John Deere has announced that its Machine Sync system is now available for forage harvesters and tractors to take control during crop unloading operations.

The John Deere Machine Sync enables machines to exchange data on the move and allows combine operators to guide a tractor and trailer alongside the harvester.

John Deere said that the technology is especially useful during night-time operations and long working days.

How does it work?

The global navigation satellite system (GNSS)-based synchronisation allows combines to automatically control the speed and travel direction of tractors and trailers relative to the combine.

According to John Deere, Machine Sync therefore “makes harvesting safer and reduces stress for the operators”.

It also eliminates waste during unloading and avoids damage to both machines and crops, even at higher driving speeds.

The technology is not just applicable to combine harvesters but also to all harvesting processes where crops are continuously loaded into trailers.

As a result, John Deere is now offering Machine Sync for use on self-propelled forage harvesters and tractors.

The manufacturer said that, “in particular, customers working with trailed elevator machinery harvesting potatoes, carrots and vegetables will benefit from this advanced technology”.

For operation, Machine Sync requires JDLink telematics, a StarFire satellite receiver and a Gen4 Premium display with automation activation.

John Deere stated that most customers would select all these components ex-factory when ordering a new tractor and/or self-propelled machine, although retrofitting is also possible.