Is augmented reality the future of farming?
Imagine a farmer being able to tell a paddock’s pasture cover and dry matter content just by looking at it, or accessing information about a cow’s body condition score in the same way.
Safety comes high on the agenda of many tractor developers and manufacturers, but many industry watchers don’t realise that much of the technology shown at annual shows and exhibitions comes from industrial giant ZF.
To help showcase their latest technologies, such as intelligent cameras, automated hitching systems and electric drive systems which promote safety, comfort and efficiency, the company has developed the aptly named Innovation Tractor.
The prototype gathers all the above functions into a package likely to be useful for the agricultural and construction sectors, to show what is available and to provide a benchmark for future innovation and development.
As part of the project, six cameras scan the periphery of the tractor, and with the aid of a computer generate a surround-view image on the tractor screen or a portable device like a tablet. The operator can view the images from a range of perspectives, including a birds-eye view, either from the seat or from a portable device nearby, facilitating auto hitching functions via a hitch detection system.
In this scenario, a camera detects the position of an implement in relation to the tractor, by measuring the distance and the angle of ‘optical targets’ placed on the machine. Reversing is done automatically, with continuous reassessment during the cycle; automated steering corrections are done for alignment, before the tractor stops in the optimum position for hitching. This final step is done manually by the operator.
During the whole operation a pedestrian detection system checks for movement of any person in a pre-determined safety zone around the tractor, particularly between the implement and tractor; it will warn of anyone in the zone and stop the tractor if the operator does not act.
The steering system forms part of a system powered by ZF’s Terramatic transmission coupled to the Terra+ generator module; this can provide up to 60kW of electrical power to be sent to wheel motors on trailed implements for a traction management system which will allow perfect ‘set-off’ on slopes up to 30% gradient.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand has no intention of backing down in a trade dispute with Canada over dairy products.
There have been leadership changes at the Hamilton-based Dairy Goat Co-operative, which has been struggling financially in recent years.
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