Less diesel with efficient measurement methods

Purpose and goal

The purpose of the project was to increase the possibilities of using machinery more efficiently in agriculture. The work carried out in the project can, in the long run, help both work machines and other diesel-powered vehicles to be used more efficiently. The aim of the project was to develop and test a prototype for a driver support for economical driving in work machines and it has also been implemented.

Expected results and effects

The results of the project can help farmers, other machine owners and drivers to make their use of diesel more efficient. The algorithms that the project resulted in can also be used in other industries, including other internal combustion engines, lorries and buses, or stationary applications. Lessons from the project include, among other things, that the driver support system is a good support in training drivers, that it is difficult to evaluate systems that aim at change human behaviour in the long run, and finally, the data that can be obtained from different tractor brands differs.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was based on the results of a preliminary study in which basic hypotheses were tested. First, a logging equipment was built and installed in eight tractors on three farms. However, the equipment malfunctioned and was replaced with a new version. In a field test an interface was tested which was then tested with six test drivers where it was found that it worked but needed to be further developed. A second version of the interface was then implemented, but has not been tested in field yet. In addition, a survey of farmers´ interest in energy-efficient measures has been made.