Grainswest - Tech 2022

Tech 2022 grainswest.com 19 ONWARD AND UPWARD The Rogator 900 Series Applicator from AGCO is a self- propelled, rear-mounted boom applicator with one-button adjustable height. “One of the greatest selling points for this technology is its flexibility,” said Bob Blakely, AGCO public relations manager. “For example, the high clearance model automatically raises to 76 inches of clearance in 45 seconds.” It can be used for late-season dry or liquid application while minimizing damage to mature crops. For on-road travel, the applicator returns to standard clearance of 50 to 60 inches. The liquid system can be switched out for a dry spinner or pneumatic system with less than two hours of work time. “Having that ability to use one machine for applying liquid or dry products is really valuable, said Blakely. “Even though we released this model less than a year ago, it has already won awards for innovation.” The applicator is available at Fendt dealerships across the Prairies. BIN BEETLE Inspired by a farmer friend who suggested they build a robot to handle in-bin grain tasks, the Aurora, Neb., engineering duo of Chad and Ben Johnson created the Grain Weevil. Unlike its namesake insect, this plucky device is a welcome assistant that levels the grain so the farmer doesn’t have to. This eliminates the immediate danger of entrapment and the long- term impact of lung damage from grain dust. The robot weighs about 14 kilograms and looks like a waffle iron propelled by two augers. The Grain Weevil scurries over the surface of the grain, spreads it out as it goes into the bin and breaks up clumps. As grain is removed from the bin, it knocks down grain that is piled against the bin wall. As the last of the grain gets to the bottom of the bin, its surface is level and can be accessed and cleaned out with a sweep auger. “By doing the dangerous jobs that can be risky for humans, the device keeps you safe and relieves you of nasty chores like shovelling and levelling the bin,” said Ben Johnson, the company’s chief innovation officer and Chad’s son. Now in the development and safety certification process, Chad and Ben hope to make the device available for sale across North America in the near future.