INFRARED RADIANT SENSING FOR CONTROLLING IR-BASED HEATERS

A sensing system was developed to monitor the area weighted average zone temperature (AWAZT) in the animal occupied zone during infrared (IR) heater operation. The sensor developed was successful in tracking the AWAZT and was successful as a feed-back sensor used for controlling variable output rates for IR-based heaters. This IR sensor is unique in that a partial shield exists to allow for not only radiant heat sensing but also one that is able to capture air temperature effects in the heating zone. The shielding allows for the sensor to be placed relatively close to a radiant heater, without sensing the full extent of radiant heat from the heating core. The tests conducted indicate that the IR sensor provided responds quickly to the actual AWAZT at pig-level in response to the radiant heaters output level. Because of this, it is anticipated that the IR sensor will work well in field installations. The IR sensor bracket developed for the research conducted is convenient and easily adjusted, if need be.