Quantifying the Economic Advantages and Productivity Gains from Multitasking Machine operated by GNSS based Auto-Steering Tractor

Abstract

To address challenges related to crop input management and enhance field efficiency, a multitasking machine (MTM) was developed with the capability to switch between mechanical and pneumatic sowing methods for row crops. This machine is designed to perform multiple field operations simultaneously, significantly reducing operational time, costs, and labor while improving overall work efficiency. Additionally, to enhance the performance of existing tractors in Pakistan, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based auto-steering system was integrated by modifying the tractor’s mounting equipment, enabling precise operations along a predefined path. The MTM, coupled with the modified tractor, was tested under various planned path scenarios and for different crops to assess its performance. Validation of the system was conducted using a Response Surface Methodology (RSM) model. Field tests on maize demonstrated minimal missing and multiple seeding indexes, achieving a high precision rate of 95.34%. The machine's ability to perform multiple functions in a single pass enhances its practical applicability. Additionally, the GNSS-based auto-steering system, when using an optimized path with two-row skips at headlands, saved 14.71% in distance and 25.49% in time compared to the best-performing alternate method. These findings highlight the efficiency and practical benefits of the multitasking machine and auto-steering system for field operations.