John Deere’s Combine Advisor package revolutionizes harvesting efficiency by automating performance adjustments in S700 series combines. This innovative technology uses sensors and cameras to monitor grain quality, losses, and tailings, making real-time adjustments to optimize performance. This article explores how Combine Advisor works and its impact on harvest operations.
How John Deere Combine Advisor Works
Combine Advisor utilizes a sophisticated system of sensors and cameras to continuously monitor key harvesting parameters. A high-speed camera mounted on the clean grain elevator analyzes grain for broken kernels and foreign material. Another camera on the tailings elevator monitors the amount of free grain and trash. This data, combined with input from loss sensors monitoring separator and shoe loss levels, provides a comprehensive picture of machine performance.
The system operates in two phases: learning and adjusting. Initially, the operator sets the combine to their desired performance level and activates the “set performance target” function. For approximately 10 minutes, Combine Advisor analyzes data from the cameras and sensors to establish baseline performance metrics.
Once the learning phase is complete, Combine Advisor enters the adjustment phase. It continuously monitors performance against the established baseline. If any parameter deviates outside the acceptable range, the system automatically adjusts combine settings to correct the issue. For instance, if the tailings camera detects excessive free grain, Combine Advisor might widen the sieve opening to direct more grain to the clean grain elevator.
The system continuously evaluates the effectiveness of each adjustment. If the adjustment improves performance, it’s retained. If not, Combine Advisor will try alternative adjustments or revert to the previous settings. This dynamic adjustment process ensures optimal performance throughout the harvest.
Real-World Performance of Combine Advisor
Field tests demonstrate Combine Advisor’s ability to adapt to changing crop conditions. In one instance, a combine harvesting corn transitioned from a dry variety to a wetter variety. Combine Advisor quickly recognized the increased broken grain levels in the wetter corn and automatically adjusted the rotor speed and concave setting to compensate. Upon returning to the drier variety, the system reverted to the initial settings, highlighting its ability to make precise and timely adjustments.
Benefits of John Deere Combine Advisor
Combine Advisor offers significant advantages for operators of all experience levels. For seasoned operators, it provides a second set of eyes, constantly monitoring performance and making subtle adjustments that might otherwise be missed. This allows operators to focus on other critical tasks, such as grain cart coordination and field navigation. For less experienced operators, Combine Advisor provides a valuable learning tool and ensures consistent performance.
Combine Advisor significantly reduces the burden on the operator, allowing them to focus on overall efficiency and safety. By automating performance optimization, it minimizes grain loss, maximizes throughput, and improves grain quality, contributing to a more profitable harvest.
