With the new intelligent self-steering system for the ROPA Keiler 2 RK22, ROPA presents an innovative solution for the autonomous control of the steering axle on the potato harvester. The system manages steering movements independently, ensuring that the Keiler follows the tractor's tracks precisely. "Corner cutting" is consistently avoided, which significantly reduces the turning radius of the tractor-harvester combination. The autonomous self-steering system offers notable advantages particularly in tight corners, at headlands, and during manoeuvring and reversing.
The intelligent self-steering system is controlled by means of an integrated gyroscope. This continuously measures lateral acceleration, and the steering angle is calculated in real time using the travel speed and the vehicle geometry stored in the control unit. No additional steering linkages or further mechanical or hydraulic connections are required.
Forwards and Backwards! – Greater comfort, greater precision and greater agility – track on track
The intelligent self-steering system significantly reduces the operator's workload, operating with exceptional sensitivity and precision.
The ROPA onboard computers continuously regulate the steering axle so that the wheels of the potato harvester follow the tractor's tracks as accurately as possible. Compared with manual control via the mini joystick, the autonomous system enables smoother, more precise and repeatable steering movements.
Quick activation – effortlessly simple to operate
The intelligent self-steering system is conveniently activated by simultaneously pressing the multi-button and the steering button on the left or right control unit. When entering the row, the system is deactivated via the field start button and reactivated at the end of the row using the field end button, provided the self-steering system was previously active. This allows the steering to be optimally integrated into the working sequence.
Once activated, the system immediately assumes active steering control. The intelligent self-steering system can be activated or deactivated at any time, with the active state clearly indicated by the steering button illuminating red on both the left and right control units.
Autonomous control during reversing as well
A particular highlight is the autonomous steering during reversing. The Keiler detects the direction of travel and steers precisely into the curve being negotiated. The system amplifies the tractor's steering movement, making manoeuvring in tight corners significantly easier and more precise. Especially on confined areas, when reversing or when aligning the combination, this function offers a considerable gain in comfort.
Full control is maintained at all times, as the system can be overridden with manual steering whenever required and subsequently reactivated via the button combination.
The benefits at a glance
- Precise tracking of the Keiler in the tractor's tracks when travelling forwards
- Active support and amplification of cornering when reversing
- Intelligent detection of forward and reverse travel
- Significantly less manual steering and a noticeable reduction in operator workload
- Simple activation via button combination on the control unit – without changing grip
- Automatic deactivation and activation also via the field start and field end buttons
- No additional steering linkage and no further mechanical or hydraulic components required
- Manual steering intervention possible at any time
Retrofittable to all ROPA Keiler 2 RK22 models
