Tractor Implement Management (TIM): Automation driven by the implement

TIM or Tractor Implement Management describes a technology that improves the automation of agricultural processes. If both the tractor and implement support Tractor Implement Management, then the implement can control functions in the work process. For example, based on sensor data, a plough can tell the tractor what speed to maintain.

Smart farming aims to make agricultural processes as efficient and productive as possible. The workload of the machine operators should be reduced, while assistance systems enable operation of every agricultural machine with the greatest possible success. Tractor Implement Management (TIM) makes an important contribution to this. TIM enables bidirectional communication between the tractor and the implement. Until now, the tractor was the leading element in the agricultural process. The operator's commands were passed on to the towed implement via the on-board electronics and the ISOBUS interface, and the actuators acted according to these inputs.

With the help of TIM, the sensor and control system of the implement takes over the guidance of the process. For example, the control system of the towed implement tells the tractor how much power is required, or the optimal speed to drive over the area being cultivated. This makes the process more efficient, for example maximizing harvest yields. TIM relieves the machine operator, who can now concentrate fully on controlling and monitoring the overall process, as the repetitive and monotonous tasks are carried out automatically. Variation in the results, which can otherwise depend on the know-how and experience of the driver, is minimized. Typical applications that particularly benefit from Tractor Implement Management are the automated adjustment ploughing operations, and even demanding work with a baler can be highly automated.

Tractor Implement Management is a technology based on ISOBUS, developed by the Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF). Machines and components must be certified by the AEF to ensure compatible and consistent functionality across manufacturers. In particular, the functional safety of the TIM automated processes must be ensured.

STW will present TIM-compatible automation solutions at Agritechnica from 12-18 November in Hanover, at Stand G50, Hall 15.

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