November 21, 2018

Hanskamp introduces Spider feeding system for dairy farming

Hanskamp, a Netherlands-based developer of innovative solutions for dairy farming, had recently launched its new feeding system at the EuroTier show in Germany.

Called "Spider", the system delivers automated concentrate feeding of individual animals either in a milking parlour or within a feed station.

"The Spider is the feeding computer at the centre of it all. Similar to how a spider strategically sits in its web and keeps an eye on everything, the Spider keeps everything running in your shed," Hanskamp described.

 
The company added that the system contributes to better performance through automatic and accurate feeding. It consisted of a central computer - known as the SpiderServer - and can be extended with up to 98 additional "SpiderClient" units.

Both the SpiderServer and the SpiderClient can read out 16 antennas and operate 16 feed dispensers within a 10 meters range.

The Spider serves as a cost-saving solution, as it works with existing transponders and requires few control boxes, Hanskamp said.

In addition, the system's SpiderAntenna can read out almost all conventional RFID transponders with a frequency between 115 and 140 kHz, making it possible to read out all commonly used ear, leg and neck mounted tag.

The Spider can also set up its own Wi-Fi network, allowing it to be accessed by smartphone, tablet or computer. Dairy farmers can easily consult or adjust the system on the spot. Furthermore, the input and exchange of data can be done manually or automatically using a Taurus connection with a management programme.

- Hanskamp