Solid set canopy delivery system for efficient agrochemical delivery in modern architecture apple and grapevine canopies

Solid set canopy delivery systems (SSCDSs) have the potential to reduce off-target spray deposition and human exposure to pesticides used in tree-fruit and grape production. In this study, different SSCDS configurations with selective emitters were evaluated for spray deposition and coverage at different locations in canopies of a high-density apple orchard and a modified vertical shoot position trained vineyard Also, an automated operation of the conventional system was successfully implemented using a low-cost microcontroller, relay switches and wireless trans-receivers. In apple canopies, hollow-cone emitters installed in a 3-tier arrangement provided optimal spray deposition and coverage on both leaf surfaces. However, this was one of the more complex designs, needing further refinements for scale-up in large acreage orchards. In grapevines, configurations with emitters installed in a way to spray both upper and lower canopy zones had higher spray deposition and coverage compared to other configurations.