With Earth Marker Patents (Class 172/126)
  • Patent number: 10925275
    Abstract: A break-away apparatus for a boom arm is positioned at a joint between a main boom portion and a boom tip to allow the boom tip to assume a neutral position and forward, rearward, and upward positions. First and second plates are disposed at the joint and a hinge assembly is positioned between the first and second plates. The hinge assembly includes a first ball joint, a first hinge pin, and a second hinge pin. The first and second plates are in a first position when the boom tip assumes the neutral position, and the first and second plates are movable with respect to each other about the first hinge axis, the second hinge axis, and a pivot point defined by the first ball joint. A first spring assists a return of the first and second plates to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: Petrus Henricus Johannes Bouten
  • Patent number: 10412876
    Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement for use in a field. The agricultural tillage implement including a frame section and a plurality of wing sections. The frame section has a pull hitch extending in a travel direction. Each of the plurality of wing sections are coupled to the frame section and/or a wing section. The wing sections each have an articulated portion pivotal about an axis substantially perpendicular to the travel direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Matthew R. Sudbrink, Dean A. Knobloch
  • Patent number: 10212927
    Abstract: A break-away apparatus for a boom arm (11) is positioned at a joint between a main boom portion (14) and a boom tip (12) to allow the boom tip to assume a neutral position and forward, rearward, and upward positions. First and second plates (30, 28) are disposed at the joint and a hinge assembly (22) is positioned between the first and second plates (30, 28). The hinge assembly (22) includes a first ball joint (38); a first hinge pin (34); and a second hinge pin (36). The first and second plates (30, 28) are in a first position when the boom tip (12) assumes the neutral position, and the first and second plates (30, 28) are movable with respect to each other about the first hinge axis (25a), the second hinge axis (25b), and a pivot point defined by the first ball joint (38). A first spring (50) assists a return of the first and second plates (30, 28) to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: Petrus Henricus Johannes Bouten
  • Patent number: 9945443
    Abstract: A boom mounting assembly for attachment to an agricultural application machine is provided. The assembly includes a boom support frame which is suspended from a primary frame mounted to a chassis. The boom support frame comprises a transverse beam for supporting an intermediate section of a fluid application boom. The suspension mechanism allows both yaw and pitch of boom support frame relative to the primary frame resulting from fore and aft forces on the boom. Dampers are each connected between the primary frame and the boom support frame at a position spaced from the transverse center of the assembly. Damping of pitch and asymmetrical yaw movement of the transverse beam away from a neutral position is controlled by the first and second dampers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: AGCO Netherlands B.V.
    Inventor: Joris Jan Hiddema
  • Patent number: 9695557
    Abstract: A line striping system comprises a chassis, wheels, a spray system, a propulsion system and a steering system. The wheels are mounted under the chassis. The spray system is mounted on the chassis. The propulsion system is mounted on the chassis to drive a wheel. The steering system is coupled to the chassis. The steering system comprises a handlebar rotatable to steer a wheel, and a speed bar pivotable to control the propulsion system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Lins, Thomas L. Triplett, James C. Schroeder, Steven R. Kuczenski, Barry W. Mattson, Brian M. Mulgrew, Douglas S. Ryder
  • Patent number: 9198340
    Abstract: A foldable marker mounted to an agricultural implement includes pivotally connected inboard and outboard arms, with the outboard arm supporting a ground marker device. The arms are shiftable between folded and unfolded conditions, with the inboard arm defining a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the inboard arm and a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, with the inboard arm operable to be unfolded so that the transverse axis is substantially aligned with a forward direction in the unfolded condition. A pivot joint defines a pivot axis, with the pivot axis and transverse axis defining a lateral angle of at least twenty degrees and a vertical angle of at least twenty degrees. The outboard arm is in a laterally extended position when the arms are in the unfolded condition and in a laterally retracted position when the arms are in the folded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas J. Grollmes, William H. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20140041885
    Abstract: A foldable marker mounted to an agricultural implement includes pivotally connected inboard and outboard arms, with the outboard arm supporting a ground marker device. The arms are shiftable between folded and unfolded conditions, with the inboard arm defining a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the inboard arm and a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, with the inboard arm operable to be unfolded so that the transverse axis is substantially aligned with a forward direction in the unfolded condition. A pivot joint defines a pivot axis, with the pivot axis and transverse axis defining a lateral angle of at least twenty degrees and a vertical angle of at least twenty degrees. The outboard arm is in a laterally extended position when the arms are in the unfolded condition and in a laterally retracted position when the arms are in the folded condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Douglas J. Grollmes, William H. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8327947
    Abstract: A tillage machine includes a plurality of front tines and a plurality of rear tines rotatably secured to a frame which is pulled by a tractor in a direction of travel. The front tines are aligned with the rear tines along the direction of travel whereby the front tines penetrate the soil and create tine soil penetrations, and the rear tines enter the soil in the penetrations created by the front tines. Preferably, the front tines are also rotatably secured to the frame in a clockwise or counter-clockwise angle about a front pivot point. The rear tines are rotatably secured to the frame in a clockwise of counter-clockwise angle about a rear pivot point opposite the front tines angle. The front tines penetrate and fracture the soil in one direction and the rear tines enter the soil penetrations created by the front tines and fracture the soil in another direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventors: James R. Martindale, Daniel R. Martindale
  • Publication number: 20110259618
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for creating a pass marker in a field. During planting, planting of seed is stopped and started on pass marker rows differently than on adjacent rows to create a visible offset to assist a harvester or applicator to find and drive down the right row to prevent skips and overlaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: Ag Leader Technology
    Inventors: Roger Zielke, Allen Myers
  • Patent number: 8016043
    Abstract: An agricultural implement has a marker assembly that is pivotable in a generally rearward direction when the marker assembly collides with a relatively massive field obstruction. The interconnection of the marker assembly to a central frame of the implement allows the aforementioned pivoting to reduce damage to the central frame and/or the marker assembly during such collisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Patent number: 8011439
    Abstract: A marker assembly includes a first linkage section interconnected to a second linkage section by a pivoting joint. The pivoting joint also includes a spring linkage that limits momentum in the second linkage section before a marking disc carried by the second linkage section engages the ground. The spring linkage may be comprised of a spring that is retained by a pair of washers within a housing or canister. A linkage rod passes through the canister and has a set of nuts that are sized to catch the washers. Thus, if the spring linkage is compressed or extended, the catch nuts press up against the washers thereby compressing the spring. By compressing the spring, a force is applied in the opposite direction as the momentum in the marker assembly, which reduces the collective momentum in the marker assembly during deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gerry Gadzella, Terrance A. Friggstad, Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Patent number: 7984767
    Abstract: A marker assembly for use with an agricultural implement includes a marker wheel that may caster as needed to reduce loading of the marker assembly during deployment of the marker assembly, in response to variations in surface contour, and in response to changes in travel direction of the agricultural implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Terrance A. Friggstad, Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Patent number: 7854271
    Abstract: A marker assembly mountable to an agricultural implement includes a set of interconnected frame sections that can be pivoted with respect to one another to retract the marker assembly for transport and/or storage. The marker assembly has a support wheel that supports the marker assembly above the ground as the marker assembly is being deployed and when in an extended working position. The point at which the support wheel engages the ground is controlled by a rigid link and cam assembly. The rigid link has a first end connected to a first frame section and a second end connected to a lever arm that is connected to a link of a second frame section. The rigid link is operative to pull down on the lever arm when the marker assembly is being deployed so as to force the second frame section away from the first frame section. The amount the second frame section pulls away from the first frame section is determined by the cam assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Ryan R. Georgison, Dennis G. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20100200252
    Abstract: An agricultural implement has a marker assembly that is pivotable in a generally rearward direction when the marker assembly collides with a relatively massive field obstruction. The interconnection of the marker assembly to a central frame of the implement allows the aforementioned pivoting to reduce damage to the central frame and/or the marker assembly during such collisions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Dennis G Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison
  • Publication number: 20100200254
    Abstract: A marker assembly mountable to an agricultural implement includes a set of interconnected frame sections that can be pivoted with respect to one another to retract the marker assembly for transport and/or storage. The marker assembly has a support wheel that supports the marker assembly above the ground as the marker assembly is being deployed and when in an extended working position. The point at which the support wheel engages the ground is controlled by a rigid link and cam assembly. The rigid link has a first end connected to a first frame section and a second end connected to a lever arm that is connected to a link of a second frame section. The rigid link is operative to pull down on the lever arm when the marker assembly is being deployed so as to force the second frame section away from the first frame section. The amount the second frame section pulls away from the first frame section is determined by the cam assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew S. Naylor, Ryan R. Georgison, Dennis G. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7743843
    Abstract: A marker assembly has a scalable frame that allows a user to set the width of the frame to provide flexibility in defining the width at which a marking furrow is made. The scalable frame includes multiple linkages interconnected to one another in a manner that allows the frame to be folded into a relatively compact configuration for storage and/or transport. An outer linkage has a telescoping member that allows a user to vary the spacing of a marking disc to vary the width at which a marking furrow is made in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gerry Gadzella, Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison, David D. Seib, Matthew S. Naylor, Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 7743842
    Abstract: A marker assembly for use with an agricultural implement includes a float linkage that allows limited vertical displacement of the marker assembly when the marker assembly is in a fully deployed position. This limited vertical displacement accommodates changes in surface terrain (contour) as well as in-field obstructions. The marker assembly is comprised of a series of interconnected linkages. The linkages are extended by an actuator, e.g., hydraulic cylinder and ram. The float linkage allows for vertical displacement of the extended linkages even when the actuator is in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Thompson, Ryan R. Georgison, David D. Seib
  • Patent number: 7740190
    Abstract: A boom breakaway assembly for a spray boom used by a vehicle. The boom breakaway assembly includes a reciprocating system having a first position and a second position, a retention system, and a bias system. In the first position, the bias system applies a maximum effective bias rate to the reciprocating system and the retention system applies a holding force upon the spray boom to maintain the spray boom in a desired outward position. In the second position, the bias system applies a minimal effective bias rate to the reciprocating system and the retention system reduces or disengages the holding force upon the spray boom, thereby allowing the spray boom to move from the outward position to a breakaway position when the spray boom encounters an obstacle. The bias system returns the reciprocating system to the first position once the spray boom clears the obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: John Peterson, Steve Seubert, Dave Friesner
  • Publication number: 20100065292
    Abstract: A marking assembly for attachment to a vehicle for distributing a marking agent on a substantially grass-covered field to mark one or more lines in one or more predetermined areas thereof. The marking assembly includes a deck having a grass-cutting subassembly for mowing the grass and removing the cuttings thereof to provide freshly-mown grass in the predetermined area, the deck being attachable to the vehicle. The marking assembly also includes one or more nozzle subassemblies positionable downstream relative to the grass-cutting subassembly when the vehicle travels in a forward direction. The nozzle subassembly includes one or more nozzles for releasing the marking agent to mark the line on the predetermined area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Brent Baker
  • Publication number: 20090020298
    Abstract: A folding marker for connection to an agricultural implement toolbar with a marker shoulder pivot, an inner arm and a double acting hydraulic cylinder both pivotally connected to the shoulder pivot. A middle arm bracket is pivotally connected to the inner arm and the cylinder. A middle arm is connected to the middle arm bracket, with two beams extending from the bracket and terminating at an outer arm pivot, with a third beam connected between the bracket and a crossbrace. An outer arm pivot bracket is pivotally connected to the outer arm pivot, an outer arm connected thereto and having two legs connected between the outer arm pivot bracket and a plate assembly. The legs define a channel therebetween, and an adjustable arm is slidably connected within the channel. An extension element is insertable within the channel and lockable with the plate assembly, with a marking element connected thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Travis L. Harnetiaux, Leonard A. Bettin
  • Patent number: 7103986
    Abstract: An agricultural marker assembly is disclosed for use with a marker arm that extends from an agricultural vehicle wherein the vehicle moves along a primary travel direction during operation. The assembly includes an extension assembly including at least first and second members, each of the first and second members having first and second ends, the first member supported by the arm and extending generally in the direction opposite the primary travel direction, the second member supported by a first portion of the first member and extending at least in part away from the first portion of the first member along a trajectory lateral to the primary travel direction when the vehicle is moving in the primary travel direction. The assembly also includes a marker supported by the second member and separated from the first portion of the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Terrance Friggstad
  • Patent number: 6883436
    Abstract: A rail ballast wing assembly includes a outer door with at least one hinge edge, a template door pivotably secured to least one of the hinge edges and a positioning device associated with the outer door and the template door for maintaining an angular orientation of the template door relative to the outer door. A breakaway mechanism is connected to the positioning device and the template door and configured for temporarily disengaging the template door from the positioning device upon exposure to impact forces. The breakaway mechanism preferably includes a plate connecting the positioning device to the template door, and being disengageable from the template door. A top pin on the outer door is pivotably secured to a top plate through the use of at least one retainer bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Nordco Inc.
    Inventor: James William Fuerst
  • Patent number: 6708775
    Abstract: A field marker attachable to an outer end of an agricultural implement comprises an arm pivotally attachable to the implement extending perpendicular to the travel direction. A marking device is attached at a distal end of the arm. An extendable hydraulic cylinder is attached to the arm and implement and moves in one direction to a stopped position where the arm is in the operating position. An active hydraulic source supplies hydraulic fluid at an operating pressure such that the cylinder remains at the stopped position until a rearward force on the arm causes the pressure in the cylinder to exceed the operating pressure and the arm moves rearward. Where the marking device scores the field, a wheel can be mounted on the arm such that its axis of rotation is removed from the center of the wheel so that the scoring device moves up and down scoring an intermittent line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Straw Track Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Norbert Beaujot
  • Publication number: 20020189826
    Abstract: A field marker attachable to an outer end of an agricultural implement comprises an arm pivotally attachable to the implement extending perpendicular to the travel direction. A marking device is attached at a distal end of the arm. An extendable hydraulic cylinder is attached to the arm and implement and moves in one direction to a stopped position where the arm is in the operating position. An active hydraulic source supplies hydraulic fluid at an operating pressure such that the cylinder remains at the stopped position until a rearward force on the arm causes the pressure in the cylinder to exceed the operating pressure and the arm moves rearward. Where the marking device scores the field, a wheel can be mounted on the arm such that its axis of rotation is removed from the center of the wheel so that the scoring device moves up and down scoring an intermittent line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Norbert Beaujot
  • Patent number: 6397952
    Abstract: A field marker for mounting on an agricultural implement includes an elongated arm adapted to project outwardly laterally of the implement when in its operating position and is adapted to carry a field marking device at its outer distal end for making a score mark on the ground. A mount for the arm at an inner proximal end thereof allows pivoting of the arm abut first and second transverse axes whereby to allow the arm to swing upwardly and downwardly about the first one of the axes when operating on uneven ground while also allowing the arm to swing around the second of the axes from its outwardly projecting operating position into another position. The arm includes inner and outer arm sections secured together by a folding joint to permit the inner and outer arm sections to be folded into juxtaposition with one another and brought into the transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd
    Inventor: David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6334491
    Abstract: A field marker arranged for mounting on an agricultural implement at one side thereof includes a marker arm including a marker disk movable between a deployed position extending outwardly of the implement to one side thereof and a retracted position. The marker arm has an inner arm portion and an outer arm portion both of which are formed from two parallel beams with the disk on the outer end of a rear one of the beams. The inner arm portion is pivotal about a first horizontal axis and is supported on a ground wheel spaced outwardly to allow the marker arm to move upwardly and downwardly relative to the implement. The outer arm portion is mounted on the outer end of the inner arm portion for pivotal movement about a second parallel horizontal axis to allow the marker disk to move upwardly and downwardly relative to outer end of the inner portion which is supported on the wheel and to allow the outer portion to move to a retracted position on top of the inner portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: Jim Nevin
  • Patent number: 6334492
    Abstract: A field marker for mounting on an agricultural implement includes an elongated arm adapted to project outwardly laterally of the implement when in its operating position and is adapted to carry a field marking device at its outer distal end for making a score mark on the ground. A mount for the arm at an inner proximal end thereof allows pivoting of the arm abut first and second transverse axes whereby to allow the arm to swing upwardly and downwardly about the first one of the axes when operating on uneven ground while also allowing the arm to swing around the second of the axes from its outwardly projecting operating position into another position. The arm includes inner and outer arm sections secured together by a folding joint to permit the inner and outer arm sections to be folded into juxtaposition with one another and brought into the transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventor: David R. Hundeby
  • Publication number: 20010042629
    Abstract: A field marker for mounting on an agricultural implement includes an elongated arm adapted to project outwardly laterally of the implement when in its operating position and is adapted to carry a field marking device at its outer distal end for making a score mark on the ground. A mount for the arm at an inner proximal end thereof allows pivoting of the arm about first and second transverse axes whereby to allow the arm to swing upwardly and downwardly about the first one of said axes when operating on uneven ground while also allowing the arm to swing around the second one of said axes from its outwardly projecting operating position into another position. The arm includes inner and outer arm sections secured together by a folding joint to permit the inner and outer arm sections to be folded into juxtaposition with one another and brought into the transport position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6263976
    Abstract: A field marker for mounting on an agricultural implement includes an elongated arm adapted to project outwardly laterally of the implement when in its operating position and is adapted to carry a field marking device at its outer distal end for making a score mark on the ground. A mount for the arm at an inner proximal end thereof allows pivoting of the arm about first and second transverse axes whereby to allow the arm to swing upwardly and downwardly about the first one of the axes when operating on uneven ground while also allowing the arm to swing around the second of the axes from its outwardly projecting operating position into another position. The arm includes inner and outer arm sections secured together by a folding joint to permit the inner and outer arm sections to be folded into juxtaposition with one another and brought into the transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventor: David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6257343
    Abstract: A folding row marker assembly for use with an agricultural implement has an inner link assembly that includes both a mounting that attaches to the agricultural implement and one or more inner link members. The row marker further includes first arm members that hingedly connect to both the first link assembly and an outer link assembly. In one embodiment, the folding row marker assembly has two sections, including an outer arm member that hingedly connects to the outer link assembly and connects to a marker. In an alternative three-section embodiment, the outer link assembly includes a middle section having a middle link assembly that connects to the inner arm members, an outboard link assembly that connects to the outer arm member, and middle arm members that connect the middle link assembly to the outboard link assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Unverferth Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Maenle, David R. Smith, Michael J. Hilvers
  • Patent number: 6220364
    Abstract: A seeder of the type adapted to be pulled behind a tractor for seeding a field is provided with an extendable and retractable pivoted linkage assembly on each side of the seeder. A marking disk is rotatably mounted on the furthest extremity of the linkage and a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly is connected between the two links closest to the seeder assembly for extending and retracting the linkage in a horizontal plane. A pair of support plates are secured to the underside of the two bars closest to the seeder assembly for engaging and supporting the other bars in the retracted condition. Another piston and cylinder assembly is mounted on the seeder and operatively engaged with a lever connected to one of said bars of said first pair of bars for pivoting the retracted linkage upwardly to provide clearance between the marking disk and the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventors: Alvin T Classen, Matt Tkachyk
  • Patent number: 6189465
    Abstract: A control system is provided for automatically deploying the field markers on an agricultural planter in an alternating manner without requiring operator input. The control system utilizes a proximity sensor to determine whether the tool bar is coming from the lowered working position to the raised headland position or vice versa. Solenoid valves in the hydraulic circuit to the field marker actuators are activated to retract both actuators to retract the deployed one of the field markers when the tool bar is moved into the headland position. When the tool bar is returned to the working position after making a turn at the field headlands, the control system remembers which field marker had just previously been deployed and then extends the other field marker to score the field. The control system permits the operator to remain attentive to the turning of the tractor and implement at the headlands and the setting of the planting implement into the ground at the proper location for planting the crop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventors: Dustin G. Burns, David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 6079114
    Abstract: A field marker is mounted on the rear corner of the seeder or cultivator frame so that its weight is supported by the packer wheels or support wheel axles at the rear of the frame, thus minimizing the imbalance and uneven seeding that will occur with marker mounted on the front corner. The marker arm is slidably extensible to avoid complex knee-action joints and the mechanisms required to operate them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Triple Star Manufacturing, Ltd.
    Inventor: Bernie Toews
  • Patent number: 6019178
    Abstract: A field marker for easily and compactly folding to and from an implement with relatively few moving components. The inventive device includes an inner arm pivotally attached to a bracket structure attachable to a side of an implement, an outer arm pivotally attached to the inner arm, a marking disc journaled to a distal end of the outer arm, a first hydraulic cylinder attached between the bracket structure and the inner arm, a second hydraulic cylinder attached between the inner arm and the outer arm, and wherein the first and second hydraulic cylinders are fluidly connected in series so as to simultaneously extend and simultaneously retract the inner and outer arms. The inner arm is preferably rotatable about a substantially horizontal plane and the outer arm is preferably rotatable about a substantially vertical plane. The first hydraulic cylinder is larger than the second hydraulic cylinder to compensate for displaced hydraulic fluid by the shaft of the first hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: GAP Ag. Ltd
    Inventor: John Redekop
  • Patent number: 5992534
    Abstract: A folding boom for a tri-fold row marker for an agricultural implement. The boom comprises three segments, an inboard segment pivotally coupled to the toolbar, a middle segment pivotally coupled to the inboard segment, and an outboard segment pivotally coupled to the middle segment. Control of the boom during folding and unfolding is maintained by a toggle link mechanism having a cam a cam follower and a system of pivots and linkages. Dynamic forces are dampened at both ends of the folding and unfolding by use of a cushion hydraulic cylinder with flow limiting structure at each end of the cylinder stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Robert Edwin Callies, Mark Jeffery Nole
  • Patent number: 5957216
    Abstract: A breakaway system which is easily reset by a user and does not utilize shear pins or spring loaded tension devices. The inventive device includes a support member having a U-shaped cross-sectional area, an inner member attached to the support member, an outer member pivotally attached to the support member opposite of the inner member, a lip portion attached to the outer member which projects through an opening with the support member, and a spring leveraged arm pivotally attached to the inner member containing a roller opposite thereof which engages a swaged face of the lip portion. The lip portion preferably has a ramped face opposite of the swaged face which allows the lip portion to be reset behind the roller of the arm without requiring the replacement of any components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: G.A.P. ag
    Inventor: John Redekop
  • Patent number: 5833010
    Abstract: A control apparatus for use with two opposed ground markers of an agricultural machine comprises a hydraulic circuit including a plurality of hydraulic valves for communicating fluid actuate movements of the marker cylinders and an electrical control system including a plurality of manually operable actuating switches to effect operation of said hydraulic valves. Each of the switches provides an output in response to a single actuation thereof and there is provided an output timer operable to effect operation of the hydraulic valves for a period of time sufficient to effect a stroke of the cylinders. The electrical control system provides an output in response to actuation of selected ones of the switches only in response to actuation of the switch for a predetermined time period sufficient to avoid inadvertent actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventors: William A. Scott, Rodney E. Sjoberg
  • Patent number: 5785128
    Abstract: A field marker for attachment to a farm implement to form a groove in the ground for guiding a farmer as the implement is towed or driven across a field includes an inner wing section pivotally connected to a lateral end of the implement and an outer arm section pivotally connected to the distal end of the wing section. The wing section may be pivoted hydraulically from a working position extending outwardly from the implement to a stowage position parallel to the implement. The arm section may be pivoted hydraulically generally vertically relative to the wing section through an angle of about 190.degree. between its stowage position and its working position. The arm section is provided with a spring-loaded breakaway mechanism that permits an outer arm portion of the arm section to pivot rearwardly of an inner arm portion of the arm section should the arm section encounter an immovable obstruction. The breakaway mechanism can be easily and quickly reset after activation without having to replace any parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: John K. Redekop
  • Patent number: 5542190
    Abstract: The present invention is bifold field marker. The marker utilizes a marking disc mounted on the distal end of an arm. This arm is coupled to a mounting bracket which, in turn, is connected to an implement's tool bar. The arm is articulated at a central knuckle to allow the marker to fold. A hydraulic cylinder is positioned between the mounting bracket and the arm to push or pull the arm about a main pin or hinge. When the arm is in an extended horizontal position, the main pin or hinge on the mounting bracket is oriented at an angle both from the direction of travel and from the ground. This allows the hydraulic cylinder to pivot the arm about the main pin's axis and fold both sections of the arm simultaneously to a point where the marker is positioned in a compact orientation along the side of the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Orthman Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen L. Wahls
  • Patent number: 5507107
    Abstract: A hoisting boom assembly comprises an upright column being piviotable by a rotary actuator and a first and second boom, the first boom pivotally mounted by its first end on upright column and by its second end on second boom; the second boom having its first section and its second section journalled to be pivotable in a vertical plane; a horizontal shift mechanism as well as a horizontal shift actuator for carrying the free end of the second boom in a horizontal direction; and an actuator fitted between upright column and the first boom for pivoting the first boom. In order to improve its performance, the hoisting boom assembly further includes compensating means for equalizing the forces caused by the operation of a hoisting boom assembly, particularly in situations following and preceding a first and/or a second extreme position assumed by a second boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Inventor: Sakari Pinomaki
  • Patent number: 5485796
    Abstract: An apparatus to be advanced in a travel direction by a vehicle to continuously mark underlying soil. The apparatus has an elongate body with first and second portions and leading and trailing surfaces. Structure is provided at a first location on the elongate body for engaging and marking underlying soil as the soil marking apparatus is advanced over underlying soil. Structure is provided for connecting the elongate body to a vehicle to advance the soil marking apparatus over underlying soil. First structure cooperates between the first and second elongate body portions to allow the first portion of the elongate body to reposition relative to the second portion of the elongate body upon the first portion of the elongate body being acted upon by a predetermined force applied in the first direction at a first point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Dawn Equipment Company
    Inventor: James H. Bassett
  • Patent number: 5484025
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a foldable agricultural implement frame having an extended working configuration and a folded transport configuration. The frame comprises a center section and two wing section. Each of the wing sections have row markers that are extended and retracted by a row marker hydraulic circuit. The row marker hydraulic circuit is provided with first and second supply/return lines each having a two-position latching valve. A mechanical linkage comprising a rod extends between the center section and one of the wing sections, for shifting the latching valves to their checked position, when the implement frame is folded from its working configuration to its transport configuration. The latching valves lock the row markers in their retracted transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Donald K. Landphair, Gary D. Luxon
  • Patent number: 5425427
    Abstract: An improved folding marker for an agricultural implement that is partially self-supporting in the use position and during a portion of the folding operation. An inner arm is pivotally attached to the agricultural implement for simultaneous movement in both the horizonal and vertical directions. A caster wheel is attached to the inner arm to support the inner arm above the ground. An outer arm is pivotally attached to the inner arm for movement in a generally vertical direction. A marker device is attached to the outer arm for scoring the ground. An actuator is attached to the implement and the back portion of the inner arm for moving the inner arm between the use position and backwards toward the rear of the implement to a transport position. A series of pulley systems are attached to the marker so that the inner and outer arms raise vertically upward when the inner arm is moved from the use position to the transport position, and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: Poma Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Oliver Haugen
  • Patent number: 5408756
    Abstract: The present invention is a bifold field marker. The marker utilizes a marking disc mounted on the distal end of an arm. This arm is coupled to a mounting bracket which, in turn, is connected to an implement's tool bar. The arm is articulated at a central knuckle to allow the marker to fold. A hydraulic cylinder is positioned between the mounting bracket and the arm to push or pull the arm about a main pin or hinge. The main pin or hinge on the mounting bracket is oriented at a 45 degree angle in both the horizontal and vertical planes. This allows the hydraulic cylinder to pivot the arm about the 45 degree axis and fold the arm simultaneously until the marker is positioned in a compact orientation along the side of the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Assignee: Orthman Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen L. Wahls
  • Patent number: 5379847
    Abstract: A tri-fold row marker comprises three arm segments, a winglet pivotally coupled to the toolbar, an inner arm pivotally coupled to the winglet, and an outer arm pivotally coupled to the inner arm. A marker disc is mounted to the distal end of the outer arm for marking the ground surface when said row marker is its extended working position. The winglet is provided with a first bell crank extending upwardly from the winglet and a second bell crank extending downwardly from the winglet. The inner arm is provided with a third bell crank extending downwardly therefrom. A double acting hydraulic cylinder is pivotally coupled to the agricultural implement and the first bell crank for retracting and extending the row marker. An inner control arm is pivotally coupled to the agricultural implement and the third bell crank for pivoting the inner arm relative to the winglet when the hydraulic cylinder is extended or retracted. An outer control arm is pivotally coupled to the second bell crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Michael D. Snyder
  • Patent number: 5170848
    Abstract: A sod cutting machine that includes a towable frame and a series of parallel trailing suspension arms, each suspension arm having a sod cutter disk and roller device for limiting the cutting depth of the disk. Each suspension arm is independently swingably attached to the frame so that each cutter disk achieves a proper cutting depth. A marking and tracking system is provided to maintain a desired parallelism and even spacing between the cuts in successive passes of the machine. The frame can be actuated to raise selected ones of the suspension arms in order to vary the slit spacing, thus to form elongated rectangular sod sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Wayman E. Walton
  • Patent number: 5027525
    Abstract: An improved field marker is provided which can be used on an agricultural implement of the type which includes wing folding. The field marker has an arm with a disk mounted on an outer end of the arm and a mounting system at the inner end of the arm for supporting the arm on the implement. The arm includes two portions which fold in a knee type action while the inner portion is folded through 90.degree. so that both portions lie along the side of the implement. The mounting assembly includes a fixed portion attached to the implement and a pivotal portion which moves about a horizontal axis. A spring biases the arm towards a raised position. In the extended position of the arm the spring force is overcome and the disk rests on the ground. As the arm retracts to the folded position and the effective weight decreases the spring forces lift the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Inventor: Duane Haukaas
  • Patent number: 4986367
    Abstract: A folding row marker includes first, inner and second, intermediate sections pivotally coupled together, as well as a third, outer section pivotally coupled to a distal end of the second section. A marker disc is disposed on the distal end of the third section and a hydraulic ram pivotally displaces the second section relative to the first section and further, via connecting linkage, pivotally displaces the third section relative to the second section during extension of the row marker to the use position and retraction of the row marker to the stored position. The first section is adapted for pivoting attachment to an end of a folding toolbar and linkage is provided to maintain all sections of the row marker under application of a positive force in a fixed, fully folded, compact and stable configuration when the toolbar is in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1991
    Assignee: Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon E. Kinzenbaw
  • Patent number: 4883127
    Abstract: A field marker for attachment to a sprayer boom has an outer square tube clamped to the end of the spray boom. An inner square tube slides in the outer tube and is connected to it by a pair of coil springs that bias the inner tube downwardly. An hydraulic cylinder joins the inner and outer tubes as well and, when actuated, raises the inner tube against the biasing force of the springs. A marking disk is mounted on the bottom end of the inner tube, preferably with an adjustable mounting to accommodate booms of different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Inventor: Claude Chevrier
  • Patent number: 4880160
    Abstract: Boom support structure for a sprayer including a boom center frame supported for rocking both about a fore-and-aft extending axis and an upright axis by a torsional pendulum structure to isolate the boom from the sprayer frame movement in both the roll and yaw directions thereby reducing fluctuations in the relative velocities of the boom ends as the sprayer moves over irregular ground surfaces. The pendulum structure and guide structure connected between the boom center frame and the boom support maintain the boom generally parallel to the ground even on hillsides without need for additional latching mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Jon M. Patterson, Douglas P. Brown