Vineyard problem diagnostic system for mobile computing devices

Abstract

A computer application for mobile devices was developed for field use by viticulturists to assist with the preliminary diagnosis of vineyard problems. Identification of the cause of vineyard problems is often time-sensitive and a rapid diagnosis is desired so that appropriate corrective actions can be quickly taken. The Vineyard Doctor^TM employs a symptom-based diagnostic approach with a series of illustrated menus that progressively guide the diagnosis through selection of the problematic part of the vine (e.g., leaves), characterizing the problem (e.g., leaf spots), and describing the symptoms (e.g., size, shape, color, location of spots). Diagnostic results are presented as an illustrated list of potential causes of the problem, ranked by probability (high, medium, low). Problem names are hyperlinked to a Problem Profile page that provides additional information to assist the diagnosis. Problem Profiles contain photos and narrative descriptions of: primary symptoms or signs, secondary or occasional symptoms or signs, patterns of occurrence, occurrence in the U.S., associated risk factors, problems with similar symptoms or signs, and additional actions to assist the diagnosis. The Vineyard Doctor database currently holds more than 150 problems associated with grape production in North America, including diseases, insects, other pests, nutritional deficiencies and toxicities, physiological disorders, weather related injuries, herbicide and chemical phytotoxicity, etc. More than 25 experts in viticulture, plant pathology, entomology and related disciplines contribute, review and edit the dynamic database for technical accuracy. The Vineyard Doctor is a featured resource of the eXtension Grape Community of Practice and can be accessed at <http://eviticulture.org> or <http://vineyarddoctor.tamu.edu>.