COMPUTER CONTROL OF GREENHOUSE CLIMATES

A general opinion will be outlined on potential computer applications.
A description based on system theory of greenhouse culture and related factors is the fundament of this discussion.
A system is described consisting of three levels: (i) the instantaneous greenhouse climate, (ii) short term plant growth and (iii) long term crop development.
This system is also controlled on three levels.

Relatively simple mathematical models form the backbone of the control on the three levels.
On the first level progress can be made by application of sophisticated control methods, where the use of a computer is essential.
On the second level short term plant growth models can be applied in three approaches: (i) the use of plant growth measurements (the "speaking" plant approach), (ii) the avoidance of extreme climate conditions using the "fuzzy set" technique and (iii) the use of a model that is tuned by the grower on a medium long (1 week) basis.

Crop growth and development models can be used on the third level, where cost-return predictions seem attractive although ultimate desisions have to be made by the grower himself.

Symposium on Potential Productivity in Protected Cultivation

A.J. Udink ten Cate, G.P.A. Bot, J.J. van Dixhoorn

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1978.87.28