Innovative Sensor Technology Improves Combine Accuracy and Operator Comfort
Modern harvesting relies heavily on precision and smart technology, and new systems for head height control and steering are making sure you are not leaving bushels in the field.
These innovations ensure efficient crop collection, protect equipment, and reduce operator fatigue during harvest.
Precision Planting’s HeadSight advanced header height control system uses specialized height sensors equipped with durable poly arms to prevent damage and enhance longevity, Matthew Metzler, product support with PTx, told Farms.com.
By positioning sensors forward for accurate detection, operators gain improved ground sensing and system responsiveness.
The most advanced version, the Horizon system, displays key information on a virtual terminal inside the combine. This provides precise diagnostics, including wiring health and break detection at the connector, ensuring minimal downtime during operations.
When the snout tip touches the ground, traditional systems lose sensitivity, reducing accuracy. The new controller solves this by restoring lost sensor movement, keeping the head fully responsive on uneven terrain or in challenging crop conditions such as down corn or when chopping.
This helps protect the header while maintaining a smooth feeding process for better harvest flow and reduced grain loss.
The next innovation, the TrueSight steering system, improves combine guidance.
Using a single sensor that touches two rows of corn, the system ensures the combine stays perfectly centered in the row, even in leaning or goosenecked crops.
This consistent alignment allows for optimal feeding and smoother harvesting, no matter the crop condition.
Testing has shown that the TrueSight system can return an average yield increase of 0.3 to 0.7 bushels per acre, helping farmers recover potential losses.
Beyond yield, the system reduces operator stress by automating row tracking, allowing more focus on combine performance and efficiency.
Together, these technologies offer farmers improved precision, better machine protection, and greater productivity, reflecting the future of smart harvesting solutions in modern agriculture.