Agricultural Automation

The concept of using autonomous vehicles in agriculture is not new, as many tractors and other farm equipment have been using GPS technology for years. However, with the advances in robotics and artificial intelligence, the potential for autonomous vehicles in farming has greatly increased.

Benefits include increased efficiency, productivity and product yield while decreasing costs provided by programming the machinery to operate 24/7. Performing tasks such as planting, harvesting and transporting crops can be accomplished by using high-speed, high-definition cameras to examine the plants and terrain. This information is sent to the processor which analyzes and sends a command back to the appropriate mechanism to pick fruit, pull weeds or plant seeds.

The #M12 series of #IndustrialSwitches from Antaira are capable of performing these tasks, as well as providing protection from dust, water, vibrations and shock which allows installation in places few other devices would survive.

To further benefit from having information regarding the general health of the machine transmitted while refuelling or recharging, the ARX Series 7235 wireless device can be added to make the perfect #solution.

Challenges to Consider:

• High-speed connectivity as well as creating a partnership across the network is required to move the data from various components to perform the required tasks
• Vibration and shock resistance as well as M12 connectors to protect from dust and water helps maintain the system
• Provide statistical and health information on the vehicle
• PoE provided by the switch to power the cameras - a special low voltage PoE switch must be used.