ANIMAL-BASED CONTROL ALGORITHM FOR NATURAL VENTILATION IN PIG HOUSES

An algorithm is developed for environmental control in pig houses usin g natural ventilation. This controller requires input of animal data i nstead of climate setpoints. The controller includes both a growth mod el that predicts pig weight and feed intake and a heat balance model t hat determines animal-level climate setpoints. The algorithm uses a ca rbon dioxide balance to estimate air exchange. Therefore, the algorith m can be used in pig houses with natural ventilation. The control of a irflow in pig houses allows for an energy-efficient use of heating sys tems in pig houses with natural ventilation.