Pivotable About Longitudinal Axis (e.g., Lateral Levelling, Etc.) Patents (Class 172/459)
  • Patent number: 11711996
    Abstract: A row unit for a high-speed agricultural seeder includes a leading system including an opener and a dispenser, a trailing system including a leveler and a packer, a primary force generator generating a primary force, and a packer force adjustment system generating a packer adjustment force. The primary force includes opener and trailing force portions that are transferred to the opener and trailing system, respectively. The trailing force portion includes a leveler force portion that is transferred to the leveler and a packer force portion that is transferred to the packer. The packer adjustment force is adjustable independently of the leveler force portion, such that a combined packer force equal to a sum of the packer force portion and the packer adjustment force is adjustable independent of the leveler force portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: Morris Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Clint W. Sheppard, Bhaskar Paliwal, Mark R. Benko, Edwin Antony
  • Patent number: 9750174
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for determining the depth of a trench opened by an agricultural planter. Sensors are provided for detecting the position of a ground-engaging element of the planter such as a gauge wheel or seed firmer of a row unit of the planter. Apparatus and methods are provided for installing such sensors onto a row unit of the planter. Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for controlling downpressure on a row unit based on the trench depth. Methods are provided for mapping trench depth measured by the depth sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Precision Planting LLC
    Inventors: Derek Sauder, Jason Stoller, Ian Radtke, Kent Levy
  • Publication number: 20150020718
    Abstract: A folding implement that facilitates planting operations and optimization of irrigation and drainage with efficient preparation, configuration, and planting of seed beds. A centrally located fixed drum roller supports a pair of hinged outboard drum roller wings that for maximum implement width are deployed in alignment with the main section during operation. The wings are hydraulically folded into a compact upright position for legal transport over public roads. The implement is constructed so as to provide strength and durability comparable to single-section furrow rollers. The wings include double sets of crumbler baskets for the preparation of seed beds, where the crumbler baskets are moved along with the folding wings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas E. Pitonyak
  • Patent number: 8820428
    Abstract: A land roller implement includes a wheel aligned with the respective gap between the inner roller and the outer roller of each wing in which the wheel is pivotal between a packing position in the working position of the rollers and a transport position supporting the rollers in the transport position of the implement. The wings can also include a drive motor associated with each transport wheel to drive forward rotation of the wheel for displacing the wings from the transport position to the working position without displacing the implement in a rearward direction. A leveling beam attachment and a seeding attachment can also optionally be used on the land roller implement. Optional latchable brace members pivotally supported on the wings may provide additional support to the wings when using the leveling beam attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventors: David Gary McCrea, Thomas Edward McCrea
  • Patent number: 8807279
    Abstract: A stack-fold implement having a central bulk fill hopper assembly is provided. The bulk fill hopper assembly is mounted to the center frame section of the stack-fold implement and does not affect the narrowness of the stack-fold implement when it's in a stacked, transport position. The hopper assembly includes a pair of bulk fill hoppers or tanks supported by cradle that is in turn supported by a pair of wheels. The cradle is removably coupled to the center frame section by a plurality of rigid frame members. A retractable ladder may be stowed beneath the hopper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tyler Remoue
  • Patent number: 8646702
    Abstract: A fold structure for a boom. The boom includes an inner boom portion having an inner boom portion top surface and an outer boom portion having an outer boom portion top surface. In a working position the inner boom portion and the outer boom portion are aligned lengthwise. The fold structure includes a bracket, a first hinge coupled to the bracket and configured to be pivotally coupled to the inner boom portion, and a second hinge coupled to the bracket and configured to be pivotally coupled to the outer boom portion. The first hinge is configured to allow the outer boom portion to rotate approximately 180 degrees in a first direction placing the boom in a first folded position. The second hinge is configured to allow the outer boom portion to rotate approximately 180 degrees in a second direction placing the boom in a second folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Mark E. Barker
  • Patent number: 8573321
    Abstract: A seeder including a chassis including a substantially horizontal transverse beam on which seeding elements are distributed in a regular manner, the transverse beam including a central section and two lateral sections arranged on either side of the central section in a work position, and being raised substantially above the central section in a transport position, each lateral section being connected to the chassis by a respective arm and being displaceable transversely and vertically with respect to the chassis by a deformable mechanism controlled by an operating jack. In the seeder one deformable mechanism is offset with respect to the other deformable mechanism, taking into account a direction of advance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Kuhn S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Charles Audigie
  • Publication number: 20130233580
    Abstract: A forward folding implement for connecting to a tow vehicle, such as a tractor, is provided. The implement includes a telescoping tongue for connection to the tow tractor. A main frame is connected to the telescoping tongue opposite the tow tractor and is supported by a plurality of wheels. Right and left wings are pivotally connected to the main frame and include a plurality of ground engaging tools attached thereto. First and second hydraulic cylinders are connected to the wings. The first cylinder pivots the wing about a vertical axis, while the second cylinder is configured to pivot the wing about a horizontal axis. The wings are raised about the horizontal axis before being placed in a transport position after being rotated about the vertical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon Kinzenbaw
  • Patent number: 8464967
    Abstract: A tilting boom applicator broadly includes a laterally-extending applicator boom a lift, and a tilt frame. The lift includes upper and lower lift arms that support the applicator boom and are operable to vertically shift the applicator boom. The tilt frame interconnects the applicator boom and lift and includes a fixed section mounted to upper lift arms and a swinging section mounted to the applicator boom. The frame sections are attached to each other at a frame pivot joint that defines a longitudinal tilt axis, with the frame pivot joint permitting tilting movement of the applicator boom relative to the lift about the longitudinal tilt axis. Lower lift arms are directly attached to the swinging section to limit movement of the applicator boom relative to the lift about a lateral pitch axis while permitting the tilting movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: John Kuphal, Steve Suebert
  • Patent number: 8434593
    Abstract: A stack-fold implement having a central bulk fill hopper assembly is provided. The bulk fill hopper assembly is mounted to the center frame section of the stack-fold implement and does not affect the narrowness of the stack-fold implement when it's in a stacked, transport position. The hopper assembly includes a pair of bulk fill hoppers or tanks supported by cradle that is in turn supported by a pair of wheels. The cradle is removably coupled to the center frame section by a plurality of rigid frame members. A retractable ladder may be stowed beneath the hopper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tyler Remoué
  • Patent number: 8413738
    Abstract: An agricultural implement with a main frame and a movable subframe connected thereto has a fluid system which comprises an accumulator which provides a suspension effect to agricultural tools connected to the agricultural implement. This provides a simple, resilient hydraulic lifting system for an agricultural implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Lely Patent N.V.
    Inventor: Bart Van Der Lelij
  • Publication number: 20130048322
    Abstract: A towable soil pulverizer having a longitudinal center section, and foldable wings mounted by hinges on opposite sides of the center section to fold about substantially longitudinal hinge axes. The wings and center section have ground working rollers. Each hinge has a spaced ball joint and guide roller in roller slot. A wing float axis for each wing extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal hinge axis in a transverse direction, each wing also being pivotal about the float axis. The hinge design with the float axis prevents weight transfer between the center section and wing sections when the pulverizer operates over uneven soil, to provide uniform soil conditioning over the width of the pulverizer. The center section rollers are positioned ahead of (or behind or co-linear with) the wing rollers. Components of the ball joint and roller guide in slot are fixedly and non-rotationally attached to the center section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Christopher Lee Tamm, Norman George Reichardt
  • Publication number: 20120267132
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an agricultural implement with a main frame and a movable subframe connected thereto. The agricultural implement has a fluid system which comprises an accumulator which provides a suspension effect to agricultural tools connected to the agricultural implement. This provides a simple, resilient hydraulic lifting system for an agricultural implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: LELY PATENT N.V.
    Inventor: Bart VAN DER LELIJ
  • Patent number: 8083005
    Abstract: A land leveling device for leveling uneven surfaces. The land leveling device generally includes a frame adapted to be removably attached to a tractor. The frame will generally include a rear support, a first side support extending in a forward direction from a first end of the rear support and a second side support extending parallel to the first side support from a second end of the rear support. A central rod will preferably extend forward from a central point on the rear support parallel to and between the first side support and second side support. A pair of leveling members are each fixedly attached to the side supports at their respective ends and pivotally attached to the central rod. As the land leveling device passes over terrain, the leveling members automatically pivot about the central rod to adjust for uneven surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Troy D. Nicolai
  • Publication number: 20110290514
    Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm includes first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to ground engaging tools mounted to a stationary and foldable wing frame sections. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems. The first and second hydraulically systems have mechanically controlled valves to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to various lifting, folding, and down pressure cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Cory Yuen
  • Publication number: 20110290513
    Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm implement has a first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to a plurality of ground engaging tools mounted to stationary and wing frame sections of the farm implement. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections for placing the implement in a compact position for transport and storage. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Cory Adrian Yuen, Nicholas Ryder
  • Publication number: 20110290516
    Abstract: A farm implement has a frame that is foldable between an extended, working position and a folded, for-transport position has a hydraulic system that controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to a series of actuators that raise and lower the implement. The hydraulic system is controlled by a control lever or arm that rotates a rockshaft to open and close hydraulic valves to change the flow of hydraulic fluid to the actuators. To prevent the unintentional lowering of the implement frame when the implement is in transport, a lockout arrangement engages the rockshaft to prevent rotation of the rockshaft when the frame is in the folded position. The lockout arrangement locks out the rockshaft automatically when the frame is raised to the folded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Cory Adrian Yuen
  • Publication number: 20110290515
    Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm includes first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to ground engaging tools mounted to a stationary and foldable wing frame sections. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems. The first and second hydraulic systems have electronically controlled valves to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to various lifting, folding, and down pressure cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Cory Yuen
  • Publication number: 20100200253
    Abstract: A marker assembly for use with an agricultural implement includes a marker wheel that may caster as needed to reduce loading of the marker assembly during deployment of the marker assembly, in response to variations in surface contour, and in response to changes in travel direction of the agricultural implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Terrance A. Friggstad, Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Publication number: 20100200252
    Abstract: An agricultural implement has a marker assembly that is pivotable in a generally rearward direction when the marker assembly collides with a relatively massive field obstruction. The interconnection of the marker assembly to a central frame of the implement allows the aforementioned pivoting to reduce damage to the central frame and/or the marker assembly during such collisions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Dennis G Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Patent number: 7740190
    Abstract: A boom breakaway assembly for a spray boom used by a vehicle. The boom breakaway assembly includes a reciprocating system having a first position and a second position, a retention system, and a bias system. In the first position, the bias system applies a maximum effective bias rate to the reciprocating system and the retention system applies a holding force upon the spray boom to maintain the spray boom in a desired outward position. In the second position, the bias system applies a minimal effective bias rate to the reciprocating system and the retention system reduces or disengages the holding force upon the spray boom, thereby allowing the spray boom to move from the outward position to a breakaway position when the spray boom encounters an obstacle. The bias system returns the reciprocating system to the first position once the spray boom clears the obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: John Peterson, Steve Seubert, Dave Friesner
  • Publication number: 20090032274
    Abstract: A folding furrow chopper that facilitates planting operations and optimization of irrigation and drainage with efficient preparation, configuration, and planting of seed beds. A centrally located main section that includes a stalk cutter basket and that is connected to a pair of hinged wings that include additional stalk cutter baskets that for maximum implement width are deployed in alignment with the main section during operation. The wings are hydraulically folded into a compact upright position for legal transport over public roads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Pitonyak
  • Patent number: 7021397
    Abstract: A folding furrow roller that facilitates planting operations and optimization of irrigation and drainage with efficient preparation, configuration, and planting of seed beds. A centrally located fixed drum roller supports a pair of hinged outboard drum roller wings that for maximum implement width are deployed in alignment with the main section during operation. The wings are hydraulically folded into a compact upright position for legal transport over public roads. The implement is constructed so as to provide strength and durability comparable to single-section furrow rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Pitonyak Machinery Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Edward Pitonyak, Edward Oliver Brandi
  • Patent number: 6860335
    Abstract: A multiple section, front-folding implement has gauge wheel assemblies located on the front side of laterally extending beams of the sections during field operations. As the wing sections are folded forwardly to prepare the machine for transport, the gauge wheel assemblies are simultaneously swung around to the ends of the beams into outboard positions so that they extend generally forwardly from the beams when the beams are fully folded. Thus, instead of taking up space between the folded beams, the gauge wheel assemblies are moved into clearance positions that enable the wing sections to be folded more closely together, reducing the overall roading width of the machine when folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Great Plains Manufacturing, Incorporated
    Inventor: Gregory W. Arnett
  • Patent number: 6684962
    Abstract: A folding agricultural implement is disclosed having a frame including an inner section, a pair of intermediate sections, and a pair of end sections. The inner section and the end sections of the frame are equipped with lift wheel assemblies including a ground engaging wheel and a wheel cylinder connected to the ground engaging wheel for selectively raising and lowering the frame relative to the ground. The intermediate sections have no lift wheel assemblies. The joints between the end sections and the intermediate sections are held rigid when the implement is in the working position, but can be folded to move the implement into the transport position. When the implement is folded, the intermediate sections and end sections are first raised together relative to the inner section. After the intermediate sections and end sections reach a generally vertical position, the end sections are then folded downwardly over the inner section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Agco Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis L. Lewallen
  • Patent number: 6675907
    Abstract: A winged implement includes an hydraulic control circuit having two operator-controlled valves, including a work valve and a transport valve. Using only these controls, and without leaving the tractor cab, the operator can (1) fold the implement for transport; (2) unfold the wings; (3) place the implement in the field use position with substantial constant down pressure on the wings; and (4) raise the wings and center section to an intermediate position with the wings inclined upwardly for end row turns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Case, LLC
    Inventors: Mark K. Moser, Daryl T. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6561283
    Abstract: An implement is provided that includes a frame, a ground engaging roller mounted to the frame, and a suspension system that includes a spring for biasing the roller toward the ground, and a frame support member fixed to the frame above the roller. The frame support member prevents the implement from experiencing high forces when moved into the transport position or when a strong downpressure is exerted on the frame by transferring the forces through the ground working tools to the ground. The frame support member can be a rigid protrusion, a flat plate, or a rolling element. In preferred embodiments, the implement is an agricultural packer and frame support members are positioned above each roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventor: David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6378619
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a frame having a pair of tool-carrying wings pivotally mounted thereon for pivotal movement between raised transport positions and lowered ground-working positions. Each wing has a hydraulic wing actuator connected thereto which is extendable and retractible for effecting the pivotal motion. A hydraulic wing actuator circuit is connected to each of the wing actuators, which circuit, when connected to a tractor hydraulic system, enables the wing actuators to apply down pressure to said wings when the wings are in the lowered working positions. A hydraulic pressure control valve system controls the down pressure exerted by the wing actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventors: Dean J. Mayerle, David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6315055
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a support for a draft cable in a multi-sectional agricultural tillage apparatus movable between an open operating position and a folded transport position. The draft cable is attached to the central frame hitch and an outer wing, and is supported along its length by a folding support arm. A mechanical mechanism interconnects the outer wing with the support arm such that the cable moves to a non-interfering position when the tillage apparatus is in the transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventor: Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Publication number: 20010037887
    Abstract: The invention discloses a differential connecting rod and draft cable for an agricultural tillage device. The invention consists of a differential connecting rod which is positioned parallel to the center frame. The center frame is connected to the inner wing frame by a universal joint. The universal joint has a spherical bearing and a pivot. The pivot is positioned in a slot. The differential control rod positions the pivot in the slot. An ‘L’-shaped linkage and a spring assembly pivotally support the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Applicant: Flexi-coil Ltd.
    Inventor: Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 6302220
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a frame having a pair of tool-carrying wings pivotally mounted thereon for pivotal movement between raised transport positions and lowered ground-working positions. Each wing has a hydraulic wing actuator connected thereto which is extendable and retractible for effecting the pivotal motion. A hydraulic wing actuator circuit is connected to each of the wing actuators, which circuit, when connected to a tractor hydraulic system, enables the wing actuators to apply down pressure to said wings when the wings are in the lowered working positions. A hydraulic pressure control valve system controls the down pressure exerted by the wing actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventors: Dean J. Mayerle, David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6021853
    Abstract: A field finishing land plane has a V-shaped, horizontally oriented frame converging at a front end affixed pivotal to steerable rollers in a yoke fastened to a tow tongue. The pivotal front is housed in a protective shielding. A cross member that attaches to the wide section of the V frame at the rear of the land plane extends outward from the V ends on each side. The outward extensions have individual rollers attached to swivel at the outer ends. Supported by internal framing and operated hydraulically, pneumatic tired, retractable road wheels can be raised for field use of the land plane and lowered for on-road towing. For field use with the road wheels raised, the land plane of this invention rests on the front steerable rollers and on the rear swivel rollers so that a long crosswise scooping bucket located centrally under the main frame of the land plane makes ground contact. For road safety during towing with road wheels down, the long crosswise scooping bucket has rotatable end sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Ralph H. Atkins
    Inventor: Ralph H. Atkins
  • Patent number: 5794712
    Abstract: A mobile frame (10) for supporting an elongate flexible structure (11) such as a ground working tool assembly, the mobile frame (10) is foldable between a first position in which the elongate flexible structure (11) is supported in a working condition in relation to the ground, and a second position in which the elongate flexible structure (11) is supported in a stored condition in relation to the ground. The mobile frame comprises a first frame portion (31) supported for movement over the ground and a second frame portion (32) for supporting one end of the elongate flexible structure. The second frame portion is mounted on the first frame portion for folding movement with respect thereto about a pivot axis inclined to the fore-and-aft axis of the mobile frame such that the spacing between the ends of the elongate flexible structure (11) increases as the elongate flexible structure is moved from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Innotech Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Laurence Colin Phillips
  • Patent number: 5449042
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a foldable agricultural implement frame having a first pair of controlling/controlled lifting hydraulic cylinders for lifting and lowering the right wing section and the center section together in a level condition, and a second pair of controlling/controlled lifting hydraulic cylinders for lifting and lowering the left wing section and the center section together in a level condition. In the first pair of controlling/controlled hydraulic cylinders one of the hydraulic cylinders lifts the right wing section and the other lifts the center section. In the second pair of controlling/controlled hydraulic cylinders one of the hydraulic cylinders lifts the left wing section and the other lifts the center section. A rephasing valve assembly is used to rephase the controlling/controlled hydraulic cylinder pairs when the implement frame is folded and only the center section needs to be lifted and lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Donald K. Landphair, Paul R. Riewerts
  • Patent number: 5181573
    Abstract: A drawbar packer having an adjustable bias assembly which transfers implement weight between the wheels and the coil packers. Tension on extension springs is adjustable so that sufficient weight is transferred from the wheels to the coil packers such that the wheels pack soil less than the coil packers. In this way, the implement packs soil uniformly in preparation of the seed bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Assignee: Summers Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter D. Almen
  • Patent number: 5094299
    Abstract: Equipment for attachment to a vehicle having a three-point hitch. The disclosure discloses a novel implement, and an interface adapted to be interposed between the implement and the hitch. The implement preferably has at least two different sets of working elements. The implement and the interface are preferably adapted to accommodate 180 degree rotation of the implement with respect to an axis extending between the implement and the interface, whereby either set of working elements can be disposed adjacent the ground or other surface to be worked. Rotation of the implement with respect to the axis is prevented while the implement is being used to work the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Jon Freier
  • Patent number: 5078217
    Abstract: A reversible plow comprising a three point hitch, a pivotally mounted tool bar provided with a plurality of adjustable plow gangs, and gauge wheels wherein said tool bar can be shifted from left of center to right of center, and back, by a hydraulic piston such that the plowed ground can be directed in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Inventor: Danny H. Harrell
  • Patent number: 5076368
    Abstract: A reversible plow comprising a three point hitch, a pivotally mounted tool bar provided with a plurality of adjustable plow gangs, and gauge wheels wherein said tool bar can be shifted from left of center to right of center, and back, by a hydraulic piston such that the plowed ground can be directed in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: Danny H. Harrell
  • Patent number: 5064000
    Abstract: A sod cutting device having a pair of sod cutting blades offset such that their interior ends are aligned in the direction of cutting. Two strips of sod may thus be cut simultaneously with minimal waste. The two cutting blades are connected to inidividual cutter frames which are pivotably connected to respective lateral ends of a pivot frame. The pivot frame is in turn pivotably mounted at its center to a main frame of the device. This allows each cutter frame to follow the contours of the land and thus improves cutting depth consistency. The cut sod is conveyed up a first conveyor to a second conveyor which is mounted behind the first conveyor. A netting is introduced between the two conveyors under the sod such that the sod, together with the netting thereunder, travels up the second conveyor. The sod and netting are then rolled about a mandrel with the netting supporting the delicate sod. When a sod roll of sufficient size has been formed, the second conveyor is pivoted downwardly about its forward end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Assignee: Bucyrus Equipment Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Gary H. Dover, Larry D. Meyer
  • Patent number: 5024281
    Abstract: A reversible moldboard plow has a plow carrying beam swingably mounted at the rear crossbar of a frame which carries trunnion mounted cylinders connected to the beam for moving the beam, the front of the frame carrying hitch pins for connection to a tractor hitch, the hitch pins being vertically movable in alternate relation in order to tilt the frame and the beam with the moldboards supported thereon. The hitch pins may be moved by independent cylinders and pistons or, alternately, by the movement of a transverse hitch bar on which they are mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Assignee: Long Manufacturing N.C., Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas D. Furlough
  • Patent number: 5000267
    Abstract: A reversible plow comprising a three point hitch, a pivotally mounted tool bar provided with a plurality of adjustable plow gangs, and gauge wheels wherein said tool bar can be shifted from left of center to right of center, and back, by a hydraulic piston such that the plowed ground can be directed in a desired direction. The hitch includes a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly for shifting the plow frame and tool bar about a central longitudinal axis with respect to the tractor, thereby maintaining the plow in a horizontal position even though one rear wheel of the tractor is in the plowed furrow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventor: Danny H. Harrell
  • Patent number: 4967851
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system is provided which includes a pair of transversely spaced rockshaft cylinders which are plumbed in parallel and connected to opposite ends of a rockshaft on the central portion or main frame of a wide implement such as a field cultivor or chisel plow. The left-hand rockshaft cylinder is connected in series with a right-hand outer cylinder located near the right end of the implement. The right-hand rockshaft cylinder is connected in series with a left-hand outer cylinder on the opposite side of the implement. When a ground condition exists which causes, for example, the left side of the implement to dig more deeply and the left-hand wing cylinder to retract, the right-hand rockshaft cylinder will also be caused to retract so the right side of the implement tends to dig in more deeply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Dennis R. Barber
  • Patent number: 4953625
    Abstract: The adjustable blade apparatus (10) is adapted for use with an earth moving vehicle (12). It includes a support frame (20) which is pivotable in the vertical plane relative to the vehicle (12). A blade assembly (22) is rotatably secured to a connecting frame portion (54) of the support frame (20) by means of a turntable (26) and a swivel connection (27). The blade assembly (22) is moved relative to connecting frame (54) by hydraulic cylinders (28,30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: Delhur Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel G. Hurworth
  • Patent number: 4903470
    Abstract: A self-propelling harvester thresher comprises a conveyor, a two-part cutting mechanism having two cutting mechanism halves which are turnable substantially in a horizontal plane between a working position and a transporting position, elements allowing the turning of the cutting mechanism halves and including two turnable supports and a joint vertically extending hinge axle. The cutting mechanism halves are each connected through a respective one of the turnable supports with the inclined conveyor and also are connected with one another by the hinge axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Assignee: Claas Ohg
    Inventors: Heinrich Hemker, Heinrich Ostrup
  • Patent number: 4798011
    Abstract: A tractor side blade mount includes a control member, a blade holding bracket, a blade, a joint member for mounting the blade on the blade holding bracket, and a pair of hydraulically actuated arms for independently positioning the control member and the bracket. As a result of selected positioning of the control member and the bracket, the blade, which is mounted at one end of the bracket, may take up various angles, heights and lateral displacements with respect to the body of the tractor. The versatility in the movement of the blade results in an increased capability to grade earth, scrape dirt, or dig trenches alongside structures and in areas which would otherwise be out of reach of a conventionally equipped tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1989
    Inventor: Charles R. Sprinkle
  • Patent number: 4664202
    Abstract: A pull-type folding implement, such as a grain drill, has individual and independent radial flotation for each of its drill units such that each unit can rise and fall, while remaining level, independently of the other, as well as cock and cant independently of the other as may be necessary to accommodate uneven ground terrain, yet the units may be folded into compact, fore-and-aft extending transport positions in which ground wheels thereof are retracted off the ground and the units are carried by a main, fore-and-aft carrier frame of the implement. A third, center unit may be provided between the two outer units and utilizes its own set of ground wheels during both field working and over-the-road travel when the other units are folded in, the center unit likewise having a floating connection with the carrier frame which permits the center unit to rise and fall, cock and cant when experiencing terrain irregularities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Assignee: Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy E. Applequist, Eric Johnson, Ray A. Adee
  • Patent number: 4643358
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the height and level of a movable boom is disclosed. This mechanism includes a carrier member mountable for vertical pivotal movement about one end thereof, and a first actuator is provided for controlling the movement and position of the carrier member. A unitary member for supporting the boom in a cantilevered manner is also provided. The unitary support member is connected at the distal end of the carrier member for vertical pivotal movement. Finally, a second actuator is provided for controlling the vertical movement of the support member and boom relative to the carrier member, with the second actuator controlling the vertical level of the boom and the first actuator controlling the vertical height of the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Inventor: Raymond Jackson
  • Patent number: 4619330
    Abstract: Improvements in flexibility for wide swath agricultural implements having hinged wing frame sections to enable the implement to be folded compactly for transport and also to better follow ground contours are provided by dividing at least one of the sections into side-by-side subsections which are pivotally interconnected for relative movement about a transverse axis. Thus, relative flexing between adjacent frame portions can take place about hinge axes parallel to travel direction while relative flexing between adjacent wing sections of the frame can take place about transverse axes. Preferably the pivotal interconnections are located to divide the frame into portions of equal width and the pivotal interconnections are reinforced by link means which connect the adjacent portions to resist bending movements about a vertical axis at the interconnection while still permitting the hinged sections to be folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1986
    Assignee: Morris Rod-Weeder Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cecil Machnee
  • Patent number: 4618005
    Abstract: An apparatus for attachment to a vehicle, preferably a bulldozer, comprises a first arm having a ripper shank extending therefrom which is pivotally attached to a second arm. A second arm is mounted to a vehicle for rotation about a horizontal axis so that when the first and second arms are in one orientation the ripper shank may be operated to move in a plane transverse to the direction of motion of the vehicle. The apparatus may be rotated to any angle such that the shank extends forwardly, or rearwardly, of the vehicle to engage objects. In the preferred embodiment, the first and second arms are pivotally mounted to a journal which extends through a mounting housing. A hydraulic cylinder engages one end of the journal at an eccentric location to cause the journal to rotate upon activation of the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1986
    Inventor: Douglass G. Tower
  • Patent number: RE34827
    Abstract: A sod cutting device having a pair of sod cutting blades offset such that their interior ends are aligned in the direction of cutting. Two strips of sod may thus be cut simultaneously with minimal waste. The two cutting blades are connected to individual cutter frames which are pivotably connected to respective lateral ends of a pivot frame. The pivot frame is in turn pivotably mounted at its center to a main frame of the device. This allows each cutter frame to follow the contours of the land and thus improves cutting depth consistency. The cut sod is conveyed up a first conveyor to a second conveyor which is mounted behind the first conveyor. A netting is introduced between the two conveyors under the sod such that the sod, together with the netting thereunder, travels up the second conveyor. The sod and netting are then rolled about a mandrel with the netting supporting the delicate sod. When a sod roll of sufficient size has been formed, the second conveyor is pivoted downwardly about its forward end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Bucyrus Equipment Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Gary H. Dover, Larry D. Meyer