SenseNL is a tech company that focuses on the horticultural sector as it produces smart wireless sensors. The company contributes to the accelerating digitalization within the sector through its Cara Met-sensors, which provide accurate insights into the plant's root zone.
Digitalization in the horticultural sector is nothing new. Over the past years, steps have been taken in this direction. Consider, for example, automation, robotization, and most recently: "Data-driven cultivation management". More accurate monitoring and controlling allow growers to achieve higher yields with fewer resources.
However, to make the right decision, reliable sensor data is needed. And that's where SenseNL's Cara Met-sensors come in.
Winelis Kavelaars, CEO of SenseNL: Growers could already gain concrete insights into the amount of water and fertilization that they provide to their crops thanks to the current state of climate computers, matching algorithms, and strategies. With our accurate and reliable Cara Met- sensors, growers can now also monitor the moisture content, EC level, and temperature in the substrate. Previously, it was not possible to have this kind of insight into the substrate. By providing the Cara Met-drain sensor, SenseNL provides growers with a comprehensive and accurate overview of their substrate's inputs, root zone, and outputs. In recent months, SenseNL has been preparing to make the Cara Met-drain sensor available for commercial use.
Measuring channel
The Cara Met-drain sensor consists of a compact cylinder that is installed under the existing drain. An additional piece of drain (the so-called measuring drain) of about 3 meters is placed above the existing drain and its ends are connected to the Cara Met- drain sensor. Daily operations and plant growth are not disturbed as the measures drain does not rise more than 5m above the existing channel. On top of the test drain are three substrate mats, as is the case in the rest of the greenhouse. The Cara Met -drain sensor measures the first drain moment of the day and its associated EC, total drain volume per day. In addition, it continuously measures the EC, temperature, pH, and flow of each drain throughout the day. The idea is that this measuring drain is representative of what happens in the rest of the row and/or crane bay.
Like all other Cara Met sensors, the drain sensor is wireless and easy to install. Sensor data can be sent to the climate computer via the existing SenseNL API.
Winelis adds: "Because the Cara Met drain sensor is compact, flexible, easy to install, and affordable. Growers can choose to have multiple measuring points in the greenhouse to gain better insight into their irrigation strategy."
At HortiContact 2024, SenseNL will present the CARA MET drain sensor at booth I150.
For more information:
SenseNL BV
Ambachtsweg 41F
2641 KT Pijnacker
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)85 876 89 09
www.caramet.com
info@sensenl.com