The agricultural industry is witnessing a significant leap in precision farming technology with the introduction of the Knight Smart-Inject system. This innovative system, developed by Brian Knight, is set to revolutionize the way farmers approach spot spraying and weed control. The Smart-Inject system addresses a longstanding challenge in agricultural spraying: the time lag between the injection of chemicals into the spray line and their actual delivery through the nozzle. This delay often results in the boom passing the target area before the chemical is sprayed, making precise application difficult, especially for patch and weed spraying.
The Smart-Inject system injects neat or semi-dilute products directly at the nozzle, ensuring instant product delivery and precise dosing. This direct injection method allows for spot or patch spraying to be carried out simultaneously with blanket applications, without the risk of contaminating the entire spraying system. The system is compatible with all types of sprayers equipped with recirculation spray lines, making it versatile and widely applicable. By injecting the chemical directly into the nozzle, the Smart-Inject system avoids contamination of the spray lines, which is particularly beneficial for boom recirculation systems that return unused mixture back to the tank.
The implications of this technology are vast. Farmers can now apply chemicals with unprecedented precision, reducing waste and environmental impact. The ability to spot spray without contaminating the entire system means that different chemicals can be used in close proximity without the risk of cross-contamination. This is a game-changer for farmers who need to manage multiple types of weeds or pests in the same field. The system’s compatibility with prescription maps or on-board camera sensors further enhances its precision, allowing for automated and targeted application based on real-time data.
The Smart-Inject system’s design is straightforward yet effective. Neat or semi-dilute products are stored in their original containers or larger tanks and connected to a closed transfer system. A small pump pressurizes micro pipework that runs directly to each sprayer nozzle body, ensuring efficient and controlled injection. The system’s activation is controlled by either a prescription map or on-board camera sensors, which instruct an additional PWM solenoid on the nozzle body to open and inject the liquid between the shut-off valve and the nozzle cap. This ensures that the chemical is delivered exactly where it is needed, when it is needed.
The Knight Smart-Inject system has already garnered recognition, winning a gold medal for innovation at the recent LAMMA Show. Knight plans to offer the technology via third-party manufacturers, making it available to a wide range of manufacturers across the globe. This move will likely accelerate the adoption of the technology, benefiting farmers worldwide.
In addition to the Smart-Inject system, Knight has introduced the Contour Master, an in-house designed system for more precise boom height control and terrain following. The Contour Master uses independent distance sensors to provide boom height and levelling, as well as control of the 6G option. This system is particularly useful for maintaining consistent spray application across uneven terrain, further enhancing the precision and efficiency of agricultural spraying.
The introduction of the Knight Smart-Inject system and the Contour Master represents a significant advancement in agricultural technology. These innovations are poised to transform the way farmers approach spraying, offering unparalleled precision, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. As the technology becomes more widely available, it has the potential to revolutionize agricultural practices globally, benefiting both farmers and the environment.