The Patio system comprises a multi-tier growing module that can be
installed as a retro fit in existing broiler houses or as a new installation.
Using the Patio system, after 18 days of incubation at
the hatchery, eggs at setter trays are transferred from the
hatchery to the broiler growing unit. The trays containing
the fertile egg are placed on racks on the top of each
tier of the growing module. Chicks hatch in the trays and
drop to the surface of the module that has a thin layer of
litter where they dry and start eating and drinking, similar
to chicks placed in conventional houses. The growing
modules can be supplied in 4-6-tier units fitted with
manure belts. Compatible heating, ventilation and lighting
are installed in the house.
Vencomatic claims more “robust” chicks from the
Patio system, since chicks are provided with an optimal
environment with respect to ventilation and heating and
have immediate access to feed and water after hatch.
Results of 42 trials were presented by Lotte van de
Ven. From over 1. 2 million eggs placed, hatchability
from the Patio system attained 96.2% (of fertile eggs)
compared to 94.5% hatch-to-fertile from controls. The
age of parent flocks supplying eggs ranged from 29 to 50
weeks. Average 7-day mortality in the Patio system was
approximately 1%, with a range of 0.9 for old parent flocks
to 1.6% for the youngest flock. The average improvement
in day-old chick weight over 13 cycles was approximately
5.8 grams or 13.4% higher than comparable chicks
subjected to conventional hatching.
Over the 42 comparisons, chicks reared in the Patio
Systems
Various
systems/containers
for big processing
plants/farms,
both for chickens
and turkeys.
Info available on
automated loading,
conveying,
washing,
restacking system
Then day-old
chick boxes,
live quail crates,
trays, etc.
