Application System automates field spraying operations.
Press Release Summary:
Offering GPS guidance, AgGPS® EZ-Boom(TM) 2010 allows operators to control up to 10 separate boom sections, avoiding overspray and untreated gaps on angled end rows, terraces, waterways, and other no-spray areas flagged within field. Based on flow meter readings, system ajdusts servo or PWM hydraulic control valves to ensure accurate application rate. When used with AgGPS FieldManager(TM), system provides application mapping or logging, as well as variable rate prescription of liquid crop inputs.
Original Press Release:
Trimble Combines GPS Guidance and Rate Control to Automate Agricultural Spraying Operations
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 29 // -- Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) today introduced its new AgGPS® EZ-Boom(TM) 2010 automated application control system. The new system is designed to help growers cut input costs and reduce operator fatigue by providing precise automatic control of field spraying applications.
The new AgGPS EZ-Boom 2010 system works with the Trimble AgGPS EZ-Guide® Plus lightbar guidance system, AgGPS EZ-Steer® assisted steering system or the AgGPS Autopilot(TM) automated steering system.
The AgGPS EZ-Boom 2010 system allows operators to:
o automatically control up to 10 separate boom sections, avoiding
overspray and untreated gaps on angled end rows, terraces, waterways
and other no-spray areas electronically "flagged" within a field.
This provides more precise application with less operator fatigue
than manual switching. EZ-Boom also calculates total applied area,
automatically subtracting no-spray areas, so the applicator knows
exactly how much spray has been used.
o ensure accurate rate control throughout the field to avoid over and
under application. It operates by "reading" supported flow meters
and instantaneously adjusting supported servo or PWM hydraulic
control valves. Additionally, GPS eliminates the need for ground
radar.
o simplify installation and reduce equipment costs for spray systems.
The EZ-Boom 2010 works in conjunction with, or replaces, most
currently available rate controllers. As a result, it can add the
benefits of automatic boom switching to many popular rate
controllers now in use.
"Farmers who already enjoy the benefits of Trimble's GPS guidance or automated steering systems will see this new system as a big step towards fully-automated control of field operations from the cab," said Erik Arvesen, general manager of Trimble's Agriculture Division. "The EZ-Boom system automatically performs several critical functions that help save chemicals while protecting crops and the environment-and the system performs these in- field activities more accurately than manual operations."
When used with the AgGPS FieldManager(TM) system, the AgGPS EZ-Boom 2010 system provides additional automated control benefits. These include simultaneously providing automated boom section control and application mapping or logging, as well as allowing variable rate prescription of liquid fertilizers, crop protection chemicals and other liquid crop inputs-all working with one integrated cab display. In addition, sprayer operators familiar with Trimble EZ-systems require minimal time to learn the proper operation of the EZ-Boom 2010 system.
When used with the AgGPS EZ-Guide Plus lightbar guidance system, the AgGPS EZ-Boom 2010 system turns a lightbar system into an automatic boom section control tool and an application controller without adding more displays to the cab.
The new AgGPS EZ-Boom system is expected to be available in September of 2006 for US$1,895 from authorized Trimble resellers worldwide. For a "Where to Buy" directory, call 1-800-865-7438 or visit www.trimble.com.
About Trimble
Trimble is a leading innovator of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. In addition to providing advanced GPS components, Trimble augments GPS with other positioning technologies as well as wireless communications and software to create complete customer solutions. Trimble's worldwide presence and unique capabilities position the Company for growth in emerging applications including surveying, agriculture, machine guidance, fleet and asset management, wireless platforms, and telecommunications infrastructure. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Trimble has more than 2,400 employees in more than 18 countries worldwide.
For more information, visit: www.trimble.com.
Source: Trimble
CONTACT:
Lea Ann McNabb,
+1-408-481-7808,
leaann_mcnabb@trimble.com
Web site: www.trimble.com/
