Unmanned Agricultural Tractors in Private Mobile Networks

The need for high-quality communications networks is urgent in data-based farming. A particular challenge is how to achieve reliable, cost-efficient, secure, and broadband last-mile data transfer to enable agricultural machine control. The trialed ad hoc private communications networks built and interconnected with different alternative wireless technologies, including 4G, 5G, satellite and tactical networks, provide interesting practical solutions for connectivity. A remotely controlled tractor is exemplified as a use case of machine control in the demonstrated private communication network. This paper describes the results of a comparative technology analysis and a field trial in a realistic environment. The study includes the practical implementation of video monitoring and the optimization of the control channel for remote-controlled unmanned agricultural tractors. The findings from this study verify and consolidate the requirements for network technologies and for cybersecurity enablers. They highlight insights into the suitability of different wireless technologies for smart farming and tractor scenarios and identify potential paths for future research.

Specifics of modern security requirements for software of electronic machine control systems

The required level of safety of machines and mechanisms is achieved through the use of appropriate safety management systems for industrial equipment, including programmable electronic ones. Such systems usually include a variety of security devices for managing industrial equipment settings. Since electronic control systems are currently considered the most promising control systems in this area, the study of the security parameters of their application support determines the relevance of this study. This study analyses the main requirements of IEC 61508 and IEC 62061 standards for compliance with modern safety requirements of embedded and applied software for electronic control systems of machines and mechanisms. This study proposes an algorithm for step-by-step implementation of software for electronic machine control systems in accordance with basic security standards for both built-in and application software. Testing has been determined as the main method of verification of application software. Based on the results of the analysis, it was found that the specification of security requirements, both built-in and application software, should highlight the necessary characteristics of each subsystem, providing information that allows choosing the equipment that meets existing security requirements. Relevant recommendations are given on the specifics of practical application of these standards.