A Review: Development of Computer Vision-Based Lameness Detection for Dairy Cows and Discussion of the Practical Applications

Abstract

The computer vision technique has been rapidly adopted in cow lameness detection research due to its noncontact characteristic and moderate price. This paper attempted to summarize the research progress of computer vision in the detection of lameness. Computer vision lameness detection systems are not popular on farms, and the accuracy and applicability still need to be improved. This paper discusses the problems and development prospects of this technique from three aspects: detection methods, verification methods and application implementation. The paper aims to provide the reader with a summary of the literature and the latest advances in the field of computer vision detection of lameness in dairy cows.

Orthopedic diseases in dairy cattle: causes, effects, and preventions

“…Lame cows slow their walking speed and force the back to flex and tilt the head, which are a response to pain. Additionally, animals try to reduce the burden on the claw, which reduces the severity of the disease and causes greater hoof damage [Sadiq et al 2019, O'Leary et al 2020, Kang et al 2021]. This causes pain, discomfort, and stress in animals, which contributes to animal welfare disorders [Sadiq et al 2019].…”

“…Detection of lameness is mainly possible through the observation of animals [O'Leary et al 2020, Kang et al 2021]. Typically, three methods are used to diagnose lameness: Sprecher's five-point herd locomotion scoring system, routine claw trimming or ad hoc observation during e.g.…”

“…According to O' Leary et al [2020], ad hoc detection is not effective in diagnosing mild or subclinical lameness. Currently, research on automation with the use of computer vision in the diagnosis of lameness is underway [Kang et al 2021]. Automation of motion dysfunction detection can detect even mild or moderate lameness.…”

“…Source of image: https://publicdomainvectors.org/pl/wektorow-swobodnych/Krowa-sylwetka-obrazu/63144.html, Creative Commons License, 18.07.2018, Kang et al 2021. Kinetic methods are based on measuring the ground reaction force while walking, indirect methods detect the behavior and activities of cows, and kinematic methods measure the geometry of the movement without the acting forces.…”

Intelligent Perception-Based Cattle Lameness Detection and Behaviour Recognition: A Review

“…In addition, due to its high prevalence on farms, lameness is regarded as a major health and economic concern in modern cattle farming. As such, the detection of lameness in an accurate and timely manner is of great significance [ 24 , 25 ]. However, the cause and prevalence of lameness vary between production systems (pastures and barns) and farm management but lameness is typically found in between 10% and 30% of the herd [ 26 ].…”