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When the University of Manitoba began planning upgrades to its hog research barn, the goal was clear: replace aging environmental controls with a modern, reliable system capable of supporting both research precision and animal comfort.
As a Manitoba-based manufacturer specializing in agricultural environmental controls, Phason Controls was contacted to help design and implement the solution.
What followed was a collaborative project focused not only on technology replacement, but on careful planning, live transition management, and long-term training support.
Identifying the Right Control Strategy
Research facilities operate differently from commercial production barns. Environmental conditions must remain stable and repeatable to support accurate data collection. Even small fluctuations can affect study outcomes.
After meeting with University staff and reviewing the barn’s existing infrastructure, Phason worked closely with the team to determine which solution would best suit their needs. Together, they selected four AutoFlex Connect III controls as the ideal fit for the facility.
The AutoFlex Connect platform offers:
- Precise temperature and ventilation management
- Integrated monitoring of barn conditions
- Automated response to environmental changes
- Clear data visibility for operators
For a research environment, this level of control and consistency is essential.
Executing a Live Switchover with Minimal Disruption
Upgrading controls in an active livestock barn requires careful coordination. Animals remain inside the facility throughout the transition, meaning environmental stability must be maintained at all times.
Over several weeks in November 2025, Phason worked closely with University staff and Midlite Electric to complete a live switchover from the aging control system to the new AutoFlex Connect controls.
The priority was clear: minimize disruption to animal comfort while ensuring a smooth and reliable transition.
Through coordinated scheduling, detailed preparation, and on-site collaboration, the switchover was completed successfully. The new controls were brought online methodically, maintaining stable barn conditions throughout the process.
This level of planning and teamwork reflects the shared commitment to animal welfare and research integrity.
Training for Long-Term Success
Technology is only as effective as the people operating it. Following installation, Phason provided hands-on training to University staff, ensuring they were confident in the day-to-day operation of the new system.
Staff learned how to:
- Monitor and adjust environmental setpoints
- Review historical data and performance trends
- Manage alarms and notifications
- Optimize ventilation strategies
With proper training in place, the University team can fully leverage the capabilities of the AutoFlex Connect controls for both research and operational management.
Building the Future of Agricultural Education Together
The collaboration between the University of Manitoba and Phason Controls extends beyond the research barn.
As part of the next phase of the partnership, plans are underway to install a dedicated demonstration control system within the Farm and Food Discovery Centre. This installation would feature a working control alongside fans, lights, inlets, and other components, allowing visitors to see how modern environmental automation functions inside a livestock facility.
More than a display, this system would serve as a hands-on learning platform. Students, researchers, and tour groups would be able to observe how environmental inputs translate into automated responses, gaining practical insight into the mechanics of barn management.
The demonstration control would also support remote access, enabling in-house training sessions, academic instruction, and applied research demonstrations without disrupting live production areas.
By integrating modern control technology into an educational setting, the partnership continues to evolve. Together, the University and Phason are creating a bridge between research, technology development, and student education.
This next step reflects a shared commitment to advancing agricultural innovation in Manitoba while preparing the next generation of producers, engineers, and researchers to work confidently with modern environmental control systems.
Supporting Research with Reliable Technology
This project highlights the importance of modern environmental controls in both research and commercial agricultural settings.
By upgrading to AutoFlex Connect controls, the University of Manitoba now benefits from:
- Improved environmental precision
- Greater reliability and monitoring capability
- Enhanced data visibility
- Reduced risk of system failure
- A platform ready for future expansion
The collaboration demonstrates how local expertise, thoughtful planning, and advanced control technology can work together to support innovation in agricultural research.
With the new system in place — and future educational expansions on the horizon — this project stands as a strong example of how environmental automation continues to advance livestock facility management across Manitoba and beyond.
