EVALUATING GPS GUIDANCE TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENERGY SAVINGS
Applied Research
Kent Shannon
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
COLUMBIA
Abstract
\r\n GPS (Global Positioning System) and other electronic technologies have facilitated many innovations in agricultural field machinery. One of these innovations is the development of GPS-based guidance systems. The primary advantage of using a GPS-based guidance system is a reduction in application errors (overlaps and skips). One other benefit often overlooked is the potential energy savings. Using a set of 25 example fields in Central Missouri ranging in size from 33 to 221 acres for a total of 2200 acres, potential energy savings in fuel were analyzed using GPS technology to apply fertilizer to a corn/soybean rotation. Comparisons were made looking at overlap reductions from 5% and 2.5% to 0% for nitrogen application and 10% and 5% to 0% for phosphorus and potassium applications. These overlap reductions affect the distance traveled and area covered. Potential fuel savings ranged from 0.11 to 0.14 gallons of diesel fuel per acre or $0.35 to $0.42 per acre using a price of $3.10 per gallon of diesel fuel. With GPS-based guidance systems costing from $1000 to $15,000, a return on investment can be realized by considering fuel savings alone.
\r\n
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: * D. K.. Shannon, C.E. Ellis
-
Shannon, *. Natural Resource Engineering Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65203
-
Ellis, C. Natural Resource Engineering Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 63379