Tree shape and foliage volume map guided precision orchard sprayer

Objective

Matching spray volume and direction to tree sizes and shapes can reduce chemical application, thus reducing operational costs and environmental pollution, by 30% and more. A tree-specific variable volume precision orchard sprayer, guided by foliage shape and volume map is proposed. Tree maps will be obtained by a novel 3D aerial survey method, converted from defence applications, and will be incorporated as a layer into a plant protection and orchard management GIS database. The sprayer guidance module will control spray amount and direction according to the foliage structure map. The supporting GIS database will be capable to monitor infestation, utilize plant protection management and decision support systems and to keep automatically detailed records of spray applications, from the guidance system feedback.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-5. - Key action Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

MIGAL - GALILEE TECHNOLOGY CENTER, LTD

Address

S. Industrial Zone, Rosh Pina
10200 Kiryat Shemona
Israel

Participants (6)

A.P.A.C. - NATAV LTD

Israel

Address

Paamonit St. 119
71908 Maccabim

GISHA SYSTEM LTD

Israel

Address

Eben Ezra Street 1
91071 Jerusalem

HARDI INTERNATIONAL AS

Denmark

Address

Helgeshoj All' 38
2630 Taastrup

LANDESANSTALT FUER PFLANZENBAU UND PFLANZENSCHUTZ

Germany

Address

Essenheimerstr. 144
55128 Mainz

PRAKTIJKONDERZOEK PLANT AND OMGEVING B.V.

Netherlands

Address

Lingewal, 1
6668 LAS Randwijk

THE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH ORGANISATION OF ISRAEL - THE VOLCANI CENTRE

Israel

Address

P. Box 6
50250 Bet Dagan