Development of Combine Harvester with Yield Monitoring Function (Part 4)

——Schematic of Practical Model and Result of Field Monitor Test——

Abstract

We were developing practicable combine harvester with yield monitoring function (following ; PF combine) suitable for crop harvesting in Japan. In the beginning of development, we decided to change the management unit of the yield information from “Site” to “Field”, and then call that management method “Field Specific Management” as compared to the usual “Site-specific management”. Based on the results of a questionnaire survey, we targeted the PF combine at farmers who cultivate or manage large-scale farms. Therefore, we improved the weight measurement system, the moisture content measuring system, and the user interface and installed them on a six-row head feeding combine harvester. As a result of those modifications, the developed combine could be operated smoothly without any interruption. The accuracy of the weight and moisture measuring components satisfied the farmers' needs. Furthermore, the combine could maintain accuracy without any calibration. The PF combine has worked well without any trouble over the three-year field monitor testing period. Based on the test achievement, we concluded that the developed PF combine has reached the stage of practical use.