With the new intelligent self-steering system, potato harvesting specialist Ropa from Germany presents an innovative solution for autonomous control of the steering axle on its trailed Keiler 2 RK22 potato harvester.
The system manages steering movements independently, ensuring that the Keiler follows the tractor’s tracks precisely. Thus, “corner cutting” is consistently avoided, which significantly reduces the turning radius of the tractor-harvester combination. The autonomous self-steering system offers notable advantages particularly in tight corners, at headlands, and during maneuvering and reversing.
The intelligent self-steering system is controlled by means of an integrated gyroscope. This continuously measures lateral acceleration, and the steering angle is calculated in real time using the travel speed and the vehicle geometry stored in the control unit. No additional steering linkages or further mechanical or hydraulic connections are required.
Forward and backward
The intelligent self-steering system significantly reduces the operator’s workload, operating with exceptional sensitivity and precision. This enables greater comfort, precision and agility.
The onboard computers continuously regulate the steering axle so that the wheels of the potato harvester follow the tractor’s tracks as accurately as possible. Compared with manual control via the mini joystick, the autonomous system enables smoother, more precise and repeatable steering movements.
Quick activation
The intelligent self-steering system is conveniently activated by simultaneously pressing the multi-button and the steering button on the left or right control unit. When entering the row, the system is deactivated via the field start button and reactivated at the end of the row using the field end button, provided the self-steering system was previously active. This allows the steering to be optimally integrated into the working sequence.
Once activated, the system immediately assumes active steering control. The intelligent self-steering system can be activated or deactivated at any time, with the active state clearly indicated by the steering button illuminating red on both the left and right control units.
Autonomous control during reversing
A particular highlight is the autonomous steering during reversing. The Keiler detects the direction of travel and steers precisely into the curve being negotiated. The system amplifies the tractor’s steering movement, making maneuvering in tight corners significantly easier and more precise. Especially on confined areas, when reversing or when aligning the combination, this function offers a considerable gain in comfort.
Full control is maintained at all times, as the system can be overridden with manual steering whenever required and subsequently reactivated via the button combination.
The intelligent steering system is retrofittable to all Keiler 2 RK22 models.
