Guidance and steering systems are becoming more and more popular in the precision ag world. There are several levels of guidance and steering options for your precision farming operation, and most of these fall into three areas: manual guidance, assisted steering or automated steering. All of these steering options rely on GNSS to determine your position, and your level of differential correction will determine the accuracy of your system. All guidance and steering technologies are based on the same concept that the operator must first set a “starting point” in the field, and using GNSS, the guidance system can help guide passes from there. A quick overview of each type of guidance follows.
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Manual Guidance: Manual guidance relies on a lightbar (physical or on-screen) to direct your steering.
All physical steering is performed by the operator, but the lightbar helps guide the operator by indicating whether they are following their guidance line. As an operator drives a pass, the lightbar will indicate if the operator veers too far off the path, helping them maintain straight, even rows without any assistance with the manual control of the steering wheel.
Manual guidance using Ag Leader's L160 companion lightbar.
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Assisted steering: Assisted steering uses a mechanical steering device installed inside the cab that will work to make sure the vehicle stays on the established path.
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Again, basing its calculations off GNSS data and the initial pass determined by the operator, assisted steering mechanically moves the steering wheel. The operator will take control of the wheel for turns or unexpected maneuvers, but the assisted steering device can direct the vehicle along each pass in the field.
Installation of Ag Leader's assisted steering product, OnTrac2.
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Automated Steering: Automated steering is very similar to assisted steering except that it uses a hydraulic system to control the vehicle.
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Because it is not a mechanical device installed on the steering wheel, automated steering not only improves pass-to-pass accuracy, but also year-to-year accuracy. Like assisted steering, it requires the operator to take control for end of row turns and other maneuvers, but controls the steering on each pass.
Automated steering using Ag Leader's ParaDyme system.
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All of these options for precision steering offer the same general benefits for a grower – controlled traffic patterns, reduced fuel consumption, ability to work longer hours with less fatigue and more. However, just like all other precision technologies, the type of steering and specific product you choose will offer different benefits. As we continually reinforce in our Lessons in Precision Ag, the guidance or steering system you choose to implement should reflect the goals you have for your operation.
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Smartpath guidance or steering
