Valtra has announced the launch of its SmartTurn system. The technology will enable fully automatic headland turns and links to the Auto U-Pilot headland automation system and the Valtra Guide automated steering.
It is said to improve precision, save time and fuel, prevent soil compaction and enable the operator to focus entirely on the quality of work, without touching the steering wheel.
Working with SmartTurn begins by defining the boundary of the field and headland (unless already imported into the Valtra Guide system). After this, the required turning radius is calibrated according to the implement and by turning the tractor sharply left and right.
The final step is choosing between two turning options, both suitable for mounted or trailed units:
- U-Turn mode: The tractor turns automatically in the headland to the adjacent, undriven wayline. The tractor makes a small u-turn according to the maximum turning radius – this requires a large headland
- Part-field mode: The tractor turns automatically in the headland into the third, fourth or further wayline. This requires a smaller headland.
SmartTurn will be available from April 2022 for 5th generation N and T Series tractors. Later in the year, it will be made available for 4th generation models and other 5th generation machines.
It does not require any mechanical modifications and is implemented as a software update.
For more information go to www.valtra.co.uk