The agricultural machinery cab of the future as a modular system

Based on a multifunctional cab for self-propelled machines such as harvesters and field sprayers, the CAB Concept Cluster will demonstrate at Agritechnica what is possible today and in the future. "On the one hand, the cluster partners are pursuing the goal of presenting innovations that reflect future market requirements and expectations and generate high customer benefits in the process," says Mathias Berger, Sales Director Agriculture at Robert Bosch GmbH. "On the other hand, users can select exactly those elements for their project that fit their situation."

Serial-tested modularity: from steel to light
The core issue of many cab projects is the reduction of time and costs incurred during development. That's why the Smart CAB sees itself as a highly innovative modular system whose modules can be combined in a completely flexible way. Thanks to the consistent serial-tested modularity, there is no need for completely new developments, regardless of whether it is the matrix light, the operator system or the steel structure. In order to implement all the new functions in a limited space, the Smart CAB consistently relies on a high level of system integration. The cab roof, for example, combines air conditioning, all electronic components and the Birdview cameras. Another aspect that counts toward the modularity account is the integrative, adaptable design concept. The appearance can be adapted to individual customer requirements at any time, for example by adding lighting accents using styling lights.

x2x-usability: from networking to user interface
Another key issue in the agricultural machinery sector is future-proofing with a view to integrating new components. Thanks to a powerful body computer including CAN, LIN, analog and digital interfaces, the Smart CAB offers flexibly expandable x2x-usability. At Agritechnica, various distributed and networked functions will be on display as examples, including the integration of a smartphone and applications in combination with a drone. To make it easier for the driver to communicate with his machine and other components in this complex environment, the user interface plays an essential role.
In addition to the right multifunction armrest with its controls and the left multifunction armrest with integrated miniwheel, the clearly laid out HMI system of the Smart Cab includes two touch displays on which all key parameters are summarized. The operator system thus enables safe navigation in any work situation.

smart farming ready: from function expansion to data sharing
For smart farming applications, the focus is on profitability. In this respect, the smart CAB is prepared for various applications: Via a feature store, OEMs and vehicle users can set their own smart farming functions that are loaded directly into the machine. This can add considerable value to existing systems or, in combination with a new attachment, significantly expand functionality. In terms of data sharing, Agritechnica will demonstrate how farmers can upload vehicle settings designed for specific soil/field and/or environmental conditions, as well as different implements, and make them available to other farmers in exchange for commission. To increase productivity and reduce sources of error, smart controls are built in to make all available functions easy to use.

On board as a matter of course: safety
The safety concept of the Smart CAB also uses state-of-the-art technologies. Object detection, smart matrix worklights and light reference sensors are used to reduce glare when looking at other vehicles and the driver himself. To illuminate the Line of Sight 100 percent, HELLA's eye-tracking camera integrated in the headliner tracks the driver's line of sight and automatically dims the rest of the work area. Light elements in the cab can be used for collision warning. A darkening film integrated into the laminated safety glass (LSG) ensures perfect visibility in all weathers, so front windows can react to the strength of the sun's rays and dim slightly.
In addition, there is a functionally safe tilt sensor system for active control of booms, attachments and the complete machine, as well as comprehensive environment visualization using a mirror replacement system, ultrasonic sensors and a SurroundView system. In addition, projections for environment communication can be projected onto the ground to visually draw the attention of other vehicles or passers-by, or to demarcate work areas.

Keeping an eye on the driver: Comfort and ergonomics
The operator system addresses the major issue of driver comfort by offering an all-round carefree package of operator ergonomics. All comfort features on the air-conditioned driver's seat are electronically adjustable and can be stored in memory. The newly developed joystick features a horizontal hand position and ergonomically positioned control keypads. Other highlights in terms of comfort are the adaptive cab suspension, which reduces whole-body vibration stress, a refueling camera including display for easy checking of the fill level, and state-of-the-art air conditioning. It offers a powerful fan for ventilation, fine adjustment of the heating output, a temperature sensor system for automatic climate control, and multi-zone air conditioning. Thanks to high efficiency of the installed components, the maintenance cycles of the air conditioning system are minimized, fuel consumption as well as harmful emissions are reduced.

The Smart CAB can be seen at Agritechnica from November 12 to 18 in Hanover, Germany, in Hall 17/Stand D53.