Robust pig extraction using ground base depth images for automatic weight estimation

Abstract

Dark colored pigs (Berkshire, Duroc, etc.) are widely recognized nationwide in Japan for their exceptional taste, with the southern Kyushu region being a renowned production area for these esteemed breeds. However, estimating the weight of these pigs using a camera presents a unique challenge. The key process in a camera-based weight estimation system is the precise extraction of the target pig from the background. Typically, cameras capture images from above, as the top-view images provide the most specific growth indicators. However, the image from above contains a ground image. Since Berkshire and Duroc pigs are black and red, respectively, they blend into the ground, making it difficult to accurately segment the pigs in the images. Thus, it is crucial to perfectly distinguish between the ground and the pigs. Therefore, a new extraction method is proposed to distinguish between the ground and pigs by converting depth data based on the pig's position. To enhance the efficiency of pig farming and alleviate the burden on workers, our goal is to develop a system that automatically measures the weight of Berkshire pigs for shipment without background interference. In this study, we installed the system at a Berkshire pig farm and demonstrated the effectiveness of this innovative extraction method for camera-based weight estimation.