Moveable Coop With Auger For Uneven Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
In free-range poultry farming, providing a changing pasture space to a large group of animals is labor-intensive and often requires leveling the terrain, which adds time and cost to the operations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a moveable coop with a conveyor or auger for distributing feed and water, coupled with a flexible design that accommodates irregular terrain and eliminates the need for extensive leveling, allowing for automated pasturing and efficient distribution of resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a moveable coop system is used for pasturing, then labor intensity is reduced and automation is improved, but the system complexity increases due to the need for conveyors, augers, and support structures
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components including the coop structure, conveyor system, auger mechanism, and support structures. Each component can be independently designed, manufactured, and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while enabling automation of the pasturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The moveable coop structure serves multiple functions: it provides housing for poultry, supports the conveyor and auger systems, and can be positioned on various terrain types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coop is designed to traverse uneven terrain, then adaptability to irregular ground is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised without specialized compliant segments
Solution Approach 1:
The coop structure incorporates compliant segments that can dynamically adjust to uneven terrain. These segments allow the structure to flex and adapt to ground irregularities while maintaining overall structural integrity, enabling the coop to traverse varied terrain without compromising stability
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant segments change the physical parameters of the coop structure by allowing controlled deformation. This enables the structure to accommodate terrain variations through elastic deformation while maintaining sufficient rigidity to preserve structural integrity during movement
3Ease of operation
If a conveyor or auger system is used for feed distribution, then labor requirements are reduced, but the device complexity and maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor and auger systems are designed to automatically distribute feed without requiring manual intervention. The systems self-regulate their operation based on the coop's movement and feed requirements, reducing labor while the modular design keeps maintenance manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor and auger systems are integrated into the coop structure itself rather than being separate external systems. This merging reduces the number of independent components, simplifies the overall system, and reduces maintenance requirements while maintaining automated feed distribution capability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system automates the pasturing process, reduces labor, and maintains structural integrity while traversing uneven terrain, ensuring efficient feed distribution and optimal manure control, thereby improving the efficiency and scalability of poultry farming.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated conveyor or auger extending in a direction parallel to the first direction, with the conveyor or auger providing a path for grain or feed from the silo to an internal feed distribution system within the coop as the coop travels in the first direction
Implementation Method 2
the conveyor or auger rotates about a central point on a field
Implementation Method 3
the conveyor or auger also provides fluid connectivity for delivering water to the internal systems of the coop
Data Source
AI summary
Systems are disclosed for pasturing livestock on an industrial scale, including for instance poultry.