Automation Solutions
What makes a growing container automation compatible?
It is important to understand the pros and cons when it comes to automated equipment which has a high upfront cost, requires some additional oversight and inspection, and, as it is a machine, can be finicky and plagued with issues if not utilized correctly. Additionally, not all growing containers are created equal.
An automation compatible container should have uniform spacing between the container rims when stacked and a defined round or square rim for automated de-stacking tools to grab for easy denesting. If there is not enough space for the automated flange, lugs or spool type strippers to grab the rim, you run the risk of pulling multiple containers into the machine all at once, with the loose containers becoming jammed in the equipment.
If you are planning on using automated handling equipment such as fork systems, you will want to make sure there is a defined rim which protrudes far enough from the container body so it can securely rest on the tines. Additionally, a sturdy side wall construction is necessary in order to withstand the force of the automated equipment (especially helpful on conveyers). If the walls are too thin, they can often crush under the machine's pressure. However, the side walls should not be so rigid that they are unable to safely flex when the fork tines are inserted between containers.
DOWNLOAD our informative whitepaper on Automation Containers.
Did you know...
If you're not using an automation compatible planter with your new state-of-the-art equipment, you run the risk of internal damage which may not be covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
Automation Compatible Containers
Round Trade G Bottom Drain
Nursery Pot ⯈
2.00 G Injection
Nursery Pot ⯈
3.00 G Injection True
Nursery Pot ⯈
Trade Squat
Nursery Pot ⯈
5.00 G Thermoform Squat
Nursery Pot ⯈
7.00 G Injection
Nursery Pot ⯈
Thermoform
Nursery Pot ⯈
True Thermoform
Nursery Pot ⯈
3.00 G Injection
Nursery Pot ⯈
5.00 G Injection
Nursery Pot ⯈
Squat Round
Nursery Pot ⯈
Labor Struggles
It is no secret the horticultural industry has struggled with labor issues both in terms of cost (minimum wage and associated benefit increases) and availability (immigration reform; lack of skilled workers). Data collected by the American Society for Horticulture Science concludes that, "Greater than 40% of production costs are labor costs, totaling nearly $40 billion per year in the U.S. alone." The ASHS study goes on to say that, "Mechanization of an operation can provide mechanical power, speed, repetition, safety and a greater potential for consistency and quality control."
Suction Automation
Another thing to be aware of is the shift from de-stacking automation to suction-type container destacking equipment. In this application, a small suction cup grabs the bottom of the container directly in the center —dropping or flipping it into the corresponding tray (or conveyor system) as part of the production line. If your automated equipment has this new technology, it is important that the bottom center of the container be completely flat, otherwise the machine will be unable to properly grab it. This is important to remember when purchasing containers with "feet" designed for water mat and other unique irrigation practices as there may not be enough surface area for the suction cup to grab.