Bale Wrap orientation tracking for on-field storage

In the agricultural industry, the transportation and storage of bales-dense stacks of hay used as cattle feed-present significant logistical challenges, particularly for large farms. Traditionally, this process involves extensive labor and vehicle movement from the field to storage areas, known as barns. Improper handling during this transition can lead to substantial losses in both time and re-sources. This development aims to eliminate the last-mile transportation step by enabling year-round storage of bales directly in the field. This objective is achieved through the utilization of a patented wrapping material and the strategic orientation of wrapped bales to enhance their resistance to weather conditions. Field experiments demonstrated that this innovative material not only protects the bales from adverse environmental factors but also effectively retains their nutrient and moisture content. A critical challenge was ensuring correct orientation of the wrap seams during the wrapping pro-cess, as the bales are continuously rotated within the baler machine. This challenge was addressed through the implementation of a position tracking algorithm, which provides real-time feedback to the operator via audio-visual alerts, facilitating timely adjustments for optimal bale placement. By integrating a single sensor hardware modification, this solution allows for backward compati-bility with existing machinery, significantly enhancing deployment efficiency. This advancement aligns with the ongoing automation of the baling process, ultimately reducing operator workload and increasing overall operational productivity. Currently, the system is in the testing phase for automating the final step of synchronization with the tractor, which will empower less experienced operators to effectively utilize this feature. This paper leverages principles of systems engineering to present a forward-looking solution that addresses multiple industry challenges, thereby contributing to enhanced efficiency and sustaina-bility in agricultural operations. The outcomes of this project are expected to yield significant improvements in productivity and resource management, marking a notable advancement in ag-ricultural technology.