Abstract
The research aims to demonstrate the basic system elements of a prototype automated orchard sprayer, which can deliver pesticide spray selectively with respect to the characteristics of the targets. The contour of the apple tree canopy was detected by ultra sound sensors Prowave 400EP14D and appropriate electronics. Ultra sound signal was processed by a personal computer and fed in real-time to spraying nozzles which open and close in relation to the canopy structure. The current project focuses on developing the system components for spraying an individual tree. The evaluation was performed in field experiments by detecting deposits on leaves and water sensitive papers (WSP). The demonstrated concept of precise application of pesticide sprays supports a decrease in the amount of delivered spray, thereby reducing both costs and environmental pollution by plant protection products.
Highlights
Apple fruit orchards are sprayed mainly with axial fan ‘mistblower’ orchard sprayers, because the fan is effective in a wide range of orchard types and under a wide range of conditions
The large radial spray plume generated by axial fan orchard sprayers is prone to spray drift, large losses to the atmosphere and ground occur [1] and [2]
The effective working time for each nozzle was calculated as the sum of all opening times from the stored data of the valves’ open/closed status during the driving along the track, while the real-time flow rate was calculated according to the driven path and time
Summary
Apple fruit orchards are sprayed mainly with axial fan ‘mistblower’ orchard sprayers, because the fan is effective in a wide range of orchard types and under a wide range of conditions. These sprayers are simple, robust, reliable and of a comparatively low cost in terms of purchase and operation. Different shapes and sizes of tree canopies, even among the same variety in the orchard, require continual calculation of TRV and adjustment of the applied dose of pesticide to optimize the spray application efficiency [9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Strojniški vestnik – Journal of Mechanical Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
