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CropCam: Could intelligent AI-powered monitoring revolutionise vertical farming?

THE vertical farming industry could be on the verge of its next major revolution thanks to the launch of CropCam, an intelligent AI-powered technology that provides growers with a full-facility view of their crop health and development.

A unique four-way shuttle robotic system which transports sensors and camera arrays throughout the full growing area, CropCam can capture high-resolution images from every angle.

Unlike traditional methods where only a small sample of plants can be assessed, CropCam’s dual functionality precisely monitors crops and can facilitate the movement of trays within the farm, streamlining operations and increasing efficiency.

The pioneering Agri-tech is the result of a strategic partnership between vertical farming leaders CambridgeHOK, who have extensive expertise in horticultural engineering and SEC Storage, a specialist in warehouse automation and data-driven logistics, with the analytical technology provided by Agri Data Innovations, who are experts in crop monitoring.

By combining robotics, AI and real-time analytics, it looks set to pave the way for more sustainable, profitable and efficient indoor agriculture.

Explaining its cutting-edge technology, Harry Watts, Managing Director of SEC Storage, said: “This system represents a significant leap forward in agricultural automation. By integrating advanced robotics with state-of-the-art imaging and AI, we have created a system that delivers unparalleled insights and control to growers.”

At the core of CropCam’s intelligence is its powerful AI and machine learning capabilities. The system captures detailed images of crops from above, which are then processed using sophisticated algorithms. This allows for the extraction of critical data, including crop type, size, leaf count, colour variations, and overall health.

By leveraging historical data comparisons, CropCam enables farmers to determine whether their crops are meeting growth benchmarks or if interventions are needed. This proactive approach helps optimise farm productivity while reducing waste and mitigating risks such as pest infestations or environmental stress.

Lucien Fesselet, Founder & CTO of Agri Data Innovations, explained: “CropCam doesn’t just take pictures, it analyses them in real time. Using AI-driven models, we can track plant development, detect irregularities and provide growers with actionable insights to improve yield, predict harvests and manage resources efficiently.”
For growers, CropCam represents the future of data-driven agriculture. Its ability to track crop development throughout the entire growth cycle provides an unprecedented level of visibility and control.

Matt Ware, Horticultural Applications Advisor at CambridgeHOK, is in no doubt about the significance of this AI-powered technology.

He said: “With CropCam, growers no longer have to rely on guesswork or sample-based assessments. This system provides real-time, comprehensive data that improves decision-making, enhances efficiency and ensures optimal crop performance.”

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