Analysis of Basic Characteristics of Chemical Spraying Using UAV Airflow

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a system for spot spraying of chemicals suitable for the characteristics and growth conditions of crops by controlling the spray coverage through the effective use of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) downwash. To realize spot spraying, it is necessary to analyze the characteristics and distribution of airflow and the behavior of droplets, but there are limitations to analyses by field experiments. Therefore, we constructed a spraying simulation system in addition to an experimental system using equipment that can visualize actual spraying conditions. The simulation system makes it possible to analyze airflow and droplet behavior, including the dynamic behavior of UAVs. The simulation model was verified by comparing the simulation and experimental results when the position and direction of the spray nozzle were changed. As a result of the comparisons, we confirmed that similar results were obtained with respect to the spray area and characteristics. In addition, we confirmed that detailed analysis of airflow and droplet behavior in simulations can be conducted to analyze experimental results without the need for expensive measurement equipment.