In the rapidly evolving world of vertical farming, precision and data-driven decision-making are key to optimizing plant growth and resource utilization. A recent study published in the journal *Sensors* (translated from German as “Sensors”) introduces a groundbreaking, low-cost sensor setup that promises to revolutionize biomass measurement in indoor farming systems. Led by Lukas Munser from the Professorship Automatic Control and System Dynamics at Technische Universität Chemnitz, this research offers a practical solution for continuous, non-destructive plant weight measurements, addressing longstanding challenges in the industry.
Traditional methods of biomass measurement, such as destructive sampling, are not only time-consuming but also impractical for high-frequency monitoring. Image-based estimation techniques, while promising, require frequent retraining and are sensitive to changes in lighting and plant morphology. Munser’s innovative approach leverages load-cell technology to provide a robust, scalable, and easily retrofittable solution tailored for vertical farming applications.
The system operates at the level of individual growing trays, offering a middle ground between impractical plant-level sensing and overly coarse rack-level measurements. “Tray-level data allow for localized control actions, such as adjusting light spectrum and intensity per tray, thereby enhancing the utility of controllable LED systems,” explains Munser. This granularity supports layer-specific optimization and anomaly detection, which are not feasible with rack-level feedback.
The practical implications of this research are significant. By enabling finer control and smarter decision-making, the biomass sensor can optimize resource use, improve plant growth models, and support advanced control strategies like model predictive control. “This system offers a practical and robust solution for biomass monitoring in dynamic, growing environments,” Munser emphasizes. The sensor’s ability to address common challenges such as mechanical noise and thermal drift makes it a valuable tool for both commercial and research-oriented vertical farming systems.
The developed sensor was rigorously tested and validated against manual harvest data, demonstrating high agreement with actual plant biomass. This validation confirms its suitability for integration into vertical farming systems, paving the way for more efficient and data-driven cultivation practices.
As the vertical farming industry continues to grow, the need for precise and continuous biomass measurement becomes increasingly critical. Munser’s research not only addresses this need but also sets the stage for future developments in the field. By providing a scalable and easily retrofittable solution, this innovative sensor setup has the potential to shape the future of indoor farming, making it more efficient, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of modern agriculture.