A Web-Based Intelligent Decision Support System for Low- Technology Greenhouses

This work describes the architecture of a system developed to introduce computer management into the cultivation process in low-tech greenhouses. The proposed system is implemented as a web-based application using open source technologies and subsystems comprised of modules that provide: (1) static information about the cultivation process and marketing of the supported crops or ornamentals, (2) simulation and forecast models of general interest and (3) expert system capabilities and support. Modular construction of the system allows easy adaptation to new products and expansion into new languages. The centralized management of information and knowledge provides approved and better quality of services. The system is designed to provide personalized consultation to its users. The consultation process is guided by input data provided separately by each user. After an initial authentication, the user can interact with the system individually in a personalized environment. Each user has his/her own protected storage space where he/she can store his/her data separately from those of others. The system offers a way to supervise the cultivation process, maintain records of user activities and is able to transmit special alerts for necessary actions. The overall process is monitored by an intelligent decision support system which takes into consideration the data provided by the user, as well as the results of the special models and expert systems, so as to give specialized advice for each individual case. Finally, although the prototype system under development is devoted to tomato, in the future it will be extended to other important greenhouse crops.