The Valley de Lier automates internal logistics with Metazet’s M-Track System
Horticulture thrives on the synergy between labor and automation. Efficient internal logistics save time, reduce costs, and lower the physical strain on employees. View Valley, one of The Valley’s nurseries in De Lier and part of Growers United, faced a logistical challenge following the expansion of its greenhouse. Together with Metazet, they found the most efficient and cost-effective solution: switching to the induction-guided M-Track system.
From expansion to future-proof
At the View Valley nursery in De Lier, a Metazet chain track system had been in use until last season. This system was literally the connecting link between two greenhouses, enabling harvest carts to travel across the chain and move from one greenhouse to the other at the rear.
With the addition of a third greenhouse extending toward the neighboring Kreekrug area, a new logistical challenge arose: how do you efficiently connect this new section with the existing processing area? Initially, the plan was to expand the existing chain track system, but after consulting with Metazet’s experts, a completely new, induction-guided M-Track system turned out to be the better solution. Since Metazet supplies both chain track and induction systems, the switch to this fully automated and future-proof system was made quickly.
What changes were needed to switch to the M-Track System?
The M-Track system uses an induction wire embedded in the concrete paths. Harvest carts can travel unmanned, as the M-Track follows this wire and is automatically directed to its assigned destinations, from the unloading unit in the processing area to the correct greenhouse, and back fully loaded.
To ensure optimal functioning within the limited space, several adjustments were necessary. A control system was installed in the greenhouse to act as a kind of traffic controller: it automatically registers when a train of harvest carts arrives at an intersection and decides which one has the right of way. This prevents congestion and keeps the flow smooth. The routing of the induction wire was also adapted, allowing the M-Tracks to maneuver smoothly even through narrow passages.
Sustainable reuse of existing components
When switching to a new system, replacing the components of the old system is often unavoidable. However, because View Valley opted for a different version of an existing Metazet system, many components could be reused. Although switching to the M-Track system also required new harvest carts, the upper structure of the existing chain track carts could be reused thanks to a smart design.
Next | Handling Solutions made the necessary modifications in the processing area, where harvested produce is pushed, weighed, and packed, to enable the existing machinery to handle the fully automated passage of M-Tracks with full harvest carts in tow.
Ready for the Future
The complete M-Track system was installed within the set deadline, allowing the first tomatoes to be harvested on time. The M-Track system has made daily operations at The Valley more efficient while also making the greenhouse future-proof.
Automation and manual labor work side by side in horticulture. Want to discover how smart logistics can lighten your workload? Our colleagues are happy to help you take the next step.
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