GREENSPACE: Virtual Reality Interface for Combine Operator Training

Abstract

The complexity of operating a farm combine has increased dramatically in recent years with the introduction of features including automatic guidance, precision farming, and sophisticated implements with specialized controls. In this work, we describe the development of a virtual reality interface for use in operating a combine while harvesting virtual crops. Using the actual combine cab hardware for control input commands and operational displays, we provide a virtual farm that allows the operator to operate every aspect of the combine while using the true set of buttons, levers, and switches for a realistic driving experience. This simulator is designed primarily for operator training on the adjustment and operation of the machine controls, the use of automatic guidance systems, and interaction with the precision farming automation systems. However, the simulator is also applicable for engineering design development, where new control modes and hardware could be assessed in a virtual environment. GREENSPACE: Virtual Reality Interface for Combine Operator Training AbstractThe complexity of operating a farm combine has increased dramatically in recent years with the introduction of features including automatic guidance, precision farming, and sophisticated implements with specialized controls. In this work, we describe the development of a virtual reality interface for use in operating a combine while harvesting virtual crops. Using the actual combine cab hardware for control input commands and operational displays, we provide a virtual farm that allows the operator to operate every aspect of the combine while using the true set of buttons, levers, and switches for a realistic driving experience. This simulator is designed primarily for operator training on the adjustment and operation of the machine controls, the use of automatic guidance systems, and interaction with the precision farming automation systems. However, the simulator is also applicable for engineering design development, where new control modes and hardware could be assessed in a virtual environment.

An Agricultural Harvest Knowledge Survey to Distinguish Types of Expertise

“…Both studies had operators drive a combine simulator through a virtual field with changing crop conditions. The combine simulator provides physical operator controls, such as steering and throttle, integrated with a virtual farm field environment that allows for realistic driving and harvest operations (Luecke, 2012).…”

Evaluating operator harvest technology within a high-fidelity combine simulator

“…The iPad was used to display the working prototypes of the novel combine technology software. The combine simulator software, Greenspace (Luecke, 2012) was run on Ubuntu 12, 64 bit with a 3 GHz dual core Intel processor, 8 GB of DDR3 ram, and an NVIDIA Quadro K600 graphics card. Two external stereo speakers were used to produce audio in addition to an 8" subwoofer.…”

Investigating the Use of Large-Scale Immersive Computing Environments in Collaborative Design

“…John Deere and Ford rely heavily on Immersive Computing Technologies (ICT) to ensure that the customer experience is ideally suited to a broad audience [10]. John Deere even uses this technology to train customers to use their products safely and effectively [11].…”