Outback Guidance's Rebel series is looking to revolutionize self-driving technology (Brady Lang/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Brady Lang

look 'ma, no hands

New product revolutionizing self-driving, GPS-based technology

Apr 6, 2019 | 10:00 AM

Self-driving machinery isn’t new, but Outback Guidance’s new product is looking to revolutionize the way it’s done.

Most self-driving technology is tied in to one specific manufacturer, or specifically the actual machine that’s being operated. With Outback’s new technology in the “Rebel” series, it can be hard-wired in, but also can work as an auxiliary to control over 1,100 different types of machinery. It can tie in to nearly every brand of tractor, swather, combine, or other type of driving machinery for nearly seamless self-driving, with GPS-based technology.

The simple-use, accuracy based technology has been gathering steam since its debut at the Crop Production Show in Saskatoon in January. Eric Charabin with Outback Guidance said it may be an expensive investment, but it pays for itself down the line.

Charabin said seed, fertilizer and chemicals are all expensive on a per acre basis. But based on cost per acre, he said the technology will diminish spending.

Gene-edited livestock feed

CFIA says gene-edited livestock feed is safe

May 08, 2024

seeding

Lack of moisture allows some Sask. farmers to begin seeding early

Apr 25, 2024

FCC Agrispirit fund

AgriSpirit fund supports rural communities

Apr 24, 2024

The Rebel Sub-Inch’s accuracy is down to an inch which for roll crop is necessary. Charabin said most operations don’t necessarily need that type of accuracy, but being able to maximize the use of land that you have will maximize profits in the long run.

Charabin said the technology can be used ‘hands-free’ but hesitated to use the word “fully” when speaking of self-driving.

“It’s super easy to use, you click a couple buttons and off you go,” he said. “It’s not like regular electronic equipment; they have longevity.”

Displays and a working demo is at Agrimex, which ends at 4:30 p.m. today.

–

brady.lang@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @BradyLangBFN