This article deals with the commercial vehicle sector in terms of CO₂ reduction, the technological drivers in the future for the powertrain and looks at modern semiconductor components based on Silicon Carbide (SiC), which enable the smaller, more efficient, and more power converters. Even more than for passenger cars, no uniform scenario will prevail in this sector due to the different drive architectures.

Advantages and challenges of electric motors in commercial vehicles

The targets emission standards formulated in many parts of the world for the reduction of greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions in transportation have ensured that electric drives have come to the fore. In addition to passenger cars, an increasing number of commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, vans, or agricultural and construction vehicles are also being powered electrically. This makes them more environmentally friendly, quieter, and more efficient than their predecessors with combustion engines. Electrified commercial vehicles are also attractive to owners and operators, in terms of cost of ownership, maintenance and malfunction. This results in higher productivity and better return on investment.

A major advantage of the electric motor is its high efficiency. With a combustion engine, efficiency varies hugely, particularly when under variable or partial loads. In extreme cases, this can drop to 15 percent or less. An electric motor’s efficiency is not dependent on its operating point. Under the same operating conditions, the electric motors and inverters that make up an electric drive system will achieve much higher levels of efficiency. At their best, electric drive trains can achieve in excess of 80 percent efficiency. This is only possible because the power electronic section itself can reach efficiency levels of up to 85 percent.

Important factors to consider when designing or selecting an inverter include power density, reliability, robustness, efficiency, and security. Additionally, and particularly in the commercial sector, the long-term effect that harsh operating conditions may have on total life expectancy must also be taken into account. Generally speaking, the conditions are much more challenging than those faced by passenger cars. Developing inverters
according to these criteria requires deep application knowledge, as well as a semiconductor portfolio that covers power and driver modules, sensors, and microcontrollers.

Silicon Carbide (SiC) – new opportunities for the commercial vehicle industry

Even more, than in many passenger car models, a high range and long battery life is important in commercial vehicles. Since the battery also takes up a large installation space, there is a demand for power electronics with high efficiency. These enable the construction of more efficient traction converters but also save energy in smaller applications. These include hydraulic pumps, compressors in air conditioning and refrigeration units, and onboard chargers.

Components based on Silicon Carbide (SiC) offer significant improvements in these applications. In general, the technology incurs lower losses under the same load profile than power MOSFETs and IGBTs. This means they offer increased switching and current-carrying efficiency, advantages that come into effect at higher intermediate circuit voltages. Because of these attributes, SiC-based semiconductors are especially well suited to electric vehicles equipped with batteries that have higher voltages and total storage capacity. And because SiC devices are also able to operate at higher voltages, they can enable onboard charging solutions that deliver shorter charging times and lower total losses.

The inverter that controls the electric traction motor is a good example of a centralized system within a drive train. In terms of efficiency, these systems can benefit from using SiC components. The core function of the inverter is to convert a DC voltage into a three-phase AC voltage that is used to drive the motor. They also operate in reverse during regenerative breaking, which captures the vehicle’s kinetic energy to create a DC voltage used to recharge the vehicle’s battery. The efficiency of the system can only be maximized when the losses inherent in energy conversion are low.

Compared to conventional silicon, the improved conductivity of SiC components reduces these conversion losses, a large part of which is experienced in form of heat. The higher efficiency of SiC-based inverters helps maximize the driving range of eclectic vehicles, making the most efficient use of the limited battery capacity. Besides their advantage in terms of efficiency, inverters based on SiC-based components also exhibit higher power densities. This means that SiC-based inverters can be made physically smaller requiring less installation space.

Source: Infineon

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The XUV835R and XUV865R Signature Edition vehicles are the premium models for John Deere enthusiasts. In addition to the features that Deere customers have come to expect, including a climate-controlled cab, easier shifting with an integrated park brake, informative instrument cluster, and 4-wheel drive and differential lock with the flip of a switch, Signature Edition Gator Utility Vehicles come standard with the following:

• Genuine leather seats and leather-wrapped grab handles that are easy to clean
• Integrated touchscreen infotainment system delivers automotive-grade smartphone integration, rear-facing camera, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, AM/FM, and SiriusXM satellite radio.
• Memorable audio experience with a seven-speaker sound system, professionally tuned by Harmon
• The rear-facing camera displays images on the infotainment screen with the push of a button to provide better visibility when attaching trailers or spreading materials like seed or salt.
• Bumper Pro Brush Guard protects the front of the vehicle, provides rubber bumpers for pushing gates, and features a center screen to keep debris from entering the radiator
• Front roof-mounted LED driving lights
• Rear-sliding window

“At John Deere, ‘Signature Edition’ means the top of the line with the best features and upgrades. That’s exactly what you’ll get with Signature Edition Gator Utility Vehicles – leather seats, touchscreen infotainment system, high-end audio, rear-facing camera – it’s the best of the best in UVs,”

said Maureen McCormack, Go-to-Market Manager, Gator Utility Vehicles.

Signature Edition Gator Utility Vehicles will arrive at John Deere dealerships beginning in April 2022. Those interested in the XUV835R and XUV865R Signature Edition Vehicles can contact their local John Deere dealer to learn more or place an order. For more information about John Deere and the full line of Gator UV products, visit the John Deere website.

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John Deere is an Innovation Award honoree in two categories for its See & Spray technology. See & Spray is a technologically advanced robot for the agriculture industry that leverages computer vision and machine learning to detect the difference between plants and weeds and target the application of herbicide on the weeds. This plant-level management technology gives a machine the gift of vision, benefiting the farmer, the surrounding community, and the environment.

“The opportunity for technology in agriculture continues to inspire us to develop cutting-edge smart machines, systems, and solutions to treat each plant individually and support our customers. John Deere is at the forefront of innovation, and with technology like See & Spray, we’re helping our customers maximize sustainability, profitability, productivity, and visibility so they can focus on the important work of feeding a growing world population,”

said Jahmy Hindman, chief technology officer for John Deere.

See & Spray uses deep learning, cameras, and robotics to distinguish plants from weeds. The future of this technology is key to treating each plant individually, providing only and exactly what every single plant needs at the moment, making chemical usage more efficient, protecting the surrounding soil and plants, and producing healthier, more productive crops.

The Robotics category of the Innovation Awards highlights programmable or otherwise intelligent machines capable of performing specific tasks or replicating human movement or interactions. The Vehicle Intelligence & Transportation category highlights automotive and other transportation products and services that integrate technology into the driving or riding experience. Products are reviewed and scored by a panel of judges comprised of designers, engineers, and technology media. Products are also evaluated on their engineering and functionality, aesthetics, and design; and what makes the product unique and innovative. Those with the highest rating receive the “Best of Innovation” distinction.

The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. CTA did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given.

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GUSS (Global Unmanned Spray System) autonomously sprays orchards with increased efficiency and precision as well as keeps crews safer than with traditional orchard spraying equipment. Not only does GUSS minimize exposure to the materials being sprayed by removing individuals from the orchard and allowing the operator to monitor up to eight GUSS sprayers from the comfort of the vehicle, but GUSS also includes many other safety features.

GUSS Defender vest is patent-pending technology and utilizes a small wireless transmitter that automatically pauses the autonomous machine when the person wearing the Defender vest is detected. GUSS will not resume operation until the individual is clear of the area surrounding the vehicle creating a safer environment for the crew members.

“Developing sound safety systems is our duty as a leading pioneer in the autonomous farm equipment sector. The Defender vest was the next logical step for us in our quest to maximize the level of safety around GUSS machines, adding an additional layer of redundant safety to an already robust safety stack,”

stated Gary Thompson, COO of GUSS Automation.

This proprietary technology of the Defender vest is not solely for autonomous agriculture equipment, but could potentially be added to any vehicle to improve safety. The batteries located in the transmitter of the high visibility safety vest have an estimated 1.5-year life. No daily charging is necessary, making it easy and convenient for employees to use.

After strategic infield testing, the first GUSS machines utilizing the Defender vest technology rolled out to customers in April 2021. Defender technology is now standard on every GUSS vehicle to maximize safety for farmers, growers and their crews. Being at the forefront of autonomous agriculture equipment, GUSS Automation makes safety their highest priority and will continue to innovate in this field.

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The Gator XUV835M Honor Edition is available in an open-station configuration, as well as an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) cab configuration. In addition to the new desert sand exterior color panels, the Honor Edition models come standard with the following:

Military-inspired model numbers, brand, and graphics:

• Black alloy wheels with Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 Extreme Terrain radial tires
• Black vinyl 40/60 split-bench seat
• Sport steering wheel
• Half-doors (open station models)
• Black roof
• Stone headliner (HVAC cab models)
• Brush guard
• Deluxe cargo box with spray-in liner, brake lights, and taillights
• Cargo box power lift

All model-year 2022 full-size Gator Utility Vehicles, including the Honor Edition models, can be ordered with Predator Heavy Duty all-terrain radial tires. These are an excellent option for use on hard surfaces or intermediate off-road applications. Predator tires provide additional shock absorption and increased tread life while reducing ground pressure and terrain impact.

In conjunction with the launch of the Gator XUV835M Honor Edition, John Deere is supporting The SAVE Farm, which provides farming, ranching, and agribusiness training and healing programs for service members, veterans, and their families.

“John Deere has a long history of supporting the military and our veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect this country. We are proud to honor these brave individuals through our new special edition Gator Utility Vehicle while supporting organizations like The Save Farm,”

said Maureen McCormack, Go-to-Market Manager, Gator Utility Vehicles.

Additionally, John Deere offers the Career Skills Program in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense SkillBridge program, allowing transitioning service members the opportunity to match their leadership and technical skills with jobs at John Deere. The SkillBridge program helps servicemen and women begin their post-military careers by interning at a John Deere production facility or dealership during the last five months of their military commitment.

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MOBOTIC – Mobile Robotic Technologies – is a company exclusively dedicated to Mobile Robotic applications on the level of key Systems and components. Mobotic provides solutions to the manufacturers of indoor AGVs and AMRs, outdoor mobile machinery and electric vehicles in agriculture, security and surveillance, and last-mile logistics and mobility.

Their offering is organized in the following product segments: drive systems, autonomous driving, energy management, and vehicle control and connectivity. Agriculture is one of the key strategic market segments for Mobotic and therefore they are developing customized systems especially for the agricultural mobile robotics operating in vineyards, open fields, polytunnels, greenhouses, and increasingly in indoor vertical farms.

Integrated steered traction unit is an established concept for indoor omnidirectional mobile robots. This made the main challenge for Mobotic engineers to make it more protected and robust for harsher outdoor agricultural environments without losing the performance, compactness, and compliance with all safety industrial standards applicable to indoor and outdoor electric mobile machinery.

The unit has a load capacity of up to 1.000kg with up to 500Nm of maximum torque on the wheels and has two main sub-systems: steering disc and traction unit. The steering disc is able to output an incredible torque of 200Nm and ensure rotary movements at well over 90deg/s. The steering disc integrates a slip ring system for endless rotation and at the same eliminates all well-known cabling challenges. The slip ring not only transmits the power supply, but also CAN communication and safety-critical signals from the vehicle safety controller.

The traction unit integrates a brushless PM synchronous motor specially designed for traction applications with a wide torque-speed range of optimum efficiency, high-quality planetary gearbox for integration inside the wheel, integrated electro-magnetic parking and emergency brake with an optional manual release lever and position sensor with outputs for motor control and speed supervision.

There are several configuration possible providing a wide torque-speed range exceeding 500Nm of torque and 15km/h of translational motion

Both brushless steering and traction motors are controlled by integrated motor controllers. On top of all this Mobotic can offer a VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) designed especially for electric vehicles, plus a powerful master computer that can control and supervise the complete 4WD with eight drives in real-time. VCU can act as a master vehicle computer controlling also other systems like BMS, battery charger, auxiliary motors (pumps, actuators, etc…).

A very sophisticated system, but assembled from best and proven sub-components, it shortens the validation times at the manufacturers of agricultural mobile robots and also enables the scalability of the solution for reasonable engineering cost.

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Modular Solutions with a Customer Focus

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Freudenberg Filtration Technologies will present its premium filter solutions for agricultural vehicles at the EIMA Digital Preview. The event serves as a multimedia preview of the traditional on-site International Exposition of Machinery for Agriculture and Gardening (EIMA) in Bologna, which was postponed to February 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are very excited about this year’s additional EIMA Digital Preview event, because it is accessible to anyone around the world, from the comfort of their own desks,”

says Giacomo Menzio, Market Manager Italy at Freudenberg Filtration Technologies.

The global filtration experts will virtually present high-quality cabin air filter applications, which meet the strict requirements for air purification systems in agricultural vehicles set out in the European standard EN 15695-2, from Category 2 up to Category 4.

Effective protection against hazardous substances

Especially for tractor and self-propelled vehicle drivers potentially handling toxic pesticides and liquid fertilizers out on the fields, reliable protection from dust, aerosols, and gas as well as vapor contaminants entering the cabin is key for their health and safety. Freudenberg Filtration Technologies offers filtration solutions with tailor-made protective functions for all cabin categories (according to EN15695 standard definitions).

Category 2 filters deliver high efficiency and dust-holding capacity, even during extended periods of operational use. At the same time, they maintain low pressure-drop values and thus ensure long filter lifetime and high energy efficiency in the vehicle’s air ventilation system. The Category 3 filtration design concept includes these Category 2 features and additionally extends the performance range to include the finest droplets and particle aerosols.

To do so, it employs an additional stage of high-efficiency particulate air filtration at the efficiency level required for hospital and pharmaceutical cleanroom applications. In addition to all of these features, Freudenberg’s Category 4 filtration design boasts a perfectly coordinated multi-stage filter system, which adds a unique, high-performance, activated-carbon layer in the final filter stage. These highly efficient filters can even block vaporous contaminants that can be harmful to drivers’ health.

All filtration solutions combine state-of-the-art filtration media with optimized and robust technological solutions. This makes them ideally suited for daily use even under extreme conditions, which are “business as usual” for farmers during their intensive plant protection activities in open fields, vineyards, and orchards.

Multimedia information and 24-hour booth service

At Freudenberg’s digital exhibition booth, visitors will be able to access and download a variety of information on these filtration designs, which are in high demand among tractor manufacturers and manufacturers of air-ventilation systems alike. The booth will be staffed not only with Italian experts from the local Freudenberg Filtration Technologies subsidiary but also by an international team of Freudenberg Filtration Technologies experts around the clock on exhibition days to cover all time zones.

“We can offer virtual one-on-one meetings or group meetings with up to four participants via conference calls. All in all, the virtual booth offers a variety of great ways to get to know our technologies and contact us for specific information,”

says Giacomo Menzio.

Source: Freudenberg

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Through this agreement, John Deere dealers in the United States and Canada will sell and service Western snow and ice removal products that are compatible with John Deere Gator Utility Vehicles.

Justin VanderHeyden, John Deere product marketing manager, says:

“With more than 70 years of experience in making integrated snow and ice removal products, Douglas Dynamics was the obvious choice for us. Western snow and ice control products are the brand of choice for those who move snow, so we’re excited to provide this new offering for Gator Utility Vehicles.”

This agreement enables one-stop-shopping for utility vehicle customers who also want Western snow and ice removal products.

Michael Frank, manager of business development for Douglas Dynamics, says:

“John Deere’s global brand presence and reputation for manufacturing the highest quality products while providing outstanding service aligns closely with our long-standing brand strength and dedication to quality and service. The partnership brings two premium brands together with the shared goal of providing John Deere dealers and customers with easy access to best in class snow and ice control products for John Deere Gators.”

Initial product offerings include the following Western blades:

• 72-inch (1.82-m) Hydraulic Straight Blade
• 72-inch (1.82-m) Hydraulic V-Blade
• 72-inch (1.82-m) Manually Adjusted V-Blade
• 72-inch (1.82-m) Straight Blade
• 66-inch (1.7-m) Straight Blade

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Hexagon’s Autonomy and Positioning division has launched its first autonomy positioning and sensing kits for the agriculture market and validated these solutions in its new autonomous research and development tractor.

Through collaboration between its leading brands NovAtel and AutonomouStuff, both parts of Hexagon, their autonomous positioning and sensing kits were developed as part of Hexagon’s Smart Autonomous Mobility solutions portfolio launched at CES in early 2020. With decades of expertise in GNSS positioning, autonomy, and safety-critical applications, NovAtel and AutonomouStuff created these solutions with agriculture machinery OEMs and robotic machinery manufacturers in mind.

As a demonstrator vehicle for Smart Autonomous Mobility, the autonomous tractor features object detection and classification, simultaneous relative localization and mapping, absolute positioning through GNSS technology, and localization sensor fusing. Built to illustrate the viability of new positioning and sensing kits, the tractor incorporates safety-critical learnings with situational and environmental awareness, and manual remote control when needed. This platform validates how these solutions and capabilities accelerate autonomous development.

The positioning and sensing kits are optimized for autonomous agriculture applications, including products like the SMART7 antenna and autonomous robotic capabilities through the NovAtel OEM7 driver powered by the Robot Operating System (ROS).

The kits also feature TerraStar GNSS Correction Services, ALIGN heading and relative positioning firmware, and SPAN GNSS+INS technology. Though designed for agriculture, the kits integrate seamlessly into other off-road autonomy applications.

“These positioning and sensing kits provide developers with technology bringing assured positioning to autonomy in agriculture,”

explained Michael Martinez, agriculture segment manager at Hexagon | NovAtel.

“Robotic machinery manufacturers or those experienced in autonomy may be unfamiliar with the unique challenges facing agriculture applications. Conversely, those experienced with agriculture may not have the expertise to integrate positioning and sensing products within autonomous solutions. We can help in both cases through these positioning and sensor kits, as demonstrated by our autonomous tractor.

“We’re excited to use this tractor as a platform to validate the human identification, obstacle detection, and enhanced environmental awareness that our sensing kits add to our assured positioning solutions in agriculture,”

said John Buszek, VP of products and services at Hexagon | AutonomouStuff.

“The sensing and positioning technologies we’ve integrated on this demonstration platform showcase the Smart Autonomous Mobility portfolio, which enables and accelerates the development of autonomy in agriculture applications from prototyping to production.”

For more than 30 years, NovAtel has delivered industry-leading GNSS positioning solutions as a trusted provider for the world’s top precision agriculture companies. Combined with AutonomouStuff’s decade of expertise in autonomy and sensor fusion, they significantly reduce the barrier of entry into autonomy to accelerate the time to market for autonomous solutions in agriculture, construction, mining, and other off-road applications.

Source: Hexagon

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