Logic controller for poultry environment monitoring

Abstract

Global meat production, with an emphasis on the pork and poultry industries, plays a fundamental role in the global economy, with Brazil standing out in this scenario. However, due to the country's microclimatic diversity, collecting accurate climate data at a local level is challenging, as official weather stations are often distant from breeders. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop and validate a low-cost logic controller based on Arduino and economical sensors for environmental monitoring in animal production facilities. The device is capable of measuring temperature, relative humidity, and luminosity with high precision. The experiment was conducted in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, and validated from October to December 2022. The results reveal that the temperature and humidity sensor perform excellently, highlighting its high sensitivity and precision in measurements. However, the luminosity sensor, although it presents a satisfactory agreement, suggests room for improvement, especially in relation to the spectral response, which widens its difference as the light intensity increases. The equipment is capable of identifying conditions of thermal discomfort in animals, playing a fundamental role in promoting sustainable production and mitigating stress. Furthermore, continuous data collection at short intervals offers significant benefits compared to manual methods, generating reliable information for the management of breeding facilities. The economic accessibility and practicality of the equipment make it a viable solution, especially for small producers. The device provides an effective way to collect data in real-time, contributing to the optimization of animal production. This study offers an accurate and affordable solution for improving animal welfare and increasing productivity, contributing to the sustainability of the meat industry.