For many years, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and Hoogendoorn Growth Management have closely collaborated to shape the future of the horticulture sector. This partnership has led to the development and implementation of several technologies. A concrete example is the introduction of the IIVO computer, enabling WUR to manage their greenhouse compartments with the utmost precision for various research purposes.
In an expansive area of 15,000 square meters with 150 compartments, Unifarm's greenhouse showcases innovation and sustainability in practice. Unifarm serves as a center for the cultivation of genetically modified plants and conducts crucial quarantine research.
What sets Unifarm apart are the innovative under-pressure and over-pressure systems strategically designed to contain diseases within the compartments and prevent them from infiltrating from the outside.
These advanced systems, powered by Hoogendoorn technology, have been operational since 1993 and have evolved into the advanced IIVO system. "This is a clear example of how close collaboration leads to technological advancement," the Hoogendoorn team says.
Precisely monitoring and controlling the climate in the various compartments posed a challenge. To address this complexity, the university chose to collaborate with Hoogendoorn, allowing them to maintain optimal conditions for plant growth and top-tier research.
Furthermore, Unifarm makes significant investments in energy transition innovations. They have implemented groundbreaking techniques such as underground cold and heat storage, a heat and cold storage buffer above the ground, and heat recovery from cooling machine condensers. This harvested heat is utilized sustainably, either returned to ground source wells or stored in heat and cold storage tanks for later use in regulating temperatures within the greenhouse complexes.
Their commitment to energy efficiency is further illustrated by the use of Active Air to control air handling units for a fully enclosed greenhouse. This not only helps maintain the required over- and under-pressure in compartments but also efficiently regulates humidity by utilizing outside air, which is preferred for its energy efficiency. Data collected by numerous sensors measuring pressure, energy, sunscreens, assimilation LED lighting, and valve positions are accurately stored, providing researchers and students with access to crucial climate data for future reference.
For more information:
Hoogendoorn Growth Management
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