Introduction
Ridder Growing Solutions is a leading player in the greenhouse horticulture sector, with locations worldwide and customers in more than 100 countries. The company develops and implements automation solutions to optimize the efficiency and productivity of greenhouses.
Challenge
In greenhouse horticulture, a stable and reliable control system is essential. Ridder faced several major challenges when developing a solution for climate control, water management, and growth and nutrition control. The key requirements were:
- A computer system that functions optimally in a warm and humid environment, without using a fan.
- Maximum reliability, as system failure can lead to significant damage.
- Simple and intuitive ease of operation for users.
Solution
To meet these requirements, Ridder chose a rugged panel PC from Chipsee. In combination with Ridder’s special temperature enclosure, this solution performs optimally in the challenging climate conditions of greenhouse horticulture.
The Role of Microtron
Microtron played a crucial role in realizing this solution. As a reliable partner, Microtron delivered customization and quality assurance at various levels:
- Ready-to-use products: Microtron fully prepared the Chipsee panel PCs in their production workshop, customized to Ridder’s specific needs.
- Custom BIOS and software: The panel PCs were equipped with a customized BIOS and a pre-load of the required applications.
- Reliability testing: Each unit underwent an extensive 24-hour burn-in test to guarantee maximum reliability.
- Supply chain optimization: To ensure continuity, Microtron maintained a buffer inventory, so new systems could be delivered on-site within 48 hours.
Results and Benefits
Thanks to this collaboration between Ridder and Microtron, Ridder has a reliable and efficient automation solution that meets the strict requirements of greenhouse horticulture. The key benefits:
- Reliability: The system functions flawlessly in a humid and warm environment.
- Speed: Thanks to the buffer inventory, Ridder can quickly respond to demand and implement any replacements rapidly.
- User-friendliness: The customized panel PCs provide intuitive and efficient operation for operators.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Ridder Growing Solutions and Microtron demonstrates how customization, quality control, and an efficient supply chain contribute to an innovative and reliable automation solution in greenhouse horticulture. By strategically choosing rugged hardware and a strong partner like Microtron, Ridder ensures a stable and sustainable system that guarantees operational continuity.
