Self-Driving Tractor Lab

STEM Education
STEM Curriculum & Labs
Item Number: 
MCK-AFTR-BLU/RED/ORN/GRN
Autonomous Self-Driving Farming
Autonomous STEM Tractor
MINDS-i Robotics: Transformative STEM Learning
Innovative Farming Technology with MINDS-i
Empowering Students through STEM Robotics
Exciting Hands-on Learning: MINDS-i Robotics
Self-Driving Tractor Lab Sprayer
Autonomous Self-Driving Farming Curriculum
Autonomous Self-Driving Farming STEM Kit

Take STEM learning to new heights with this cutting-edge GPS–IMU-powered tractor. Students explore programming, electromechanical systems, and autonomous navigation. Students design, build, and program the tractor for ground-based crop evaluation, spraying, spreading, crop monitoring, and other compelling farming-related challenges.

Spark and Sustain Student's Interest in STEM

MINDS-i Robotics engages students in an energizing STEM learning environment with easy-to-build, program, and modify robots. Technologically advanced farm vehicles perform impressive real-world tasks that build excitement for STEM careers. The curriculum encourages collaborative, problem-solving, and the open-source C++, Python, or ROS-compatible programming language fosters endless creativity. With outstanding technical support, teachers are empowered, and students are inspired to build whatever they envision in their “mind’s eye.

This lab is a half-semester (45 Hours) designed for 2-4 students.

Curriculum Outline

Unit 1: Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles

  1. Student Performance
  2. What is an Autonomous Vehicle

Unit 2: Autonomous Self-Driving Tractor

  1. Self-Driving Tractors; Levels of Autonomy
  2. Self-Driving Tractors; Current and Future Use Cases

Unit 3: Autonomous Tractor Technologies

  1. Self-Driving Tractors; Localization
    1. GPS Navigation
    2. Inertial Measurement Unit (Gyro, Accelerometer, Compass)
    3. Encoder (Cruise Control)
    4. Localization (Cross-Track Error)
  2. Self-Driving Tractors; Communication
    1. Control Systems
    2. Object Detection & Avoidance

Unit 4: Electrical Engineering & Energy Transfer

  1. Energy Types & Transfer
  2. Electric Motors
    1. How They Work & Benefits
  3. Batteries
    1. Usage, Maintenance, Technologies

Unit 5: Applied Systems Thinking

  1. Inputs, Outputs and Constraints
  2. Interrelationship Diagrams

Unit 6: Culminating Projects; Automated Farming

  1. Ground Prep
  2. Planting
  3. Fertilizing
  4. Watering
  5. Harvesting
  • Open Source Software / Windows 10, OS X & Linux Ready, Easy to use Graphical Interface
  • Drag and Drop Installation (w/Radio Driver)
  • Save and Load GPS Paths, Capable of Navigating to 100 Waypoints
  • Live Location Tracking and Wirelessly Adjust Settings
  • Customizable Graphs: Latitude, Longitude, Yaw/Direction, Pitch, Roll, Ground Speed, Voltage, Amperage and Altitude
  • Full Telemetry Logging and Inclinometer Gauges

Each lab is designed to support a small group of students (2-4) for one semester.

  • Qty: 1 RC Transmitter with Receiver
  • Qty: 1 Tractor Kit
  • Qty: 1 250 Piece Basic Construction Set
  • Tractor Lab Accessory Bag
  • Qty: 4 Safety Glasses
  • Qty: 1 Digital MultiMeter
  • Qty: 1 Extra Battery
  • Qty: 2 Extra MINDS-i Tools
  • Qty: 1 1/16" Hex Driver
  • Qty: 1 3/32" Hex Driver
  • Qty: 1 LiPoly Battery Charger
  • Qty: 1 LiPoly Battery Charging Bag
  • Qty: 1 Storage Bins

* Component colors/models may vary.

More Information

MINDS-i Education

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Videos: 

Minds-i Robotics: Bringing STEM Innovation to Farming

Discover the future of Agri-Tech education with the Minds-i Self-Driving Tractor. Explore robotics, automation, smart farming and precision agriculture with hands-on STEM learning solutions.
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