AU2016379081B2 - Seed Firmer Life Extender Mounting Bracket and Fastener - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention involves a seed firmer with a pusher attachment that extends the life of the seed firmer and brackets for mounting the same to a planter. The disclosed invention additionally involves an adjustment mechanism for seed or grain drill planters which allows for the adjustment of the camber and/or toe of individual coulters on the planter.

Description

Mounting bracket and device for adjusting the angle of attachment of disk colters

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention.

[001] The invention relates to agricultural planting implements. More specifically, the field of the invention is that of seed firmers and brackets for mounting them to planters.

Description of the Related Art.

[002] Grain drills or seed drills are automatic sowing machines which position seeds in the soil before covering them. Traditionally grain drills comprise a hopper for holding seeds, a means for metering seeds from the hopper, a series of tubes for distributing seeds from the metering means to the planting mechanism, and one or more planting mechanisms for digging a furrow, depositing the seeds, and covering the furrow. Seeds may be delivered via gravity or using air pressure to move seeds through the tubes.

[003] One example of a planting mechanism 10 is shown in Fig. 29. Such arrangements may be referred to using a variety of names such as a "gang", an "opener" or a "run". Modern planters may comprise numerous individual planting units, sometimes eighty or more, often arranged in a staggered array (as shown in Fig. 31) to allow closer spacing. Individual planting mechanisms commonly comprise a tool bar 15 to which the other members are attached. The tool bar 15 usually includes one or more attachment points 20 which allow the tool bar to be mounted to a planter unit, raised and lowered between a working position and a travel position, and removed for maintenance. One or more coulters 30, 35 open a furrow to the desired depth for the planting of seeds. In this particular example, disc-type coulters are shown in a dual coulter arrangement. Coulter 35 is shown in outline form so as not to obscure the area between the coulters. A seed tube 40 is mounted to the tool bar 15 and delivers seeds to the furrow opened between the coulters. Once the seeds have been deposited in the furrow, a closing wheel 25 covers the seeds and closes the furrow.

[004] Figure 30 is a top plan view of another planting mechanism 45. This particular example also shows a dual coulter 65, 66 arrangement with a seed tube 70 delivering seeds between the coulters 65, 66 into the opened furrow. In this example, tool bar 60 is shown in outline form so as not to obscure the area between the coulters. A closing wheel 50 is also attached to the tool bar 60. As seen from the top, the coulters 65, 66 are not parallel to one another but rather disposed at an angle relative to one another and to the tool bar. This outward or negative "toe" allows the coulters to cut and clear a furrow. In some examples, the coulters may also have a camber, that is, the coulter is not disposed perpendicular to the ground. Rather, the portion of the coulters which contact the ground and usually closer together than the portions which are distal from the ground (i.e., they have a positive camber angle). In existing planters, the toe and camber angles of coulters are fixed and can only be adjusted by replacing the coulters and/or the mounting members to which the coulters are attached. As seen in Fig. 31 , individual planting mechanisms 45 may be arranged in a staggered fashion so as to allow for closer spacing on a planter.

[005] Optionally, a planting mechanism may further include a seed firmer disposed between the coulters and the closing wheel. Seed firmers are known and used extensively in agricultural planting systems. Such firmers add to the expense of a planting implement but are thought to more than pay for themselves in terms of increased yield. U.S. Patent No. 5,425,318 describes one type of seed firmer; U.S. Patent Nos. 5,730,074, 5,852,982, 6,082,274, and 6,220,191 describe seed firmers having liquid dispensing arrangements; and U.S. Patent No. 7,497,174 describes a mounting system for seed firmers.

Complicated mounting systems and bracket devices are used to mount the firmers on planters for use during the planting season, typically attached to the seed chute.

Improvements in the construction and ease of use of such arrangements are constantly desired. SUMMARY

[006] The present invention involves a seed firmer construction which provides a replaceable tip or end for extending the life of the firmer. The seed firmer generally has two components that degrade with use, the flexible arm and the embedding pusher. The flexible arm generally lasts much longer than the embedding pusher portion because the pusher wears against the ground and eventually wears away. Embodiments of the invention include an embedding pusher portion that has a stop and a guide for accepting a replaceable extender. Other embodiments include an embedding pusher portion that engages the rest of the firmer arm. Thus, the portion of the firmer that wears down may be easily replaced which extends the life of the firmer, multiple times over the useful life of the flexible arm. Also, the firmer is adapted to be mounted to an inventive bracket device, greatly improving the connection and removal of the firmer to and from the planter.

[007] While the extender is disposed on one end of the firmer, the flexible or pushing portion is disposed at the other end and is adapted to be mounted to the planter in alignment with the seed chute. In one embodiment, the mounting portion of the pushing portion has elements that interfit and complement elements on the seed chute so that the pusher portion is directly aligned with the seed chute. In another embodiment, the pushing portion has a flat mounting end that is configured for engagement with a mounting device for holding a flat flange.

[008] Liquid delivery is provided by a tube and discharge path formed in the firmer. In one embodiment, the solid firmer has a passageway shaped to receive a pipe, in one embodiment a curved pipe. Once the firmer is first molded, the curved pipe is inserted while the firmer material is setting up. One end of the pipe is attached to a tube, typically a plastic tube, to receive liquid (e.g., water, fertilizer, herbicides, and/or insecticides) from a source. In one embodiment, that first end of the pipe has ridges or is gnarled or otherwise roughened to enhance the connection of the tube. The other side of the pipe faces a discharge area of the firmer. An internal channel leads to a discharge passage. In one embodiment, a central discharge passage is straight back of the firmer. In another embodiment, multiple passages are present to direct liquid discharge at an angle to the body of the firmer. In yet another embodiment, a cap may be placed over the central discharge passage to redirect the discharging liquid in various angles.

[009] In yet another embodiment, the mounting portion of the firmer includes the pushing arm, and the end of the pushing arm attaches to the extender/embedding portion of the firmer. The optional liquid pipe may be included in the extender/embedding portion, or may be optionally coupled to the extender/embedding portion.

[0010] The present invention, in one form, relates to a seed firmer having a flexible portion and an embedding pusher portion. The flexible portion biases the embedding pusher portion into the soil. The embedding pusher portion includes a slot for receiving an embedding pusher attachment, the stop bounded at the end by a stop portion which retains the embedding pusher attachment as it is drawn over the soil. The firmer is disposed proximate the coulter discs, which are adjustable for creating a furrow in a variety of soil conditions depending on the discs angular adjustments.

[0011] In other embodiments, the present invention relates to mounting brackets usable to mount firmers such as those previously described to planters. In one such embodiment a mounting bracket includes a mounting portion designed and configured to secure the bracket to an existing mounting point on a planter tool arm using existing bolts or other hardware. The bracket also includes a firmer securing housing configured to allow insertion of a portion of a firmer therein and capable of securing the firmer to the bracket. The firmer is secured when a protrusion on the firmer engages a corresponding notch or slot in the firmer housing. The firmer may be removed by deforming or flexing the firmer until the protrusion is disengaged from the notch or slot and the firmer may be withdrawn.

[0012] In another embodiment, a mounting bracket is secured to a desired location on a planter tool arm using newly created mounting points and/or mounting hardware. The bracket includes a firmer securing housing configured to allow insertion of a portion of a firmer therein and capable of securing the firmer to the bracket. The firmer is secured when a protrusion on the firmer engages a corresponding notch or slot in the firmer housing. The firmer may be removed by deforming or flexing the firmer until the protrusion is disengaged from the notch or slot and the firmer may be withdrawn.

[0013] In still another embodiment, a mounting bracket includes a firmer mounting portion having a slotted portion sized and adapted to receive a portion of the firmer. The firmer is then bolted or otherwise secured to the mounting bracket where the slotted portion prevents the firmer from twisting out of alignment while in use. Depth of the firmer in a furrow may be adjusted by positioning the firmer within the slotted portion at the desired depth.

[0014] Further embodiments involve a planting mechanism for use with a seed drill planter with a tool bar mounted thereon. At least one disc-type coulter is operationally mounted to the tool bar, and is connected in a manner which is adjustable for positioning the disc-type coulter relative to the tool bar. Typically two disc-type coulters are used, either coaxially or spaced apart. A locking mechanism is also provided for maintaining the position of the disc-type coulter relative to the tool bar is lockable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The above mentioned and other features and objects of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of an embodiment of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the firmer of the present invention shown in use.

[0017] Figure 2 is a sectional view of Figure 1 showing a through channel.

[0018] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the extender of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 is a side sectional view of the firmer of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the interconnection of the extender and firmer body.

[0020] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an end portion of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021 ] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the liquid dispensing end of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C are cross-sectional views of three embodiments of a liquid dispensing plug according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the interconnection of the extender and the firmer body of the second embodiment of the present invention. [0025] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 11 is an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 12 is an exploded view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 13 is a side view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 14 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 15 is a side view of a eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 17 is a side view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 16.

[0033] Figure 18 is another side view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 16.

[0034] Figure 19 is still another side view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 16.

[0035] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 21 is a side view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 20.

[0037] Figure 22 is a side view of a firmer attached to the mounting bracket shown in Figure 20.

[0038] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 20. [0039] Figure 24 is another perspective view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 20.

[0040] Figure 25 is a side view of a mounting bracket according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041 ] Figure 26 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 25.

[0042] Figure 27 is another perspective view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 25.

[0043] Figure 28 is a close-up perspective view of the mounting bracket shown in Figure 25.

[0044] Figure 29 is a side perspective view of a planting mechanism for a grain drill known in the art.

[0045] Figure 30 is a top plan view of a planting mechanism for a grain drill known in the art.

[0046] Figure 31 is a top plan view of a plurality planting mechanisms from Figure 30 for a grain drill known in the art.

[0047] Figure 32 is side perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosed invention.

[0048] Figure 33 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in Figure 32.

[0049] Figure 34 is another rear view of the embodiment shown in Figure 32.

[0050] Figure 35 is a side view of another embodiment of the disclosed invention with a seed firmer. [0051] Figure 36 is a top plan view of an alternate embodiment of the disclosed invention.

[0052] Figure 37 is a top plan view of still another embodiment of the disclosed invention.

[0053] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate and explain the present invention. The exemplification set out herein illustrates embodiments of the invention, in several forms, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DESCRIPTION

[0054] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings.

[0055] Figure 1 shows seed firmer 100 disposed in operation, having embedding pusher portion, or extender, 110 positioned relative to seed chute 10 in a conventional manner. Seed chute 10 is positioned relative to disc 40 by mount 30 so that chute 10 delivers seeds 50 to trough 60, with extender portion 110 being so positioned to embed seeds 50 into the soil of trough 60. Firmer 100 includes interior channel 70 which extends from nipples 80 to end point 90, and is sized to receive tube 20, which in this exemplary embodiment involves conventional liquid tubes that deliver herbicides, fertilizers, pesticides, and/or mixtures of those chemicals to deposit on or near seed 50 once embedded.

[0056] Firmer 100 has an attachment portion, extender 110, that is located at a position on firmer 100 that contacts and embeds seeds 50 into the soil defining trough 60. In one embodiment, extender 110 fits into slot 410 in firmer 100 (see Figure 4), with slot 410 bounded by hard stop portion 510 (see Figure 5) that retains extender 110 against the direction of movement of firmer 100 over the soil. In this embodiment, extender 110 has tongue 420 having a "T" shape that slideably engages slot 410 so that when not in use, extender 110 may be easily replaced. When firmer 100 is in use, the force subjected to extender 110 urges it into hard stop 510. The exact shape and arrangement of the slideable engagement of slot 410 and tongue 420 may have several variations, for example a circular or arc shaped tongue and slot, or a tongue and slot with several angles.

[0057] Extender 110 (see Figure 3) may be made of conventional materials so that seeds 50 are pressed by the conventional surface and the material wears similarly to conventional firmers. However, once embedding surface 330 wears away so as to diminish the capacity of firmer 100, extender 110 may be replaced. Replacement is made without removing firmer 100 from mount 30. Instead, a farmer may simply slide the old one of extender 110 and slide in a new one. Hard stop 510 limits the range of motion of extender 110, and when firmer 100 is drawn across trough 60 then extender 110 is pressed into hard stop 510.

[0058] Firmer 100 also has an elongated interior channel 70 which is structured and arranged to receive tube 72, which in the disclosed embodiment is a convention liquid delivery tube, for delivering liquid on or near an embedded one of seeds 50 (see Figures 2 and 5). An open end of interior channel 70 is configured to receive nipple 80, which serves as a fluid connection between supply tube 20 and interior tube 72. Interior tube 72 is disposed within channel 70 and supported by tube holder 25, which in one embodiment includes a washer-shaped piece having a perimeter roughly congruent to the shape of interior channel 70.

[0059] End point 90 may be configured to be an outlet at one end of channel 70, with that end of channel 70 initially manufactured so that end point 90 closes one end of channel 70. This allows customization of a single piece, so that the exit holes may be drilled to suit the particular application. For example, a straight hole in facing surface 94 delivers liquid directly over embedded seed 50 (a "straight shooter"), which may be good for an insecticide, while side surfaces 92 may have holes drilled in them so that liquid is delivered on each side of embedded seed 50 (a "split shooter"), which may be better for fertilizer. In one embodiment (not shown), channel 70 is structured and arranged to accommodate multiple tubes so that a series of end points are associated with each tube, allowing for combinations of straight shooters and split shooters in a single seed firmer.

[0060] Other embodiments have a tube disposed within the body of the firmer, for example the embodiments of Figures 6 and 10. The embodiment of Figure 6 has flexing portion 640 coupling flat end 650 and embedding arm 680. Pipe 670 extends from embedding portion 680 and extends within portion 680 to spray nozzle 690. Pipe 670 is structured and arranged to receive a flexible tube (not shown) over its exposed end, and may have a roughed, serrated, or ridged surface to further engage the flexible tube.

Firmer 600 may also have one or more tube retention pieces 675 to retain the flexible tube with firmer 600. Extender 610 engages embedding arm 680 as shown in Figure 9 and described below. The embodiment of Figure 10 has flexing portion 1040 coupling chute end 1050 and embedding arm 1080. Pipe 1070 extends from embedding portion 1080 and extends within portion 1080 to spray nozzle 1090. Pipe 1070 is structured and arranged to receive a flexible tube (not shown) over its exposed end, and may have a roughed, serrated, or ridged surface to further engage the flexible tube. Firmer 1000 may also have one or more tube retention pieces 1075 to retain the flexible tube with firmer 1000. Extender 1010 engages embedding arm 1080 as shown in Figure 9 and described below.

[0061 ] Embodiments of the inventive firmers of the present application may be mounted on the planting equipment in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, firmer 1000 includes seed chute connection portion 1050 structured and arranged to be connected to the exterior mounting of a seed chute (not shown). In another embodiment, shown in Figure 6, firmer 600 has flat end 650 so that firmer 600 may be attached within a planter bracket assembly similar to that disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. Patent No. 7,497,174. Embodiments disclosed in the present application may be adapted to either mounting style.

[0062] In addition to the alternative styles of mounting to a seed chute (not shown), embodiments of the invention also have alternative arrangements of the replaceable embedding portion of the firmer. Figure 6 shows firmer 600 having embedding end 680 with spray nozzle 690 and extender 610. Firmer also has flat end 650 merging into flexible arm 640 which resiliently biases embedding end 680. Liquid, such as pesticide, herbicide, and/or fertilizer, may be directed proximate embedding end 680 by a flexible tube (not shown) being engaged with arm 675 and attaching to fixed tube 670. Fixed tube 670 extends through embedding end 680 to nozzle 690. Figure 7 shows a view of embedding end 680 from the perspective of the trailing embedded seed. Extender 610 is the portion of firmer 600 pushing a seed (not shown in Figure 7) into the ground. In this embodiment, embedding end 680 generally narrows to the general size of the seed, with nozzle 690 extending over the location of the embedded seed. [0063] Firmer 600 may have alternative versions of nozzle 690. In the alternative embodiment of Figure 8A, central bore 800 extends through cylindrically shaped nozzle 690' and terminates at angled passages 810 and 820, which are structured and arranged to direct liquid to a position offset from the seed. Flange 830 extends outward to shield the space through which angled passages 810 and 820 direct fluid. Valley 840 is located proximate the open end of central bore 800, and is structured and arranged to be engaged by a ridge or bump within embedding end 680 to secure the position of nozzle 690'. The alternative embodiment of Figure 8B has central passage 850 for directing fluid onto the seed. A further alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 8C, which includes splitter 692 that attaches over nozzle 690' so that fluid coming through central passage 850 is directed in other directions through splitter holes 694, for example with similar angles as passages 810 and 820 of the embodiment of Figure 8A. The exact shape, size, and angle of splitter holes 694 may be varied for several unillustrated alternative embodiments of splitter 692.

[0064] In the embodiment of Figure 6, extender 610 engages embedding end 680. One embodiment of the connection of extender 10 and embedding end 680 is depicted in the arrangement of Figure 9. In this arrangement, embedding end 680 has T-shaped tongue 684 extending from stop portion 682 and below bottom surface 686. Tongue 684 is structured and arranged to match the contour of recess 614 of extender 610. Near the end of tongue 684 opposite stop 682, bottom surface 686 has a recess portion 688. Recess portion 688 is structured and arranged to engage with ribs 612 which extend from extender 610. The engagement of ribs 612 with recess portion 688 allows extender 610 to be slid onto tongue 684 without any impediment, and when stop end 616 of extender 610 nears stop portion 682, then ribs 612 are close to engagement with recess portion 688 and thus provides a slide in and lock procedure for securing extender 610 with embedding end 680.

[0065] Other embodiments of the invention involve the firmer having a central portion with attachment, flexing, and embedding portions connected together by a sandwiching arrangement between corresponding sidewalls, for example the embodiments of Figures 11 and 12. In the embodiment of Figure 11, firmer 1100 has flat end 1150, central portion 1140, and embedding end 1180 formed in one integral piece. Pipe 1170 is disposed over embedding portion 1180, and under upper portion 1185, with extender 1110 abutting embedding portion 1180. Sidewalls 130 sandwich those components, and in some embodiments hold all together, using connectors 1145 received in sidewall holes 1135. In other unillustrated embodiments, extender 1110 may have a tongue-groove connection with embedding portion 1180, and be independent of, or alternatively sandwiched between, sidewalls 1130. Connectors 1145, which may be in the form of a screw, rod, putty, or other piece of connecting material and combinations of those, may secure sidewalls 1130 as sandwiching plates holding other components in their desired positions. In some embodiments, one or more connectors 1145 are releasable or otherwise alterable, while in other embodiments all connectors 1145 are fixed and engage sidewalls 1130, including extending through other components of firmer 1100. The embodiment of Figure 12 has similar features to that of Figure 11, with the exception that chute end 1250 being structured and arranged for connection to a conventional seed chute (not shown).

[0066] A further embodiment having separate attaching and embedding portions is shown in Figure 13. In this embodiment, flexible portion 1340 and flat end 1350 (which could in another embodiment be replaced by a chute end, not shown here) are formed as a single integral piece, and embedding arm 1380 is formed as a separate piece. In this embodiment, pipe 1370 extends from connection portion 1350 to spray nozzle 1390, and the bottom of connection portion 1350 abuts flange 1330 of flexible portion 1340.

Extender 1310 is connected to embedding arm 1380 with a tongue and groove connection similar to some previous embodiments. Connector 1345, which may be in the form of a screw, rod, putty, or other piece of connecting material, extends through flange 1330 to couple with connection portion 1350. In alternative embodiments (not shown), pipe 1370 may enter embedding arm 1380 above the overlap with flexible portion 1340 so that connector 1345 in that embodiment is affixed from the top.

[0067] Another embodiment shown in Figure 14 has a two-piece design for firmer 1400, with flexible portion 1440 having connection portion 1430 inserted into receiving portion 1435 or embedding portion 1480. In this embodiment, flat end 1450 may be alternatively shaped as a chute portion (not shown), and extender 1410 may be attached to embedding portion 1480 by a tongue and groove connection, or other connection.

[0068] An additional embodiment having a less substantial embedding portion is shown as firmer 1500 in Figure 15. In this embodiment, flat end 1550 (which may alternatively be a chute end, not shown) has tube brackets 1575 disposed along flexible portion 1540 and embedding portion 1580 to provide for holding a tube (not shown) along the upper body of firmer 1500 to dispensing passage 1585 and spray nozzle 1590. Extender 1510, in this embodiment, may be attached to embedding portion 1580 via a tongue and groove connection, and is substantially thicker than those of the previous embodiments. This arrangement maximizes the size of replaceable extender 1510. Because of the greater size of extender 1510, the size of embedding portion 1580 is reduced. Thus, a pipe may not be feasible within embedding portion 1580, rather provision is made for attachment to flexible tube 1520. Flexible tube 1520 may be connected to a liquid delivery system (not shown) for dispensing water, nutrients, pesticides, and/or herbicides.

[0069] Seed firmers such as those described above as well as other types of frrmers must be mounted to a plater properly to be effective. A firmer should be attached in a position on the plater so that the embedding portion can contact the seed after it has been deposited in the furrow but before the furrow is closed. The firmer should also be mounted in such a way that it is able to move and flex freely without interfering with the existing planter equipment. Many modern planters include a variety of devices such as disks, wheels, knives, and the like for opening, closing, and conditioning the soil as well as one or more tubes or chutes for delivering seeds as well as fertilizers, soil amendments, and treatments such as fungicides, pesticides, herbicides, and the like. Typically, there is very little room on a modern planter for attaching a firmer mounting bracket so that it can be effective and not interfere with the operation of the planter and/or without making modifications to the placement and operation of the planter's existing assemblies.

[0070] Firmer mounting bracket 1600 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 16-19. In this particular example, mounting bracket 1600 includes mounting portion 1630 for securing the bracket to the planter and firmer attachment housing 1610 for removably securing firmer 1620 to bracket 1600. Mounting portion 1630 is bolted to planter tool arm 1670 such that mounting bracket 1600 is disposed between opening disks 1640 of the planter which allows firmer 1620 to contact the ground aft of seed tube 1770. In this particular example, mounting bracket 1600 is secured to planter tool arm 1670 using existing bolts 1660 which are already a part of the planter. Bolt 1660 passed through mounting arm 1680 portion of mounting portion 1630. Mounting bracket 1600 in this example is installed without having to modify the planter or use additional hardware. In other examples, mounting points may be drilled or other otherwise machined into the planter tool arm and the mounting bracket secured to the planter using bolts or other fasteners not original to the planter. In still other examples, existing mounting points may be used in combination with aftermarket bolts, washers, bushings, or other fasteners adapted for use with the mounting brackets of the present invention.

[0071 ] As shown in Figure 18, in this example the positioning of mounting bracket 1600 between opening disks 1640 of the planter allows firmer 1620 to be disposed aft of seed tube 1770 which is typically disposed somewhere between the opening disks. Contacting portion 1690 of firmer 1620 may then press the seeds into the furrow before closing wheels 1700 cover the furrow with soil. Optionally, firmer 1620 may be equipped with one or more tubes or channels for delivering fertilizers or other amendments or substances to the furrow before closing by closing wheels 1700. The exact positioning of firmer 1620 relative to opening disks 1640 and closing wheels 1700 may vary according to the particular planter and/or firmer being used, as well as to accommodate different soil types and conditions.

[0072] The cover of firmer attachment housing 1610 has been removed in Figures 18-19 so the interior may be visible. The cover is secured to housing 1610 at one or more attachment points 1710 using screws, bolts, or other suitable fasteners. Optionally pins or other protrusions may be used to help insure the housing cover is correctly aligned with the housing when securing it. Housing 1610 includes at least one receiving chamber 1720 having opening 1730 for receiving and securing mounting end 1740 of the firmer. Housing 1610 may include additional openings 1750 as desired, such as to allow passage of fertilizer tube 1760 through housing 1610.

[0073] Firmer 1620 is engaged with mounting bracket housing 1610 by sliding mounting end 1740 of firmer 1620 into housing opening 1730 until catch or protrusion 1780 on firmer 1620 snaps into receiving slot or notch 1790 in the housing. Once catch 1780 and slot 1790 are engaged with one another, firmer 1620 is prevented from backing out of housing 1610. To remove the firmer, a flat bladed tool such as a screwdriver or similar tool is inserted into housing opening 1730 between housing 1610 and firmer 1620 on the same side of firmer 1620 as catch 1780. Pressure is then applied to the tool to urge firmer 1620 away from housing 1610 which bends firmer 1620 and causes catch 1780 to disengage slot 1790 thereby allowing firmer 1620 to be withdrawn from housing 1610. A worn or broken firmer may then be replaced by a new firmer, or have the extender replaced.

[0074] When in use, the size and configuration of housing 1610 and chamber 1720 allows firmer 1620 to flex to the degree necessary for effective performance. Because firmer 1620 is not fixed to housing 1610 in this particular example, firmer 1620 is free to flex along the entire length of firmer 1620 including portion 1740 inserted into mounting bracket 1600. The exact amount of flexure required may vary according to a number of factors including soil composition, weather conditions, the type and variety of seeds being planted, and the like. The degree of flexure may be adjustable, optionally using a screw or bolt. Adjustment screw 1650 may thus be inserted into housing 1610 until the end of screw 1800 is the desired distance away from firmer 1620. As the firmer flexes during use, the firmer contacts the screw which prevents flexure beyond a predetermined range. In other examples, firmer 1620 may include protrusion 1810 which prevents flexure of the firmer beyond a predetermined degree by contacting wall 1820 of the housing. Such protrusion 1810 may be sized so as to allow as much or as little flexure as desired.

[0075] Another example of mounting bracket 2000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 20-24. In this particular example, mounting bracket 2000 includes mounting portion 2010 for securing the bracket to the planter and firmer attachment portion 2020 for removably securing the firmer to the bracket. Mounting portion 2010 is bolted to planter tool arm 2030 such that mounting bracket 2000 is disposed between the opening disks (removed for the sake of clarity) of the planter which allows firmer 2040 to contact the ground aft of seed tube 2050. In this particular example, mounting bracket 2000 is secured to planter tool arm 2030 using bolts. Two bolts 2060 pass through mounting portion 2010. Mounting bracket 2000 in this example is installed by modifying the planter by drilling two holes for mounting bolts 2060. In other examples, existing mounting points and bolts or fasteners may be used. In still other examples, existing mounting points may be used in combination with aftermarket bolts, washers, bushings, or other fasteners adapted for use with the mounting brackets of embodiments of the present invention.

[0076] Mounting bracket 2000 in the present example is positioned such that contacting portion 2080 of firmer 2040 may press the seeds into the furrow prior to closing wheels 2070 closing the furrow and a firming or pressing wheel (not shown) firming the closed furrow. Optionally, firmer 2040 may be equipped with one or more tubes or channels for delivering fertilizer or other amendments or substances to the furrow before closing by closing wheels 2070. The exact positioning of firmer 2040 relative to opening disks and closing wheels 2070 may vary according to the particular planter and/or firmer being used.

[0077] In this particular example mounting bracket 2000 does not include a bracket housing. Rather, firmer 2040 is secured to firmer attachment portion 2020 of bracket 2000 using screws, bolts, pins, straps, or other suitable means. The exact nature of the attachment mechanism may vary according to the make, model, and/or style of firmer being used. In this particular example, firmer 2040 is secured to firmer attachment portion 2020 of the mounting bracket using strap 2090. The general nature of firmer attachment portion 2020 in this example allows a wide variety of makes and models of firmers to be used with the bracket 2000. Positioning of firmer 2040 relative to mounting bracket 2000 is optionally insured by matching protrusion 2100 on the firmer with corresponding notch 2110 in the mounting bracket. In other examples, the protrusion and notch may be of different size, shape, number, and/or configuration. In other examples, the firmer has one of more notches and the bracket has one or more protrusions. In still other examples, each of the firmer and bracket has a mix of protrusions and notches. Firmer 2040 in this example includes mounting portion 2120 attached to flexible arm portion 2130. The degree of flexure allowed by flexible arm portion 2130 is adjustable using screw 2140. Flexure of arm 2130 is prevented beyond a desired set point by screw 2140 contacting mounting portion 2120 of firmer 2040. By adjusting the length of screw 2140 protruding through flexible arm portion 2130, the degree of flexure of firmer 2040 may be increased or decreased as desired.

[0078] Another example of mounting bracket 2200 according to embodiments of the present invention is shown in Figures 25-28. In this particular example, mounting bracket 2200 is designed to be mounted to tool arm 2210 of the planter on the closing wheel assembly rather than on or near the opening wheel assembly of the previous examples. Mounting bracket 2200 comprises generally L-shaped member 2220 which is mounted to the closing wheel assembly such that the bracket projects forward of the closing wheels so as to position the firmer aft of the opening wheels but forward of closing wheels 2230. Optionally, generally L-shaped bracket 2220 may be comprised of two or more portions bolted, screwed, other otherwise adjustably secured to one another. In this particular example, generally L-shaped bracket 2220 includes generally vertical bracket member 2240 secured using two bolts 2250. The exact position of vertical bracket 2240 may be adjusted relative to the ground so as to adjust the depth to which firmer 2260 extends into a furrow. Once desired firmer 2260 positioning is achieved bolts 2250 may be tightened. Optionally, vertical bracket member 2240 and generally L-shaped member 2220 include multiple holes 2270 so a variety of positions may be achieved. L-shaped member 2220 may optionally include cross member 2280 to increase the strength and stability of bracket 2200.

[0079] Mounting bracket 2200 is secured to planter tool arm 2210 using pre-existing bolt 2290 and attachment point on the planter. Existing bolt 2290 is removed, the bracket positioned, and the bolt inserted through the bracket and tightened to the original planter specifications. Optionally, additional hardware such as washers, bushings, longer bolts, and the like may be used. In still other examples a new mounting point may be machined in the planter and new fasteners used where no suitable fasteners or attachment points exist.

[0080] Optionally firmer 2260 and/or bracket 2200 may include slot 2320 allowing for finer adjustment to the firmer depth. In this particular example, finer adjustment of firmer 2260 depth is achieved by loosening bolt 2310 which secures firmer 2260 to bracket 2200, adjusting the positioning of firmer 2260 by sliding it up or down relative to bracket 2200, then tightening bolt 2310. Optionally, slot 2300 may be machined into generally vertical member 2240 sized and configured so that mounting portion 2340 of firmer 2260 may slide therein. Seating of firmer mounting portion 2340 in slot 2310 helps prevent twisting of firmer 2260 during use.

[0081 ] In other examples, a generally L-shaped bracket designed for mounting to the closing wheel portion of the planter tool arm such as is shown in Figures 26-29 may be used in conjunction with firmer mounting systems such as the housing shown in Figures 16-20 or the system shown in Figures 21-25. In other examples, the firmer mounting system shown in Figures 26-29 may be used in conjunction with a bracket that is mounted to the opening wheel portion of the planter tool arm.

[0082] A variety of factors may determine the optimal positioning of coulters during planting so as to achieve the desired seed positioning. Soil type (sandy, loamy, clay, etc.), soil moisture content, field litter (such as plant material from previous crops), and ground speed may all affect the quality of the furrow being opened by the coulters. If the coulters are fixed in position relative to one another then the operator must adjust other variables (such as ground speed during planting) or perform additional work to improve conditions (such as additional passes with implements to break up field litter or hard soil). Allowing the position of the coulters relative to one another to be adjusted allows the operator to achieve better furrow production and seed placement under a wider variety of field conditions.

[0083] One illustrative example of the disclosed invention is shown in Figures 32-34. In this particular embodiment, planting mechanism 4100 comprises tool bar 4105 operationally attached to two disc-type coulters 4115, 4120. Tool bar 4105 includes attachment point 4125 configured and arranged so that the planting mechanism may be mounted to a planter. In this particular example, attachment point 4125 is configured to allow attachment of the planting mechanism to a seed drill planter. In other examples, the attachment point may be configured to allow attachment of the planting mechanism to a row crop planter. In still other examples, the attachment point may be a mounting plate, hinge, or other suitable attachment means. In still other examples, more than one attachment point may be used. Tool bar 4105 further includes slot or channel 4110 allowing items such as a seed tube or delivery devices for delivering fertilizer to pass therethrough. In other examples, mounting or securing brackets for attachment of such items may also be included.

[0084] Disc coulters 4115, 4120 are each operationally connected to tool bar 4105 by spindle or axle 4135 and 4136, respectively. Spindles 4135, 4136 are capable of pivoting relative to tool bar 105 such that the position of coulters 4115, 4120 relative to tool bar 4105 and the ground is adjustable. Spindles 4135, 4136 may have rounded, notched, or a series of flat surfaces within

[0085] For example, coulters as shown in Figure 34 are positioned such that the edges of the discs contacting the soil are closer together than the edges of the discs distal from the ground. That is, the discs have a positive camber angle. The coulters are also positioned such that the edges of the discs closest to attachment point 4125 of tool bar 4105 are farther apart than the edges of the discs distal from the attachment point. That is, the discs have a negative toe or a toe out. When the discs have been adjusted to the desired position relative to the tool bar, the position of spindles 4135, 4136 may be locked in place by tightening corresponding locking pin 4130, 4131. In this particular example, locking pins 4130 and 4131 are shown as bolts which contact spindles 4135, 4136 when tightened thereby securing the spindles in place relative to the tool bar. In other examples, the locking pins may be set screws, pins, plates, or the like. In still other examples, the spindles may include notches, grooves, or other indents sized and configured to receive the locking pins. These indents may be positioned so as to create one or more "preset" orientations for the coulters. [0086] As seen in Figure 34, the positioning of coulters 4115, 4120 have been adjusted from that shown in Figure 33. In this illustration, the coulters are position such that the edges in contact with the ground are relatively the same distance apart from one another as the edges distal from the ground are apart from each other. That is, the coulters have a near zero or neutral camber. The edges of the coulters which are nearest the attachment point for the tool bar are farther apart from one another than the edges which are distal from the attachment point, but the difference is not as great as shown in Figure 33. That is, the coulters have a positive toe in Figure 34, but a smaller toe than the discs shown in Figure 33.

[0087] In this particular example, tool bar 4105 further includes attachment point 4140 to which other devices may be attached. For example, a firmer tool, a closing wheel, or both, may be attached to attachment point 4140. Attachment point 4140 is shown as a housing with a series of bolt holes in this example, but in other examples it may be mounting pins, bolts, eye bolt, hook, or other suitable mounting devices configured in the housing. In the disclosed example, the housing of attachment point 4140 receives spindles 4135, 4136 and pins 4130, 4131 as well as providing for the mounting of other devices. In other embodiments, spindles 4135, 4136 and pins 4130, 4131 may be otherwise secured to tool bar 4105. In still other examples, the attachment point allows for pivotable or adjustable mounting of a device such that the position of the mounted device may be adjusted relative to the tool bar in a fashion similar to how the coulters are adjustable.

[0088] Figure 35 shows another embodiment of the disclosed invention which further comprises seed firmer 4400 disposed in operation, having embedding pusher portion, or extender, 4415 positioned relative to seed chute 4410 in a conventional manner. Seed chute 4410 is positioned relative to disc coulter 4440 by mount 4430 so that chute 4410 delivers seeds 4450 to trough 4460, with extender portion 4415 being so positioned to embed seeds 4450 into the soil of trough 4460. Firmer 4400 includes interior channel 4470 which extends from nipples 4480 to end point 4490, and is sized to receive tube 4420, which in this exemplary embodiment involves conventional liquid tubes that deliver herbicides, fertilizers, pesticides, and/or mixtures of those chemicals to deposit on or near seed 4450 once embedded.

[0089] Figure 36 shows an alternate embodiment of the disclosed invention. In this particular embodiment, dual coulters 4620, 4630 are attached at different distances along the length of tool bar 4610. This particular example results in planting mechanism 4600 where one coulter 4620 is closer to the point where tool bar 4610 is attached to the planter (not shown) and the other coulter 4630 is closer to closing wheel 4640. Both coulters 4620, 4630 are fully adjustable as previously discussed above with respect to the embodiment shown in Figures 32-34.

[0090] Figure 37 shows yet another embodiment of the disclosed invention. In this particular embodiment, planting mechanism 4700 comprises single coulter 720 and closing wheel 4730 attached to tool bar 4710. Coulter 4720 is fully adjustable as previously discussed about with respect to the embodiment shown in Figures 32-34.

[0091 ] While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.

Claims (17)

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A bracket for attaching to a planter for coupling the planter with a seed firmer having a flexible arm portion with a protrusion and a firming portion for embedding seeds into soil, the planter having an attachment point on a tool arm, a seed chute, and closing wheels, the bracket comprising:

a mounting portion adapted to mount the bracket to the attachment point; and a housing portion adapted to receive the flexible arm portion of a seed firmer, the housing portion comprising an opening for receiving the flexible arm portion and a notch for receiving the protrusion;

wherein the firmer is secured to the bracket when the protrusion is engaged with the housing portion slot;

wherein the mounting portion is positioned on the planter tool arm such that the firming portion is disposed aft of the seed chute and forward of the closing wheels.

2. A bracket for mounting a seed firmer for embedding seeds into soil, the seed firmer having a flexible portion with a protrusion, to a planter having an attachment point, said bracket comprising:

a mounting portion adapted to be mounted to the attachment point;

a receiving portion for receiving the flexible portion, the receiving portion including a housing having an opening to a hollow chamber adapted to receive the flexible portion, and a notch in the housing adapted to receive the protrusion to secure the firmer to the housing.

3. The bracket of Claim 1 or 2, wherein the opening is configured and arranged to allow the firmer to be bent such to disengage the firmer protrusion from the housing notch allowing the firmer to be removed from the bracket.

4. The bracket of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the mounting portion is bolted to the planter tool arm using a bolt on the planter.

5. The bracket of any of the preceding Claims, wherein bending the firmer within the housing disengages the firmer protrusion from the housing notch and allows the firmer to be removed from the bracket.

6. The bracket of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the mounting portion is bolted to the planter tool arm using an existing bolt on the planter.

7. A planting mechanism for use with seed drill planter, comprising:

a tool bar, mountable to a seed drill planter;

at least one disc-type coulter operationally mounted to the tool bar, allowing adjustable positioning of the at least one disc-type coulter relative to the tool bar; and

a locking mechanism wherein the position of the at least one disc-type coulter relative to the tool bar is lockable.

8. The planting mechanism of Claim 7, wherein the tool bar further includes a mounting point for attaching additional implements to the tool bar such as a closer wheel and/or a firmer bar.

9. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising at least two disc-type coulters operationally mounted to the tool bar, with each disc-type coulter being adjustable relative to the tool bar and lockable by the locking mechanism.

10. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the disctype coulters are operationally mounted to the tool bar by spindles.

11. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the locking mechanism includes a pin for securing the position of each spindle.

12. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the locking mechanism includes bolts for securing the position of each spindle.

13. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein each spindle has a configuration adapted to allow for a plurality of locking positions.

14. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the disctype coulters are arranged opposite each other on the tool bar.

15. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the disctype coulters are at different positions along the length of the tool bar.

16. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising a seed firmer having an embedding end and an attachment end, the attachment end coupled to the tool bar in such an arrangement that the embedding end is disposed proximate to the at least one disc-type coulter.

17. The planting mechanism of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the embedding end of the seed firmer has a replaceable extender.