Hanwook Chung is building a Simulated Environment Agriculture Lab, starting with his courses

Hanwook Chung, assistant professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering, is working to develop a Simulated Environment Agriculture Lab, or SEAL, a concept that provides information on how growing environments affect food production systems. There have been tremendous advancements in simulation tools and methodologies that can be applied to various aspects of agricultural processes. However, significant improvements are still needed to better predict the interactions between the environment and food production. Part of Chung’s work is developing technologies specifically designed for this purpose.

“Every developmental project begins with a solid foundation,” Chung says. “For my work, this foundation will be built upon a variety of case studies conducted throughout my ongoing research projects. These studies will serve as the building blocks for developing accurate and efficient simulation tools tailored to controlled environment agriculture.”

To stay on the cutting edge of technology advancement in the industry, simulation technology has been implemented in ABE courses, in addition to research. Chung teaches students in his ABE 4720: Controlled Environments for Animals and Plants course how to use software to show ventilation in food production environments.

“In a classroom setting, my goal has been to demonstrate the capabilities of computer simulations while also introducing students to engineering tools that have historically been less common in the context of agricultural food production,” he says.

Students created ventilation simulations for projects of their own, like a modular swine facility and a vertical lettuce farm. Feedback on the course has been positive, and Chung plans to continue exposing students to innovations in simulation technology. Chung is also collaborating with the Iowa Pork Producers Association using simulation technology to assist with improving ventilation. He expressed appreciation for Iowa State students and staff throughout his short time here so far, joining the department immediately after his PhD graduation last year.

“The ultimate goal of agricultural engineering is inherently to feed the world while also protecting the environment, land, and water that sustain food production,” he says. “This mission, centered on serving the greater good of society, extends beyond individual ambitions. I’ve seen this drive reflected in my interactions with students, which in turn inspires me to do my best to guide and support them.”