Mixed-Occupancy Vertical Urban Farm Systems

摘要

A mixed-use vertical farm is a high-rise structure that is a combination of residences and agricultural subsystems situated near or within urban centers and serving as a localized food production facility. Plants of different varieties are grown year-round in high density hydroponics/aeroponics modules. Vertical urban farming takes advantage of the ability to control the weather and lighting environments to maximize plants growth, yield, and quality. A systems approach is needed to understand and simplify the complex system considering whole life-cycle costs, design, construction, operation, and infrastructure integration for environmental management and residences. Overall, the mixed-use vertical farm is conceived as a high-tech solution for countries or cities that have shortages in water, extremely limited arable space, and the need for competitively-priced farm products. Singapore, a nation incorporating many of these factors, is an example of an excellent candidate for such a system.