Introduction The UC focuses on integrating Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) technologies with building engineering to improve thermal comfort in pig farming while reducing energy use. The project is carried out in collaboration between the Applied Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer (ATHT) research group at Ghent University and the Technology & Food Science Unit at ILVO. The main objective is to develop a digital twin of the pig and pig farm that can support climate-adaptive barn management. Methodologies The research combines knowledge from animal physiology, thermal comfort modelling, building physics, and environmental monitoring. First, existing thermal comfort models for pigs are reviewed and compared with thermal comfort approaches used for humans in buildings. Based on identified gaps, an individual pig thermal comfort model will be developed, including physiological responses and environmental parameters such as air temperature, humidity, ventilation rate, airflow, radiation, and heating or cooling systems. This individual pig model will then be integrated into a full building model that accounts for barn structure, ventilation strategy, heating systems, and the presence of other pigs. Output This use case aims to support farmers and advisors in making more informed decisions on barn climate management. By linking PLF monitoring data with building and animal thermal models, the project can contribute to improved pig welfare, reduced heat and cold stress, more efficient energy use, and more sustainable livestock housing. Impact This use case aims to support farmers and advisors in making more informed decisions on barn climate management. By linking PLF monitoring data with building and animal thermal models, the project can contribute to improved pig welfare, reduced heat and cold stress, more efficient energy use, and more sustainable livestock housing. What I can offer The UC can contribute expertise in pig thermal comfort modelling, literature-based model development, building-energy modelling, and the integration of animal-based and environmental data into digital twin concepts. It can also provide insight into the practical challenges of connecting PLF data with engineering models. What I need We are looking for feedback on data integration, model validation, and the use of PLF sensor data in digital twins. We are also interested in discussing available datasets, collaboration opportunities, and practical experiences from researchers, technology providers, and stakeholders working on smart livestock housing.

Source: Annual AgData Use Case Summit 2026 booklet.