Processes Patents (Class 172/1)
  • Patent number: 11917933
    Abstract: A working vehicle includes a steering handle, a vehicle body to travel with either manual steering by the steering handle or automatic steering of the steering handle based on a traveling reference line, an operator provided to the vehicle body, and a controller to terminate the automatic steering when the operator is operated under the automatic steering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shunsuke Miyashita, Yasuaki Morioka, Kunihiko Nishino, Kumiko Kobayashi, Misako Kawai
  • Patent number: 11818976
    Abstract: A dispensing machine dispenses a material on a field. A blockage is detected, and an initial blockage location, where the blockage started, is identified. A blockage characterization system identifies characteristics of the blockage, and a control signal generator generates control signals based upon the detected blockage, and the characteristics of the blockage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Sandeep Ekhe, Mandar Mhalsakant Kale, Sean A Mahrt, William Douglas Graham, Peter R. Nedved, Grant J. Wonderlich, Robert T. Casper, Omkar Joshi
  • Patent number: 11511743
    Abstract: A method for controlling the speed of a work vehicle towing an implement that is movable between a working position, in which ground engaging tools of the implement are configured to perform a field operation, and a transport position, in which the ground engaging tools are raised relative to the ground. The method may include monitoring, with a computing device, an implement weight supported by the implement while the implement is in the transport position. The method may further include comparing, with the computing device, the implement weight to a predetermined threshold weight. Additionally, the method may include, when the implement weight differs from the predetermined threshold weight, adjusting, with the computing device, a maximum speed limit for the work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Trevor L. Kowalchuk, Nicholas George Alfred Ryder
  • Patent number: 11483958
    Abstract: System that automates crop maintenance activities, such as cultivating and weeding, with a device that intelligently and independently controls two blades that drag along either side of a crop row using sensors to repeatedly track the position of the blades and of the plants in the row. Blades may be moved in and out independently using an actuator for each blade to contour closely around the individual plants, even if plants or rows vary in their positions, and even if plant sizes and shapes differ. An illustrative system may use a single camera and a processor per crop row; the processor may analyze camera images to locate plant positions and shapes, to plan blade trajectories, and to control blade actuators. The processor may be able to control blade movement precisely to respond quickly to sensor input on changes in plant positions, shapes, and sizes along the row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: VISION ROBOTICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Bret Wallach, Harvey Koselka
  • Patent number: 11408146
    Abstract: A work machine includes: a boom; a dipper stick attached to a distal end of the boom; a bucket attached to a distal end of the dipper stick; and a loading determination unit configured to determine that an operation of the work machine is a loading operation for loading an excavated matter into a loading target under a condition that the bucket moves across a reference level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventor: Minetaka Nishimura
  • Patent number: 11375653
    Abstract: An agricultural device associated with reduced tillage techniques in a field includes a frame and a separator supported by the frame. The separator is configured to form a strip of exposed soil in residual plant matter in the field. A crimping device associated with the separator is configured to at least partially crush stems of residual plant matter while maintaining the strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventors: Charles H. Martin, Dominic R. Martin
  • Patent number: 11297760
    Abstract: An agricultural implement includes a frame, a first row of row units coupled to the frame, and a second row of row units coupled to the frame. The second row of row units is positioned behind the first row of row units relative to a direction of travel, and each row unit is configured to deposit seeds into the soil. The agricultural implement also includes a row of fertilizer applicators coupled to the frame and positioned between the first row and the second row of row units relative to the direction of travel. Each fertilizer applicator is laterally positioned between one row unit of the first row and one row unit of the second row that is laterally adjacent to the one row unit of the first row, and each fertilizer applicator is configured to direct displaced soil laterally toward the one row unit of the second row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gordon Anthony Engel
  • Patent number: 10925984
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for treating soil with electromagnetic radiation, comprising:—a magnetron antenna (9) for generating microwave radiation with a relatively high frequency; a wave guide (16) connected to the output of the magnetron antenna (9); downward directed tubular members (18, 19) connected to the wave guide (16);—a manifold (17) arranged between the two tubular members (18, 19) and the wave guide (16);—a tuner unit (26) arranged on the wave guide (16); and—cooling means (22, 22?, 22?) for cooling the electromagnetic radiation reflected by the soil. The invention also relates to a cable (24) provided with a single high-voltage cable and one or more low-voltage cables and/or a number of optical cables which are arranged in a shared cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Koppert Machines en Zonen B.V.
    Inventor: Arie Leendert Koppert
  • Patent number: 10701852
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling weeds, which includes a tine formation adapted to remove or disrupt targeted weeds, and a tine support assembly adapted to support the tine for movement about a first control axis in a generally vertical direction between an engaged position wherein the tine formation in use contacts a ground surface for removal or disruption of targeted weeds and a disengaged position wherein the tine formation is substantially retracted from the ground surface. The tine support assembly is further adapted to support the tine for movement about a second control axis in a generally horizontal direction. The tine support assembly further includes a first actuation mechanism adapted to effect movement of the tine about the first control axis, and a second actuation mechanism adapted to effect movement of the tine about the second control axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: The University of Sydney
    Inventors: Mark Calleija, Salah Sukkarieh
  • Patent number: 10606962
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, system, article of manufacture, and computer program product provide the ability to optimize a transport alignment. Terrain data, constraint data, and cost data are read. Terrain pixels having elevation values are organized and stored in a first grid structure with rows and columns that enable efficient access to each terrain pixel. One or more raster layers of a same dimension and orientation as the first grid structure are created. A starting alignment is obtained. The starting alignment is then optimized using the one or more raster layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: AUTODESK, INC.
    Inventors: Valentin R. Koch, Song Liu
  • Patent number: 10399143
    Abstract: A method includes forming a mold, the mold having at least one mold portion defining the shape of an element to be removed from the component in a subsequent manufacturing step and having a reduced cross-sectional area. The at least one mold portion includes at least one recess which further reduces the cross sectional area of the cavity and increases the surface area of the at least one mold portion or the at least one mold portion includes a plurality of projections which increase the surface area of the least one mold portion thereby increasing radiative heat loss from the at least one mold portion during the process. A mold for use in this method and a turbine blade formed using this method, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
    Inventors: John Harold Boswell, Terence Ivan Simpson, Phillip John Crosby
  • Patent number: 10375875
    Abstract: An agricultural sowing implement that, when moved by a drive unit, distributes seeds in the ground with regular, uniform spacing. The agricultural sowing implement comprises a rocker system placed behind the chassis of the implement where a seed dispenser is positioned. The rocker system may include a beam connected to two depth-limiting wheels on the ends of the beam. In one embodiment of the disclosure, provision is made for two interlinked smaller wheels connected to a central lower extension of the beam, the set of wheels being encircled by a rolling band. In addition, provision is made for two dampers, one for each of the depth-limiting wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Inventor: Jose Roberto do Amaral Assy
  • Patent number: 10368476
    Abstract: An agricultural vehicle includes a chassis; a storage tank carried by the chassis; and a row unit carried by the chassis. The row unit includes: a row body; an opening blade carried by the row body and configured to open a trench as the row body is carried in a direction of travel; and a closing tandem carried by the row body behind the opening blade that is pivotally movable relative to the row body. The closing tandem includes a closing disc and a press wheel carried behind the closing disc, the closing disc and the press wheel being configured to rotate as the row body is carried in the direction of travel, the closing disc defining a projection path as it rotates, and the press wheel having a treaded surface in the projection path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Jason Andrews, Derek Sicheneder
  • Patent number: 10334771
    Abstract: An agricultural implement system includes a toolbar assembly configured to support multiple row units, and multiple wheels configured to support the toolbar assembly. The wheels include a first wheel and a second wheel, and at least one row unit is configured to be disposed between the first wheel and the second wheel. The agricultural implement system also includes a wheel position control system configured to instruct first and second actuators to lower the first wheel and the second wheel to transition the agricultural implement system to a non-working position, to instruct the first and second actuators to raise the first wheel and the second wheel to transition the agricultural implement system to a working position, and to instruct the second actuator to raise the second wheel while the agricultural implement system is in the working position such that the second wheel is disengaged from a soil surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Johnathon R. Dienst, Michael J. Connors
  • Patent number: 10285322
    Abstract: An agricultural implement including a stacking toolbar assembly. The stacking toolbar assembly includes a center toolbar, a center support beam, at least one pivot beam rotatably coupled to the center support beam at a first joint, at least one wing toolbar moveably coupled to the at least one pivot beam at a second joint, and an actuating system. The actuating system includes at least one first actuator coupled to the center support beam and the at least one pivot beam, and at least one second actuator coupled to the at least one pivot beam and the at least one wing toolbar. The at least one wing toolbar is moveable from a work position in which the at least one wing toolbar is substantially laterally aligned with the center toolbar and a transport position in which the at least one wing toolbar is stacked above the center toolbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Cale N. Boriack, Buweneke A. Fernando
  • Patent number: 10154621
    Abstract: An assembly for adjustably mounting a gauge wheel arm to the frame of a row unit may include a pivot pin connected on the frame, a bushing freely rotatably mounted on the pivot pin for engagement with the gauge wheel arm such that rotation of the bushing with respect to the gauge wheel arm moves the gauge wheel arm axially, and a locking element that integrates the gauge wheel arm with the bushing so that there is no relative movement therebetween as the gauge wheel arm rotates with respect to the pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Shoup Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Chad A. Schoolman, Alan R. Behrends
  • Patent number: 10152771
    Abstract: Correcting motion-based inaccuracy in point cloud data generated by one or more sensors carried by a scanning platform, and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A representative method includes associating a motion model with a target object of the point cloud, estimating adjusting factors based on the motion model, and adjusting scanning points in the point cloud using the adjusting factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chen Li, Lu Ma
  • Patent number: 9974224
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a main section including a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, at least one auxiliary implement assembly coupled to each of the wing sections and a control system. Each auxiliary implement assembly includes at least one support member, at least one pivotal arm pivotally coupled to the support member, at least one actuator coupled to both the support member and the pivotal arm and a ground contacting implement coupled to the pivotal arm. The control system is configured to actuate the actuators to control a position of each ground contacting implement in each of the sections when the agricultural implement is transitioning to a transport mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Patent number: 9938749
    Abstract: A system for positioning post sleeves is provided including a plurality of post sleeve positioning devices and a spacing mechanism. Each post sleeve positioning device is configured to receive a respective post sleeve and to enable selective adjustment of a position and orientation of the respective post sleeve. The spacing mechanism is coupleable between the pair of post sleeve positioning devices to determine or control the position and orientation of the post sleeve received by one of the pair of post sleeves positioning devices relative to the post sleeve received by the other one of the pair of post sleeve positioning devices. Related systems and methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: N. Eric Knudsen
  • Patent number: 9909283
    Abstract: An image display apparatus for a shovel that includes a lower-part traveling body, an upper-part turning body turnably placed on the lower-part traveling body, and an attachment mounted on the upper-part turning body, and performs work in a work area by driving the attachment, includes an image display part configured to display the work area to be subjected to the work. An image of the work area captured with an image capturing device is subjected to image processing to add and indicate a distribution of depressions and elevations of the work area, and is displayed on the image display part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Shipeng Li
  • Patent number: 9886527
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product provide the ability to modify a spline (e.g., a civil engineering spline). The spline, defined by a set of connected points, is obtained/acquired. A design constraint set is determined and may include an interpolation constraint (specifying a fixed elevation for a connected point), a slope constraint (specifying a bound on a slope between two of the connected points), and a curvature constraint (specifying; a maximum slope difference of a first slope and a second slope between three connected points). The spline is projected onto the design constraint set thereby modifying the spline by changing elevations of the connected points. The modified spline is then projected onto the design constraint set iteratively until the spline satisfies all constraints in the design constraint set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Autodesk, Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz H. Bauschke, Valentin R. Koch
  • Patent number: 9803978
    Abstract: A laser rod surface elevation table (L-RSET) includes a sensor arm coupled to a stepper motor and a screw frame. A screw interconnects the motor and frame, while a screw carriage interconnects the screw and a sensor carriage. A laser sensor is mounted to the sensor carriage. A controller includes at least one processor operatively coupled to the sensor and motor. The processor processes measurement values in a data structure and performs functions to actuate the motor and sensor. The data structure represents a quasi-unique topographical measurement project, and is configured with the measurement values, including a radius value R which defines an area, a start point value X and a stop point value Y for positioning the screw carriage, a speed value S for speed of advancement of the screw carriage, an interval value I for measurement interval, and a points value N for points of measurement per measurement interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventors: William C. Vervaeke, Christopher J. Wells, Ryan M. Twilley, David P. Turnipseed
  • Patent number: 9775284
    Abstract: An activated-release, water-insoluble or slowly-soluble coating is utilized on fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, medicine, and other granules to precisely time the release of the active ingredient of the granules, for purposes such as fertilizer and pesticide release as well as to initiate seed germination. An external stimulus, or activating agent, including, but not limited to, microwaves, ultrasonic waves, X-rays, radio waves, electromagnetic waves, radar waves, sonar waves, magnetic induction, (or pulses of any of the foregoing), specific chemical, bacteria, or fungus organism (such as ionic or non ionic surfactants, organic solvents, specifically cultured bacteria, fungi or catalytic agents) is used to break the coating, thus allowing for the release or germination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: Activation Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Kim R. Polizotto
  • Patent number: 9596800
    Abstract: A triple-fold agricultural implement includes a center frame section, and a plurality of wing sections positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section. The plurality of wing sections include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section. Each outer wing section may be folded approximately 180° laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section may be folded approximately 180° laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. Each inner wing section may be folded approximately 90° laterally inward and over the center frame section, whereby each of the plurality of wing sections when in a folded state are in a transport position lying above the center frame section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Patent number: 9554501
    Abstract: A folding agricultural implement including a center frame section, a plurality of wing sections and first and second hinge systems. The plurality of wing sections are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section, and include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section, each outer wing section being configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. The first hinge system is coupled to both the outer wing section and the middle wing section. The first hinge system having a first pivot axis. The second hinge system is coupled to the middle wing section and the inner wing section, and has a second pivot axis that is vertically higher than the first pivot axis when the implement is in an unfolded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Patent number: 9521800
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a center frame section having a pull hitch configured to be towed, and a plurality of wing sections positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section. The plurality of wing sections include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section. Each outer wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. Each inner wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over the center frame section, whereby each of the plurality of wing sections when in a folded state are in a transport position with an overall frontal profile having dimensions of no greater than approximately 18 feet wide by 13 feet, 6 inches high.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Patent number: 9433137
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jim Henry, Nicholas George Alfred Ryder
  • Patent number: 9435102
    Abstract: A ripping mechanism for a vehicle has a support frame, and a ripping member having an engagement head for plowing a groove. The ripping member is positionable in a selected working position and orientation by adjustment of the frame. The ripping member is movable relative to the frame to cause reciprocating movement of the engagement head at least partially longitudinally. A tilt adjustment cylinder orients the ripping member in the selected orientation. A vibrator mechanism operatively connected to the ripping member is activatable to cause reciprocating movement of the engagement head at least partially longitudinally. A control system includes a pressure sensor fluidically connected to the tilt adjustment cylinder and the pressure sensor determines a pressure thereof. The control system is configured to alter an operational state of the vibrator mechanism based on the pressure being above or below a threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Ronald Hall
  • Patent number: 9388550
    Abstract: A system for autonomous control of a machine having a ground-engaging work implement includes a position sensor and a controller. The controller is configured to determine the position of a work surface based upon the position signals and select a work zone loading profile for a work zone cut location along a path within a work zone and the work zone loading profile has a work zone cut angle relative to a ground reference. The controller is further configured to select a final cut loading profile for a final cut location along the path adjacent the boundary zone with the final cut loading profile having a final cut angle relative to the ground reference. The final cut angle is steeper than the work zone cut angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Mo Wei, Michael Taylor, Thandava K. Edara
  • Patent number: 9363939
    Abstract: Air is removed from an hydraulic system for an agricultural implement supporting a plurality of gangs of disk blades extending generally laterally relative to a forward travel direction. The implement has carrier frames pivotally connected to wheel assemblies for controlling the height of the carrier frames relative to the ground through hydraulic actuators acting on the wheel assemblies. The hydraulic control unit enables independent and individual control of each actuator. An electronic control unit (ECU) controls three way valves associated with each actuator so that they may be operated in unison or individually. Hydraulic fluid is passed through the most remote actuator first and then actuators closer to the hydraulic control unit to remove air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: James W. Henry
  • Patent number: 9315116
    Abstract: Provided is an electric drive vehicle which can control wheel speed so as to achieve an appropriate slip ratio of the wheels even when pitching vibration of the vehicle is large. This electric drive vehicle is provided with electric motors (1, 4), drive wheels (3, 6), driven wheels (7, 8), an electric motor controller (50) for controlling the electric motors, and speed detectors (9-12) for detecting the wheel speed of the drive wheels and the driven wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Akira Kikuchi, Tomohiko Yasuda, Takayuki Sato, Shinjiro Saito
  • Patent number: 9185839
    Abstract: A pull-type crop engaging machine such as a rotary mower comprises a frame mounted on transversely spaced field ground wheels for movement with a hitch arm extending to a tractor and a transport assembly attached behind the frame for moving downwardly to a transport position so that in the transport position the hitch arm extends from one end of the frame generally in the transverse direction for towing the machine in the transverse direction. The transport includes a transport ground wheel which acts to raise the frame to pass underneath the crop engaging system to support the machine on the wheel, on a second wheel behind the frame and on the hitch. The movement of the hitch and the wheel is connected and started at a position of the hitch so that the machine remains balanced. A shield behind the frame includes a portion which moves with the transport wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignees: Macdon Industries Ltd., Maschinenfabrik Bernard Krone GmbH
    Inventors: Konstantin Kolegaev, Neil Gordon Barnett, Andreas Afting
  • Patent number: 9161487
    Abstract: A horizontal auger garden tilling apparatus and method of use having an outer frame, an inner frame which pivots with the outer frame, and a rotating auger capable of tilling soil to depth which conventional tillers cannot begin to reach. The apparatus is moved and the method of use is performed via attachment with a tractor or other movable carriage which provides enough horizontal force to move the auger through the soil and provides auger rotational power. A trencher attachment prevents auger soil refilling and allows the apparatus and method of use to be utilized and performed in conjunction with trenching operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Wynn Provines
  • Publication number: 20150129250
    Abstract: A triple-fold agricultural implement includes a center frame section, and a plurality of wing sections positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section. The plurality of wing sections include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section. Each outer wing section may be folded approximately 180° laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section may be folded approximately 180° laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. Each inner wing section may be folded approximately 90° laterally inward and over the center frame section, whereby each of the plurality of wing sections when in a folded state are in a transport position lying above the center frame section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150129249
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a center frame section having a pull hitch configured to be towed, and a plurality of wing sections positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section. The plurality of wing sections include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section. Each outer wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. Each inner wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over the center frame section, whereby each of the plurality of wing sections when in a folded state are in a transport position with an overall frontal profile having dimensions of no greater than approximately 18 feet wide by 13 feet, 6 inches high.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150129253
    Abstract: A folding agricultural implement including a center frame section, a plurality of wing sections and first and second hinge systems. The plurality of wing sections are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the center frame section, and include an inner wing section, a middle wing section and an outer wing section, each outer wing section being configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective middle wing section. Each middle wing section is configured to fold laterally inward and over a respective inner wing section. The first hinge system is coupled to both the outer wing section and the middle wing section. The first hinge system having a first pivot axis. The second hinge system is coupled to the middle wing section and the inner wing section, and has a second pivot axis that is vertically higher than the first pivot axis when the implement is in an unfolded state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150129264
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a main section including a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, at least one auxiliary implement assembly coupled to each of the wing sections and a control system. Each auxiliary implement assembly includes at least one support member, at least one pivotal arm pivotally coupled to the support member, at least one actuator coupled to both the support member and the pivotal arm and a ground contacting implement coupled to the pivotal arm. The control system is configured to actuate the actuators to control a position of each ground contacting implement in each of the sections when the agricultural implement is transitioning to a transport mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150129254
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a main section including a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, a plurality of ground engaging tilling elements, a plurality of wheel assemblies and a control system. The tilling elements are coupled to the main section and wing sections. Each of the wheel assemblies include an actuator. The wheel assemblies include a first plurality of wheel assemblies associated with the main section and a second plurality of wheel assemblies associated with the plurality of wing sections. The actuators of the first plurality of wheel assemblies being independent of the actuators of the second plurality of wheel assemblies. The control system is configured to actuate the actuators to control a depth of tilling elements in each of the sections when the implement is in a field mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch, James W. Henry, Eric J. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20150129251
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement including a main section having a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, and a plurality of ground engaging tilling elements. The tilling elements are coupled to the main section and wing sections. At least one of the sections have a gauge wheel system. The gauge wheel system includes an untilled wheel assembly, a tilled wheel assembly, and an adjustment device. The adjustment device is configured to adjust the untilled wheel assembly relative to the tilled wheel assembly thereby compensating for a characteristic difference between tilled and untilled soil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150129252
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a main section including a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, a plurality of ground engaging tilling elements, a plurality of wheel assemblies and a control system. The tilling elements are coupled to the main section and wing sections. Each of the wheel assemblies include an actuator. The wheel assemblies include a first plurality of wheel assemblies associated with the main section and a second plurality of wheel assemblies associated with the plurality of wing sections. The actuators of the first plurality of wheel assemblies being independent of the actuators of the second plurality of wheel assemblies. The control system is configured to actuate the actuators to effect a profile minimizing operation of the foldable wing sections when the implement is being transitioned into a transport mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Publication number: 20150107862
    Abstract: Agricultural planter row units feature soil finishing assemblies for closing a seed groove after seed is placed in the soil. An adjustable furrow closing assembly enhances upper seed groove coverage and closure with soil resulting in sustained relative humidity levels and optimum seed-to-soil contact for faster seed germination. The furrow closing assembly includes a closing wheel assembly having at least one closing wheel and a press wheel assembly having a press wheel following behind the closing wheels. The closing wheels and press wheel are attached to the planter row unit in a manner allowing the press wheel to move vertically relative to the closing wheels. Adjustable down-force systems are provided to vary the down force applied to the closing wheels and the press wheel to maintain optimum soil contact in irregular terrain and in varying soil densities and conditions to provide optimum soil coverage and compaction of the seed bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Brian Freed
  • Publication number: 20150107861
    Abstract: One embodiment includes a grading tool structured for attachment to a work machine. The grading tool includes a frame, ground contacting wheels coupled with the frame, a comb coupled with the frame and extending from a first end of the frame, and a coupling member coupled with the frame and structured to be accessible from a second end of the frame. When the ground contacting wheels are in contact with the ground a depth of penetration of the comb into the ground surface is adjustable by changing the pitch of the grading tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin V. Keigley
  • Publication number: 20150107503
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for controlling the moisture content of soil deposited in a furrow during seed planting comprises tilling the soil to an adjustable depth to expose soil corresponding to a reference soil moisture setting, selecting covering soil from the exposed soil having a moisture content that matches the moisture content of the reference soil moisture setting, and depositing the covering soil over the seed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Billy R. Masten, Gaylen R. Stukey, Leland P. Stukey
  • Publication number: 20150105962
    Abstract: The use of self-powered, autonomous vehicles in agricultural and other domestic applications is provided. The vehicles include a self-propelled drive system, tracks or wheels operatively connected to the drive system, a power supply operatively connected to the drive system, an attachment mechanism for attaching equipment to the vehicle, and an intelligent control operatively connected to the drive system, power supply, and attachment mechanism. The vehicle is configured to connect to the equipment to perform agricultural operations based upon the equipment. Multiple vehicles can be used in a field at the same time. Furthermore, the invention includes the ability to move one or more of the autonomous vehicles from field to field, home to field, or from generally any first location to a second location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Blackwell, Rhett Schildroth, Michael J. Myers, Merlan J. Rolffs, Derrick Becker
  • Publication number: 20150068779
    Abstract: An agricultural implement is provided that includes a compound hinge arrangement that allows for compact folding adjacent frame segments such as wing segments of planting, seeding, or tillage implements. The compound hinge arrangement includes a first pivot axis that can be active when the implement is in an unfolded field-use position in which a second pivot axis of the compound hinge arrangement is locked. The implement may be folded into a folded transport position by pivoting an outer wing about the first pivot axis with a first actuator during a first stage and pivoting the compound hinge arrangement and the outer wing about the second pivot axis during a second stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Dennis G. Thompson, Dennis W. Chahley, Darwin L. Zacharias
  • Patent number: 8977441
    Abstract: A machine includes a plurality of ground engaging elements and an operator control station supported on a frame. A work tool is pivotably attached to the frame using a lift arm assembly and a tilt linkage. At least one device measures a quantity associated with at least one of the lift arm assembly, the tilt linkage, and the work tool. An electronic controller, in communication with an operator display and the at least one device. The electronic controller is configured to store an operator selected orientation of the work tool, calculate a current orientation of the work tool based on the quantity, and calculate a deviation of the current orientation from the operator selected orientation. A visual representation of the deviation is displayed on the operator display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Joel R. Grimes, Joseph Edward Forcash, Christopher Lee Mays, Steven Conrad Budde
  • Publication number: 20150053434
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes: a frame member; and a leveling blade assembly. The leveling blade assembly includes: a leveling blade; an arm coupling the frame member with the leveling blade; and a spring assembly including a spring and a spring guide assembly, the spring and the spring guide assembly being coupled with the arm and the frame member, the spring guide assembly including a sleeve which is slidably related to the spring and which is made of an ultra-high-molecular-weight (UHMW) plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Kovach, Rick L. Gerber
  • Publication number: 20150053433
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement includes a main frame including a hitch extending in a travel direction, at least one secondary frame, a plurality of rolling basket assemblies and a pressure control system. The secondary frame is coupled with the frame. The plurality of rolling basket assemblies include first and second rolling basket assemblies. Both first and second rolling basket assemblies are coupled to the at least one secondary frame. The first rolling basket assembly has an effective length, and the second rolling basket assembly has a different effective length. The pressure control system is configured to supply different selected pressures to the first and second rolling basket assembly to substantially equalize a down pressure per unit of effective length of the rolling basket assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Kovach, Sven N. Setterdahl, Dean A. Knobloch, Timothy R. Blunier
  • Publication number: 20150034343
    Abstract: Systems for mounting a plurality of agricultural tools on a transverse support bar and a method for operating an agricultural implement having a transverse support bar are disclosed. The systems include a lateral positioning structure that can attach to the transverse support bar and a detachable base that can be releasably coupled to the lateral positioning structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Great Plains Manufacturing, Incorporated
    Inventors: Kevin Lee Reade, Gregory W. Arnett
  • Publication number: 20150027740
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automating some of the tasks that heretofore required operator action at headland turns or similar events are provided. The present invention automates operation of lift assist wheels and/or gull wings, such as those found on a stack-fold implement, based on the position of the tractor hitch to which the implement is coupled. An operator may control the position of the implement, such as at a headland turn, by raising and lowering the tractor hitch using a remote control. The invention enables the planter to compare the tractor hitch position relative to an implement position and control operation of the implement accordingly without additional user inputs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas Tuttle, Tyler Remoue