Illumination system

Abstract

The present invention provides an illumination system comprising: a visible light source configured to emit visible light; a blue light source configured to emit monochromatic blue light; a controller configured to control the visible light source according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird; wherein the predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period, and wherein the controller is configured to: (i) control the visible light source to emit visible light at the predetermined light period and not to emit visible light at the predetermined dark period; and (ii) controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting system, a method for lighting birds, and an incubator. Background Art

[0002] Economies of scale and production efficiency have driven the growth of the poultry industry. Today, the industry is also increasingly focused on improving animal health and welfare. This presents a clear challenge.

[0003] Poultry (or: bird) farming begins with fertilization. Fertilized eggs are typically incubated in an incubator, where the bird embryo develops into a mature chick. The eggs typically hatch after 21 days.

[0004] After hatching, the chicks are then further developed into mature birds by regulating their daily sleep-wake cycle (i.e., circadian rhythm) using, for example, artificial lighting. Such lighting is typically characterized by providing a 24-hour cycle consisting of a light period (or: daytime) when the artificial lighting is on and a dark period (or: nighttime) when the artificial lighting is off. This synchronizes the bird's circadian rhythm.

[0005] Therefore, extending the light period (or: daylight period) is considered beneficial for increasing the growth rate of broiler chickens, but it is detrimental to the health and welfare of the animals, as poultry also need a certain amount of sleep to prevent sleep deprivation and / or for physical recovery. Therefore, many jurisdictions around the world regulate artificial lighting in poultry production (especially the minimum number of hours of dark period) to protect animal health and welfare.

[0006] For example, Canada's "Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Hatching Eggs, Breeders, Chickens and Turkeys" recommends a minimum dark period of 4 hours on the fifth day of housement, and from the fifth day of housement until no earlier than seven days before capture, birds kept in barns must have at least four consecutive hours of dark periods in each 24-hour period.

[0007] For example: EU Council Directive 2007 / 43 / EC states that for seven days from the time chickens are placed in the building and until three days before the expected time of slaughter, lighting must follow a 24-hour rhythm and include dark periods lasting at least six hours in total, with at least one uninterrupted dark period of at least four hours (excluding dimming periods).

[0008] Therefore, to protect the health and well-being of poultry and maintain a healthy melatonin cycle, it is generally considered beneficial to provide birds with a minimum number of hours of darkness.

[0009] However, during the dark period, awake birds do not eat or drink because they cannot find food in the dark. Therefore, in the "morning" when artificial lighting is turned back on, their gastrointestinal tract is almost empty. This can be disadvantageous. That is, at the beginning of the light period (or daytime), birds are very hungry and exhibit voracious feeding behavior. It has been found that this leads to a sudden influx of large amounts of feed into the digestive tract, which can then lead to inconsistent feeding, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even illness in susceptible birds.

[0010] In summary, especially in poultry farming and / or bird keeping, there is a clear need to improve the health and well-being of the birds while maintaining growth targets and without disrupting their circadian rhythm. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention is set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims.

[0012] The present invention aims to provide an improved lighting system that at least alleviates the above-mentioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the present invention provides a lighting system comprising: a visible light source configured to emit visible light; a blue light source configured to emit monochromatic blue light; and a controller configured to control the visible light source according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of a bird; wherein the predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period, wherein the controller is configured to: (i) control the visible light source to emit visible light during the predetermined light period and not to emit visible light during the predetermined dark period; and (ii) control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0013] ONCE / Signify's proprietary research has determined that dim, monochromatic blue light does not disrupt the melatonin cycle (i.e., melatonin production) or circadian activity of birds, particularly chickens. The present invention exploits this insight by emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one subperiod within a predetermined dark period. This enables the birds to eat and drink more efficiently during the dark / night period of their circadian rhythm, without disrupting their synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle). Results show increased weight gain, improved feed conversion, and reduced mortality in the birds after hatching.

[0014] More specifically, the lighting system according to the present invention includes a visible light source, a blue light source, and a controller. The lighting system can be a lighting fixture. The controller controls the visible light source to emit visible light during predetermined light periods and not to emit visible light during predetermined dark periods, thereby synchronizing the circadian rhythm of birds. This predetermined circadian rhythm schedule is known to benefit bird rearing and productivity.

[0015] However, it is generally known that birds are hungry when awake. This may be particularly relevant to broiler chickens. Therefore, when circadian rhythms are synchronized, a bird that is already awake during the scheduled dark period, when the visible light source is not emitting any visible light, may clearly experience hunger, but may be unable to eat due to the darkness. This is a clear disadvantage during the scheduled dark period itself, but, as mentioned above, can also lead to gastrointestinal and behavioral issues when the scheduled light period begins.

[0016] Therefore, the controller according to the present invention controls the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light with blue light intensity in at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period. The monochromatic blue light may be characterized by including at least one main peak (or: local maximum) in the wavelength range of 405-480nm.

[0017] The present invention is therefore advantageous because the emitted monochromatic blue light enables the (awakened) bird to still see (the environment) during the predetermined dark period and thereby enables more efficient eating and drinking during the dark period without disrupting the synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e. day / night cycle) and their melatonin cycle.

[0018] Thus, the birds still maintain their normal circadian rhythm and thus grow as planned, but with less hunger stress during the scheduled dark period. In addition, the food intake of the bird(s) can be more evenly distributed throughout the entire 24-hour cycle of the scheduled circadian schedule. Furthermore, when the scheduled light period begins after the scheduled dark period, the bird(s) may eat less voraciously, resulting in less (aggressive) crowding, scraping, and injury.

[0019] The present invention is also advantageous before hatching, i.e. during the incubation phase. Specifically, it has been found that incubation according to the predetermined circadian schedule of the present invention, wherein monochromatic blue light is emitted at a blue intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period, has resulted in improved hatchability of fertile eggs and increased weight of hatched chicks.

[0020] In summary, the lighting system according to the present invention improves the health and well-being of birds without disrupting synchronized circadian rhythms.

[0021] So, in other words, there are clear advantages to providing dim, monochromatic blue light during at least a portion of the scotopic phase of a predetermined circadian schedule.

[0022] According to the present invention, the controller controls the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period. The monochromatic blue light is therefore a dim monochromatic blue light. Therefore, in one embodiment, the blue light intensity may be at most 5 lux. The blue light intensity is most preferably at most 1 lux. For example, the blue light intensity is at most 0.5 lux. For example, the blue light intensity may be between 0.01 and 0.25 lux. According to the present invention, such an embodiment may be advantageous because a blue light intensity above 5 lux may wake up a sleeping bird, while a dim level of monochromatic blue light below 5 lux (in particular below 1 lux) may be suitable for enabling the bird to be seen without disrupting the synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle) and melatonin cycle.

[0023] In one embodiment, the predetermined light period is twelve hours, and wherein the predetermined dark period is twelve hours.

[0024] Similarly, other examples can be envisioned, such as the predetermined light period being between six and eighteen hours, wherein the predetermined dark period is between six and eighteen hours, wherein the predetermined light period and the predetermined dark period together constitute a full day period of 24 hours.

[0025] In one embodiment, the visible light includes a main peak in the wavelength range between 450-480 nm and a main peak in the wavelength range between 515-545 nm.

[0026] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to: (i) control the visible light source to emit visible light at a visible light intensity during a predetermined light period, wherein the visible light intensity is at least 20 times higher than the blue light intensity, such as for example 50 times.

[0027] In one embodiment, the at least one sub-period is a sub-period, wherein the sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period. Such an embodiment is advantageous because the bird can still see during the entire predetermined dark period and thereby enables the bird to eat and drink more efficiently during the entire predetermined dark period without disrupting the synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle) and their melatonin cycle.

[0028] In various embodiments, at least one of the sub-periods ends simultaneously with the scheduled dark period and lasts for a duration equal to at most one-quarter of the scheduled dark period. This embodiment is advantageous because the monochromatic blue light is emitted in a sub-period prior to and substantially contiguous with the start of the scheduled light period. Therefore, since the emitted monochromatic blue light is visible to the bird, the bird will already have an opportunity to feed during the scheduled dark period, and when visible light is emitted again, the aforementioned problem is alleviated at the start of the scheduled light period. This improves the bird's health and well-being.

[0029] The present invention is characterized in that the lighting system is arranged for illuminating a flock of birds; wherein the lighting system includes a sensor unit, which is configured to detect an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during a predetermined dark period; wherein the controller is configured to: when the attribute is detected, control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in a sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0030] Alternatively, the present invention is characterized in that the lighting system is arranged to illuminate a flock of birds; wherein the lighting system includes a sensor unit configured to detect an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during a predetermined dark period; wherein the controller is configured to: determine the number of awake birds based on the attribute, and when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within the predetermined dark period. This embodiment may be advantageous because the monochromatic blue light is only provided at the blue light intensity when the threshold number of birds is awake, thereby preventing the monochromatic blue light from unnecessarily consuming energy for only a limited number of birds. In an example, the predefined threshold number may be at least ten. Alternatively, the predefined threshold number may be at least one hundred, or at least two hundred.

[0031] Therefore, when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, the blue light source is controlled to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity for a sub-period within a predetermined dark period. This sub-period can be considered as the holding time for the monochromatic blue light to remain on after the threshold number of awake birds is detected.

[0032] The sub-period may last for a duration equal to at most half the predetermined dark period.

[0033] For example, if the predetermined dark period is 2 hours, the sub-period may last for at most 1 hour. Similarly, other values ​​are contemplated. Alternatively, in aspects, the sub-period may last for a duration equal to at most one-quarter of the predetermined dark period, or at most one-tenth of the predetermined dark period, or between one-tenth and one-fifth of the predetermined dark period. The sub-period may comprise a duration that is tailored, for example, to the expected feed intake of the birds in the flock during the predetermined dark period.

[0034] In an embodiment, the sensor unit may include at least one of the following: a camera, a thermal camera, a microphone, a motion sensor, a sensor arrangement for radio frequency based sensing, a PIR sensor, a thermopile array, a single pixel thermopile, a distance sensor, a VOC sensor, a pressure sensor.

[0035] For example, a camera may directly detect an image of at least one sleeping bird. For example, a motion detector may detect movement of at least one bird, which may indicate that at least one bird is awake. For example, a microphone detector may detect the sound level or noise of at least one bird, which may indicate that at least one bird is awake. Alternatively, other properties of sound may be detected, such as an audio footprint of an awake bird. For example, a VOC detector may detect dust levels or concentrations caused by at least one bird, which may indicate that at least one bird is awake. For example, a thermopile array may detect the heat signature of at least one active bird, which may indicate that at least one bird is awake.

[0036] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to determine a predetermined circadian schedule. In one embodiment, the controller is configured to obtain an input signal indicative of the predetermined circadian schedule and determine the predetermined circadian schedule based on the input signal. The input signal may be, for example, a user input signal. The controller may receive or retrieve the input signal. The controller may be communicatively coupled to a user interface device, wherein the user interface device may be configured to receive user input indicative of the predetermined circadian schedule and generate the input signal based on the user input. The user interface may be included in a lighting system according to the present invention.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method that at least alleviates the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, the present invention provides a method for illuminating birds during at least one growth phase, wherein the method comprises: emitting visible light during a predetermined light period during a full-day period, and omitting visible light during a predetermined dark period during the remainder of the full-day period, so as to synchronize the birds' circadian rhythm; and emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period. The method further comprises: detecting a property indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during the predetermined dark period; upon detecting the property, controlling a blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue intensity during a sub-period within the predetermined dark period; or determining the number of awake birds based on the property, and controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue intensity during a sub-period within the predetermined dark period when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number. Advantages and / or embodiments applicable to the lighting system according to the present invention also apply mutatis mutandis to the method according to the present invention.

[0038] In one embodiment, the blue light intensity is at most 5 lux.In one embodiment, the at least one sub-period is one sub-period, wherein the one sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period.

[0039] In one embodiment, the predetermined light period is twelve hours, and wherein the predetermined dark period is twelve hours.

[0040] Similarly, other examples can be envisioned, such as the predetermined light period being between six and eighteen hours, wherein the predetermined dark period is between six and eighteen hours, wherein the predetermined light period and the predetermined dark period together constitute a full day period of 24 hours.

[0041] In one embodiment, the visible light includes a main peak in the wavelength range of 450-480 nm and a main peak in the wavelength range of 515-545 nm. This visible light represents Signify / ONCE's trademark Junglite light formula.

[0042] In one embodiment, the at least one growth stage is at least one of: a pre-hatching stage, a hatching stage, a growth stage, a post-hatching stage.

[0043] The steps of the method according to the invention may be performed on each day of the at least one growth phase. Thus, in one embodiment, each growth phase of the at least one growth phase may comprise a range of days, wherein the method is repeatedly performed on each day of the range of days.

[0044] Thus, the incubation period can be defined by a range of first days, the range of first days being between zero and thirty days from the fertilization of the bird (i.e., the bird embryo) or from the placement of the egg containing the bird in the incubator. For example, when treating chickens, the first range of days can be between zero and twenty-one days from the fertilization of the bird (i.e., the bird embryo) or from the placement of the egg containing the bird in the incubator. For example, when incubating turkey eggs, the first range of days can be between zero and twenty-eight days from the fertilization of the bird (i.e., the bird embryo) or from the placement of the egg containing the bird in the incubator.

[0045] The incubation phase may be defined by the second day range being between eighteen and twenty-five days from fertilization of the bird (ie the bird embryo) or from placement of the egg containing the bird in the incubator.

[0046] The growth stage may be defined by a third day range between zero and fourteen days from hatching of the bird.

[0047] The post-hatching stage may be defined by a fourth day range between zero and fifty days from hatching of the bird, preferably between fourteen and fifty days from hatching of the bird.

[0048] For example, as a light recipe, a method of irradiating a bird during at least one growth stage may include: (I) during an incubation stage, which is between zero and twenty-one days from fertilization of the bird or from placement of an egg containing the bird in an incubator, performing the following steps: (i) emitting visible light during predetermined light periods during a full-day period and not emitting visible light during predetermined dark periods during the remainder of said full-day period, so as to synchronize the bird's circadian rhythm, (ii) emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period; and / or (II) during a post-hatching stage, which post-hatching stage The invention relates to a method of synchronizing a circadian rhythm of a bird by emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period; wherein the blue light intensity is at most 5 lux; wherein the at least one sub-period is a sub-period, wherein the one sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period; wherein the predetermined light period is twelve hours, and wherein the predetermined dark period is twelve hours.

[0049] Throughout this application, the bird may be at least one bird, such as a plurality of birds. The plurality of birds may be, for example, a flock of birds, such as a flock of chickens. Thus, the term bird also includes bird embryos. A bird embryo is defined as a bird in its earliest developmental stage, after the cleavage of its fertilized egg and until hatching.

[0050] The birds are preferably chickens. However, the birds or flock of birds may alternatively be a flock of one or more of the following: turkeys, ducks, geese, pheasants, quail, guinea fowl, traditional breed chickens, pet birds, songbirds.

[0051] In various aspects, the visible light source may include a plurality of monochromatic light sources, wherein the monochromatic light sources in the plurality of monochromatic light sources are blue light sources. Thus, the visible light source may include a blue light source. For example, the visible light source may be an LED light engine including a red LED, a green LED, and a blue LED, all of which together produce visible light, while the blue LED, which is controlled in isolation, produces monochromatic blue light.

[0052] The visible light source may be referred to as a visible lighting system throughout the text. The blue light source may be referred to as a blue lighting system throughout the text. The visible light source and the blue light source may be embodied in the same housing of the same lighting device (eg, luminaire).

[0053] The predetermined light period can be expressed as a light period. The predetermined light period can be expressed as a predetermined daytime period. The predetermined dark period can be expressed as a dark period. The predetermined dark period can be expressed as a predetermined nighttime period.

[0054] The predetermined light period may include the duration of illumination. The predetermined dark period may include the duration of darkness. The duration of illumination and / or the duration of darkness may be set to a value corresponding to the desired bird (flock) to be reared. For example, the duration of illumination may be, for example, 20 hours. The duration of darkness may then be, for example, 4 hours. The predetermined light period and the predetermined dark period may repeat (in a 24-hour circadian cycle). For example, as mentioned in the previous section, the duration of illumination may be, for example, 12 hours. The duration of darkness may then be, for example, 12 hours. The predetermined light period and the predetermined dark period may repeat (in a 24-hour circadian cycle).

[0055] In various aspects, the visible light can be within the visible wavelength range of poultry. In various aspects, the visible light can be within the visible wavelength range between 380-750 nm. In various aspects, the visible light can be white light.

[0056] In aspects, the visible light can include a main peak in the red wavelength range, a main peak in the green wavelength range, and a main peak in the blue wavelength range. The main peak can be defined as a local maximum in the visible spectrum.

[0057] In various aspects, the visible light may include a visible light characteristic. The visible light characteristic may, for example, be light intensity. Thus, in various aspects, throughout this application, the wording "not emitting the visible light" may include not emitting the visible light including the visible light characteristic. Thus, during a predetermined dark period, visible light that does not include the visible light characteristic may be emitted. For example, the visible light (e.g., white light) may include a maximum visible light intensity during a predetermined light period, while during a predetermined dark period, the visible light is either completely turned off or dimmed to only 1% of the maximum visible light intensity. The visible light source may, for example, be configured to emit visible light at a visible light intensity, wherein the visible light intensity is at least 5 lux, preferably at least 10 lux, and most preferably at least 20 lux.

[0058] In aspects, the lighting system according to the present invention is configured to illuminate a space for raising birds, wherein the visible light source is configured to emit said visible light into the space, wherein the blue light source is configured to emit monochromatic blue light into the space.

[0059] In various aspects, the space is an indoor space, and the system includes a first feed dispensing device arranged at a first area of ​​the indoor space; wherein the controller is configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in a sub-period within a predetermined dark period to illuminate the first area of ​​the indoor space.

[0060] In yet another aspect, wherein the birds are flocks of birds and the space is an indoor space, the system includes a first feed distribution device disposed in a first region of the indoor space; wherein the controller is configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within a predetermined dark period to illuminate the first region of the indoor space. Thus, in the first region, the first feed distribution device can be illuminated with the monochromatic blue light, making the feed distribution device, in particular, visible to the birds during the sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0061] In various aspects, the space can be an indoor space, and the controller can be configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a first blue light intensity during a first sub-period within a predetermined dark period to illuminate a first area of ​​the indoor space; wherein the controller is configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a second blue light intensity during a second sub-period within the predetermined dark period to illuminate a second area of ​​the indoor space; wherein the first sub-period and the second sub-period do not overlap in time; and wherein the first area of ​​the indoor space is different from the second area of ​​the indoor space. This embodiment is advantageous because it allows monochromatic blue light to be provided to different areas of the indoor space during different sub-periods. This also allows portions of the indoor space to be continuously provided with monochromatic blue light according to the present invention, so as to more accurately control the feeding and drinking behavior of the flock of birds during the predetermined dark period.

[0062] In another aspect thereof, the system includes a first feed distribution device and a second feed distribution device; wherein the first feed distribution device is arranged in a first area, and wherein the second feed distribution device is arranged in a second area. Such an embodiment is advantageous because different feed distribution devices can be illuminated during different sub-periods within a predetermined dark period, so that the different feed distribution devices can be visualized for birds in the flock during the predetermined dark period.

[0063] In various aspects, the present invention provides a lighting system arranged to illuminate an indoor space for raising birds, wherein the lighting system comprises: a visible light source configured to emit visible light; a blue light source configured to emit monochromatic blue light; a controller configured to control the visible light source according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule, wherein the predetermined circadian rhythm schedule comprises a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird; wherein the controller is configured to: (i) control the visible light source to emit visible light during the predetermined light period and not to emit visible light during the predetermined dark period; and (ii) control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period. The lighting system may be an illuminator.

[0064] In various aspects, the present invention provides a method of illuminating at least one bird (or egg), wherein the method comprises illuminating the at least one bird (or egg) with monochromatic blue light during at least a portion of a scotopic phase of a predetermined circadian schedule. The monochromatic blue light may have an intensity of at most 1 lux. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] The invention will now be further elucidated with the aid of the accompanying schematic, non-limiting drawings:

[0066] Figure 1 schematically depicts an embodiment of a lighting system according to the present invention;

[0067] Figure 2 Schematically depicts the Figure 1 An embodiment of the operation of the lighting system depicted in;

[0068] Figure 3 Schematically depicts the Figure 1 An embodiment of the operation of the lighting system depicted in;

[0069] Figure 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of a lighting system according to the present invention;

[0070] Figure 5 schematically depicts an embodiment of a lighting system according to the present invention;

[0071] Figure 6 Schematically depicts a method according to the invention;

[0072] Figure 7 Schematically depicts a method according to the invention;

[0073] Figure 8 An incubator according to the invention is schematically depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] In poultry farming there is a clear need to improve the health and well-being of the birds while maintaining growth targets and without disrupting the birds' synchronized circadian rhythms.The present invention addresses the drawbacks and problems mentioned in the background section.

[0075] The present invention is based on proprietary research by ONCE / Signify, which has determined that providing dim, monochromatic blue light during the "night" period (or dark period) of the circadian schedule does not disrupt a bird's melatonin cycle or circadian rhythm. This proprietary light formulation results in heavier birds and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) without affecting the bird's synchronized circadian rhythm.

[0076] The results also indicate that incubation of fertile eggs with the light recipe (wherein monochromatic blue light is emitted at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period) results in improved hatchability of the eggs (hatch of fertile, HOF) and increased weight of the hatched chicks.

[0077] More specifically: The study used a circadian schedule of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of night. Therefore, the eggs were incubated with dim, monochromatic blue light during the night period. For example, the study found that incubating broiler chicken (Ross 308) eggs in an incubator utilizing this daily schedule comprising 12 hours of visible light (i.e., light / day) and 12 hours of monochromatic blue light (i.e., dark / night) resulted in an increase in fertile hatching (HOF) and heavier chicks at hatch compared to incubation with 24 hours of light as a control. That is, this resulted in a 2.3% increase in the rate of chicks hatched, a 2.13% increase in the weight of chicks hatched (47.7 grams vs. 46.5 grams), and a significant increase in fertile hatching (HOF) (90.8% vs. 78.1%).

[0078] This incubation recipe combined with the use of dim monochromatic blue light during the night period of the grow-out phase resulted in a 2.25% increase in weight and a significant improvement in feed conversion ratio in 2 of the 2 trials completed starting from day 14 of growth (i.e. 14 days after hatching) (1.6355 vs. 1.6898 on day 43 in trial 1, p=0.04; and 1.7085 vs. 1.7809 on day 49 in trial 2, p=0.025).

[0079] Figure 1 By way of non-limiting example, a lighting system 10 according to the present invention is schematically depicted. The lighting system 10 comprises a visible light source 1 , a blue light source 2 and a controller 3 .

[0080] The controller 3 controls the visible light source 1 and the blue light source 2 during operation. Here, the blue light source 2 and the visible light source 1 are depicted as being part of the same luminaire or the same luminaire housing, with the controller also housed within the same luminaire housing. Alternatively, the visible light source and the blue light source may be separate lighting devices that can be controlled by a remotely located controller.

[0081] Visible light source 1 is configured to emit visible light. More specifically, controller 3 controls visible light source 1 according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of a bird. Thus, lighting system 10 according to the present invention is configured to synchronize the circadian rhythm of a bird by controlling visible light source 1 according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule. The bird may also be an embryo in an egg.

[0082] The predetermined circadian rhythm schedule (recurring) consists of a predetermined light period 6 and a predetermined dark period 7. This synchronizes the circadian rhythm of the bird. Here, the controller 3 controls the emission of visible light 4 during the predetermined light period 6 and the non-emission of visible light during the predetermined dark period 7.

[0083] Here, by way of example only, the predetermined dark period comprises a duration of 4 hours, while the predetermined light period comprises a duration of (a total of) 20 hours. Similarly, other alternative light and dark schedules may be envisaged, such as, for example, a predetermined light period of 12 hours and a predetermined dark period of 12 hours.

[0084] Here, a lighting system 10 is arranged in a room 9 for raising birds. The room 9 is an indoor room. The room contains a flock of birds 11, such as broiler chickens, but could alternatively be any other birds suitable for raising.

[0085] In operation, the lighting system 10 illuminates the indoor space 9 and thus the flock of birds 11. Thus, the visible light source 1 is able to present artificial lighting in the agricultural space 9 for synchronizing the circadian rhythm of the flock of birds 11, wherein the circadian rhythm is characterized by a 24-hour cycle consisting of alternating periods of light (or: day) and dark (or: night).

[0086] However, during such a dark period, the birds in the flock 11 that wake up may not be able to eat and drink because they cannot find food in the dark. This results in their gastrointestinal tract being almost empty when the light period (or: daytime) (restarts). Even after the light period 6 (restarts), because the flock 11 may be very hungry, the flock 11 may exhibit voracious feeding behavior and may cause harmful crowding (for example at the feeding trough and water nipples).

[0087] Therefore, still refer to Figure 1 , the lighting system 10 according to the present invention includes a blue light source 2. The blue light source 2 is configured to emit monochromatic blue light 5 at a blue light intensity. Here, the monochromatic blue light 5 includes a peak wavelength within the wavelength range of 405-480 nm. In other words, the monochromatic blue light includes at least one main peak within the wavelength range of 405-480 nm.

[0088] More specifically, the controller 3 controls the blue light source 2 to emit the monochromatic blue light 5 at a blue light intensity in at least one sub-period 8 within the predetermined dark period 7 .

[0089] Here, the at least one sub-period 8 is one sub-period 8. This one sub-period 8 substantially lasts the entire predetermined dark period 7. That is, in this example, the one sub-period 8 also comprises a duration of 4 hours. Thus, during the predetermined dark period 7, the flock of birds 11 is provided with the monochromatic blue light 5 at a blue light intensity.

[0090] Thus, the lighting system 10 achieves increased health and well-being of the flock of birds 11. Namely, ONCE / Signify's proprietary research has determined that monochromatic blue light does not disrupt circadian activity (ie, daily rhythms) or melatonin production in birds (ie, particularly chickens).

[0091] Thus, because the blue light source 2 is controlled to emit monochromatic blue light 5, the birds in the flock 11 - when awake and hungry - are still able to see within the space 9 and are thereby able to eat and drink more efficiently during the predetermined dark period 7 without disrupting the synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle) and their melatonin cycle.

[0092] Thus, the birds still maintain their normal circadian rhythm and thereby grow as planned, but have less hunger stress during the predetermined dark period 7 and less harmful behavior when the predetermined light period 6 begins after the predetermined dark period 7.

[0093] In addition, still refer to Figure 1 The blue light intensity of the monochromatic blue light is at most 5 lux. In this embodiment, the blue light intensity is 0.5 lux as an example. In this embodiment, the blue light intensity is selected so that it does not actively wake up the birds in flock 11, but still provides sufficient intensity for the awakened birds in flock 11 to find food and water in space 9. The value can alternatively be any other suitable lux value.

[0094] Figure 2 Involved with Figure 1 The same lighting system 10 as depicted in FIG. 1 is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example, but with different operations according to the present invention. That is, the controller 3 is similarly configured to control the blue light source 2 to emit monochromatic blue light 5 at a blue intensity during at least one sub-period 8′ within the predetermined dark period 7.

[0095] However, in this embodiment, the sub-period 8' of at least one of the sub-periods ends simultaneously with the predetermined dark period 7 and lasts for a duration equal to at most one quarter of the predetermined dark period 7. Because the sub-period 8' temporally precedes and adjoins the predetermined light period 6, the monochromatic blue light 5 illuminates the space 9 just before the start of the predetermined light period 6 and the awakening of the flock of birds 11 (based on their circadian rhythm).

[0096] This is advantageous because the scheduled light period 6, during which feed and water are visible to the flock 11, is extended in time to the scheduled dark period 7. Birds in the flock 11 that wake up before the scheduled light period 6 begins will have the opportunity to already start eating and drinking without disrupting their synchronized circadian rhythms (i.e., day / night cycles) and their melatonin cycles. This reduces the number of hungry and voraciously feeding birds at the start of the scheduled light period 6, thereby reducing crowding and injuries.

[0097] Figure 3 Involved with Figure 1 The same lighting system 10 as described in FIG. 1 is used, but schematically depicts different operations according to the present invention by way of non-limiting example. That is, the controller 3 is similarly configured to control the blue light source 2 to emit monochromatic blue light 5 at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period 8″ within the predetermined dark period 7.

[0098] However, in this embodiment, the at least one sub-period 8" is a plurality of intermittent sub-periods 8" within a predetermined dark period 7. Each of the plurality of intermittent sub-periods 8" can be predefined, for example, according to a schedule, or can be triggered, for example, by a sensor. The sensor can, for example, detect waking birds. The intermittent sub-periods 8" can also be scheduled so as to induce a physiological response in the flock.

[0099] Figure 4 A lighting system 50 according to the invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example.

[0100] The lighting system 50 includes a visible light source 51, a blue light source 52, a controller 53, and a sensor unit 60. The controller 53 controls the visible light source 51 and the blue light source 52 in operation. Here, the blue light source 52 and the visible light source 51 are depicted as part of the same lighting device (such as a luminaire). Alternatively, the visible light source and the blue light source may be separate lighting devices.

[0101] The controller 53 is arranged away from the blue light source 52 and the visible light source 51, but communicates with them via wired communication, for example via power line communication (PLC). This can alternatively be via wireless communication such as BLE, ZigBee, RF, Wi-Fi, VLC, Lo-Ra, etc.

[0102] Visible light source 51 is configured to emit visible light 56. More specifically, controller 53 controls visible light source 51 according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of flock 61. The predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period. These two periods repeat daily within the circadian rhythm schedule. Controller 53 controls visible light source 51 to emit visible light 54 during predetermined light period 56 and not to emit visible light 56 ​​during predetermined dark period 57.

[0103] Here, by way of example only, the predetermined dark period comprises a duration of 6 hours, while the predetermined light period comprises a duration of 18 hours. Similarly, other alternative light and dark schedules can be envisioned. For example, the predetermined dark period can be 12 hours, while the predetermined light period can also be 12 hours.

[0104] Still refer to Figure 4 , a lighting system 50 is arranged in an indoor space 59 for raising a flock of birds 61. Here, the flock of birds 61 is a flock of turkeys, but can alternatively be any other birds suitable for raising in an agricultural facility, such as chickens. In operation, the lighting system illuminates the space 59 and thereby illuminates the flock of birds 61.

[0105] Thus, the visible light source 51 is able to provide artificial lighting in the agricultural space 59 for synchronizing the circadian rhythm of the flock of birds 61, wherein the circadian rhythm is typically characterized by a 24-hour cycle consisting of alternating light periods (or: daytime) and dark periods (or: nighttime).

[0106] However, during such dark periods, birds may not eat or drink, for example due to sleeping or because they cannot find food in the dark. This results in their gastrointestinal tract being almost empty at the beginning of the light period (or: daytime). Even after the light period begins within the circadian cycle, because the birds may be very hungry, they may exhibit voracious feeding behavior and may cause harmful crowding (at the feeding trough and water nipples).

[0107] Therefore, still refer to Figure 4 , the lighting system 50 according to the present invention includes a blue light source 52. The blue light source 52 is configured to emit monochromatic blue light 55. Here, the monochromatic blue light 55 includes a main peak in the wavelength range of 405-480 nm.

[0108] Furthermore, the lighting system 50 according to the present invention includes a sensor unit 60. In operation, the sensor unit 60 detects a property indicating that at least one bird in the flock 61 is awake during a predetermined dark period 57. Here, the sensor unit 60 is a motion detector for detecting motion properties. The motion properties indicate that at least one bird in the flock is awake. Here, the sensor unit 60 and the controller 53 are housed within the same device and communicate with each other, but the sensor unit and the controller may alternatively be separate devices.

[0109] Alternatively, the sensor unit 60 may include at least one of the following: a camera, a thermal camera, a microphone, a sensor arrangement for radio frequency based sensing, a PIR sensor, a thermopile array, a single pixel thermopile, a distance sensor, a VOC sensor, a pressure sensor.

[0110] More specifically, controller 53 determines the number of awake birds based on the attribute (i.e., the motion). Here, as an example, sensor unit 60 detects the motion at a specific time 62 during a predetermined dark period 57. This motion thus indicates that twenty birds in flock 61 are awake. Therefore, controller 53 determines that twenty birds in flock 61 are awake.

[0111] Furthermore, the controller 53 determines a condition in which the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number. Here, by way of example, the predefined threshold number is ten. Thus, the condition is determined because the twenty detected birds exceed the predefined threshold number of ten. Alternatively, the predefined threshold number may be different, for example depending on the operation of the livestock facility or the type of bird flock.

[0112] Furthermore, when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number (or when the condition is determined), the controller 53 controls the blue light source 52 to emit monochromatic blue light 55 at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period 58 within the predetermined dark period 57. Because this is the case, the blue light source 52 is controlled to emit the monochromatic blue light 55.

[0113] Here, at least one sub-period 58 is a sub-period 58. Thus, this sub-period 58 essentially begins at the specific moment 62 and lasts for a duration equal to one-sixth of the predetermined dark period 57. That is, in this example, the sub-period 58 lasts for one hour, since the predetermined time period lasts for six hours. Alternatively, the duration may be equal to at most half of the predetermined dark period, or at most a quarter of the predetermined dark period, such as one-tenth of the predetermined dark period. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the sensor unit may be active only during the predetermined dark period.

[0114] In an alternative example, the sensor unit may detect the condition multiple times within a predetermined dark period. Thus, each time the condition (the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold) is determined, the blue light source may be controlled to emit monochromatic blue light in the corresponding sub-period.

[0115] Thus, during the predetermined dark period 57, after the sensor unit 60 has detected the attribute and the controller 53 has determined that the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, the monochromatic blue light 55 is provided to the flock of birds 61 for a sub-period equal to one sixth of the predetermined dark period 57.

[0116] Thus, the lighting system 50 achieves increased health and well-being of the flock 61, as noted above throughout this application. That is, because the blue light source 52 is controlled to emit monochromatic blue light 55, a threshold number of awake birds in the flock 61 are still enabled to see within the space 59 and thereby more efficiently eat and drink during the sub-periods 58 within the predetermined dark period 57 without disrupting their synchronized circadian rhythms (i.e., day / night cycles) and their melatonin cycles.

[0117] Therefore, the birds still maintain their normal circadian rhythm and thus grow as planned, but have less hunger stress during the predetermined dark period 57 and have less harmful behaviors when the predetermined light period 56 begins after the predetermined dark period 57. Furthermore, since the blue light source 52 is controlled based on the detection of the sensor unit, the blue light source 52 can be controlled more effectively and efficiently (i.e., in terms of power, for example).

[0118] In addition, still refer to Figure 4 As an example, the blue light intensity is 2 lux. In this embodiment, the blue light intensity is selected so that it does not actively wake up the birds in flock 61, but still provides sufficient intensity for the detected awake birds in flock 61 to find food and water in space 59. The value may alternatively be any other suitable lux value, such as, for example, between 0.1 lux and 0.5 lux.

[0119] In an embodiment not depicted, Figure 1 and / or Figure 4 The lighting system includes a first feed distribution device arranged at a first area of ​​the indoor space. The controller is then configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during the sub-period within the predetermined dark period to illuminate the first area of ​​the indoor space. Figure 4 In the case of the lighting system, the lighting is performed when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number.

[0120] Figure 5 An embodiment of a lighting system 70 according to the present invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example. Lighting system 70 is arranged in an indoor space 79. Indoor space 80 is an agricultural facility used to raise a flock of birds (not depicted). In this case, the flock of birds is a flock of chickens. In operation, lighting system 70 illuminates indoor space 79 and, thereby, the flock of birds.

[0121] Indoor space 79 includes a first area 791 and a second area 792. First area 791 and second area 792 are distinct. First area 791 optionally includes a first feed distribution device 811. Second area 792 optionally includes a second feed distribution device 812. Therefore, in such an embodiment, lighting system 70 may also optionally include the first feed distribution device 811 and the second feed distribution device 812. Alternatively, the first area and the second area may at least partially overlap. Alternatively, the space may also optionally include at least one additional area, such as a third area and a fourth area.

[0122] Still refer to Figure 5 , the lighting system 70 includes a visible light source 71, a blue light source 72, and a controller 73. The controller 73 controls the visible light source 71 and the blue light source 72 in operation. Therefore, the controller 73 is remotely arranged from the blue light source 72 and the blue light source 71, but wirelessly communicates with them via a wireless communication modality (such as BLE, ZigBee, RF, Wi-Fi, VLC, Lo-Ra, etc.). Alternatively, the controller and the visible light source and (one or more) blue light sources can be connected via a wired connection.

[0123] Visible light source 71 is configured to emit visible light 74 into space 79, namely, into both first region 791 and second region 792 of space 79. More specifically, controller 73 controls visible light source 71 according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the flock of birds. This is achieved by controller 73 controlling visible light source 71 to emit visible light 74 during predetermined light periods 76 and not to emit visible light 74 during predetermined dark periods 77.

[0124] Here, by way of example only, the predetermined dark period 77 comprises a duration of 8 hours, whereas the predetermined light period 76 comprises a duration of (in total) 16 hours. Similarly, other alternative light and dark schedules may be envisaged.

[0125] Thus, the visible light source 71 can provide artificial lighting in the space 79 for synchronizing the circadian rhythm of the flock of birds, wherein the circadian rhythm is typically characterized by a 24-hour cycle consisting of alternating periods of light (or: day) and dark (or: night).

[0126] Still refer to Figure 5 , the lighting system 70 according to the present invention comprises a blue light source 72. The blue light source 72 is configured to emit monochromatic blue light 75 into the space 79 during operation. Here, the monochromatic blue light 75 comprises a peak wavelength within the wavelength range of 405-480 nm.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the blue light source 72 is an array of light source units. Such light source units may be, for example, illuminators. Specifically, the blue light source 72 includes a first blue light source unit 721 and a second blue light source unit 722, both configured to emit the monochromatic blue light 75. The first blue light source unit 721 is arranged to illuminate a first area 791 of the room 79, and the second blue light source unit 722 is arranged to illuminate a second area 792 of the room 79.

[0128] In an alternative example, the blue light source may be a single luminaire configured to illuminate at least one of the plurality of areas within the space individually. Thus, such a luminaire may include at least one blue light source unit, at least one optical device and / or at least one beam steering device.

[0129] More specifically, still referring to Figure 5 In the embodiment depicted in FIG, the controller 73 controls the first blue light source unit 721 to emit monochromatic blue light 75 at a first blue light intensity during a first sub-period 781 within a predetermined dark period 77 to illuminate a first area 791 of the indoor space 79. The controller 73 similarly controls the second blue light source unit 722 to emit monochromatic blue light 75 at a second blue light intensity during a second sub-period 782 within the predetermined dark period 77 to illuminate a second area 792 of the space 79. Still referring to FIG. Figure 6 , the first sub-period 781 and the second sub-period 782 do not overlap in time. Here, the first sub-period 781 precedes the second sub-period 782. Here, the first sub-period 781 is adjacent to the second sub-period 782. Alternatively, the first sub-period and the second sub-period may be independent of each other, and their attributes (such as duration and start and end time points) are contemplated, such as the examples provided for sub-periods in this application.

[0130] In this example, the first sub-period 781 and the second sub-period 782 each have a duration equal to half of the predetermined dark period 77. Since the predetermined dark period in this example has a duration of 8 hours, the duration of the first sub-period 781 and the second sub-period 782 are both 4 hours. Thus, during the predetermined dark period 77, the monochromatic blue light 75 is also provided to the flock of birds, but first in the first area 791 and then in the second area 792. This advantageously enables spatial control of the monochromatic blue light 75 within the space 79, for example, to provide the monochromatic blue light 75 to the first feed distribution device 811 and / or the second feed distribution device 812.

[0131] For example, in an alternative aspect, a first sensor unit observing a first area may trigger a first blue lighting unit to illuminate a first area of ​​a first feed dispensing device; and a second sensor unit observing a second area may trigger a second blue lighting unit to illuminate a second area of ​​a second feed dispensing device.

[0132] Thus, because the blue light source 72 is controlled to emit blue light 75, the birds in the flock - when awake and hungry - are still able to see into the corresponding areas 791, 792 of the space 79; and are therefore able to eat and drink more efficiently during the predetermined dark period 7 without disrupting the synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle) and their melatonin cycle.

[0133] Thus, the birds still maintain their normal circadian rhythm and thereby grow as planned, but have less hunger stress during the predetermined dark period 77 and less harmful behavior when the predetermined light period 76 begins after the predetermined dark period 77.

[0134] Moreover, still referring to Figure 5 , the blue light intensity is 5 lux. In this embodiment, the blue light intensity is selected so that it does not actively wake up the birds in the flock, but still provides sufficient intensity for the awake birds in the flock to find food and water in the corresponding areas 791, 792 of the space 79. The value may alternatively be any other suitable lux value.

[0135] Therefore, the lighting system according to the present invention can also actively wake birds during a predetermined dark period, allowing the awake birds to feed during the predetermined dark period, thereby alleviating the above-mentioned shortcomings and problems. Furthermore, by regionally targeting blue light to wake the chickens, the feeding of the flock during the predetermined dark period can be controlled and regulated accordingly. For example, during a first sub-period, a first portion of the flock can be awakened and provided with visible light to find feed; and during a second sub-period, a second portion of the flock can be awakened and provided with visible light to find feed; wherein the first and second sub-periods can be different. This will also reduce crowding during feeding during the predetermined dark period.

[0136] Figure 6 By way of non-limiting example, a method 90 of illuminating a bird during at least one growth stage is schematically depicted. The method can be performed with a lighting system according to the invention.

[0137] Method 90 includes step 91 of emitting visible light during predetermined light periods during a full day, and not emitting visible light during predetermined dark periods during the remainder of the full day, to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird. Thus, visible light is emitted according to a predetermined circadian schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird.

[0138] The method 90 further comprises step 94 of emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0139] The birds may alternatively be a flock of birds. The birds may be birds in an incubation stage still contained within eggs. Thus, the method may be arranged for irradiating birds within a space, such as an egg or an agricultural space for raising birds.

[0140] In another embodiment, the method may optionally include: step 92, detecting an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during a predetermined dark period; and step 93, determining the number of awake birds based on the attribute. The method may then include step 94': when the number of awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0141] Alternatively, the method may comprise the steps of: detecting an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during a predetermined dark period; and when the attribute is detected, controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0142] Figure 7 By way of non-limiting example, an embodiment of a method 9000 for irradiating a bird during at least one growth phase according to the present invention is schematically depicted. Each of the at least one growth phase comprises a range of days. Here, the growth phase is a pre-hatching phase and / or a post-hatching phase. Method 9000 is repeatedly performed for each day in the range of days.

[0143] More specifically, for each day in the range of days in the pre-hatching stage, the method includes: step (9001), emitting visible light during a predetermined light period during the full day period 9999, and not emitting visible light during a predetermined dark period during the remaining time of the full day period 9999, so as to synchronize the bird's circadian rhythm; and step (9002), emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0144] In addition, for each day in the range of days in the post-hatching stage, the method also includes: step (9003), emitting visible light during a predetermined light period during the full-day period 9999, and not emitting visible light during a predetermined dark period during the remaining time of the full-day period 9999, so as to synchronize the bird's circadian rhythm; and step (9004), emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period.

[0145] In this embodiment, for example, the pre-hatching period includes a range of days from 0 to 21 from the fertilization of a bird (i.e., a bird embryo) or from the placement of an egg containing a bird in an incubator. It has been found that during the incubation period, which is largely pre-hatching, incubation according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule (wherein monochromatic blue light is emitted at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period) improves the hatchability of fertile eggs and results in an increase in the weight of hatched chicks.

[0146] In this embodiment, by way of example, the post-hatching period includes a range of fourteen and forty days from the hatching of the bird. Similarly, other example ranges are contemplated.

[0147] It was found that in the presence of monochromatic blue light, hatched birds ate and drank more efficiently during the dark / night period of their circadian rhythm, without disrupting their synchronized circadian rhythm (i.e., day / night cycle). This resulted in increased weight gain, improved feed conversion, and reduced mortality in hatched birds.

[0148] Still refer to Figure 7 In the method 9000 depicted in FIG. 1 , the blue light intensity is at most 5 lux, i.e., 1 lux in this embodiment. The at least one sub-period is a sub-period, wherein the sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period. Furthermore, the predetermined light period is twelve hours, and the predetermined dark period is twelve hours, which together form the full-day period 9999. Optionally, the visible light may include a main peak in the wavelength range between 450-480 nm and a main peak in the wavelength range between 515-545 nm.

[0149] The present invention is particularly advantageous for raising broiler chickens, especially chicks. These birds grow very quickly and require large amounts of feed to allow them to grow. The present invention will allow the birds to eat and drink throughout the "night" (i.e., the predetermined dark period, i.e., the dark phase of the circadian schedule) without adversely affecting their melatonin cycle or circadian rhythm, thereby reducing stress and increasing production.

[0150] The present invention can also be beneficial for raising laying hens and breeder hens. Specifically, laying hens and breeder hens prefer to roost on perches at night (i.e., during the predetermined dark period), and providing blue light would allow them to see the perches even during nighttime hours. This could reduce the incidence of "falls" (where a bird attempts to land on a perch but fails, often resulting in bruises or keel fractures). Thus, the present invention further promotes animal health and well-being.

[0151] As mentioned, the present invention may also be advantageous for pre-hatching avian embryos, as dimmed monochromatic blue light results in heavier chicks at hatch and improved hatchability.

[0152] Figure 8By way of non-limiting example, an embodiment of an incubator 1000 according to the present invention is schematically depicted. The incubator 1000 comprises a lighting system according to the present invention. The incubator 1000 is arranged to incubate fertilized bird eggs 1011. The fertilized bird eggs or eggs comprise the corresponding bird.

[0153] Still refer to Figure 8 , incubator 1000 includes a visible light source 1001 configured to emit visible light 1004. Incubator 1000 includes a blue light source 1002 configured to emit monochromatic blue light 1005. Incubator 1000 includes a controller 1003, which is configured to control the visible light source 1001 according to a predetermined circadian rhythm schedule to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird. Here, the bird (embryo) is in an egg 1011 in the incubator 1000. The predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period. Controller 1000 is configured to: (i) control the visible light source 1001 to emit visible light 1004 in a predetermined light period. The visible light source 1004 is thus emitted with a visible light intensity. Controller 1000 is also configured not to emit visible light 1004 in a predetermined dark period. The controller 1000 is further configured to control the blue light source 1002 to emit monochromatic blue light 1005 at a blue light intensity in at least one sub-period within the predetermined dark period. Here, the at least one sub-period is one sub-period, wherein the one sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period.

[0154] Here, the intensity of blue light is at most 5 lux, such as 0.5 lux, for example. The intensity of visible light is, for example, 100 lux. Therefore, the intensity of visible light is at least 20 times greater than the intensity of blue light.

[0155] refer to Figure 8 The bird eggs 1011 may be incubated for a range of days during the growth phase. The growth phase may be an incubation phase, or alternatively, a pre-hatching phase. Here, the range of days may be, for example, day 1 to day 28 from the time the bird in the egg 1011 is fertilized (i.e., the bird embryo) or from the time the egg 1011 containing the bird is placed in the incubator 1000. Each day includes the predetermined light period and the predetermined dark period to synchronize the circadian rhythm of the bird in the egg 1011.

Claims

1. A lighting system comprising: - a visible light source configured to emit visible light; - a blue light source configured to emit monochromatic blue light; - a controller configured to control the visible light source according to a predetermined circadian schedule for synchronizing the circadian rhythm of the bird; wherein the predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period; The controller is configured to: (i) controlling the visible light source to emit visible light during a predetermined light period and not to emit visible light during a predetermined dark period, (ii) controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period; wherein the lighting system is arranged to illuminate a flock of birds; wherein the lighting system comprises a sensor unit configured to detect an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during the predetermined dark period; wherein the controller is configured to: when the attribute is detected, control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity in a sub-period within a predetermined dark period; or The controller is configured to: - determining the number of awake birds based on the attribute, and - When the number of the awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within a predetermined dark period.

2. The lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intensity of the monochromatic blue light is at most 5 lux.

3. The lighting system according to any of the preceding claims 1 -2, wherein the sub-period lasts for a duration equal to at most half a predetermined dark period.

4. The lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor unit comprises at least one of the following: a camera, a thermal camera, a microphone, a motion sensor, a sensor arrangement for radio frequency-based sensing, a PIR sensor, a thermopile array, a single-pixel thermopile, a distance sensor, a VOC sensor, a pressure sensor.

5. The lighting system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to obtain an input signal indicative of a predetermined circadian schedule, and to determine the predetermined circadian schedule based on the input signal. The lighting system of claim 5 , wherein the input signal is a user input signal.

7. The lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lighting system comprises a first feed distribution device arranged at a first area of ​​the indoor space; The controller is configured to control the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light with a blue light intensity during a sub-period within a predetermined dark period to illuminate a first area of ​​the indoor space.

8. The lighting system of claim 7, wherein the lighting system comprises a first feed distribution device arranged at a first area of ​​the indoor space.

9. A method of irradiating a bird during at least one growth stage, wherein the method comprises: emitting visible light during predetermined light periods during an all-day period and not emitting visible light during predetermined dark periods during the remainder of the all-day period to synchronize the bird's circadian rhythm; emitting monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period; detecting an attribute indicating that at least one bird in the flock is awake during a predetermined dark period; When the attribute is detected, controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within a predetermined dark period; or determining the number of awake birds based on the attribute, and When the number of the awake birds exceeds a predefined threshold number, the blue light source is controlled to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during a sub-period within a predetermined dark period.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the predetermined light period is twelve hours, and wherein the predetermined dark period is twelve hours.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 9-10, wherein the visible light comprises a main peak in the wavelength range between 450-480 nm and a main peak in the wavelength range between 515-545 nm.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 9-11, wherein the intensity of the monochromatic blue light is at most 5 lux.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the at least one sub-period is one sub-period, wherein the one sub-period lasts for the entire predetermined dark period.

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 13, wherein the at least one growth stage is at least one of the following: a pre-hatching stage, a hatching stage, a post-hatching stage.

15. An incubator comprising a lighting system, wherein the lighting system comprises: - a visible light source configured to emit visible light; - a blue light source configured to emit monochromatic blue light; - a controller configured to control the visible light source according to a predetermined circadian schedule for synchronizing the circadian rhythm of the bird; wherein the predetermined circadian rhythm schedule consists of a predetermined light period and a predetermined dark period; The controller is configured to: (i) controlling the visible light source to emit visible light during a predetermined light period and not to emit visible light during a predetermined dark period; (ii) controlling the blue light source to emit monochromatic blue light at a blue light intensity during at least one sub-period within a predetermined dark period.

Images