Introducing the AUTONOMOUS TRACTOR LAB, a revolutionary tool designed to elevate STEM learning through hands-on exploration of autonomous farming technology. This cutting-edge lab empowers students to delve into the world of programming, electromechanical systems, and autonomous navigation, providing a comprehensive educational experience. With a focus on real-world applications, students are inspired to solve practical farming challenges using state-of-the-art technology.

Key Features and Benefits:

• • MINDS-i STEM Integrated Robotics: 
    • Engages students in an energizing STEM learning environment with easy-to-build, program, and modify robots.
  • Autonomous Self-Driving Farming: 
    • Utilize a GPS–IMU powered tractor for ground-based crop evaluation, spraying, spreading, crop monitoring, and more.
  • Curriculum Design: 
    • A half-semester course (45 hours) designed for 2-4 students, fostering collaborative problem-solving and creativity.
  • MINDS-i Dashboard Software & Mega 2560 Hardware:
    • Open Source Software compatible with Windows 10, OS X & Linux
    • Easy to use Graphical Interface with Drag and Drop Installation
    • Save and Load GPS Paths, Navigate to 100 Waypoints
    • Live Location Tracking and Wireless Settings Adjustment
    • Customizable Graphs for various parameters including Latitude, Longitude, Direction, Speed, and more
    • Full Telemetry Logging and Inclinometer Gauges

Comprehensive Curriculum:

• Unit 1: Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles

• • • • Student Performance
      • Understanding Autonomous Vehicles

• Unit 2: Autonomous Self-Driving Tractor

• • • • Levels of Autonomy
      • Current and Future Use Cases

• Unit 3: Autonomous Tractor Technologies

• • • • GPS Navigation
      • Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
      • Cruise Control and Localization
      • Communication and Object Detection & Avoidance

• Unit 4: Electrical Engineering & Energy Transfer

• • • • Types of Energy & Transfer Methods
      • Electric Motors and Batteries

• Unit 5: Applied Systems Thinking

• • • • Inputs, Outputs, and Constraints
      • Interrelationship Diagrams

• Unit 6: Culminating Projects in Automated Farming

• • • Ground Preparation, Planting, Fertilizing, Watering, Harvesting

This innovative lab is designed to spark and sustain students’ interest in STEM by providing them with the tools and knowledge to build and program autonomous tractors. The open-source programming environment (C++, Python, or ROS) encourages endless creativity, while the comprehensive curriculum and technical support ensure both teachers and students are fully equipped to succeed.

Embark on a journey of discovery and innovation with the AUTONOMOUS TRACTOR LAB, where the future of farming meets the classroom. Inspire the next generation of STEM professionals with hands-on learning that is both challenging and exciting. Unlock the potential of autonomous farming and watch your students thrive in this dynamic educational setting.

For more information, take a look at this Minds- I Autonomous Tractor Lab Brochure.