ADAPT™ Drone Spray Boat Drives Precision Aquatic Management
Apr 2023In its first year, the UPL ADAPT™ (Aquatic Delivery Autonomous Precision Technology) drone spray boat has created quite a buzz. This new technology is a versatile, easy-to-use pesticide delivery method that significantly reduces the chemical exposure potential to the aquatic applicator.
“The ADAPT drone boat allows operators to be more efficient with their time and make precise spray applications to areas where they are needed,” says Jeremy Slade, Business Lead, Aquatics, UPL Environmental Solutions. “In its first year on the market, the ADAPT drone boat has enabled applicators to be more profitable by offering precision mapping and more efficient operations in controlling problematic aquatic weeds and algae.”
The ADAPT drone boat can be operated manually or autonomously. In autonomous mode, the operator creates a predefined track that is stored in the boat’s memory, allowing the boat to run the track automatically when directed by the applicator. An enhanced feature of autonomous mode allows the applicator to set specific waypoints for precise spray applications, reducing the potential of exposure to the aquatic applicator.
The 72-inch-long boat can reach a top speed of 7 mph, with a run time of 4 hours within a 1-mile distance. With a 16-gallon spray tank and on/off feature, the boat can apply herbicides and algaecides to various species quickly and efficiently.
The boat is also equipped with several safety features, including a real-time video camera mounted on the bow which transmits a video feed to the applicator on the hand-held controller. Redundant GPS receivers, inertia meters and compasses significantly reduce the possibility of a “fail to run” situation. If there is a low battery or signal loss, the boat will automatically return to the original launch point.
“To manage our aquatic resources in the most sustainable way, UPL Environmental Solutions is focused on developing new technology that enhances precision application,” Slade adds.
The ADAPT drone boat was featured at several industry events in the past year and has received outstanding response from customers. With several custom options, applicators can create their ideal application platform, and each drone boat includes free training with UPL sales and technical service representatives.
To learn more about the ADAPT drone boat, talk to your UPL aquatics representative:
Dr. Justin Nawrocki, UPL Product Development and Technical Service Manager
Jacob Meganck, UPL Midwest Territory Sales Manager
Dean Jones, UPL Southeast Territory Sales Manager
Samantha Sardes, UPL East Coast Territory Sales Manager