Precision meets automation – New sensor solutions for agricultural machines

Siko GmbH at Agritechnica 2023

Siko GmbH, a leading provider of position sensors and automation solutions with over 30 years of experience in the field of mobile machines, will be unveiling its pioneering products and services for the agricultural machinery sector at this year’s Agritechnica trade fair. With its motto of “Automation, Digitalization, Efficiency”, the company shows how modern sensors can optimize agricultural machines when it comes to safety and efficiency.

Mr. Roth, Head of the Mobile Automation business unit at Siko, defines mobile automation as the capacity of mobile devices, vehicles, and robots to carry out tasks and actions automatically, autonomously, or semi-autonomously. This is achieved through the integration of technology such as sensors, software, and controllers, which make it possible for these mobile machines to detect their environment, process information and make independent decisions. The advantages lie in the increase in efficiency, optimization of safety and precision.

There is a particular focus here on the specially developed position sensors for agricultural machines and the services associated with them. Siko offers a wide range of sensors, including rotary encoders, position sensors for hydraulic cylinders, inclinometers and bearingless rotary encoders. These sensors allow precise detection of positions, inclines, speeds, and movements, factors that are of central importance in agricultural technology.

The areas of application are varied: For example, bearingless encoders from Siko ensure reliable detection of speed and direction of travel in the gearboxes of agricultural machines. Siko rotary encoders control agricultural attachments such as plows, harrows, and sprayers by monitoring their angle and alignment precisely. Inclinometers and IMUs are used to monitor the incline of agricultural machines such as combine harvesters and tractors and ensure the optimal working position. Position sensors for hydraulic cylinders monitor the position and speed of the piston in real time and, therefore, guarantee safety and efficiency in dynamic situations.

Siko’s focus on functional safety and conformity is particularly worth highlighting. Its products meet international standards and norms, including UN ECE R10 (E1), EMC standards for construction, agricultural, and forestry machinery and standards for functional safety, such as DIN EN ISO 13849-1 and DIN EN 61508, up to performance level PLd and SIL2. In addition, specific versions of the sensors are being developed for special environmental conditions, such as environments with a high ammonia content.

Mr. Roth emphasized how important Siko products are for agricultural machinery manufacturers: “Our sensors offer precise measurement and control, features which are essential for efficient and safe operation of agricultural machines. Thanks to our many years of experience in the field of mobile automation, we understand the needs of the industry and offer tailor-made solutions for incline control, positioning, drive monitoring, and so on.”

Visitors to Agritechnica can experience the latest innovations for themselves at the Siko stand, including the smallest safety multiturn rotary encoders in the world – the WV3600MR and WH3600MR – which are perfect for mobile machines where installation space is especially tight. Also on show is the SIKO flexCoder MSAC200, a highly integratable bearingless rotary encoder that delivers position and speed detection in electric motors and high-performance gearboxes.

Siko’s presentation at Agritechnica 2023 highlights the commitment of the company to innovation, functionality, and safety in agricultural machine technology. The new sensor technologies from Siko help to increase efficiency, improve productivity and shape the agriculture of the future.

Visit Siko at Agritechnica 2023 in Hall 15, Stand H42 and discover more about the latest developments in mobile automation for agricultural technology.