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Artificial Intelligence is Learning How to Better Measure Hooves
Computer system using photos and radiographs seen as a precision tool in the making
Pictured Above:Early AI systems, as depicted here, used only two layers of neural networks (in blue) to sort information and produce outputs. Current systems use up to 150 layers of neural networks.
The following article is based on John Craig's presentation at the 2019 International Hoof-Care Summit. To watch the presentation, click here.
John Craig believes an artificial intelligence (AI) computer system that incorporates and “learns” from tens of thousands of hoof photos and radiographs will improve future hoof care.
Craig is working to make it happen. He and his wife Monique Craig own and operate EponaMind, a Paso Robles, Calif.-based company focused on providing cutting-edge technology to farriers, veterinarians and horse owners.
John Craig holds a PhD in engineering from Stanford University. He has authored several papers on robotics and equine biomechanics. Monique Craig is a professional farrier with a degree in computer science engineering. Her research has been presented at veterinary and farrier conferences and in various publications. She also lectures at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in a biomechanics course for pre-veterinary students.
Farrier Takeaways
- An artificial intelligence system based on radiographs already meets
or exceeds human error rates and is available to assist in diagnostics. - Hoof measurements from AI radiograph images are accurate to 0.01
of an inch. - More hoof photos from farriers and veterinarians are needed to achieve greater reliability in a photo-based AI system.
The Craigs have developed software they call Metron-Hoof as the foundation for their AI system. It is part…
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