Profiline is a control system from Pottinger that acts on the hydraulic circuits of an implement to enable more precise use of the tool in the field.
After being introduced on the Terrasem just over a year ago, it has now been applied to the Flexcare row crop cultivator – an interrow mechanical weeder that works through individual hoeing units running between the crop rows.
Pottinger describes the Profiline as a “comfort control system”, and it is now available on all Flexcare machines with up to 16 rows.
Precision operation
Machines fitted with the system can be operated directly, either using an ISOBUS tractor terminal, or another compatible control terminal.
As any particular function is selected by pressing the appropriate button on the touchscreen, it is carried out immediately on the implement.
The overall hydraulic oil supply is regulated by a load sensing system. This means that only the power that is actually needed is requested from the tractor hydraulics, saving energy and increasing the productivity of the tractor.
Maximum convenience
Each hoe element on the Flexcare has a double-acting hydraulic cylinder to lower it in and out of work, enabling it to be raised from the cab by tapping on the Profiline display.
In addition to manual control, the system can be turned over to satellite control for lowering in and out the soil at the headland and in field corners.
Pottinger claims that this will mean less fatigue for the operator, who can focus on the working results of the row crop cultivator.
Profiline Section Control
When fitted as an option, the Profiline comfort control system on the Flexcare can lift all of the hoes at the same time at the end of the field.
In addition, the software allows each hoe element to be controlled individually, a function that comes into its own if the field tapers into a corner, or otherwise meets the headland at an angle.
The weeding tools are said to be raised and lowered with pinpoint accuracy using the ISOBUS connection, presumably allowing for the tractor offset.