Developing a non-contact, fault detection system for airblast-type orchard and vineyard sprayers with simplistic visual operator interface

Nozzle clogging on orchard and vineyard sprayers is a problem that often isn't addressed until the nozzle(or multiple nozzles) are inoperable to the point that an operator can visually detect the fault. By then anunknown portion of the field has been sprayed inadequately since the fault was not immediately detected.We propose a technology that continually monitors a sprayer via imaging and which will alert theoperator immediately upon detection of any fault from a single partially clogged nozzle to full blockage.In preparation for achieving this goal in Phase 2 the primary objective of this Phase 1 research is tosolidly establish the feasibility of thermal imaging as a reliable means of fault detection in orchard andvineyard sprayers. Bench and field work assessing the technology will be conducted by ApplicationInsight LLC and Michigan State University with this technology building upon the experience gained inMSU's Solid Set Canopy Delivery System project.We anticipate development of an imaging system that can precisely and efficiently detect spray faults.The commercial potential of this technology includes most spraying machines working in orchards andvineyards across the country. The technology will empower semi-skilled spray applicators to operatemore efficiently more safely and with greater efficacy.