The Uses of Laser Based Technologies in Today’s Agriculture By: Clint Mack Soil 4213

Overview Mechanics of a typical laser Laser Control Systems Land management practices Mapping Surveying Land leveling and Drainage Conclusion

What makes laser guidance systems a useful tool cuts cost savings across all stages of the earthworks process digital data transfer to the machine for guidance to blade control less errors less material waste

Mechanics of a typical laser Ruby rod positioned in the center of the laser Light shines through the rod Reflects off of mirrors Light travels back through the ruby rod and passes through a partially silvered mirror

Laser Control Systems Depth guides Increases accuracy and productivity Helps complete jobs with less time Rework to the job is not necessary

Laser Control Systems Mapping and Surveying Links to GPS Allows the operator to make accurate maps of topography and elevation

Laser Control Systems Mapping and Surveying Records XY positions using the laser differential GPS Links to elevation position A rotating laser to make an accurate map to topography or elevation

Laser Control Systems Land Management Practices Drainage tiling The laser guidance system allows the operator to accurately install drainage tiling to the correct slope

Laser Control Systems Land leveling and Drainage Guides the blade to the correct depth slope and grade. Ideal for Planning a surface Building terraces

Ideal for drainage ditches Laser Control Systems Land leveling and Drainage Laser based system allows the operator to accurately create a ditch with the correct slope to avoid future excavation Clean out existing open ditches up to 6 feet deep Laser grade control and accuracy

Laser Control Systems Pros and Cons Helps control the depth and many operator functions Make earth excavating a easier task Saves time and money Less errors Dealing with Controlling the operators equipment Just because there is laser guidance doesn’t mean there is no operator error Systems are rather expensive Control systems $9000 +

Conclusion The invention of the laser was thought to be merely an interesting scientific oddity with no practical use. Important uses have been found for lasers, and their usefulness in many aspects of modern life continues to grow. Many other of its uses includes industrial cutting and welding, medical treatment, communications, pollution monitoring and nuclear fusion research.

References Liebrecht Side-Arm Ditcher Lasers htm Trimble MCE Laser