Hardi AutoHeight, Instruction Book

Page: 11 / 62

3 - Description
11
Hardware components
The components of the HARDI AutoHeight are:
Cables
The system will function properly with a power supply between 12 and 28 volts and may draw up to 10 amperes during
normal operation.
The AutoHeight panel contains intelligent valve drive circuitry that helps to protect the sprayer's system against short
circuits and other wiring problems. However, it is still recommended to connect the AutoHeight power cable to a fused
supply that turns on and off with the ignition key of the sprayer/tractor. For more information on cables, please see the
AutoHeight Installation Manual.
Sensors
Three sensors are provided with your AutoHeight boom control kit. The
sensors use an ultrasonic signal to measure the distance to the ground,
or the top of the crop. Three sensors are required to provide good
overall height management of the boom. Two sensors are mounted on
the outer sections of each wing (Figure 2). These sensors maintain each
wing at the set target height independently.
The third sensor is mounted on the centre section. The boom lift sensor
is useful for setting your initial spray height when you begin spraying in
a field.
It is true that the centre section height will not change much, in
consistent soil conditions, since both ends of the centre section follow
the height of the power unit. However, it is extremely difficult to judge
the boom's actual height accurately from the cab. It is also very difficult
for the operator to see the main section nozzles. It is common for
operators to be in error from 20 to 30 cm or more. The AutoHeight panel will give you an actual height reading in the cab
and allow active control to the desired height.
The reason for the centre section sensor is that soil conditions change along with the weight of the machine. As the sprayer
tank fluid level changes throughout the day and soil conditions vary, the centre section height will change because of the
amount the tires sink into the soil.
Special attention must be taken into consideration when mounting the centre section sensor, as explained in the
AutoHeight Installation Manual for your sprayer.
The ultrasonic sensors are designed to work best in the brackets provided (Figure 2). If you decide to use a different style of
sensor mount, you may limit the performance of the sensor and/or void your warranty. Further, it is important to follow the
guidelines in the AutoHeight Installation Manual for mounting the sensors. The sensors should be at least 25 cm above and
25 cm in front of the spray nozzles.
For large boom or severe terrain applications, an additional sensor may be mounted near the midpoint of each boom to
obtain an average height reading. The average height reading will provide improved height control over the length of the
boom and protect the boom in severe terrain conditions. See “Figure 3 - Severe Terrain - Additional Sensors Required” on
page 12.
A. Possible crash without additional sensors
Figure 2 - AutoHeight Sensor and Mounting Bracket