The ultimate in precision

The FLEXCARE row crop cultivator has been engineered to deliver maximum precision, weeding between plants and hoeing the soil.

In order to maintain the set working depth even on uneven terrain and in varying soil conditions, the hoe elements are mounted on a parallel linkage. This ensures constant adaptation to the ground contours and a uniform working depth.

To ensure the most effective process even in tough conditions, hydraulic adjustment of the ground pressure applied to all tools is available as an option.

Integrated shift frame

The integrated hydraulic shift frame compensates for inaccurate tracking. The shift frame is controlled either by a double-acting spool valve or by camera.

A side shift of +/- 25 cm is possible thanks to two chrome steel shafts with special, maintenance-free plain bearings.

Because the shift frame constantly adapts to the row, plant damage and losses are avoided. A narrow hoeing band is the result.

Camera control for a narrow hoeing band

A 2D camera system is available as an option for the FLEXCARE row crop cultivator to keep the hoe elements precisely in line. In conjunction with the electro-hydraulic shift frame, the rows are detected by a 2D camera and the plant detection software to optimally align the row crop cultivator.

A second synchronised camera is also available as an option. This further increases the accuracy.

The automatic camera-assisted shift system on the FLEXCARE features two bright LED floodlights as standard to ensure the work area is completely illuminated. Ultimately, they ensure precise control of the hoeing and weeding tools, even in low light conditions. That is why the FLEXCARE is perfect for operating right into the night.

Precision work

The prerequisite for a precise hoeing process is accurate row tracking. PÖTTINGER achieves this thanks to the compact design of the machine and its large 450 mm diameter flanged wheels, and by mounting the row crop cultivator close to the tractor.

The single beam 180 mm x 180 mm cross-section frame and the wide mountings of the hoe elements provide the necessary strength and stability.

The hoe elements lift at the headland to reduce overlaps and sections being weeded multiple times. There are two control options for this: Central lifting or individual lifting.

Central lifting

Using the central lifting system hydraulically actuates all hoe elements together from a single-acting spool valve. This means that all hoe tools are raised and lowered at the same time.

Individual lifting

Using the individual lifting system, which is available as an option, each hoe element can be electro-hydraulically lifted and lowered on its own powered by the tractor's double-acting hydraulic circuit. There is a choice of two different control terminals for operating the individual lifting system.