ZG-TS trailed spreader

AMAZONE WindControl is now available independently of ArgusTwin

Optimum lateral distribution

The wind is always blowing somewhere in the world and this represents a major challenge in maintaining an even fertiliser spread pattern. The influence of wind on the spread pattern can be constantly monitored and automatically compensated for with the AMAZONE WindControl system (according to Prof. Dr. Karl Wild of the University of Applied Sciences, Dresden). Practical trials have shown that the system reacts actively to wind influences for approximately 80% of the spreading time and provides optimisation of the spread pattern.

Mounted on the machine, a high frequency measuring wind sensor, registers both the wind speed and also the wind direction. According to this data, the job computer then calculates new settings for the delivery system and the spreading disc speed. In a cross wind, the disc speed is increased on the side into the wind and the delivery system is rotated outwards. At the same time, the speed of the downwind side is reduced and the delivery system rotated inwards.

With the aid of WindControl, larger time windows are created for spreading even where there is an influence of wind. Apart from all the important fertiliser spreader parameters, the user additionally always has, in view, the real-time direction of the wind, the force of wind and if the wind is gusting. In addition, in heavy winds, when the system is no longer able to compensate for, or when the wind gusts are too frequent, WindControl sends an automatic alarm to the driver.

AMAZONE WindControl ensures an optimum lateral distribution even in crosswinds.

The benefits 

• Higher output through longer windows of use 
• Increased yield through optimised lateral distribution 
• Operational safety via the automatic warning system

The ArgusTwin system always ensures optimum lateral distribution of the fertiliser via permanent online monitoring and correction of the delivery system. This leads to a more effective fertiliser use and forms the basis for optimum crop management.

The spread fan acquisition in the Argus system is based on measuring the lateral distribution by means of radar technology which is insensitive to dust and dirt and delivers reliable results under practical conditions. ArgusTwin monitors both the left- and right-hand spread fan and corrects the electric delivery system if necessary.

Automatic delivery system adjustment

Via the ISOBUS terminal, the application rate, and any further relevant data relating to the fertiliser to be spread, are entered from the setting chart. For the Argus system, the spreading chart has been updated to include the throwing angle that gives the optimum lateral distribution. Utilising this value, ArgusTwin constantly checks whether the predetermined direction of throw for that fertiliser is in fact being maintained by the spreading discs. When the actual throwing width deviates from the “desired” throwing width due to inconsistencies within the fertiliser, worn spreading vanes, working across slopes or during starting and stopping procedures, the spreader readjusts, on its own, the setting for the delivery system – and that of each side individually. The only pre-condition for its use is the electric delivery system adjustment.

The benefits

• Constant on-line monitoring of both spread fans 
• Maintains an optimum lateral distribution of the fertiliser even with: 
  • variable fertiliser quality 
  • environmental influences, such as moisture and dew  
  • fertiliser coating on the spreading discs 
• Automatic slope compensation of the spread pattern 
• Positioned protected directly above the spreading discs

1. The problems in practice – poor lateral distribution, for instance, due to a change in fertiliser properties
2. Automatic adjustment of the delivery system via ArgusTwin
3. Perfect lateral distribution enables uniform crops, even with varying fertiliser quality and properties

The problem: Over- and under-fertilisation on the headland

Fertiliser spreaders have a high throwing distance behind the machine. In practice, the switch-off points are usually only achieved when the tractor is turning on the headland. The arc of spread behind the tractor and round to the side creates areas that are either over- or under-fertilised.

Switch-off time on the headland: Without HeadlandControl

• Spreader switches off too late and is already turning 
• Tractor would have to drive beyond the headland tramline

Result: Over- and under-fertilised zones are created

1. Over-fertilisation (dark-green)
2. Under-fertilisation (white)
3. Standard headland
4. Inner throwing distance without HeadlandControl

The solution: HeadlandControl

When HeadlandControl is activated, the throwing width and spread rate are increased on the field side, so that the switch-off point is moved towards the inside of the field. Furthermore, the new part-width section control, which is now adapted to the shape of the spread fan, causes the part-width sections to be switched off from the outside to the inside when entering the headland. Over- and under-fertilised zones on the headland are subsequently avoided.

With HeadlandControl

• HeadlandControl means that the spreader continues to apply fertiliser to the crop when it is on the headland 
• The tractor can follow the wheel tracks of the sprayer

Result: Uniform crops across the headland

1. Improved lateral distribution at the headland
2. Switch-off point moved
3. Extended headland
4. Inner throwing distance with HeadlandControl

More precision, more efficiency!
 

In view of the very large working widths used now, the matching of the spread patterns is very important. Thanks to the electric delivery system adjustment on the TS spreading system, it is able to react precisely and sensitively in these cases. So even outer part-width sections can be easily controlled. In addition, due to the individual speed adjustment of the left and right hand side discs, the spreading width can be reduced from the far outside to the centre, so that, even at large working widths, long and shallow-shaped wedges and short work are optimally spread. This means part-width section control. In the simplest configuration, 8 part-width sections can be easily controlled manually (via the operator terminal). Up to 128 part-width sections can be controlled with the appropriate Section Control licence for the terminal.

If the operating terminal facilitates Section Control, such as GPS-Switch part-width section control from AMAZONE, the part-width sections are activated completely automatically and in relation to the GPS position. Once a field has been created, and then in automatic mode, the driver can concentrate fully on the operation of the towing vehicle, since the part-width sections are switched automatically in wedge shaped fields and on headlands.

Benefits of automatic part-width section control: 

• Stress relief on the driver 
• Increase in precision especially at night or at higher speeds 
• Fewer overlaps and gaps 
• Saving on input costs 
• Less crop damage and less environmental pollution