Patent Application
20230086491
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to implements, application units, and fluid applicators having at least one application member for placement of fluid applications with respect to agricultural plants of agricultural fields.
Planters are used for planting seeds of crops (e.g., corn, soybeans) in a field. Planters may also be used for applying a fluid application (e.g., fertilizers, chemicals) to the soil or crops. Other fluid applicators include sprayers and sidedress bars. Applying the fluid application between rows can be challenging in terms of controlling this application for the different row units.
The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which:
Described herein are systems, implements, and application units having mechanisms for placement of applications to agricultural plants of agricultural fields. In one embodiment, an application unit includes a frame to be positioned in operation between two rows of plants and a first plurality of flexible members coupled to the frame in operation such that the first plurality of flexible members guide a lateral position of the frame to be approximately equidistant from the two rows of plants based upon whether at least one flexible member of the first plurality of flexible members contacts one or more plants of the two rows of plants. The first plurality of flexible members include a plurality of fluid outlets for spraying crop input in close proximity to the rows of plants. In one example, the application unit also includes a second plurality of flexible members for guiding a lateral position of a base member that is coupled to the frame.
In one embodiment, an application unit comprising: a frame to be positioned in operation between first and second rows of plants; a first plant contacting member being pivotally coupled to the frame in operation such that the first plant contacting member to be deflected rearwardly with respect to a direction of motion of the frame upon the first plant contacting member contacting at least one of the plants of the first row of plants which causes a first change in orientation of the first plant contacting member with respect to the frame; and a first outlet for applying a liquid application to the first row of plants with the first outlet being mechanically linked to the first plant contacting member, wherein the first change in orientation causes a corresponding second change in orientation of the first outlet with respect to the frame.
In one embodiment, an application unit comprising: a frame to be positioned in operation between two rows of plants; a base member coupled to the frame, the base member to be positioned in proximity to a ground surface while in operation; and first and second plant guidance members coupled to the base member in operation such that the first and second plant guidance members guide a lateral position of the base member to be approximately equidistant from the two rows of plants based upon whether at least one of the first and second plant guidance members contacts one or more plants of the two rows of plants.
In one embodiment, an application unit comprising: a frame to be positioned in operation between two rows of plants; a base member coupled to the frame; and at least one linkage member for conveying fluid coupled to a biasing element of the base member in operation such that the biasing element biases an angular position of the at least one linkage member.
An application unit comprising: a frame to be positioned in operation between two rows of plants; and a first plurality of flexible members coupled to the frame in operation such that the first plurality of flexible members guide a lateral position of the frame to be approximately equidistant from the two rows of plants based upon whether at least one of the first plurality of flexible members contacts one or more plants of the two rows of plants.
In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluid to plants in rows in a field comprising: at least one applicator arm that is actuated by an actuator to move the applicator arm from a position in the row between plants to a position adjacent to the plant.
In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluids to plants in rows in a field comprising: a base, at least one flexible or pivoting application member connected to the base and disposed to apply fluid to the plants, and a stabilizer associated with the at least one flexible or pivoting application member, wherein the stabilizer comprises at least one of:
a) a spring disposed over the at least one flexible application member,
b) a reinforcement that is disposed on or in the at least one application member and disposed along a length of the at least one application member,
c) a wire attached to the at least one application member, the wire having a length to contact at least one plant, and
d) a damper.
In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluids to plants in rows in a field comprising: a frame; a coulter connected to the frame and disposed to open a trench between the rows of plants; at least one application member connected to the frame or to the coulter and disposed to apply fluid to a rhizosphere of the plants.
In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluids to plants in rows in a field comprising: a base disposed between plants in adjacent rows, at least one application member connected to the base and disposed to apply fluid to the plants in a rhizosphere of the plants, and a nozzle disposed at an end of the application member for dispensing fluid from the application member to the plants in the rhizosphere of the plants.
In one embodiment, a trench closer for a fertilizer applicator comprising, a bar moved through a field transverse to a direction of travel, a fertilizer applicator connected to the bar for forming a trench in soil, wherein the fertilizer applicator comprises a coulter, a knife, or a coulter and a knife, and a trench closer disposed behind the fertilizer applicator in the direction of travel and connected to the fertilizer applicator or the bar, wherein the trench closer is not a disk that rolls in a direction of travel.
Described herein are systems, implements, and application units having mechanisms for placement of applications to agricultural plants of agricultural fields.
In an embodiment, an application unit includes a frame to be positioned in operation between first and second rows of plants, a first plant contacting member being pivotally coupled to the frame in operation such that the first plant contacting member to be deflected rearwardly with respect to a direction of motion of the frame upon the first plant contacting member contacting at least one of the plants of the first row of plants which causes a first change in orientation of the first plant contacting member with respect to the frame. A first outlet applies a fluid application to the first row of plants. The first change in orientation causes a corresponding second change in orientation of the first outlet with respect to the frame.
Each application unit includes components (e.g., planting contacting members, feelers, guidance members, linkage members, flexible members, etc) for obtaining a proper placement (e.g., orientation and/or positioning) of one or more fluid outlets with respect to rows of plants in an agricultural field. The fluid outlets are then able to precisely apply (spray or dribble) the fluid applications on a desired target region (e.g., rhizosphere, a bottom portion of a plant, root ball, crown, crown root, mesocotyl, below a first node of a plant) of rows of plants to more efficiently spray plants at a lower cost due to less wasted crop input (e.g., nutrients, fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
In the following description, numerous details are set forth. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.
In other embodiments, the system 100 includes a network computer or an embedded processing device within another device (e.g., display device) or within a machine (e.g., planter, combine), or other types of data processing systems having fewer components or perhaps more components than that shown in
An image database 160 stores captured images of crops at different growth stages. A data analytics module 130 may perform analytics on agricultural data (e.g., images, weather, field, yield, etc.) to generate crop predictions 162 relating to agricultural operations.
A field information database 134 stores agricultural data (e.g., crop growth stage, soil types, soil characteristics, moisture holding capacity, etc.) for the fields that are being monitored by the system 100. An agricultural practices information database 135 stores farm practices information (e.g., as-applied planting information, as-applied spraying information, as-applied fertilization information, planting population, applied nutrients (e.g., nitrogen), yield levels, proprietary indices (e.g., ratio of seed population to a soil parameter), etc.) for the fields that are being monitored by the system 100. An implement can obtain fluid application data from the CMUs and provide this data to the system 100. A cost/price database 138 stores input cost information (e.g., cost of seed, cost of nutrients (e.g., nitrogen)) and commodity price information (e.g., revenue from crop).
The system 100 shown in
The processing system 132 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic for executing software instructions of one or more programs. The system 100 includes the storage medium 136 for storing data and programs for execution by the processing system. The storage medium 136 can store, for example, software components such as a software application for controlling and monitoring fluid applications or any other software application. The storage medium 136 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive.
While the storage medium (e.g., machine-accessible non-transitory medium) is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wave signals.
The applications units are mechanically coupled to the frames 220-227 which are mechanically coupled to a bar 10. Each application unit 210-217 can include flow sensors and components having a placement mechanism (e.g., planting contacting members, feelers, guidance members) for obtaining a proper orientation and/or positioning of a fluid outlet with respect to a plant in an agricultural field. The application units can include any of the embodiments described herein in conjunction with
Continuing to refer to
Each feeler 320 is preferably operatively mechanically linked to one of the fluid outlets 330 such that a change in orientation of the feeler 320 relative to the frame 310 changes an orientation of the linked fluid outlet 330.
In the embodiment of
In another embodiment, the fluid application unit 300 includes a single fluid outlet and a single feeler for spraying a single row of plants. In one example, the application unit 300 includes the feeler 320a and the fluid outlet 330a for spraying the row of plants P-1. The feeler 320b and fluid outlet 330b are not included in this example. A different application unit is provided for spraying the plants P-2.
In another example, the application unit 300 includes the feeler 320b and the fluid outlet 330b for spraying the row of plants P-2. The feeler 320a and fluid outlet 330a are not included in this example. A different application unit is provided for spraying the plants P-1.
In another embodiment, the fluid application unit 300 includes at least one fluid outlet (e.g., 330a, 330b) and no feelers 320, 320b and no link 325a, 325b. The at least fluid outlet is positioned and/or oriented to spray a fluid towards a base region of a plant (e.g., into soil within 3-4 inches of the base region of the plant, towards a region in which a base of the plant emerges from the soil).
It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide). Each fluid outlet described herein provides a pressurized spray (e.g., 1-200 psi, 5-100 psi, etc.) in a direction (e.g., substantially downward direction) towards a base region of a plant (e.g., into soil within 3-4 inches of the base region of the plant, towards a region in which a base of the plant emerges from the soil). In another example, at least one fluid outlet of an application unit provides a dribble of liquid (e.g., non-pressurized source) rather than a pressurized spray.
In the embodiment of an application unit 400 (e.g., fluid application unit 400) shown in
Referring to the illustrated embodiment of
The embodiments described herein may include a pair of feelers each having an associated (e.g., linked) fluid outlet. In other embodiments, the fluid outlets may be constrained (e.g., by a linkage) to pivot at equal and opposite angles, and one of the outlets may be associated with (e.g., linked to) a single feeler.
The feelers 320, 420 described herein may contact the adjacent plants at any location. In a preferred embodiment, each feeler is preferably disposed to contact an adjacent plant on a stem or stalk thereof; for example, the feeler may be disposed adjacent the ground in order to contact the stalk at a location immediately above the soil (e.g., above the crown and below the lowest node of the plant). In some such embodiments, the fluid outlet may be disposed above the feeler instead of below the feeler as illustrated in
In the embodiment of an application unit 500 (e.g., fluid application unit 500) shown in
In still another embodiment of a fluid application unit 600 illustrated in
A width (W) of the guidance members may be designed based on a row spacing (e.g., 20″, 30″, etc.) with each guidance member having a length of slightly less than approximately one half of the row spacing between rows of plants. In one example, the guidance members may have adjustable widths depending on the row spacing for a field.
In one example, the application unit 600 includes at least one fluid outlet (e.g., 640a, 640b) that sprays or dribbles fluid towards a base region of the plants P-5, P-6. The base member 630 contacts a ground surface 690 in a continuous or non-continuous manner along the ground surface. A flexible frame 620 couples the base member 630 to a bracket 610. In another embodiment, the application unit 600 does not include guidance members 650a, 650b. At least one fluid outlet 640a, 640b sprays the fluid towards a base region of the plants P-5, P-6.
In another embodiment of a fluid application unit 700 illustrated in
Referring to
The fluid outlets 830a, 830b preferably pivot about an axis which is preferably parallel to the frame 810. The pivot axis of the fluid outlets 830a, 830b is preferably parallel to and preferably substantially aligned with the pivot axis of the feelers 820a, 820b. As a result, a spray S (e.g., Sa, Sb) emitted from the fluid outlets 830a, 830b (e.g., via orifices 832a, 832b) preferably disposed at distal ends of the outlets) is preferably oriented toward a plant P-7, P-8 contacted by the feelers 820a, 820b. A lower end of the frame 810 may also contain a fluid outlet 830c for emitted a spray Sc into the trench T. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet 830a, 830b in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
The optional feelers 820 described herein may contact the adjacent plants at any location. In a preferred embodiment, each feeler 820 is preferably disposed to contact an adjacent plant on a stem or stalk thereof; for example, the feeler may be disposed adjacent the ground in order to contact the stalk at a location immediately above the soil (e.g., above the crown and below the lowest node of the plant). In some such embodiments, the fluid outlet 830 may be disposed above the feeler 820 instead of below the feeler 830 as illustrated in
In another example, the application unit 800 does not include the optional feelers 820a, 820b. At least one fluid outlet (e.g., 820a, 820b) sprays or dribbles fluid towards a base region of the plants P-7, P-8 while the fluid outlet 830a sprays or dribbles the fluid into the trench T. A distal end of at least one fluid outlet (e.g., 820a, 820b) extends closer (e.g., within 0-6 inches) to a base region of the plants when the liquid is dribbled towards the base region of the plants in comparison to when the fluid is sprayed.
Referring to
The frame 810 preferably includes an internal or externally mounted conduit (not shown) for applying a crop input (e.g., liquid crop input such as anhydrous or other fertilizer, nutrients, etc.) into the trenches. The frame 810 may comprise an injection assembly (e.g., sidedress liquid fertilizer injection assembly or anhydrous injection assembly) such as those illustrated in FIG. 7 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,445, incorporated herein by reference or in U.S. Pat. No. 8,910,581, incorporated by reference; the fluid outlets 830a, 830b, as well as related linkage structure are preferably fixed to the sides of such an injection assembly for spraying or dribbling a liquid on nearby plants.
The fluid outlets 830a, 830b preferably pivot about an axis which is preferably parallel to the frame 810. The fluid outlet 830c is formed near a disc 818 and the fluid outlets 830d, 830e are formed near a corresponding trench forming member 860, 862. As a result, a spray S (e.g., Sa, Sb, Sd, Se) or dribble emitted from the fluid outlets preferably disposed at distal ends of the outlets) is preferably oriented toward plants P-7, P-8. A lower end of the frame 810 may also contain a fluid outlet 830c for emitted a spray Sc into the trench T. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
In one example, a tractor or other implement pulls multiple side dressing fertilizer coulter units (e.g., application unit 850) for forming a trench Tc having a depth (e.g., 4-8 inches, approximately 5-7 inches, etc.). The crop may be at a seedling stage when fertilizer is typically applied as a side dressing slightly offset laterally from each row of seedlings. Each application unit includes a frame (not shown), a coulter disc or wheel 818 for forming a deeper trench having a depth (e.g., 4-8 inches, approximately 5-7 inches, etc.) with a lateral position approximately equidistant between the plants P-7, P-8, a trench forming member 860 (e.g., scratching knife 860) for opening a shallow trench Td having a shallow depth (e.g., 0-4 inches, 0-2 inches, approximately 1 inch) in proximity to a row of plants P-8 (e.g., a lateral position within 5-10 inches of the plants P-8), and a trench forming member 862 (e.g., scratching knife 862) for opening a shallow trench having a shallow depth (e.g., 0-4 inches, 0-2 inches, approximately 1 inch) in proximity to a row of plants P-7 (e.g., a lateral position within 5-10 inches of the plants P-7). The frame 810 preferably includes an internal or externally mounted conduit (not shown) for applying a crop input (e.g., fluid crop input such as anhydrous or other fertilizer, nutrients, etc.) with fluid outlets into a respective trench. Each knife may be associated with a respective covering tine (e.g., rake, closing wheel) for closing the shallow trench to retain the crop input in the soil (or ground) and prevent the crop input from being volatilized.
In another example, the disc 818 and fluid outlet 830c are not included in the application unit 850 and at least one of the members 860 and 862 is included in the application unit 850. In another example, only one of the trench forming members 860 and 862 is included in the application unit 850.
In
A fluid outlet 930 can be positioned with respect to the linkage member 920a, 920b or flexible members 922a, 922b for spraying a fluid in close proximity to the plants. In one example, the fluid outlet 930 is positioned at a distal end of the linkage member 920a, 920b and generates a spray Sa that sprays in a downward directions towards a base region of plants P-9. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet 930 in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
In
At least one of the frame 910 and base (e.g., 912, 972) illustrated in
A fluid outlet 1030 can be positioned with respect to the linkage member or flexible members for spraying a fluid in close proximity to the plants. In one example, the fluid outlet is positioned at a distal end of the linkage member 1020a and generates a spray Sa that sprays in a downward direction towards a base region of plants P-11. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet 1030 in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
In another embodiment, the application unit 1000 does not include flexible member 1022a and the frame 1011 or the frame 1010 may also be optional. At least one fluid outlet (e.g., 1030) sprays the fluid towards a base region of the plants P-11.
In one example, the fluid outlets are positioned approximately 0-10 inches from a distal end of a distal region of the flexible members and generate sprays Sa and Se that spray in a downward direction towards a base region of plants P-12, P-13. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide). Each fluid outlet described herein provides a pressurized spray (e.g., 1-200 psi, 5-100 psi, etc.) in a substantially downward direction towards a base region of a plant. Alternatively, a fluid outlet may dribble liquid (non-pressurized).
In one example, the machine performs operations of a tractor that is coupled to an implement for fluid applications of a field. The flow rate of a fluid application for each row unit of the implement can be associated with locational data at time of application to have a better understanding of the applied fluid for each row and region of a field. Data associated with the fluid applications can be displayed on at least one of the display devices 1225 and 1230.
The processing system 1220 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic 1226 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication unit 1228 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting and receiving communications from the machine via machine network 1210 or network interface 1215 or implement via implement network 1250 or network interface 1260. The communication unit 1228 may be integrated with the processing system or separate from the processing system. In one embodiment, the communication unit 1228 is in data communication with the machine network 1210 and implement network 1250 via a diagnostic/OBD port of the I/O ports 1229.
Processing logic 1226 including one or more processors may process the communications received from the communication unit 1228 including agricultural data (e.g., GPS data, fluid application data, flow rates, etc.). The system 1200 includes memory 1205 for storing data and programs for execution (software 1206) by the processing system. The memory 1205 can store, for example, software components such as fluid application software for analysis of fluid applications for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, images 1208 (e.g., captured images of crops), alerts, maps, etc. The memory 1205 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive. The system can also include an audio input/output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).
The processing system 1220 communicates bi-directionally with memory 1205, machine network 1210, network interface 1215, display device 1230, display device 1225, and I/O ports 1229 via communication links 1231-1236, respectively.
Display devices 1225 and 1230 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or operator. The display devices may include display controllers. In one embodiment, the display device 1225 is a portable tablet device or computing device with a touchscreen that displays data (e.g., fluid application data, captured images, localized view map layer, high definition field maps of as-applied fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data or other agricultural variables or parameters, yield maps, alerts, etc.) and data generated by an agricultural data analysis software application and receives input from the user or operator for an exploded view of a region of a field, monitoring and controlling field operations. The operations may include configuration of the machine or implement, reporting of data, control of the machine or implement including sensors and controllers, and storage of the data generated. The display device 1230 may be a display (e.g., display provided by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)) that displays images and data for a localized view map layer, as-applied fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data, yield data, controlling a machine (e.g., planter, tractor, combine, sprayer, etc.), steering the machine, and monitoring the machine or an implement (e.g., planter, combine, sprayer, etc.) that is connected to the machine with sensors and controllers located on the machine or implement.
A cab control module 1270 may include an additional control module for enabling or disabling certain components or devices of the machine or implement. For example, if the user or operator is not able to control the machine or implement using one or more of the display devices, then the cab control module may include switches to shut down or turn off components or devices of the machine or implement.
The implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) includes an implement network 1250, a processing system 1262, a network interface 1260, and optional input/output ports 1266 for communicating with other systems or devices including the machine 1202. The implement network 1250 (e.g, a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.) includes a pump 1256 for pumping fluid from a storage tank(s) 1290 to application units 1280, 1281, . . . N of the implement, sensors 1252 (e.g., speed sensors, seed sensors for detecting passage of seed, downforce sensors, actuator valves, moisture sensors or flow sensors for a combine, speed sensors for the machine, seed force sensors for a planter, fluid application sensors for a sprayer, or vacuum, lift, lower sensors for an implement, flow sensors, etc.), controllers 1254 (e.g., GPS receiver), and the processing system 1262 for controlling and monitoring operations of the implement. The pump controls and monitors the application of the fluid to crops or soil as applied by the implement. The fluid application can be applied at any stage of crop development including within a planting trench upon planting of seeds, adjacent to a planting trench in a separate trench, or in a region that is nearby to the planting region (e.g., between rows of corn or soybeans) having seeds or crop growth.
For example, the controllers may include processors in communication with a plurality of seed sensors. The processors are configured to process data (e.g., fluid application data, seed sensor data) and transmit processed data to the processing system 1262 or 1220. The controllers and sensors may be used for monitoring motors and drives on a planter including a variable rate drive system for changing plant populations. The controllers and sensors may also provide swath control to shut off individual rows or sections of the planter. The sensors and controllers may sense changes in an electric motor that controls each row of a planter individually. These sensors and controllers may sense seed delivery speeds in a seed tube for each row of a planter.
The network interface 1260 can be a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems including the machine 1202. The network interface 1260 may be integrated with the implement network 1250 or separate from the implement network 1250 as illustrated in
The processing system 1262 communicates bi-directionally with the implement network 1250, network interface 1260, and I/O ports 1266 via communication links 1241-1243, respectively.
The implement communicates with the machine via wired and possibly also wireless bi-directional communications 1204. The implement network 1250 may communicate directly with the machine network 1210 or via the networks interfaces 1215 and 1260. The implement may also by physically coupled to the machine for agricultural operations (e.g., planting, harvesting, spraying, etc.).
The memory 1205 may be a machine-accessible non-transitory medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software 1206) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The software 1206 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the memory 1205 and/or within the processing system 1220 during execution thereof by the system 1200, the memory and the processing system also constituting machine-accessible storage media. The software 1206 may further be transmitted or received over a network via the network interface 1215.
In one embodiment, a machine-accessible non-transitory medium (e.g., memory 1205) contains executable computer program instructions which when executed by a data processing system cause the system to performs operations or methods of the present disclosure. While the machine-accessible non-transitory medium (e.g., memory 1205) is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wave signals.
Referring to
The frame 1310 may comprise an injection assembly (e.g., sidedress liquid fertilizer injection assembly or anhydrous injection assembly) such as those illustrated in FIG. 7 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,445, incorporated herein by reference or in U.S. Pat. No. 8,910,581, incorporated by reference. The frame 1310 and application unit 1300 can be used in combination with any other embodiments of the present disclosure. In one example, the feelers 820a, 820b and fluid outlets 830a, 830b of
In another example, the knife 1342, fluid outlet 1340, and member 1314 may optionally be included with the application unit 1350, coupled to the member 1316, and have a lateral position that is approximately equidistant with respect to the rows of plants P-14, P-15. The knife 1360 has a lateral position that is approximately within 5-10 inches of the plants P-14 while the knife 1362 has a lateral position that is approximately within 5-10 inches of the plants P-15. In this manner, crop input can be supplied at any desired location at any desired depth within approximately 5 inches of a row of plants. Any desired percentage of crop input can be applied to each fluid outlet 1340, 1371-1372 for optimal plant growth. In one example, a first percentage of a crop input is applied to the fluid outlet 1340 and a second percentage of a crop input is applied to the fluid outlets 1371 and 1372.
Where reference is made to a fluid/liquid as to any of the various embodiments disclosed herein, it should be appreciated that any fluid may be similarly transferred and applied by such embodiments; e.g., in a liquid, gaseous, dense phase or transitional phase.
For each of the fluid application unit embodiments described herein, multiple units are preferably disposed along the length of the bar, e.g., such that one, two or more rows of plants are disposed between each unit.
The biasing element 1513 biases angular positions of the first and second linkage members 1520a and 1520b such that distal ends 1521a, 1521b of the linkage members have a spacing 1525 that is similar to a row spacing of the rows of plants P-16, P-17.
In another embodiment, biasing element 1513 can be replaced with a pressure actuated biased return pistons 1540a and 1540b shown in an isometric view of an application unit 1532 in
Similar to as shown in
The fluid to drive the pistons can be from the fluid, or it can be from a pneumatic or hydraulic system on the toolbar (not shown). With the fluid system, when fluid is applied, the pressure in the fluid system will cause the pressure actuated biased return pistons 1540a and 1540b to bias outwards to the edge of base 1512. When the fluid application is turned off, the biased return in the pressure actuated biased return pistons 1540a and 1540b will bias the piston toward the middle of base 1512. For the pneumatic or hydraulic system, these can be activated manually or automatically when the fluid system is turned on.
The benefit of having the dual direction biasing is that the linkage members 1520a and 1520b will bias outwards towards the plants during fluid application, and will bias toward the middle of the row when the fluid system is not on. By having the linkage members 1520a and 1520b bias toward the middle of the row, application unit (e.g., 1500, 1532, etc.) can be reversed down the row. This can be helpful when steering causes misalignment in a row, and the application unit (e.g., 1500, 1532) needs to back up to correct the steering. If linkage members 1520a and 1520b are always biased towards the plants, they would catch and fold over the plants if run in a reversed direction.
The linkage members 1520a, 1520b are coupled to flexible members 1522a, 1522b respectively. In one example, the linkage members position the flexible members 1522a, 1522b in close proximity to a target region of the plants. The flexible members 1522a, 1522b can be any type of flexible material (e.g., hoses) or can be replaced with pipes. It should be appreciated that linkage members 1520a, 1520b and flexible members 1522a, 1522b, respectively, can be made as unitary parts. In one example, these components of the application unit 1500 function in a similar manner in comparison to the frame, base, linkage members, and flexible members of the application unit 1000 with the ground contacting members 1524a, 1524b (e.g., ski, skid, wear element, etc.) at least partially contacting the ground while in operation with the application unit 1500 moving in a direction D that is substantially parallel with respect to rows of plants P-16 and P-17. The ground contacting members 1524a, 1524b substantially prevent the flexible members 1522a, 1522b from contacting the ground and thus reduce wear on the flexible members 1522a, 1522b. The ground contacting members 1524a, 1524b also position the flexible members 1522a, 1522b to be slightly elevated (e.g., 0 to 3 inches) above the ground.
Fluid outlets 1530a, 1530b (e.g., spray nozzle, drip mechanism) are positioned with respect to a distal portion 1528a, 1528b of flexible members 1522a, 1522b for spraying a fluid in close proximity to the plants. In one example, the fluid outlets are positioned at a distal end of the distal portions of the flexible members and generate a spray Sa, Sb that sprays in a downward direction towards a base region of plants P-16, P-17, respectively. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
In another embodiment, the application unit 1500 optionally includes a housing member 1580 for positioning a plurality of fluid outlets (e.g., 1581-1585) at a plurality of different angles (e.g., angled down towards ground, angle outwards from the housing member 1580) having a maximum range of approximately 180 degrees. Additional or fewer fluid outlets can be positioned with the housing member 1580. Each fluid outlet can have a fixed position or an adjustable angular position for spraying a fluid towards a base region of the plants or towards a certain target region between the rows of plants P-16, P-17. The fluid sprayed by the fluid outlets 1581-1585 can be the same fluid that is spraying by the fluid outlets 1530a, 1530b or this fluid can be different. In one example, the fluid outlets 1581-1585 spray a fungicide.
The frame (e.g., 1510, 1511), base, linkage members, and flexible members preferably include an internal or externally mounted conduit (not shown) for applying a crop input (e.g., fluid crop input such as anhydrous or other fertilizer, nutrients, etc.) towards a target region of the plants or into trenches. The frame may comprise an injection assembly (e.g., sidedress liquid fertilizer injection assembly or anhydrous injection assembly) such as those illustrated in FIG. 7 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,445, incorporated herein by reference or in U.S. Pat. No. 8,910,581, incorporated by reference; the fluid outlets, as well as related linkage structure are preferably fixed to the sides of such an injection assembly for spraying or dribbling a liquid on nearby plants or towards a target region of the plants.
Fluid outlets 1630a, 1630b (e.g., spray nozzle, drip mechanism) are positioned with respect to a distal end of flexible members for spraying a fluid in close proximity to the plants. In one example, the fluid outlets generate spray Sa, Sb that sprays in a downward direction towards a base region of plants P-18, P-19, respectively. It should be appreciated that each fluid outlet in the various embodiments described herein is preferably in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
Disposed near closed end of the bracket 1702 are pivots 1703a and 1703b that are disposed on bracket 1701 through pins 1704a and 1704b, respectively as illustrated in isometric view 1750 of
The fluid to drive the pistons is described above for application unit 1500.
In other alternatives shown in
In other alternatives shown in linkage systems 1990-1992 of
The linkage members (arms) discussed herein can be actuated with solenoids, electrical motors, or via a linkage using at least one solenoid, motor, or ground contact. The electrical switch in the above embodiments can be a separate switch activated by an operator when coulter fertilizer disc 1790 is lowered to the ground, or the electrical switch can activated when the coulter fertilizer disc 1790 is commanded to be lowered. Alternatively, the electrical switch can be activated by ground contact.
The following examples pertain to further embodiments. Specifics in the examples may be used anywhere in one or more embodiments.
For example, in one embodiment, an application unit includes a frame to be positioned in operation between first and second rows of plants, a first plant contacting member being pivotally coupled to the frame in operation such that the first plant contacting member to be deflected rearwardly with respect to a direction of motion of the frame upon the first plant contacting member contacting at least one of the plants of the first row of plants which causes a first change in orientation of the first plant contacting member with respect to the frame. A first outlet applies a fluid application to the first row of plants with the first outlet being mechanically linked to the first plant contacting member. The first change in orientation causes a corresponding second change in orientation of the first outlet with respect to the frame.
In another example, the application unit further includes a second plant contacting member being pivotally coupled to the frame in operation such that the second plant contacting member to be deflected rearwardly with respect to the direction of motion of the frame upon the second plant contacting member contacting at least one of the plants of the second row of plants which causes a third change in orientation of the second plant contacting member with respect to the frame. A second outlet applies a fluid application to the second row of plants with the second outlet being mechanically linked to the second plant contacting member. The third change in orientation causes a corresponding fourth change in orientation of the second outlet with respect to the frame.
In another embodiment, an application unit includes a frame to be positioned in operation between two rows of plants and a base member coupled to the frame. The base member to be positioned in proximity to a ground surface while in operation. First and second plant guidance members are coupled to the base member in operation such that the first and second plant guidance members guide a lateral position of the base member to be approximately equidistant from the two rows of plants based upon whether at least one of the first and second plant guidance members contacts one or more plants of the two rows of plants.
In one example, the application unit further includes first and second outlets coupled to the base member in operation such that a change in lateral position of the base member causes a corresponding change in position of the first and second outlets for applying a fluid application to the plants.
In another embodiment, a closer 2010 or closer 2020 can be disposed after coulter fertilizer disk 1790 in a direction of travel DT of the coulter fertilizer disk 1790. Different embodiments of closer 2010 are illustrated in
The embodiments of closer 2010 or closer 2020 can all be used with the embodiment illustrated in
Closer 2010 has a top bar 2011 and at least one arm 2012 disposed downwardly from top bar 2011. Top bar 2011 can be disposed on mounting arm 2005 by any suitable attachment, such as welding, bolting, or riveting. Top bar 2011 can be generally horizontal, and extends transversely across a trench T created by disk 1791 and/or blade 1795. In one embodiment, there can be two arms 2012-1 and 2012-2 disposed on top bar 2011 as illustrated in
Arm 2012 has a top edge 2012t, a bottom edge 2012b, a front edge 2012f, and a back edge 2012bk. Arm 2012 (or arms 2012-1 and 2012-2 having the same top edge 2012t-1, 2012t-2; bottom edge 2012b-1, 2012b-2; front edge 2012f-1, 2012f-2; and back edge 2012bk-1, 2012bk-2) can be disposed according to one or more of the following configurations with respect to an axis through trench T along a direction of travel DT of coulter fertilizer disk 1790: the bottom edge 2012b (2012b-1, 2012b-2) and the top edge 2012t (2012t-1, 2012t-2) are equidistant to the axis (illustrated in
As illustrated in
As shown, closer 2010 or closer 2020 is connected to mounting arm 2005 or knife 1795, respectively. Alternative, closer 2010, closer 2020 can be connected to bar 10 by a mounting arm (not shown).
Illustrated in
Application unit 2700 includes a bracket 2701 for connecting to vertical support 2799. Connected to bracket 2701 is a pivot 2705 having a vertical axis to permit application unit 2700 to pivot in a horizontal plane. This allows application unit 2700 to freely pivot to provide self-alignment between adjacent rows of plants in the event that application unit 2700 is not centered between the rows during operation. Optionally, a deflector 2710 is disposed on the front of application unit 2700 in the direction of travel. Deflector 2710 is connected via a deflector bracket 2711 to bracket 2701. In one embodiment, deflector bracket 2711 has arms 2712a, 2712b, which can be a unitary part or separate parts.
The description below is for both sides of application unit 2700. For clarity, one side of application unit is illustrated in the drawings. It is understood, that the same parts are also disposed on the other side of application unit 2700.
Disposed below pivot 2705 is bracket base 2702. Pivotally connected to bracket base 2702 is bracket assembly 2740 (2740a, 2740b) through pivot 2747 (2747a, 2747b) on a horizontal axis to permit vertical rotation of bracket assembly 2740 (2740a, 2740b). Pivotally connected to bracket assembly 2740 (2740a, 2740b) is bracket assembly 2730 (2730a, 2730b) through pivot 2737 (2737a, 3737b) to permit rotation transverse to the direction of travel.
Bracket assembly 2730 (2730a, 2730b) has a bracket base 2731 (2731a, 2731b). Connected to bracket base 2731 (2731a, 2731b) is a fluid arm 2720 (2720a, 2720b). Connected to fluid arm 2720 (2720a, 2720b) is a fluid line 2722 (2722a, 2722b), which is fluid communication with a fluid source (e.g., tank 250). Bracket base 2731 (2731a, 2731b) is biased outward by bias element 2735 (2735a, 2735b). Bias element 2735 (2735a, 2735b), such as a spring, is disposed over element 2734 (2734a, 2734b), which is connected to a bracket 2732 (2732a, 2732b), which is connected to bracket base 2741 (2741a, 2741b). Element 2734 (2734a, 2734b) is disposed through a bracket 2733 (2733a, 2733b). Bias element 2735 (2735a, 2735b) is disposed over element 2734 (2734a, 2734b) between a stop 2736 (2736a, 2736b) and a side of bracket 2733 (2733a, 2733b) away from bracket 2732 (2732a, 2732b).
Bracket assembly 2740 (2740a, 2740b) includes a bracket base 2741 (2741a, 2741b). Bias element 2745 (2745a, 2745b), such as a spring, is disposed over element 2744 (2734a, 2744b), which is connected to a bracket 2742 (2742a, 2742b), which is connected to bracket base 2741 (2741a, 2741b). Element 2744 (2744a, 2744b) is disposed through a bracket 2709, which is connected to bracket base 2702. Bias element 2745 (2745a, 2745b) is disposed over element 2744 (2744a, 2744b) between a stop 2746 (2746a, 2746b) and a side of bracket 2709 away from bracket 2742 (2742a, 2742b). Optionally, as illustrated in
As illustrated, application unit 2700 has two degrees for biasing fluid arms 2720a, 2720b outward and down. In another embodiment, such as when application unit 2700 is disposed proximate to the ground, down biasing is not needed. In this embodiment, bracket assembly 2730 (2730a, 2730b) is pivotally connected to bracket base 2702, bracket 2732 (2732a, 2732b) is connected to bracket base 2702, and bracket assembly 2740 (2740a, 2740b) and member 2709 are not included (not shown).
Optionally, disposed on the discharge end of fluid arms 2720a, 2720b is nozzle 3000. In one embodiment, the rotation of fluid arms 2720a, 2720b outward towards the plant transverse to the direction of travel can be limited by stop 2721 (2721a, 2721b), which is disposed on bracket base 2741 (2741a, 2741b) to limit the rotation of bracket base 2731 (2731a, 2731b). In another embodiment, a tab 2704 is disposed on the underside of bracket 2701. A stop 2703, which can have a U shape, is connected to bracket base 2702, and which limits the rotation of application unit 2700 when tab 2704 contacts stop 2703. In another embodiment, counteracting forces from bias element 2738 (2738a, 2738b) can limit the rotation of bracket base 2731 (2731a, 2731b) by being disposed over element 2734 (2734a, 2734b) on a side of bracket 2733 (2733a, 2733b) opposite to biasing element 2735 (2735a, 2735b). In one embodiment illustrated in
Optionally, coulter assembly 2780 can be connected to vertical support 2799. Coulter bracket arm 2781 is connected to vertical support 2799 at a first end, and at the opposite end, coulter 2782 is rotationally connected to coulter bracket arm 2781. Optionally, an extension arm 2783 is connected to coulter bracket arm 2781 and disposed rearwardly along a direction of travel. A knife 2784 is disposed downwardly from extension arm 2783 to engage the ground posterior to coulter 2782. Optionally, a fluid application line 2785 is disposed on knife 2784 for depositing fluid into the ground. As shown, application line 2785 is disposed on the posterior side of knife 2784 in the direction of travel, but application line 2785 can be disposed on any side of knife 2784.
Optionally, a cradle 2770 can be connected to bracket 2701 and disposed rearwardly in the direction of travel. Cradle 2770 has arms 2771a, 2771b and each has a receiver 2772a, 2772b, respectively (with an opening disposed upwards) for holding and retaining arms, respectively, when not in use, such as during transport. Arms 2771a, 2771b can be made as a unitary part or separate parts.
In addition to any of the application units described above, at least one sprayer may be further included. An example of a sprayer can be found in US20170049043, which is incorporated herein by reference.
In another embodiment, dampers can be included to dampen the motion of any member that contact plants. Examples of members include parts 922, 982, 1522, 1528, 1520, 1720, 3030, and 3110. In any of the embodiments illustrated in
Illustrated in
Illustrated in
Illustrated in
Illustrated in
In another embodiment, with or without the damper, any of members that contact plants (such as 922, 982, 1522, 1528, 1520, 1720, 2851, 2830, 2807, 3030, 3110) have a length such that the member is in contact with at least two plants. Being in contact with at least two plants minimizes the outward flexing of the member.
While not shown, it is understood that any application unit described herein is in fluid communication with a source (e.g., tank 250) containing an application (e.g., fluid application, crop inputs such as fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide or insecticide).
Any of the following examples can be combined into a single embodiment or these examples can be separate embodiments. In one example, a fluid applicator (e.g., application unit 800, 850, 900, 1300, 1350, 1700, 1750, 1752, 1780, 2891-2894, etc.) for applying fluid to plants in rows in a field comprises a frame, a coulter connected to the frame and disposed to open a trench between the rows of plants, and at least one application member (e.g., 830, 920, 1520, 1720, 2805-2807, etc.).
In another example, the at least one application member comprises a first application member and a second application member.
In another example, the fluid applicator of further comprises a fluid application line connected to the frame and disposed behind the coulter in a direction of travel to apply fluid to the trench.
In another example, the coulter has coulter frame, and further comprising an extending frame connected to the coulter frame and disposed to extend behind the coulter in a direction of travel, and a knife downwardly disposed from the extending frame and disposed to contact ground.
In another example, the fluid applicator further comprises a fluid application line connected to the knife to apply fluid in the trench.
In another example, the frame is a toolbar.
In another example, the frame is a boom.
In another example, the at least one application member is connected to the frame.
In another example, the coulter has coulter frame, and the at least one application member is connected to the coulter frame.
In another example, the fluid applicator further comprises a closer connected to the coulter and disposed to close the trench.
In one example, an application unit for applying fluids to plants in rows in a field comprises a frame, an opening disc connected to the frame and disposed to open a trench between the rows of plants, and at least one application member connected to the frame or to the coulter and disposed to apply fluid to a rhizosphere of the plants.
In another example, the at least one application member comprises a first application member and a second application member.
In another example, the application unit further comprises a fluid application line connected to the frame and disposed behind the opening disc in a direction of travel to apply fluid to the trench.
In another example, the opening disc has a frame, and the application unit further comprises an extending frame connected to the frame and disposed to extend behind the opening disc in a direction of travel, and a knife downwardly disposed from the extending frame and disposed to contact ground.
In one example, a fluid applicator, comprises a base disposed between plants in adjacent rows, at least one application member connected to the base and disposed to apply fluid to the plants in a rhizosphere of the plants, and a nozzle (e.g., 1530, 1630, 3000, etc.) disposed at an end of the application member for dispensing fluid from the application member to the plants in the rhizosphere of the plants.
In another example, the at least one application member comprises a first application member with a first nozzle and a second application member with a second nozzle.
In another example, the nozzle further comprises a wire extending from the nozzle and disposed to contact the plant.
In another example, the nozzle further comprises a ski disposed under the nozzle.
In another example, the nozzle further comprises an aerator.
In another example, the aerator is disposed on a bottom of the nozzle.
It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. The scope of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
This application is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/094,155, filed 16 Oct. 2018, which is a national stage entry of PCT Application No. PCT/US2017/028188, filed 18 Apr. 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/324,095, filed on Apr. 18, 2016 entitled: IMPLEMENTS AND APPLICATION UNITS FOR PLACEMENT OF APPLICATIONS WITH RESPECT TO AGRICULTURAL PLANTS OF AGRICULTURAL FIELDS; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/365,824, filed on Jul. 22, 2016 entitled: IMPLEMENTS AND APPLICATION UNITS FOR PLACEMENT OF APPLICATIONS WITH RESPECT TO AGRICULTURAL PLANTS OF AGRICULTURAL FIELDS; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/442,895, filed on Jan. 5, 2017 entitled: IMPLEMENTS AND APPLICATION UNITS FOR PLACEMENT OF APPLICATIONS WITH RESPECT TO AGRICULTURAL PLANTS OF AGRICULTURAL FIELDS, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62324095 | Apr 2016 | US | |
| 62365824 | Jul 2016 | US | |
| 62442895 | Jan 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16094155 | Oct 2018 | US |
| Child | 18059610 | US |
