Exploiting AgTech Connectivity to Corner the Grain Market
Introduction
I live in the countryside and know many farmers, so connected farming systems are a common topic in local discussions. For those familiar with Clarkson’s Farm, the complexity of modern tractor systems is clear. Tractors spend much of their time in private fields, creating a significant opportunity for automation.
Although fully autonomous robot tractors are not yet common, opinions vary. In the UK, tractors perform various tasks across relatively small fields and often haul trailers locally, which complicates automation efforts. Larger fields might make robot tractors more practical.
Connected Farming from the Cab
I have experienced the cab of combine and forage harvesters, where autonomy and connectivity are impressive. Steering is automatic using laser or GPS guidance. Once a field map is entered—either by driving the vehicle around the perimeter or loading a precise map—the machine can operate almost entirely independently, except for turning at the end of each furrow. Some harvesters can already manage those turns.
"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, though some can already do this."
The move towards connected and semi-autonomous farming machinery suggests a transformative future for agriculture, leveraging technology to improve efficiency and precision.
Author's summary: Connected farming technologies, driven by GPS-guided machinery, are gradually transforming agriculture, though UK field sizes and varied uses still limit full automation of tractors.