LoRaWAN Cold Storage Monitoring
The key to protecting millions in high-value cut flower inventory is maintaining a precise, narrow environmental band: ultra-low temperatures (0∘C to 4∘C) and high relative humidity (near 90% RH). Our client was battling severe product loss due to two issues caused by manual control: desiccation and destructive Botrytis mold from over-humidification. This case study details how we deployed a robust LoRaWAN IoT system to transition their cold chain from reactive monitoring to automated, precision control, directly integrating with the humidifier motor to stabilize the environment and eliminate shrinkage.
The Challenge: Imprecise Control & High Product Loss
The client, a major cut flower distributor, was facing significant inventory loss due to two related issues in their cold storage:
Imprecise Control Loop
Their legacy system used basic thermostats and wide-tolerance hygrometers that could not maintain the required environment of 0 C to 4 C and 90% RH±2%.
Destructive Fluctuation
When humidity dropped, product dried out, reducing vase life.
High Shrinkage
This combination of imprecision and lag caused consistent, costly product loss
Data Lag
Sparse sensors missed temperature and humidity pockets, forcing staff into slow, reactive, and often ineffective manual adjustments.
The Solution: LoRaWAN IoT for Automated Cold Chain Control
We implemented a LoRaWAN IoT closed-loop system using high-density, precision sensors. A direct connection via a LoRaWAN relay controller automated the humidifier motor.
- 01
Real-time Humidity Monitoring
LoRaWAN sensors continuously track humidity levels to maintain ideal storage conditions.
- 02
Temperature Control Automation
Automated alerts and control mechanisms adjust cooling systems to keep temperature stable.
- 03
Humidifier Motor Management
IoT-enabled control of humidifier motors to prevent over- or under-humidification.
- 04
Remote Data Access
Real-time monitoring and control via cloud dashboard for managers and operators.
- 05
Preventive Alerts
Instant notifications for deviations from set thresholds, reducing flower spoilage risk
- 06
Reliable Power & Enclosure
IP67-rated, solar-assisted setup ensures continuous operation in harsh conditions.
LoRaWAN Weather Station Architecture
Deployment : Real-Time Cold Chain Monitoring:
A complete IoT-based deployment using MacSync devices to automate climate control and maintain flower freshness.
MacSync Temperature Humidity Sensors
Installed inside cold rooms for precise environmental tracking.
Industrial LoRaWAN Controller
Automates the humidifier motor operation based on humidity data.
Industrial LoRaWAN Gateways
Positioned at central locations to collect data from all nodes and forward it securely to the cloud platform.
Central Monitoring Dashboard
Provided operators with live status, historical data, and performance analytics for parking utilization and sensor uptime.
Challenges : Top Hurdles for Wireless Cold Storage Monitoring
Unstable Temperature Control
Frequent fluctuations inside the cold room led to premature wilting and reduced flower shelf life
Inconsistent Humidity Levels
Lack of real-time humidity tracking caused the flowers to dry out or retain excess moisture.
Manual Operation of Humidifiers
Operators had to switch humidifiers on/off manually, often leading to delayed action and improper moisture control.
No Remote Monitoring Capability
The absence of a connected system made it impossible to check real-time conditions without being physically present.
Validation: Cold Storage IoT System Validation and Testing
Temperature & Humidity Accuracy
Tested LoRaWAN-based sensors to ensure precise monitoring of cold storage conditions for flowers.
Automated Humidifier Activation
Validated system response to thresholds, confirming humidifiers maintain ideal humidity for flower freshness.
Data Integrity and Dashboard
Cross-checked sensor data with local readings to guarantee accurate monitoring and actionable insights for cold storage managers.
Reliable 24/7 Operation Confirmed
Extended testing ensured uninterrupted operation, protecting flowers and optimizing cold storage efficiency.
Boosting Efficiency and Product Safety with LoRaWAN Cold Storage Solutions
Enhanced Flower Shelf Life
Maintaining ideal humidity and temperature levels extended the freshness period, reducing spoilage and waste.
Automated Humidifier Control
The humidifier automatically adjusted based on real-time humidity data, eliminating manual intervention.
Real-Time Monitoring
The farm owner could now monitor cold storage conditions remotely through the Macsync web dashboard.
Energy-Efficient Operations
Optimized on/off control reduced power consumption and improved compressor lifespan.
Conclusion: LoRaWAN Cold Storage Results and Future
The MacSync LoRaWAN-based monitoring system ensured precise humidity and temperature control inside the flower cold storage. Automated humidifier control maintained ideal moisture, reducing spoilage and keeping flowers fresh longer.
Ready to Transform Your Cold Storage with IoT?
