Abstact:

Raking is necessary to keep Poultry in good health. Due to Scarcity of labour, Innovator faced
problem for doing racking manually in his Poultry farm. He started thinking to mechanize it by
developing a machine. After doing modifications in the 1st prototype he could develop the refined
product in 2008.

It is being used for turning/disturbing the layers from bottom to top of Poultry wastes accumulated
in the farm. This exposes ammonia and nitrogen to atmosphere which is present in the animal
wastes. Proper racking reduces the mortality rate of chicks and also enhances the proper growth of
chick by minimising the disease spread. The electrical cable is connected to the plug point for electric
supply. The user holds the machine from the handle. The motor starts by turning on the power
supply and it provides power to the driving shaft through belt & pulleys and chain & sprockets after
net speed reduction of 1:34. The motor gives traction for propelling the machine forward. The
racking is achieved by the wheels having lugs and blade.
Introduction:

The traditional raking method is labor intensive and requires too much time, cost and
efforts. THIS MACHINEis an electrically operated unique raking machine which solves the
problem of raking efficiently. With the help of modern technology and design, THIS
MACHINEis capable of reducing raking time by 75% and this can be done by a single person
only. Movable wheels and adjustable pulleys allow you to move and adjust the machine
easily as per the height of the bedding (Rice Husk or Wood Saw Dust) and condition of floor
(Cement or Soil). Poultry Farmers & Businessmen from more than 11 districts in India and
neighboring countries in SAARC region (i.e. Bhutan & Sri Lanka) are already taking
advantage of THIS MACHINE

After 15 days, rake the litter daily till 40th day using PakshiMitra Raking Machine. This reduces
the Ammonia & Moisture levels from the litter. It helps improve the health of birds & maintains
hygiene level in your poultry farm.

OBJECTIVES OF THIS PROJECT

LITRETURE SURVEY:

Increasing global human populations and wealth have resulted in increased demands for animal protein
and widespread use of confined animal feeding operations to meet added animal protein consumptive
demands. Disposal of animal wastes from these operations can be ecologically and environmentally
problematic (Kellogg et al., 2000; Roberts et al., 2004; Shober & Sims, 2003). Poultry production is an
important source of this protein and is a major agricultural industry in the United States. The United
States is the world’s largest producer and second largest exporter of poultry meat (UDSA Economic
Research Service, 2009). Four-fifths of the United States poultry industry is comprised of broiler meat
production. Broiler meat production is largely concentrated in Southeastern states (Alabama, Arkansas,
Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee,
Texas and Virginia), with 82% of U.S. broiler production occurring in these states.

Broiler production results in the generation of massive amounts of litter, a mixture of feces, feed,
feathers and bedding materials such as straw, peanut or rice hulls, and wood shavings (Gupta et al.,
1997; Weaver, 1998). The U.S.A. poultry industry produces more than 11 million Mg of litter per year
(Cabrera & Sims, 2000). Broiler poultry litter contains several plant macro- and micronutrients (Table 1),
which makes it desirable as an agricultural fertilizer (Sistani et al., 2008). Following removal from poultry
production facilities, litter is commonly applied to nearby pastures, hay meadows, and agricultural crops
such as corn and cotton to increase crop production and quality (Harmel et al., 2004; Sims & Wolf,
1994). Applications of poultry litter ranging from 4.5 to 11.2 Mg ha-1 yr-1 are common to supplement or
replace inorganic annual fertilizer additions to pastures (Adams et al., 1994). Thus, poultry litter
application is an efficient and potentially cost-effective method for improving forage production within
the vicinity of production facilities, which helps to sustain non-poultry related agriculture economies in
poultry producing regions. Substitution of broiler litter for inorganic fertilizers continues to incre Poorly
planned, excessive, or long-term applications of broiler litter to pastures and other agroecosystems can
result in excessive nutrient losses, reductions in surface water quality, and potential risks to human
health. Poultry litter is typically applied as a nitrogen fertilizer, but N availability from litter is relatively
difficult to predict because only one-third of the N in litter is in exchangeable forms such as NH4-N and
NO3-N. Two-thirds of N in litter is in organic form, which must be mineralized before it is plant available.
Mineralization of N in litter varies from 40 to 90% with edaphic and environmental conditions,
particularly conditions at the time of litter application (Mitchell & Donald, 1995). Gaseous losses of N
from litter via volatilization can vary from 5 to 20% of total N, which reduces the amount of N available
for plant use (Mitchell & Donald, 1995). While the amounts and forms of N in litter can vary
considerably, those of other nutrients, particularly P, are relatively stable. As a result, if litter is applied
at rates that supply sufficient N to meet crop demand soils can become saturated with P as well as K, Ca,
Mg, Cd, Cu, Mn, and Zn (Edmeades, 2003; Kingery et al., 1994). Surface water runoff or soil water
leaching associated with these nutrient-saturated soils can reduce water quality in watersheds (Friend et
al., 2006; Gallimore et al., 1999; Gaston et al., 2003; Kellogg et al., 2000; Sauer et al., 1999; Sims & Wolf,
1994). Excess nutrients are transported to surface waters via runoff either in particulate forms or sorbed
to soil particles which are suspended in surface runoff. Soluble P and C, NO3-N, NH4-N, and some
organic N species have been demonstrated to be transported by runoff as a solution. NH4-N and P are
often sorbed to soil particles and conveyed by runoff through erosion, and organic C, P, and N have been
shown to be moved by runoff in particulate form (Edwards & Daniel, 1992). Repeated applications of
poultry litter can lead to accumulations of N and P in soil as well as elevated levels of one or both of
these nutrients in surface runoff and subsurface water (McLeod and Hegg, 1984; Sharpley and Menzel,
1987; Kingery et al., 1994). The potential for P saturation and leaching may be particularly high for
highly-fertilized and sandy soils (Breeuwsma and Silva, 1992; Nair and Graetz, 2004). Large or chronic
accumulations of N and P can contribute to accelerated eutrophication of water bodies, impairing their
use and potentially leading to fish mortality and growth of algae (Schindler, 1978; Lemunyon and
Gilbert, 1993). Elevated concentrations of N and P in surface water and eutrophication of water bodies
have been found in areas with high levels of confined poultry and other animal production (Daniel et al.,
1998; Sharpley, 1999; Fisher et al., 2000). State and federal environmental protection agencies have
responded to these environmental concerns by implementing regulations requiring poultry operations
to develop nutrient management plans, which will frequently reduce the allowable amounts of litter
that can be applied (Friend et al., 2006). It is estimated that 50% of the litter produced from areas with
high concentrations of poultry production facilities cannot be applied to grasslands and croplands in
these same areas due to environmental or economic constraints, which has led to surpluses of manure
N and P production in some parts of the southeastern U.S. (Kellogg et al., 2000).

Poultry farming in India is one of profitable businesses. Poultry business requires proper
planning and management. If you want to start a poultry farm then this poultry farming
guide for beginners will be helpful to you. Learn how to start poultry farming in India
with minimum investment.

Poultry farming is the method of raising various domestic birds like chicken, turkey, emu,
ducks, geese, etc. for their eggs or meat. This has been practiced in India for such a long
time that it has become an indispensable part of the farming and agriculture system. Since
the 1950s poultry farming in India has changed tremendously. From being an unorganized
and non-scientific system it has transformed itself to a more systematic, planned, scientific,
commercial and organized farming practice. From being a backyard farming practice it is
now full-fledged techno-commercial industry.

Globally, India ranks 3rd in the world for Egg Production and 5th in the world for Chicken
Meat Production. Although the production is mainly achieved through commercial means,
the rural poultry sector also contributes significantly to the Indian Poultry Industry. It is
looked upon as a reliable economic and nutritional source.
Basic Requirement of Poultry Farming

Poultry farming are of different types such as duck rearing, rearing chicken, quails, turkey,
emu, broiler, etc. However, the principles and practices underlying are the same. For a
successful poultry management the checklist includes proper site selection, site building,
chalking the rearing plan, proper knowledge of using the equipment, procuring the various
quality inputs from different resources, managing the day to day poultry affairs,
constructing the houses and managing the timely marketing.

Choosing Poultry Farm Site

The farm site must be away from the chaos and hustle-bustle of the city. It should be calm
and pollution free environment. The farm must have adequate, clean and fresh drinking
water sources nearby. Also the site must be free of poultry enemies and predators like
foxes and leopards. The site must be easily accessible from main roads. In other words,
transportation must be easy and not very difficult. The local markets must also be easily
accessible.

Housing for Poultry Farming

Poultry shelters are the next important factor after farm sites in poultry rearing. The
shelters must be raised adequately to prevent the risk of flooding. It should be spacious
enough to permit free movement and running of the birds. In addition the shelter must be
adequately ventilated and protected from sunlight. It is advisable to construct the shelters
in a south facing direction. In this way, the birds are not only protected from the harsh
sunlight but also permit circulation of fresh, clean air. There should be adequate drainage
facilities in the shelter. Also if there is more than one shelter then the distance between
two of them must be at least 50 feet. This would ensure proper ventilation and non-
accumulation of ammonia inside the shelters. The entrances in the shelter must be fastened
properly. Also there should be fencing around the shelter to secure the birds. The shelter
design however depends on the breed of poultry, type of production, etc.

Feed

For commercial poultry production, good quality, highly nutritious food is a must. On a
regular basis, they need about 38 nutrients in adequate amounts for their regular diet
pattern. The feed can be given in different forms like crumbles, mash or pellets. Mash is the
most economical, commonly used and easy to prepare feed. Pellets are prepared by
subjecting the mash feed to heat treatment under pressure. As a result the pathogens in
the feed are destroyed. This enables the birds to digest the feed and also minimize the
wastage. Crumbles are the expensive form of feed wherein the pellets are broken down to
granules. In addition to providing the birds with feed they must be given ample amount of
clean and fresh drinking water.

Types of Poultry Farming in India

Broiler Poultry Farming

Broiler segment in poultry is one of the fastest growing segments in recent times. It is the
tender, young meat of male or female chicken. It’s weight ranges from 40 grams to 1.5 Kg
and it can be maximum six weeks old. India produces 2.47 million metric tonnes of broiler
making it the fifth largest broiler producer in the world. This growth is mainly due to the
interposition of the corporate sector that threw emphasis on scientific rearing of broilers.
Owing to the considerable growth, farmers have access to high quality chicks, professional
guidance, medicines and vaccines, sophisticated equipment, etc.

Advantages of Broiler Farming

1. Rearing period lasts up to maximum 6 weeks.

2. Low initial investment
3. Their feed conversion efficiency is very high which means the amount of feed
needed for body weight gain is much lower.
 4. Demand for poultry meat is higher than compared to goat or sheep meat.
5. he investment returns are faster since the rearing period is only 6 weeks.

Disadvantage of Broiler Farming

1. Broilers are reared commonly in cages resulting in cage weakness.

2. Cages under dense conditions can result in lack of air circulation.

Birds would suffer from fatty liver syndrome, leg problems, etc.

Layer Poultry Farming

Layer poultry means raising birds specifically for egg-laying purposes. In other words,
special hen species are reared for commercial egg production. They start laying eggs once
they are 18 weeks old and go on laying eggs till they are 78 weeks of age. During this period
they produce 1 Kg of eggs for every 2.25 Kg of food consumed. Globally India is the third
largest producer of eggs in the world. As per statistics, the current egg production is far
below the ICMR recommended 180 eggs per capita annually.

Country Chicken Farming

Country chicken or free range chicken is rearing poultry breeds indigenous to India. In other
words, they are local breed of chicken found in a particular geographical location. India is
the fifth largest chicken producer of which commercial poultry breeds are a major harvest.
However country chicken also makes significant contribution. The main advantage of
country chicken is that the birds are comparatively more resistant to infections and have a
better survival rate. They adapt to new surroundings easily. They have a good egg
production capacity and the input cost is negligible.

Emu Farming

Emu is a versatile bird that survives in almost all climates worldwide. They were introduced
along with ostriches in India. However owing to its versatility it has garnered a lot of
importance. One of the main reasons behind this is that it neither dependent on the
monsoons nor by the uncertain market trends. Emu meat is used for making food
preparations while emu oil is of medical significance.
Quail Farming

Quail farming is gaining popularity in past few years since they are very small birds
extremely popular for their eggs and meat. Initial investment for quail rearing is very less as
compared to other poultry. The same holds true for the maintenance as well. Quails are
ready for marketing within 5 weeks of growing and rearing. In addition they require a very
small floor space. They start laying eggs at 6-7 weeks of age and lay about 300 eggs a year.
However there are some challenges in quail rearing too. The male quails produce a sound
which is harmful for the human ear. If male and females are reared together, then it is likely
that male quails would peck eyes of other male quails rendering them blind. Quails being
protected species can be reared for commercial purposes after obtaining a license from the
Department of Animal Husbandry.

Turkey Farming

Turkey is the most popular of all foods during Christmas. It is however growing in popularity
since the meat is very lean and diet-friendly. Unlike hens and quails, turkey is only reared
for the meat. In India, turkey farming is still in infancy. Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the
leading turkey producers in the country. Efforts are being put by other states for turkey
farming as well.

Duck Farming

Ducks unlike other poultry birds have a difference in their growing habits and habitats. They
are raised for their meat and eggs yet, they fall only partially under the poultry system. They
are strong birds but they need water around them for mating and laying the eggs. They can
feed on the agricultural waste produced at the farms. Hence they can be grown in the
farms.

Disease Management in Poultry Farming

More than 60% of the total diseases and pathogens in the world originate from animals-
wild or domestic. Zoonotic pathogens are transmitted to humans via food or through direct
contact between humans and animals. Diseases are the main threat to poultry farming.
Farmers face severe losses due to spread of various poultry diseases. One of the best ways
to prevent development and spread of diseases is to take good care of the birds. The
shelters must be cleaned regularly. The water and food containers must be washed
regularly. Precautions must be taken to not mix contaminated food with regular food. The
birds must be regularly checked for development of disease symptoms. Vaccination
schedules must be properly followed. If any infection is detected then the diseased bird
must be immediately separated from other healthy birds to check the spread of infection.

Profitability in Poultry Farming in India

Poultry farming in India is a profitable business owing to many reasons. One of the chief
reasons is that unlike agriculture, this is not dependent on rain, sunlight or other weather
factors. The investment required here is lower. Initially it can be started with a very small
flock of birds and then built up progressively. Since it is not weather and geographical
conditions dependent there is always a promise of yield and returns.

Conclusion

Poultry farming in India is a good way to start new income source supplementary with
agriculture. These bird’s litter is capable of increasing the soil fertility, the poultry waste is
useful for organic agriculture and has demand in market.
SPECIFICATION:

 Motor: 1 hp single phase -1400 rpm.

 Pulley: Pulley 1 – 25 cm diameter
 Pulley 2 - 8 cm diameter
 Belt: Length – 103 cm, Width – 2 cm
 Sprocket: Sprocket 1 – 20 cm diameter
 Sprocket 2 – 6 cm diameter
 Chain: Length – 85 cm, Width – 1.5 cm
 Racking Tool: Blade made of Mild Steel, 75 cm effective widt Wheel : metallic wheels of 40
cm diameter (2 Wheels)
 SILENT FEATURES:

 It can reduce over 50% of labor cost by making the racking process effective for poultry farm.
 Racking machine can cover 15,000 square feet/h by employing two people while the same
done manually would take 6 hours.
 It is very useful tool in reducing the chick mortality rate and overall better up keeping of
chicks growth
 There is a noticeable reduction in foul odour when raking is done using this machine, as
against manual raking.
Key Highlights

 Helps to keep litter dry by managing moisture.

 Helps to remove ammonia significantly.
 Rakes faster, minimum physical efforts and low maintenance cost.
 Return on investment within 4 batches* – Recover your investment faster
 Reduces labor dependency.
 Our Vision

1. Any country to be empowered - by empowering the sons of the soils - is the surest
way.
2. We envision Poultry Farmers taking maximum yields from their farms with minimal
labour dependence and financial implications.
3. The end customers consuming the poultry products should receive the healthiest
flock of chickens raised in healthy farms.
4. Our goal is to reach each enterprising poultry farmer looking forward to raise
healthy birds, irrespective of the geographical location he has.

Our Mission

1. To address the micro challenges inside a farm, primarily – Litter Raking, disturbing
Ammonia levels & Moisture contents.
2. Reduce the dependency on manual methods and encourage use of smart
mechanical assistance in the form of machines.
3. Changing results by changing methods.
4. Maintain the quality of output (batch of chickens) through out the year, irrespective
of the season and its effect on their quality. This will be major shift in the way the
industry performs.

Does this machine cause any damage to Floor?

No. The machine does not cause any damage to the floor. With level arrangement setting,
it always remains above the floor. It even works on sand floor if the sand level is
maintained correctly e.g. no pot holes or bumps, no big stones.

Does noise of the machine disturb birds?

No. Noise of the machine is as low as 30 db which is very less and birds do not get disturbed
(all age birds).
CONCLUSION :-

The proper guidance of project head and the sincere efforts of

our group WILL DEFINATLY HELP to the successfully accomplishment of our
concerned projects.

“___________NAME OF PROJECT__” will be interesting to work on and will also

gained in this project work...

This knowledge of project will definitely be helpful in our

future. So we must maintain that this final year project will be an essential part
of our engineering education enhancing our technical knowledge and practical
skill.