Operational Equipment Criteria

Ute and Trailer setup for spraying

Courtesy: Google Images

When selecting an ideal setup for a mobile spray drone operation, especially for a robust 50kg+ payload agricultural drone, careful consideration of equipment storage (RTK equipment and tripod, batteries, genie etc), transport, and operational functionality is crucial. Functionality with extreme emphasis on operational efficiency is paramount. The setup should include a ute with a purpose-built trailer, or 4×4 truck engineered for the rugged demands of off-road or agricultural environments, to ensure smooth transportation and ease of use in diverse field conditions. Alternatively, for broadacre operations either 4×4 truck or custom-built single trailer for UAV and chemical mixing operations.

Key criteria for this setup include capacity for safely securing and transporting the following essential components:

  1. Drone and Payload: The trailer/ pan must support the secure transport of a high-capacity agricultural drone with a 50kg+ payload. This requires dedicated mounts or compartments to avoid movement or damage during transit.
  1. Power and Charging Solutions: A generator (genie) with the capacity (7Ka or greater) to reliably support multiple battery charges, high-capacity battery chargers, and storage for spare batteries are essential. The power system should be optimised to minimise downtime in the field by enabling efficient recharging cycles.
  1. RTK Setup: For precision applications, an RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning setup is crucial to enhance GPS accuracy. This may include a base station that needs to be easy to set up and tear down (mounted at high points on mobile equipment setup – trailer / truck), ideally with weather-resistant storage.
  1. Chemical Mixing and Storage: A 100L mixing tank for chemicals should be integrated with safety in mind, equipped with spill protection and easy accessibility for mixing and transferring chemicals to the drone
  1. Water Storage and Delivery: A 1000L IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) water tank for water supply is vital, along with a reliable pump to transfer water efficiently. This should be securely mounted and ideally balanced to maintain ute/trailer stability.
  1. Additional Equipment Storage: The setup should include secure, accessible compartments for other essential items such as hoses, connectors, protective gear, and tools, equipment peripherals enabling quick deployment and efficient workflow in the field.

Overall, this all-inclusive mobile setup should emphasise durability, ease of setup, and operational efficiency to support the intensive demands of drone-based agricultural spraying, ensuring a safe, effective, and adaptable solution for various field conditions.