Precision Automated Weed Control Using Hyperspectral Vision Identification and Heated Oil

Abstract

A hyperspectral imaging system coupled to a micro-spray heated oil application system was developed for weed control within the seed-lines of early growth tomatoes. the hyperspectral imaging system correctly identified 95%, 94% and 99% of tomatoes, black night shade and pigweed, respectively. In an outdoor spray test, results found that approximately 96% of black nightshade and 93% of pigweed were controlled when 98% of the spray application covered the exposed leaf surfaces. Spray coverage assessments of leaf surfaces immediately after the spray application found that tomato viability was retained if 7% of the leaf surface was inadvertently sprayed, while black night shade and pigweed retained viability if 50% and 30% of their respective leaf surfaces were covered with the heated oil.