Abstract: This disclosure is directed to the field of agricultural machinery and relates to preplanting tillage implements generally used in combination with a seed planting device, or other multi-row implement. Specifically, the disclosure relates to row treating units incorporating a row clearance arrangement or a combination of tools that includes a row cleaning device and a soil penetrating coulter device. The units are designed to be attached to the front of a multi-row implement. The deployment of and down force exerted by the row cleaner is independently adjustable and controlled using pneumatic air bag operators.

Abstract: A supporting device for operably connecting a furrow device to a seed tube of a planting unit for planting seeds into a furrow is provided. The supporting device may include a clip configured to engage the furrow device and the seed tube. The clip may be at least partially positioned inside the seed tube. The clip may at least partially engage a top surface of the furrow device.

Abstract: An agricultural implement system, including a center toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first inner-wing toolbar rotatably coupled to the center toolbar, the first inner-wing toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first outer-wing toolbar rotatably coupled to the first inner-wing toolbar, the first outer-wing toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first actuating cylinder coupled to the center toolbar, a second actuating cylinder extending between the center toolbar and the first inner-wing toolbar, a third actuating cylinder extending between the first inner-wing toolbar and the first outer-wing toolbar, and a control system configured to drive the first actuating cylinder, the second actuating cylinder, and the third actuating cylinder.

Abstract: A supporting device for supporting a furrow device and/or for connecting the same to a seed tube of a seed planting unit is described. The supporting device may include a connection element and an alignment element joined to the connection element. The connection element may include a connection feature and a stand feature. The connection feature may be configured to attach the furrow device to the supporting device. The stand feature may be configured to position the furrow device at a desired angle relative to the furrow. The alignment element may include an alignment feature and a positioning feature. The alignment feature may be configured to axially align a longitudinal axis of the supporting device with a longitudinal axis of the seed tube. The positioning feature may be configured to position the furrow device at a desired location along a longitudinal dimension of the seed tube.

Abstract: A seed metering assembly for a farm implement has a meter roller that can be accessed and removed in a relatively quick manner. The seed metering assembly includes a fluted meter roller that is segmented into a number of discrete fluted sections. Each fluted section has an associated flow control member that is selectively operable to impede the flow of granular material from a seed hopper to its corresponding section of the fluted meter roller.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a seed metering assembly comprised of a set of stand-alone modular seed metering units. Each seed metering unit is selectively driven by a common drive member, such as a drive shaft. When a seed metering unit is engaged with the drive member, the unit will meter granular material. On the other hand, when the seed metering unit is not engaged with the drive member, the metering unit will not meter granular material. Hence, the present invention provides a seed metering apparatus in which the number of seed metering units can be scaled to match the number of distribution headers of a seeding implement.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hopper for a seed metering system that has a series of individualized and independently controlled metering units. The hopper has a plurality of discharge openings that can be selectively opened and closed to expose an opening to a respective one of the plurality of metering units. Each seed metering unit is selectively driven by a common drive member, such as a drive shaft. When a seed metering unit is engaged with the drive member, the unit will meter granular material. On the other hand, when the seed metering unit is not engaged with the drive member, the metering unit will not meter granular material. Hence, the present invention provides a seed metering apparatus that provides effective sectional control.

Abstract: A seed metering assembly for a farm implement has a meter roller that can be accessed and removed in a relatively quick manner. The seed metering assembly includes a fluted meter roller that is segmented into a number of discrete fluted sections. Each fluted section has an associated flow control member that is selectively operable to impede the flow of granular material from a seed hopper to its corresponding section of the fluted meter roller.

Abstract: An agricultural row unit includes a linkage pivotably coupled to an attachment frame, and a row unit frame with a leading end pivotably coupled to the linkage. A hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the attachment frame and the linkage, for urging the row unit frame downwardly toward the soil, and includes a movable ram extending into the cylinder. A hydraulic-fluid cavity is located within the cylinder for receiving pressurized hydraulic fluid for advancing the ram in a direction that pivots the linkage and the row unit frame downwardly toward the soil. An accumulator is positioned adjacent to the hydraulic cylinder and has a fluid chamber containing a diaphragm, with the portion of the chamber on one side of the diaphragm being connected to the hydraulic-fluid cavity in the hydraulic cylinder, and the portion of the chamber on the other side of the diaphragm containing a pressurized gas.

Abstract: A wear liner is described for a seed delivery system housing containing a transport mechanism for moving seed along a seed path through the delivery system housing. The liner may include a wear liner insert extending along a portion of the seed path within the delivery, the wear liner insert including a wear surface interposed between the transport mechanism and the seed delivery system housing to protect at least one of the seed and the seed delivery system housing from wear. In certain embodiments, various features of the liner may extend outside the seed delivery system housing, to further protect the housing.

Abstract: An agricultural row unit includes a hydraulic cylinder coupled to a support member for urging a soil-engaging tool coupled to the support member downwardly toward the soil. A hydraulic line is coupled to the hydraulic cylinder for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to the cylinder, and a controllable valve is provided in the hydraulic line for controlling the supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid to the cylinder through the line. A pressure sensor, such as a load cell or strain gauge, is connected between the hydraulic cylinder and the support member for producing an electrical signal corresponding to the pressure on the tool, and a controller is coupled to the pressure sensor and the controllable valve, the controller being adapted to receive the electrical signal from the pressure sensor and produce a control signal for controlling the valve thus the supply of the hydraulic fluid to the cylinder.

Abstract: A seed planter and seed meter for planting different seed varieties based on the location of the machine in a field. A movable gate switches between seed varieties. The gate in one embodiment has three positions; one position opening a first seed passage to the meter and closing a second seed passage, a second position opening the second seed passage and closing the first seed passage and a third position closing both the first and second seed passages. Two other gate embodiments have only two positions, each position opening one seed passage and closing the other.

Abstract: An implement height adjuster is provided to allow for the adjustment of the height of an implement remotely from the tractor cab without requiring the user to stop the tractor to make individual adjustments. The implement height adjuster is configured to be coupled to a planter unit or other equipment towed behind a tractor and includes a motor, a gear reduction transmission coupled to the motor, and a flexible output shaft, that is coupled to the transmission at a first end and to the implement to be adjusted at a second end. The flexible output shaft allows the motor of the implement height adjuster to be mounted in various positions on the equipment. The gear reduction transmission or motor includes a position sensor that allows the operator of the tractor to know the position of a particular implement without requiring a visual inspection of the implement. A control panel is used to manage the vertical adjustment of one or a series of implements.

Abstract: An agricultural implement system is provided including a fluid conduit configured to provide product to a ground engaging tool. The ground engaging tool is configured to deposit the product into soil. The agricultural implement system also includes an air source fluidly coupled to the fluid conduit, and configured to provide an air flow through the fluid conduit in a downstream direction toward the ground engaging tool. The agricultural implement system further includes a product delivery system fluidly coupled to the fluid conduit, and configured to transfer the product into the air flow. In addition, the agricultural implement system includes a product flow measurement system configured to determine a mass flow rate of the product based on a pressure drop between an upstream portion of the fluid conduit and a downstream portion of the fluid conduit, a flow rate of the air flow, and a velocity of the air flow.

Abstract: An agricultural metering device with a variable geometry meter roller is provided. The agricultural metering device includes a meter roller having a plurality of flutes. An aggregate cross sectional area of the flutes increases along a longitudinal axis of the meter roller.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to turf grass seed mixtures for a low maintenance lawns and uses therof. The lawn established from the specific seed varieties blended in certain proportions as described in the disclosure has a slow growth rate and deep roots and grows well in many regions across North America and elsewhere in the world. Because the lawn requires little watering or fertilizer and is hardy and naturally insect-tolerant, it is safe and environmentally friendly.

Abstract: A planter monitor system and method that provides an operator with near real-time data concerning yield robbing events and the economic cost associated with such yield robbing events so as to motivate the operator to take prompt corrective action.

Abstract: An air seeder distribution apparatus has seed and fertilizer tanks, and a like plurality of metering devices mounted on each product tank. A manifold set comprises a like plurality of product manifolds and each manifold is separately fed from one metering device on each of the seed and fertilizer tanks. A control selectively starts and stops rotation of the feed roller of each metering device to feed product from either tank, or both tanks to the connected manifold. The weight of each tank can be displayed on a weight indicator. Balancing of the pressure in each supply conduit can be provided. A remote opener exerts downward force on the tank lid to maintain interior pressure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a seed metering assembly comprised of a set of stand-alone modular seed metering units. Each seed metering unit is selectively driven by a common drive member, such as a drive shaft. When a seed metering unit is engaged with the drive member, the unit will meter granular material. On the other hand, when the seed metering unit is not engaged with the drive member, the metering unit will not meter granular material. Hence, the present invention provides a seed metering apparatus in which the number of seed metering units can be scaled to match the number of distribution headers of a seeding implement.

Abstract: Compositions for modulating plant growth, seed germination and soil borne diseases comprising anthraquinone derivatives are disclosed.

Abstract: Expensive seed wasting and crop stunting are avoided by electronically controlling solenoids to selective supply fluid pressure to double acting cylinders. Rams operate links and roller mounted seed doors. Extending or withdrawing the rams closes or opens the doors. Clips on the rams limit door openings. A microprocessor stores field dimensions and planting patterns, spacing of seed planting headers from an onboard GPS and distances of seed travel through spaced seed distribution tubes. The microprocessor electronically controls solenoids to timely shut seed doors in groups before reaching turns or unplanted headlands and to timely open groups of seed doors before reaching planting areas.

Abstract: An air seeder cart apparatus has a primary container assembly with a plurality of primary product containers, with primary fill hatches at tops thereof. An air distribution network comprises product conduits and primary metering devices that dispense agricultural products from each primary product container into one of the product conduits. A secondary product container is mounted on a side of the primary container assembly and has a secondary fill hatch much lower than the primary fill hatches, and a secondary metering mechanism dispenses product from the secondary product container into one of the product conduits. The secondary product container is convenient for receiving bagged agricultural products from a low truck bed. Unopened product bags may be stored on a grate inside the secondary product container so they will be available if required. Weighing of product in the container can be provided.

Abstract: An agricultural implement is provided that includes a ground engaging tool configured to engage soil in a working position and to disengage the soil in a non-working position. The agricultural implement also includes an actuating cylinder coupled to the ground engaging tool and configured to transition the ground engaging tool between the working position and the non-working position based on a flow of fluid from a fluid supply system. In addition, the agricultural implement includes at least one sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a fluid pressure within the fluid supply system, and a controller configured to determine whether the ground engaging tool is in the working position or the non-working position based on the signal.

Abstract: The invention refers to a method at a seed drill (1) or a planter for placing seeds (27) in the soil. According to the invention the steps executed are that each seed fed out is detected, its placement site in the soil is determined through detection and at least one compound (26, 28) is placed intermittently at at least one predetermined placement site in relation to the specific placement site of each seed. The invention also refers to a device (4) for execution of the method.

Abstract: A seed retrieval apparatus for use with a seed planting device having row planters may be used in instances of mechanical failures of the seed planting device and/or planting errors. The seed retrieval apparatus may include a discard hopper located on the seed planting device which is configured to receive discard seed from the row planters. Further, seed discard tubes of the seed retrieval apparatus each define a first end in fluid communication with a respective row planter and a second end in fluid communication with the seed discard hopper. Additionally, seed containers respectively couple to the second ends of the seed discard tubes, wherein each seed container is configured to receive and isolate discard seed from a respective row planter. Accordingly, the discard seed may be repackaged and planted.

Abstract: The seed distribution tower of an air seeder splits a single, primary stream of conveying air and seeds into a plurality of secondary streams for delivery to openers that deposit the seeds into the ground as the seeder advances. As seeds enter the head of the tower in an upward vertical direction through an inlet at the bottom of the head, they are scattered 360° in a horizontal direction by an inverted, overhead distribution cone. The inlet through which the seeds enter the distribution head has an eased configuration to reduce turbulence and promote laminar flow within the head during the dramatic transition from vertical to horizontal movement. Sensitive components such as tram line valves, solenoid actuators, and blockage sensors are protectively housed within the interior of the distribution head to avoid exposure to hostile environmental elements.

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.

Abstract: A seed sensor for an agricultural planter adapted to be disposed proximate an egress end of a seed tube through which seeds pass during planting operations. The seed sensor capable of generating an output signal corresponding to the passage of seed therethrough.

Abstract: A seed transporter for transporting seeds in their seed boxes having a frame with an upper surface for supporting the seed box. The frame has upstanding members that extend upwardly from the frame and are adapted for contacting opposite sides of the seed box and for restraining movement of the seed box when the seed box is located between the upstanding members. The upstanding members include a draw bar that is slidingly retained within the upstanding members. The draw bar includes a catch affixed to the draw bar adapted for catching a retention surface on the seed box. The draw bar is movable between a first and second position. The first position locates the catch above the retention surface and the second position locates the catch beyond the retention surface on the box.

Abstract: A method of seed planting in a “serpentine” pattern called the wave planter is demonstrated. It consists of a manner of placing the seeds that essentially results in equally spaced rows of seeds placed in a serpentine-like layout or wave instead of a straight row. The preferred method creates a wave pattern equidistant from the next, yet creates a substantial increase over the density of straight row planting devices and drills (e.g. parallel, essentially straight rows). The use of the wave pattern provide concrete and substantial benefits to the business and economics of farming through labor, energy, and maintenance savings over current planting methods which results in a new farming business method. The method may be accomplished by several devices. Some of the devices include an oscillating draw bar planter; oscillating tongue planter; elliptical row opener; steerable undercarriage for the planter and castor row openers under undercarriage.

Abstract: An integrated system for row-producing in agriculture fields comprises several implements each having an elevated central frame, an undercarriage assembly with a rear active steering system and the undercarriage assembly is rear located and being behind the structures of toolbar and row units. The rear active steering system controlled by a GPS system comprises a steer angle sensor and a closed loop continuous feedback system, with the purpose of keeping a precise lateral location. This integrated system also comprises an active toolbar height controlling system. When needed, the undercarriage assembly can be disconnected from the implement. This integrated system functions to reduce compactions in the field and ensure lateral accuracy of the implement movement. The integrated system works as a strip tiller, and as a planter.

Abstract: A cultivation air seeder has an ornamental facing around three sides of its large, metallic bulk seed hopper to enhance the appearance of the hopper and provide environmental protection for sensitive mechanical, electronic and hydraulic components. A front section of one facing panel on each side of the machine is hinged about a generally upright axis to allow the panel section to be opened and closed like a door for operator access to the components behind it. The facing can be stylishly molded from a synthetic resinous material or other non-metallic substance to facilitate manufacture and is disposed to conceal unsightly weld lines and other imperfections on the exterior surface of the hopper.

Abstract: A seed sensor system determines the position of the seed relative to the seed tube as the seed passes the sensor. The position of the seed as well as the speed of the planter and the position of the seed tube above the planting furrow are used to calculate trajectory of the seed into the furrow from which the seed spacing is predicated. By sensing the seed in both X and Y directions in the seed tube, the sensor is better able to determine multiple seeds as well providing more precision to the seed population.

Abstract: Methods for improving the efficiency of photosynthesis in plants exposed to suboptimal light conditions. Photosynthesis enhancement is achieved by transformation and expression of one or more exogenous chromophores in the chloroplast of plants or in the cytoplasm under the control of a transit peptide which directs it to the chloroplast or a compartment within the chloroplast. Preferred chromophores have excitation max in the green-yellow light spectrum. Chains of chromophores can be used to capture and emit light from one to the other until the emitted wave length is in the range that can be efficiently utilize by the native light harvest complex.

Abstract: A method for compensating for planter shut off delay in a planter includes automatically calculating by an intelligent control associated with the planter, a time delay look-ahead distance based on groundspeed of the planter and a time delay, and a total look-ahead distance based on the time delay look-ahead distance and a distance delay look ahead distance. The method further includes determining by the intelligent control if seeding should be off or on at a point in the field at the total look ahead distance, and sending a signal to a row shutoff device of the planter to control the seeding. A control system is also provided.

Abstract: Methods and products are provided for facilitating application of variable-product agrochemicals, such as fertilizer, to an application area, such as a field. The fertilizer or agrochemical may include a single fertilizer or agrochemical type or a mixture. In one embodiment, a fertilizer-application area is divided into application cells, and a fertilizer product is determined for each cell, based on zones of the application area with a similar characteristic, such as topographic wetness index levels. Based on a determined product for each cell, instructions for controlling an agrochemical applicator are automatically generated.

Abstract: A method for applying agricultural products on a field with an implement guided by an external guidance system, wherein the implement comprises a plurality of sections that can be turned on to apply the products or turned off to stop applying the products, includes mapping the field to determine an implement travel path; determining overlap areas in the field where a section of the implement on a later pass will travel over a portion of an earlier pass of the implement; moving the implement along the implement travel path with sections turned on as required to apply the products on the field outside the overlap areas; and for at least one overlap area, during the earlier pass turning sections of the implement that are completely in the overlap area off, and during the later pass turning sections of the implement that are in the overlap area on.

Abstract: A control system and method of operation of a product distribution apparatus or machine that uses map based information to disengage the dynamic down force control for certain designated areas of the field. These areas can be roadways or waterways that are not planted with seed but through which the machine does operate. The control system disengages the down force dynamic control when the designated areas are reached and leaves the down force applied by the actuator at the magnitude immediately prior to entering the area or at some other desired level. This magnitude of down force will typically be much closer to the magnitude needed when the roadway, waterway or other designated area has been crossed.

Abstract: An exhaust conditioning system for use with a tractor towing an air seeding implement comprises an exhaust duct arranged to communicate exhaust emissions from the engine of the tractor to the seed fan of the air seeding implement. A condenser receives the exhaust emissions of the exhaust duct therethrough between the engine and the seed fan. A condenser fan cools a surface of the condenser. A computer controller controllably varies a rate of at least one of the condenser fan, the seed fan or revolutions per minute of the engine responsive to a sensed temperature of the exhaust emissions to maintain the temperature of the exhaust emissions within a selected temperature range and such that the exhaust emissions are arranged to influence germination of the seeds either by humidity, oxidised organic matter or bio-char.

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.

Abstract: A secondary air seeder assembly for depositing seed along the tire tracks formed by an air seeder cart and system comprising the same is provided. The secondary air seeder assembly includes includes first and second elongated and parallel main frame members, each having a terminal forward end and a terminal down turned rearward end. First and second elongated and parallel transverse frame members are connected to and extend between the first and the second main frame members at a longitudinal spaced distance from one another. Two forward caster wheels, one is connected at each terminal forward end of the first and the second main frame members. Two rearward wheels, one is connected at each terminal down turned rearward end of the first and the second main frame members. First and second elongated coupling frame members, are each connected at first end thereof to the first transverse frame member at a spaced distance and connected together at a second end thereof forming a hitch point.

Abstract: A variable pressure control system for varying pressures in the fluid circuits of a dual acting actuator over a range of pressures. The variable pressure control system includes a controller that cooperates with pressure regulators for regulating the desired pressure in the fluid circuits.

Abstract: An agricultural product delivery system includes a conduit. The conduit of the agricultural product delivery system is configured to enable agricultural product to pass therethrough. The agricultural product delivery system also includes a first electrostatic sensor coupled to the conduit, and configured to detect the agricultural product passing through the conduit.

Abstract: A seed metering apparatus having a selectably actuated panel positioned between the metering apparatus and discharge chute, the panel moving between an open position and a closed position such that seeds may be more accurately spaced and metered without disrupting the drive mechanism of the seed metering apparatus. A seed metering apparatus where metered but non-discharged seeds are returned to a seed reservoir for subsequent metering and planting.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for generating a planting profile for seeds planted in a field using a seed planter that includes a seed transfer device. In various embodiments, the planting profile may be generated via a processor that communicates with a timing device and a seed sensor. The timing device is configured to provide timestamps associated with the presence of one or more seeds on a seed carrying feature of the seed transfer device as indicated by the seed sensor. Some embodiments further comprise a speed measuring device that is configured to measure and provide to the processor a speed of the seed planter as it travels through the field. Other embodiments further comprise a second seed sensor that senses seeds after exiting from the drop tube.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to turf grass seed mixtures for a low maintenance lawns and uses thereof. The lawn established from the specific seed varieties blended in certain proportions as described in the disclosure has a slow growth rate and deep roots and grows well in many regions across North America and elsewhere in the world. Because the lawn requires little watering or fertilizer and is hardy and naturally insect-tolerant, it is safe and environmentally friendly.

Abstract: An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit, a press wheel cylinder configured to vary contact force between a press wheel and a soil surface, a closing disk cylinder configured to vary contact force between a closing disk and the soil surface, a residue manager cylinder configured to vary contact force between a residue manager and the soil surface, or a combination thereof. The agricultural implement system also includes an electronic control unit configured to automatically regulate a pressure within the cylinders, and a manual backup system configured to facilitate manual pressure adjustment of the cylinders.

Abstract: An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a row unit configured to deposit seeds within soil. The agricultural implement system also includes a bounce sensor rigidly coupled to the row unit and configured to output a signal indicative of a bounce magnitude, a bounce direction, or a combination thereof, of the row unit.

Abstract: A row crop unit for use in an agricultural seeder includes a furrow opener for opening a furrow in the soil, a seed metering system for metering seed to be placed in the furrow, and a seed placement system for placing seeds in the furrow. The seed placement system and the seed metering system are in communication with each other and at least in part define a seed travel path associated with the furrow. A furrow closer covers the seed in the furrow with soil. A seed temperature conditioner is associated with the seed travel path for varying a temperature of seed traveling through the seed travel path. A temperature sensitive sensor is positioned to sense seed which has been deposited in the furrow between the furrow opener and the furrow closer. An optional packaging tube holds a temperature sensor or sensor array. A lens is mounted with the same tube. A larger diameter tube may be positioned around the sensor packaging tube. A positive air pressure/air flow may be introduced between the two tubes.

Abstract: A method of sowing watermelon seeds is provided, specifically a method for sowing triploid seedless watermelon seeds and enhanced watermelon pollenizer seeds in the same seedling tray through the use of a mechanical seeder.