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Robotics in greenhouse horticulture: applications and benefits

Robots are no longer a pipe dream. In more and more greenhouse horticulture companies, they are an integral part of the daily process. But how does such a robot actually work? And what can you solve with it? In this blog, we give you a look behind the scenes of the technology – and what you can do with it in practice.

1. What does a robot do in greenhouse horticulture?

Robots can perform a variety of tasks, such as:

  • Moving plants, trays, or harvested products
  • The buffering or sorting of products
  • The automatic refilling or removal of workstations
  • Sometimes even scanning or registering product data

What all these tasks have in common? They are often repetitive, labor-intensive, and error-prone when done manually.

2. The technical foundation of a robotic solution

Our robots are built from a number of smart components:

Mechanical system

The core of the robot is a stable, sturdy frame with movable arms, grippers, or transport modules. Each component is designed for long-term use in a greenhouse environment.

Sensors and cameras

For accuracy, sensors or vision systems are often used. This way, the robot 'sees' where products are located or whether a tray is positioned correctly. This ensures precision and prevents errors.

Software & control

The robot is controlled via special software. With it, you can determine, for example:

  • of the road
  • the order of operations
  • the speed or reaction time

Sometimes machine learning is applied so that the robot can also respond to changing conditions or learn from repetition.

Integration with existing systems

Most robots are connected to other systems, such as conveyor belts, buffers, or checkout systems. This creates a seamless automated process.

3. Flexibility and customization

No greenhouse is the same — and no cultivation process works identically. That’s why we always develop robots based on your needs.

Some examples:

  • In narrow paths? Then we build a compact, maneuverable setup.
  • Different product sizes? Then we provide adjustable grippers or tray sensors.
  • Limited space or changing positions? Then we use mobile or rail systems.

The goal is always: maximum automation with minimal disruption to your workflow.

4. What does it yield?

A well-tuned robotic solution means:

  • Less dependence on labor
  • Consistent quality and pace
  • Lower error probability
  • Better deployment of staff on valuable tasks
  • Scalability for the future

5. Example from practice

At a greenhouse horticulture company that moves thousands of plants daily, we have developed a robot that autonomously picks up, sorts, and returns trays to a buffering system.

The robot works 16 hours a day, without breaks, and saves the company dozens of labor hours each week.

Ready for the next step?

Do you want to know if automation can also mean something for your process?

We are happy to brainstorm with you and show you what is technically possible – and economically interesting.

👉 Start a chat directly or schedule a no-obligation conversation with our team.

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Automatisering in de metaalbewerking: slimmer produceren met robots
Ontdek hoe automatisering in de metaalbewerking leidt tot hogere efficiëntie, lagere kosten en meer flexibiliteit. Inclusief praktijkvoorbeelden van robottoepassingen zoals machinebelading, cobots en industriële robotintegratie.