Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclose for auto-steering of an auto-guided vehicle. A sensor coupled to a steering shaft detects when an operator requests control of the vehicle. The sensor then transmits information indicative of the request to one or more controllers of an auto-guidance system, which initiates a shutdown of auto-steering functions. In this way, the system quickly reverts to manual steering in an automatically guided and steered vehicle.

Abstract: A distance and temperature sensing unit is used on paving vehicles. The unit has a first set of range sensors of a first diameter and a second set of range sensors of a second diameter. The unit calculates a weighted average distance to a road surface based on ranges measured by the multiple sensors. The unit also has a temperature sensor on a temperature bar. The bar is affixed to the unit by a flexible connection preventing break-off when the bar encounters obstacles, like the road surface, while the paving vehicle is moving.

Abstract: Disclosed is a material delivery system and method for applying material to one or more crops. A sensor, or crop sensing head, moves over or near the crops and obtains crop data. An applicator is configured to apply the material onto the crop(s). An applicator controller can control the applicator. A material delivery vehicle has a delivery vehicle controller configured to control the material delivery vehicle and an agriculture controller in communication with the delivery vehicle controller, applicator controller, and sensor. The agriculture controller can determine the needs of the crops and adjust the movement of the delivery vehicle based on the needs of the crops.