Ultrasonic Sensors Reduce Chemical Usage in Agriculture Applications

The innovative "Sonic Spray" attachment from Gillison’s Variety Fabrication, Inc. (GVF), a farm equipment manufacturer, features Senix ultrasonic object detection sensors to detect orchard trees and precisely control the application of sprayed materials.

Less Spray = Cost Savings & Sustainability

Sonic Spray growers use 25% to 40% less spray material, depending on tree size and row spacing. Sprayers simply turn off the spray when no tree is detected. It also reduces unproductive trips back and forth to refill the sprayer.

“Even small growers realize a return on investment in less than two years," said Matt Gillison, developer of the Sonic Spray. "There are very few agricultural investments that offer that kind of ROI, plus an environmental benefit as well.”

Object Detection with Ultrasonic Sensors

Sonic Spray attachments use six high-speed ToughSonic® 50 ultrasonic sensors to detect trees. The spray valves are turned on or off at exactly the right time to treat the trees, but not the empty space between the trees. 

When a tree is detected by one or more sensors, a signal is sent to the system controller. The sensor’s analog output is combined with ground speed and operator input data to control spray valves. This output is also displayed on the CAN display so the operator can see what each sensor is detecting.

The operator has push-button control over which sensor and spray zones are active and the maximum distance each sensor will measure. For example, if the display indicates that the sensors are picking up trees from the next row, the maximum detection distance can be reduced so trees at a farther distance are ignored.

Simultaneous Sensor Outputs

GVF required an ultrasonic sensor that could provide simultaneous serial and digital outputs. Speedy RS-485 communications were necessary to synchronize all six sensors while the analog output provided system control and operator display data. Senix ultrasonic sensors are unique in their ability to provide multiple simultaneous serial, analog and switch outputs.

Farm-Tough Ultrasonic Sensors

Sensors installed on farm machinery must be weather-tight, rugged and durable enough to withstand regular use in the field. ToughSonic sensors easily met this requirement due to their tried-and-true design.

Read the full story and learn how Senix ultrasonics can benefit your application here.