Abstract: A variable flow spray nozzle system for delivering a plurality of crop inputs over an agricultural field using a spray boom having a plurality of release zones. Each release zone on the boom is has multiple nozzle modules, and each nozzle module is individually controlled and capable of variable flow. A control system in communication with each nozzle module and a positioning system, such as a GPS system, controls the application of multiple crop inputs so that the crop inputs are applied at a variable prescriptive rate. Thus, it is possible to vary the flow of crop inputs along the length of the boom as well as in a direction substantially transverse to the direction of the boom.

Abstract: A method of optimizing the delivery of water to cultivated fields by means of a pivoting irrigation gun mounted on a moving carriage, the method consisting, for irrigating a field of length (L) and of width equal to twice the throw (P) of the gun: in subdividing the irrigation zone into three successive zones, namely: a start-of-irrigation zone (ZD), an intermediate zone (ZI), and an end-of-irrigation zone (ZF); and in irrigating the start-of-irrigation zone (ZD) and/or the end-of-irrigation zone (ZF) by performing at least one alternation of a pause during which the carriage is stationary and a displacement of the carriage at a predetermined speed over a distance corresponding to one throw of the gun, so as to optimize the delivery of water relative to the delivery supplied in the intermediate zone, by limiting the water deficits (d1, d2) at the beginning and at the end of irrigation.

Abstract: An irrigation system that controls the amount of water to be applied based upon specific historical meteorological data including relative humidity, evapotranspiration data, and precipitation. The invention is also of a method for determining the optimal time of day to measure actual relative humidity, and for setting the relative humidity set-point.

Abstract: A system for optimizing the operation of a plurality of irrigation systems includes at least one control computer, a storage device coupled to the control computer for storing data, a plurality of irrigation device controllers remotely coupled to each of the control computers, and a grid power monitor coupled to the computers for providing power grid demand and usage data. The system may also include GPS and GIS receivers to determine remotely position and soil condition and/or a plurality of sensors located in each of the irrigated fields which transmit soil information directly to the control computers. The control computers each in turn generate priorities of operation for the irrigation systems based on the soil condition information and most economical load operating periods from the electrical power utility.