Choosing whether to work headlands or passes first, and deciding the direction to work headlands.
Optimizing field operations involves precise planning and execution, especially when dealing with complex field geometries. Two features of the mission planner in Vehicle Mission Control (vMC) help operators efficiently manage their work: choosing whether to work headlands or passes first, and deciding the direction to work headlands. This article provides an overview of these features and detailed guidance on how to effectively use them.
Order of Operation - Headlands or Passes First
Operators have the flexibility to choose the order in which they work the field. Depending on the specific needs of the crop and field conditions, you can select to work the headlands (the outer edges of the field) before the inner passes or vice versa. This feature is particularly useful in preventing damage to the crop and optimizing the path for efficiency and fuel usage.
Direction of Working Headlands - Outside-In or Inside-Out
Another customizable aspect is the direction in which the headlands are worked. Operators can choose to work from the outside-in, starting from the outer boundary towards the center, or from the inside-out, beginning close to the internal field elements or obstacles and moving outward. This choice helps in managing how the crop is handled and can affect the distribution of clippings and the uniformity of the field.
Selecting the Working Order of Headlands and Passes
In the mission planner, ensure both “Headlands” and “Passes” are active. You can drag and drop to rearrange these options based on which you prefer to complete first. This order can significantly impact the efficiency of the operation, especially in fields with complex geometries or specific crop management requirements.
Choosing the Direction to Work Headlands
With “Headlands” toggled to "YES", an additional button is displayed which allows you to specify the direction: either from the inside out or the outside in. This setting is crucial for planning the most effective path, particularly in fields where you are cutting hay and do not wish to run over your crop.
Conclusion
The ability to specify the order and direction of working headlands versus passes provides operators with more tools for tailored field management. By understanding and utilizing these settings, operators can enhance their operational efficiency, reduce potential crop damage, and optimize their field management practices according to specific field and crop conditions.