GB603232A - A machine for use in gapping or thinning crops - Google Patents

Abstract

6 0 3,2 3 2. Agricultural implements. MASTERS, A. T. May 30, 1946, No. 6254/45. [Class 6(i)] In a machine for gapping or thinning root crops, a framework suspended below the frame of a tractor carries two or more sets of knives which rotate in vertical planes at right angles to the direction of movement of the machine, their cutting edges entering the soil at intervals across the plant rows, the said knives being rotated by the ground wheels of the tractor through the medium of a transverse shaft' geared to longitudinal shafts each carrying a set of knives. As shown the framework 1 is carried beneath a tractor being pivotally supported by brackets 3. The knife-sets two in number are mounted on spaced shafts 10 and are driven from a transverse shaft 7 by bevel gears, a clutch coupling 20 at each end of the shaft 7 being connected to a lever 24 to disengage the chain drive to the shaft from the ground wheels 19. The depth of penetration of the blades is varied by a lever 23 which allows the framework 1 to pivot about the axle 7. The distance apart of the knife-sets may be adjusted to suit the plant rows.