Harvesting Automation: Reducing the Requirement for Highly Skilled Labour During the Harvest of Broad-Acre Cash Crops

Harvesting is a seasonal activity which, in the case of cash crops like cereal grains, canola, soybeans, and corn, requires the use of combine harvesters to cut and separate the seed from the plant material. The need to maximise yield, minimise losses, and ensure the top product quality means harvesting machinery is typically some of a farm’s most sophisticated, performance-oriented equipment.

This project aims to increase automation in the harvesting sector. Given a harvest’s small, intense window, many farmers lack the time and focus to drive maximum performance from their equipment. The appropriate application of new technology offers the potential to support Canadian producers and improve the quality and quantity of their crops.

CAAIN Contribution
$ 3,839,381

Total Project Value
$ 9,351,260

Project Contact
Ryan Georgison
Research & Development Engineering Manager
MacDon Industries
rgeorgison@macdon.com

Project Video