Characterization and Modeling of Temporal Illuminance (Light Intensity) in Naturally-Illuminated Broiler Houses

Abstract

Lighting plays an important role in the welfare, behavior, and productivity of broilers. This thesis investigates the influence of seasonality, sensor orientation and window configurations on light intensity in commercial broiler houses providing natural light. Chapter 1 characterizes light intensity in two GAP-certified naturally illuminated houses with different window configurations over three seasons (winter, summer and fall). Statistical analysis showed that the 2SW treatment resulted in significantly higher light intensities and better uniformity when compared to the 1SW treatment. Chapter 2 explores modeling light intensity in the same natural light broiler houses using empirical models, machine learning algorithms, and physics-based simulations (AGi32). The predictive performance, as well as the pros and cons of using various modeling approaches to predict light intensity in broiler houses are examined.