System and method for central egg collection

Abstract

Method for central collection of eggs from egg sources (1), such as barns or houses, transported towards a collection area (2), using: - one or more egg sources (1); an egg transporter (3) that extends, along the one or more egg sources that are arranged to supply eggs on the egg transporter, towards the collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter; - an egg sensor (4) configured to measure a quantity, e.g. a number of eggs or egg property, of the eggs transported by the egg transporter; and - a controller (5) operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter; wherein the method comprises the steps of: - activating at least one of the egg sources (1) to supply eggs (99) on the transporter (3); - transporting, with the transporter (3), the supplied eggs towards the collection area; - measuring, with the egg sensor (4), a quantity of the transported eggs; and, - controlling, with the controller (5), at least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

Description

[0001] Title: System and method for central egg collection

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for central collection of eggs from egg sources, such as barns or houses, transported towards a collection area and to a system for central egg collection using the method.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] In poultry farming, chickens are usually kept in one or more barns or houses, which are equipped with nests in which eggs are laid. The eggs from the houses are collected on a central egg conveyor belt that runs along the different houses, and usually culminates in a central egg collection location where the eggs are collected and further processed, such as a building in which further processing equipment is placed for breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing the eggs. Further processing equipment may be dimensioned to a certain egg processing capacity, such that processing is most efficient when the number of eggs on the central egg conveyor belt is relatively constant, and, in particular when the number of eggs approaches the egg processing capacity.

[0006] Typically, a house is provided with one or more longitudinal conveyor belts that run along the nests and transport eggs towards the central egg conveyor belt. When eggs are collected, the longitudinal conveyor belts and central conveyor belt are activated. However, the number of eggs on the respective conveyors may vary along their length due to various factors, such as environmental factors e.g. time, location in the house, lighting, temperature and humidity, chicken factors, such as chicken type, age, diet, and several other factors that result in irregularities. As a result, the number of eggs may vary from conveyor belt to conveyor belt, and may even vary over the length of a single conveyor.

[0007] It has been found that, in order to avoid the one or more longitudinal conveyor belts to place too many or too few eggs on the central egg conveyor belt, individual belts need to be started and / or stopped relatively often in dependence on the number of eggs present thereon.

[0008] Another factor is the relative fragility of eggs, such that high conveyor forces, e.g. accelerations, decelerations and / or impacts, may result in damage of the shell. This problem is further aggravated by natural variance in thickness of the egg shell, e.g. due to the various factors mentioned above. Further, especially when the number of eggs on the conveyors is relatively large, contact between the eggs may result in damage.

[0009] EP2778101 discloses a control device for an egg conveyor belt, provided with an image recording unit for taking images from the conveyor belt and an evaluation unit for counting eggs and determining a stocking density of the conveyor belt. In an embodiment, an adjustment unit is provided that adjusts the speed of the conveyor belt depending on the stocking density.

[0010] However, it has been found that this known system still has several disadvantages as varying the speed of the conveyor belts may help to smooth out large variances in the number of eggs on the conveyor, but in practice the speed range of the conveyors is bound by physical constraints, such as motor torque-rpm characteristics. For example, in order to obtain a constant number of eggs, very high stocking densities may require a very low conveyor speed that cannot be practically achieved, and vice versa. Therefore, manual starts / stops of the conveyors may still be necessary, whereby each start / stop may incur egg damage, and the stocking density can only be influenced to a limited extent.

[0011] Also, it has been found that by varying the speeds of the conveyors, additional acceleration and deceleration forces are exerted on the eggs on the eggs which may therefore contribute to damages. In addition, the complexity of this way of control is such that egg distribution unevenness can lead to egg breakage due to local belt overflow.

[0012] In order to control the speed, the stocking density needs to be determined, which can only be performed on a running conveyor. Therefore, the system responds relatively slow which reduces consistency of egg distribution over the conveyor, and control of the speed can only be performed on the basis of the number of eggs already measured to be present on the conveyor.

[0013] Furthermore, starting and stopping the egg collection, for example after errors or when another egg type is desired, still requires a relatively large amount of manual labour from a skilled operator to start and stop specific conveyors. Even during operation, manual fine tuning and control may be necessary. Existing systems therefore leave room for efficiency improvement, e.g. in staff utilisation at the further processing unit, especially in case of errors, when starting or finishing egg collection, or when changing the collected egg type.

[0014] Object of the invention

[0015] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an alternative central egg collection system and method, preferably a system and method that least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, for example a system and method that allow to provide eggs in a specific distribution on a transporter, that provide more efficient use of further processing equipment and staff, that reduce egg damage, allow easy starting and stopping of egg collection, e.g. after errors or when another egg type is desired, and / or that need less manual labour from a skilled operator, e.g. that reduces the highly complex and timing sensitive manual control of the conveyors, even when experienced and fast responding operators are available for hire, and / or e.g. that reduces damages, as even with skilled operators the chances of breakage are very high as moments of loss of attention will happen in the course of a work shift.

[0016] Description of the invention

[0017] The present invention provides a method for transportation of eggs from egg sources towards a collection area according to claim 1. The method makes use of an egg transporter that extends, along the one or more sources that are arranged to supply eggs on the egg transporter, e.g. in which eggs are supplied on the egg transporter, towards the collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter.

[0018] An egg sensor configured to measure a quantity of eggs transported by the egg transporter is used, and a controller operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter.

[0019] The method comprises the steps of activating at least one of the egg sources to supply eggs on the transporter; transporting, with the transporter, the supplied eggs towards the collection area; and measuring, with the egg sensor, a quantity of the transported eggs.

[0020] At least one of the egg sources is controlled with the controller to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target. Therewith, instead of controlling the speed of the conveyor in dependence of a specific a mount of eggs presently present on the transporter, the actual supply of eggs on the transporter can be controlled.

[0021] Thus, it becomes possible to arrange the eggs in a specific distribution on the egg transporter on the basis of the controller. The step of controlling may be performed such that the eggs are supplied on the egg transporter in a distribution that approaches the distribution target, e.g. that is substantially equal to the distribution target. The eggs may for example be distributed relatively evenly along the length of the egg transporter and / or in a specific pattern. Preferable, the eggs may be arranged along a distribution that enables efficient further processing.

[0022] In contrast with controlling only on the basis of a current density or number of eggs that is currently available on the egg transporter, the distribution may take into account other variables, such a number of eggs in a certain amount of time, spread in a specific density over the width and / or length of the conveyor, during a certain amount of time etc. For example, the distribution may comprise a number of eggs for a certain amount of time, e.g. of a specific egg type.

[0023] Therefore, the invention provides a method that may allow to provide eggs in a specific distribution on a transporter, with relatively efficient use of further processing equipment and staff, reduces egg damage, and / or that may allow easy starting and stopping of egg collection, e.g. after errors or when another egg type is desired, and / or that may need less manual labour from a skilled operator.

[0024] The egg transporter may for example comprise a main transporter, e.g. a cross transporter such as a cross belt or transverse belt, that collects eggs from one or more sub transporters, e.g. longitudinal transporters, such as longitudinal belts, arranged at each of the respective houses. A source may comprise a sub transporter that may extend from one or more poultry nests towards the egg transporter. Each source may be configured to supply eggs on the transporter. The controller may be configured to control the supply from the egg sources independently from each other and / or independently from a movement speed of the egg transporter.

[0025] Each egg source may comprise multiple rows and / or levels, e.g. of sub transporters, and the controller may be arranged to control the respective rows and / or levels, e.g. of sub transporters, individually, e.g. each sub transporter arranged in a specific row and on a specific level may be controlled individually. For example, each house may be provided with multiple rows, e.g. 5 rows, and each row may be provided with multiple levels, e.g. 3 levels, such that in this example the number of sub transporters may be 15.

[0026] In addition to controlling the egg sources, the controller may be operatively connected to the egg transporter and arranged to control a transportation speed of the egg transporter.

[0027] The method may for example comprise the step of controlling, with the controller, the egg transporter in dependence of the measured quantity and / or the distribution target, e.g. by reducing a transportation speed of the egg transporter when the measured quantity approaches or exceeds the distribution target, and / or vice versa. This way, egg supply and removal from the controller may be adjusted relatively precisely. Additionally and / or alternatively, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources the speed of the transporter may be increased until the first eggs reach the collection area, such that egg collection may be performed after a shorter waiting time after activating the at least one egg source.

[0028] The egg sensor may be provided to measure the supply of one or more of the egg sources, or all of the egg sources. The egg sensor may be configured to provide a quantity signal and / or to provide a detection signal, wherein the controller is arranged measure a quantity based on the detection signal. The quantity may be a discrete number of eggs, an area, a density and / or occupancy on the egg transporter, or another quantity, such as any egg property. Multiple egg sensors may be provided, e.g. each of the sources may be provided with an egg sensor. The egg sources may have a sub transporter, such as a longitudinal belt, elevator and / or transfer belt, and may be provided with an egg sensor, e.g. on the sub transporter itself and / or on the entry point of the eggs on the egg transporter. The egg sensor may be configured to measure egg properties. The step of measuring a quantity of eggs may comprising measuring a quality, size, colour, shape and / or other egg properties of eggs. The distribution target may be representative for a distribution of eggs having one or more specific properties, for example first all XL brown eggs, then a mix of M and L sized brown eggs, then all white eggs, etc. Any combination of egg properties may be possible. By measuring the properties with the egg sensor, feedback control may be performed such that control may be even more precise. For example, when, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources, the measured egg properties deviate from an expected property represented in the distribution target, e.g. when a weight, size and / or colour distribution of the eggs is different from the target, the egg sources may be controlled in order to adjust the egg distribution towards the distribution target. For example, another egg source may be activated, and / or the supply rate of the first at least one of the egg sources may be lowered, in order adjust the average weight, size and / or colour of eggs arriving at the collection area.

[0029] The controller may be pre-provided with system data, wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence of the system data. The system data may comprise a location of the egg sensor and / or egg sources, e.g. a distance to the collection area.

[0030] The controller may be configured to perform control such that damage to the eggs is minimised, for example the number of starts-stops of the egg transporter may be kept to a minimum, e.g. within certain constraints defined in the distribution target, such as a minimum and / or maximum number of eggs over a certain amount of time.

[0031] The controller may be configured to perform control such that removal at the collection area may be performed as efficiently as possible, For example, such that the distribution target, e.g. such as a minimum and / or maximum number of eggs over a certain amount of time is approached, e.g. is met, e.g. within certain constrains defined in the distribution target, such as a minimum and / or maximum acceleration and / or deceleration, and / or a minimum and / or maximum number of stops of the transporter.

[0032] The distribution target may for example comprise a number of eggs per time unit.

[0033] The controller may be configured to be provided with data related to an egg removal capacity in the collection area and / or egg damage. The controller may be configured to determine a real or hypothetical negative cost of each transported egg and a cost of damage due to control action, such as a start-stop, acceleration and deceleration of a transporter, activation and / or deactivation of a source, wherein the controller is arranged to minimise the real and / or hypothetical cost.

[0034] The controller may be configured to perform control such that a maximum density of eggs on the egg transporter is not exceeded. The controller may be a single controller operatively coupled with each of the egg sources, or a distributed controller, e.g. a main controller configured to receive the distribution target and to provide control actions to one or more slave controllers that are operatively coupled to the egg sources or other equipment, such as lighting, nutrition and / or climate units.

[0035] The predetermined egg distribution data may be representative for an egg collection strategy, wherein the controller is configured to perform control in order to meet the egg collection strategy. The strategy may be provided manually by the operator, e.g. via an input, or be determined automatically by the controller. The strategy may comprise one or more elements of: (1) collecting all eggs, a predetermined number of eggs, a predetermined time, (2) at a predetermined density, occupancy of the egg transporter and / or at a predetermined constant rate, (3) of all egg types, predetermined egg types, such as eggs having predetermined egg properties, eggs from chickens having predetermined properties, and / or eggs from environments having predetermined properties, (4) from one or more predetermined sources, one or more groups of sources or all sources; and (5) one or more of aforementioned in combination and / or subsequently.

[0036] In addition to the strategies mentioned above, control may be performed according to any other possible egg collection strategy.

[0037] Each of the sources may be provided with one or more specific egg properties, such as colour, size, or species, chickens having specific properties, such as species, and environments having specific properties, such as food, temperature, access to outdoors, lighting and humidity. The distribution target may be representative for different constraints, e.g. on number of starts / stops, depending on such properties.

[0038] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of comparing the measured quantity with the distribution target to determine a shortage or excess, wherein the step of controlling comprises, in the case of a shortage, increasing egg supply with the controller by activating and / or accelerating at least one of the egg sources; and, in the case of an excess, decreasing egg supply with the controller by deactivating and / or decelerating at least one of the egg sources.

[0039] In contrast with the prior art, the actual supply of eggs on the egg transporter is controlled, instead of the transportation speed of the eggs from their sources towards the collection area. As such, advantageously less control actions on the main transporter may be required. In particular, the step of controlling be performed such that the egg transporter moves at a constant speed.

[0040] Accelerating the egg source, as used herein, may be a control action performed to increase egg supply from the respective egg source to the egg transporter, and vice versa. Acceleration may for example be performed by increasing a transportation speed of a sub transporter, such as a longitudinal belt, elevator and / or transfer belt.

[0041] In case an egg source comprises multiple rows and / or levels of sub transporters, and the controller may be arranged to select one or more of the respective rows and / or levels of sub transporters and to control the selected ones individually, e.g. by activating, accelerating, deactivating and / or decelerating.

[0042] In an embodiment, a first one of the egg sources is located, along a transportation path of the egg transporter, further away from the collection area than a second one of the egg sources, wherein in the step of activating, at least the first one of the egg sources is activated, and wherein, in the step of controlling, at least the second one of the egg sources is controlled in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0043] It has been found that by activating a source that is located furthest away from the controller, control of the distribution can advantageously be performed by adjusting supply of eggs of egg sources located more closely to the collection area. This way, control may be performed by controlling the second one of the egg sources, such that no or less control actions, e.g. start / stop actions, on the first one of the egg sources are required.

[0044] Further, according to this embodiment, advantageously less control actions on the main transporter may be required. In particular, control may be performed such that the egg transporter moves at a constant speed.

[0045] In an embodiment, multiple egg sensors are provided, each associated with one or more of the egg sources, wherein the method further comprises the step of determining a quantity of eggs supplied by the respective one or more of the egg sources, e.g. wherein the egg sensors are spaced at a distance from each other along the transportation path.

[0046] By having multiple egg sensors, the supply of respective egg sources can be determined more precisely, therewith enabling control of the respective egg sources in a more fine-grained manner, such that control of the overall egg distribution on the transporter can be performed precisely. For example, the controller may be configured to determine a required change in egg supply in order to adjust the egg distribution towards the distribution target, wherein the controller is configured to select from all possible control actions, the control action that adjusts the egg distribution closest to the distribution target.

[0047] In an embodiment, multiple egg sensors may be provided in each egg source, e.g. along a sub transporter, e.g. a longitudinal belt, located in a house, wherein the controller is configured to determine a future supply of the egg source based on the respective multiple egg sensors. By having multiple egg sensors, the egg distribution within the egg source, e.g. within a house, e.g. per nest, may be determined, such that control may be performed more precisely.

[0048] In an embodiment, the distribution target, when seen along the transportation path, is a distribution that provides a relatively high quantity of eggs at the egg collection area having a relatively fast ramp-up start and ramp-down end, e.g. wherein the distribution has a block or pulse shape.

[0049] It has been found that such a distribution target allows for a relatively high efficiency of removal of eggs from the transporter at the collection area.

[0050] In an embodiment, the distribution target is representative for a target mixture of eggs from different egg sources, wherein the step of controlling comprises: determining a share for the respective egg sources, and controlling the respective egg sources in further dependence on their determined shares, e.g. such that, in that collection area, eggs are arranged on the transporter in accordance with the target mixture.

[0051] As such, in contrast with the prior art, no manual selection and activation of the egg sources may be required. Instead, the controller may be configured to select the egg sources to be controlled, e.g. activated and / or deactivated, on the basis of the distribution target, such that manual control input is further reduced.

[0052] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to be provided with predetermined egg and / or source data, wherein the distribution target is representative for a desired egg and / or source property, wherein the step of determining the share for the respective egg sources is performed on the basis of the desired egg and / or source property and the predetermined egg and / or source data.

[0053] Manual control input may be reduced even further when, instead of selecting specific egg sources and specifying their respective shares in the distribution target, the distribution target is representative for a specific outcome or egg collection strategy. The controller may be configured to select the egg sources to be controlled, e.g. activated and / or deactivated, on the basis of the distribution target and predetermined egg and / or source data. The predetermined egg and / or source data may be input and / or received via a transceiver.

[0054] The egg and / or source data may for example be representative for an relation between the respective egg sources and egg types, eggs having predetermined egg properties, eggs from chickens having predetermined properties, and / or eggs from environments having predetermined properties In an embodiment, the step of further processing the eggs collected at the collection area with a processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the distribution target is provided in dependence of the processing unit, e.g. a property or setting thereof, such as a processing speed, packaging type or egg type, and / or wherein the further processing is performed in dependence of the distribution target.

[0055] As the further processing may be a relatively expensive, automatic adjustment of the egg collection method to the further processing unit, and / or vice versa, may have large benefits. The controller may be configured to send and / or receive the distribution target from the further processing unit, or vice versa. The controller and / or the further processing unit may be provided with an input interface and / or a schedule to provide the distribution target. For example, a particular selection of a specific egg and / or barn type may be required for a specific type of packaging and / or labelling of the eggs, e.g. via stamping a labelling code on the eggs.

[0056] In an embodiment, the processing unit and / or operator, e.g. via an input interface, and / or the collection strategy represented in the distribution target can provide information to the controller about minimal, optimal, and maximum egg volumes at the collection area per time interval, and desired start & stop times. The stop time can be extended with an interval for clearing all the eggs from the transporter. The controller may be configured to perform control according to the information.

[0057] For example, the supply of eggs is controlled in order to meet the egg collection strategy.

[0058] The controller may be configured to deactivate the one or more egg sources and / or the egg transporter upon achieving a predetermined goal, e.g. upon reaching predetermined number of eggs, such as of eggs removed at the collection area and / or measured with the one or more egg sensors, upon reaching a predetermined movement distance of the egg transporter and / or upon reaching a minimum egg distribution, e.g. a minimum number of eggs that arrives at the collection area.

[0059] In an embodiment, the egg distribution data is representative for a minimum egg distribution, further comprising the step of stopping transportation of eggs towards the collection area when the determined egg distribution is lower than the minimum egg distribution.

[0060] The minimum egg distribution may for example comprise a minimum number of eggs per transporter, dimension, e.g. length or width, per time unit, over a certain amount of time. The minimum egg distribution may be determined by, e.g. a minimum operating efficiency the processing unit. In addition to or alternatively, the minimum egg distribution may comprise a fixed endpoint, e.g. a fixed end time, an amount of transporter movement length, e.g. a transporter position and / or other variables.

[0061] In a further embodiment, the controller may be configured to automatically activate the at least one of the egg source in dependence of a distribution expectation and the fixed endpoint.

[0062] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to be provided with a distribution expectation representative for an expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources; wherein the egg sensor is arranged to measure a quantity of eggs transported from the respective at least one of the egg sources; wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the distribution expectation.

[0063] As such, the controller may look forward in time and predict the arrival of the eggs at the collection location over time and control on the basis of a forward control method. By having an expectation on the egg supply from the activated egg source, the controller may be configured to anticipate on the expectation and therefore control may be performed more precise already before a substantial quantity of eggs is measured with the egg sensor.

[0064] In case an egg source comprises multiple rows and / or levels of sub transporters, the distribution expectation may comprise an expected egg supply for the respective row and / or level.

[0065] When multiple egg sensors are provided on a sub transporter, the sub transporter may be divided in multiple sub transporter sections, wherein the distribution expectation may comprise an expected egg supply for one or more of the sub transporter sections. This way, the distribution expectation may be made even more refined, and insight may be provided to the farmer. The sub transporter sections may have the size of one or more cages, and an egg sensor may be provided after each sub transporter section, such that eggs coming from the respective sub transporter section may be measured with the respective egg sensor. By having relatively small sub transporter sections, a relatively precise distribution expectation may be provided.

[0066] In an embodiment, the controller is provided with distribution expectations for multiple egg sources, further comprising the step of selecting, with the controller, the at least one of the egg sources to be activated from the multiple egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectations and the distribution target.

[0067] On the basis of the distribution expectations, the controller may perform the step of activating on the one or more egg sources that alone or in combination are expected to meet the distribution target most closely, e.g. already from the onset of supply of the first eggs on the transporter.

[0068] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of determining, with the controller, a certainty threshold, e.g. a quantity of eggs, a movement distance of the egg transporter and / or a timespan, and wherein, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectation, the step of controlling is performed after the certainty threshold is reached.

[0069] As such, the step of activating an egg source to supply eggs is provided at at least an initial location of the supply locations, and thereafter, upon reaching a predetermined threshold value, e.g. a predetermined egg distribution, a counted number of eggs, time and / or distance, controlled in dependence of a detected quantity.

[0070] As such, as soon as the first egg hits the egg sensor after activating the first one of the sources, and / or upon measuring the predetermined certainty threshold, control may be performed by the controller based on an actual measured quantity.

[0071] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs.

[0072] Egg supply may be different than expected based on the past due to unforeseen circumstances. This way, the distribution expectation may be updated on the basis of actual feedback on the quantity of eggs supplied by respective egg sources. Therewith, when the actual quantity of eggs from the egg sources is lower than the initial distribution expectation based on the past, the distribution expectation may be updated and therewith closer approach the actual situation. Updating may be performed during supply of eggs with the respective egg source. As such, during supply of the egg source, the distribution expectation becomes more reliable. This way, subsequent control actions, may be performed on the basis of the updated distribution expectation.

[0073] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to be provided with environmental data and / or equipment data representative for an influence of the environment, farm equipment and / or planning on the quantity of transported eggs, further comprising the steps of: receiving, with the controller, the environmental data and / or equipment data, e.g. from a sensor; updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data.

[0074] For example, a light sensor may be provided to measure actual daylight over time and the statistical average egg laying influence of that. Additionally, equipment data and / or environmental data such as weather provisions may be provided, in order to further refine the distribution expectation.

[0075] For example, transportation speed of the egg transporter may be less with a heavy laden transporter. As such, the controller may compensate for this transporter delay, e.g. belt drag, by increasing the supply form at least one of the egg sources and / or by increasing speed of the transporter.

[0076] In addition and / or as an alternative, similar compensation may be performed on system properties and / or physical shortcomings of switching / sorting tables, belts, egg counters, etc. E.g. a dynamic range of possible belt speeds may determine which control action (e.g. adapting transportation speed and / or adjusting egg supply) can be taken.

[0077] The method may comprise the step of measuring the environmental data and / or equipment data using a sensor, such as a light sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, transportation speed sensor and / or different type of sensor.

[0078] Egg sensor measurements, equipment data and / or environmental data may be stored, e.g. in a local or remote database. The controller may comprise a transmitter and / or receiver for transmitting an / do receiving respective data and / or the database. This way, exchanging information between multiple controllers, e.g. multiple farms, may be come possible.

[0079] The method may comprise the step of, after updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs and / or on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data, controlling, with the controller, at least one of the egg sources, such as by activation, acceleration, deactivation and / or deceleration thereof, to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence of the updated distribution expectation and the distribution target.

[0080] In an embodiment, the distribution target is representative for a future target, and wherein the distribution expectation is representative for a future expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources in the future, wherein the step of controlling comprises feedforward control based on the distribution expectation, i.e. expectation distribution and the future target.

[0081] In an embodiment, the step of controlling at least one of the egg sources comprises controlling farm equipment, e.g., lighting, nutrition, climate unit and / or any other farm equipment that influences the moment eggs are laid and / or supplied on the transporter, wherein the farm equipment is associated with the respective egg source. It has surprisingly been found that control on the basis of a target distribution may not only be performed on the transporter, but can also be extended to other equipment that influences the supply of eggs on the transporter. The method may comprise the step of, after updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs and / or on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data, controlling, with the controller, the egg transporter and / or the farm equipment related to at least one of the egg sources, to therewith indirectly adjust its respective present and / or future supply of eggs in dependence of the updated distribution expectation and the distribution target.

[0082] In an embodiment, the distribution target comprises a desired start time, wherein the steps of activating, transporting, measuring and / or controlling are at least partially performed, e.g. on the basis of the updated distribution expectation, before the desired start time in order to obtain the desired distribution of eggs at the collection area at the desired start time.

[0083] Removing eggs in the collection area, e.g. for further processing may be relatively expensive, in particular when the egg distribution is away from the distribution target, e.g. when waiting for eggs to arrive. By having the steps performed before the start time, valuable time for personnel and machinery can be saved.

[0084] In addition, farm equipment may be controlled on the basis of the desired start time. For example, the moment of chicken’s laying eggs over the day can be influenced with light mimicking another moment during the day. As such, the moment an egg starts the journey from the chicken via the sub transporter and the egg transporter to the collection area can be influenced.

[0085] In an embodiment, the controller is provided with a machine learning unit, further comprising the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of control actions, the measured quantity, the distribution target and / or the distribution expectation, wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data.

[0086] Using machine learning, i.e. artificial intelligence, the control may be optimised by searching the optimum control action on the basis of the distribution target.

[0087] In an embodiment, the machine learning unit is configured to use substantially all data available to the controller, e.g. measured quantities, to learn the effects of control actions performed by the controller in different circumstances. As such, instead of following a fixed order of the egg sources, the controller may be configured to determine the control action to be taken automatically on the basis of the machine learning unit, such that manual actions are further reduced and efficiency is improved.

[0088] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data. For example, transportation speed of the egg transporter may be less with a heavy laden transporter. As such, the controller may compensate for this transporter delay, e.g. belt drag, by increasing the supply form at least one of the egg sources and / or by increasing speed of the transporter.

[0089] In addition and / or as an alternative, similar compensation may be performed on system properties and / or physical shortcomings of switching / sorting tables, belts, egg counters, etc. E.g. a dynamic range of possible belt speeds may determine which control action (e.g. adapting transportation speed and / or adjusting egg supply) can be taken.

[0090] The method may comprise the step of measuring the environmental data and / or equipment data using a sensor, such as a light sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, transportation speed sensor and / or different type of sensor.

[0091] Egg sensor measurements, machine learning data, equipment data and / or environmental data may be stored, e.g. in a local or remote database. The controller may comprise a transmitter and / or receiver for transmitting an / do receiving respective data and / or the database. This way, exchanging information between multiple controllers, e.g. multiple farms, may be come possible. The controller may be configured to update the distribution expectation on the basis of the respective data and / or to store the distribution expectation in addition or alternative to the respective data.

[0092] In an embodiment, the step of controlling is be performed such that poultry in respective egg sources experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other. This way, potentially a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area may be provided, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources.

[0093] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of, upon occurrence of an unexpected event, automatically adapting control of least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs to compensate for the unexpected event.

[0094] Advantageously, the system may be arranged to recover from unexpected events, such as system failures, blockages or power interruption. For example, the controller may be configured to determine the control action taken based on the machine learning unit and the last known measured quantity of eggs and / or other sensor data.

[0095] According to an aspect, the invention provides a system for transportation of eggs using the method according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0096] In an embodiment, the system comprises an egg transporter that extends along one or more egg sources that are arranged to supply eggs on the egg transporter, e.g. in which eggs are supplied on the egg transporter, towards a collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter; an egg sensor configured to measure a quantity of eggs transported by the egg transporter; and a controller operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter, wherein the controller is configured to control at least one of the egg sources to adjust a respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0097] The system may be used for the method according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The system may be provided in different embodiments and therewith provide similar advantages as disclosed herein for the method.

[0098] In an embodiment, the system further comprises the processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the controller and the processing unit are configured to communicate the distribution target with each other.

[0099] In an embodiment, the system further comprises farm equipment, e.g., a lighting, nutrition and / or climate unit, wherein the controller is configured to control the farm equipment associated with the one or more egg sources to adjust the respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0100] The system may comprise farm equipment such as transportation equipment, e.g. sorting tables, track switches, lighting, nutrition and / or climate systems. The controller may be configured to control the farm equipment to achieve the distribution target.

[0101] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a machine learning unit.

[0102] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to provide a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources such that poultry in respective egg sources experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other.

[0103] Brief description of drawings

[0104] Further characteristics of the invention will be explained below, with reference to embodiments, which are displayed in the appended drawings, in which:

[0105] Figure 1 schematically depicts a system for central egg collection using the method according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0106] Figure 2 schematically depicts system for central egg collection using the method according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein the egg distribution is shown;

[0107] Figure 3 schematically depicts a system for central egg collection using the method according to another embodiment of the invention Figures 4A-4D schematically depict distributions of eggs on the egg transporter obtained using the method according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0108] Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to corresponding components or to components that have a corresponding function.

[0109] Detailed description of embodiments

[0110] Fig. 1 and 3 depict embodiments of a system for central egg using the method according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The system comprises an egg transporter 3 that extends along one or more egg sources 1 arranged to supply eggs 99 on the egg transporter 3, along a path p, towards a collection area 2, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter 3. An egg sensor 4 configured to measure a quantity of eggs transported by the egg transporter 3 is provided. The system comprise a controller 5 operatively connected to the one or more egg sources 2 and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter, wherein the controller 5 is configured to control at least one of the egg sources 1 to adjust a respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target. The system may be used for the method according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The system may be provided in different embodiments and therewith provide similar advantages as disclosed herein for the method.

[0111] The system further comprises the processing unit 7, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the controller and the processing unit are configured to communicate the distribution target with each other. As shown in Fig. 3, multiple processing units 7 may be provided, for example an egg breaker 7’ and an egg packer 7”.

[0112] The system further comprises farm equipment 6, e.g., a lighting, nutrition and / or climate unit 6, wherein the controller 5 is configured to control the farm equipment 6 associated with the one or more egg sources 1 to adjust the respective supply of eggs 99 in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0113] The farm equipment 6 in Fig. 3 comprises transportation equipment, e.g. a dosing / sorting table 6” and a track switch / exchange point 6”’ that enable different portions of the transporter 3 to be connected with each other to define the transport path p for the eggs 99. The dosing / sorting table 6” may allow fixed portions and / or shares of eggs to be transported to the egg breaker 7’, and simultaneously or subsequently, to the egg packer 7”.

[0114] Additionally and / or alternatively, lighting, nutrition and / or climate systems 6 may be controlled, as depicted in Fig. 1. The controller 5 is configured to control the farm equipment 6 to achieve the distribution target. Each egg source 1 may comprise multiple rows and / or levels of sub transporters, and the controller is then arranged to control the respective rows and levels of sub transporters individually. The controller is operatively connected to thee egg transporter 3 to control the transportation speed of the egg transporter in dependence of the measured quantity of eggs.

[0115] Acceleration of an egg source 1 may for example be performed by increasing a transportation speed of a sub transporter, such as a longitudinal belt, elevator and / or transfer belt. The controller 5 is arranged to select one or more of the respective rows and / or levels of sub transporters and to control the selected ones individually, e.g. by activating, accelerating, deactivating and / or decelerating.

[0116] In an embodiment, the controller 5 comprises a machine learning unit and is configured to provide a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources, i.e. via the farm equipment 6, such that poultry in respective egg sources 1 experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other.

[0117] The egg transporter 3 comprises a main transporter, i.e. a cross belt, that collects eggs from one or more sub transporters 3’, i.e. longitudinal transporters. Each egg source 1, i.e. a part of a house, comprises a sub transporter 3’, that via elevator 6’ is connected to the main transporter 3. Each source 1 is configured to supply eggs on the transporter. In fig. 3 the connection of each source 1 to the egg transporter is not shown.

[0118] The controller 5 is configured to control the supply from the egg sources 1 independently from each other and independently from a movement speed of the egg transporter 3.

[0119] The egg sensor 4 and / or egg sensor 4’ may be provided to measure the supply of one or more of the egg sources 1, or all of the egg sources, as shown with egg sensor 4’ in Fig. 1. Additionally and / or alternatively, multiple egg sensors 4” may be provided along a single egg source 1, along the length of longitudinal belt 3’.

[0120] The egg sensors 4, 4’, 4” are configured to provide a quantity signal and / or to provide a detection signal, wherein the controller is arranged measure a quantity based on the detection signal. The quantity comprises a discrete number of eggs, but may also comprise an area, a density and / or occupancy on the egg transporter, or another quantity, such as any egg property.

[0121] The controller 5 is pre-provided with system data, environmental data and / or equipment data, e.g. via a sensor, wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence of the system data, environmental data and / or equipment data. The system data comprises a location of the egg sensor and / or egg sources, e.g. a distance to the collection area.

[0122] The controller is configured to perform control such that the number of starts-stops of the egg transporter may be kept to a minimum, e.g. within certain constraints defined in the distribution target, such as a minimum and / or maximum number of eggs over a certain amount of time, and / or to perform control such that removal at the collection area may be performed as efficiently as possible, For example, such that the distribution target, e.g. such as a minimum and / or maximum number of eggs over a certain amount of time is approached, e.g. is met, e.g. within certain constrains defined in the distribution target, such as a minimum and / or maximum acceleration and / or deceleration, and / or a minimum and / or maximum number of stops of the transporter. Selection of the type of control may be provided via input interface 51.

[0123] Upon selection of the desired egg collection strategy in the input interface 51 , the controller 5 is provided with data related to the egg removal capacity in the collection area 2, i.e. the processing speed of the processing unit 7. The processing unit 7 provides information to the controller 5 about minimal, optimal and maximum egg volumes at the collection area per time interval, and desired start & stop times.

[0124] The controller 5 is configured to deactivate the one or more egg sources 1 and / or the egg transporter 3 upon achieving a predetermined goal, i.e. upon reaching predetermined number of eggs, such as of eggs removed at the collection area and / or measured with the one or more egg sensors, upon reaching a predetermined movement distance of the egg transporter and / or upon reaching a minimum egg distribution, i.e. a minimum number of eggs that arrives at the collection area.

[0125] The egg distribution data is representative for a minimum egg distribution and comprises a minimum number of eggs per transporter, dimension, e.g. length or width, per time unit, over a certain amount of time. The controller is configured to automatically activate the at least one of the egg source in dependence of a distribution expectation and the fixed endpoint.

[0126] The controller comprises a machine learning unit and is configured to be provided with a distribution expectation representative for an expected egg supply of multiple egg sources by the machine learning unit. The egg sensor is arranged to measure a quantity of eggs transported from the respective at least one of the egg sources; wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the distribution expectation, and the at least one of the egg sources to be activated is selected from the multiple egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectations and the distribution target.

[0127] The controller is configured to determine a negative cost of each transported egg and a cost of damage due to control action, such as a start-stop, acceleration and deceleration of a transporter, activation and / or deactivation of a source, wherein the controller is arranged to minimise the cost. Further, the controller is configured to perform control such that a maximum density of eggs on the egg transporter is not exceeded. The controller 5 in Fig. 1 comprises a main controller 50 configured to receive the distribution target and to provide control actions to one or more slave controllers 52 that are operatively coupled to the egg sources or other equipment, such as lighting, nutrition and / or climate units.

[0128] The predetermined egg distribution data is representative for an egg collection strategy, such as collecting all eggs of a certain type , as shown in Fig. 2 by way of example. In Fig. 2, eggs of type B are collected from egg sources 1, and egg sources T provided with eggs of type A are not supplying eggs on the transporter 3. The strategy is determined automatically by the controller 5 on the basis of an input on panel 51, in this case to start packing Type B eggs at full capacity at a start time of 12:00. The controller is provided with predetermined egg and source data, which relates egg type A to sources 1 and egg type B to sources T.

[0129] Each of the sources 1 T in Fig. 2 is provided with one or more specific egg properties, such as colour, size, or species, chickens having specific properties, such as species, and environments having specific properties, such as food, temperature, access to outdoors, lighting and humidity, resulting in egg types A, B, and possible other egg types (not shown). A source may also comprise a combination of multiple egg types. The distribution target is representative for different constraints, e.g. on number of starts / stops, depending on the egg type. The controller 5 is configured to select the egg sources 1 to be controlled, e.g. activated and / or deactivated, on the basis of the distribution target and the predetermined egg and source data. The predetermined egg and / or source data may be input and / or received via input interface 51 and / or via a transceiver (not shown).

[0130] Upon activating the leftmost sources 1 , the controller 5 determines whether a certainty threshold is reached e.g. a quantity of eggs and / or a timespan, and wherein, before sending further control actions to the respective sources 1. Upon activation of the first sources 1, the controller 5 updates the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs.

[0131] After updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs and / or on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data, the controller controls the egg transporter, the farm equipment and / or at least one of the egg sources, by activation, acceleration, deactivation and / or deceleration thereof, to adjust supply of eggs of the respective at least one of the egg sources to adapt the supply according to the updated distribution expectation in order to more closely approach the distribution target.

[0132] The distribution target may additionally or alternatively be representative for a target mixture of eggs, e.g. types A and B, from different egg sources, wherein the step of controlling comprises: determining a share for the respective egg sources, and controlling the respective egg sources in further dependence on their determined shares, e.g. such that, in that collection area, eggs are arranged on the transporter in accordance with the target mixture.

[0133] When, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources, the measured egg properties deviate from an expected property represented in the distribution target, e.g. when a weight, size and / or colour distribution of the eggs is different from the target, the egg sources may be controlled in order to adjust the egg distribution towards the distribution target. For example, another egg source may be activated, and / or the supply rate of the first at least one of the egg sources may be lowered, in order adjust the average weight, size and / or colour of eggs arriving at the collection area.

[0134] The distribution target may be representative for a future target, and the distribution expectation may be representative for a future expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources in the future, wherein the step of controlling comprises feed-forward control based on the distribution expectation and the future target.

[0135] In use, the controller 5 compares the quantity measured with egg sensors 4, 4’, 4” with the distribution target to determine a shortage or excess, wherein the step of controlling comprises, in the case of a shortage, increasing egg supply with the controller by activating and / or accelerating at least one of the egg sources; and, in the case of an excess, decreasing egg supply with the controller by deactivating and / or decelerating at least one of the egg sources. In addition to controlling the egg sources, the farm equipment may be controlled by adapting lighting, climate, nutrition and / or other factors in the sources 1 and / or by controlling other farm equipment 6, such as elevator 6’, dosing table 6” and / or exchange point 6”’. In Fig. 2, a distribution d of eggs on the egg transporter that can be achieved with an embodiment of the invention is shown schematically.

[0136] As shown in Fig. 2, a first one of the egg sources is located, along a transportation path of the egg transporter, further away from the collection area than a second one of the egg sources, wherein in the step of activating, at least the first one of the egg sources is activated, and wherein, in the step of controlling, at least the second one of the egg sources is controlled in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0137] In Fig. 2, multiple egg sensors are provided (not shown), each one in each source 1 and associated with one or more of the egg sources 1 , wherein the method further comprises the step of determining a quantity of eggs supplied by the respective one or more of the egg sources. Egg sensors 4’ may additionally or alternatively be provided on the egg transporter 3 as shown in Fig. 1, and / or multiple egg sensors 4” may be provided in each egg source 1, e.g. along a sub transporter as shown in Fig. 1.

[0138] The distributions shown in Fig. 2 and in Fig. 4D (left) have a relatively gradual ramp down end. For example in Fig. 4A, 4C and 4D (left) the distribution d provides a relatively high quantity of eggs at the egg collection area 2. In Figs 4A-4D (right) the distributions d, when seen along the transportation path, have a relatively fast ramp-up start and ramp-down end and substantially a block or pulse shape.

[0139] As sown in Figs 4B-4D, several different distributions may be achieved in the embodiment of Fig. 2. The processing unit and / or operator, e.g. via input interface 51 and / or a scheduled collection strategy, can provide information to the controller 5 about minimal, optimal, and maximum egg volumes at the collection area 2 per time interval, and desired start & stop times.

[0140] The stop time can be extended with an interval for clearing all the eggs from the transporter. Further, a minimum distance and / or time between subsequent distributions d may be provided on the transporter 3. The controller may be configured to perform control according to the information, data and / or input provided.

[0141] The distribution target may comprise a desired start time, wherein the steps of activating, transporting, measuring and / or controlling are at least partially performed before the desired start time in order to obtain the desired distribution of eggs at the collection area at the desired start time. In addition, farm equipment may be controlled on the basis of the desired start time.

[0142] Any of the embodiments in Figs. 1-3 may be provided with a machine learning unit to determine machine learning data on the basis of control actions, the measured quantity, the distribution target, environmental data, equipment data and / or the distribution expectation. The step of controlling may be performed in further dependence on the machine learning data. The data may be input, e.g. via an interface 51, measured via sensors, e.g. provided on the farm equipment 6, and / or be transmitted via a transmitter and / or receiver.

[0143] Control may be performed such that poultry in respective egg sources 1 experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other. This way, potentially a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area may be provided, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources.

[0144] Furthermore, control may be performed such that, upon occurrence of an unexpected event, a control action is selected, e.g. based on the calculated cost, for example to adjust supply of a selected egg source, to compensate for the unexpected event. CLAUSES

[0145] Additional and / or alternative embodiments of the invention may be described as follows:

[0146] E1. Method for central collection of eggs from egg sources , such as barns or houses, transported towards a collection area, using:

[0147] - an egg transporter that extends, along the one or more sources in which eggs are supplied on the egg transporter, towards the collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter;

[0148] - an egg sensor configured to measure a quantity, e.g. a number of eggs or egg property, of the eggs transported by the egg transporter; and

[0149] - a controller operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter; wherein the method comprises the steps of:

[0150] - activating at least one of the egg sources to supply eggs on the transporter;

[0151] - transporting, with the transporter, the supplied eggs towards the collection area;

[0152] - measuring, with the egg sensor, a quantity of the transported eggs; and,

[0153] - controlling, with the controller, at least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0154] E2. Method according to embodiment E1, further comprising the step of comparing the measured quantity with the distribution target to determine a shortage or excess, wherein the step of controlling comprises, in the case of a shortage, increasing egg supply with the controller by activating and / or accelerating at least one of the egg sources; and, in the case of an excess, decreasing egg supply with the controller by deactivating and / or decelerating at least one of the egg sources.

[0155] E3. Method according to embodiment E1 or E2, wherein a first one of the egg sources is located, along a transportation path of the egg transporter, further away from the collection area than a second one of the egg sources, wherein in the step of activating, at least the first one of the egg sources is activated, and wherein, in the step of controlling, at least the second one of the egg sources is controlled in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0156] E4. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein multiple egg sensors are provided, each associated with one or more of the egg sources, wherein the method further comprises the step of determining a quantity of the eggs supplied by the respective one or more of the egg sources, e.g. wherein the egg sensors are spaced at a distance from each other along the transportation path.

[0157] E5. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the distribution target, when seen along the transportation path, has a block or pulse shape.

[0158] E6. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the distribution target is representative for a target mixture of eggs from different egg sources, wherein the step of controlling comprises:

[0159] - determining a share for the respective egg sources, and

[0160] - controlling the respective egg sources in further dependence on their determined shares, e.g. such that, in that collection area, eggs are arranged on the transporter in accordance with the target mixture.

[0161] E7. Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the controller is configured to be provided with predetermined egg and / or source data, wherein the distribution target is representative for a desired egg and / or source property, wherein the step of determining the share for the respective egg sources is performed on the basis of the desired egg and / or source property and the predetermined egg and / or source data.

[0162] E8. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, comprising the step of further processing the eggs collected at the collection area with a processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the distribution target is provided in dependence of the processing unit, and / or wherein the further processing is performed in dependence of the distribution target.

[0163] E9. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the controller is configured to be provided with a distribution expectation representative for an expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources; wherein the egg sensor is arranged to measure a quantity of the eggs transported from the respective at least one of the egg sources; wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the distribution expectation.

[0164] E10. Method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the controller is provided with distribution expectations for multiple egg sources, further comprising the step of selecting, with the controller, the at least one of the egg sources to be activated from the multiple egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectations and the distribution target.

[0165] E11. Method according to embodiment E9 or E10, further comprising the step of determining, with the controller, a certainty threshold, e.g. a quantity of the eggs and / or a timespan, and wherein, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectation, the step of controlling is performed after the certainty threshold is reached.

[0166] E12. Method according to any of the embodiments E9-E11 , further comprising the step of updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity.

[0167] E13. Method according to any of the embodiments E9-E12, wherein the controller is configured to be provided with environmental data and / or equipment data representative for an influence of the environment, farm equipment and / or planning on the quantity of the transported eggs, further comprising the steps of:

[0168] - receiving, with the controller, the environmental data and / or equipment data, e.g. from a sensor;

[0169] - updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data.

[0170] E14. Method according to any of the embodiments E9-E13, wherein the distribution target is representative for a future target, and wherein the distribution expectation is representative for a future expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources in the future, wherein the step of controlling comprises feed-forward control based on the expectation distribution and the future target.

[0171] E15. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the step of controlling at least one of the egg sources comprises controlling farm equipment, e.g., lighting, nutrition and / or a climate unit, associated with the respective egg source.

[0172] E16. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the distribution target comprises a desired start time, wherein the steps of activating, transporting, measuring and / or controlling are at least partially performed before the desired start time in order to obtain the desired distribution of eggs at the collection area at the desired start time. E17. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the controller is provided with a machine learning unit, further comprising the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of control actions, the measured quantity, the distribution target and / or the distribution expectation, wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data.

[0173] E18. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data.

[0174] E19. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising the step of storing the machine learning data in a database and / or receiving the machine learning data from a remote controller and / or database.

[0175] E20. Method according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising the step of, upon occurrence of an unexpected event, automatically adapting control of least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs to compensate for the unexpected event.

[0176] E21. System for central egg collection using the method according to any of the preceding embodiments, comprising:

[0177] - an egg transporter that extends along one or more egg sources in which eggs are supplied on the egg transporter, towards a collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter;

[0178] - an egg sensor configured to measure a quantity, e.g. a number of eggs or egg property, of eggs transported by the egg transporter; and

[0179] - a controller operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter, wherein the controller is configured to control at least one of the egg sources to adjust a respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0180] E22. System according to the preceding embodiment, further comprising the processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the controller and the processing unit are configured to communicate the distribution target with each other.

[0181] E23. System according to embodiment E21 or E22, further comprising farm equipment, e.g., a lighting, nutrition and / or climate unit, wherein the controller is configured to control the farm equipment associated with the one or more egg sources to adjust the respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

[0182] E24. System according to any of the preceding embodiments E21-E23, wherein the controller is configured to provide a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources such that poultry in respective egg sources experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Method for central collection of eggs from egg sources (1), such as barns or houses, transported towards a collection area (2), using:- one or more egg sources;- an egg transporter (3) that extends, along the one or more egg sources that are arranged to supply eggs on the egg transporter, towards the collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter;- an egg sensor (4) configured to measure a quantity, e.g. a number of eggs or egg property, of the eggs transported by the egg transporter; and- a controller (5) operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter; wherein the method comprises the steps of:- activating at least one of the egg sources (1) to supply eggs (99) on the transporter (3);- transporting, with the transporter (3), the supplied eggs towards the collection area;- measuring, with the egg sensor (4), a quantity of the transported eggs; and,- controlling, with the controller (5), at least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

2. Method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of comparing the measured quantity with the distribution target to determine a shortage or excess, wherein the step of controlling comprises, in the case of a shortage, increasing egg supply with the controller by accelerating the at least one of the egg sources; and, in the case of an excess, decreasing egg supply with the controller by decelerating the at least one of the egg sources (1).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each egg source comprises multiple rows and / or levels, wherein the steps of activating and controlling are performed for the respective rows and / or levels individually.

4. Method according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising the step of controlling, with the controller, the egg transporter in dependence of the measured quantity and the distribution target by reducing a transportation speed of the egg transporter when the measured quantity approaches or exceeds the distribution target,and / or vice versa.

5. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein multiple egg sensors (4, 4’, 4”) are provided, each associated with one or more of the egg sources (1), wherein the method further comprises the step of determining a quantity of the eggs supplied by the respective one or more of the egg sources, e.g. wherein the egg sensors are spaced at a distance from each other along the transportation path (p).

6. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution target, when seen along the transportation path (p), has a block or pulse shape.

7. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution target is representative for a target mixture of eggs from different egg sources (1), wherein the step of controlling comprises:- determining a share for the respective egg sources, and- controlling the respective egg sources in further dependence on their determined shares, e.g. such that, in that collection area, eggs are arranged on the transporter in accordance with the target mixture, wherein the controller (5) is configured to be provided with predetermined egg and / or source data, wherein the distribution target is representative for a desired egg and / or source property, wherein the step of determining the share for the respective egg sources (1) is performed on the basis of the desired egg and / or source property and the predetermined egg and / or source data.

8. Method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the step of further processing the eggs (99) collected at the collection area with a processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the distribution target is provided in dependence of the processing unit, and / or wherein the further processing is performed in dependence of the distribution target.

9. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to be provided with a distribution expectation representative for an expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources; wherein the egg sensor (4) is arranged to measure a quantity of the eggs transported from the respective at least one of the egg sources (1); wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on thedistribution expectation.

10. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the controller is provided with distribution expectations for multiple egg sources (1), further comprising the step of selecting, with the controller, the at least one of the egg sources to be activated from the multiple egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectations and the distribution target.

11. Method according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising the step of determining, with the controller (5), a certainty threshold, e.g. a quantity of the eggs and / or a timespan, and wherein, upon activating the at least one of the egg sources on the basis of the distribution expectation, the step of controlling is performed after the certainty threshold is reached.

12. Method according to any of the claims 9-11, further comprising the step of updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity.

13. Method according to any of the claims 9-12, wherein the controller (5) is configured to be provided with environmental data and / or equipment data representative for an influence of the environment, farm equipment and / or planning on the quantity of the transported eggs, further comprising the steps of:- receiving, with the controller, the environmental data and / or equipment data, e.g. from a sensor;- updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data.

14. Method according to any of the claims 9-13, wherein the distribution target is representative for a future target, and wherein the distribution expectation is representative for a future expected egg supply of at least one of the egg sources in the future, wherein the step of controlling comprises feed-forward control based on the distribution expectation and the future target.

15. Method according to any of the claims 9-14, comprising the step of, after updating the distribution expectation on the basis of the measured quantity of eggs and / or on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data, controlling, with the controller, at least one of the egg sources, such as by activation, acceleration, deactivation and / or deceleration thereof, to adjust its respective supply of eggs in dependence of the updated distribution expectation and the distribution target.

16. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the step of controlling at least one of the egg sources comprises controlling farm equipment (6), e.g., lighting, nutrition and / or a climate unit, associated with the respective egg source.

17. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution target comprises a desired start time, wherein the steps of activating, transporting, measuring and / or controlling are at least partially performed before the desired start time in order to obtain the desired distribution of eggs at the collection area (2) at the desired start time.

18. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (5) is provided with a machine learning unit, further comprising the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of control actions, the measured quantity, the distribution target and / or the distribution expectation, wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data.

19. Method according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising the step of determining machine learning data on the basis of the environmental data and / or equipment data wherein the step of controlling is performed in further dependence on the machine learning data, e.g., further comprising the step of storing the machine learning data in a database and / or receiving the machine learning data from a remote controller and / or database.

20. Method according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising the step of, upon occurrence of an unexpected event, automatically adapting control of least one of the egg sources to adjust its respective supply of eggs to compensate for the unexpected event.

21. System for central egg collection using the method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising:- one or more egg sources, such as barns or houses;- an egg transporter that extends along the one or more egg sources that are arranged to supply eggs on the egg transporter, towards a collection area, in which eggs are removed from the egg transporter;- an egg sensor configured to measure a quantity, e.g. a number of eggs or egg property, of eggs transported by the egg transporter; and- a controller operatively connected to the one or more egg sources and configured to be provided with a distribution target representative for a desired distribution of eggs on the transporter, wherein the controller is configured to control at least one of the egg sources to adjust a respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

22. System according to the preceding claim, further comprising the processing unit, e.g. a breaking, washing, grading, stamping and / or packing unit, wherein the controller and the processing unit are configured to communicate the distribution target with each other.

23. System according to claim 21 or 22, further comprising farm equipment, e.g., a lighting, nutrition and / or climate unit, wherein the controller is configured to control the farm equipment associated with the one or more egg sources to adjust the respective supply of eggs in dependence on the measured quantity and the distribution target.

24. System according to any of the preceding claims 21-23, wherein the controller is configured to provide a continuous supply of eggs to the collection area, e.g. 24 hours a day, by controlling the egg sources such that poultry in respective egg sources experiences day-night rhythms that differ from each other.

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