Trimble into advanced path planning

Trimble launches new advanced path planning technology. This software-based technology gives Trimble end users and equipment manufacturers the ability to optimize and automate the trajectory, speed and overall path design of industrial equipment to increase efficiency of work. Field tests with Horsch self-propelled sprayers turned out successfully.  

Manufacturers worldwide can now provide their customers with an easy-to-integrate, automated solution that works not only with Trimble systems, but also with an equipment manufacturer’s existing system. The technology will also be available within Trimble Connected Farm and Trimble Construction Cloud, offering a seamless, end-to-end experience to Trimble end users.

Traditional path planning options require manual set-up, which impacts productivity, consistency and execution. Trimble’s advanced path planning technology however, offers automated, full path, complete project trajectory from entry to exit, including logistics points. The technology allows plans to be created in the office and adjustments made in the field or worksite. In addition, it is optimized for complex fields, unique site shapes, obstacles and avoidance zones.

“Our new path planning technology is the next step in Trimble’s vision of making fully autonomous solutions available across industries, regardless of brand, type of equipment or use case,” said Finlay Wood, general manager, Off-Road Autonomy, Trimble. “With this easy-to-integrate solution, we’ve taken another significant step towards full autonomy. It enables our customers to reduce waste and simplify complex tasks, whether they are in the cab or not, part of our vision to meet operators where they are on their path toward fully autonomous solutions.”

This new software capability will enable a broad range of autonomous applications across a variety of industries, including construction and agriculture. Once implemented, it can allow customers to meet their emerging product and operational goals no matter where each one is on the autonomy journey.

Trimble field tested the technology with Horsch, integrating path planning technology into Horsch’s self-propelled PT and VL sprayer series to provide an autonomous, four-wheel-drive solution.

“Through our work with Trimble, we were able to test the latest path planning technologies in real-time on farms to understand how the technology performed in real-world environments,” said Theo Leeb, managing director, Horsch. “We had the opportunity to experience fully automated spraying for the first time ever. We’re two high-tech companies changing the future.”