For many organisations in horticulture, gaining valuable insights into work processes is fundamental to continuous improvement and meeting industry standards. With this goal in mind, Opus Solutions B.V. has developed the OPUS watch, a smart watch specifically for this sector. However, the connectivity required to track activities isn’t always guaranteed in environments dominated by extensive glass and metal structures, such as greenhouses.
Duration
December 2025 – 2026
Partners (TU Delft)
Do IoT Fieldlab, TU Delft, RoboHouse
Partners (other)
Streamlined registration, zero distraction
Recording data via the OPUS watch would offer significant advantages. It could eliminate the need for staff to pause their tasks to log activities on larger devices, such as tablets, monitors, or mobile phones. Growers can maintain their focus and momentum without any distraction. As a handsfree solution, the OPUS watch ensures a hassle-free workflow. This means that actions can be reported and registered in real time, making data both reliable and more accurate.
The challenge: weak connectivity
However, wireless connections in greenhouses are often weak and unreliable. Greenhouse personnel operate in an environment enclosed by glass, metal, and moisture. These are all elements that are designed to effectively protect crops from the conditions of the outside world. However, these same features create a restrictive environment for wireless connectivity. For the OPUS watch to function properly and generate reliable data, a dependable network is essential.
4G technology
This is why The Smart Labour Watch experiment (part of the Do IoT for Horticulture project) focuses on 4G LTE connectivity. As current smartwatches are designed for 4G, the project team will test this proven standard to ensure a stable connection. They will study the 4G LTE stability under realistic conditions of the Tomatoworld greenhouse.
At the same time, the potential of built-in e-SIMs on private networks is investigated. By mapping connectivity during actual harvest workflows with professional greenhouse workers, we can assess whether 4G connectivity is suitable for reliable, real-time recording of labour.