Abstract: In methods according to some embodiments of the present disclosure for interplanting a primary crop and an energy crop, the present disclosure includes methods for preparing a plantation site for planting the energy crop. Plantation sites according to the disclosure may include a primary crop planted in a first row and in a second row, the first row being separated by an intermediate area. The intermediate area is divided into a center portion and two side portions (a first side portion and a second side portion). Methods according to embodiments of the disclosure include lifting a soil and plantation debris mixture from the intermediate area, and redepositing a soil component of the soil and plantation debris mixture primarily in the intermediate area.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for transferring data between a host device and a data storage device having a first memory space and a second memory space. The host issues access commands to store and retrieve data. The device stores commands in the first memory space pending transfer to the second memory space. An interface circuit evaluates relative proximity of first and second sets of LBAs associated with pending first and second commands, and delays promotion of later pending commands in front of earlier pending commands during an overlap condition. If the overlap is caused by performance enhancing features (PEF) the PEFs are disabled so the commands can be scheduled for disc access. Indicators are set in the commands to signal that a PEF has caused the overlap and that PEF can be disabled. Values are added to indicators in the commands such that the PEFs can be modified and avoid overlaps.

Abstract: A furrow closing apparatus for an agricultural planter producing an open seed furrow in the soil into which seeds are sequentially deposited, comprising a pair of rotary forks mountable on the planter on opposite sides of the open seed furrow and at a location rearwardly of the seed depositing mechanism; each rotary fork having a hub portion for rotational mounting on the planter and a plurality of radially projecting rigid tines rigidly secured to the hub portion; said tines having an arcuate configuration in a radial direction thereby producing a convex soil engaging surface which imparts a compressing action to the soil adjacent the sidewall of the open seed trench to fragmentize both sidewalls and an adjacent strip to cover the deposited seed with the fragmentized soil particles.

Abstract: An improvement in machines for laying agricultural plastic film is disclosed which provides means forcing the plastic film against the seed bed and inclined sides and bottom of oppositely situated furrows utilizing a forced air fan to blow air downwardly upon the plastic film to secure it in place against disturbing forces, such as winds, in order that the longitudinal side edges of the plastic sheet may be properly covered with a layer of soil thrown up by rearwardly located covering discs. In an alternate embodiment, a fluid, such as air or water, is forcibly directed against the plastic film overlying the inclined side and bottom of the oppositely situated furrows to hold the film in place for covering by soil thrown up by the covering discs.

Abstract: An improved device for planting seed in the soil, a sowing machine and combined machine for preparing a seedbed and for sowing using the device. According to the invention, an outside part of active part of a tool is provided which includes a carrying element whose outside edge is directed essentially crosswise to the direction of advance during working operation.

Abstract: An agricultural machine and method for applying and securing a plastic film onto a seed bed. The machine includes a cutter that severs the plastic film at the end of a row or other area for which covering is desired, while covering the severed ends so as to anchor them to the soil.