Precision Decisions
Driving Efficiency
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Precision Decisions
Welcome
Precision principles
Over the page
Our guiding principle is that different approaches are right for different farms, and ‘precision farming’ doesn’t have to be the latest equipment on the biggest machines.
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Satellite positioning explained - a glossary and brief explanation of the main GNSS systems and their use in agriculture
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Uses of GNSS in agriculture
That’s why we are pleased to support a range of devices and manufacturers, and will always do our best to help you find the right system for your farm.
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GNSS equipment - screens, receivers, and their capabilities
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Yara N-Sensor™ - an introduction to the system and its applications
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Harvest technologies - yield and protein monitors and their place in a precision farming system
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Soil sampling - our system and its benefits
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Conductivity scanning - what information is gathered and its benefits for farmers
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Data management services and bespoke support solutions - how we can help you to manage the increase in data which accompanies precision farming practices
We are committed to the idea that a full understanding of a system’s opportunities and capabilities is key to operational satisfaction, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about any of our products or services. This booklet has been designed to give an introduction to what we do at Precision Decisions, which is aim to provide a fully supportive precision farming resource for farmers. We hope that our broad base of skills means that we are uniquely placed to assist with all aspects of precision farming decisions.
Precision Decisions - an introduction Precision Decisions grew out of our family farming business, and continues to offer comprehensive precision farming services based on sound agronomic and practical experience. Our expanding team now has specialties across agronomy, engineering, software and customer service, working from our new premises with dedicated workshops and development facilities. As we continue to develop our capabilities and form new working relationships we are able to offer an even wider range of products and services to our customers, and our research into future technologies is creating exciting possibilities which we look forward to introducing.
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Hardware
Whether you want to use positioning to fertilise your grass more efficiently or plant potatoes, we can help you find the right level of signal accuracy and equipment.
EGNOS
The right equipment for your job will depend on the accuracy level you want to work at, so the first decision to make is what accuracy you require a system to deliver in the field .
Accuracy of signal depends on the type of subscription, and can vary between 10-100cm (3.9-39.3”). DGPS signals are suitable for most agricultural situations but do not deliver sufficient accuracy for precision planting tasks. DGPS services incur subscription fees which may require additional mobile data tarriffs.
The EGNOS service provides positioning information by combining GNSS signals (eg from GPS or GLONASS) with correctional information from ground stations. The signal is free to access, but is limited to a static accuracy of c.1.5m (4.9’) and dynamic accuracy of up to 30cm; making EGNOS suitable for basic agricultural applications such as cultivations but preventing its use in situations where higher accuracy is required.
Subscription DGPS (eg Omnistar®) Subscription differential GPS services provide correctional information to GNSS signals in order to increase their positional accuracy.
RTK (real time kinematics) RTK systems can be accurate up to 2cm (0.8”), making them suitable for high value crop situations and controlled traffic systems, although accuracy is related to the position of roving units to the system mast. Fixed-base stations require the installation of a receiver/transmitter on a mast in a suitable location, while mobile-base systems comprise a portable receiver/transmitter on a tripod which is setup in field. Network RTK, (NRTK) relies on mobile phone signals to transmit differential corrections which are subject to subscriptions to the RTK network.
GPS glossary
Satellite positioning
Accuracy ‘Pass to pass’ or dynamic accuracy is maintaining the correct position in a field relative to where you have just been; static accuracy is commonly known as repeatability and is the ability to consistently return to the same position year on year.
A brief overview of the different types of satellite signal available for use in agriculture
DGPS Differentially corrected GPS signal; satellite signals are supplemented by information from base stations to improve ground accuracy.
GLONASS Russian GNSS constellation Global’naya Navigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema GNSS Global navigation satellite system - any constellation of satellites providing positioning data, including NAVSTAR GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO.
GPS Global positioning system. Used generally to EGNOS mean any satellite guidance system but European Geostationary Navigation Overlay technically refers to the USA’s NAVSTAR GPS Service - a DGPS service available in Europe and service. broadcast as a free-to-access signal.
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Hardware
Auto-steer Steering systems use GNSS to increase efficiency working across fields, avoiding overlaps of machinery working widths. Benefits of autosteer systems include: • Improved fuel efficiency and productivity • Reduced input costs and carbon footprints • Reduced operator fatigue and error margins Performance improvements of 5-10% can be achieved for cultivations, drilling, fertiliser applications, spraying, and harvesting. Auto-steer systems can be fitted to steer-ready machines or retro-fitted to older models which are not steer-ready.
Spray section and rate control Automatic sprayer rate and section control can automate many elements of spray control, reducing operator fatigue and improving comfort and performance. In addition, rate and section control can: • Reduce input costs by 2-5% by minimising overlaps • Improve chemical application and sprayed areas, improving budgeting • Optimise machine output and apply variable rates (either on-the-go or from a prescription map) We are also able to offer individual nozzle control for maximum application accuracy.
Controlled traffic farming Satellite guidance is a key element of controlled traffic farming (CTF), which aims to reduce travel over the field to the very minimum. In CTF systems an RTK signal is invariably used, thanks to the repeatable ±2cm accuracy. By restricting travel to permanent tramlines, CTF systems look to reduce the area of the field carrying traffic in order to increase soil health, reduce application inputs, and increase efficiencies.
Shared information
Satellite applications
Satellite guidance systems offer the opportunity to optimise performance between machines; sharing field boundaries and A-B lines ensures that any machine working in a field is working within the same parameters.
Uses of satellite guidance in agriculture
Accurately mapped working field areas make every stage of field work more efficient, whether you are planning drilling or fertiliser applications. In addition some systems are suitable for transferring between machines, making sure system use is optimised throughout the season with minimal downtime. Information can also be used in farm management practices - for example, a yield map can be used to calculate nutrient offtake and then a variable rate fertilisation plan can be created based on this information.
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Precision Decisions
Hardware
X14 Designed as an entry-level system, the X14 is capable of manual guidance or auto-steering, and will be upgradable to rate control and auto-section control from 2015. Coupled with the SGR-1 receiver for basic functionality or the AGI-4 for greater accuracy positioning, the X14 is an ideal platform from which to introduce precision farming.
X30 Topcon’s flagship isobus virtual terminal, the X30 provides a versatile work platform with multiple controllers for maximum functionality. The display is user-definable, with up to three mini windows in addition to the main display, ensuring that the information you need is always in view. In combination with the AGI-4, the X30 provides high-accuracy dependability.
SGR-1 The SGR-1 is a reliable guidance and mapping receiver, featuring Topcon’s TruPass™ advanced positioning technology for more stable pass-to-pass accuracies in dynamic agricultural applications.
AGI-4 The AGI-4 is a complete integrated steering solution, with multiple constellation GNSS satellite reception, state-of-the-art intertial sensors, full terrain compensation and superior line acquisition and holding capabilities. The AGI-4 comprises antenna, receiver and steering controller in a single ISO-compliant unit which can be upgraded for use in RTK systems.
AES-25 Compatible with both the X14 and X30, the AES-25 combines the convenience of electric steering with the performance of hydraulics to provide a highly accurate control package, ideal for upgrading machines which were not manufactured as steer-ready.
Systems and options
Screens and receivers
Topcon’s modular systems ethos means you can identify which screens and receivers are most suitable for your needs and build your own system with the functionality required. It also means that upgrades in future can encompass equipment you alrready own and use.
Highlights from the range of in-cab equipment from Topcon
X14 + SGR-1 = System 114 (manual guidance or auto-steer and coverage maps) X14 + AGI-4 = System 144 (greater accuracy, rate and section control from 2015) X30 + AGI-4 = System 350 (high accuracy system control with ISO virtual terminal)
RTK bases Topcon’s HiPer Ag mobile base station (left) and NET-G3A fixed installation base (right) provide high accuracy reliable signals for RTK systems.
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Precision Decisions
Hardware
Precision Decisions have supported the Yara N-Sensors since their introduction to the UK market in 1999. With unique sensing technology, N-Sensor provides a flexible variable nitrogen recommendation system with rigorous and dependable agronomics. N-Sensor’s additional capabilities make it an invaluable tool.
N-Sensor Classic The Classic N-Sensor measures reflectance levels from the crop and compares readings to ambient light levels to calculate the crop N content, before making a recommendation based on over 250 agronomic trials carried out by Yara. The technology used is unique to Yara sensors.
N-Sensor ALS N-Sensor ALS (active light source) contains built in xenon flash lamps. It reads the crop in the same way as the Classic sensor, but the self-contained light source means it can operate independent of light conditions - even into the night. Both systems use the same agronomic algorithms for optimum site-specific fertilisation and both are connected to a terminal within the vehicle which stores and processes crop and GNSS data.
N-Tester The N-Tester is a hand-held tool which makes it possible to identify the nitrogen requirement of plants directly in the field easily, safely, and quickly. Plant analysis with the N-Tester gives valuable information about the current nutritional status of the crop, enabling the farmer to make accurate and timely fertiliser decisions.
The N-Sensor system N-Sensor enables real-time variable rate application of fertilisers by measuring the crop’s nitrogen status in a precise, easy-to-use and cost-efficient system.
Yara N-Sensor
Optimal fertiliser rates in every part of the field have a number of substantial benefits: crop potential and fertiliser efficiency are increased (leading to a reduced carbon footprint of 10-30%); yields are increased using the same intensity of fertiliser while combine performance at harvest is increased by up to 20% because greater crop consistency and reduced lodging make harvesting easier.
The most comprehensive and flexible nitrogen sensing tool, backed with 15 years of agronomic trials and advice
While the N-Sensor has agronomic calibrations for nitrogen applications on all major UK crops, its application is not limited to nitrogen. The sensor’s versatility means it can also be used for variable applications of other products, or in conjunction with a number of specialist modules (e.g. potato haulm killing). The N-Sensor’s mapping abilities are ideal for monitoring crop growth, comparing fields year to year, and mapping weed growth.
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Precision Decisions
Hardware
Yield monitors The RDS Ceres 8000i uses precise optical sensing technology to monitor, display, and record grain yield alongside moisture content, speed, area, work rate and harvest rate. The in-cab unit has a number of features for ease of use, including live, wet, dry, and average readings with an integral SD card for data storage, and an easily adjustable cutting width. Yield maps provide a key layer of information for precision farming. In addition to representing the crop just harvested, they can indicate in-field variability, provide a benchmarking tool, and allow the calculation of crop nutrient offtakes. When properly handled and analysed, multiple years of yield maps can provide valuable insight into field variation. When combined with other spatial data the potential power of yield maps is increased. Because the handling of yield maps is key to the full use of their potential, yield map cleaning is a popular part of our data management services.
Protein monitors The CropScan 3000H uses near-infrared technologies to measure protein and moisture during harvest. The system consists of a near-infrared spectrometer, remote sampling device, and a touchscreen PC which combines analysis data with GPS information to create real-time maps.
Harvest technologies
The sampling device is placed so that grain travelling up the clean grain elevator falls into the sampler, which controls grain flow in and out using a number of flaps. When the sampling device is filled, the grain trapped in the sampling chamber is analysed, and then released. The whole cycle takes approximately 7-11 seconds and is then repeated.
Yield mapping is a key component of precision farming systems, quantifying the effects of management
With calibrations for wheat, barley, and oilseed rape, the CropScan 3000H provides an in-field indication of protein and moisture levels as the crop is harvested, providing the farmer with a timely and accurate picture of crop qualities. (above) yield maps showing in-field variation
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Services
Precision Decisions
Soil is the farmer’s greatest asset. By ensuring management and fertiliser strategies are appropriate, it is possible to safeguard a key element in crop health and growth.
Soil sampling Our award-winning soil sampling services have been designed to ensure maximum efficiency, traceability, and reliability. Using our own custom software gives us maximum flexibility in the services we provide, so that we can customise your sampling regime to fit your requirements. We offer many sampling services, for both nutrients and potato cyst nematode presence, and are more than happy to personalise the nutrient analysis to your exact needs. We also believe soil sampling is more than just producing nutrient maps. Variable rate nutrient recommendations from FACTS qualified advisors are included in your sampling package, provided with machinery files for all major rate controllers, with no extra cost and advice whenever required.
Conductivity scanning Electro-magnetic scanning can provide a digital map of infield variation, identifying changes in the physical properties of soil. Applications of these maps include management areas, variable applications, and seed maps.
Which service is best for you? The correct approach to soil sampling or scanning can vary depending on farm and soil type, management practices, and previous sampling regimes.
Soil services
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Have you had GNSS soil sampling carried out before? If yes, it will probably be best to return to the same sampling points so that you can compare results. Are you interested in variable seed rates, now or in the future? If yes, you might want to consider targeted soil sampling based on conductivity scanning, which will give you an excellent basis for varying seed rates. Do you grow crops with specific nutrient requirements or tolerances? If yes, for example sugar beet or potatoes, we can tailor nutrient analysis to your exact needs. Do you want to vary fertiliser applications based on crop offtakes? Yield maps are useful indications of the variation in nutrient offtake from the previous crop - we’ll happily incorporate this information into variable fertiliser plans.
An overview of our soil services, including sampling and EM scanning
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Precision Decisions
Services
Our soil sampling processes have been carefully and rigorously structured to make sure there is maximum efficiency at every stage. The system is run with the customer in mind, with 24 hour access to order progress and results available as soon as lab analysis is complete.
MiFarm™ All our sampling orders start and progress through our online mapping portal, MiFarm. MiFarm enables you to place sampling orders with confidence, clearly identifying and naming your fields and selecting those which require sampling.
SoilBuggy The information entered in MiFarm is transmitted directly to the computer system operating in the sampling buggies. Our award-winning software was developed inhouse and is entirely unique to us; its ‘optimised polygon’ technique ensures sample points are evently distributed through the field. Every time the hydraulic sampling probe enters the soil, the GNSS co-ordinate is recorded, giving us complete records of the exact sample locations. When a full sample has been collected, automatic label printers issue a uniquely barcoded label with sample information recorded on it. As a sampling job is finished, SoilBuggy automatically updates the order status on MiFarm, and alerts the lab to expect samples, increasing the efficiency of the process.
Laboratory
Soil sampling
We have a very close working relationship with our laboratory partners which enables us to extend our traceability to include the time that samples are at the lab. Completion of a soil sampling order alerts the lab that samples will be on the way, and thanks to our close links analysis results are available on MiFarm as soon as the lab releases them - you know your results as soon as we do.
Using our own innovative inhouse software, our sampling services offer unparalleled traceability
Mapping & recommendations While results can be viewed on MiFarm when received, we also send paper and pdf copies of maps and have complete GateKeeper compatibility. In addition, nutrient recommendations for the duration of your sampling regime are included, with no further or future year charges.
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Precision Decisions
Services
Conductivity scanning provides a detailed map of the variation in physical properties across a field, the ideal base for making informed management decisions. Our non-invasive EM scanning service collects data at a high rate for multiple parameters at two depths of soil, ensuring complete and comprehensive mapping of your fields.
Scanning process Our scanner doesn’t require invasive contact with the ground, so scanning is not restricted to bare or ploughed fields. Soil moisture is an important element in creating detailed maps so autumn through to spring are ideal data collection periods. Because scanning is a one-off process and an investment for future field management, we collect a high density of data to create highly detailed maps: • Auto-steered vehicles ensure collection in uniform swaths • Travelling between tramlines gives a representative scan of the field • Dual-depth information provides an indication of soil changes through the profile - the scanner collects information to 40cm and to 130cm • High data rate ensures we collect as much relevant data as possible; 11 parameters are recorded 8 times a second, giving a dense information set. The combination of these factors means that the conductivity maps collected provide you with a reliable, digital, and detailed farming resource.
Using conductivity maps Collecting the scan data is only one step in utilising the sensor maps, and we believe our support in maximising your use of the data is a key part of this service.
Conductivity scanning
Dual-depth electromagnetic readings provide digital maps on which to base decisions including variable seed rates.
Conductivity maps can be used for a number of factors: to identify management areas, or yield potentials when used in combination with yield maps; to reduce soil sampling costs by identifying sampling targets; and to create variable rate seed maps which are not restricted to a limited number of discrete zones.
(above) electromagnetic scan P index map variable seed map
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Once scanning maps have been collected we work closely with farmers to integrate their knowledge of field characteristics into decision processes, as well as carefully considering other elements which may affect field peformance - for example, old field boundaries. Whether you want prescriptive maps creating for you, or training to create the maps yourself, we are committed to open data exchange and supportive service.
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Precision Decisions
Support
Data management Precision farming practices can quickly create a vast amount of data on farm, and utilising this information is key to making the most of your equipment and technologies. Combining different sources of validated field data can improve understanding and provide new insights: yield maps, soil sampling or EM scanning, biomass maps and others are all made more valuable when considered together with your first hand experiences of field characterstics. We can also create variable rate prescription maps based on your parameters for all popular rate controllers. Our data management packages are tailored to the needs of each customer; whether you require training or support to handle your own data, or would prefer a full management approach with results delivered directly to your computer, we can help you to manage your data efficiently and effectively.
Consultancy Precision farming can be a minefield of approaches, techniques, and technologies, which don’t always appear to be compatible. We recognise the confusion which can arise when trying to decide on an appropriate system, or when hoping to integrate different technologies into one farm practice. If you are trying to decide on future directions for precision farming, want advice on maximising the equipment you already have, or feel like you could be doing more to make your farm more efficient, our consultancy services are the ideal choice to discuss all the options openly and professionally.
Software solutions
Data management and bespoke services
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With a dedicated team of inhouse software specialists, we have been able to provide a number of our customers with customised IT platforms created specifically for their needs. Previous projects have included remote IT connections between office and tractor for paperless job recording, specialised customer record management systems and task specific smartphone apps. Our current developments will offer even more opportunities for streamlined user-friendly data transfer and information services - so if you have a specific need or project in mind, we may be able to help more easily than you would expect.
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Precision Decisions
About us
Our partners
Precision Decisions online www.precisiondecisions.co.uk @PrecisionDec /PrecisionDecisions
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Precision Decisions
Precision Decisions Ltd The Old Station Works Station Lane Shipton by Beningbrough York YO30 1BS
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