Advancements and Challenges in Implementing a Poultry Farm Management System: A Case Study of Tarhona Poultry Farm

Abstract

Modern poultry farming has been transformed by advancements in technology such as Internet of Things (IoT), Information Technology (IT), and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC). These technologies have revolutionized health management practices by enabling real-time monitoring and control of environmental conditions critical to poultry farming.

This paper explores the design, development, and deployment challenges encountered during the implementation of the Poultry Farm Management System (PFMS) at Tarhona Poultry Farm (TPF), Libya. The PFMS integrates these advanced technologies to enhance health management practices in poultry farming. Key components include autonomous House Management Units (HMUs) equipped with PLCs and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), which are networked to a centralized Farm Management Unit (FMU) for comprehensive oversight. Throughout the design and development phases, significant challenges were identified, ranging from technical complexities to integration with existing farm infrastructure. This paper details the strategies and solutions employed to overcome these challenges, ensuring successful PFMS implementation. Achievements of the PFMS deployment include notable reductions in fuel costs through optimized ventilation control, decreased mortality rates, and improved operational efficiency. The system also provides comprehensive, digitally logged data for informed decision-making and proactive health management throughout the poultry breeding cycles. By addressing these challenges head-on, TPF has embraced a transformative shift towards data-driven practices, empowering sustainable poultry farming while advancing disease management and operational excellence.