Autonomous diesel-electric feed truck concept vehicle

Summary

This was a development project to create an autonomous livestock feed truck and feed bin concept vehicle. Phase 1 will specify high-level concepts and detailed design of the autonomous concept vehicle.

Following design completion and an agreement to proceed, the project evolved into further phases to build and carry out in-field testing of the electric, autonomous platform in a feedlot environment.

It is ATC’s intention to integrate sensors into the truck platform so that speed of vehicle and rate of feed dispensation are correlated to ensure even, consistent levels across the length of the bunk.

Objectives

• Investigate and develop design concepts to create an autonomous livestock feed truck and feed bin concept vehicle with an Autonomous Tractor Company diesel-electric/ digital drive train.
• Review and consideration of design concepts developed for further investments into protype development and conducting commercially relevant trials.

Key findings

• The team successfully created a CAD model of sufficient detail that ATC feels prototyping can begin.
• A preliminary budget and timeline for the Phase 2 prototyping has also been completed.

Benefits to industry

• Reduced feeding time (more cattle fed earlier)
• More efficient route planning
• Reduced feed wasted on the ground
• More even dispensing of food along bunk
• Near-zero downtime for drivers (illness and other absences)
• Reduced accidents
• No driver training / break-in period

Future research

A preliminary budget and timeline for the Phase 2 prototyping has been completed and will be finalised for further research.