Problem Statement:

At Cooper Farms, continuous monitoring of ammonia and carbon dioxide levels in turkey barns is difficult due to labor shortages and limited resources, but it is necessary for the health of the turkeys as they develop. Similarly, temperature and humidity must be regularly observed, though difficult to maintain at a steady, recommended level from season to season. In addition to these environmental conditions, dispersion of clusters of turkeys to encourage feeding and drinking is necessary for their growth and development. 

Design Objectives:

The Poultry in Motion team seeks to develop a robot that will autonomously drive around turkey barns. This robot will sense ammonia, CO2, humidity, and temperature levels at various locations throughout the barn, multiple times per day. As the robot drives along its predetermined path, sensor measurements will be wirelessly transmitted back to Cooper Farms so they are able to monitor these various environmental conditions. The robot must be able to drive autonomously, accurately measure environmental conditions, wirelessly transmit sensor and location information via a mapping system, and traverse the barn without harming the turkeys.

To learn more about the team contact the team lead Andrea Hoglund at alhoglun@mtu.edu.