Engineering
[wpcol_3quarter id=”” class=”” style=””]
GOAL:
Develop and optimize SSCD systems for orchard-scale use considering design challenges such as: direct injection vs. common tank pre-mixes, orchard piping hydraulics, residue management and re-capture of spray materials, and economies of scale.
Year 1 Experiments:
Activity 1: Testing the basics.  Design a basic system for use by the pest management and horticultural teams based on “proof of concept” systems
- Nozzles every 6 feet; offset by 3 feet. (Closer in denser canopies)
- Target 70 gallons/acre with a maximum of 2-3 minutes per spray.  Rate/acre will likely be achieved in a shorter time frame.
- Flush system with water and air 24 hours after application.
Activity 2: Create an engineering playground.  Test 4-6 systems for back flow, nozzle selection, pressures, etc.  Conduct numerous trials of different parts to optimize the system to solve some of the complexities of the system.
Team Members:
Washington: Qin Zhang, Manoj Karkee, Ajay Sharda
Michigan: John Wise and Ron Perry
New York: Andrew Landers
Consultants: John Nye (Trickl-eez Irrigation), Stuart Styles (Irrigation Training and Research Center at CA Polytechnic State University)
Previous Work:
1966    Lombard et al.      1st experiments for application of pesticides, nutrients, and growth regulators through “solid-set” irrigation delivery
Results: Inadequate pest control due to mechanical hydraulics available at that time
2006    Agnello & Landers    New attempt using state-of-the-art low-volume microsprinklers above the narrow trellised canopy of a high-density apple orchard.  Pesticide solutions were mixed in a tank, pumped along two small lateral pipes suspended from the top and middle trellis wires in each row, and emitted into the tree canopy.
Results: Applications were quick and efficient, providing coverage and pest control equivalent to tractor sprayers
 2010    Michigan trials    Further development of a “proof of concept” system testing various irrigation line configurations and 5 different emitters.
Results: Determination that the system will work, but needs optimization for different canopies and application of materials. 
[/wpcol_3quarter]
[wpcol_1quarter_end id=”” class=”” style=””]
Videos
- SSCDS Student Engineer Team Wins First Prize at MSU Design Day!!
- Progress from SSCDS M.E. Team
- Engineering Students Begin Working on Improved SSCDS
- SSCDS Featured in New York Fruit Quarterly
- SSCDS Featured on National Public Radio
- SSCD at MSU Clarksville Station
- Solid Set Canopy Delivery System Demonstrated in Prosser WA
- Initial design at WSU Sunrise
- “Proof of Concept”: SSCD in action
Articles
- SSCDS Student Engineer Team Wins First Prize at MSU Design Day!!
- Engineering Students Begin Working on Improved SSCDS
- SSCDS Featured in New York Fruit Quarterly
- SSCDS Featured on National Public Radio
- Year Two SSCDS Newsletter
- Year 1 Report!
- June MSU Apple Spray Coverage Trial
- Solid Set Canopy Delivery System Demonstrated in Prosser WA
- Designs for 2012
- SSCD Concept and Complexities
[/wpcol_1quarter_end]