Liquid Or Gas Soil Treatment Patents (Class 111/118)
  • Publication number: 20140216311
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method and a system are provided to create a uniform layer of a substance such as a hydrogel or other fluid substance underneath the soil surface with minimal or little surface disturbance to the plants, the plant roots and the soil located on or slightly below the applied surface area. It is to be clearly understood that various different embodiments may be employed to deliver a variety of different substances to the soil, and such substances may be gels or liquids. The presently preferred fluid substance is currently a hydrogel, and the present illustrated and described embodiment may be employed to inject hydrogel into soil but other fluid substances may be injected as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: AQUA CENTS WATER MANAGEMENT, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas De Lany, Matthew James Andros, Garett John Stapp, Thomas Klippenstein
  • Publication number: 20140123885
    Abstract: An add-on tillage system is adapted to be mounted on an agricultural device to enhance tilling ability. The add-on tillage system includes a tilling unit with a common tool bar having attached thereto a first set of a plurality of tilling tines or coulters adapted to produce deep grooves in a tilled field. Means are provided for adjusting spacing between the tines or coulters, tilling tines or coulters up and down as a group being loaded by spring force, compressed air pistons or hydraulically actuated rams. A first mount is adapted to receive a tongue with hydraulic operations for mounting to a tractor. A second mount is adapted to receive a tongue with hydraulic mount to an agricultural device adapted to be pulled by the tractor. The add-on tillage system tills surface soil for a clean appearance, providing improved rain/irrigation water absorption, eliminating water run-off and erosion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: John D. Nance
  • Patent number: 8707878
    Abstract: A system includes a first chamber configured to hold a liquid and a second chamber configured to hold the particles. A first pump transfers the particles from the second chamber to a third chamber. A first valve during a first time period regulates the delivery of the liquid into the third chamber through a first opening. A second opening directs jets of liquid from the third chamber during the first time period to form holes in the ground. A second valve is operable during a second time period to regulate the first pump to transfer the particles to the third chamber. The first valve is operable during a third time period to regulate the delivery of the liquid to the third chamber through the first opening causing jets of the particles to be directed through the second opening into the holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: James E. Sibert
  • Publication number: 20140076215
    Abstract: The present invention involves a seed firmer with a pusher attachment that extends the life of the seed firmer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Flo-Rite, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Peter
  • Patent number: 8667915
    Abstract: A fertilizer stabilizer tank and tank mounting system for mounting the tank to the tongue or hitch frame of a fertilizer applicator is provided. The mounting system mounts the stabilizer tank in a manner that does not interfere with operation of the tractor or reconfiguration of the applicator as the applicator is folded/unfolded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Marvin Kuebler, Jarod Murdock
  • Publication number: 20140060404
    Abstract: A storage tank sump arrangement for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes row units configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a storage tank configured to hold the flowable agricultural product. The storage tank includes a first sump and a second sump. Further, the first sump is positioned adjacent to a front portion of the storage tank relative to a direction of travel and the second sump is positioned adjacent to a rear portion of the storage tank relative to the direction of travel. The agricultural implement includes a pump in fluid communication with the first sump and the second sump. The pump is configured to pump the flowable agricultural product from the storage tank to the row units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Timothy R. Blunier
  • Publication number: 20140060403
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly configured to couple to a main frame of the agricultural implement and a pull frame. The tool bar assembly includes a first tool with a height that is adjustable relative to a soil surface. The pull frame includes a hitch assembly configured to be coupled to a work vehicle, a mounting portion configured to be removably coupled to the main frame of the agricultural implement, and a hollow portion that extends over the first tool bar between the hitch assembly and the mounting portion while the tool bar assembly and the pull frame are coupled to the main frame. The hollow portion is configured to accommodate one or more conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CNH AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Timothy R. Blunier, Brian McMahon, Matthew R. Sudbrink
  • Publication number: 20140060401
    Abstract: A tool bar mounting assembly for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes a first tool bar assembly having a tool bar and a plurality of row units coupled to the tool bar and configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a frame assembly coupled to the first tool bar assembly. The frame assembly includes a mounting assembly having a mechanical linkage. The mechanical linkage is configured to removably couple the first tool bar assembly to the frame assembly via a plurality of fasteners. The frame assembly is configured to provide structural support to the first tool bar assembly. The mechanical linkage of mounting assembly is configured to removably couple a second tool bar assembly having a different configuration than the first tool bar assembly to the frame assembly via the plurality of fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Timothy R. Blunier, Brian McMahon
  • Publication number: 20140060405
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a storage tank, a pump positioned below a bottom portion of the storage tank, and a control system disposed above the bottom portion of the storage tank. The storage tank is configured to hold a flowable agricultural product. The pump is configured to direct the flowable agricultural product out of the storage tank. The one or more controls are configured to control application of the flowable agricultural product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CNH AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Timothy R. Blunier, Brian McMahon, Jarod Murdock
  • Publication number: 20140060402
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a frame assembly configured to support a storage tank. The frame assembly includes a pair of longitudinal beams positioned on opposite lateral sides of the storage tank, and multiple cross members extending between the pair of longitudinal beams. A substantially flat upper surface of each cross member is secured to a lower surface of each longitudinal beam, and each cross member is configured to support the storage tank via contact between the substantially flat upper surface of the cross member and a substantially flat lower surface of the storage tank such that the substantially flat lower surface of the storage tank is positioned vertically below an upper surface of each longitudinal beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Timothy R. Blunier, Brian McMahon
  • Publication number: 20140020610
    Abstract: Provided is a method for reducing damage by harmful organisms in corn cultivation. Damage by harmful organisms in corn cultivation can be reduced by carrying out the steps of A) ditching a cultivated land; B) seeding with corn a furrow formed in the foregoing step; C) applying to the furrow an aqueous dispersion or aqueous solution of one or more selected from the below-mentioned compound group (I); and D) closing the furrow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Norihisa SAKAMOTO, Mayuko OZAWA, Atsushi IWATA
  • Publication number: 20130333601
    Abstract: Metering devices for an agricultural implement are provided for applying a field input, for example, pneumatically delivered granular product including seed or fertilizer or sprayed liquid product including fertilizer and the like, to an agricultural field. In the applying of the field input, the rate of application of the dispensers of one section of the implement can be collectively varied in relation to the rate of application of the dispensers of a different section of the implement frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Raven Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanislaus Montgomery Shivak
  • Publication number: 20130327260
    Abstract: Agricultural machinery and procedure for an agricultural machinery (11) that comprises metering devices (B1, B2, Bn) placed laterally in the agricultural machinery so as to provide a number of parallel metering rows (n), each one of the metering devices (Bn) being connected to at least one control unit (22) for the individual control of each metering device, the control unit (22) receiving a first signal, which acts on the control unit (22) to either start or stop the metering from the laterally outermost positioned and activated metering devices (B1), the control unit (22) receiving a second signal, which acts on the control unit (22) to either start or stop the metering from at least one of the laterally activated second outermost positioned metering devices or groups, the calculation unit, with the aid of the instant of time of the first signal and the instant of time of the second signal as well as the speed of the agricultural machinery, calculating the individual instants of time of start or stop of the
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: VÄDERSTAD-VERKEN AB
    Inventors: Johan Alsäter, Jörgen Dahl
  • Publication number: 20130291773
    Abstract: The present invention involves a seed firmer with a pusher or embedding attachment that extends the life of the seed firmer. The seed firmer has a flexible portion adapted to be coupled to a seed chute of a planter. Also, a firming arm flexibly is connected to the flexible portion, with the firming arm having an engagement portion bounded at one end by a stop. Additionally, an extender attachment is mechanically coupled to the engagement portion and abuts the stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Flo-Rite, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Peter
  • Patent number: 8573143
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Patent number: 8567115
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling or eradicating nematodes or other soil-borne pests having a heated metal roller having surface-mounted blades to heat the soil to a desired temperature and depth sufficient to effect control of the relevant species in the soil under the roller. The roller is heated with one or more burners firing across the surface of the roller. The apparatus further includes a heat exchanger through which the combustion products generated by the burner or burners are exhausted and in which the combustion air is preheated. In accordance with one embodiment, the heat exchanger condenses water vapor in the combustion products which water vapor, together with any water that evaporates from the soil during heating, may be captured and returned to the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventors: Martin Brendan Linck, Neil Patrick Leslie
  • Patent number: 8565927
    Abstract: A irrigation interrupter is disclosed herein. The irrigation interrupter learns the watering patterns established by an irrigation controller and takes action to intelligently limit watering based on knowledge of time, temperature and soil moisture. The interrupter learns the watering pattern of the controller by monitoring behavior over a set period (two weeks), and mapping the start and duration of each zone's irrigation. A default profile is preferably set to enable users to ignore a setting and only adjust it after observing overall plant results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Green Badge LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Campbell, Clayton R. Karmel
  • Patent number: 8535461
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for installing types of broadcast fumigation film, such as LDPE, HDPE, TIF and VIF, over a field treated with a fumigant. An elongate first film strip is extended across the field, with simultaneous fumigant injection under the film and a melted hot glue adhesive is applied to the first strip along a trailing longitudinal edge thereof. An elongate second film strip is applied across the field and juxtaposed across the first film strip with a leading longitudinal edge of the second film strip overlapping the trailing longitudinal edge of the first strip. The leading longitudinal edge of the second strip is pressed against trailing longitudinal edge of the first strip to adhesively interengage the first and second strips along a seam that joins the strips together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: John Stephen Godbehere
  • Publication number: 20130233214
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for discharging a fertilizer in strips onto agriculturally productive land by means of trailing hoses, which apparatus is designed for installing on the rear of a tank vehicle (100), with two jibs (3) which can each be pivoted to and fro about a vertical axis (A1, A2) between a discharge position and a transport position. The invention relates in particular to an apparatus of this type which has a supporting device (10) which is arranged on the apparatus (1) so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis (B) and is designed, in the transport position, to support the jibs (3) in relation to the carriageway in a supporting section (21) spaced apart from the axis (B). The invention also relates to a tank vehicle with an apparatus of this type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: HUGO VOGELSANG MASCHINENBAU GMBH
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Huntelmann, Guido Elbers
  • Patent number: 8531811
    Abstract: A hybrid surge protection device (SPD) having a clamping voltage that is controlled by precisely limiting the overshoot voltage of a gas discharge tube (GDT) in a hybrid suppression network. The suppression network is conventionally connected between a protected line carrying current from a power source to a load and a return connection. The network includes a main surge suppression varistor (VR1) connected in series with the GDT. A clamping control circuit in parallel with the network includes a voltage limiting device (VR2) in parallel with the GDT for preventing voltage overshoot by the GDT above a limiting voltage responsive to an occurrence on the protected line of a surge combination wave. The clamping control circuit also includes a capacitor (C1) connected in parallel with the VR1 providing a bypass path for electrical current and voltage potential to the GDT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventors: John Ruess, Gregory Hoepfner
  • Publication number: 20130109565
    Abstract: Controlled release of one or more agricultural chemicals is provided by microcapsules adapted to rupture in a magnetic field. The microcapsules, which may be applied to soil, seeds and/or plants, each have a shell that encapsulates an agricultural chemical, such as a fertilizer, herbicide or insecticide. One or more organosilane-coated magnetic nanoparticles is/are covalently bound into the shell of each microcapsule. For example, (3-aminopropyl) trimethylsilane-coated magnetite nanoparticles may be incorporated into the shell of a urea-formaldehyde (UF) microcapsule during in situ polymerization. In one embodiment, microcapsules encapsulating a fertilizer are applied during seed planting. Controlled release is subsequently triggered after an appropriate period of dormancy by positioning a magnetic field generating device proximate the microcapsules to generate a magnetic field sufficient to rupture the microcapsule shells through magnetic stimulation of the organosilane-coated magnetic nanoparticles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Dylan J. Boday, Joseph Kuczynski, Robert E. Meyer, III
  • Publication number: 20130092065
    Abstract: A method to precisely meter and dispense two or more crop inputs with a common metering disc is presented to achieve proper placement in the soil relative to one another. In one embodiment, dry granular or granulized fertilizer is metered from one side of the disc and seed is metered from the opposite side of the same metering disc. The fertilizer is placed in a concentrated “pulse” approximately equal distances between seeds within a common seed furrow and/or between seed furrows to improved nutrient use efficiency by minimizing soil to fertilizer contact and subsequent chemical reactions that make applied supplemental nutrients less available to plants. Pressurized air may be utilized to assist discharge of both the seed and fertilizer from the disc meter to assure precise spacing in the soil. A cover may be placed on the meter and metering disc to recirculate air and thus minimize potential atmospheric contamination from seed coatings and fertilizer materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: Nyle C. Wollenhaupt, Edward L. Swenson
  • Publication number: 20130032068
    Abstract: Methods for fumigating soil include providing a fumigant including at least one volatile substance into or onto soil and applying over the soil a multilayer polymeric film to form a vapor barrier between the fumigant-treated soil and the atmosphere to at least partially contain the fumigant. The multilayer film includes at least one barrier layer comprising at least one vinylidene chloride polymer and protecting layers on each side of the barrier layer. The multilayer film preferably has at least one UV protecting layer and optionally at least one reflective layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: Dow AgroSciences LLC
    Inventors: Ian Van Wesenbeeck, Charles A. Carn, John D. Busacca, Philip J. Howard, Dennis Lane, Michael D. White, Anthony Weiss
  • Publication number: 20130025516
    Abstract: A bracket arrangement for securing fertilizer hoses, such as those for carrying anhydrous ammonia, to the frame of a fertilizer applicator or similar implement is made of a corrosion resistant material and is thus resistant to damage caused by thermal changes, sunlight, and inclement weather. The bracket arrangement is designed to be removably attached to the implement frame to allow flexibility in where along the frame the hoses, or bundles of hoses, are retained. The bracket arrangement includes a bracket having an elongated and generally planar body with an eyelet formed in the planar body. The eyelet is configured to pass a length of hose and restrict movement of the hose in a direction orthogonal to its length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20130025515
    Abstract: A fertilizer stabilizer tank and tank mounting system for mounting the tank to the tongue or hitch frame of a fertilizer applicator is provided. The mounting system mounts the stabilizer tank in a manner that does not interfere with operation of the tractor or reconfiguration of the applicator as the applicator is folded/unfolded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Marvin Kuebler, Jarod Murdock
  • Patent number: 8361542
    Abstract: Methods for applying a treatment, such as colorant, to an installed landscaping material (such as wood chips or mulch), reducing the need to replace worn or weathered material. The methods include applying a pre-treatment to protect elements proximate the landscape material that are not to be treated, applying a treatment liquid to the landscaping material by spraying, and then rinsing any elements proximate the landscape material that may have be inadvertently and undesirably treated. Also described is a sprayer apparatus for applying treatment liquid to a landscaping material. The sprayer apparatus includes first and second spray outlets and an agitator therebetween. In use, the landscape material to be treated is first sprayed, the material is agitated (e.g., turned), and a second spray of treatment liquid is applied to the landscape material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventors: Alan T. Miller, Terrance P. Fenelon
  • Publication number: 20130011489
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods and compositions for treating fungal diseases of plants. In one embodiment, an anti-fungal aqueous composition can comprise: a nitrogen source material having a total nitrogen content in an amount of about 0.1 wt % to about 0.5 wt % of the total weight of the composition, a phosphate source material having total phosphate content in an amount of about 0.05 wt % to about 0.15 wt % of the total weight of the composition, a potassium source material with a soluble potash content in an amount of about 0.05 wt % to about 0.15 wt % of the total weight of the composition, and a sulfur source material in an amount of about 0.005 wt % to about 0.02 wt % of the total weight of the composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: Steven R. Teerlink
  • Publication number: 20120241536
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to compositions and methods for the control of nematodes and soil borne diseases using compositions comprising high terpene containing oils and one or more surfactants and alcohol. The invention also relates to methods for conditioning soil to improve overall plant health and growth by among others increasing the wetted soil volume available for water utilization by plant roots using the disclosed compositions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: ORO AGRI, INC.
    Inventors: Erroll Melvyn Pullen, Melvin Donovan Pullen
  • Publication number: 20120234218
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to be mounted upon a planter row unit for delivering liquid fertilizer to the bottom of a trench without contacting the seed to be planted may be integrated with a cleaner for the furrow opening device. The system as claimed and described is adapted for mounting to substantially all modern row units employing floating row units. The method and apparatus as described does not interfere with existing down pressure or seed placement systems as found on modern row crop planters. As described and implemented, the method and apparatus is more compact and lighter in weight than the prior art. The attached assembly for a seed planting unit works in combination with a seed trench opener to form a trench for the deposit of liquid fertilizer offset from and parallel to the later formed seed trench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Howard D. Martin
  • Publication number: 20120234219
    Abstract: The present inventions generally relate to compositions and methods for providing agricultural chemicals comprising active ingredients (A.I.s) combined with a top dressing for application to cultivated areas of turfgrass. Specifically, the compositions are in the form of moist formulations for providing top dressings comprising active ingredients. Further, the inventions relate to compositions and methods for delivering active ingredients simultaneously with a top dressing composition to golf course turf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: A. Ronald Detweiler, Nancy M. Dykema, Joseph M. Vargas, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120227646
    Abstract: Disclosed is a sprayable nonwoven fiber weed barrier comprising an aqueous solution of nonwoven fibers and polymer binder. The aqueous solution can be directly sprayed onto the soil to suppress weed penetration through the soil. The sprayable nonwoven fiber weed barrier has a pore structure that allows water to penetrate into the soil, but curbs the growth of weeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Eric William Hearn TEATHER, Roger Dobnikar
  • Publication number: 20120118211
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Patent number: 8163322
    Abstract: The configuration of a feedstock material is controlled by bringing it into contact with at least a first gas moving against it at a location with an area and thickness of the feedstock liquid that forms drops or fibers of a selected size. In one embodiment, drops of agricultural input materials are formed for spraying on agricultural fields. In another embodiment, nanofibers of materials such as chitosan or metals are formed. In another embodiment seeds are planted with gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Kamterter Products, LLC
    Inventors: John Alvin Eastin, David Vu
  • Publication number: 20120084886
    Abstract: Microbial compositions comprising at least two components are disclosed. The first component comprises HYTa which is a consortium of microbes derived from fertile soils and commercial sources. The second component comprises at least one of chitin, chitosan, glucosamine and amino acids. The various microbes in HYTa are capable of fixing nitrogen, digesting proteins and other biopolymers such as chitin and chitosan, providing protection against plant pathogens and supplementing the microbial flora of soil. Also disclosed are processes where the aforementioned microbial compositions are used to treat soil, seeds, seedlings and/or plant foliage alone or in combination with chitin, chitosan, glucosamine and/or amino acids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: AGRINOS AS
    Inventors: Jaime López-Cervantes, Karl Reiner Fick Rochin
  • Patent number: 8105646
    Abstract: An environmentally friendly method is provided for supporting the formation of microfloral soil crust, particularly in disturbed or contaminated areas, by treating soil with suspension containing microfloral propagules collected with runoff water on undisturbed sites. The method reduces spreading of contaminations from afflicted areas. Also provided is a composition of microfloral propagules for supporting the soil crust formation, which composition is in the form of suspension or powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Nuclear Research Center-Negev
    Inventors: Avraham Dody, Eli Zaady
  • Patent number: 8100067
    Abstract: The invention pertains to apparatus and methods for injecting viscous fertilizer, such as dewatered biosolids, below the surface of the soil. The invention also pertains to apparatus and methods for creating a continuous flow of viscous material and for dividing a flow of viscous material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: American Water Works Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Phil Sidhwa, Dan Goldhawk, Walter Stewart Grose, Gordon Raymond Grose
  • Publication number: 20120012041
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention involve an extension adapted to extend from a planter, such as the seed tube portion of the planter, into a seed furrow in order to engage seeds being deposited therein, where such engagement may involve deflecting the seeds toward the vertex region of the furrow and/or firming the seeds in the furrow. The extension includes or supports a fluid distribution arrangement such as a hose or the like, which may be separate or integral with the liquid supply hose of a planter. The fluid distribution arrangement is adapted to supply fluid, such as liquid fertilizer, insecticide, water, etc., to the furrow. A valve is provided in the fluid flow path in the region of the fluid distribution arrangement to control the distribution of fluid to the furrow. The valve may be a check valve that allows fluid flow therethrough when fluid pressure exceeds a value such that the valve opens, and prevents fluid flow when the pressure decreases below the valve activation pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Paul E. Schaffert
  • Patent number: 8061283
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Publication number: 20110239919
    Abstract: Introducing chlorine dioxide solution into an agricultural soil in an amount effective to suspend weed and pathogen growth in the soil. The chlorine dioxide is allowed to decompose in the soil. Then, a crop is planted in the treated soil. The decomposed chlorine dioxide provides nutrients for the crops as they grow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: CH2O Incorporated
    Inventor: Carl E. Iverson
  • Publication number: 20110239918
    Abstract: A stationary system for gas treatment of top soil to kill plant pests including either underground or above ground piping netting for facilitating the flow of gas towards the roots of the plant, preferably via one or more injection nozzles. The system may be adapted to be in combination with water/fertilizers irrigation system, such that both (i) plant growth is promoted and (ii) plant pathogen kill by a compressible gas is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Uri Rapoport
  • Patent number: 7939466
    Abstract: The method of crop production provides an ecologically friendly method of planting and harvesting a crop. The method includes the steps of initially planting the seeds of a crop to be grown in at least one row and, following the planting, spraying a first herbicide on the at least one row and on regions of the ground adjacent the at least one row on either side thereof. Preferably, the first herbicide is an herbicide preparation for destroying glyphosate-resistant weeds. The crop is then allowed to sprout and grow without further chemical applications and, following sprouting of the crop, a second herbicide is sprayed on the ground. The second herbicide preferably contains glyphosate. Following the spraying of glyphosate, the crop is harvested and a cover crop is preferably planted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Phillip E. Ricks
  • Publication number: 20110099899
    Abstract: A method for applying a water soluble soil stabilizer to soil wherein the soil stabilizer is added to a solid carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Dennis Krysiak, Daniel Paul Madigan
  • Publication number: 20110100275
    Abstract: An apparatus for spraying a treatment liquid onto grass growing on a ground surface includes a plurality of rotatable discs spaced laterally apart across the path of travel. Each disc has a plurality of cutters which are adapted to penetrate the ground surface and to cut holes therein as the apparatus travels forwardly. The holes are spaced apart along the path of travel and are also spaced apart laterally. The apparatus also includes a set of nozzles positioned on the apparatus above the grass such that each nozzle is spaced rearwardly along the path of travel from its associated disc but is aligned along the path of travel with such disc. The nozzles are adapted to spray the treatment liquid. The apparatus also including a controller for causing the nozzles to spray the treatment liquid into the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Gerardus J. Brouwer, Ralph Ratsep
  • Patent number: 7927635
    Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for inhibiting nematode damage to plants. The compositions comprise acid extracts or alcohol extracts from jugloneproducing members of the Juglandaceae. The methods comprise applying the compositions of the invention to soil contacting roots of nematode-susceptible plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Redox Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventor: Darin J. Moon
  • Publication number: 20110067612
    Abstract: To provide a pesticidal composition which controls a pest undesirable for cultivation of a useful crop plant or a useful plant. A pesticidal composition comprising the following (component A) and the following (component B) as active ingredients: (component A): one or more compounds selected from 3-arylphenyl sulfide derivatives represented by the formula [I]: (component A): wherein R is a C2-C6 alkyl group which may be substituted, or the like, each of B0, B1, B2 and B3 which are independent of one another, is a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or a haloalkyl group, n is an integer of from 0 to 2, and Ar is a phenyl group, a pyrazolyl group or a triazolyl group, (component B): one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of triazamate, butocarboxim, butoxycarboxim, chromafenozide, halofenozide, cyflumetofen, prallethrin, acetoprole, ethiprole, methamidophos, flonicamid, pyridalyl, flufenerim, flubendiamide, tebufenozide, fenazaquin and cyenopyrafen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicants: KUMIAI CHEMICAL INDUSTRY CO., LTD., IHARA CHEMICAL INDUSTRY CO.
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Ito, Yuki Nakano
  • Patent number: 7877928
    Abstract: A method of mass producing potato seedlings, involves collecting growing points of seed potatoes and culturing the growing points in a liquid or solid medium; introducing in vitro plantlets obtained from the culture of the growing points to solid culture; and removing the in vitro plantlets from the solid culture, and planting through stem cutting and acclimatizing the in vitro plantlets in deep flow culture, in which a nutrient solution is circulating. Upon planting in hydroponic facilities, such potato seedlings have high adaptability to the external environment and thus rapidly, uniformly generate roots in a short time. The rapid root anchoring prevents planted seedlings from withering, leading to death, growing poorly, and the like. The direct planting of in vitro plantlets through stem cutting without a separate acclimatization process shortens the overall production period of potato seedlings by omitting the acclimatization process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Koesan County
    Inventor: Woo-choon Jeong
  • Publication number: 20110000408
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to be mounted upon a planter row unit for delivering liquid fertilizer to the bottom of a trench without contacting the seed to be planted may be integrated with a cleaner for the furrow opening device. The system as claimed and described is adapted for mounting to substantially all modern row units employing floating row units. The method and apparatus as described does not interfere with existing down pressure or seed placement systems as found on modern row crop planters. As described and implemented, the method and apparatus is more compact and lighter in weight than the prior art. The attached assembly for a seed planting unit works in combination with a seed trench opener to form a trench for the deposit of liquid fertilizer offset from and parallel to the later formed seed trench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventor: Howard D. Martin
  • Patent number: 7845293
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming holes in ground and for placing hygroscopic particles into the holes is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first chamber configured to hold a liquid and a second chamber configured to hold the hygroscopic particles. A first pressure mechanism maintains the liquid in the first chamber at a first pressure level, and a second pressure mechanism maintains the hygroscopic particles in the second chamber at a second pressure level. A first valve is operable during a first time period to regulate the delivery of the liquid into a third chamber through a first opening. A second opening is configured to direct jets of liquid from the third chamber during the first time period to form holes in the ground. A second valve is operable during a second time period to regulate the delivery of the hygroscopic particles to the third chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventor: James E. Sibert
  • Publication number: 20100282141
    Abstract: A method to precisely meter and dispense two or more crop inputs with a common metering disc is presented to achieve proper placement in the soil relative to one another. In one embodiment, dry granular or granulized fertilizer is metered from one side of the disc and seed is metered from the opposite side of the same metering disc. The fertilizer is placed in a concentrated “pulse” approximately equal distances between seeds within a common seed furrow and/or between seed furrows to improved nutrient use efficiency by minimizing soil to fertilizer contact and subsequent chemical reactions that make applied supplemental nutrients less available to plants. Pressurized air may be utilized to assist discharge of both the seed and fertilizer from the disc meter to assure precise spacing in the soil. A cover may be placed on the meter and metering disc to recirculate air and thus minimize potential atmospheric contamination from seed coatings and fertilizer materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nyle C. Wollenhaupt, Edward L. Swenson
  • Publication number: 20100275826
    Abstract: A method for increasing the organic carbon content of soil employing industrial wastewater and green manure crops comprises adding industrial wastewater containing cyclic phenolic substances or nitrogen compounds or a mixture of the above two kinds of industrial wastewater into the soil with the application of green manure crops to increase the organic carbon content of the soil and facilitate the humification thereby stabilizing the organic carbon in the soil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventors: Chiu-Chung YOUNG, Chin-Ching Lin