Chapter 34

Precision Viticulture

Guidance and Steering Systems

Guidance and steering systems are fundamental elements in the context of precision viticulture technology. A guidance and steering system determines the current position and orientation of the vehicle, compares it to a desired posture, and makes appropriate steering control to direct the vehicle toward the desired posture. When a human operator is controlling the vehicle, they sense the vehicle’s posture through visual cues and physical motion sensations, decide what steering actuation is necessary to correct the vehicle’s path, and then execute the corrective action by turning the steering wheel. An automated guidance system attempts to relieve the operator from many of these tasks. Today’s machines have the ability to use information from global navigation satellite systems, a general term that describes any satellite that provides positioning, navigation, and timing services, including global positioning systems (GPS).

Applications of Guidance and Steering Systems in Precision Viticulture

In precision viticulture, guidance and steering systems (using GPS, GNSS, RTK, and auto-steer technology) are critical for ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and consistency in vineyard operations. Vineyards, with their narrow rows, steep slopes, and irregular layouts, especially benefit from such systems.

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