Combined Powers is the name of a new Krone and Lemken project and design concept. The autonomous process unit consists of a drive unit and implement and, last year, passed trials in cultivation, ploughing, sowing, mowing, weeding and raking. It will now be integrated into forage harvesting and tillage systems from the two companies.
It uses a diesel-electric drive that generates up to 230hp. This is transferred electrically to the wheels and the PTO, and to the implement which couples to a three-point linkage. The drive unit uses an extensive sensor system to monitor the immediate surroundings and implement to ensure safe operation and optimum results.
Operators can control the combination from a mobile device, transmitting jobs and job reports via a communication module and the agrirouter.
The unit is controlled by the implement. This was considered imperative for achieving optimum results. Based on experience in ISOBUS and TIM technology, the drive unit and implement communicate and interact, sharing all types of data.
The concept is also said to bring further benefits, developed to counter the increasing shortage of skilled labour in agriculture. The unit is designed for year-round work, with long service life. Intensive trialling, as well as consultations with farmers and contractors, will continue this year.
For more information go to www.combined-powers.com