From basic automation tools up to robotised systems

The world of horticulture is changing and evolving constantly. This calls for a flexible and fluid approach and adaptive mechanization. George Mooyman, export manager at Javo, delivers products varying from the most basic automation system tools up to fully automatic, robotized systems. George: "There are of course many differences between countries and continents, which all ask for a different degree of automation. Even in countries that are paying a lot of import tax, automation is used increasingly often. They do not talk about cost-recovery models, but about quality improvement and using the capacity of the nursery to the full. A more uniform product can be produced in higher numbers, at the same costs. That is also a return which arises from automation."

The replacement of pots and trays at a nursery is labour intensive in areas with no automation, and thus results in high labour costs. Automation technologies develop faster in those countries. George: "Javo is offering different automation systems for nurseries. For instance growing on ground level asks for a different automation system than growing on breeding tables or in pots." During the preparation of new construction projects automation is often already included in the drawing. Sometimes George advises not choosing for one machine with, for example a high capacity but for two basic machines. "This can be interesting in connection with flexibility or transport distances inside the company. In terms of capacity, anything is possible," according to George.

All machines of Javo are produced in the Netherlands by Nobels. Javo and Nobels belong to the same organisation. By producing several machines at once, Javo can reduce the costs. They are responsible for marketing and distribution and making customer specific automation systems. George: "With a choice from 47 basic machines, and a considerable number of different extra options no machine is alike. Each machine is tailor-made. Javo is also able to develop tailor-made machines and integrate them in the system. At the moment, the challenge is to implement the demand for big machines to fill large sized pots.

 

Export is becoming more important. The company has over 30 partners worldwide. Growers are informed by these partners on automation systems concerning potting machines, tray automation, soil-, transport and robotic systems. Javo is offering a permanent backup service and 24/7 online service through the so-called 'JavoNet', on this you can find information available on technical matters.

"Our objective is to stay closely connected to our buyers, partners and end users. We evaluate the gradual changes in the horticultural world with them. The automation system are continuously adjusted to keep them in line with the changes and demand."

 

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