Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for dispensing fluids. The systems can include a sensor operable to detect when an object passes a first location as the object moves to a second location. The systems can also include a fluid dispenser operable to dispense fluid at the second location. In addition, the systems can include a control unit in communication with the sensor and the fluid dispenser. The control unit can receive information from the sensor that the object has passed the first location and to control the fluid dispenser to dispense fluid at the second location at a predetermined time after the object passes the first location.

Abstract: An injection system includes an injector pump delivering a mixture of polymer and water from a mixing tank. Optionally, a surge tank is provided to reduce pressure hammer effects. The mixture is delivered by the injector pump to a manifold device that includes a commutator valve receiving the mixture through an inlet and discharging the mixture through two or more outlet ports. An actuator controls the flow of the mixture through the commutator valve to create pulses in the mixture. Optionally, the actuator is controlled by a controller. The mixture is delivered from the outlet ports to nozzle arrays.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus for eliminating undesirable vegetation in agricultural crop cultivation environment includes a rigid frame and a plurality of nozzles secured to the frame for applying liquid. A power source is mounted on the rigid frame and is connected to the power source of a vehicle employed in the agricultural crop cultivation environment and employed for moving the apparatus. A motor operable pump is connected to a source of the liquid and to the nozzles for delivering the liquid under pressure and a steam generator is provided for heating the liquid. Optional coulters and sweeps are also provided for destroying the root portion of the undesirable vegetation.

Abstract: A liquid fertilizer application system for efficiently dispensing and placing liquid fertilizer within a furrow to minimize germination injury. The liquid fertilizer application system includes a guard with an attached fertilizer tube having an input opening and a discharge opening. The discharge opening of the fertilizer tube is attached in front of the guard used to protect the implement seed tube. The discharge opening of the fertilizer tube forward of the seed tube allows for the application of the fertilizer into the prepared furrow prior to placement of the seed.

Abstract: A planning assembly and liquid application device for same having a furrow opening mechanism, a frame including a seed guide, a seed tube for directing seeds into a furrow, a liquid source, a liquid delivery conduit having a delivery end, and a furrow closing mechanism. The planting assembly also including a spray arm including a proximal end, a central portion, and a distal end, the proximal end being mounted to a second tube, the seed guide, or the frame, and the central portion extending rearwood such that the distal end is disposed above the furrow, and wherein the liquid delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the liquid source and the delivery end is adjacent to the distal end.

Abstract: A turf care system and method uses simultaneously fired pulses of high-pressure liquid jets of the mixture shot toward the ground. The liquid is mixed with dry grass seed shortly before being delivered to a high-pressure liquid/seed pumping system, which uses an accumulator and sequencing valve to produce at regular repetitive intervals pulses of the liquid/seed mixture under high pressure. The pulses are delivered to an elongated hydraulic manifold having multiple nozzles pointed downwardly, which are spaced from one another and the ground by predetermined distances. The momentum of the high-pressure jet of liquid/seed mixture issuing from each nozzle cuts through overlying vegetation to deposit the seeds into the crown of the soil at predetermined desired depth. Spray patterns are determined by nozzle orifice shape, and are preferably selected to provide a shallow knife slit-like opening or trench in the crown of the turf.

Abstract: A planting assembly including a frame, a furrow opening mechanism, a seed tube for directing a seed into a furrow, a liquid source, a liquid delivery conduit having a delivery end, and a furrow closing mechanism. An adapter is configured for mounting to the seed tube, and a spray arm including a proximal end is configured for mounting to the adapter. The spray arm includes a central portion and a distal end, the central portion extends rearward such that the distal end is disposed above the furrow. The liquid delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the liquid source and the delivery end is adjacent to the distal end.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for dispensing fluids. The systems can include a sensor operable to detect when an object passes a first location as the object moves to a second location. The systems can also include a fluid dispenser operable to dispense fluid at the second location. In addition, the systems can include a control unit in communication with the sensor and the fluid dispenser. The control unit can receive information from the sensor that the object has passed the first location and to control the fluid dispenser to dispense fluid at the second location at a predetermined time after the object passes the first location.

Abstract: A turf care system and method uses simultaneously fired pulses of high-pressure liquid jets of the mixture shot toward the ground. The liquid is mixed with dry grass seed shortly before being delivered to a high-pressure liquid/seed pumping system, which uses an accumulator and sequencing valve to produce at regular repetitive intervals pulses of the liquid/seed mixture under high pressure. The pulses are delivered to an elongated hydraulic manifold having multiple nozzles pointed downwardly, which are spaced from one another and the ground by predetermined distances. The momentum of the high-pressure jet of liquid/seed mixture issuing from each nozzle cuts through overlying vegetation to deposit the seeds into the crown of the soil at predetermined desired depth. Spray patterns are determined by nozzle orifice shape, and are preferably selected to provide a shallow knife slit-like opening or trench in the crown of the turf.

Abstract: A turf care system and method uses simultaneously fired pulses of high-pressure liquid jets of the mixture shot toward the ground. The liquid is mixed with dry grass seed shortly before being delivered to a high-pressure liquid/seed pumping system, which uses an accumulator and sequencing valve to produce at regular repetitive intervals pulses of the liquid/seed mixture under high pressure. The pulses are delivered to an elongated hydraulic manifold having multiple nozzles pointed downwardly, which are spaced from one another and the ground by predetermined distances. The momentum of the high-pressure jet of liquid/seed mixture issuing from each nozzle cuts through overlying vegetation to deposit the seeds into the crown of the soil at predetermined desired depth. Spray patterns are determined by nozzle orifice shape, and are preferably selected to provide a shallow knife slit-like opening or trench in the crown of the turf.

Abstract: A turf care system and method uses simultaneously fired pulses of high-pressure liquid jets of the mixture shot toward the ground. The liquid is mixed with dry grass seed shortly before being delivered to a high-pressure liquid/seed pumping system, which uses an accumulator and sequencing valve to produce at regular repetitive intervals pulses of the liquid/seed mixture under high pressure. The pulses are delivered to an elongated hydraulic manifold having multiple nozzles pointed downwardly, which are spaced from one another and the ground by predetermined distances. The momentum of the high-pressure jet of liquid/seed mixture issuing from each nozzle cuts through overlying vegetation to deposit the seeds into the crown of the soil at predetermined desired depth. Spray patterns are determined by nozzle orifice shape, and are preferably selected to provide a shallow knife slit-like opening or trench in the crown of the turf.

Abstract: A turf care system and method for injecting a liquid/seed mixture into soil, such as the crown of an established turf stand, using simultaneously fired pulses of high-pressure liquid jets of the mixture shot toward the ground. The liquid, typically water, is mixed with dry grass seed shortly before being delivered to a high-pressure liquid/seed pumping system, which uses an accumulator and sequencing valve to produce at regular repetitive intervals pulses of the liquid/seed mixture under high pressure. These pulses are delivered to an elongated hydraulic manifold having multiple nozzles pointed downwardly, which are spaced from one another and the ground by predetermined distances. The momentum of the high-pressure jet of liquid/seed mixture issuing from each nozzle cuts through overlying vegetation to deposit the seeds into the crown of the soil at predetermined desired depth.

Abstract: A reversible road scraper has two-edged blades that allow the scraper to be pulled in two different directions. The blades can be mounted on springs so that the scraper will not hang up on any objects that could potentially damage the scraper. Also, the scraper may include an edger blade to trim and define the edge of a road.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for dispensing liquid fertilizer to a forestry planting site of the type normally found in a commercial forestry operation. One or more liquid fertilizer accommodating tanks are mounted on a vehicle such as a plow, a planter or other mobile equipment used in the tree farming industry. Liquid fertilizer is dispensed at selected locations along the site. Typically, fertilization is performed contemporaneously with another task such as cultivating, tilling, subsoiling or planting.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sterilizing soils and of the equipment related thereto. The method comprises sequentially at least the following phases:—dispersion into the soil of at least one compound, solid, liquid or gaseous, able to react exothermically with water and/or steam, or other substance;—injection of at least one jet of water and/or steam, or of another substance, into the soil in such a way as to produce heat in the subsequent reaction with the compound. Between the two aforesaid phases it is convenient to proceed to break up the soil to favor its mixing, with the compound and create the best conditions for the reaction.

Abstract: A planting machine for delivering liquid pesticides to the soil mixing zone preceding the furrow closing mechanism to effectively distribute liquid pesticide throughout soil covering seed in a furrow. The planting machine has a furrow opening mechanism, seed dispensing means, and furrow closing mechanism and includes a seed positioning means mounted on the seed dispensing means for effectively locating seeds in the furrow. Also, the planting machine includes means for liquid pesticide spray delivery mounted thereon so as to direct a spray towards the furrow closing mechanism and into the soil mixing zone being created by the furrow closing mechanism. The means for spray delivery can be mounted on the conventional seed positioning means as well as independently mounted on the planting machine.

Abstract: In a method for periodic depositing of liquid manure such as a slurry in a soil (80) the slurry is injected in a concentrated jet (9) under pressure with the result that forms and fills a groove (6) in the soil, which groove (6) is preferably closed after the injection. A device (1) for use in the method comprises at least one nozzle (5) with a breaker element (10) for periodic interruption of or opening for an injection jet (9) in an outlet direction (P.sub.2), the nozzle preferably being provided as an opening from a chamber (3, 29, 35, 38, 52, 72) pressurized with slurry. The breaker element (10) may be rotatably mounted about a rotation axis (22) which is parallel to the nozzle's outlet direction (P.sub.2), and is located beside the nozzle (5), with the result that during a rotational movement of the breaker element periodically interrupts the injection jet (9).

Abstract: A portable, steam weed killing apparatus designed to be environmentally friendly, economical, fast acting and used by an individual standing in an upright position. The apparatus is intended for killing weeds and unwanted plants in gardens, flower beds and along sidewalks by application of concentrated heated water or steam thereto. The apparatus includes electrically powered, portable steam generating unit containing a water reservoir, an electric pump and an electric steam heater. The apparatus also includes an elongated, rigid guide bar with a weed cover attached to its distal end. A flexible hose delivers steam from the steam generating unit to the weed cover. During use, the weed cover is placed over the undesired plant and the steam generating unit is operated to deliver a concentrated amount of steam to the plant located inside the weed cover.

Abstract: An apparatus for cultivating turf by high-pressure liquid injection comprises a plurality of frames 5 being arranged in parallel, a plurality of nozzles 2 being mounted on and along said frames 5 perpendicularly to the axis 5L thereof so as to be rotatable about the axes 5L of the frames 5 and to be positioned at two or more angles, and the nozzles 2 in two adjacent lines 2L being rotatable in opposite directions to each other. Since the liquid is applied obliquely to the surface E of the turf from two opposite directions, the soil grains are stirred to rotate and neither pressed nor moved in one direction, thereby to prevent formation of a compacted subsurface layer 7 in the soil.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a harrow is provided, and more particularly to a harrow implement with a terrain following frame, able to be pulled by a tractor. The improved harrow includes a main frame that supports at least a floating frame on which harrowing blades are attached. The harrow blades follow the contours of a field or bed of soil, resulting in greatly improved tilling when compared to conventional apparatus used for this purpose. The harrow specifically suits the needs of a reduced tillage farming operation. The harrow is wide, yet the floating frames follow irregular surface contours, significantly improving the potential range of topography that can be farmed efficiently. The harrow can include a clod diverter to move or deflect clods to the irrigation furrows, away from the planting rows. It can also be customized in the field to handle the individual field's requirements, including tilling depth and seed row separation distances.

Abstract: A system and method for injecting liquid/solid mixtures into porous pulse media, such as earth, is disclosed. A two-tank arrangement where liquid only is stored and run through a main pump, while a liquid/solid slurry is stored and moved to join the liquid under pressure by a chemical injector pump is shown. Finally, a displacement wheel commands solenoid valves, for pulsing the pressured liquid, through a distance measuring device such as a laser interacting with a laser target operatively coupled to a ground traveling wheel.

Abstract: A system for injecting prehydrated hydrophilic polymer material into the ground includes a plurality of outlet nozzles which receive prehydrated hydrophilic polymer material from a supply tank and inject the material into the ground. Airless fluid ejector guns are connected to the outlet nozzles and control the flow of material through the nozzles. The prehydrated hydrophilic polymer material is pressurized by a powered piston pump and then delivered to the airless guns. The airless guns are actuated in a sequence which establishes a flow of pressurized prehydrated hydrophilic polymer material through some of the outlet nozzles while terminating flow of pressurized prehydrated hydrophilic polymer material through other of the outlet nozzles.

Abstract: In order to place dry granular materials into the subsurface of the soil without mechanical tillage, minute charges of the material are carried by high pressure jets of liquid, such as water, down into the ground from a series of side-by-side nozzles that simultaneously fire the jets toward the ground at regular intervals as the nozzles advance along a path of travel. Instead of passing through the water pump and the sensitive jet-producing nozzles, the granular materials remain separated from the water until the jets have issued from their nozzles and are passing through a ceramic mixing chamber in which a venturi is located. During the short pauses between successive blasts from the nozzles, material is continuously fed into a collecting chamber for each nozzle to form a small charge. As the water blast takes place, the charge is automatically drawn into the venturi and carried out of the machine by the high pressure jet.

Abstract: A liquid fertilizer injection system is provided that includes a single coulter blade mounted on a support arm extending from a bracket which is adapted to be pivotally coupled to an attachment apparatus which attaches the system to a propulsion means. A spray arm is adapted at one end is attached to the support arm and is adjustable in the up and down direction by means of a slot bracket. A second end of the spray arm is attached to a spray nozzle which is adapted to receive a flexible tube. The flexible tube transfers, to the nozzle, liquid fertilizer, under pressure, from a liquid reservoir via a pump. The system further includes a tension spring assembly which provides a down-force, determined by the user, to the coulter assembly, while isolating the system from the propulsion means, thereby preventing lifting of a planter or seeder to which the system is connected off of the ground.

Abstract: A light-weight turf conditioning machine provides programmable subterranean soil processing. The machine includes a set of electronically controlled air guns that are mounted on a frame a given distance above the ground. Each air gun disperses a high pressure stream of fluid into the ground in a vertically aligned cylindrical shape drilling holes into a golf green. The holes are drilled using a hydrated polymer that absorbs and releases moisture in a controlled fashion fostering plant growth. A programmable controls circuit controls the rate, pattern and depth in which holes are drilled into a golf green. A portable storage tank is fluidly joined by a hose to the air guns. The hose allows the storage tank to spaced from the machine as the air guns are carried over the golf green.

Abstract: A fluid injecting system for injecting fluid into soil is disclosed, the system comprising a tank for receiving and from which is discharged the fluid, mixing apparatus in the tank for mixing the fluid, a transfer pump in fluid communication with the mixing tank, a high pressure pump, the transfer pump in fluid communication with the high pressure pump for pumping fluid from the mixing tank to the high pressure pump, sequencing pumping apparatus for providing sequential charges of fluid to a nozzle apparatus, and nozzle apparatus with at least one nozzle through which fluid is injected into the soil, the sequencing pumping apparatus in fluid communication with the nozzle apparatus. In one aspect an accumulator accumulates a charge of fluid which is supplied to the nozzle apparatus. In one aspect the sequencing pumping apparatus includes a pneumatically controlled sequencing control valve which responds to precise pressure changes to control the duration of fluid pulses.

Abstract: A coulter blade assembly for use with a farm implement, which assembly comprises a first coulter unit, a second coulter unit, and a third coulter unit, all units mounted to the implement in a triangular arrangement in plan; with the first coulter unit being a lead unit, the second coulter unit trailing and to one side of the lead unit, and the third coulter unit trailing and placed to an opposite side of the second coulter unit for forming with said other coulter units a seedbed, and a substance applicator mounted on the third coulter unit for applying the substance onto the seedbed, and optionally a second substance applicator mounted on the second coulter unit for applying another substance onto the seedbed separated laterally from the other substances. The invention includes further a process of preparing a seedbed by moving and rotating implements such as coulter blades into the ground in a particular triangular relationship in conjunction with one or more substance applications concurrently therewith.

Abstract: A sub-soil injection device injects a soil additive, such as a pesticide, as included in a foam below the surface of soil. It concurrently distributes the foam into soil as the foam is injected resulting in an improved uniformity of distribution of soil additive in soil. The device comprises a tubular structure which mounts into the soil from a vehicle. It has first and second portions, leading and trailing portions, a lumen along its length, lateral portions and a plurality of spaced apart ports. Each port communicates the lumen with the trailing portion. Foam flowing out the ports moves backwardly. A shank structure precedes and shields the leading portion of the member. The shank structure has a forward-facing portion adapted to cut through soil. The shank structure and member are motivated by the vehicle in a forward direction through the soil. An apparatus utilizing the shank structure, the vehicle and a foam generator and a method of depositing a soil additive plowing in of foam are also set forth.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a substance such as a hydrophylic polymer into a soil to minimize the need for repeated irrigation, plant feeding or the like. A trailer supports a mixing tank within which the polymer and a liquid such as water are continuously agitated. The mixture, in a liquid form, is sent through a pump to an outlet having a plurality of apertures communicating with the tank via a manifold. A valve operatively conditions the throughput of the water and polymer so that a series of high pressure pulses exit the outlet and cause slugs of liquid to contact the ground at a sufficient velocity that the slugs penetrate the soil and deform under the surface of the soil. The rapid opening and closing of the valve when used with the outlet's apertures can provide a distribution pattern in the soil which is substantially uniform and minimizes the likelihood of disproportionate polymer infusion in the ground which would otherwise cause non-uniformly swelling.

Abstract: The machine includes a frame adapted to move along spaced ridges planted with crop plants, frame support runners engaging the furrows between the ridges, a pair of transverse rows of weeding implements carried by the frame for movement along the ridges and furrows, the implements of one row disposed on one side of the plants and the implements of the other row disposed on the other side of the plants. Each row is transversely displaceable by a double acting hydraulic ram relative to the frame. The rams are controlled by an operator supported by the frame in a position to have a direct view of the weeding implements. Each implement is free to move up and down independently of the remaining implements in order to follow the ground contour. The implements of any one row can be raised together out of working position. These weeding implements can be earth working discs and/or thermal weeders.

Abstract: A weed killing system utilizes hot water or steam, alone, or in combination with an herbicide to kill weeds. Cart, backpack, and vehicle mounted versions are disclosed in propane and electrically powered embodiments. A cart mounted version includes a detachable wheel assembly to allow selective conversion into a manually manipulable wand, and may be provided with an angularly adjustable bifurcated distribution nozzle. In electrically heated embodiments, Salt may be added to the heated water in order to increase the boiling point to enable higher effective application temperatures. A gas powered version includes a microprocessor control system for regulating water level in a tank portion of a heater, gas supply to a burner assembly, electric spark ignition of the burner assembly, and hot water or steam outlet dependent upon temperature and pressure levels in the tank portion.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for introducing a particulate matter along with a driving liquid, such as water, into a ground surface. The apparatus is also highly effective for perforating and thereby aerating the ground surface. The particulate matter may preferably adopt the form of a powder like substance often referred to as "polymer" and which is injected into the ground for purposes of acting as a plant food or a plant additive in various agricultural operations. The apparatus utilizes an injector device for mixing the polymer or other particulate matter with the driving liquid, such as water, at a point in close proximity to the ground surface so that there is no pre-mixing of the particulate matter and the driving liquid. The driving liquid is pumped to the injector at a high pressure and introduced into a high pressure chamber of the injector. The liquid is then forced through a very small diameter nipple opening leading to a low-pressure chamber.

Abstract: A hand tool for use with a water supply to allow easy cultivation and watering of gardens and the like. One end of a hollow, tubular handle is attached to a valve which, in turn, is coupled to the water supply for allowing the user of the hand tool to cause water to flow through the handle. A blade is attached to the other end of the handle. An aperture extends though the blade in communication with the cavity through the handle so that water flowing through the handle will flow through the aperture in the blade. A baffle is attached to the blade about the aperture through the blade on the side of the blade opposite the handle for deflecting water flowing through the handle and out the aperture in the blade.

Abstract: An apparatus for seeding, mulching, and fertilizing soil is described. The apparatus includes: a mixing tank adapted for mounting upon a motorized land vehicle for containing an aqueous mixture of seed and other soil conditioning materials; an agitator positioned within said tank for combining seed and other soil conditioning materials with water; a movable spray cannon in fluid communication with the mixing tank for spraying the aqueous mixture delivered thereto by an attached pump onto the soil surface; an auxiliary hose of flexible material for spraying the aqueous mixture; a mulch blower affixed to said tank for delivering a dried mulch material to the soil surface; and, a hydraulic power transmission system for transmitting power from the motorized land vehicle to the agitator, pump, and mulch blower.

Abstract: A trailer vehicle for distributing a fertilizing manure slurry to a field which includes a slurry distribution assembly mounted to the rear of the vehicle having four slurry distribution units, each with three plow teeth and a slurry distribution nozzle associated with the teeth for feeding the slurry at root level in the soil. The distribution assembly includes an elongated manifold with four flexible conduits extending from the manifold to each nozzle on the distribution units. The manifold communicates with the slurry tank. The trailer vehicle can also have a special suspension to maintain the tank relatively level. The trailer has three sets of wheels which are articulated in tandem, and the rear wheels of the trailer can be steered in the arc traced by the motive vehicle pulling the trailer.

Abstract: A closed-loop fertilizer application system capable of determining a soil prescription in near real-time, and dispensing fertilizer to the soil scene as a function of the soil prescription. The closed loop application system does not require the use of maps or navigation systems, but rather, ascertains a soil type and chemical composition on the go. In the preferred embodiment, the application system implements a spectrograph implementing the technology of spectroradiometry to determine soil type and present fertilizer composition in near real-time. An expert system determines the soil prescription based on the soil type and current fertilizer levels, and controls the dispensing rate of the fertilizer as a function of the vehicle speed. The soil analyzer is disposed a pre-determined distance forward of the vehicle such that there is adequate time to perform soil analysis, determine a soil prescription, and then dispense the fertilizer at the rear portion of the vehicle.

Abstract: A liquid pumping apparatus and pump method is provided in which a reciprocal drive piston is carried in a pump body and is reciprocated back and forth by a mechanical power source such as a crankshaft. The pump body has a pump chamber which receives the liquid to be pumped. A pump piston which is separate from the drive piston is operatively connected to the pump chamber to expand and contract the volume of the pump chamber to first fill the pump chamber with liquid and then expel the liquid from the pump chamber in a pumping action. The pump piston is coupled to the drive piston for movement therewith during a portion of a pump cycle such that the drive piston is effective to move the pump piston in its volume expanding direction relative to the pump chamber at a first speed. Then, the connection between the pump piston and drive piston is broken and the pump piston is accelerated in its volume contracting direction to a second substantially faster speed to pump the liquid out of the pump chamber.

Abstract: A high pressure liquid containment joint in an apparatus for injecting high pressure liquid into turf. A preferred high pressure liquid containment joint includes an O-ring (72). The high pressure liquid containment joint also includes a cylindrical plug (70). The plug (70) includes a first end and a second end, external threads (71) located between the first and second ends, a shoulder (73) for accepting the O-ring (72) wherein the shoulder (73) is located between the external threads (71) and the second end. The plug (70) also includes a hexhead (75) connected with the first end for accepting rotational force. The high pressure liquid containment joint also includes a high pressure liquid containment vessel for containing high pressure liquid wherein the vessel includes a threaded bore (74) wherein the bore (74) includes internal threads (172) for engaging the external threads (71) and two, smooth machined frusto-conical surfaces (174, 175) for contacting the O-ring.

Abstract: A process for killing soil pathogens to improve agricultural production includes the steps of treating a field with a soil conditioning agent to reduce the clods in the soil to microaggregates. Hot water is applied to the treated soil at varying depths to kill soil borne organisms. Beneficial organisms are then applied to the sterilized soil to repopulate the soil with these beneficial organisms.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating turf to reduce the general soil density in which turfgrasses grow and thus promote turf growth and turf drainage which includes injecting through the turf into the soil a pattern of jets of generally incompressible liquid at a jet pressure and jet spacing to provide a lateral dispersion of the liquid within the soil such that the liquid dispersion from adjacent jets coact with one another to lift and fracture the soil. A plurality of small diameter nozzles are mounted on a movable frame generally transverse to the direction of travel of the frame. A pressurized fluid source is mounted on the frame and connected through a control device to the nozzles. The control device control the flow of liquid from the pressure source to the nozzles to produce periodic, relatively small cross-sectional, slugs, or jets, of liquid from the nozzles through the turf into the soil.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating turf to reduce the general soil density in which turfgrasses grow and thus promote turf growth and turf drainage which includes injecting through the turf into the soil a pattern of jets of generally incompressible liquid at a jet pressure and jet spacing to provide a lateral dispersion of the liquid within the soil such that the liquid dispersion from adjacent jets coact with one another to lift and fracture the soil. A plurality of small diameter nozzles are mounted on a movable frame generally transverse to the direction of travel of the frame. A pressurized fluid source is mounted on the frame and connected through a control device to the nozzles. The control device control the flow of liquid from the pressure source to the nozzles to produce periodic, relatively small cross-sectional, slugs, or jets, of liquid from the nozzles through the turf into the soil.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclcosed for cultivating soil and turf by utilization of pressurized liquid injected into the soil and turf. A roller assembly (33) is provided for applying mechanical pressure to the turf after cultivation. Further, a means for setting a first speed in a transport mode and a second speed in a cultivating mode is provided. The apparatus is designed to be bidirectional to allow the apparatus to be used in both a forward and reverse direction. The flow of the pressurized liquid is controlled to be at intervals of from about 0.010 to 0.065 seconds and at pressures from about 2,300 psi to about 5,500 psi through nozzles having diameters of from about 0.033 to about 0.090 inches. The apparatus (10) utilizes a water hammer effect to effect the flow of pressurized liquid out of the nozzles 55 and has found a relationship in the pressure and pounds per square inch of the cross-sectional area of the bore of the manifold to the accumulated area of the output ports of the nozzles.

Abstract: A field planting system for use in conjunction with large span and wheel tower irrigation apparatus to place seed in a field across a number of rows simultaneously. Seed is suspended uniformly in a gel solution and injected into a stream of carrier water. The seeds, suspended in water, travel in piping separate from irrigation piping to a manifold suspended from the overhead span section. Each manifold distributes seed and carrier water to a plurality of drop tubes. A tube valve locate in each drop tube is closed to permit the manifold to be charged with seeds and water under pressure. Once the manifold is charged, the tube valves open simultaneously and the water and seed discharges from the manifold through drop tubes to a planting shoe. The planting shoe includes a forward nozzle to emit a high pressure stream of water to excavate a small trench or furrow into which the seed is dispensed.

Abstract: Fertilizer or other liquid crop treatment is applied to the ground using a direct injection jet with a nozzle position closely adjacent the ground and forming a jet of the liquid directed into the ground. A solenoid controlled valve cyclically halts the flow of fluid to form short pulses of the fluid so that the fluid can be supplied in concentrate form while generating sufficient energy to achieve a depth of penetration in the range 2 to 4 inches. The solenoid controlled valve and nozzle is mounted on a skid member carried on a depth control wheel. The period of the pulses is arranged so that the length of a pulse is very short relative to the spacing between the pulses with the spacing between adjacent rows formed by adjacent heads being substantially equal to the spacing between the individual pulses.