John Deere’s Precision Ag Vision Tech Now Available to OEMs
Designed for rugged environments and advanced Computer Vision Machine Learning applications, the VPU enables OEMs to incorporate sophisticated vision-based automation into their products.
John Deere Electronics announced the commercial release of its high-performance Vision Processing Unit (VPU), previously used in its See & Spray precision agriculture systems. The module is available for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to integrate into their machinery across varying industries.
The VPU will be showcased at the upcoming ACT Expo in Anaheim, California, April 28–30, at the John Deere Electronics booth #4900.
Designed for rugged environments and advanced Computer Vision Machine Learning (CVML) applications, the VPU delivers a high GPU- and CPU-capable platform that enables OEMs to incorporate sophisticated vision-based automation into their products. The module offers 12 ports for comprehensive camera integration to allow for extensive visual data capture.
Built to operate in harsh conditions, the VPU carries an IP67 rating for full submersion and performs within a temperature range of -25°C to 50°C, utilizing innovative air-cooling technology without the need for liquid cooling or internal fans. It connects with vehicles and machinery via CAN and Ethernet protocols.
“We’re proud to offer OEMs a vision processing unit that truly stands apart," said Nicholas Weisbeck, electronics systems module manager at John Deere. "We’ve engineered this module to perform in the harshest environments, focusing on robust thermal and vibration performance. Unlike others on the market, we’ve achieved this without liquid cooling or internal fans, relying on innovative air cooling and a rugged IP67-rated design. The result is a highly reliable platform for cutting-edge CVML applications, enabling OEMs to bring advanced processing capabilities and greater autonomy to their customers while addressing the growing challenge of labor availability.”
The VPU supports applications such as advanced safety systems, obstacle avoidance, autonomous navigation, AI-driven quality control and real-time image processing, and features built-in diagnostics to simplify maintenance and reduce system downtime.
John Deere Electronics offers support throughout the integration process to help OEMs fully leverage the VPU’s capabilities. The hardware is now in production and available for order.
