GUSS Automation, a subsidiary of John Deere, plans to integrate Ouster Inc.'s Rev8 OS0 digital lidar sensors into its next generation of autonomous orchard machines. The move aims to enhance navigation and obstacle detection in high-value crop environments such as orchards and vineyards, where GPS systems lack the required centimeter-level precision.
The Rev8 OS0 sensors provide 3D point cloud data to support autonomous operations under varying outdoor conditions. Ouster’s ultra-wide field of view enables mapping of tree trunks, crop rows, and ground contours, improving machine performance in complex terrain. The technology also allows a single operator to monitor up to eight autonomous machines simultaneously via a laptop.
GUSS Automation, headquartered in Kingsburg, California, focuses on permanent crop autonomy solutions, including the Orchard GUSS and Mini GUSS machines for spraying operations. The integration of Ouster’s lidar sensors will further support reliable operation in environments with dust, spray, and dense vegetation.
John Deere’s high-value crop autonomy portfolio includes GUSS Automation, with machines distributed through the company’s dealer network. The partnership underscores the growing adoption of advanced sensing technologies in agricultural automation to address the unique challenges of high-value crop production.
Jason Brantley, Vice President of Production Systems, Small Ag & Turf at John Deere, stated, "At GUSS, we are focused on developing autonomous solutions that help growers address the unique challenges of high-value crop production. Integrating advanced sensing technologies into our machines helps support reliable operation in complex orchard environments."
