"By walking through the industry's hardships at Hamill, we have learned that being flexible and scalable is key so companies aren't overextended on equipment before they can start to harvest. Let us grow with you by starting with the product and the harvesting. All our equipment is designed to scale with the growers in mind as equipment and product lines can be added to as the company grows," says Bob Benner, CEO of Hamill Group.
Hamill released its latest harvester, 24, as the result of inserting customer feedback, integrating the many new features that will increase product yield, safety, customization, and sanitation.
What's new
Hardware
Now, let's let Bob talk us through those 'four wins,' shall we? Safety is integral to every grower and employee, which is why this was a main feature of our new design. "We are TUV compliant with our guarding and control architecture for safe machine operation consisting of Illuminated dual channel E-stops and Magnetic door interlock switches."
Then, product yield is also very important. Hardware-wise, Hamill has improved its blower system to maximize product yield consisting of PLC controlled variable speed blower with an indexable air knife and nozzle for repeatable positioning. As well as adding a new frame that has a custom sanitary design to eliminate harborage and water pooling, complemented by the stainless-steel electrical cabinet with the slanted top. Following that, Hamill incline belting is the latest food-grade belt on the market, which according to Bob, is very easy to remove and clean.
Software developments
When it comes to the software, the operator's panel is 'integration ready' to interface with your facility PLC or SCADA system through OPC-UA, Dry contacts, Ethernet/IP, or any custom requirements. With that comes that the incorporated touch screen HMI is available in 7-15" sizes and has an intuitive menu structure and operation to simplify machine control. The use of 'recipes' removes the guesswork for operators and allows for repeatable conditions. This design is available in 12", 30", 48", and 60" widths to suit a variety of trays.
Scaling up with the grower
"As growth is generated, we can integrate other equipment into your farming operations and easily scale up. Our harvesters are a great place to start as there is high product yield, safety, and time savings. Our harvesters can cut a tray of greens in 3 seconds or less. This not only generates cash but also frees up operators to complete other harvesting tasks as needed," Bob adds.
Looking to the future, Hamill's next designs will be made to harvest full heads of lettuce and one that will be small enough to put in a grocery store or farmer's market to harvest one tray at a time for customers. Both these ideas are in the development stage and should be available in 2024.
Bob truly wants to encourage growers out there. "We believe that indoor farming will not only flourish but become the leader of the agricultural industry. We look forward to working together to bring the grower the best equipment solutions for their continued growth and success."
For more information:
Robert Benner, CEO
Hamill APS
bob.benner@hamillaps.com
www.hamillaps.com