Abstract: A harrow implement comprises a tool bar and harrow sections extending rearward therefrom. Each of a plurality of hydraulic cylinders is connected between the tool bar and a corresponding harrow section. A hydraulic control is operative to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid such that the hydraulic cylinders exert a substantially constant selected bias force on the harrow sections. The hydraulic control is operative to direct pressurized hydraulic fluid into a first port on each hydraulic cylinder to exert a downward bias force on the plurality of harrow sections, and operative to direct pressurized hydraulic fluid into a second port on each hydraulic cylinder to exert an upward bias force on the plurality of harrow sections. The hydraulic cylinder can be configured to raise the harrow sections to an idle position above the ground, and to a transport position extending up from the tool bar.

Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement including a first frame configured to be moved in a travel direction, at least one second frame coupled with the first frame, at least one rolling basket assembly coupled to the at least one second frame, at least one actuator pivotally connected to the at least one second frame, and a pressure control system operatively connected to the at least one rolling basket assembly. The pressure control system includes at least one sensor coupled to the at least one rolling basket assembly for sensing a load exerted on the at least one rolling basket assembly by a ground surface and providing a downward pressure measurement signal. The pressure control system also includes a controller in communication with the at least one sensor and configured to control the adjustable downward force applied by the at least one actuator.

Abstract: An agricultural system includes a frame configured for attachment to a leading tow bar of a towing vehicle, and at least one roller device attached to the frame and extending between two adjacent parallel strip positions. The roller device is configured to crush standing residual plant matter in the field. The system further includes a fertilizer opener disk attached to the frame and which is configured to prepare, at least in part, a furrow for receiving a fertilizer. The system also includes a fertilizer injector attached to the frame and which is configured to deposit the fertilizer into the furrow in a trailing position relative to the fertilizer opener disk.

Abstract: A standard fertilizer applicator with coulters and shank assemblies with knives for placement of fertilizer below the soil surface is equipped with cultivator shank assemblies to provide complete tillage between the fertilizer shanks. Each cultivator shank is mounted by a plate having notches therein for adjusting the vertical height of the assembly. The plate is attached to a support bracket placed around a square beam or tool bar. When used for spring application, leveling of uneven soil is accomplished and weeds are eliminated with the same pass made to apply the fertilizer.

Abstract: A hitch module adapted to be coupled to a frame of a work machine or towed assembly. The hitch module includes a carrier assembly having a first plate and a second plate coupled to one another. The first and second plates are spaced from one another by a first distance, where both plates define a pivot axis. A guide assembly defines a longitudinal axis and is pivotally coupled to the carrier assembly about the pivot axis. The guide assembly has a first guide plate and a second guide plate coupled to and spaced by a second distance from one another. A hitch assembly is disposed at least partially between the first and second plate of the carrier assembly and the first and the second guide plate. The hitch link assembly is pivotal about the pivot axis and movable along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Coupling apparatus (80) for coupling a mower (3) to a front three-point linkage of a tractor comprises a mounting element (17) for coupling to the three-point linkage and a carrier element (19) to which the mower (3) is coupled. A linkage mechanism (20) comprising upper link members (81) and a lower link member (23) couples the carrier element (19) to the mounting element (17). The lower link member (23) is pivotally coupled to the mounting element (17) about a first lower pivot axis (30). A pair of take-up springs (45) act between the lower link member (23) and the mounting element (17) to take up a portion of the weight of the mower (3). The take-up springs (45) are coupled between corresponding anchor elements (60) and corresponding anchor brackets (49) on the lower link member (23). The anchor elements (60) are carried on respective compensating arms (88), which in turn are pivotal on pivot shafts (53) carried on the mounting element (17).

Abstract: An agricultural system including a frame, a hydraulic system, a controller and a plurality of sensors. The hydraulic system is coupled to the frame and has a plurality of hydraulic actuators fluidically coupled in a series arrangement. The controller is in control of the hydraulic system. The plurality of sensors have at least one sensor coupled to each of the plurality of hydraulic actuators. The sensors are in communication with the controller, with the controller executing the steps of receiving at least one signal from the sensors indicating a need to rephase the hydraulic actuators; estimating an amount of time needed to rephase the hydraulic actuators; and altering a function of the agricultural system to allow for the hydraulic actuators to be rephased in the time needed.

Abstract: An agricultural implement including a frame, a hydraulic system, a controller and a plurality of sensors. The hydraulic system is coupled to the frame and has a plurality of hydraulic actuators fluidically coupled in a series arrangement. The controller is in control of the hydraulic system. The plurality of sensors have at least one sensor coupled to each of the plurality of hydraulic actuators. The sensors are in communication with the controller, with the controller executing the steps of receiving at least one signal from the sensors indicating a need to rephase the hydraulic actuators; and operating the hydraulic system to rephase the hydraulic actuators dependent upon the signal.

Abstract: By providing an electronic sensor in communication with a hydraulic system for adjusting an angle of smoothing tools of a harrow, the angle of the smoothing tools may be continuously monitored by a controller and/or an operator in the tractor cab. This may allow continuous adjustment of the smoothing tools during a tilling session in order to provide the most aggressive setting for optimum field leveling and residue flow based on field conditions.

Abstract: By providing a control system in communication with a hydraulic system for adjusting an angle of smoothing tools of a harrow, and a communications system for determining a present geographic location of the tillage implement in communication with the control system, the angle of the smoothing tools can be adjusted according to presently determined coordinate locations on a map which indicates amounts of plant residue. This may allow an automated process in which smoothing tools can be continuously adjusted during a tilling session in order to provide the most aggressive setting for optimum field leveling and residue flow based on field conditions.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for monitoring and controlling an agricultural implement, including seed planting implements. Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for detecting seeds being conveyed by seed conveyor.

Abstract: A seeding apparatus has a frame and a plurality of furrow openers spaced laterally along the implement frame. A like plurality of singulating meters is provided, each mounted on the frame close to a corresponding furrow opener, and seed tubes are configured to receive singulated seeds from a corresponding singulating meter and deposit the seeds in the furrow created by the corresponding furrow opener. A pressurized air stream conveys seeds through each seed tube and a seed supply supplies seeds to each singulating meter. A meter control operates each singulating meter to provide a variable seeding rate that is independent of the seeding rates of the other singulating meters. A seed catching member follows each furrow opener and catches the seeds exiting the seed tubes to maintain a consistent seed spacing in the furrow.

Abstract: An applicator for applying anhydrous ammonia, NH3, to an agricultural field is provided. The applicator includes a distribution rail for receiving and out letting a flow of the NH3 The distribution rail has a decreasing inner diameter from an inlet of the distribution rail to distal ends of the distribution rail.

Abstract: A robotic vehicle may include one or more functional components configured to execute a lawn care function, a sensor network comprising one or more sensors configured to detect conditions proximate to the robotic vehicle, a positioning module configured to determine robotic vehicle position while the robotic vehicle traverses a parcel, and a boundary management module configured to enable the robotic vehicle to be operated within a bounded area. The bounded area may include a variable boundary, and the boundary management module may be configured to receive instructions from an operator to adjust the variable boundary.

Abstract: A drive arrangement for the reciprocating drive of a cutter bar comprises an input element which can be set into a continuous pivoting movement by a drive device, and an output element which is coupled to the cutter bar and is coupled to the input element by a coupling rod. The output element is pivotably connected to a first end of a first lever and of a second lever, which levers, for their part, are pivotably mounted. The levers and the output element are dimensioned in such a manner that the output element essentially only carries out a lateral movement.

Abstract: A crop harvesting header having a frame mounted on a propulsion vehicle has a cutter bar carrying a sickle knife and a draper transport. The draper is guided at its front edge by a longitudinally extending rail mounted on the frame for movement therewith. The cutter bar is mounted on the frame at spaced positions by spring blades attached to a fixed beam at the rear which allow up and down flexing movement of the cutter bar relative to the draper engagement member. At the center discharge the cutter bar is carried on shorter blades which are carried on a beam in front of the front draper roller. The small amount of flexing of the cutter bar combines with a balanced three piece header frame to provide effective ground following.

Abstract: A crop harvesting header having a frame mounted on a propulsion vehicle has a cutter bar carrying a sickle knife and a draper transport. The draper is guided at its front edge by a longitudinally extending rail mounted on the frame for movement therewith. The cutter bar is mounted on the frame at spaced positions by spring blades attached to a fixed beam at the rear which allow up and down flexing movement of the cutter bar relative to the draper engagement member. At the center discharge the cutter bar is carried on shorter blades which are carried on a beam in front of the front draper roller. The small amount of flexing of the cutter bar combines with a balanced three piece header frame to provide effective ground following.

Abstract: A device for extracting auxiliary power from a power source installed on or associated with an implement, and supplying the auxiliary power to an auxiliary tool associated with the implement. The invention is preferably employed in the context of an auxiliary tool, e.g., in the form of a rotary trimmer, edger or the like, associated with another power implement, such as a lawnmower, wherein the power is preferably extracted from a driven member of the implement. Advantageously, the device is easy to attach/detach, is universally locatable and/or orientable on the implement, and is easily retrofittable to practically any existing implement, such as a lawnmower deck.

Abstract: An improved base cutter blade suited for use in a sugar cane harvester. The preferred improved blade has a generally elongated flat body with opposing longitudinal edges. A removable, replaceable knife is also provided. The knife is made to releasably engage the leading edge of the body. Thus, the knife will perform most of the cutting work and bear the brunt of the wear suffered by the blade. When the knife becomes dull, only the knife need be replaced, which can be done quickly. This will save a significant amount of time during harvest operations. It will also reduce the amount of material that is consumed in the form of worn out blades.

Abstract: A header for a combine harvester is provided. The header includes a frame, a row unit and a pair of rollers. The row unit extends forwardly of the frame and includes a pair of stalk rolls and a pair of deck plates. The pair of rollers are spaced from and above the pair of stalk rolls. The present invention improves harvesting efficiency by reducing grain loss and reducing damage to ears of stalks during harvesting operations.

Abstract: Provided is a lawn maintenance vehicle including a frame having a first axle and a second axle mounted to the frame. A first drive wheel and a second drive wheel are mounted to the first and second axle. An energy storage device and an electric motor having a motor shaft are mounted to the frame. The electric motor is in electrical communication with the energy storage device and the energy storage device provides electrical power to the electric motor. The lawn maintenance vehicle further includes a traction drive. The traction drive is operably connected to the motor shaft, and the traction drive is operably connected to the first and second axles. The lawn maintenance vehicle includes an implement mounted to the frame. The lawn maintenance vehicle can also include an internal combustion engine operably connected to the electric motor.

Abstract: A bale spreader including one or more rotors rotatably attached to a first and second support member is provided. The bale spreader includes an apron that extends below the rotor(s), and may be configured to operatively feed a particulate material into the rotor(s). The rotor(s) may include a plurality of flail knives or hammers configured to chop and/or shred a particulate material as the rotor(s) is/are rotated. The rotor(s) may be rotated by an optimized hydraulic system connected to the auxiliary hydraulic system of an agricultural implement or vehicle. Furthermore, the bale spreader may include a plurality of tines, screen members, and a flop bar configured to secure particulate material within the bale spreader.

Abstract: A chopper assembly for a crop residue distribution system of an agricultural combine may include a rotor shaft extending lengthwise along a rotational axis between a first end and a second end. The chopper assembly may also include a plurality of flail blades pivotally coupled to the rotor shaft. Each flail blade may be configured to pivot relative to the rotor shaft about a pivot axis, with the flail blades being spaced apart axially from one another between the first and second ends of the rotor shaft. In addition, the chopper assembly may include one or more features configured to improve the performance of the chopper assembly during low speed operation. For example, the feature(s) may correspond to one or more fixed blades coupled to the rotor shaft and/or one or more torsional springs provided in operative association with one or more of the flail blades.

Abstract: A vegetation trimming assembly has at least one cutting blade with a cutting edge that moves guidingly within a blade working space between facing first and second fixed surfaces. The first surface is defined in part by a body with a fixed shape, including a head and a stepped diameter shank with a larger diameter portion to guide movement of the one cutting blade and a smaller diameter portion that is threaded to engage a support defining the second surface. The body is selectively turned in opposite directions to thereby increase and decrease a depth of the blade working space.

Abstract: A hedge trimmer includes a first housing with a first handle, a second housing with a second handle, a transmission mechanism combined to the first housing, a trimming blade for being driven by the transmission mechanism to carry out a shearing motion, an electric motor combined to the first housing and for driving the transmission mechanism, and a battery pack combined to the second housing and for supplying power to the electric motor. The first and second housings respectively include first and second rotation connection parts for making them be connected and rotatable around a rotation axis. The second housing has first and second rotation positions when being rotated with respect to the first housing. A plane perpendicular to the rotation axis is obliquely intersected with a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the trimming blade.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the protection and transportation of floral arrangements are shown. The apparatus includes a container defining a central volume. A tray is included for the suspending of a floral arrangement within the central volume. A decorative base is configured to surround a portion of the flowers. An insert is in communication with the container and configured to cradle a portion of the decorative base so as to restrict movement. The floral arrangement is tied or coupled to a portion of the tray. An optional temperature regulating device may be inserted to assist in maintaining the freshness of the floral arrangement.

Abstract: In the field of horticulture plants can be exposed to winds or other damaging sideways forces. To supportively protect them it is known to tether a plant to a stake or the like. It is an object of a preferred form of the invention to go at least some way towards providing a convenient way of achieving this. Preferably this is achieved by a strap for connecting a plant to an elongate plant support, such as a stake. The strap has a pair of lobes each having a stake receiving aperture and central slits. A leading end of the strap has serrated edges. The strap is such that it can be bent back on itself so the stake receiving apertures align for receiving and gripping the stake, and so that the serrated edges engage one of the slits to form and maintain a plant holding loop.

Abstract: A modular tree protecting container ensemble consists of eight arcuate and straight connectable modular containers, which when set up and connected to each other around a tree at soil level, provides a protective barrier, forms a water and mulch basin, provides theft-resistance and allows for beautification. The ensemble includes three unique shapes, two of which are corner containers; all three shapes have drainage holes on the container floor, and have identical sidewalls and sidewall connector holes for perfect container-to-container alignment. The tree protecting container ensemble is made up of two corner containers with both arcuate walls, two corner containers with arcuate and right angle-cornered walls, and four straight-sided containers, which are all fastened to each other through their sidewall holes with spacers, rods and rod caps, providing container-to-container connection, ensemble stability and theft-resistance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a coherent growth substrate product formed of man-made vitreous fibres bonded with a cured binder composition and a wetting agent, wherein the wetting agent is an alkyl ether sulphate. The invention further relates to methods of using or producing such a coherent growth substrate.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems and methods for downloading and installing software updates upon an irrigation control unit (ICU). Some of the disclosed embodiments include error checking and integrity verification procedures which help ensure that the new software is properly installed. In some embodiments the update is coordinated in conjunction with the ICU's regular contact with a control server.

Abstract: A garden watering controller for operating a valve for controlling a supply of water into a garden watering arrangement includes a light sensor for sensing ambient light levels and a central unit for receiving sensed light level signals from the light sensor and for outputting control signals for operating the valve in dependence on the sensed light level signals. The central unit may be arranged to determine the occurrence of dawn and dusk.

Abstract: A hydroponic planting cup system includes a body, a first-inner-volume, and a second-inner-volume. The hydroponic planting cup system is useful for eliminating the need to transplant which effectively avoids the high risk of plants dying during the transplanting process in hydroponics. The hydroponic planting cup system is a single step process of growing plants in a hydronic system.

Abstract: The tray (10) of the present invention is for use in hydroponics. The tray has a first end and a second end having a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. An inlet (20) is provided at the first end for receiving nutrient and an outlet (30) is provided at the second end for draining nutrient solution. A levee system comprising paddle assemblies (40) extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the tray is disposed between the first end and second end of the tray. The paddle assemblies are adapted to partition the tray to define compartments and to impede the downstream flow of nutrient solution from the first end to the second end. The paddle assemblies are adjustable so as regulate depth of nutrient solution in each compartment to enable optimal irrigation of the plants cultivated in each compartment. To complete a hydroponic system, the tray of the present invention connects to at least one reservoir for holding nutrient solution.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of plant breeding and disease resistance. More specifically, the invention includes a method for breeding corn plants containing one or more markers that are associated with resistance to bacteria. The invention further includes germplasm and the use of germplasm containing at least one marker associated with resistance to Bacterial Stalk Rot (BSR) infection for introgression into elite germplasm in a breeding program, thus producing novel BSR resistant germplasm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to non-transgenic and transgenic plants, preferably crop plants, having biological activity of a haploid inducer and comprising a polynucleotide which comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a centromer histone H3 (CENH3) protein, wherein the polynucleotide comprises at least one mutation causing an alteration of the amino acid sequence of the CENH3 protein, and to a part of the part. Further, the invention provides methods of generating the inducer plants, methods of generating haploid and double haploid plants using the inducer plants as well as methods of facilitating cytoplasm exchange.

Abstract: The subject invention provides compositions and methods of using the same for improving plants' defense by employing naturally-derived chemicals. In a specific embodiment, the composition is from Parthenium argentatum Gray, also known as the guayule plant. Preferred compositions can up-or downregulate growth genes responsible for the targeted plants' defense mechanisms in order to create physical and/or chemical barriers, and produce detouring exudates, antagonistic compounds, or fumigating compounds that prevent and treat damages from pests in agronomic or non-agronomic plants.

Abstract: The disclosure provides Pentas flowers comprising petals exhibiting an anthocyanin pigment star pattern, wherein said anthocyanin pigment star pattern is defined as comprising a substantial lack of anthocyanin pigment in the petal center and a presence of anthocyanin pigment in the petal margins. The disclosure also provides Pentas plants comprising a decreased level of dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR) transcripts resulting in an anthocyanin pigment star pattern and methods for producing a plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The disclosure further relates to seeds, plant parts, and plants produced by crossing Pentas plants of the disclosure with themselves or plants of a different genotype.

Abstract: The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of Watermelon, NUN 31503 WMW, as well as seeds and plants and fruits thereof.

Abstract: A personal dog carrier harness system for supporting and carrying a dog at the owner's chest or back. The dog carrier harness utilizes a vertical adjustment mechanism to adapt to shorter or longer dog neck sizes. A double-layer zipper prevents the dog's hair or skin from getting caught in the carrier harness system. Full internal support with stretch-ability is provided to support the dog's rear end, tail, and hind limbs with increased room to accommodate the male dog's crotch area and anatomy. Access points are ruggedized to allow the dog to easily remove and insert their arms and legs during travel in the carrier harness. Fully breathable materials are used in the construction for the comfort of the pet dog. A chin rest neck support is provided to evenly distribute the dog's weight with a pillow-like design for the dog's full neck support. A safety leash and clip is provided to securely attach to the dog's collar or existing harness to prevent the dog from jumping or falling out of the harness system.

Abstract: A pet carrying backpack is provided and includes a backpack body having a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, a right-side panel, and a left-side panel that collectively form an interior compartment. The backpack body also has a top portion with a collar that forms an opening through which a head of an animal disposed within the interior may protrude. The collar may be stretchable. Paw holes are disposed on a front of the backpack body which accommodate paws or legs of the animal. Shoulder straps are disposed on and extend from the front panel. A pet carrying platform is disposed on or within the bottom panel. The pet carrying platform includes a frame member and a pad member.

Abstract: A multiple animal cage system is a two tiered animal cage adapted to house at least one animal in each cage. The cages are designed so that animals of different species or animals of the same species can be caged. The cage has an upper cage portion and a lower cage portion and each cage portion has a front access door and a slide-out tray in the bottom that catches animal droppings. The cage is mounted onto wheels for easy portability.

Abstract: An animal accommodation facility is described including: a number of substantially airtight enclosures; each enclosure having at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; an air delivery system which draws air from the atmosphere; an air exhaust system which exhausts air to the atmosphere; wherein the air delivery system delivers air to the at least one air inlet of each enclosure; and the air exhaust system receives air from the at least one air outlet of each enclosure; wherein the air delivery system includes a number of air delivery conduits and at least one air delivery conduit is dedicated to each enclosure; and wherein the air exhaust system includes a number of air exhaust conduits and at least one air exhaust conduit is dedicated to each enclosure.

Abstract: A twenty-four-different-configuration pet kennel comprises seven first six-function panels, four second six-function panels, a door panel, a door, J-shaped clamps and W-shaped clamps (for angledly and parallelly clamping seven first six-function panels and four second six-function panels together), panel-tube legs (for plugging the bottom ends of seven first six-function panels and four second six-function panels to absorb shocks and vibrations), tick-blocking teeth (molded inside the panel-tube legs to prevent ticks from entering and hiding inside seven first six-function panels and four second six-function panels), and first and second wind-circulating sails (attached to seven first six-function panels and four second six-function panels to redirect and circulate wind and rain water in multiple different directions and multiple opposite directions into and out of the twenty-four-different-configuration pet kennel, to block the sun, and also to function as a rain water gutter and gutter spout).

Abstract: The texas haynet is a durable net configured to fit over a hay bale, where the holes within the net are sufficiently large enough to allow livestock to eat the hay through the holes yet small enough to restrict the rate at which the hay is eaten, so as to reduce the rate livestock eat, which improves digestion.

Abstract: An improved animal feeder with an insertable feed restrictor.

Abstract: An animal cleaning device for grooming an animal. The animal cleaning device may include a top portion that includes a plurality of actuators and a bottom portion affixed to the top portion. The bottom portion may include a suction vent, a blow vent, a heated airflow vent, a rotating brush, and a formulation dispenser.

Abstract: A garment for facilitating the effective body temperature modulation, e.g., cooling, that incorporates both evaporative and radiant cooling phenomena is described. The present invention generally relates to a garment and method of use thereof for body temperature modulation of companion animals, specifically, a garment incorporates evaporative cooling, radiant cooling, or the combination thereof, which is configured to carry, e.g., ice in compartments that allow the melting ice to bathe the animal's skin directly in cool water, thereby facilitating evaporative and radiant cooling simultaneously, while adding only minimal weight to the animal's load. The garment comprises: a bodice, at least belt member having at least one adjustable fastening means, and at least one compartment for receiving a cooling and/or heating agent.

Abstract: A safe and humane head collar for an animal includes a clasp and a head strap extending through first and second channels formed in the clasp. The head strap has a first end secured to a slip loop and a second end secured to a lead attachment. The head strap passes once through the slip loop to form a head loop for passing over a head of the animal. The safe and humane head collar also includes a nose strap extending through third and fourth channels formed in the clasp to provide a nose loop for passing over a nose of the animal, the nose strap having first and second ends terminating below the clasp. When fitted to the animal, the clasp secures a portion the first and second ends of the nose strap and a portion of the head loop below a lower jaw of the animal, and the head loop is positioned so that the slip loop is situated behind an ear of the animal.

Abstract: A state detector is configured to detect a biological state of a domestic animal based on biological data detected by a biological sensor portion, the biological sensor portion being non-invasively attached to and facing a body surface of the domestic animal to detect the biological data.

Abstract: A method of enhancing the growth of an animal is provided. The method includes causing the animal to ingest or absorb an effective amount of one or more Fe III complex compounds, including but not limited to Fe III complexes comprising ligands bound to the iron centre selected from amino acids or ?-hydroxy acids, o-hydroxy benzoic acids or pyridine-2-carboxylic acids, such as ferric quinate, ferric tyrosine, ferric DOPA and ferric phenylalanine. Compounds which are structural and/or functional variants, derivatives and/or analogs of the foregoing compounds, as further described herein are also disclosed.