Exploiting AgTech Connectivity to Corner the Grain Market
Introduction
I live in the countryside and know several farmers. The topic of connected farming systems often comes up in discussions at the local pub. Fans of Clarkson’s Farm understand how complex modern tractor systems can be.
Farming Technology and Autonomy
Tractors mostly operate in private fields, offering great potential for autonomous use. However, according to my farming friends, fully robotic tractors are still a long way off. In the UK, tractors serve many different purposes and fields tend to be small, requiring them to frequently haul trailers locally. If farm fields were huge, robots might be more practical.
Connected Farming from the Driver's Seat
I have spent time operating combine and forage harvesters, where the level of autonomy and connectivity is impressive. The steering is automatic, often guided by laser or GPS. Once the field map is loaded—either by driving the perimeter or uploading a precise map—the machine handles almost everything except turning at the end of each row, although some models are beginning to manage this as well.
"Steering is automatic; laser and/or GPS guided. Once a field map is entered into the guidance system, the vehicle can do just about everything, other than turn at the end of each furrow."
Author's summary: Connected farming systems in the UK show strong autonomy potential despite technical challenges, especially given field sizes and diverse tractor tasks.