Agricultural drone use soars among NZ contractors
Use of agricultural drones by contractors in New Zealand is soaring.
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.
