Yamaha acquires NZ’s Robotics Plus, boosting agricultural automation
New Zealand-based company Robotics Plus, a specialist in agricultural automation, has announced an agreement for it to be acquired by Yamaha Motor to form Yamaha Agriculture.
Rarely a week goes by without a report on a quad crash, prompting howls from experts for better rider training.
Meanwhile riders can soften the blows by wearing safety helmets. Though more farmers seem to be wearing them, many don't, citing issues of weight, ventilation and the struggle to communicate effectively with workers and dogs.
Now, Yamaha and helmet maker Shark at Fieldays launched to the world their 'X16', said to be the first fully certified helmet developed specifically for quad, side-by-side and ROV users.
Low weight of 1200g is achieved with a composite fibreglass shell, durable and proof against knocks onfarm.
Meeting ECE 22-05 and DOT safety standards, the helmet has many features to improve its usability onfarm.
An easy set-and-forget buckle outperforms the traditional double 'D' ring design; large cooling vents promote air flow; large earpads make communication easy; and inserts can reduce noise.
Accessories deal with dust, wind and flies, and a peak and neck guard keeps off the sun.
All units are Bluetooth ready: they have recesses for earphones and a Bluetooth communications controller. A removable easy-clean inner liner makes cleaning easy.
At Fieldays, Yamaha ATV and ROV marketing man Lance Turnley showed a pair of prototype examples. The helmets will go on sale towards the end of the year, he says.
Labour's agriculture spokesperson Jo Luxton says while New Zealand needs more housing, sacrificing our best farmland to get there is not the answer.
Profitability issues facing arable farmers are the same across the world, says New Zealand's special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr.
Over 85% of Fonterra farmer suppliers will be eligible for customer funding up to $1,500 for solutions designed to drive on-farm efficiency gains and reduce emissions intensity.
Tighter beef and lamb production globally have worked to the advantage of NZ, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
Groundswell is ramping up its 'Quit Paris' campaign with signs going up all over the country.
Some farmers in the Nelson region are facing up to five years of hard work to repair their damaged properties caused by the recent devastating floods.
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