Lualtek is an initiative by Alessio and Luca Occhipinti, young starter uppers that have come up with a system that can be integrated anywhere, which requires no installation and implements machine learning via LoRaWAN, i.e. a radio wireless technology for the monitoring and communication of data across long distances with a low energy consumption.
The system enables the control of environmental and substrate values and the automation of any device (no frost, irrigation, closing and opening of ridges, etc.) through monitoring sensors. It also works without being connected to the Internet or the electricity network.
Lualtek panel for the management of motors with two actuators
One year after its introduction, five companies have opted to install the Lualtek system, as they decided to focus on technological innovation and energy saving, a topic of great importance considering the hikes in prices of the past few months and the not-so-positive future perspectives. In addition, the less time and fewer operators needed help lower production costs considerably.
Lualtek's advanced algorithm has enabled to optimize production, reducing the consumption of water, energy and fertilizers. After using it for one year, entrepreneurs have used 15% less electricity, 40% less water and have witnessed a 20% increase in production. These figures are important not only when it comes to savings, but also for environmental sustainability."
Sensor in a blackberry greenhouse
The project was extremely successful even with investors and venture capitalists both in Italy and abroad: some entrepreneurs saw great potential in Lualtek when it comes to sustainability and an improved productivity and decided to invest in it. Lualtek was therefore capable of increasing its capital and started a first round of equity collection for a value of €300,000. In the meantime, foreign investors and some large agricultural businesses from South America have also shown their interest.
Device used to manage the system
These first funds will enable the start-up to strengthen its development and commercial teams. Lualtek is currently working to activate AI and machine learning by the end of 2022. These technologies will alert entrepreneurs on the possible development of diseases, but also suggest changes to the automations to improve production.
"We started our experimental project in the summer of 2020 in a berry greenhouse and the success was immediate with tangible results. We decided to establish the start-up in March 2021 and the first orders came soon after," explains Luca Occhipinti.
"A greenhouse that features monitoring and automation sensors is nothing new, but a software that constantly sends updated data and enables the setting of suitable crop choices is. In addition, it also works without electricity and without Internet and requires no installation, it can therefore be installed at a contained cost even in businesses with a low technological level. Programing can take place via cell phone, PC or any device. The sensors and actuators are highly innovative and they are assembled directly by us, therefore they are not yet available to purchase" adds Alessio Occhipinti.
For further information:
Lualtek srl
+39 3760494945
info@lualtek.io
www.lualtek.io