View Simplicity Apollo Seeding Controller Operators Manual

TOPCON APOLLO

ISOB

US

S

EEDER

C

ONTROLLER

OPERATOR’S

MANUAL

Apollo Serial No: _______________________

Software Verson: _______________________

Date

Software Upgrade Log

Version Notes

Simplicity Australia Part No 198515318

Apollo ISOBUS UT Seeder

Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 1005324-01

Rev Number: 1.0

For use with Software Version 3.18

© Copyright Topcon Precision Agriculture

January, 2015

All contents in this manual are copyrighted by Topcon. All rights reserved. The information contained herein may not be used, accessed, copied, stored, displayed, sold, modified, published or distributed, or otherwise reproduced without express written consent from

Topcon.

www.topconpa.com

Preface

This manual provides information about operating and maintaining this Topcon

Precision Agriculture product. Correct use and servicing is important for safe and reliable operation of the product.

It is very important that you take the time to read this manual before using the product.

Information in this manual is current at the time of publication. A system may vary slightly. The manufacturer reserves the right to redesign and change the system as necessary without notification.

Terms and Conditions

Note

: Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully.

General

APPLICATION

- You accept these Terms and Conditions by purchasing the product from

Topcon Precision Agriculture (TPA) or from one of TPA’s product dealers.

COPYRIGHT

- All information contained in this manual is the intellectual property of, and copyrighted material of TPA. All rights are reserved. You may not use, access, copy, store, display, create derivative works of, sell, modify, publish, distribute, or allow any third parties access to, any graphics, content, information or data in this manual without TPA’s express written consent and may only use such information for the care and operation of your product.

The information and data in this manual are a valuable asset of TPA and are developed by the expenditure of considerable work, time and money, and are the result of original selection, coordination and arrangement by TPA.

TRADEMARKS

– ZYNX, PROSTEER, EAGLE, KEE Technologies, Topcon, Topcon

Positioning Systems and Topcon Precision Agriculture are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Topcon Group of companies. Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States and/or other countries of Microsoft Corporation.

Product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

WEBSITE AND OTHER STATEMENTS

- No statement contained at the website of TPA or any other Topcon Group company or in any other advertisements or TPA literature or made by an employee or independent contractor of TPA modifies these Terms and

Conditions.

IMPORTANT: SAFETY

- Improper use of the product can lead to death or injury to persons, damage to property and/or malfunction of the product. The product should only be repaired by authorized TPA service centers. You should closely review the safety warnings and directions as to the proper use of the product in this manual and at all times comply with the same.

Limited Warranty

ELECTRONIC AND MECHANICAL COMPONENTS

-TPA warrants that the electronic components manufactured by TPA shall be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the original date of shipment to the dealer. TPA warrants that all valves, hoses, cables and mechanical parts manufactured by TPA shall be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 90 days from the date of purchase.

i

RETURN AND REPAIR

- During the respective warranty periods, any of the above items found defective may be shipped to TPA for repair. TPA will promptly repair or replace the defective item at no charge, and ship it back to you. You must pay the shipping and handling charges in respect of the same. Calibration of components, labor and travel expenses incurred for in-field removal and replacement of components are not covered in this warranty policy.

The foregoing warranty shall NOT apply to damage or defects resulting from:

(i) disaster, accident or abuse

(ii) normal wear and tear

(iii) improper use and/or maintenance

(iv) unauthorized modifications of the product; and/or

(v) use of the product in combination with other products not supplied or specified by TPA.

Software accompanying any product is licensed for use in connection with the product and not sold. Use of software that is provided with a separate end user license agreement

(“EULA”) will be subject to the terms and conditions, including those relating to limited warranty, of the applicable EULA, notwithstanding anything in these Terms and Conditions to the contrary.

WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

-

OTHER THAN FOR THE ABOVE WARRANTIES,

WARRANTIES PROVIDED IN AN APPLICABLE WARRANTY CARD, APPENDIX

OR END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT, THIS MANUAL, THE PRODUCT AND

RELATED SOFTWARE ARE PROVIDE ‘AS-IS’. THERE ARE NO OTHER

WARRANTIES AND TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW TPA EXCLUDES ALL

IMPLIED TERMS, CONDITIONS AND WARRANTIES IN RESPECT OF THE

MANUAL AND THE PRODUCT (INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR

MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR USE OR PURPOSE).

TPA IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATION OF GNSS SATELLITES

AND/OR AVAILABILITY, CONTINUITY, ACCURACY, OR INTEGRITY OF GNSS

SATELLITE SIGNALS.

LIABILITY LIMIT AND INDEMNITY

- TPA and its dealers, agents and representatives shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein or for special, indirect, economic, incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of this material, the product or its accompanying software (including where TPA has been advised of the possibility of such damage). Such disclaimed damages include but are not limited to loss of time, loss or destruction of data, loss of profit, savings or revenue or loss of or damage to the product. You shall defend, indemnify and hold TPA harmless from and against any claims, actions, suits, damages, losses, liabilities and costs

(including attorneys’ fees) arising from, or relating to (a) your operation use, or maintenance of the product and/or software other than as provided for in this manual or the applicable end user license agreement; and (b) your negligence or wrongful act or omission in respect of the product.

In any event, TPA’s liability to you or any other person for any claim, loss or damage (in contract, tort or on any other basis) will be limited (in TPA’s option) to either (a) the replacement or repair of the product, or (b) payment of the cost of replacing or repairing the product.

Other

These Terms and Conditions may be amended, modified, superseded or cancelled, at any time by TPA. These Terms and Conditions will be governed by, and construed in accordance with:

ii

- the laws of South Australia if the product is sold and supplied to you in Australia (in which case the courts of South Australia or the Federal Court of Australia (Adelaide

Registry) have exclusive jurisdiction in respect of any claim or dispute) or

- the laws of the State of California if the product is sold and supplied to you outside of

Australia

- the provisions of the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of

Goods shall not apply to these Terms and Conditions.

All information, illustrations, and applications contained herein are based on the latest available information at the time of publication. TPA reserves the right to make product changes at any time without notice.

If any part of these Terms and Conditions would be unenforceable, the provision must be read down to the extent necessary to avoid that result, and if the provision cannot be read down to that extent, it must be severed without affecting the validity and enforceability of the remainder of these Terms and Conditions.

Service Information

Service assistance can be provided by contacting your local TPA Authorized Dealer.

Communications Regulation Information

FCC Compliance Statement (USA)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a

Class ‘A’ digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at the user's expense.

FCC Compliance Statement (Canada)

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian

Interference-Causing Equipment Regulation.

CE EMC Statement (European Community)

Warning: This is a class ‘A’ product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

‘C’ Tick EMC Statement (Australia & New Zealand)

This product meets the applicable requirements of the Australia and New

Zealand EMC Framework.

Type Approval and Safety Regulations

Type approval may be required in some countries to license the use of transmitters on certain band frequencies. Check with local authorities and your dealer. Unauthorized modification of the equipment may void that approval, the warranty and the license to use the equipment.

iii

The receiver contains an internal radio-modem. This can potentially send signals.

Regulations vary between countries, so check with the dealer and local regulators for information on licensed and unlicensed frequencies. Some may involve subscriptions.

Radio and Television Interference

This computer equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy. If it is not installed and used correctly in strict accordance with TOPCON Precision

Agriculture instructions, it may cause interference with radio communication.

You can check if interference is being caused by this equipment by turning the Topcon equipment off to see if the interference stops. If the equipment is causing interference to a radio or other electronic device, try:

•

Turning the radio antenna until the interference stops

•

Moving the equipment to either side of the radio or other electronic device

•

Moving the equipment farther away from the radio or other electronic device

•

Connecting the equipment to another circuit that is not linked to the radio.

To reduce potential interference operate the equipment at the lowest gain level that will allow successful communication.

If necessary contact your nearest Topcon Precision Agriculture dealer for assistance.

Note

:

Changes or modifications to this product not authorized by TOPCON

Precision Agriculture could void the EMC compliance and negate authority to operate the product.

This product was tested for EMC compliance using Topcon Precision Agriculture peripheral devices, shielded cables and connectors. It is important to use Topcon

Precision Agriculture devices between system components to reduce the possibility of interference with other devices

General Safety

DANGER: It is essential that the following information and the product

specific safety information is read and understood.

Most incidents arising during operation, maintenance and repair are caused by a failure to observe basic safety rules or precautions. Always be alert to potential hazards and hazardous situations.

Always follow the instructions that accompany a Warning or Caution. The information these provide aims to minimize risk of injury and/or damage to property.

In particular follow instructions presented as Safety Messages.

iv

Safety Messages and Warnings

The safety symbol is used with the relevant word: DANGER, WARNING or

CAUTION.

Messages marked in this way recommend safety precautions and practices. LEARN and apply them.

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in DEATH OR VERY SERIOUS INJURY.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in MINOR INJURY.

Safety Signs

WARNING: DO NOT remove or obscure safety signs. Replace any safety signs that are not readable or are missing. Replacement signs are available from your dealer in the event of loss or damage.

If a used vehicle has been purchased, make sure all safety signs are in the correct location and can be read. Replace any safety signs that cannot be read or are missing.

Replacement safety signs are available from your dealer.

Operator Safety

WARNING: It is YOUR responsibility to read and understand the safety sections in this book before operating this vehicle. Remember that YOU are the key to safety.

Good safety practices not only protect you, but also the people around you. Study this manual as part of your safety program. This safety information only relates to Topcon equipment and does not replace other usual safe work practices.

WARNING: Ensure power is removed from the Topcon equipment prior to maintenance or repair of the vehicle or implements.

WARNING: Ensure appropriate precautions are taken prior to handling any hazardous substances. Always read the Material Safety

Data Sheet prior to commencing work.

WARNING: In some of the illustrations or photos used in this manual, panels or guards may have been removed for demonstration purposes. Never operate the vehicle with any panels or guards removed. If the removal of panels or guards is necessary to make a repair, these MUST be replaced before operation. v

WARNING: Always check that any suspended vehicle attachments are lowered to the ground before beginning repair or maintenance work on a vehicle.

WARNING: Vehicle and implement parts can become hot during operation and may be under pressure. Refer to vehicle manuals.

WARNING: Wear appropriate protective clothing for the task being undertaken and conditions.

WARNING: Do not operate equipment around explosive equipment or supplies.

WARNING: Topcon is committed to good environmental performance and minimizes the use of any potentially harmful substances in its products. However, it is always advisable not to handle damaged electronic equipment.

This Topcon product may contain a sealed lithium battery.

Always dispose of any electronic equipment thoughtfully and

responsibly.

Exposure to Radio Frequency

Exposure to energy from radio frequencies is an important safety issue. Keep a distance of at least 20 cm (7.8 inches) between people and any radiating antenna. Keep a distance of at least 20 cm between transmitting antennas.

WARNING: Products using cellular modem or an RTK base station can transmit radio frequency energy. Check with your dealer.

This device is designed to operate with TPA approved antennas. Discuss with your dealer.

Preparation for Operation

•

Read and understand this manual and learn all of the controls before you use the equipment.

•

Keep the manual with the equipment.

•

If the equipment is moved to another vehicle, move the manual as well.

•

Read the manual for the vehicle with which the equipment will be used and check that the vehicle has the correct equipment required by local regulations.

•

Make sure you understand the speed, brakes, steering, stability, and load characteristics of the vehicle before you start.

•

Check all controls in an area clear of people and obstacles before starting work.

•

Identify possible hazards.

vi

WARNING: Topcon equipment must not be used by an operator affected by alcohol or drugs. Seek medical advice if using prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Disclaimer

Topcon accepts no responsibility or liability for damages to property, personal injuries, or death resulting from the misuse or abuse of any of its products.

Further, Topcon accepts no responsibility for the use of Topcon equipment or the

GNSS signal for any purpose other than the intended purpose.

Topcon cannot guarantee the accuracy, integrity, continuity, or availability of the

GNSS signal.

The operator must ensure that the equipment is correctly turned off when not in use.

Before operating any vehicle equipped with Topcon products, read and understand the following product specific safety precautions.

Important Safety Information

Operator Alertness and Responsibility

The console helps the operator to steer the vehicle, but the operator remains in charge and must be alert and in complete control of the vehicle at all times. The operator is ultimately responsible for safe operation of this equipment.

It is essential that safety requirements are met when operating the console and any of its components. All operators and other relevant personnel must be advised of safety requirements.

Electrical Safety

WARNING: Incorrectly connected power can cause severe injury and damage to people or the equipment.

When working with electrical components, you must do the following:

•

Make sure the negative terminal of the battery is disconnected before doing any welding on the vehicle.

•

Check that all power cables to system components are connected to the correct polarity as marked. Please refer to the vehicle manual for safety information.

•

Check that equipment is grounded in accordance with installation instructions.

vii

Operation and Risk of Obstacles

The following list is not exhaustive or limited. To use the console for assisted steering along a defined wayline, the operator must ensure that it is used:

•

Away from people and obstacles

•

Away from high voltage power lines or other overhead obstructions (identify any clearance problems before activating the console)

•

On private property without public access

•

Within cleared fields

•

Off public roads or access ways.

Note that:

•

The operator needs to know the vehicle’s position and the field conditions at all times.

•

The operator will need to respond if the GNSS satellite or differential correction signal is lost momentarily.

•

The console cannot detect obstacles (people, livestock or other).

•

Only use the console in areas that are clear of obstacles and keep a proper distance.

•

Steering needs to be disengaged for manual control if an obstacle appears in the path or the vehicle moves away from the wayline.

On/Off and Manual Control

WARNING: Ensure the steering switch is Off to prevent unintentional engagement of the assisted steering. When repairing or maintaining the vehicle/implement, ensure the vehicle CANNOT be moved. Disengage steering, apply brakes and remove keys.

The operator must ensure that the steering switch is Off (all LED indicators are off) when assisted steering is not being used.

The operator must disengage assisted steering and use manual control if an obstacle is in the line of travel or moves into the line of travel, or if the vehicle steers away from the desired wayline.

To disengage assisted steering:

•

Turn the steering wheel a few degrees OR

•

Select the Disengage Auto Steering button on the console AND/OR

•

If using an external steering switch, disengage using the switch if the above actions do not disengage assisted steering.

viii

Vehicle Shut Down Safety

Before leaving the vehicle, disengage assisted steering, disengage external steering switch if this is being used, and remove the key from the key switch.

Using a Reference (Base) Station

WARNING: Do not move a reference station while in operation.

Moving an operating reference station can interfere with the controlled steering of a system using the reference station. This could result in personal injury or damage to property.

Operators and other affected personnel must be advised of the following safety precautions.

•

Do not erect the reference station under or within the vicinity of high voltage power lines.

•

When using the portable reference station, make sure that the tripod is securely mounted.

To Get the Best Out of the Product

Back up data regularly. The console has large, but limited storage capacity. Use the

Diagnostics Mini-view to view capacity available. A warning screen displays if storage is reaching its limit.

Be aware of file format compatibility. Discuss compatible formats with the dealer.

Topcon Agricultural Products are hardy and designed to work in tough conditions.

However, if equipment is unused for a length of time, store away from water and direct heat sources.

Alert Symbols

In this manual two alert symbols are used:

Note

: This offers additional information.

WARNING: A warning signal appears on safety signs and in this manual to show that this information is very important to your safety. LEARN these and APPLY them. ix

Table of Contents

Introduction ............................................................... 1

Seeder Settings ......................................................... 3

2.1. Setting up the seeder ............................................................ 3

2.2. Setting up tanks ..................................................................... 7

2.2.1. Granular tank settings ..................................................... 7

2.2.2. Liquid/NH3 tank settings ............................................... 11

2.3. Setting up external options .................................................. 16

2.4. Setting up tank preload time ................................................ 18

2.5. Setting up wheel factor ........................................................ 19

2.5.1. Manual entry of wheel factor ......................................... 19

2.5.2. Automatic calibration of wheel factor ............................. 19

2.6. Setting up fans .................................................................... 22

2.7. Setting up width and speed ................................................. 23

2.8. Settings for blocked heads .................................................. 25

2.9. Viewing operating history .................................................... 26

2.10. Selecting seeder brand ...................................................... 27

ECU Setup ................................................................ 29

Product Settings ...................................................... 31

4.1. Setting up products.............................................................. 31

Calibrating the Tanks .............................................. 33

5.1. Manual entry of calibration factor ........................................ 34

5.2. Automatic calculation of calibration factor ........................... 35

5.2.1. Calibrating a single granular tank .................................. 35

5.2.2. Calibrating multiple granular tanks ................................ 39

5.2.3. Calibrating a liquid tank ................................................. 42

Area Test .................................................................. 45

6.1. Performing the area test ...................................................... 45

External Keypad ...................................................... 47

7.1. Keypad setup ...................................................................... 47

7.2. LED behavior ....................................................................... 50

Alarm Settings ......................................................... 53

8.1. Managing seeder alarms ..................................................... 53

8.2. Setting up fan alarms ........................................................... 55

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8.3. Setting up tank motor alarms ............................................... 56

8.4. Setting up shaft alarms ........................................................ 57

8.5. Setting up tank gear alarms ................................................. 58

8.6. Setting up tank alarms ......................................................... 59

8.7. Setting up tank pressure alarms .......................................... 60

8.8. Setting up other alarms ....................................................... 61

8.9. Setting up no flow alarms .................................................... 62

Advanced Settings .................................................. 63

9.1. Configuring advanced settings ............................................ 63

9.2. Upgrading ECU firmware ..................................................... 65

9.2.1. CM-40 Main ECU .......................................................... 65

9.2.2. CM-40 Aux ECU / EM-24 ECU ...................................... 66

9.2.3. Verifying upgrade .......................................................... 67

Seeder Operation .................................................. 69

10.1. Selecting the seeder operation screen .............................. 69

10.2. Selecting and filling tanks .................................................. 73

10.3. Selecting and resetting area counters ............................... 74

10.4. Viewing diagnostics ........................................................... 75

Record User Data .................................................. 77

11.1. Recording user data .......................................................... 77

Apollo ECU Information ........................................ 79

12.1. Interpreting Apollo ECU LEDs ........................................... 79

12.1.1. Power LEDs ................................................................ 79

12.1.2. Transmit LED .............................................................. 81

12.1.3. Receive LED ............................................................... 81

12.1.4. ECU Status LED ......................................................... 82

12.2. Apollo ECU error codes ..................................................... 83

12.2.1. Error levels .................................................................. 83

12.2.2. Error code signature .................................................... 83

12.2.3. CM-40 ECU error codes .............................................. 83

12.2.4. EM-24 ECU error codes .............................................. 86

12.2.5. Decoding error codes .................................................. 87

xi

Introduction

The Apollo ISOBUS Universal Terminal Seeder can be configured to either control or monitor the operations of an air seeder system.

When controlling, it adjusts the discharge rate according to vehicle speed and the area being covered to maintain the preset application rate. This provides more accurate use of a product over the specified areas.

When monitoring, it enables the operator to ensure the system is operating correctly.

Note

: ISOBUS refers to the ISO 11783 communication protocol used in the agriculture industry. A vehicle must be fitted with an ISO 11783 compatible console for the Apollo ISOBUS UT Seeder to operate.

The Apollo ISOBUS UT Seeder comes with these features:

• Seeder Monitoring: Operator feedback is supplied on seeder functions such as application rate, fan RPM, fan pressure, tank levels and product remaining. Alarms can be enabled to alert the operator in case of conditions such as low tank level, low case drain pressure, and blocked heads.

• Metering Control: Provides two preset rate options per product, as well as incremental rate adjustment, allowing the operator to increase or decrease application rates during seeding.

• Multiple Product Settings: Store data for up to 16 products on the system, including calibration factors. This eliminates the need to enter product and calibration data each time the products are changed.

• Manual and Automatic Calibration: The calibration feature provides an easy four-step process to calibrate. Common keypad controls enable quick and accurate product calibration from the tractor cab.

1

2

• Operation Diagnostics: The Apollo ISOBUS UT Seeder is capable of displaying runtime information on various operations; including ground speed, fan status, shaft status, tank levels and blocked heads.

Seeder Settings

The seeder requires settings for tanks, seeder width, speed, product calibration factors and alarms to operate.

2.1. Setting up the seeder

Follow these steps to launch the seeder and open the settings screen:

1. Select from the main Universal Terminal screen to open the seeder.

The operation screen 1 displays.

3

2.1 Setting up the seeder

2. Select screen 2.

to toggle between operation screen 1 and operation

3. Select from operation screen 2 to open the Settings Menu.

4

Settings menu

Icon Description

Seeder settings menu

ECU setup

Page

6

29

Chapter 2 – Seeder Settings


Product settings menu

Page

31

Keypad setup

47

Alarm settings menu

53

Area test

45

Advanced settings

4. Select to open the Seeder Settings Menu.

63

5

6

2.1 Setting up the seeder

Seeder settings menu


Tank settings

External options

Tank preload settings

Wheel calibration

Fan settings

Speed and width settings

Blocked head settings

Operating history menu

Seeder brand

18

19

22

23

25

26

27

Page

7

16


2.2. Setting up tanks

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Tank Settings .

• Cap.: Tank capacity.

Note

: Use the table on page 77 to record the tank capacities for

future use.

• Type: Type of tank (granular, liquid, NH3).

• Drive: Type of drive:

• Granular: Actuator, proportional valve, monitor.

• Liquid/NH3: Regulator valve, proportional valve, monitor.

Note

: Each tank type and drive combination requires extra settings that may be accessed via the Setup# button in the Drive column. The following tables list the required settings for each combination.

2.2.1. Granular tank settings

Drive

Actuator

Drive Settings

Encoder teeth

Clutch

Style

Control Settings

7

8

2.2 Setting up tanks

Drive Drive Settings

Proportional valve Gear ratio

Encoder pulses/rev

Min shaft RPM

Max shaft RPM

Tank clutch

Shaft sensor

Shaft pulses/rev

Monitor Gear ratio

Encoder pulses/rev

Tank clutch

Shaft sensor

Shaft pulses/rev

Control Settings

Add dither

Soft start

Soft stop

Dump valve

Min PWM

Max PWM

Controller response

2.2.1.1. Actuator drive

A linear actuator controls the lever to adjust the gearbox speed from a ground drive shaft. The output shaft from the gearbox drives the metering unit. Rate is controlled by controlling the ratio of the gearbox via the position of the actuator.

Drive settings

• Encoder teeth: The number of pulses per revolution of the drive shaft. The pulses can be counted or procured from the drive manufacturer.

• Clutch: Enable to allow control of the tank clutch.

• Style: Select from Zeromax, Bourgault, generic.

2.2.1.2. Proportional valve drive

A proportional valve (P valve) controls the hydraulic oil flow to the motor to vary the speed of the motor so that the metering unit is only delivering what is required. It uses a solenoid to open a hydraulic valve to drive a hydraulic motor. The opening of the valve varies with the current applied to the solenoid.


Drive settings

• Gear ratio: The ratio between the drive motor and the metering unit.

Note

: Use the table provided on page 77 to record the gear ratio

for the P Valve drive.

• Encoder pulses/rev: Sets the number of pulses/revolutions for each revolution of the metering shaft.

• Min shaft RPM/ max shaft RPM: Sets minimum and maximum shaft RPM.

• Tank clutch: Enable to allow control of the tank clutch.

• Shaft sensor: When enabled sets alarm for incorrect gear ratio or shaft jam.

• Shaft pulses/rev: Sets how many pulses the stop shaft sensor provides per revolution.

Note

: Use the table provided on page 77 to record the shaft

pulses/rev value.

Control settings

• Add dither: Enabling dither adds a small amount of current to the solenoid of the P Valve, resulting in slight vibrations. This prevents magnetism or sticking of the valve.

• Soft start: Allows a gradual increase in the valve signal when the valve is activated. This is used to prevent mechanical damage from sudden starts.

• Soft stop: Allows a gradual decrease in the valve signal when the valve is deactivated. This is used to prevent mechanical damage from sudden stops.

• Dump valve: Use this option if the proportional valve has its own dump valve on each channel.

• Min PWM/max PWM: Select a percentage. Min PWM sets the minimum amount of PWM or power required to allow the metering unit to rotate or discharge product. Max PWM sets the

9

10

2.2 Setting up tanks maximum amount of power that can be provided to the valve running the metering unit before maximum possible speed is achieved. Higher percentage sets the pulse of power for longer during a pulse cycle.

• Controller response: This sets how quickly the controller tries to achieve the required rate. If set too high, the seeder may pass the target rate and take time to adjust, searching for the right level. If set too low, the valve will take a long time to move to the desired rate and control will be slow to respond. Find the best setting for the equipment being used.

2.2.1.3. Monitor drive

Monitor drive is used to monitor operations for the seeder without application rate control. The application rate must be set by physically changing the drive settings on the metering unit for each tank.

Drive settings

• Gear ratio: The ratio between the drive motor and the metering unit. Input a number.

• Encoder pulses/rev: The number of pulses/revolutions for each revolution of the metering shaft. Input a number.

• Tank clutch: Enable to allow control of the tank clutch.

• Shaft sensor: When enabled, it triggers an alarm for incorrect gear ratio or shaft jam.

• Shaft pulses/rev: Sets how many pulses the stop shaft sensor provides per revolution.


2.2.2. Liquid/NH3 tank settings

Drive

Regulator valve

Proportional valve

Monitor

Control Settings Pressure

Settings

Pump Sense

Sensitivity

Close valve when off

Reverse valve

Dump valve

Controller mode

Min on time

Max on time

Gain setting

PWM setting

Pressure sensor

Max pressure

Min voltage

Max voltage

Speed monitoring

Pulses / revolution

Add dither

Soft start

Soft stop

Dump valve

Min PWM

Max PWM

Controller response

Dump valve

Pressure sensor

Min voltage

Max voltage

Max pressure

Pressure sensor

Max pressure

Min voltage

Max voltage

Speed monitoring

Pulses / revolution

2.2.2.1. Regulator valve drive

A regulator valve (Reg valve) uses a motor to open or close the valve depending on the flow requirements. Positive or negative power is

11

12

2.2 Setting up tanks applied to run the motor. The tank output to the regulator valve stays constant. The regulator valve either restricts or diverts excess product.

Control settings

• Sensitivity: Sets how frequently sampling is done. Standard sensitivity is recommended. Reduced sensitivity is recommended only if flow is highly irregular (for example, on worn equipment).

• Close valve when off: Ensures that the valve is closed when the tank is not in use. This closes the valve when the Master Switch is off.

• Reverse valve: Allows for the polarity of the regulating motor to be reversed if it was wired incorrectly.

• Dump valve: Allows for the polarity of the dump valve to be set as standard or reversed.

• Controller mode: Select from Standard, Micro-Trak,

DICKEY-john or Raven. Most liquid systems use the standard option. When a controller mode is selected, the minimum on time, maximum on time, gain setting and PWM settings are automatically set. These settings can be adjusted if required.

• Min on time: The minimum time that power needs to be applied to move the valve.

• Max on time: Sets the maximum time that the controller will send a pulse to the control valve before checking the rate. It is used to make a large correction for the rate.

• Gain setting: This sets how quickly the controller tries to achieve the required rate. If set too high, the seeder may pass the target rate and take time to adjust, searching for the right level. If set too low, the valve will take a long time to move to the desired rate and control will be slow to respond.

• PWM setting: Sets the pulse width modulation. Lowering this number reduces the voltage supplied to the valve, slowing it down.


Pressure settings

• Pressure sensor: Use this option if a liquid pressure sensor is fitted to this tank.

• Max pressure: Sets the maximum pressure for the voltage pressure sensor.

• Min voltage: Sets the minimum output voltage at zero pressure.

This value is read from the pressure transducer.

• Max voltage: Sets the maximum output voltage at maximum pressure. This value is read from the pressure transducer.

Pump sense

• Speed monitoring: Enables pump speed monitoring.

• Pulses/revolution: Sets the number of pulses per revolution for the pump speed monitor.

2.2.2.2. Proportional valve drive

A proportional valve (P valve) controls the hydraulic oil flow to the motor to vary the speed of the motor so that the metering unit is only delivering what is required. It uses a solenoid to open a hydraulic valve to drive a hydraulic motor. The opening of the valve varies with the current applied to the solenoid.

Control settings

• Add dither: Enabling dither adds a small amount of current to the solenoid of the P Valve, resulting in slight vibrations. This prevents magnetism or sticking of the valve.

• Soft start: Allows a gradual increase in the valve signal when the valve is activated. This is used to prevent mechanical damage from sudden starts.

• Soft stop: Allows a gradual decrease in the valve signal when the valve is deactivated. This is used to prevent mechanical damage from sudden stops.

13

14

2.2 Setting up tanks


• Min PWM/max PWM: Select a percentage. Min PWM sets the minimum amount of PWM or power required to allow the metering unit to rotate or discharge product. Max PWM sets the maximum amount of power that can be provided to the valve running the metering unit before maximum possible speed is achieved. Higher percentage sets the pulse of power for longer during a pulse cycle.

• Controller response: This sets how quickly the controller tries to achieve the required rate. If set too high, the seeder may pass the target rate and take time to adjust, searching for the right level. If set too low, the valve will take a long time to move to the desired rate and control will be slow to respond. Find the best setting for the equipment being used.

Pressure settings

• Pressure sensor: Use this option if a liquid pressure sensor is fitted to this tank.





Pump sense

• Speed monitoring: If the system is fitted with a pump speed

sensor for this tank, enable it here. Refer to ECU Setup, page 29

to then assign the sensor to a pin on the ECU.

• Pulses/revolution: Set how many pulses there are per revolution of the pump shaft.


2.2.2.3. Monitor drive

Monitor drive is used to monitor operations for the seeder without application rate control. The application rate must be set by physically changing the drive settings on the metering unit for each tank.

Drive settings


• Pressure sensor: Use this option if a tank pressure sensor is fitted to the seeder.





15

2.3 Setting up external options

2.3. Setting up external options

External Options enables additional settings on the seeder.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / External Options .

2. Select Master Switch and select one of the following options:

• Virtual: Master switch to be controlled from the UT.

• Tillage: Select if a tillage/whisker switch is fitted.

• Mongoose: Select if an external switch is connected to the

Apollo ECU.

• Keypad: Master switch may be controlled via the vehicle’s cabin keypad.

• Keypad/Virtual: Master switch may be controlled via the vehicle’s cabin keypad and the UT screen.

16

The Virtual and Keypad/Virtual options enable the virtual master switch on the operation screen.

3. Set the following options:

• Cal Drive: On actuator systems fitted with a hydraulic motor used to drive the system during calibration, an output can be assigned to activate this hydraulic motor.


• Master Clutch: Enable the master clutch for tanks with an actuator drive.

• Actuator Cal Style: Select Stationary or Rolling option used to calibrate granular tanks with an actuator drive. For stationary option, the product must be dispensed for calibration using a hand crank. For rolling option, the product is dispensed for calibration automatically while the vehicle is

moving. Refer to Calibrating a single granular tank, page 35.

• Master Polarity: Indicates whether the master switch input is activated by positive or zero volts. Refer to manufacturer's documentation.

17

2.4 Setting up tank preload time

2.4. Setting up tank preload time

When starting a seeding pass when stationary, preload time allows for product to be at the openers before moving to avoid gaps in product application. It is the time in seconds that the seeder needs to run before moving off and starting to seed after the master switch is engaged. (Not applicable to tanks with linear actuator drive types.)

This is triggered when the master switch is turned on while stationary.

During preload time, the meters run at the rate based on the manual speed that has been set. Once preload time has expired, the system reverts to the selected speed source.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Tank Preload Settings .

18

2. Select Preload Time, enter a value in seconds and confirm .


2.5. Setting up wheel factor

The wheel factor defines how far the implement travels per pulse from the wheel sensor. A wheel fitted with four magnets, with a circumference of one meter, will travel 0.25 meters per pulse.

2.5.1. Manual entry of wheel factor

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Wheel Calibration Settings

.

2. Select Wheel Factor, enter a value in meters/pulse and confirm

.

Note

: Record this value for future use. Use the table on page 77

to record the wheel factor.

2.5.2. Automatic calibration of wheel factor

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Wheel Calibration Settings

.

2. Select from the top right corner.

19

20

2.5 Setting up wheel factor

3. Select to start the calibration.

4. Drive the tractor for some distance, stop and select .


5. Enter the Distance travelled and select .

According to the number of pulses emitted over the distance, the estimated wheel factor appears on screen.

6. Select to confirm and return to the Wheel Calibration

Settings screen.

Note

: Record this value for future use. Use the table on page 77 to

record the wheel factor.

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22

2.6 Setting up fans

2.6. Setting up fans

Use the fan settings to enable and configure fans for the seeder operation.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Fan Settings .

• Fan #: Enables a fan.

• Pressure, Input: Fan pressure inputs can be enabled and assigned to Aux or Drive connectors.

• Fan # Magnets: Set the number of magnets for the selected fan.

• Case Drain Sensor: Set to Enabled if the seeder has a case drain sensor fitted to the fan motor


2.7. Setting up width and speed

An effective seeder operation requires an accurate working width and source of speed for the seeder.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Width And Speed Settings

.

• Width: The working width of the seeder.

Note

: Record the value of seeder width for future use. Use the

table on page 77 to record the width.

• Manual Speed: Manual speed allows the user to specify a speed value. This is only possible if the vehicle is stationary. This value is normally set to 7-10 km/h, which is the speed used for normal seeding operations. This setting is used for calibration and preloading.

• Speed Source: This is used to determine the required application rate from the seeder. Select the Speed Source from the following options:

• Wheel: Select if there is a ground speed sensor on the vehicle.

• Manual: Select if no other working speed source is available due to sensor/GPS failure, or if stationary testing needs to be

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24

2.7 Setting up width and speed carried out. Also use to perform tank calibration and calculate application rates.

• ISO Wheel / ISO Radar / NMEA2000: Can be used to source speed from the tractor’s ECU (if available). Refer to documentation supplied with the tractor for more information.

Note

: If a speed source other than manual is selected, the speed icon displays on operation screen 2

. See Operation screen 2, page 71.


2.8. Settings for blocked heads

The seeder may get blocked during the course of seeding operations, which leads to gaps in product application. Blocked head sensors alert the operator to the status of the seeder heads and triggers an alarm if blockage occurs.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Blocked Head Settings .

• Monitoring: Enable if a blockage system is installed.

• Sensor Type: Select sensor type as Topcon unless using Dickey-

john sensors.

• Number of Sensors: Enter the number of sensors for distribution heads. Number of sensors depends on the Head Systems described next.

• Head Systems: Can be Single Shoot or Double Shoot. Single shoot can have up to 9 heads and double shoot can have 18.

Note

: Single shoot head systems have one transfer line (entire product metered into a single line), and one seeder kit is mounted on the tillage implement. Double shoot systems are configured with two transfer lines and two separate seeder kits are mounted on the tillage unit.

25

2.9 Viewing operating history

2.9. Viewing operating history

The operating history menu contains the values recorded for the seeder operation over its life.

Note

: Operating history values are not editable by the user.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Operating History Menu

.

26

• Totals History

: Displays the total area, total distance, total time, maximum speed and total product dispensed from each tank.

• Shafts History

: Displays the maximum shaft speed attained by different shafts.

• Fan History

: Displays the maximum speed, maximum pressure, average speed and average pressure of the selected fan. Select to change the fan.


2.10. Selecting seeder brand

Use the Seeder Brand option to select the seeder manufacturer.

1. Select Seeder Settings Menu / Seeder Brand .

2. Select Generic if the seeder brand is not known.

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28

2.10 Selecting seeder brand

ECU Setup

The Apollo ECU has four encoders that are assignable for monitoring seeder inputs. Use the ECU Setup menu to assign these encoders to seeder components according to the harness connections.

1. Select Settings Menu / ECU Setup .

2. For each encoder, depending on the harness connection, select from the following options: Not Used, Fan 1, Fan 2, Wheel and

Tank # Pump.

Note

: Tank # Pump is only available on liquid/NH3 tanks, and only if Speed Monitoring is enabled on the Pump Sense screen.

Refer to Liquid/NH3 tank settings, page 11.

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30

2.10 Selecting seeder brand

Product Settings

Use the Product Settings Menu to configure up to 16 products that can be used for seeding.

4.1. Setting up products

1. Select Settings Menu / Product Settings Menu . The default value for each product is OFF.

2. Select OFF to open the Product Settings screen.

• Product Name: Type in a name for the product.

31

4.1 Setting up products

• Tank Number: Assign a tank number to use this product in the selected tank. Set to OFF if this product is not currently being used in a tank.

32

• Density: Enter the product density. The density of the product determines the actual weight of each tank.

• Preset Rate 1: Sets the primary seeding rate. This is the default application rate.

• Preset Rate 2: Sets the secondary seeding rate. Preset rates can be toggled from the operation screen.

• Cal. Factor (Calibration Factor): Enter a calibration factor manually or perform the calibration according to the steps

described in the next section. Refer to Calibrating the Tanks, page

33 for instructions to determine calibration factor. A Tank

Number must be assigned before calibration can be performed.

• INC/DEC: Sets the amount the rate will change by when pressing the / buttons on operating screen 1 for this product.

Calibrating the Tanks

Tanks must be calibrated when setting up a seeder for the first time, changing the batch of seeds, or adding a new product.

Correctly calibrating tanks/bins ensures that seeding is carried out at the proper rate to obtain maximum yield and crop. The size of seed and supplement product varies between batches. This requires that the seeder metering system be calibrated so that the correct amount of seed is dispensed.

All the different products being used in each different tank can be calibrated and stored in the UT before the operator starts seeding.

Note

: NH3 tanks have a preset calibration value and the calibration factor must be entered manually. Check the calibration factor on the tag on the flow meter of the NH3 system.

33

5.1 Manual entry of calibration factor

5.1. Manual entry of calibration factor

Manual entry of calibration factor can only be used if the calibration factor for the selected product is known. Follow these steps to enter a calibration factor manually.

1. Select Settings Menu / Product Settings Menu .

2. Select a product from the Product Settings Menu.

3. Select from the Product Settings screen.

4. Select Cal. Factor from the Tank Calibration Settings screen.

34

5. Enter a value for the calibration factor and confirm .

Chapter 5 – Calibrating the Tanks

5.2. Automatic calculation of calibration factor

The seeder can be calibrated automatically by collecting and measuring the seed that is discharged.

Calibration may be performed using an external keypad, if fitted.

Refer to External Keypad, page 47.

Note

: Ensure that the speed source is set to manual for calibrating the

tanks. Refer to Setting up width and speed, page 23. Enter a speed to

match the seeding operation.

Note

: A calibration factor must be entered manually before automatic calibration of tank. An approximate value can be used initially, or enter 1 an approximate value is not known.

5.2.1. Calibrating a single granular tank



3. Ensure a Tank Number has been assigned to the product.

4. Select from the Product Settings screen.

5. Place a calibration bucket under the metering roller of the tank being calibrated.

Note

: For granular tanks with actuator drive type, the option to collect the dispensed products depends on Actuator Cal Style set

as Stationary or Rolling. Refer to Setting up external options on page 16.

• Stationary: Product must be dispensed for calibration using a hand crank.

• Rolling: Product is dispensed for calibration automatically while the vehicle is moving.


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36

5.2 Automatic calculation of calibration factor

Note

: For granular tanks with actuator drive, select to toggle the calibration mode as Set Rate of application or Actuator

Extension target percentage.

• Set Rate: Actuator opens to accommodate the rate set on the screen.

• Actuator Extension: Actuator opens to the percentage of extension requested. Use this to enter the percentage the actuator should open to dispense product.

Note

: Select to stop the calibration at any point.

7. The Estimated Weight value starts to increase. When sufficient product is collected in the bucket, select .


8. Measure the weight in the bucket and enter the value by selecting

Weight, then confirm .

9. Select to complete the calibration.

10. The new calibration factor appears on screen. Select to save the calibration factor or to reject it.

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38


Note

: Use the table provided on page 77 to note the calculated

calibration factor.


5.2.2. Calibrating multiple granular tanks


2. To perform calibration of multiple tanks, select .

3. Select to switch on the tanks to be calibrated. Tanks that are switched on, appear with .

Note

: Four products can be calibrated at a time, as the Apollo

ISOBUS UT seeder supports four tanks for operation.

4. Place the calibration buckets under the metering rollers of the tanks to be calibrated.

39


5. Select to start the calibration. The estimated weight (Est.

Weight) starts to increase.

6. When sufficient product is collected in the buckets, select .

7. Measure the weight collected in each bucket and enter the values by selecting actual weight (Act. Weight), then confirm .

40

8. Select to view the calculated calibration factors. The screen displays old calibration factors (Old Cal), new calibration factors

(New Cal), percentage difference between the two (Diff) and the status to save or ignore the new calibration factors.


9. Set the Status for products to have the calibration factor saved to

. Pressing that button again switches the status to the calibration factor is not to be saved.

if

10. Alternately, select to save all of the new calibration factors, or select to ignore all of the new calculations.

Select to return to the previous screen.

11. Select to confirm and exit.

Note


calibration factor.

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42


5.2.3. Calibrating a liquid tank

Note

: Liquid tanks must be calibrated one at a time.



3. Ensure a Tank Number has been assigned to the product.

4. Select from the Product Settings screen to open

Tank Calibration Settings.

5. Place a calibration bucket under the nozzle of the tank being calibrated.


7. When sufficient product is collected in the bucket, select .


8. Measure the volume collected in the bucket and enter the value by selecting Weight and select confirm .

9. Select to complete the calibration.

10. The new calibration factor appears on screen. Select to save the calibration factor or to reject it.

43

44


Note


calibration factor.

Area Test

Area test is used to verify whether the tank and wheel calibrations are accurate. It simulates the seeder function according to the tank calibration factor and wheel calibration settings over a user definable distance. This ensures that the amount of product metered out is correct and as expected.

For example; applying product at 80 kg/Ha and selecting to cover 0.25

Ha, operating at the entered manual speed is simulated over that distance. Once complete, you can verify that the machine has metered out 20 kg.

6.1. Performing the area test

1. Select Settings Menu / Area Test

2. Enter the required area and press .

.

3. Area test progresses until the required area is covered. To pause, press . To reset the area test, press .

4. Select to return to the Settings Menu.

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46

6.1 Performing the area test

External Keypad

The keypad is an external device that may be used in the cabin and/or on the seeder frame to control selected functions.

The ‘in cabin’ keypad may be used to turn tanks on and off, increase and decrease tank rates and perform a ‘blockage check’ on the openers.

The ‘on frame’ keypad can be used to turn tanks on and off, turn calibration mode on and off and perform a ‘blockage check’ on the openers.

7.1. Keypad setup

1. Select Settings Menu / Keypads Setup .

47

7.1 Keypad setup

2. Select to configure the In Cabin keypad, or select configure the On Frame keypad.

to

48

• Keypad ID: If more than one keypad is installed, this selects which keypad is installed in the cabin and which is on the frame.

Each keypad has a unique identity number. Select to identify which keypad is installed in the cabin and which is installed on the seeder frame. When selected, the LEDs on that keypad flash.

In cabin keypad:

• Keys marked 1 – 8 turn tanks on and off. Note that Apollo

ISOBUS UT seeder supports four tanks.

• Key A: Tank rate increase. The amount the rate changes by is entered in the INC/DEC setting on the Product Settings screen.

Refer to Setting up products, page 31.

• Key B: Tank rate decrease.

• Key Reset (

): Blockage check. Runs granular product to the

openers for the time period entered in Preload Time (see Setting up tank preload time, page 18). (This is only available for

proportional drive tank types. It is not available for linear

Chapter 7 – External Keypad actuator, regulator valve and monitoring only tank types.)

Pressing and holding this button primes the implement until the button is released. This overrides the time entered in Preload

Time.

• Master switch (

): Performs the same function as the master switch on the operation screen.

On frame keypad:

• Keys marked 1 – 8 turn tanks on and off. Note that Apollo

ISOBUS UT seeder supports four tanks.

• Key A: Calibration mode on/off.

• Key Reset (

): Blockage check. Runs granular product to the

openers for the time period entered in Preload Time (see Setting up tank preload time, page 18). (This is only available for

proportional drive tank types. It is not available for linear actuator, regulator valve and monitoring only tank types.)

Pressing and holding this button primes the implement until the button is released. This overrides the time entered in Preload

Time.

• Master switch (

): Performs the same function as the master switch on the operation screen.

49

50

7.2 LED behavior

7.2. LED behavior

Tank keys:

• Tank disabled (buttons 3 and above on a 2 tank implement): All

LEDs are dark.

• Tank is on: Green LED (Tank and master switch is on. Product is flowing.)

• Tank is off but active: Amber LED (it is selected and ready to run but master is off and not doing prime/preload).

• Otherwise: Red LED

Special case one: During calibration, the tanks that have green or amber LEDs on also have the red LED flash in sequence. On a single tank system the red LED of tank 1 would flash, on 2 a tank system the red LEDs on tanks 1 and 2 would flash alternately and on a 3+ tank system the red LEDs would flash on keys 1, 2, 3, …

1, 2, etc. While this is happening the amber or green LED indicate the state of the tank.

Special case two: The Cabin keypad will not have the flashing

LEDs described above if the master switch is not controlled by the keypad.

Master switch ( ):

• Master switch is on: Green LED

• Cabin keypad and master switch is not controlled by the keypad:

All LEDs are dark.

• In normal mode (no calibration), master switch is off, can be turned on: Amber LED

• In normal mode (no calibration), master switch is off, can’t be turned on: Red LED

• In calibration mode, master switch is off, any tank is active

(selected): Amber LED

Chapter 7 – External Keypad

• In calibration mode, master switch is off, no tank is active

(selected): Red LED

Blockage check ( ):

• Preload is enabled and preload is in progress: Green LED

• Preload is enabled but preload is not running: Amber LED

• Preload is not enabled: Red LED

Preload is enabled when all of these are true:

• Manual speed is configured

• System is operational (UT has been uploaded)

• Calibration is not in progress

• In UT mode and not using manual speed

• Master switch is off

• Fan speed is good

• There is at least one tank which satisfies all of these conditions:

• Is active (has been selected)

• Has a product assigned

• Is a granular tank

• Has a non-zero application rate

• Is enabled

• Is proportional drive

Reset ( ):

The reset function resets the Estimated Weight figures on the calibration wizard, ready for calibration to start over.

The Prime/Preload/C key acts as a reset during calibration mode.

Pressing it during calibration will reset the pulse counts, but only if the master is off or all tanks are off.

51

52

7.2 LED behavior

It displays a red LED, but when the reset happens the green LED flashes to confirm the action.

Calibration mode:

• If the calibration is in progress: Green LED

• If the calibration is not in progress, but is allowed: Amber LED

• If calibration is not allowed: Red LED

Calibration is allowed if:

• In UT mode and the system is on the main operation screen or products grid screens

• Master switch is off

• Not preloading

• All granular and enabled tanks with a product assigned have some remaining volume of their products.

If not in calibration mode, pressing the button will immediately switch the system to calibration mode.

If in calibration mode, the button must be pressed and held for a while to cancel calibration mode. While the button is down, the LEDs change from Red to Red + Amber to Red + Amber + Green (like a progress bar moving right) and only after that the system goes out of calibration mode.

Alarm Settings

Alarms provide warnings if any function of the seeder system is not functioning properly.

8.1. Managing seeder alarms

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu .

2. Select to enable all alarms or to disable all.

Seeder alarms

Icon Description Page

55

Fan alarms

Tank motor alarms

56

Shaft alarms

57

58

Tank gear alarms

Tank alarms

59

53

54

8.1 Managing seeder alarms

Icon Description Page

Tank pressure alarms

60

Other alarms

61

No flow alarms

Alarm screen

62

When an alarm is triggered, the following type of screen appears.

Refer to the next sections for information to configure alarms.

Chapter 8 – Alarm Settings

8.2. Setting up fan alarms

Fan alarms operate by using pressure transducer sensors mounted on the seeder chassis near the fan. The sensors determine the pressure of the system. If the alarm point is set too close to the operating pressure, the alarm can trigger whenever fan pressure or fan speed changes significantly.

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu / Fan

Alarms

.

• Fan Press. Low (Fan Pressure Low): Triggered if system pressure drops below the alarm point.

• Fan Press. High (Fan Pressure High): Triggered if system pressure exceeds the set alarm point.

• Fan Speed Low: Triggered if the fan rpm drops below the set alarm point. The alarm point is usually set to 20% below the normal operating speed of the fan.

• Fan Speed High: Triggered if the fan rpm exceeds the set alarm point. The alarm point is usually set to 20% above the normal operating speed of the fan.

2. Set the Alarm Point for the enabled alarms and confirm .

55

56

8.3 Setting up tank motor alarms

8.3. Setting up tank motor alarms

The tank motor alarms activate if the tank motor fails to function due to a fault in the power supply or if it becomes jammed.

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu / Tank

Motor Alarms .

Configure the following alarms:

• Tank # Motor Sensor: Enables the tank motor sensor alarm.

• Tank # Motor Jam: Enables the tank motor jam alarm.


8.4. Setting up shaft alarms

A shaft alarm triggers if there is no signal as expected from the metering shaft sensor. Another common cause for a shaft alarm is if the sensor has moved. The sensors should be mounted so that the magnet passes the sensor with a clearance of approximately 2 to 3 mm.

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu / Shaft

Alarms

.

2. Select Shaft # Stopped to enable the alarm. # denotes the tank number. The default setting is Enabled for shaft alarms.

Note

: If a drive chain or gear breaks, then a Shaft # Stopped alarm is triggered. The alarm persists until the problem is rectified.

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58

8.5 Setting up tank gear alarms

8.5. Setting up tank gear alarms

Gear alarms will trigger if the gear ratio value entered in the drive setup menu is different to the value calculated based on the shaft sensor and motor encoder.


Gear Alarms

.

2. Select Tank Gear # to enable the alarm. # denotes the tank number.


8.6. Setting up tank alarms

In each tank there is a sensor that triggers an alarm once the product level falls below the sensor. When product in the tank covers the tank sensor, the light on the back of the sensor is off.


Alarms .


• Tank # Low: This alarm is triggered when the product level falls below the sensor. The alarm reappears in the alarm window until the tank is refilled with the product. # denotes the tank number.

• Tank # Empty: This alarm is triggered when the last grain is calculated to pass over the metering rollers. During seeding, the signal from the metering shaft sensor is used to decrease the bin weight based on the calibration factor.

59

8.7 Setting up tank pressure alarms

8.7. Setting up tank pressure alarms

Pressure transducer sensors may be fitted for liquid or NH3 tanks to measure tank pressure. The tank pressure alarm can alert the operator if the tank pressure is too high or too low relative to the set alarm point.


Pressure Alarms

.

60


• Tank # Press. Low: The tank low pressure alarm is triggered when the tank pressure falls below the set alarm point. # denotes the tank number.

• Tank # Press. High: The tank high pressure alarm is triggered when the tank pressure exceeds the set alarm point.


8.8. Setting up other alarms

There are additional alarms that can be configured for the seeder operation.

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu / Other

Alarms

.


• Tank Off: Triggered when the master switch is on but the tanks are switched off. This alarm is intended as a warning only.

• Master Off: Triggered when a tank is switched on and the master switch is in the off position. This alarm is intended as a warning only.

• Alternative Rate: Triggered when the primary rate (preset rate 1) is not being applied. Either the secondary rate (preset rate 2) is active, or increment/decrement buttons are used to change the application rate.

• Blocked Head: Triggered if the mounted sensors detect one or more blocked heads.

• Case Drain: This alarm can be used if the seeder has a case drain alarm fitted to the fan motor. The alarm is triggered if the fan motor case drain pressure is too high (> 450 kPa).

61

8.9 Setting up no flow alarms

8.9. Setting up no flow alarms

No flow alarms alert the operator if any critical function of the seeder is hindered.

1. Select Settings Menu / Alarm Settings Menu / No Flow

Alarms .

62


• No Flow: All Tanks Off: Triggered if there are no tanks switched on.

• No Flow: No Ground Speed: Triggered when no ground speed is detected.

• No Flow: No Fan Speed: Triggered when the fan speed drops below 100 rpm. Check if the fan has been engaged and/or check the fan speed sensor.

• No Flow: No Fan Pressure: This alarm indicates that there is no fan pressure detected.

Advanced Settings

Advanced settings provide the ability to enable task controller, reset the Apollo ECU to factory settings, switch ISOBUS UT displays and upgrade the firmware for the ECU.

9.1. Configuring advanced settings

1. Select Settings Menu / Advanced Settings .

• Enable TC: This enables or disables the task controller for the

ECU.

Note

: Enabling the task controller provides additional information from the Apollo ECU to the UT. This additional information can be used to perform functions such as setting application rates.

• Enable TC Boom: Consult the UT manufacturer to find out if TC

(Task Controller) Boom should be enabled.

• Switch display: Select

to switch the ISOBUS UT display.

Use this option if the vehicle has multiple ISOBUS UT terminals.

• Factory reset: Select

to perform a factory reset of the Apollo

ECU. A warning message appears on screen to confirm the reset.

63

9.1 Configuring advanced settings

64

Note

: Factory reset deletes all the settings and data stored on the

Apollo ECU. Use the factory reset option only when recommended by Topcon support or a service technician.

• Firmware upgrade: Select

to upgrade the Apollo ECU

firmware. Refer to Upgrading ECU firmware, page 65.

• Serial port access: Select

to enable serial port access to the

Apollo ECU. This option is useful for service technicians and should be disabled for normal seeder operation.

• Monitoring mode: Selecting

places all drives into monitoring mode (disables rate control).

Note

: To re-enable rate control, drive type settings must be manually reconfigured. Refer

to Setting up tanks, page 7.

Note

: The Apollo ECU must be powered off to carry out any repair or maintenance.

Chapter 9 – Advanced Settings

9.2. Upgrading ECU firmware

The Apollo ECU firmware can be upgraded from the Advanced

Settings screen.

Note

: Contact your Topcon dealer for the Apollo ECU firmware upgrade file/s. These should be placed in the root (top-level) directory of a USB flash drive.

9.2.1. CM-40 Main ECU

1. Select Settings Menu / Advanced Settings / Factory

Upgrade .

2. Ensure CM-40 Main is selected as the Upgrade Type.

3. Insert the USB flash drive into the terminal’s USB port and select

to read the drive.

4. If the USB flash drive contains a valid *.ipk file, select to start the upgrade.

The Progress indicator starts counting to 100 and the Status appears as Transferring.

65

9.2 Upgrading ECU firmware

Once the transfer is done, the status appears as Complete and progress reaches 100. The ECU will restart.

9.2.2. CM-40 Aux ECU / EM-24 ECU

1. Select Settings Menu / Advanced Settings / Factory

Upgrade .

2. Select Upgrade Type and select CM-40 Aux / EM-24.

66

3. Insert the USB flash drive into the terminal’s USB port and select

to read the drive.

Chapter 9 – Advanced Settings

4. If the USB flash drive contains a valid *.tar.gz file, select to start the upgrade.

The Progress indicator starts counting to 100 and the Status appears as Transferring.

Once the transfer is done, the status appears as Complete and progress reaches 100. The ECU will restart.

9.2.3. Verifying upgrade

1. To verify the upgraded ECU version, select from the operation screen to open the Diagnostics screen.

2. Select from the Diagnostics screen.

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68

9.2 Upgrading ECU firmware

Seeder Operation

This chapter describes how to operate the Apollo ISOBUS UT seeder.

10.1. Selecting the seeder operation screen

1. Select from the main Universal Terminal screen to open the Seeder screen.

Operation screen 1

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70

10.1 Selecting the seeder operation screen


Used to select the required tank/s (the Select button in each tank may also be used). All tanks may be selected simultaneously.

Tanks that do not have a product assigned may be selected using this method.

The current speed of the vehicle/implement as calculated from the configured speed source.

The instantaneous coverage rate. Calculated by speed and width with at least one tank turned on. For example: an implement of 10 m width, moving at 10 km/hr gives a coverage rate of 10 hectares/hr.

Fan 1 and/or 2 RPM (if enabled in Fan Settings screen)

Fan 1 and/or 2 Pressure (if enabled in Fan Settings screen)

Toggles between operation screen 1 and 2.

Enable/disable the selected tank.

Activate preset application rates. See Setting up products, page 31.

Increase/decrease product in tank by set amount. See

Setting up products, page 31.

The master switch may be controlled via the operation

screen if set to Virtual or Keypad/Virtual. See Setting up external options, page 16.

Operation screen 2

Chapter 10 – Seeder Operation


Currently selected Area number for accumulating data.

Total (cumulative) area covered. At least one tank must be turned on.

Cumulative area covered for the selected tank (see

TankNum below) and area (see AreaNum above).

Currently selected tank for displaying SubArea and

Weight totals.

Total product output for the selected tank (TankNum) and area (AreaNum).

Select the settings menu. See Settings menu, page 4.

Reset the sub area counter. See Selecting and resetting area counters, page 74.

Resets the total area. See Selecting and resetting area counters, page 74.

Display the diagnostics screen. See Viewing diagnostics, page 75.

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72

10.1 Selecting the seeder operation screen


Temporary manual speed. Used to perform tank calibration or to calculate application rates.

Displays if the vehicle is stationary and a setting other than

Manual is selected as the speed source. See Setting up width and speed, page 23.

Selecting the icon toggles temporary manual speed .

Temporary manual speed is automatically cancelled when the vehicle starts moving.

10.2. Selecting and filling tanks


1. Select to open Tank Fill options.

2. Press Select to select an individual or All tanks.

3. Select to fill the selected tanks to their maximum capacity.

4. Select the number displayed in the Volume column to manually enter the volume that is in a tank/bin if that is known.

5. Enter a value in the INC/DEC column to assign an amount to the

and buttons. This feature may be helpful when adding bagged product (for example, certified canola.) Set the inc/dec value to the bag size, then press each time you add a bag.

6. Select to return to the operation screen.

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10.3 Selecting and resetting area counters

10.3. Selecting and resetting area counters

Area counters are used with the seeder to record data such as treated area, total area, sub area, and product tank in use.

1. Select screen 2.

to toggle between operation screen 1 and operation

74

7. To assign the area number against which the data will be stored, select and select the required number.

8. Select to reset sub area. The area counter must be reset manually, or it continues to accumulate data.

9. Select to reset total area. This option resets data for a tank, the selected area counter, or all area counters.


10.4. Viewing diagnostics

Apollo ISOBUS UT seeder provides a run time view of seeder operation through the diagnostics option.

1. Select operation screen 2 / Diagnostics .

The diagnostics displays the time in milliseconds between pulses of the sensor as the top value and pulse count for this sensor at the bottom. For example, diagnostics for a fan display , where

33554.4 is the period in milliseconds and 1768 is the number of pulses since turning on the ECU or resetting the pulses displayed

( ).

• Ground Spd: Provides pulse count from the vehicle speed sensor.

• Fan #: Provides pulse count from the enabled fans.

• Shaft #: Provides pulse count from the tank shaft.

• PV #%: For proportional drives: the percentage of full power that the valve is currently being driven. For actuator drives: the current extension of the actuator.

• Bin # Lev: Level sensor signal from the tanks.

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76

10.4 Viewing diagnostics

• Fan ADC: Analog to Digital Converter for the fans.

•

•

: Displays ECU information.

: Displays if the ECU setup has any errors.

•

: Displays blocked head data. A value of 0 indicates no blockage and 1 indicates a blocked head.

The pulse count is reset to zero by selecting .

2. Select to return to the Diagnostics screen, and select return to the operation screen.

to

Record User Data

Use this table to record values set for the seeder. This data is useful in case of factory reset, upgrading the ECU, or for service and support purposes.

11.1. Recording user data

Setting Value

Wheel Factor

Seeder Width

Calibration factor

Pulses/Revolution

Product 1 Name: Cal Factor:
















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78

Setting

Tank Capacity

Gear Ratio

Value

Tank 1:

Tank 2:

Tank 3:

Tank 4:

Apollo ECU Information

There are two types of Apollo ECUs available:

• The CM-40 is the main control module.

• The EM-24 is the Input/Output expansion module.

12.1. Interpreting Apollo ECU LEDs

Power LED

Transmit LED

Receive LED

ECU Status LED

Note

: If a fault occurs in the ECU, an error code may be displayed.

Refer to Apollo ECU error codes, page 83.

12.1.1. Power LEDs

The power LEDs display different behavior on the CM-40 and EM-24

ECUs.

The following types of 12V power are applied to the Apollo ECUs:

• ECU power: Powers the internal logic and sensor power supplies.

• solenoid power: Powers the relays and H-bridges.

• VCB solenoid power: (Vertical Connector Board) power supplied on the ECU connectors.

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80

CM-40 Power LED

LED state Power state

Green

Amber

ECU power on solenoid power on

VCB solenoid power on

ECU power on

Either solenoid or VCB solenoid power on

Flashing amber ECU power on solenoid power off

VCB solenoid power off

Red ECU, solenoid, VCB solenoid or sensor power fault solenoid and VCB solenoid power off affected sensor supplies off an alarm is triggered

Off ECU, solenoid, VCB solenoid and sensor power off

Sensor power is on when the ECU is on, unless the sensor power supplies experience a fault.

EM-24 Power LED


Green

Amber


VCB solenoid power on sensor power (5V, 8V and 12V) on


VCB solenoid power on some or all sensor power off


Flashing amber ECU power on solenoid power off

VCB solenoid power off sensor power off

Red ECU, solenoid, VCB solenoid or sensor power fault solenoid and VCB solenoid power off affected sensor supplies off an alarm is triggered

12.1.2. Transmit LED

LED state Communication state

Flashing green

This indicates that the control processor is executing the application firmware.

Flashing red If the LED is OFF, this indicates that the boot loader is running.

12.1.3. Receive LED

LED state Communication state

Communicating with master. No CAN faults. Flashing green

Amber

Flashing amber

Red

No communication with master. No CAN faults.

Communicating with master. CAN is operating in error passive mode.

No communication with master. CAN bus fault (bus off).

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82

12.1.4. ECU Status LED

LED state ECU state

Green

Amber

Flashing amber

Red

Off

Control output (PWM and relay) allowed. No Power, communication or ECU configuration faults.

Control output is inhibited. No faults are active. For example:

'drive enable'.

Control output is allowed for unaffected sub-systems.

A warning level fault is active. An alarm will be shown. For example: 'relay over current'.

Control output is inhibited.

Fault/error state. An alarm will be raised.

The boot loader is running.

12.2. Apollo ECU error codes

12.2.1. Error levels

There are three different severity levels for errors and faults.

Severity level Description

Error/fault

Warning

All control output will be stopped. Relays will turn off and actuators will power down.

Control output will continue for subsystems not affected by the fault. For example, if a sensor power supply experiences over current, the relays will not power down.

Information Control output is not affected.

12.2.2. Error code signature

The error codes displayed in Sunrise or on the Universal Terminal will have the following signature:

IOGGPPDDEE

The meaning of each pair of digits is covered in the following sections.

Note

: This is a hexadecimal number, base 16 arithmetic should be used.

12.2.3. CM-40 ECU error codes

EE - ECU error state

These two digits give an indication of which ECU subsystems have high severity errors/faults.

The specific error(s) in each subsystem, specified by EE, can be found by decoding the preceding digits (IOGGPPDD).

Not all high severity errors are included in the preceding digits, in this case faulty subsystems are only identified. IOGGPPDD can be zero

(not displayed) in this case and only EE will have a value.

83

84

01

02

04

08

If any of the preceding digits are not zero, but the error state digits

(EE) are zero, the fault identified by the preceding digits is only a warning or informational.

EE Value Subsystem

Communication (CAN)

Drive (H-Bridges or relays)

Power

General

10 ECU input/output

DD - Drive errors

These digits identify individual faults in the drive subsystem.

DD Value Subsystem

01

02

04

08

20

H-Bridge A (channel 1 and 2) over temperature warning

H-Bridge B (channel 3 and 4) over temperature warning

Hardware over current shutdown

Software over current shutdown

Drive shutdown

40 Relay over current fault

PP - Power error flags

These digits identify faults in the power subsystems.

PP Value Subsystem

01

02

Solenoid power under voltage

Solenoid power over voltage or over current


04 Connector board solenoid power over voltage or over current

08

10

ECU power over voltage or over current

12V sensor power over current

20

40


Solenoid power MOSFET off

80 ECU power MOSFET off

GG - General flags

These digits give information or identify faults that affect the ECU but do not fit in any other subsystem or category.

GG Value Subsystem

01

02

04

Transport/disabled mode active

ECU sleep active

Outputs disabled and software configuration cleared

08 ECU software configuration error

IO - ECU input/output flags

These digits identify faults in the ECU inputs and outputs.

IO Value Subsystem

01 Input capture over frequency

85

86

01

02

04

08

12.2.4. EM-24 ECU error codes

EE - ECU error state

These digits have the same meaning as for the CM-40 ECU. If not zero, EE identifies subsystems with high severity faults. If zero the fault given by the preceding digits is only a warning or informational.

EE Value Subsystem

01

02

04

08

Communication (CAN or SPI)

Drive output (relays)

Power

General

10 ECU input/output

DD - Drive errors

These digits identify individual components with faults in the drive subsystem.

DD Value Subsystem

40 Relay over current

PP - Power error flags

These digits identify faults in the power subsystems.



Solenoid power over voltage or over current

Connector board solenoid power over voltage or over current

ECU power over voltage or over current


10 5V sensor power over current

20

40



80 Solenoid power MOSFET off

GG - General flags

These digits give information or identify faults that affect the ECU but do not fit in any other subsystem or category.

GG Value Subsystem

01

04

Transport/disabled mode active

Outputs disabled and software configuration cleared

08

10

ECU software configuration error

No communication with auxiliary CPU (auxiliary CPU in boot loader mode)

20 Main and auxiliary CPU firmware mismatch

IO - ECU input/output flags

These digits identify faults in the ECU inputs and outputs.

IO Value Subsystem

01 Input capture over frequency

12.2.5. Decoding error codes

These examples show how to decode the error codes using the signature.

Example 1

This example applies to both the CM-40 and EM-24.

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88

IOGGPPDDEE

= Error signature

0000010004

= Error displayed (

10004

is displayed in Sunrise)

The displayed error is split across three values in Universal Terminal mode, these should be joined.

Align the last digit of the displayed error with the last digit of the signature.

Note that leading zeros (green) are not displayed when using Sunrise and should be added.

Signature digits Decoded error

EE = 04

DD = 00

PP = 01

The power subsystem has a high severity fault

The drive subsystem does not have any errors

Specific fault in this case is:


There are no general errors GG = 00

IO = 00 There are no input or output errors

Example 2

This example applies to the CM-40 ECU only.

DDEE

= Error signature (shortened for brevity).

0502 = Error displayed


EE = 02 The drive subsystem has a high severity error(s)

DD = 05 (= 01 +

04)

In this case there are multiple errors active, this is because the value 05 is not listed in the drive error table.

The errors can be found by determining which numbers add up to the value displayed

In this case 01 and 04 add up to 05


The errors are:

01 = H-Bridge A (channel 1 and 2) over temperature warning

04 = Hardware over current shutdown

89

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Phone: 925-245-8300

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Phone: +81-3-5994-0671

Fax: +81-3-5994-0672

© Topcon Precision Agriculture All rights reserved.

Specifications subject to change without notice www.topconpa.com

View Simplicity Apollo Seeding Controller Operators Manual

TOPCON APOLLO

US

EEDER

ONTROLLER

OPERATOR’S

MANUAL

Apollo ISOBUS UT Seeder

Operator’s Manual

Preface

Terms and Conditions

General

Communications Regulation Information

Type Approval and Safety Regulations

Radio and Television Interference

General Safety

Safety Messages and Warnings

Safety Signs

Operator Safety

Exposure to Radio Frequency

Preparation for Operation

Disclaimer

Important Safety Information

Operator Alertness and Responsibility

Electrical Safety

Operation and Risk of Obstacles

On/Off and Manual Control

Vehicle Shut Down Safety

Using a Reference (Base) Station

To Get the Best Out of the Product

Alert Symbols

Table of Contents

Introduction

Seeder Settings

2.1. Setting up the seeder

2.2. Setting up tanks

2.3. Setting up external options

2.4. Setting up tank preload time

2.5. Setting up wheel factor

2.6. Setting up fans

2.7. Setting up width and speed

2.8. Settings for blocked heads

2.9. Viewing operating history

2.10. Selecting seeder brand

ECU Setup

Product Settings

4.1. Setting up products

Calibrating the Tanks

5.1. Manual entry of calibration factor

5.2. Automatic calculation of calibration factor

Area Test

6.1. Performing the area test

External Keypad

7.1. Keypad setup

7.2. LED behavior

Alarm Settings

8.1. Managing seeder alarms

8.2. Setting up fan alarms

8.3. Setting up tank motor alarms

8.4. Setting up shaft alarms

8.5. Setting up tank gear alarms

8.6. Setting up tank alarms

8.7. Setting up tank pressure alarms

8.8. Setting up other alarms

8.9. Setting up no flow alarms

Advanced Settings

9.1. Configuring advanced settings

9.2. Upgrading ECU firmware

Seeder Operation

10.1. Selecting the seeder operation screen

10.2. Selecting and filling tanks

10.3. Selecting and resetting area counters

10.4. Viewing diagnostics

Record User Data

11.1. Recording user data

Apollo ECU Information

12.1. Interpreting Apollo ECU LEDs

12.2. Apollo ECU error codes

Related manuals

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