Machbarkeitsstudie zur Entwicklung von autonomen Fahrzeugen

The tractors used in Switzerland are often larger than actually required. Farmers can increase their efficiency by using lightweight and autonomous vehicles.

Factsheet

Situation

The goal of the project is to use computer models and experimental measurements to show the advantages of small and light vehicles related to soil conservation and efficiency.

Course of action

The project wants to find out how small and light vehicles under adverse conditions can operate for no-till farming. Moreover, the technical requirements for the autonomous operation of such a vehicle are developed. Together with one or more competent and interested business partner a CTI project proposal will be formulated in order to actually develop such an autonomous agricultural vehicle.

Result

This feasibility study showed that an effective field processing can be performed using relatively small and lightweight vehicles. The concept of semi-autonomous vehicles relieves the farmer of monotonous and time-consuming work, but also creates new challenges in the areas of safety systems and functional safety.

Looking ahead

The follow-up project CAATS (clean autonomous agricultural tractor system) has been submitted, together with the implementation partner which was involved in the feasibility study.