Rometron WEED-IT Quadro User manual

Version: 2.0 - March 2020
WEED-IT Quadro User Manual

© Copyright Rometron B.V. 2020
This manual was created by Rometron BV in The Netherlands and is subject to copyright. No
part of this publication may be multiplied, reproduced, stored and/or published, in any way
whatsoever, without the prior written consent of the publisher. For further information
please refer to:
Rometron B.V.
Hoge Wesselink 8
7221 CJ Steenderen
[phone]
www.weed-it.com
Patented and patents pending
All rights reserved
Disclaimer
Although all information in this manual was carefully checked and is believed to be correct, such cannot be
guaranteed. Rometron B.V. cannot be held responsible for any damage, direct or indirect, resulting from the use
or misuse of the information in this manual, or the instructions described herein. This is also true if Rometron
was aware of the possibility of such a damage. Your statutory rights are not affected.
Without prejudice.
Original instructions
Subject to change without prior notice. This User Manual WEED-IT Quadro, version 2.0, was last updated March
2020.
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Table of contents
1. About this manual 5
1.1 Conventions 5
1.2 Icons 5
2. About WEED-IT 7
2.1 Operating principle 7
2.2 Important safety information 8
2.2.1 General safety information 9
2.2.2 Safety and use of the WEED-IT 9
2.2.3 General safety instructions & how to avoid accidents 9
2.2.4 Safety - electrical installation 11
2.2.5 Crop Protection Solutions 12
2.3 Intended use 12
2.4 Switching ON/OFF 13
2.5 Forced shutdown 14
2.6 Before each use 15
3. Identification of parts 17
3.1 System overview 17
3.2 Control unit 18
3.2.1 On/Off switch 19
3.2.2 Display 20
3.2.3 Function keys 22
3.2.4 Navigation keys 23
4. Using WEED-IT 25
4.1 Main menu and Service mode 26
4.2 Pressure check 26
4.3 Sensors check 27
4.4 Cleaning nozzles 28
4.5 Reading job productivity 28
4.6 Changing the PWM mode 29
4.7 Setting the nozzle type 29
4.8 Changing application rate 30
4.9 Changing the margin during spraying 31
4.10 Changing sensitivity 31
4.11 Machine on hold 32
5. General maintenance 33
5.1 Sensor maintenance 34
5.2 Nozzle maintenance 34
6. Cleaning, Storage and Transport 35
7. Control unit - reference 37
7.1 Main menu 37
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7.1.1 Main menu options 37
7.1.2 Preset menu options 39
7.2 Service mode 40
7.2.1 Information menu (100) 40
7.2.2 Warnings menu (101) 42
7.2.3 Nozzle cleaning menu (102) 43
7.2.4 Job menu (103) 44
7.2.5 PWM mode/Nozzle selection menu (104) 45
7.3 User settings menu 48
7.3.1 Configuration (150) 49
7.3.2 Units (151) 49
7.3.3 Options (152) 49
7.3.4 Set time/date (153) 50
8. Troubleshooting 51
8.1 Messages 51
8.2 Warnings and errors overview 52
9. Specifications 63
10. Menu options overview 65
10.1 Service mode 65
10.2 User Settings 67
11. WEED-ITsoftware information 69
12. Calibration settings form 71
12.1 General Machine Information 71
12.2 Dealer menu configuration settings 71
12.2.1 Menu 200 Console and sensor information 71
12.2.2 Menu 201 Power Supply Unit (PSU) 72
12.2.3 Menu 203 Configuration 72
12.2.4 Menu 205 Sensor settings 74
12.2.5 Menu 206 Sensor Setup 75
12.2.6 Menu 214 Margin presets 76
Index 77
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1. About this manual
This manual is intended for users of the WEED-IT system. It describes how to use the WEED-
IT system and how to perform basic maintenance.
Please read this User Manual and the safety instructions carefully before you start to use the
WEED-IT system.
This manual contains:
Section 1: General information about this manual.
Section 2: General information about the WEED-IT system and important safety
information.
Section 3: Identification of parts in the system. Extensive information about the
various parts and controls of the WEED-IT system.
Section 4: General instructions for use of the WEED-IT system.
Section 5: General maintenance instructions.
Section 6: Instructions for cleaning, storage and transport.
Section 7:Control unit reference section, with a description of available menus.
Section 8: Troubleshooting information.
Section 9: Specifications.
Section 10: Menu options overview.
Section 11: Calibration settings form.
An index has been added to make finding the required information easier.
1.1 Conventions
bold type used for emphasis
monospace type for display texts
1.2 Icons
The following icons are used in this manual to point out or to clarify information related to
safety and safe use of the WEED-IT:
This sign draws attention to a WARNINGor a CAUTION.
WARNING: Personal injury may occur if you do not follow instructions.
CAUTION: Damage to equipment may occur if you do not follow instructions.
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This icon draws attention to helpful information and/or tips & tricks for
correct use of the WEED-IT system.
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2. About WEED-IT
The WEED-IT is a weed control system that recognizes and sprays weeds based on the
fluorescent properties of the chlorophyll molecules in the leaves of living plants. The WEED-IT
uses highly sensitive and accurate sensors. By spraying exactly on top of living plants only,
you will save herbicide while at the same time minimizing environmental load.
Please note that there may be variations in the actual setup of the WEED-IT
system. It is up to the dealer to configure the system in such a way that the
WEED-IT automatically senses which options are available.
Contact your dealer if you need more information.
2.1 Operating principle
A series of sensors on the WEED-IT detects where the weeds are and immediately sends a
signal to the relevant nozzle to spray the weed with herbicide.
Each sensor has 4 channels; each channel covers 25 cm or 10" (100 cm/40" per sensor).
Depending on the width of the vehicle used for the WEED-IT system, up to 36 sensors may
be used (to treat 36 meters or 120 ft in one operation).
Figure 2-1 Schematic overview of 1 mtr (40") working width per sensor, divided in four channels of 25 cm
(10") each
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A complete WEED-IT system consists of the following electronic components:
See also "System overview" on page17 for more information on individual components.
Please read all instructions before you start working with a WEED-IT system.
Refer to "Important safety information" below for an overview of safety
instructions.
Please make sure that colleagues and/or customers read all safety
instructions before they start using a WEED-IT system.
Use the Control unit for operating the system. The Control unit consists of a display and a
series of buttons in a waterproof casing:
See "Control unit" on page18 for more information on use of the Control unit.
2.2 Important safety information
Please read the safety information in this section before you start using the WEED-IT.
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Follow the safety information in this section at all times, to prevent personal injury and to
prevent damage to the WEED-IT system.
2.2.1 General safety information
Safety icons on the machine are used to mark hazardous areas. Anyone
operating the machine must be aware of these warnings and what they entail.
Warning symbols on the machine are always accompanied by a safety
warning.
Some symbols give information about specific characteristics of the machine
and are necessary for a correct operation.
Always pay attention to any warnings, advice and symbols!
Pass on all safety instructions to all other users!
Make sure that the symbols and icons are always clean and legible!
Damaged or missing symbols must be replaced immediately and are
available from your supplier.
2.2.2 Safety and use of the WEED-IT
If the machine is not used as instructed in this manual, the
manufacturer can never be held responsible for any damage resulting
from that use. Any undocumented or unauthorized use is entirely at
the user's own risk.
Documented and authorized use also implies that the operator and
safety instructions, as issued by the manufacturer, are followed strictly
and that only original WEED-IT parts are used.
The WEED-IT system may only be operated, maintained and repaired
by people with the appropriate level of knowledge about the possible
dangers. Any unauthorized changes and/or modifications to the
machine are entirely at your own risk. The manufacturer can never be
held responsible for any damage arising from such changes and/or
modifications.
All safety instructions, as well as any other commonly applicable safety
instructions and instructions with respect to labor circumstances,
traffic, etcetera, should always be followed strictly. You should also be
aware of (and follow) any instructions and/or legal limitations of the
use of certain herbicides. This may be subject to local law.
2.2.3 General safety instructions & how to avoid accidents
General safety rule
Before using the WEED-IT, check the (traffic) safety of the machine and the
vehicle. When in doubt, do not use the machine and consult your supplier.
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Pay attention to the safety instructions in this manual and to any other
general safety instructions.
Keep the machine clean to avoid the danger of fire!
Before starting and using the system, check the area carefully. Make
sure that you have clear sight at all times!
When placing or removing supports, always place them in the
prescribed position first (stability)!
Always pay attention to the maximum weight, axis load and
dimensions!
Always check (and mount if necessary) any transport items, such as
lights, safety signs, safety covers, etc.
Never leave the driver seat while driving the vehicle!
Note that the behavior of the vehicle, as well as steering and brake
characteristics, are influenced by the WEED-IT system and the
counterweights. Make sure you have sufficient steering and brake
power.
Only put the machine into service when all safety covers are in place
and in the right position.
Make sure that no people are present inside the virtual circle that the
vehicle needs to turn around.
Never fill the tank above the specified maximum!
Read and follow the safety instructions of the manual of your sprayer.
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2.2.4 Safety - electrical installation
Only use approved fuses. Fuses that are too large may cause a system
overload; this increases the possibility of a fire!
Always connect the battery in the proper order: first connect the (+)
terminal, followed by the (-) terminal. When disconnecting, do the
same in reverse order.
The (+) terminal should have a protective cover to avoid the possibility
of a short-circuit (explosion)!
Avoid sparks and open fire close to the battery.
Make sure that no cables are trapped when working on the machine.
Damage to the cables may cause a short-circuit; this increases the
chance of a fire.
The charging capacity for the battery should be more than 100A. (If
necessary, put the vehicle in a lower gear, so that the engine generates
more revolutions per minute, to ensure that the alternator generates
more power.)
When using an extra battery on the spraying rig, place the voltage
regulating line on the battery of the rig, to ensure that the voltage drop
between the vehicle and the rig is compensated by the voltage
regulator on the alternator.
When in doubt, contact your supplier.
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2.2.5 Crop Protection Solutions
Always follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the Crop
Protection Solution!
Wear protective clothing!
Pay attention to any safety instructions and warnings!
Follow the guidelines about the application of the solution, the
amount to be used, and the cleaning instructions.
The use of certain herbicides may be subject to local law. Check for
such laws and follow them strictly.
Never open a pipe or hose that is under pressure!
Repair the machine only after it has been cleaned extensively and
always wear a protective mask.
Never fill the tank above the specified maximum level.
When handling herbicides or toxic agents, always wear protective
clothing, such as protective gloves, protective clothing and protective
glasses.
Check for a possible interaction between the herbicide and certain
sensitive parts of the machine.
Don't use any herbicides that have the tendency to stick or coagulate.
Crop protection machines may not be filled with surface water, in order
to protect humans, animals and the environment.
For storage instructions, and instructions for cleaning and transport, refer to "Cleaning,
Storage and Transport" on page35.
2.3 Intended use
The WEED-IT system is intended to be used as an add-on to a crop spraying system. Use the
WEED-IT only as described in this manual.
Only use the system for spraying liquid herbicides.
Only use parts that comply with manufacturer specifications.
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Warnings when using certain herbicides
Please note that the use of slow-effective herbicides (i.e. 20 hours or
longer) may cause damage to pump membranes, hoses, pipes and
tanks.
Do not use of any unauthorized mixture of two or more different
herbicides.
Do not use herbicides that have the tendency to stick or coagulate.
The WEED-IT is not suitable for herbicide powders that must be
dissolved in water.
When storing the WEED-IT for a longer period of time, flush the
machine with clear water. In addition, clean all hoses carefully to
prevent that the herbicide solution degrades the quality of the any
hoses when it is not in motion.
2.4 Switching ON/OFF
The On/Off switch is located at the top left of the Control unit:
To switch on the WEED-IT:
The WEED-IT system switches on automatically once it receives a sufficient voltage from the
battery. So be aware that once the master switch is put on, the WEED-IT will switch on.
1. Press and hold for 1 second. You will hear a short beep and the display
activates. After a couple of moments, the Start-up screen opens:
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2. The system performs a self-test; the Control unit connects to the Power Converter
and all connected sensors.
3. After self-test completion, the Main screen opens:
To switch off the WEED-IT:
1. Briefly press . All settings and counters are stored.
2. The screen shows the WEED-IT logo and the text Shutting down....
3. The machine switches off after a short delay.
If you accidentally press , restart the machine by pressing the F1 key
(Restart) within 2 seconds.
2.5 Forced shutdown
In the rare event of a system failure, use the On/Off switch to force a shutdown:
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1. Press for 5 seconds or longer; the system switches off.
2. Wait for 5 seconds before you switch the WEED-IT on again.
2.6 Before each use
Before use of the WEED-IT on a vehicle:
1. Fill the tank with a sufficient amount of water.
2. Switch on the WEED-IT and the pump. The Control unit shows the Main screen and
the (optional) air compressor starts.
3. Check that the pressure in the Ramsay valve is 3.0 bar (43.5 psi). Optional: Check the
pressure at the manometer. If the pressure sensor is installed properly, the pressure
indicated by the control unit is binding. The pressure on the blue manometer is
usually higher at the right pressure than 42 psi to obtain the actual 42 psi. If you need
to adjust the pressure, pull and turn the dark red knob. Push the dark red knob when
you have adjusted the pressure to a satisfactory level.
4. Check the system for leakages.
5. Press to flush the system with water and check that the pressure remains 3.0 bar
(43.5 psi) in the feeding lines.
6. Make sure that the pressure drop in the feeding lines is not too high: check the actual
pressure at the nozzle outlet, for example with the help of a nozzle tester.
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3. Identification of parts
This sections describes the parts in the WEED-IT system.
3.1 System overview
WEED-IT consists of:
a series of Sensors, each with four detection channels
a Control unit
a Power converter.
In addition, the WEED-IT needs:
a Pump (spraying system), to provide the required amount of liquid to all the nozzles
on the boom.
a Ramsay valve (supplied with the system) and a small air compressor (optional), to
maintain the pressure to all nozzles
an Air regulator (supplied with the system)
Speed sensors (supplied with the system)
Pressure sensor (supplied with the system)
Flow sensor (supplied with the system).
Figure 3-1 System overview
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The WEED-IT will work with any type of pump, as long as it provides the required amount of
liquid to feed all the nozzles along the boom. To maintain the pressure to all these nozzles,
the system needs a Ramsay valve (pressure accumulator, membrane valve) in the spray line.
It is controlled by a small air compressor. If the spraying system already has an air
compressor, this can also be used for the WEED-IT system. The Ramsay valve equals the
liquid pressure to the air pressure. To get the desired pressure, an air regulator is installed
between the air compressor and the Ramsay valve. The unused fluid flow goes back into the
tank via a return line (dump line).
Make sure that the primary valve (used to draw the liquid from the tank) and
all couplings are absolutely water tight. Even the smallest leak will cause
pressure variations or even pump failure. Leakage may also cause 'dripping'
from the nozzles, instead of spraying. For all valves and fittings use plastic,
stainless steel or chromed brass. Never use galvanized fittings, as the use of
herbicides will cause corrosion.
Figure 3-2 Flow in a standard WEED-IT installation
3.2 Control unit
Use the Control unit to control the WEED-IT system.
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Make sure that every person who has access to the Control unit is familiar
with all safety information provided in "Important safety information" on
page8.
On/Off Press the On/Off switch to turn the WEED-IT on or off.
Display
See "Display" on the next
page
At start-up, the display shows the Start-up screen. The display
shows the system status and other relevant information such
as warnings, errors, driving speed, pressure and several menu
items.
Function keys
See "Function keys" on
page22
The function of these five keys depends on the menu level. Each
key corresponds with a function displayed in the screen.
Navigation keys
See "Navigation keys" on
page23
Use the navigation keys to select a value or to move through
the items in the menu.
Menu key Use the Menu key to change the menu level, the menu within a
level, or to access a different user mode.
3.2.1 On/Off switch
The On/Off switch is located at the top left of the Control unit.
Press for 1 second to switch on the WEED-IT system
Press briefly to switch off the WEED-IT system.
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At System start-up:
1. You will hear a short beep. The Start-up screen opens.
It shows:
Control unit serial number
Firmware version number (the software inside the WEED-IT)
Firmware release date
Current date and time
3. The system does a self-test and the Control unit communicates with the Power
converter (to which all components are connected).
4. Once the self-test is completed, the Main screen opens.
3.2.2 Display
When you switch on the WEED-IT system, the Start-up screen opens. Immediately after that,
the Main screen opens:
The screen above shows a system that has 20 sensors (10 on either side, identified as
A through J).
The top of the screen shows a number of important values (subject to system
settings).
Refer to "Main menu options" on page37 for information on specific main menu options.
Please note that Main screen content depends on the number of installed
options, current settings and on the number of connected sensors.
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