Comprehensive performance evaluation and configuration optimization of self-propelled hard-hose traveler in plain areas

This study employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for comprehensive performance evaluation and establishes computational models for each indicator by addressing the correlation among multiple self-propelled hard-hose traveler indicators. The parameter configuration included the sprinkler model, nozzle diameter, rotation angle, and adjacent path spacing. The comprehensive evaluation system encompassed the average application depth, uniformity of water distribution ( CU value), total energy consumption, and irrigation capacity. The average application depth was positively correlated with total energy consumption and negatively correlated with the CU value and irrigation capacity. The strongest correlation was observed between the average water application rate and the irrigation capacity. Two principal components with eigenvalues of 2.046 and 1.023 were selected, accounting for a cumulative contribution rate of 76.735%. The first principal component was primarily determined by the average application depth and irrigation capacity. In contrast, the second principal component was mainly influenced by the CU value and total energy consumption. The optimal parameter configuration scheme is determined based on the comprehensive scores, ranking, and test validation as a dual-sprinkler arrangement (30PY ₂ impact sprinkler) with a nozzle diameter of 10.5 × 5.0 mm, a sprinkler rotation angle of α  = 0°, β  = 90°, γ  = 90°, and an adjacent path spacing of 1.5 R. The study provides guidance for the operation and management of self-propelled hard hose traveler in the field.