Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
The tractors are available in three widths to suit varying applications.
The V series has a minimum overall operating width of 1,077mm and maximum 1,293mm, while the cab has a total width of 1,000mm. The S series features the same cabin, allowing configurations from 1,267mm to 1,517mm widths. Meanwhile, the F series can operate from 1,441mm to 1,632mm, with a wider 1,200mm cabin.
The machines offer a choice of 3 or 4-cylinder Farmotion engines between 88-113hp. These are mated to SDF’s own continuously variable transmission, that offer independent ground and engine speeds for precise control in a range of applications.
The cabin features a flat floor layout for ease of access and operator comfort. Importantly, these offer an electronically selectable filtration system to Cat 4 safety standards. This system directs air flow through paper filter elements during standard applications, but when carrying spraying or dusty duties can be selected to divert air through the carbon filter to ensure safe air quality.
Meanwhile, an in-cab display keeps the operator informed about cabin pressurisation and the carbon filter status.
Keeping more connected
Deutz-Fahr has expanded its precision farming division, formerly known as AGROSKY, and rebranded it to SDF Connected Farming Services.
It comprises of five key product families: iMonitor3, SDF Guidance, SDF Fleet Management, Data Management and ISOBUS.
A major update sees the AGROSKY SRC40 receiver being replaced by the all-new SR20 receiver for automated steering system. This features greater satellite access in the southern hemisphere, alongside a 3-axis gyroscope for pitch compensation as standard.
Scheduled for release later in the year, SDF data management simplifies the transfer of task and working data from tractor to office. This uses a standard ISO-XML format for easy handling with a range of applications and software. Data is transferred through the universal data exchange platform Agrirouter system.
This platform is compatible with a wide range of leading agricultural machinery manufacturers. Data that can be transferred includes, but is not limited to, farm master data, measures (task data), field boundaries, track lines and application maps.
The new SDF Fleet Management suite also allows easy tracking and management of SDF products, with a choice of two modules to suit the level of connectivity required by the operator. A Basic Telematics Module can transfer machine data to a smartphone, connecting via Bluetooth, to deliver fuel consumption, utilisation and productivity, viewed in the SDF app.
Meanwhile, the Communication Telematics Module features an internal e-SIM which always makes all important machine data accessible via the internet, including vehicle position and single machine or fleet statuses.
