A Detailed Perspective on Vertical Farming – An Innovative Agricultural Trend with AI/ML and Smart Robotics
摘要
The world’s growing population, increasing global food demand, and environmental challenges have greatly influenced traditional farming practices in recent decades. Agricultural technology has evolved since the Green Revolution and is crucial in efficiently cultivating high-demand food crops. Vertical farming, one of the smart farming techniques has emerged as an innovative approach utilizing modern technologies to maximize farming operations’ productivity and efficiency. It enables an increase in crop production by maintaining the environmental conditions. Vertical farms are significantly less affected by climate change and maintain stable growing conditions irrespective of the outside weather; they can produce food all year round. As a modern precision farming method, vertical farming integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning with smart robotics enhances the predictive analysis, real-time monitoring, and automated management of crops. This paper explores the concept of vertical farming under controlled environments, emphasizing soil-less techniques such as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics. It highlights their role in enhancing crop productivity while optimizing resource utilization for sustainability, scalability, and efficiency. Additionally, this review further examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and smart robotics in vertical farming to enhance productivity, resource management, and scalability. Beyond technological advancements, the paper also addresses the key challenges vertical farming faces in its implementation and expansion.