Experiment to Test RTK GPS with Satellite “Internet to Tractor” for Precision Agriculture

Abstract

This experiment tests the ability to provide Real Time Kinematic Global Positioning System corrections via a real time network (RTK GPSRTN) by utilizing a satellite Internet connections in the field to multiple tractors for precision agriculture. Precision agriculture technology improves sustainable production by providing more farmers with the ability to obtain highly accurate machine control in rough or varied terrain. This experiment tests the use of low cost single frequency L1-band RTK GPS in a RTN covering a wide area. Wired Internet is not available in the field for many farmers so cellular internet such as 3G/4G must be relied on for connectivity. Where 3G/4G have limited coverage, satellite Internet could be used. A mobile satellite Internet antenna can be placed on a support vehicle and moved to a site where multiple tractors are harvesting or planting. The Internet is then shared with precision agriculture farming equipment nearby. Having better logistical and fiscal access to machine control and the Internet could assist the farmer and the United States Department of Agriculture in efforts to sustain adequate crop yields, project future agriculture needs, and better protect crops from pests and diseases. This experiment provides information on how to configure “Internet to Tractor” for RTK GPS RTN concept with a discussion of the limitations and future product development.