Reshaping broiler sexing through advanced automation and support
The poultry industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by a growing demand for consistent, high-quality animal protein. With added pressures, including labour shortages, rising costs, and evolving regulatory challenges, producers are more frequently leaning towards advanced systems – particularly those powered by artificial intelligence (AI) – to optimise operations and remain competitive.
Recent breakthroughs in technology, such as the ability to automate feather sexing, address key industry challenges by improving output at the hatchery, enhancing uniformity on farms and increasing yield at the processing plant. However, adopting sophisticated AI-driven systems is only part of the solution.
The real value of these technologies can only be fully realised with robust servicing and support. Without reliable maintenance, even the most innovative tools are vulnerable to downtime and operational inefficiencies, which can impact performance. Ensuring consistent functionality requires comprehensive customer support that minimises disruptions and keeps production on track.
Maximising efficiency through automation
While the benefits of feather sexing extend across the entire poultry value chain, adoption has been limited by the inconsistent, labour-intensive nature of traditional methods. Automated systems transform this process, offering hatcheries increased precision and faster throughput, improving productivity and reliability.
Targan’s WingScan system utilises AI to sex and sort up to 100,000 broiler chicks per hour, depending on the configuration, with up to 98% accuracy. It also eliminates the need for large sexing crews, reduces bird handling and offers a less invasive approach, improving welfare and reducing biosecurity risks.
Beyond the hatchery, WingScan’s impact extends to the farm and processing plant. Early separation of male and female chicks enables sex-separate rearing, allowing for tailored feeding strategies that promote consistent growth rates and greater uniformity. This ensures that birds enter the processing plant at more consistent sizes, helping to reduce waste while maximising yield more effectively.
To ensure WingScan delivers optimal output, Targan prioritises preventative maintenance and real-time support, helping producers avoid any potential disruptions.
World-class servicing and support
As automation and AI-driven solutions become more essential in poultry operations, the demand for specialised servicing and support increases. While systems like WingScan provide substantial benefits, they require continuous engagement to deliver consistent value. Due to the complexity of these sophisticated technologies, traditional support models are no longer sufficient.
In response, Targan has developed a service and support model designed for next-generation systems, including regular maintenance, real-time monitoring and proactive data-driven insights. Each customer is also assigned a dedicated Customer Success Manager post-installation to gather feedback and provide ongoing support, ensuring any suggested improvements are addressed.
In addition, Targan’s highly-trained field service team is strategically positioned to deliver timely and dependable support. With technicians located in key regions, the company ensures expert assistance is available when needed. Whether addressing routine maintenance or unexpected challenges, the field service team plays a crucial role in sustaining reliable and efficient operations.
A key component of this support structure is ongoing communication with hatcheries. Weekly check-ins and remote assessments enable early detection of potential issues, ensuring timely software updates and performance reviews. This proactive approach helps prevent disruptions before they affect operations.
Continuous monitoring and timely intervention preserve WingScan’s high accuracy and throughput, underscoring the importance for companies offering advanced technologies to prioritise service and support. More specifically, proactive and responsive solutions that deliver lasting value and productivity for customers.
The value of customer feedback in shaping future innovations
Targan’s engineers serve as a dedicated point of contact from the moment of installation. They offer in-depth training, guiding hatchery teams on what to monitor and how to address potential issues. This hands-on coaching, combined with an appointed Customer Success Manager, ensures that staff are well-equipped to manage day-to-day operations confidently.
While AI-powered technologies like WingScan adapt autonomously through machine learning, input from customers remains essential for guiding the industry’s future innovations. For hatchery staff familiar with Targan’s systems, their insights are crucial for refining the company’s data interpretation capabilities and tailoring the technology to better meet the specific operational needs of each customer.
Looking ahead, Tragan’s commitment to support goes beyond customised installations. Plans to further enhance WingScan through AI-driven advancements will allow the system to adjust and optimise performance without manual intervention. Fostering strong relationships with customers will ensure the system evolves in line with the industry’s needs, equipping producers to combat modern challenges and rising consumer demand.
For more information, visit www.targan.com/wingscan
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