Saturas develops a Decision Support System (DSS) based on miniature Stem Water Potential (SWP) sensor that is embedded into the trunks of trees, vines, and plants. As part of an automatic irrigation system, the Saturas sensor provides accurate information for optimized irrigation in order to reduce water consumption and increase fruit production and quality.
Water is becoming scarcer and more expensive. With direct and reliable information on crop water status, farmers can save water and increase yields. Today, due to the lack of direct and reliable measurement, farmers typically overwater crops by up to 20% “just to be on the safe side.” Overwatering puts pressure on an already scarce and expensive resource, increases pollution from nutrient-rich runoff, affects the quality of the fruit and reduces profitability.
Stem Water Potential (SWP) is a scientifically recognized, highly accurate parameter, for determining water status in crops. Today, Stem Water Potential (SWP) can only be measured in a labor-intensive, manual procedure. Despite numerous approaches to sensor-based irrigation, including measuring soil and leaf moisture, the market lacks a solution that combines accuracy, ease of use and affordability.
Saturas’ Stem Water Potential (SWP) sensing system automatically collects accurate data using a minimal number of sensors per hectare (1 – 2 sensors). It transmits the processed data to the central automated irrigation control system. The technology tailors irrigation to real-time water needs of the crop, resulting in more efficient water use and increased yields, fruit size and sugar content (e.g. vineyards). Embedding the sensor into the trunk eliminates the common problem of damage to sensors placed in the soil or on the tree/vine.
In the two-year "StemSense" project, Saturas will optimize its unique sensor for better performance and further miniaturization to fit a larger variety of crops, opening up new markets for the company. Saturas will also scale up its manufacturing and QA processes, in preparation for commercialization. Additionally, Saturas will make use of the SME Network and coaching services to develop its distribution network in the European market.
