G4 Crop Cruiser Series 2

The cabin offers exceptional operator comfort, boasting the lowest noise levels found in a self-propelled sprayer.

The sprayer stands as one of the most frequently used pieces of equipment on the farm today. Enduring long hours day after day places considerable demands on the operator to successfully execute the spraying program.
The sprayer cabin plays a pivotal role in making this demanding task comfortable and less fatiguing to the operator with features such as:

• Seven-way adjustable seat.
• Adjustable side console with G-Hub and G-Motion® joystick.
• Automatic climate control air-conditioning system with carbon filter.
• Adjustable steering column ensures operators can find the optimal seating position.
• Padded training seat, with seatbelt.
• Narrow profile four post frame with external truss Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS).
• Double skinned rear wall and extensive sound deadening provide the quietest spraying environment available.

The side console enables the operator to easily control all vital sprayer functions within arms reach – comfortable, adjustable and intuitive.

The G-Hub (1) controls and monitors all critical machine functions and packages it all into one easy to use fully integrated system.
The G-Motion® joystick (2) puts the sprayer control into the palm of your hand. This controls all boom raise / lower, boom tilts, cruise control, fenceline jets and auto steer functions. For ease of use all boom fold functions (3) are positioned next to the G-Motion® joystick.

G-Hub – Goldacres integrated system

• 12″ colour touch screen.
• Displays drivetrain and sprayer information.
• Full system diagnostics.

G-Motion® / Hand throttle

• Boom control and spray operation.
• 4 modes of Cruise Control – classic, variable, 2 speed and target speed.
• GPS Auto Steer.

Boom folding functions

• Boom fold.
• Bi-fold (if optioned).

USB charger

Transmission selector

• Push button selector.

Driveline functions

• Spray / Road mode.
• Cruise master.
• Centre transfer case lock (4WD only).
• Park brake.

Arm rest

• Padded arm rest.
• Lifts to reveal large storage area.

Intuitive & easy to use system with onboard diagnostics.

The G-Hub system comprises a cabin display, external display, PLC (programmable logic controller), I/O (input/output) modules, sensors, and switches to control and monitor all critical machine functions and packages it all into one easy-to-use fully integrated system.

The G-Hub communicates seamlessly with most leading steering and mapping providers using the ISO BUS protocol for steering and section control.

On-board diagnostics allows operators to quickly pinpoint problems without the need for laptops specialised service tools or internet connections, thus minimising downtime.

G-Hub cabin display features:

• Low profile 12” full-colour touch display. Situated into the operator side console without restricting external vision.
• The home screen is segmented into two screens.
  1. Drivetrain information and
  2. Sprayer information.
• On-board sprayer diagnostics.
• Manual boom section control.
• Classic, variable, and 2-speed Cruise Control.
• Rear camera view.
• Virtual controls.

Comfortable, adjustable and intuitive.

The G-Motion™ handle literally puts the sprayer control into the palm of your hand. Functions such as: Individual boom wing tilt, dual boom wing tilt, main boom lift/lower, fence line L/R, auto steer cancel/resume, cruise control set/resume and increase/decrease, master spray on/off mean all spraying operations can be done without moving your hand from the G-Motion™ handle.

1. Cruise Set / Increase
2. Cruise Resume / Decrease
3. Cruise Cancel
4. Boom Master On / Off
5. Tilt Right Up  /  Tilt Left up  /  Tilt Right Down  / Tilt Left Down
6. Boom Lift  / Left Fence Nozzle  /  Right Fence Nozzle  /  Boom Lower
7. GPS Auto Steer
8. Dual Tilt-Up (Behind)
9. Dual Tilt-Down (Behind)

Cruise Control
Three modes of operation. Classic, variable and 2-speed.

• Classic cruise control is our traditional system where the operator simply drives to the desired speed and presses the set button. The cruise speed can be cancelled and resumed at any time. Goldacres, Allison and Cummins have worked extensively together to improve the stability of the system in varying ground conditions to reduce hunting and improve speed stability.
• Variable cruise is a new mode where the operator can set a spray speed (High) and a headland speed (Low). The joystick is then either pushed forward or pulled back to infinitely vary the speed in between these two settings.
• 2-speed mode works very similar to the variable except the sprayer is either operating at the low or high speed, there is no infinite speed setting in between.

ISOBUS is fitted as standard using an RCM rate control application system. Allowing the sprayer to seamlessly connect to most ISOBUS virtual terminals.

The sprayer is fully ISOBUS ready, which means that just about any ISOBUS virtual terminal can be fitted. The VT is used to control the application rate, boom section control, auto steering, auto boom height and mapping functions.
You can have two VT screens fitted as an option allowing the operator to view multiple applications at the same time.

Highly efficient mechanical driveline lightweight design and superior power-to-weight ratio.

The mechanical driveline is offered in either two or four-wheel drive with multiple wheel track options. This allows the G4 to be configured to suit just about any cropping configuration.

Powered by the Cummins B4.5 engine, renowned for its reliability and performance, paired with an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission, guaranteeing not only exceptional power delivery to the ground but also optimal operating efficiency.

Engine and Transmission

• Cummins B4.5 engine produces 149 kw (200 hp) of power and 780 Nm (576 lb-ft) of torque. A rear engine power take off (REPTO) drive permits a large variable displacement hydraulic pump to be fitted. Peak hydraulic flow is rated at 215 l/min.
• Allison 2500 6 speed auto transmission with close radio gears provides more gears in the spraying speed range (15-25 km/h).

Drop legs

• Power from the axles is transfered through to the wheel through the oil bath chain drive and planet hub reductions. Simple, efficient and reliable.

Drive axles

• High horsepower rated differentials transfer the power to the droplegs using large universal joints. Fixed track sprayers feature a rear diff lock for when the going gets really tough.

–  2 or 3m fixed track – 2WD
–  3m fixed track – 4WD
–  2-3m hydraulic track adjust – 2WD
–  3-4m manual track adjust – 2WD

Four Wheel Drive (4WD) system

• The 4WD system utilises a single speed transfer case with front axle disconnect, allowing the sprayer to be used as a 2WD sprayer, helping to reduce fuel usage. At the flick of a switch the front axle can be engaged, providing an equal power split between front and rear axles. If the going gets really tough, then the rear differential lock feature can also be engaged.

Fuel tank

• }A 375L fuel tank is installed, with an average fuel consumption of around 15 liters per hour*, this allows for approximately 25 hours of spraying between refills.

The sprayer boasts a torsionally rigid semi-truss structure chassis, ensuring unparalleled balance between strength and weight.

The chassis is constructed as a semi-truss rigid non-flexing design which provides the foundations as to which the sprayer is built around.

Suspension system

The suspension system uses a 5 link arrangement (4 x parallel links and 1 x pan hard link) at each end of the sprayer. The rear axle features an extra heavy duty sway bar to help keep the sprayer chassis
level to the ground at all times. Each corner is supported by air springs which are placed as wide apart as possible to improve sprayer stability in undulating terrain.

Operator comfort

To make the long days as comfortable as possible the G4 features a suspended cabin that is positioned behind the front axle which greatly reduces vertical movement, thus improving the ride for the operator.

In addition the engine and transmission are supported by hydraulic dampened rubber mounts which dramatically reduces noise and vibration levels felt by the operator.

Chassis surface treatment

Every Goldacres fabricated component is given the special treatment when it comes to corrosion protection. First the item is shot blasted to remove any surface contaminates, rust and scale. It is then sealed with a high build primer / sealer before being treated to a high gloss durable 2 pack top coat which is oven baked. The resultant finish is one that will last for many years in the most demanding conditions.

Fitted with the proven TriTech boom with a balance between strength, lightweight and simplicity, avalaible in 24, 28, 30 and 36m widths.

Boom control can make the difference between a good spray result and no result. Goldacres understands this, which is why all our sprayer designs prioritize the boom. Goldacres pioneered using lightweight aluminum in the outer boom wings over two decades ago. The philosophy is that mass on a boom is fine as long as it is close to the centre. Reduced mass on the boom extremities lessens forces in both yaw and roll. Combined with unique suspension, this ensures a stable boom ride, regardless of terrain.
TriTech booms follow contours, referencing the boom level to the sprayer chassis instead of gravity like a pendulum boom. This keeps the boom level to the ground on hills and contours, placing the nozzle at the optimum height above the target.

Centre Section

• Provides control for the boom. Featuring TriTech suspension, the centre section uses hydraulics to control boom yaw and dampeners for the roll. Pitch of the boom is controlled via hydraulic accumulators fitted to the paralift cylinders.

Inner Wings

• Steel RHS truss structure provides strength and flexibility to support outer wings.

Outer Wings

• Full truss aluminium construction featuring a semi riveted outer wing in high stress areas to provide strength while being lightweight.
• Three dimensional breakaways are fitted to the end boom sections.
• Outer wing folding is controlled by front and rear cables.

Plumbing

• 1” boom plumbing is fitted for both higher application rates but to also reduce pressure drop along the length of the boom.

Height Control

• XRT radar boom height control can be fitted an option.

TriTech boom centre section – Why is boom ride and stability so important? A boom which bounces, sways or yaws deposits chemical unevenly on the target. This can result in weed escapes and may even contribute to resistant weeds.

Pitch – The boom parallelogram lift design provides boom height adjustment as well as the vertical boom suspension (pitch) with the use of accumulators in the lift circuit.

Roll – The key to the superior boom ride is the strategically placed delta links. In all, there are four links. Each link features spherical ball ends which allow the centre to move in all directions.
The roll centre point is the location at which the boom pivots around, both in roll and yaw. Roll dampeners reduce high-frequency oscillation of the boom roll.

Yaw – Two opposing hydraulic cylinders are mechanically connected together either side of the pivoting boom centre section. As the centre yaws one cylinder is retracted, the other is extended. This results in oil
movement which compresses in a nitrogen charged accumulator. The result is precise boom yaw control.

RapidFire is instant boom nozzle on / off capability with up to 16 section control. Allow quick line priming and flushing of spray lines with RapidFlow boom recirculation.

RapidFire – Goldacres pioneered RapidFire technology on Australian built sprayers in 2006. At the time the new technology vastly improved section switching times by replacing traditional motorised boom section valves with a central bank of air solenoids and spray stop valves mounted right at the nozzle.
Booms configured in 16 sections use our direct master technology. This further improves response times for on/off switching over the central bank design.
The boom is configured in 10 sections with 16 sections optional to improve spray resolution when using an auto section controller for odd shaped paddocks. We
have found that 16 sections provides the perfect balance between spray overlapping and complexity.

RapidFlow (Boom Recirculation) – RapidFlow allows the sprayer boom lines to be fully primed without spraying a single drop. This reduces wastage at the start of a tank load or when switching chemicals.
RapidFlow can also be used to thoroughly flush out the boom lines without the need to physically spray on the ground.

The three tier system (3TS) uses a combination of nozzles to maintain the spray nozzle pressure within a defined pressure band.

The spray nozzles operating pressure range and size determine the application rate and speed band at which the driver must adhere to. This band is usually quite narrow.

Goldacres offer a 3-tier system (3TS) which effectively gives the driver a much wider operating band whilst maintaining optimum droplet size and spray rate.

Think of 3TS as a three-speed gearbox. Each nozzle type has an operating pressure band for a given droplet size. As the first nozzle reaches the top of the pressure band it switches off and the next larger size nozzle switches on. When the nozzle reaches the top of its pressure band the first nozzle will switch on again, effectively giving three nozzle operating bands.

The table above shows the pressure variations of two common nozzles, 015 and 02 operating at 70 l/ha through their respective pressure ranges from 7 km/h through to 30 km/h.

The ultimate rate control and flexibility while retaining the simplicity of an air shut off nozzle– 3TS Pro is essentially our 3TS system with an added nozzle (36m boom only).

This gives the operator a wider range of spray rates without manually changing jets and also provides a smoother transition between nozzle switching.

We refer the standard 3TS system to a 3-speed gearbox, the 3TS Pro can be compared to a 7-speed gearbox by providing 7 nozzle combinations to be used.

3TS-Pro can be used in a number of ways:

For example, you may want to apply 70 l/ha with your combination of 015 and 02 nozzles to give the overall capacity of an 035 nozzle (as per 3TS chart shown), then increase your rate in certain parts of the crop, other paddocks or in the application of fertilizers. In

most cases you would need to slow down to increase the rate as you would previously exceed the nozzle pressure range. With the additional nozzle the 3TS Pro will automatically select the best nozzle combinations for your speed and rate while maintaining a more consistent working pressure range of the nozzles.

Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) technology is now available as an option on 36m TriTech booms.

PWM technology uses a small electrically operated solenoid mounted to the nozzle body to control the flow rate delivered to each nozzle. The system rapidly pulses the nozzle on and off at rates of 10hz (10 times per second) whilst also adjusting the amount of time the nozzle is opened and closed (this is called the duty cycle). The spray line is set to maintain a constant liquid pressure, whilst the computer adjusts the duty cycle to vary the application rate. The system allows the selected nozzle to operate at a target droplet size independent of the forward speed (within the system and nozzle capacity)

Using the PWM technology also provides a method of providing turn compensation. When making a turn the inner wing tip speed slows and the outer wing tip speeds up, which in turn over and under applies chemical to the target. As each nozzle is controlled independently it is possible to adjust the duty cycle to either decrease or increase the application rate across the entire width of the boom.

Features:

• Nozzle by nozzle turn compensation.
• 16 virtual sections or the option to have individual nozzle sections.
• Fully integrated into the G-Hub system as well as ISOBUS compatible.
• Available in either 250mm or 500mm spacing.

1 Without Hawkeye®

Over apply on the inner and under apply on the outer wing when turning.

2 With Hawkeye®

Consistent coverage when turning. Note: within nozzle parameters.

Weedetect® sets the standard for in-crop weed detection, providing green on brown (GoB) and green on green (GoG) solutions.

The cameras employ AI technology similar to used for facial recognition to identify the color, size, and shape of targeted weeds and crops. This facilitates weed detection within crops (Green on Green). In Green on Green applications, the system analyzes both crops and weeds simultaneously. Weed detection data is transmitted to the standalone Weedetect screen. The Weedetect^® screen integrates with the Raven control module for either 16 sections or Hawkeye, via CANBUS control.

Benefits:

• Herbicide reduction.
• Reduced crop damage.
• Improved sustainability (reduce soil, water and food contamination).
• Improved efficiency (fewer tank fills).
• Greater weed control (right dose, right product and right place).
• Accuracy increases overtime (AI deep learning).

Camera

• Captures images of weeds in real time.
• Mounted 3m apart and high for best view.
• High definition RGB camera.
• Optional lighting package for night time (GoB).

Screen

• Collects detection messages from modules, delivers nozzle opening orders over CAN communication enabling user to interact with the system.

Detection

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms detects weeds in real time in a Green on Brown (GoB) and Green on Green (GoG) crop situation.

AutoBoom XRT radar sensor technology uses simultaneous ground and canopy detection to maintain optimal spray height for maximum product efficacy.

Pressure-based control allows for smooth movement and quicker reaction time while centre rack stability technology with variable dampers gives the system complete boom control.

Roll Control

• Variable rate dampeners are used to stiffen the centre section roll action when wing tilts are operated. This allows much quicker reactions to occur without effecting the overall stability of the opposing boom wing.

G-Hub

• } The XRT operating status is displayed on the G-Hub internal screen .

Height sensors

• 5 height sensors use radar based distance technology. The radar sensors enable a larger height measurement range, can detect both ground and crop canopy and are less
  effected by spray drift, dust and mud.
• The system uses additional sensors to monitor the sprayer chassis rate of roll, the boom centre position relative to the chassis as well as boom wing tilt angle. These extra sensors allow the computer to
  predict how the boom will react well before the radar sensors even see the change in boom height. The end result is a more stable boom in uneven terrain.

The operator workstation area and fill system (FastFill) dramatically reduce sprayer refill times. In addition this system offers many more features whilst still retaining its easy to use philosophy.

G-Hub External screen

• 4.3” colour screen and button panel to control filling the main product and rinse tanks with the push of a button.
• Simply enter the desired tank volume, connect the fill hose and the G-Hub system will automatically shut off when fill volume is met.

Connection points

• 3” camlock connection point to transfer product directly into the main product tank. An optional hydraulic fill pump is available to transfer at rates of up to 1150 l/min.
• 1” camlock connection point in the hopper base enables chemical transfer via Venturi Probe. Optional on-board chemical transfer pump is also available for flow rates of up to 40 l/min depending on viscosity.
• An optional 3” front mounted fill point (not shown) is also available.

Induction hopper

• 60L capacity.
• Chemical transfer rates of up to 150 l/min.
• Foot operated lower shut-off valve.
• Wash down gun is fitted powered by a separate 12 volt pump using water from the rinse tank.

Storage locker

• A large lockable storage compartment is provided and features a gas strut to hold the door open. An internal light is also fitted.

Control valves

• Functions such as activating tank, rinse and rinse tank fill carry over the “flip lever” valves.

Spray pumps

• Two different spray pumps can be fitted: the Udor Zeta 260 l/min diaphragm pump which provides constant flow rates regardless of spray pressure.
• The second pump is a high flow centrifugal which provides flow rates of up to 400 l/min @ 8 bar. Both pumps feature rpm and run dry sensors which are displayed on the G-Hub cabin display.

Fill pump (optional)

• A 3” transfer pump is an option. This pump combined with high flow plumbing provides flow rates of up to 1150 l/min. Mounted above the pump outlet is a pressure transducer and electric 3” ball valve which are used by the G-Hub system to control both the fill rate and tank level soft shut off.

Chemical transfer pump (optional)

• A 12 volt chemical transfer pump is available as an option. This provides liquid chemicals to be pumped directly into the main product tank or the induction hopper, to measure the chemical volume more accurately.

Centralised fluid distribution valves and filtration

• Product filling, rinsing and spraying fluid circuits are controlled using a combination of electric motorised and manual ball valves. The valves are positioned in a centralised area which significantly reduces the amount of hose required.
• The electric motorised ball valves feature valve position indicators to aid trouble shooting. In the event of failure, the valves can be operated manually.
• A large single pressure filter featuring a flushing function helps keep contaminates from blocking nozzles.

A wheel track to suit many broadacre and horticultural cropping applications.

Wheel track width requirements can vary sigificantly depending on crop types and geographic regions.

Choose from either a 2 or 3m axle fixed track width, hydraulic track adjust from 2-3m or manual track adjust from 3-4m.

Fixed, manual or Hydraulic track adjustment

In all there are 5 different axle configuration available:
–  2m fixed track – 2WD
–  3m fixed track – 2WD
–  3m fixed track – 4WD
–  2-3m hydraulic track adjust – 2WD
–  3-4m manual track adjust – 2WD

The weight of the sprayer is paramount to its performance in the paddock. The G4 is one of the lightest self-propelled sprayer in its class, this is not by accident, this is a major design consideration.

The engineering team have spent many hours developing the chassis for the optimal balance between rigidity, lightweight and strength, while avoiding heavy castings where possible.

Weight distribution on the sprayer is critical to the sprayer dynamics and operator comfort.

The layout of the main components, front mounted engine, centrally located cabin, and rear mounted tank, spraying systems and boom, allow for a weight split of approx 42/58 across the machine.

Slightly rear bias weight distribution provides more power to the ground.

A cabin positioned behind the front axle gives a naturally superior ride due to the reduced vertical movement. These factors allow the operator to get back on paddocks sooner after rain events with less soil compaction, less wheel tracking, while greatly reducing the risk of bogging.

Cleverly designed with an acute steering angle to navigate in very small headlands with the simplicity of a two wheel steer configuration. The key in achieving this is the layout of the suspension system and open chassis design.

Design criteria focused on Australian design regulations for ease of transport.

Adjustable boom rest

} An adjustable boom rest allows the folded boom to be tucked in tighter against the cabin for road transport which is under 3.5m. No escort is required.* When not on public roads the boom rest can be hydraulically adjusted out allowing the cabin door to be opened wider which provides easier entry or exit from the cabin.

Rearview Camera

• Reverse camera is fitted which allows rear view when needed.

 Lighting

• Six roof mounted LED lights are fitted. Lighting package upgrade is also available that includes roof and bonnet lightbars and boom blue lights.