Location: Application Technology Research
Project Number: 5082-21620-001-026-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 1, 2024
End Date: Aug 31, 2025
Objective:
1. Improving intelligent variable-rate spray system for greenhouse crop applications with modified laser sensor algorithms
2. Investigate hyperspectral sensing technology with AI models for early detection of plant diseases in greenhouses to improve pest management programs.
Approach:
Based on an experimental greenhouse spray system developed previously, a modified variable-rate horizontal-boom spray control system, for greenhouse crops, will be developed. The new system will integrate a new laser scanning sensor with a combination of an embedded computer, a modified algorithm, a digital flow controller, a travel speed sensor, a waterproof circuit control box, and a horizontal spray boom containing PWM-controlled nozzles. A modified algorithm will be designed for the new laser sensor to improve plant detection accuracy and increase nozzle actuation speeds. Tests will be conducted to validate the spray system accuracy to detect plants and spray the body of plants but not empty space. Various-sized container-grown greenhouse plants such as poinsettia at different growth stages will be chosen for the tests. The plants will be placed in four different independent patterns to form eight blocks to trigger single and groups of nozzles to discharge variable-rate outputs.
