Parametric optimization of solar powered remote-controlled sprayer using RSM and TAGUCHI method

Green energy-based appliances, gadgets and machines are taking over conventional counterparts in many of the sectors and agriculture is no different. Lighter farm operations such as spraying, weeding and fertilizer broadcasting can be carried out using agricultural machines powered by solar PV system. In this context, a solar powered remote-controlled sprayer was developed and was evaluated for its performance under laboratory conditions. The laboratory evaluation of SPRC sprayer was carried out according to BIS code IS: 11429 -1985. Chilli plants were raised in pots and all six nozzles were used for spraying the liquid so as to determine the droplet size and droplet density. Spray droplets were collected on glossy photographic papers fixed over the plant leaves. Deposit Scan software was used to measure droplet size and droplet density of spray. Height of spray was adjusted using adjustable stands while operating pressure was varied using pressure control valve. Three types of nozzles namely hollow cone, solid cone and flat fan nozzle were selected for evaluation. Influence of selected independent variables viz., height of spray, operating pressure and type of nozzle on performance parameters such as droplet size and droplet density were studied using optimal design in RSM. The droplet size varied between 165.80 and 236.40 μm whereas droplet density varied from 28.40 to 93.30 Nos cm^-2 for different combinations of selected influencing variables. Taguchi method was used to optimize the operating parameters and the optimum combination of variables was found to be 40 cm height of spray, 5 kg cm^-2 operating pressure with hollow cone nozzle performing the best.