SOLAR POWERED EGG INCUBATOR

Poultry farming is a crucial agricultural sector that provides protein and economic opportunities, particularly in rural communities. However, small-scale poultry farmers often face challenges in egg incubation due to unreliable electricity and the high costs of conventional incubators. This study explores the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a solar-powered egg incubator tailored for small-scale poultry farmers. The proposed incubator harnesses renewable solar energy to maintain optimal incubation conditions, ensuring stable temperature, humidity, and automated egg turning. The research employs a systematic approach, including component selection, design calculations, computer-aided design (CAD) simulations, and prototype fabrication. The incubator is designed to be cost-effective, energy-efficient, and scalable, making it accessible to farmers in off-grid areas. Performance tests demonstrated that the incubator maintained an internal temperature range of 37–38°C, achieving a hatchability rate of 91% and a fertility rate of 95%. Computational
Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis validated its thermal efficiency and air circulation patterns. The results indicate that solar-powered incubation is a viable alternative to conventional methods, reducing dependency on fossil fuels while enhancing productivity. This study contributes to sustainable poultry farming by offering a practical, environmentally friendly, and economically viable solution for small-scale farmers. Further research is recommended to explore large-scale applications and the integration of automated control systems