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The feasibility study of using machine vision technology to locate corn plants was conducted to determine its potential in the development of an intelligent detasseling machine. A corn plant feature, the main vein of leaf, was used and the method of feature detection was developed for corn plant identification. Experimental results showed that the leaf feature and the center of the plant can be detected and located using image processing techniques when an image is taken from above of a plant. This research showed that it is possible to identify and locate the corn plant using machine vision technology.

A track-type grapple log skidder was dynamically modeled to allow machine modification by computer to determine the effects of these modifications on the operation of the machine in the forest. The model consisted of an undercarriage, power train, log/drag force, and logging equipment (arch and grapple). This skidder had three types of logging attachments: winch, swinging boom (grapple), and single-function arch (grapple). Each was modeled and simulated under various conditions. The dynamic model of the skidder can be used to analyze its drawbar pull capability and lateral stability with various log weights and soil types on steep slopes. Validation of this model is needed later.

Farmers are a small group, mostly college educated who run multi-million dollar yearly operations. Recent favorable economics has allowed this sector to look at new technology and determine the best way to invest in it. New considerations in the last few years have led to minimum/alternative tillage and planting, site specific farming decisions and small technology groups of farmers. The authors have put together their thoughts and wants which should be evaluated by future suppliers of technology and farm machinery.

A procedure for simulating the dynamics of agricultural and forestry machines using mechanical system simulation software is presented. A soil/track interface model including rubber-track and steel-track was introduced as well as equations that can be used to model mechanical and hydraulic power trains commonly found in tracked vehicles. Two rubber-tracked vehicles (agricultural tractors) and two steel-tracked machines (forestry vehicles) were simulated to illustrate the technique, and some analysis results are presented. The examples given in this paper are based on the author’s research over the past several years.

A prototype in-field transport system for high-value crops was designed and built. This system carries a semi-trailer upon two rubber-tracked undercarriages. A mechanism was designed for timely assembly and disassembly of the system. A set of field experiments was conducted to compare the sinkage, motion resistance, and drawbar forces of the rubber-track versus the current pneumatic-tire system. Increased flotation was observed with the prototype system. The motion resistance of the track system was less than or greater than that of the pneumatic-tire system depending on the soil condition. The prototype met performance objectives during assembly, operation, and disassembly of the system.