Titel-Trader 2.2009.indd - Agritechnica Trader

AGRITECHNICA
ISOBUS for improved
farm effi ciency
International data communication standard presented at Agritechnica
Many electronics-based
agricultural solutions
are aimed at increasing
farm effi ciency. Still, this could
be further enhanced through a
standardised data communications
system which allows several
different farming systems to
work together. Not only does
this improve effi ciency, it also
adds fl exibility by allowing farmers
to choose the exact solution
that meets their needs.
Having different machinery
and computer functions work
together requires a standardised
data communication system.
Without it, single electronics-based
solutions may not
be compatible. Enabling interconnectivity
between the wide
range of equipment and systems
found in many farms today optimises
effi ciency and productivity.
A standardised ISOBUS
makes this possible worldwide
by integrating systems such as
those used for tractors, for example
sprayers, as well as farm
management computers.
20 TRADER | 2 | 2009
The Agricultural Industry
Electronics Foundation (AEF),
founded by several agri-machinery
associations worldwide, aims
to establish such high standards
in global electronics. This joint
effort represents a commitment
to the further development of
compatible systems at an international
level, which ultimately
serve to help farmers worldwide
achieve maximum returns
through the optimal use of technical
solutions.
What this means for the farmer
is that he is able to choose
any equipment with the guarantee
that it will be compatible
with what he is already using.
ISOBUS also extends the
possibilities of precision farming
through ‘more intelligent’
functions and GPS data integration.
In addition, ISOBUS
automates machinery and implements
settings for different
operations, thus combining the
tractor, mounted implements
and terminal into a system with
the qualities of a self-propelled
machine. More here: www.isobus.net/isobus_E/
At Agritechnica, the ISOBUS
standard is presented under the
theme “ISOBUS LIVE”. Proofing
engineers and experts from
the DLG are available together
with representatives from the
AEF in hall 17 D43a to explain
the latest technologies and developments
through the entire
duration of the exhibition. Additionally,
several forums (some
in English) address future ISO-
BUS developments and their
practical applicability. Forum 2
entitled “Technology and Management”
deals specifi cally with
ISOBUS issues. View the Technical
programme at www.agritechnica.com
for further details.
Testing ISOBUS systems
DLG’s Test Centre has the
capability to accommodate the
programming and implementation
of new software versions
and systems.
ISOBUS systems applied in
agriculture are subjected to simulated
and real fi eld tests. The
tests conducted conform to the
current guidelines of the ISO
standard 11783.
Bus system tests require complex
proofi ng methods covering
three key areas:
• Physical layer test
• Test data layer
• Communications protocols
The centre also offers companies
a range of compatibility
and functionality tests designed
to evaluate agricultural components
and systems. The “plough
test” for example is designed to
test and optimise system compatibility
between several manufacturers.
In addition, a compatibility
test shows up possible
problems which can be analysed
and solved.
Hardware and software developers
will fi nd the centre a
perfect place to meet up, share
knowledge and exchange ideas.
More information is available in
hall 17 D43.