Development of a prototype for mechanical distribution of natural enemies

Several versions of the prototype were produced without changes in the functioning principle,but only in some of its components, in order to improve the prototype performance and thecomponents coupling. All the improvements were evaluated by means of laboratory tests inorder to assess direction of the jet, uniformity of the flow rate, operative width and uniformityof distribution both horizontal and vertical plane.In order to assess the applicability of the centrifugal action to the natural enemies distribution,laboratory tests were carried out with the first version of the prototype. The possibility to regulate direction of the jet and flow rate of the natural enemies released in accordance to thework conditions was assessed with the subsequent models of the prototype. Also thedistribution, evaluated on a horizontal and vertical plane, seems to be suitable for applicationsin biological control programs. Furthermore, the versatility of the prototype to operate both ingreenhouse and in open field has been verified.A satisfactory flexibility of its use has been achieved with the last version of the prototype. Infact, it is applicable to a bar directly carried by an operator, to a frame or to a tool-bar appliedto a tractor or a trolley and it can operate both in greenhouse and in open field. However,others evolutions could be useful in order to make constant the flow rate of the product also during the final empting phase of the hopper.