With the acceleration of climate change, resource depletion, and threats to natural ecosystems, one of the major challenges faced by the industry is meeting future food demands in a sustainable manner.
HARDI is at the forefront of precision application solutions, actively working towards promoting agricultural practices through innovative solutions. Embracing the "Farm to Fork" initiative set forth by the EU, HARDI introduces the latest technologies to ensure selective and needs-based application, maximising efficiency and minimising environmental impact. The following highlights some of HARDI's newest advancements in pioneering next-generation precision application technologies.
The HARDI PulseSystem is the base for a fast-reacting nozzle on/off. The PulseSystem also deals with the challenge of under-dosing or over-dosing while doing broad-field applications. By opening and closing the nozzles, the HARDI PulseSystem can keep the nozzles open from 30-100% at the same pressure flow while ensuring the droplet size is unaffected. Therefore, the same nozzle can be used at several different driving speeds.
The CurveControl technology in the HARDI PulseSystem ensures that individual nozzles are controlled so that the spraying application is the same throughout the boom. This prevents underdosing and over-dosing on plant protection products, thereby saving farmers plant
The efficacy of spot spraying hinges on the size of the spot: smaller spots can lead to greater savings. Additionally, the precision of the application map and the rate of accurate targeting at various application speeds are crucial factors.
Application maps can be created using either an offline method with a predefined prescription map or an online approach that uses real-time sensor data, aided by AI, to detect specific targets.
GeoSelect is a precision spraying solution that leverages high-resolution spatial data to maximise spray effectiveness. Currently operational in Australia and undergoing testing in the United States, Geoselect separates sensors from sprayers, utilising cutting-edge detection technology from drones, manned aircraft, and satellites to provide real-time guidance on spraying practices.
This innovation minimises overlaps and neglected areas, reduces chemical waste by up to 90%, and achieves an accuracy rate of up to 99.7% in weed targeting. With the GeoSelect savings calculator, farmers can optimise operations for substantial cost savings while minimising environmental impact, marking a significant step forward in precision agriculture.
Anticipated to be launched soon, the new HARDI SpotSelect, co-developed by our sister company, Exxact Robotics, is poised to set new standards in precision application.
HARDI SpotSelect employs advanced onboard cameras to detect weeds on bare ground (GoB) as well as identify weeds, diseases, and pests in cultures (GoG) utilising artificial intelligence (AI). Upon capturing images in real time, the system proceeds to analyse the data, instructing the sprayer to deliver the exact dosage at the right location in milliseconds.
Fully integrated with Agrirouter, the HARDI Controllers allow for manufacturer-independent data sharing. Whether it’s an application or SpotSpray task generated in a Farm-Management-Information System (FMIS), it can be swiftly transferred to the controller via Agrirouter and launched with a mere button click. Once your task is complete, the HC9700 and HC 8700 effortlessly relay the data back to your FMIS.
In an effort to maximise efficiency and minimise environmental impact, HARDI remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of precision application in agriculture. These innovations not only meet the challenges of today but also pave the way for an environmentally responsible future in farming.