A t first glance, the T8 Blue Power tractor on display may have looked like a normal standard tractor to the numerous visitors who packed New Holland ' s stand at the Farm Progress Show, the annual outdoor farming machinery show that is held in Boone, Iowa( USA). But once the first images of the video dedicated to the tractor and its incredible operational capacities appeared on the screen, everyone understood that they were witnessing a glimpse into the future of farming, one that could feature fully autonomous machinery: something which could redefine the agriculture of tomorrow. A further evolution based on efficiency and sustainability Developed by CNH Industrial in collaboration with its long-standing technology provider Autonomous Solutions Incorporated, ASI, a Utah-based company that is the industry leader in off-road autonomous solutions, the New Holland NHDrive autonomous tractor is an unmanned vehicle that is fully autonomous and can be monitored and controlled via a
|
desktop computer or via a portable tablet interface. This enables farmers to access tractor and implement data, wherever they are, from different locations, whilst checking fields from the comfort of their pick-up, whilst tending livestock or whilst at home, and always whenever they need. This facilitates right-time decision making to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, farmers will maintain full control and ownership of their data.
A path-plotting screen shows the tractor’ s progress, another shows its live camera feed, providing the user with up to four real time views( two front and two rear). A further screen enables monitoring and modification of key machine and implement parameters such as engine speed, fuel levels and implement settings, including seeding rate or coulter downforce. The route to the field can also be planned, should this involve private roads or tracks.
The NHDrive concept tractor is equipped with a seeder, and is able to autonomously seed the next crop straight behind the combine. Using an application installed on a portable device,
|
perfect for supervised automation, such as an operator driving a combine, or on a desktop computer, perfect for the farmer working in his farm office, the tractor and implement parameters can be continually monitored and controlled, and changes can be made if necessary.
Able to work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the NHDrive tractor helps to reduce the risks associated with human error as it follows predetermined and
|
optimised plans for all activities. It is able to reach higher levels of productivity and efficiency than traditional methods. The NHDrive can make full use of the periods of favourable weather for farming operations by working day and night.
In the future, the NHDrive tractor will be able to completely automate grain handling during the harvest when equipped with a trailer, including unloading, transport and offloading activities.
|