This summer, we have the opportunity to evaluate a new spray control system that shows real promise for orchard and vineyard applications. Developed through partnership, with Inovel supplying the hardware and FarmUnited developing the software, the Cleverspray control system offers several unique features specifically designed for air-blast sprayers—a segment many of the larger rate control manufacturers have historically been less focused on.

I was first introduced to the Cleverspray system at the EIMA exhibition in Bologna, Italy, last year. Several aspects of the system immediately stood out.

The first was its method of rate control. Rather than using flow throttling, Cleverspray employs direct pressure compensation. Flow throttling is a cost-effective solution when paired with centrifugal pumps, but with positive displacement pumps it still requires a bypass pressure regulator and often struggles to respond accurately to sudden changes in application rate. Cleverspray, on the other hand, was clearly engineered around the positive displacement pumps commonly used in orchard and vineyard sprayers, resulting in more responsive and accurate control.

The hardware is also remarkably easy to adapt. Whether integrating it into new sprayer designs or retrofitting an existing machine, installation is straightforward. I was also impressed by the robustness of the components. For example, the flow meter uses wireless pulse detection instead of traditional paddlewheel sensors, eliminating a common failure point where deposits can cause plugging and inaccurate flow readings.

Another feature that immediately appealed to me is the absence of a dedicated in-cab display. Instead, the entire operator interface runs via Bluetooth on a smartphone or tablet. This makes it easy to move the sprayer between tractors without the expense or hassle of installing additional display hardware.

While the hardware checked all the boxes from an installation and operator standpoint, it was the software that really impressed me. FarmUnited has developed an intuitive platform that continuously uploads operational data to the cloud, providing field managers with real-time access to detailed application records. This information enables better decision-making, improves accountability, and ultimately helps reduce operating costs.

A feature that stood out in particular is the real-time positioning overlay. GPS guidance itself isn’t unique, but Cleverspray takes advantage of the smartphone or tablet’s built-in positioning capabilities rather than relying on dedicated GPS hardware. That significantly reduces system cost while still providing valuable mapping functionality.

The online interface is clean and easy to navigate, and the reporting tools detail insights into every application. Managers can see exactly where material was applied, identify if an operator ran out of product halfway through a row, detect missed rows, and determine when spray booms were activated too early or too late at row ends. That level of visibility makes it much easier to ensure complete crop coverage while minimizing waste and costly application errors.

The mobile app is equally straightforward to use. Available through Google Play, it provides complete control of the system—from adjusting spray pressure to operating the spray valves—all from a smartphone or tablet. This again simplifies the system while eliminating the cost of a dedicated in-cab display.

For this evaluation, we’ve been supplied with a Lipco two-row recycling sprayer. We installed the Cleverspray hardware without removing any of the original equipment, allowing the sprayer to be returned to its original configuration if required. Installation was uncomplicated, and the entire system was fitted in just a few hours.

Setup and calibration were equally straightforward. With responsive support from the Cleverspray team we were able to quickly fine-tuned the system inputs to have the sprayer calibrated and ready to return to the customer in good time.

Overall, we’re excited to see how Cleverspray performs under real-world operating conditions. To my knowledge, there is currently no other system that combines this level of functionality, reporting capability, and ease of installation at such an affordable price point.

If you’d like to learn more about the Cleverspray system, you can watch the video below. If you have questions about our field evaluation or would like to discuss the system further, feel free to contact me at dennis@munckhof.com.