The VIRGO-INL controller

The VIRGO-INL controller is an electronic device used to control microclimate in livestock buildings with gravity ventilation, heating and spraying (cooling and humidification) on the basis of measurement of temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide concentration. The microclimate control is performed by the control of servomotors that open or close air inlets (e.g. chimney flaps, side curtains). The controller enables to control several servomotors of chimney flaps and curtains by connection of INLET-010 modules (max. 4 for chimneys and max. 4 for curtains). During its operation the VIRGO-INL controller records the history: values of measured parameters, alarms, control. That enables the continuous control of the breeding process as well as data archiving. After reading the history to PC computer it is possible to present it in the shape of tables and charts. An in-built communication interface provides the possibility of connection of many VIRGO-INL controllers in the network and to control their operation by means of PC computer- it is also possible to configure the system to remote control- via the Internet.

Wiring diagram of the VIRGO-INL controller with sensors and modules control:

In the VIRGO-INL controller can be used up to:

• 16 sensors (temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide concentration),
• 16 control sections (4 in-built, 12 external; ventilation, heating, spraying, air mixers).

There are available the following functions:

• ventilation on the basis of temperature, humidity and CO₂ concentration,
• target temperature set manually or automatic change according to curve,
• night temperature (change of temperature when lighting is off in order to improve the welfare and efficiency of the breeding process),
• periodical ventilation (also with the function of minimum ventilation),
• the control of humidity level: dehumidification and humidification,
• heating,
• cooling by spraying,
• operation of air mixers on the basis of temperature difference between sensors and together with heaters,
• cooperation with 3 stage heaters,
• alarms,
• recording of the operation history with date and time (alarms and cyclical saving of parameters, daily indicators),
• connection to PC computer and remote control of many VIRGO controllers – also via the Internet (dedicated software is the FARM software).