Software for automated feeding systems
We had the opportunity to contribute to the software foundation of the Butler feeding robot—an autonomous feed pusher designed for modern dairy farms.
Touchscreen controls and remote maintenance for modern feeding robots
The focus was on an embedded Linux system with a touchscreen display, which enables reliable and user-friendly operation, control, and remote maintenance of the robot.
The solution combines robust hardware with a modern software interface, thereby creating a central interface between people, machines, and farm operations.
When agricultural technology becomes digitally controllable
The Task
Modern control system for an autonomous system
The Butler Gold Pro is used daily in the barn, where it performs an important task: regularly pushing and loosening the feed.
To ensure that these processes function reliably, a stable software foundation, clear operating logic, and an interface that remains easy to understand even in the day-to-day reality of farming are essential.
Our task was to help develop the embedded software for the control system, user interface, and system integration. This required seamless integration between the hardware, operating system, touchscreen display, and remote access capabilities.
The Solution
Embedded Linux, Qt, and web technologies in a single system
An embedded Linux platform based on Buildroot and Yocto was implemented for the project. Building on this foundation, a high-performance software solution was developed using C++/Qt and HTML5 components.
Key functions can be controlled directly on the device via the touchscreen. At the same time, the software enables remote access—for example, for service, maintenance, optimization, or technical support.
The result is a solution that is easy to use in day-to-day operations but reliably handles complex control and communication tasks in the background.
A statement
from the field
How requirements, technology, and close collaboration came together to create a solution for global use.
Wasserbauer GmbH
Stable in the barn. Flexible in terms of further development.
With an autonomous device like the Butler feeding robot, reliability is paramount. The software must run smoothly directly on the device, communicate with the hardware, and at the same time enable modern operating and service functions.
To achieve this, various technologies were combined:
- Embedded Linux as a stable system foundation
- Buildroot and Yocto for Custom Linux Systems
- C++/Qt for High-Performance Device and UI Development
- HTML5 for Modern User Interface Components
- Touchscreen for easy operation right on the device
- Remote Maintenance and Remote Control for Service and Support
The Project Timeline
1. Clarify requirements
We have defined the functions that the Butler feeding robot must reliably perform in daily use—from local operation to remote maintenance.
2. Establish a system foundation
Using Embedded Linux, Buildroot, and Yocto, we established a stable technical foundation that was precisely tailored to the hardware and product requirements.
3. Develop the interface
The touchscreen interface was developed using C++/Qt and HTML5 to ensure that key functions can be used easily and intuitively directly on the device.
4. Enable operation
Remote maintenance and control functions were incorporated into the solution to enable support, maintenance, and further development while the system is in operation.
Let's talk about your project
Are you developing a technical product, a machine, or an embedded system and need a reliable software solution for it?
We are happy to assist you—from system architecture and user interfaces to integration directly on the device.