The agricultural sector has seen huge technological advances, which have transformed traditional farming practices. Combine harvesters – vital for the efficient harvesting of crops – have evolved from simple mechanical machines to complex systems integrated with numerous electronic components.
This blog explores the cutting-edge electronic components that define modern combine harvesters and their impact on harvesting efficiency and productivity.
Evolution of combine harvesters: then and now
Then: In 1835, the first combine harvester was patented by Hiram Moore in the US. It required 20 horses to pull it and combined the three tasks of reaping, threshing and winnowing. Then in the 1880s, steam engines were used to power the mechanics of the harvester, rather than horses. Next, as tractors were becoming increasingly used on farms, they were developed to pull combines around 1915.
Evolution of sickle and flail, 33 horse team harvester, cutting, threshing and sacking wheat, Walla Walla, Washington, ca. 1902. Source: New York Public Library
Now: Today’s combines can harvest up to 30 acres per hour and only require one person to operate them. They are highly sophisticated machines fitted with advanced electronics that enhance performance, precision and operator comfort. Like modern tractors, this sort of technology is crucial for boosting global food production to meet ever-growing demand while also promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
10 vital electronic systems in modern combine harvesters
1. Engine control unit (ECU)
The ECU is the brain of the combine harvester’s engine, managing and optimising performance by monitoring and controlling fuel injection, air intake and other critical parameters. This sophisticated component enhances fuel efficiency, reduces emissions and ensures optimal engine operation under various conditions – this makes it an indispensable part of modern harvesting machinery.
2. Hydraulic control unit (HCU)
The HCU is responsible for managing the harvester’s hydraulic systems, controlling various components and attachments. It oversees lift, tilt and other hydraulic functions, greatly enhancing the versatility and efficiency of the harvester. This allows for the seamless operation of multiple harvesting functions simultaneously.
3. GPS and navigation systems
These systems enable precision farming by providing accurate guidance and mapping for harvesting operations. They support auto-steering capabilities, reduce overlap and ensure precise harvesting patterns. This technology not only increases efficiency but also minimises fuel consumption and crop damage.
4. Telematics and connectivity modules
These modules facilitate communication between the harvester and external systems, enabling remote monitoring and diagnostics. They allow for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the harvester in optimal condition and minimising downtime.
5. Grain loss monitors
Even with the best equipment, there are always going to be small losses of crops during harvesting unfortunately. Electronic sensors detect and quantify grain loss during the harvesting process, allowing operators to adjust settings in real-time. This technology helps to minimise losses and improve yield, ensuring that farmers get the most out of their crops.
6. Moisture sensors
These sensors measure the moisture content of the harvested grain, ensuring that crops are harvested at the optimal moisture level. This prevents spoilage and maximises storage quality, which are crucial for maintaining the value of the harvest.
7. Yield monitoring sensors
By measuring the flow and quantity of harvested crops, these sensors provide real-time yield data. This information helps farmers to monitor crop performance, optimise harvest strategies and make informed decisions for future planting. This sort of ‘bigger picture’ data is vital for understanding what is happening on a farm and for contributing to long-term productivity.
8. Electronic power steering (EPS)
EPS provides electronic assistance to the steering mechanism, significantly improving the manoeuvrability of these large machines. By reducing driver fatigue and enhancing steering precision, EPS allows operators to safely work longer hours with greater accuracy, which improves overall harvesting efficiency.
9. Brake control module
This module manages the harvester’s electronic braking systems, including brake force distribution. It ensures effective and balanced braking, enhancing safety during harvesting operations, especially when working on uneven terrain or in challenging weather conditions.
10. Traction control system
The traction control system optimises traction in varying field conditions by preventing wheel slippage. This improves stability and performance in difficult terrains, allowing harvesters to operate efficiently in a wide range of environments and soil conditions.
A supporting role
On top of this, there are also several other components that contribute to greater efficiency, higher yields and increased safety:
- Electronic grain tank management: This system automates the management of the grain tank, including filling and unloading processes. By increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of overfilling or spillage, electronic grain tank management ensures smoother operations and minimises grain loss.
- Battery management systems: These systems monitor and manage the harvester’s electrical system, ensuring efficient use of electrical power and extending battery life. By optimising power distribution and preventing overcharging or deep discharging, battery management systems contribute to the overall reliability and longevity of the harvester’s electrical components. This results in reduced maintenance costs and improved operational continuity.
- Throttle-by-wire system: This electronic system controls the engine throttle for improved responsiveness. By enhancing fuel efficiency and providing smoother engine performance, throttle-by-wire technology contributes to more precise control over the harvester’s speed and power output. The outcome is better overall harvesting performance and reduced fuel consumption.
- Remote control systems: Remote control capabilities allow for operation and monitoring of the harvester from a distance. This technology supports autonomous or semi-autonomous features, increasing efficiency and also reducing labour costs. Remote control systems can be particularly beneficial for large-scale operations or in situations where the presence of an operator might be challenging or unsafe.
- Camera systems: Modern harvesters are equipped with rear-view and side-view camera systems for enhanced visibility. These cameras increase safety and precision during operations, allowing operators to manoeuvre the large machine with greater confidence. They are particularly useful when reversing or operating in tight spaces, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall efficiency.
- Climate control systems: Modern combine harvesters feature sophisticated climate control systems that manage air conditioning, heating and ventilation within the cab. These systems significantly enhance operator comfort, allowing for extended working hours in any weather conditions. By maintaining an optimal working environment, they contribute to increased productivity and reduced operator fatigue.
- Instrument cluster and display: This provides the driver with essential information such as engine parameters, fuel levels and diagnostic alerts. By centralising this critical data, it improves operational awareness and leads to better decision-making. Farmers can quickly assess the harvester’s status and performance, enabling them to make timely adjustments and maintain optimal efficiency.
Data is key
The integration of advanced electronic components in modern combine harvesters has revolutionised the agricultural industry. From ECUs and GPS navigation, to yield monitoring sensors and remote control systems, each component plays a crucial role in optimising the harvesting process. These technologies not only improve the quantity and quality of harvested crops but also contribute to sustainable farming practices by reducing waste and minimising environmental impact.
The importance of gathering and interpreting farming data is more important now than ever before. The data collected by these electronic systems provides valuable insights that feed into long-term agricultural strategies, potentially transforming how we approach crop management and farm planning.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect ever-more innovative electronic components to be integrated into combine harvesters. Advances in areas such as AI, machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies are likely to further transform the way we harvest crops. These developments will bring about even greater levels of automation, precision and efficiency in agricultural operations. This will help to pave the way for a new era of smart farming, which can help to address global food security challenges while also promoting sustainable agriculture.
