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Case IH designs LiDAR technology for hay producers

Case IH has introduced its new baler automation hit, Case IH Baler Automation. Designed for hands-free efficiency, Large Square Baler Automation is dealer-installed and connects with Class 3 ISOBUS Puma, Optum and Magnum tractors.

“Baler automation is the perfect example of purposeful technology from Case IH,” said Brian Spencer, hay and forage marketing manager at Case IH, in a statement. “It aims to tackle efficiencies by taking the duty off the operator to steer and make adjustments in field, allowing them to add productivity while in the cab.”

The automation kit utilizes LiDAR (light detection and ranging) for its baling system. The LiDAR-based swath analysis sends out laser pulses to measure the position and size of the windrows. The technology adjusts the speed and steering of the tractor to maximize throughput without overloading the baler, resulting in increased runtime compared to traditional baling. With the automatic adjustments and hands-free baling, producers can put less experienced operators in the cab, or spend their time in the cab running farm operations or focusing on other business.

“This technology is built for the unpredictable yet expected challenges in baling with crooked windrows, and inconsistent widths and heights,” added Spencer. “The automatic adjustments in steering and speed ensure the bales are consistent and the baler is running at peak performance, avoiding blockages and overfilling.”