Broadcasting Patents (Class 111/130)
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Patent number: 11168454Abstract: Embodiments describe a method for moisturizing soil at an open construction site. The method includes determining a target soil moisture level for the soil at the open construction site; measuring a current soil moisture level of a location within the open construction site with a moisture sensor while the moisture control system is moving along a predetermined path across the site; storing the current soil moisture level of the location in memory; determining a target volume of water for achieving the target soil moisture level at the location based on the current soil moisture level at the location; calculating a target application rate to achieve the target soil moisture level at the location based on the target volume of water; and applying the target volume of water at the target application rate to the location when the system is positioned to dispense water at the location of the site.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2019Date of Patent: November 9, 2021Assignee: Trimble Inc.Inventor: Mark Nichols
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Patent number: 10799897Abstract: A system for metering liquids at very low flows for use with agricultural sprayers is provided. The system may utilize two electronically controlled solenoid valves in series with a storage chamber in between. The flow may be a function of the PWM control of each of the valves, the phase relationship between the control signals, the storage chamber in between, the pressure difference across the metering device, and the fluid being metered.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2018Date of Patent: October 13, 2020Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: John Posselius, Tim Stombaugh, Yongbo Wan
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Patent number: 10802471Abstract: A technique is provided to enable low-cost control of amounts of fertilizer applied. A control device controls a currently used agricultural machine that applies fertilizer to a crop while traveling through a field. The control device includes a growth data receiving unit, a fertilizer application amount value calculator, and a speed signal generator. The growth data receiving unit receives growth data that is obtained by sensing a growth condition of a crop at each location in the field. The fertilizer application amount value calculator determines an amount of fertilizer on the basis of the growth data. The speed signal generator generates a speed signal to cause the agricultural machine to travel at a speed corresponding to a variable value of an amount of the fertilizer to be applied at each location in the field.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2018Date of Patent: October 13, 2020Assignee: TOPCON CORPORATIONInventors: Noriko Saito, Sora Otaguro, Ryosuke Tomizawa, Atsushi Ohyama, Tsuyoshi Yoshida
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Patent number: 10526760Abstract: A soil conditioner apparatus and method of conditioning soil for compaction. The soil conditioner apparatus creates a heated stream of air directed toward the ground as the conditioner moves along the ground. A mixer on the conditioner mixes soil in the path of the heated air to dry the soil. Some embodiments of the mixer will propel the soil into the air in the stream of heated air. The conditioner can decrease moisture in the soil in the location where the soil will be compacted. The mixer can also mix added soil and other additives to the soil in location. The soil conditioner apparatus may take the form of an apparatus towed by another vehicle, a set of towed apparatuses, an apparatus carried by another vehicle, or a self propelled vehicle having the operational elements of the soil conditioner.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2016Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Inventor: Charles Hensley
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Patent number: 10375877Abstract: An electric handheld broadcast spreader with pattern and speed controlling baffled skirt detachably attaches to a conventional spreader mechanism to disperse particles in a controlled, directional manner within a proximal coverage area with two hands. A broadcasting/dispersing skirt receives particulate material from a conventional spreader. The inner volume of broadcasting/dispersing skirt comprises upper layer baffles, with upper gaps forming between each upper layer baffle; lower layer baffles, offset from the upper layer baffles, with lower gaps forming between each lower layer baffle; and multiple vertical deflector vanes disposed perpendicular to lower layer baffles. Discharged particulate material strikes the surface of the baffles, before passing through gaps. The particulate material traveling in a lateral direction strikes the deflector vanes and outlet edge of broadcasting/dispersing skirt.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2018Date of Patent: August 13, 2019Inventor: Laurence D. Behr
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Patent number: 10362723Abstract: A hand-operated spreader has a base, an assembly member, a feeding rudder, an adjusting member, a feeding cone and a container. The feeding cone has the effect of guiding along the cone through the conical body to prevent the feeding aperture from clogging due to moisture, accumulation or weight. The feeding rudder is mounted on the feeding opening of the assembly member and is driven by the rotating handle on one side, and the rotating handle may set the spreading direction along the limiting portions of the open end, which enables the feeding rudder to be reliably positioned via the limiting portion and prevent the feeding rudder from being unstable while improving the dropout accuracy of the discharged material.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2018Date of Patent: July 30, 2019Assignee: SK & Y AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENTS CO., LTDInventor: Jui-Chang Wu
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Patent number: 10299426Abstract: A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising a particulate material supply chamber configured to guide the particulate material toward a fluidization chamber, and an air supply chamber configured to receive airflow from an airflow supply, wherein the inductor box is configured to direct the airflow from the air supply chamber to the particulate material supply chamber through a first airflow path and through a second airflow path remote from the first air path.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2017Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: Chad M. Johnson, Marvin A. Prickel, Grant T. MacDonald, Michael J. Connors
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Patent number: 10225978Abstract: When performing a seed planting operation, a variety change distance may be calculated that corresponds to the distance from a variety zone boundary of a prescription map that a row unit of a planter must be located prior to initiating a variety change procedure for switching seed types. Once the row unit reaches a variety change boundary spaced apart from the variety zone boundary by the calculated variety change distance, a system controller may initiate the variety change procedure to allow the seed type being planted to be efficiently and effectively switched as the planter makes a planting pass across the field.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2017Date of Patent: March 12, 2019Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: Christopher Schoeny, Chad M. Johnson
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Patent number: 10107631Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for calculating a position of a vehicle on a road segment and updating a calibration of a heading sensor based on a lane change status of the vehicle. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving vehicle characteristic data from at least one vehicle sensor; receiving map data corresponding to a vehicle location; determining a lane change status of the vehicle; calculating the vehicle position using the map data if the vehicle has not executed a lane change maneuver and calculating the vehicle position using the vehicle characteristic data if the vehicle has executed a lane change maneuver, and calibrating a heading sensor based on one or more of the map data and the vehicle characteristic data.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2016Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Steven R. Croyle
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Patent number: 9872427Abstract: An air cart system includes a container assembly mounted on wheels and including a primary product container and an air distribution network including a product conduit that delivers a first agricultural product and a second agricultural product to an agricultural implement. The air cart system includes a first metering device to meter the first agricultural product from the primary product container to the product conduit. A fill hopper mounts on a side of the container assembly, and a secondary product container mounts beneath a portion of the primary product container. The secondary product container receives the second agricultural product from the fill hopper, which receives the second agricultural product at an opening and conveys the second agricultural product to the secondary product container. The air cart system includes a second metering device to meter the second agricultural product from the secondary product container to the product conduit.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2015Date of Patent: January 23, 2018Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.Inventors: Dennis George Thompson, Martin J. Roberge, Graham Douglas Stuart, Cory Adrian Yuen, Robin Bruno Schilling, Darwin L. Zacharias
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Patent number: 9850077Abstract: An exhaust system of an agricultural product container includes a first media screen configured to be coupled to the agricultural product container. The first media screen includes a first plurality of apertures. The first media screen is configured to block a granular product from entering the exhaust system and enabling an air flow into the exhaust system. The exhaust system includes a diffuser having a first diffuser aperture configured to diffuse the air flow in a downward direction. The exhaust system further includes a passage fluidly coupled between the first media screen and the diffuser. The passage is configured to selectively guide the air flow from the first media screen toward the diffuser.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2015Date of Patent: December 26, 2017Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.Inventors: Robin Bruno Schilling, Graham Douglas Stuart, Martin J. Roberge
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Patent number: 9797232Abstract: A method for producing minerals and, more specifically, for producing hydrocarbons, by hydraulic fracturing of the rock, can be used for the optimization of formation fracturing crack processing conditions. The method includes splitting a main stream of a propping agent suspension in a fluid at a mixer output into at least two flows having different volume delivery rates, and comingling the at least two flows before delivering to the hydraulic fracturing zone.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Oleg Medvedev, Anatoly Vladimirovich Medvedev, John Lassek
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Patent number: 9730372Abstract: A method for the treatment of turf (11) comprising grass (12) growing in a matrix (15, 16) comprising removing matrix (15, 16) including any thatch and other infestation by blading (18) moving through the matrix (15, 16) to a predetermined depth (d). The method may be used to treat turf (11) reinforced with artificial grass (13). Equipment for carrying out the treatment comprises a bladed rotor (17) rotating about a horizontal axis.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2012Date of Patent: August 15, 2017Assignee: RICHARD CAMPEY LIMITEDInventors: Richard John Campey, Simon Jonathan Gumbrill
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Patent number: 9538698Abstract: 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 levelling 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 levelling beam attachment.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2014Date of Patent: January 10, 2017Inventors: David Gary McCrea, Thomas Edward McCrea
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Patent number: 9451740Abstract: A singulation-style seeding system is provided that may include planter row units arranged on a drill that may have a front rank and a back rank. The planter units may singulate and deliver seeds from a first segment of the drill, which may correspond to one of the front and back ranks. A high-volume fertilizer may be delivered from a second segment of the drill, which may correspond to the other one of the front and back ranks and may be delivered at a relatively high delivery rate. A starter fertilizer may be delivered at a relatively lower delivery rate at or near seed furrows.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: September 27, 2016Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.Inventor: Trevor Kowalchuk
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Patent number: 8844450Abstract: A product reservoir is provided that includes a flexible bag and a carton to receive and retain the flexible bag. The bag may contain liquid chemical substances that are dispensed from the bag through a bag spout. The product reservoir may serve as a component to a fluid delivery system, such as a direct injection system employed by agricultural seed planting machines. When the bag is connected to the direct injection system, the liquid substance is placed in fluid communication with a delivery device whereby the substance can be dispensed to a selected area for treatment. The liquid substance may be mixed in-line with water received from a water reservoir prior to being dispensed by the delivery device. The planting machine may be equipped with a plurality of product reservoirs. A method of applying a liquid pesticide to a selected area is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2007Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection LLCInventors: Lawrence Clifford Dull, Walter Theodore Meisner, III, Joshua Jenkins, Dustin Mack
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Patent number: 8820428Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Inventors: David Gary McCrea, Thomas Edward McCrea
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Publication number: 20140182493Abstract: A seed meter is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that includes a seed disk assembly that rotates within a meter housing cavity and that has a seed disk assembly cavity in which a vacuum pressure is applied for pulling seeds into seed pockets of a seed disk of the seed disk assembly. The vacuum pressure is applied to the seed disk assembly by pulling a vacuum airflow through a collector of a spindle-mounted hub support that is fluidly connected through a face seal arrangement with a hub face of the seed disk assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2013Publication date: July 3, 2014Applicant: CNH America LLCInventors: Brian T. Adams, Keith W. Wendte
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Publication number: 20140165889Abstract: A seeding machine, such as a row crop planter, is described which is adapted to switch between two or more seed varieties as the machine traverses a field. The control system uses a programmed quantity of seed representing a number of seeds in the seed meter that need to be substantially consumed once the flow of a first seed variety is stopped before introducing a second seed variety to minimize seed mixing. The seed quantity can be determined by a calibration process or published from the manufacturer or third parties. The seed quantity can also be part of a seeding prescription that includes assignment of where each seed variety is to be planted in a field. The seed quantity and the distance traveled to empty the meter can be used to optimize the planting operation including the machine direction which can also be part of the prescription.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2012Publication date: June 19, 2014Applicant: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: ELIJAH B. GARNER, CHARLES T. GRAHAM
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Publication number: 20130319305Abstract: The seed distribution tower of an air seeder has a distribution head that 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. The outlets through which the secondary streams exit the head are constructed as modules that can be individually installed and replaced without disassembling the entire head. Shut-off valves and/or flow sensors may or may not be incorporated into certain or all of the modules to provide optimum user flexibility.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2012Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: GREAT PLAINS MANUFACTURING, INCORPORATEDInventor: Jacob R. Riffel
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Patent number: 8590466Abstract: A soil cultivating and seeding apparatus includes an apparatus frame, a seed opening formation assembly adapted for attachment to the apparatus frame and a seed dispensing hopper adapted for attachment to the apparatus frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: David W. Green
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Publication number: 20130092065Abstract: A method to precisely meter and dispense two or more crop inputs with a common metering disc is presented to achieve proper placement in the soil relative to one another. In one embodiment, dry granular or granulized fertilizer is metered from one side of the disc and seed is metered from the opposite side of the same metering disc. The fertilizer is placed in a concentrated “pulse” approximately equal distances between seeds within a common seed furrow and/or between seed furrows to improved nutrient use efficiency by minimizing soil to fertilizer contact and subsequent chemical reactions that make applied supplemental nutrients less available to plants. Pressurized air may be utilized to assist discharge of both the seed and fertilizer from the disc meter to assure precise spacing in the soil. A cover may be placed on the meter and metering disc to recirculate air and thus minimize potential atmospheric contamination from seed coatings and fertilizer materials.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2012Publication date: April 18, 2013Applicant: AGCO CorporationInventors: Nyle C. Wollenhaupt, Edward L. Swenson
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Publication number: 20130036956Abstract: A seed delivery system for use in a seeding machine that removes seed from a seed meter by capturing seed therefrom. The delivery system moves seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, each seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Inventors: Elijah Garner, Michael E. Friestad, Nathan A. Mariman, David J. Rylander, Daniel B. Thiemke
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Publication number: 20120304906Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2011Publication date: December 6, 2012Applicant: KUHN S.A.Inventor: Jean-Charles Audigie
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Publication number: 20120017812Abstract: A seed metering gate assembly (12) is provided for use with an upright seed bin (10) having a shiftable primary gate (24), wherein the gate assembly (12) provides an additional seed flow control function allowing more accurate dispensing of seed from the bin (10). The gate assembly (12) includes a seed hopper (13) equipped with a fore and aft-shiftable metering gate (42) movable between a closed position and an open position presenting a seed output passageway (40). Apparatus (62) is operably coupled with the gate member (42) in order to determine the travel of metering gate member between the fully closed position and a plurality of open positions presenting respective, differently sized passageways (40). The apparatus (62) preferably includes a rod (64) having a series of through openings (70) and coupled with the gate member (42), with a shiftable, motion-limiting collar (72) mounted on the rod (64) and securable at any of the openings (70) by means of clip (76).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: USC, L.L.C.Inventors: Jim Renyer, Greg Renyer
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Publication number: 20110232177Abstract: The configuration of a feedstock material is controlled by bringing it into contact with at least a first gas moving against it at a location with an area and thickness of the feedstock liquid that forms drops or fibers of a selected size. In one embodiment, drops of agricultural input materials are formed for spraying on agricultural fields. In another embodiment, nanofibers of materials such as chitosan or metals are formed. In another embodiment seeds are planted with gel. In another embodiment particles carrying desired agricultural inputs with modified release characteristics are delivered.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: KAMTERTER II, L.L.C.Inventors: John Alvin Eastin, David Vu
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Publication number: 20110132244Abstract: A volumetric meter for seed or fertilizer having a plurality of roller segments driven by a common drive shaft is provided with clutch mechanisms radially between each roller segment and the drive shaft to enable the roller segments to be individually shut-off to provide section or swath control to the machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2009Publication date: June 9, 2011Inventors: Bradley J. Meyer, Keith L. Felton, Charles T. Graham
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Publication number: 20110120356Abstract: A direct drive electric seed metering system is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that intakes a volume of multiple seeds from a seed hopper, draws individual seeds from the volume of multiple seeds and discharges them into a seed furrow formed in an agricultural field. The direct drive electric seed metering system includes a meter assembly having a meter housing and a seek disk rotatably mounted concentrically in the housing for singulating the seeds. A direct drive mechanism is mounted to the meter assembly for interfacing and driving the seek disk at an angular velocity which corresponds to the travel velocity of the seed planter. A single seed planter can have multiple direct drive electric seed metering systems, and each of the multiple direct drive electric seed metering systems preferably has its own prime mover to effectuate driving the seek disk.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2009Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventors: Keith Wendte, Brian Adams
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Publication number: 20110098851Abstract: An automated seed detection and planting synchronization apparatus, method and system is disclosed. The invention includes a seed detection protocol configured to monitor a derived metric equated to timing of movement of a seed carried by a seed metering unit from a seed pick-up to seed drop point. For controlling synchronization of planting of seed, a seed metering unit empty notification signal is provided if the derived metric is satisfied and sensor readings confirm the absence of seed in the seed metering unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: MATTHEW K. GLENDENNING, DANIEL M. GOLDMAN, DAVID E. JOHNSON, JASON J. KELSICK, DAVID C. SMITH
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Publication number: 20110073026Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for applying an agricultural material through a standing crop. The apparatus is capable of adjusting the height and width of the frame of the apparatus. A trailer is disclosed that is capable of adjusting trailer width to transport the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Charles H. MARTIN, Dominic MARTIN
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Patent number: 7908983Abstract: A device for sowing seed, fertilizer in an existing lawn, comprising: a chassis, a movement system, fitted to the chassis, to move the device across the ground in a certain direction, a bearing-mounted pin disk in the chassis around a horizontal axis, a seed dosing device which doses the seed to be sown accurately and according to an adjustable amount, a guiding plate which at the bottom pushes the existing grass forward in the direction of the movement and at the top distributes the dosed seed in rows and sends the seed to the pin disk, wherein the pin disk collects the dosed seed from the guiding plate and plants the seed in the soil underneath the lawn during rotation.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Maredo B.V.Inventor: Marinus Reincke
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Publication number: 20110000409Abstract: In an air pressurized system for use in delivering seeds in an agricultural planter from a main hopper to plural remote bins each associated with a respective seed discharge unit, an air/seed mixture is provided to a seed discharge unit via an air pressure dissipator which vents the air to the atmosphere in controlling the rate at which seed is delivered to the seed discharge unit. The air pressure dissipator includes an upper, angled tube having an outwardly tapered lower end adapted to receive an upper end of a perforated screen tube which extends into the seed discharge unit. As the seed discharge unit fills with seed during operation, the air pressure dissipator regulates the air flow entraining and transporting the seed by directing a portion of the air to the atmosphere when necessary to provide seed to the seed discharge unit to substantially match the seed discharge rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: January 6, 2011Applicant: Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Wilhelmi, Kenneth Shoup, Daniel Koop
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Publication number: 20100313801Abstract: To produce, monitor, and control a flow of air for a seed conveying system and a seed metering system, an air-assisted planting system includes an air handling system having a single air source and an air controller for maintaining a generally constant air pressure to the metering system. The air controller includes a plurality of sensors associated with and operable to monitor an air pressure through the metering system. Based on a sensed air pressure, a microprocessor of the air controller instructs the air handling system to selectively divert the flow of air to the metering system on an as-needed basis to maintain the generally constant air pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: Great Plains Manufacturing, IncoporatedInventors: Bruce D. Peterson, Brent W. Nelson
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Publication number: 20100313800Abstract: A splitter divides an air/product mixture flow, delivered thereto in an air-powered distribution line, between a primary and a secondary distribution channel, which may be flow-coupled to a product hopper or a hose flow-coupled to another product hopper or another splitter. The air/product mixture enters the inlet of the splitter along an angled downward flow path and exits a primary outlet, flow-coupled to the primary distribution channel, along a vertical downward flow path. Air/product flow is exhausted by a secondary outlet, which is flow-coupled to the secondary distribution channel, at an angled upward flow path. The velocity flow vector along which the air/product mixture is exhausted from the secondary outlet is at an acute angle relative to the velocity flow vector along which the air/product mixture is received by the inlet of the splitter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventors: Brian Anderson, Marvin Prickel, Josh Breuer, Grant MacDonald, Josh Roszman
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Patent number: 7845294Abstract: An apparatus for uniformly planting seeds into the earth that can accommodate a even a small quantity of any size seed. An embodiment of the apparatus has a frame, at least one wheel affixed to the frame, and a conveyor belt mounted to the frame. The conveyor belt is connected to the wheel or wheels such that it moves in relation to the rate of rotation along the earth of the wheel or wheels. The conveyor belt has a surface on a top thereof suitable for receiving seeds. A seed box is hingedly affixed to the frame and is movable from a first position over the conveyor belt to a second position away from the conveyor belt. In the first position, the seed box allows seed and soil mixture to be uniformly placed on the conveyor belt.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2009Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Leland P. Cade
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Publication number: 20100282141Abstract: A method to precisely meter and dispense two or more crop inputs with a common metering disc is presented to achieve proper placement in the soil relative to one another. In one embodiment, dry granular or granulized fertilizer is metered from one side of the disc and seed is metered from the opposite side of the same metering disc. The fertilizer is placed in a concentrated “pulse” approximately equal distances between seeds within a common seed furrow and/or between seed furrows to improved nutrient use efficiency by minimizing soil to fertilizer contact and subsequent chemical reactions that make applied supplemental nutrients less available to plants. Pressurized air may be utilized to assist discharge of both the seed and fertilizer from the disc meter to assure precise spacing in the soil. A cover may be placed on the meter and metering disc to recirculate air and thus minimize potential atmospheric contamination from seed coatings and fertilizer materials.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: AGCO CORPORATIONInventors: Nyle C. Wollenhaupt, Edward L. Swenson
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Patent number: 7814848Abstract: Biodegradable solid soil amendment material such as poultry litter may be disposed of in soil using an apparatus which includes a soil cutter for cutting a trench and a dispenser for transporting the material and simultaneously grinding or shearing the material and distributing it to the trenches in the soil. The receptacle includes a plurality of troughs across its bottom surface, each having an outlet at one end thereof, and corresponding screw augers therein for distributing and transporting the material to the outlets. As the material is transported toward each of the outlets by the augers it is crushed or ground to a small size. This apparatus allows the material to be dispensed through the multiple outlets at a substantially steady, uniform rate.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2009Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Daniel H. Pote, Stephen M. Haller
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Patent number: 7789027Abstract: A soil treatment device that reconditions topsoil by removing an amount of topsoil, treating the topsoil, placing bacteria and small organisms within the topsoil, and then returning the topsoil to the ground surface. The device removes the topsoil from a ground surface by a front-mounted set of cutter blades that remove topsoil down to a specific depth and places it on a conveyer belt. The belt then transports the topsoil into the device, where it is irradiated; seeded with bacteria, microorganisms, and seedlings; and then discharged back onto the ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Inventor: Billy D. Marshall
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Publication number: 20100192819Abstract: A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventors: Elijah Garner, Michael E. Friestad, Nathan A. Mariman, David J. Rylander, Daniel B. Thiemke
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Publication number: 20100192821Abstract: A seed delivery apparatus has a moving member that captures and entraps the seed from the seed meter and physically moves the seed from the meter to the lower outlet opening. In so doing, the seed engages and travels along an interior surface of the seed delivery apparatus. A seed sensor is mounted on the housing wall such that the seed passes directly in front of the sensor. The sensor has both the light emitting devices and the photo-sensitive elements on the same wall of the delivery apparatus, or on two opposed walls. The moving member prevents ambient light, dust and dirt from entering the housing and impacting the sensor output signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventors: Elijah Garner, Michael E. Friestad, Nathan A. Mariman, David J. Rylander, Daniel B. Thiemke, James Z. Liu, Nikolai R. Tevs
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Publication number: 20100180808Abstract: A pressure sensing system for a seeding machine such as a planter to measure the down force on a planter row unit uses a wireless pressure sensor embedded in a load carrying wheel of the row unit. In a preferred embodiment, the pressure sensor is a passive piezoelectric pressure sensor that is a transmitter only, transmitting both pressure and RFID the information that identifies the particular sensor. Multiple sensors may be employed in each wheel and sensors may be employed in more than one wheel of the row unit, such as the gauge wheels on opposite sides of the trench opening disks. The sensors may be made of a PVDF, a known piezoelectric material. A wireless receiver is located on the planter frame or could be located elsewhere to receive the signals from the pressure sensor. A controller determines from the signal, any change in down force and commands the change to a down force generator on the row unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2009Publication date: July 22, 2010Inventor: James Z. Liu
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Publication number: 20100077948Abstract: A seed meter has a housing forming a seed-holding supply chamber and an outlet chamber and a thin feed wheel rotatable in the housing about an axis and formed centered on the axis with an annular array of radially outwardly open and axially throughgoing seats each dimensioned to hold a respective seed. Structure in the housing is positioned to prevent seeds from moving radially outward from the respective seats in the supply chamber but not in the outlet chamber. A pressure differential is applied across the wheel to move seeds in the supply chamber into the seats so that the seeds are expelled from the seats in the outlet chamber. The seeds are fed, one at a time into a seed conduit and/or to a conveyor for transfer to the seed conduit or to the down pipes of the seed coulters.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Inventor: Thomas HORSCH
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Publication number: 20100018446Abstract: The present invention relates to a device to be used for the mechanized distribution of natural antagonists for the treatment of crops grown in greenhouse or in open field, under organic and/or integrated regimen, improving uniformity of distribution and concomitantly reducing the time spent in the distribution, with respect to other known systems in the current state of the art.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2007Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventors: Giacomo Blandini, Sabina Failla, Giuseppe Manetto
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Publication number: 20090139436Abstract: A fill tube and sensor assembly has a single electronic sensor to detect the level of product in a hopper of an agricultural implement relative to a fill line. The electronic sensor can be positioned at various heights relative to the fill tube to provide variability in the height of the fill line. The sensor provides a full level signal until product is drawn from the fill tube. Once the product is dispensed from the fill tube and into the general interior volume of the hopper, the single sensor provides an empty level signal that can be used to alert an operator of a diminished product supply or control operation of the farm implement.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventor: Russell J. Memory
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Publication number: 20080314300Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the spreading system of broadcast spreaders, and in particular, to a spreader disengagement plate and method of use thereof for selectively engaging a rotatable spreader plate by coupling and uncoupling the different elements of a drive mechanism. A folded, U-shaped metal disengagement plate having a central pivot is connected to an axle. By pushing on either end of the pivoting disengaging plate, a user rotates the disengagement plate from an open configuration to a locked configuration and back. When in an open configuration, the disengagement plate remains immobile while the broadcast spreader is moved. When in the locked configuration, the disengagement plate rotates in conjunction with the wheel. In one embodiment, a lock nut is placed on the external surface of the wheel hub and must be inserted within the folded, U-shaped metal disengagement plate in the locked configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: AGRI-FAB, INC.Inventor: Neil Edwin Bowsher
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Publication number: 20080250991Abstract: A method for revegetation or remediation of a land surface in which a layer containing selected seed, mulch and nutrients is applied to the land surface. More specifically, the layer applied contains grain seed, grass seed or both and the rate of seeding is preferably 100 lbs/acre or more. The method preferably includes after-care steps in which growth stimulating or growth maintenance compositions are applied to the land that has been seeded using the layer application.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2005Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventor: Fred Werth
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Patent number: 6981457Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing particulate matter includes a hollow elongate body having sidewalls extending between opposite first and second ends. First and second end seals seal the first and second ends respectively. The first end seal has an orifice through which the particular material, when stored in the body, is dispensed. A baffle is mounted within the first end, generally abutting against one side wall of the body. The baffle at least partially occludes the orifice and forms a pocket between the orifice and the baffle. A convoluted dispensing flow path is thereby formed for dispensing the particulate material from the body, around the baffle and out of the dispenser through the orifice.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Dirt Work Products Inc.Inventor: Donald James Stolz
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Patent number: 6976441Abstract: A fertilizer dispensing device for dispensing fertilizer from an all-terrain vehicle includes a container having a bottom wall and a peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. An outlet is fluidly coupled to the container. A bracket is attached to the container for selectively attaching the container to a rear portion of the all-terrain vehicle. Fertilizer may be positioned in the container such that the fertilizer flows outward of the container through the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: James W. Speer
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Patent number: 6907832Abstract: A granular material spreader for a mower other a apparatus including a support column, having a support plate attached to its bottom, for supporting the spreader thereon, the spreader being mounted to the shaft of the motor which when energized turns the spreader for usage. A bracket attaching to the support column supports the hopper, for holding granular material, the bottom of the hopper including a series of apertures, and a control plate, to regulate the dispensing and spreading of granular material. A pivot lever energized to a solenoid initiates the dispensing, or containment, of spreading of granular material. The control plate includes an adjustment further regulating the amount of granular material dispensed from the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Inventor: Mark W. Wyne
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Patent number: 6810822Abstract: An agricultural and gardening fertilizer applicator comprised of a container filled with a granular, the container having sloping surfaces at the bottom; a worm gear feed rod, a container output port, the worm gear feed rod subjected to the rotational force of a drive mechanism, the pliant delivery hose conjoined to a long pipe; and a manual switch for starting and stopping the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is connected to a controller, it consisting of power off, intermittent on, and a continuous on. When the long pipe sharp scoop tip is moved to the root section, pressing the switch causes the drive mechanism to start the rotation of the worm gear feed rod, forcing the fertilizer downward under pressure through the output opening to the worm gear feed rod and into the pliant delivery hose, the long pipe, the sharp scoop tip, and onto the root section.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Inventor: Yao-Pang Chan