SharpShooter
®
with Rate Sync
®
- Turf Sprayer Edition
©2003, 2011, 2015 Capstan Ag Systems, Inc., All Rights Reserved | Version:
P-3.0
| 6/9/2016
9.0 - Troubleshooting
61
SharpShooter with Rate Sync Performance Optimization:
Timing and speed of control helps reduce issues with dead stop spraying, boom section changes and dramatic
speed changes, that can affect application quality.
There are generally 3 parameters that are effective in tuning the SSRS Display control relative to a rate controller. All
three are accessible via the MENU toggle:
1.
Run/Hold Parameter: This value was to allow the rate controller to stabilize before the SSRS Display would begin
to control pressure. This delay (Hold) period prevented instability as the rate controller and SSRS Display worked
to control rate and pressure, respectively.
2.
System Gain: The value affects the response time of SSRS Display to changes in pressure. The system gain
change two values (P gain and I gain) proportionally. The higher the number the quicker the response. Again any
change to this value should be tested to avoid rate instability.
3.
P gain: This value is addressed after the System Gain is optimized.
General Spray Operation Strategies:
Spray performance is more consistent the less the flow control valve has to move in response to a change.
1.
If the “Entry Speed” of a spray pass can be kept the same an the “Exit Speed” of the previous pass, the flow control
valve does not need to move. Result: Less under or over application.
2.
Smaller areas are more challenging than larger areas. So to minimize flow control changes, it is best to spray
greens and tees at a constant speed around of 3-4 MPH.
3.
The SSRS Display provides the option to turn the BOOST OFF if the operating duty cycle does not exceed 100%.
This may be desirable when spraying greens or tees.
4.
Boom section changes work the flow control valve. The largest challenge is going from a full boom to one nozzle
spraying and vis versa. To the experienced operator he may be able to manage these large swings in the number
of sections spraying.
5.
Dramatic speed changes work the flow control valve. Smooth speed changes are best to eliminate under or over
applications. The Rate Sync feature of the SharpShooter with Rate Sync system allows more aggressive speed
changes.
a.
The default value is 3 seconds.
b.
Decreasing that time allows the SharpShooter with Rate Sync to start controlling the pressure sooner;
c.
In most cases this value can be dropped to either 0 or 1 second.
d.
The new setting should be tested to make sure it does not cause the rate controller to become unstable.
a.
Determine a comfortable “Turning Speed” as you target exit and entry speed between passes. Typically this
is 5-6 MPH. Fairway speeds can be as high a 7-12 MPH. So the strategy is to slow down to the comfortable
turning speed as you exit a pass and maintain that turning speed as you start the next pass.
