Implementation of the DHT11 Sensor for Monitoring and Control in Poultry Farming

Abstract

The poultry farming business, particularly broiler chicken farming, has been in operation since 1980 and continues to thrive and grow in the world of animal husbandry. The prospects for broiler chicken farming are considered favorable, given the consistently increasing market demand. As a result, farmers are compelled to operate on a larger scale, with farm sizes typically ranging from 1 to 5 hectares. While broiler chickens can regulate their body temperature, they struggle to maintain optimal conditions when there are drastic changes in temperature and humidity in their environment. This makes the role of heating (via lamps) and ventilation (through fans or blowers) crucial to maintaining a comfortable temperature for the chickens. The ideal temperature range for broiler chickens in their housing is between 30°C and 34°C, with humidity levels maintained between 50% and 60%. To address this issue, a solution has been proposed in the form of an automated temperature monitoring and control system for poultry housing. This system utilizes Internet of Things (IoT) technology for effective monitoring and regulation of environmental conditions. The study focuses on the design and application of this system. The researchers employed a NodeMCU microcontroller along with a fan and heater to control the temperature. Initially, a setpoint for the temperature in the chicken coop was established using a DHT11 temperature sensor. The system then uses this setpoint to regulate the operation of the fan and heater. The results of the research show that the NodeMCU system functions automatically. Once the temperature reaches the maximum setpoint, the fan is activated to cool the chicken coop. Conversely, if the temperature drops below the minimum setpoint, the heater is activated to warm the coop, thereby stabilizing the room temperature to maintain a comfortable environment for the chickens. In conclusion, the development of this IoT-based temperature monitoring and control system for chicken coops has proven to be effective. The system operates as designed, turning the fan on and off while regulating the heater based on the predetermined setpoints. Additionally, the DHT11 temperature sensor accurately detects room temperature, ensuring the poultry environment remains within the required standards, specifically the 30°C temperature target.