On-the-go position sensing and controller predicated contact-type weed eradicator

Abstract

This article presents a robust contact-type weed eradicator based on position sensing, digital image processing and microcontroller for weed control in row crops. The imaging system determines the weed density between the crop rows using an image analyser developed in Visual Studio Open computer vision platform for use under varying illumination levels. Graphic user interface was developed for parametric adjustments of the image analyser. The image analyser conducts image analysis after image acquisition and the data is sent via computer serial to microcontroller for pulse width modulation controlled chemical release. Solenoid valves are employed for liquid release on sponge rollers. The contact-type technique overcomes losses due to chemical drift and percolation resulting in an efficient application. The machine locomotion sensing is done through an inductive type proximity switch. The developed system was calibrated in laboratory, followed by extensive field tests. The average weeding efficiency reported was 90.30% with lowest plant damage of 5.74% and 7.91% and high yield coefficients of 26.15 g/plant and 581.74 g/plant in two selected crops of groundnut and maize plantation. The technology saved about 79.50% of herbicide marking it as a robust and eco-friendly technology.