Универсальный высевающий аппарат

Изобретение относится к сельскохозяйственному машиностроению, в частности к пневматическим высевающим аппаратам, которые могут быть использованы в сеялках, преимущественно для однозернового высева семян при совмещенных и пунктирных посевах. Высевающий аппарат состоит из семенного бункера, разделенного перегородкой, высевающего диска, разделенного на две части вдоль оси конических ячеек, соединенные между собой внешними сторонами с возможностью обратного соединения, воздушного сопла, разборного сошника, две части которого крепятся между собой жестко. Части высевающего диска с открытыми по бокам ячейками снабжены жестко закрепленными на них с возможностью демонтажа крышками. Изобретение позволяет уменьшить повреждение (травмирование) семян при совмещенном способе посева и является универсальным, поскольку позволяет перейти от совмещенного посева на пунктирный посев и наоборот. 10 ил.

ВЫСЕВАЮЩАЯ СЕКЦИЯ ДЛЯ ПОСЕВНОЙ МАШИНЫ, ИМЕЮЩАЯ ДОЗАТОР СЕМЯН И СИСТЕМУ ДОСТАВКИ СЕМЯН

Высевающая секция для посевной машины содержит элемент рамы высевающей секции и дозатор семян, установленный на элементе рамы высевающей секции. Дозатор семян включает корпус и дозирующий элемент, установленный с возможностью вращения внутри корпуса. Дозирующий элемент выполнен в виде чашеобразного корпуса с базовой частью, от которой продолжается боковая стенка с внутренней поверхностью и наружной поверхностью. При этом боковая стенка имеет краевой участок, смежный наружному краю боковой стенки. В краевом участке выполнена кольцевая группа отверстий, которые проходят через боковую стенку между внутренней и наружной поверхностями. При этом при вращении дозирующего элемента отдельные семена из запаса семян, расположенного в нижней части дозирующего элемента, пристают к отверстиям на внутренней поверхности боковой стенки. Внутренняя поверхность боковой стенки и корпус образуют желоб в нижней части дозирующего элемента для удержания запаса семян. Внутренняя поверхность боковой стенки дозирующего ...

ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ ДЛЯ ПНЕВМАТИЧЕСКИХ СЕЯЛОК ТОЧНОГО ВЫСЕВА

Высевающий элемент для пневматических сеялок точного высева, содержит высевающий диск (2) для отделения семян (S), выполненный с возможностью вращения вокруг оси (X), и семяпровод (8) для перемещения семян (S) с начальной частью (12), которая расположена рядом с местом извлечения семян (S) из высевающего диска (2) и средней частью (13), которая проходит, продолжая начальную часть (12). Семяпровод (8) по меньшей мере в начальной части (12) и в средней части (13) является прямолинейным и соосным и имеет ось (Y), которая расположена внутри плоскости, перпендикулярной пахотной земле и параллельной направлению продолжения посева. При этом угол (В) между плоскостью (Р1), перпендикулярной оси (Y) семяпровода (8) в прямолинейной начальной части (12) и прямолинейной средней части (13) семяпровода (8), и плоскостью (Р2), перпендикулярной оси (X) вращения высевающего диска (2), составляет менее 90°. Изобретение позволит улучшить равномерность высева семян при высоких скоростях сева. 2 н. и 15 з.п.

ДОЗИРУЮЩЕЕ СЕМЕНА УСТРОЙСТВО НА СЕЛЬСКОХОЗЯЙСТВЕННОЙ МАШИНЕ

Сельскохозяйственная машина относится к области посевных машин. Машина содержит, по меньшей мере, одну высевающую секцию, включающую, по меньшей мере, дозирующее семена устройство. Последнее содержит дозирующий семена элемент (803), который посредством приводного устройства выполнен с возможностью транспортировки семян в один или более дозирующих семяпроводов (812). Дозирующее семена устройство содержит также камеру (882) для семян, выполненную с возможностью подачи в нее положительного давления из создающего давление элемента, установленного на сельскохозяйственной машине. Дозирующий семена элемент (803) представляет собой стенку, ограничивающую камеру (882), в которой выполнены отверстия или углубления. При этом отверстия или углубления дозирующего семена элемента (803) соединяют камеру (882) с окружающей средой для создания разницы давлений для прикрепления к ним и транспортировки в них семян. Дозирующий семяпровод (812) состоит из наружного семяпровода (816) и расположенного в нем с ...

УСОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАННЫЙ ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ АППАРАТ ДЛЯ ПРЕЦИЗИОННОЙ АВТОМАТИЧЕСКОЙ СЕЯЛКИ

Изобретение относится к односемянному высевающему аппарату (10) для прецизионной автоматической сеялки. Высевающий аппарат содержит крышку (11) для подлежащих распределению семян, присоединенную к корпусу, имеющему полость, сообщающуюся с всасывающим семена устройством через канал (22), вставленный в отверстие, выполненное в упомянутом корпусе, отбирающее устройство и распределительный диск с отверстиями. Распределительный диск расположен в камере, ограниченной упомянутым корпусом и упомянутой крышкой (11). С распределительным диском соединен посредством штифтов приводной диск. Оба диска приводятся во вращение посредством вала, приводимого в движение исполнительным механизмом для управления вращением дисков. Отбирающее устройство для семян выполнено с возможностью вращения на кромке корпуса. При этом отбирающее устройство содержит пластину, которая на одной из своих сторон, обращенной к центру упомянутого распределительного диска, содержит по меньшей мере два зубчатых участка, имеющих зубья ...

Высевающий аппарат для совмещенного и пунктирного посевов

Высевающий аппарат для совмещенного и пунктирного посева состоит из семенного бункера, разделенного перегородкой, вертикально установленного высевающего диска со сквозными ячейками, воздушного сопла, выталкивателя семян и боковых стенок. Высевающий диск разделен на две части вдоль оси ячеек. Части диска соединены внешними сторонами между собой, а зазор между внутренними сторонами с открытыми половинами ячеек и боковыми стенками аппарата выполнен не превышающим 3 мм. При этом одна часть диска установлена жестко на шпонке, а вторая в виде обода жестко прикреплена к ее верхней половине с возможностью смещения вокруг горизонтальной оси. Кроме того, ячейки выполнены в виде эллиптического конуса, большая полуось эллипса которого расположена перпендикулярно направлению вращения высевающего диска. Изобретение позволит повысить эксплуатационную надежность высевающего аппарата и упростить его конструкцию. 5 ил.

Пневматический аппарат для двустрочного высева пропашных культур

Изобретение относится к сельскохозяйственному машиностроению, в частности к сеялкам точного высева семян пропашных культур. Пневматический аппарат для двустрочного высева пропашных культур включает камеру заполнения, вертикально расположенный высевающий диск со сквозными непроходными ячейками и вакуумную камеру. Пневматический аппарат дополнен делителем потока семян, состоящим из одного входного канала и двух выходных, один из которых совмещён с плоскостью высевающего диска, прилегающей к камере заполнения. На высевающем диске закреплены пластинчатые направители, число которых в два раза меньше числа ячеек, и размещены они возле каждой второй ячейки на окружности большего радиуса, чем радиус окружности размещения ячеек. Изобретение позволит улучшить качество посева за счёт двустрочного размещения с шахматной раскладкой семян, при которой форма площади питания становится более удобной для роста растения. 2 ил.

ПНЕВМАТИЧЕСКИЙ ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ АППАРАТ

Изобретение относится к сельскохозяйственному машиностроению, в частности к пневматическим высевающим аппаратам, которые могут быть использованы в сеялках, преимущественно для однозернового высева семян двух различных культур при совмещенных посевах. Пневматический высевающий аппарат состоит из семенного бункера, разделенного перегородкой на две части, воздуховода, камеры разрежения, установленных на оси высевающего диска, и приводных звездочек. Кроме того, высевающий аппарат снабжен двумя патрубками подвода воздуха с углом рассева 100-120°. Патрубки расположены ниже отверстий, в верхней части высевающего диска. Высевающий диск выполнен в виде ступицы с жестко закрепленными к ней по бокам круглыми пластинами с отверстиями. При этом отверстия соседних пластин расположены соосно. Расстояние между пластинами больше ширины камеры разрежения. Изобретение позволит повысить эксплуатационную надежность упрощенной конструкции. 6 ил.

РЕСПРЕДЕЛИТЕЛЬНЫЙ АГРЕГАТ ДЛЯ ЗЕРНИСТОГО МАТЕРИАЛА, ПРЕЖДЕ ВСЕГО ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ АГРЕГАТ

... 1. Распределительный агрегат (10) для зернистого материала, такого как семенные зерна (34), удобрения и т.п., прежде всего высевающий агрегат (12) распределительной машины или сеялки, включающий в себя корпус (14) с выполненной приблизительно в форме круговой направляющей и/или кругового сегмента внутренней поверхностью (16) обшивки, по меньшей мере одно впускное отверстие (18) для транспортируемого зернистого материала или транспортируемых семенных зерен (34), концентрически вращающееся в корпусе (14) транспортировочное устройство (22) для транспортируемого зернистого материала или же транспортируемых семенных зерен (34), а также по меньшей мере одно выпускное отверстие (24), которое приблизительно по касательной примыкает к внутренней поверхности (16) обшивки, причем транспортировочное устройство (22) имеет в своей внешней области одно или несколько отверстий и/или уступов, которое(-ый) или же которые в первой области корпуса и/или транспортировочной области образует или же образуют с ...

Делительная головка с дозатором семян для пневматического посевного агрегата

Изобретение относится к сельскохозяйственному машиностроению, а именно к пневматическим посевным агрегатам, и может использоваться для дозированной подачи семян к сошникам в системе точного земледелия. Делительная головка пневматического посевного агрегата содержит вертикальный смесительный семяпровод для подачи по нему семян воздушным потоком, с присоединенным к нему одной стороной сверху корпусом, и распределительные патрубки. С другой стороны корпуса прикреплен бункер, с установленным в его нижней части секционным дозатором с приводом от шагового двигателя, управляемого от бортового компьютера. Каждая секция дозатора соединена со своим распределительным патрубком. Кроме того, на бункер делительной головки установлен воздуховод, верхняя часть которого расположена в бункере, а нижняя часть заканчивается распределительными патрубками. Распределительные патрубки объединены в один блок и выполнены в виде инжекторов, выходы которых поочередно направлены на сошники первого и второго рядов.

Универсальный пневматический высевающий аппарат

Изобретение относится к сельскохозяйственному машиностроению, в частности к пневматическим высевающим аппаратам. Универсальный пневматический высевающий аппарат состоит из семенного бункера, разделенного перегородкой на отсеки, пары колец с коническими полуячейками, открытыми с одной стороны, воздушного сопла и полозовидного сошника. Бункер для семян снабжен двумя дополнительными съемными перегородками. Аппарат снабжен насаженной на полуось дополнительной парой колец с открытыми с одной стороны коническими полуячейками и планкой с посадочным квадратным отверстием под полуось. Кольца с планкой размещены по обе стороны осевой линии аппарата с зазором между ними меньше минимального размера семян. Каждая пара колец выполнена с независимым приводом. Полуось одной пары колец соединена через подшипник с полуосью другой пары. Ширина одной пары колец больше ширины другой в 1,25 раза. Для одной пары колец соотношение нижнего диаметра полуячейки к верхнему, к ширине этой пары и к его внешнему диаметру ...

ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ АППАРАТ СЕЯЛКИ ТОЧНОГО ВЫСЕВА

Высевающий аппарат сеялки точного высева содержит семенной бункер 1, высевной диск 2 с коническими выступами 3 и отверстиями 4, компрессор 5, коллектор 6, семяпровод 7. К поверхности высевного диска 2 с противоположной стороны, где установлены конические выступы 3, присоединен полый кожух 8, имеющий в периферийной части кольцевой канал 9, наклоненный к поверхности высевного диска 2 и контактирующий с расположенным в верхней части отсекателем 10 конической формы. В центральной зоне кольцевой канал 9 связан через расположенные внутри кожуха 8 радиальные каналы 11 и коллектор 6 с компрессором 5. Изобретение при относительно простой конструкции позволит повысить точность дозирования семян различных сельскохозяйственных культур, имеющих округлую форму. 2 ил.

СИСТЕМЫ, СПОСОБЫ И УСТРОЙСТВО ВЫБОРА РАЗНОВИДНОСТИ МАТЕРИАЛА ДЛЯ ВОЗДЕЛЫВАНИЯ СЕЛЬСКОХОЗЯЙСТВЕННЫХ КУЛЬТУР

Высевающая секция сеялки выполнена с возможностью посева множества разновидностей семян и содержит бункер для семян, имеющий множество отделений для приема семян, каждое из которых имеет проход и выполнено с возможностью приема разных разновидностей семян из множества разновидностей семян, область накопителя семян, исполнительный механизм для перемещения семян и дозатор семян. Исполнительный механизм для перемещения семян расположен между бункером для семян и областью накопителя семян. При этом исполнительный механизм для перемещения семян содержит затвор, выполненный с возможностью вращения вокруг вертикальной оси. Затвор содержит область поверхности и открытую область и выполнен с возможностью выборочного вращения вокруг вертикальной оси для выравнивания открытой области затвора с проходом каждого из множества отделений по отдельности. Причем когда открытая область затвора выровнена с проходом одного из отделений, указанная открытая область открывает сообщение семян, принятых в одном ...

Пневматический высевающий аппарат для гнездового посева

УСТРОЙСТВО ДОСТАВКИ СЕМЯН

ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ ДЛЯ ПНЕВМАТИЧЕСКИХ СЕЯЛОК ТОЧНОГО ВЫСЕВА

УСОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАННЫЙ ВЫСЕВАЮЩИЙ АППАРАТ ДЛЯ ПРЕЦИЗИОННОЙ АВТОМАТИЧЕСКОЙ СЕЯЛКИ

ВЫСЕВАЮЩАЯ СЕКЦИЯ ДЛЯ ПОСЕВНОЙ МАШИНЫ, ИМЕЮЩАЯ ДОЗАТОР СЕМЯН И СИСТЕМУ ДОСТАВКИ СЕМЯН

... 1. Высевающая секция для посевной машины, содержащая:элемент рамы высевающей секции; идозатор семян, установленный на элементе рамы высевающей секции, при этом дозатор семян имееткорпус идозирующий элемент, установленный с возможностью вращения внутри корпуса, при этом дозирующий элемент имеет боковую стенку с внутренней поверхностью и наружной поверхностью, причем боковая стенка имеет краевой участок, смежный наружному краю боковой стенки, причем внутренняя поверхность боковой стенки и корпус образуют желоб в нижней части дозирующего элемента для удержания запаса семян, при этом внутренняя поверхность боковой стенки дозирующего элемента в желобе ориентирована под углом между 5° и 75° относительно вертикального вектора, направленного вверх на наружном крае боковой стенки.2. Высевающая секция по п.1, в которой внутренняя поверхность боковой стенки дозирующего элемента в желобе ориентирована под углом между 10° и 50° относительно вертикального вектора, направленного вверх от наружного края ...

SEED PLANTING AND METERING EQUIPMENT

SEED PLANTING AND METERING EQUIPMENT

SEED PLANTING AND METERING EQUIPMENT

RUEHRER-BESCHICKUNGSVORRICHTUNG FUER DIE VERTEILER VON PNEUMATISCHEN SAEMASCHINEN

Einzelkornsämaschine

Es wird eine Einzelkornsämaschine mit einer einen Saatgutbehälter (11) seitlich abschließenden, auf der vom Saatgutbehälter (11) abgekehrten Seite besaugten Säscheibe (2) aus einem feststehenden Scheibenkörper (3) mit einem entlang einer in einen Fallschacht (15) mündenden Austragsbahn (14) verlaufenden Führungsschlitz (13) und aus einer am Scheibenkörper (3) anliegenden, antreibbaren Förderscheibe (4) mit über den Umfang verteilten, sich über den radialen Erstreckungsbereich des Führungsschlitzes (13) erstreckenden Mitnehmerschlitzen (16) beschrieben, die im Überdeckungsbereich mit dem Führungsschlitz (13) Ansaugöffnungen (17) für die entlang des Führungsschlitzes (13) aus dem Saatgutbehälter (11) austragbaren Saatkörner bilden. Um eine genauere Steuerung zu ermöglichen, wird vorgeschlagen, dass zwischen dem Fallschacht (15) und einer Saatkornkammer (21) eine zwischen einer Offenstellung und einer Ablenkstellung umschaltbare Weiche (22) vorgesehen ist, die in der Offenstellung den Fallweg ...

Einzelkornsämaschine

Es wird eine Einzelkornsämaschine mit einer einen Saatgutbehälter (11) seitlich abschließenden, auf der vom Saatgutbehälter (11) abgekehrten Seite besaugten Säscheibe (2) aus einem feststehenden Scheibenkörper (3) mit einem entlang einer in einen Fallschacht (15) mündenden Austragsbahn (14) verlaufenden Führungsschlitz (13) und aus einer am Scheibenkörper (3) anliegenden, antreibbaren Förderscheibe (4) mit über den Umfang verteilten, sich über den radialen Erstreckungsbereich des Führungsschlitzes (13) erstreckenden Mitnehmerschlitzen (16) beschrieben, die im Überdeckungsbereich mit dem Führungsschlitz (13) Ansaugöffnungen (17) für die entlang des Führungsschlitzes (13) aus dem Saatgutbehälter (11) austragbaren Saatkörner bilden. Um eine genauere Steuerung zu ermöglichen, wird vorgeschlagen, dass zwischen dem Fallschacht (15) und einer Saatkornkammer (21) eine zwischen einer Offenstellung und einer Ablenkstellung umschaltbare Weiche (22) vorgesehen ist, die in der Offenstellung den Fallweg ...

EINZELKORNSAEMASCHINE

EINZELKORNSAEMASCHINE

Individual-grain seeding machine for e.g. discharging seeds, has container including emptying flap that is coaxially pivoted with respect to seeding disc between closed and open positions

The machine has a stationary disc body provided on a side facing away from a seed-material container (2). Driver slots are distributed over the circumference of the container and extended over a radial extent region of a guide slot (5). Seed grains in intake openings are discharged out of the container along the guide slot to perform emptying of residues of the container. The container includes an emptying flap (17) that is coaxially pivoted with respect to a seeding disc between closed and open positions.

RUEHRER BESCHICKUNGSVORRICHTUNG FOR THE DISTRIBUTORS OF PNEUMATIC SAEMASCHINEN

SAEGERAET FOR ATTEMPT PLOTS.

Seed-collection device for a seed meter, system for separating and dispensing seeds and system for synchronizing seed-conveying means for a seed meter

The present invention relates in general to precision agriculture. More specifically, the invention relates to systems for collecting, conveying and distributing seeds in planting fields. One of the systems of the present invention comprises a seed-collection device (1) for a seed meter (2), in which the seed meter (2) comprises a seed disc (3) provided with mechanical contact means (4), the seed-collection device (1) comprising a first mobile element (5); and mechanical energy-transmission means (6); the mechanical energy-transmission means (6) are associated with the first mobile element (5) and can be associated with the mechanical contact means (4) of the seed disc (3).

Seeding machine to provide transverse tramlines

Abstract A planting unit for a seeding machine comprising a seed supply and a seed meter adapted to dispense seed to a seed delivery system to deposit within a furrow. The seed meter is driven by an electronic control unit to achieve a pre-defined pattern of the seeds. The planting unit skips dispensing of seeds at locations at which a tramline extending transversely to the travel direction is to be provided. c(5 0~ CC) LO (D (D (D ...

Method and apparatus for planting seed in a seed research plot

Seed meter

A seed meter for an agricultural planter in which the seed disc is rotatably mounted within a seed meter housing. As the seed disc rotates, the apertures in the disc rotate along a seed aperture path through a horizontally adjacent seed pool area. The seed disc includes cavities disposed along the seed aperture path to agitate the seeds in the seed pool area. A singulator having multiple co-planar singulator surfaces is biased against the seed side surface of the seed disc.

Seeding machine with seed delivery system

SOWING ASSEMBLY FOR SINGLE-SEED SOWING MACHINES

Seed dispensing mechanisms

SEED DISK DRIVE HUB

SEED SINGULATOR FOR A SEED METERING SYSTEM IN A SEEDING MACHINE

A seeding machine includes at least one seed metering system. Each seed metering system includes a housing, a seed disk and a seed singulator. The seed disk is disposed within the housing. The seed disk includes a rotational axis and a plurality of seed cells angularly spaced at a common radius about the rotational axis. The seed cells define a generally circular travel path. A seed singulator includes a bracket, a first resilient seed deflector and a second resilient seed deflector. The first resilient seed deflector is coupled with the bracket and deflectable relative to the bracket upon engaging a seed in one of the seed cells. The second resilient seed deflector is coupled with the bracket and deflectable relative to the bracket upon engaging a seed in one of the seed cells.

PLANTERS FOR PLANTING SEEDS IN FIELDS, AND RELATED METHODS OF PLANTING

A planter is provided comprising an automated planting unit for planting plots of seeds in a field. The planting unit includes a first seed storage unit configured to provide seeds to the planting unit and a second seed storage unit configured to provide seeds to the planting unit. The planting unit also includes a seed meter configured to plant seeds from the first seed storage unit and the second seed storage unit in a field, and a diverter unit coupled to the first and second seed storage units and to the seed meter. The diverter, then, is configured to selectively direct seeds from either the first seed storage unit or the second seed storage unit to the seed meter, whereby the seeds from the first and second seed storage units may be planted separately or together (e.g., for mixed planting, etc.).

AUTOMATICALLY ENGAGEABLE AND DISENGAGEABLE DRIVE COUPLER MECHANISM

AUTOMATICALLY ENGAGEABLE AND DISENGAGEABLE DRIVE COUPLER MECHANISM An automatically engageable and disengageable drive coupler mechanism is provided in which separate drive and driven couplers are automatically coupled to and uncoupled from each other simply by moving the couplers into and out of contact with each other in a radial direction or an axial direction or a combination thereof. The driven coupler includes a lug arrangement rotatably mounted on a mounting member at the end of a driven shaft and having a pair of driven lugs on opposite sides of the driven shaft which are rotatable about an axis intersecting and normal to the axis of elongation of the driven shaft. A leaf spring coupled to the mounting member resiliently biases the lug arrangement into a neutral position in which the lugs extend outwardly in the direction of the axis of elongation of the driven shaft while at the same time permitting rotation of the driven lugs out of the neutral position in either of opposite directions ...

DISTRIBUTOR FOR A MONOSEED SOWING MACHINE

DISTRIBUTOR FOR A MONOSEED SOWING MACHINE The distributor comprises a generally cylindrical case which is formed by a housing (1) and a cover (4) between which is rotatively mounted a distributor disk (18) provided with circumferentially spaced-apart orifices (48, 50). Inside the housing, a partition (24) defines a depression passageway (26) in communication with an suction duct (2). The passageway (25) includes a wide upper part (27) in the shape of a crescent which is extended at both ends by a narrow branch (28,30). formed in the upper part of the30)~ Forlned in the u~er ~art of the descendiny branch (30), relative to the direction of rotation of the disk (18), is a cavity (32, 33) for receiviny a rernovable element (34) fox isolating this branch from the source of depression. The inner wall of the passageway is ~rovided witl1 an air intake (39) whose openiny .is adjustable. Fig. 1 ...

SEED METER HAVING CLEANOUT AND SEED SEALING MEMBER

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BLOCKING AIR FROM A SEED PLANTER

A seed planting assembly is provided having a plurality of planting units that are connected to an air moving system for drawing air through an air metering assembly located in each planting unit via a conduit connecting each air metering assembly to an air mover unit. An air blocking system is provided for blocking airflow in the conduit associated with one or more predetermined planting units.

SELF-ALIGNING HINGE

PNEUMATIC SINGLE-GRAIN SOWING MACHINE

The invention relates to a pneumatic single-grain sowing machine, comprising: a closed housing (1); a rotatably driven separating device (3), which has circularly arranged perforations (7A); a fan, by means of which a pressure difference can be produced between the housing (1) and the interior of the separating device (3), the separating device (3) thus being designed to separate seed by means of the perforations (7A) with the aid of the pressure difference, the separating device (3) being designed as a closed hollow drum having two side walls arranged at a distance from each other. The aim of the invention is to create a separating device (3) that is designed to compensate slight housing expansions. This aim is achieved, according to the invention, in that a drive shaft (9, 9') is fed through at least one of said side walls, in that the hollow drum is sealed against the drive shaft (9, 9') by means of a sealing element, in that the hollow drum can be divided by a dividing plane, in that ...

AGRICULTURAL ROW UNIT SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

A row unit for an agricultural planter having features for releasably operably coupling a seed meter of the row unit to a seed deposition apparatus of the row unit such as a seed conveyor, seed tube or the like. Apparatus arc provided for tipping a seed meter of the hopper for disengagement from the seed deposition apparatus. Apparatus are provided for biasing the seed deposition apparatus into operative engagement with the seed meter. The row unit includes features such as latches for releasably operably coupling the row unit to crop input and vacuum supply lines. Apparatus are provided for tipping a seed meter of the hopper for disengagement from the crop input and vacuum supply lines. Systems are provided for supplying vacuum and crop inputs to the seed meter via the releasably engageable apparatus.

BULK CONTAINER TO METER SEED TRANSFER

A seed supply system includes a singulating meter with a seed reservoir pressurized to a meter pressure that is in a desired pressure range. A seed supply air stream carries seeds dispensed from a nurse tank to an air release assembly located above the singulating meter. As seeds are metered from the seed reservoir at a rate less than the rate seeds are dispensed from the nurse tank seeds accumulate in the air release assembly. The pressure of the seed supply air stream at the top of the seed column fluctuates and a barrier is operative to resist air flow between the air release assembly and the seed reservoir sufficiently to maintain the meter pressure in the desired meter pressure range. The barrier can be provided for example by an airlock or a column of seed in a drop tube between the air release assembly and the seed reservoir.

SINGULATING METER FEEDING MULTIPLE FURROW OPENERS

A seed delivery apparatus including a plurality of front furrow openers mounted on an implement frame and a plurality of rear furrow openers mounted on the implement frame arranged such that the front furrow openers create furrows that are between adjacent rear furrow openers. A plurality of singulating meters is mounted on the implement frame, each singulating meter connected to dispense seeds through a split conduit to the connected laterally adjacent front and rear furrow openers. A diversion plate in the split conduit is operative to direct the seeds to either of the connected front and rear furrow openers or both of the front and rear furrow openers.

MULTIPLE VARIETY SEED PLANTER WITH DIRECT VACUUM SYSTEM

A multiple variety planter is provided that has a direct vacuum system that allows for planting multiple varieties of seed while reducing occurrences of mis-planting events or planting inconsistencies such as multiples and skips by providing highly controllable seed meter vacuum performance characteristics that are controllable on a row-by-row basis. The direct vacuum system may include a vacuum unit at each row unit of the planter to apply a vacuum pressure to a seed meter at the row unit. Each vacuum unit may be individually and variably controlled to apply different vacuum pressures based on which seed variety is being planted with the respective seed meter at a given time.

SEED METER DISK

A seed meter disk includes a body defining a plane of rotation. A circumferential array of seed openings are provided for seed adherence. A circumferential array of seed agitator pockets are formed as depressions in the first side of the body, each one of the array of seed agitator pockets having a radially inner end, a radially outer end, and a trailing edge extending from the radially inner end to the radially outer end. At least a portion of the trailing edge of one or more of the seed agitator pockets is backswept so that a circumferential-direction offset from a radial reference line rotationally ahead of the trailing edge, with respect to rotation of the seed meter disk in an operational direction, increases toward the radially outer end. The backswept portion is non-linear.

SINGULATING METER

A singulating meter includes a seed disc with seed apertures rotates in a vertical plane through a seed reservoir. A horizontal seed tube has an inlet adjacent to the top of the seed disc and the seed apertures move along a seed aperture path toward the inlet. Pressurized air flows into the tube inlet, and through each seed aperture as it rotates upward out of the seed reservoir pushing a seed into each seed aperture which seed then moves along the seed aperture path through about 180 degrees of rotation to a release position at the top of the path where the seed is carried horizontally into the seed tube. An ejector pushes debris out of the seed apertures into the seed tube. An alignment guide moves the singulator element of the meter into the operating position where same is magietically secured.

SEED DRILL WITH ELECTRIC METERING SYSTEM

An agricultural planting implement is used to plant seed in a field. The implement includes an electrically-driven seed meter that is spaced on a toolbar of the implement. The seed meter, or other metering member, is a precision meter that is used to control the volume, spacing, and location of a seed that is delivered from a meter to the field. A seed source, such as a seed cart or hopper, is attached to the seed meters to provide an on-demand amount of seed to the meters for planting in the field.

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

INTERNAL SEED KNOCKOUT ASSEMBLY

A seed meter is provided with a stationary housing having an inlet for receiving seed and an outlet for dispensing metered seed. A rotatable circular member is located adjacent the stationary housing and forms a seed puddle there between. The circular member is provided with seed receiving cells for transporting individual seeds from the seed puddle to the outlet. An internal seed knockout assembly having a rotatable wheel drives trapped seed from seed receiving cells into the outlet.

PLANTER WITH SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS

An agricultural implement is provided that includes a number of row units. The row units include one or more seed meters for receiving, singulating, and dispensing seed to the ground such that preferred spacing of subsequent seed is attained. Seed delivery systems are included to aid in transporting the seed from the seed meter to the ground in a controlled manner to mitigate skips and to aid in controlling the spacing of the seeds, which can be based upon the ground speed of the implement as it moves through the field. The seed delivery systems can control the transport of the seed to a furrow in the field such that the seed can experience zero or near zero relative velocity so that the seed will have little to no movement once positioned in the furrow.

ROW UNIT WITH INTEGRATED PRESSURE SOURCE

An agricultural planter (10) includes a plurality of row units (40) attached to a toolbar. The row units include seed meters (80, 100, 120, 140) in seed meter housings (81, 101, 121, 142) for receiving, singulating, and dispensing seed or other particulate. The seed meters include a circular seed disc (70, 146) with a seed path for receiving the seed in the seed meter housing. Integrated with the seed meter, such as at the housing, is an electric pressure source (88, 103, 105, 128, 150) dedicated for providing a pressure differential for the seed meter or meters at a particular location on the planter. The pressure source can be positive or negative to temporarily adhere seed to the seed disc of the meter. A single pressure source can provide the pressure differential to a single meter or to multiple meters or discs at a row unit.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SEED VARIETY SELECTION

Described herein are methods and systems for planting seed. A system includes a row unit configured to open a planting trench. A first seed meter has a first coding scheme and receives a first seed type from a first hopper having the first coding scheme. A second meter has a second coding scheme and receives a second seed type from a second hopper having the second coding scheme.

MULTIPLE SEED-TYPE PLANTING SYSTEM WITH SEED DELIVERY SPEED CONTROL

A system for planting multiple types of seed and automatically switching between the varieties during planting in a single planting pass of a planting session of row-crop planting of an agricultural field while controlling seed delivery speed to mitigate seed bounce and/or provide desired seed spacing distances. The system may include a bulk storage system, an on-row storage system, and a charging system that selectively delivers seeds of different varieties from the bulk storage system to the on-row storage system and a seed delivery speed control system that regulates seed delivery speed.

SEED METER FOR A SINGLE-GRAIN SEEDER

The invention relates to a pneumatic single-grain seeder having a plurality of seed meters (1) for accommodating isolating devices (3), which are rotatably arranged and exposed to a pressure difference between the interior (21) of the isolating devices and the exterior (22) of the isolating devices. A plurality of holes (17-20) used to take up seeds is arranged in the device (3). The isolating device (3) is formed by a pair of isolating plates (4, 5) connected to each other at the outer edge (38, 39) of the isolating plates, which isolating plates are arranged at an offset to each other in a tangential direction in order to produce a spread seed row and are associated with separate outlets (23, 24) for leading away the seeds from the seed meter (1) in the direction of a seed coulter.

AGRICULTURAL SEED DRILL

The invention relates to an agricultural seed drill, wherein a plurality of seed sensors (9, 10) are protected in a housing (4) together with a common signal evaluation unit (11).

LOW TORQUE AND VACUUM SEED METER

A seed meter is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that includes a seed disk assembly that rotates within a meter housing cavity and that has a seed disk assembly cavity in which a vacuum pressure is applied for pulling seeds into seed pockets of a seed disk of the seed disk assembly. The vacuum pressure is applied to the seed disk assembly by pulling a vacuum airflow through a collector of a spindle-mounted hub support that is fluidly connected through a face seal arrangement with a hub face of the seed disk assembly.

LOW TORQUE AND VACUUM SEED METER

A seed meter is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that includes a seed disk assembly that rotates within a meter housing cavity and that has a seed disk assembly cavity in which a vacuum pressure is applied for pulling seeds into seed pockets of a seed disk of the seed disc assembly. The vacuum pressure is applied to the seed disk assembly by pulling a vacuum airflow through a spindle that supports the seed disk assembly. A wiper basket is arranged in a fixed position within the seed disk assembly cavity and seals against the seed disk assembly as a support plate and seed disk of the seed disk assembly rotate over the wiper basket, so that side walls of the wiper basket create a boundary between a vacuum zone and a non-vacuum zone inside of the seed disc assembly cavity.

PLANTING UNIT FOR A SEEDING MACHINE HAVING BLOCKING MEMBER TO CONTROL HAND-OFF OF SEED FROM A SEED METER TO A SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A planting unit for a seeding machine having a seed meter with a metering member that moves seed sequentially along a first path to a release position at which the seed is moving in a first direction and a delivery system adapted to take seed from the metering member at the release position and control movement of the seed from the seed meter to a discharge location adjacent a seed furrow formed in soil beneath the seeding machine. The delivery system, at the release position, moves seed in a second direction along a second path. A blocking member located adjacent the first path immediately preceding the release position prevents movement of the seed in the second direction until the seed has passed the blocking member.

DISTRIBUTION UNIT FOR GRANULAR COMMODITY, IN PARTICULAR A SOWING UNIT

The invention relates to a distribution unit for a granular commodity such as grains, in particular a sowing unit of a distribution/sowing machine. The unit comprises a housing having a circular inner lateral surface, at least one inlet opening, a conveying device rotating concentrically in the housing and at least one outlet opening which connects tangentially to the inner lateral surface. The conveying device has one or more openings/steps on the outer region, which, in a first housing/conveying region, form a pocket with the housing inner lateral surface in which the grains are compacted and conveyed circularly by centrifugal forces, supported by the conveying device. In a second housing, only one grain remains in the opening/step of the conveying device due to a modified contour of the inner lateral surface and under centrifugal force, while excess grains are separated and conveyed back to the first housing for re-conveying.

Device for Sealing the Seed Meter of a Vertically Folded Planting Unit

IMPROVEMENTS IN SEED METER FOR ROW CROP PLANTER UNIT

A seed meter for a row crop planter unit having a seed disc rotating in a vertical plane includes improvements for seating individual seeds in seed cells on the periphery of the seed disc as the seed disc rotates through the seed reservoir. The improvements also include a barrier brush for preventing seeds from entering the delivery tube directly from the reservoir, and a brush holder which limits the effective width of a peripheral retainer brush so that the retainer brush cannot retain two seeds simultaneously in the same seed cell.

VACUUM SEED METERING ASSEMBLY

A vacuum seed metering mechanism arranged in combination with a seed hopper for uniformly dispensing seeds to the ground. The seed metering mechanism comprises a rotational distributor disc provided with a circular row of openings toward a periphery of the disc. The disc carries seeds from a seed reservoir to a seed discharge area under the influence of pressure differential. The disc is rotatably mounted in a housing whose interior is divided by the seed disc into the seed reservoir, on one side of the seed disc, and a suction chamber, lying around a portion of the path of movement of the openings in the seed disc. A salient feature of the present invention relates to the provision of an apparatus for imparting vibrations to the housing for facilitating the release of seeds from the openings in the disc in the discharge area of the seed ...

PNEUMATIC SEMINATRICE TO ELECTRONIC CONTROL.

CROP INPUT VARIETY SELECTION SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

AGRICULTURAL ROW UNIT SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

BATCHER SEEDS FOR DRILL OF ACCURATE SOWING

ПРИВОДНАЯ СТУПИЦА ВЫСЕВАЮЩЕГО ДИСКА

Приводная ступица для соединения приводного вала с высевающим диском содержит: цилиндрический элемент, соединенный с высевающим диском и имеющий кольцевую кромку на одном из концов; конический элемент, соединенный с приводным валом, входящий в указанный конец с кольцевой кромкой цилиндрического элемента, позволяющий отцентровать конический и цилиндрический элементы относительно друг друга. При этом конический элемент и цилиндрический элемент соединяются для передачи между собой крутящего момента.

СЕЛЬСКОХОЗЯЙСТВЕННАЯ ПОСЕВНАЯ СИСТЕМА, РЯДКОВОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ НА ПОСЕВНОЙ МАШИНЕ И СПОСОБ ИЗМЕНЕНИЯ ВЫХОДА СЕМЯН ПОСЕВНОЙ МАШИНЫ

Посевная машина, которая имеет по крайней мере один брус для навешивания рабочих органов, несколько рядковых устройств и схему обработки. Каждое из нескольких рядковых устройств прикреплено к брусу для навешивания рабочих органов. Каждое из рядковых устройств имеет дозировочное устройство для семян, устройство для внесения семян и датчик семян. Дозировочное устройство для семян содержит высевающий диск, который обеспечивает дозировочное действие относительно нескольких семян. Устройство для внесения семян получает семена из дозировочного устройства для семян. Датчик семян установлен для выявления прохождения семян через дозировочное устройство или устройство для внесения семян и выдает сигнал, который указывает прохождение семян. Сигнал из каждого датчика семян каждого из нескольких рядковых устройств получает схема обработки. В зависимости от сигнала схема обработки определяет параметр внесения семян и в зависимости от параметра внесения семян схема обработки вносит изменения в действие ...

METERING MEMBER FOR A SEED METER

DEVICE FOR SINGLE-GRAIN SOWING

AIR SEED METER WITH INTERNAL DRIVE

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

SEED METER FOR A SINGLE-GRAIN SEEDER

AIR SEED METER HOUSING WITH SEED PATH RELIEF

Row unit and planter or seeding machine with such

AIR PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL SEED METER

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SEED VARIETY SELECTION

MATERIAL DISPENSING DEVICE FOR AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY

SEMOIR PNEUMATIQUE POUR SEMER DES GRAINES UNE A UNE.

L'invention concerne une machine pneumatique à semer les graines une à une, comportant un disque à trous, muni de trous d'aspiration disposés en cercle, placé de façon à pouvoir tourner sur un axe sensiblement horizontal et d'un côté duquel règne une dépression, tandis qu'il passe de l'autre côté, à sa partie inférieure, à travers une réserve de semence, où il prélève des graines de semence par ses trous lors de sa rotation, un râcleur étant prévu pour les graines de semence qui restent accrochées au disque à trous. Selon l'invention, le râcleur 12 s'étend partiellement au-dessus du bord du disque à trous 7, et est fixé avec un effet de ressort par rapport au disque en pouvant pivoter sur un axe disposé à l'extérieur du bord de ce disque. (CF DESSIN DANS BOPI) ...

DEVICE FOR ADJUSTMENT OF A DISPENSER FOR A PRECISION SEEDER

DISQUE A DEPRESSION POUR MACHINE A SEMER LES GRAINES

La présente invention concerne un disque à dépression caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une boîte à dépression 2 en forme de secteur circulaire et une paroi 3 en forme de disque, percée d'orifices d'aspiration 4 régulièrement répartis sur un cercle, la paroi 3 étant entraînée en rotation en regard de la boîte à dépression 2 en sorte que chaque orifice d'aspiration suive un trajet en arc de cercle entre la paroi constituant l'extrémité amont de la boîte et une paroi 6 constituant l'extrémité aval, caractérisé en ce que la paroi 6 constitue ladite extrémité aval et présente en regard du trajet circulaire des orifices d'aspiration 4 de la paroi 3 et une échancrure 7 associée à une paroi souple 8 élastiquement déformable constituant clapet. (CF DESSIN DANS BOPI) ...

SEMOIR A VIDANGE PNEUMATIQUE POLYVALENT POUR SEMIS D'EXPERIMENTATION ET SEMIS DE CULTURE

SEMOIR POLYVALENT POUVANT ETRE UTILISE AUSSI BIEN POUR L'ENSEMENCEMENT DE GRANDES SURFACES DE CULTURE QUE DE MICRO-PARCELLES DE SEMIS D'EXPERIMENTATION ET COMPORTANT UN CHASSIS MOBILE SUR LEQUEL EST MONTE AU MOINS UN ELEMENT SEMEUR DU TYPE COMPRENANT UN DISQUE VERTICAL8, PERFORE A SA PERIPHERIE ET TOURNANT A L'INTERIEUR D'UNE ENCEINTE QU'IL PARTAGE EN DEUX COMPARTIMENTS DONT L'UN7 CONSTITUE UNE RESERVE DE GRAINES A SEMER ET L'AUTRE15 EST RELIE A UNE SOURCE D'ASPIRATION. SELON L'INVENTION CE SEMOIR EST CARACTERISE EN CE QU'UNE CANALISATION4 OBTURABLE PAR UNE TRAPPE MOBILE5 RELIE A UN RESERVOIR18 LA PARTIE INFERIEURE DE CELUI DESDITS COMPARTIMENTS7 FORMANT RESERVE DE GRAINES, LEDIT RESERVOIR18 POUVANT ETRE MIS EN DEPRESSION.

AIR SEEDER TO SOW SEEDS ONE BY ONE.

DEVICE DISTRIBUTOR FOR PRECISION SEED DRILL

DEVICE FOR REMOTE FEEDING AUXILIARY RESERVOIRS AND SOWING USING SUCH POWER SUPPLY DEVICE

ELEMENT SOWER AND SEEDER FOR EXPERIMENTAL PIECES

Potato planter automatic precision distributor - has fixed body forming vacuum chamber with rotary plate for selecting tubers

MODULE SEEDLINGS FOR COMBINED AGRICULTURAL MACHINE AND COMBINED AGRICULTURAL MACHINE COMPRISING SUCH A MODULE

DISTRIBUTOR FOR PRECISION SEED DRILL

Pneumatic grain sowing machine

Distribuidor para semeador monogrão

system and method for bedding out seeds for bedding out selectively a first seed type and a second type of seed in a field

Высевающий диск

Высевающий диск имеет сквозные конические ячейки, расположенные на нем с равномерным шагом. Высевающий диск выполнен разборным из двух жестко закрепленных между собой частей, одна из которых выполнена в виде круглой пластины толщиной 3…4 мм с отверстиями по окружности, а другая - в виде кольца с крепежными отверстиями сбоку и сквозными коническими ячейками. Использование высевающего диска позволяет осуществлять высев семян разных культур, что делает его универсальным. 2 ил. Ц 1 175510 ко РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ ааа ав И 9) ВУ” 5475 5409 04 (51) МПК ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ А0!С 704 (2006.01) (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (21)(22) Заявка: 2016141343, 21.10.2016 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 21.10.2016 Дата регистрации: 07.12.2017 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 21.10.2016 (45) Опубликовано: 07.12.2017 Бюл. № 34 Адрес для переписки: 109428, Москва, 1-й Институтский пр. 5, Федеральное государственное бюджетное научное учреждение Федеральный научный агроинженерный центр ВИМ (ФГБНУ ФНАЦ ВИМ) (72) Автор(ы): Ахалая Бадри Хутаевич (КП) (73) Патентообладатель(и): Федеральное государственное бюджетное научное учреждение Федеральный научный агроинженерный центр ВИМ (ФГБНУ ФНАЦВИМ) (КО) (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: КП 1192667 А1, 23.11.1985. ЗО 1540690 А1, 07.02.1990. ВО 156671 01, 10.11.2015. $9 134506 АТ, 10.10.1960. $9 1237104 А2, 15.06.1986. 50 1297747 АТ, 23.03.1987. (54) Высевающий диск (57) Реферат: Высевающий диск имеет сквозные конические ячейки, расположенные на нем с равномерным шагом. Высевающий диск выполнен разборным из двух жестко закрепленных между собой частей, одна из которых выполнена в виде круглой пластины толщиной 3...4 мм с отверстиями по Стр.: 1 окружности, а другая - в виде кольца с крепежными отверстиями сбоку и сквозными коническими ячейками. Использование высевающего диска позволяет осуществлять высев семян разных культур, что делает его универсальным. 2 ил. па ...

Twin row planter

An apparatus and method to precisely meter and dispense two or more crop inputs with a common metering disc is presented to achieve proper placement in the soil relative to one another. In one embodiment, dry granular or granulized fertilizer is metered from one side of the disc and seed is metered from the opposite side of the same metering disc. The fertilizer is placed in a concentrated “pulse” approximately equal distances between seeds within a common seed furrow and/or between seed furrows to improved nutrient use efficiency by minimizing soil to fertilizer contact and subsequent chemical reactions that make applied supplemental nutrients less available to plants. Pressurized air may be utilized to assist discharge of both the seed and fertilizer from the disc meter to assure precise spacing in the soil. A cover may be placed on the meter and metering disc to recirculate air and thus minimize potential atmospheric contamination from seed coatings and fertilizer materials.

Seed Dispenser Control

Control apparatus for a pneumatic seed meter having a seed disc that uses a pneumatic pressure differential to hold and release seed on a rotating disc. The control apparatus is controlled to disrupt the pressure differential in an area of the rotating disc to selectively disrupt planting of seed by the seed meter to, for example, reduce overlap planting. 1. Control apparatus for a pneumatic seed meter , comprising:(a) a first chamber in communication with a source of reduced pneumatic pressure;(b) a seed disc mounted for rotation adjacent the chamber and having a first surface that faces the chamber and an opposite, second surface facing away from the chamber;(c) a plurality of holes in the seed disc forming seed pockets that may be occluded by seeds to generate a pneumatic pressure differential across the seed disc to hold the seeds onto the disc;(d) a second chamber in sealing engagement with an area on the first surface of the disc subject to the pneumatic pressure differential;(e) a valve of the second chamber moveable between an open and closed position; and(f) an actuator operable to move the valve between an open position whereby reduced pressure is present in the second chamber to retain seed held on the seed disc in the area of the first surface of the seed disc for planting of the seed by the seen meter and a closed position whereby reduced pressure is not present in the second chamber in the area of the first surface of the seed disc to release seed from the disc in the area so that the seed is not planted by the seed meter.2. The control apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the valve is moved between the open and closed position by a linear actuator.3. Control apparatus for a pneumatic seed meter that uses a pneumatic pressure differential to hold on a rotating disc seed picked up from a seed reservoir and release them at a later point for planting claim 1 , comprising:(a) a control element having a sealing face and positioned radially of the rotating disc ...

Sowing heart monitoring apparatus, sowing heart and single-seed drill

A sowing heart monitoring apparatus for connection to a sowing heart and for monitoring of the sowing heart with a line camera with one detection direction, a housing which can be attached to the sowing heart for accommodating the line camera and a radiation source for generating electromagnetic waves which can be detected by the line camera with one radiation direction. The sowing heart monitoring apparatus is made such that electromagnetic waves which have been generated by the radiation source can be detected by the line camera after reflection on one reflection surface of a rotating sowing disc of the sowing heart and can be evaluated by an evaluation unit. The invention also relates to a sowing heart and a single-seed drill.

Remote supply device for a single seeder and single seeder using such a supply device

A supply device for a single seeder via a flow of air from a main reservoir containing product to at least one auxiliary reservoir depending on its filling rate, each auxiliary reservoir being connected to the main reservoir by a respective leak-tight duct, the number of auxiliary reservoirs corresponding to the number of distributors of the single seeder. A regulating system is associated with each auxiliary reservoir and the regulating system has a sensor for detecting the level of product and a valve for regulating the flow of air in the corresponding auxiliary reservoir. A single seeder using a supply device according to the invention.

Hopper And Meter Mount for Agricultural Planter

A seed planting apparatus comprises a meter configured to meter agricultural seeds, a meter drive connected to the meter, a drive gear connected to the meter via the meter drive and configured to rotate the meter based on rotational motion imparted to the drive gear, and a hopper, which comprises a hopper body, a seed port connectable to a seed supply, and a meter port connectable to the meter. 1. A seed planting apparatus , comprising:a meter configured to meter agricultural seeds;a meter drive connected to the meter;a drive gear connected to the meter via the meter drive and configured to rotate the meter based on rotational motion imparted to the drive gear; and a hopper body;', 'a seed port connectable to a seed supply; and', 'a meter port connectable to the meter., 'a hopper comprising2. The seed planting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a meter drive adapter connected between the drive gear and the meter drive and configured to connect the meter to the drive gear.3. The seed planting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising corn seeds located inside the hopper.4. The seed planting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the hopper further comprises a mounting bracket connected to the hopper body and configured to mount to a planting row unit.5. The seed planting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the hopper body comprises a plurality of air holes located proximal to the seed port and configured to regulate transfer of seeds from the seed supply to the hopper.6. A method of modifying a seed planting apparatus claim 1 , comprising: a first meter configured to meter agricultural seeds;', 'a drive gear connected to the first meter and configured to rotate the first meter based on rotational motion imparted to the drive gear; and', 'a drive chain connected to the drive gear;, 'providing a planting row unit comprisingremoving the first meter;providing a second meter and connecting the second meter to the drive gear so that ...

AIR PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL CONTROL SYSTEM OF AGRICULTURAL PLANTERS

An agricultural planter including a frame member, a conveyance system, a seeding system and an air pressure differential system. The conveyance system is coupled to the frame member and the conveyance system allows for the moving of the planter at a ground speed. The seeding system is coupled to the frame member. The air pressure differential system is operatively coupled to the seeding system. The air pressure differential system includes an air pressure differential producing apparatus for producing an air pressure difference and a controller. The controller is in controlling communication with the air pressure differential producing apparatus. The controller is configured to select the air pressure difference dependent upon the ground speed of the planter. 1. An agricultural planter , comprising:a frame member;a conveyance system coupled to said frame member, said conveyance system allowing for the movement of the planter at a ground speed;a seeding system coupled to said frame member; and an air pressure differential producing apparatus for producing an air pressure difference; and', 'a controller in controlling communication with said air pressure differential producing apparatus, said controller being configured to select the air pressure difference dependent upon the ground speed of the planter., 'an air pressure differential system operatively coupled to said seeding system, said air pressure differential system including2. The agricultural planter of claim 1 , wherein said controller keeps the air pressure difference at a substantially constant first value until the ground speed exceeds a first predetermined value.3. The agricultural planter of claim 2 , wherein said controller keeps the air pressure difference at a substantially constant second value once the ground speed exceeds a second predetermined value.4. The agricultural planter of claim 3 , wherein said controller adjusts the air pressure difference when the ground speed is between said first ...

VACUUM HOSE COUPLING WITH QUICK LOCK FEATURE

An agricultural planter includes a chassis; a pneumatic system carried by the chassis; and a row unit carried by the chassis. The row unit includes: a unit body; a metering unit carried by the unit body and having a port with a channel formed therein; a flexible coupling locked onto the port by an inner lip formed on an inner surface of the coupling, the coupling having a sliding region formed on an outer surface of said coupling; a locking ring bound within the sliding region of the coupling, the locking ring being slidable across the sliding region between a locked position and an unlocked position, the locking ring preventing the coupling from deforming to allow the inner lip off the port in the locked position; and a hose connecting the pneumatic system to the channel of the port through the coupling. 1. An agricultural planter , comprising:a chassis;a pneumatic system carried by said chassis; and a unit body;', 'a metering unit carried by said unit body and having a port with a channel formed therein;', 'a flexible coupling locked onto said port by an inner lip formed on an inner surface of said coupling, said coupling having a sliding region formed on an outer surface of said coupling;', 'a locking ring bound within said sliding region of said coupling, said locking ring being slidable across said sliding region between a locked position and an unlocked position, said locking ring preventing said coupling from deforming to allow said inner lip off said port in said locked position; and', 'a hose connecting said pneumatic system to said channel of said port through said coupling., 'at least one row unit carried by said chassis, said row unit including2. The agricultural planter according to claim 1 , wherein said sliding region is defined between a coupling lip formed on said outer surface and an enlarged diameter portion of said coupling.3. The agricultural planter according to claim 2 , wherein said coupling includes a locking projection formed on said outer ...

BULK CONTAINER TO METER SEED TRANSFER

A seed supply system includes a singulating meter with a seed reservoir pressurized to a meter pressure that is in a desired pressure range. A seed supply air stream carries seeds dispensed from a nurse tank to an air release assembly located above the singulating meter. As seeds are metered from the seed reservoir at a rate less than the rate seeds are dispensed from the nurse tank seeds accumulate in the air release assembly. The pressure of the seed supply air stream at the top of the seed column fluctuates and a barrier is operative to resist air flow between the air release assembly and the seed reservoir sufficiently to maintain the meter pressure in the desired meter pressure range. The barrier can be provided for example by an airlock or a column of seed in a drop tube between the air release assembly and the seed reservoir. 1. A seed supply system for a singulating meter , the system comprising:a singulating meter mounted on a seeding implement, the singulating meter defining a seed reservoir;a meter pressure conduit connected to the singulating meter and operative to direct a pressurized meter air stream into the seed reservoir at a meter pressure that is substantially in a desired meter pressure range;a seed supply conduit connected at an input end of the seed supply conduit to an on-demand dispenser operative to dispense seeds from a nurse tank into a pressurized seed supply air stream flowing into the input end of the seed supply conduit;wherein an output end of the seed supply conduit is connected to an air release assembly located above the singulating meter;wherein the on-demand dispenser is operative to dispense seeds from the nurse tank into the pressurized seed supply air stream flowing into the input end of the seed supply conduit only while a supply flow rate of the seed supply air stream is above a threshold supply flow rate;wherein the seed supply air stream carries the seeds from the nurse tank to the air release assembly where air is ...

ROW UNIT WITH INTEGRATED PRESSURE SOURCE

An agricultural planter includes a plurality of row units attached to a toolbar. The row units include seed meters in seed meter housings for receiving, singulating, and dispensing seed or other particulate. The seed meters include a circular seed disc with a seed path for receiving the seed in the seed meter housing. Integrated with the seed meter, such as at the housing, is an electric pressure source dedicated for providing a pressure differential for the seed meter or meters at a particular location on the planter. The pressure source can be positive or negative to temporarily adhere seed to the seed disc of the meter. A single pressure source can provide the pressure differential to a single meter or to multiple meters or discs at a row unit. 1. A seed meter for use on a row unit of an agricultural implement , comprising:a housing comprising a seed disc side and a vacuum side, said vacuum side comprising a conduit for directing a vacuum pressure;at least one seed disc rotatably positioned within the housing and including a plurality of seed apertures comprising a seed path, said seed disc positioned with a seed side adjacent the seed disc side of the housing; andan integrated, electric fluid pressure source positioned at the housing and configured to provide a pressure differential for the seed apertures of the seed path to temporarily adhere a seed;wherein the conduit of the housing directs a vacuum pressure on an opposite side of the seed disc than the seed side.2. The seed meter of claim 1 , further comprising first and second seed discs rotatably positioned within the housing claim 1 , with each disc comprising the plurality of apertures.3. The seed meter of claim 2 , wherein the fluid pressure source comprises an electric fan attached to the housing to pull air through the seed apertures of the seed discs.4. The seed meter of claim 2 , wherein the fluid pressure source comprises an electric fan attached to the housing to push air through the seed apertures ...

Map Based Seed Vacuum Control

A method including adjusting a changeable component of a seed planting machine when switching from a first variety of seed to a second variety of seed during planting, wherein the adjusting is based on a location of the planting machine. 1. A method comprising:adjusting a changeable component of a seed planting machine when switching from a first variety of seed to a second variety of seed during planting, wherein the adjusting is based on a location of the planting machine.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the component comprises a double eliminator configured to prevent multiple seeds from being planted at a particular location.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the seed planting machine comprises a vacuum seed meter claim 1 , and wherein adjusting the changeable component comprises adjusting a vacuum level applied to the vacuum seed meter.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the seed planting machine comprises a double eliminator and a vacuum seed meter claim 1 , and wherein adjusting comprises:changing the double eliminator to prevent multiple seeds from being planted at a particular location; andadjusting a vacuum level applied to the vacuum seed meter.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting configures the seed planting machine to maximize performance of planting of the one of the first variety of seed and the second variety of seed.6. A multiple variety planter comprising:a planting machine comprising an adjustable component, the adjustable component being adjustable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first configuration set to maximize planting efficiency of a first variety of seed relative to other varieties of seeds, the second configuration set to maximize planting efficiency of a second variety of seed relative to other varieties of seeds; anda controller in communication with the planting machine, the controller configured to automatically adjust the adjustable component between the first configuration and the second ...

Metering Device For An Agricultural Product Delivery System

The present invention is directed to an applicator having an agricultural product conveying system which transfers particulate material from one or more source containers to application equipment on demand, and meters the material at the application equipment. The conveying system includes an inline metering system including a number of metering devices associated with each compartment of a particulate material tank on the applicator to meter the particulate material disposed within each compartment. The individual metering devices include gates to initially enable the particulate material from a compartment to enter the metering device, and a rotary metering shaft to meter the flow of the particulate material into the conduits while limiting the passage of pressurized air through the metering device and into the compartment. The individual metering devices also include individual motors to control the operation of the metering devices independently from one another that can allow with sectional control and turning compensation. 1. A metering device for an agricultural product delivery system , the metering device comprising:a housing;a guide disposed on one end of the housing and defining an inlet opening disposed in alignment with a discharge aperture in an adjacent particulate material supply compartment;a gate slidably engaged with the guide to selectively open and close the inlet opening;a shaft disposed within the housing, the shaft including a number of curved paddles thereon, wherein the clearance between the paddles and the housing limits air flow through each metering device between the supply line and the adjacent particulate material supply compartment; anda motor operably connected to the shaft to rotate the shaft within the housing.2. The agricultural product delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the paddles are disposed at at least one angle with regard to a central axis of the shaft.3. The agricultural product delivery system of claim 2 , wherein the ...

Crop Input Variety Selection Systems, Methods, And Apparatus

A seed meter comprising a seed handler comprising a cylinder comprising a plurality of seed chambers. The seed handler rotates the cylinder to sequentially position each seed chamber in a ‘loading’ position wherein each seed chamber receives a sets of seeds, a ‘planting’ position wherein seeds from each seed set are parsed, and an ‘evacuation’ position wherein any seeds remaining in each chamber are evacuated from each chamber. The seed meter additionally comprises a seed separator comprising a seed disc. The seed disc rotates, parses seed from each seed chamber, and transports the seeds to the exit chute. Importantly, the seed meter is structured and operable to substantially simultaneously, receive the sets of seed in the respective chamber positioned in the ‘loading’ position, parse the seeds from the respective chamber positioned in the ‘planting’ position, and evacuate the remaining seed from the respective chamber positioned in the ‘evacuation’ position. 1. A seed meter , said seed meter comprising:a seed handler, the seed handler comprising a cylinder, the cylinder comprising a plurality of seed chambers, the seed handler structured and operable to incrementally rotate the cylinder to sequentially position each seed chamber in a ‘loading’ position wherein each seed chamber receives a sets of seeds, sequentially position each seed chamber in a ‘planting’ position wherein a particular number of seeds from each seed set are parsed from each seed chamber and transported to an exit chute for planting, and sequentially position each seed chamber in an ‘evacuation’ position wherein any seeds remaining in each chamber after parsing are evacuated from each chamber; anda seed separator operably coupled to the seed handler, the seed separator structured and operable to parse a particular numbers of seed from each seed chamber and transport the seed to the exit chute as each seed chamber is incrementally rotated into the ‘planting’ position,wherein the seed meter is ...

SEEDING SYSTEM

A seeding machine for a row unit, in which the row unit has a seed disk rotatable about a first axis to convey seed from a seed reservoir, includes a seed delivery apparatus. The seed delivery apparatus includes an elongated housing having a first opening through which seed is received, a second opening through which seed exits, and an elongated interior chamber. The seed delivery apparatus further includes a first pulley, a second pulley, and an endless member driven by the first pulley and/or the second pulley. The endless member is movable within the elongated interior chamber to receive seed from the first opening and convey seed to the second opening. A seed diverter is movable with respect to the endless member and pivotable about a second axis non-coincident with the first axis. The seed diverter is positioned to contact and guide seed into the seed delivery apparatus. 1. A seeding machine for a row unit having a seed disk with a plurality of apertures through which an air pressure differential is applied to retain seed thereon , the seed disk rotatable about a first axis to convey seed from a seed reservoir , the seeding machine comprising: an elongated housing having a first opening through which seed is received, a second opening through which seed exits, and an elongated interior chamber along which seed is conveyed from the first opening to the second opening,', 'a first pulley,', 'a second pulley, and', 'an endless member driven by the first pulley and/or the second pulley, the endless member movable within the elongated interior chamber of the elongated housing to receive seed from the first opening and convey seed to the second opening; and, 'a seed delivery apparatus comprising'}a seed diverter movable with respect to the endless member and pivotable about a second axis non-coincident with the first axis, the seed diverter positioned to contact and guide seed into the seed delivery apparatus.2. The seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the seed ...

CROP INPUT VARIETY SELECTION SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

Systems, methods, and apparatus for selection of crop-input varieties. Multiple varieties of seeds may be planted with a row unit seed hopper having a plurality of compartments for receiving seed, each compartment having a seed passage through which seeds pass under gravity. A seed transfer actuator is disposed within or below the row unit seed hopper and is in communication with each of the seed passages and is configured to selectively open the seed passage of one of the plurality of compartments to permit the seeds therein to pass into the seed pool of a seed meter while closing the seed passage of other of the plurality of compartments to prevent the seeds from the other plurality of compartments passing into the seed pool of the seed meter. 1. A planter row unit configured to plant multiple varieties of seed , the planter row unit comprising:a seed hopper having a plurality of compartments for receiving seeds;a plurality of seed augers, each disposed between one associated compartment of the seed hopper and a seed pool area;a plurality of seed transfer actuators, each of the seed transfer actuators coupled to drive one associated seed auger of the plurality of seed augers to transfer seed from the associated compartment to the seed pool area; anda seed meter adapted to dispense the seed communicated to the seed pool area from the compartments of the seed hopper.2. The planter row unit of claim 1 , wherein each seed auger is disposed below the associated compartment of the seed hopper.3. The planter row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a fill level sensor disposed to detect presence of seed within the seed pool area above a fill level.4. The planter row unit of claim 3 , wherein the fill level sensor is configured to determine an amount of seed within the seed pool area.5. The planter row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a seed conveyor disposed to receive the seeds dispensed from the seed meter and to deposit the received seeds into a seed trench.6. The ...

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

An apparatus and methods for delivering seed from a metering device to a furrow. In one embodiment, a seed meter entrains and releases seed from a seed disc at a seed release location. The released seed is directed into a seed conveyor by a loading wheel. The seed conveyor conveys the seed toward the soil and releases the seed with a rearward relative velocity. 1. An apparatus for delivering seed to a planting surface , comprising:a seed meter configured to entrain and release the seed from a seed disc at a seed release location;a seed conveyor disposed to receive the seed after the seed is released from said seed disc at an upper end of said seed conveyor, said seed conveyor having a belt configured to convey the seed from said upper end to a lower end of said seed conveyor, whereupon the seed is discharged from said seed conveyor through an opening, said discharged seed having a rearward velocity relative to said seed conveyor, said seed conveyor having a cover;at least one vent in said cover disposed adjacent to a return portion wherein said belt travels from said lower end of said seed conveyor to said upper end of said seed conveyor.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one vent is disposed adjacent to a lower sprocket in said seed conveyor.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one vent comprises an opening in both a rearward surface and a side surface of said cover.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one vent comprises a surface that extends from an interior surface of said cover through said vent.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one vent includes a first side vent disposed in a side of said cover.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein said first side vent is disposed in a lower half of said seed conveyor.7. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein said at least one vent includes a first mirroring side vent disposed in a side of said cover mirroring said first side vent.8. The apparatus of claim 5 , ...

RADIAL SUCTION-TYPE SEED METERING APPARATUS

“RADIAL SUCTION-TYPE SEED METERING APPARATUS”, comprising a seed metering apparatus for the distribution of farming seeds, coupled to agriculture machines named planters. The mentioned seed metering apparatus is activated by an electric motor and/or any other mechanical or hydraulic system that rotates the seed distribution disc carrying the seeds located in the inner part of the seed reservoir with the aid of a central turbine, where the air suction is carried out through ducts between the turbine and the seed meter, generating a negative pressure in the meter inner part. The seeds are stored in the radial disc outer part holes for seed distribution and, by getting to the exact point perpendicularly to the soil, the vacuum generated is interrupted by the turbine through the elastic pulley located inside the disc, so that the seeds are released due to gravity force through a duct that drives the seeds to the holes by the double disc of furrow opener discs. Finally, the holes are sealed through closing and gauge wheels for the perfect seed germination. 1321312425241243111461114. “RADIAL SUCTION-TYPE SEED METERING APPARATUS” , which is part of an agriculture machine named planter () , comprising a seed metering apparatus () , with radial suction flow , placed over the seed row () , working with negative pressure in relation to the atmospheric pressure , that is generated by a central turbine () coupled to a hydraulic motor , being such negative pressure driven through ducts () between the central turbine () and the seed metering apparatus (); such turbine () can generate negative pressure to several seed rows (); the negative pressure works inside the seed metering apparatus () in a way that the seed is driven to the meter () through a seed inlet duct () that connects the central seed reservoir () to the seed metering apparatus () so that the seeds are housed in the inner part of the seed metering apparatus () , being pulled by negative pressure against radial disc ...

RESEARCH SEED PLANTER CALIBRATION

In an example, a method to calibrate a research seed planter may include transferring seeds through the research seed planter. The method may also include automatically measuring, using the research seed planter and without requiring a user to make manual measurements, at least one of the following: an actual first seed elapsed time; an actual last seed elapsed time; or an actual seed spacing between seeds. The method may also include adjusting, based on the automatically measuring, a calibration parameter of the research seed planter that contributes to seed placement by the research seed planter. 1. A method to calibrate a research seed planter , the method comprising:transferring seeds through the research seed planter;automatically measuring, using the research seed planter and without requiring a user to make manual measurements, at least one of the following: an actual first seed elapsed time; an actual last seed elapsed time; or an actual seed spacing between seeds; andadjusting, based on the automatically measuring, a calibration parameter of the research seed planter that contributes to seed placement by the research seed planter.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the transferring, the automatically measuring, and the calibrating includes transferring, automatically measuring, and calibrating all while the research seed planter is stationary; andtransferring seeds through the research seed planter includes transferring seeds from a staging gate through a seed transfer path to exit from a drop tube of the research seed planter.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting the calibration parameter that contributes to seed placement by the research seed planter comprises adjusting at least one of: a first seed pickup delay parameter claim 1 , an evacuation startup delay parameter claim 1 , an evacuation duration parameter claim 1 , or a rotational speed parameter of the research seed planter and wherein transferring seeds through the research seed planter ...

SOWING HEART AND SINGLE-SEED DRILL

A sowing heart for a single-seed drill, wherein the sowing heart includes a seed disc which can be rotated in one direction (R) of rotation, the seed disc having seed holes in a defined arrangement; a receiving region for receiving the seed into the seed holes and a delivery region for delivery of the seed; a cleaning apparatus located between the delivery region and the receiving region for cleaning of the seed holes during the operation of the sowing heart, wherein the cleaning apparatus is made as a rotating wheel with at least one projection which meshes with the seed holes. The invention is also directed to a single-seed drill with such a sowing heart.

METERING SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL MACHINE

A metering system for a row unit for individual dispensing of grains comprises metering devices having a chamber for carrying grains, whereby a defined pressure level in the chamber is higher than ambient pressure. At least two metering elements establish a border to the chamber, whereby the metering elements are arranged within the housing so that they can be turned and the metering elements consist of cut-outs arranged along a curved path for picking up grains. At least one grain dispensing area is intended, which is defined by the chamber and the metering elements. The grain dispensing area includes a seed inlet element for transporting separated grains to a seed metering pipe to dispense the separated grains into a furrow, whereby a pressure application device is arranged at the seed inlet element or the seed metering pipe, to produce an air stream for the acceleration of the grains. 2. A metering system according to claim 1 , in which the pressure application device is designed in the form of a Venturi nozzle and/or a ring nozzle.3. A metering system according to claim 1 , in which the metering devices work according to the high pressure principle and/or according to the vacuum principle and/or according to the centrifugal principle.4. A metering system according to claim 1 , in which two respective seed inlet elements are intended for at least two chambers claim 1 , which will be or which are joined by means of a connecting piece to one seed metering pipe claim 1 , whereby the connecting piece is designed in a Y-shape.5. A metering system according to claim 1 , in which the metering elements are designed or formed in a disc- and/or drum- and/or plate-like manner claim 1 , whereby the cut-outs are designed in the shape of bore holes and/or elongated holes and/or slots.6. A metering system according to claim 5 , in which the cut-outs are arranged along a curved path on the metering elements and the at least one seed inlet element is arranged at least partially ...

DIRECT DRIVE SEED METERING DEVICE

A direct drive seed metering device for sowing machines operated by vacuum and driven by a coaxial electric motor, comprising a seed metering disc for capturing seeds from a reservoir and laying them in a controlled manner in a furrow in the soil, where in the coaxial electrical motor couples directly and coaxially to the metering disc without the need for intermediate transmission elements, redactors, gears or timing belts, and where said coaxial electrical motor is a toroidal electric motor with a hollow rotor shaft, which fluidly connects said seed capturing means with a vacuum generating means. 1. A seed metering device for a row crop sowing machine , comprisinga seed metering disc rotatable about a central shaft, having a plurality of seed capturing and retaining holes for capturing and retaining the seeds,a motor, which drives the seed metering disc,releasing means for releasing the seeds from the seed capturing and retaining holes,conducting means for conducting the released seeds onto the ground,a housing for containing and protecting the metering disc,a flexible sealing member contained within the housing, andvacuum generating means,wherein the motor is an annular hollow-shaft motor coaxially coupled to the metering disc;wherein the flexible sealing member is sealingly attached to an inner wall of the housing and sealingly pressed against a face of the metering disc, thereby forming a vacuum chamber, and wherein the vacuum generating means lowers the air pressure on said face of the metering disc so as to capture and retain the seeds within the seed capturing and retaining holes arranged on another face of the metering disc opposite the vacuum chamber;wherein the annular hollow-shaft motor is coupled to the seed metering disc by a hollow hub comprising a hollow shaft or tube, and wherein the hollow hub is perforated, fluidly connecting the vacuum chamber to the hollow shaft of the motor coupled to said hollow hub.2. The metering device according to claim 1 ...

DIRECT DRIVE SEED METERING DEVICE

A direct drive seed metering device for sowing machines comprising a rotatable vacuum chamber operated by vacuum and driven by a coaxial electric motor, the rotatable vacuum chamber comprising a seed metering disc for capturing seeds from a reservoir and laying them in a controlled manner in a furrow in the soil, where in the coaxial electrical motor couples directly and coaxially to the rotatable vacuum chamber without the need for intermediate transmission elements, redactors, gears or timing belts, and where said coaxial electrical motor is a toroidal electric motor with a hollow rotor shaft, which fluidly connects said seed capturing means with a vacuum generating means. 1. A seed metering device for a row crop sowing machine , comprisinga seed metering disc rotatable about a central shaft, having a plurality of seed capturing and retaining holes for capturing and retaining the seeds,a motor, which drives the seed metering disc,releasing means for releasing the seeds from the seed capturing and retaining holes,conducting means for conducting the released seeds onto the ground,a housing for containing and protecting the metering disc,a concave plate, located within the housing and sealingly attached to a face of the seed metering disc,a non-rotatable tube or conduit, having a protruding hollow member, a flange and an air extraction outlet, andvacuum generating means,wherein the motor is an annular hollow-shaft motor coaxially coupled to the concave plate;wherein the concave plate sealingly attached to a face of the seed metering disc forms a rotatable vacuum chamber with said face of the metering disc, and wherein the vacuum generating means lowers the air pressure on said face of the metering disc so as to capture and retain the seeds within the seed capturing and retaining holes arranged on another face of the metering disc opposite the rotatable vacuum chamber;wherein the flange of the non-rotatable tube or conduit is sealingly and non-rotatably attached to ...

Inline product metering system for fertilizer and seed application system

The present invention is directed to an applicator having an agricultural product conveying system which transfers particulate material from one or more source containers to application equipment on demand, and meters the material at the application equipment. The conveying system includes an inline metering system including a number of metering devices associated with each compartment of a particulate material tank on the applicator to meter the particulate material disposed within each compartment. The individual metering devices include gates to initially enable the particulate material from a compartment to enter the metering device, and a rotary metering shaft to meter the flow of the particulate material into the conduits while limiting the passage of pressurized air through the metering device and into the compartment. The individual metering devices also include individual motors to control the operation of the metering devices independently from one another that can allow with sectional control and turning compensation. 1. An agricultural product delivery system , comprising:at least one particulate material supply compartment;at least one particle delivery unit for applying particulate material from the supply compartment;a conveying system providing a flow of particulate material from the at least one particulate material supply compartment to the at least one particle delivery unit; and a housing connected between the at least one particulate material supply compartment and a supply line of the conveying system; and', 'a shaft disposed within the housing, the shaft including a number of paddles thereon, wherein the clearance between the paddles and the housing limits air flow through the at least one metering device., 'at least one metering device operably connected between the at least one particulate material supply compartment and the conveying system, wherein the at least one metering device comprises2. The agricultural product delivery system of ...

AIR SEED METER HOUSING WITH SEED PATH RELIEF

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter , comprising:a housing including a seed meter side and a vacuum side;a disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for seating and retaining seeds;wherein the housing further comprises an outer sidewall with at least a portion of the sidewall offset radially outward from the remainder of the outer sidewall; anda relief member at least partially covering the offset portion of the housing.2. The air seed meter of wherein the portion of the outer sidewall that is offset spans the circumference prior to a point of singulation to the intersection with the discharge chute.3. The air seed meter of wherein the offset portion of the housing comprises at least one portion of the seed meter side of the housing.4. The air seed meter of wherein the disc comprises a chamfer adjacent the seed cells and a surface extending outwardly from the chamfer.5. The air seed meter of wherein the relief member extends generally inward from the sidewall of the housing.6. The air seed meter of wherein the relief member extends to a position ...

AIR SEED METER DISC WITH FLOW DIRECTING POCKETS

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter for an agricultural planter , comprising:a housing defining a seed reservoir, a discharge chute, and a vacuum chamber; anda seed disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for retaining seeds, said disc having channels adjacent to each respective seed cell.2. The air seed meter of wherein each respective channel is substantially inside of the seed cells and forward of its corresponding seed cell with respect to the rotational direction of the disc.3. The air seed meter of wherein each respective channel has a length greater than its width.4. The air seed meter of wherein each respective channel is oriented on the seed disc such that the length of the channel is at an oblique angle to a radius line of its seed cell such that the inner forward corner of the channel leads the outer forward corner with respect to the direction of rotation.5. The air seed meter of wherein a face of the channel is tangential to the forward inner edge of the seed cell.6. The air seed meter of wherein the seed disc comprises a flanged ...

AIR SEED METER WITH INTERNAL DRIVE

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter for an agricultural planter , comprising:a housing with an inner chamber;a disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for retaining seeds, said disc having an internal gear; anda unique power source with an output shaft and an external gear mounted to said output shaft, said external gear engaged with the internal gear of said disc to directly control the rotational speed of the disc.2. The air seed meter of wherein the unique power source is an electric motor.3. The air seed meter of wherein the gear ratio of the internal gear to the external output gear of the disc is 12:1.4. The air seed meter of wherein the internal gear is positioned between an outer edge of the disc and the axis.5. The air seed meter of wherein the disc comprises a flanged portion between an inner lip and an outer chamfer.6. The air seed meter of wherein the internal gear is positioned inward from the inner lip of the flanged portion of the disc.7. The air seed meter of wherein the output shaft and external gear of the unique power source ...

AIR SEED METER WITH ADJUSTABLE SINGULATOR

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter , comprising:a housing including an inner chamber;a disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for retaining seeds; andan adjustable singulator for eliminating seed multiples from said seed cells, said singulator including two blades adjacent to and at least partially surrounding the seed cells;wherein the blades of the singulator can be simultaneously adjusted such that a first blade is translated radially away from the axis while a second blade is adjusted radially toward the axis, and that the first blade can be also be adjusted radially toward the axis while the second blade is adjusted radially away from the axis.2. The air seed meter of wherein the first blade is located radially inward from the seed cells and the second blade located radially outward of the seed cells.3. The air seed meter of further comprising a curved rim portion near the first blade and configured to substantially match the curvature of the disc.4. The air seed meter of wherein the first blade comprises at least one ramp extending from the ...

SEED LEVEL DETECTION IN A SEED METER

A vacuum seed meter includes a vacuum channel and a seed disc having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed disc, which rotates through the vacuum channel. The seed meter includes a sensor that addresses the seed cells in a way that enables prediction of imminent seed starvation of the seed meter. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. (canceled)12. A method of controlling a seed meter having a housing defining a seed chamber from which seeds are drawn into seed cells defined in a seed disc that is rotatably supported within the housing so that the seeds in the seed cells are carried to a drop zone within the housing and released therefrom , the method comprising:receiving, with an electronic controller, signals from a first sensor indicative of whether a seed is present within a seed cell of the seed disc disposed in the seed chamber of the housing;receiving, with the electronic controller, signals from a second sensor indicative of whether a seed is absent from within a seed cell in the drop zone of the housing; andcoordinating, with the electronic controller, the sampling of signals from the first sensor with the detection of an empty seed cell based on the signals received from the second sensor.13. The method of claim 12 , further comprising determining when the seed meter is about to be starved of a first variety of seed before switching the seed meter to dispense a second variety of seed based in the signals received from the first sensor.14. The method of claim 12 , further comprising adjusting at least one operating parameter of the seed meter based on whether the presence of a seed within a seed cell of the seed disc disposed in the seed chamber of the housing is detected based on the signals received from the first sensor.15. The method of claim 12 , further comprising adjusting at least one operating parameter of the seed meter ...

SEED LEVEL DETECTION IN A SEED METER

A vacuum seed meter includes a vacuum channel and a seed disc having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed disc, which rotates through the vacuum channel. The seed meter includes a sensor that addresses the seed cells in a way that enables prediction of imminent seed starvation of the seed meter. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. (canceled)12. (canceled)13. (canceled)14. (canceled)15. (canceled)16. A planting implement , comprising:a frame that carries at least one row unit, the at least one row unit comprising a furrow opener disc and a seed meter;wherein the seed meter includes a housing defining a seed chamber wall and a vacuum channel wall;wherein the seed meter includes a seed disc having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed disc, the seed disc carried by the housing for rotation about a rotational axis and being disposed between the seed chamber wall and the vacuum channel wall, the seed disc spaced apart from the seed chamber wall and the vacuum channel wall to define a seed chamber between the seed disc and the seed chamber wall and a vacuum channel between the seed disc and the vacuum channel wall; anda first sensor carried by the housing and aimed at the perimeter region of the seed disc where the seed cells are defined,17. The planting implement of claim 16 , further comprising a controller configured to receive signals from the first sensor claim 16 , the controller being further configured to determine from those signals the detection of an empty seed cell by the first sensor.18. (canceled)19. The planting implement of claim 16 , further comprising a second sensor carried by the housing claim 16 , wherein the seed disc is disposed so that at any given moment only a first portion of the seed disc is bounded within the vacuum channel while a second portion of the seed disc is bounded outside ...

Multiple Variety Seed Meter Of A Planter For Planting Multiple Seed Varieties

A multiple variety seed meter is provided for multi-variety row crop planting. The seed meter includes a segmented feed pipe system that may include a feed pipe with multiple passages that can be rotated to present one of multiple variety openings toward a seed pool in the seed meter to deliver a specific seed variety into the seed meter. The feed pipe may be an inner selector pipe concentrically nested for rotation in an outer sleeve that extends into the seed meter. 1. A multiple variety seed meter of a planter for planting multiple seed varieties in a single planting pass during row-crop planting of an agricultural field , wherein the multiple seed varieties are stored in multiple seed storage compartments on the planter , the seed meter comprising:a seed meter housing arranged at a row unit of a planter and defining an enclosure that surrounds a housing cavity that can receive seed to define a seed pool;a seed disk arranged within the housing cavity and configured to pick up seed from the seed pool at a seed pickup region for singulation of seeds from the seed pool for individual delivery onto the agricultural field while planting; [ 'an outer sleeve inlet end with a first sleeve inlet port arranged to receive a first seed variety from a first one of the multiple seed storage compartments and a second sleeve inlet port arranged to receive a second seed variety from a second one of the multiple seed storage compartments;', 'an outer sleeve that extends from the seed meter housing, the outer sleeve including, 'an inner selector pipe inlet end with a first selector pipe inlet port arranged to receive the first seed variety and a second selector pipe inlet port arranged to receive the second seed variety; and', 'an inner selector pipe arranged for rotation within the outer sleeve, the inner selector pipe including], 'a segmented feed pipe system that extends between the seed meter housing and the multiple seed storage compartments; the segmented feed pipe system ...

ROW UNIT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL PLANTING IMPLEMENT

A row unit for use with a planter includes a furrow creator and an apparatus for controlling the depth of furrow created. The furrow creator can be a blade and shank. A seed meter, for example, a positive pressure meter, can be included that provides precision planting of one or more particulates. The seed meter can be a single meter or can include more than one meter at each row unit, such as to provide for multi-hybrid or multi-particulate planting. The positive pressure can then be used to delivering the seed via a seed to ground device to plant the one or more particulates in the created furrow. The row unit as provided will be a more precise planting for both seed spacing and depth, as well as other planting characteristics. 1. A row unit for use with an agricultural planting implement , said row unit comprising:a shank for creating a furrow in a field;a depth setting device in association with the shank for setting the depth of the furrow created by the shank;a seed meter comprising one or more metering devices for providing a particulate to be planted via the seed meter; anda seed chute for receiving seed from the seed meter;said seed meter being operatively connected to a positive pressure source for providing positive pressure to the meter for metering the particulate and aiding in moving the particulate via the seed chute.2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter comprises a single metering device.3. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter comprises multiple metering devices.4. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a winged member operatively attached to the shank to aid in controlling the depth of furrow created.5. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising an actuator operatively connected to the shank for providing downforce to the shank.6. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the depth setting device comprises a ski.7. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the depth setting device comprises one or more gage wheels.8. The row unit ...

SKIP COMPENSATION SYSTEM

An agricultural machine includes a motor configured to drive a seeding system that is, itself, configured to meter and deliver seed from the agricultural machine. The agricultural machine also includes a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the seeding system and a skip detector component, that receives the sensor signal and detects a seed skip in the seeding system. Based on the detected seed skip, a processing system generates an operating parameter of the motor, and controls the motor based on the operating parameter. 1. An agricultural machine , comprising:a seeding system configured to meter and deliver seed;a motor configured to drive movement of seeds in the seeding system,a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the seeding system and generate a sensor signal indicative of the characteristic;a skip detector component configured to receive the sensor signal and detect a seed skip in the seeding system;a processing system configured to receive an indication of the detected seed skip, and, based on the indication of the detected seed skip, generate an operating parameter for the motor; anda motor controller configured to receive the operating parameter and operate the motor based on the operating parameter.2. The agricultural machine of wherein the seeding system comprises:a movable element configured to move seeds, positioned relative to one another at a predetermined seed spacing along a delivery route.3. The agricultural machine of wherein the sensor is disposed at a sensor location along the delivery route and is configured to sense claim 2 , as the sensed characteristic of the seeding system claim 2 , a seed presence as the seed moves past the sensor location.4. The agricultural machine of claim 3 , wherein the skip detector is configured to detect the seed skip by identifying that the seeds are positioned further from one another than the predetermined speed spacing along the delivery route.5. The agricultural machine of wherein the ...

DUAL-DISK SEED METER FOR MULTI-VARIETY SEED PLANTING

A dual-disk seed meter for a planter may include a housing defining a first seed chamber configured to receive first seeds of a first seed type and a second seed chamber configured to receive second seeds of a second seed type. The seed meter may also include a first seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the first seeds from the first seed chamber, a second seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the second seeds from the second seed chamber, and a drive assembly configured to simultaneously rotate the first and second seed disks. In addition, the seed meter may include a seed deflector movable relative to the first seed disk and/or the second seed disk to control which of the seed types is discharged from the housing based on a selected seed type to be delivered by the seed meter. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. A system for switching between seed types during a planting operation , the system comprising:a seed meter including a housing defining a first seed chamber configured to receive a plurality of first seeds of a first seed type and a second seed chamber configured to receive a plurality of second seeds of a second seed type, the seed meter further including a first seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the first seeds from the first seed chamber and a second seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the second seeds from the second seed chamber;a seed deflector positioned within the housing and movable relative to at least one the first seed disk or the second seed disk;a controller configured to control movement of the seed deflector within the housing based on a selected seed type to be discharged from the seed meter,wherein, when the selected seed type is the first seed type, the controller is configured to move the seed deflector to a first position such that the first seeds remain coupled to the first seed disk as the first ...

DUAL-DISK SEED METER FOR MULTI-VARIETY SEED PLANTING

A dual-disk seed meter for a planter may include a housing defining a first seed chamber configured to receive first seeds of a first seed type and a second seed chamber configured to receive second seeds of a second seed type. The seed meter may also include a first seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the first seeds from the first seed chamber, a second seed disk rotatable within the housing to convey the second seeds from the second seed chamber, and a drive assembly configured to simultaneously rotate the first and second seed disks. In addition, the seed meter may include a seed deflector movable relative to the first seed disk and/or the second seed disk to control which of the seed types is discharged from the housing based on a selected seed type to be delivered by the seed meter. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. (canceled)12. (canceled)13. (canceled)14. (canceled)15. (canceled)16. (canceled)17. A method for switching between seed types during a planting operation , the method comprising:rotating first and second seed disks within a housing of a seed meter, the housing defining a first seed chamber configured to receive a plurality of first seeds of a first seed type and a second seed chamber configured to receive a plurality of second seeds of a second seed type, the first seed disk being rotated to convey the first seeds from the first seed chamber, the second seed disk being rotated to convey the second seeds from the second seed chamber;positioning at least one seed deflector within the housing such that the first seeds remain coupled to the first seed disk for discharge from the seed meter and the second seeds contact the at least one seed deflector and fall back down into the second seed chamber; andadjusting the position of the at least one seed deflector within the housing when switching from the first seed type to the second seed type ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seeding machine includes a seed metering system and a seed delivery system in communication with the seed metering system. The seed delivery system includes a housing having a first opening for receiving seed from the seed metering system and a second opening through which seed is discharged. The seed delivery system also includes a conveyor forming a loop with a fixed length and positioned within the housing. The conveyor is disposed around a first drive pulley and a second idler pulley. The conveyor is deformable in order to retain seed at any point along the fixed length. 1. A seeding machine comprising:a seed metering system; and a housing having an upper opening for receiving seed from the seed metering system and a lower opening through which seed is discharged, and', 'a conveyor within the housing forming a closed loop about a first pulley and a second pulley, the closed loop comprising a resilient gripping portion configured to retain seed at any point along the closed loop., 'a seed delivery system in communication with the seed metering system, the seed delivery system including'}2. The seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the conveyor is in the form of a brush belt.3. The seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the housing is an elongated housing defining an interior chamber along which seed is conveyed from the upper opening to the lower opening.4. The seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the seed metering system includes a metering member to which seed is adhered by air pressure and wherein the seed is removable from the metering member at least in part by the resilient gripping portion.5. The seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the seed metering system includes a metering member to which seed is adhered by air pressure claim 1 , the metering member configured to rotate about a first axis claim 1 , and wherein the first pulley is configured to rotate about a second axis having a parallel orientation to the first axis.6. The seeding machine of claim 5 , ...

Agricultural row unit systems, methods, and apparatus

A row unit for an agricultural planter having features for releasably operably coupling a seed meter of the row unit to a seed deposition apparatus of the row unit such as a seed conveyor, seed tube or the like. Apparatus are provided for tipping a seed meter of the hopper for disengagement from the seed deposition apparatus. Apparatus are provided for biasing the seed deposition apparatus into operative engagement with the seed meter. The row unit includes features such as latches for releasably operably coupling the row unit to crop input and vacuum supply lines. Apparatus are provided for tipping a seed meter of the hopper for disengagement from the crop input and vacuum supply lines. Systems are provided for supplying vacuum and crop inputs to the seed meter via the releasably engageable apparatus.

Purging System For Multiple Variety Seed Meter

A purging system is provided for a multiple variety seed meter of a multi-variety planter. The purging system includes seed return valves that may be arranged for receiving seed that was removed from the seed meter. The seed return valves return the removed seed into corresponding appropriate seed storage compartments to allow a new seed variety to be delivered to the seed meter while reducing seed variety mixing in the seed meter. A pipe with a purge passage may extend from the seed meter to a purging hose that delivers the removed seed to the seed return valve(s). Each seed return valve may be a vacuum-actuated piston airlock valve assembly with a valve plunger that reciprocates to define seed collecting and releasing states of the valve. 1. A purging system for a multiple variety seed meter for planting multiple seed varieties in a single planting pass during row-crop planting of an agricultural field , wherein the multiple variety seed meter includes a seed meter housing arranged at a row unit of a planter and defines an enclosure that surrounds a housing cavity that can receive seed from a seed storage system to define a seed pool , and wherein the purging system is configured to return seed of a first seed variety from the seed pool to the seed storage system to allow seed of a second seed variety to be introduced into the seed pool , the purging system comprising:a purge hose arranged to transport seed out of the seed pool as removed seed;a seed return valve arranged at the seed storage system and configured to receive the removed seed and deliver the removed seed into the seed storage system; anda pneumatic system configured to provide a pneumatic pressure that conveys the removed seed from the pipe to the seed return valve.2. The purging system of claim 1 , further comprising a pipe that extends into the housing cavity and delivers the removed seed from the housing cavity to the purge hose.3. The purging system of claim 2 , wherein the pipe comprises a ...

Systems and methods for planting a field with two crops

A method for planting a field with a seed planter is provided. The method includes moving the seed planter across the field such that the seeds of a first seed type and seeds of a second seed type are both dispensed in a single row. According to this embodiment, a first seed disc of the seed planter is configured to dispense seeds of the first seed type equidistant relative to adjacent seeds of the first seed type, and a second seed disc is configured to dispense the seeds of the second seed type not equidistant relative to adjacent seeds of the second seed type.

Multiple Variety Seed Meter With Segmented Feed Pipe System

A multiple variety seed meter is provided for multi-variety row crop planting. The seed meter includes a segmented feed pipe system that may include a feed pipe with multiple passages that can be rotated to present one of multiple variety openings toward a seed pool in the seed meter to deliver a specific seed variety into the seed meter. The feed pipe may be an inner selector pipe concentrically nested for rotation in an outer sleeve that extends into the seed meter. 1. A multiple variety seed meter for planting multiple seed varieties in a single planting pass during row-crop planting of an agricultural field , the seed meter comprising:a seed meter housing arranged at a row unit of a planter and defining an enclosure that surrounds a housing cavity that can receive seed to define a seed pool;a seed disk arranged within the housing cavity and configured to pick up seed from the seed pool at a seed pickup region for singulation of seeds from the seed pool for individual delivery onto the agricultural field while planting;a segmented feed pipe system having an outlet arranged to deliver seed through the housing and into the seed pool; andwherein the segmented feed pipe system defines at least a first position to deliver a first seed variety into the seed pool and a second position to deliver a second seed variety into the seed pool.2. The multiple variety seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the at least first and second positions of the segmented feed pipe system are angular positions.3. The multiple variety seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the segmented feed pipe system comprises a concentrically nested arrangement that includes:an outer sleeve that extends from the seed meter housing; andan inner selector pipe arranged concentrically and rotatably within the outer sleeve;wherein the at least first and second positions of the segmented feed pipe system are defined by at least first and second angular positions of the inner selector pipe with respect to the outer sleeve. ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. 110.-. (canceled)11. A seed metering and delivery apparatus for use on a row unit of a planting implement for metering seed and delivering the seed to a seed trench in soil during a seeding operation , the seed metering and delivery apparatus comprising: a front face and a rear face; and', 'a plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern, spaced inwardly from an outer edge of the seed disk, and forming a seed path, wherein each aperture of the plurality of apertures extends through the seed disk between the front face and the rear face and is configured to retain the seed in place on the front face of the seed disk by a pressure differential across the plurality of apertures,', 'wherein the seed meter is configured to move the seed along the seed path to a removal location, and wherein the seed meter is configured to be mounted to the row unit such that the seed disk is held in a substantially vertical orientation and at an angle to a forward travel direction of the row unit;, 'a seed meter comprising a seed disk ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. 110.-. (canceled)11. A seed metering and delivery apparatus configured for use on a row unit of a seeding machine for providing controlled delivery of seed to a furrow in soil at a predetermined seed spacing during a seeding operation , the seed metering and delivery apparatus comprising:a seed meter having a seed metering disk with a plurality of apertures arranged in an array along a circular path, wherein the plurality of apertures is configured to adhere the seed to the seed metering disk by an air pressure differential, and move the seed along the circular path as the seed metering disk rotates, the seed metering disk further comprising a wall trailing each aperture of the plurality of apertures, wherein the wall extends axially with respect to the seed metering disk and lies on the circular path; a housing having an upper opening through which the seed is received from the seed meter and a lower opening through which the seed is discharged from the housing, wherein the housing is configured to move during the seeding ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. 110.-. (canceled)11. A seed metering and delivery apparatus for providing controlled delivery of seed to a furrow in the ground , the seed metering and delivery apparatus comprising:a seed meter having a metering member with a plurality of apertures disposed in a circular array and an axially projecting wall trailing each of the plurality of apertures, wherein the seed meter is configured to move the seed along a first path to a removal position; an elongated housing having an upper opening configured to receive the seed from the seed meter and a lower opening proximate the discharge position and configured for discharge of the seed through the lower opening; and', 'an endless member disposed within the housing about a pair of rotation member and having a plurality of entrapment areas configured to entrap the seed received from the seed meter and move the seed along the substantially linear portion of the second path toward the lower opening;, 'a delivery system configured to receive the seed from the seed meter and move the seed ...

System and method for spraying fluid onto seeds dispensed from a planter

In one aspect, a system for spraying a fluid onto or near seeds may include a planter having a seed meter configured to dispense seeds from a hopper, a seed tube extending from the seed meter toward a furrow, and a rotationally-driven belt positioned within the seed tube. The belt may be configured for conveying the seeds from the seed meter through the seed tube to the furrow. The planter also includes a sprayer assembly having a nozzle configured to spray a fluid on or near the seeds dispensed from the seed meter. The system may further include a controller configured to determine a current speed of the belt relative to the seed tube and control the sprayer assembly based on the current speed of the belt such that the nozzle sprays the fluid at least one of onto or near each of the seeds.

Fluid application systems including pressure dampeners

A fluid application system includes a manifold defining an internal passageway for fluid flow therethrough and a plurality of nozzle assemblies connected in fluid communication with the internal passageway. Each nozzle assembly of the plurality of nozzle assemblies includes a body defining a fluid passage, an inlet connected to the manifold for receiving fluid flow into the fluid passage, and a spray outlet for discharging fluid from the fluid passage. Each nozzle assembly also includes an electrically actuated valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the spray outlet and configured to control fluid flow through the fluid passage. Each nozzle assembly further includes a pressure dampener connected in fluid communication with the fluid passage upstream of the electrically actuated valve. The pressure dampener is configured to dampen fluctuations in fluid pressure within the fluid passage.

Twin-Row Planter With Tandem Driven Seed Meters

The present invention is directed to a twin-row planter with tandem driven seed meters at a pair of row units at each row segment of a twin-row planter. A tandem drive system drives the seed meters in a tandem manner, which may include a single transmission assembly simultaneously rotating a pair of seed discs in the pair of seed meters at each row segment. An indexing system allows for quickly changing an amount of relative rotational or angular indexing of seed disks inside of the pair of seed meters at the pair of row units of each row segment to adjust longitudinal spacing between delivery locations of seeds from the seed disks at planted row segments of a planted twin-row. Adjustments can be made at disk hubs, between shaft segments linking the seed disks, or with multiple sets of mounting holds on the seed disks. 2. The twin-row planter of claim 1 , wherein the shaft hub includes slots extending through the thickness of the shaft hub and defining perimeters extending longitudinally across portions of the first and second end surfaces of the shaft hub and wherein fasteners extend through the slots of the shaft hub interconnecting the disk carrier and the clamping ring with the fasteners movable along the lengths of the slots for adjusting of the angular index position of the disk hub with respect to the shaft assembly. The present application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 14/589,508 filed Jan. 15, 2015.The invention relates generally to row-crop planters and, in particular, to a twin-row planter with tandem driven seed meters.Modern farming practices strive to increase yields of agricultural fields. Yields can be increased by increasing plant populations. Efforts have been made to increase plant populations by planting row crops with narrower row spacing, allowing more rows to be planted in a field, which may require harvesting with special equipment configured for harvesting narrow rows, such as narrow row heads for the harvesting implements. Twin- ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. 110.-. (canceled)11. A seed delivery system for use with a seed meter on a row unit of a seeding machine for delivering seed to a seed trench in soil during a seeding operation , the seed delivery system comprising:an elongated housing comprising an upper end, a lower end, a first side wall comprising a substantially straight portion and a lower curved portion, a second side wall, a front wall, and a rear wall, wherein the housing further comprises an upper opening through which the seed is received into the housing and a lower opening through which the seed is discharged from the housing, wherein the housing of the seed delivery system is configured to move in a seeding direction at a first seeding speed; anda delivery belt comprising a base member and a plurality of projections having proximal ends extending from the base member and distal ends opposite the proximal ends, wherein the delivery belt is rotatably held within the housing such that the delivery belt and the housing define a delivery path comprising a substantially ...

MULTIPLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT APPLICATION METHOD AND SYSTEMS

A row unit of an agricultural planter includes a seed meter. The seed meter includes a seed disk within a seed meter housing. The seed disk is positioned in the seed meter housing such that the disk rotates and includes a seed release point. A drive member is operatively connected to the seed disk such that the drive member selectively rotates the disk. The seed disk is angularly positioned and is a conical-shaped member with a central axis and includes seed cells radially positioned about an outer portion. The seed disk is substantially non-perpendicular to the central axis. An air pressure source also is included to adhere seed to the disk. 1. A row unit for use with an agricultural planting implement , comprising: a seed meter housing; and', 'a seed disk positioned in the seed meter housing, said seed disk comprising a conical-shaped member with a central axis and comprising seed cells radially positioned about a convex portion and being substantially non-perpendicular to the central axis; and, 'a seed meter comprisingwherein seed is at least temporarily positioned at the seed cells on the convex portion of the disk until release at a seed release point.2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter housing comprises an electric motor operatively connected to the seed disk for providing rotational movement thereto.3. The row unit of claim 2 , wherein the seed meter housing further defines a seed pool collection area for storing seed associated with the seed disk.4. The row unit of claim 3 , further comprising a clutch operatively positioned between the electric motor and the seed disk to provide the selective rotation to the disk.5. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter includes a pressure source to supply a negative pressure at a concave portion of the seed disk.6. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a singulator associated with the seed disk for singulating seed positioned thereon.7. The row unit of claim 6 , wherein said singulator ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short crop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture move and accelerate the seed By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. 110-. (canceled)11. A seed metering and delivery apparatus for use on a row unit of a planting implement for metering seed and delivering the seed to a seed trench in soil during a seeding operation , the seed metering and delivery apparatus comprising:a seed meter comprising a seed disk rotatable about a seed disk axis, wherein the seed disk comprises a front face, a rear face, and a plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern spaced inwardly from an outer edge of the seed disk and forming a seed path, wherein each aperture of the plurality of apertures extends through the seed disk between the front face and the rear face of the seed disk and is configured to retain the seed in place on the front face of the seed disk by a pressure differential across the plurality of apertures, and wherein the seed meter is configured to move the seed along the seed path to a removal location, and wherein the seed meter is configured to be mounted to the row unit such that the seed disk is held in a vertical orientation and at an angle ...

Seed metering device drive system and method

A system for mechanically transmitting power from a common rotational drive shaft of a seeding implement to a geared outer periphery of a seed meter. The system includes a first transmission that connects to common rotational drive shaft, a flexible drive shaft coupled to the first transmission, and a second transmission coupled to the opposite end of the flexible drive shaft. A clutch assembly connects to a flexible drive shaft assembly to selectively allow power to be transmitted from the first transmission to the second transmission. The second transmission connects to the periphery of the seed meter. The seed plate of the seed meter includes a circumferential gear along a periphery to be driven by the second transmission.

Implement frame mounted variable rate singulating meters

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.

SEED METERING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A seed metering system for selectively metering a plurality of seeds includes an outlet of a source of seeds. A singulating meter is in selective communication with the outlet. A bypass conduit is in selective communication with the outlet. The seed metering system is operable in a first mode of operation in which the outlet communicates with the singulating meter to singulate the plurality of seeds. The seed metering system is further operable in a second mode of operation in which the outlet communicates with the bypass conduit and the plurality of seeds is not singulated. 1. A seed metering system for selectively metering a plurality of seeds , the seed metering system comprising:an outlet of a source of seeds;a singulating meter in selective communication with the outlet; anda bypass conduit in selective communication with the outlet,wherein the seed metering system is operable in a first mode of operation in which the outlet communicates with the singulating meter to singulate the plurality of seeds, and wherein the seed metering system is operable in a second mode of operation in which the outlet communicates with the bypass conduit and the plurality of seeds are not singulated.2. The seed metering system of claim 1 , further comprising a volumetric metering system positioned upstream of the outlet and operable to volumetrically meter the plurality of seeds.3. The seed metering system of claim 1 , further comprising a valve assembly operable to selectively communicate the singulating meter and the bypass conduit with the outlet.4. The seed metering system of claim 1 , wherein the singulating meter and the bypass conduit include a common outlet.5. The seed metering system of claim 4 , wherein the common outlet discharges the plurality of seeds to a furrow.6. The seed metering system of claim 4 , further comprising a seed sensor at the common outlet operable to count the plurality of seeds from the singulating meter and the bypass conduit.7. The seed metering ...

SEED PLANTING AND METERING EQUIPMENT

The invention provides a row planting unit for a planter having a seed tube with an outlet arranged to drop seed between a pair of opener discs. Adjacent planting units (on the planter) each have vacuum operated seed metering units each including a seed disk. The operation of disks is synchronized but the seed openings offset from each other for alternate seed placement in adjacent rows. The outlet of each seed tube is located between the discs and, more specifically, arranged to drop seed in close proximity to a drop location where the bottom edges of the disks are in contact. The invention extends to a method of planting seed in a close staggered planting configuration, with seeds in adjacent rows dropped alternately and the row planting units located on the planter with closer spacing than what is used when seeds are planted substantially in line by adjacent row units. 1. A row planting unit for a planter which includes a pair of ground engaging , inclined opener disks rotatably supported with converging bottom edges and a seed tube with an outlet arranged to drop seed between the opener discs , in which the seed tube is curved and/or inclined operatively forwardly adjacent the outlet from the tube.23-. (canceled)4. A planting unit as claimed in in which the outlet is arranged to drop seed in close proximity to a drop location where the bottom edges of the disks are in contact.52. A planting unit as claimed in claim to in which the drop location is provided from a point substantially operatively below axes of the disks and to an operatively trailing side of the point.63. A planting unit as claimed in claim in which the point corresponds substantially to a central contact point between the opener disks.7. (canceled)8. A planting unit as claimed in which the seed tube extends past an operatively rear side of axes of the opener disks.9. A pair of vacuum operated seed metering units for use on a pair of adjacent row planting units as claimed in for a planter claim 1 ...

MULTI-CHANNEL AGRICULTURAL SINGULATING METER

An agricultural seeding machine comprises, in one example, a seed delivery system configured to deliver seeds to at least one trench by two or more substantially gravity-drop channels, and a seed metering system comprising a rotating meter element configured to singulate seeds from a seed source into the two or more channels. 1. An agricultural seeding machine comprising:a seed delivery system configured to deliver seeds to at least one trench by two or more substantially gravity-drop channels; anda seed metering system comprising a rotating meter element configured to singulate seeds from a seed source into the two or more channels.2. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the rotating meter element uses a pressure differential to singulate the seeds into the two or more channels.3. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the rotating meter element comprises at least a first set of apertures configured to singulate seed into a first one of the channels claim 1 , and a second set of apertures configured to singulate seed into a second one of the channels.4. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 3 , wherein the first and second sets of apertures are arranged on the rotating meter element annularly.5. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 4 , wherein the rotating meter element comprises at least one of a substantially disk-like element claim 4 , a concave-shaped element claim 4 , or a drum.6. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the two or more substantially gravity-drop channels are configured to plant the seeds in at least a first seed row and a second seed row.7. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 6 , wherein the first and second seed rows are spaced apart by a distance that is less than or equal to approximately twelve inches.8. The agricultural seeding machine of claim 7 , wherein the seed delivery system comprises a bifurcated tube having a first channel and a second channel extending therethrough.9. ...

Purging System For Multiple Variety Seed Meter

A purging system is provided for a multiple variety seed meter of a multi-variety planter. The purging system includes seed return valves that may be arranged for receiving seed that was removed from the seed meter. The seed return valves return the removed seed into corresponding appropriate seed storage compartments to allow a new seed variety to be delivered to the seed meter while reducing seed variety mixing in the seed meter. A pipe with a purge passage may extend from the seed meter to a purging hose that delivers the removed seed to the seed return valve(s). Each seed return valve may be a vacuum-actuated piston airlock valve assembly with a valve plunger that reciprocates to define seed collecting and releasing states of the valve. 1. A purging system for a multiple variety seed meter for planting multiple seed varieties in a single planting pass during row-crop planting of an agricultural field , wherein the multiple seed varieties are stored in multiple seed storage compartments on the planter ,a pipe that defines a purge passage for removing seed from the seed meter as removed seed;a pneumatic seed purging airflow system that provides vacuum pressure to the pipe for conveying the removed seed from the seed meter toward the seed storage compartments; andmultiple seed return valves associated with the multiple seed storage compartments to receive the removed seed and direct the removed seed into a corresponding one of the multiple seed storage compartments that corresponds to a variety of the removed seed.2. The purging system of claim 1 , wherein each of the multiple seed return valves comprises a vacuum-actuated piston airlock valve assembly with a valve housing and a valve plunger arranged for reciprocation within the valve housing to define a first position as a seed collection position that allows seed to collect in the valve housing as collected seed claim 1 , and a second position as a seed-releasing position that allows the collected seed to ...

PLANTER WITH SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS

An agricultural implement includes a number of row units. The row units include one or more seed meters for receiving, singulating, and dispensing seed to the ground such that preferred spacing of subsequent seed is attained. Seed delivery systems are included to aid in transporting the seed from the seed meter to the ground in a controlled manner to mitigate skips and to aid in controlling the spacing of the seeds, which can be based upon the ground speed of the implement as it moves through the field. The seed delivery systems can control the transport of the seed to a furrow in the field such that the seed can experience zero or near zero relative velocity so that the seed will have little to no movement once positioned in the furrow. 1. A row unit for use with an agricultural implement , comprising:at least one seed meter comprising a seed disc and a seed exit; and a plurality of wheels positioned in a housing, said plurality of wheels being positioned adjacent one another and rotating in alternating manner;', 'said wheels configured to receive a seed from the seed meter and to transport the seed from one wheel to the next until it is released into the furrow in the ground., 'a seed delivery system for transporting seed from the seed meter to a furrow in the ground, the seed delivery system comprising2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein said plurality of wheels comprise resilient wheels.3. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the wheels are adjacent one another in a substantially vertical manner.4. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the housing of the seed delivery system comprises a lip extending at least partially into the seed meter to guide the seed from the meter to a first wheel within the housing.5. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein said seed delivery system further comprises at least one electric motor operatively connected to the plurality of wheels to control the rotational velocity of said wheels.6. The row unit of claim 5 , further comprising a plurality ...

TWIN ROW SEED DISTRIBUTOR SYSTEM

A twin row seed distributor body group is provided that enables twin sowing with a single seed distributor body of pneumatic sowing machines utilized in the agricultural industry. The twin row seed distributor body group contains at least one twin row seed distributor body provided for each sowing unit enabling synchronized sowing on two different sowing rows, at least one right and one left seeding disc, at least one shaft bearing group enabling the movement of seeding discs, at least one seeding disc motion shaft enabling the synchronized movement of the seeding discs, at least one modular main body inner bearing cover that enables fast mounting and maintenance of the disc shaft motion gear and disc motion gears operating inside the seed distributor body and also that forms a bearing for the seeding disc motion shaft, and a hinged seed discharge gate. 1. A twin row seed distributor body group that enables twin sowing with a single seed distributor body of pneumatic sowing machines utilized in agricultural industry for planting on fields , characterized in that said twin row seed distributor body group comprises:one twin row seed distributor body provided for each sowing unit enabling synchronized sowing on two different sowing rows at the same time;at least one right seeding disc and at least one left seeding disc positioned on the mentioned twin row seed distributor body;at least one shaft bearing group enabling the movement of seeding disc in the mentioned twin row seed distributor body;at least one seeding disc motion shaft enabling the synchronized movement of the mentioned seeding disc;at least one modular main body inner bearing cover that enables fast mounting and maintenance of disc shaft motion gear and disc motion gears operating inside the mentioned twin row seed distributor body and also that forms a bearing for the seed spreading disc motion shaft; anda hinged seed window that enables discharging the seed remaining inside the mentioned twin row seed ...

SEED METER WITH MULTIPLE SENSORS FOR SEED CELL STATUS MONITORING

A vacuum seed meter includes a vacuum channel and a seed transport member having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed transport member, which rotates through the vacuum channel. The seed meter includes a plurality of sensors, each of the plurality of sensors targeting a different location within the seed meter. Each of the plurality of sensors connected to send signals to a controller that evaluates whether each seed cell passing through these locations is filled or empty. 1. A vacuum seed meter , comprising:a housing defining a seed chamber wall and a vacuum channel wall;a seed transport member having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed transport member, the seed transport member is disposed between the seed chamber wall and the vacuum channel wall, the seed transport member is spaced apart from the seed chamber wall to define a seed chamber between the seed transport member and the seed chamber wall, and the seed transport member is spaced apart from the vacuum channel wall to define a vacuum channel between the seed transport member and the vacuum channel wall, wherein the seed transport member is rotatably carried within the housing such that during each complete rotation of the seed transport member each of the seed cells successively passes through at least the following zones within the seed meter: a seed acquisition region and a post-delivery region; anda plurality of sensors, each of the plurality of sensors having a detection zone disposed within the housing, the detection zone of at least one of the plurality of sensors being targeted so that during each complete rotation of the seed transport member within the housing a discernible feature of the seed transport member passes through the detection zone of the at least one of the plurality of sensors;wherein:the detection zone of a first sensor of the plurality of sensors is disposed within the post-delivery region;the detection zone of a ...

SEED METER WITH MULTIPLE SENSORS FOR SEED CELL STATUS MONITORING

A vacuum seed meter includes a vacuum channel and a seed transport member having seed cells defined as openings through a perimeter region of the seed transport member, which rotates through the vacuum channel. The seed meter includes a plurality of sensors, each of the plurality of sensors targeting a different location within the seed meter. Each of the plurality of sensors connected to send signals to a controller that evaluates whether each seed cell passing through these locations is filled or empty. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for monitoring seed meter operation , the method comprising:operating a seed meter such that seeds contained within a seed pool region of the seed meter are transported by a seed transport member from the seed pool region to a separate location for subsequent discharge from the seed meter;receiving, with a controller having a processor and associated memory, a timing signal from a first sensor configured to detect a parameter associated with the operation of the seed meter; andevaluating, with the controller, data from a second sensor located within the seed meter based on the timing signal received from the first sensor to identify at least one of the presence or absence of a seed within one or more seed cells of the seed transport member as the seed meter is being operated to discharge seeds therefrom.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the timing signal provides an indication of at least one of a frequency at which the seed cells pass a given location within the seed meter or a location of the one or more seed cells relative to the second sensor.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein the second sensor is configured to provide data associated with detecting the at least one of the presence or absence of a seed within a seed cell of the seed transport member as at least one of the seed cell or the seed passes through a detection zone of the second sensor.24. The method of claim 23 , further comprising analyzing the timing signal to ...

PRECISION SEED-DISPENSING SYSTEM

A precision seed-dispensing system of the type applied on planters with a machine element that touches the soil and having a chassis that supports the seed meter. In accordance with the system disclosed herein, it may also have a damper system between the machine element that touches the soil and the seed meter, irrespective of the model or its shape. 1. A precision seed distribution system of the type applied to a planting machine , the precision seed distribution system comprising machine elements that touch the soil and a seed meter chassis that provides support to a seed meter wherein the precision seed distribution system further comprises at least one damper system between the machine element that touches the soil and the seed meter.2. The precision seed distribution system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one damper system comprises a damper system between a depth-limiting wheel and the seed meter chassis and another damper system between the seed meter chassis and the seed meter itself.3. The precision seed distribution system of claim 1 , wherein a damper of an elastomer type is positioned between the seed meter chassis and the seed meter.4. The precision seed distribution system of claim 1 , wherein basic components of the damper system are selected from the group consisting of spring(s) claim 1 , hydraulic piston(s) claim 1 , an elastomer pad(s) claim 1 , cushion pad(s) claim 1 , and electromagnetic absorber(s).5. The precision seed distribution system of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter comprises a ring with grooves and a seed conductor having vertical grooves.6. The precision seed distribution system of claim 5 , wherein the seed conductor further comprises a damper system configured to lessen vertical and horizontal vibrations from the seed meter chassis.7. The precision seed distribution system of claim 6 , wherein the damper is of the elastomer type and is coupled to the seed conductor.8. The precision seed distribution system of claim 2 , wherein a ...

AUTOMATIC SEEDING SYSTEM MOTOR REVERSAL

A motor drives a seeding system. A sensor senses a characteristic of the motor and a motor jam is detected based on the sensed characteristic. The motor is momentarily reversed, when a jam is detected. 1. A mobile planting machine comprising: a motor that drives the seeding system; and', 'a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the motor and generate a sensor signal indicative of the characteristic;, 'a seeding system configured to meter and deliver seed from the mobile planting machine, the seeding system comprisinga jam detection component configured to receive the sensor signal and compare the sensor signal to a predefined range, wherein redefined range indicates a normal operating characteristic of the motor, and, based on the comparison, detect a jam in the seeding system and generate a jam signal; anda motor control system configured to receive the jam signal and reverse an operating direction of the motor based on the jam signal.2. The mobile planting machine of and further comprising:a user interface component configured to display information related to the mobile planting machine, wherein the user interface component is configured to receive the jam signal and provide a jam indication based on the jam signal.3. The mobile planting machine of wherein the seeding system comprises a seed metering system in a row unit.4. The mobile planting machine of claim 3 , wherein the seed metering system comprises:a rotatable metering component, configured to meter seed, wherein the motor is a metering motor configured to drive the rotatable metering component, and wherein the jam detection component is configured to generate the jam signal indicative of a jam in the rotatable metering component.5. The mobile planting machine of wherein the seeding system comprises:a seed delivery system and wherein the motor drives the seed delivery system.6. The mobile planting machine of wherein the seed delivery system comprises: wherein the motor is a conveyance motor ...

Seed dispenser and conveyance system for agricultural machinery

A seed dispenser and conveyance system for agricultural machinery that encompasses a circular structural base ( 20 ) with lid ( 22 ), and an angled vertical base ( 21 ) with lid ( 23 ), on the upper part of the base ( 20 ) presenting a seed box ( 30 ), a vacuum turbine ( 40 ) and a cut disk ( 50 ), with the system activated by a bar ( 223 ) and gear ( 222 ) which rotate the selection disk (V 1 ) in a clockwise movement, transmitting the movement to the hollowed gears (B 1, C 1, D 1 and E 1 ) with gaps that convey the seed ( 60 ) to the seeding ramp ( 211 ), producing synchronized movements in opposed ways, uniformly conveying the seeds and not being subject to trepidation in the seeding line or any type of lateral, frontal and rear inclination, thus reducing the seed variation coefficient in the seeding line.

PLANTER WITH HIGH SPEED SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS

An agricultural planting implement includes a number of row units. The row units include one or more seed meters for receiving, singulating, and dispensing seed to the ground such that preferred spacing of subsequent seed is attained. A seed meter provides seeds one at time to a seed carrier, such as a brush wheel. The brush wheel may move the seeds one at a time to a seed conveyor by directly moving seeds along a curved portion of a seed disc in the seed meter. The seed conveyor may be a flighted belt, and the velocity of the seeds when transferred from the seed carrier may match the velocity of the flighted belt. The seed conveyor conveys the seeds to a position near the bottom of a furrow, and ejects the seeds with little or no horizontal velocity relative to the bottom of the furrow. 1. A row unit for use with an agricultural implement , comprising:at least one seed meter comprising a seed disc, the seed meter being adapted to provide one seed at a time to the seed meter opening;wherein the seed disc comprises a plurality of seed apertures and a curved portion radially external the plurality of seed apertures;a rotating brush in communication with the curved portion of the seed disc to receive seeds from the seed meter; anda conveyor in communication with the rotating brush to receive seeds from the rotating brush, the conveyor ejecting the seeds proximate to the ground with a horizontal velocity component near zero relative to the ground.2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein:the seed disc rotates about a seed disc axis that is generally aligned with a direction of travel for the row unit; andthe rotating brush rotates about a brush axis that is generally horizontal and transverse to the seed disc axis.3. The row unit of claim 2 , wherein the brush axis is generally perpendicular to the seed disc axis.4. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising an ejector associated with the seed disc to urge seed from one of the plurality of seed apertures and towards the ...

DEVICE FOR THE METERING OF SEED GRAIN

A device for metering of seed grain, in particular a device () for metering of seed grain () arranged on a sowing machine, comprising a carrying means () and a tube () for the outlet of seed grain () towards the sowing area, where the carrying means () is specifically made to be with negative air-pressure or positive air pressure, which comprises at least one tube () with pressurised air for directing seed grain () from the carrying means () into the tube () for the outlet of seed grain (), and a tube () with pressurised air is adjacent to the carrying means () and its axis () forms a tangent () to the carrying means () an angle of β=±30°, and the tube () for the outlet of seed grain () is adjacent to the carrying means (), wherein its axis () forms a tangent () to the carrying means () an angle of Y=±30°. 1. A device for the metering of seed grain arranged on a sowing machine for precision sowing , which comprises a carrying means and a tube for the outlet of seed grain towards the sowing area , where the carrying means is specifically made to be with negative air pressure or positive air pressure , wherein it comprises at least one tube with pressurised air for directing seed grain from the carrying means into the tube for the outlet of seed grain , the said tube with pressurised air is adjacent to the carrying means and its axis forms a tangent to the carrying means an angle of β=±30° , and the tube for the outlet of seed grain is adjacent to the carrying means , wherein its axis forms a tangent to the carrying means an angle of γ=±30°.2. The device for the metering of seed grain according to claim 1 , wherein the axis of the tube with pressurised air is parallel to the axis of the tube for the outlet of seed grain.3. The device for the metering of seed grain according to claim 1 , wherein the axis of the tube with pressurised air is claim 1 , towards the axis of the tube for the outlet of seed grain claim 1 , eccentrically shifted.4. The device for the metering ...

Multiple Singling Device

The invention relates to a multiple singling device () which is mounted on a row unit () of an agricultural single-seed drilling machine () and has a split housing () with a multifunctional centre piece (). 121132456328781089810101181056. Multiple singling device () for an agricultural air seeder () , wherein the air seeder () comprises a plurality of furrow openers () for laying seed separated by the multiple singling device () , and wherein an inlet opening () comprises at least two seed outlets () , () , each of which guides a single seed into a furrow opener () , wherein the multiple singling device () has at least one rotationally driven singling device () arranged in its outer region with regularly arranged recesses () which surround the singling device () on a first side () in its lower region , wherein the singling device () comprises a housing () to accommodate a seed stock , wherein the seed stock surrounds the singling device () on a first side () in its lower region , wherein by means of a pneumatic pressure drop , existing between the first side () and the second side () of the singling device () , individual seed is deposited on the first side () of the singling device in its recesses and is drawn from the seed stock into a seed outlet () , () by an interruption in the pressure drop ,characterized in that{'b': 9', '8', '12', '13', '14, 'the housing () surrounding the singling device () is designed in several parts, namely a central web element () carrying the housing, and at least one housing half (), () arranged on the right and left of the web.'}2. Multiple singling device according to claim 1 ,characterized in that{'b': 13', '15', '8', '14', '16', '9, 'one housing half () has a drive unit () for the rotating singling device () and another housing half () has an air discharge opening () for generating the pressure drop in the housing ().'}3. Multiple singling device according to claim 1 ,characterized in that{'b': 13', '14', '5', '6', '3, 'a housing ...

SEEDING MACHINE WITH SEED DELIVERY SYSTEM

A seed delivery system for a seeding machine having a seed meter comprises a housing that defines an upper seed loading area and a lower seed discharge area. A drive pulley is mounted to rotate with respect to the housing. A belt is supported for rotation by the drive pulley within the housing. A loading wheel is mounted to rotate with respect to the housing to transfer seeds from the seed meter into the belt at the seed loading area. The belt conveys the seeds through the housing as the belt travels from the seed loading area to the seed discharge area. 1. A seed delivery system for a seeding machine having a seed meter , the system comprising:a housing defining an upper seed loading area and a lower seed discharge area;a drive pulley mounted to rotate with respect to the housing;a belt having a base supported for rotation by the drive pulley within the housing; anda loading wheel mounted to rotate with respect to the housing to transfer seeds from the seed meter into the belt at the seed loading area;wherein the belt conveys the seeds through the housing as the belt travels from the seed loading area to the seed discharge area.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the seeds are singulated before the loading wheel transfers the seeds into the belt; andwherein the belt maintains the seeds in spaced relation in a belt travel direction as the seeds are conveyed by the belt through the housing to the seed discharge area3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the drive pulley drives the belt to discharge the seeds at a speed based on a travel speed of the seeding machine.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein at the seed discharge area the belt discharges the seeds to have a horizontal speed that is approximately the same as the travel speed of the seeding machine in a direction opposite a travel direction of the seeding machine.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the belt has distal ends extending outward from the base; andwherein the distal ends are one of proximate and in contact ...

SEED METERING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A seed metering system includes a seed tank including a seed tank outlet, and a number of row units. Each and every row unit of the number of row units comprises a singulating meter in selective communication with the seed tank outlet, a bypass conduit in selective communication with the seed tank outlet, and an outlet. The seed metering system further includes a volumetric metering system positioned upstream of the number of row units and operable to volumetrically meter the plurality of seeds. The seed metering system is operable in a first mode of operation in which the seed tank outlet communicates with each singulating meter via the volumetric metering system to singulate the plurality of seeds. The seed metering system is operable in a second mode of operation in which the seed tank outlet communicates with each bypass conduit via the volumetric metering system and seeds are not singulated. 1. A seed metering system for selectively metering a plurality of seeds , the seed metering system comprising:a seed tank including a seed tank outlet; a singulating meter in selective communication with the seed tank outlet,', 'a bypass conduit in selective communication with the seed tank outlet, and', 'an outlet common to and downstream of the singulating meter and the bypass conduit; and, 'a number of row units, wherein each and every row unit of the number of row units comprisesa volumetric metering system positioned upstream of the number of row units and operable to volumetrically meter the plurality of seeds,wherein the seed metering system is operable in a first mode of operation in which the seed tank outlet communicates with each singulating meter via the volumetric metering system to singulate the plurality of seeds, andwherein the seed metering system is operable in a second mode of operation in which the seed tank outlet communicates with each bypass conduit via the volumetric metering system and seeds are not singulated.2. The seed metering system of claim 1 ...

METER ROLLER CARTRIDGE FRAME FOR AN AGRICULTURAL METERING SYSTEM

A method of configuring an agricultural metering system includes coupling one of a first meter roller cartridge frame and a second meter roller cartridge frame to a meter roller to form a meter roller cartridge. The first meter roller cartridge frame has one or more first openings having a first aggregate area, and the second meter roller cartridge frame has one or more second openings having a second aggregate area, different from the first aggregate area. The method includes engaging the meter roller cartridge with a meter box of the agricultural metering system. 1. A method of configuring an agricultural metering system , comprising:coupling one of a first meter roller cartridge frame and a second meter roller cartridge frame to a meter roller to form a meter roller cartridge, wherein the first meter roller cartridge frame has one or more first openings having a first aggregate area, and the second meter roller cartridge frame has one or more second openings having a second aggregate area, different from the first aggregate area; andengaging the meter roller cartridge with a meter box of the agricultural metering system.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first meter roller cartridge frame comprises a blocking portion configured to block material from entering a first segment of the meter roller.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein one opening of the one or more second openings is configured to align with the first segment of the meter roller to enable the first segment of the meter roller to facilitate flow of the material.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein one opening of the one or more first openings is configured to align with a second segment of the meter roller to enable the second segment of the meter roller to facilitate flow of the material.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first meter roller cartridge frame comprises a slat configured to align with and substantially match a contour of a ring of the meter roller claim 3 , the ring separates the ...

SOWING ELEMENT FOR PRECISION PNEUMATIC SEED DRILLS

A sowing element for precision pneumatic seed drills. The sowing element includes a selector disc for isolating the seed, the selector disc being rotatable about an axis (X), and a conduit for transporting the seed with an initial portion which is proximal to a position for removing the seed from the selector disc and an intermediate portion which extends in continuation of the initial portion. The conduit, at least in the initial portion and in the intermediate portion, is substantially rectilinear and substantially coaxial and has an axis (Y) which is located inside a plane which is substantially perpendicular to the sowing ground and parallel with the sowing advance direction. 11228122131281213. A sowing element () for pneumatic seed drills comprising a selector disc () for isolating the seed (S) , the selector disc () being rotatable about an axis (X) , a conduit () for transporting the seed (S) with an initial portion () which is proximal to a position for removing the seed (S) from the selector disc () and an intermediate portion () which extends in continuation of the initial portion () , characterized in that the conduit () , at least in the initial portion () and in the intermediate portion () , is substantially rectilinear and substantially coaxial and has an axis (Y) which is located inside a plane which is substantially perpendicular to the sowing ground and parallel with the sowing advance direction.211213. A sowing element () according to claim 1 , wherein the conduit in the initial portion () and in the intermediate portion () is substantially perpendicular to the sowing ground or orientated backwards with respect to the sowing is advance direction.381213. A sowing element according to any of the preceding claims claim 1 , wherein the conduit () at least in the initial portion () and in the intermediate portion () extends substantially vertically during use on a sowing surface (G) which is substantially planar.41181213822. A sowing element () ...

SOWING ELEMENT FOR PRECISION PNEUMATIC SEED DRILLS

A sowing element for precision pneumatic seed drills. The sowing element includes a conduit for transporting the seed with an initial portion which is proximal to a device for isolating the seed, an intermediate portion which extends in continuation of the initial portion, and a terminal portion for dispensing the seed; and a pneumatic accelerator which is arranged along the conduit for transporting the seed. The pneumatic accelerator is positioned between the intermediate portion and the terminal portion of the conduit for transporting the seed. 1. A sowing element for a precision pneumatic seed drills which transports seed in a sowing advance direction and distributes the seed on a sowing ground , the sowing element comprising an isolating device for isolating the seed which includes a selector disc , the selector disc separating inside the isolating device two chambers which are configured to contain the seed to be isolated and to pressurize the isolating device , respectively , and wherein a pressure difference is established between the chambers by a pneumatic device , the pressure difference being generated and maintained via a series of holes extending between the opposite surfaces of the selector disc , so as to cause a seed to adhere there for each hole and to transport the seed which is isolated in this manner towards a conduit for transporting the seed with an initial portion which is proximal to the isolating device for isolating the seed , an intermediate portion which extends in continuation of the initial portion and a terminal portion , having a curvature , for dispensing the seed , wherein the conduit , at least in the initial portion and in the intermediate portion , is rectilinear and coaxial , and further comprising a pneumatic accelerator which is arranged along the conduit for transporting the seed , the pneumatic accelerator being positioned between the intermediate portion and the terminal portion of the conduit for transporting the seed , ...

Sowing Element for Agricultural Precision Sowing Machines and Sowing Machine Comprising the Sowing Element

A sowing element ( 1 ) for agricultural precision sowing machines ( 100 ) comprising a seed selection device ( 10 ) which includes a casing ( 10 a ) and a perforated disc ( 18 ) which is caused to rotate in the casing, a pressurization device associated with the casing in order to subject opposite faces ( 18 a, b ) of the disc to a pressure differential, an opening ( 16 ) in the casing which is for ventilating one of the faces of the disc and which is or can be pneumatically connected to a filtration system ( 42 ) or a remote intake system. In this manner, the introduction of sand and powder inside the seed selection device is prevented.

ROW UNIT FOR A SEEDING MACHINE WITH DUAL SEED METERS

A row unit for a seeding machine has a seed meter assembly having first and second reservoirs for holding a first pool of seeds and a second pool of seeds, respectively. The seed meter assembly is operable to selectively transport seeds from the first pool and seeds from the second pool. The row unit also has a conveyor with a conduit for receiving seeds and configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine, and a seed loader disposed between the seed meter assembly and the conveyor for directing the seeds from the seed meter assembly to the conveyor.

SEED METER ASSEMBLY FOR A SEEDING MACHINE

A seed meter assembly for a seeding machine. The seed meter assembly has a metering member mounted for rotation about a meter axis and driven to rotate in a direction of travel, the metering member having an inner surface configured to receive seeds and an outer surface and apertures passing through the metering member between the inner surface and the outer surface at a radial distance from the meter axis. The seed meter assembly also has a loader including at least one loader surface movable into and out of a position in which the loader surface is disposed at the radial distance adjacent one of the apertures. 1. A seed meter assembly for a seeding machine , the seed meter assembly comprising:a metering member mounted for rotation about a meter axis and driven to rotate in a direction of travel, the metering member having an inner surface configured to receive seeds and an outer surface, and apertures passing through the metering member between the inner surface and the outer surface at a radial distance from the meter axis; anda loader including at least one loader surface movable into and out of a position in which the loader surface is disposed at the radial distance adjacent one of the apertures.2. The seed meter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the metering member includes driving members claim 1 , wherein the loader includes driven members claim 1 , and wherein the driving members are configured to engage the driven members as the metering member rotates about the meter axis such that the metering member drives the loader about the loader axis.3. The seed meter of claim 2 , wherein the driven members extend from the hub portion at a first radial distance from the loader axis claim 2 , and wherein the at least one loader surface is disposed at a second radial distance from the loader axis greater than the first radial distance.4. The seed meter of claim 3 , wherein the driven members include drive pegs extending from the hub portion in a direction generally ...

Seed Meter

A seed meter for an agricultural planter in which the seed disc is rotatably mounted within a seed meter housing. As the seed disc rotates, the apertures in the disc rotate along a seed aperture path through a horizontally adjacent seed pool area. The seed disc includes cavities disposed along the seed aperture path to agitate the seeds in the seed pool area. A singulator having multiple co-planar singulator surfaces is biased against the seed side surface of the seed disc. 1. A seed meter for an agricultural planter , comprising:a meter housing including a seed housing, said seed housing defining a seed pool area into which seeds are communicated and collected; anda seed disc rotatably mounted within said meter housing, said seed disc having a seed side surface defining a seed plane, said seed disc having a central axis and a direction of rotation, said seed disc further having a plurality of seed apertures spaced radially outward from said central axis, said plurality of apertures defining a seed path along said seed plane, said seed side surface having a plurality of cavities intersecting said seed path, each of said cavities having a portion inward of an inner radius of said seed path, and each of said cavities further having a surface recessed relative to said seed plane; anda singulator having a plurality of lobes disposed to remove seeds from said seed apertures, said lobes contacting said seed side surface wherein said cavities rotate sequentially past and adjacent to said lobes during operation.2. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein said singulator is radially biased against said seed disc.3. The seed meter of claim 2 , wherein said singulator is radially biased against an outer radial perimeter of said seed disc.4. The seed meter of claim 3 , further including:a seed side housing; anda radial spring, wherein said radial spring includes a first portion mounted to said seed side housing, a second portion mounted to said seed side housing, and a third portion ...

ROW UNIT FOR A SEEDING MACHINE WITH DUAL SEED METERS

A row unit for a seeding machine includes a frame and a seed meter coupled to the frame. The seed meter has a metering member for singulating seeds. The metering member has a groove recessed from a surface of the metering member. The row unit also includes a ramp surface for guiding the singulated seeds from the metering member, the ramp surface being at least partially disposed in the groove. 1. A row unit for a seeding machine comprising:a frame;a seed meter coupled to the frame, the seed meter having a metering member for singulating seeds, the metering member having a groove recessed from a surface of the metering member; anda ramp surface for guiding the singulated seeds from the metering member, wherein the ramp surface is at least partially disposed in the groove.2. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the metering member is rotatable about an axis claim 1 , and wherein the groove is substantially arcuate with respect to the axis such that the ramp surface frictionally engages the metering member in the groove as the metering member rotates.3. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 2 , wherein the groove is substantially circular.4. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the ramp surface is disposed flush with or recessed from the surface of the metering member.5. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein the metering member includes a plurality of apertures for attracting seeds at least in part by a pressure differential claim 1 , wherein the ramp surface is disposed adjacent at least one of the apertures for guiding the seeds away from the at least one aperture.6. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the ramp surface is disposed in the groove.7. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 6 , wherein the ramp surface is inclined.8. The row unit for a seeding machine of claim 6 , wherein the ramp surface is substantially arcuate.9. The row unit for a seeding machine of ...

SEED PLANTING APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A seed meter includes a seed disc rotatable in a direction of rotation. The seed disc has a plurality of seed apertures defining a circular path as the seed disc rotates and on which seeds from a seed source are entrained. A singulator is disposed along to the circular path. The singulator has a plurality of outer lobes and a first orientation lobe located downstream of the outer lobes. As the entrained seeds rotate along the circular path, the first orientation lobe contacts the entrained seeds to change their orientation. In some embodiments, the first orientation lobe may be disposed to remove excess seeds from the apertures and a second orientation lobe may change the orientation of the entrained seed. 1. A seed meter comprising:a seed disc rotatable in a direction of rotation, said seed disc including a seed side having a plurality of seed apertures, said plurality of seed apertures defining a circular path as said seed disc rotates in said direction of travel, said plurality of seed apertures entraining seeds from a seed pool as said seed disc rotates in said direction of travel;a first brush disposed in said seed meter on said seed side;a second brush disposed in said seed meter on said seed side; anda flap pivotably attached to a lower end of said first brush;wherein when said seed meter is in a transport position, said flap pivots under gravity and contacts said second brush, and wherein when said seed meter is in a working position, said flap pivots under gravity away from said second brush.2. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein said seed disc claim 1 , said flap claim 1 , said first brush claim 1 , and said second brush cooperate to prevent seeds from said seed pool passing through an exit in said seed meter when said seed meter is in said transport position.3. The seed meter of claim 1 , further comprising a seed singulator.4. The seed meter of claim 3 , wherein when said seed meter is in said working position claim 3 , any entrained seeds removed from ...

Crop input variety selection systems, methods, and apparatus

Systems, methods and apparatus for selection of crop-input varieties. In one embodiment multiple varieties of seeds may be planted utilizing a row unit seed hopper having a plurality of compartments for receiving seed, each compartment having a seed passage through which seeds pass under gravity. A seed transfer actuator is disposed within or below the row unit seed hopper and is in communication with each of the seed passages and is configured to selectively open the seed passage of one of the plurality of compartments thereby permitting the seeds therein to pass into the seed pool of a seed meter while closing the seed passage of other of the plurality of compartments preventing the seeds from the other plurality of compartments passing into the seed pool of the seed meter.

MULTIPLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT APPLICATION METHOD AND SYSTEMS

A row unit of an agricultural planter includes a seed meter. The seed meter includes first and second disks within a seed meter housing. The first and second seed disks are positioned in the seed meter housing such that the disks rotate in the same rotation direction and include a common seed release point. A single drive member is operatively connected to both the first and second seed disks such that the drive member selectively rotates one or both of the first or second seed disks at a time. The seed disks may be angularly positioned and conical-shaped member with a central axis and comprising seed cells radially positioned about an outer portion and being substantially non-perpendicular to the central axis. An air pressure source also is included to adhere seed to the disks. 1. A row unit for use with an agricultural planting implement , comprising: a. a seed meter housing;', 'b. a first seed disk and a second seed disk positioned in the seed meter housing such that the disks rotate in the same rotation direction and include a common seed release point;, 'a seed meter comprisinga single drive member operatively connected to both the first and second seed disks such that the drive member selectively rotates one or both of the first or second seed disks at a time.2. The row unit of claim 1 , wherein the seed meter housing comprises a wall separating the first disk and the second disk.3. The row unit of claim 2 , wherein the seed meter housing further defines a first seed pool collection area for storing seed associated with the first seed disk claim 2 , and a second seed pool collection area for storing a different seed hybrid associated with the second seed disk.4. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising a first clutch operatively positioned between the drive member and the first seed disk claim 1 , and a second clutch operatively positioned between the drive member and second seed disk claim 1 , the first and second clutches configured to provide the ...

SEED METER ASSEMBLY FOR A SEEDING MACHINE

A seed meter assembly for a seeding machine. The seed meter assembly has a metering member mounted for rotation about a meter axis and driven to rotate in a direction of travel, the metering member having an inner surface configured to receive seeds and an outer surface and apertures passing through the metering member between the inner surface and the outer surface at a radial distance from the meter axis. The seed meter assembly also has a seed delivery mechanism configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine, and a loader including at least one non-cylindrical loader surface movable into and out of a position in which the loader surface is disposed at the radial distance adjacent one of the apertures. 1. A seed meter assembly for a seeding machine , the seed meter assembly comprising:a metering member mounted for rotation about a meter axis and driven to rotate in a direction of travel, the metering member having an inner surface configured to receive seeds and an outer surface, and apertures passing through the metering member between the inner surface and the outer surface at a radial distance from the meter axis;a seed delivery mechanism configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine; anda loader including at least one non-cylindrical loader surface movable into and out of a position in which the loader surface is disposed at the radial distance, adjacent one of the apertures.2. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the loader is configured to engage the seed delivery mechanism to direct the seeds from the metering member into the seed delivery mechanism.3. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the seed delivery mechanism includes a brush belt claim 1 , and wherein the loader is configured to engage the brush belt to direct the seeds from the metering member into the brush belt.4. The seed meter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the metering member includes driving members claim 1 , wherein the loader includes driven members claim 1 , and ...

DIRECT VACUUM SEED METERING SYSTEM AND METHOD

One embodiment describes a seed metering system that includes a first seed meter that controls seed deposition by a first row unit on a seed planting implement; a first direct vacuum source fluidly coupled to the first seed meter, in which the first direct vacuum source supplies vacuum pressure only to the first seed meter to enable the first seed meter to control seed deposition by the first row unit; a second seed meter that controls seed deposition by a second row unit on the seed planting implement; a second direct vacuum source fluidly coupled to the second seed meter, wherein the second direct vacuum source supplies vacuum pressure only to the second seed meter to enable the second seed meter to control seed deposition by the second row unit; and a control unit communicatively coupled to the first direct vacuum source and the second direct vacuum source, in which the control unit controls vacuum pressure supplied by the first direct vacuum source and the second direct vacuum source independently. 1. A seed metering system comprising:a first seed meter configured to control seed deposition by a first row unit on a seed planting implement;a first direct vacuum source fluidly coupled to the first seed meter, wherein the first direct vacuum source is configured to supply vacuum pressure only to the first seed meter to enable the first seed meter to control seed deposition by the first row unit;a second seed meter configured to control seed deposition by a second row unit on the seed planting implement;a second direct vacuum source fluidly coupled to the second seed meter, wherein the second direct vacuum source is configured to supply vacuum pressure only to the second seed meter to enable the second seed meter to control seed deposition by the second row unit; anda control unit communicatively coupled to the first direct vacuum source and the second direct vacuum source, wherein the control unit is configured to control vacuum pressure supplied by the first ...

AIR SEED METER WITH ADJUSTABLE SINGULATOR

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor.

Belted Seed Transfer Mechanism

The present invention is directed to a seed discharge system is that employs a pair of rotating belts spaced from one another to receive the seeds from a seed metering device and to direct the seeds into the desired location within a trench over which the discharge system is positioned. The seeds are received within a gap formed between the belts and are clamped and held between the belts as the belts move, consequently moving the seeds from the seed metering device to the discharge opening of the discharge system. The constant engagement of the seeds with the belts through the discharge system prevents the seeds from bouncing, thereby maintaining a constant residence time for the seeds within the discharge system.

Product control assembly for an agricultural product meter

A product control assembly for an agricultural product meter includes a first product control barrier configured to extend along a product path. The product path extends from an agricultural product storage area to an outlet, the first product control barrier includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion is pivotally coupled to the first portion, the second portion is configured to contact an outlet barrier while the agricultural product meter is in a non-working position. The product control assembly also includes a second product control barrier configured to form an end of the agricultural product storage area and to be spaced apart from the outlet barrier, and the first and second product control barriers are configured to cooperate to substantially block flow of the agricultural product from the agricultural product storage area into the outlet while the agricultural product meter is in the non-working position.

METERING SYSTEM OF AN AGRICULTURAL MACHINE

A metering system of an agricultural machine comprises a separating housing, a separating device arranged in the separating housing, an associated seed storage chamber disposed on the separating side of the separating device in the distributor housing, a storage container which is associated directly with the seed storage chamber of the separating housing, a partition wall which is arranged between the storage container and the seed storage chamber, at least one seed passage opening which is arranged in the partition wall and the passage size of which can be adjusted by at least one adjustable slide element by way of at least one adjustment element. 1. A metering system of an agricultural machine comprising: a separating housing , a separating device of said metering system arranged in said separating housing , an associated seed storage chamber disposed on the separating side of said separating device in said distributor housing , a storage container which is associated directly with said seed storage chamber of said separating housing , a partition wall which is arranged between said storage container and said seed storage chamber , at least one seed passage opening which is arranged in said partition wall and the passage size of which can be adjusted by at least one adjustable slide element by way of at least one adjustment element , characterized in that said at least one adjustment element of said adjustable slide element is configured as a motorized actuating element , that said motorized actuating element is connected to an electronic on-board computer by way of a data transmission device , in particular a data line , that data for adjusting the passage size of said passage opening determined by the slide position of said slide is saved and/or stored in at least one memory of said on-board computer and , accordingly , said motorized actuating element of said slide is actuatable and/or is actuated for adjusting the passage size of said passage opening.2. The ...

ROW UNIT FOR A SEEDING MACHINE WITH PNEUMATIC SEED LOADING

A row unit for a seeding machine includes a seed reservoir and a seed meter assembly having a metering member with a seed side facing the seed reservoir and a non-seed side opposite the seed side. The metering member is operable to selectively move seeds from the seed reservoir. A pump provides a pressure differential between the seed side and the non-seed side for adhering the seeds to the metering member. A conveyor has an inlet for receiving the seeds and an outlet configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine. The conveyor includes a belt movable from the inlet to the outlet. A pneumatic seed displacer includes a nozzle disposed adjacent the metering member for concentrating air. The nozzle is configured to eject the air towards the metering member for directing the seeds from the metering member to the conveyor. 1. A row unit for a seeding machine , the row unit comprising:a seed reservoir; a metering member having a seed side facing the seed reservoir and a non-seed side opposite the seed side, the metering member operable to selectively move seeds from the seed reservoir, and', 'a pump providing a pressure differential between the seed side and the non-seed side for adhering the seeds to the metering member;, 'a seed meter assembly including'}a conveyor having an inlet for receiving the seeds and an outlet configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine, wherein the conveyor includes a belt movable from the inlet to the outlet; anda pneumatic seed displacer including a nozzle for concentrating air, wherein the nozzle is disposed adjacent the metering member, and wherein the nozzle is configured to eject the air towards the metering member for directing the seeds from the metering member to the conveyor.2. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising an air source providing a higher-than-atmospheric pressure air to the pneumatic seed displacer.3. The row unit of claim 2 , wherein the air source includes an output side of the pump.4. The ...

AIR SEED METER DISC WITH FLOW DIRECTING POCKETS

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter for an agricultural planter , comprising:a housing defining a seed reservoir, a discharge chute, and a vacuum chamber; anda seed disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for retaining seeds, said disc having channels adjacent to each respective seed cell;said seed apertures positioned adjacent a false edge positioned inward from an outer edge of the seed disc.2. The air seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the position of the seed aperture adjacent the false edge positions a seed at or near the edge for better consistency during release of the seed from the disc.3. The air seed meter of claim 1 , further comprising an extension surface extending from the false edge of the seed disc to the outer edge of the seed disc.4. The air seed meter of claim 3 , wherein the false edge comprises a chamfered edge.5. The air seed meter of claim 3 , wherein the outer edge of the seed disc comprises an annular lip extending generally away from the false edge.6. The air seed meter of claim 3 , wherein seed cells and channels positioned ...

AIR SEED METER WITH INTERNAL DRIVE

A seed metering system, for use on a row crop planter, selects individual seeds from a seed reservoir and dispenses the seeds singularly at a controlled rate. A direct drive seed metering system includes a seed disc having a plurality of suction apertures with a recessed pocket adjacent to an aperture. The recessed pockets act to agitate seeds in the seed reservoir and to direct seed flow towards the apertures. A seed path relief system provides for allowing the placement of the seeds such that they are released from an outer edge of the seed disc. An adjustable seed singulator is mounted adjacent to the face of the seed disc where inner and outer blades are adjusted radially to compensate for the singulation of various seed sizes and shapes. The seed disc is driven via engagement of an internal gear with the external gear of an independent drive motor. 1. An air seed meter for an agricultural planter , comprising:a housing with an inner chamber;a disc mounted in said housing for rotation about an axis and having a plurality of seed cells spaced radially about the axis for retaining seeds, said disc having an internal gear comprising gear teeth oriented toward the axis of the disc; anda power source with an output shaft and an external gear mounted to said output shaft, said external gear engaged with the internal gear of said disc to directly control the rotational speed of the disc at an offset location from the axis of the disc.2. The air seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the power source is an electric motor.3. The air seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the gear ratio of the internal gear to the external gear of the disc is 12:1.4. The air seed meter of claim 1 , wherein the disc comprises a flanged portion between an inner lip and an outer chamfer.5. The air seed meter of claim 4 , wherein the internal gear is positioned inward from the inner lip of the flanged portion of the disc.6. The air seed meter of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the output shaft of the power ...

Seed delivery apparatus, systems, and methods

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 illustrates a side elevation view of a single row unit ( 10 ) of a conventional row crop planter such as the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,438,006, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. As is well known in the art, the row units ( 10 ) are mounted in spaced relation along the length of a transverse toolbar ( 12 ) by a parallel linkage ( 14 ), comprised of upper and lower parallel arms ( 16, 18 ) pivotally mounted at their forward ends to the transverse toolbar ( 12 ) and at their rearward end to the row unit frame ( 20 ).

SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR CROP INPUT VARIETY SELECTION

Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatus for agricultural planting including selecting and varying agricultural input types during an in-field operation. In one embodiment, a method of calculating a volume of a seed during planting comprises adding a known volume of seed to a seed pool that has a fill level sensor. The method further includes dispensing seeds from the seed pool and as the seeds are dispensed, counting the number of seeds with a seed sensor. The method further includes stopping counting when the fill level sensor indicates no seeds present and calculating seed volume by dividing the known volume by the number of seeds counted. 1. A method of calculating a volume of a seed during planting comprising:adding a known volume of seed to a seed pool, wherein the seed pool has a fill level sensor;dispensing seeds from the seed pool, and as the seeds are dispensed, counting the number of seeds with a seed sensor;stopping counting when the fill level sensor indicates a seed level in the seed pool is below a fill level; andcalculating seed volume based on the known volume and the number of seeds counted.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:detecting with the fill level sensor that the seed level in the seed pool is below the fill level;sending a signal to an actuator to provide a gate opening within a hopper for a set period of time to allow a set volume of seed to be filled into the seed pool in response to the fill level sensor detecting that the seed level in the seed pool is below the fill level.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:determining a number of gate openings within the hopper to calculate a running average of seeds per gate opening during dispensing of the seeds; andcorrelating the running average of seeds per gate opening with seed size.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising:using the running average per fill calculation to determine an average seed size.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the seed volume ...

SEED METER

A seed meter is disclosed as having resilient tines for eliminating multiple seeds from being disposed for planting. As the seeds are displaced along a seed path, the resilient tines contacts the additional seeds with a force so as to dislodge additional seeds while not dislodging seeds wherein individual seeds are present. This helps in planting the seeds individually and sequentially. 1. A seed meter for singulating seed from a seed pool and sequentially dispensing individual seeds at a discharge location , the seed meter comprising:a housing;a seed metering device movable within said housing, said seed metering device defining cavities for collecting seeds therein and carrying seeds from the seed pool along a defined seed path to the discharge location as the seed metering device moves within said housing; anda plurality of elongated resilient tines having a proximal end fixed to the housing and an operative distal end, said operative distal end of said resilient tines configured to contact the seeds in said cavities to remove excess seed from said cavities to ensure release of individual seeds from the discharge location for sowing, wherein at least one of said resilient tines is positioned in at least one of a radially inner side and a radially outer side of said defined seed path.2. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein said seed path is circular.3. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein each of said resilient tines are radially spaced apart with respect to adjacent resilient tines on the radially inner side of said defined seed path.4. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein each of said resilient tines are radially spaced apart with respect to adjacent resilient tines on the radially outer side of said defined seed path.5. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein said resilient tines in an operative configuration are guided into each of said cavities to ensure presence of individual seed to be dispensed for sowing.6. The seed meter of claim 1 , wherein each of said ...

METHOD FOR METERING GRANULAR MATERIAL AND APPARATUS FOR METERING GRANULAR MATERIAL

Disclosed are a method for metering granular material, such as seeds, fertilizer, or the like, in particular within a distribution unit or sowing unit of a distribution machine or sowing machine as well as a corresponding metering apparatus. By way of the method, the granular material being carried and conveyed by an airflow and/or by its own kinetic energy is directed through a feed tube into a metering unit, where it is guided along an approximately circular arc path and tangentially directed into an outlet tube, which is adjacent to the metering unit and which runs, at least in a section, slightly curved. The granular material being approximately evenly spaced and/or evenly metered and conveyed in an outer area of the curved outlet tube is at least partially carried by the airflow being discharged and exiting the metering unit through the outlet tube. 1. A method for metering granular material , such as seeds , fertilizer , or the like , in particular within a distribution unit or sowing unit of a distribution machine or sowing machine , in which the granular material being carried and conveyed by an airflow and/or by its kinetic energy is directed through a feed tube into a metering unit , guided therein along an approximately circular arc path and tangentially directed into an outlet tube , which is adjacent to the metering unit and which runs slightly curved at least along a section.2. The method as recited in claim 1 , in which the granular material being approximately evenly spaced and/or evenly metered and conveyed in an outer area of the curved outlet tube is at least partially carried by the airflow being discharged and exiting the metering unit through the outlet tube.3. The method as recited in claim 1 , in which the granular material being approximately evenly spaced and/or evenly metered and conveyed in an outer area of the curved outlet tube is conveyed by its own kinetic energy through the outlet tube after leaving the metering unit.4. The method as ...

CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY DETERMINING CHARACTERISTIC FOR OPTIMUM MACHINE PERFORMANCE

A control system and method for automatically determining characteristic for optimum machine performance including a user interface console, a processor and a controller. Data for operation setting and optimization condition is fed into the control system through the user interface console. The processor processes the data by incrementing at least one variable parameter to generate an output data corresponding to each incremented variable parameter. 1. A control system for automatically determining a work machine characteristic for optimum work machine performance , said control system comprising:a user interface console having a display and a data input device for entering data including at least one operation setting and at least one optimization condition that is a variable parameter;a processor responsive to said at least one optimization condition and said at least one operation setting, said processor configured to increment the value of the variable parameter of the at least one of said optimization condition to generate a set of controlling signals;a controller sequentially transmitting each of said controlling signals to at least one mechanism; andat least one sensor sensing a set of measure of performances of said mechanism corresponding to each of said controlling signals, said measure of performances being displayed on said user interface console for selection thereof,wherein said measures of the work machine performance being displayed on said user interface console for selection thereof.2. The control system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the operation settings include at least one of the parameters to be fixed for the work vehicle during operation thereof.3. The control system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the optimization process conditions include at least one of range of values for said variable operating parameter claim 1 , an increment step size and a sensitivity value of the variable operating parameter.4. The control system as claimed in ...

CROP INPUT VARIETY SELECTION SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed for selecting an agricultural input. First and second seed meters selectively meter seed from first and second sources, respectively, into a common planting trench. In some embodiments the seed meters are selectively operated by electric motors controlled with reference to a seed type prescription. In some embodiments the first and second seed meters deposit seeds along a common plane. 1. A method of operating an agricultural seed planter , said agricultural seed planter having:a row unit configured to open a planting trench in a soil surface as said row unit advances in a forward direction of travel;a first seed meter having a first seed meter disc which meters and releases a first seed therefrom for depositing into said planting trench; said first seed meter disc rotating about a first axis of rotation in a first direction, said first axis of rotation oriented substantially perpendicular to said forward direction of travel of said row unit;a second seed meter having a second seed meter disc which meters and releases a second seed therefrom for depositing into said planting trench, said second seed meter disc rotating about a second axis of rotation in a second direction, said second axis of rotation oriented substantially perpendicular to said forward direction of travel of said row unit;a pressure source producing an air flow to said first seed meter and said second seed meter;a first entrainer disposed to entrain said first seed with said air flow from said pressure source, said first entrainer communicating said entrained first seed to said first seed meter;a second entrainer disposed to entrain said second seed with said air flow from said pressure source, said second entrainer communicating said entrained second seed to said second seed meter; anda reducing actuator disposed between said pressure source and said first entrainer and said second entrainer;said method comprising:switching from planting said first seed ...

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

A seed delivery apparatus and methods in which a seed conveyor delivers seed from a metering device to a trench in a controlled manner to maintain seed placement accuracy within the trench. 1. A seed delivery apparatus , comprising:a seed meter configured to entrain seeds on a seed disc and to release said entrained seeds at a seed release location; and a seed conveyor having an inner surface and an outer surface, said inner surface having a plurality of inwardly projecting spaced teeth defining sequential belt gaps, said outer surface having a plurality of outwardly projecting spaced flights defining sequential flight gaps which receive the released seed;', 'an upper pulley having a first set of radially arranged pulley teeth and a second set of radially arranged pulley teeth angularly offset from said first set of radially arranged pulley teeth, each of said first and second set of radially arranged pulley teeth alternatingly engaging said sequential belt gaps; and', 'a cleaning strip disposed adjacent to said upper pulley to clean debris from said upper pulley., 'a seed conveyor assembly having an upper end disposed to receive the released seed, said seed conveyor assembly including2. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said first set of pulley teeth and said second set of pulley teeth are laterally offset by a rim.3. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 2 , wherein said inner surface of said seed conveyor includes a slot which receives said rim.4. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said cleaning strip extends arcuately forwardly along a direction of rotation of said upper pulley.5. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:an agitation strip disposed to agitate seeds conveyed by said conveyor.6. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a loading wheel disposed to introduce said released seeds into said flight gaps of said conveyor.7. The seed delivery apparatus of further comprising:a seed guide ...

ROW UNIT FOR A SEEDING MACHINE WITH PNEUMATIC SEED LOADING

A row unit for a seeding machine includes a seed reservoir and a seed meter assembly having a metering member with a seed side facing the seed reservoir and a non-seed side opposite the seed side. The metering member is operable to selectively move seeds from the seed reservoir. A pump provides a pressure differential between the seed side and the non-seed side for adhering the seeds to the metering member. A conveyor has an inlet for receiving the seeds and an outlet configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine. The conveyor includes a belt movable from the inlet to the outlet. A pneumatic seed displacer includes a nozzle disposed adjacent the metering member for concentrating air. The nozzle is configured to eject the air towards the metering member for directing the seeds from the metering member to the conveyor. 1. A row unit for a seeding machine , the row unit comprising:a seed reservoir; a metering member having a seed side facing the seed reservoir and a non-seed side opposite the seed side, the metering member operable to selectively move seeds from the seed reservoir, and', 'a pump providing a pressure differential between the seed side and the non-seed side for adhering the seeds to the metering member;, 'a seed meter assembly including'}a conveyor having an inlet for receiving the seeds and an outlet configured to discharge the seeds from the seeding machine, wherein the conveyor includes a belt movable from the inlet to the outlet; anda pneumatic seed displacer including a nozzle for concentrating air, wherein the nozzle is disposed adjacent the metering member, and wherein the nozzle is configured to eject the air towards the metering member for directing the seeds from the metering member to the conveyor.2. The row unit of claim 1 , further comprising an air source providing a higher-than-atmospheric pressure air to the pneumatic seed displacer.3. The row unit of claim 2 , wherein the air source includes an output side of the pump.4. The ...

METERING DISK OF A DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR GRANULAR MATERIAL

Disclosed is a rotating conveyor disk of a metering or sowing unit having a plurality of recesses for transporting grains. The conveyor disk rotates within a housing of a metering unit for granular material, such as seeds, fertilizer, or the like. The conveyor disk has at least one recess at the outer periphery for the reception of at least one grain to be separated via at least one revolution of the conveyor disk. In the interaction with a groove-shaped profile of the inner cover surface, the at least one recess forms a conveyor pocket for conveying one grain or a plurality of grains in the direction toward an outlet opening extending approximately tangentially to the inner cover surface. The at least one recess is located at the outer periphery of the conveyor disk in an insert element that is detachably secured in the disk. 1. A conveyor disk assembly for use in a metering unit for granular material comprising a conveyor disk that rotates within the metering unit relative to an inner surface of the metering unit and a first insert detachably anchored to the conveyor disk within an insert receiver formed in the conveyor disk , the insert receiver formed in a front face of the conveyor disk proximate an outer periphery thereof , the first insert having a first mating feature detachably engageable with a second mating feature on the conveyor disk in or proximate the insert receiver for detachably securing the first insert in the insert receiver , the first insert having a recess formed therein , such that when the first insert is secured in the insert receiver , the recess of the first insert opens radially outward relative to an axis of rotation of the conveyor disk and also opens in a direction generally parallel to the axis of rotation and away from a front face of the conveyor disk.2. The conveyor disk assembly as in wherein the recess formed in the first insert at least partially forms a pocket of a first size with a portion of the inner surface of the metering ...

SEED METER UNLOADING SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for controlling an agricultural implement having a plurality of row units. In some embodiments, seeds are planted by rotating a seed disc in a first direction; seeds are then unloaded from a seed disc into a seed pool by rotating the seed disc in a second direction. In some such embodiments an amount of rotation in the second rotation is selected to ensure that seeds are released into the seed pool and not released from the from the seed meter. 1. A method of controlling an agricultural implement as the implement is drawn forwardly through a field , the implement having a plurality of row units , each row unit and a seed meter in communication with a vacuum source , the method comprising:as the implement is drawn forwardly through the field, said seed meter of each of the plurality of row units releasing seeds therefrom for depositing into a seed trench, said seed meter having a seed disc and a seed pool, said vacuum source causing said seeds from said seed pool to be entrained onto said seed disc as said seed disc rotates in a first direction, said entrained seeds travel along a seed path to a seed release location, whereupon said entrained seeds are released from said seed disc and exit the seed meter for depositing into said seed trench;identifying occurrence of a seed disc unload condition, whereupon said seed disc is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction and said entrained seeds along said seed path are released from said seed disc back into said seed pool.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said seed disc unload condition includes determining whether a command to shut off the vacuum source to said seed meter has occurred.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said seed disc unload condition includes detecting whether a minimum vacuum threshold for said seed meter is met.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising:commanding said vacuum source for seed meter to turn off if said minimum vacuum ...

SEED DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

A seed delivery apparatus and methods in which a seed conveyor delivers seed from a metering device to a furrow in a controlled manner to maintain seed placement accuracy within the furrow. 1. A seed delivery apparatus to deliver seed to a planting surface , comprising:a seed meter configured to entrain and release the seed from a seed disc at a seed release location;a seed conveyor disposed to receive the seed after the seed is released from said seed disc at an upper end of said seed conveyor, said seed conveyor including a belt disposed over an upper pulley and a lower pulley, said belt configured to convey the seed from said upper end to a lower end of said seed conveyor and release the seed with a rearward velocity relative to said seed conveyor;a first loading wheel disposed adjacent to said seed release location, said first loading wheel being driven for rotation, wherein said first loading wheel is disposed to urge the seed toward said belt;wherein said upper pulley has an upper pulley axis through a center of said upper pulley, said upper pulley axis being horizontal; andwherein the seed is received by said seed conveyor below said upper pulley axis.2. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , further including:a surface disposed to guide the seed toward said first loading wheel.3. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 1 , further including:a second loading wheel disposed adjacent to said first loading wheel such that a gap between said first loading wheel and said second loading wheel is disposed adjacent to said seed release location.4. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 3 , further including:a surface disposed to guide the seed toward said gap.5. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 3 , wherein said first loading wheel is compressed radially as the seed enters said gap.6. The seed delivery apparatus of claim 3 , wherein said first loading wheel and said second loading wheel are disposed to eject the seed along a seed path.7. The seed delivery apparatus ...

SINGULATING METER FEEDING MULTIPLE FURROW OPENERS

A seeding system for seeding large and small seeds includes a plurality of dispensing apparatuses mounted on an implement frame each comprising a first furrow opener mounted and a second furrow opener spaced laterally from the first furrow opener. A singulating meter is operative to dispense the large and small seeds through a meter discharge. A first seed conduit is connected to the first furrow opener and the meter discharge, and a second seed conduit is connected to the second furrow opener and the meter discharge. A selector is operative in a large seed mode to maintain the connection of the first seed conduit to the meter discharge while disconnecting the second seed conduit, and the selector is operative in a small seed mode to maintain the connection of the first seed conduit to the meter discharge while connecting the second seed conduit to the meter discharge. 1. A seeding system for seeding large and small seeds , the system comprising a plurality of dispensing apparatuses mounted on an implement frame and laterally spaced along a width of the implement frame , each dispensing apparatus comprising:a first furrow opener mounted on the implement frame and a second furrow opener mounted on the implement frame spaced laterally from the first furrow opener;a singulating meter operative to dispense the large and small seeds through a meter discharge;wherein each singulating meter is configured when in a large seed mode to rotate a large seed disc to dispense the large seeds, and is configured when in a small seed mode to rotate a small seed disc to dispense the small seeds;a first seed conduit, wherein an output end of the first seed conduit is connected to the first furrow opener and an input end of the first seed conduit is connectable to the meter discharge;a second seed conduit, wherein an output end of the second seed conduit is connected to the second furrow opener and an input end of each second seed conduit is connectable to the meter discharge; anda ...

DISTRIBUTION BOX FOR SINGLE-SEED SEED DRILL WITH OPEN GROOVES AND SEED DRILL USING SUCH A BOX

A distribution box for a single-seeder including a disc including radial grooves that are regularly spaced apart and open on a periphery of the disc, the disc being rotatably mounted on a horizontal axis and separating a seed reservoir from a suction device such that seeds are picked up from the reservoir by the disc via air flow by negative pressure and are held over at least part of their angular travel until they are expelled from a discharge opening. Each groove includes a suction hole smaller than a size of the seeds to be distributed, the suction hole emerging on a channel with a width smaller than the diameter of the suction hole, the channel being open up to the periphery of the disc. A single-seeder can include at least one distribution box. 113-. (canceled)14. A distribution box for a single-seeder comprising:a disc comprising radial grooves that are regularly spaced apart and open on a periphery of the disc,the disc being rotatably mounted on a horizontal axis and separating a seed reservoir from a suction device such that seeds are picked up from the reservoir by the disc via air flow by negative pressure and are held over at least part of their angular travel until they are expelled from a discharge opening,wherein each groove includes a suction hole with a size smaller than that of the seeds to be distributed, the suction hole emerges on a channel with a width smaller than diameter of the suction hole, and the channel is open up to the periphery of the disc.15. A box according to claim 14 , wherein the channel is tangent at a rear of the suction hole claim 14 , taking account of a direction of rotation of the disc claim 14 , and its direction is curved or rectilinear up to the periphery of the disc.16. A box according to claim 14 , wherein a rear edge that protrudes on the seed side of the channel claim 14 , taking account of the direction of rotation of the disc claim 14 , defines a ramp for guiding and sliding seeds from the suction hole toward the ...

PARTICLE DELIVERY SYSTEM OF AN AGRICULTURAL ROW UNIT

A particle delivery system of an agricultural row unit includes a first particle disc configured to meter particles and a second particle disc configured to receive the particles from the first particle disc and to transfer the particles toward a trench in soil. The particle delivery system includes a vacuum source configured to reduce air pressure within a first vacuum passage to couple the particles to one or more first apertures of the first particle disc. The vacuum source is also configured to reduce air pressure within a second vacuum passage to couple the particles to one or more second apertures of the second particle disc. A rotation rate of the first particle disc is controllable to establish a particle spacing between the particles within the trench. A rotation rate of the second particle disc is controllable to expel the particles at a particle exit speed. 1. A particle delivery system of an agricultural row unit , comprising:a first particle disc configured to meter a plurality of particles from a particle storage area, wherein the first particle disc comprises one or more first apertures;a second particle disc configured to receive each particle of the plurality of particles from the first particle disc and to transfer the particle toward a trench in soil, wherein the second particle disc comprises one or more second apertures; andat least one vacuum source in fluid communication with a first vacuum passage positioned adjacent to the first particle disc and with a second vacuum passage positioned adjacent to the second particle disc, wherein the at least one vacuum source is configured to reduce air pressure within the first vacuum passage to couple a particle of the plurality of particles to a first respective aperture of the one or more first apertures while the first respective aperture is aligned with the first vacuum passage, the at least one vacuum source is configured to reduce air pressure within the second vacuum passage to couple the particle ...