Satellite based global positioning system for feedlot computer network and method

#The present invention relates generally to an improved system for carrying out and managing animal feedlot operations including a computer-network in which discretion and direct control over the various suboperations of the feed ration assignment and delivery process are distributed among the individual operators in the system while the feedlot manager is capable of indirectly monitoring the performance of the various suboperations through use of a satellite based global positioning system.

#In modern times, commercial feedlots are used extensively to feed thousands of head of cattle or other animals at various stages of growth. The major reason for using an animal feedlot rather than the “open range” to feed cattle, is to expedite the cattle growth process and thus be able to bring cattle to the market in a shorter time period.

#Within an animal feedlot, cattle are physically contained in cattle pens, each of which has a feedbunk to receive feed. Ownership of cattle in the feedlot is defined by unique lot numbers associated with the group(s) of cattle in each pen. The number of cattle in an owner's lot can vary and may occupy a fraction of or one or more cattle pens. Within a particular pen, cattle are fed the same feed ration, (i.e. the same type and quantity of feed). In order to accommodate cattle at various stages of growth or which require special feeding because they are sick, undernourished or the like, the feedlot comprises a large number of pens.

#FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a feedlot within which the feedlot computer network of the present invention is installed in order to practice the system and method of the present invention.

#FIGS. 2A1-1 and 2A1-2 together comprise a system block diagram of the illustrative embodiment of the feedlot computer network of the present invention, showing the 1st feed delivery computer system, the nth feed delivery computer system, the feedmill computer system, the feedlot management computer system, the feedbunk reading computer system, the veterinary computer system, the nutritionist computer system, the VR workstation for the veterinary vehicle, the VR workstation for the nutrition vehicle, the VR workstation for the feedbunk reading vehicle, the VR workstation for the feedlot manager at the central office (or feedmill), the VR workstation for the feedmill operator, the VR workstation for the nth feed delivery vehicle, the local positioning subsystem (LIAS) for the (i=1) animal pen, the LIAS for the nth animal pen, the satellites of the global positioning system (GPS), the GPS base station, and the Internet-based digital communications network for wireless mobile communications among the computer systems of the feedlot computer network.

#FIG. 2A2 is a system block diagram illustrating the subcomponents of the GPS base station in relation to the GPS satellites and an exemplary feedlot vehicle computer of the present invention.

#An exemplary feedlot (such as those for which the present invention is intended) comprises a plurality of cattle pens, a feedmill and a base office. Typically, each cattle pen comprises fencing and an associated feedbunk capable of holding a feed ration, i.e. an amount and type of feed ration. The length of each feedbunk will vary from feedlot to feedlot and typically has a length commensurate with the length of each animal pen. The details of such operations are fully covered in U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,627, the teachings of which are incorporated by reference herein as if restated in full.

#The feedmill typically comprises an enclosed building structure for housing a feedmill computer system programmed for (i) assigning feed loads and pen sequences and (ii) controlling various feedmill operations. In addition, elevated storage bins and feed ingredient mixing/metering equipment operably associated with a feedmill computer system, are provided so that a specified feed load (i.e. comprising one or more feed batches) can be milled and mixed (i.e. prepared) and then loaded onto a feed delivery vehicle.

#The base office typically comprises an enclosed building structure for housing a feedlot management computer system and a feedlot financial accounting/billing computer system. Within this building, the manager of the feedlot typically maintains an office along with personal involved in financial accounting and billing operations.