WO2023043306A1

WO2023043306A1 - Agriculture sprayer

Info

Publication number: WO2023043306A1
Application number: PCT/MY2022/050075
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mageswaran SUBRAMONIE; Shahmil SUHAIMI; Muhammad Hazwan AZMAN; Meor Badli Shah AHMAD RAFIE; Mohammad Ibnu Atok Illah SALEH; Ahmad Zairil ZAINAL
Original assignee: Sime Darby Plantation Intellectual Property Sdn Bhd
Priority date: 2021-09-17
Filing date: 2022-08-19
Publication date: 2023-03-23

Abstract

The present invention provides an agriculture sprayer apparatus attached to a mechanical arm (4) which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle, the apparatus includes at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1), at least two nozzles (2), at least one bracket (3), mechanical arm (4), at least one connector (5), at least one hydraulic lever spool (6), at least one tank or container (7), at least one pump and at least one hydraulic cylinder, wherein the at least one pump draws or pulls pesticides solution from the at least one tank or container (7) to create pressurised pesticides solution, whereby the least one hydraulic lever spool (6) directs and controls flow of the pressurised pesticides solution to the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) to discharge out the pressurised pesticides solution via the at least two nozzles (2).

Description

AGRICULTURE SPRAYER

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an agriculture sprayer. More particularly to a mechanised agriculture sprayer for spraying pesticides on trees, specifically immature trees.

BACKGROUND

The list of prior arts or published information in this specification should not be taken as an acknowledgement that this present invention is common general knowledge or is part of the state of the art.

In the cultivation of many crops in agriculture, whether cultivated in large plantations or small farms, pests and diseases prevent normal healthy growth and cause significant reduction of crop yield. In many oil palm growing areas, oil palm is plagued by many pests and diseases. The pests of oil palm include insects, mites, nematodes, rodents, birds, and other animals. A simple definition of a plant disease is any abnormal condition that damages a plant and reduces its productivity I yield potential and usefulness to man. Diseases of oil palm affect different parts of the plants, namely, roots, stem, fronds, inflorescence, and fresh fruit bunches (FFB). Generally, oil palm diseases can be caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasma, nematodes, and parasitic plants. The damage of pests and diseases affect the growth of seedlings in nursery. Therefore, the effective and efficient management of pests and diseases is very important to ensure healthy growth of oil palms at all stages and to maximize crop yield by achieving high oil yield per ha.

[Source: Effect of Pests and Diseases on Oil Palm Yield, December 2012, DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-9818936-9-3.50009-5]

Many pests found on oil palms are specific pests of several species of wild palms and they became adapted to Elaeis guineensis Jacq. There are at least 80 species of arthropods that are potential pests for oil palms. Most harmful insects of oil palm are Rhynchophorus palmarum, Alurnus humeralis in America, Oryctes rhinoceros in South East Asia, Oryctes Monoceros in West Africa. Rhinoceros beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros is a serious pest of oil palm in Malaysia. In areas of severe damage, as much as 15% of the leaf area can be lost, resulting in a yield decline of up to 25%. Damage by the beetles also provides entry points for red palm, Rhynchoporus ferruginous and other fungal pathogens that lad to bud rot disease. Psychid (Bagworm), Metisa plana outbreaks are a recurring problem especially in Southern Perak, Peninsular Malaysia. A moderate defoliation (10-13%) can cause a yield decline of around 30-40% over 2 years due to decrease in rate of photosynthesis. Integrated Management Practices were developed for the bag worm in Papua New Guinea which include hand collection from young palms, removal of natural host plants from the vicinity of oil palm growing areas, maintenance of good ground cover for beneficial plants, precise targeting of insecticide by trunk injection and biodiversity management.

[Source: Pest Problems of Oil Palm and Management Strategies for Sustainability, Directorate of Oil Palm Research, India]

Oil palm pests can be classified into insects, diseases and vertebrates. The main insect pests consist of leaf defoliators, bagworms and nettle caterpillars, the crown attacker, rhinoceros beetle and bunch moth. Rhinoceros beetle attacks are normally serious during the immature phase of the cron. The damaged palms have an extended immaturity period. Therefore, the initial yield can be severely reduced after a serious attack.

[Source: http://palmoilis.mpob.gov.my/publications/ OPB / opb41-ariffin.pdf]

Oryctes rhinoceroes (rhinoceros beetle) is among the longest agricultural pest in Malaysia and is known to cause serious damage on immature oil palm trees or young oil palm trees and have significant damage in the oil palm industry. Rhinoceros beetle is also a common pest in coconut palms.

A pesticide is any biological, physical or chemical substance used to control, destroy or repel a pest. Like for any other agricultural crop, oil palm yield can be severely affected by pests that compete against the palm for nutrients, infect or damage the palm. Losses due to pests and efforts to control pests are major obstacles in the cultivation of oil palm. For example, a single bagworm outbreak caused leaf defoliation of 10-year-old palms and reduced the yield to 40%-50% over the next two years. In order to overcome losses resulting from pest attacks, oil palm plantations practise Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which is a sustainable approach to managing pests. IPM is the coordinated use of pest and environmental information together with available lest control methods to prevent unacceptable levels of pest damage by the most economical means with the least possible hazard to people, property and the environment. The control tactics include cultural, biological, genetic and chemical methods. Chemical control in IPM differs from that of a conventional chemical programme in that it involves the judicious use of pesticides. Although IPM approach relies primarily on natural predators to manage pests, the use of selective herbicides remains the most economic and effective pest control method in oil palm plantations. Pesticides, being toxic must be used with care to avoid accidental contact with people who handle or are exposed to them and to the surrounding environment.

[Source: Pesticide Application in the Oil Palm Plantation, Oil Palm Bulletin 54 (May 2007) p.52.67]

The use of chemicals is strictly for reducing the pest population if it exceeds a certain threshold. Workers should wear protective clothing when diluting and spraying the chemicals. The operators should have proper knowledge on handling pesticides and the correct method to apply the chemicals. The types of chemicals, supplies and usage need to be properly recorded and the chemicals need to be stored in a safe place. All pesticides are toxic and therefore should be applied according to the instructions on their labels.

Herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals are often toxic to humans, animals and palms, and should be used sparingly and with care. Application of chemicals should always be carried out wearing full protective clothing including rubber gloves, boots, gas mask or mouth cover, safety glasses and rubber apron. The most commonly used knapsack sprayers are the so-called ‘lever-operated knapsack sprayers’. [Source: https:/ / akvopedia.org/wiki/ Sustainable_Oil_Palm_Farming_/_Storing_and_spraying_ chemicals]

Synthetic pesticides are extensively used in agriculture to control harmful pests and prevent crop yield losses or product damage. Because of high biological activity and, in certain cases, long persistence in the environment, pesticides may cause undesirable effects to human health and to the environment. Farmers are routinely exposed to high levels of pesticides, usually much greater than those of consumers. Farmers’ exposure mainly occurs during the preparation and application of the pesticide spray solutions and during the cleaning-up of spraying equipment. Farmers who mix, load, and spray pesticides can be exposed to these chemicals due to spills and splashes, direct spray contact as a result of faulty or missing protective equipment, or even drift. However, farmers can be also exposed to pesticides even when performing activities not directly related to pesticide use. Farmers who perform manual labour in areas treated with pesticides can face major exposure from direct spray, drift from neighbouring fields, or by contact with pesticide residues on the crop or soil. This kind of exposure is often underestimated. The dermal and inhalation routes of entry are typically the most common routes of farmers’ exposure to pesticides. Dermal exposure during usual pesticide handling takes place in body areas that remain uncovered by protective clothing, such as the face and the hands. Farmers’ exposure to pesticides can be reduced through less use of pesticides and through the correct use of the appropriate type of personal protective equipment in all stages of pesticide handling.

[Source: Farmers’ Exposure to Pesticides: Toxicity Types and Ways of Prevention, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606636/ ]

Air assist sprayers inject pesticides into a high-speed air stream, which helps carry the chemical to the crop to give better penetration of the crop or weed canopy. Studies show that air assist sprayers are capable of carrying spray drops deeper into the plant canopy and help deposit more pesticide on the underside of crop or weed leaves than other sprayers and may improve pest control.

[Source: Spray Equipment and Calibration, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, North Dakota State University]

Chinese Patent Application CN111587870A (see Figure 1) describes a pesticide spraying machine, comprising a vehicle body (1), the upper part of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly provided with a pesticide barrel (2), the right side of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly installed with a pesticide spraying mechanism (3), the bottom of the vehicle body (1) is provided with a bottom wheel adjusting mechanism, wherein the bottom wheel adjusting mechanism comprises a supporting plate (7), the surface of the supporting plate (7) is provided with a moving block (9), the bottom of the moving block (9) is fixedly installed with a transmission device (5), one side of the transmission device (5) is fixedly installed with a driving device (6); the other side of the transmission device (5) is in transmission connection with a bottom wheel (4), the middle part of the upper surface of the supporting plate (7) is fixedly installed with an adjusting device (8); the front surface of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly installed with a motor switch (10), the output end of the motor switch (10) is connected with the adjusting device (8); the bottom of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly connected with the supporting plate (7). This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

Chinese Utility Model CN211211109U (see Figure 2) describes a pesticide spraying machine, wherein it comprises a driving trolley and pesticide main pipe connected with the driving trolley; the driving trolley is provided with an upright post; the upright post is provided with a vertical medicine conveying pipe; the top part of the vertical medicine conveying pipe is provided with a transverse medicine conveying pipe; two sides of the driving trolley is further provided with a lower medicine conveying pipe; the end of the lower medicine conveying pipe, the transverse medicine conveying pipe, the middle part and the lower part of the vertical medicine conveying pipe are provided with a pesticide nozzle; the pesticide pipe is respectively connected with the vertical medicine conveying pipe and the lower medicine conveying pipe; the pesticide pipe is further provided with a main switch valve; two sides of the upright post is provided with a sensor for detecting plant; the sensor is electrically connected with the main switch valve. This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

Chinese Patent Application CN111657255A (see Figure 3) describes a semi-automatic pesticide spraying machine, comprising a supporting bottom plate (1), wherein one side of the upper surface of the supporting bottom plate (1) is fixedly connected with a handrail (2), the upper surface of the supporting bottom plate (1) is fixedly connected with a supporting frame (3), the upper surface of the supporting bottom plate (1) is respectively fixedly connected with a liquid storage tank (4) and a booster pump (5); one side of the booster pump (5) is respectively fixedly connected with a booster pipe (6) and a liquid inlet pipe (7), the surface of the booster pipe (6) is provided with a one-way valve; the other side of the booster pump (5) is fixedly connected with a liquid outlet pipe (8); the liquid outlet end of the liquid outlet pipe (8) is fixedly connected with a hollow pipe (9) through a sealing bearing, two ends of the hollow pipe (9) are fixedly connected with a fixing plate (10), the surface of the hollow pipe (9) is fixedly connected with a water pipe (11); the liquid outlet end of the water pipe (11) is fixedly connected with a nozzle (12), the back surface of the hollow pipe (9) is fixedly connected with an output shaft of the motor (13); the bottom of the motor (13) is fixedly connected with a supporting base (14); the surface of the output shaft of the motor (13) is fixedly connected with a transmission wheel (15), the surface of the transmission wheel (15) is in transmission connection with a transmission belt (16), and the transmission wheel (15) is in transmission connection with the transmission rod surface on the back surface of the booster pump (5) through the surface transmission belt (16). This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

Chinese Patent Application CN111587871A (see Figure 4) describes a pesticide spraying machine, comprising a vehicle body (1), the upper part of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly installed with a pesticide barrel (2), the bottom of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly installed with a bottom wheel (3), the middle part of the vehicle body (1) is provided with a spraying mechanism, wherein the spraying mechanism comprises a supporting device (4), the bottom of the supporting device (4) is fixedly installed with a guide rail (5), the bottom of the guide rail (5) is provided with a nozzle (6), the bottom of the supporting device (4) is provided with a water conveying device (8); the inner part of the guide rail (5) and the bottom of the water conveying device (8) are slidingly connected with a moving device (9), the bottom of the moving device (9) is fixedly connected with the nozzle (6); the front side of the vehicle body (1) is fixedly installed with a speed adjusting knob (7), the speed adjusting knob (7) is used for controlling the motor speed adjusting circuit. This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

Chinese Utility Model CN211430731U (see Figure 5) describes a pesticide spraying machine for pesticide spraying, comprising a spraying machine (1), wherein one side bottom of the spraying machine (1) is provided with a first mounting groove (2), the bottom surface of the first mounting groove (2) is fixedly installed with an air pump (3); the top surface of the first mounting groove (2) is fixedly installed with an electromagnetic reversing valve (25), one side of the inner top of the spraying machine (1) is provided with a second mounting groove (4), the inner part of the second mounting groove (4) is fixedly installed with a first motor (5); the output end of the first motor (5) is fixedly connected with the centre of the bottom surface of the cylinder (8); the piston rod end of the cylinder

(8) is fixedly installed with a nozzle (9), the other side of the top surface of the spraying machine (1) is fixedly installed with a water tank (10); the middle part of the inner part of the spraying machine (1) is provided with a fourth mounting groove (12), the bottom surface of the fourth mounting groove (12) is fixedly installed with a water pump (13), the water pump (13) through the water pipe (29) to connect the water tank (10) with the nozzle

(9). This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

Chinese Patent Application CN108848827A describes a plant protection fertilizer medicine spraying machine. The machine is compact in structure and convenient to operate, fold and unfold, and has high spraying efficiency, and sprays fertilizer in uniform manner, and drives a front wheel according to different requirements, and realizes four- wheel steering in rapid and reliable manner. The machine has a spraying system provided with a spraying rod pipe, a spraying rod pipe supporting rod, multiple nozzle joints and a conveying device. The conveying device is fixed on a self-propelled train body (1). A front end of a transverse placing fertilizer spraying pipe supporting rod is fixed with the spraying rod pipe supporting rod. A front end of a middle fertilizer spraying pipe supporting rod is fixed on a rear end surface of a side fertilizer spraying pipe supporting rod. The spraying rod pipe is transversely fixedly connected on an end surface of the spraying rod pipe supporting rod by a hose. The nozzle joints are arranged on the spraying rod pipe. This prior art does not describe the apparatus of the present invention.

The oil palm industry is very dependent on labour and requires many workers for its operations. Complete reliance on foreign workers is not an ultimate solution but only a temporary measure. In the face of raising labour issues such as labour costs, mechanisation and automation programmes are being ramped up by industry players to tackle the associated labour issues. The mechanisation of the oil palm sector is not considered as a luxury, but an imperative and is vital for industrial players to pursue further as the oil palm sector could be helped with more efficient use of labour and reduced dependence on foreign workers. [Source: theedgemarkets.com]

The labour shortfall is adding urgency to longstanding plans for industry mechanisation. Sime Darby Plantation (SDP), the world's biggest palm oil company by land size, is hastening development and trials to deploy light machines that will aid in field upkeep, removing harvested crops and applying fertiliser. It is also turning to remote sensing and artificial intelligence to drive precision farming, making the most efficient use of farm inputs and field workers. IOI said it has a revitalised mechanisation plan, and aims to mechanise fertilising and pesticide spraying as well as automate mill operations, while FGV Holdings plans to mechanise an extra 30,000 ha over the next three years. Malaysia on average allots one worker for every 8 ha, but the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA) wants a "quantum leap" in technology that would double the land area for each worker to 16 ha. This would reduce reliance on labour, which accounts for around 30 per cent of production costs. [Source: Malaysia's palm oil industry trying to hire local workers, 19 August 2020] The labour shortage issue faced by the domestic plantation industry is expected to reduce productivity and harvesting even further during the peak cycle season at the end of the year 2020. MPOA states that local planters have already lost up to about 25% of potential yield throughout the series of Movement Control Orders (MCOs) right to the current Recovery MCO (RMCO) in the year 2020, without the services of some 37,000 foreign workers who had been sent home during the peak of the Covid- 19 pandemic. [Source: Labour shortage heightens losses in palm oil yield, 14 September 2020]

The persistent Covid- 19 situation continues to affect the rising crude palm oil (CPO) yields of the palm oil producers in the country due to labour shortage. The labour shortage issue remains unresolved and is getting worse, resulting in production losses. To-date, there has been a freeze on the intake of foreign workers since the first movement control order which was imposed on March 18 2020. CGS-CIMB Research pointed out that SDP’s workforce in Malaysia hovers between 75% and 80% of its total requirement. Meanwhile, FGV Holdings Bhd’s workforce stands at only 75% of requirement, which is a significant decline from 90% at the end of the third quarter last year, it added. According to a pre- MCO survey by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, there was a shortage of 31,021 harvesters among its respondents, which represents 76% of the industry players. CGS-CIMB Research said it was estimated that the shortage of workers translated into a production loss of 3.4 million tonnes and 0.86 million tonnes of CPO and palm kernel, respectively. [Source: Labour shortage getting worse in palm plantations, Star, 2 June 2021]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The apparatus of present invention relates to an agriculture sprayer attached to a mechanical arm which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle, the apparatus includes at least one spraying lance or finger or claw, at least two nozzles, at least one bracket, a mechanical arm, at least one connector, at least one hydraulic lever spool, at least one tank or container, at least one pump and at least one hydraulic cylinder, wherein the at least one pump draws or pulls pesticides solution from the at least one tank or container to create pressurised pesticides solution, whereby the least one hydraulic lever spool directs and controls flow of the pressurised pesticides solution to the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw to discharge out the pressurised pesticides solution via the at least two nozzles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Above recited features of the present invention may have been referred by embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. The appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not considered limiting of its scope as the invention may perform effectively to other equally effective embodiments.

These and other features, benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following figures:

Figure 1 illustrates the invention of Chinese Patent Application CN111587870A.

Figure 2 illustrates the invention of Chinese Utility Model CN211211109U.

Figure 3 illustrates the invention of Chinese Patent Application CN111657255A.

Figure 4 illustrates the invention of Chinese Patent Application CN111587871A.

Figure 5 illustrates the invention of Chinese Utility Model CN211430731U.

Figure 6 illustrates the side view of the apparatus of the present invention connected to a mechanical arm.

Figure 7 illustrates the apparatus of the present invention, attached to a mechanical arm and connected to a movable vehicle.

Figures 8 to 11 illustrates the apparatus of the present invention in the estates.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

While the present invention is described herein by way of example using illustrative drawings and embodiments, it should be understood that the detailed description are not intended to limit the invention to embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed but in contrary the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention.

The present invention is described herein by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the features through the description. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to embodiments set forth herein.

Therefore, embodiments are provided so that this disclosure would be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of invention to those skilled in the art. Numeric values and ranges and materials as provided in the detailed description are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and is not intended as limiting in scope. The words such as “including”, “comprising”, “having”, “containing” or “involving” and other variations is intended to be broad and cover the subject matter as described including equivalents and additional subject matter not recited such as other components or steps.

A) Background:

In the cultivation of many crops in agriculture, whether cultivated in large plantations or small farms, pests and diseases prevent normal healthy growth and cause significant reduction of crop yield. In many oil palm growing areas, oil palm is plagued by many pests and diseases. The pests of oil palm include insects, mites, nematodes, rodents, birds, and other animals which damages a plant and reduces its productivity / yield potential and usefulness to man. Therefore, the effective and efficient management of pests and diseases is very important to ensure healthy growth of oil palms at all stages and to maximize crop yield by achieving high oil yield per ha. [Source: Effect of Pests and Diseases on Oil Palm Yield, December 2012, DOI:10.1016/B978-0-9818936-9-3.50009-5]

As mentioned in the background section above, Oryctes rhinoceroes (rhinoceros beetle) is among the longest agricultural pest in Malaysia and is known to cause serious damage on immature oil palm trees or young oil palm trees and have significant damage in the oil palm industry. Rhinoceros beetle is also a common pest in coconut palms. Rhinoceros beetle attacks are normally serious during the immature phase of the crop. The damaged palms have an extended immaturity period. Therefore, the initial yield can be severely reduced after a serious attack.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has defined pesticide as any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, or controlling any pest, including vectors of human or animal disease, unwanted species of plants or animals, causing harm during or otherwise interfering with the production, processing, storage, transport, or marketing of food, agricultural commodities, wood and wood products or animal feedstuffs, or substances that may be administered to animals for the control of insects, arachnids, or other pests in or on their bodies. The term includes substances intended for use as a plant growth regulator, defoliant, desiccant, or agent for thinning fruit or preventing the premature fall of fruit. Also used as substances applied to crops either before or after harvest to protect the commodity from deterioration during storage and transport.

[Source: https:/ / web.archive.org/ web/ 20130404190746/ http:/ / www.fao.org/WAICENT/FAOI NFO/ AGRICULT/ AGP /AGPP/Pesticid/ Code /Download/ code.pdf]

A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for:

- Preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest.

- Use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant.

- Use as a nitrogen stabilizer.

[Source: https:/ / www.epa.gov/ ingredients-used-pesticide-products/basic-information- about-pesticide-ingredients]

Pest attacks (by pests such as rhinoceros beetles, apogonia beetles and bagworms) have been a major challenge at replanting and during immature stage of the oil palm trees. Most common way for spraying are via the lever-operated knapsack sprayers which are done manually by workers to spray pesticides such as lambdacyhalothrin, cypermethrin, fenvelarate, monocrotophos, chlorphrifos, bayfolan and others on immature oil palm trees to stop I reduce / prevent pest attacks. Pesticides can be obtained in either liquid or powder versions which are then mixed with water to obtain pesticides solution. The oil palm industry is labour-intensive which requires many workers for the various parts of operations in the oil palm estates. This present invention focuses on the improvement or mechanisation of pesticides spraying and application for immature oil palm trees. The conventional method of pesticides spraying and application (immature oil palm trees) is very much labour intensive (using knapsack sprayer which is essentially consists of a handheld nozzle which is supplied from a pressurised reservoir which is carried on the back of the worker like a backpack) with productivity per worker is roughly about 1-2 ha/day (8-hour period) and requires a gang worker (of about 6 to 8 workers) to cover the required coverage (ha) per day.

The present invention relates generally to an agriculture sprayer. More particularly to a mechanised agriculture sprayer that is attached to a mechanical arm (4) or movable arm or robotic arm and detachably connected to a movable vehicle for spraying pesticides for immature trees, specifically immature oil palm trees (12 to 36 months after planting) for the purpose of preventing infestation of pest and diseases such as apogonia beetles, rhinoceros beetles, bagworms and others. The present invention can be used in coastal estates as well as inland estates, hence it also provides a solution that can be used in multi terrain field conditions.

All prior arts as listed and referred to above do not specifically describe the apparatus of the present invention. Hence, there remains a need in the art to provide an agriculture sprayer per present invention for spraying pesticides solution for immature trees with benefits and objectives as further described below which cannot be found from the prior art documents, hence, the inventors believe that this invention is novel and inventive.

The prior art documents listed above does not disclose the apparatus of the present invention. Apart from that, it is also not obvious by just reading the prior art documents or information as listed above for experts in the field of interest to derive the apparatus of the present invention without much efforts, testing and/or analysis. The parameters for the present invention have been determined by the inventors based on numerous trials conducted, observations, discussions with combined expertise and experience in this field which parameters and/or combination could not be determined without much efforts, testing and/or analysis or by just reviewing prior art documents in this field. B) Objectives of the Present Invention:

According to Figures 6 to 11, the present invention provides an agriculture sprayer apparatus attached to a mechanical arm (4) which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle, the apparatus includes at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1), at least two nozzles (2), at least one bracket (3), mechanical arm (4), at least one connector (5), at least one hydraulic lever spool (6), at least one tank or container (7), at least one pump and at least one hydraulic cylinder, wherein the at least one pump draws or pulls pesticides solution from the at least one tank or container (7) to create pressurised pesticides solution, whereby the least one hydraulic lever spool (6) directs and controls flow of the pressurised pesticides solution to the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) to discharge out the pressurised pesticides solution via the at least two nozzles (2).

Managing pests and diseases are important for immature oil palm trees as pests and diseases can reduce oil palm yield and damage the FFB and also compete with the oil palm trees for nutrients, hence, it is important to find pest and disease outbreaks as early as possible (i.e. at its immature stage). Therefore, the present invention provides the means for mechanised means for spraying pesticides solution to control pest and disease outbreaks in the immature phase of the oil palm trees.

As the oil palm industry is very dependent on labour, it is crucial to contribute in solving the current issue with regards to shortage of workers in the oil palm estates as labour issues will reduce productivity and harvesting. This present invention provides a means to address the labour issue to allow the oil palm industry to operate as how it should without being heavily dependent on labour.

Herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals are often toxic to humans, animals and palms, and should be used sparingly and with care. Conventionally the spraying is done by farmers carrying backpack sprayer and fertilizers are sprayed manually, thus, it is very harmful to their health and can be dangerous. This present invention provides a safe and non-hazardous way for the workers to conduct spraying of the pesticides on immature oil palm trees. Challenges currently faced by the industry pertaining to the manual means (using knapsack sprayers) of pesticides spraying are as follows:-

» With current situation whereby the industry is facing shortage of workers, labour intensive works such as pesticides spraying has become an issue.

• Apart from that, the manual spraying requires the usage of knapsack sprayers which are carried on the backs of the workers for long time and distances, which is ergonomically unsafe and backbreaking.

• Worker’s exposure to the pesticides is also a serious matter of concern to the health of the workers.

• Manual way of spraying pesticides is laborious and requires a gang of works (usually about 6 to 8 workers) for a designated area per day in order to fulfil spraying coverage and intervals based on recommendation and requirements.

Overall, manual means of using knapsack sprayer to spray pesticides for immature oil palm trees are time consuming, labour intensive, back breaking, ergonomically unsafe and hazardous due to exposure to the pesticides.

One object of the present invention to provide a mechanised means for applying pesticides for immature trees, specifically immature oil palm trees. Although the focus of the apparatus of the present invention is to spray pesticides for immature oil palm trees, however can also be used for applying pesticides for other trees at its immature phase such as coconut trees, rubber trees, fruit trees and others and for use at nurseries as well.

The apparatus of the present invention can also be used to spray foliar fertilisers as and when necessary (spraying fertilisers directly to the leaves rather than the roots when the trees are lacking in nutrients). Apart from that, the apparatus of the present invention can also be used for spraying herbicides (limited to site specific / targeted area for spraying of herbicides and not circle spraying of herbicides).

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mechanised means for spraying pesticides to targeted areas in the oil palm estates for efficient and effective spraying of pesticides spraying.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an agriculture sprayer which is suitable for use at both coastal estates (which consist of flat and undulating terrains) or estates with flat terrains and inland estates (which consist of hilly to steep terrains with terraces).

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a safer means / method to spray pesticides on the trees as opposed to manual means which is hazardous or dangerous to the workers who are handling pesticide spraying on a day to day basis. Exposure to pesticides is hazardous and if not handled properly can sometimes cause death to humans and livings things around (i.e. animals, trees, etc.).

Another object of the present invention is to provide a pesticide sprayer which is stable and safe for use at the estates, specifically at hilly to steep terrains with terraces. This present invention also reduces the tendency towards rutted and damage paths at the estates which are usually caused by heavier machines operating at the estates. As more and more oil palm trees are being planted on hilly areas for the past years to utilise vacant areas in the plantations rather than clearing more forest lands for planting of the oil palm trees, hence it is important that the apparatus of the present invention can be also used to apply pesticides for the immature oil palm trees at estates with hilly to steep terrains with terraces as opposed to relying on the manual means to do so.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a ratio of at least (minimum) 1:6 workers using the present invention (with a tractor as the movable vehicle with a tank capacity of about 400L of pesticides solution) vs. the knapsack sprayer (manual).

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a mechanised means for spraying the pesticides solution which ultimately is able to eliminate manual means of doing so.

C) Benefits of the Present Invention:-

Based on the expertise, observation and testing by the inventors of the present invention to operate the apparatus of the present invention in the most efficient way possible based on intended results, practicality of ground conditions and cost effectiveness, the following benefits were observed:- spraying of pesticides solution on immature trees can be completed effectively and efficiently within recommended intervals as determined by each individual estates; able to work towards solving the labour shortage currently faced in the oil palm industry;

- provides a means to reduce skilled labour requirements, physical efforts and to encourage more locals to work in the industry;

- provides a means to eliminate entirely manual spraying of pesticides using knapsack sprayer;

- able to achieve consistent spraying volume and efficiency as opposed to conventional / manual means of doing so;

- the apparatus of the present invention can be used in both coastal estates or estates with flat terrains and inland estates;

- any types of mechanical arm (4) can be used with the apparatus of the present invention;

- any types of movable vehicle can be used with the apparatus of the present invention depending on individual estates’ requirements;

- the apparatus of the present invention using tractor as the movable vehicle (with a tank capacity of 400L) is able to achieve a minimum coverage of 12 ha/day to 15 ha/day per worker (for flat terrains) in comparison to manual means of using knapsack sprayer which is only able to cover between 1 to 2 ha/day per worker. The productivity is increased by at least 6 to 8 times (or more if using tank capacity bigger than 400L) using the apparatus of the present invention (with tank capacity of 400L) as opposed to conventional means of using knapsack sprayer. A bigger coverage can be achieved per ha/day/worker if a bigger movable is used and/or bigger tank capacity is used. All this can be determined and selected based on preference and needs of the user of the apparatus of the present invention;

- the driver or the operator of the present invention is able to manage the entire process alone using the apparatus of the present invention, including driving the apparatus back to a designated station to refill the tank with more pesticides for spraying. The apparatus utilises the use of worker’s energy in the most efficient manner possible, thus, enabling them to spray pesticides in the most efficient way and shortest time possible without the need to refill the knapsack sprayers many times per day in order to continue with the spraying works (for a full working day);

- the spraying of the pesticides solution is only done when the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) is right above the immature trees. The spraying is not continuous to prevent wastage of spraying pesticides solution at vacant areas in the oil palm estates.

3 to 6 seconds is enough for sufficiently spraying pesticides on each immature palms to drench the leaves with adequate amount of pesticides solution required;

- the apparatus of the present invention also is a safe as operator or driver is protected from exposure to the pesticides during spraying as the driver is 10 to 15 feet away when spraying happens as opposed to manual means of using knapsack spraying where the operator is easily exposed to hazardous pesticides solution. Apart from that, fiberglass guard or any types of guard can also be installed at the driver’s cabin or seat to further protect any and all exposure to the pesticides which are hazardous to human health;

- solves ergonomic issues as the worker is not required to carry knapsack on their backs while walking for long hours per day;

- the apparatus of the present invention is easy to move / manoeuvre in the oil palm estates - for both inland and coastal estates or estates with flat terrains; and

- easy and cheap to manufacture the apparatus of the present invention.

Any type of moveable vehicle can be used with the present invention. The movable vehicle of the present invention can be a three-wheeler or four-wheeler, preferably a four wheeler and can be selected based on ground conditions, accessibility and affordability of individual estates based on needs and preference of the user of the apparatus of the present invention, such as the mechanical buffalo, tractor, 4M crane and others. The movable vehicles are chosen based on the terrains of the oil palm estates as long the movable vehicle does not cause any damage at the travelling path and also safe and stable for us at the intended areas. Average speed of the movable is preferably in a range of between 4 km/h to 7 km/h which is enough to provide sufficient spraying to arrive at the claimed benefits and advantages of the present invention. A tractor as the moving vehicle of the apparatus of the present invention is able to carry a load of at least l,000L or more pesticides solution in the at least one tank or container (7) which is able to provide more coverage per day per worker than 12 to 15 ha. Hence, the ratio of worker using a tractor (carrying a l,000L tank) as the movable vehicle vs. the manual means of using a knapsack sprayer will be more than 1:6 workers. A tractor is suitable and preferred to be used at coastal estates rather than inland estates due to its size and capacity. A mechanical buffalo is smaller than a tractor is usually more suitable for use at inland estates and is able to carry a load of at least 200L or more of pesticides solution in the at least one tank or container (7) for spraying pesticides solutions at inland estates.

The challenge here is to access challenging I difficult terrains at inland estates and this apparatus of the present invention is efficient, easy to manoeuvre and suitable to be used at the inland estates. Usage of the apparatus of the present invention is able to eliminate completely pesticides spraying using manual means (i.e. spraying using knapsack sprayers).

D) The Present Invention:-

The present invention is an agriculture sprayer, more specifically an apparatus for spraying pesticides solution on immature trees, specifically focusing on spraying pesticides on immature oil palm trees. The apparatus of the present invention is attached to a mechanical arm (4) which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle for spraying pesticides solution. The present invention is suitable for both coastal estates (which consist of flat and undulating terrains) and inland estates (which consist of hilly to steep terrains with terraces).

The apparatus of the present invention is suitable for spraying pesticides for immature trees between 1 to 3 years old (or 12 to 36 months after planting in the fields).

Any and all types of pesticides can be used for this present invention in the form of liquid and/or soluble powders such as lambdacyhalothrin, cypermethrin, fenvelarate, monocrotophos, chlorphrifos, bayfolan and/or others based on preference and needs on the user of the present invention. Pesticides are firstly mixed with water and added into the at least one tank or container (7). Tank capacity will depend on the movable vehicle used for the present invention depending on the preference of the user. This calibrated dosage and amount of the pesticides solution required is based on requirements of each individual estates’ requirements as determined by type of pesticides used, manufacturers, recommendation by agronomists / experts and also based on the preference of the user of the apparatus of the present invention.

The apparatus of the present invention is attached to a mechanical arm (4) which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle for spraying pesticides solution, which includes the following: - at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1); at least two nozzles (2); at least one bracket (3); mechanical arm (4); at least one connector (5); at least one hydraulic lever spool (6); at least one tank or container (7); at least one pump; and at least one hydraulic cylinder.

The at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) is attached to the mechanical arm (4) via at least one connector (5) to hold the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) in a fixed and firm position to be able to withstand spraying of the pressurised pesticides solution. The at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) is operated and controlled by at least one hydraulic cylinder.

The apparatus of the present invention has at least two spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) preferably three spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) for efficient and effective spraying of the pressurised pesticides solution in the shortest time possible on each immature tree.

Preferred mode for the present invention is using the mechanical arm (4) with three spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) (connected via the connector (5)), whereby the at least one bracket (3) holds the three spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) in a fixed and firm angle for stable, effective and sufficient spraying of the pressurised pesticides solution on the immature trees.

Length of the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) is in a range of between 2 to 5 feet, depending on the size and length of the mechanical arm (4) and size I height of the movable vehicle used with the apparatus of the present invention and also based on the needs and preference of the user of the present invention.

The mechanical arm (4) can be adjusted to move the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) upwards and downwards: towards the immature trees to be as close as possible to the immature trees (based on the actual length of the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) and also height of the movable vehicle) for efficient and effective spraying of the pesticides solution and away from the immature trees when the movable vehicle moves on to the next tree for spraying.

The movement of the mechanical arm (4) is controlled by at least one hydraulic cylinder of the present invention. Any types of mechanical arm (4) can be used for the present invention depending on preference of the user of the apparatus of the present invention to be attached to the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) for spraying the pressurised pesticides solution.

Height of immature oil palm trees is usually in a range of between Im to 2.5m. The immature phase is for the first three years after planting whereby the trunk growth is about Im and overall palm growth from ground to the tip of the oil palm leaves is about 2.5m. The user of the present invention can easily calibrate the mechanical arm (4) to move according the needs of the user of the present invention based on the height of the immature trees.

The apparatus of the present invention may contain at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1). One mechanical arm (4) is sufficient for spraying of the pesticides solution from one side of the movable vehicle at a time (for each spraying cycle) - left side or right side from the apparatus of the present invention on the immature trees. The apparatus of the present invention can also be modified to contain two mechanical arms (4) for spraying to be done simultaneously on both sides if preferred by the user of the present invention.

Three spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) are sufficient for spraying pesticides on the immature trees however can be modified to include more than 3 based on the preference and needs of the user of the apparatus of the present invention.

Nozzle (2) is a key component of any spraying apparatuses. The type of nozzles (2) used and its size (diameter) would depend on what is being sprayed, for this instance nozzles (2) chosen must be suitable for spraying pressurized pesticides solution, however, nozzles (2) used for each apparatus is preferable to all be the same size and type for the best efficient spraying and optimum results. The pressure range of the nozzles (2) can be determined from the manufacturer’s specification and type of nozzles (2) are selected based on preference of the user of the present invention.

Each spraying lance or finger or claw (1) contains at least one nozzle (2) at the bottom of each spraying lance or finger or claw (1), preferably at least two nozzles (2) or more for discharging I spraying the pressurised pesticides solution on the immature trees.

At least one nozzle (2) is sufficient to contain at the bottom of the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw to discharge I spray pressurised pesticides solution to the immature trees, however it is preferred to have at least two nozzles (2) per spraying lance or finger or claw (1) for effective spraying of the pesticides solution.

Any type of nozzles (2) can be used depending on preference and needs of the user as long as it is able to withstand discharge or spraying of pressurised pesticides solution on the immature trees, such as copper cone jet nozzle, plastic cone jet, fat jet or others based on preference of the user of the present invention. The spray application rate is in a range of between 400 L/ha to 500 L/ha, preferably around 450 L/ha to achieve the required spraying efficiency. This spray application rate provides sufficient wetting of the immature trees with the pesticides solution as determined by numerous testing and trials by the inventors of the present invention. However, the spray application rate per hectare (L/ha) may vary per estate basis depending on each estate’s requirements, also on the age, height and density of the oil palm trees in the oil palm estates as determined by the user of the apparatus of the present invention. Based on this application rate, 3 to 6 seconds is enough for sufficient spraying of the pesticides solution on each immature palms to drench the leaves with adequate amount required.

The at least one hydraulic lever spool (6) in the movable vehicle functions to direct and control the flow of pesticides solution as contained in the at least one tank or container (7) to the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) before being discharged or sprayed on the immature trees via the at least two nozzles (2).

The at least one tank or container (7) is to store the pesticides solution (pesticides mixed with water). The amount pesticides solution to be stored in the at least one tank or container (7) is based on the movable vehicle’s space and loading capacity depending on the preference and needs of the user. The at least one tank or container (7) of the present invention can be in any shape as preferred by the user of the apparatus of the present invention.

For the purposes of the present invention, pesticides solution as contained in the at least tank or container (7) of volume 400L is used to demonstrate the apparatus of the present invention. When the at least one tank or container (7) is empty (after each spraying cycle), the operator will drive the movable vehicle to the designated area for refiling purposes and to begin operations all over again for at least an 8-hour working period.

One unit of hydraulic cylinder is sufficient for the apparatus of the present invention, however, it is preferably to have at least two hydraulic cylinders for the purposes of the present invention.

At least one pump is required for this present invention, preferably at least two units of high pressure pump which functions to draw or pull pesticides solution from the at least one tank or container (7) and at the same time creates pressure sufficient enough for spraying of the pressurised pesticides solution in a range of between 6 L/minute to 10 L/minute, preferably in a range of between 7 L/min to 9 L/min from the at least two nozzles (2) on the immature trees as determined by numerous testing and trials by the inventors of the present invention.

It is also recommended to have a water pump, specifically an electrical water pump for refilling of the at least one tank or container (7) with pesticides solution so that the refilling can be done as fast as possibly, preferably not more than 30 minutes each time to prevent time wastage.

The apparatus of the present invention is able to do the following: -

The spraying of the pesticides solution can be done on one side only for each spraying cycle (i.e. spraying is done on the left side only for each spraying cycle or spraying is done on the right side only for each spraying cycle); and/or

The spraying of the pesticides solution can be done on both sides simultaneously (left and right) for each spraying cycle (suitable for spraying at estates with flat terrains or at areas with evenly planted trees in the estates).

The apparatus of the present invention can also be modified further to allow for the spraying of pesticides solution on one side first and then to switch spraying of the pesticides solution to the other side to continue with the spraying and can switch again if and where necessary for each spraying cycle. This is especially suitable for spraying pesticides solution on the immature trees for inland estates where the terrain is not straight and with the trees usually arranged on one side of the terrain. This allows increase in productivity with respect to pesticides spraying.

Any type of moveable vehicle can be used for the present invention. The movable vehicle of the present invention can be a three-wheeler or four-wheeler, preferably a four wheeler and can be selected based on ground conditions, accessibility and affordability of individual estates based on needs and preference of the user of the apparatus of the present invention, such as the mechanical buffalo, tractor, 4M crane and others. The movable vehicles are chosen based on the terrains of the oil palm estates as long the movable vehicle does not cause any damage at the travelling path and also safe and stable for us at the intended areas. Average speed of the movable vehicle is preferably in a range of between 4 km/h to 7 km/h which is enough to provide sufficient and efficient spraying to arrive at the cl aimed benefits and advantages of the present invention.

Various types of tractors can be used with the apparatus of the present invention depending on needs or preference of the users. A tractor is suitable and more preferred to be used at coastal estates or estates with flat terrains rather than inland estates due to its size and capacity and also not suitable for use at the difficult terrains of the inland estates. The challenge here is to access challenging / difficult terrains at inland estates and this apparatus of the present invention is able to efficiently and easily manoeuvre at the inland estates. Mechanical buffalo is smaller than a tractor hence is more suitable to be used at the inland estates. Usage of the apparatus of the present invention is able to eliminate completely pesticides spraying using manual means (i.e. spraying using knapsack sprayers).

E) Findings and Observations of the Present Invention:-

Based on the testing, trials and observations by the inventors of the present invention: -

A tractor (as the moving vehicle) moving in an average speed range of between 4 km/h to 7 km/h with a tank or container (7) capacity of 400L is able to spray pesticides solution in a range of between 12 tol5 ha per day (for a 8-hour period) per worker as opposed to manual means of using knapsack sprayer (which is able to cover 1 to 2 ha per day per worker). This gives a minimum ratio of at least 1 worker to 6 workers.

A movable vehicle with bigger capacity (for use at estates with flat terrains) is able to cover a bigger range per day per worker (more than 12 ha per day), hence giving a ratio of at least 1 worker to more than 6 workers.

The tractor with a tank or container (7) capacity of 400 L takes about 110 to 130 minutes to fully empty the content of the tank or container (7) with spraying of each immature tree in a time range of 3 to 6 seconds. Refilling of the tank or container (7) takes about 20 to 25 minutes per round per apparatus of the present invention. Hence, the operator of the present invention performs refilling for 3 to 4 times per 8-hour working day (this means refilling takes place after spraying for an area of between 4 to 4.5 ha with the 400 L tank capacity).

12 to 15 ha per day per worker translates to about 2,000 to 2,700 immature oil palm trees for an 8-hour period based on observations of the inventors of the present invention.

The spraying of the pesticides solution is only done when the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) are right above the immature trees. The spraying is not continuous to prevent wastage of spraying pesticides solution at vacant areas in the oil palm estates. 3 to 6 seconds is enough for sufficiently spraying pesticides on each immature palms to drench the leaves with adequate amount of pesticides solution required.

The apparatus of the present invention to be calibrated on a daily basis on needs and preference of the user of the present invention. The apparatus of the present invention must be calibrated on a daily basis to ensure the right amount of pesticides solutions are discharged or sprayed on the immature trees in the duration of 3 to 6 seconds, nozzles (2) are working in good conditions and that the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) are able to move up and down smoothly for efficient operations of the apparatus of the present invention.

Operator of the apparatus of the present invention is able to operate and control the spraying I discharge of the pesticides solution when the spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) are above the immature trees by operating a switch to spray the pesticides solution. The amount of pesticides solution per tree and intervals for spraying to be based on recommendation of agronomists / experts based on conditions of the individual estates.

F) Summary:-

The present invention relates generally to an agriculture sprayer. More particularly to a mechanised agriculture sprayer which is attached to a mechanical arm (4) or movable arm or robotic arm and is detachably connected to a movable vehicle for spraying pesticides on immature trees, specifically focusing on spraying pesticides for immature oil palm trees (12 to 36 months after planting) for the purpose of preventing infestation of pest and diseases such as apogonia beetles, rhinoceros beetles, bagworms and others.

Although the present invention focuses on oil palm, however is suitable and can be used for spraying pesticides for other trees as well such as coconut, rubber, fruit trees (preferably young trees) and for use at nurseries as well for the purpose of preventing infestation of pest and diseases.

This agriculture sprayer is preferably to be used for spraying pesticides for trees but however can be also used for spraying fertilisers (foliar fertilisers) but limited to spraying fertilisers on the leaves and not the roots and also can be used for spraying herbicides (limited to site specific / targeted area for spraying of herbicides instead of circle spraying of herbicides).

Further, it can be appreciated that the parameters for the present invention are not obvious for a person skilled in the art and have been determined by the inventors based on numerous trials conducted, observations, discussions and combined expertise, which would not be able to be determined without much efforts and analysis. All prior arts as listed and referred to above do not specifically describe the agriculture sprayer of this present invention. To the best of our knowledge, the present invention is novel and inventive.

Various modifications to these embodiments as described herein are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. The description is not intended to be limited to these embodiments as shown with the accompanying drawings but is to provide the broadest scope possible as consistent with the novel and inventive features disclosed. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and appended claims.

Claims

1. An agriculture sprayer apparatus attached to a mechanical arm (4) which is detachably connected to a movable vehicle, the apparatus includes: at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1); at least two nozzles (2); at least one bracket (3); mechanical arm (4); at least one connector (5); at least one hydraulic lever spool (6); at least one tank or container (7); at least one pump; and at least one hydraulic cylinder, wherein the at least one pump draws or pulls pesticides solution from the at least one tank or container (7) to create pressurised pesticides solution, whereby the least one hydraulic lever spool (6) directs and controls flow of the pressurised pesticides solution to the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) to discharge out the pressurised pesticides solution via the at least two nozzles (2).

2. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) is attached to the mechanical arm (4) via the connector (5).

3. The apparatus according to Claims 1 and 2, wherein the apparatus consists of at least two spraying lances or fingers or claws (1).

4. The apparatus according to Claims 1 to 3, wherein movement of the mechanical arm (4) is controlled by the at least one hydraulic cylinder.

5. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1) consist of at least two nozzles (2) at the bottom or end of the at least one spraying lance or finger or claw (1).

6. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one bracket (3) holds the at least two spraying lances or fingers or claws (1) in a fixed and firm angle.

7. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the movable vehicle is a three- wheeler or four-wheeler.