Technical Innovations
Transmission options for Deere TEN Series
 Nine models are included in Deere's new 4000 TEN Series compact utility tractors, among them the 4310 shown here with the 430 loader. |
Quicker response times, easy implement hookups, and low-effort controls are just three of the benefits John Deere (John Deere Power Systems, Booth S-13141) promises with its new 4000 TEN Series compact utility tractors. Nine models are included in the series.
The new eMatch operating system for compact tractors allows the operator to "customize" the hydrostatic transmission responses to the job. eHydro and ePowrReverser electronically controlled transmissions are two industry firsts available on the TEN Series tractors, while sync reverser transmissions have been replaced by SyncShift.
The eHydro transmissions require only a touch of the pedals to transmit intentions to the engine. Deere calls it the most "comfortable automatic compact tractor transmission" available. ePowrReverser is an electronically controlled reverser transmission with adjustable responsiveness that eliminates the need to clutch, making it well suited for a loader's back and forth work.
 All TEN Series tractor models come equipped with the iMatch quick coupler hitch system for easier implement attachment. |
The 4000 TEN Series tractors with eHydro transmissions also feature optional automotive-style cruise control with a speed sensor and a resume function. Operators can accelerate and decelerate speed while using cruise control.
Other available controls include SpeedMatch (offers the ability to preset a maximum speed for fertilizing, spraying, etc.), MotionMatch (offers the ability to select the rate of deceleration), and LoadMatch (senses engine load, i.e. up hill, and compensates to help prevent engine stalls). MotionMatch is a standard feature on both transmission options.
One engineer called LoadMatch Deere's "bread and butter" for drivetrain and component technology on the 4000 TEN Series. With LoadMatch, the swashplate angle changes with load to provide maximum productivity and make the equipment easier to operate. LoadMatch also features a speed sensor that senses load and will override cruise control if it's in use. Once the load changes, cruise resumes.
 The new eMatch operating system features responsive eTouch controls that activate everything on the tractor from cruise control to hydrostatic transmission pedals. |
Also available on every TEN Series tractor model is the iMatch quick coupler hitch system, which Deere said should make implement attachment easier. This implement attachment system converts a typical three-point hitch system to fixed hooks with attaching points to allow operators to back the tractor up, flip the lever, and slide on the PTO shafts. Deere claims the system is suitable for commercial users needing to save time and for homeowners who need an easier way to work with a variety of tools. While exclusive to the 4000 TEN Series, older implements can be attached to 4000 TEN Series tractors by removing the iMatch mounting plate.
In an effort to improve operator comfort, the eHydro models feature eTouch controls that provide easy electronic activation/engagement of PTO, cruise control, and hydrostatic drive-pedal functions. The equipment for the controls is similar to a fighter plane's "fly-by-wire" technology. The SCV joystick was moved and a third control added, as was a tilt steering option and improved shift feel by increasing the cross shift diameter. Fully autonomous PTO (except on gear 4110) allows rear implements to run independent of the transmission so they can be productive as the gears are shifted and the speed changes.
- Jenny R. Hessler
Absolute position sensor from MTS
 The Temposonics R Series AQB quadrature interface position sensor from MTS Systems can sense very slow speed information at a user-specified pulse frequency. |
The Sensors Division of MTS Systems Corp. (Booth S-13661) has introduced the Temposonics R Series AQB quadrature interface position sensor, essentially eliminating the need for external interface modules. The sensor provides a wide range of applicability for a given stroke range, due in part because of its ABZ-style quadrature output with fixed pulse frequency and resolution. According to MTS, the new sensor provides a more accurate output than typical encoder outputs because the AQB interface can sense even the slowest speed information at the user-programmable pulse frequency.
The AQB interface sensor generates an absolute position output either upon power-up or after receiving an input signal from the controller interface. The resolution of the CE-certified sensor varies from 0.5 to 0.002 mm/count (0.02 to 0.00008 in/count). The pulse frequency has a range of 8 kHz to 1 MHz. For the highest resolution setting of 0.002 mm/count (0.00008 in/count), position update times are less than 2 ms for stroke lengths up to 1524 mm (60 in).
The quadrature interface is available in both Temposonics R Series rod style (Model RH) and profile style (Model RP) application housings, offering modular construction and flexible mounting configurations. Model RH is designed for internal mounting in high-pressure applications such as in hydraulic cylinders where continuous pressures are about 34 MPa (5000 psi) and pressure spikes are up to 69 MPa (10,000 psi). The RH can also be mounted externally in certain applications, allowing users to replace the sensor cartridge in the field.
The Model RP profile style sensors offer either captive sliding- or floating-magnet mounting configurations. These sensors are designed for space-restrictive applications and environments in which dust and contamination are factors. They can also be externally mounted on machines and configured with a variety of connector options.
- Jean L. Broge
