RETROFITTING AN EXISTING CHICKEN EGG INCUBATOR FOR AUTOMATION AND ENHANCED PERFORMANCE

This project involved retrofitting an automation-based chicken egg incubator to enhance thermal efficiency, humidity control, electrical safety, and user accessibility. Key modifications included reducing internal volume with foam insulation, adding aluminium foil lining to minimize heat loss, and reorganizing the circuitry within a protected MDF casing with grounding and proper insulations. Testing showed reduced warm-up time, lower daily power consumption, and fewer heater operating hours. Improved sealing and airflow provided more stable temperature and humidity, creating conditions favourable for embryo development. The reduced energy demand suggests compatibility with off-grid power sources such as solar systems, making the incubator suitable for rural and resource-limited settings. Although live hatch trials were not conducted, performance metrics and benchmark data indicate potential for improved hatchability. The project demonstrates how targeted engineering interventions can transform underperforming devices into efficient, user-friendly, and scalable solutions. The enhanced incubator supports applications in small-scale hatcheries, agricultural education, and rural development programs.