Cotton has been a cornerstone of agriculture and industry for centuries, playing a pivotal role in the global economy. From clothing to household goods, cotton’s versatility is unmatched. But behind this essential crop is a rich history of innovation and technology that has revolutionized the way it’s harvested. At the heart of this evolution is the cotton picker—a machine that transformed the cotton industry by increasing efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
At Certi-Pik, USA, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality replacement parts for cotton pickers, ensuring that modern machines continue to operate at peak performance. With decades of experience and a commitment to excellence, we understand the importance of reliable, efficient cotton pickers in today’s agricultural landscape. That’s why we’re passionate about preserving the history of these machines while supporting the future of cotton farming.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating evolution of cotton pickers, from manual labor to state-of-the-art machinery. We’ll trace their historical development, technological advancements, and the impact they’ve had on the cotton industry. Join us on this journey through time as we delve into the past, present, and future of cotton pickers.
The Early Days: Manual Cotton Picking
Before the invention of mechanical cotton pickers, cotton harvesting was a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. For centuries, cotton was picked by hand, requiring significant manpower and effort.
1. The Labor-Intensive Process
Manual cotton picking involved workers bending over cotton plants to pluck the cotton bolls by hand. This method was:
Backbreaking and Time-Consuming: Workers spent long hours in the fields, often under harsh weather conditions.
Labor-Intensive: It required a large workforce to pick cotton efficiently, leading to high labor costs.
Slow and Inefficient: Handpicking was a slow process, limiting the amount of cotton harvested each day.
2. The Social and Economic Impact
In the United States, manual cotton picking was historically associated with slavery and sharecropping, particularly in the southern states. The labor-intensive nature of cotton farming shaped social and economic structures, influencing agricultural practices and labor relations for generations.
3. The Need for Innovation
As the demand for cotton grew with the Industrial Revolution, it became evident that a more efficient harvesting method was needed. The limitations of manual labor paved the way for mechanization and innovation in cotton harvesting.
Certi-Pik, USA Insight: The transition from manual labor to mechanical cotton pickers revolutionized the cotton industry, setting the stage for increased productivity and economic growth. You ask. We answer! Working with you to improve cotton harvesters, we are dedicated to providing unique solutions to your harvester inefficiencies.
The Invention of the Mechanical Cotton Picker
The first significant breakthrough in cotton harvesting came with the invention of the mechanical cotton picker. This revolutionary machine changed the face of cotton farming forever.
1. The Birth of the Mechanical Cotton Picker
The concept of a mechanical cotton picker dates back to the 19th century, but early prototypes were unreliable and inefficient. It wasn’t until the 1930s that practical mechanical cotton pickers began to emerge.
John Daniel Rust: In 1936, John Daniel Rust developed the first commercially successful mechanical cotton picker. His machine used rotating spindles to pick cotton bolls while leaving the plants intact.
Spindle Technology: Rust’s spindle technology became the foundation for modern cotton pickers, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing labor costs.
Commercialization and Adoption: By the 1940s, mechanical cotton pickers were commercially available, and their adoption rapidly spread across the United States.
2. The Impact on Cotton Farming
The mechanical cotton picker revolutionized the cotton industry by:
Increasing Productivity: A single mechanical picker could do the work of 50 handpickers, drastically increasing productivity.
Reducing Labor Costs: The need for manual labor decreased, leading to cost savings for cotton farmers.
Improving Efficiency: Mechanical pickers could harvest cotton more quickly and efficiently than handpicking.
3. Overcoming Challenges and Resistance
Despite its advantages, the mechanical cotton picker faced resistance from traditional farmers accustomed to manual labor. Additionally, early machines struggled with issues like:
Fiber Damage: Early pickers damaged cotton fibers, reducing the quality of the harvested cotton.
Technical Limitations: Maintenance and operational challenges limited the widespread adoption of early models.
Certi-Pik, USA’s Role in Cotton Picker Evolution
At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re proud to support the continued evolution of cotton pickers by providing high-quality replacement parts that enhance performance and durability. We understand the importance of reliable equipment in maximizing productivity and efficiency for modern cotton farmers.
Certi-Pik, USA Tip: The invention of the mechanical cotton picker marked a turning point in agricultural history, paving the way for modern, efficient cotton harvesting. You ask. We answer! If you experience a hang-up in productivity, and would like to brainstorm an idea to improve your cotton harvesting experience and make a difference worldwide, give us a call to look into a solution.
Modern Advancements in Cotton Picker Technology
Today’s cotton pickers are a far cry from the early mechanical models. Advances in technology have led to state-of-the-art machines that maximize efficiency, productivity, and cotton quality.
1. High-Efficiency Cotton Pickers
Modern cotton pickers are designed for maximum efficiency and productivity, featuring:
Increased Harvesting Speed: Modern machines can harvest several rows of cotton simultaneously at high speeds.
Higher Capacity: Advanced cotton pickers can harvest larger fields in less time, reducing operational costs.
Enhanced Precision: Improved spindle and drum technology ensures precise picking without damaging cotton fibers.
2. Technological Innovations
Recent advancements in technology have further enhanced cotton picker performance, including:
GPS and Precision Farming: GPS technology allows for precise navigation, reducing overlaps and maximizing field coverage.
Automated Controls: Automation and computerized controls enable more efficient operation and maintenance.
Baling and Module Building: Modern pickers come with on-board module builders that compress cotton into modules for easy transport and storage.
3. Environmental and Sustainability Benefits
Modern cotton pickers are also designed with sustainability in mind, featuring:
Fuel Efficiency: Advanced engines are more fuel-efficient, reducing emissions and environmental impact.
Minimal Fiber Damage: Improved spindle technology reduces fiber damage, increasing the quality of harvested cotton.
Certi-Pik, USA’s Commitment to Modernization
At Certi-Pik, USA, we stay at the forefront of technological advancements in the cotton industry. Our high-quality replacement parts are designed to enhance the performance and efficiency of modern cotton pickers, ensuring that farmers can continue to benefit from the latest innovations.
Certi-Pik, USA Tip: Investing in modern cotton picker technology maximizes productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. Join with us and many others harvesting cotton over the years to seek the best harvest possible, and help many generations to come.
Why Choose Certi-Pik, USA for Cotton Picker Parts?
At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re dedicated to supporting cotton farmers with high-quality, reliable, and durable replacement parts for cotton pickers. Here’s why you should choose us:
Unmatched Quality and Durability: Our parts are manufactured using premium materials to ensure long-lasting performance.
Comprehensive Selection: We offer a wide range of replacement parts for John Deere and Case IH cotton pickers, including spindles, cam tracks, doffers, and more.
Expert Knowledge and Support: With decades of experience in the cotton industry, our team provides expert guidance and support to help you find the right parts for your needs.
Commitment to Innovation: We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in cotton picker technology to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
Customer Satisfaction and Trust: Our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in the cotton industry.
The Certi-Pik, USA Promise
We believe in empowering cotton farmers with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Our mission is to provide high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and unbeatable value. At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your cotton pickers running smoothly and efficiently, season after season.
Ready to Optimize Your Cotton Picker’s Performance? Contact Certi-Pik, USA Today!
Are you looking for high-quality, reliable replacement parts for your cotton picker? Look no further than Certi-Pik, USA. We understand the critical role that cotton pickers play in your operation, and we’re here to ensure your equipment operates at peak performance.
With our extensive selection of replacement parts, expert guidance, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re the go-to choice for cotton farmers nationwide. Our durable, high-quality parts are designed to enhance the efficiency, productivity, and longevity of your cotton pickers.
Contact us today to explore our selection of cotton picker parts and find the perfect solution for your needs.
In the world of agriculture, efficiency and productivity are the keys to success. One of the most revolutionary advancements in farming technology is the cotton picker machine—a powerful and intricate piece of equipment designed to harvest cotton quickly, efficiently, and with minimal labor. At Certi-Pik, USA, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality replacement parts for cotton picker machines, ensuring they run smoothly and effectively season after season.
But how exactly does a cotton picker machine work? What makes it so efficient, and what components are essential to its operation? In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the mechanics behind cotton picker machines, breaking down each component and explaining how it contributes to the overall functionality and efficiency of the machine. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how these incredible machines work and why they’re indispensable in modern cotton farming.
If you’re a cotton farmer, equipment operator, or simply curious about agricultural technology, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the mechanics of the cotton picker machine and discover the science behind its impressive performance.
The Evolution of Cotton Picker Machines
Before we delve into the mechanics, it’s essential to understand how cotton picker machines evolved from manual labor to the advanced, high-tech machines we see today.
1. From Manual Labor to Mechanization
In the early days of cotton farming, cotton was picked by hand—a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Workers manually plucked cotton bolls from the plants, requiring a significant workforce and long hours. This traditional method was not only inefficient but also costly for farmers.
2. The Birth of Mechanical Cotton Pickers
The first mechanical cotton pickers emerged in the 1930s, revolutionizing the cotton industry by significantly increasing productivity and reducing labor costs. These early machines used rotating spindles to pick cotton bolls while leaving the plants intact.
John Daniel Rust: Invented the first commercially successful mechanical cotton picker in 1936, utilizing spindle technology that became the foundation for modern cotton pickers.
Spindle Technology: Rust’s design featured rotating spindles that gently pulled cotton fibers from the bolls, minimizing fiber damage and maintaining the integrity of the plants.
3. The Rise of Modern Cotton Picker Machines
Today’s cotton picker machines are sophisticated, high-tech marvels of engineering, capable of harvesting vast fields of cotton with remarkable speed and efficiency. Key advancements include:
Increased Harvesting Speed: Modern machines can harvest multiple rows of cotton simultaneously, maximizing productivity.
Precision and Efficiency: Advanced spindle technology ensures precise picking without damaging the cotton fibers.
Automated Controls and GPS Integration: Automation and GPS technology allow for accurate navigation, efficient operation, and reduced operator fatigue.
Certi-Pik, USA’s Role in the Evolution
At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re proud to support the evolution of cotton picker machines by manufacturing high-quality replacement parts that enhance performance, durability, and efficiency. We understand the importance of reliable equipment in maximizing productivity and profitability for today’s cotton farmers.
How Cotton Picker Machines Work: The Core Components
A cotton picker machine is a complex piece of equipment with multiple components working together to efficiently harvest cotton. Here’s an in-depth look at the core components and how they function:
1. Picking Units
The picking units are the heart of the cotton picker machine, responsible for harvesting the cotton bolls from the plants. Each picking unit contains the following key components:
Spindles: Rotating spindles are thin barbed metal rods that spin rapidly, catching the cotton fibers and pulling them from the bolls. They are designed to:
Minimize Fiber Damage: Calibrating you cotton harvester for crop and weather conditions is essential in ensuring minimal damage to the cotton. Keeping your components in good condition and set to proper clearances helps the spindles do their jobs.
Maximize Efficiency: Multiple spindles rotate simultaneously to maximize the picking rate. Efficiency is only as good as the spindles used so in addition to installing quality parts: be sure to replace broken or worn spindles as needed.
Doffers: Doffers are rubber disks that remove the cotton from the spindles and direct it into the air suction system.
Efficient Removal: They efficiently strip the cotton from the spindles by rotating opposite the direction of the spindles, preventing clogs and maintaining a steady flow when correct clearances are set.
Durable and Reliable: High-quality doffers are designed to withstand constant friction and pressure.
Moistening System: A water-based moistening system keeps the spindles lubricated, preventing cotton from sticking and reducing friction. When using our proprietary moistener pad water distribution pattern you can be assured your spindles will be lubricated in the most efficient manner possible.
2. Air Suction and Conveyor System
Once the cotton is removed from the spindles, it’s transported through the machine using a powerful air suction and conveyor system:
Air Ducts and Fans: High-speed fans create powerful air suction that moves the cotton from the doffers to the basket. Sometimes overlooked, but of extreme importance in maintaining efficiency is to reduce air gaps in duct work and cabinet components that reduce the suction needed to move the cotton through the picker.
Conveyor Belts: Conveyor belts transport the cotton through the machine, ensuring smooth and efficient movement.
Lint Cleaners: Advanced lint cleaners in cotton strippers remove debris, dirt, and leaves, ensuring that the harvested cotton is clean and high quality.
3. Basket and Module Builder
The harvested cotton is collected in a basket, where it is compressed into modules for easy storage and transportation:
Basket Capacity: Modern cotton picker machines feature high-capacity baskets that hold large volumes of cotton, reducing the need for frequent unloading.
Module Builder: Some models have built-in module builders that compress the cotton into compact, uniform modules, making it easier to transport and store.
Automated Unloading: The automated unloading system in module builders simplifies the process of transferring modules from the harvester to the staging area as they are awaiting ginning.
4. Engine and Power System
Cotton picker machines are powered by high-performance diesel engines designed for durability, fuel efficiency, and reliability. They provide the power needed to operate the:
Picking Units
Air Suction System
Conveyor Belts and Module Builder
Hydraulic Systems for steering, lifting, and unloading.
Certi-Pik, USA’s Expertise in Replacement Parts
At Certi-Pik, USA, we specialize in manufacturing and supplying high-quality replacement parts for cotton picker machines, including spindles, doffers, cam tracks, moisture pads, and more. Our parts are designed to maximize efficiency, durability, and performance, ensuring that your cotton picker machine runs smoothly and efficiently.
Certi-Pik, USA Tip: Regular maintenance and high-quality replacement parts are essential for maximizing the performance and lifespan of your cotton picker machine. Let us know if you have any issues that you are working through with your cotton harvester that require a new solution to improve your time spent harvesting.
Why Choose Certi-Pik, USA for Cotton Picker Parts?
At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re dedicated to supporting cotton farmers with high-quality, reliable, and durable replacement parts for cotton picker machines. Here’s why you should choose us:
Unmatched Quality and Durability: Our parts are manufactured using premium materials to ensure long-lasting performance.
Comprehensive Selection: We offer a wide range of replacement parts for John Deere and Case IH cotton pickers, including spindles, cam tracks, doffers, and more.
Expert Knowledge and Support: With decades of experience in the cotton industry, our team provides expert guidance and support to help you find the right parts for your needs.
Commitment to Innovation: We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in cotton picker technology to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
Customer Satisfaction and Trust: Our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in the cotton industry.
The Certi-Pik, USA Promise
We believe in empowering cotton farmers with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Our mission is to provide high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and unbeatable value. At Certi-Pik, USA, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your cotton pickers running smoothly and efficiently, season after season.
Ready to Optimize Your Cotton Picker Machine? Contact Certi-Pik, USA Today!
Cotton harvesting is a critical stage in the cotton farming process, and the efficiency and quality of the harvest directly impact a farmer’s productivity and profitability. With advancements in agricultural technology, modern cotton harvesters have become increasingly sophisticated, offering a wide range of features and capabilities. However, choosing the right cotton harvester can be a daunting task for farmers, as several key considerations need to be taken into account. In this blog, we will explore these factors and guide farmers through the process of selecting the most suitable cotton harvester for their specific needs.
Understand Your Harvesting Requirements
Farmers must evaluate their individual harvesting requirements before embarking on the process of selecting a cotton harvester. Factors such as farm size, crop variety, labor availability, and budget play crucial roles in determining the appropriate machine. For instance, smaller farms may prefer leasing pickers, or operating an older picker with lower up front costs, while larger farms may benefit from larger new pickers capable of harvesting faster.
Harvesting Mechanism
Cotton harvesters operate using either the spindle or the stripper mechanism. Spindle harvesters employ rotating spindles to mechanically remove lint from cotton plants. These machines offer high harvesting efficiency, are suitable for long-staple cotton varieties, and yield higher grade cleaner cotton. On the other hand, stripper harvesters utilize revolving bars equipped with rubber bats and nylon brushes to strip the cotton bolls from the plants. Stripper harvesters are better suited for short-staple cotton varieties where the spindle cannot as easily grab the lint, but can yield a dirtier crop raking more of the woody structure of the plant in with the cotton.
Productivity and Efficiency
High productivity and operational efficiency are vital factors in the selection process. Harvesters equipped with advanced technologies such as onboard module builders, high-capacity cleaning systems, and automatic moisture control can significantly enhance productivity. Similarly, machines with features like GPS guidance, yield monitoring systems, and automated harvest mapping enable precision farming and data-driven decision-making, optimizing overall efficiency.
Maintenance and Durability
Investing in a cotton harvester requires careful consideration of long-term maintenance and durability. Ensuring the availability of spare parts, easy access to repairs, and ongoing technical support are crucial aspects. Machine durability depends on factors such as construction quality, material selection, a rigidly held maintenance schedule, and component reliability. Assessing these factors, including warranty coverage, can help farmers make an informed decision.
Ergonomics and Operator Comfort
The well-being and comfort of the harvester’s operator cannot be overlooked. Harvesting cotton is physically demanding work, often spanning long hours and difficult environmental conditions. Choosing a harvester with ergonomic features like air-conditioned cabins, adjustable seating, and user-friendly controls can boost operator morale, reducing fatigue and improving efficiency. Equally important is the availability of training and support to ensure operators can maximize the harvester’s potential.
Environmental Considerations
Sustainability is increasingly vital in the agricultural sector. Farmers should consider the machine’s environmental impact when selecting a cotton harvester. Innovations like reduced emissions engines, advanced filtration systems, and improved fuel efficiency minimize the machine’s carbon footprint and contribute to overall operational cost savings.
Reputation and Support
Collaborating with a reputable manufacturer or dealer is critical. Research the market to identify manufacturers with a track record of producing reliable and technologically advanced harvesters. Evaluate factors such as customer reviews, brand reputation, and after-sales support services. A trustworthy supplier will provide ongoing technical assistance, training, and prompt responses to any issues that may arise during the harvester’s lifespan.
Incorporating these key considerations into the decision-making process will equip farmers to choose the right cotton harvester that aligns with their unique requirements and maximizes their agricultural productivity. One aftermarket manufacturer and parts supplier that consistently meets these criteria is Certi-Pik, USA.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cotton harvester requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including harvesting requirements, mechanisms, productivity, durability, ergonomics, environmental impact, and support services. Each decision taken during this process significantly impacts a farmer’s efficiency, operational costs, and overall success. Farmers are encouraged to thoroughly research and consider the offerings of reputable manufacturers like Certi-Pik, USA, who prioritize technological advancements, new upgrades to improve picker performance, working closely with the needs of rebuilders and farmers, and exceptional customer support.
Contact Certi-Pik, USA Today
For farmers seeking the highest quality and technologically advanced cotton harvesters, Certi-Pik, USA offers an exceptional range of new replacement parts tailored to individual needs. With years of industry experience, Certi-Pik, USA has established itself as one of the most reliable manufacturers in the market. Visit our website to explore our extensive range of cotton harvester parts and take a step towards increasing your agricultural productivity and profitability today.
It is critical to develop an optimized maintenance schedule for a cotton-picking machine. You must also check all the electrical components, like the tailgate feeder switch and other connections, to ensure they are in working condition. Keeping up with maintenance is a primary goal to achieve the ultimate success of a long-lasting machine.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on all the parts that require upkeep so that all mechanical components operate at total capacity.
A Guide to How to Maintenance and How Often
Some parts require multiple checkups, while others can go days, weeks, or months before worrying about them. However, watching for any shaking or vibration will help keep parts from breaking down while out in the field. Repair or replace those parts as needed if they start to wear and tear.
Use this guide below to help you optimize a steady checklist for maintenance. It will become a habit as you follow your daily routine and keep all parts operating efficiently.
Maintenance Every Six Hours
Check for broken, wrapped, or non-functional spindles
Inspect and clean the dirt and debris off the solution nozzle on each row unit as needed
Grease the sun gears, row-unit picker bars, cam tracks, and upper gear train using the onboard lubrication system
Check These Every 12 Hours
Auxiliary water system operation
Solution tank level
Fire extinguishers
The fluid level in the solution tank
Coolant level
Engine oil level
Row-unit gear case oil level
Lubricate the unit lift rock shaft bearings
Grease tank level
Hydraulic oil level
Fuel filler neck screen
Lubricate the guide axle kingpins
Lubricate the team driveshaft covers
Feeder belt tracking
Solution strainer and nozzles
Tires and check tire pressure
Every 50 Hours, Check These
Lubricate the unit lift pivot pins and cylinders
Cotton fan drive belt tension
Lubricate the row-unit doffer column bearings
Cab fresh air filter for cleanliness
Fuel strainer and water separator
Lubricate the RMB rock shaft pivots
Maintenance and Check Every 100 Hours
Torque on the drive and guide wheel bolts
Lubricate the guide axle pivot and guide axle tie rod ends
Lubricate the row-unit driveshafts, U-joints, and frame rollers
Check the laydown roller chain tension and lubricate
Lubricate final drive axle couplers and bearings
Keeping The Cotton Picker Clean
Like maintenance, regular cleaning ensures better cotton harvesting results, preventing breakdowns and reducing repair costs. These are some excellent benefits of making this a habit after each operating use of your machinery.
Enhanced Efficiency: A clean cotton picker operates at its optimal level, picking cotton with greater precision and speed. Proper cleaning prevents the accumulation of debris, dust, and plant material that can hinder the machinery’s efficiency.
Reduced Downtime: Regular maintenance and cleaning can significantly reduce downtime. A dirty picker is more prone to breakdowns and malfunctions, leading to costly repairs and delays during the harvesting season.
Extended Lifespan: Clean machinery equals less wear and tear, which extends its overall lifespan. You can invest considerably in your cotton-growing future by caring for your cotton picker.
Better Cotton Quality: A clean cotton picker ensures better cotton quality by minimizing contamination from debris and other unwanted materials. This leads to higher-grade cotton, which can fetch better prices in the market.
Essential Cleaning Tips
Preparation: Before cleaning, turn off the cotton picker and disconnect it from any power source. Wear protective gear, gloves, and safety goggles to prevent injuries.
Remove Large Debris: Begin by manually removing large debris, such as twigs, branches, and rocks, from the cotton picker. These items can cause severe damage to the machinery if left unattended.
Air Compressor Cleaning: Use an air compressor to blow away dust and small particles from hard-to-reach areas of the cotton picker. Pay special attention to the engine compartment, transmission, and hydraulic lines.
Cleaning the Harvester Heads: The harvester heads come into direct contact with cotton and can accumulate residues. Clean these components thoroughly to prevent clogs and ensure efficient picking.
Cleaning the Picking Units: Clean the picking units carefully, removing any cotton build-up and tangled fibers. Properly maintained picking units result in improved cotton harvesting performance.
Inspect Belts and Chains: Regularly check the belts and chains for signs of wear and correct tension. Replace any damaged components promptly to avoid sudden breakdowns.
Keep the Exterior Clean: Washing the exterior of the cotton picker helps maintain its appearance, prevents rust, and makes it easier to spot any potential issues during the cleaning process.
Store Properly: During the off-season, store the cotton picker in a clean and dry environment. Cover it to protect against dust and potential damage caused by the elements.
Why Should You Follow a Schedule for Maintenance?
Many times, people forget or get too busy to perform maintenance or try to skip a step to save time and money. Here are some things that may happen if you neglect to improvise a schedule. It will lead you to follow better habits.
Neglected Cotton Pickers and Safety Risks
This poses a safety risk to operators and others out in the field. Critical components of the picker may malfunction, safety features can become compromised, and faulty electrical systems can develop. In some situations, the parts can catch on fire which could destroy the entire machine.
Higher Operating Costs and Fuel Consumption
Poor maintenance practices in a cotton picker can lead to higher operating costs and environmental issues. For example, clogged air filters and other problems force the engine to work harder, increasing fuel consumption and producing more harmful emissions.
Impact on Cotton Quality and Sale Value
A dirty cotton picker can adversely affect the quality of the harvested cotton. Debris, dirt, and other foreign materials can mix with the cotton during the picking and ginning, leading to lower-quality production.
Contact Certi-Pik, USA for Your Next Order
Farmers and dealers can check out our website to order online or by phone. We are here to answer your questions concerning our aftermarket parts. Contact us Certi-Pik, USA. We are happy to assist and guide you through any troubleshooting moments.
Technology is becoming more innovative every day, and with it comes the latest and upcoming technology in the cotton-picking industry. For the modern-day cotton picker, we will discuss the newest technologies changing the cotton-picking sector, making the industry more efficient. You will learn about the most recent products already on the market for sale and those still in studies at the most prominent universities.
The Latest Innovations in Spraying
Spraying herbicides to kill unwanted weeds is critical to keeping the cotton healthy when it is time for harvesting. John Deere took the 12-row sprayer and innovated it to make it more efficient for cotton farmers’ requests. They made it into a self-propelled device that can detect the weeds from the plants. With cameras and upgraded technology, they designed the See and Spray Ultimate.
The See and Spray Ultimate saves on the wasteful use of herbicides, which brings relief to the overhead spending from farmers. It allows them to use the spray more efficiently to keep the machines rolling without stopping and refilling in the middle of the field.
The cameras detect the different colors between the weeds and the plants. When the system detects the weeds according to color, it releases the spray to eliminate the weeded areas, keeping the cotton plants safe. This process saves money, time, and product inventory.
The New Cotton Picker and Stripper
On a ten-hour day, the farmers see about 100 acres more ground covered with the 12-row cotton stripper than the previous eight-row. This upgrade adds up to 48 percent per day productivity.
The cotton-picking machines are a step ahead of what will be required in the future from cotton farmers to have the cotton tagged and labeled. This product added to the cotton picker and stripper is the John Deere Harvest Identification Cotton Pro. It is already making things more accessible by providing data on the quality of the cotton harvest from the field to the mill.
Cotton farmers are paid according to quality, not weight or amount. There is a process where the tag is embedded into the module wrap that goes around the cotton. The John Deere Harvest Identification Cotton Pro uses a frequency identification reader to gather information from the tags.
Each tag has a serial number in which data is stored, delivering the following information:
Farm
Client
Field
Machine Identifier
Variety
GPS position of the wrapped location
Date
Time
Currently, it is utilized for proficiency in labeling, organizing, and allowing the farmer to get the most out of their sale. This process is only done through cotton farming, but the future could tell differently. This tactic would give the cotton industry the upper hand since they already have an implemented system.
Those who oversee the agriculture industry could force farmers to produce all of this data information to track all farming habits from start to finish, offering a more valuable record of harvesting.
How Upgraded Cameras are Helping During Harvesting
Like in a car, a cotton picker has blind spots, which can cause issues in certain areas of the machine that could be avoided. This delivers an all-around computerized vision to the cotton harvesters while in motion. The cameras allow the operator to maneuver the machine throughout the field easily.
If a part is not working correctly, the driver can immediately spot it to shut the machine down and repair it. It is also meant to help the operator ensure that all the cotton is picked and stripped without any problems. With the assistance of artificial intelligence, it works in favor of spotting weeds and spraying them accordingly.
These cameras are equipped to handle the fields for up to 12 miles per hour, allowing the operator to monitor everything on the go.
More Comfort and Technology Inside the Cab
Even the cab sees its share of innovation as it is built quieter and has more comfortable features. It has a larger space with computers and mirrors to offer better vision, and with the windows strategically placed, it lets in more light. Operators who drive them claim it is much better than its previous models, where vision is restricted in some areas of the machine.
The cab is sealed better, which lets in fewer sound effects from the powerful motors and mechanisms working, which can deafen a person over time. All of these features together assist the driver to stay on task without as many breaks, making the labor efforts more efficient.
Upcoming Technologies for More Efficiency
Everything in today’s world is turning toward AI technology and robotics. It continues to innovate agriculture positively and offers more efficient labor and better days in productivity. These are some of the upcoming products that are still undergoing studies and experimentation at certain universities:
Robotic cotton harvesters: These are designed for farmers with smaller acres and rotate their crops. Mississippi State University and scientists continue to perfect the robotic cotton harvesters to pick the cotton without taking all the debris. It is expected to be a reality once all the issues are resolved.
Drones: Drones will be used to spray the fields. Research is underway at Texas A&M University to bring the accuracy level from 60 percent to 100. At this time, farmers are using drones to spot trash in the fields and to be the eyes of the farmers for miscellaneous reasons.
Laser Weed Removal: The University of Georgia is studying the use of lasers in place of herbicides. It is a machine placed on a rover operated by a computer. The lasers would be CO2 pushing out 40 watts of power. All that is left is to find a cooling system before this technology is released to farmers.
