Simulation of a large-scale linear move irrigator using virtual reality technology

Spray irrigation is one of the effective techniques in saving water and increasing crop yield. Large-scale linear move spray irrigation systems are widely used in China. However, the traditional go-stop-go driving method causes difficulty in controlling the linear move irrigator. A new control method efficient in operation and the consumption of water, electricity, and labor is needed. Because of the difficulty in real-life examination of the designed systems, virtual reality technology was used to simulate the controlling and driving system in this study. Three-dimensional models of the irrigation system components were built at proper sizes. The three-dimensional images of the farmland as well as the mechanical models of the irrigation system were also built following the principles of ground vehicle dynamics. Application programs were developed to simulate the control system and the driving system. Through simulation an optimal control method was found, which was then used in the field test to control the large scale irrigator to move straight forward with an angle error of less than 0.06°.