Animal and object detection on combine harvesters

Challenge

Mobile agricultural machinery must operate efficiently without endangering animals or obstacles. In particular, combine harvesters need reliable sensors to detect large stones, wild animals and objects in fields early on to avoid damage. At the same time, low obstacles must be detected above the operator's cab. The challenge is to find a solution that works reliably regardless of weather conditions, dust and vibrations.  

Solution

The MR15-Q80 3D radar scanner from TURCK provides reliable object detection and collision avoidance for mobile machines. The radar scanner has a range of 15 meters and a horizontal cone angle of 120 degrees to detect animals, stones and other obstacles at an early stage. By analyzing the radar reflections, the sensor distinguishes between objects such as metal or objects that reflect more strongly than plants. The radar then issues appropriate warning signals.  

Thanks to its 100-degree vertical detection, the MR15-Q80 also detects obstacles above the vehicle — which is ideal for driving under branches, bridges or tunnels. Parameterization via TURCK's IIoT software TAS allows the user to adjust warning radii, signal ranges and object filters. Real-time visualizations make commissioning easier. v 

The robust IP67/IP69K housing protects the sensor from dust, moisture and vibrations. It can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems via the J1939 interface or an IO-Link variant.