The world’s first driverless tractor

The final production model of what is claimed to be the world’s first driverless tractor was launched at Agritechnica.

The world’s first driverless tractor
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The Greenbot can perform a wide range of activities with no manual input whatsoever. It can work the land day and night, spraying or applying fertiliser and more. In addition, it is much simpler than a conventional tractor as the parts and components needed for a driver have been omitted.

The compact design results in excellent weight distribution and the narrow track makes the machine ideal for operating in orchards and vineyards. The in-built systems enable precision application and are accurate to within one centimetre.

According to the manufacturer, the Dutch Power Company (DPC), future models will have a roof-mounted tank for fertiliser or spray chemicals to create a highly manoeuvrable implement carrier.

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“We opted for a machine with a low centre of gravity. The four-wheel steering ensures maximum manoeuvrability,” says head of engineering Marien van Breugel. The hydraulic 4WD and four-wheel steering can be programmed to function independently, replicating tasks recorded in advance by a tractor with a driver. In Teach & Playback mode, programs can be entered with the remote control; the Greenbot will then follow the instructions.

It can also independently plan its own route and operations for specific applications such as orchard spraying.

“The Greenbot can even drive from one plot of land to the next,” says mechatronics director Vincent Achten. “Our GPS systems are so advanced and precise that they can outmatch any human driver.”

The Greenbot is available with two different track widths: 1m and 1,8m. The ground clearance is 35cm, although higher profile tyres can be fitted. The 75kW 3,4-litre Perkins/FPT diesel engine is renowned for its reliability. Fuel tank capacity is 85l.

Designed for safe operation
The front of the Greenbot is equipped with a Category I hitch capable of lifting loads up to 750kg. The Category II hitch at the rear has a maximum capacity of 1 500kg.

Safety was a major consideration during the development of the Greenbot: the front is fitted with a collision protection system that stops the machine automatically if it makes contact with an object.

A text message is then sent to the user.

Research is being conducted into equipping the Greenbot with cameras that will allow the operator to monitor its activities on a laptop.

Reducing compaction
Some engineers are convinced that the growing size of tractors creates more problems than it solves. Much of this ever-increasing power is used to undo the compaction damage caused by the excessive weight needed to get the power to the ground in the first place.

The Greenbot’s designers at DPC feel that small robotic tractors working autonomously at maximum efficiency 24 hours a day to a pre-planned programme are more cost-effective than conventional high-powered tractors with drivers.