EM Lizard: an Automatic Feed Pusher That Puts Feeding on “Autopilot”

Automating feed push-up has long stopped being a “big-farm only” option. Today it is a practical tool for keeping feeding routines consistent and reducing losses on any operation where process discipline and time efficiency matter. One example of this approach is the EM Lizard automatic feed pusher—an autonomous robot designed to perform regular feed push-up (including TMR) back to the feed fence without constant staff involvement.

Why automate feed push-up at all?

In everyday barn reality, feed gradually moves away from the animals: some is eaten, some is dragged or scattered, and some simply ends up outside the reachable zone. Manual push-up solves the problem, but it takes time and depends on strict routines. When cycles are missed, feed losses increase and intake becomes less even throughout the day.

An automatic pusher offers a different model: scheduled, repeatable feed push-up, stable access to feed, less physical work, and a cleaner feed alley.

How EM Lizard works: pushing, “refreshing,” and loosening the feed

The key working element of EM Lizard is a special auger (screw) that moves feed closer to the animals. Importantly, the concept is not only to “push it back,” but also to loosen and aerate the feed mass. This effect is presented as a way to help maintain feed quality and reduce the risk of heating.

Structurally, the unit is based on a modular auger made of wear-resistant polymer materials. Modularity brings two practical benefits: first, the module shape is optimized specifically for feed movement and aeration; second, long-term maintenance is simplified—if needed, you can replace individual modules rather than the entire assembly.

Another detail highlighted in the technology description: magnets are installed on the auger to capture small metal elements that may not have been removed by magnets in the mixer wagon. This provides an additional “safety layer” against accidental metal contamination in the feeding area.

Movement inside the barn: an induction loop for stable navigation

EM Lizard moves through the facility using an induction loop—a navigation solution widely used in industrial environments due to its repeatability and reliability. This approach is attractive for farms that need the robot to stay consistently on route and perform the same push-up line each cycle.

The system description also mentions the ability to move between buildings/sections and control automatic doors, supporting a scenario where one robot can work across multiple barns or groups.

Safety is supported by a two-direction front bumper (protective guard)—a practical component for safe interaction with the barn environment and quick reaction in case of contact with obstacles.

Control: smartphone operation plus “quick intervention” via a manual controller

In daily operation, it is critical that staff can quickly change modes or intervene when necessary. For EM Lizard, control is provided:

• via a smartphone app (main control and settings);
• via a wired manual controller, stored in a dedicated compartment—used for quick repositioning or correcting operation in non-standard situations.

The logic is straightforward: automation should remove routine tasks, while still giving the operator a clear “manual mode” for fast decisions.

Options: concentrates and liquid additives

In addition to pushing the main ration, EM Lizard can be equipped with:

• two hoppers for two types of concentrates, with a total volume of 130 L;
• a liquid additive dosing unit with a volume of 10 L.

These options matter for farms that want to combine push-up with elements of more targeted distribution (within the designed use cases) or expand the robot’s functionality without changing the basic feeding logistics.

Quick technical overview (from the technology description)

Practical benefits for the farm

1. Lower feed losses thanks to regular return of feed into the reachable zone.
2. Time savings and reduced manual labor—push-up becomes a planned automatic routine.
3. More consistent feeding throughout the day, with fewer “gaps” in feed availability.
4. A cleaner feed alley and reduced risk of feed being unnecessarily scattered along the corridor.

Conclusion

EM Lizard is a clear example of how livestock automation is moving from a “nice-to-have innovation” to a practical tool for feeding process management. Autonomous navigation via an induction loop, an auger-based push-up system with an emphasis on aeration, optional concentrate and liquid dosing, and smartphone control together form a solution focused on routine: making it regular, predictable, and less dependent on the human factor.

Where to buy spare parts and order custom manufacturing in Ukraine

If you need spare parts for a wide range of agricultural machinery, you can purchase them from BAS-Agro LLC at https://bas.ua.
You can also order custom manufacturing of parts based on a sample or technical drawings—a practical option when you need a repair “right now” or want to restore a component without waiting for long delivery times.