The new intelligent self-steering system for the ROPA Keiler 2 RK22 is ROPA's innovative solution for the automated control of the steering axle on the potato harvester. The system automatically controls the steering and ensures that the Keiler follows exactly in the tractor's tracks. This prevents the machine from 'cutting corners', which significantly reduces the turning radius of the tractor-harvester pair. The autonomous self-steering offers noticeable advantages, especially in tight turns, at headlands, and when manoeuvring and reversing.
An integrated gyroscope controls the intelligent self-steering. This system continuously measures lateral acceleration, while the steering angle is calculated real-time based on vehicle speed and the vehicle geometry recorded in the control unit. No additional steering linkage or other mechanical or hydraulic connections are required for this.
Forward and reverse! – Greater comfort, greater precision, and greater agility – track on track
The intelligent self-steering significantly reduces the driver's workload thanks to its particularly responsive and precise operation.
The ROPA on-board computers continuously control the steering axle so that the wheels of the potato harvester follow the tractor's tracks as accurately as possible. Compared to manual control via the mini-joystick, the autonomous system delivers smoother, more precise, and consistent steering.
Easy to use and quick to set up
You can easily activate the intelligent self-steering by pressing the multi-function button and the steering button on the left or right control unit at the same time. When entering a row, the system can be deactivated via the Start of Field key and reactivated at the end of the row via the End of Field key, provided that the self-steering has been activated beforehand. In this way, the self-steering can be optimally integrated into the working process.
Once activated, the system immediately takes over the active steering. The intelligent follow-up steering system can be activated or deactivated at any time, with the active state clearly indicated by the illuminated red steering button on both the left and right control units.
Self-steering while reversing as well
Particularly useful is the autonomous self-steering when reversing. The Keiler detects the direction of travel and steers to follow the curve. The system amplifies the tractor's steering movement, making manoeuvring in tight turns significantly easier and more precise. This feature significantly increases convenience, especially when manoeuvring in confined spaces, reversing, or aligning the tractor-harvester combination.
The driver has full control the entire time, as the system can be easily overridden by manual steering when needed and then reactivated using a key combination.
All advantages at a glance
- The Keiler closely follows the tractor's tracks when driving forward
- Active support and enhanced cornering assistance when reversing
- Intelligent detection of forward and reverse driving
- Significantly less manual steering and noticeable reduction in operator workload
- Simple activation via key combination on the control unit — without changing hand position
- Automatic deactivation and activation also via the Start of Field and End of Field keys
- No additional steering linkage and no further mechanical or hydraulic components required
- Manual steering override possible at any time
Aftermarket retrofit available for all ROPA Keiler 2 RK22 models
