Control Dekk has developed a patented automated watering system that can be implemented with greenhouse cable hanging basket lines. The Oasis is designed to reduce water use by up to 50% by giving each basket only the water it needs for optimum growth.
Oasis is installed on new or existing greenhouse cable conveyors. The grower sets the pre-determined weight desired for correct plant watering via a local controller, an office PC, or a mobile device. As each basket passes through the Oasis module, its weight is determined. The smart controller opens the proper water valve for only the time necessary to achieve the grower’s target basket weight.
The Oasis module is equipped with a Smart Optics sensor that determines if there is a basket present on the hook and whether it is an upper or lower basket. The Oasis system design eliminates the need for tabs on basket hooks and mechanical switches.
The Oasis control panel’s major components include:
• A programmable logic controller
• Variable speed controls
• A 6-inch color user interface that intuitively allows the user to navigate the available functions via the touch screen
• All controls are enclosed in a durable, corrosion-resistant enclosure that can be mounted in any desired area within close proximity to the conveyor lines.
Module Specifications
• Weighs 8 pounds
• Constructed of stainless steel and enhanced ultra-violet-stabilized polymer for durability
• Measures 5 inches by 7 inches by 18 inches
• Contains a non-contact sensor and a weight sensor
Brian Sparks is senior editor of Greenhouse Grower and editor of Greenhouse Grower Technology. Read original article here.
Greenhouse Grower Nov 30, 2016