Adjust the light source from a grow light setting to an operator light setting based on the determined area of ​​interest

Abstract

A system for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources is configured to receive input from one or more sensors (21-23, 26-28), determine an area of ​​interest of an operator (81) based on the input, identify one or more light sources (13, 14) that illuminate the area of ​​interest, and adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for adjusting one or more settings of a light source of one or more signs.

[0002] The present invention further relates to a method of adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources.

[0003] The invention also relates to a computer program product enabling a computer system to perform such a method. Background Art

[0004] Growing crops in greenhouses has long been a common practice. Sunlight is used as the primary light source for plant photosynthesis. In recent years, artificial lighting has been used to fill the dark hours of the day to promote crop growth. Initially, HID lamps were used. These are now being replaced by LEDs. The advantages of LEDs include the ability to adjust their spectrum to suit the needs of both plants and humans, their higher efficacy compared to HIDs, and the fact that they can be dimmed or boosted instantly.

[0005] Another trend gaining popularity is growing crops in vertical farms. The world's population is projected to grow from 6.5 billion today to 9 billion by 2050. Society is rapidly becoming more urbanized. This will severely constrain the availability of food and clean water. Space available for food production will become increasingly scarce. Innovative production methods are needed to deliver higher yields from a smaller footprint while being more sustainable (minimizing energy and water use). Producing food in closed environments, such as vertical farms, is one way to meet these needs.

[0006] Vertical farms are typically almost completely sealed from the outside, allowing for 100% climate control, independent of the climate outside the unit, though fresh air is typically still introduced from outside. Temperature, CO2 levels, irrigation, and lighting can all be controlled. In vertical farms (also known as plant factories and urban farms), food is grown in multiple layers, making better use of available space than outdoor or greenhouse growing. This means that daylight cannot reach all plants, and nearly all light must come from artificial lighting. Consequently, horticultural lighting control systems are becoming increasingly advanced, just as horticultural climate control systems are.

[0007] Optimal growing conditions (climate and light) are described in so-called growing recipes or protocols. However, those growing and lighting conditions are optimized for plants (or animals), not humans. Horticultural systems still rely on human operators to perform various tasks (e.g., inspection, harvesting, technical maintenance).

[0008] As horticultural grow light formulations become increasingly sophisticated, photobiological eye safety is becoming a factor to consider. The amount of light from a single LED increases over time. This is beneficial for growing plants, but can be a safety concern for humans. Furthermore, when the eyes are too close to the light source for too long, the amount of blue light generated can be harmful to the eyes. This can be mitigated by wearing eye protection that reduces the amount of light in the blue portion of the spectrum (400-500 nm). Another concern is that both high light levels and non-white light spectrums can cause discomfort. Furthermore, experiments are underway with UV-A and UV-B light to improve plant quality. The safety of this light for human operators still requires further evaluation and investigation.

[0009] For example, safety concerns are addressed by US 2016 / 0235013 A1. US 2016 / 0235013 A1 discloses a method for location-based management of a plurality of plants in a controlled environment, the plants being exposed to light emitted by at least one artificial lighting arrangement. The at least one artificial lighting arrangement is configured to control the growth of the plurality of plants, such as by disabling UV radiation, based on the location of a mobile device.

[0010] A disadvantage of the method of US 2016 / 0235013 A1 is that by switching from an operator light setting to a grow light setting, the growth of the plant is affected. Application of the disclosed method often results in using too much operator light and thus unnecessarily affecting the growth of the plant. Summary of the Invention

[0011] A first object of the present invention is to provide a system that is able to limit the impact of the use of operator light on plant growth.

[0012] A second object of the present invention is to provide a method which makes it possible to limit the impact of the use of operator light on plant growth.

[0013] The invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0014] In a first aspect disclosed herein, a system for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources includes at least one input interface, at least one control interface, and at least one processor configured to receive input from one or more sensors using the at least one input interface, determine an operator area of ​​interest based on the input, identify one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest, and adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting using the at least one control interface.

[0015] By switching (horticultural) light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting only in the operator's area of ​​interest, plant growth is disturbed as little as possible. If the operator moves away, the growth protocol can be resumed. For example, the area of ​​interest can be determined based on the operator's eye position. For safety reasons, other light sources can be turned off, dimmed, or spectrally altered depending on the operator's area of ​​interest. These changes in light levels are preferably designed to minimize disruption to plant growth. For example, the area of ​​interest can be (a portion or section of) a layer of a vertical gardening farm's rack.

[0016] For example, one or more sensors may include RF-based sensing nodes, PIR sensors, or one or more conventional cameras and / or IR cameras. For example, one or more cameras may be embedded in glasses or a hat worn by the operator.

[0017] The at least one processor can be configured to receive further input from the one or more sensors and / or one or more additional sensors using the at least one input interface, determine that no further attention by the operator is required in the area of ​​interest based on the further input, and when it is determined that no further attention by the operator is required in the area of ​​interest, adjust the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from the operator light setting to the grow light setting or a new grow light setting using the at least one control interface.

[0018] Thus, if the sensor detects that no further operator attention is required in the area of ​​interest, the system can switch back to the previous grow light or switch to a new grow light setting to minimize disruption to plant growth. If the light emitted by a light source could potentially harm an operator's eyes or be very uncomfortable (e.g., a high-intensity grow light), and the light source is visible to the operator or close enough to harm or be uncomfortable to the operator's eyes when operator attention is required in the area of ​​interest, then that light source is preferably identified as one of the light sources illuminating the area of ​​interest. In this way, the light source is prevented from reverting to a grow light setting when it could still harm the operator's eyes or still be very uncomfortable.

[0019] The at least one processor can be configured to determine a duration of use of the operator light setting and, based on the grow light setting, the operator light setting, and the duration, determine the new grow light setting, and / or a period during which the grow light setting or the new grow light setting should be used after applying the operator light setting. In this way, the grow protocol is not simply resumed, but rather compensated for the interruption based on how long the operator light setting was used and the difference between the operator light setting and the grow light setting. It is possible that the grow protocol is only adjusted if the operator light setting duration has exceeded a predefined threshold. In a simpler embodiment, the compensation light setting can be generated without considering the exact operator light setting. In this case, the compensation light setting can be based solely on the operator light duration, rather than the exact operator light setting.

[0020] The at least one processor can be configured to determine an additional area of ​​interest for the operator from the additional input, identify one or more additional light sources that illuminate the additional area of ​​interest, and use the at least one control interface to adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified additional light sources from an additional grow light setting to an additional operator light setting. When no further operator attention is required in the area of ​​interest, this is typically because the operator has changed their focus to other plants / crops, i.e., there is an additional area of ​​interest that needs to be illuminated with suitable light to allow the operator to inspect and / or care for the additional plants / crops.

[0021] The at least one processor can be configured to determine a type of attention required by the operator in the area of ​​interest, and determine the operator light setting based on the determined type of attention. For example, inspecting plants and caring for plants (e.g., cutting plants) may require different operator light settings. For example, the type of attention can be determined by identifying a tool carried by the operator. For example, the tool can be a pruning tool.

[0022] The at least one processor may be configured to determine operator information based on the input, the operator information indicating where the operator is looking and / or including the position of the operator's head, a portion of the operator's head, and / or the position of the operator's hand, and determine the operator's region of interest based on the operator information. This allows for relatively accurate determination of the region of interest.

[0023] The operator information may further include the operator's speed. This makes it possible to distinguish between a person standing still and a person simply walking by. In the latter case, no operating light setting or different operator light settings can be used.

[0024] The at least one processor can be configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specific distance of the operator from the input, the one or more adjacent areas being adjacent to the area of ​​interest; identify one or more adjustable light blocking elements (e.g., curtains and / or blinds) between the operator and the one or more adjacent areas; and close the one or more adjustable light blocking elements using the at least one control interface. The adjustable light blocking elements can be controlled to block direct visibility of the light source.

[0025] The at least one processor can be configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specific distance from the operator to the input, the one or more adjacent areas being adjacent to the area of ​​interest; identify one or more adjacent light sources illuminating the one or more adjacent areas; and use the at least one control interface to adjust one or more settings of the one or more adjacent light sources by turning off at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources, dimming at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources, and / or adjusting the light emission spectrum of the one or more adjacent light sources. By adjusting the settings of the adjacent light sources, it is possible to prevent them from endangering the safety of the operator or causing discomfort to the operator.

[0026] The at least one processor can be configured to obtain a growth protocol associated with the region of interest, the growth protocol including the grow light settings, and determine the operator light settings based on the grow light settings. This minimizes differences between the operator light settings and the grow light settings, and thereby minimizes the impact of the operator light settings on plant growth. Preferably, the operator light settings are determined based on the grow settings associated with the currently applicable growth stage of the growth protocol.

[0027] The at least one processor can be configured to adjust the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from the grow light setting to the operator light setting by controlling the one or more identified light sources to adjust the intensity of one or more wavelength components of the grow light setting and / or increase the intensity of a green wavelength component and / or increase the intensity of a broad spectrum white component, using the at least one control interface. Adjusting the intensity of a wavelength component of the grow light setting does not require the wavelength component to be present in both the original and new grow light settings, but can simply include increasing the intensity of the wavelength component from zero or decreasing the intensity of the wavelength component toward zero.

[0028] The operator light setting should help the operator to perform their tasks (e.g., inspecting and / or caring for plants) and should not compromise the operator's safety. There are two aspects to consider: (1) spectrum and (2) intensity. (1) A grow light setting typically does not include the entire visible spectrum and may include components of the non-visible spectrum (e.g., UV or IR). (2) A grow light setting may include very high intensities that are potentially hazardous to the human eye. Preferably, white or green light is added to the grow light emission spectrum to produce the operator light emission spectrum, and / or the grow light is replaced by white light. Optionally, in an additive mode, the intensity of the grow light emission spectrum (or part of it) is reduced to adapt the total intensity to the sensitivity of the human eye and / or to avoid wavelengths that are hazardous to the human eye (such as blue / UV).

[0029] The at least one processor may be configured to determine the operator light setting based on the ambient daylight level. This allows, for example, the use of a less intense operator light setting in a greenhouse during daylight hours.

[0030] The at least one processor may be configured to determine an identifier of the operator and / or an identifier of the group to which the operator belongs based on the input, and to determine the operator light settings based on the light settings associated with the identifier of the operator and / or the identifier of the group. As a first example, operators may be able to define their preferred light settings, such as color temperature. As a second example, different operator light settings may be used for a group of operators inspecting plants than for a group of operators caring for plants. An operator or group of operators may be identified by identifying the tools carried by the operator. This is possible if other operators or groups of operators are not also carrying the same tools.

[0031] The at least one processor can be configured to use the at least one control interface to gradually adjust the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from the operator light setting to an adjusted operator light setting that is more similar to the grow light setting than the operator light setting is similar to the grow light setting. This creates a gradual transition between normal operator light conditions (e.g., daylight-like light conditions) and grow light conditions, allowing an operator to become accustomed to the different light (e.g., lack of green) of the grow light conditions. This is particularly beneficial when an operator enters a (horticultural) growing area. "Similar" or "more similar" can refer to the intensity and / or spectral components of the light.

[0032] In horticultural growth, plants experience cycles of light and dark, which mirror the day and night of their circadian rhythm. A plant's response to the light and dark cycle is called its photoperiod. Operator tasks may be performed during the dark period of a plant's circadian rhythm, thereby disrupting its nighttime rhythm. Thus, in one example, the grow light setting may be dark, or "no light." The systems described herein can also be used to limit the impact of operator light use on plant growth during the nighttime period of a plant's circadian rhythm, for example by extending the dark period or adjusting the grow light setting at the beginning of the light period.

[0033] In a second aspect disclosed herein, a method for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources includes receiving input from one or more sensors, determining an operator area of ​​interest based on the input, identifying one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest, and adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting. The method may be performed by software running on a programmable device. The software may be provided as a computer program product.

[0034] Furthermore, a computer program for carrying out the methods described herein and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program are provided.The computer program can, for example, be downloaded from or uploaded to an existing device, or stored when these systems are manufactured.

[0035] A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores at least one software code portion that, when executed or processed by a computer, is configured to perform executable operations for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources.

[0036] The executable operations include receiving input from one or more sensors, determining an operator area of ​​interest based on the input, identifying one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest, and adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting.

[0037] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as devices, methods, or computer program products. Thus, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware implementation, an entirely software implementation (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an implementation combining software and hardware aspects, which may all be generally referred to herein as "circuits," "modules," or "systems." The functions described in this disclosure may be implemented as algorithms executed by a processor / microprocessor of a computer. Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code embodied (e.g., stored) thereon.

[0038] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be utilized. A computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media may include, but are not limited to, an electrical connection having one or more conductors, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0039] A computer-readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal having computer-readable program code embodied therein (e.g., in baseband or as part of a carrier wave). Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer-readable signal medium may be any computer-readable medium that is not a computer-readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0040] Program code embodied on a computer-readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, cable, RF, or any suitable combination thereof. The computer program code for implementing the operations of aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​(such as Java™, Smalltalk, or C++) and conventional procedural programming languages ​​(such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages). The program code may be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0041] Aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to examples of the present invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, as well as combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor, particularly a microprocessor or central processing unit (CPU), of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine such that instructions executed by the processor of the computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device create a device for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or one or more block diagram blocks.

[0042] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to operate in a particular manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or one or more block diagram blocks.

[0043] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram blocks.

[0044] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the various figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of devices, methods, and computer program products according to various examples of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative embodiments, the functions described in the blocks may not appear in the order described in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the opposite order depending on the functions involved. It will also be noted that each block in the block diagram and / or flowchart, as well as combinations of blocks in the block diagram and / or flowchart, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] These and other aspects of the invention are apparent from and will be further elucidated, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example of a system and a first example of a stand for a vertical farm;

[0047] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a second example of a stand for a vertical farm including shutters;

[0048] Figure 3 Shown in Figure 1 Example of an operator standing still in front of a stand;

[0049] Figure 4 An illustration of a third example of an operator walking through a stand of a vertical farm is shown;

[0050] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a first example of the method;

[0051] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a second example of the method;

[0052] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a third example of the method; and

[0053] Figure 8 is a block diagram of an exemplary data processing system for executing the method of the present invention.

[0054] Corresponding elements in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Figure 1 An example of a system for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources is shown: a light control computer 1. Figure 1 In this example, the light source is part of a vertical farm. In a vertical farm, plants grow in a highly controlled environment. The climate (temperature, humidity, CO2 levels) is optimal for growth and is controlled by a climate control system (e.g., climate control computer 31). This also applies to the light conditions provided to the plants (light intensity, spectrum, and their dependence on the time of day and the plant's growth stage). The light conditions are controlled by a lighting control system, in this example, light control computer 1. The optimal growth conditions (typically climate and light conditions) are described by a so-called growth protocol (typically consisting of a climate protocol / recipe and a light protocol / recipe).

[0056] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, light control computer 1 is used in a plant growth environment comprising a vertical farm 51 having a rack with three layers 53-55. Each of layers 53-55 comprises two segments. Layer 53 comprises two LED modules 11-12 (one per segment) and a light sensor 21. Layer 54 comprises two LED modules 13-14 (one per segment) and a light sensor 22. Layer 55 comprises two LED modules 15-16 (one per segment) and a light sensor 23. The rack of the vertical farm may be several meters tall.

[0057] The vertical farm 51 also includes two climate sensors 43-44 and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system 41. Figure 1 In FIG. 5 , HVAC system 41 is depicted in the center of vertical farm 51. However, portions of HVAC system 41 may be located on each of layers 53-55, for example, to provide ventilation to the plants. For example, climate sensors 43-44 may include a temperature sensor and a CO2 sensor. Climate control computer 31 receives sensor data from both climate sensors 43-44 and controls HVAC system 41 based on the sensor data.

[0058] The LED modules 11-16 are controlled by a light control computer 1. The light control computer 1 includes a receiver 3, a transmitter 4, a processor 5, and a memory 7. The processor 5 is configured to use the receiver 3 to receive input from the sensor modules 21-23. In addition to or instead of a light sensor, each of the sensor modules 21-23 includes a PIR sensor. The processor 5 is configured to determine operator information from the input. Figure 1 In the example, movement of a person near one of layers 53-55 is detected. This is typically movement of the operator's head or hand. In an alternative example, one or more cameras are used instead of PIR sensors. In this alternative example, operator information can be determined, indicating where the operator is looking and / or including the position of the operator's head, a portion of the operator's head, and / or the operator's hand.

[0059] Processor 5 is further configured to determine an operator's area of ​​interest based on the operator information, identify one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest, and adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting to an operator light setting using transmitter 4. For example, the determined area of ​​interest may be layer 54, and the settings of light sources 13 and 14 may then be adjusted from the grow light setting to the operator light setting. The operator is typically a human, but may also be a robot. The operator may be a robotic operator that relies on light for its operation, such as a drone equipped with one or more cameras.

[0060] exist Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , processor 5 is further configured to receive additional input from one or more sensors 21-23 using receiver 3; determine based on the additional input that no further operator attention is required in the region of interest; and upon determining that no further operator attention is required in the region of interest, adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from the operator light setting to the grow light setting or the new grow light setting using transmitter 4. For example, the additional region of interest may be layer 53 or layer 55.

[0061] In this way, the light control computer 1 can ensure that there is suitable light (e.g. suitable intensity in a suitable spectrum) for the operator to inspect and / or care for the crops of his choice, while crops that he does not want to inspect or care for are not affected, i.e. these crops can still be illuminated with a spectrum that is optimal for their growth and development. Figure 1 In the example, the light settings are selected so as not to cause harm or discomfort to the operator. When the operator stands near a light source that could be dangerous to the eyes or could cause discomfort - this could be a light source that illuminates the area of ​​interest or an adjacent area - the light control computer 1 decides what must be done:

[0062] Lights may be dimmed;

[0063] The spectrum can be changed, for example to have less light in the blue region and more light in the green and red regions;

[0064] • Electrically controllable blinds can be triggered to hide the light source from direct view.

[0065] This results in safe and comfortable use of light sources (for example, crop lighting is adjusted to the sensitivity of the human eye, and light levels are adjusted to optimal human comfort). It also has the benefit of illuminating crops in a spectrum comfortable for human operators, close to them. This makes it easier to judge plant and fruit quality and inspect for pests and diseases. This can also be dimmed when very high doses of infrared light are present.

[0066] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the lighting control system consists of a local light control computer 1, and the climate control system consists of a local climate control computer 31. In alternative examples, the lighting control system and / or the climate control system may alternatively or additionally have remote components, such as applications running on an Internet server.

[0067] exist Figure 1 In the example of computer 1 shown in FIG, computer 1 includes a processor 5. In alternative examples, computer 1 includes multiple processors. Processor 5 can be a general-purpose processor (e.g., from Intel or AMD) or a dedicated processor. Processor 5 can run, for example, a Windows or Unix-based operating system. Memory 7 can include one or more memory units. For example, memory 7 can include one or more hard disks and / or solid-state memory. Memory 7 can be used to store, for example, an operating system, applications, and application data.

[0068] For example, the receiver 3 and transmitter 4 may use one or more wired and / or wireless communication technologies to communicate with the LED modules 11-16 and sensors 21-23. In an alternative example, multiple receivers and / or multiple transmitters are used in the light control computer 1 instead of a single receiver and a single transmitter. Figure 1 In the example shown in , separate receivers and separate transmitters are used. In another example, receiver 3 and transmitter 4 are combined into a transceiver. Computer 1 may include other components typical for computers, such as a power connector and a display. The present invention may be implemented using a computer program running on one or more processors.

[0069] exist Figure 1 In the example of the present invention, the system is a computer. In alternative examples, the system of the present invention is a different device. Figure 1 In the example of the present invention, the system includes a single device. In an alternative example, the system includes multiple devices. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , computer 1 uses transmitters to control components in a vertical farm. In an alternative example, computer 1 uses only analog wires to control components in a vertical farm.

[0070] Figure 2 A second example of a vertical farm rack is shown: rack 57. Like rack 51, rack 57 includes three layers (63-65), six LED modules (of which LED modules 71-72 and 75-76 are in Figure 2 and three sensor modules (sensor modules 26 and 28 are visible in Figure 2Like bracket 51, bracket 57 includes two climate sensors (48-49) and an HVAC system (46). The difference between brackets 51 and 57 is the presence of controllable blinds 61 in bracket 57. In an alternative example, blinds 61 may be replaced with another type of adjustable light-blocking element, such as a curtain.

[0071] The blinds 61 are controlled by another example of a system in which the processor 5 is configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specified distance of the operator from the input, identify one or more adjustable light blocking elements (i.e., blinds 61) between the operator and the one or more adjacent areas, and close the one or more adjustable light blocking elements using the transmitter 4. The one or more adjacent areas are adjacent to the area of ​​interest.

[0072] Figure 3 The operator 81 is shown standing still. Figure 2 The example above of the bracket. Figure 1 As described, the processor 5 of the light control computer 1 is configured to determine operator information from the inputs and, from the operator information, the operator's area of ​​interest. When the sensors indicate that the operator has a certain area of ​​interest, the light control computer 1 decides what to do. In vertical farming, this typically depends on the crop, the x, y, and z position of the operator's eye, the x, y, and z position of each controllable light source (group), and optionally any other disturbances that may have occurred that day.

[0073] By determining the speed of the operator 81 as part of the operator information, it is possible to determine whether the detection of a person by the PIR sensor of the sensor module 22 means that the operator 81 is paying attention to the layer 54 (see also Figure 1 If the speed exceeds a certain threshold, it is determined that there is no region of interest. If not, layer 54 is determined to be a region of interest.

[0074] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the operator 81 is standing still, and therefore layer 54 is determined to be the area of ​​interest. In this case, by hiding the intermediate layer of the bracket 57 from view, the (movable) shutter 61 can be lowered to protect the operator's eyes from the light emitted by the LED modules on the layer 64 adjacent to layer 54 (see also Figure 2 ). The LED modules 15, 16, 75 and 76 on the bottom layer can remain unchanged because the operator 81 does not have a direct view of these lights.

[0075] In About Figure 2In another example of the described system, or in another example of the system, the processor 5 is configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specific distance of the operator from the input, identify one or more adjacent light sources that illuminate the one or more adjacent areas, and adjust one or more settings of the one or more adjacent light sources using the transmitter 4 by turning off at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources, dimming at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources, and / or adjusting the light emission spectrum of the one or more adjacent light sources. The one or more adjacent areas are adjacent to the area of ​​interest. For example, the top layer of LED modules 11, 12, 71, and 72 can be dimmed to protect the operator's eyes from light emitted by the LED modules 11, 12, 71, and 72.

[0076] Figure 4 A third example of an operator 83 walking through a stand of a vertical farm is shown: the example of stand 58. Because the operator information also includes the speed of the operator 83, and the speed of the operator 83 exceeds the aforementioned threshold, the region of interest is not determined.

[0077] Brackets 58 and 59 are similar to each other, but they are Figure 1 Bracket 51 is slightly different. While sensor modules 21-23 in bracket 51 include PIR sensors, sensor modules in brackets 58 and 59 (e.g., sensor modules 91, 96-98) do not. Instead, camera 89 is used to determine the area of ​​interest of operator 83. This makes it possible to determine higher-level operator information from the sensor input, and then determine the area of ​​interest from this higher-level operator information. For example, the operator information may indicate where operator 83 is looking, and / or the operator information may include the position of the operator's head, a portion of the operator's head, and / or the position of operator 83's hands.

[0078] Figure 5 A first example of a method for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources is shown in FIG. Step 101 includes receiving input from one or more sensors. Step 103 includes determining an operator area of ​​interest based on the input. Step 105 includes identifying one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest. Step 107 includes determining operator light settings. Step 109 includes adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from their current settings (i.e., grow light settings) to the operator light settings.

[0079] In step 109, one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources may be adjusted from a grow light setting to an operator light setting by controlling the one or more identified light sources to adjust the intensity of one or more wavelength components of the grow light setting and / or increase the intensity of the green wavelength component and / or increase the intensity of the broad spectrum white component.

[0080] exist Figure 5 In the example of FIG. 1 , the one or more identified light sources will remain at the operator settings determined in step 107 until they are switched back to the grow light settings. In an alternative example, when the operator has the same area of ​​interest, one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources are gradually adjusted from the operator light setting to an adjusted operator light setting. The adjusted operator light setting is more similar to the grow light setting than the operator light setting is similar to the grow light setting, but does not cause harm or discomfort to the operator.

[0081] This is particularly helpful if the operator has just entered a vertical farm. To grow plants as efficiently as possible in vertical farms, they typically receive only red and blue light, with no or limited amounts of green light. This isn't a problem for plant growth and development, as they primarily reflect green light anyway. For humans, the lack of reflected green light makes it more difficult to identify plants. The human eye adapts very effectively to different light conditions. When green light is absent, the eye becomes more sensitive to the color green. When returning to an environment with a normal amount of green light, the eye interprets this as a large excess of green light. After a few minutes, the eye adjusts to the new environment again. The human eye needs time to adjust to artificial light conditions, optimizing the light spectrum for efficient plant growth.

[0082] When an operator first enters a vertical farm, he or she is accustomed to normal light conditions and therefore requires normal light settings to inspect and / or care for the crops. Since these normal light settings may affect the growth of the crops, it may be beneficial to accustom the operator to adjusted operator light settings that have less impact on the growth of the crops or increase energy efficiency (e.g., with less green light), while still providing the operator with suitable light and not being harmful to the operator.

[0083] Alternatively, a separate area at the entrance to the vertical farm could be used to accustom operators to light settings that don't correspond to normal light conditions. In this case, a light transition would be generated in the area where humans enter the growing area. This could be an adjacent area, or a portion of the growing area near the entrance; when a person enters, the transition is temporarily activated. The same principle can be applied when people leave the room again, allowing them to get used to the light in the outside world. Light transitions can be implemented in various ways:

[0084] Dynamic: When a person is detected entering the entry zone, the light gradually changes from normal to (harmless) grow light conditions;

[0085] Spatial: The transition from normal light to (harmless) grow light is spatially mapped across multiple light sources, e.g. there may be a corridor (hallway) before entering the grow area, and the transition can be spatially distributed across the light sources in the corridor (optionally, detecting user position to optimize the mapping).

[0086] Step 111 includes receiving additional input from the one or more sensors and / or one or more additional sensors. Step 113 includes determining that no further operator attention is required in the area of ​​interest based on the additional input. Step 115 includes determining a grow light setting, such as a previous grow light setting or a new grow light setting. Step 117 includes adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from an operator light setting to a grow light setting when it is determined that no further operator attention is required in the area of ​​interest.

[0087] Figure 6 A second example of a method of adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources is shown. Figure 6 In the example, Figure 5 One or more of steps 131, 133, and 135 are performed between steps 107 and 109, and Figure 5 Step 107 is implemented by step 137.

[0088] Step 131 includes determining the type of attention required by the operator in the area of ​​interest. If step 131 is performed, step 137 includes determining an operator light setting based on the determined type of attention (if determinable). Step 133 includes determining the ambient daylight level. For example, step 133 may be performed in a greenhouse. In vertical farms, daylight is typically absent. If step 133 is performed, step 137 includes determining the operator light setting based on the ambient daylight level (if determinable). Step 135 includes determining an operator identifier and / or an identifier of a group to which the operator belongs based on input. If step 135 is performed, step 137 includes determining the operator light setting based on the light setting associated with the operator identifier and / or the group identifier (if determinable). If steps 131, 133, and 135 are all performed, step 137 includes determining the operator light setting based on the determined type of attention (if determinable), the ambient daylight level (if determinable), and the light setting associated with the operator identifier and / or the group identifier (if determinable).

[0089] exist Figure 6 In the example, the Figure 5 111 to 117 of FIG. 11 , but in an alternative example, Figure 6 After step 109, execute Figure 5 Steps 111 to 117.

[0090] Figure 7 A third example of a method of adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources is shown in FIG. Figure 7 Previously, one or more growing protocols have been activated for crops in a vertical farm, and the horticultural growing light sources in the vertical farm used a grow light setting when no operator was present.

[0091] Step 151 involves receiving input from one or more sensors. One or more of these sensors may be located at the entrance(s) of the vertical farm. Depending on the cycle of the grow / light protocol, the light control computer may provide an alarm signal, indicating a danger of entering the crop facility. This is beneficial if the crops are sensitive to sudden light changes or the presence of light during dark periods. If an operator continues to inspect and / or care for the crops, the light may still adapt from the grow light setting to the operator light setting, for example, to prevent human injury.

[0092] Step 153 includes determining the operator's area of ​​interest based on the input. This can involve detecting the operator's presence, for example, using a presence sensor array, one or more cameras, or based on RF beacons that can detect the proximity or location of personal RF devices. The personal RF detectable device can be an RFID or NFC tag (badge), a personal mobile or wearable device, or an identifiable operator tool or implement. It is also possible that these detectable devices are associated with specific tasks or operations, and light settings are defined for each of these operations. Additionally, the position of the operator's face / eyes or hands can be detected, and gaze detection can be performed.

[0093] As about Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described, detecting position over time can be used to determine operator velocity, which can indicate whether the operator is stationary or in motion, and therefore whether an operator light is needed. For example, it can be detected that the user is standing still (indicating that they may be inspecting or taking some other action) or that they are passing by a plant tray quickly (indicating that they are simply passing by). Operator position can be detected by or associated with the position of a personal (mobile or wearable) device, or by the operator's tool or implement (e.g., stairs, pruning knives).

[0094] With the availability of more (complex) sensing devices, more precise detection of the region of interest may also be possible. For example, during an operational task, an operator may move within a small area (e.g., within 1 meter) or a larger area (e.g., 3-5 meters). In a similar manner, the operator's gaze vector can be determined, and the gaze region size can be determined based on the aggregated gaze vector data. It may also be possible to more precisely determine the region of interest based on the task the operator is performing. For example, the operator may be able to define the size of the region of interest for a specific task.

[0095] The result of step 153 may be that the area of ​​interest cannot be determined (eg because the operator is not looking at any level of the vertical farm).

[0096] Step 155 includes a check whether it was possible to determine a region of interest in the immediately preceding iteration of step 153. This region of interest will be referred to hereinafter as the "previous region of interest." If no region of interest was successfully determined in the immediately preceding iteration of step 153 (e.g., the operator has just entered the vertical farm or the method is in its first iteration), there is no need to adjust the light source back to the grow light setting, and step 165 is then executed.

[0097] Step 165 involves identifying one or more light sources that illuminate the region of interest just determined in step 153 (hereinafter referred to as the "current region of interest"). For example, the nearest plant tray or plant or group of plants may be identified, after which a co-located light source is selected where the operator is detected to be gazing at (or intended to be moving his gaze towards) that plant or group of plants.

[0098] Step 166 includes obtaining a grow protocol associated with the current region of interest. The grow protocol includes grow light settings. Step 167 includes determining an operator light setting based on the grow light setting. For example, the system can attempt to arbitrate between the needs of the plants and the needs of the operator, minimizing the difference between the operator light setting and the grow light setting. It is also possible that initially, the light is optimized for the operator, and (after a predefined period of time) the operator light gradually returns to the grow light setting. This is advantageous because it allows the operator to adjust the grow light setting in a gradual manner while minimizing any deviation in light output from the grow light setting.

[0099] The grow light settings, and therefore the operator light settings, may depend on the type of crop / plant. For example, for chrysanthemums, a green operator light may be preferred. The operator light settings may further depend on light settings associated with the identified operator and / or further detected attributes. For example, the operator may have specified preferred light attributes for a given task, such as light settings, effect size, pauses, and transitions. In the case of growing plants in a greenhouse, the operator light settings may also depend on the ambient daylight level. Thus, depending on the ambient light conditions detected or determined at the operator's current location, the grow light source may only need to partially contribute to creating the desired light conditions for the operator.

[0100] Step 169 includes adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from their current settings (i.e., grow light settings) to operator light settings. The operator light can be modulated to transmit information related to the grow / light protocol or the plants (e.g., inspection or harvesting instructions) to the mobile operator device. The mobile device can have a light or vision sensor and a processing device capable of detecting and decoding the modulated (VLC) lighting signal. By only modulating when an (authorized) operator is nearby, recipe-related information can be prevented from being accessed by unauthorized individuals.

[0101] After step 169 , step 151 is repeated, and thus the next iteration of the method is performed, and further input is received (at a later time) in the next iteration of step 151 .

[0102] If the result of the check in step 155 is that it was possible to determine the region of interest in the immediately preceding iteration of step 153, step 157 is executed. Step 157 involves checking whether the current and previous regions of interest are identical. If they are identical, no action is currently required and step 151 is repeated. If they are not identical, this means that no further operator attention is required in the previous region of interest and therefore step 171 is executed.

[0103] Step 171 includes determining the duration of use of the operator light setting in the previous region of interest.

[0104] Step 173 includes determining a grow light setting, such as a previous grow light setting or a new grow light setting. In step 173, the new grow light setting is determined based on the grow light setting, the operator light setting, and the duration, and / or a period during which the previous grow light setting or the new grow light setting is to be used after the operator light setting is applied.

[0105] Step 175 includes adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources in the preceding region of interest (identified in the previous iteration of step 165) from the operator light settings to the grow light settings. Thus, once the operator moves away from the selected light source, the light protocol is restored. This can occur immediately or gradually (e.g., based on distance from the operator's location).

[0106] exist Figure 7 In the example of FIG. 1 , based on the properties of the operator light setting (e.g., duration, difference), the restored grow light protocol is adjusted in step 173 to compensate for the interruption of the operator light. In the event that the operator light setting is dimmed compared to the grow light setting, the light setting of the light protocol can be automatically adjusted to match the DLI (Daylight Integral) required by the light protocol, depending on the time / duration of the lighting change.

[0107] For example, insufficient light may be determined and compensated for by one or more of the following:

[0108] a) presenting the grow light longer on the day the interruption occurs;

[0109] b) if this is acceptable to the grower, present the grow light longer at the end of the growing protocol;

[0110] c) If it has not yet reached its maximum, present the grow light at a higher intensity.

[0111] After step 175, step 177 is performed. Step 177 consists in checking whether it was possible to determine the region of interest in the current iteration of step 153. If this is possible, step 165 is then performed. If this is not possible, step 151 is repeated.

[0112] Figure 8 Depicted instructions can be executed as reference Figures 5 to 7 A block diagram of an exemplary data processing system for the described methods.

[0113] like Figure 8 As shown in , data processing system 300 may include at least one processor 302 coupled to memory element 304 via system bus 306. In this way, the data processing system may store program code in memory element 304. Further, processor 302 may execute program code accessed from memory element 304 via system bus 306. In one aspect, the data processing system may be implemented as a computer suitable for storing and / or executing program code. However, it should be appreciated that data processing system 300 may be implemented in the form of any system including a processor and memory capable of performing the functions described in this specification.

[0114] Memory element 304 may include one or more physical memory devices, such as, for example, local memory 308 and one or more mass storage devices 310. Local memory may refer to random access memory or other non-persistent storage device(s) typically used during the actual execution of program code. Mass storage devices may be implemented as hard drives or other persistent data storage devices. Processing system 300 may also include one or more cache memories (not shown) that provide temporary storage of at least some program code in order to reduce the number of times program code must be retrieved from mass storage device 310 during execution. For example, if processing system 300 is part of a cloud computing platform, processing system 300 may also be able to use memory elements of another processing system.

[0115] Optionally, input / output (I / O) devices, depicted as input device 312 and output device 314, may be coupled to the data processing system. Examples of input devices may include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, or a microphone (e.g., for voice and / or speech recognition). Examples of output devices may include, but are not limited to, a monitor or display, or speakers. Input and / or output devices may be coupled to the data processing system directly or through intervening I / O controllers.

[0116] In an example, the input and output devices may be implemented as a combined input / output device (in Figure 8 314). An example of such a combined device is a touch-sensitive display, sometimes also referred to as a "touch screen display" or simply a "touch screen." In such an example, input to the device can be provided by movement of a physical object (such as, for example, a user's finger or a stylus) across or near the touch screen display.

[0117] Network adapter 316 may also be coupled to data processing system 300 to enable it to couple to other systems, computer systems, remote network devices, and / or remote storage devices through intervening private or public networks. Network adapters may include data receivers for receiving data transmitted to data processing system 300 by the systems, devices, and / or networks, as well as data transmitters for transmitting data from data processing system 300 to the systems, devices, and / or networks. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are examples of different types of network adapters that may be used with data processing system 300.

[0118] like Figure 8As shown in FIG, memory element 304 can store application programs 318. In various examples, application programs 318 can be stored in local memory 308, one or more mass storage devices 310, or separate from local memory and mass storage devices. It should be appreciated that data processing system 300 can further execute an operating system (OS) that can facilitate the execution of application programs 318. Figure 8 ). Application 318, implemented in the form of executable program code, may be executed by data processing system 300 (eg, by processor 302). In response to executing the application, data processing system 300 may be configured to perform one or more operations or method steps described herein.

[0119] Various examples of the present invention can be implemented as a program product for use with a computer system, where the program(s) of the program product define functionality of the examples (including the methods described herein). In one example, the program(s) can be embodied on various non-transitory computer-readable storage media, where, as used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" includes all computer-readable media with the sole exception of transitory propagated signals. In another example, the program(s) can be embodied on various transitory computer-readable storage media. Illustrative computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: (i) non-writable storage media on which information is permanently stored (e.g., read-only memory devices within a computer, such as CD-ROM disks readable by a CD-ROM drive, ROM chips, or any type of solid-state non-volatile semiconductor memory); and (ii) writable storage media on which information is stored that can be modified (e.g., flash memory, a floppy disk within a floppy disk drive or hard drive, or any type of solid-state random-access semiconductor memory). The computer program(s) can be executed on the processor 302 described herein.

[0120] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a" or "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0121] The corresponding structures, materials, actions, and equivalents of all means or step-plus-function elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, or action for performing a function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the examples of the present invention has been presented for illustrative purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Examples are selected and described to best explain the principles of the present invention and some practical applications, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present invention for various examples with various modifications suitable for the particular use under consideration.

Claims

1. A system (1) for adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources (13-14) for horticultural growth of plants or crops, comprising: at least one input interface (3); at least one control interface (4); and At least one processor (5) configured to: - receiving input from one or more sensors (21-23, 26-28, 89) using the at least one input interface (3); determining an operator (81, 83) area of ​​interest based on the input, wherein an operator task needs to be performed on or in relation to one or more plants or crops in the area of ​​interest; identifying one or more light sources (13-14) that illuminate the area of ​​interest; and adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources (13-14) from a grow light setting for growing plants or crops to an operator light setting for performing the operator task using the at least one control interface (4); - receiving further input from the one or more sensors (21-23, 26-28, 89) and / or one or more further sensors using the at least one input interface (3); determining that no further attention by the operator (81, 83) is required in the area of ​​interest based on the further input; and upon determining that no further attention by the operator is required in the area of ​​interest, adjusting the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources (13-14) from the operator light setting to the grow light setting or a new grow light setting using the at least one control interface (4); - wherein the at least one processor (5) is further configured to determine a duration of use of the operator light setting; and based on the grow light setting, the operator light setting and the duration, determine the new grow light setting, and / or a time period during which the grow light setting or the new grow light setting needs to be used after applying the operator light setting.

2. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to: - determining a further region of interest of the operator based on the further input, - identifying one or more further light sources (11-12, 15-16, 71-76) illuminating said further area of ​​interest, and - adjusting one or more settings of the one or more identified further light sources (11-12, 15-16, 71-76) from a further grow light setting to a further operator light setting using the at least one control interface (4).

3. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to: - determining the type of attention required by the operator (81, 83) in the area of ​​interest, and - determining said operator light setting based on said determined type of interest.

4. The system (1) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to: - determining the type of attention required by the operator (81, 83) in the area of ​​interest, and - determining said operator light setting based on said determined type of interest.

5. A system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to determine operator information based on the input, the operator information indicating where the operator (81, 83) is looking, and / or the operator information includes the position of the operator's head, a part of the operator's head, and / or the position of the operator's (81, 83) hand; and determine the area of ​​interest of the operator (81, 83) based on the operator information.

6. The system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the operator information further includes the speed of the operator (81, 83).

7. A system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specific distance of the operator from the input, and the one or more adjacent areas are adjacent to the area of ​​interest; identify one or more adjustable light blocking elements (61) between the operator and the one or more adjacent areas; and use the at least one control interface (4) to close the one or more adjustable light blocking elements (61).

8. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to determine one or more adjacent areas within a specific distance of the operator from the input, the one or more adjacent areas being adjacent to the area of ​​interest; identify one or more adjacent light sources (11-12) that illuminate the one or more adjacent areas; and use the at least one control interface (4) to adjust one or more settings of the one or more adjacent light sources (11-12) by turning off at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources (11-12), dimming at least one of the one or more adjacent light sources (11-12), and / or adjusting the light emission spectrum of the one or more adjacent light sources (11-12).

9. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to: - obtaining a growing protocol for growing plants or crops associated with the area of ​​interest, the growing protocol including the grow light settings, and - determining the operator light setting based on the grow light setting.

10. The system (1) of claim 9, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to adjust the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources (13-14) from the grow light setting to the operator light setting by controlling the one or more identified light sources (13-14) to adjust the intensity of one or more wavelength components of the grow light setting and / or increase the intensity of the green wavelength component and / or increase the intensity of the broad spectrum white component using the at least one control interface (4).

11. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to determine the operator light setting based on an ambient daylight level.

12. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to determine an identifier of the operator (81, 83) and / or an identifier of the group to which the operator (81, 83) belongs based on the input, and to determine the operator light setting based on a light setting associated with the identifier of the operator (81, 83) and / or the identifier of the group.

13. The system (1) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one processor (5) is configured to use the at least one control interface (4) to gradually adjust the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from the operator light setting to an adjusted operator light setting that is more similar to the grow light setting than the operator light setting is to the grow light setting.

14. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the area of ​​interest is a portion of a layer (54) in a vertical horticulture farm (51), and the at least one control interface (4) is configured to adjust one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources (13-14) from a grow light setting for growing plants or crops to an operator light setting for performing the operator task only in the portion of the layer in the vertical horticulture farm.

15. A method of adjusting one or more settings of one or more identified light sources for horticultural growing of plants or crops, the method comprising: - receiving (101) input from one or more sensors; determining (103) an operator area of ​​interest based on the input, wherein an operator task needs to be performed on or in relation to one or more plants or crops based on the input; identifying (105) one or more light sources that illuminate the area of ​​interest; and adjusting (109) one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources from a grow light setting for growing plants or crops to an operator light setting for performing the operator task; - receiving further input from the one or more sensors (21-23, 26-28, 89) and / or one or more further sensors; determining, based on the further input, that no further attention by the operator (81, 83) is required in the area of ​​interest; and upon determining that no further attention by the operator is required in the area of ​​interest, adjusting, using at least one control interface (4), the one or more settings of the one or more identified light sources (13-14) from the operator light setting to the grow light setting or a new grow light setting; and - determining a duration of use of the operator light setting; and determining the new grow light setting, and / or a time period during which the grow light setting or the new grow light setting needs to be used after applying the operator light setting, based on the grow light setting, the operator light setting, and the duration.

16. A computer program product storing at least one software code portion configured for performing the method of claim 15 when run on a system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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