Patents Issued in July 7, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160192571
    Abstract: A universal scraper for use with an opening disc, the universal scraper comprising: an elongated body having a first end and a second end, the first end being adapted to mount to an axle, and the second end being adapted to receive a scraper blade, wherein the elongated body is sized and shaped so that when the first end of the elongated body is attached to an axle and a scraper blade is mounted to the second end of the elongated body, the scraper blade is presented in scraping disposition to the opening disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Ron Hesla
  • Publication number: 20160192572
    Abstract: A double disc coulter 1 has two disc coulters 2 angled to each other to form a V shape that are rotatable on hollow axle stubs 3 by means of bearing units 18. One hollow axle stub 3 is arranged with a flange face 5 facing the coulter bar 4 at an angle to the vertical plane of the rotation axis of the hollow axle stubs. At the same time, the hollow axle stub 3 determines the angular position of the plane 13 that intersects in the rotation axis 6 and in an axis 7 vertical to the flange face 8, 9 of the coulter bar 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Martin Gebbeken, Dieter Werries, Christian Paessens, Thomas Lukas, Mark Berendsen, Christian Gotzen, Marcel Geraats, Dennis Bergerfurth
  • Publication number: 20160192573
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a counter-rotating cultivation device (1) including at least one input drive axel (2) which transfer rotational force via at least one first output axle (5) and at least one second output axle. A specific feature of the present counter-rotating cultivation device is that the second output axle's (6) direction of rotation is opposite in relation to the first output axle's (5) direction of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Rolf MATTSON
  • Publication number: 20160192574
    Abstract: An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, and a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit. The agricultural implement system also includes a valve assembly in fluid communication with the down force cylinder and the depth control cylinder. The valve assembly is configured to automatically adjust the downward force by varying fluid pressure within the down force cylinder based on fluid pressure within the depth control cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Brian T. Adams, Keith W. Wendte
  • Publication number: 20160192575
    Abstract: A ground-engaging farm implement is provided. A support frame of the farm implement has a front end portion which is adapted for being coupled to a hitch of a power unit. At least one ground-engaging tool is mounted to the support frame. A substantial portion of the weight of the farm implement is supported by at least one support wheel. A wheel support structure having the at least one support wheel rotatably movable mounted thereto is pivotally movable mounted to the support frame such that the at least one support wheel is enabled to substantially vertically move a predetermined distance with respect to the support frame. A suspension air bag or the springs of a suspension system are interposed between the support frame and the wheel support structure for controlling the vertical movement of the at least one support wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Les Hulicsko, Robert Skinner
  • Publication number: 20160192576
    Abstract: A pull-type crop engaging machine such as a rotary mower comprises a frame mounted on transversely spaced field ground wheels for movement with a hitch arm extending to a tractor and a transport assembly attached behind the frame for moving downwardly to a transport position so that in the transport position the hitch arm extends from one end of the frame generally in the transverse direction for towing the machine in the transverse direction. The transport includes a transport ground wheel which acts to raise the frame to pass underneath the crop engaging system to support the machine on the wheel, on a second wheel behind the frame and on the hitch. The movement of the hitch and the wheel is connected and started at a position of the hitch so that the machine remains balanced. A shield behind the frame includes a portion which moves with the transport wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Neil Gordon Barnett, Geoffrey U. Snider, Konstantin Kolegaev, Andreas Afting
  • Publication number: 20160192577
    Abstract: A towed agricultural tool is provided, wherein the tool comprises a trailer that can be attached to a tractor or similar vehicle, which has a structure capable of supporting a number of agricultural tools, such as a rotovator or similar tool, such that with the limited power of the tractor vehicle it is possible to work with several tools simultaneously since the trailer includes motors to power the operation of the tools. Independent agricultural tools are fitted on a secondary structure capable of folding in on itself to reduce its size to comply with traffic regulations for trailers during transport and where each agricultural tool is powered by a motor such that they can be operated independently of the rest. Hydraulic arms can raise articulated sections of the secondary structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Salvador PAREDES LORENTE
  • Publication number: 20160192578
    Abstract: In an apparatus and system (710) for treating soil, an injection apparatus (712) is operable to inject soil treatment under high pressure down into the soil. A base unit (714) is operable to deliver pressurized fluid to the injection apparatus. The injection apparatus is connected to the base unit by a conduit (713) defining a fluid passageway therebetween, with the injection apparatus being positionable remote from the base unit. The base unit includes a base unit control system (792) for controlling operation of the base unit to deliver pressurized fluid to the injection apparatus, and the injection apparatus includes an injection apparatus control system (799) in communication with the base unit control system for controlling operation of the base unit from a position remote from the base unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: James H. Cink, Kenneth S. Brown, Richard A. Warriner, Jeffrey Douglas Vannoy
  • Publication number: 20160192579
    Abstract: A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Matthew J. Wilhelmi, Kale J. Brockmann
  • Publication number: 20160192580
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a twin-row planter with tandem driven seed meters at a pair of row units at each row segment of a twin-row planter. A tandem drive system drives the seed meters in a tandem manner, which may include a single transmission assembly simultaneously rotating a pair of seed discs in the pair of seed meters at each row segment. An indexing system allows for quickly changing an amount of relative rotational or angular indexing of seed disks inside of the pair of seed meters at the pair of row units of each row segment to adjust longitudinal spacing between delivery locations of seeds from the seed disks at planted row segments of a planted twin-row. Adjustments can be made at disk hubs, between shaft segments linking the seed disks, or with multiple sets of mounting holds on the seed disks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Keith W. Wendte, Brian T. Adams
  • Publication number: 20160192581
    Abstract: An agricultural air cart assembly is provided with individually controlled product distribution lines which allows for balanced pressures and even dispersal of air through different distribution lines of different lengths running to different sections or row units of a seeder or drill. Rotatable fans are operatively connected to corresponding first and second distribution lines and are configured to generate optimized air flows in the first and second distribution lines which entrain and carry the product downstream toward corresponding row units at balances pressures. A controller is operable to adjust the pressures of the air flows outputted by the first and second fans by adjusting the position of corresponding fan shrouds over the intakes of the first and second fans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: James W. Henry
  • Publication number: 20160192582
    Abstract: A seed bounce flap for an agricultural seeder is provided for preventing bouncing of seeds in a furrow created by a furrow opener assembly with a seed channel defined by a rearwardly angled seed tube and seed boot. The seed bounce flap has a first mounting portion attached to an upper wall of the seed boot and a second flexible portion extending generally downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the seed bounce flap is angled relative to the first portion so that the second portion is more vertical than the first portion. The seed bounce flap is flexible in a fore-and-aft direction and has tapering right and left sides that converge toward each other at a lower end of the seed bounce flap to conform to the shape of the furrow. The seed bounce flap can be made of an injection molded plastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Matthew P. Hagny
  • Publication number: 20160192583
    Abstract: This novel tool invention enables thoroughly and quickly water spray cleaning a walk behind rotary lawn mower deck cavity. The deck lip is held in a canted position by a hook which, in turn, is attached at the top of a vertical deck support arm or stem. On the bottom of the arm or stem is attached a horizontal seating step or cross stroke with two prongs on the underside for anchoring the tool in the ground. In enablement and best mode employment, the tool is placed at the side of the lawn mower and the two prongs are anchored in the ground by pressing down on the horizontal seating step or cross stroke. Next the lawn mower is lifted by the deck edge or lip and is seated on the hook. The deck cavity is now exposed for spray cleaning with a water hose and nozzle attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Frederick Rudolph Kilian
  • Publication number: 20160192584
    Abstract: A mower includes a plurality of cutting heads, each cutting head having a minor cutting width, the plurality of cutting heads connected by a plurality of connectors in an array having a variable major cutting width. The mower also includes a steering system coupled with a first driven wheel and supported by one cutting head, and a second driven wheel supported by one other cutting head. The steering system is capable of steering the first driven wheel independently from the second driven wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Kyle Edward Yarberry
  • Publication number: 20160192585
    Abstract: The grass mower includes a front wheel unit having a left front wheel and a right front wheel which are mounted to a vehicle body frame, a rear wheel unit having a left rear wheel and a right rear wheel which are mounted to the vehicle body frame and a mower unit disposed between the front wheel unit and the rear wheel unit downwardly of the vehicle body frame, the mower unit including a rotary blade unit that has at least a left blade and a right blade which are disposed side by side in a vehicle body left/right direction. The rotary blade unit is configured such that a tread-on track of the left front wheel is overlapped with a rotation locus portion of the left blade from the front side to the rear side thereof and a tread-on track of the right front wheel is overlapped with a rotation locus portion of the right blade from the front side to the rear side thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Masaki Takaoka, Masato Asahara, Motosumi Shiotsuki, Hideki Aoki, Kazuaki Nogami, Akira Minoura
  • Publication number: 20160192586
    Abstract: A cutter blade for a mower is driven to rotate about a vertical axis inside a housing. The cutter blade includes a blade body, a blade portion formed in the blade body and a wind generating portion formed in the blade body on its side opposite in a width direction thereof to the side where the blade portion is formed, the wind generating portion being formed by being raised and bent from the blade body over a predetermined area from an end in a longitudinal direction thereof. At an outer end portion of the wind generating portion in the longitudinal direction of the blade body, there is formed at least one recessed portion recessed more inwards than the remaining portion of the outer end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Hironobu Nishihara, Masayuki Akita
  • Publication number: 20160192587
    Abstract: A crop residue spreader has a plurality of deflector elements arranged in a first group and a second group, a planar spreader frame element having a bottom surface to which the first and second group of deflector elements are displaceably mounted, the planar spreader frame element comprising a guide slot extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, a first cover plate that is displaceably mounted to a top surface of the planar spreader frame element; a second cover plate that is displaceably mounted to the top surface of the planar spreader frame element and whereby a relative displacement of the first and second cover plates away from each other causes a part of the guide slot to be uncovered and a third cover plate is configured to cover, at least partly, the uncovered part of the guide slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Stefaan Ballegeer, Stefaan Desmet
  • Publication number: 20160192588
    Abstract: An operating assemblage to harvest agricultural crops at a peak of ripeness comprising a mobility component configured to navigate through an agricultural field; at least one vacuum motor calibrated to generate necessary and sufficient suction to successfully harvest a harvestable ripe unit of a crop such as a fruit, berry, nut, or vegetable using a collection hose ending in a collection nozzle of a size appropriate to the crop; the collection nozzle housing an array of sensors; and a collection and storage receptacle for harvested produce. The assemblage is configured by an operator inputting parameters to calibrate the array of sensors to trigger the vacuum motor to apply sufficient suction to harvest agricultural produce at a specified degree of ripeness. Components of the operating assemblage are connected to a power source responsive to real time communication via an electronic device equipped with at least one Wi-Fi chip set or Bluetooth capability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Stanley Benjamin Smith
  • Publication number: 20160192589
    Abstract: A harvesting system for collecting crop grain crop residue in a single pass with a baler towed by a combine harvester is provided. The system includes a hydraulic system that hydraulically interconnects the combine harvester with the baler, allowing the engine of the combine harvester to hydraulically power systems and components of both the combine harvester and the baler. The hydraulic system may include a combine hydraulic system and a baler hydraulic system which may be hydraulically connected through multiple interconnections for hydraulically powering different functions of the baler using hydraulic pressure that is generated at the combine harvester. A first combine-to-baler hydraulic interconnection may transfer hydraulic power from a combine primary baler drive hydraulic circuit to a baler drive hydraulic circuit. A second combine-to-baler hydraulic interconnection may transfer hydraulic power from a combine spreader hydraulic circuit to a baler conveyor and/or auxiliary hydraulic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher A. Foster, Bruce E. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20160192590
    Abstract: An unloading apparatus is arranged to direct material to a container. A controller determines a build-up speed of the material in the container; in accordance with the determined build-up speed, determine a rate of change to be applied when setting an attribute of at least one of the unloading apparatus and container; and set an attribute of at least one of the unloading apparatus and container in accordance with the determined rate of change in order to direct the material from the unloading apparatus to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Ward M.R. Byttebier, Bernard E.D. Depestel, Karel M.C. Viaene, Pieter Vanysacker
  • Publication number: 20160192591
    Abstract: A cleaning assembly for a harvester has a fan assembly with a fan and a first fan outlet and a second fan outlet, a first sieve assembly with at least one reciprocable sieve, an upstream end of the first sieve assembly near the first fan outlet such that air from the first fan outlet flows along the first sieve assembly and a direction of crop flow; and a second sieve assembly has at least one reciprocable sieve, an upstream stream end of the second sieve assembly near the second fan outlet such that the air from the second fan outlet flows along the second sieve assembly and the direction of crop flow, the second sieve assembly has a clean grain auger for receiving cleaned grain, and the first sieve assembly has a further clean grain auger arranged for receiving cleaned grain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Applicant: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Bart M. A. Missotten, Frank R.G. Duquesne, Tom N. N. Somers
  • Publication number: 20160192592
    Abstract: Agricultural baler with feeder system arranged for repeatedly feeding crop material towards a baling chamber, the feeder system includes a feeding chamber and a stuffer. The feeder system is arranged for collecting a crop material. The stuffer is arranged for repeatedly carrying out a stuffing cycle and varying an entry position and/or an exit position and/or a stroke depth. The feeder system further includes a sensor arranged for generating a signal indicative of the accumulated crop material in the feeding chamber. A controller that is arranged for triggering the stuffer to start a stuffing cycle wherein the entry position, the exit position, and/or the stroke depth, is adjusted in response to an indication by the sensor signal of the accumulated crop material in the feeding chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Robrecht M.K. Dumarey, Sandor Van Vooren, Pieter Vandevelde, Olivier Arnel Vanhercke
  • Publication number: 20160192593
    Abstract: A baler has a chamber, a plunger, wherein the plunger is connected to a plunger driving mechanism that is adapted to reciprocally move the plunger in the baling chamber, a hydraulic brake mechanism comprising a master cylinder, a brake cylinder and a lever, wherein the lever is provided to operate the master cylinder, which master cylinder is fluidly connected to the brake cylinder arranged to act on the plunger driving mechanism, wherein the hydraulic brake mechanism further comprises a spring arranged between the lever and the master cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Xavier Bonte
  • Publication number: 20160192594
    Abstract: A plant-cultivation method and system that aids automation of farms/lawns, home-farms, roof-farms, etc. The plants are held on the conveyor preferably the whole of their life. By the operation of conveyor, the plants visit the central plant processing space on a routine basis, throughout the life of the plants. As many processes as wanted are centralized including routine watering, nutrient feed, pruning, inspecting, harvesting, planting, etc. Multiple types of plants can be grown simultaneously. Enables fully automated electric-powered maintenance of lawn, lawn/garden. No more noisy gasoline lawn mowers, water hoses, sprinklers, etc. Helps make green cities by converting roofs of buildings in to lawns/farms. Homeowners can install the automated roof-farms, enjoy the harvest and sell to neighbors. Saves home energy costs. Saves on fossil fuel by reducing transport. Helps use non-fertile lands for farming. Less investment on resources, greenhouses. Helps men & machines to work at their maximum efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 1, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: ARAVINDA RAAMA MAWENDRA
  • Publication number: 20160192595
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus preferably coupled to a boom on a truck, the apparatus capable of a plurality of configurations for a variety of applications. In one configuration, the apparatus can perform rapid semi-precise cutting of vegetation. In another configuration, the apparatus can perform more precise trimming of one or more areas (e.g., limbs) and optionally use a limb clamp to prevent cut limbs/vegetation from arbitrarily falling on objects below the cutting area. In yet another configuration, the apparatus can have a grapple or similar device attached to the end of the boom for use in relocating debris or for loading debris into a removal facility such as dump or garbage truck. In each configuration, the apparatus comprises one or more rotatable or pivoting couplings to allow for rotation about one or more axis and therefore allow precise manipulation from an operator in the vehicle or on the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Steven J. Terrell
  • Publication number: 20160192596
    Abstract: A device and a method for hydrating each stem of a bunch of fresh cut flowers during transport. The device includes a liquid retaining flexible wrap substantially forming a right isosceles pentagon that is adaptable to directly contact the distal ends of each one of a plurality of stems of a bunch of flowers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Deborah Sue DEMARSE
  • Publication number: 20160192597
    Abstract: A plant light apparatus is provided. The plant light apparatus includes a main body, a planting region, and an emitting region. The main body includes a first plane and a second plane. The first plane is opposite to the second plane. The planting region is located on the first plane of the main body. The emitting region is a polygon located on the second plane of the main body. The plant light apparatus further includes a plurality of sets of main light sources, where the sets of the main light sources are respectively located on a plurality of corners of the emitting region, such that and an illuminance intensity of the planting region obtained from the main light sources is within a predefined luminance intensity interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Ming-Hao Chang
  • Publication number: 20160192598
    Abstract: A lighting device and assembly which incorporating an independently powered array of at least two types of LED lights that each give off specific wavelengths of light for growing plants. The assembly includes at least two of the lighting devices in conjunction with at least one high intensity bulb commonly used for indoor horticulture, where the assembly is adjustable for dimensional changes in the subject plants as they grow. A timing method for applying specific durations of each type of light which effectively simulate sunrise, daylight and sunset by allowing the plant to awaken naturally, absorb more light during the day and prepare for sleep at night, giving the plant more rest—all leading to more healthy plant growth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Edward Leonard Haggarty
  • Publication number: 20160192599
    Abstract: A plant cultivation apparatus of the present disclosure includes a first light source unit configured to include a first laser diode radiating a first light beam, and a first scanning mechanism scanning the first light beam and forming a first radiation region, a second light source unit configured to include a second laser diode radiating a second light beam, and a second scanning mechanism scanning the second light beam and forming a second radiation region, and a signal processor configured to control the first light source unit and the second light source unit. A wavelength of the first light beam is the same as a wavelength of the second light beam. The signal processor forms a multiple radiation region by causing the first radiation region and the second radiation region to overlap each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Masatoshi YAJIMA, Akifumi HASHIMOTO, Kenji KAWANO, Masahiro YAMAZAKI
  • Publication number: 20160192600
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for cultivating a plant is disclosed. The apparatus includes a container (102) made of a biodegradable material. The container has a top portion (104), a base portion (106), and a surface portion (108). The apparatus (100) further includes a plant-cultivating medium (110) contained in the container (102). The plant-cultivating medium (110) includes water-retaining hydrogels. The plant-cultivating medium (110) is operable to retain water and to limit release of the water. The apparatus (100) also includes a plurality of tube shaped root channels. A bottom end of a root channel (112a) is close to the base portion (106) and a top end of the root channel is further from the base portion (106). The root channel (112a) is sufficiently wide to allow growth of a root of the plant through the root channel (112a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 1, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: RAHUL BHATT, AMINE BOUBEZARI
  • Publication number: 20160192601
    Abstract: A plant cultivation device includes a case (100), a temperature control module (200), and a circulation fan (310). A cultivation room (110) is formed in the case (100). The temperature control module (200) includes a piezoelectric chip (210) and a heat exchange assembly (230). The piezoelectric chip (210) includes a first surface (211) outside the cultivation room (110) and a second surface (212) inside the cultivation room (110). The second surface (212) is opposite to the first surface (211). The heat exchange assembly (230) is attached to the second surface (212). The circulation fan (310) is attached to the heat exchange assembly (230) and includes an inlet side (311) for drawing in air and an outlet side (312) for blowing out air, and the inlet side (311) and the outlet side (312) are arranged in the cultivation room (110).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: PO-CHOU KAO, SHENG-KAI HSU
  • Publication number: 20160192602
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatus for water conservation with landscape irrigation controllers, plug-in and add-on devices, and centralized systems. In embodiments of the invention, a water budget percentage is determined by comparing current local geo-environmental data with stored local geo-environmental data, and the preliminary irrigation schedule or station run times are automatically modified based upon that water budget percentage. Embodiments of the present invention also provide for automation of mandated landscape watering restrictions alone, or in various combinations with water budgeting methods and apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: George Alexanian
  • Publication number: 20160192603
    Abstract: A disclosed plant watering system comprises a plurality of sheathed wicks configured in a self-siphoned arrangement to draw a watering fluid from a common raised reservoir to a crest thereof via a wicking or capillary action and therefrom to a plurality of watering destinations via a siphoning action initiated by the wicking action. A sheath or hose for each wick is water impermeable and covers a traverse of the wick. An end of a wick may be exposed for insertion into the reservoir and a second exposed end configured to siphon water to a respective destination. Any number of junction supports or discreet and separate sheathed wicks of 2, 4, 8 configurations may be included. The system also includes a common raised reservoir defining port holes in a side thereof, the port holes configured to secure and to direct each of the sheathed wicks outward toward a plant watering destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Robert CV Chen, Tiffany YW Chen
  • Publication number: 20160192604
    Abstract: A Growing apparatus for cleansing air and watering plant, wherein the apparatus includes a modular panel constructed for either vertical or horizontal planting systems, including connecting couplers and end caps for directing water flow from upper to lower channels. Panel consist of 5 channels per section with opposing conical top and bottom set at 45 degree angles (FIG. 9-23) for both channeling water and accepting irrigation nozzle. System can also use a horizontal channel system while the orientation is different but function is the same. Panels stack nesting consecutively on top of each other to make larger systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Mark R. Prescott
  • Publication number: 20160192605
    Abstract: A culture support substrate comprising: a first part, making up the backbone of the substrate and representing more than 70% of the total volume of the substrate, composed of particles P>100 ?m with particle size greater than 100 ?m, the particles as a whole consisting of hard particles PH>100 and/or of resilient particles PR>100, wherein the resilient particles make up a proportion by volume PV of between 0% and 100% by volume of this first part; a second part of corpuscular components P<100 with a particle size of less than 100 ?m, and making up from 0 to 450 g/l of the substrate; a third part, making up from 0 to 200 g/l of the substrate, composed of fine fibres between 3 mm and 100 mm in length and between 5 ?m and 35 ?m in diameter; and a fourth part, making up from 0 to 200 g/l of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Applicant: DENDRO CONCEPT
    Inventor: Edmond-Pierre PICARD
  • Publication number: 20160192606
    Abstract: A self-contained hydroponic plant system which can be easily packaged as a kit containing a plurality of plant seeds, at least one plant cube for holding seedlings within, a germination tray to allow the plant cubes having seeds within to germinate, a vertically collapsible reservoir for holding water and nutrients therein having an open top end and a sealed bottom end, a solar powered aerator for circulating oxygen to the water in the reservoir through a flexible hose, and a net pot supported by the top end of the reservoir having a slotted bottom wall for supporting the plant cups with germinated seedlings within, whereby the plant's roots grow and access the plant nutrients within the aerated water-filled reservoir. The kit further includes a media to support/stabilize the plant cup within the net pot, a frame assembly sized to hold the reservoir, and support hangers to suspend the frame assembly and reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas G. Karbowski
  • Publication number: 20160192607
    Abstract: In order to provide an efficient hydroponic cultivation system, the present invention provides a hydroponic cultivation system comprising: a plurality of vessels extending in a predetermined direction; a plant holding plate that holds a plant and is disposed to span across the plurality of vessels; and at least one support mechanism provided between vessels adjacent to each other among the plurality of vessels, wherein each of the plurality of vessels is configured to contain a culture solution required for the growth of the plant, and the support mechanism supports the plant holding plate above the plurality of vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Applicant: YUGENKAISHA JAPAN TSUSYO
    Inventor: Katsuyuki Kitagawa
  • Publication number: 20160192608
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for obtaining plants that exhibit useful traits by producing double haploids of plants with epigenetic modifications initiated in a parental line by suppression of MSH1. In addition, plants that exhibit the useful traits, parts of the plants including seeds, and products of the plants are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Michael E. Fromm, Sally A. Mackenzie
  • Publication number: 20160192609
    Abstract: According to the invention, there is provided a novel romaine lettuce cultivar, designated River Road. ‘River Road’ is described as a vigorous romaine cultivar recommended for the main lettuce growing regions of California and Arizona. It has light heavy head weight, with long wide leaves. This invention thus relates to the seeds of lettuce cultivar River Road, to the plants of lettuce cultivar River Road, to plant parts of lettuce cultivar River Road, to methods for producing a lettuce cultivar by crossing the lettuce cultivar River Road with another lettuce cultivar, and to methods for producing a lettuce cultivar containing in its genetic material one or more backcross conversion traits or transgenes and to the backcross conversion lettuce plants and plant parts produced by those methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Tony M. Avila, Adolfo S. Mederos
  • Publication number: 20160192610
    Abstract: A robotic attacher comprises a main arm, a supplemental arm coupled to the main arm, and a gripping portion coupled to the supplemental arm. The gripping portion comprises at least one nozzle and is operable to rotate such that during a first time, the nozzle is positioned away from the top of the gripping portion, and during a second time, the nozzle is positioned generally on the top of the gripping portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Henk Hofman, Peter Willem van der Sluis, Ype Groensma
  • Publication number: 20160192611
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a door assembly for an animal enclosure. The assembly includes a door frame having a plurality of interconnected horizontal and vertical wires that define an opening for an animal to pass therethrough. The assembly also includes a door configured to move between an open position and a close position relative to the door frame. A latch is pivotably coupled to the door and includes a mechanism that is removably coupled to the door frame. The assembly further includes a first vertical wire and a second vertical wire of the door. A first guide wire and a second guide wire are coupled to the door frame. The first vertical wire is coupled to and moves along the first guide wire between the open and close positions, and the second vertical wire is coupled to and moves along the second guide wire between the open and close positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: BRAD CANTWELL, Michael E. Greene, Stew Kerr, Terrance L. Jones, Minqiao Cong, Minfeng Cong, Maohua Cong
  • Publication number: 20160192612
    Abstract: A crowd gate control system includes a holding pen for dairy livestock, wherein the holding pen is adjacent to an entrance to a milking parlor. The system further includes a crowd gate positioned at a side of the holding pen. The crowd gate moves in relation to the entrance to the milking parlor. A controller is initiates a first mode of operation of the crowd gate prior to the crowd gate reaching the entrance to the milking parlor. The first mode of operation is a pre-forward reverse step. The crowd gate moves away from the entrance to the milking parlor prior to initiating movement towards the entrance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: James D. Siddell
  • Publication number: 20160192613
    Abstract: Improved enclosure assemblies and related methods of use are provided. Exemplary assemblies are configured to house pets, with the assemblies being easily converted to user-friendly transport-sized configurations. The assemblies are adjustable, changeable and/or portable. In general, the enclosure assembly includes a base member having a top side, front side, bottom side and a rear side, with a handle member on the top side. The handle member is configured to allow a user to move/transport the assembly when desired. Exemplary enclosure assemblies include: (i) first and second bottom panel members that are movably secured with respect to the bottom side of the base member, and (ii) first and second end members that are movably secured with respect to the first and second bottom panel members. First and second lid members are movably secured to the top side of the base member to facilitate: (i) assembled configurations, and (ii) transportable configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Applicant: MayLay, LLC
    Inventor: Jason Edward Fickes
  • Publication number: 20160192614
    Abstract: A carrier structure includes a lower platform substantially parallel to a ground surface upon which the carrier is placed and moved; a back wall connected to a back edge of the lower platform at a connection structure, the back wall and lower platform defining a first angle; a front wall connected to a front edge of the lower platform and opposing the back structure; opposing side walls connected to opposing side edges of the lower platform, the back, front and opposing side walls forming a compartment; wherein the back wall is tiltable away from the front wall to define a second, obtuse angle, between the back wall and the lower platform, such that the lower platform is configured to remain substantially parallel to the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: T. Daniel Hawk, Chao Hsi Lin
  • Publication number: 20160192615
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel multiple configuration enclosure and for pets—typically dogs. The enclosure can be configured to be an open bed, a “cuddle corner” with two panels up, a four-sided enclosure or an enclosure with a top. The carrier is outfitted with four support rails and mesh insert panels to create the sides or walls of the carrier. The soft panels have mesh inserts so that the dog may be able to receive sufficient airflow and see outside of the carrier. The molded base is indented to receive a removable padded bed which may then be easily removed for cleaning. The panels break down and are stored in a pull-out drawer in the base, and wheels are attached thereto for easy portability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Parness
  • Publication number: 20160192616
    Abstract: The embodiments herein provide a modular dog house having a kennel/living area and a dog run. The kennel comprises four side walls, a base, a porch and a roof. The kennel kept is kept at an elevated level from the ground level. The dog run attached to the front side of kennel is extended underneath the kennel thereby increasing the area of the dog run. The kennel includes a large personal access door for providing full access to interior area and a vinyl flap door for providing access to the porch and the dog run for the dog. A ramp having cleats is attached to the porch for providing footing to climb up and down the kennel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Mark Rusty Kitchen
  • Publication number: 20160192617
    Abstract: A Dual Cover System for pet bed mattresses comprised of a water proof and vapor proof inner covering and a machine washable, decorative outer covering. Both inner and outer covers have corresponding Pressure Relieving Zones that allow the animal's unique shape and weight to descend into the cushioning layers without the resistance otherwise created by the taught fabric of a form fitted cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Michael E. Murphy
  • Publication number: 20160192618
    Abstract: An animal retaining livestock chute device suspends lateral retaining panels over a ground surface to prevent fouling of the device during use. The device includes a frame elongated between a first end and a second end. Each of the first end and the second end is open for livestock to pass through the frame. A first lateral panel has an upper end coupled to the frame and a bottom end free and positioned in spaced relationship to a bottom of the frame. A second lateral panel is positioned opposite the first lateral panel wherein the first lateral panel and the second lateral panel define a path through the frame between the first end and the second end. The first lateral panel is movable laterally towards the second lateral panel for engaging and restraining an animal in the path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2015
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Harvard Punt
  • Publication number: 20160192619
    Abstract: An animal food and water bowl system for effectively dispensing food and water to an animal such as a pet. The animal food and water bowl system generally includes a platform having a support member and at least one leg extending downwardly from the support member. The support member includes an upper surface and a recessed portion within the upper surface that removably receives a lower surface of bowl. A first connector is adapted for removably connecting the first bowl to the upper surface of the support member in a substantially non-movable manner. At least a portion of the front upper edge of the bowl is below the rear upper edge of the bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2016
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventor: Andy H. Gibbs
  • Publication number: 20160192620
    Abstract: A system, a feeding device, and a method enable a terminal device of a pet owner to directly and/or indirectly communicate with the feeding device. The feeding device can monitor and/or feed the pet. For example, components of the feeding device, along with a sensor worn by the pet and in communication with the feeding device, can monitor the pet. A cloud database may compile and may perform an analysis of health and wellness information and food consumption data sent from the feeding device and may communicate with the terminal device of the pet owner bidirectionally. The analysis can use data from a consumer-club of pets to provide best service. The feeding device can also communicate with the terminal device of the pet owner bidirectionally, either directly using one or more wireless connections or indirectly using the cloud database.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 7, 2016
    Inventors: Bao Zhong HU, Werner Bauer, Ruguo Hu