07 lacking smart capabilities may be unable to alert the machine to operational problems. “If something happens to the work tools of the implement and your implement is not smart, it will not be able to communicate that problem to the ATU, potentially resulting in lower work quality,” stated Schröer-Merker. Larger implements may present another challenge. Because the ATU’s environmental detection system operates within a fixed range, wider machines such as sprayers could require additional sensors mounted directly on the implement. “If you have a very wide working width, like a sprayer, in the future we would probably need to have environmental detection on the implement itself,” Schröer-Merker said. To support safe operation, the ATU uses a suite of cameras and three LiDAR sensors that provide a 360-degree view of its surroundings. Safety functions are managed through Apex.AI software, with additional redundancy measures currently under evaluation. Current tests could see additional safety measures brought in. “We are still testing a range of alternatives because we want to have redundancy in the safety system,” Schröer-Merker said. Important ATU information as well as camera feeds are monitored using an app that can be accessed via computer or mobile devices. This mobile or desktop app allows users to view items like fuel levels and machinery temperatures. It also allows for task planning and for farmers to import maps and other information from ag service providers. The app also allows farmers to provide people they trust, like admins or machine operators, with permission to view machine specs and control certain functions. All the information can be transmitted to external systems through an agrirouter data exchange hub. Future plans include autonomous fleets to allow for multiple machines to work, and for producers to monitor the equipment remotely. They are eyeing 2028 to bring the ATU to market, though that release will likely be restricted to Europe at first, SchröerMerker said. KRONE has its global headquarters in Spelle, Lower Saxony, Germany, where the family-owned company was founded in 1906 and continues to manufacture its hay and forage equipment. The company has grown into one of the world’s leading forage machinery manufacturers, producing disc mowers, tedders, rakes, balers, forage wagons, and self-propelled harvesters. For the North American market, KRONE operates KRONE North America from Olive Branch, Mississippi, serving dealers and customers across the US and Canada. www.krone-northamerica.com. LEMKEN is headquartered in Alpen, North RhineWestphalia, Germany, where the company traces its roots to a blacksmith shop established in 1780. Today, LEMKEN specializes in soil cultivation, seeding, and crop care equipment and operates a global network of manufacturing and sales locations. In North America, the company maintains LEMKEN USA in Des Moines, Iowa, while LEMKEN Canada Inc. operates from SaintHyacinthe, Québec, supporting dealers and producers across Canada. www.lemken.com/us and www.lemken.com/ca-en. | pag PHOTO: Combined Powers
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