The Pantera 4504 self-propelled sprayer now features enhanced user comfort and comes as standard with LED work lights 

AMAZONE has introduced an upgraded version of the Pantera 4504 self-propelled sprayer. The key feature is the introduction of a new generation of cab, which enhances driver comfort and further simplifies operation. This upgrade is complemented by an updated design and standard LED work lights.

New cab with ergonomic control concept

At the heart of the upgrade is the new cab with enhanced comfort features. It offers more space, improved sound insulation and a more modern interior design. The ergonomic layout generates a pleasant working environment and contributes to a high level of driver comfort during those long working hours. 

A key component of the cab is the armrest. Developed in-house by AMAZONE, it is designed for even greater clarity and follows a straightforward operating concept with a deliberately small number of logically arranged buttons. All the main functions can be operated intuitively without the need to switch from multi-function joystick to other controls whilst driving. An integrated smartphone holder completes the practical features.

Three cab variants offering varying equipment levels

The Pantera 4504 will be available in future with 3 variants of cab. In addition to the standard cab with comfort seat, 2 versions with an integrated Cat. 4 filter system are on offer. Depending on the variant, equipment includes, amongst other things, leather comfort seat with seat heating and ventilation, a cool box, integrated footrests, fabric carpet and side sun blinds.

Standard LED work lights

With the new generation of cab, the work lights are being fully converted to LED. The LED work lights are standard and support safe and comfortable working in the dark, whilst improving the illumination of the working area. 

Updated exterior in the latest AMAZONE design

The exterior appearance of the Pantera 4504 has also been further enhanced. A redesigned front apron, new side panels and a revised styling set give the implement a very modern look. Anthracite-coloured wheel rims emphasise the new look. 

The technical basis of the Pantera

These innovations are complemented by the Pantera’s existing technical strengths. These include the lightweight machine design with even weight distribution for soil-friendly operation, and precise application thanks to the active ContourControl boom guidance, SwingStop vibration damping and the electric AmaSelect single-nozzle control. This ensures high productivity at working speeds of up to 30 km/h. An intelligent chassis design enhances driving comfort whilst minimising maintenance requirements and ensuring efficient fuel consumption.

Maximum precision and output for mounted sprayers

As an alternative to DistanceControl automatic boom guidance, AMAZONE now also offers the automatic active boom guidance system, ContourControl, for the UF 1602 and 2002 on boom widths from 27 m.

The ContourControl active boom guidance guarantees precise application at high forward speeds for maximum work rates and yet exact, close distances to the target surface and so resulting in less drift. This is an important component in precise, efficient and environmentally-friendly crop protection, even on small to medium-sized farms.

ContourControl

The AMAZONE ContourControl active boom guidance is a ground-breaking fully automatic hydraulic boom guidance system which now can also be used on mounted sprayers. The boom tilt is controlled by a hydraulic cylinder which is pre-pressurised on both sides. Rapidly switching hydraulic valves bring the boom to the desired position. This actively reduces any of the various effects caused by uneven ground and other influences while driving. The cylinders for positive and negative angling of the two outer ends of the boom are controlled using the same principle. This allows the boom to follow highly uneven topography to maintain an optimal distance to the target surface across the entire working width, even on extremely hilly terrain.

Less than 50 cm distance to the target surface with 25 cm nozzle spacing 

Distances of less than 50 cm to the target surface can also be precisely maintained using the AmaSwitch quad nozzle body with a 25 cm nozzle spacing.

Flex-fold

The standard, electro-hydraulic Flex-fold mechanism of the boom with ContourControl controls each pivot point on the boom separately. This allows the boom to be folded out to a reduced working width from the tractor cab. The overload protection within the hydraulic system is simultaneously used as break back protection when working at these reduced working widths. The individual control of the hydraulic cylinders at the pivot points allows up to two segments to be folded out at a time on each side of the boom. This considerably reduces the down time when folding the boom in and out.

Future-proof technology

New and innovative technologies, such as row application on row crops or spot application on weeds, are now made possible for mounted sprayers.

• Fast and precise boom guidance for maximum work rates
• Distance of less than 50 cm to the target surface in conjunction with AmaSwitch fitted with quad nozzle bodies and 25 cm nozzle spacing for reduced drift
• Flex-fold for quicker folding
• Simple folding of the boom to reduced working widths with integrated break back protection for use in different tramline systems
• Future-proof technology, optimally equipped for row and spot application

Maximum comfort for mounted sprayers

AMAZONE offers a hydraulic pump drive for the UF 1602 and UF 2002 mounted sprayer. This is completely integrated in the hydraulic system in conjunction with the Comfort-Pack. 

The hydraulic pump drive, which replaces the drive shaft, makes the attachment to various tractors exceptionally easy and requires no maintenance.

Operation and regulation

The hydraulic pump drive is regulated via the Load-Sensing system of the crop protection sprayer. Operation is provided completely via the ISOBUS software of the UF 02. Different pump speeds can be stored for filling, agitating and spraying. When one of these above functions is selected, the pump automatically adjusts the pump speed and keeps the speed constant regardless of the tractor engine speed. Speeds above the maximum pump speed of 540 rpm are safely prevented.

The oil requirement for the hydraulic pump drive is up to 50 l/min.

Filling

At the start of the filling process, the pump can be started comfortably from the TwinTerminal 3.0 in the SmartCenter of the UF. The pump is started nice and gently. The pump speed is regulated completely automatically and quickly reaches the pre-set speed. The engine speed of the tractor is irrelevant here. The maximum suction capacity can be used in full at all times without any concerns, since the control system automatically reduces any speeds above 540 rpm. As an option, the pump can be automatically switched off via the software after the nominal fill level has been reached.

Application in the field

When applying plant protection agents in hilly terrain, the pump speed of the sprayer is always kept constant within the permissible range e.g. when going uphill with a high tractor engine speed and driving downhill at a lower, more fuel-efficient speed. This guarantees optimum application results, reduces the fuel consumption and protects the pump from any overloading generated by excessive speeds.

• Pump drive independent of the tractor
• Protection of the pump due to no excessive speeds
• Easy coupling to and uncoupling from the tractor
• Fuel-efficient
• Maintenance-free

 

Precision mechanical weed control for every farm

Linear shift frame VR 2

SCHMOTZER offers a new shift frame for its hoes. The VR 2 linear shift frame catches the eye as a result of its extremely compact design, and its strength impresses, especially when hoeing under the most difficult of conditions.

The new linear shift frame sets itself apart on account of its very high total travel range of 600 mm (300 mm left and 300 mm right). Optimum guidance of the hoe through row crops without them being damaged or hoed out is therefore guaranteed, especially on non-straight headlands and fields with slopes, where the tractor tends to drift.

A unique feature of the new VR 2 shift frame is its extremely compact design. The distance from the lower link coupling point of the tractor to the coupling point on the hoe is only 470 mm. The VR 2 is therefore 450 mm shorter compared with our well-known AV 5 parallel shift frame, and it is also the most compact shift frame in this class on the market. The extremely compact design significantly reduces the distance of the centre of gravity of the hoe to the coupling point on the tractor and therefore also the leverage effect of the machine on the tractor. This results in several positive effects. On the one hand, the tractor requires considerably less lifting power. On the other hand, the amount of front ballasting is significantly reduced as a result of the lower centre of gravity distance. This a real advantage for soil protection and when carrying out work in hilly terrain. Furthermore, the lower centre of gravity distance also provides a smoother ride on the road.

A choice of support wheels of either 195/55 R10 or 225/55 R12 are available for the shift frame to ensure maximum smooth running and the best possible contour following of the hoe. The support wheels can be steplessly adjusted to track widths from 1.50 m to 2.25 m for use in a variety of crop row widths. Even track widths up to 3 m are possible with an optional extension kit, meaning that the VR 2 shift frame is also ideal for working on beds. A stabilisation disc can also be fitted to the VR 2, so that the shift frame runs smoothly on slopes and the lateral forces transferred to the tractor are minimised. Lateral forces arising from the shift frame are transferred to the ground via the stabilisation disc and the tractor remains reliably on track.

The integrated central oil circuit is a key element of the new VR 2 shift frame. The hydraulic functions of the camera control and the Section Control of the parallelograms are thereby supplied with the requisite quantity of oil. As a consequence, these fully equipped hoes make significantly lower demands on the oil flow, oil quantity and oil supply from the tractor.

Furthermore, all hydraulic and electronic components are installed and laid out behind guards for the best possible protection. All the lubrication points of the shift mechanism on the VR 2 are centrally combined, meaning that maintenance can be completed in a very short time. 

Smart Vision camera system 

The vast majority of the hoes supplied today are equipped with automatic row crop control via a shift frame and a camera system. In this respect, the camera system is the heart of the control system and must guide the hoe perfectly through the crop rows by means of reliable plant detection. SCHMOTZER has developed the Smart Vision camera system for this essential task.

The camera eye of Smart Vision generates a high-contrast image with full HD resolution. This ensures that crop rows are detected from a plant size of 2 x 2 cm. The camera is absolutely dustproof and even resistant to high-pressure washers thus guaranteeing a long service life.

The camera is equipped with a multi-row detection system for up to 5 rows, so that hoeing can also be carried out at the earliest possible stage in the plant development - even in crops with gaps. Furthermore, the camera can be provided with an LED work light, so that hoeing at night is not a problem. This is an attractive option, especially in combination with the RowSpray band sprayer. In addition, a row sensor is available for the camera system as an option. This allows effective and precise hoeing at or just before canopy closure and is ideal for stem-forming crops, such as maize or sunflowers.

The camera system is equipped with a tilt sensor with automatic slope correction, so that the hoe is safely guided through the crop rows via camera control and the shift frame, even on slopes. This means that hoeing is not only possible on level ground but also on challenging terrain. In this respect, the camera adjustment makes the same demands on the driver as on level ground, meaning that drivers with less experience can also carry out hoeing on a slope without any problems.

After all, the Smart Vision camera system controls the shift frame with the utmost sensitivity via a pulse-width modulated control system. The shifting speed of the frame is regulated depending on the forward speed. The speed is measured via a wheel sensor on the support wheel of the shift frame.

The camera system is comfortably monitored in the cab via a high-resolution 10" terminal with touch control. This is dustproof and splashproof for maximum resistance to external influences.

RapidoClip hoe blade quick change system

A long service life combined with a sharp edge is essential for hoe blades. This should result in the hoe blades producing a full-width movement of the top 2 to 3 cm of the soil. If the blades are worn, their replacement should be simple and quick to change thus keeping the downtime of the hoe as short as possible. Downtimes of the hoe as a result of repairs to wearing parts should be minimised, especially in wet years with short work windows for hoeing. Hoe blades with different widths may also be required between the various crops.

The hoe blades are normally either bolted, riveted or welded to the blade shaft, depending on the manufacturer. These systems have disadvantages, however, with regard to the time required for changing, secure mounting for the hoe blades and the costs involved. For this reason, two quick-change systems for hoe blades have already established themselves on the market. With these systems the hoe blade is hooked into the shaft and then secured either with a bolt or with a locking split-pin. However, even these variants have the problem that the coulters become loose and that the replacement requires more time and effort as a result of the wear on the locking system. 

The RapidoClip quick-change system was developed to resolve the problems associated with the various hoe blade fixings. The system has been registered for patent and is the first completely tool-free quick-change system for hoe blades on the market. RapidoClip permits an easy and, above all, rapid change of the hoe blades.

As in the case of the familiar Rapido blades from SCHMOTZER, the new RapidoClip consists of a blade shaft and a blade plate which are joined together via a tongue and groove system. In the new RapidoClip system, the share plate is secured to the blade shaft via the RapidoClip spring lever. The spring lever clamps the blade plate securely on the blade shaft via the over-centre lever and the pivot point milled in the blade shaft. This system holds the hoe blade securely on the share shaft, even under the hardest soil conditions.

To change a hoe blade, the spring lever is pressed on the share shaft with one hand. The spring-lever locking device on the share shaft is slackened in the process and can be pulled out to the side with the other hand. The spring lever can then be folded downwards and removed from the slotted hole of the blade plate. The blade plate is then subsequently pushed forwards out of the tongue and groove system and a new blade plate pushed on the share shaft. Afterwards, the blade plate is clamped on the share shaft with the spring lever. The share can be changed on the hoe without tools in next to no time with RapidoClip, even in the field, and therefore represents real added value for the hoe.

Furthermore, the shallow ridgers have also been redesigned for the RapidoClip system and can continue to be mounted on the share shaft. The shallow ridgers are fixed to the share shaft with a screw clamp and the ridge intensity can be adjusted or disabled via a slotted hole.

Needs-based metered addition of products at the touch of a button

The Pantera 4504 and 7004 are now available with the DirectInject direct feed system, in order to supply individual products flexibly, quickly and matched to requirements.

In times of growing challenges for plant protection with respect to a reduction in the use of pesticides and increasing application requirements combined with time and cost pressure within the farm, DirectInject offers an excellent way of simplifying current and future demands.

An additional product can be added to the spray agent circuit during application at the touch of a button. The highlight of DirectInject is the short reaction distance from the activation to the application of the additional product of only approx. 30 – 50 m. The respective mixture is conveyed to the nozzle bodies through 2 separate spray lines for the spray agent and the spray agent + DirectInject component via several injection points in the boom. In this respect, the two spray lines are alternately switched via valves, with the result that only one line is actively conveying spray agent at any time. 

This short reaction distance is indispensable, especially for the flexible treatment of weed patches. Furthermore, the system facilitates flexible plant protection measures in many everyday situations, e.g. the separate treatment around field boundaries, the metered addition of products on individual fields with special requirements as well as the variable application rate of a product, irrespective of the application rate of the main mixture. 

Effective cleaning can be carried out from the cab without any problems thanks to the complete integration of the system into the liquid circuit and machine operation.

In particular, the self-propelled sprayer, which is often used by large-scale farms as well as contractors owing to its high ground clearance and the hydraulic track width adjustment, gains an enormous additional increase in flexibility and efficiency with DirectInject.

• Flexible, fast and needs-based use of plant protection agents.
• Saving of: 
  • Working hours and labour costs
  • Machine costs
  • Plant protection agents
• Environmentally-friendly
• Self-propelled sprayer and direct feed system as a perfect combination for maximum efficiency and flexibility