Spray deposit uniformity of a \u201cdual\u201d field sprayer assessed with a new optical device

On modern field sprayers, pesticide distribution is manually controlled by valves or, more frequently on high-level machines, by computer-controlled electro-valves. To evaluate the operative improvements obtained by using a computerized sprayer, a "dual" machine was set up. The sprayer was fitted with two separate assemblies, manually and computer-controlled, including tanks, pumps, filters, and pressure/flow control devices. The system was tested on a flat, smooth track and in the field. The distribution uniformity was checked in both favorable and severe conditions, such as working on slopes, traveling at high speeds on rough soil surfaces, or when traversing dips and humps