Template:Optimum Density
Optimum Density specifies whether or not the solution calculations should find the optimum yield for the diet without having to produce the exact batch weight specified for the formula. If there is a least cost diet that meets the formula's requirements but with a yield lower or higher than the batch weight, then that diet will be the solution regardless of its final yield.
Optimum Density allows the solve algorithm to increase (or decrease) yield in order to find the optimum nutrient density, resulting in a lower cost than solving with the formula's batch weight. Nutrient density is an important tool in feeding animals under conditions of heat or stress.
Two fields control the use of Optimum Density: the optimum density code and the range percentage.
The Optimum Density codes are:
- "Y - Yes" to find the optimum yield
- "N - No" to use the fixed batch weight (the default)
- "W - WeightLimits" to find the optimum yield within specific limits
If you specify "W-weight limits" you should also specify a range percentage. This is the range within which the solution may vary from the specified batch weight. For example if the batch weight is 1000 and the range percentage is 10%, then the solution yield may be anywhere from 900 to 1100.
Helpful hint: The two optimum density codes use a different model for solving than the fixed batch weight model. A code of "W-weight limits" and a range percentage of zero specifies the same batch weight as "N - No", but uses the optimum density model in the solve. This can be useful for cases where the solve has difficulties with "N - No".
