 ). The health condition assessment unit 14 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract health condition features and assess the health condition by referring to information related to preset health condition features. The information related to the preset health condition features may be, for example, a health condition assessment database (not shown) in which health conditions are associated with health condition features. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the health condition assessment unit 14 may assess the health condition based on the health condition information included in the information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information captured by a camera 40 (a camera-equipped display device 70), the health condition assessment unit 14 may analyze the image of the information to extract health condition features and then extract and assess the health condition corresponding to the feature. The health condition assessment unit 14 outputs information including the assessed health condition information to the information organization unit 19. The information output from the health condition determination unit 14 may include time information and sender information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11 .

[0027] Here, examples of health conditions include livestock behavior, posture, physical condition, estrus, weaning, feeding frequency, weight gain / loss, sleep time, exercise amount, rest time, etc. Examples of behaviors include how to search for food, how to explore the surrounding environment, how to dig holes with their noses, how to chew on accessories (environmental enrichment devices) that may encourage livestock behavior, nest-building behavior, number of fights (social behavior) within the breeding group, how to interact with people, how to lie down on grass or soil, etc.

[0028] The rearing state grasping unit 15 is a functional unit that grasps the rearing state based on information from the information acquisition unit 11 (see FIG. 3 ). The rearing state grasping unit 15 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract features of the rearing state and grasp the rearing state by referring to information related to preset features of the rearing state. The information related to the preset features of the rearing state may be, for example, a rearing state grasping database (not shown) in which the rearing state is associated with features (feature quantities) related to the rearing state. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the rearing state grasping unit 15 may grasp the rearing state based on the information related to the rearing state included in the information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information captured by the camera 40 (camera-equipped display device 70), the rearing state grasping unit 15 may identify features related to the rearing state by image analysis of the information and extract and grasp the rearing state corresponding to the feature quantities. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the sensor 50 or the equipment 60, the rearing state ascertaining unit 15 may be configured to ascertain the rearing state based on the information relating to the rearing state contained in the information. The rearing state ascertaining unit 15 outputs information including the ascertained information relating to the rearing state to the information organizing unit 19. The information output from the rearing state ascertaining unit 15 may include time information and sender information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11.

[0029] Here, examples of rearing conditions include rearing density, amount of bedding, amount of materials, amount of feed, and the like.

[0030] The environmental state grasping unit 16 is a functional unit that grasps the environmental state based on information from the information acquiring unit 11 (see FIG. 3 ). The environmental state grasping unit 16 may analyze the information from the information acquiring unit 11 to extract features of the environmental state and grasp the environmental state by referring to information related to preset features of the environmental state. The information related to the preset features of the environmental state may be, for example, an environmental state grasping database (not shown) in which the environmental state is associated with features (feature quantities) related to the environmental state. If the information from the information acquiring unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the environmental state grasping unit 16 may grasp the environmental state based on the information related to the environmental state included in the information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquiring unit 11 is information captured by a camera 40 (a camera-equipped display device 70), the environmental state grasping unit 16 may perform image analysis of the information to identify features related to the environmental state and extract and grasp the environmental state corresponding to the feature quantities. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the sensor 50 or the equipment 60, the environmental state ascertaining unit 16 may be configured to ascertain the environmental state based on the information on the environmental state included in the information. The environmental state ascertaining unit 16 outputs information including the information on the ascertained environmental state to the information organizing unit 19. The information output from the environmental state ascertaining unit 16 may include time information and sender information included in the information from the information acquisition unit 11.

[0031] Here, examples of environmental conditions include weather, outside temperature, temperature inside the breeding room, humidity, illuminance, and equipment operating status.

[0032] The AW status ascertainment unit 17 is a functional unit that ascertains the state of compliance with the concept of animal welfare (hereinafter referred to as "animal welfare state") based on information from the information acquisition unit 11 (see Figure 3). The AW status ascertainment unit 17 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract feature quantities (information, numerical values, etc.) of the animal welfare state, and may ascertain the animal welfare state by referring to information on preset feature quantities of the animal welfare state. The information on preset feature quantities of the animal welfare state may be, for example, an animal welfare state ascertainment database (not shown) in which the animal welfare state is associated with features (feature quantities) related to the animal welfare state. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from the mobile terminal 30 or the management terminal 80, the AW status ascertainment unit 17 may ascertain the animal welfare state based on the information on the animal welfare state included in that information. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information captured by the camera 40 (camera-equipped display device 70), the AW status ascertainment unit 17 may perform image analysis of the information to identify feature quantities related to the animal welfare state and extract and ascertain the animal welfare state corresponding to the feature quantities. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from a sensor 50 or equipment 60, the AW status ascertainment unit 17 may ascertain the animal welfare state based on the information related to the animal welfare state contained in the information. The AW status ascertainment unit 17 outputs information including information related to the ascertained animal welfare state to the information organizing unit 19. The information output from the AW status ascertainment unit 17 may include time information and sender information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11.

[0033] Here, examples of animal welfare conditions include the various conditions listed in the animal welfare assessment methods provided by the Animal Welfare Livestock Association and other organizations, as well as various conditions in other standards related to animal welfare.

[0034] The abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 is a functional unit that monitors abnormal conditions based on information from the information acquisition unit 11 (see FIG. 3 ). The abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 may analyze the information from the information acquisition unit 11 to extract features of the abnormal conditions and monitor the abnormal conditions by referring to information on preset features of the abnormal conditions. The preset information on the features of the abnormal conditions may be, for example, an abnormal condition monitoring database (not shown) in which abnormal conditions are associated with features (feature quantities) related to the abnormal conditions. If the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information captured by a camera 40 (camera-equipped display device 70), the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 may perform image analysis of the information to identify feature quantities related to the abnormal conditions and detect the abnormal conditions corresponding to the feature quantities. Furthermore, if the information from the information acquisition unit 11 is information from a sensor 50 or equipment 60, the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 may detect the abnormal condition based on information on the abnormal condition included in the information. The abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 outputs information including information on the detected abnormal conditions to the information organization unit 19. The information output from the abnormal state monitoring unit 18 may include the time information and sender information contained in the information from the information acquisition unit 11 .

[0035] Here, examples of abnormal conditions include abnormal conditions of individual livestock such as fights between livestock, tail biting, false chewing, falls, injuries, external injuries, fractures, illness, diarrhea, lying down for long periods of time, and being active for long periods of time; abnormal conditions of the location such as the intrusion of wild animals, bad weather, soiling with feces and urine, subsidence of the ground, and landslides; abnormal conditions of the cameras 40, sensors 50, and equipment 60 such as damage, malfunction, and obstruction; and abnormal conditions of free-ranging livestock and the breeding site 2 that do not conform to the concept of animal welfare.

[0036] The information organizing unit 19 is a functional unit that organizes each piece of information from the individual identification unit 12, the location identification unit 13, the health condition assessment unit 14, the rearing condition assessment unit 15, the environmental condition assessment unit 16, the AW condition assessment unit 17, and the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 and stores the information in the information accumulation unit 20 (see FIG. 3 ). The information organizing unit 19 classifies the information acquired from the individual identification unit 12, the location identification unit 13, the health condition assessment unit 14, the rearing condition assessment unit 15, the environmental condition assessment unit 16, the AW condition assessment unit 17, and the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 into information related to individual identification information and information related to location identification information based on time information and sender information included in the information acquired from the individual identification unit 12, the location identification unit 13, the health condition assessment unit 14, the rearing condition assessment unit 15, the environmental condition assessment unit 16, the AW condition assessment unit 17, and the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18, organizes the information from the health condition assessment unit 14, the rearing condition assessment unit 15, the environmental condition assessment unit 16, the AW condition assessment unit 17, and the abnormal condition monitoring unit 18 so that the information is associated (linked) with the individual identification information and the location identification information, and stores the information in the information accumulation unit 20.

[0037] The information accumulation unit 20 is a functional unit that accumulates information (see Figure 3). The information accumulation unit 20 classifies and accumulates information from the information organization unit 19 into individual information 20a related to individual identification information and site information 20b related to location identification information, according to the information organization by the information organization unit 19. In Figure 3, the information accumulation unit 20 is located within the free-range livestock management server device 10, but it may also be located on the cloud. The information accumulation unit 20 can centrally manage the accumulated information and provide it to the equipment control unit 21, the urgency determination unit 22, and the information provision unit 24.

[0038] The individual information 20a is information that organizes the characteristics of livestock for each individual animal (see Figures 3 and 4). In the individual information 20a, information about each individual animal is associated with individual identification information (livestock ID in Figure 4). As shown in Figure 4, the information about each individual may include, for example, the individual's name (e.g., Hanako), age (in months), temperament, fighting history, weight, parity (number of livestock born), vaccination history, food intake today, last feeding, number of times the animal drank water, stall usage, free space usage, pasture usage, outdoor exercise area usage, health condition, and the biological condition of free-range livestock used in animal welfare evaluations (e.g., animal-based information such as body condition score (BCS), cleanliness, hock condition, bent tail, docked tail, and hoof condition), and may also include other information unique to free-range rearing (such as when, where, and what the animal was doing).

[0039] The site information 20b is information in which characteristics of the breeding site (2 in FIG. 2) are organized by location (see FIGS. 3 and 5). In the site information 20b, information about the location is associated with each piece of location identification information (location ID in FIG. 5). As information related to a location, for example, as shown in Figure 5, examples of information related to the location include the individuals and number of animals present at the location, various information related to the rearing conditions (food, water, crowding, situation, etc.), various information related to the environmental conditions (weather, temperature, humidity, accumulation of feces and urine, etc.), and various information related to the state of the rearing site 2 that conforms to the concept of animal welfare (for example, facility-based information such as the number of water tanks installed and water supply capacity, heat countermeasures, indoor illumination, air quality, and management-based information such as the amount of concentrated feed given, cleanliness of the feed tanks, and cleanliness of the water tanks). Other information may also be included: information related to the cameras 40, sensors 50, equipment 60, and display devices 70 installed at the location, information such as which livestock were used / stayed at which location and for what purpose, and how many times; and information unique to free-range rearing (when, where, what was done, and information related to the subject of animal welfare assessment).

[0040] The equipment control unit 21 is a functional unit that controls the equipment 60 when information related to an abnormal state among the information stored in the information storage unit 20 satisfies a preset condition (see FIG. 3 ). Examples of preset conditions include a condition in which the amount of water in the water area is less than a threshold, a condition in which the amount of feed in the feeding area is less than a threshold, and a condition in which the temperature or humidity is above (or below) a threshold. The equipment control unit 21 can, for example, control the water supply equipment when there is a water shortage in the water area, control the feed supply equipment when there is a feed shortage in the feeding area, and control the air conditioning equipment to maintain the health of the livestock when the temperature or humidity is too high or too low.

[0041] The urgency determination unit 22 is a functional unit that determines the urgency of information related to an abnormal condition in the information storage unit 20 based on preset criteria (see FIG. 3 ). For example, the preset criteria can be used to determine the urgency when a feature (e.g., frequency, level, point, degree, etc.) of information related to the information related to the abnormal condition stored in the information storage unit 20 is equal to or greater than a threshold (or less than the threshold depending on the type of feature). When the information storage unit 20 contains multiple pieces of information related to the abnormal condition (e.g., fighting, large accumulation of feces and urine, lack of food, lack of water, bad weather, high temperature, low temperature, high humidity, etc., all of which are marked with "needs xxxx"), the urgency determination unit 22 may determine the urgency based on preset priorities according to the type of information related to the abnormal condition. Furthermore, when the information storage unit 20 contains multiple pieces of information related to the same type of abnormal condition, the urgency determination unit 22 may determine the urgency based on a predetermined priority order determined according to the characteristics (e.g., frequency, level, points, degree, etc.) of other information stored in the information storage unit 20 (e.g., fighting history, injury, health condition, rearing condition, environmental condition, etc.). For example, when the information related to abnormal conditions includes fighting, bad weather, and a large amount of excrement and urine accumulation, the highest priority may be given to fighting, which has a strong impact on the health of livestock, followed by bad weather, which also has a strong impact on the health of livestock, and the lowest priority may be given to a large amount of excrement and urine accumulation, which has a weaker impact on livestock. The urgency determination unit 22 outputs the determination result (information related to the prioritized abnormal conditions) to the notification unit 23. If there is no information related to the abnormal condition, the urgency determination unit 22 does not operate. If there is only one piece of information related to the abnormal condition, the urgency determination unit 22 outputs the information related to the abnormal condition to the notification unit 23 without determining the urgency.

[0042] The notification unit 23 is a functional unit that creates notification information based on the determination result of the urgency determination unit 22 and transmits it to a pre-configured mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 (see FIG. 3 ). The notification unit 23 may also transmit the created notification information to an information terminal (not shown) of a relevant person (e.g., a veterinarian). The notification information may include textual information about the animal, location, condition, action, instructions, priority, and other information, as well as images, and may also be accompanied by an alarm sound. This allows workers to refer to the notification information displayed on the mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 to check the status of the livestock and the location and take appropriate measures or improvements. Examples of notification information include an instruction to deal with the fighting animals ID4 and ID5 in location FA2 (priority 1), an instruction to move animal ID7 in location P1 into the barn (priority 2), and an instruction to clean location FA4 (priority 3). After completing the tasks in response to the instructions, a report is sent from the mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 (with an input function) to the information acquisition unit 11 of the free-range livestock management server device 10.

[0043] The information providing unit 24 is a functional unit that provides information from the information storage unit 20 to the mobile terminal 30, the display device 70, and the management terminal 80 in response to requests from the mobile terminal 30, the display device 70, and the management terminal 80 (see FIG. 3). The information providing unit 24 may also provide information from the information storage unit 20 in response to a request from an information terminal (not shown) of a related person (e.g., a veterinarian).

[0044] The mobile terminal 30 is an information communication terminal carried by a worker or the like (see FIG. 1 ). Although FIG. 1 shows multiple mobile terminals 30, only one mobile terminal may be used. The mobile terminal 30 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 for communication (wireless communication and wired communication). The mobile terminal 30 may be a portable terminal (computer terminal) equipped with functional units constituting a computer (e.g., a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device), such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone. The mobile terminal 30 may be equipped with a camera and sensors. The mobile terminal 30 can transmit input or acquired information (e.g., information that cannot be automatically collected, information indicating completion of a response to a response instruction) to the free-range livestock management server device 10 through the worker's operation. The mobile terminal 30 can receive notification information and alarms from the free-range livestock management server device 10 and display or output them as audio. The mobile terminal 30 can be operated by an operator to acquire and display information in response to a request (for example, the individual information 20a and site information 20b in FIG. 3 ) from the free-range livestock management server device 10. Furthermore, if the mobile terminal 30 is equipped with a camera or a sensor, it may be configured to transmit image information of an individual livestock to the free-range livestock management server device 10 when pointed at the individual livestock, and to acquire and display information about the individual livestock from the management server device 10 (such as text display or AR (Augmented Reality) display).

[0045] The camera 40 is a functional unit that captures images of subjects (e.g., livestock, farm site, health status, rearing status, environmental status, abnormal status, etc.) (see FIG. 1 ). Examples of the camera 40 include an RGB (Red-Green-Blue) camera, a hyperspectral camera, and a thermal camera. The camera 40 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 for communication (wired or wireless). The camera 40 transmits captured image data (e.g., images of livestock, images of the farm site, etc.) to the free-range livestock management server device 10. The camera 40 can be installed at a predetermined position in the farm site 2. The camera 40 may be a camera mounted on a mobile device such as a drone or robot (see, for example, 30 (C4) in FIG. 2 ). The camera 40 may be a dedicated camera device or may be a camera mounted on a mobile terminal 30, equipment 60, or display device 70.

[0046] The sensor 50 is a functional unit that senses the subject of the image capture (e.g., livestock, site, health condition, rearing condition, environmental condition, abnormal condition, etc.) (see FIG. 1 ). Examples of the sensor 50 include a radio frequency identifier (RFID), a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a light sensor, a power meter, a flow meter, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and a three-dimensional sensor. The sensor 50 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 for communication (wired communication or wireless communication). The sensor 50 transmits sensed information (e.g., temperature inside and outside the barn, humidity, illuminance, power consumption, water consumption, gas consumption, distance, three-dimensional data, etc.) to the free-range livestock management server device 10. The sensor 50 can be installed at a predetermined position in the rearing site 2. The sensor 50 may also be a sensor mounted on a mobile object such as a drone or a robot (see, for example, 50 (S4) in FIG. 2 ). The sensor 50 may not only be a dedicated sensor device, but also a sensor mounted on the mobile terminal 30, the equipment 60, or the display device 70.

[0047] The equipment 60 is equipment that assists in the operation of the breeding site 2 (see Figure 1). For example, feed supply equipment, water supply equipment, air conditioning equipment, gate devices (doors at the entrances and exits to free-access stalls), etc. can be used as the equipment 60. The equipment 60 can be installed at a predetermined position in the breeding site (2 in Figure 2). The equipment 60 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 so that it can communicate (by wire or wireless communication). The equipment 60 may be equipped with a camera or a sensor. The equipment 60 is controlled by the equipment control unit 21 of the free-range livestock management server device 10. The equipment 60 transmits operation information to the free-range livestock management server device 10.

[0048] The display device 70 is a device that displays information (see FIG. 1 ). Examples of the display device 70 include a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence diode (ELD) display, a tablet terminal, and a smartphone. The display device 70 can be installed at a predetermined location in the breeding site 2 (e.g., in each free-access stall). The display device 70 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 for communication (wired or wireless communication). The display device 70 may include a camera, a sensor, and an input unit (e.g., a touch panel, a gesture sensor, a non-contact input device, etc.). The display device 70 displays information provided by the free-range livestock management server device 10. The displayed information may be, for example, information about the location where the display device 70 is installed or about the individual livestock present at that location. The display device 70 may photograph an individual livestock present at the location where the display device 70 is installed, transmit the image information to the free-range livestock management server device 10, and then acquire and display information about the individual livestock from the management server device 10. The display device 70 may have a function to request information from the free-range livestock management server device 10 by operation of the operator, and to acquire and display information from the free-range livestock management server device 10. When the display device 70 receives notification information from the free-range livestock management server device 10, it displays the notification information. The display device 70 displays the notification information in priority to the information currently being displayed. The display device 70 may have a function to send input information (for example, information that cannot be automatically collected, information that a response to a response instruction has been completed) to the free-range livestock management server device 10 by operation of the operator. The display device 70 may have a function to send information photographed, detected, measured, etc. to the free-range livestock management server device 10 every time an individual livestock enters a free-access stall.

[0049] The management terminal 80 is a terminal used by the administrator of the free-range livestock management server device 10 (see FIG. 1 ). The management terminal 80 is connected to the free-range livestock management server device 10 via a network 90 so that it can communicate (wirelessly or via wired communication). The management terminal 80 can be a terminal (computer terminal) equipped with functional units that constitute a computer (e.g., a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device), and can be, for example, a personal computer, a server, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone. The management terminal 80 can be operated by the administrator to manage (input, create, delete, add, change, edit, etc.) information in the free-range livestock management server device 10. There may be one or more management terminals 80.

[0050] The network 90 is a communication network for communication (wired communication and wireless communication) between the free-range livestock management server device 10, the mobile terminal 30, the camera 40, the sensor 50, the equipment 60, the display device 70, and the management terminal 80 (see FIG. 1 ). The network 90 may be, for example, a local area network (LAN), a personal area network (PAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a global area network (GAN).

[0051] The operation of the free-range livestock management server device in the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 is a flow chart diagram that schematically shows the operation of the free-range livestock management server device in the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 for the configuration of the free-range livestock management system.

[0052] First, the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock acquires various information from any or all of the mobile terminal 30, camera 40, sensor 50, equipment 60, display device 70, and management terminal 80 (step A1).

[0053] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 identifies individual livestock based on the acquired information (step A2). Note that if the acquired information does not include information about individual livestock, step A2 is skipped.

[0054] Next, the management server device 10 for free-range livestock identifies the location in the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step A3). Note that if the acquired information does not include information about the location, step A3 is skipped.

[0055] Next, the management server device 10 for free-range livestock ascertains the health status of the livestock based on the acquired information (step A4). Note that if the acquired information does not include information on the health status of the livestock, step A4 is skipped.

[0056] Next, the management server device 10 for free-range livestock ascertains the breeding conditions at the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step A5). Note that if the acquired information does not include information on the breeding conditions at the breeding site 2, step A5 is skipped.

[0057] Next, the management server device 10 for free-range livestock grasps the environmental condition of the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step A6). Note that if the acquired information does not include information on the environmental condition of the breeding site 2, step A6 is skipped.

[0058] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 ascertains the animal welfare status of the livestock or the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (Step A7). Note that if the acquired information does not include information on the animal welfare status of the livestock or the breeding site 2, Step A7 is skipped.

[0059] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 monitors the abnormal condition of the livestock or the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step A8). Note that if the acquired information does not include information regarding the abnormal condition of the livestock or the breeding site 2, step A8 is skipped.

[0060] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 organizes (classifies and associates) the information obtained in steps A2 to A8 (step A9).

[0061] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 stores the organized information (step A10).

[0062] Next, the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock determines whether or not the stored information contains information indicating an abnormal state at the breeding site 2 that requires equipment control (step A11).

[0063] If there is information regarding the need for equipment control (YES in step A11), the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock controls the equipment 60 based on the stored information (step A12).

[0064] If there is no information regarding the need for equipment control (NO in step A11), or after step A12, the management server device 10 for free-range livestock determines the urgency of the abnormal condition in the accumulated information (step A13). If there is no urgency of the abnormal condition (NO in step A13), the process ends.

[0065] If the abnormal condition is urgent (YES in step A13), the free-range livestock management server device 10 creates notification information based on the information about the abnormal condition and sends it to the pre-set mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 (step A14), and then ends the process. When the mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 receives the notification information, it displays the notification information. The worker refers to the notification information and goes to the site to deal with the abnormal condition. After dealing with the problem, the worker inputs information indicating that the problem has been solved into the mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 and sends it to the free-range livestock management server device 10.

[0066] The operation of the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 7 is a sequence chart diagram that schematically shows the operation of the free-range livestock management system according to embodiment 1. Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 for the configuration of the free-range livestock management system.

[0067] First, the mobile terminal 30 transmits input information input by an operator's operation to the free-range livestock management server device 10 as necessary (step B1).

[0068] Next, the camera 40 periodically transmits the captured image information to the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock (step B2).

[0069] Next, the sensor 50 periodically transmits the sensed sensor information to the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock (step B3).

[0070] Next, the equipment 60 transmits operation information to the free-range livestock management server device 10 as necessary (step B4). Note that the order of steps B1 to B4 may be reversed. Furthermore, the information transmitted to the free-range livestock management server device 10 may include information transmitted from the display device 70 and the management terminal 80 in addition to the information transmitted in steps B1 to B4.

[0071] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 acquires various information from any or all of the mobile terminal 30, camera 40, sensor 50, equipment 60, display device 70, and management terminal 80 (step B5).

[0072] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 identifies individual livestock based on the acquired information (step B6). Note that if the acquired information does not include information about individual livestock, step B6 is skipped.

[0073] Next, the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock identifies the location in the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step B7). Note that if the acquired information does not include information about the location, step B7 is skipped.

[0074] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 ascertains various conditions (any or all of the following: the health condition of the livestock, the breeding condition at the breeding site 2, the environmental condition at the breeding site 2, and the animal welfare condition of the livestock or at the breeding site 2) based on the acquired information (step B8). Note that if the acquired information does not include information related to various conditions, step B8 is skipped.

[0075] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 monitors the abnormal condition of the livestock or the breeding site 2 based on the acquired information (step B9). Note that if the acquired information does not include information regarding the abnormal condition of the livestock or the breeding site 2, step B9 is skipped.

[0076] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 organizes (classifies and associates) the information obtained in steps B6 to B9 (step B10).

[0077] Next, the free-range livestock management server device 10 stores the organized information (step B11).

[0078] Next, if the accumulated information includes information indicating the need for equipment control as an abnormal condition at the breeding site 2, the free-range livestock management server device 10 generates control information for controlling the equipment 60 based on the accumulated information and transmits it to the equipment 60 (step B12). Note that if there is no information indicating the need for equipment control, step B12 is skipped.

[0079] Next, when the equipment 60 receives the control information from the free-ranging livestock management server device 10, it controls the operation of the equipment 60 itself based on the control information (step B13).

[0080] Next, if the abnormal condition in the stored information is deemed urgent, the free-range livestock management server device 10 creates notification information based on the information regarding the abnormal condition and transmits it to the preset mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 (step B14). If the abnormal condition is not deemed urgent, step B14 is skipped.

[0081] Next, when the mobile terminal 30 receives the notification information from free-range livestock management server device 10, it displays the notification information (step B15). The worker refers to the notification information and goes to the site to deal with the abnormal condition. After dealing with the abnormal condition, the worker inputs information indicating that the action has been taken into the mobile terminal 30 and transmits it to free-range livestock management server device 10. If no notification information is received from free-range livestock management server device 10, step B15 is skipped.

[0082] Next, when the display device 70 receives the notification information from the free-range livestock management server device 10, it displays the notification information (step B16) and then ends the process. The worker refers to the notification information and takes action to resolve the abnormal condition. After taking action, the worker inputs action completion information into the display device 70 and transmits it to the free-range livestock management server device 10. Note that if no notification information is received from the free-range livestock management server device 10, step B16 is skipped.

[0083] According to embodiment 1, the free-range livestock management server device 10 collects various information and monitors any abnormal conditions in the livestock or the breeding site 2, which can contribute to understanding the condition of the free-range livestock and the breeding site 2, as well as any abnormal conditions that may be present.

[0084] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when an abnormal condition is detected by the free-range livestock management server device 10, notification information that identifies and notifies the abnormal condition is sent to and displayed on the mobile terminal 30 or display device 70 of the worker, so that the worker can perform work with guidance support from the displayed notification information, improving the workability at the farming site 2. In other words, work that relies less on memory and know-how can be reduced, contributing to the elimination of work errors. Accordingly, the work of workers can be optimized by shifting from TBM (Time Based Maintenance) to CBM (Condition Based Maintenance).

[0085] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when the management server device 10 for free-ranging livestock detects multiple abnormal conditions simultaneously, the urgency (priority) of the abnormal conditions is determined, so that the order of dealing with the abnormal conditions can be optimized.

[0086] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, information can be collected automatically using the camera 40 and the sensor 50, which reduces the effort required to collect and record the necessary information and contributes to reducing the workload of workers.

[0087] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, free-range livestock management is carried out using the management server device 10, which leads to the realization of the "five freedoms" of animal welfare (freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury and disease, freedom to behave naturally, and freedom from fear and distress).

[0088] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, free-range livestock management is performed using the free-range livestock management server device 10, which makes it possible to provide an optimal growing environment for livestock and to provide workability in free-range rearing that is comparable to that of stall rearing.

[0089] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, since individual animals can be identified without contact using the camera 40 and the sensor 50, there is no need for identification marks such as ear notches or branding, which cause pain to the livestock, and a high level of comfort for the livestock can be maintained.

[0090] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, workers can use the mobile terminal 30 to check and input information about the various conditions of the breeding site 2 and the livestock in real time, anytime and anywhere. This allows workers to individually manage livestock that move around freely, understand their behavior, and quickly make necessary decisions about how to respond, even when they are not at the breeding site 2, thereby improving workability and productivity.

[0091] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, the various conditions of the breeding site 2 and the livestock can be checked remotely using the mobile terminal 30, thereby reducing the number of times workers need to enter the breeding site 2 and serving as a measure to prevent livestock infectious diseases.

[0092] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, workers can refer to their daily routine work on the mobile terminal 30 and change the work to go to the breeding site 2 only when necessary, thereby reducing the workload and optimizing the work.

[0093] [Embodiment 2] A management server device for free-ranging livestock according to embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a management server device for free-ranging livestock according to embodiment 2.

[0094] The free-range livestock management server device 10 is a server device that manages information related to free-range livestock and their rearing sites. The free-range livestock management server device 10 comprises an information acquisition unit 11, an individual identification unit 12, a location identification unit 13, a status understanding unit 25, an abnormal status monitoring unit 18, an information organization unit 19, an information accumulation unit 20, an urgency determination unit 22, and a notification unit 23.

[0095] The information acquisition unit 11 is configured to acquire information regarding individual livestock or the location of the breeding site from the outside. The individual identification unit 12 is configured to identify individuals based on the acquired information. The location identification unit 13 is configured to identify locations based on the acquired information. The status assessment unit 25 is configured to assess the status of the individuals or locations based on the acquired information. The abnormal state monitoring unit 18 is configured to monitor abnormal states of the individuals or locations based on the acquired information. The information organization unit 19 is configured to organize and associate various information obtained by the individual identification unit 12, the location identification unit 13, the status assessment unit 25, and the abnormal state monitoring unit 18 for each identified individual or location. The information storage unit 20 is configured to store the information organized and associated for each individual or location. The urgency determination unit 22 is configured to determine the urgency of information regarding the abnormal state of an individual or location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria. The alarm unit 23 is configured to generate alarm information based on information determined to be urgent and transmit it to a predetermined terminal.

[0096] According to the second embodiment, the free-range livestock management server device 10 acquires various information and monitors abnormal conditions of individual livestock and the breeding site, thereby contributing to understanding abnormal conditions of free-range livestock and the breeding site.

[0097] The free-range livestock management server devices according to the first and second embodiments can be configured using so-called hardware resources (information processing devices, computers), and may use those having the configuration shown in Fig. 9. For example, the hardware resources 100 include a processor 101, a memory 102, a network interface 103, and the like, which are interconnected by an internal bus 104.

[0098] 9 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the hardware resource 100. The hardware resource 100 may include hardware (e.g., an input / output interface) that is not shown. Furthermore, the number of units, such as the processor 101, included in the device is not intended to be limited to the example shown in FIG. 9 , and for example, multiple processors 101 may be included in the hardware resource 100. The processor 101 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like.

[0099] The memory 102 may be, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0100] The network interface 103 may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a network adapter, a network interface card, or the like.

[0101] The functions of the hardware resource 100 are realized by the processing modules described above. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 101 executing a program stored in the memory 102. The programs can be updated by downloading them over a network or by using a storage medium that stores the programs. Furthermore, the processing modules may be realized by semiconductor chips. In other words, it is sufficient that the functions performed by the processing modules can be realized by executing software on some kind of hardware.

[0102] Some or all of the above embodiments may be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0103] an information acquisition unit configured to acquire information relating to individual livestock or the location of a rearing site from the outside; an individual identification unit configured to identify the individual based on the acquired information; a location identification unit configured to identify the location based on the acquired information; a status assessment unit configured to grasp the status of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an abnormal state monitoring unit configured to monitor an abnormal state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an information organization unit configured to organize and associate various information obtained by the individual identification unit, the location identification unit, the status assessment unit and the abnormal state monitoring unit for each identified individual or each location; an information storage unit configured to store the information organized and associated for each individual or each location; an urgency determination unit configured to determine the urgency of information relating to the abnormal state of the individual or each location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; and an alarm unit configured to generate alarm information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmit it to a predetermined terminal. [Supplementary Note 2] The free-range livestock management server device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the notification unit is configured to transmit the notification information to the display device when the information judged to be of an emergency includes information on a location among the locations where a display device is installed. [Supplementary Note 3] The free-range livestock management server device according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein the status assessment unit comprises: a health status assessment unit configured to assess the health status of the individual based on the acquired information; a rearing status assessment unit configured to assess the rearing status of the location based on the acquired information; an environmental status assessment unit configured to assess the environmental status of the location based on the acquired information; and an animal welfare status assessment unit configured to assess the animal welfare status of the individual or the location based on the acquired information. [Supplementary Note 4] The free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, further comprising an equipment control unit that controls equipment when information on the abnormal status of the location among the accumulated information meets a preset condition.[Supplementary Note 5] The free-range livestock management server device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the outside includes any or all of cameras installed at predetermined locations, sensors installed at predetermined locations, the terminal, a management terminal that manages the free-range livestock management server device, equipment, and a display device. [Supplementary Note 6] The free-range livestock management server device according to Supplementary Note 1, further comprising an information providing unit configured to provide information from the information storage unit to the terminal, the management terminal that manages the free-range livestock management server device, or the display device in response to a request from the terminal, the management terminal that manages the free-range livestock management server device, or the display device. [Supplementary Note 7] The free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 6, wherein the individual identification unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract features of the individual, and identify the individual by referring to preset information on the features of the individual. [Supplementary Note 8] The free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 7, wherein the location identification unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract features of the location, and identify the location by referring to preset information on the feature of the location. [Supplementary Note 9] The free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 8, wherein the state grasping unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract features of the state, and grasp the state by referring to preset information relating to the feature values ​​of the state. [Supplementary Note 10] The free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 9, wherein the abnormal state monitoring unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract features of the abnormal state, and monitor the abnormal state by referring to preset information relating to the feature values ​​of the abnormal state. [Supplementary Note 11] A free-range livestock management system comprising: the free-range livestock management server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 10; a camera installed at a predetermined location in the breeding site and connected to the free-range livestock management server device so as to be able to communicate with it; a sensor installed at a predetermined location in the breeding site and connected to the free-range livestock management server device so as to be able to communicate with it; and a terminal connected to the free-range livestock management server device so as to be able to communicate with it.[Supplementary Note 12] A method for managing free-range livestock that uses hardware resources to manage information related to free-range livestock and breeding sites, comprising the steps of: externally acquiring information related to individual livestock or the location of the breeding site; identifying the individual based on the acquired information; identifying the location based on the acquired information; grasping the condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; monitoring an abnormal condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; organizing and associating various information related to the identified individual, the identified location, the grasped condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or location; accumulating the information organized and associated for each individual or location; determining the urgency of information related to the abnormal condition of the individual or the location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; [Supplementary Note 13] A program that causes a hardware resource to execute processes for managing information relating to free-ranging livestock and breeding sites, the program causing the hardware resource to execute the following processes: a process for externally acquiring information relating to individual livestock or the location of the breeding site; a process for identifying the individual based on the acquired information; a process for identifying the location based on the acquired information; a process for understanding the condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; a process for monitoring an abnormal condition of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; a process for organizing and associating various information relating to the identified individual, the identified location, the understood condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or location; a process for accumulating the information that has been organized and associated for each individual or location; a process for determining the urgency of information relating to the abnormal condition of the individual or the location from the accumulated information based on preset criteria; and a process for generating alert information based on the information that is determined to be urgent and transmitting it to a specified terminal.

[0104] The disclosures of the above-cited patent documents are incorporated herein by reference and may be used as the basis or part of the present invention, if necessary. Modifications and adjustments of the embodiments and examples are possible within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the claims and drawings), and further based on the basic technical concepts thereof. Furthermore, various combinations and selections (or non-selections, if necessary) of the various disclosed elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that would be possible by a person skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure and technical concepts, including the claims and drawings. Furthermore, with regard to the numerical values ​​and numerical ranges described in this application, any intermediate values, lower values, and smaller ranges are deemed to be included, even if not explicitly stated. Furthermore, the disclosures of the above-cited documents, when used in part or in whole in combination with the disclosures herein as part of the disclosure of the present invention, are also deemed to be included in (belong to) the disclosures of this application, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention.

[0105] 1 Free-range livestock management system 2 Breeding site 10 Free-range livestock management server device 11 Information acquisition unit 12 Individual identification unit 13 Location identification unit 14 Health condition recognition unit 15 Breeding condition recognition unit 16 Environmental condition recognition unit 17 AW condition recognition unit 18 Abnormal condition monitoring unit 19 Information organization unit 20 Information accumulation unit 20a Individual information 20b Site information 21 Equipment control unit 22 Urgency determination unit 23 Notification unit 24 Information provision unit 25 Condition recognition unit 30 Mobile terminal 40 Camera 50 Sensor 60 Equipment 70 Display device 80 Management terminal 90 Network 100 Hardware resources 101 Processor 102 Memory 103 Network interface 104 Internal bus

Claims

1. An information acquisition unit configured to acquire information on individual livestock or a location of a breeding site from an external source; An individual identification unit configured to identify the individual based on the acquired information; a location identification unit configured to identify the location based on the acquired information; A state grasping unit configured to grasp a state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an abnormality state monitoring unit configured to monitor an abnormal state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; an information organizing unit configured to organize and associate various pieces of information obtained by the individual identification unit, the location identification unit, the state grasping unit, and the abnormal state monitoring unit for each identified individual or each identified location; an information storage unit configured to store the information organized and associated with each individual or each location; an urgency determination unit configured to determine urgency of information regarding the abnormal state of the individual or the location among the accumulated information based on a preset criterion; a notification unit configured to generate notification information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmit the notification information to a predetermined terminal; A free-range livestock management server device comprising:

2. The notification unit is configured to transmit the notification information to the display device when the information determined to be urgent includes information on a location where a display device is installed among the locations.

2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

3. The state grasping unit is a health condition assessment unit configured to assess a health condition of the individual based on the acquired information; A rearing status ascertaining unit configured to ascertain the rearing status of the location based on the acquired information; an environmental state grasping unit configured to grasp an environmental state of the location based on the acquired information; an animal welfare status ascertaining unit configured to ascertain the animal welfare status of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; Equipped with 2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

4. and an equipment control unit that controls the equipment when information regarding the abnormal state of the location among the stored information satisfies a preset condition.

2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

5. The outside includes any one or all of a camera installed at a predetermined location, a sensor installed at a predetermined location, the terminal, a management terminal that manages the free-range livestock management server device, equipment, and a display device.

2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

6. The method further includes an information providing unit configured to provide information of the information storage unit to the terminal, the management terminal, or the display device in response to a request from the terminal, or a management terminal that manages the management server device for free-ranging livestock, or a display device.

2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

7. The individual identification unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract a feature amount of the individual, and to identify the individual by referring to information regarding the feature amount of the individual that is set in advance.

2. The free-range livestock management server device according to claim 1.

8. The location identification unit is configured to analyze the acquired information to extract a feature amount of the location, and to identify the location by referring to information regarding the feature amount of the location that is set in advance.

8. A management server device for free-ranging livestock according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A method for managing free-range livestock, which uses hardware resources to manage information about free-range livestock and a breeding site, comprising: Acquiring information on individual livestock or the location of a breeding site from an external source; identifying the individual based on the obtained information; identifying the location based on the obtained information; determining a state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; monitoring an abnormal state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; Organizing and associating various information related to the identified individual, the identified location, the grasped condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or each location; accumulating the information organized and associated with each of the individuals or the locations; determining the urgency of information regarding the abnormal state of the individual or the location among the accumulated information based on a preset criterion; generating notification information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmitting the notification information to a predetermined terminal; (c) methods for managing free-ranging livestock;

10. A program for causing hardware resources to execute a process for managing information on free-ranging livestock and breeding sites, A process of acquiring information on individual livestock or the location of a breeding site from an external source; A process of identifying the individual based on the acquired information; identifying the location based on the acquired information; A process of grasping a state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; A process of monitoring an abnormal state of the individual or the location based on the acquired information; A process of organizing and associating various information related to the identified individual, the identified location, the grasped condition, and the monitored abnormal condition for each identified individual or each location; A process of storing the information organized and associated with each of the individuals or the locations; A process of determining the urgency of information regarding the abnormal state of the individual or the location among the accumulated information based on a preset criterion; A process of generating notification information based on the information determined to be urgent and transmitting the information to a predetermined terminal; A program that causes the hardware resource to execute the above.

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