Autonomy comes within reach

“We have been working with test customers for five years to bring an autonomous solution to the market,” said Christopher Murray, John Deere go-to-market manager for embedded technology. “Autonomy helps farmers hit their ideal operating window by extending their working day and freeing up labor so they can complete additional tasks, particularly during busy times of the year. Whether they need to get to planting in the spring or tillage after harvest, having an autonomous option helps allocate labor to higher-value tasks.”

The new perception system includes 16 cameras mounted to the tractor cab roof that allows for a complete 360-degree view around the tractor and the tillage tool. To add autonomy to the tillage tool, precision upgrade kits are available for 2017 and newer John Deere tillage implements with additional lighting, StarFire receiver mast and harnessing. The autonomy ready solutions are factory installed in base for select Model Year 25 tillage tools.

To help making a smooth transition to autonomy, John Deere has integrated its autonomy solution into existing precision ag technologies used today. John Deere autonomy leverages proven advanced technology such as AutoPath, AutoTrac Turn Automation and John Deere Operations Center Mobile, essential tools to maximizing infield productivity.

“Customer feedback has proved the value of this technology, extending the workday without putting in additional hours,” Murray said. “With autonomy, farmers can command the tractor and tillage tool to continue working overnight or when they have other high-value tasks to complete. This allows them to finish work in a shortened operating window, increasing their productivity.”