Smart farming – as part of digitalisation in agriculture – goes far beyond precision farming technologies fitted to machinery. The key is to simplify and integrate the entire farm operation. This saves costs and, above all, a great deal of time.

State-of-the-art at PÖTTINGER

Many PÖTTINGER machines are compatible with Section Control. Section Control enables highly precise working processes in grassland and arable farming. Cutting bars, swath rotors or hoeing elements are raised and lowered with pinpoint accuracy using satellite technology. This avoids overlaps, prevents gaps and protects the crops.

Tailored, needs-based technology implementation

Whether high-end technology makes economic sense depends primarily on the specific operational structure. However, a fully optimised end-to-end process remains crucial for all.

In the grassland sector in particular, many farms face similar challenges. Shorter harvesting windows, variations in yield, differing drying rates and high quality standards all call for optimal organisation. To address this, PÖTTINGER has developed HARVEST ASSIST 4.0, a digital solution that supports the entire harvesting process. Access is largely free of charge and the app works on all standard smartphones.

The app provides real-time machine data to all members of a customised harvesting group. Machines without a telemetry unit are simply integrated via the location sharing feature on the driver’s smartphone. The app navigates to and between fields, whilst transmitting machine and field data in real time. This comprehensive overview of all machines is essential for easily optimising workflows.

Analysis and documentation of swath and bale data

HARVEST ASSIST 4.0 displays deposited swaths with colour coding. High swath weights or irregularities are highlighted in real time, making subsequent work steps easier. Information on bales – such as their number, location and moisture content – also provides important data for logistics, yield estimation and subsequent storage.

Documentation and analysis functions complement the system. Crop yields and machine performance can be analysed per hectare, field or season. The data is automatically recorded in the background. This enables contractors to keep track of their customer groups, whilst users receive up-to-date information, for example to determine fertiliser requirements or monitor harvest stocks.

More than 15,000 harvesting convoys are already organised via HARVEST ASSIST. The app is constantly being developed. In future, the focus will be on even greater connectivity and real-time data transmission to following vehicles. The aim remains to provide a simple, practical app that works on any smartphone or tablet.

Matthias Eichlseder
Product Manager Smart Farming