Fluence illuminates the Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge at Wageningue University, with VYPR top luminaires and Wireless Flex Dimming solution

For the first time in the challenge’s history, Wageningen University replaced all high-pressure sodium lights with a full-spectrum, all-LED lighting system for its participants.

AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Fluence, a leading global provider of energy-efficient LED lighting solutions for commercial cannabis and food production, announced its sponsorship of the third «Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge» at Wageningen University & Research ( WUR) in the Netherlands. For the first time in the challenge’s history, WUR utilized an all-LED broad-spectrum lighting system—specifically Fluence’s VYPR 3p solution—instead of high-pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures. WUR also implemented Fluence’s innovative lighting control solution, Wireless Flex Dimming, in the facility.

Wageningen University is dedicated to researching the future of agriculture by exploring autonomous greenhouse technology, climate control, crop modeling, advanced sensors, data intelligence, computer vision, and robotics. Starting in June 2021, WUR organized its third «Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge,» tasking various international teams with sustainably growing vegetables in a fully automated greenhouse environment.

«We believe that food production in greenhouse horticulture can be further improved by incorporating more artificial intelligence into the agricultural industry,» said Silke Hemming, who leads the scientific research team for greenhouse technology at WUR, in a statement. «We are forging connections with international partners through this unique challenge so that we can take significant steps forward.».

One of the challenges manufacturers face when transitioning from HPS fixtures to LED fixtures is that a typical HPS system has limited dimming capabilities, unlike LED technology. By leveraging state-of-the-art, certified Bluetooth mesh technology—powered by technology partner SILVAIR—Fluence’s Wireless Flex Dimming solution gives growers precise control over low-light levels. By connecting the VYPR overhead fixtures to the climate controller via Wireless Flex Dimming, participants were able to implement advanced lighting control strategies that maximized plant growth and quality.

«In any greenhouse or controlled environment, the reliability of the growing system is paramount,» said Theo Tekstra, Fluence’s Technical Director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. «Wireless Flex Dimming allows growers to simplify installation and achieve robust wireless control of their light levels, whether as part of a standalone scientific experiment or in a large-scale greenhouse. We are currently implementing this technology for customers, with more than 7,000 connected fixtures.».

WUR’s Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge also aims to explore how artificial intelligence can play a role in the future of crop production, particularly in reducing energy consumption and costs.

«The entire cultivation process is managed by AI and algorithms developed by the teams,» added Mr. Tekstra. «A major production factor is the significant fluctuation in high energy prices. Integrating Fluence’s Wireless Flex Dimming with the Ridder climate computer allows the teams to adjust the lighting within their lighting strategy algorithms to optimize energy costs. Fluence’s mission is to help the world become smarter, which is exactly what these incredible teams are tackling head-on. We are thrilled to support WUR and this initiative with our advanced lighting solutions.».

Fluence continues to demonstrate how secure, smart lighting solutions based on the latest technological innovations can add value to the global horticulture industry. The Wireless Flex Dimming Receiver has earned PSA Certified™ Level 1 certification (an independent measure of security best practices led by Arm) from Riscure. PSA Certified is recognized by the DesignLights Consortium as an approved cybersecurity standard for interconnected lighting control systems.

The results of the challenge will be published in July 2022. To follow the progress of the competing teams, visit the WUR Greenhouse Challenge dashboard here. To learn more about Fluence and its line of lighting controls and fixtures, visit www.fluence.science.

About Fluence

Fluence Bioengineering, Inc. (Fluence) develops powerful, energy-efficient LED lighting solutions for commercial crop production and research applications. As a leading provider of LED lighting in the global cannabis market, Fluence is committed to enabling more efficient crop production for the world’s top growers, whether in vertical farms or greenhouses. Fluence’s global headquarters are located in Austin, Texas, and the company also has a headquarters for the EMEA region in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Fluence operates as a business unit within Signify’s Digital Solutions division. To learn more about Fluence, visit www.fluence.science.

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