It was quite a big surprise as well as a welcoming revelation at the recent Agritechnica preview event organised by DLG (Agritechnica’s organiser) and VDMA (the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association). Named ‘DataConnect’, Claas, John Deere and 365FarmNet have teamed up to introduce the first direct, manufacturer independent cloud-to-cloud data connection for the agricultural industry.
The solution connects the cloud solutions for data storage and evaluation from Claas (Claas Telematics), John Deere (John Deere Operations Center) and 365FarmNet. Owners of a mixed fleet of tractors, combines, forage harvesters and sprayers, can now choose their preferred cloud/data platform from one of the three companies while also being able to transmit data from other machines via the new interface.
This means that the data are still available in JD Operations Centre, Claas Telematics or 365FarmNet, but can be exchanged in real time from one cloud to the other.
Leap forward in data sharing and management
This major and unexpected step is a leap forward in data sharing and management and confirms as well as stresses the importance of big data in agriculture. The companies themselves call DataConnect ‘A new era in precision agriculture’.
Exchange of all important machinery data
The solution enables the exchange of all important machinery data, including current and historical machine location, fuel tank level, current working status and forward speed. The key benefit to the users is that all the necessary machine configurations are available in one system. Transmission of agronomic data is also being planned.
The companies involved say that they wish to share their experience with cloud-to-cloud communication with ongoing Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF) projects and that the architecture of the interface is designed to support existing industry standards.
Any interested machine manufacturers and software provider as well as association and standardisation committee is welcome to help develop the existing interface.
First insight at Agritechnica
A first insight into the operation of DataConnect will be possible on the Claas, John Deere and 365FarmNet booths at Agritechnica while the official worldwide launch is scheduled for Summer 2020.
