Performance of a Prototype Boom Sprayer for Bed-Grown Carrots Based on Canopy Deposition Optimization, Ground Losses and Spray Drift Potential Mitigation in Semi-Field Conditions

The H2020-project OPTIMA concept of smart sprayer relies on several functionalities, including variable nozzle spacing for bed-grown carrots, based an air-assisted boom sprayer. A prototype was designed and evaluated though canopy deposition, ground losses, spray drift potential. Four bed configurations, various types, angles, sizes (XR8004, combination AIUB8504/AI11004, AI8004, XR8002) at the most appropriate height, were tested compared to a broadcast application (XR11004). Deposition measurements performed carrots in bins early full-grown stages with respective target zone width 1.4 m 2.2 m. Spray potential following ISO 22401, 2015. equipped air sleeve providing different speeds (0, 4, 8 s−1). relative depositions both growth showed significant effect configuration lowest values found application. configurations consisting inclusion nozzles generated application, although not significantly different. Bed can thus improve conventional when height are adjusted stage.