Abstract: A row unit closing wheel assembly includes a closing wheel, a closing wheel arm, and a closing wheel shaft having a first end and a second end. The closing wheel is coupled to the first end and the closing wheel arm is coupled to the second end via a pivot joint. The row unit closing wheel assembly includes an adjustable mechanical assembly disposed at the pivot joint. The adjustable mechanical assembly is configured to adjust an angle of the closing wheel shaft relative to the closing wheel arm along a horizontal plane via movement of the closing wheel shaft about the pivot joint, the horizontal plane being orthogonal to a rotational axis of the pivot joint. The adjustable mechanical assembly includes interlocking teeth and is configured to utilize the interlocking teeth to adjust the angle.

Abstract: A ground working apparatus is supported on the toolbar of an agricultural implement for injecting liquid fertilizer into the ground. A disc arm is pivotally coupled to a mounting bracket on the toolbar to extend downwardly and rearwardly to a coulter disc rotatably supported on the lower end of the disc arm to cut the ground. An upright pivot assembly pivotally couples the upper end of the disc arm relative to the mounting bracket to pivot about an upright axis while preventing upward movement of the disc. A shank is pivotal on the disc arm to support a shovel trailing the disc to form an undercut trough connected to the ground cut formed by the coulter disc. A pressure mechanism prevents upward pivotal movement of the shovel relative to the disc arm until an upward pressure applied to the shovel exceeds a prescribed holding force of the pressure mechanism.

Abstract: An agricultural toolbar employs at least two wing assemblies for following the contour of the land in a working position and foldable to a transport position for transit on public roads. The principal use in working position benefits from having a wide range of movement to accommodate variations in land contours and soil types. The principal use in transport mode benefits from having a compact configuration to better meet road regulations. End-uses that condition cultivatable land at multiple locations will benefit from the toolbar.

Abstract: A row unit closing wheel assembly includes a closing wheel, a closing wheel arm, and a closing wheel shaft having a first end and a second end. The closing wheel is coupled to the first end and the closing wheel arm is coupled to the second end via a pivot joint. The row unit closing wheel assembly includes an adjustable mechanical linkage assembly coupled both to the closing wheel shaft and to the closing wheel arm. The adjustable mechanical linkage is configured to adjust an angle of the closing wheel shaft relative to the closing wheel arm along a horizontal plane via movement of the closing wheel shaft about the pivot joint. The horizontal plane is orthogonal to a rotational axis of the pivot joint.

Abstract: In one aspect, a system for detecting tripping of ground engaging tools on an agricultural implement may include a ground engaging tool coupled to an implement frame. Furthermore, the system may include a motion sensor installed on the implement frame, with the motion sensor configured to capture data indicative of motion of the implement frame. Moreover, the system may include a controller configured to monitor the motion of the implement frame based on the data received from the motion sensor. In addition, the controller may be further configured to determine when the ground engaging tool has tripped based on the monitored motion.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, and a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit. The agricultural implement system also includes a valve assembly in fluid communication with the down force cylinder and the depth control cylinder. The valve assembly is configured to automatically adjust the downward force by varying fluid pressure within the down force cylinder based on fluid pressure within the depth control cylinder.

Abstract: An seeder includes a frame on ground wheels defining tool bars for seeding elements spaced across the frame. Each element includes a pair of parallel arms connected to the tool bar bracket forming a parallel linkage for up and down movement of a support arm connected at a rear end and carrying the packer wheel. A spring applies a downward spring force on the parallel linkage to apply a downward force on the packer wheel so that the spring force increases as the parallel arms pivot upwardly and decreases as the parallel arms pivot downwardly. A control device is arranged to raise and lower the tool bar in response to a detected value of a sensor so as to change the angle of the parallel linkage and change the spring force. A cam controlled double rack adjustment of the height of the opener allows the user to change seeding depth.

Abstract: A seeder includes a frame on ground wheels defining tool bars for seeding elements spaced across the frame. Each element includes a pair of parallel arms connected to the tool bar bracket forming a parallel linkage for up and down movement of a support arm connected at a rear end and carrying the packer wheel. A spring applies a downward spring force on the parallel linkage to apply a downward force on the packer wheel so that the spring force increases as the parallel arms pivot upwardly and decreases as the parallel arms pivot downwardly. A control device is arranged to raise and lower the tool bar in response to a detected value of a sensor so as to change the angle of the parallel linkage and change the spring force. A cam controlled double rack adjustment of the height of the opener allows the user to change seeding depth.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: A furrow opener apparatus attachable to an implement has a trailing arm with a packer wheel at the rear end, and a furrow opener attached forward of the packer wheel. An actuator moves the trailing arm between a lowered operating position and a raised transport position. A latch mechanism engages the implement frame and the trailing arm when the actuator is operated to move the trailing arm to the transport position, preventing the trailing arm from moving downward. A release mechanism moves the latch mechanism to an unlatched position when the actuator is operated to move the trailing arm from the raised transport position to the lowered operating position, allowing the trailing arm to move down from the transport position.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: A precision hoe opener assembly is provided with improved accuracy of seeding as well as improved control over the opener and packer wheel assemblies. The opener assembly includes a hydraulically-driven parallel linkage assembly, a lost motion linkage, a hoe opener, and a packer wheel. The design provides improved seeding accuracy, by adjusting assembly components to and compensating for changes in terrain elevation.

Abstract: The invention refers to an implement regulating device in an agricultural machine including at least one group of implements (4) arranged across the driving direction, thereafter cross-wise arranged support members (15) and at least one each group of implements and support members are controllable and adjustable by a power device (23). Implements (4) and support members (15) in each group are journalled in bearings at one end of at least one carrying arm (13). The power device (23) is adapted to rotate a cross-running main beam (19). The main beam is connected with the carrying arm (13) via a spring member (18) and is rotatably suspended in relation to the frame (Ia) of the machine (1). Activation of the power device is adapted to influence the carrying arm between a position for maximum sowing depth and a transport position.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a seeding implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a parallel linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the parallel linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned directly behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging a soil region. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to shift the packer wheel rearwardly upon the ground engaging tool encountering an obstruction and to shift the packer wheel forwardly after the obstruction has been passed by the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: An implement includes a frame configured to couple to a tool bar, a linkage coupled to the frame, and a ground engaging tool extending from a shank, wherein the shank is coupled to the linkage. The implement also includes a packer wheel configured to control a position of the ground engaging tool, wherein the packer wheel is positioned behind the ground engaging tool when the ground engaging tool is engaging the soil. Further, the implement includes an adjustment mechanism configured to allow for adjustment of the distance between the packer wheel and the ground engaging tool.

Abstract: A furrow opener device includes a disc arranged to open a primary furrow in the ground. A scraper body has a leading scraper edge supported alongside the disc to scrape the disc. A wing member is supported on a bottom portion of the scraper body in proximity to a bottom end of the disc and extends laterally outwardly away from the disc so as to be arranged to open a groove in the primary furrow projecting laterally to one side of the primary furrow, and a tube extends generally downward to an output opening located adjacent the wing member and is arranged for depositing product into the groove. A packer wheel is arranged in a first configuration where depth of disc penetration is gauged by a gauge wheel adjacent to the furrow opener and in a second configuration in which depth is gauged by the packer wheel.

Abstract: A ground engaging apparatus (10) has a support plate (50) pivotally attached to a frame (100); a pair of arms (30, 40) interconnecting the support plate (50) and a shank support (60), which supports a shank (70) and ground follower (90) and first and second biasing rams or springs (200, 300), to maintain the ground follower (90); against the ground (91) but allow controlled break out of a ground opening, or tillage, tool (81) if an obstruction is engaged.

Abstract: A furrow opener apparatus includes a parallel link trailing arm having a rear link that is maintained substantially horizontal as the arm moves up and down. Front and rear furrow openers are attached to the rear link. A packer wheel arm is attached to the rear link and extends rearward and downward from the rear link, and a packer wheel is mounted to the packer wheel arm and aligned with one of the furrow openers. A bias device exerts a downward bias force on the trailing arm, furrow openers, and packer wheel. The furrow openers, the packer wheel, and the rear link are maintained in rigid orientation with respect to each other when in a working mode, and a vertical operating position of at least one of the furrow openers with respect to the packer wheel is adjustable to vary a depth of the furrow.

Abstract: A compression system for a dual material delivery assembly for mounting on a frame alongside a plurality of similar assemblies is described. The assembly includes a furrowing knife for producing a furrow in the ground as it is towed across the ground. A fertilizer tube is mounted behind the furrowing knife. A seed dispensing tube provided is for depositing seed in the furrow behind the fertilizer knife offset to one side and above the fertilizer. A packer wheel is attached to the seed tube assembly. The fertilizer knife and the seed tube assembly are separately mounted on a bracket attached to the implement frame for pivotal movement about a common pivot Two separate cylinders are provided to apply a separate force on the furrowing element and the packer wheel. The cylinders of each of the assemblies are commonly connected for common adjustment on the frame or on the go on a tractor towing the frame.

Abstract: A compression system for a dual material delivery assembly is described. The assembly includes a furrowing element for producing a furrow in the ground as it is towed across the ground. A fertilizer tube and a seed tube are provided for depositing fertilizer and seed at respective location in the ground. A packer wheel follows the tubes for packing earth on top of the seed. A biasing element provides a force on the furrowing element and the packer wheel. A control linkage mounts between the packer wheel and the furrowing element for controlling a distribution of the force between the furrowing element and the packer wheel.

Abstract: A versatile implement system utilizing a single implement structure that is capable of being utilized as a grain planter, row crop planter, tiller or anhydrous applicator. The inventive device includes a conventional implement frame, a bracket, a pair of support arms connected to the bracket, a breakaway structure, a receiving arm having a tubular structure, a syncline shaped brace within the receiving arm, a shank member having a syncline end that is removably insertable into an open end of the receiving arm for mating connection with the brace, and an attachment connected to the shank opposite of the syncline end for performing a specific task. This structure allows a plurality of shank planters, anhydrous applicators, double-disc openers, corn planters or tillage attachments to be utilized upon a single implement frame. Varying row spacing such as 30, 15 and 71/2 inch are achievable by removing specific planter attachments.

Abstract: A seed drill particularly adapted for contouring uneven ground and accommodating rocks, especially where depth of furrow and placement of seed against wet soil is critical, as in dry land farming. Each drill in a set of drills is a separate unit which is mounted on a vehicle. Each unit includes a split press wheel with an opener mounted within the wheel. The units can easily be individually mounted or adjusted on the vehicle for spacing and height. The opener has an articulating adjusting arm which allows easy adjustment to all preferred positions.

Abstract: An opener for use in varying ground conditions, ranging from no-till to conventional full tillage conditions, includes an adjustable down pressure control and a down pressure spring and tension link assembly which selectively provide a limited free float opener condition or a conventional down pressure spring controlled bias condition. A sleeve slidably received by the opener arm and mounted over the lower portion of the tension link assembly allows the opener to free float in loose soil conditions so that only the weight of the opener provides downward bias when the down pressure control is adjusted to a minimum condition. The opener is free to ride up and down to follow irregularities in the ground surface.

Abstract: A trip assembly for a ground-working implement includes a rigid toggle member and a spring toggle member that are pinned, respectively, at a first point to a ground-engaging tool and at a second point to a frame. The rigid toggle member and the spring toggle member are pinned together at a third point that is a small distance vertically below a line extending between the first two points. A fulcrum from the rigid toggle member is in contact with the top of the spring toggle member at a central position. An obstruction force transmitted to the ground-engaging tool is transmitted to flex the spring toggle member vertically upwardly at the central position. As the spring toggle member flexes vertically upwardly, the third point moves upwardly through the small distance. Once the third point crosses the line between the first two points, the trip assembly trips and moves the ground-engaging tool to a vertically upwardly removed tripped position.

Abstract: A seed drill including depending furrow openers having a lower shovel and a supporting seed boot. Each seed boot is pivotally supported on a longitudinal drag bar assembly connected to it about a transverse pivotal connection. The forwardly extending arm at the upper end of the seed boot selectively engages one end of a longitudinal leaf spring mounted to the drag arm assembly. A preselected planting position for the shovel and seed boot is defined by an overlying adjustable stop. An arcuate abutment surface is interposed between the seed boot arm and leaf spring. A stop is interposed between the drag arm assembly and leaf spring for limiting upward movement of the free spring end.