A mathematical model for estimation of broiler egg weight loss from physical dimensions and air cell size during incubation.
A formula was derived that will enable hatcheries to estimate percentage weight loss using the width, length, and air cell diameter of the egg. The formula was derived by fitting an equation to the shape of the egg and using this shape equation to obtain estimates of air cell volume and egg volume. These estimates were coupled with the principle that weight = density x volume to give the final formula as a function of air cell diameter divided by egg width. The formula was tested by comparing its estimated values with measured values from eggs set at two different incubation conditions chosen to cover the range of conditions found in commercial hatcheries. As the day of transfer approached, embryo size and distortion of the air cell caused inaccuracies to develop in the results of this equation. However, data suggest that the equation can be used to calculate percentage weight loss until approximately the 16th day of incubation.
Phillips
L
L
Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, 27695-7608.
Brake
J
J
Ellner
S
S
Oukama
R
R
D000818:Animals; D002642:Chick Embryo / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004531:Eggs / Q000592:standards*; D008954:Models, Biological