With the new intelligent follow-up steering system for the ROPA Keiler 2 RK22, ROPA presents an innovative solution for autonomous control of the potato harvester's steering axle. The system independently regulates steering movement, ensuring that the Keiler tracks the tractor precisely. "Corner cutting" is consistently avoided, which significantly reduces the turning radius of the tractor-harvester combination. The autonomous follow-up steering system offers notable advantages especially in tight turns, at headlands, and during maneuvering and reverse travel.
The intelligent follow-up 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 travel speed and the vehicle geometry stored in the control unit. No additional steering linkages or further mechanical or hydraulic connections are required.
Forward and reverse! – Greater comfort, greater precision, and greater agility – track on track
The intelligent follow-up steering system significantly reduces operator workload while 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 closely as possible. Compared to manual control via the mini joystick, the autonomous system enables smoother, more precise, and fully reproducible steering movements.
Fast activation – effortlessly simple to operate
The intelligent follow-up 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 follow-up steering was previously active. This allows the steering system to be seamlessly integrated into the workflow.
Once activated, the system immediately assumes active steering control. 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.
Autonomous control during reverse travel as well
A particular highlight is the autonomous steering during reverse travel. The Keiler detects the direction of travel and steers precisely into the curve being driven. The system amplifies the tractor's steering movement, making maneuvering in tight turns significantly easier and more precise. This feature delivers a considerable gain in comfort, especially in confined areas, when reversing, or when aligning the combination.
Full control is maintained at all times, as the system can be overridden by manual steering whenever needed and subsequently reactivated via the button combination.
The benefits at a glance
- Precise track-following of the Keiler in the tractor's tracks during forward travel
- Active support and amplification of cornering during reverse travel
- Intelligent detection of forward and reverse travel
- Significantly less manual steering and noticeable reduction in operator workload
- Simple activation via button combination on the control unit — without changing hand position
- 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 override possible at any time
Retrofittable to all ROPA Keiler 2 RK22 models
