Key Takeaways
- TTA-ISO launches the FlexFixer, a vision-guided robot that automates detection and correction of missing plants in transplant trays.
- The machine integrates with any transplanting line and processes up to 4,000 plugs per hour.
- FlexFixer addresses critical labor bottlenecks, reduces operational costs, and improves uniformity.
- The product launch follows the January 2025 merger of TTA and ISO Horti, now operating as TTA-ISO.
- The company’s strategic focus includes automation, sustainability, and global expansion across horticulture and food production sectors.
TTA-ISO Introduces FlexFixer to Streamline Nursery Transplanting Operations
TTA-ISO, a global horticulture automation company formed through the merger of TTA and ISO Horti, has announced the launch of its newest innovation, the FlexFixer. Designed to automate the last manual process in nursery transplanting, the FlexFixer identifies and fills empty cells in plug trays—eliminating the need for labor-intensive corrections.
The new system leverages dual vision systems and robotic precision to detect gaps and replace missing plugs efficiently and accurately.
“Automation is the future of horticulture, and TTA-ISO is at the forefront of this movement,” said Jan Bakker, CEO of TTA. “The FlexFixer helps growers save time, reduce labor, and improve planting quality.”
How FlexFixer Works
The FlexFixer is built to work in-line with any brand of transplanting equipment, making it highly adaptable for a wide range of nursery operations. Its multi-step process includes:
- Tray Input: Trays move directly from the transplanting line into the FlexFixer.
- Vision Detection: A top-mounted camera scans trays in motion to identify empty cells.
- Plug Collection: A robot arm gently lifts healthy plugs from a donor tray using bottom support.
- Second Check: Another camera verifies which robotic grippers are holding plants.
- Precise Filling: The robot places plugs only in empty cells to ensure complete coverage.
Performance Highlights:
- ⚙️ 4,000 fixed plugs/hour
- 🔁 Full transplanting line compatibility
- 💡 Enhanced crop uniformity
- 💰 Reduced labor and production time
Built on a Broader Vision of Automation and Global Growth
The launch of FlexFixer follows the January 2025 merger of TTA and ISO Horti, creating TTA-ISO. The combined company brings together expertise in transplanting, robotics, sorting, and process automation to meet the increasing demand for scalable, tech-enabled solutions in horticulture and adjacent industries.
“This merger empowers us to help our customers push boundaries, transform their operations, and achieve the extraordinary,” said Martin Maasland, CEO of ISO.
TTA-ISO’s Strategic Objectives:
- Tackle labor shortages through automation
- Support sustainability via waste reduction and process efficiency
- Raise quality standards with AI-integrated technologies
- Expand internationally, with a focus on the Americas, Middle East, and Oceania
