Grainswest - Tech 2023

Tech 2023 Grains West 24 Track and roll Engineers Ian Meier and Michael Lockerbie noted that early 21st century industrial and agricultural electronic systems could be frustrating for the user. Envisioning better, easy-to-use equipment, the business partners formed Bitstrata Systems of Saskatoon, SK. “When the iPhone first came onto the market, they were inspired by its user interface. They wanted to apply that same level of ease and convenience to agricultural technology,” said Jasmine Brodziak, customer experience manager of Agrimatics, the company’s agricultural arm. The two developed a software platform for grain cart management and the first Libra Cart model was produced in 2013. “Libra Cart is so simple anyone can feel comfortable using our system, no matter their age or technological skill level,” said Brodziak. Libra Cart hardware can be plugged into the cart’s main load cell cable, and a tablet used in place of the existing scale head. The hardware can be mounted on the cart for wireless use across the hitch and easy switching of tractors. To calibrate the system, the user takes a Libra Cart load measurement and inputs a certified scale reading for the same load. The system should then be accurate within one percentage point, said Brodziak. The operator then selects the appropriate field, and the system takes care of the rest. It automatically tracks each unload from the grain cart and notes the date, time, weight and GPS location as well as the field and truck destination associated with each unload. The collected information can be used for multiple purposes. As an inventory manager, Libra Cart can track the amount of sold and unsold crop. To produce cost analysis for in-field trials, the data can help tailor management practices. It also simplifies recordkeeping, making it easier to file insurance claims and calculate payroll for employees paid per bushel hauled. A grain cart management system that’s easy to install and operate, Libra Cart tracks field, load and destination. Photos: Courtesy of Agrimatics FEATURE