Automated Chick Sexing via Wing Spread Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying and assessing the gender and health of newly-hatched chicks rely on manual observation, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, and lack automation for efficient sorting and segregation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing conveyors, a slanting section, and a camera to trigger chicks to spread their wings for gender determination and a weighing system to assess health, with image processing and electromagnetic gates for automated sorting and segregation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual observation methods are used for chick sexing and health assessment, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the productivity is low and measurement precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical observation with an automated optical-mechanical system. A camera captures images of chicks on the conveyor, and image processing algorithms automatically determine gender by analyzing wing feather patterns. This substitution dramatically increases productivity while maintaining acceptable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates optical copies (images) of the chicks using a camera instead of direct human observation. These digital copies are then processed through algorithms that analyze wing patterns to determine gender. This copying approach enables automated high-speed processing without requiring physical handling of each chick.
2Loss of time
If manual wing spreading is performed for each chick, then accurate feather pattern observation is possible, but the loss of time is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by gently tilting the conveyor belt before image capture, causing chicks to naturally spread their wings in anticipation of the positioning change. This preliminary tilt ensures wings are properly positioned for image capture without requiring manual spreading, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The chicks themselves perform the wing spreading action in response to the conveyor tilt, eliminating the need for external manual intervention. The natural reflex of the chicks to adjust their posture serves the system's need for wing pattern visibility, achieving both time efficiency and accurate observation.
3Productivity
If automated conveyor systems are implemented, then productivity increases, but the ease of operation decreases due to complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the camera captures images of chicks on the conveyor, and the image processing results automatically trigger sorting actions. The system continuously monitors chick positions and adjusts conveyor operation accordingly, creating a self-regulating control loop that simplifies operation while maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for recognizing and segregating chicks by sex according to their feathers pattern. The system and method are based on the instinctive reaction of chicks to spread their wings in order to maintain stability in response to instantaneous disorientation, for example, due to a sudden change in spatial movement. The present invention further features a weighing system and a system for detecting external body defects of chicks for assessing chicks' health.