Below Ground Center Pivot Guidance Solution

Posted by irrigation.education Community on Oct 9, 2018 9:00:00 AM
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Are you looking for additional guidance options for your corner arm or linear machine? Below ground guidance is a popular and time-tested guidance option that has been used in fields since the 1970s. If GPS guidance isn't an option for your operation, below ground guidance may be the perfect solution.

below-ground-guidance

How It Works

A below ground guidance system uses an oscillator that applies a frequency to the field perimeter wire, which is buried in the ground. As the pivot rotates, the antennas on the steering drive unit (SDU) detect the frequency and activate a steering motor to keep the drive unit centered over the buried wire. The corner arm drive motors speed up at the corner section of the field to keep up with the rest of the towers.

This video shows how the corner arm drive motors speed up at the corner of the field to keep up with the other towers.

When To Use It

There are pros and cons to every guidance solution. Below ground guidance has very accurate, narrow wheel tracks compared to other guidance solutions. It also has a low initial cost for the life-span of the guidance system, and does not require updates unless structural damage occurs. However, if you are considering this option, it is important that you review your field conditions with your dealer. Unshielded perimeter wire is susceptible to damage from burrowing animals, and can be affected by buried utility or power lines.

To learn more about the features of the below ground guidance solution, log in to irrigation.education and take the Below Ground Guidance Overview course today!

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Topics: Machine Structure

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