John Deere announced on June 1 that two new AutoTrac products are now available to help row crop producers and ag service providers out in the field. AutoTrac Vision and AutoTrac RowSense are designed to provide more accurate navigation in row-crop fields, specifically while utilizing sprayer applications.
AutoTrac Vision works by using a single-lens camera to detect row crops and steer the sprayer down the center of the row. AutoTrac RowSense utilizes a row sensor, similar to what is found on combines, to provide the same accuracy during spraying.
"Because of field terrain, planter drift, or irregular planting without guidance, spraying in row crops can present challenges for sprayer operators making post-emerge applications," says Doug Felter, product marketing manager for John Deere. "These two new guidance applications help sprayers track more accurately between the rows, resulting in reduced crop damage, less operator fatigue and more effective field applications."
AutoTrac Vision is currently approved for use in corn, soybeans and cotton planted in 30-inch rows. It can be utilized until there are three inches of soil showing between rows, or up to 90 percent canopy enclosure.
AutoTrac RowSense is designed to be used later in the season. It has been approved for corn at least four feet tall, planted in 30-inch rows.
"Both automated vehicle steering systems allow the operator to spray at faster speeds with little manual steering and cover more acres per day with less damage to crops,” Felter concludes.
More information can be found by contacting your local John Deere dealer or visiting www.JohnDeere.com/ag.