Agricultural equipment manufacturer John Deere has decided to move away from virtual machines, considering them legacy technology. This decision comes as part of a four-year digital transformation project aimed at leveraging cloud-native technologies. Principal architect Jason Wallin revealed this shift at Nutanix’s Next conference, highlighting John Deere’s commitment to updating its infrastructure to reflect its latest capabilities.
Wallin emphasized that software development at John Deere will now prioritize cloud-native approaches, reflecting the company’s focus on technology innovation. In line with this, the company has also started phasing out certain networking technologies like Ethernet and Wi-Fi in favor of cellular networks within its factories. This shift is evident in the adoption of private 5G networks to enhance operational efficiency.
One notable advancement at John Deere’s facilities is the introduction of GPU baling machines that utilize artificial intelligence to optimize herbicide application. These machines can differentiate between crops and weeds, resulting in a 75% reduction in herbicide use. This not only benefits farmers by lowering costs but also aligns with John Deere’s sustainability goals.
Additionally, John Deere is working on autonomous machines to address the challenge of shrinking rural populations and the need to increase crop production on limited arable land. Wallin emphasized the efficiency and productivity gains offered by autonomous vehicles, underscoring the importance of technological advancements in meeting global food demands.
Overall, John Deere’s transformation journey signifies a shift towards modern technologies and sustainable practices in agribusiness. The company’s focus on cloud-native solutions, AI integration, and autonomous technologies indicates a commitment to driving innovation and efficiency in the agricultural sector. As John Deere continues to evolve its manufacturing processes, its goal is to create smarter environments that mirror the sophistication of its AI-powered products.
Article Source
https://www.theregister.com/2024/05/22/john_deere_vms_legacy/
