Center Pivot Patents (Class 239/728)
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Patent number: 12185675Abstract: An irrigation system and method of controlling operations of the irrigation system are provided. The irrigation system comprises a plurality of mobile support towers, a plurality of structural supports, a fluid-carrying conduit, water emitters, a sensor, and a control system. The plurality of mobile support towers are configured to move across a field. The plurality of structural supports extend between the mobile support towers, and the fluid-carrying conduit is supported above the field by the plurality of structural supports. The water emitters are coupled with the fluid-carrying conduit and emit water from the conduit onto the field. The sensor is supported on one of the structural supports or mobile support towers and is configured to capture data associated with a residue cover of a portion of the field.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2020Date of Patent: January 7, 2025Assignee: LINDSAY CORPORATIONInventor: Kurtis Arlan Charling
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Patent number: 11839895Abstract: A fully automated land irrigation system to irrigate regular and irregular shapes of land. The system includes a water deliver pipe assembly configured to travel laterally while irrigating adjacent to a stationary row of spaced access valves supplied by a water main. The system includes a single coupler automated connector to automatically supply water to the water delivery pipe assembly. The connector includes a swing arm pivotably mounted to the water delivery pipe assembly, a valve coupler mounted to the swing arm to selectively access water from the water main via the spaced access valves and a water conveyance to operably flow water between the valve coupler and the swing arm. The valve coupler includes a vertical coupler travel configured to provide essentially vertical travel of the valve coupler relative to the swing arm. The water delivery pipe assembly can be center-pivot rotated employing a rotator.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2020Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Inventor: Christopher Guy Williams
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Patent number: 11825778Abstract: A direct pivot smart tower box communication system is disclosed. The direct pivot smart tower box communication system includes a plurality of wheel sensor modules, a plurality of tower box modules, and a pivot center module. The plurality of wheel sensor modules are coupled to respective wheel hubs of respective towers of a direct pivot irrigation system. The plurality of tower box modules are coupled to the respective towers of the direct pivot irrigation system, wherein a tower box module includes a tower box module controller and is in communication with a wheel sensor module at a same tower as the tower box module. The pivot center module is coupled to the pivot center, wherein the pivot center module includes a pivot center module controller and is in communication with the plurality of tower box modules.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2020Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: STEPHENS ELECTRIC & SUPPLY, INC.Inventor: Travis Stephens
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Patent number: 11523571Abstract: Embodiments for crop-specific automated irrigation of an environmental medium and management of nutrients therein. In one aspect, operation of an irrigation apparatus can be regulated according to specific water demand of a crop. The water demand can be assessed by evaluating water content conditions of the environmental medium comprising the crop, medium characteristics, and/or nutrient delivery and transport characteristics at the medium. Regulation of operation of the irrigation apparatus can comprise control of one or more of water supply to the apparatus, positioning and/or movement of the irrigation apparatus, or configuration of sensing devices for collection of information suitable for such regulation.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2019Date of Patent: December 13, 2022Assignee: EARTHTEC SOLUTIONS LLCInventor: David Lankford
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Patent number: 11284572Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatuses for irrigating soils and crops are described. The irrigation system may include a center pivot irrigation system and at least one irrigation apparatus. The irrigation apparatus may include at least one side frame, at least one back frame, at least one boom assembly, at least one means for enabling the apparatus to move, and/or at least one means for configuring the apparatus to the center pivot irrigation system. The disclosure may reduce and/or eliminate rut formation.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2019Date of Patent: March 29, 2022Assignee: Pivot Pup Irrigation, LLCInventors: Bruce C. Mortensen, Norman Delton Hansen, Ivan Hugh McCracken, II
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Patent number: 10655716Abstract: A slew drive comprises a worm gear which is integrated with a reducer assembly. One end of the worm gear operates as a carrier which engages a plurality of planetary gears which are part of the reducer assembly. The carrier may be a separate component that is coupled with the worm gear. Alternatively, one end of the worm gear can be machined to operate as the carrier. The carrier engages a plurality of planetary gears via a plurality of holes.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2018Date of Patent: May 19, 2020Assignee: KINEMATICS, LLCInventors: Kenneth D. Miller, Adam P. Plesniak, Kyle Zech, Mark Henderson
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Patent number: 10477784Abstract: A land irrigation system to irrigate farmland. The system includes a water delivery pipe assembly having a plurality of drive motors mounted thereto. The water delivery pipe assembly is configured for one or the other or both of linear-move irrigator travel and center pivot irrigator travel. The water delivery pipe assembly is further configured to stagger the operation of select ones of the drive motors wherein when one or more of the selected drive motors are in operation one or more of the selected drive motors are not in operation. Staggering the operation of select ones of the drive motors can serve to reduce the carbon footprint as well as size footprint of the power supply that powers the drive motors whether that supply be a diesel generator or a water motor driven generator or an inverted battery power supply or a fuel cell or other.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2016Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Inventor: Christopher Guy Williams
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Patent number: 10405505Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method which combines sensor inputs, control systems, field mapping, motor controls, and high speed and variable speed motor designs within an irrigation machine. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides systems which are capable of full torque operation, even at speeds less than the rated speed of the motor. According to further preferred embodiments, the present invention utilizes a combination of motor types including Switch Reluctance, DC Permanent Magnet and AC Permanent Magnet motors in combination with Variable Frequency Drives.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2018Date of Patent: September 10, 2019Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: John Kastl
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Patent number: 10206340Abstract: In one example, a continuous track transport system for an irrigation system is provided that includes a continuous track with multiple track plates arranged so that adjacent plates are directly connected to each other, and also includes a gear train connected with the continuous track and operable to transmit an input torque to the continuous track to effect movement of the continuous track. The gear train includes a drive gear having an interface that is connectible to a gearbox of an irrigation system chassis, first and second driven sprocket-gears engaged with the continuous track, each of first and second driven sprocket-gears including a respective driven gear engaged with the drive gear, and a frame to which one or more gears of the gear train are rotatably mounted. Any one or more of the drive gear, sprocket-gear, and frame may comprise, or consist of, molded, glass-filled nylon.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2017Date of Patent: February 19, 2019Assignee: 7A9, LLCInventor: Brian G. Hansen
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Patent number: 10139017Abstract: A suspended pipe assembly comprising a first suspended pipe, a second suspended pipe, a third suspended pipe, and a number of suspenders for suspending the pipes from an elevated pipe or pipes of a mobile irrigation system or other fluid distribution system. The first suspended pipe and second suspended pipe are connected together via a fixed joint. The second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe are connected together via a live joint such that the second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe can expand longitudinally relative to each other. Additional suspended pipes can be connected to each other via alternating fixed and live joints. The suspenders allow the suspended pipes to expand longitudinally relative to the elevated pipe and prevents the suspended pipes from warping side-to-side.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2017Date of Patent: November 27, 2018Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Thomas J. Korus
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Patent number: 9918439Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for delivering water and nutrients to crops. The present invention also relates to a system comprising the apparatus of the present invention connected to a hose traveler device. Also disclosed is a method of delivering water and nutrients to the soil using the system of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignees: Spruce Haven Farm, Cuff Farm ServicesInventors: Doug Young, Stan Cuff
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Patent number: 9885430Abstract: A suspended pipe assembly comprising a first suspended pipe, a second suspended pipe, a third suspended pipe, and a number of suspenders for suspending the pipes from an elevated pipe or pipes of a mobile irrigation system or other fluid distribution system. The first suspended pipe and second suspended pipe are connected together via a fixed joint. The second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe are connected together via a live joint such that the second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe can expand longitudinally relative to each other. Additional suspended pipes can be connected to each other via alternating fixed and live joints. The suspenders allow the suspended pipes to expand longitudinally relative to the elevated pipe and prevents the suspended pipes from warping side-to-side.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2017Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Thomas J. Korus
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Patent number: 9706721Abstract: In one example, a continuous track transport system for an irrigation system is provided that includes a continuous track and a gear train connected with the continuous track and operable to transmit an input torque to the continuous track so as to effect movement of the continuous track. The gear train includes a drive gear having an interface that is connectible to a motor of an irrigation system chassis, first and second drive wheels connected to the continuous track, each including an interface that is connectible to a corresponding interface of an irrigation system chassis, and first and second driven gears engaged with the drive gear, the first and second driven gears being mounted to respective drive wheels such that each driven gear rotates in unison with the associated drive wheel, and one or more gears of the gear train are plastic.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2014Date of Patent: July 18, 2017Assignee: 7A9, LLCInventor: Brian G. Hansen
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Patent number: 9683680Abstract: A suspended pipe assembly comprising a first suspended pipe, a second suspended pipe, a third suspended pipe, and a number of suspenders for suspending the pipes from an elevated pipe or pipes of a mobile irrigation system or other fluid distribution system. The first suspended pipe and second suspended pipe are connected together via a fixed joint. The second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe are connected together via a live joint such that the second suspended pipe and third suspended pipe can expand longitudinally relative to each other. Additional suspended pipes can be connected to each other via alternating fixed and live joints. The suspenders allow the suspended pipes to expand longitudinally relative to the elevated pipe and prevents the suspended pipes from warping side-to-side.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2016Date of Patent: June 20, 2017Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Thomas J. Korus
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Patent number: 9677242Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for anchoring an irrigation system. According to a first preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a preinstalled concrete stage on which a drive tower may be positioned. Preferably, the concrete stage further includes a securing shelf mechanism for providing a restraint over the rear tire. As further disclosed, the present invention preferably further includes a barricade secured in front of the front tire of the drive tower to prevent the drive tower from sliding out of position.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2016Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: Dennis Theilen
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Patent number: 9537869Abstract: Apps are secured or security-wrapped either before they are downloaded onto a device, such as a smart phone or tablet device, or after they are downloaded but before they are allowed to access the device operating system and cause any potential damage to the device. The app is secured before it is allowed to access the operating system of the device, thereby preventing the app from malicious behavior. App object code is substituted with security program object code, thereby creating a security-wrapped app. The app is provisioned with a geo-fencing policy which prevents execution of an app outside a pre-defined geographical area. If the device is within the defined area, the app is allowed to execute. The geographical area, such as a building or company campus, is defined using longitude and latitude coordinates and a location accuracy value. Device location is obtained using location/GPS services on the device.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2014Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Blue Cedar Networks, Inc.Inventor: Erik L. Peterson
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Patent number: 9480208Abstract: A center pivot irrigation system including a framework, a fluid conduit supported by the framework, a plurality of fluid-emitting nozzles associated with the fluid conduit, and a central control panel. Further, the irrigation system has an offsite irrigation controller, including a fluid-pressure sensor for sensing the fluid pressure inside the fluid conduit and a digital compass for monitoring the orientation of the irrigation system as it rotates about the center pivot axis. The offsite irrigation controller also includes a remote transmitter for communicating to an offsite receiver and an electrical processing circuit coupled with the fluid-pressure sensor, the digital compass, and the remote transmitter. The electrical processing circuit receives an output signal from each of the fluid-pressure sensor and the digital compass, and controls the remote transmitter to transmit the operational status of the irrigation system to an offsite user.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2014Date of Patent: November 1, 2016Assignee: Lennard Technologies, LLC.Inventors: Kyle J. Lennard, Keith M. Lennard
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Patent number: 9290958Abstract: A pool cleaner for cleaning a pool surface includes a chassis, arms mounted to the chassis for oscillatory movement in response to water being drawn through the pool cleaner and rotating a drive assembly operatively coupled to the arms, a wing mounted to each of the arms for flapping movement in response to the oscillatory movement of the arms, and projections carried on an underside of the wings for disturbing material from the pool surface to be cleaned by the pool cleaner.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2012Date of Patent: March 22, 2016Inventor: Thomas V. Lopez
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Patent number: 9022305Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a mechanized irrigation system that includes an electronic controller equipped with a telemetry means configured to read wireless tire pressure monitors and transmit this information up to 2900 feet from the tires being monitored. Based on the ability to remotely monitor the tire pressure of a mechanized irrigation system, the operator can remotely determine when tire pressures are low and take the necessary corrective action to avoid costly down-time.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2011Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: Craig S. Malsam
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Publication number: 20150081120Abstract: An irrigation system includes a central pivot and a series of mobile towers connected to the central pivot and to one another by support structure. Each mobile tower has wheels and a motor for driving at least one of the wheels. A control system operates the motors to maintain alignment of the mobile towers and the central pivot while preventing power usage of the system from exceeding a maximum power threshold. The control system determines in which sequence to operate the motors to maintain alignment of the mobile towers while operating no more than a selected number of the motors simultaneously.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2014Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventor: Jochen Pfrenger
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Patent number: 8936208Abstract: An irrigation system includes a central pivot and a series of mobile towers connected to the central pivot and to one another by support structure. Each mobile tower has wheels and a motor for driving at least one of the wheels. A control system operates the motors to maintain alignment of the mobile towers and the central pivot while preventing power usage of the system from exceeding a maximum power threshold. The control system determines in which sequence to operate the motors to maintain alignment of the mobile towers while operating no more than a selected number of the motors simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Jochen Pfrenger
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Publication number: 20150014451Abstract: A control system for stopping or reversing movement of an irrigation system comprises an electronic proximity sensor and a control device. The electronic proximity sensor is configured for mounting to the irrigation system and operable to detect a target. The control device is responsive to the electronic proximity sensor for stopping or reversing movement of the irrigation system when the electronic proximity sensor detects the target.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventor: Thomas J. Korus
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Patent number: 8931719Abstract: A flotation drive assembly for mechanized irrigation systems such as a corner pivot irrigation machine, a center pivot irrigation machine or a linear move irrigation machine wherein the flotation drive assembly improves upon the field traction of the mechanized agricultural irrigational systems and which improves the resistance to wheel track rutting that may occur during the normal operation of the systems. The flotation drive assembly of this invention is designed so that the gearbox which drives the wheel/tire assemblies at the opposite ends of the main frame of the drive unit or tower is mounted so as not to support the weight of the tower or the water contained therein.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2008Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: Benjamin J. Toman
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Publication number: 20140326808Abstract: An irrigation system is disclosed that is configured to maintain a near straight. In an implementation, an irrigation system includes multiple interconnected spans that are supported by multiple tower structures and an extension arm pivotally connected to the end tower. Each tower structure includes a variable-speed drive unit for selectively driving a tower structure at a selected speed. The irrigation system also includes multiple sensors that are each associated with a corresponding span to determine an alignment of the corresponding span with respect to adjacent spans. Each of the sensors is in communication with a corresponding variable-drive control unit. Each of the variable-drive control units are configured to control the selected speed of a corresponding variable-speed drive unit to maintain the interconnected spans in a substantially linear orientation with respect to adjacent ones of the plurality of interconnected spans along a generally longitudinally oriented axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Applicant: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: Craig S. Malsam
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Patent number: 8876026Abstract: An irrigation system includes a central pivot; a main section pivotally connected to the central pivot; and at least one solar panel supported on the main section. A control system positions the main section relative to the central pivot so that the solar panel faces the sun.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2011Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Jochen Pfrenger
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Patent number: 8849468Abstract: A method of optimizing water applications of a center pivot irrigation system. The field is mapped to determine the yield potentials of various parts of the field. The field map is divided into sectors or zones and the yield potentials of those sectors or zones are determined. The number of sectors or zones to be irrigated is dependent upon the water flow available to the irrigation system. Only those sectors or zones which can receive adequate irrigating water to achieve the predetermined water application depth will be irrigated.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Cropmetrics, LLCInventors: Kevin Abts, Nick Emanuel
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Patent number: 8757302Abstract: A track assembly for a mobile tower of an irrigation system includes a mounting bracket; a gearbox assembly and a rotatable drive wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket; a drive wheel attached to the drive wheel hub; a rotatable tension wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket and spaced from the drive wheel hub; a tension wheel attached to the tension wheel hub; a track belt trained over the drive wheel and the tension wheel and driven by the drive wheel to propel the mobile tower; and structure for pivotally mounting the mounting bracket to the mobile tower.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2013Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventors: Thomas J. Korus, Jochen Pfrenger
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Patent number: 8757301Abstract: A track assembly for a mobile tower of an irrigation system includes a mounting bracket; a gearbox assembly and rotatable drive wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket; a drive wheel attached to the drive wheel hub; a rotatable tension wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket and spaced from the drive wheel hub; a tension wheel attached to the tension wheel hub; a track belt trained over the drive wheel and the tension wheel and driven by the drive wheel to propel the mobile tower; and structure for pivotally mounting the mounting bracket to the mobile tower.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventors: Thomas J. Korus, Jochen Pfrenger
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Patent number: 8720803Abstract: A multiple-line irrigation system includes a plurality of spans extending from a central pivot, a first pipeline for carrying water, and a second pipeline for carrying chemicals. Each span includes a distribution assembly which draws water and chemicals from the first and second pipelines independently of distribution assemblies in the other spans so as to distribute the water and chemicals as a mixture onto a field according to the requirements of the field under each span. Auxiliary lines coupled to the pipelines in the distribution assembly in each span include valves to regulate the supply of water and chemicals from the pipelines.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2013Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventor: John S. Standley
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Patent number: 8702014Abstract: A self-propelled irrigation system includes a drive tower configured to cross over a drainage ditch or other watercourse in an irrigated field without the use of a bridge or other support structure to support the load of the drive tower.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventor: George Edmund Bullard, III
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Patent number: 8690085Abstract: An irrigation device includes a pipe conduit (2) which is connectable to a water source. An irrigation arm (10) is arranged at an end of the pipe conduit (2) which is away from the water source. The irrigation device also includes at least one pump (24) for delivering water from the water source to at least one sprinkler (22) formed on the irrigation arm (10). The at least one pump (24) is arranged within a connection conduit from the water source to the sprinkler (22). The connection conduit is formed by the pipe conduit (2) and the irrigation arm (10).Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Grundfos Management a/sInventors: Peter Busch, David Stuart
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Patent number: 8662424Abstract: An irrigation machine is selectively converted into a sprayer for applying chemicals that have been approved for use only by spraying equipment. A method is disclosed for irrigating and spraying crops using the same conduit connected to either an irrigation ground water source or a sprayer-approved chemical source, but at no time is the conduit connected to both sources simultaneously. The method includes connecting the input of a conduit to a ground water source, irrigating the crops with water from the ground water source, disconnecting the input of the conduit from the ground water source, connecting the input of the same conduit to a sprayer-approved chemical source, and spraying the crops with chemical from the chemical source.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2010Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Charles H. Meis
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Patent number: 8657215Abstract: A wheel apparatus includes a hub that is configured to be received by an axle of an irrigation system. The wheel apparatus also includes a rim assembly that includes a plurality of substantially flat feet that form a faceted circular arrangement. A support structure is disposed between the hub and the rim assembly to at least partially support the rim assembly. At least one of the substantially flat feet is coupled to at least one of the plurality of spoke structures. The wheel apparatus also includes at least one cleat disposed on an outside surface of at least one of the plurality of substantially flat feet to provide traction to the rim assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Inventor: Benjamin D. Blum
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Patent number: 8550383Abstract: Directional spray heads on each side of each tower over the wheels spray water behind the trailing wheel and not in front of the wheels. A control box activates the direction of travel of the wheels at the towers through a tower box at each tower. Solenoids wired to the tower box for switching power alternately to each wheel, switch the water flow via the solenoids to directional spray sprinklers spraying behind the trailing wheel.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2010Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Inventor: Ryan Layne McConnell
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Patent number: 8517289Abstract: An apparatus and method of moving a mobile tower using solar power are disclosed for use with an irrigation system. The disclosed improvement includes a solar panel with a collecting surface to convert light energy to electrical energy, an electrical charge source in communication with the solar panel to receive electrical energy, and a motor to drive a ground-engaging wheel in communication with the electrical charge source. The improvement also includes a direction control system for regulating rotation of the solar panel and a tilt assembly for adjusting the angle of the solar panel to maintain the disposition of the collecting surface in alignment with the direction of incoming sunlight. The method of moving the mobile tower includes collecting light energy with a solar panel, converting the light energy into electrical energy, and driving a wheel of the mobile tower with a motor powered by the converted electrical energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventors: Richard W. Parod, Charles H. Meis
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Patent number: 8490899Abstract: A track assembly for a mobile tower of an irrigation system includes: a mounting bracket configured to be attached to the mobile tower; a gearbox assembly and rotatable drive wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket; a drive wheel attached to the drive hub; rotatable tension wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket and spaced from the drive hub; a tension wheel attached to the tension wheel hub; and a track trained over the drive wheel and the tension wheel and driven by the drive wheel to propel the mobile tower.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Thomas J. Korus
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Publication number: 20130134240Abstract: A variable pump assembly may be disposed or coupled to a water release point of an irrigation assembly. The variable pump assembly may be configured to control an output water pressure as a function of the irrigation assembly's location or position. As the irrigation assembly travels an irrigation path, the variable pump assembly may dynamically change the output water pressure of the water and/or applicants released from the water release point to provide sufficient irrigational coverage to the land.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: VALMONT INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventor: Craig S. Malsam
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Publication number: 20130087631Abstract: A system and method for controlling the positioning of an extension arm of a center pivot irrigation system. The method determines at least some boundaries of a field to be irrigated; determines positions for the end tower along a path in the field; determines a desired angular orientation of the extension arm relative to the end tower for each of the positions of the end tower along the path based at least partially on the boundaries; and stores in memory desired angular orientations of the extension arm associated with positions of the end tower along the path. The method determines an actual position of the end tower while the irrigation system is in operation; determines an actual angular orientation of the extension arm relative to the end tower; accesses the memory and determines the desired angular orientation of the extension arm; and compares the actual angular orientation to the desired angular orientation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: Lindsay CorporationInventor: Jochen Pfrenger
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Patent number: 8401704Abstract: A global navigation satellite sensor system (GNSS) control system and method for irrigation and related applications is provided for a boom assembly with main and extension boom sections, which are hingedly connected and adapted for folding. The control system includes an antenna and a receiver connected to the antenna. A rover antenna is mounted on the boom extension section and is connected to the receiver. A processor receives GNSS positioning signals from the receiver and computes locations for the antennas, for which a vector indicating an attitude of the extension boom section can be computed. Various boom arrangements and field configurations are accommodated by alternative aspects of the control system.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Hemisphere GPS, LLCInventors: Colin J. Pollock, Kirk Burnell
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Publication number: 20120267447Abstract: A system that based on changes in agricultural crop or plant characteristics or dynamics, e.g. heat stress, water deficit stress, stem growth, leaf thickness, plant color, nutrient composition, etc., or changes in environmental conditions, e.g., temperature, wind, pressure, relative humidity, dew point, precipitation, soil moisture, solar radiation, etc. or a combination of both, e.g., evapotranspiration, either automatically increases or decreases the speed or rate of movement or rotation of a mechanized irrigation system, e.g. center pivot, corner, linear, or lateral move irrigation system or similar, or reports a recommended increased or decreased speed or rate of movement or rotation of a mechanized irrigation system either directly or indirectly to the end user. The system responds directly or indirectly to data outputted from monitoring systems that gather and compile environmental (non-biotic), biotic or similar information from agricultural fields and crops.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2012Publication date: October 25, 2012Inventor: KEVIN ABTS
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Publication number: 20120253530Abstract: An applicant dispersal assembly is described that couples to an irrigation system. It is contemplated that the irrigation system may be a center pivot irrigation system, a linear move irrigation system, or the like. The applicant dispersal assembly is configured to receive an applicant and selectively adjust a flow rate of the applicant. In an implementation, the applicant dispersal assembly includes a pump assembly configured to couple to an irrigation conduit. The irrigation conduit is configured to provide an applicant to the pump assembly for dispersing over a cultivation area. The pump assembly is configured to pump the applicant and to selectively adjust a flow rate of the applicant. The applicant dispersal assembly also includes an applicant dispersal device that is coupled to the pump assembly. The applicant dispersal device is configured to disperse the applicant.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Applicant: VALMONT INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventor: Craig S. Malsam
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Patent number: 8210445Abstract: A mobile drip irrigation system that includes a supply pipe connected at one end to a liquid source and extending therefrom. At least one tower supports the supply pipe above the ground, and includes a driver for moving the tower and supply pipe in a desired direction. A plurality of ports are positioned along the supply pipe. The system includes a plurality of vertically oriented drop line assemblies. Each drop line assembly has an upper end connected to one of the plurality of ports, and a lower end spaced above the ground. A horizontal liquid distribution system is fluidly connected to the plurality of drop line assemblies to allow a horizontally uniformly spaced drip of the liquid at a desired distance from the ground.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2011Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: American Vanguard CorporationInventors: Kyle E. Coleman, Monte L. Spence
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Publication number: 20120067969Abstract: An apparatus for acidifying and applying irrigation water to a field of ground to be irrigated comprising a fixed or traveling conveyance structure with a water delivery system associated with a plurality of independently operable sprinkler assemblies associated with mixing valves, the water delivery system, and a sulfurous acid manifold to mix acidified water with the water delivered to the sprinkler assemblies to distribute co-mixed acidified water over the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: Harmon Systems International, LLCInventor: Terry Gong
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Publication number: 20120048972Abstract: “Double tubing distributing of fertilizers and pesticides fixed to aerial structure of central pivot, thrown and controlled by automation devices consist of gate valves, pressure valves, solenoid valves and check valves”, refers to a device to be installed in a central pivot (P), comprehended by a main tubing (1), due supported and fixed by staples to aerial structure (14) of central pivot, responsible by derivation and conduction of the solution to the final ending of the pivot, presenting derivations of the solution in the “T” (25) of the main tubing (1) with the towers (15) to assist the automation device (S) comprehended by gate valves (4), pressure valves (5), solenoid valves (6) and check valves (7), from where flexible hoses (13) derive to secondary tubing (2) of distribution, with adjustable heights in each segment through steel cables like suspension strings (10) and steel cables masters (11) activated by a winch turnpike (16), or by remote control, that pulverize the solution through the sprays nozzType: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: FRANCISCO GANZER NETO
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Publication number: 20110220743Abstract: A swing arm support system for automated irrigation systems has a support hub and a means to attach and operate two wheels to opposite sides of the support hub. The support hub provides greater ground flotation to prevent the forming of ruts in a field and traction to prevent an automated swing arm from becoming stuck. The swing arm support system provides for the use of common automated irrigation components so that fabrication, repair and operation are most efficient. The support hub in pivotally attached to an existing swing arm support tower. The support hub is carried by two pneumatic tires in one embodiment, four tires in another embodiment, six tires in another embodiment, and movable tracks in another embodiment.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventors: Austin Reed Arthur, Dalles Dean Duffin
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Patent number: 7883035Abstract: A mobile drip irrigation system that includes a supply pipe connected at one end to a liquid source and extending therefrom. At least one tower supports the supply pipe above the ground, and includes a driver for moving the tower and supply pipe in a desired direction. A plurality of ports are positioned along the supply pipe. The system includes a plurality of vertically oriented drop line assemblies. Each drop line assembly has an upper end connected to one of the plurality of ports, and a lower end spaced above the ground. A horizontal liquid distribution system is fluidly connected to the plurality of drop line assemblies to allow a horizontally uniformly spaced drip of the liquid at a desired distance from the ground.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: American Vanguard CorporationInventors: Kyle E. Coleman, Monte L. Spence
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Publication number: 20110017850Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for providing irrigation. The system, method and apparatus may include a center pivot irrigation device. A moveable arm may be coupled to an end of the irrigation device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2009Publication date: January 27, 2011Inventor: Bert Waybright
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Patent number: 7866580Abstract: A swing arm support system for automated irrigation systems has a support hub and a means to attach and operate two wheels to opposite sides of the support hub. The support hub provides greater ground flotation to prevent the forming of ruts in a field and traction to prevent an automated swing arm from becoming stuck. The swing arm support system provides for the use of common automated irrigation components so that fabrication, repair and operation are most efficient. The support hub in pivotally attached to an existing swing arm support tower. The support hub is carried by two pneumatic tires in one embodiment, four tires in another embodiment, six tires in another embodiment, and movable tracks in another embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2005Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Inventors: Austin Arthur, Dalles Duffin
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Publication number: 20100176225Abstract: A self-propelled irrigation system has an elongated pipeline supported above a field by a plurality of drive towers. The drive towers each have a base beam assembly, a tower structure extending above the base beam assembly for supporting the elongated pipeline, and a plurality of drive wheel assemblies for moving the base beam assembly over a field. The drive assemblies include first and second drive assemblies mounted to respective ends of the base beam assembly. At least one of the drive towers also has a third drive assembly mounted to the base beam assembly between the first and second drive assemblies. The base beam assembly supporting the third drive assembly is articulated between its first and second ends and pivotally connected to the lower ends of the tower structure to allow the third drive assembly to move vertically relative to the first and second drive assemblies when traversing uneven terrain.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventors: Spencer L. Vorderstrasse, Bradley G. Weatherl, John E. Davis
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Patent number: 7686234Abstract: An irrigation assembly has a main pipeline supported at intervals by mobile towers, a plurality of drop tube assemblies at spaced intervals along the pipeline and a collector positioned to receive water from the drop tube assembly. A plurality of targets are positioned on the ground in the paths of motion defined by the movement of the collectors. The targets may be dishes. Each dish preferably has a perforated drain that penetrates beneath the surface of the ground. Interaction between the collector and the target causes the water stored within the collector to be released into the target. The irrigation assembly may provide for underground irrigation without a collector where a dish or trough receives water from the drop tube assembly and underground drains allow for water to be dispersed below the ground.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Lindsay Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Richard W. Parod, Charles H. Meis