Body Surface Translations (BST) hired ShapeStart to develop the WeightReader. The WeightReader is a hand held 3D scanner capable of nearly instant weight estimation of live pigs on the farm.

Consumer preference for a particular sized ham and pork loin has caused a premium to be paid to farmers who supply pigs within a target weight range. Currently farmers either use the "eye-ball" method or predictive growth charts to estimate the weight of their animals. The "eye-ball" method involves an experienced handler estimating the weight of pigs just by their appearance. Predictive growth charts use the average daily gain to estimate the average weight of animals based on their age. The WeightReader gives farmers a fast and accurate way of acquiring this weight, without growth charts or the "eye-ball" method.

In addition to the premium paid for pigs within a target weight range, farmers can optimize feed rations based on weight. 60% of the cost of production is feed and weight is the key parameter farmers use in timing feed rations.