Abstract: A method of real-time plant selection and removal from a plant field including capturing a first image of a first section of the plant field, segmenting the first image into regions indicative of individual plants within the first section, selecting the optimal plants for retention from the first image based on the first image and the previously thinned plant field sections, sending instructions to the plant removal mechanism for removal of the plants corresponding to the unselected regions of the first image from the second section before the machine passes the unselected regions, and repeating the aforementioned steps for a second section of the plant field adjacent the first section in the direction of machine travel.

Abstract: A method of arranging sod rolls on a pallet including the steps of using a sod harvester to create a plurality of sod rolls and deposit them onto a platform; rotating all but one of the sod rolls so that an end flap on each of the sod rolls is at the same position; rotating the first sod roll for a duration that is longer than the duration by which the remaining sod rolls are rotated so that an end flap on the first sod roll is in a different position on the first sod roll than the end flaps on the remaining sod rolls; using a sod carrier to pick up the plurality of sod rolls from the platform simultaneously; and depositing the plurality of sod rolls simultaneously onto a pallet such that the end flap on the first sod roll faces outward and is viewable by consumers.

Abstract: An agricultural implement is provided that has a variable placement hinge joint that allows adjacent implement sections to flex relative to each other and can be moved by an actuator to control spacing between adjacent work zones defined by the implement sections. This can be done by detecting relative angle changes between adjacent implement sections and moving the hinge joint to maintain a constant distance between the work zones so that row spacing is substantially constant across the entire implement, even between adjacent ground-engaging tools or other working units of different implement sections.

Abstract: An adjustable planter bar for a multi-row planter generally comprises a horizontal support bar, a first plate member coupled to a trailing side of the support bar, and a second plate member coupled to a leading side of the support bar. The first plate member can form an upper, trailing rail extending above the trailing side of the support bar.

Abstract: A trimmer can be converted from an existing cutting medium to an alternative tool without requiring removal of the trimmer head. A common upper receiver head, as sold by an original equipment trimmer manufacturer, incorporates design provisions to snugly allow an easy/comfortable fit for a series of uniquely adaptable and convertible cap attachments such as, monofilament bump systems, unique molded or shaped flexible line blades with optional cutting swath diameters, as well as other helpful devices that perform different functions beyond just cutting grass.

Abstract: A lawn mower with an automatic clutch has a shell, one or more blades pivotally installed in the shell, an engine in the shell for driving the blades to cut grass, a self-propelled motor in the shell, a retarding mechanism fixed with respect to the self-propelled motor, a self-propelled shaft driven by the retarding mechanism, a pair of rear wheels driven by the self-propelled shaft, a pair of front wheels on a front portion of the shell, a handle on a rear portion of the shell, a power, a control mechanism on the handle, and an automatic clutch provided between the self-propelled motor and the retarding mechanism. The automatic clutch has a tubular shell, an output shaft, a pair of symmetric block, a pair of elastic elements, an input shaft, and a crow block.

Abstract: An agricultural working machine embodying a combine harvester for processing crop includes an intake conveyor mechanism for picking up the crop, a moisture content sensor arrangement for measuring a moisture content of the picked-up crop and generating a crop moisture signal based on the measured moisture content. A throughput sensor arrangement, preferably a layer thickness sensor arrangement, determines a throughput quantity of the picked-up crop. The crop moisture content signal is corrected on a basis of the throughput quantity that is determined.

Abstract: Novel apparatus and methods for making acoustic musical instruments from gourds and the musical instruments made therefrom are described. The invention teaches molds for shaping and molding immature gourds as they grow for the specific purpose of using the molded gourds, of portions of them, in the construction of the musical instrument's resonant cavity. The method of the invention produces musical instruments, particularly stringed musical instruments, from a gourd that has been molded while growing. The present invention also describes the stringed musical instrument, such as ukuleles, guitars, or violins, that result from using said described apparatus and methods.

Abstract: An agricultural harvesting system including a chassis, an agricultural product moving device coupled to the chassis, an airflow system, a cleaning system and an airflow characterizing system. The cleaning system is configured to receive the agricultural product from the moving device. The cleaning system is configured to receive an airflow from the airflow system. The airflow characterizing system is at least partially positioned in the airflow, and is configured to measure an airflow profile across the cleaning system. The airflow characterizing system includes a plurality of sensors that determine airflow by measuring a thermal transfer from the sensors to the airflow. The airflow characterizing system being configured to maintain a substantially constant electrical resistance of the sensors as the airflow varies. The airflow characteristics are measured in the cleaning system and are used to improve the cleaning capacity of the harvesting system.

Abstract: A combined baler/bale wrapper (1) comprises a baler (10) mounted on a chassis (5) and a bale wrapper (14) mounted on the chassis (5) rearwardly of the baler (10) for wrapping a bale formed by the baler (10). The bale wrapper (14) comprises a pair of first and second bale support rollers (50,51) for supporting and rotating the bale about a first wrapping axis (56). A pair of wrapping film dispensers (60) are carried on a carrier ring (58) which is rotated about a second wrapping axis (61) for dispensing wrapping film onto the bale (2) as the bale (2) is being rotated by the first and second bale support rollers (50,51).

Abstract: A set of hunting accessories comprises a trim saw facilitate the removal of tree branches to facilitate mounting of structures to a tree, a spider hub assembly pole retainer to retain poles of a spider hub assembly in place when use on a tent, blind or other structure and a camera mount for mounting a still or video camera to a tree for observing wildlife or the like.

Abstract: A device and method for applying chemicals to specific plants and parts of plants in natural settings as well as crop fields. In a preferred embodiment, an autonomous vehicle carries the chemical application device and is, in part, controlled by the processing requirements of the machine vision component of the device responsible for detecting and allocating target lists to chemical ejectors that are aimed at these target points as the apparatus is carried through the field or natural environment.

Abstract: A method of underground watering utilizes a pouch-like container product made by joining a first sheet having SAP particles adhered to a first surface with a second sheet to form a container partially filled with such particles. The application of pressure, for example by passing the product through a roll nip, facilitates joining of the sheets and causes the particles to break through at least the one of the sheets to create an opening whereby free volume is created to permit the particles to expand when in contact with a liquid. The resultant product is used to collect, store, and dispense water-containing liquids into the soil for watering of agricultural plants, trees, and the like. A composite underground watering element is also included in an embodiment of the invention. The inventive products may also be used as a pad, including a propagation pad, to collect, store, and dispense water-containing-liquids into plant vessels to provide watering of plants.

Abstract: A plant cage kit includes a wire grid, a bottom ring, and a top ring. The wire grid has a plurality of first and second spaced-apart wires. Each of the second wires is coupled to each of the first wires to form the wire grid. The first end of each second wire is formed into a loop and the second end of each second wire is formed into a hook. The hook of each second wire engages the loop of the same second wire when the plant cage kit is in the assembled configuration. When the plant cage kit is in the shipping configuration, the plurality of first wires is generally positioned in a first plane such that wire grid has a generally flat shape. The bottom and top rings have a generally U-shaped cross-section portion forming respective channels.

Abstract: Methods and systems control an irrigation system that includes an irrigation controller, and at least one irrigation sensor connected by a communication circuit. A series of addressing pulses is also generated over the communication circuit, which indicate a device identifier of at least one irrigation sensor. The series of addressing pulses activate at least one irrigation sensor having the device identifier indicated by the series of addressing pulses such that the activated irrigation sensor provides a sensor signal indicative of an irrigation condition to the irrigation controller via the communication network.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer program product for an aquaponics, and greenhouse system, including a solar greenhouse insulated on north, east and west sides and with glazing on a south side at an angle to maximize winter sunlight, and housing a fish tank; and a plurality of grow beds coupled to the fish tank. The grow beds each including a geyser pump powered by an air pump to pump water from the fish tank to the grow bed and aerate water of the fish tank, and a bell siphon to drain the water from the grow bed back into the fish tank.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing parental lines for a hybrid organism. This method is based on the segregation of individual alleles in the spores produced by a desired plant and/or in the progeny derived from the self-pollination of that desired plant, and on the subsequent identification of suitable progeny plants in one generation, or in a limited number of inbred cycles. The invention further relates to a method for reconstructing a partially heterozygous starting organism.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying and selecting maize plants with enhanced resistance to Fusarium ear mold. Maize plants generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of Citrullus lanatus, in particular to a new variety of watermelon designated NUN 05506 WMW as well as plants, seeds and watermelon fruits thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of Citrullus lanatus, in particular to a new variety of watermelon designated NUN 05508 WMW as well as plants, seeds and watermelon fruits thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of Citrullus lanatus, in particular to a new variety of watermelon designated NUN 31311 WMW as well as plants, seeds and watermelon fruits thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated GAQ2016, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line GAQ2016 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line GAQ2016, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line GAQ2016, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated GAV0001, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line GAV0001 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line GAV0001, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line GAV0001, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated ID3659, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line ID3659 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line ID3659, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line ID3659, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated ID3645, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line ID3645 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line ID3645, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line ID3645, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated HID4731, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line HID4731 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line HID4731, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line HID4731, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated HID3464, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line HID3464 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line HID3464, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line HID3464, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated HID3634, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line HID3634 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line HID3634, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line HID3634, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated HID4488, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line HID4488 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line HID4488, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line HID4488, and plants produced according to these methods.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides tobacco inbred plants NC174 SRC, CMS NC174 SRC, NC821-11 SRC, NC775 Bmr/Bmr SRC, CMS NC775 Bmr/Bmr SRC, NC645 Bmr/Bmr SRC, and hybrids NC 5 SRC and NC 8 SRC. The present disclosure also provides parts of such plants and cured tobacco and tobacco products made from those parts. The present disclosure also includes progenies of the provided plants including hybrids.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides tobacco inbred plants Banket A1 SRC, CMS Banket A1 SRC, NC 2000 SRC, CMS NC 2000 SRC, NC 2002 SRC, CMS NC 2002 SRC, Burley 21 SRC, and CMS Burley 21 SRC. The present disclosure also provides parts of such plants and cured tobacco and tobacco products made from those parts. The present disclosure also includes progenies of the provided plants including hybrids.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides tobacco inbred plants NC1209-23 SRC, CMS NC1209-23 SRC, DH19 SRC, DH98-325-5 SRC, NC1426-11 SRC, CMS NC1426-11 SRC, and NC1426-17 SRC, and hybrids NC 3 SRC, NC 6 SRC, and NC 4 SRC. The present disclosure also provides parts of such plants, cured tobacco, and tobacco products made from those parts. The present disclosure also includes progenies of the provided plants including hybrids.

Abstract: The embodiments are directed to a portable system for cleaning teats of a milk producing animal comprising a container holding a disinfectant solution and a hand-held applicator including at least two scrubbing elements wherein the hand-held applicator is in fluid communication with the container. The container is preferably, but not necessarily, supported on an operator. In addition, a power source, a controller and a pump are supported on the operator. The container, power source, controller and pump may be operatively connected to one or more straps on the operator. A motor is in signal communication with the power source and controller to actuate the scrubbing elements as the disinfectant solution is supplied to the hand-held applicator and scrubbing elements to clean the teats of the milk-producing animal.

Abstract: The invention relates to an unmanned wheeled vehicle for cleaning the floor of an accommodation of an animal, the vehicle being configured to clean a first floor surface at a first height level, while at least partially being supported on a second floor surface at a second height level, wherein the first height level is higher than the second height level, wherein the vehicle comprises a main body comprising a support side and a cleaning side, and a support device connected to the main body at the support side thereof to at least partially support the main body on the second floor surface, wherein the main body comprises at the cleaning side a contact cleaning device configured to clean the first floor surface by contact with the first floor surface, wherein the vehicle comprises a tilting device to tilt the main body between a tilted position in which the cleaning side of the main body can be moved over the first floor surface without contact between the contact cleaning device and the first floor surface, a

Abstract: The invention provides a 100% biodegradable/compostable pet litter system that is self-contained for proper care, maintenance and disposal of pet waste. The kit is designed to include a false floor system to allow contaminated litter to sift through the floor and away from the pet after each use. The kit contains a design for sealing and transporting along with disposable waste bags and scooper for solid waste removal. The kit contains storage for bags and scooper when not in use. The kit incorporates 100% biodegradable litter such as pine pellets, corn, paper or other biodegradable litter. The kit is manufactured from 100% biodegradable materials such a fiberboard or any material which can breakdown in a landfill in as little as 2 months but no longer than 12 months.

Abstract: A litter box with an open roof formed by inwardly arced gutters and a sidewall entrance is provided. The sidewall entrance also includes an inwardly arced gutter that extends from the bottom edge of the sidewall entrance into the interior space of the litter box. The inwardly arced gutters redirect litter kicked against the walls of the litter box back into the center of the box to prevent litter spilling and tracking. The open roof allows for better ventilation and animal comfort and prevents the litter box from being used as a safety hideout by animals. The sidewall entrance allows easy access to the litter box by animals.

Abstract: A containment system to safely store a waste scoop includes: an outer receptacle including a bottom surface, at least one side wall, an opening and a first coupling element; an inner receptacle including a bottom surface and at least one side wall housed within the outer receptacle and including an opening, wherein the inner receptacle is removable from the outer receptacle via the opening of the outer receptacle; a scoop assembly including a scoop, a handle, and a lid, wherein the scoop is housed within the inner receptacle and is removable from the inner receptacle via the opening of the inner receptacle; a compartment including a second coupling element for connecting the compartment to the outer receptacle via the first and second coupling elements; and a third and fourth coupling element to secure a planar surface of the lid to cover the opening of the outer receptacle.

Abstract: The Spike Bite Pet protector is a light weight protective vest worn by your pet with foam pads located in the vulnerable areas of the pets body. The foam pads have a bed of spikes inside them and when an animal attacks the pet the mouth bite from the animal will make contact with the spikes and therefore stops the attack before any serious damage is done to the pet.

Abstract: There is provided an animal training system to train an animal to detect a training odour. The animal training system comprises a target (310) comprising the training odour (320) and a hidden marker (330); and a detector (350) for identifying the hidden marker. There is further provided an animal training method using the animal training system, the animal training method for practice by a supervisor, an animal handler, and an animal. The animal training method comprises placing the target (310) in a location of a search area (300), the target comprising the training odour (320) and the hidden marker (330), the placing being carried out by the supervisor; introducing the animal handler and the animal (305) to the search area; scanning with the detector (350) a candid ate location for the hidden marker, the candidate location being a location that is indicated by the animal; and rewarding the animal if the detector indicates the presence of the hidden marker at the candidate location.

Abstract: An article, forming a toy for a pet or child, includes an enclosure defining a three-dimensional body having an ovoid or spherical shape, an electric motor including a motor body held in place by the enclosure and a drive shaft, and an offset mass element disposed within the enclosure and mechanically coupled with the drive shaft of the electric motor. The article further includes an angular position sensor, an accelerometer sensor, and a control system configured to vary electrical power supplied to the electric motor to drive the drive shaft based, at least in part, on the measurements of angular position of the offset mass element and the angular position of the enclosure to generate rolling motion of the enclosure relative to a surface upon which the enclosure rests.

Abstract: A multi-leash handle, capable of securing more than one dog's leash. The handle forms an enclosure, opening to attach or remove the leashes easily, and features a flexible, ergonomic handgrip. In the first exemplary embodiment, the front bar of the handle features a hinged member, which closes with a latch. The front bar is cylindrical, with a smooth surface, and is used to retain the rings at the ends of the leashes. At the other end of each leash is a clip, to be secured to the dog's collar. The handgrip is provided on the rear of the handle. One leash is provided with the handle. Additional leashes in assorted sizes and colors are available separately.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for monitoring and/or controlling the resource consumption of an agricultural plant for livestock farming and rearing, in particular of a livestock production business. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: determining agriculture-specific operating parameters of the agricultural plant in a current time interval, wherein the operating parameters contain information on the animal population, structure, and climate determining a resource consumption of at least one consumer least one resource type of the agricultural plant in the current time interval by means of at least one metering device, determining the resource consumption per one or more of the operating parameters, and outputting a signal comprising the resource consumption per one or more of the operating parameters.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed are transgenic mice having mutations in a MC1R and a BRAF gene. Such transgenic mice have high incidences of invasive melanomas. These transgenic mice are useful animal systems and tools for screening test candidates for the treatment of melanoma involving MC1R and BRAF mutations.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses genetically modified non-human mammals comprising a genetic modification that inhibits and/or reduces BRD1 activity in one or more tissue or cell, methods of producing the same, methods and uses for identifying compounds for treating a mental disorder and pharmaceutical formulations of said compounds.

Abstract: The invention provides genetically modified non-human animals that express a humanized MHC II protein (humanized MHC II ? and ? polypeptides), as well as embryos, cells, and tissues comprising the same. Also provided are constructs for making said genetically modified animals and methods of making the same. Methods of using the genetically modified animals to study various aspects of human immune system are provided.

Abstract: A fishing rod with reel retriever comprising a fishing rod, where the fishing rod includes a handle, a ferrule extending from an end of the handle, and an eye at an end of the ferrule opposite to the handle, where the eye guides a line along the ferrule; and a reel retriever coupled to the handle of the fishing rod, where the reel retriever includes, a spool around which the line is wrapped, a hand crank incorporated into the spool, where the hand crank drives the spool, and a guide at a front portion of the reel retriever, where the guide directs the line into the spool to prevent tangles and knots.

Abstract: This invention relates to the process of creating a fishing line sinker using a recycled firearm ammunition shell casing. The firearm ammunition shell casing is obtained after the bullet has been fired from it. The shell casing then undergoes a process to make it capable of serving as a fishing sinker. The shell casing is made out of non-toxic brass, steel or any other rigid metal, making it a safe, non-toxic alternative as a fishing sinker. The recycled ammunition shell sinker provides an environmentally friendly means of adding weight to the casting line. Fishermen will appreciate the sinker's cylindrical design which allows for ease of attachment, unimpeded casting, fewer line tangles, and little chance of snags. The polished brass of the recycled shell casing additionally serves to attract fish and increase the fishermen's chance of landing a successful catch. The entire process of creating the sinker does not involve the use of any new materials.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include a hook setting apparatus having a base, a rod holder block rotatable about a shaft in communication with the base, a rod holder tube connected to the rod holder block, a trigger rod movably mounted in the base and connected to the rod holder block, and selectively contactable with a trigger block, a trigger trip rod connected to the trigger block, and movement of the trigger trip rod imparts motion to the trigger block and releases the selective contact between the trigger block and the trigger rod and causes the rod holder block to rotate about the shaft.

Abstract: A boot for hooves includes a sole having an external ground contact surface the shape of the underside of a hoof, extending in the longitudinal direction between toe and heel portions. A first strap is anchored in the sole and runs from one side of the hoof boot to the other, across the front side of the hoof in the mounted position. A second strap is anchored in the sole and runs from one side of the hoof boot to the other, above the back side of the hoof in the mounted position, so the first and second straps extend in directions intersecting each other on each side of the hoof boot. The second strap extends from the sole in such a direction that it is adapted to run on the back side of the leg above the hoof.

Abstract: A live animal trap with improvements to ease of use, reliability and cost is disclosed. A simple repeatable one-hand set action lifts a front entry door. A hold-close assembly trips to secure the front door without sliding motions. A low friction latch and trip links thereto provide consistent set action resistant to shaking and undesired trip. A rear door is fitted next to a bait location to allow near vertical access for bait placement and unattended, unobstructed release. A changeable torque arm provides adjustable trip force. A trip tray is spaced above a floor to require a small set-up motion to access the bait and further ensure trip.