Journal of IoT in Social, Mobile, Analytics, and Cloud (ISSN: 2582-1369)

www.irojournals.com/iroismac/

IoT based Smart Poultry Management

System
Karun K C1, Karan Subedi2, Siddharth Sharma3, Pradip Paneru4
Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, Institute of Engineering,
Pashchimanchal Campus, Pokhara, Nepal
E-mail: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Abstract

This research focuses on the development of an intelligent system utilizing embedded

frameworks and smartphone technology for monitoring and managing chicken farms. The
proposed system aims to control environmental parameters and automate feeding and water
supply, offering a cost-effective, asset-saving, and quality-oriented approach to poultry
farming. By leveraging smart devices and IoT technologies, this system can replace manual
labour, addressing industry labour challenges and introducing semi-automation. The system
encompasses tasks such as feeding using a container, water supply through nipple waterers,
temperature and humidity regulation with fans and heaters, automatic lighting, and real-time
environmental monitoring accessible through IoT cloud data. This technology-driven solution
holds promise for enhancing productivity and efficiency in poultry farming and broader
agricultural applications.

Keywords: Poultry, Temperature, Humidity, Automation, Feeding, Water Supply, Automatic

Lighting, IoT.

Introduction

1.1 Background

Poultry farming involves raising domestic birds like chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese
for meat and egg production, with chickens being the most commonly farmed species
worldwide. In Nepal, where agriculture is a vital occupation, both local and improved breeds

Journal of IoT in Social, Mobile, Analytics, and Cloud, March 2024, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pages 39-53 39
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36548/jismac.2024.1.004
Received: 03.03.2024, received in revised form: 02.04.2024, accepted: 13.04.2024, published: 25.04.2024
© 2024 Inventive Research Organization. This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License
IoT based Smart Poultry Management System

are reared. Genetic and nutritional advancements have boosted farming efficiency, but optimal
conditions within poultry houses are crucial for realizing birds’ genetic potential [20]. Modern
poultry facilities in developed countries rely on electronic controllers to regulate lighting,
temperature, and humidity, ensuring birds’ comfort and optimal growth conditions [11-14]. An
automated poultry farming aims to monitor and control indoor parameters such as temperature,
lighting, feeding, water supply, and live feed streaming to smart devices [19]. This includes
continuous sensor-based monitoring of temperature and humidity, with automated adjustments
using microcontrollers to maintain ideal conditions. Additionally, automated feeding and
watering systems ensure efficient distribution of food and water, enhancing productivity while
prioritizing bird welfare [15-18].

1.2 Problem Statements

Most poultry farms in Nepal need lots of human labor to maintain. Unhygienic farms
raising chickens may produce low-quality meat. Feeding and watering several times a day may
be tedious. The poultry farm environment may not be ideal.

1.3 Objectives

The main objectives of the research is:

• To implement automation for lighting, feeding, and watering processes in the poultry
farm.

• To develop systems to continuously monitor and maintain a healthy environment for

poultry birds, especially chickens, on the farm.

• To connect wirelessly to servers to send real-time farm data to smart devices of users.

1.4 Research Scope

The research primarily emphasizes automatic feed distribution and environmental

monitoring within poultry farming. However, further enhancements can lead to complete
automation of the poultry farm, incorporating features like automatic cleaning technologies,
ongoing visual monitoring of the farm, and additional advancements tailored to specific
requirements. This scope also extends to hatching technology, facilitating monitoring and
control of ambient temperature and humidity to optimize conditions for successful hatching.

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Literature Review

Poultry farming has undergone remarkable transformations in recent years, with

advancements in technology aimed at bolstering productivity and refining management
practices. This review delves into notable contributions in the domain of smart poultry farming
systems, spotlighting innovative methodologies and technological interventions.

Mahale and Sonaavane [1] introduced an innovative system for smart poultry farm
monitoring utilizing IoT and wireless sensor networks. Their solution, leveraging Raspberry Pi
2, Arduino UNO, and remote sensors, revolutionizes traditional farming methods by providing
real-time data on essential parameters such as temperature, humidity, light, and gas levels
through wireless networks.

Goud and Sudharsan [2] proposed an internet-based smart poultry farm integrating
wireless sensors and mobile system networks. This system facilitates remote monitoring of
critical parameters like temperature and humidity, with notifications sent to registered mobile
numbers, ensuring prompt interventions by farm personnel.

So-In, Poolsanguan, and Rujirakull [3] discussed smart mobile poultry farming systems
employing Tmote Sky WSNs. Their emphasis on integrating electronic and mechanical
components in farm establishments enhances mobility and flexibility, enabling efficient
management of key factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and population density,
alongside nutrition and genetic selection.

Amir et al. [4] presented a comprehensive chicken farm monitoring system utilizing
wireless communication units and sensors to detect temperature, humidity, light, and water
levels. Monitoring and control are facilitated through an Arduino microcontroller, ensuring
efficient management practices and optimal conditions for poultry growth.

In [5], the authors proposed a cloud-based poultry farm monitoring system, integrating
IoT devices and cloud computing for real-time data analysis and decision-making. This system
offers enhanced scalability, flexibility, and accessibility, empowering poultry farmers with
actionable insights for improved farm management.

In [6], the authors developed a smart broiler house monitoring system utilizing wireless
sensor networks and machine learning algorithms for predictive analytics. Their system enables
proactive identification of potential issues, allowing for timely interventions to optimize broiler
production efficiency and welfare.

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IoT based Smart Poultry Management System

In [7], the authors introduced a precision poultry farming system integrating IoT, AI,
and edge computing for real-time monitoring and decision support. This system offers
personalized management solutions tailored to individual bird needs, maximizing productivity
while minimizing resource wastage.

In [8], the authors proposed a smart poultry farm management system employing RFID
technology for automated tracking and monitoring of poultry health and behavior. Their system
enhances traceability and enables early detection of health issues, ensuring timely interventions
to prevent disease outbreaks.

In [9], the authors developed a wireless sensor-based poultry farm automation system
for remote monitoring and control of environmental parameters and feeding systems. Their
system improves operational efficiency, reduces labor costs, and enhances overall farm
productivity.

In [10], the researchers introduced a vision-based poultry health monitoring system

utilizing image processing techniques for automated detection of poultry diseases and
abnormalities. Their system enables early disease diagnosis and intervention, minimizing
economic losses, and ensuring optimal bird health and welfare.

These pioneering studies underscore the diverse strategies and technologies driving
advancements in smart poultry farming systems. Real-time monitoring and control
mechanisms play a pivotal role in optimizing poultry management practices, ensuring
sustainable and efficient operations.

Feasibility Study

3.1 Operational Feasibility

In the feasibility analysis, questions such as how smart poultry farming will benefit
farmers, what challenges might arise, and how efficient and convenient it will be for users to
adopt it are considered. This research aims to assist poultry farmers in effectively monitoring
and maintaining the farm environment to ensure optimal conditions for the chickens. The
automation of feeding and water distribution reduces the need for frequent visits to the farm,
saving time and enhancing operational efficiency.

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3.2 Technical Feasibility

Technical feasibility pertains to the availability of necessary technology and expertise

in the field. The hardware components needed for this research include a NodeMCU, a
temperature sensor (such as DHT11), a motor fan (operating between 5-12V), an LDR (Light
Dependent Resistor), an LED, a heater, a water pump (also operating between 5-12V), a servo
motor, and a motor driver—all readily accessible on the market. Successful implementation of
the research necessitates fundamental skills in NodeMCU programming and familiarity with
hardware integration.

3.3 Schedule Feasibility

The estimated timeline for completing the research is approximately two months, and
it is feasible to meet this deadline within the allotted timeframe.

3.4 Economic Feasibility

The economic analysis of the research involves evaluating the estimated costs
associated with developing the product, integrating it into the system, and operating the system
against the benefits derived from the research. This assessment confirms that the research is
economically viable and feasible.

Requirements

4.1 Hardware Requirements

4.1.1 NodeMCU

Figure 1 shows a NodeMCU, an open-source IoT platform comprising firmware

designed to operate on the ESP8266 Wi-Fi System-on-Chip (SoC) developed by Espressif
Systems, paired with hardware built around the ESP-12 module. In this context, “NodeMCU”
primarily denotes the firmware rather than the development kits themselves. The firmware is
programmed using Lua, a scripting language tailored for embedded systems and IoT
applications.

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IoT based Smart Poultry Management System

Figure 1. Node MCU

4.1.2 DHT 11

Figure 2 shows a DHT11 sensor, a fundamental and cost-effective digital temperature

and humidity sensor that utilizes a capacitive humidity sensor and a thermistor to measure
ambient air conditions. It generates a digital signal on the data pin and can also provide an
analog signal on the analog pin for temperature readings. This sensor is widely used for
monitoring environmental parameters in various applications due to its simplicity and
affordability.

Figure 2. DHT 11

4.1.3 L298 Motor Driver

The L298 motor driver as shown in Figure 3 is a dual H-bridge IC used to control and
drive DC motors or stepper motors. It can handle high currents and voltages, making it suitable
for robotics and mechatronics applications.

Figure 3. L298 Motor Driver

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4.1.4 HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor

The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor as shown in Figure 4 is a popular distance measuring

module. It emits ultrasonic waves and measures the time taken for the waves to bounce back
after hitting an object, allowing it to calculate distance. This sensor is widely used in robotics,
automation, and proximity sensing applications for accurate distance measurements.

Figure 4. Ultrasonic Sensor

4.1.5 LDR Sensor

An LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) sensor as shown in Figure 5 is a type of photocell

that changes resistance based on light levels. In low light, its resistance is high, and in bright
light, its resistance decreases. LDRs are used in light-sensing applications like streetlights and
camera exposure control.

4.1.6 Other Electronic Devices

Various electronic components such as jumper cables, breadboard, LED, heater, fan, DC power
supply, 5-12V DC motor, relays, switches, and more were employed in the research.

Figure 5. LDR Sensor

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IoT based Smart Poultry Management System

4.2 Software Requirements

4.2.1 ThingSpeak

ThingSpeak is an IoT analytics platform service designed for aggregating, visualizing,

and analyzing realtime data streams in the cloud. It enables users to create visual
representations of data transmitted by their devices to the ThingSpeak platform, facilitating
instant data visualization and analysis.

4.2.2 Proteus

Proteus is a software tool utilized for simulating, designing, and creating electronic
circuits. Developed by Labcenter Electronics, Proteus enables the creation of two-dimensional
circuit designs and facilitates circuit simulation for analysis and testing prior to physical
implementation.

4.2.3 Arduino IDE

The Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is dedicated software for

programming Arduino microcontrollers. It functions as a comprehensive text editor with
specialized features tailored for writing, compiling, and uploading code to Arduino boards.
This software also supports NodeMCU, enabling users to develop and deploy code seamlessly
across compatible platforms.

Methodology

5.1 Hardware Development

For our hardware setup, we used the NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller board to
integrate essential sensors for poultry farm automation. This included the DHT11 sensor for
monitoring temperature and humidity, an ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement, and an
LDR sensor for light detection. Additionally, we employed an L298 motor driver to control a
fan, heater, and a DC motor connected to a spiral conveyor belt for automated feeding. This
setup enabled precise environmental monitoring and efficient farm operation management.

5.2 Software Development

In the software domain, we developed code using C++ within the Arduino IDE to
program the NodeMCU ESP8266 board. This software implementation was vital for

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establishing seamless communication with the ThingSpeak software platform. Through this
integration, we were able to send real-time temperature and humidity data collected by the
DHT11 sensor to ThingSpeak for remote monitoring and analysis. Furthermore, we leveraged
the capabilities of the ultrasonic sensor and LDR sensor within our software to implement
automation features. This allowed us to automate the lighting and watering systems in the
poultry farm based on sensor inputs, contributing to improved efficiency and operational
control.

5.3 Block Diagram

Figure 6 shows the block diagram of our research where temperature and pulse sensors
are connected to Arduino and the data sensed by sensors is displayed in an LCD screen
interfaced with I2C. Arduino is connected to NodeMCU by serial communication. Similarly,
GPS Module is connected to NodeMCU which traces the location. The data sensed by sensors
and location traced by GPS module is sent to the IOT cloud and further retrieved to MySQL
database. Finally, the data is fetched on our website where we can inspect and monitor for
further enhancement and efficiency.

Figure 6. Block Diagram

5.4 Circuit Diagram

As shown in Figure 7, we used the NodeMCU microcontroller for our circuit setup. The
DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor is connected to the NodeMCU through the D2 data
pin to monitor temperature and humidity levels, and this data is sent to a website. An LDR
sensor is connected to the NodeMCU using the A0 analog pin to detect ambient light levels.
Additionally, we integrated an ultrasonic sensor with the NodeMCU through the D4 data pin
for measuring distances, and an LED is connected to the NodeMCU through the D6 data pin
for visual indication. We used an L298 motor driver with the NodeMCU, connected through

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IoT based Smart Poultry Management System

four data pins (D0, D1, D2, D3), to control a DC motor attached to the OUT3 and OUT4
terminals of the motor driver. Furthermore, a servo motor operates using the 3V output and is
connected to the D8 data pin of the NodeMCU.

This description outlines the detailed circuit connections enabling sensor interfacing
and motor control using the NodeMCU microcontroller.

Figure 7. Circuit Diagram

5.5 Working Principle

5.5.1 Environment Management

As shown in Figure 8, we have designed a system utilizing the NodeMCU

microcontroller as the central processing unit. The entire system’s program logic is stored
within this microcontroller. Integrated within the system is a DTH11 temperature and humidity
sensor. When the temperature rises above a certain threshold, indicating high temperature, the
system triggers a fan. Conversely, when the temperature drops below a specified threshold,
signaling low temperature, the system activates a heater (a prototype LED is used to simulate
this). Recognizing the inverse relationship between temperature and humidity, the system
adjusts humidity levels accordingly. As the temperature rises, humidity decreases, and vice
versa. Realtime data captured by the temperature and humidity sensor is transmitted to the
ThingSpeak server. This data can be accessed through any internet-connected smart device,
allowing users to monitor temperature and humidity levels through the ThingSpeak GUI.
Additionally, the system incorporates a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) to determine ambient
light conditions. When it detects darkness, the system automatically switches on an LED for
illumination. Conversely, when light levels increase, the LED is turned off.

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Figure 8. Flowchart for Environment Automation

5.5.2 Feeding and Water Automation

As shown in Figure 9, we designed and implemented a feed distribution system utilizing

an auger system, which operates as a spiral conveyor to deliver feed from a container to the
feeders. A 12V DC motor drives the auger. When the feeding container is empty, I manually
activate the auger system using a switch as needed. For water distribution to chickens, nipple
waterers were employed. To monitor water levels in the main reservoir, an ultrasonic sensor
was integrated. When the water level falls below a certain threshold, a servo motor was
programmed to regulate the flow of water through a direct pipe into the reservoir, ensuring a
constant water supply.

Figure 9. Flowchart for Feeding and Water Automation

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Results and Discussion

After the successful completion of the research, it was observed that the system
demonstrated remarkable capabilities. These included self-maintenance of humidity and
temperature levels through the integration of a fan and heater. Additionally, it incorporated
automated lighting systems that adjusted according to environmental conditions. Furthermore,
an automated food and water feed system, employing ultrasonic sensors and motors, was
implemented. Real-time monitoring of temperature and humidity parameters was achieved by
sending data to a remote server, accessible through smart devices. The designed prototype is
depicted in Figure 10, showcasing its physical manifestation. Additionally, a snapshot of the
software implementation and observations is presented in Figure 11, providing insights into
the system’s functionality and performance.

Figure 10. Designed Prototype

Figure 11. Software Implementation

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Conclusion

The prototype of the smart poultry management system was successfully designed
according to planned procedures and an appropriate circuit diagram. The output of the project
was exactly as per intentions within the expectations and margin of error. The prototype was
able to maintain environmental conditions like temperature, humidity, and lighting and send
the data to the remote server, SmartThings, for remote monitoring. The prototype was also able
to bring automation in food and water supply to the poultry farm using sensors and motors.

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