RATE CONTROLLER FOR PULL-TYPE SPRAYERS BY JOHN DEERE

John Deere recently introduced Swath Control Pro™, a system for 4710, 4720, 4920, and 4930 self-propelled sprayers that automatically turns the sprayer's boom sections on and off according to a Global Positioning System (GPS) coverage map. Now, John Deere introduces the GreenStar™ 2 Rate Controller to automate spray rate control and to enable Swath Control Pro on pull-type sprayers.

"The GS2 Rate Controller will replace the Raven SCS 440, 450, and 471 consoles, typically used in pull type sprayers, and allow the GreenStar 2 display to take over the spray rate control functions," explains Seth Crawford, marketing manager, John Deere AMS. "Plus the operator can now use Swath Control Pro, with pull-type sprayers, while making passes through the field. This allows the sprayer to turn boom sections on and off according to a GPS field map, which reduces spray overlap and lowers input costs for the grower."

The GS2 Rate Controller reduces cab clutter by using only the GS2 Display for rate control, guidance, on-screen mapping, field documentation, map-based prescriptions, and Swath Control Pro. The operator has excellent visibility on the full-color GS2 Display for all spraying functions and the touch screen makes it easy to operate.

"When a receiver is put on the system, operators will be able to use standard features of the GS2 display, such as prescriptions and mapping. They'll be able to control spray and reduce chemical cost with this application system," explains Crawford. "With the GS2 Rate Controller and Swath Control Pro, boom sections will operate automatically and spray only where needed. This efficient system (available in early 2007) will bring even more productivity to owners of pull-type sprayers."