Accurate Variable Control System for Boom Sprayer Based on Auxiliary Antidrift System

Abstract

Control accuracy significantly affects the performances of boom sprayer. In this study, we develop a precise autocontrol technology based on the vehicle speed feedback. We utilize the auxiliary antidrift system of wind-curtain type air flow and the variable spraying control system for adaptive fertilizing and online measuring of working conditions. Experimental results demonstrate that the variable spraying control system could keep the speed error less than 3%. The air flow significantly improves the penetration of spraying, decreases the fog drip, and increases the pesticide utility. Benefitting from the auxiliary air flow, the average utility of pesticide is improved from 26.76% to 37.98%. Additionally, the speed feedback control reduces the consumption of pesticide by more than 12%.