Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico is contributing to greenhouse automation with their recently launched fumigation robot, the Qii Jet HAV 343. Leonardo Ledesma, Technical Services Manager, shares about the motivations behind the innovation, the development challenges, and how features like automatic line changeover are streamlining pest management operations.
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
Optimizing resources in the greenhouse
The automatic line changeover wasn't developed on a whim. It emerged from a real and pressing need. "The inspiration comes from the need to optimize human resources within the greenhouse," he explains. "It's about making the process more efficient, but more importantly, doing everything in the same way every time to reduce variability in the fumigation process."
This focus on consistency is critical in greenhouse environments where even small variations can lead to pest outbreaks or crop damage. By standardizing the fumigation process through automation, growers can rely on precision applications every time, regardless of who is operating the equipment.
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
Overcoming technical challenges
Despite its promise, implementing such advanced automation wasn't without hurdles, particularly in the Mexican greenhouse sector.
"One of the main challenges was that the original greenhouse designs in Mexico weren't built to accommodate this type of equipment. We've seen narrow aisles, low screens, irregular tube-rail systems, and even unstable ground. All of these make robot navigation and automation very difficult."
Beyond physical limitations, there are also knowledge gaps in maintenance and high costs that can deter growers from embracing new tech, especially during periods of economic uncertainty.
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
A smarter fumigation robot: The Qii Jet HAV 343
The Qii Jet HAV 343 is a fumigation robot packed with intelligence. According to Leonardo, "The robot calculates the fumigation recipe based on the needs of the client. You set parameters like nozzle type, pressure, crop height, and spray shape, and the robot calculates the ideal application settings in real-time."
Its standout feature? The newly integrated automatic line changeover. Previously, a single operator could control up to four robots, but their effectiveness was limited by manual line changes. "With the new line change feature, the robot autonomously moves between rows. This has essentially doubled an operator's capacity."
He adds, "There are other good systems on the market, but I believe our product stands out because of its build quality, certified rebounds, consistent global standards, local technical service in Mexico, and strong parts inventory. Plus, every version we release solves the 10 most common problems from the last model."
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
More than labor savings
While automation often begins as a labor-saving initiative, he believes the long-term benefit is even more compelling. "At this point, the main savings are from reducing the number of workers needed for applications," he says. "But the real win is the consistent, homogeneous spraying that drastically reduces pest presence over time."
The consistency brought by automation leads to healthier crops, fewer treatments, and less product waste, creating both economic and environmental advantages.
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
Safety, stability, and simplicity
The Qii Jet HAV 343 is designed with safety and consistency in mind. "The robot uses a programmed interface that holds up to ten spray programs, but only a qualified person can modify them. This ensures that only one person is responsible for defining and maintaining fumigation standards, making the process safer and more stable."
While adaptable in many ways, the Qii Jet HAV 343 is specifically built for high-tech greenhouses. "It operates on tube-rail systems that are typically found in advanced greenhouses. It's suitable for crops from 3.5 to 6 meters in height, but those basic infrastructure requirements have to be there."
© Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
Integration and the future of automated greenhouses
Regarding integrating the system with broader greenhouse automation like climate or irrigation control, Leonardo is optimistic but pragmatic. "Bogaerts, our partner, thinks globally but acts locally. We always try to improve the internal logistics of greenhouses," he says.
While the Qii Jet HAV 343 is currently standalone, Zantingh and Bogaerts have other systems integrated with harvest and packaging operations. "At Geoponica 2, one of our most advanced clients, we track everything, from who harvested a product to where it should be stored and how it should be combined for packaging."
He is confident that automation is a long-term necessity. "Clients want to be more productive and more competitive," he says. "And with today's market challenges, it's essential to find stable, safe, and efficient ways to produce while minimizing variables."
Positive feedback and continuous improvement
Early adopters like Hortigen have played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of the Qii Jet HAV 343. "Their feedback has been very positive," Leonardo shares. "They're not just a customer, but a partner helping us transition the industry from manual to automated systems. We work closely with them to tackle all the challenges I mentioned earlier and make the technology more accessible."
Companies focusing on greenhouse automation setting new standards in facility management. Leonardo concludes, "Every new version we release is better than the last. That's the goal: continuous improvement, better performance, and a stronger future for greenhouse growers everywhere."
For more information:
Asesores en Invernaderos / Zantingh Mexico
Leonardo Ledesma, Technical Services Manager
T: +52 (1) 442 186 95 11
[email protected]
www.zantingh.com
www.aiasesores.com
Bogaerts Greenhouse Logistics
www.bogaertsgl.com
