Trimble has announced software-based advanced path planning technology designed to give end users and equipment manufacturers the ability to optimize and automate the trajectory, speed, and overall path design of industrial equipment.

Manufacturers worldwide can now provide their customers with an easy-to-integrate, automated solution that works not only with Trimble systems, but also with an equipment manufacturer's existing system. The technology will also be available within Trimble Construction Cloud and Trimble Connected Farm, offering a seamless, end-to-end experience for users.       

Traditional path planning options require manual set-up, which impacts productivity, consistency, and execution. By contrast, Trimble says its advanced path planning technology offers automated, full path, complete project trajectory from entry to exit, including logistics points. The technology allows plans to be created in the office and adjustments made in the field or worksite. In addition, it is optimized for complex fields, unique site shapes, obstacles, and avoidance zones.

"Our new path planning technology is the next step in Trimble's vision of making fully autonomous solutions available across industries, regardless of brand, type of equipment or use case," said Finlay Wood, GM, Off-Road Autonomy, Trimble. "With this easy-to-integrate solution, we've taken another significant step towards full autonomy. It enables our customers to reduce waste and simplify complex tasks, whether they are in the cab or not—part of our vision to meet operators where they are on their path toward fully autonomous solutions."

This new software capability will enable a broad range of autonomous applications across a variety of industries, including construction and agriculture. Once implemented, it can allow customers to meet their emerging product and operational goals no matter where each one is on the autonomy journey.

Trimble field tested the technology with HORSCH, one of the world's leading manufacturers of modern agricultural technology, integrating path planning technology into HORSCH's self-propelled PT and VL sprayer series to provide an autonomous, four-wheel-drive solution. Trimble is also currently field testing this technology with Dynapac, a leading supplier of high-tech soil and asphalt rollers, light equipment and pavers, as part of its autonomous compactor.

Source: Trimble