WHAT IS THE DOT POWER PLATFORM™?
The DOT Power Platform is a mobile diesel-powered platform designed to handle a large variety of implements commonly used in agriculture, including the New Leader NL5000 G5 spreader. Its U-shaped frame facilitates the direct loading of implements, so that, once loaded, the implement “becomes one” with the mobile powered platform.
HOW ARE IMPLEMENTS LOADED AND UNLOADED?
The DOT platform includes four hydraulically activated arms that lift the spreader and secure it to DOT’s receiving and centering dowels. Once lifted, the implement and DOT move as one. Simply connect two hydraulic supply hoses, a drain hose and one or two electrical connectors and you’re ready to spread the field.
DOT primarily travels in two directions. The first is for implement loading and road transport. The second direction is perpendicular to the first, and is used for field operation. Switching travel directions takes about 10 seconds. DOT steers with the use of four position-sensing hydraulic cylinders (one on each wheel). The position of each cylinder is continually monitored and adjusted by DOT. This allows for perfect turning using four-wheel steering, all while under full power with each wheel matching the travel speed requirement for its location on the curve.
HOW IS DOT CONTROLLED?
There are two modes of controlling DOT. DOT can be manually controlled through handheld remote. The remote is used to load and unload implements (although this may eventually be done automatically). This remote manual control is also ideal for moving or operating equipment that is not programed to operate autonomously, such as material handling or other close quarters operations.
Full autonomous mode is used once the spreader is in a field for which a path plan has been downloaded to the onframe computer. In autonomous mode, the unit simply follows the pre-approved path for the specific field. The operator can view progress, take over controls, or stop the unit through long-range Wi-Fi via a designated tablet. On-board cameras assist the farmer in making decisions or remotely viewing performance.
