Automated feeding for dairy cattle on small farms

This book presents the development of a prototype automated concentrate feeder, designed for small dairy farms. The solution adopts the concept of merit feeding, allowing for the individualized distribution of feed according to each animal's milk production. The system, which is low-cost and easy to operate, uses microcontrollers and DC motors to achieve a dosage accuracy of over 95%. Practical tests have shown an increase of up to 39.9% in milk production and a 16% reduction in average time to pregnancy. With a modular structure and applicability in different contexts, the proposal combines automation and efficiency, promoting input savings, animal welfare and support for decision-making in the field. The book is aimed at students, technicians, producers and professionals interested in accessible innovation for family farming.