Mittendrin, Orbiloop, 2025
Plantation Technology
PROJECTS
LOCATION
Aachen, Germany
PROJECT TYPE
Interior - Plantation Technology
SCOPE OF WORK
Research, design and consultancy
COMPLETION
2024
The main goal of this project was to develop an application-oriented and innovative concept including a feasibility study for the direct integration of vertical farming into the building structure and façade surfaces and their connection to existing material and energy building flows. In addition, the integration into roof areas is considered conceptually and evaluated based on simulations.
The basis for the feasibility study was the new conveyor belt-based vertical farming technology OrbiLoop®, which enables a more efficient, flexible, and cost-effective approach compared to previous vertical farming developments and has already been licensed by industrial partners for commercial use.
As part of the project's feasibility study, Fraunhofer IME has implemented its OrbiLoop® test system within a double-skin glass façade, showcasing the concept by cultivating herbs and strawberries. The test setup also involves the development and evaluation of essential technical components—such as a hybrid lighting system that partially utilizes solar energy to help reduce overall power consumption.
More details
Gallery
University of Stuttgart: Assoc.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Arch. Hanaa Dahy, Asmaa Hassan, Paulina Grabowska
PARTNERS:
Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Aachen
EUtech Scientific Engineering GmbH, Aachen
Machine & Metal Construction Vonhoegen GmbH & Co. KG, Würselen
City of Aachen, Department of Economics, Science, Digitization and Europe
FUNDING: Bundesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE)