Greenhouse device does away with human inspections

Put simply, the Sensohive system measures the environment in greenhouses. The four students behind it have already got DKK 25,000 in the Venture Cup’s Startup competition and they have won The University Startup World Cup in Product and Technology. The University Post talked to one of the founders.

There are more than 400 greenhouse nurseries in Denmark covering millions of square metres. The nurseries require frequent inspections and monitoring to ensure the environment for plants to grow. According to Sensohive estimates their sensor system can increase their customers’ output by seven per cent, just by providing a more controlled environment.

And then, of course, there is the fact that the greenhouses need less human inspection.

Working in a team

Co-founder and law student Patrick of the University of Copenhagen says that the business will improve the future of greenhouses.

And he is not shy to admit that it could secure his future as well. “I personally entered the project to make sure I had a job when I finish and to be self-sufficient,” says Patrick Henry.

The Sensohive sensor-device. Photo: Courtesy of Patrick Henry

Sensohive has thrived on being a student-based business and the shared experiences of being students has helped create a dynamic. Their different backgrounds in subjects have challenged each other and introduced their business to a bigger market, says Patrick Henry, adding that more students should “‘get out there and pitch your businesses as much as possible if you have a solid business case”.

The Sensohive team. Photo: Courtesy of Patrick Henry

Juggling education and business

Three of the four students behind the project have this year been struggling to manage the professional aspect of Sensohive with an attempt to achieve the acquired ECTS points to finish their education.

A controversial new Study Progress Reform ‘Fremdriftsreform’ has been forcing students to go through their education faster.

”I am writing my thesis next spring but it is only possible because my co-founders are absolute stars. Otherwise it would have been almost impossible for me to juggle an education and the job of building a business,” says Patrick Henry.

universitypost@adm.ku.dk

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