Adjustable Distributor Patents (Class 239/164)
  • Patent number: 11904064
    Abstract: Provided are mobile decontamination units and methods of using such units for decontaminating various areas, such as aircraft cabins. A mobile decontamination unit comprises at least one aerosol dispersing nozzle and at least one aerosol directing fan. The nozzle disperses disinfectant in the aerosol form, while the fan directed this aerosol to surfaces being decontaminated. Aerosol dispersing parameters, such the nozzle and fan orientations, dispersing rate, fan speed, and the like, are determined based on area characteristics. Specifically, orientations of different surfaces, temperature, humidity and/or other like characteristics may be considered. Some characteristics may be obtained by the mobile decontamination unit after its deployment in the area, such as using its sensors. Other characteristics, such as area layout, may be preloaded to the mobile decontamination unit prior to its deployment. The dispersing parameters are determined to ensure through decontamination of the surfaces in the area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Shawn Hyunsoo Park, Leora Peltz, Andrew Gerhard Wallburg
  • Patent number: 11793187
    Abstract: A system for monitoring the operation of an agricultural sprayer includes a computing system is configured to determine a movement parameter associated with the movement of a boom assembly of the agricultural sprayer relative to a frame of the agricultural sprayer based on data captured by a movement sensor. Furthermore, the computing system is configured to determine the distance between a spray nozzle of the agricultural sprayer and the underlying crop canopy or field surface based on data captured by a position sensor. Additionally, the computing system is configured to determine a spray deposition parameter indicative of a rate at which agricultural fluid is deposited on the underlying crop canopy or field surface based on the determined movement parameter and the determined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Trevor Stanhope, Roy A. Bittner
  • Patent number: 11589502
    Abstract: Described herein are implements and applicators for placement of fluid applications with respect to agricultural plants of agricultural fields. In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluid to plants in rows in a field includes a frame, at least one applicator arm disposed in a rhizosphere of plants during fluid flow through the applicator, and a fluid conduit connected to the frame and disposed in the row between plants to deliver fluid to the row between plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: PRECISION PLANTING, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Stoller, Ian Radtke
  • Patent number: 11589523
    Abstract: An agricultural spraying machine which is supported on the ground and is movable in a forward direction over a field, the agricultural spraying machine comprising: a chassis; a sprayer linkage, the sprayer linkage configured with a middle segment movably supported on the chassis; a pair of booms arranged on respectively one side of the middle segment and which are pivotable by respectively at least one actuator in relation to the middle segment about an axis extending in the forward direction; a control device configured to receive a signal from at least one sensor associated with the pair of booms and generate a control signal, the control device receiving the signal from the at least one sensor as an input variable and wherein the control device receives the signals provided by the at least one sensor in respect of the relative position of the pair of booms in relation to a field contour; and wherein an adjustment of the at least one actuator occurs using control signals from the control device, the control
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Dirk Alders, Benedikt Jung, Matthias Meyer, Willy Peeters, Ivo Op Het Veld, Artur Schuhmacher, Kilian Jung, Jörg Seewig, Viktor Follmann
  • Patent number: 11110470
    Abstract: In one aspect, a system for controlling the operation of agricultural sprayers may a vision-based sensor configured to capture data indicative of one or more features within a field across which an agricultural sprayer is traveling. A controller of the system may be configured to identify the one or more features within the field based on the data received from the vision-based sensor and determine a position of a boom component of the agricultural sprayer relative to the one or more identified features. Furthermore, the controller may also be configured to initiate a control action to adjust the position of the boom component when it is determined that the relative position between the boom component and the one or more identified features is offset from a predetermined positional relationship defined for the boom component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Kevin M. Smith, Trevor Stanhope
  • Patent number: 10814341
    Abstract: An armrest control center can be configured on with respect to an armrest of a chair in an operator cab of an agricultural machine to have physical inputs which can be quickly and easily controlled by an operator in the cab to affect automatically controlled sprayer boom functions so that the operator is not distracted by cumbersome menus on a computer screen. Such physical inputs can include push buttons and/or a joystick. Such sprayer boom functions can include activating or deactivating automatic sprayer boom height control, adjusting automatic sprayer boom height settings, and folding and/or unfolding the sprayer boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Nathan P. Brooks, Steven N. Winkel
  • Patent number: 10470361
    Abstract: A device for spreading active agents comprising: a boom, which is arranged pivotably about a rotation axis; a sensor arrangement for the detection of an angular velocity of the boom about the rotation axis; a sensor for the detection of an angular position of the boom; a control unit processing output signals from the sensor; and an actuator, acting on the present angular position of the boom based on control signals from the control unit. For the determination of an angular position of the boom, the control unit calculates an angular position of the boom in relation to a reference plane by integration of the angular velocity and merges the angular position calculated by means of the angular velocity, with the detected angular position to determine the present angular position of the boom to return the boom to a desired angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: HORSCH LEEB Application Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Theodor Leeb, Otto Hirthammer
  • Patent number: 10464080
    Abstract: A retractable spray shield for agricultural use has a spray barrier; a storage tube; a deployment and concealment drive that in one direction deploys the spray barrier from the storage tube and in a second direction opposed to the first direction conceals the spray barrier within the storage tube; and a pivotal quick release support and boom arm coupling. The spray barrier has a generally triangular and flaccid liquid barrier film, a pair of framing legs coupled to opposed edges of the liquid barrier film, a hinge plate, a pair of pintles coupling the pair of framing legs to the hinge plate, a spring guide post intermediate between the first and second pintles, and a tension spring wrapped about the spring guide post and configured to operatively stretch the pair of framing legs apart from each other and thereby expand the barrier film toward a planar, generally triangular geometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Inventor: Mark T. Hagberg
  • Patent number: 10433535
    Abstract: A boom for mounting to an agricultural sprayer which includes an elongate frame that supports a plurality of liquid application and delivery means, and an elongate tray attached to, and extending along, the boom. The tray is movable between a first position in which the tray extends substantially horizontally beneath one or more of the application devices to prevent liquids from leaking onto the ground below, and a second position in which the tray is located clear of delivery paths of the liquid application devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: AGCO Netherlands B.V
    Inventors: Joris Jan Hiddema, Harm Mertens
  • Patent number: 9894892
    Abstract: A movable agricultural product applicator system for dispensing various agricultural-related products along the ground surface of agricultural crops is provided. The application system provides a hose assembly interconnecting a supporting boom and an applicator, wherein the applicator drags along the ground surface dispensing product as the supporting boom moves by a carrier. The application system may include a swivel connection facilitating a rotational and pivotal connection of the hose assembly to the supporting boom, wherein a mounting assembly removably mounts the application system to the supporting boom. The hose assembly is designed with bending properties that enable the applicator to self-center and locate rows between crops as it is being dragged along the ground surface, as well as enable the applicator to surf above obstacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Inventor: Rick Eugene Lawrence
  • Patent number: 9849909
    Abstract: A steering system for a towable implement includes a steering sensor, an implement steering controller, a steering control valve, a steering cylinder, and an implement steering mechanism that steers the implement. The steering sensor measures, directly or indirectly, the angular position of the steerable wheels of the implement. The implement steering controller processes feedback from the steering sensor and with a desired steering angle, outputs a steering control signal that is input to the steering control valve. The steering control valve controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to the steering cylinder, which, in turn, powers the implement steering mechanism to turn the wheels of the implement. The steering system may be operated in various control modes, such as, a transportation steering mode, a corner and 180 turn steering mode, a swath tracking steering mode, crab steering mode, and a manual steering mode, which allows manual control of the steering system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Guoping Wang, Keith Wendte, Charles Johnson, Marvin Prickel, John Posselius
  • Patent number: 9737066
    Abstract: An agricultural sprayer assembly includes a wheeled carriage, a chassis, and a spray delivery system. The wheeled carriage has a number of adjustable support legs (e.g., four), each formed of hydraulically coupled and actuated upper and lower leg sections or members. The chassis is supported on the wheeled carriage, at an adjustable clearance height defined by the operational height of the support legs. The spray delivery system includes a spray boom coupled to a boom support, and an actuator coupled to the boom support and the chassis. The actuator is configured to adjust the height of the spray boom with respect to the clearance height of the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: WINFIELD SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Jones, Steve Anthofer
  • Patent number: 9420752
    Abstract: Water is emitted directly onto the soil from drip lines pulled from a mobile drip irrigation device. The forward ends of the drip tubes are anchored and retained to establish relatively fixed intervals of spacing between the forward ends of the adjacent drip tubes to guide the drip tubes across the soil and through growing plants. A pressure-regulated constant-volume flow of water is emitted from ports in the drip tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Monty J. Teeter
  • Patent number: 9272296
    Abstract: A gas powered fluid gun for propelling a stream or slug of a fluid at high velocity toward a target. Recoil mitigation is provided that reduces or eliminates the associated recoil forces, with minimal or no backwash. By launching a quantity of water in the opposite direction, net momentum forces are reduced or eliminated. Examples of recoil mitigation devices include a cone for making a conical fluid sheet, a device forming multiple impinging streams of fluid, a cavitating venturi, one or more spinning vanes, or an annular tangential entry/exit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark C. Grubelich, Gerold Yonas
  • Patent number: 9022048
    Abstract: Device for cleaning solar modules, of both the photovoltaic and solar thermal type, by projection of a cleaning liquid onto the surface of said modules in the form of spray, is described. The device is of the towed type, for mounting on a tractor vehicle or similar, and is implemented based on an articulated unit which comprises a coupled parallelogram structure, having the possibility of pivoting around a support structure solidarily joined to the carrier vehicle, joined by the opposite end to a telescopic arm which articulately includes a projection bar on its distal end, with variable positioning, integrating a multiplicity of nozzles for projecting cleaning liquid. The projection bar includes mechanical sensors for positioning thereof on the surface. The different movements are carried out in a controlled manner by actuation of hydraulic cylinders and the articulated joint between the projection bar and the telescopic bar includes a means for adjusting the maximum inclination angle of the projection bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Rafael Ma Mendez De La Cuesta
  • Patent number: 8998106
    Abstract: A boom mounting assembly (20; 120; 220) for attachment to an agricultural application machine (10) is provided. The assembly comprises a boom support frame (22) which is suspended from a primary frame (24) mounted to a chassis. The boom support frame comprises a transverse beam (35) for supporting an intermediate section of a fluid application boom (16). 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 (50, 52) are each connected between the primary frame and the boom support frame at a position spaced from the transverse centre 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: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: AGCO Netherlands B.V.
    Inventor: Hiddema Joris
  • Publication number: 20150034736
    Abstract: An agricultural sprayer assembly includes a wheeled carriage, a chassis, and a spray delivery system. The wheeled carriage has a number of adjustable support legs (e.g., four), each formed of hydraulically coupled and actuated upper and lower leg sections or members. The chassis is supported on the wheeled carriage, at an adjustable clearance height defined by the operational height of the support legs. The spray delivery system includes a spray boom coupled to a boom support, and an actuator coupled to the boom support and the chassis. The actuator is configured to adjust the height of the spray boom with respect to the clearance height of the chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Winfield Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Jones, Steve Anthofer
  • Patent number: 8942893
    Abstract: A boom is attached to an application vehicle for applying a product during an agricultural application. The boom includes one or more sections that can be dynamically adjusted to satisfy one or more adjustment criteria. A boom controller communicates actuation commands to a boom adjustment system to dynamically adjust the shape of the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Uriel Rosa, Arthur F. Lange, John William Peake, Gurcan Aral, Gregory Daniel Chiocco
  • Patent number: 8777125
    Abstract: An operator interface assembly is provided that includes a frame having a first end configured to rotatably couple to a first lateral frame tube of an agricultural vehicle, and a second end configured to transition between a raised position adjacent to a second lateral frame tube of the agricultural vehicle and a lowered position beneath the second lateral frame tube via rotation of the frame about the first end. The operator interface assembly also includes a fluid inlet coupled to the frame, and configured to provide fluid to the agricultural vehicle. In addition, the operator interface assembly includes a valve coupled to the frame, and configured to control fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the agricultural vehicle. The fluid inlet and the valve are positioned adjacent to the second end of the frame, and directed laterally outward with respect to the agricultural vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: John Paul Honermann, Scott David Reese
  • Patent number: 8646702
    Abstract: A fold structure for a boom. The boom includes an inner boom portion having an inner boom portion top surface and an outer boom portion having an outer boom portion top surface. In a working position the inner boom portion and the outer boom portion are aligned lengthwise. The fold structure includes a bracket, a first hinge coupled to the bracket and configured to be pivotally coupled to the inner boom portion, and a second hinge coupled to the bracket and configured to be pivotally coupled to the outer boom portion. The first hinge is configured to allow the outer boom portion to rotate approximately 180 degrees in a first direction placing the boom in a first folded position. The second hinge is configured to allow the outer boom portion to rotate approximately 180 degrees in a second direction placing the boom in a second folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Mark E. Barker
  • Patent number: 8584968
    Abstract: A height adjustment assembly for a drop hose on an irrigation machine is composed of an elongated bracket having a first end provided with a pair of fittings, and a second opposite end provided with a drop hose retention ring; the drop hose retention ring formed with an opening adapted to permit a drop hose to slide through the opening, the opening defined by an interior surface provided with a pair of diametrically opposed open slots, and a pair of diametrically opposed locking recesses. A key lock fitting is adapted for connecting aligned hose ends of the drop hose and is provided with a pair of diametrically-opposed keys which, in use, are adapted to slide through the pair of opposed open slots and, upon ninety degree rotation of the diametrically-opposed keys, to be received in the pair of diametrically opposed locking recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Nelson Irrigation Corporation
    Inventors: Reid A. Nelson, Barton R. Nelson, Craig B. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8573510
    Abstract: A turf sprayer has a truss shaped center boom and a pair of pivotal truss shaped wing booms within which spaced spray nozzles are supported. A drift shroud system comprises three integral and one-piece drift shrouds comprising a center shroud for the center boom and a pair of side shrouds for the wing booms. Each shroud is attached to an underside of the corresponding boom in a manner such that the shrouds project below the booms and not substantially above the booms to leave the truss-shapes of the booms open and unobscured to provide access to the spray nozzles within the booms. The shrouds each have openings in a top wall thereof for receiving the spray exiting from the nozzles with the spray passing downwardly between spaced front and rear walls of the shrouds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Robert J. Bisson, Brannon W. Polk, David J. Norlander, Timothy P. Sosnowski, Bart T. Ellson
  • Publication number: 20130248619
    Abstract: A tilting boom applicator broadly includes a laterally-extending applicator boom a lift, and a tilt frame. The lift includes upper and lower lift arms that support the applicator boom and are operable to vertically shift the applicator boom. The tilt frame interconnects the applicator boom and lift and includes a fixed section mounted to upper lift arms and a swinging section mounted to the applicator boom. The frame sections are attached to each other at a frame pivot joint that defines a longitudinal tilt axis, with the frame pivot joint permitting tilting movement of the applicator boom relative to the lift about the longitudinal tilt axis. Lower lift arms are directly attached to the swinging section to limit movement of the applicator boom relative to the lift about a lateral pitch axis while permitting the tilting movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: John Kuphal, Steve Seubert
  • Publication number: 20130161413
    Abstract: An agricultural sprayer spray head is adapted for being mounted to a spray boom together with a plurality of like, equally spaced spray heads. Each spray head includes a body containing a flow control member mounted for rotation about an axis and including a fluid control passage arrangement located for effecting an intermittent connection between a fluid inlet leading to, and an outlet leading from the body as the control member is oscillated or rotated by a powered motor so as to effect a pulsing flow through said control. passage arrangement. The powered motor operates at a speed controlled by various input parameters including vehicle speed and field and crop conditions so as to maintain a desired spray application rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventors: TRAVIS G. FUNSETH, David S. Mercer, Richard A. Humpal
  • Publication number: 20120043396
    Abstract: A boom mounting assembly (20; 120; 220) for attachment to an agricultural application machine (10) is provided. The assembly comprises a boom support frame (22) which is suspended from a primary frame (24) mounted to a chassis. The boom support frame comprises a transverse beam (35) for supporting an intermediate section of a fluid application boom (16). 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 (50, 52) are each connected between the primary frame and the boom support frame at a position spaced from the transverse centre 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: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: AGCO NETHERLANDS B.V.
    Inventor: Hiddema Jan Joris
  • Publication number: 20110266365
    Abstract: A boom sprayer and method of adjusting a boom assembly. A camera is attached to the boom assembly and aimed forward of the boom sprayer. The camera collects information associated with the dimensions and location of oncoming structures, such as crops, hills, fences and the like, and relays the information to a controller. The controller uses various actuators to lift, tilt and/or pivot the boom assembly to position the boom assembly at a desired height when the boom assembly passes over the structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Bryan N. Hrnicek, Alexander C. Castillo
  • Patent number: 7913930
    Abstract: A spray linkage (10) for a crop sprayer includes a support (16) and a central frame (18) pivotally connected to the support (16), the central frame (18) being pivotable about an axis (32) from a neutral position. At least one hydraulic cylinder (34, 36) is fastened at one end to the support (16) and at the other end to the central frame (18). To damp the spray linkage (10) during oscillating movements, at least a first hydraulic cylinder (34, 36) has a first and a second hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50), a first hydraulic line (52, 54) is provided which discharges into the first hydraulic chamber (44, 46) and a second hydraulic line (54, 52) is provided which discharges into the second hydraulic chamber (48, 50). Restrictor structure (58, 60, 62, 64) throttles hydraulic flow from a hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50) while hydraulic flow into a hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50) is relatively unthrottled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: John Deere Fabriek Horst B.V.
    Inventors: Hans Andre Johan Theeuwen, Petrus Johannes Maria Fransen, Kent Alvin Klemme
  • Patent number: 7857239
    Abstract: A self-propelled and self-contained shrouded walking boom unit including a small tank and pump mounted on the unit. The unit also has a small transmission and DC drive which makes the unit self-propelled. The configuration is such that the operator walks in front of the spray applicator system with the spray being applied behind the operator. The operator steers the applicator and controls the spray from a handle attached to a single front steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventors: Kent S. Hahn, Brannon W. Polk
  • Publication number: 20100219264
    Abstract: A suspension arrangement mounted in support of a boom lift assembly and boom supported thereon on a chassis of an agricultural sprayer is provided. The boom lift assembly is configured to move the boom between a raised, inoperative position and a lowered, operative position. The suspension arrangement includes a pivot linkage pivotally coupling the boom lift assembly and the chassis, and a dampener located between the boom lift assembly and the chassis. During operation of the sprayer, the dampener of the suspension arrangement reduces transfer of an impact force or stress force from transferring between the chassis and the boom lift assembly so as to isolate suspension of the boom lift assembly from the chassis of the sprayer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: CNH AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Peter R. Meyer, James Keppers
  • Publication number: 20100175316
    Abstract: An improvement to a roadside sprayer fixates spray nozzles on a registration plate. The registration plate may include integral tabs depending on the application. Inclination of the tabs is adjustable to place streams and droplets in a desired swath coverage. With the nozzles rigidly mounted onto the plate, the entire plate is nutated. The use of the registration plate in a spray unit creates a uniform nutation among the nozzles, thereby reducing variability in droplet placement, and providing a more predictable spray from the nozzles. In other embodiments, the spray unit is utilized in a spray system adaptable to service vehicles, and may be utilized in conjunction with a vegetation engagement device, such as a cutter to engage multiple zones of a roadway right-of-way. Additionally, an improved spray unit includes an electromagnetic field and an attractor to generate plate motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Johnny Lee Kubacak
  • Patent number: 7740189
    Abstract: A suspension arrangement mounted in support of a boom lift assembly and boom supported thereon on a chassis of an agricultural sprayer is provided. The boom lift assembly is configured to move the boom between a raised, inoperative position and a lowered, operative position. The suspension arrangement includes a pivot linkage pivotally coupling the boom lift assembly and the chassis, and a dampener located between the boom lift assembly and the chassis. During operation of the sprayer, the dampener of the suspension arrangement reduces transfer of an impact force or stress force from transferring between the chassis and the boom lift assembly so as to isolate suspension of the boom lift assembly from the chassis of the sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Peter R. Meyer, James Keppers
  • 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: 20090173802
    Abstract: A spray linkage (10) for a crop sprayer includes a support (16) and a central frame (18) pivotally connected to the support (16), the central frame (18) being pivotable about an axis (32) from a neutral position. At least one hydraulic cylinder (34, 36) is fastened at one end to the support (16) and at the other end to the central frame (18). To damp the spray linkage (10) during oscillating movements, at least a first hydraulic cylinder (34, 36) has a first and a second hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50), a first hydraulic line (52, 54) is provided which discharges into the first hydraulic chamber (44, 46) and a second hydraulic line (54, 52) is provided which discharges into the second hydraulic chamber (48, 50). Restrictor structure (58, 60, 62, 64) throttles hydraulic flow from a hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50) while hydraulic flow into a hydraulic chamber (44, 46, 48, 50) is relatively unthrottled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Hans Andre Johan Theeuwen, Petrus Johannes Maria Fransen, Kent Alvin Klemme
  • Patent number: 7516908
    Abstract: The present invention may be used for discharging a fire retardant material. A container element may be connected to a pressurized gas source controllable to pressurize the container element and to flow a gas and fire retardant material mixture through a discharge conduit. A discharge device may be connected at an inlet to the discharge conduit. The discharge device may have an inlet duct attached to an inlet end of an expansion section. The expansion section may be connected to an inlet end of an outlet duct having an outlet nozzle. A diffuser may be disposed in the inlet duct and an upstream portion and may be attached in the upstream portion. The diffuser may have a nose element attached by a diffuser shaft to a base element with a rotor element having multiple vanes rotatably attached to the diffuser shaft intermediate the nose and base elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: George E. Sack
  • Patent number: 7426827
    Abstract: A system for reducing oscillating movement of a boom assembly about a fore-and-aft aligned axis defined by a pivotal connection of a suspension arrangement independent of a carrier frame is provided. The system includes an accumulator, a cylinder actuator mechanically interconnected between the carrier frame and the boom assembly, and a metered orifice connected in fluid communication to restrict a fluid flow between the accumulator and the cylinder actuator. In response to rotation of the boom assembly in a first direction relative to the carrier frame, the system creates a force resisting the rotation of the boom assembly in the first direction. Thereby, the system deadens oscillating pivotal movement of the boom assembly relative to the carrier frame and exerts a biasing force to assist in returning and/or maintaining the boom assembly at a generally horizontal alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Thompson, Dennis W. Chahley
  • Patent number: 7413132
    Abstract: A sprayer assembly includes a frame that supports a tank for storing a liquid chemical. A pump moves the liquid chemical from the tank to one or more spray nozzles through a flexible hose supported by a boom arm that is attached to and extends from the frame. To allow for adjustment of the positioning of the spray nozzles, the boom arm has a curved end portion that defines a slot. A fastener can be passed through the slot and into a corresponding opening defined in the frame to attach the boom arm to the frame. As such, the boom arm can be fixed at any orientation between 90° (vertical position) and 0° (horizontal position) depending on the application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Brinly-Hardy Company
    Inventors: Bruce E. Bogart, Steven H. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20080191055
    Abstract: A crop spraying vehicle includes a mast arm having a mast arm sleeve slidingly engaged with it. A crop spraying apparatus is coupled to the mast arm sleeve with a pendulum arm. The engagement between the mast arm and mast arm sleeve restricts and allows the transverse and longitudinal rotation, respectively, of the crop spraying apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Ellsworth
  • Patent number: 7152812
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a walk behind zero turn radius drive unit and a front spray frame carrying a plurality of transversely spaced, clearly observable spray nozzles. The drive unit permits accurate and high productivity traverse of the application area with the ability to steer around obstacles and accurately traverse an irregular edging pattern. The spray frame includes a pair of folding spray arms, each of which carried dispensing nozzles. Another set of nozzles is positioned at the sides of the frame. All the nozzles are within the forward lateral view of the operator permitting ready steering of the drive unit around the borders of the application area. The nozzles are supplied with liquid from a frame mounted tank by an electric pump powered by the drive unit. The spray nozzles are controlled by an operator valve positioned adjacent the drive unit control, thereby allowing operator to control the application during travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: William D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7121484
    Abstract: A carriage designed for supporting a power washer wand and its nozzle a predetermined, though adjustable, distance from a surface which is to be cleaned by high velocity water exiting a discharge orifice of the nozzle. The carriage is defined by a one-piece body molded from substantially high strength synthetic polymeric/copolymeric plastic material. The carriage body includes a platform having a converging front end nose upwardly from which projects a wand support having a channel in which a power washer wand is located and adjustably clamped. The platform includes two wheels at a rear end thereof and a single wheel beneath the front end nose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Howard Daley
  • Patent number: 7108196
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for depositing liquid brine on roadway surface. Substantially horizontally disposed streamer nozzles are employed in conjunction with brine pumps which are operated in correspondence with the forward speed of the treatment vehicle. Substantially horizontally disposed streamer nozzles express the fluid at a rate corresponding with the vehicle forward velocity to effect a relative zero velocity relationship between the pavement and liquid. These streamer nozzles are mounted close to the pavement surface at a location effective to avoid truck induced air turbulence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: James A. Kime
  • Patent number: 7021860
    Abstract: A stripe layout assembly for attachment to a paint striping machine. The assembly has an adjustable arm, a line marking device and structure to activate the marking device. The assembly may be provided with an adjustment device to permit the assembly to be rotated and set at a specified angle with respect to the striping machine. Once a single line has been determined to form a plurality of parking spaces, for example, the stripe assembly of the invention provides a parallel line each time a stripe is painted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Brian K. Bolstad
  • Patent number: 7021396
    Abstract: A three-point apparatus is disclosed comprising a hitch system, an implement, and a suspension system. The hitch system is comprised of a base and a three-point interface. The base of hitch system is coupled to the three-point interface of the hitch system. The three-point interface is configured to connect to a three-point system, such as the three-point arms of a tractor. The suspension system is coupled between the base of the hitch system and the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Wil-Rich, LLC
    Inventors: Dan P. Steinberger, Alan L. Redman, Lawrence F. Bernard, Lesley L. Willemssen
  • Patent number: 6966502
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle chemical applicator includes an elongate frame having at least six independent support wheels positioned along opposed sides of the frame. Suspension is provided for each of the support wheels including a support pivotally mounted to the frame. A shock absorber is disposed between each support and the frame to absorb shocks as the supports are forced to adjust to variations in terrain. A chemical applicator mounting platform is pivotally secured to the frame on which are mounted chemical applicators. Telescopic control cylinder are provided to position the chemical applicator mounting platform in an operator selected orientation relative to the terrain. An automatic motion dampening control system is provided for controlling the telescopic control cylinders to automatically reposition the chemical applicator mounting platform to dampen disruptive motions and average surface roughness oscillations that can not be dampened by the suspension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: H. William B. Wilt
  • Patent number: 6942735
    Abstract: An adjustable spray apparatus with multiple outlet for applying a flowable coating onto a non-vertical surface. A carriage includes an outwardly extending arm with a plurality of downwardly facing spray tips connected to a manifold mounted on the carriage. The manifold, in turn, is connected to a remotely located reservoir of flowable material. An auxiliary spray gun in connected to the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Rich Roofing Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David D. Rich
  • Patent number: 6860332
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing arrangement and skid pan for use with a fire fighting vehicle, with the vehicle defining an under-vehicle volume. The fluid dispensing arrangement comprises a fluid source, a nozzle support coupled to the vehicle and movable within at least a part of the under-vehicle volume. A nozzle assembly is supported by the nozzle support and is in fluid communication with a fluid source. An actuator is coupled to the nozzle support to move the nozzle support within at least a part of the under-vehicle volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Oshkosh Truck Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Archer, Ryan F. Rowe
  • Patent number: 6789553
    Abstract: A coatings removal head assembly for mounting on a self-propelled apparatus and for connection to one or more fluid supplies and one or more vacuum containment systems. A spring mounting assembly maintains a constant nozzle stand-off distance from a surface to be cleaned. A positively driven rotary spray bar assembly is employed to control the nozzle pass rate in conjunction with the movement of the self-propelled apparatus. A specifically configured exhaust is provided to enhance collection and containment of waste fluid and removed material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Hammelmann Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Phillip Harris, Dennis Lynn Mesarvey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6702200
    Abstract: A nozzle attitude controller for use in connection with a farming apparatus for precision farming, the apparatus comprising an applicator vehicle, a boom supported by and extending across the rear of the vehicle, a manifold rotatably supported by the boom, a plurality of nozzles disposed from the manifold and oriented in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the vehicle, but disposed at an angle with respect to the horizontal, the attitude controller including a linear actuator operated by a stepper motor and a radar sensor which connects to the stepper motor and which measures the speed of the vehicle such that pulses from the radar sensor to the stepper motor moves the linear actuator to change the angle of the nozzle so that the horizontal component of its velocity is equal and opposite to the speed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: The Board of Regents for Oklahoma State University
    Inventors: John B. Solie, Marvin L. Stone, Stewart D. Reed
  • Patent number: 6698668
    Abstract: A mobile shielded plot sprayer including a wind shield having a side wall that defines an enclosed area, and a movable atomizer within the enclosed area. A track assembly is located within the enclosed area and supported on the windshield. The atomizer is part of a spray assembly mounted on the track assembly and is movable thereon in at least one horizontal direction relative to the wind shield. A reservoir integral with the spray assembly and adapted to hold a liquid spray composition is operatively connected to the atomizer to supply the spray composition thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Monsanto Company
    Inventor: Sammy J. Stehling
  • Patent number: 6659374
    Abstract: A spray head which includes a plurality of interconnected hollow spindles wherein each of the hollow spindles is arranged to be axially rotated and means is provided for fluid flow through the spindles sequentially. Each of the spindles is provided with at least one motor configured so as to facilitate, in use, 360° rotation of the hollow spindle about a central longitudinal axis thereof, each hollow is substantially perpendicular to an adjacent hollow spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Goldenvale Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Dante Vincenzo Chiera