Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Precision Spraying of Chemicals in Agronomic Operations: A Case Study of Potato Desiccation

The article is dedicated to the investigation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) application for optimizing the dispersion of chemical agents in agriculture. The research encompasses a methodology for planning flight missions with the selection of optimal parameters based on the task at hand, conducting practical experiments on potato desiccation using UAVs for the efficient distribution of active substances. The optimal parameters, such as maximum linear speed of 5 m/s, distance between adjacent straight passes of 3 m, UAV height above the ground of 3 m, and pump power of 40%, have proven their effectiveness, allowing for high-quality desiccation with minimal resource expenditure. The active substance used to prepare the working solution was Diquat desiccant with a concentration of 150 g/l. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of potato desiccation with UAVs, alongside an increase in efficiency and a reduction in chemical consumption during potato haulm treatment. The study contributes to the development of automated chemical treatment methods for agricultural lands using UAVs, showcasing their effectiveness and economic benefits. The article is beneficial for researchers in the field of agriculture and precision farming, as well as professionals interested in the application of new technologies in agrotechnical processes.