Brazilian AI technology advances in tractor production.

Seeking to keep up with technological advancements, AGCO has begun implementing an artificial intelligence (AI) system in its production line to assist in an important stage of product engineering: auditing the tractor configuration rules. This project is being carried out at the factory in Mogi das Cruzes, in the interior of São Paulo state.

Each producer has specific needs that vary according to the type of planting, terrain conditions, and size of the operation. To meet these specific demands, the same tractor model can be manufactured in several versions, for example, with dual wheels, autopilot, or a telemetry system. These choices, which can be made at the time of purchase, impact the machine's composition.

When a part is changed or added to the tractor design, several other parts may also need adaptation, ensuring that all components function correctly. A practical example is the dual wheel configuration. For it to work correctly, the cab panel must also be equipped with the corresponding dual clutch button. With the help of technicians and AI, all systems are properly integrated into the machine assembly.

“There is a set of technical rules that need to be validated before production begins to guarantee 100% tractor functionality. It was precisely at this point that we identified the potential of artificial intelligence, which is currently being tested in the prototyping phase to support the process,” explains Fabrício Natal, Global Vice President of Engineering at AGCO.

Validating the technical rules necessary for the machinery's operation involves cross-referencing information from documents that compile all the product's configuration rules. Previously, this verification was done manually, requiring time and attention from specialists.

Still in the testing phase, the first version of artificial intelligence has demonstrated the potential to generate savings equivalent to approximately 240 hours of work per month. This time could be redirected to technical and strategic activities, contributing to increased efficiency and productivity for the company. “We are currently testing this automation and already anticipating gains that can be converted into more added value within engineering, especially in activities that require human intervention and cannot be automated,” emphasizes Paulo Vilela, Director of Systems Engineering at AGCO.

“It is an essential activity to ensure that the final tractor meets exactly what was requested, without possible errors that could lead to delays in the final delivery. AI has already demonstrated that it can perform this verification accurately, which is fundamental to meeting the producer's expectations,” highlights Paulo Vilela.

The project developed by the AGCO Brazil team is part of AGCO's global innovation strategy. “In AGCO factories in countries like Finland, Germany, and the United States, the verification of these rules is still done manually. The proposal developed in Brazil has the potential to become a global benchmark within the company, reinforcing the role of innovation in advancing agricultural mechanization,” comments Fabrício Natal.