John Deere’s versatile HarvestLab technology, originally utilized in field choppers, manure spreaders, and portable feed analysis labs, has taken a leap forward by offering real-time crop analysis for S and T series combines.
Previously, the HarvestLab 3000 sensor by John Deere was mainly employed in field choppers, manure spreaders, and as a portable lab. However, recent advancements have enabled the integration of the HarvestLab 3000 into S and T series combines.
This advanced measurement system has been seamlessly integrated into combines to monitor and analyze crop quality during the harvesting process. The HarvestLab 3000 assesses the composition of harvested grains directly in the field, providing valuable insights into chemical composition and moisture levels of the crops.
The HarvestLab 3000 Sensor – Precision Farming in S and T Series Combines
The HarvestLab sensors are now adaptable for installation in S and T series combines. This breakthrough empowers real-time decision-making during harvesting, enabling farmers to make informed choices about grain storage based on protein, starch, or fat content. This information could potentially lead to improved pricing during sales transactions.
Furthermore, nutritional content data facilitates the creation of more accurate variable fertilization maps for future seasons. This optimization empowers farmers to streamline their harvesting processes, accurately price their yields, and ultimately enhance profitability.
First in the Field: John Deere S780 Equipped with HarvestLab 3000
The inaugural S series combine equipped with the HarvestLab 3000 is the model S780. This innovation, available through Agro-Efekt, features the HarvestLab 3000 seamlessly integrated onto the grain conveyor.
Utilizing near-infrared technology, the sensor captures an astonishing 4,000 measurements per second, with data sent to the John Deere Operations Center refreshed every 3 seconds. This precision enables meticulous yield mapping.
Key Features of the HarvestLab 3000
The data collected by the HarvestLab 3000 sensor assists farmers in meticulously planning fertilization and agrotechnical interventions. Farmers gain vital insights into nutrient levels, particularly nitrogen, and their impact on both yield quantity and quality. With this sensor, farmers can evaluate the effectiveness of fertilization across diverse sections of the field.
The primary features of the HarvestLab 3000 include:
- Chemical Composition Analysis: The sensor provides data on protein, fat, and starch content, enriching farmers’ comprehension of crop quality and enabling prompt responses to challenges.
- Moisture Measurement: The HarvestLab 3000 measures material moisture, which is pivotal for efficient drying, storage, and processing of harvests.
- Precise Yield Collection: Leveraging data from the HarvestLab 3000, farmers can calibrate the harvest pace based on quality and moisture, thereby optimizing the process for efficiency.
- Cost Savings: Accurate data regarding crop composition and moisture leads to well-informed decisions about storage, transport, and processing, which mitigates losses and promotes cost-efficient practices.
- Integration with Other Technologies: The HarvestLab 3000 can seamlessly integrate with other field management and machinery monitoring systems, such as the John Deere Operations Center.
- User-Friendly: The sensor is simple to install, configure, and operate. Data is presented on a screen, facilitating real-time monitoring of the harvesting process.
“Enhanced efficiency and precise work inherently translate into increased profits, while automation ensures consistent grain quality. Thanks to the HarvestLab 3000 sensor, S series combines can continuously and in real time monitor vital quality parameters in wheat, barley, and canola. In addition to moisture measurement in wheat, barley, and canola, the sensor can also determine protein content in barley and oil content in canola,”
states Mateusz Janicki, Harvesting Specialist at John Deere Poland.