Electric Drives in Agricultural Machinery-Approach from the Tractor Side

Abstract

A review of the electric drive technology under use in agricultural tractors is reported. The technology used in tractor engine auxiliaries provide the required power to auxiliary drives independent from the diesel engine speed and increases the tractor efficiency or allows it being more productive. Intelligent control of auxiliary drives helps to reduce fuel consumption. Electrical traction drives on tractors have been proved to be feasible. Self-propelled agricultural machines are likely to follow. Electrical components suiting to the design criteria for agricultural equipment is one key for success. The tractor-implement-system electrification through a standardized interface between the tractor and the implement is the next major step towards future machine systems. Technology from automation industry and automotive applications could be used in agricultural machines through agricultural system engineering application. Mitigation scenarios for existing equipment would create acceptance for the new technology. The ideas for system-level opportunities in combination with automation, navigation and energy storage systems need to be develope