Nest Box Phase II (360G-ocf-a061600000kOsTw)

Next Box Phase IIThe current work will build on the the previous project to produce a finalised, modular design that will be permananently installed in a single pen of broiler breeder housing and used to measure the individual laying efficiency and nest behaviour of the existing FAI broiler breeder flock. The final design will include modular set-up of 4 boxes to create a test pen for the broiler breeder hens. The following key imprvoements will be addressed in tasks 1-3: 1. RFID and Sensor System: Improved hen detection in the nest through altered RFI module and antenna selection and modification of the electronics control panel a. Spec RFID system b. Purchase Tags and readers c. Specify occupancy and egg roll sensors d. Test complete setup and adapt code 2. Tag Bracelets and Online Connectivity: Cloud storage option for easy data collection and handling a. Program Data Capture and Remote Connectivit Setup on site 3. Physical Coop Build: Modification to the general box design to improve modular layout, hen comfort and ongoing management (e.g. cleaning, maintenance of equipment) a. 3D Modelling for Box b. 3D Modelling for Slider c. Design Sensor Mountings d. Prototyping, postproduction & assembly The project timeframe is scheduled for April 2016 – June 2016, subject to other project demands and FAI farm actvitity. An initial project looked to design and test an initial protype for an Automated Nest Box (ANB). The finalised design included: • A single raised nest box with sensor-operated door, internal RFIS sensor and egg collection apparatus • RFID ankle tags for identification of individual hens • Electronic box with control panel, data storage and power supply The prototype was installed and tested at FAI farms on a small group of laying hens at FAI farms to track eggs laid and nest box use by individual hens. At the end of the project the prototype was reviewed and the remaining design challenges were identified, including: 1. RFID tag design for reliable detection of hens over lengthened period 2. Egg rolling mechanism to ensure ordered and safe egg collection for hen-identification 3. Door mechanism to allow entry / exit of hens and prevent double-occupancy 4. Acces to the data on a frequent basis