US20230345854A1 - Row Cleaner Load Sensor - Google Patents
Row Cleaner Load Sensor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230345854A1 US20230345854A1 US17/907,287 US202117907287A US2023345854A1 US 20230345854 A1 US20230345854 A1 US 20230345854A1 US 202117907287 A US202117907287 A US 202117907287A US 2023345854 A1 US2023345854 A1 US 2023345854A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- row cleaner
- subframe
- assembly
- row
- gauge wheel
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B35/00—Other machines for working soil not specially adapted for working soil on which crops are growing
- A01B35/02—Other machines for working soil not specially adapted for working soil on which crops are growing with non-rotating tools
- A01B35/04—Other machines for working soil not specially adapted for working soil on which crops are growing with non-rotating tools drawn by animal or tractor or man-power
- A01B35/08—Other machines for working soil not specially adapted for working soil on which crops are growing with non-rotating tools drawn by animal or tractor or man-power with rigid tools
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
- A01C7/00—Sowing
- A01C7/006—Minimum till seeding
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B63/00—Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
- A01B63/14—Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors
- A01B63/16—Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame
- A01B63/22—Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B27/00—Clod-crushers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B35/00—Other machines for working soil not specially adapted for working soil on which crops are growing
- A01B35/20—Tools; Details
- A01B35/22—Non-rotating tools; Resilient or flexible mounting of rigid tools
- A01B35/26—Rigid tools
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B43/00—Gatherers for removing stones, undesirable roots or the like from the soil, e.g. tractor-drawn rakes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B49/00—Combined machines
- A01B49/02—Combined machines with two or more soil-working tools of different kind
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B63/00—Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
- A01B63/002—Devices for adjusting or regulating the position of tools or wheels
- A01B63/008—Vertical adjustment of tools
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01B—SOIL WORKING IN AGRICULTURE OR FORESTRY; PARTS, DETAILS, OR ACCESSORIES OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINES OR IMPLEMENTS, IN GENERAL
- A01B76/00—Parts, details or accessories of agricultural machines or implements, not provided for in groups A01B51/00 - A01B75/00
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
- A01C7/00—Sowing
- A01C7/08—Broadcast seeders; Seeders depositing seeds in rows
- A01C7/081—Seeders depositing seeds in rows using pneumatic means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
- A01C7/00—Sowing
- A01C7/20—Parts of seeders for conducting and depositing seed
- A01C7/201—Mounting of the seeding tools
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
- A01C7/00—Sowing
- A01C7/20—Parts of seeders for conducting and depositing seed
- A01C7/201—Mounting of the seeding tools
- A01C7/203—Mounting of the seeding tools comprising depth regulation means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01C—PLANTING; SOWING; FERTILISING
- A01C7/00—Sowing
- A01C7/20—Parts of seeders for conducting and depositing seed
- A01C7/201—Mounting of the seeding tools
- A01C7/205—Mounting of the seeding tools comprising pressure regulation means
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
- Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
Abstract
An agricultural row cleaner having a frame with a gauge wheel and an actuator to apply a selected force to the row cleaner.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63/005,559, filed 6 Apr. 2020; 63/010833, filed 16 Apr. 2020; 63/017,869, filed 30 Apr. 2020; 63/040,311, filed 17 Jun. 2020; 63/074,684, filed 4 Sep. 2020; 63/115,875, filed 19 Nov. 2020; and 63/122,735, filed 8 Dec. 2020, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
- Row cleaners are disposed forward of a trench opening assembly on planters to move any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed area in preparation for the rearwardly aligned trench opening assembly that opens the seed trench into which the seeds are deposited. While many commercially available row cleaners serve their intended purpose, a need exists for a row cleaner assembly that provides improved performance.
-
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an embodiment of an agricultural planter. -
FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing an embodiment of row cleaner assembly incorporating a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 2A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly substantially the same as shown inFIG. 2 , but without a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 3A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 2A . -
FIG. 4 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 6 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to better illustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly. -
FIG. 11 is front perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 and showing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleaner wheels. -
FIG. 12 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 13 is an exploded front perspective view of an embodiment of the upper subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 14 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the intermediate subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 15 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the lower subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the lower subframe for the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 18A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly substantially the same as shown inFIG. 18 , but without a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 18 . -
FIG. 19A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 18A . -
FIG. 20 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 21 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 22 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 25 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 . -
FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to better illustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly. -
FIG. 27 is front perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 and showing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleaner wheels. -
FIG. 28 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 29 is an exploded front perspective view of an embodiment of the upper subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 30 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the intermediate subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 31 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the lower subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 32 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 33 is a perspective view of components of an embodiment of an actuator system showing an embodiment of an airbag actuator and a partially exploded spring assembly. -
FIG. 34 is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 34A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly substantially the same as shown inFIG. 34 , but without a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 35 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 34 . -
FIG. 35A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 34A . -
FIG. 36 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 37 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 38 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 39 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 40 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 41 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 42 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to better illustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly. -
FIG. 43 is front perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 and showing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleaner wheels. -
FIG. 44 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 45 is an exploded perspective view of the lower subframe and rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 showing an exploded view of an embodiment of a depth selector. -
FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the intermediate subframe and linkages of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 and showing an embodiment of an actuator system. -
FIG. 47 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the upper subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 48 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the intermediate subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 49 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the linkages of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 50 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the lower subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 51 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 . -
FIG. 52A is a schematic representation illustrating the movement of the row cleaner assembly when the actuator system is actuated to a apply a downforce. -
FIG. 52B is a schematic representation illustrating the movement of the row cleaner assembly when the actuator system is actuated to a apply a lift force. -
FIG. 53 is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 53A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly substantially the same as shown inFIG. 34 , but without a gauge wheel. -
FIG. 54 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 53 . -
FIG. 54A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 53A . -
FIG. 55 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 56 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 57 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 58 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 59 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 60 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 61 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to better illustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly. -
FIG. 62 is front perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 and showing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleaner wheels. -
FIG. 63 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 64 is an exploded perspective view of the lower subframe and rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 showing an exploded view of an embodiment of a depth selector. -
FIG. 65 is a perspective view of the intermediate subframe and linkages of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 and showing an embodiment of an actuator system. -
FIG. 66 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of the upper subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 67 is perspective view of an embodiment of the linkage of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an embodiment of intermediate subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 69 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the lower subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 . -
FIG. 71 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a planter row unit showing an alternative mounting arrangement for any of the preceding embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies. -
FIG. 72 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a planter row unit showing another alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assembly and mounting arrangement, therefore. -
FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating an embodiment of a third row cleaner wheel assembly. -
FIG. 74 is a front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 75 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 76 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 77 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 78 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 79 is an exploded right front perspective view of row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIG. 80 is an exploded left front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 . -
FIGS. 81 is a front right perspective view of another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating an embodiment of a row cleaner diverter assembly. -
FIG. 82 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly with the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 . -
FIG. 83 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly with the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 . -
FIG. 84 is the same front right perspective view of the row cleaner assembly with the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 , but showing the row cleaner wheels removed to better show the diverter assembly. -
FIG. 85 is the same front right perspective view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 84 , but showing the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 exploded. -
FIG. 86 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 . -
FIG. 87 is front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the row cleaner diverter assembly adapted for the embodiment of the lower subframe as depicted inFIGS. 50 and 69 . -
FIG. 88 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 showing alternative placement of load sensors for determining downforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly. -
FIG. 89 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 showing placement of load sensors for determining downforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly. -
FIG. 90 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 showing placement of load sensors for determining downforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly. -
FIG. 91 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 showing placement of load sensors for determining downforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly. -
FIG. 92 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of one of the load sensors depicted inFIGS. 88-91 . -
FIG. 93 is a side elevation view of the load sensor ofFIG. 92 . -
FIG. 94 is a perspective view of the sleeve of the load sensor ofFIG. 92 . -
FIG. 95 is a bottom perspective view of load sensing member of load sensor ofFIG. 92 . -
FIG. 96 is a top perspective view of the load sensing member ofFIG. 94 . - All references cited herein are incorporated herein in their entireties. If there is a conflict between a definition herein and in an incorporated reference, the definition herein shall control.
- Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views,
FIG. 1 illustrates atractor 5 drawing anagricultural planter 10 in a forward direction of travel designated byarrow 11. Theplanter 10 includes atoolbar 14 operatively supporting multipleplanter row units 200. A planter monitor 50 which may include a central processing unit (“CPU”), memory and graphical user interface (“GUI”) (e.g., a touch-screen interface) may be located in the cab of thetractor 5. A global positioning system (“GPS”)receiver 52 may be mounted to thetractor 5. -
FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of theplanter row unit 200. Therow unit 200 includes arow unit frame 210 that includes a downwardly extendingshank 254 and a rearwardly extendingframe member 212 supported from aforward bracket 214. Therow unit frame 210 may also include anupper beam 215 also supported from theforward bracket 214. Theupper beam 215 may support one ormore hoppers 226 containing a supply of seed and optionally a supply of fertilizer or other chemical inputs. The row unit frame 202 may be pivotally connected to thetoolbar 14 by aparallel linkage 216. Anactuator 218 may be disposed to apply lift and/or downforce on therow unit 200. Asolenoid valve 390 may be in fluid communication with theactuator 218 for modifying the lift and/or downforce applied by theactuator 218. Anopening system 234 may include two openingdisks 244 rollingly mounted the downwardly extendingshank 254 and disposed to open a v-shapedtrench 38 in thesoil 40. A pair ofgauge wheels 248 may be pivotally supported from the frame member 204 by a pair of correspondinggauge wheel arms 260. As is well known, the upward travel of thegauge wheels 248 relative to the openingdisks 244 defines the depth of thetrench 38. Adepth adjustment rocker 268 limits the upward travel of thegauge wheel arms 260 and thus the upward travel of thegauge wheels 248. A depth adjustment actuator 380 may be configured to modify a position of thedepth adjustment rocker 268 and thus the height of thegauge wheels 248. The actuator 380 may be a linear actuator mounted to therow unit 200 and pivotally coupled to an upper end of therocker 268. In some embodiments, the depth adjustment actuator 380 may comprise a device such as disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2012/035585 (Publication No. WO2012149415). An encoder 382 may be configured to generate a signal related to the linear extension of the actuator 380; it should be appreciated that the linear extension of the actuator 380 is related to the depth of thetrench 38 when thegauge wheel arms 260 are in contact with therocker 268. Adownforce sensor 392 may be configured to generate a signal related to the amount of force imposed by thegauge wheels 248 on thesoil 40; in some embodiments thedownforce sensor 392 may comprise an instrumented pin about which therocker 268 is pivotally coupled to therow unit 200, such as those instrumented pins disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2010/0180695. - Continuing to refer to
FIG. 2 , aseed meter 230 such as that disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2012/030192 (Publication No. WO2012129442) may be disposed to depositseeds 42 from ahopper 226 into thetrench 38, e.g., through aseed tube 232 disposed to guide the seeds toward the trench. In some embodiments, theseed meter 230 may be powered by anelectric drive 315 configured to drive a seed disc within the seed meter. In other embodiments, thedrive 315 may comprise a hydraulic drive configured to drive the seed disc. A seed sensor 305 (e.g., an optical or electromagnetic seed sensor configured to generate a signal indicating passage of a seed) may be mounted to theseed tube 232 and disposed to send light or electromagnetic waves across the path ofseeds 42 to detect the passage of each seed. Aclosing system 236 which may include one or more closing wheels may be pivotally coupled to therow unit 200 and configured to close thetrench 38. -
FIG. 2 also shows an embodiment of a rowcleaner assembly 1000 mounted to thetoolbar 14 and positioned forward of thetrench opening assembly 234. It should be appreciated that eachrow unit 200 of theplanter 10 would have an associated rowcleaner assembly 1000 longitudinally aligned with the respectivetrench opening assembly 234 of therow unit 200. In the embodiment shown, the rowcleaner assembly 1000 includes a gauge wheel 1050 (identified inFIG. 3 ). The row cleaner assembly 10000 extends rearward of thetoolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the underside oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a mountingplate 1101 and one or more U-bolts 1001 as shown. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 1000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side or forward side of thetoolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets or by welding. -
FIG. 2A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 1000A. The embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 1000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 1000 except the embodiment of 1000A does not include the gauge wheel. -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 1000 shown inFIG. 2 .FIG. 3A is the same view as inFIG. 3 but shows the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 1000A without the gauge wheel. Since both embodiments of the rowcleaner assembly embodiment 1000A, only theembodiment 1000 is described, recognizing that any reference to thegauge wheel 1050, thegauge wheel axle 1051 and associated components would not be applicable to the 1000A embodiment. -
FIGS. 4 and 5 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 1000.FIGS. 6 and 7 are front and rear elevation views, respectively, andFIGS. 8 and 9 are top and bottom views, respectively. The rowcleaner assembly 1000 includes aframe assembly 1100 supported at its rearward end by agauge wheel 1050. Row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 are rotatably supported by theframe assembly 1100. Each row cleaner wheel 1060-1, 1060-2 includes radially spacedtines 1062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly such that thetines 1062 of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 interlace at the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as theplanter 10 moves in the forward direction oftravel 11, the soil engages with thetines 1062, causing the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 to rotate. Due to their orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 rotate, they direct any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly alignedtrench opening assembly 234. Thegauge wheel 1050 serves to firm thesoil 40 that may be disturbed by row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 before thetrench 38 is opened by thetrench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 1050 may be advantageous in dry soils to preventsoil 40 from falling intotrench 38. - An actuator system 1300 is positioned within the
fame assembly 1100 to provide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to thegauge wheel 1050 and row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2. In this embodiment, the actuator system 1300 comprises a pneumatic cylinder 1302, but the actuator system 1300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators as discussed in more detail later. -
FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of theframe assembly 1100 with thegauge wheel 1050, the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 and the actuator system 1300 removed for clarity.FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of theframe assembly 1100 with thegauge wheel 1050 and actuator system 1300 and the first row cleaner wheel 1060-1 removed, but showing an exploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 1060-2 and its mounting components.FIG. 12 is an exploded rear perspective view of theframe assembly 1100. Referring toFIGS. 10-12 , theframe assembly 1100 includes anupper subframe 1100A, anintermediate subframe 1100B, alower subframe 1100C, arear strut subframe 1100D and first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2. Therear strut subframe 1100D comprises a part of thelower subframe 1100C. The components comprising thesubframes - As best illustrated in
FIG. 12 , theintermediate subframe 1100B is pivotally connected at its forward end to theupper subframe 1100A by threadedconnectors 1002 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 1100B andupper subframe 1100A. Theintermediate subframe 1100B is also pivotally connected at its rearward end to therear strut subframe 1100D comprising a part of thelower subframe 1100C by threadedconnectors 1006 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 1100B andrear strut subframe 1100D. First and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 are pivotally connected at their forward end to theupper subframe 1100A by threadedconnectors 1010 received within alignedapertures upper subframe 1100A. The first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 are pivotally connected at their rearward end to therear strut subframe 1100D by threadedconnectors 1014 received within alignedapertures rear strut subframe 1100D. Therear strut subframe 1100D is rotationally fixed with thelower subframe 1100C by threadedconnectors 1018 received within anarcuate slot 1019 in thelower frame 1100C and which threadably engages with anopening 1021 in therear strut subframe 1100D. Therear strut subframe 1100D is connected with thelower subframe 1100C by the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 received through alignedapertures lower frame 1100C andrear strut subframe 1100D. It should be apparent that in the 1000A embodiment which omits thegauge wheel 1050, short bolts may extend through theapertures wheel axle bolt 1051. It should be appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of theupper subframe 1100A with theintermediate subframe 1100B and the side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 1100B and the side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 with therear strut subframe 1100D provides a four bar linkage that permits the intermediate andlower subframes upper subframe 1100A rigidly secured to thetoolbar 14. -
FIG. 13 shows an exploded front perspective view of theupper subframe 1100A. Theupper subframe 1100A includes first and second gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 that extend downwardly from the mountingplate 1101 and are laterally spaced by afront plate 1104. The gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 may includegusset tabs 1105 which are received ingusset tab slots 1106 in the mountingplate 1101. Thefront plate 1104 includes acutout 1107 to accommodate the actuator 1302 passing therethrough (seeFIGS. 6-7 ). Thefront plate 1104 may include actuator front mounting ears 1108-1, 1108-2 extending downwardly from thefront plate 1104. Each of the actuator front mounting ears 1108-1, 1108-2 may include ahole 1109 to receive a pin 1110 (FIG. 11 ) for mounting the forward end of the actuator 1302 to theupper subframe 1100A (seeFIG. 6 ). Each of the actuator front mounting ears 1108-1, 1108-2 may include anear tab 1111 that is received within respectiveear tab slots 1112 in thefront plate 1104. Thefront plate 1104 may also includeside tabs 1113 that are received withside tab slots 1114 in the gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theupper subframe 1100A, the individual parts of theupper subframe 1100A may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theupper subframe 1100A may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. The gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 include theapertures 1004 for receiving the threadedconnectors 1002 for pivotally securing theintermediate subframe 1100B thereto as described above in connection withFIG. 12 . Additionally, the gus set plates 1102-1, 1102-2 include theapertures 1012 for receiving the threadedconnectors 1010 for pivotally securing the first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 described above in connection withFIG. 12 . The gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 also includeapertures connectors 1117, 1118 (FIGS. 11 and 12 ) which function as upper and lower stops by abutting with the first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 to limit the upward and downward vertical movement of the four bar linkage. -
FIG. 14 shows an exploded rear perspective view of theintermediate subframe 1100B. Theintermediate subframe 1100B includes abase member 1120 and first and second side rails 1121-1, 1121-2. Thebase member 1120 includes acutout 1122 to accommodate the actuator 1302 (seeFIGS. 3, 6 ). Thebase member 1120 may includeside tabs 1123 that are received withinside tab slots 1124 in the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2. The rearward end of thebase member 1120 may include an actuatorrear mounting ear 1125. The actuatorrear mounting ear 1125 may include ahole 1126 to receive a pin 1127 (FIG. 3, 10 ) for mounting the rear end of the actuator 1302 to theintermediate subframe 1100B. The actuatorrear mounting ear 1125 may include anear tab 1128 that is received within an ear tab slot 1129 in thebase member 1120. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 1100B, the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 1100B may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 1100B may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. The side rails 1121-1, 1122-2 include theforward aperture 1011 for receiving the threadedconnector 1010 for pivotally securing the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2 of theintermediate subframe 1100B to the gussets 1012-1, 1012-2 of theupper subframe 1100A as described above in connection withFIG. 12 and the side rails 1121-1, 1122-2 include therearward aperture 1015 for receiving the threadedconnector 1014 for pivotally securing the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2 of theintermediate subframe 1100B to therear strut subframe 1100D as described above in connection withFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 15 shows an exploded rear perspective view of thelower subframe 1100C. Thelower subframe 1100C includes first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 1132. Theforward plate 1132 may includeside tabs 1133 that are received withinside tab slots 1134 in the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of thelower subframe 1100C, the individual parts of thelower subframe 1100C may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, thelower subframe 1100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 includes asquare opening 1135 for receiving a square shank portion 1063 (FIG. 11 ) of a respective one of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 (FIG. 11 ) as discussed in more detail later. Each row cleaner wheel support arm 1130-1, 1130-2 also includes theopening 1022 for receiving the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 as shown inFIGS. 10-12 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 1130-1, 1130-2 also includes thearcuate slot 1019 for receiving the threadedconnector 1018 that is threadably received by therear strut subframe 1100D for securing the row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 to therear strut subframe 1100D as described above in connection withFIG. 12 . It should be appreciated that thearcuate slot 1019 and threadedconnector 1018 cooperate to form adepth selector 1400 permitting thelower subframe 1100C to pivot about the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 such that the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 are adjustably positionable relative to therear strut subframe 1100D and thegauge wheel 1050 in order to vary the depth setting of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 relative to thegauge wheel 1050. In an alternative embodiment as shown inFIG. 16 , instead of a singlearcuate slot 1019, a series ofdiscrete openings 1019 a disposed along an arc may be used instead to provide discrete depth settings for the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 relative to thegauge wheel 1050. -
FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of therear strut subframe 1100D. Therear strut subframe 1100D includes first and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2 spaced by alateral plate 1142. Thelateral plate 1142 may includetabs 1143 that are received withinslots 1144 of each of the first and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2. Alternatively, thelateral plate 1142 may be attached to the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 by welding or bolted connections. Alternatively, the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 and thelateral plate 1142 may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the first and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2 include theaperture 1016 for receiving the threadedconnector 1014 for connecting with the respective side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 and each of the first and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2 include theaperture 1023 for receiving the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 as described above in connection withFIG. 12 . - The rear strut subframe 1000D may include a
scraper 1145 to remove soil or debris that may build up on thegauge wheel 1050 during operation. Thescraper 1145 may be attached to thelateral plate 1142 between the rear struts 1140-1, 1140-2 of the rear strut subframe 1000D and may comprise a plate having anarcuate edge 1146 that approximates the profile of the gauge wheel 1050 (seeFIGS. 3, 7 and 8 ). Thescraper 1145 may be attached to thelateral plate 1142 with threadedconnectors 1148 extending throughelongated holes 1147 that align with internally threadedapertures 1149 in thelateral plate 1142. Theelongated holes 1147 will permit thescraper 1145 to be adjustably positioned relative to thelateral plate 1142 to vary the distance to thegauge wheel 1050 to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to account for wear of the gauge wheel tread and thescraper 1145. - Referring to
FIG. 11 , thesquare opening 1135 in each of the row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 and thesquare shank portion 1063 of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 cooperate to rotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 1061-2, 1061-2 receives aspacer 1063. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 1061-2, 1061-2 extends through acentral opening 1064 within each of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2. Abushing 1065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2 and the bushing is received within ahub 1070 having acentral opening 1071. Thehub 1070 is secured to the respective first and second row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 bynuts 1072 threadably received over threadedconnectors 1074 which extend throughapertures 1066 in the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 and through alignedholes 1073 in thehub 1070. Alug nut 1075 threadably receives the end of the wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2 thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 onto the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2, while thespacer 1063 and thebushing 1065 permit the row cleaner wheels row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2. - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 12 , the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 extends through the alignedapertures lower subframe 1100C and the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 of therear strut subframe 1100D and through the hub 1052 (FIG. 3 ) of thegauge wheel 1050. Spacer bushings 1053 (FIG. 12 ) may be disposed on the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 on each side of thehub 1052 to keep thegauge wheel 1050 centered between the struts 1140-1, 1140-2. Anut 1054 threads onto the end of the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 securing thegauge wheel 1050 to thelower subframe 1100C andrear strut subframe 1100D. - As previously stated, the actuator system 1300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators. In one embodiment, the actuator 1302 comprising the actuator system 1300 is a CleenSweep® cylinder available from Precision Planting LLC, 23207 Townline Rd, Tremont, IL 61568, which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020 or a DeltaForce® cylinder also available from Precision Planting, which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,144,189. The downforce exerted by the actuator system 1302 on the
gauge wheel 1050 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2020/056395). The actuators 1302 of each of the rowcleaner assemblies 1000 of theplanter 10 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of theplanter 10, or collectively across theentire planter 10. - The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditions and the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the row cleaner wheels 1060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example, in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that the
gauge wheel 1050 will more firmly pack thesoil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of abetter seed trench 38 and to prevent or minimize soil falling into theseed trench 38 before the seed is deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce may be desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may be employed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by the actuator system 1300. -
FIG. 18 is a side elevation of theplanter row unit 200 as previously described above in connection withFIG. 2 , but with another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 2000. The rowcleaner assembly 2000 is mounted to thetoolbar 14 and is positioned forward of thetrench opening assembly 234. Again, it should be appreciated that eachrow unit 200 of theplanter 10 would have an associated rowcleaner assembly 2000 longitudinally aligned with the respectivetrench opening assembly 234 of therow unit 200. In the embodiment shown, the rowcleaner assembly 2000 includes a gauge wheel 2050 (identified inFIG. 19 ). The rowcleaner assembly 2000 extends rearward of thetoolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the underside oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a mountingplate 2101 and one or more U-bolts 2001 as shown. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 2000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side or forward side of thetoolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets or by welding. -
FIG. 18A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 2000A. The embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 2000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 2000 except the embodiment of 2000A does not include the gauge wheel. -
FIG. 19 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 2000 shown inFIG. 18 .FIG. 19A is the same view as inFIG. 19 but shows the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 2000A without the gauge wheel. Since both embodiments of the rowcleaner assembly embodiment 2000A, only theembodiment 2000 is described, recognizing that any reference to thegauge wheel 2050, thegauge wheel axle 2051 and associated components would not be applicable to the 2000A embodiment. -
FIGS. 20 and 21 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 2000.FIGS. 22 and 23 are front and rear elevation views, respectively, andFIGS. 24 and 25 are top and bottom views, respectively. The rowcleaner assembly 2000 includes aframe assembly 2100 supported at its rearward end by agauge wheel 2050. Row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 are rotatably supported by theframe assembly 2100. Each row cleaner wheel 2060-1, 2060-2 includes radially spacedtines 2062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly such that thetines 2062 of the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 interlace at the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as theplanter 10 moves in the forward direction oftravel 11, the soil engages with thetines 2062, causing the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 to rotate. Due to their orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 rotate, they direct any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly alignedtrench opening assembly 234. Thegauge wheel 2050 serves to firm thesoil 40 that may be disturbed by row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 before thetrench 38 is opened by thetrench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 2050 may be advantageous in dry soils to preventsoil 40 from falling intotrench 38. - An
actuator system 2300 is positioned within thefame assembly 2100 to provide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to thegauge wheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. In this embodiment, theactuator system 2300 comprises anair bag 2302 and aspring assembly 2310, but the actuator system 1300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators as discussed in more detail later. -
FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of theframe assembly 2100 with thegauge wheel 2050, the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 and theactuator system 2300 removed for clarity.FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of theframe assembly 2100 with thegauge wheel 2050 andactuator system 2300 and the first row cleaner wheel 2060-1 removed, but showing an exploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 2060-2 and its mounting components.FIG. 28 is an exploded rear perspective view of theframe assembly 2100. Referring toFIGS. 26-28 , theframe assembly 2100 includes anupper subframe 2100A, anintermediate subframe 2100B, alower subframe 2100C, arear strut subframe 2100D, and first and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2. Therear strut subframe 2100D comprises a part of thelower subframe 2100C. Thesubframes - As best illustrated in
FIG. 28 , theintermediate subframe 2100B is pivotally connected at its forward end to theupper subframe 2100A by threadedconnectors 2002 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 2100B andupper subframe 2100A. Theintermediate subframe 2100B is pivotally connected at its rearward end by threadedconnectors 2006 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 2100B, therear strut subframe 2100D and in thelower subframe 2100C. It should be appreciated thatapertures 2007 in the rearward end of theintermediate subframe 2100B is internally threaded for receiving the threads of the threadedconnector 2006. Theaperture 2008 in therear strut subframe 2100D is sized to pivotally receive the unthreaded shank of the threadedconnector 2006, and theaperture 2008 in thelower subframe 2100C is anelongated opening 2008 sized to receive the head of the threadedconnector 2006. Thus thelower subframe 2100C is not connected with the rear strut subframe by the threadedconnector 2006. Instead theelongated opening 2008 serves as a guide within which the head of the threadedconnector 2006 moves. - First and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 are pivotally connected at their forward end to the
upper subframe 2100A by threadedconnectors 2010 received within alignedapertures upper subframe 2100A. The first and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 are pivotally connected at their rearward end to therear strut subframe 2100D by threadedconnectors 2014 received within alignedapertures rear strut subframe 2100D. - The
rear strut subframe 2100D is rotationally fixed to thelower subframe 2100C by threadedconnectors 2018 received within anarcuate slot 2019 in thelower frame 2100C and which threadably engages with a threadedaperture 2021 in therear strut subframe 2100D. Therear strut subframe 2100D is connected with thelower subframe 2100C by the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 received through alignedapertures lower frame 2100C and therear strut subframe 2100D. It should be apparent that in the 2000A embodiment which omits thegauge wheel 2050, short bolts may extend through theapertures wheel axle bolt 2051. It should be appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of theupper subframe 2100A with theintermediate subframe 2100B and the linkages 2200-1, 2200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 2100B and the linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 with therear strut subframe 2100D and thelower subframe 2100C provides a four bar linkage that permits the intermediate andlower subframes upper subframe 2100A rigidly secured totoolbar 14. - Continuing to refer to the exploded view of
FIG. 28 , therear strut subframe 2100D may also include anoptional depth selector 2400 in order to vary the depth setting of the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 relative to thegauge wheel 2050. Thedepth selector 2400 includes athumbscrew 2024 having a threaded shank and a peg end. The threaded shank of thethumbscrew 2024 threads into an internally threadedhole 2025 in thelower subframe 2100C while the peg end of thethumbscrew 2024 engages with one of a series ofdiscrete holes 2026 are arranged in an arc in therear strut subframe 2100D. It should be appreciated that the relative angle or position of thelower subframe 2100C is able to be movably adjusted with respect to therear strut subframe 2100D, by loosening the threadedconnector 2018 passing through thearcuate slot 2019 and into the threadedaperture 2021. When thelower subframe 2100C is adjusted to the desired angle or position (the threaded connector moving within thearcuate slot 2019 and the threadedconnector 2006 moving within the elongated opening 2009), thethumbscrew 2024 can be turned to cause the peg end to seat within one of thediscrete holes 2026. The threadedconnector 2018 can then be tightened to secure thelower subframe 2100C to therear strut subframe 2100D. Alternatively, as described above in connection withFIG. 16 of the rowcleaner embodiment 1000, thearcuate slot 2019 may be replaced with a series of discrete holes arranged in an arc (not shown but corresponding to holes 2019 a inFIG. 16 ) and thethumbscrew 2024 and theholes depth selector 2400 described above makes it easier to set the desired angle or position of thelower subframe 2100C with respect to therearward strut subframe 2100D. - Continuing to refer to
FIG. 28 , aspring assembly 2310 comprising a portion of the actuator system 2300 (discussed later) is secured to theintermediate subframe 2100B by threadedconnectors 2028 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 2100B and alower rod 2302 of thespring assembly 2310. Thespring assembly 2310 is secured to theupper subframe 2100A by threadedconnectors 2032 received within alignedapertures upper subframe 2100A and a U-shaped bracket 2320 (discussed later) of thespring assembly 2310. - Continuing to refer to
FIG. 28 , a threadedconnector 2036 passes through anarched opening 2037 in theupper subframe 2100A and is received within anaperture 2038 in theintermediate subframe 2100B. As discussed later, as theintermediate subframe 2100D moves relative to theupper subframe 2100B (as part of the four bar linkage), the threadedconnector 2036 moves along thearched opening 2037. When the threadedconnector 2026 abuts with the upper end of thearched opening 2037 it serves as an upward stop, preventing further upward movement of theintermediate subframe 2100B. When the threadedconnector 2026 abuts with the lower end of thearched opening 2037 it serves as a downward stop, preventing further downward movement of theintermediate subframe 2100B. -
FIG. 29 shows an exploded front perspective view of theupper subframe 2100A. Theupper subframe 2100A includes first and second gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 that extend downwardly from the mountingplate 2101 and are laterally spaced by afront plate 2104. The gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 may have anupper forward hook 2103 for receiving the forward edge of the mountingplate 2101 The gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 may includegusset tabs 2105 which are received ingusset tab slots 2106 in the mountingplate 2101. Alternatively,ear plates 2107 having gusset tabs 2109 may be received in thegusset tab slots 2106 in the mountingplate 2101. Theear plates 2107 may be attached to the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 by threaded connectors 2108 (FIG. 28 ) received within alignedapertures ear plates 2107. Thefront plate 2104 may includeside tabs 2112 that are received withside tab slots 2113 in the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theupper subframe 2100A, the individual parts of theupper subframe 2100A may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theupper subframe 2100A may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. - The
front plate 2104 includes anaperture 2114 through which extends an upper nipple of theairbag 2302 and onto which a fitting 2126 is threadably received (discussed later). The gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 include theapertures 2004 for receiving the threadedconnectors 2002 for pivotally securing theintermediate subframe 2100B thereto as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Additionally, each of the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 includes theapertures 2012 for receiving the threadedconnectors 2010 for pivotally securing the first and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 thereto as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each of the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 also includes theaperture 2033 that receives the threadedconnector 2032 that secures the U-shaped bracket of the spring assembly 2310 (discussed later). Additionally, each of the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 also includes thearched opening 2037 in which the threadedconnector 2036 is movable as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . -
FIG. 30 shows an exploded rear perspective view of theintermediate subframe 2100B. Theintermediate subframe 2100B includes abase member 2120 and first and second side rails 2121-1, 2121-2. Thebase member 2120 may includeside tabs 2122 that are received withinside tab notches 2123 in the side rails 2121-1, 2121-2. Thebase member 2120 includes anaperture 2124 through which extends a threaded connector 2125 (FIG. 28 ) for securing the lower end of theairbag 2302 to thebase member 2120. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 2100B, the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 2100B may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 2100B may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includes theforward aperture 2003 for receiving the threadedconnector 2002 for pivotally securing the side rails 2121-1, 2121-2 of theintermediate subframe 2100B to the gussets 2012-1, 2012-2 of theupper subframe 2100A as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includes therearward aperture 2007 for receiving the threadedconnector 2006 as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includesaperture 2029 for receiving the threadedconnector 2028 for attaching the rod of the spring assembly 2310 (discussed later). Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includes theaperture 2038 for receiving the threadedconnectors 2036 that is received within thearched opening 2037 of theupper subframe 2100A as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . -
FIG. 31 shows an exploded rear perspective view of thelower subframe 2100C. Thelower subframe 2100C includes first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 2132. Theforward plate 2132 may includeside tabs 2133 that are received withinside tab slots 2134 in the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of thelower subframe 2100C, the individual parts of thelower subframe 2100C may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, thelower subframe 2100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 includes asquare opening 2135 for receiving a square shank portion 2063 (FIG. 27 ) of a respective one of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 (FIG. 27 ) as discussed in more detail below. Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includes theopening 2022 for receiving the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 as shown inFIG. 28 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includes theelongated opening 2009 in which the threadedconnector 2006 is received as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includes thearcuate slot 2019 for receiving the threadedconnector 2018 as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includes theaperture 2025 for receiving thethumbscrew 2024 as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . -
FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view of therear strut subframe 2100D. Therear strut subframe 2100D includes first and second struts 2140-1, 2140-2 spaced by alateral plate 2142. Thelateral plate 2142 may includetabs 2143 that are received withinslots 2144 of each of the first and second struts 2140-1, 2140-2. Alternatively, thelateral plate 2142 may be attached to the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 by welding or bolted connections. Alternatively, the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 and thelateral plate 2142 may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 include theaperture 2022 that aligns with theaperture 2023 in thelower subframe 2100C for receiving theaxle wheel bolt 2051 as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each of the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 also include theaperture 2008 through which the threadedconnector 2006 extends, as well as theaperture 2016 for receiving the threadedconnector 2014, and the internally threadedaperture 2021 for receiving the threadedconnector 2018, as well as the series ofholes 2026 arranged in an arc into which the peg end of thethumbscrew 2024 are received all as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . - The
rear strut subframe 2100D may include ascraper 2145 to remove soil or debris that may build up on thegauge wheel 2050 during operation. Thescraper 2145 may be attached to thelateral plate 2142 between the rear struts 2140-1, 2140-2 of therear strut subframe 2100D and may comprise a plate having anarcuate edge 2146 that approximates the profile of the gauge wheel 2050 (seeFIG. 19 ). Thescraper 2145 may be attached to thelateral plate 2142 with threadedconnectors 2148 extending throughelongated holes 2147 that align with internally threadedapertures 2149 in thelateral plate 2142. Theelongated holes 2147 will permit thescraper 2145 to be adjustably positioned relative to thelateral plate 2142 to vary the distance to thegauge wheel 2050 to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to account for wear of the gauge wheel tread and thescraper 2145. - Referring to
FIG. 27 , thesquare opening 2135 in each of the row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 and thesquare shank portion 2063 of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 cooperate to rotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 2061-2, 2061-2 receives aspacer 2063. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 2061-2, 2061-2 extends through acentral opening 2064 within each of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. Abushing 2065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2 and the bushing is received within ahub 2070 having acentral opening 2071. Thehub 2070 is secured to the respective first and second row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 bynuts 2072 threadably received over threadedconnectors 2074 which extend throughapertures 2066 in the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 and through alignedholes 2073 in thehub 2070. Alug nut 2075 threadably receives the end of the wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2 thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 onto the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2, while thespacer 2063 and thebushing 2065 permit the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2. - Referring to
FIGS. 19 and 28 , the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 extends through the alignedapertures lower subframe 2100C and the struts 2040-1, 2040-2 of therear strut subframe 2100D and through the hub 2052 (FIG. 19 ) of thegauge wheel 2050. Spacer bushings 2053 (FIG. 28 ) may be disposed on the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 on each side of thehub 2052 to keep thegauge wheel 2050 centered between the struts 2040-1, 2040-2. Anut 2054 threads onto the end of the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 securing thegauge wheel 2050 to thelower subframe 2100C andrear strut subframe 2100D. -
FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of theactuator system 2300 comprising theairbag 2302 and thespring assembly 2310. Referring toFIG. 33 in combination withFIG. 29 , theairbag 2302 is secured at its upper end by the fitting 2126 threadably receiving thenipple 2127 extending through theaperture 2114 in the front plate 2040 of theupper subframe 2100A. Referring toFIG. 33 in combination withFIGS. 28 and 30 , theairbag 2302 is secured at its lower end by the threadedconnector 2125 extending through theaperture 2124 in thebase member 2120 of theintermediate subframe 2100B. Referring toFIG. 33 in combination withFIGS. 27, 28 and 29 , thespring assembly 2310 is secured to theintermediate subframe 2100B and is received between the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 of theupper subframe 2100A forward of thefront plate 2104 and forward of theairbag 2302. Thespring assembly 2310 includes arod 2312 having the internally threadedapertures 2030 in which the threadedconnector 2028 is received as described above in connection withFIG. 28 .Transverse bores 2314 pass through therod 2312 transverse to the rod's longitudinal axis. Therod 2312 includestransverse channels 2316 sized to receive the head of thebolts 2318 to prevent thebolts 2318 from turning. The shaft of thebolts 2318 pass throughapertures 2319 in aU-shaped bracket 2320. The upwardly turned ends of theU-shaped bracket 2320 includeapertures 2034 which receive threadedconnectors 2032 as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . The shaft of thebolts 2318 receive acollar 2322. Aspring 2324 seats over thecollar 2322. The upper end of thebolt 2318 receives awasher 2326 and threadably receives anut 2328. It should be appreciated that because therod 2312 is secured to theintermediate subframe 2100B and theU-shaped bracket 2320 is secured to theupper subframe 2100A, when the nut 2327 is tightened onto the bolt 2317 the spring 2325 is compressed, tending to pivot theintermediate subframe 2100B in a clockwise direction (in the view ofFIG. 28 ) about axis passing through the threadedconnectors 2002 pivotally securing the forward end of theintermediate subframe 2100B to theupper subframe 2100A. Thus, it should be appreciated that thespring assembly 2310 functions to provide a lift force at the rearward end of theintermediate frame 2100B (and thus to thelower subframe 2100C and therear strut subframe 2100D). By tightening the nuts 2327 onto the bolts 2317 the compression of the springs 2325 increases the lift force on theintermediate subframe 2100B. By loosening the nuts 2327 on the bolts 2317 the amount of lift-force can be decreased. In one embodiment, the amount of lift force provided by spring assembly is sufficient to raise the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 out of contact withsoil 40. Although thespring assembly 2310 is shown with two springs 2325, thespring assembly 2310 may be constructed with a single spring 2325 received over a single bolt 2317 positioned at the midpoint of therod 2312. Theairbag 2302, on the other hand, applies a downforce on theintermediate subframe 2100B to counteract the lift force of thespring assembly 2310. By increasing and decreasing the air pressure in theairbag 2302, causing theairbag 2302 to respectively expand and contract, the desired amount of downforce applied to thegauge wheel 2050 and the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 can be achieved. - While the foregoing embodiment of the
actuator system 2300 describes an airbag 1302 in combination with aspring assembly 2310, it should be appreciated that theactuator system 2300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force may be suitable. The downforce exerted by theactuator 2302 on thegauge wheel 2050 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2020/056395). Theairbag 2302 of each of the rowcleaner assemblies 2000 of theplanter 10 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of theplanter 10, or collectively across theentire planter 10. - The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditions and the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the row cleaner wheels 2060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example, in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that the
gauge wheel 2050 will more firmly pack thesoil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of abetter seed trench 38 and to prevent or minimize soil falling into theseed trench 38 before the seed is deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce may be desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may be employed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator system 2300. -
FIG. 34 is a side elevation of theplanter row unit 200 as previously described above in connection withFIG. 2 , but with another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 3000. The rowcleaner assembly 3000 is mounted to thetoolbar 14 and is positioned forward of thetrench opening assembly 234. Again, it should be appreciated that eachrow unit 200 of theplanter 10 would have an associated rowcleaner assembly 3000 longitudinally aligned with the respectivetrench opening assembly 234 of therow unit 200. In the embodiment shown, the rowcleaner assembly 3000 includes a gauge wheel 3050 (identified inFIG. 35 ). The rowcleaner assembly 3000 extends rearward of thetoolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the underside oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a mountingplate 3101 and one or more U-bolts 3001 as shown. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 3000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side or forward side of thetoolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets or by welding. -
FIG. 34A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 3000A. The embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000 except the embodiment of 3000A does not include thegauge wheel 3050. Furthermore, the embodiment of 3000A may omit therear strut subframe 3100B (described later). -
FIG. 35 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 3000 shown inFIG. 34 .FIG. 35A is the same view as inFIG. 35 but shows the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000A without the gauge wheel and without therear strut subframe 3100D (discussed later). Since both embodiments of the rowcleaner assembly embodiment 3000A (and optionally therear strut subframe 3100D discussed later), only theembodiment 3000 is described, recognizing that any reference to thegauge wheel 3050, thegauge wheel axle 3051 and associated components would not be applicable to the 3000A embodiment. -
FIGS. 36 and 37 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 3000.FIGS. 38 and 39 are front and rear elevation views, respectively, andFIGS. 40 and 41 are top and bottom views, respectively. The rowcleaner assembly 3000 includes aframe assembly 3100 supported at its rearward end by agauge wheel 3050. Row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 are rotatably supported by theframe assembly 3100. Each row cleaner wheel 3060-1, 3060-2 includes radially spacedtines 3062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly such that thetines 3062 of the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 interlace at the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as theplanter 10 moves in the forward direction oftravel 11, the soil engages with thetines 3062, causing the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to rotate. Due to their orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 rotate, they direct any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly alignedtrench opening assembly 234. Thegauge wheel 3050 serves to firm thesoil 40 that may be disturbed by row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 before thetrench 38 is opened by thetrench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 3050 may be advantageous in dry soils to preventsoil 40 from falling intotrench 38. - An
actuator system 3300 is positioned within thefame assembly 3100 to provide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to thegauge wheel 3050 and row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2. In this embodiment, theactuator system 3300 utilizes twoairbags 3302 and 3304 (FIG. 45 ), but theactuator system 3300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators as discussed in more detail later. -
FIG. 42 is a rear perspective view of theframe assembly 3100 with thegauge wheel 3050, the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 and theactuator system 3300 removed for clarity.FIG. 43 is a front perspective view of theframe assembly 3100 with thegauge wheel 3050 andactuator system 3300 and the first row cleaner wheel 3060-1 removed, but showing an exploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 3060-2 and its mounting components.FIG. 44 is an exploded rear perspective view of theframe assembly 3100. Referring toFIGS. 42-44 , theframe assembly 3100 includes anupper subframe 3100A, anintermediate subframe 3100B, alower subframe 3100C, arear strut subframe 3100D, and first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. Therear strut subframe 3100D comprises a part of thelower subframe 3100C.FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspective view showinglower subframe 3100C and therear strut subframe 3100D.FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of theintermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 with the first andsecond airbags actuator assembly 3300 shown in hidden lines for clarity. Thesubframes - As best illustrated in
FIG. 44 , theintermediate subframe 3100B is pivotally connected at its forward end to theupper subframe 3100A by threadedconnectors 3002 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 3100B andupper subframe 3100A. The threadedconnectors 3002 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 2003 in theintermediate subframe 3100B may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 3002. Theaperture 3004 in theupper subframe 3100A may be sized to receive asleeve 3009 and collaredbushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 3002. Theintermediate subframe 3100B is pivotally connected at its rearward end by threadedconnectors 3006 received withinapertures intermediate subframe 3100B and in thelower subframe 3100C. The threadedconnectors 3006 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 3008 in thelower subframe 3100C may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 3006. Theaperture 3007 in theintermediate subframe 3100B may be sized to receive asleeve 3009 and collaredbushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 3006. - The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 are pivotally connected at their forward end to the
upper subframe 3100A by threadedconnectors 3012 received within alignedapertures upper subframe 3100A. The threadedconnectors 3012 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 3014 in theupper subframe 3100A may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 3012. Theaperture 3013 in the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may be sized to receive asleeve 3009 and collaredbushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 3012. The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 are pivotally connected at their rearward end to thelower subframe 3100C by threadedconnectors 3016 received within alignedapertures lower subframe 3100C. The threadedconnectors 3016 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 3017 in thelower subframe 3100C may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 3016. Theaperture 3018 in the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may be sized to receive asleeve 3009 and collaredbushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 3016. - The
rear strut subframe 3100D is pivotally connected to thelower subframe 3100C by threadedconnectors 3024 received within alignedapertures 3025, 3026 (seeFIG. 45 ) in therear strut subframe 3100D and thelower subframe 3100C. As best viewed inFIGS. 43 and 45 , therear strut subframe 3100D is also linked with thelower subframe 3100C by the hooked arms 3402 of the depth selector 3400 (discussed later). It should be appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of theupper subframe 3100A with theintermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 with thelower subframe 3100C provides a four bar linkage that permits the intermediate andlower subframes upper subframe 3100A rigidly secured to thetoolbar 14. It should be apparent that in the 3000A embodiment, the entirerear strut subframe 3100D may be omitted since its primary purpose is to support thegauge wheel 3050 which is not present in the 3000A embodiment. However, as explained in detail later, therear strut subframe 3100D cooperates with thelower subframe 3100C to enable depth selection via thedepth selector 3400. Thus, if depth selection is desired, the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000A may be used with therear strut subframe 3100D, thereby simply omitting thegauge wheel 3050 and the gaugewheel axle bolt 3051. -
FIG. 47 shows an exploded front perspective view of theupper subframe 3100A. Theupper subframe 3100A includes first and second gusset plates 3102-1, 3102-2 that extend downwardly from the mountingplate 3101 and are laterally spaced by afront plate 3104. The gusset plates 3102-1, 3102-2 include theapertures connectors intermediate subframe 3100B and the rails 3200-1, 3200-2 respectively as described above in connection withFIG. 44 . Thefront plate 3104 may includeside tabs 3105 that are received withside tab slots 3106 in the gusset plates 3102-1, 3102-2. Thefront plate 3104 includesrecesses 3107 to accommodate the insertion of the threadedconnectors 3012 into theapertures 3014 in the gusset plates 3102-1, 3102-2. Connectingplates 3108 includeupper tabs 3109 that are received withintab slots 3110 in the mountingplate 3101. The connectingplates 3108 also includebottom hooks 3111 that receive and engage with the back edge and recessed areas of thefront plate 2004. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theupper subframe 3100A, the individual parts of theupper subframe 3100A may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theupper subframe 3100A may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. -
FIG. 48 shows an exploded rear perspective view of theintermediate subframe 3100B. Theintermediate subframe 3100B includes aforward base member 3120 and arearward base member 3122 and first and second side rails 3121-1, 3121-2. Thebase members side tabs 3123 that are received withinside tab notches 3124 in the side rails 3121-1, 3121-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 3100B, the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 3100B may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 3100B may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Theforward base member 3120 includes anaperture 3125 through which a nipple of thefirst airbag 3302 extends and which receives a fitting 3126 (FIG. 43 ) that threadably secures thesecond airbag 3304 to theforward base member 3120. Therearward base member 3122 includes anaperture 3127 through which a nipple of thefirst airbag actuator 3302 extends and which receives a fitting 3128 (FIG. 46 ) that threadably secures thefirst airbag 3302 to therearward base member 3122. Each of the side rails 3121-1, 3122-2 includes theforward aperture 3003 for receiving the threadedconnector 3002 for pivotally securing the side rails 3121-1, 3121-2 of theintermediate subframe 3100B to the gussets 3012-1, 3012-2 of theupper subframe 3100A as described above in connection withFIG. 44 . Each of the side rails 3121-1, 3122-2 includes therearward aperture 3007 for receiving the threadedconnector 3006 as described above in connection withFIG. 44 . -
FIG. 49 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may be connected by aforward plate 3202 and arearward plate 3204. Each of the forward andrearward plates side tabs 3203 that are received withinside tab notches 3205 in the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2.Stiffener plates 3206 may be provided to stiffen theforward plate 3202. Thestiffener plates 3206 may includetabs 3207 that are received intab slots 3208 in theforward plate 3202 and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 3100B, the individual parts of theintermediate subframe 3100B may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 3100B may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Theforward plate member 3202 may include anaperture 3210 for receiving a threaded connector (not shown) for attaching the first andsecond airbag actuators FIG. 46 ). -
FIG. 50 shows an exploded rear perspective view of thelower subframe 3100C. Thelower subframe 3100C includes first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 3132. Theforward plate 3132 may includeside tabs 3133 that are received withinside tab slots 3134 in the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. Arear plate 3136 may be provided to laterally restrain the rearward end of the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. Therear plate 3136 may includeside tabs 3137 that are received withinside tab slots 3138 in the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of thelower subframe 3100C, the individual parts of thelower subframe 3100C may be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, thelower subframe 3100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the row cleaner wheel support arm 3130-1, 3130-2 also includes theopening 3026 that aligns with theaperture 3025 in therear strut subframe 3100D for receiving the threadedconnector 3024 for pivotally attaching thelower subframe 3100C to therear strut subframe 3100D (seeFIG. 45 ). Each row cleaner wheel support arm 3130-1, 3130-2 also includes theapertures connectors intermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 as described above in connection withFIG. 44 . Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2 includes asquare opening 3135 for receiving a square shank portion of a respective one of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 as discussed in more detail below. Theforward plate 3132 may includetab slots 3153 fordepth selector 3400 discussed later. -
FIG. 51 is a rear perspective view of therear strut subframe 3100D. Therear strut subframe 3100D includes first and second struts 3140-1, 3140-2 spaced at their rearward end by alateral plate 3142. Thelateral plate 3142 may includetabs 3143 that are received withinslots 3144 of each of the first and second struts 3140-1, 3140-2. Alternatively, thelateral plate 3142 may be attached to the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 by welding or bolted connections. Alternatively, the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 and thelateral plate 3142 may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Each of the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 include theaperture 3022 for receiving theaxle wheel bolt 3051 as described above in connection withFIG. 44 . In this embodiment, each of the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 include forwardly extending arms 3141-1, 3141-2 joined at their forward end by across member 3152. Thecross member 3152 includes anaperture 3153 for thedepth selector 3400 discussed later. - The
rear strut subframe 3100D may include ascraper 3145 to remove soil or debris that may build up on thegauge wheel 3050 during operation. Thescraper 3145 may be attached to thelateral plate 3142 between the rear struts 3140-1, 3140-2 of therear strut subframe 3100D and may comprise a plate having anarcuate edge 3146 that approximates the profile of the gauge wheel 3050 (seeFIG. 35 ). Thescraper 3145 may be attached to thelateral plate 3142 with threadedconnectors 3148 extending throughelongated holes 3147 that align with internally threadedapertures 3149 in thelateral plate 3142. Theelongated holes 3147 will permit thescraper 3145 to be adjustably positioned relative to thelateral plate 3142 to vary the distance to thegauge wheel 3050 to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to account for wear of the gauge wheel tread and thescraper 3145. - Referring to the exploded view of
FIG. 45 , adepth selector 3400 enables the angle or position of thelower subframe 3100C to be selectively adjusted relative to therear strut subframe 3100D. Thedepth selector 3400 includes laterally spaced hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2, each having a plurality ofnotches 3404 formed in their upper surface. Each of the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 may be attached to thelower subframe 3100C bytabs 3405 received withintab slots 3406 in theforward plate 3132 of thelower subframe 3100C. Alternatively, the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 may be attached to thelower subframe 3100C by any suitable means such as by welding or bolting. As illustrated inFIG. 43 in combination withFIG. 45 , the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 extend over theforward cross member 3152 of therear strut subframe 3100D. Each hooked arm 3402-1, 3402-2 includes aforward abutment 3408 and arearward abutment 3410. Referring toFIG. 43 it should be appreciated that theabutments forward cross member 3152 restricting the angle of rotation that thelower subframe 3100C may pivot about the axis of the threadedconnector 3024 pivotally connecting thelower subframe 3100C with therear strut subframe 3100D. Ahandle 3412 is attached to ahandle shaft 3414. Thehandle shaft 3414 passes between the laterally spaced hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 and extends through acollar 3415 and through theaperture 3153 in the forward end of therear strut subframe 3100D. Aspring 3416 is received over the end of thehandle shaft 3414 and is retained by awasher 3417 andclip 3418. Thespring 3416 biases thehandle 3412 downwardly such that thehandle 3412 is received within one of the plurality of thenotches 3404 in the upper surface of the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2. - To adjust the angle or position of the
lower subframe 3100C with respect to the rear strut subframe (thus increasing or decreasing the depth of penetration of the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 into the soil), the operator grasps thehandle 3412 and exerts an upward force causing thespring 3416 to compress, disengaging thehandle 3412 from the notches 3402. With the handle disengaged from the notches, the operator can pivot thelower subframe 3100C with respect to therear strut subframe 3100D about the axis of the threadedconnector 3024 pivotally connecting thelower subframe 3100C with therear strut subframe 3100D. Once the lower subframe is at the desired angle or position, the operator releases the upward pressure on thehandle 3412 and the spring bias reseats thehandle 3412 within the correspondingnotches 3404, thereby securely retaining thelower subframe 3100C at the desired angle or position with respect to therear strut subframe 3100D corresponding to the desired row cleaner wheel depth. - Referring to
FIG. 43 , thesquare opening 3135 in each of the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2 is configured to receive a square shank portion (not shown, but seeFIG. 27 as an example) of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2. Thesquare opening 3135 and the square shank portion of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 cooperate to rotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 3061-2, 3061-2 extends through acentral opening 3064 within each of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2. Abushing 3065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2 and the bushing is received within ahub 3070 having acentral opening 3071. Thehub 3070 is secured to the respective first and second row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 bynuts 3072 threadably received over threadedconnectors 3074 which extend throughapertures 3066 in the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 and through alignedholes 3073 in thehub 3070. Alug nut 3075 threadably receives the end of the wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2 thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 onto the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2, while thebushing 3065 permits the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2. A spacer (not shown) may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 to position the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 outwardly away from the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2.FIG. 43 also shows ascraper 3076 that may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 to scrape dirt or mud from the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 as they rotate. - Referring to
FIGS. 35 and 44 , the gaugewheel axle bolt 3051 extends through theaperture 3022 in therear strut subframe 3100D and through the hub 3052 (FIG. 35 ) of thegauge wheel 3050. Spacer bushings 3053 (FIG. 44 ) may be disposed on the gaugewheel axle bolt 3051 on each side of thehub 3052 to keep thegauge wheel 3050 centered between the struts 3040-1, 3040-2. Anut 3054 threads onto the end of the gaugewheel axle bolt 3051 securing thegauge wheel 3050 to therear strut subframe 3100D. - Referring to
FIGS. 44 and 46 , theactuator system 3300 may comprise first andsecond airbags intermediate subframe 3100B and cooperating with the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. Thefirst airbag 3302, rearward of thesecond airbag 3304, is connected at its rearward end to therearward plate 3122 of theintermediate subframe 3100B and is connected at its forward end to thelateral plate 3202 between the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. Thesecond airbag 3404 is connected at its rearward end to thesame lateral plate 3202 and is connected at its forward end to forwardplate 3120 of theintermediate subframe 3100B. As schematically illustrated inFIGS. 52A , as the pressure in the first orrearward airbag 3302 is increased causing it to expand, and causing the second orforward airbag 3404 to collapse, a downforce and downward rotational movement will be imparted as indicated by the directional arrows inFIG. 52A forcing thelower subframe 3100C andrear strut subframe 3100D downwardly (as represented by the phantom lines relative to the solid lines) causing thegauge wheel 3050 and the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to move downwardly or exerting a greater downforce on thesoil 40. Conversely, as schematically illustrated inFIGS. 52B , as the pressure in the second orforward airbag 3404 is increased causing it to expand, and causing the first orrearward airbag 3302 to collapse, a lift force and upward rotational movement will be will be imparted as indicated by the directional arrows inFIG. 52B forcing thelower subframe 3100C andrear strut subframe 3100D upwardly (as represented by the phantom lines relative to the solid lines) causing thegauge wheel 3050 and the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to move upwardly or exerting less downforce on thesoil 40. Thus, it should be appreciated by increasing and decreasing the air pressure in the first andsecond airbags gauge wheel 3050 and the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 can be achieved. - Rather than airbags for the
actuator system 3300, the first andsecond actuators spring assembly 2300 described above in connection with the second rowcleaner assembly embodiment 2000 may be utilized. The downforce exerted by theactuator system 3300 on thegauge wheel 3050 and row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2300/056395). Theactuator system 3300 of each of the rowcleaner assemblies 3000 of theplanter 10 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of theplanter 10, or collectively across theentire planter 10. - The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditions and the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the row cleaner wheels 3060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example, in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that the
gauge wheel 3050 will more firmly pack thesoil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of abetter seed trench 38 and to prevent or minimize soil falling into theseed trench 38 before the seed is deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce may be desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may be employed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator 3300. -
FIG. 53 is a side elevation of theplanter row unit 200 as previously described above in connection withFIG. 2 , but with another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 4000. The rowcleaner assembly 4000 is mounted to thetoolbar 14 and is positioned forward of thetrench opening assembly 234. Again, it should be appreciated that eachrow unit 200 of theplanter 10 would have an associated rowcleaner assembly 4000 longitudinally aligned with the respectivetrench opening assembly 234 of therow unit 200. In the embodiment shown, the rowcleaner assembly 4000 includes a gauge wheel 4050 (identified inFIG. 54 ). The rowcleaner assembly 4000 extends rearward of thetoolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the forward side oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a pair of mountingbrackets 4101 that bolt with plates or gussets secured to thetoolbar 14. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 4000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side or below side of thetoolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets or by welding. -
FIG. 53A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assembly designated byreference number 4000A. The embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000 except the embodiment of 4000A does not include thegauge wheel 4050. Furthermore, the embodiment of 4000A may omit therear strut subframe 4100B (described later). -
FIG. 54 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 4000 shown inFIG. 53 .FIG. 54A is the same view as inFIG. 54 but shows the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000A without thegauge wheel 4050 and without therear strut subframe 4100D (discussed later). Since both embodiments of the rowcleaner assembly embodiment 4000A (and optionally therear strut subframe 4100D discussed later), only theembodiment 4000 is described, recognizing that any reference to thegauge wheel 4050, thegauge wheel axle 4051 and associated components would not be applicable to the 4000A embodiment. -
FIGS. 55 and 56 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 4000.FIGS. 57 and 58 are front and rear elevation views, respectively, andFIGS. 59 and 60 are top and bottom views, respectively. The rowcleaner assembly 4000 includes aframe assembly 4100 supported at its rearward end by agauge wheel 4050. Row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 are rotatably supported by theframe assembly 4100. Each row cleaner wheel 4060-1, 4060-2 includes radially spacedtines 4062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly such that thetines 4062 of the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 interlace at the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as theplanter 10 moves in the forward direction oftravel 11, the soil engages with thetines 4062, causing the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 to rotate. Due to their orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 rotate, they direct any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly alignedtrench opening assembly 234. Thegauge wheel 4050 serves to firm thesoil 40 that may be disturbed by row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 before thetrench 38 is opened by thetrench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 4050 may be advantageous in dry soils to preventsoil 40 from falling intotrench 38. - An
actuator system 4300 is positioned within thefame assembly 4100 to provide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to thegauge wheel 4050 and row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2. In this embodiment, theactuator system 4300 utilizes twoairbags 4302 and 4304 (FIG. 63 ), but theactuator system 4300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators as discussed in more detail later. -
FIG. 61 is a rear perspective view of theframe assembly 4100 with thegauge wheel 4050, the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 removed for clarity.FIG. 62 is a front perspective view of theframe assembly 4100 with thegauge wheel 4050 andactuator system 4300 and the first row cleaner wheel 4060-1 removed, but showing an exploded view of the second row cleaner wheel 4060-2 and its mounting components.FIG. 63 is an exploded rear perspective view of theframe assembly 4100. Referring toFIGS. 61-64 , theframe assembly 4100 includes anupper subframe 4100A, anintermediate subframe 4100B, alower subframe 4100C, arear strut subframe 4100D, and first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Therear strut subframe 4100D comprises a part of thelower subframe 4100C.FIG. 64 is an exploded front perspective view showinglower subframe 4100C and therear strut subframe 4100D.FIG. 65 shows a perspective view of theintermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 32002 with the first andsecond airbags actuator assembly 4300. Thesubframes - As best illustrated in
FIG. 63 , theintermediate subframe 4100B is pivotally connected at its forward end to theupper subframe 4100A by threadedconnectors 4002 received within alignedapertures intermediate subframe 4100B andupper subframe 4100A. The threadedconnectors 4002 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 4003 in theintermediate subframe 4100B may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 4002. Theaperture 4004 in theupper subframe 4100A may be sized to receive acollared bushing 4010 retained by anut 4011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 4002. Theintermediate subframe 4100B is pivotally connected at its rearward end by threadedconnectors 4006 received withinapertures intermediate subframe 4100B and in thelower subframe 4100C. The threadedconnectors 4006 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 4007 in theintermediate subframe 4100B may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 4006. Theaperture 4008 in thelower subframe 4100C may be sized to receive acollared bushing 4010 retained by anut 4011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 4006. - The first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are pivotally connected at their forward end to the
upper subframe 4100A by threadedconnectors 4012 received within alignedapertures upper subframe 4100A. The threadedconnectors 4012 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 4013 in the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 4012. Theaperture 4014 in theupper subframe 4100A may be sized to receive acollared bushing 4010 retained by anut 4011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 4012. The first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are pivotally connected at their rearward end to thelower subframe 4100C by threadedconnectors 4016 received within alignedapertures lower subframe 4100C. The threadedconnectors 4016 andapertures previous embodiments apertures 4017 in the linkages 4200-1, 4300-2 may be square apertures that receive a square shank portion of the threadedconnector 4016. Theaperture 4018 in thelower subframe 4100C may be sized to receive acollared bushing 4010 retained by anut 4011 received over the threaded end of the threadedconnector 4016. - The
rear strut subframe 4100D is pivotally connected to thelower subframe 4100C by threadedconnectors 4024 received within alignedapertures 4025, 4026 (seeFIG. 63 ) in the respectiverear strut subframe 4100D and thelower subframe 4100C. As best viewed inFIGS. 62 and 64 , therear strut subframe 4100D is also linked with thelower subframe 4100C by the depth selector 4400 (discussed later). It should be appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of theupper subframe 4100A with theintermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 with thelower subframe 4100C provides a four bar linkage that permits the intermediate andlower subframes upper subframe 4100A rigidly secured to thetoolbar 14. It should be apparent that in the 4000A embodiment, the entirerear strut subframe 4100D may be omitted since its primary purpose is to support thegauge wheel 4050 which is not present in the 4000A embodiment. However, as explained in detail later, therear strut subframe 4100D cooperates with thelower subframe 4100C to enable depth selection via thedepth selector 4400. Thus, if depth selection is desired, the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000A may be used with therear strut subframe 4100D, thereby simply omitting thegauge wheel 4050 and the gaugewheel axle bolt 4051. -
FIG. 66 shows a front perspective view of theupper subframe 4100A. In this embodiment, theupper subframe 4100A is shown as being a unitary casted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiments upper subframe 4100A includes first and second gusset plates 4102-1, 4102-2 that extend downwardly from a top plate orsurface 4101 and are laterally spaced by a front plate orsurface 4104. The gusset plates 4102-1, 4102-2 include theapertures connectors intermediate subframe 4100B and the rails 4200-1, 4200-2 respectively as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . -
FIGS. 63 and 68 show rear and front perspective views respectively of theintermediate subframe 4100B. Again, in this embodiment, theintermediate subframe 4100B is shown as being a unitary casted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiments intermediate subframe 4100B includes aforward base member 4120 and arearward base member 4122 and first and second side rails 4121-1, 4121-2. Theforward base member 4120 includes anaperture 4125 through which a nipple of thefirst airbag 4302 extends and which receives a fitting 4126 (FIG. 62 ) that threadably secures thesecond airbag 4304 to theforward base member 4120. Therearward base member 4122 includes anaperture 4127 through which a nipple of thefirst airbag 4302 extends and which receives a fitting 4128 (FIG. 65 ) that threadably secures thefirst airbag 4302 to therearward base member 4122. Each of the side rails 4121-1, 4122-2 includes theforward aperture 4003 for receiving the threadedconnector 4002 for pivotally securing the side rails 4121-1, 4121-2 of theintermediate subframe 4100B to the gussets 4102-1, 4102-2 of theupper subframe 4100A as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . Each of the side rails 4121-1, 4122-2 includes therearward aperture 4007 for receiving the threadedconnector 4006 as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . -
FIGS. 63 and 67 show rear and front perspective views respectively of the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Again, in this embodiment, the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are shown as being joined as a unitary member, such as by casting, but the linkages may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiment 3000 above, or the individual parts may be joined by welding or by bolted connections. The first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 may be connected by aforward plate 4202. The forward plate may include anaperture 4203 for receiving a threaded connector (not shown) for attaching the forward and rearward ends, respectively of the first andsecond airbags lateral members 4204 may connect between the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 to provide structural rigidity. Each of the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 includes theforward aperture 4013 for receiving the threadedconnector 4012 for pivotally securing the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 to the gussets 4102-1, 4102-2 of theupper subframe 4100A as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . Each of the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 includes therearward aperture 4017 for receiving the threadedconnector 4016 as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . -
FIG. 69 shows front perspective view of thelower subframe 4100C. Again, in this embodiment, thelower subframe 4100C is shown as being a unitary casted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiments lower subframe 4100C includes first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 connected at their forward end. Arear lateral member 4134 may extend between the rearward ends of the support arms 4120-1, 4120-2 to provide structural rigidity. Anarched panel 4138 extends across the row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 toward their forward end. Thearched panel 4138 includes a notchedopening 4402 discussed in more detail later in connection with the description of thedepth adjuster 4400. Each of the row cleaner wheel support arm 4130-1, 4130-2 also includes theopening 4026 that aligns with theaperture 4025 in therear strut subframe 4100D for receiving apin 4024 for pivotally attaching thelower subframe 4100C to therear strut subframe 4100D (seeFIG. 64 ). Each row cleaner wheel support arm 4130-1, 4130-2 also includes theapertures connectors intermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 anapertures 4135 for receiving the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2. A plurality ofapertures 4135 spaced along the row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 may be provided to permit the row cleaner wheels to be positioned forwardly or rearwardly as desired depending on the size or configuration of the row cleaner wheels. In one embodiment, as best shown inFIG. 62 , oversizedrectangular openings 4155 may be formed or fabricated in the row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 to receive rectangularbeveled washers 4156 having theaperture 4135 therein to receive the row cleaner wheel axle bolt 4060-1, 4060-2. Thebeveled washers 4156 may have different beveled pitches that may be oriented within the rectangular openings to provide different tilt angles (e.g., pitch, roll or yaw) for the row cleaner wheels depending on field conditions. -
FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of therear strut subframe 4100D. Again, in this embodiment, therear strut subframe 4100D is shown as being a unitary casted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiments rear strut subframe 4100D includes first and second struts 4140-1, 4140-2. Alateral member 4142 may extend between the struts 4140-1, 4140-2. Each of the struts 4140-1, 4140-2 include theaperture 4022 for receiving theaxle wheel bolt 4051 as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . In this embodiment, each of the struts 4140-1, 4140-2 include forwardly extending arms 4141-1, 4141-2 joined at their forward end by longitudinally spaced first andcross members first cross member 4152 includes afirst aperture 4153 and thesecond cross member 4154 includes asecond aperture 4155 that is longitudinally aligned with thefirst aperture 4153. Theapertures depth selector 4400 discussed later. - The
rear strut subframe 4100D may include ascraper 4145 to remove soil or debris that may build up on thegauge wheel 4050 during operation. Thescraper 4145 may be attached to thelateral member 4142 between the struts 4140-1, 4140-2 and may comprise a plate having anarcuate edge 4146 that approximates the profile of the gauge wheel 4050 (seeFIG. 58 ). Thescraper 4145 may be attached to thelateral member 4142 with abolt 4148 extending through anaperture 4149 in thelateral member 4142 and through an elongated hole in thescraper 4147 and secured by anut 4150. Theelongated hole 4147 permits thescraper 4145 to be adjustably positioned relative to thelateral plate 4142 to vary the distance to thegauge wheel 4050 to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to account for wear of the gauge wheel tread and thescraper 4145. - Referring to the exploded view of
FIG. 64 , adepth selector 4400 enables the angle or position of thelower subframe 4100C to be selectively adjusted relative to therear strut subframe 4100D. Thedepth selector 4400 includes ahandle 4404 attached to abase 4406. Ashaft 4408 extends downwardly from thebase 4406. Thebase 4406 also includes downwardly extending laterally spacedpegs 4410 that seat within the notches of the notchedopening 4402 in thearched panel 4138 of thelower subframe 4100C. Theshaft 4408 extends through the notchedopening 4402 and through thefirst aperture 4153 in the first andsecond cross members 4152 and seats in thesecond aperture 4155 in thesecond cross member 4154 of therear strut subframe 4100D. A spring (not shown) is retained on theshaft 4408 between the first andsecond cross members rear strut subframe 4100D. To adjust the angle or position of thelower subframe 3100C with respect to therear strut subframe 4100D (thus increasing or decreasing the depth of penetration of the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 into the soil), the operator grasps thehandle 4404 and exerts an upward force causing the spring to compress, disengaging thepegs 4410 from the notches of the notchedopening 4402. With thepegs 4410 disengaged from the notches, the operator can pivot thelower subframe 4100C with respect to therear strut subframe 4100D about the axis of thepins 4024 pivotally coupling thelower subframe 4100C with therear strut subframe 4100D. Once thelower subframe 4100C is at the desired angle or position, the operator releases the upward pressure on thehandle 4404 and the spring bias reseats thepegs 4410 within the notches of the notchedopening 4402, thereby securely retaining thelower subframe 4100C at the desired angle or position with respect to therear strut subframe 4100D corresponding to the desired row cleaner wheel depth. - Referring to
FIG. 62 , the first and second row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 are respectively secured to the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 4030-1, 4030-2 of thelower subframe 4100C with a row cleaner wheel axle bolt 4061-2, 4061-2. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 4061-2, 4061-2 extends through acentral opening 4064 within each of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2. Abushing 4065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-2, 4061-2 and the bushing is received within ahub 4070 having acentral opening 4071. Thehub 4070 is secured to the respective first and second row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 bynuts 4072 threadably received over threadedconnectors 4074 which extend throughapertures 4066 in the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 and through alignedholes 4073 in thehub 4070. Anut 4075 on the back side the row cleaner wheel support arms 4030-1, 4030-2 receives the end of the wheel axle bolts 4061-2, 4061-2 thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 onto the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-2, 4061-2, while thebushing 4065 permits the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-2, 4061-2. Aspacer 4063 and washers may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2 to position the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 outwardly away from the row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2.FIG. 62 also shows ascraper 4076 that may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2 to scrape dirt or mud from the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 as they rotate. - Referring to
FIGS. 54 and 61 , the gaugewheel axle bolt 4051 extends through theaperture 4022 in therear strut subframe 4100D and through the hub of thegauge wheel 4050. Spacer bushings 4053 (FIG. 61 ) may be disposed on the gaugewheel axle bolt 4051 on each side of the hub to keep thegauge wheel 4050 centered between the struts 4040-1, 4040-2. Anut 4054 threads onto the end of the gaugewheel axle bolt 4051 securing thegauge wheel 4050 to therear strut subframe 4100D. - Referring to
FIGS. 63 and 65 , theactuator system 4300 may comprise first andsecond airbags intermediate subframe 4100B and cooperating with the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Thefirst airbag 4302, rearward of thesecond airbag 4304, is connected at its rearward end to therearward plate 4122 of theintermediate subframe 4100B and is connected at its forward end to thelateral member 4202 between the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Thesecond airbag 4304 is connected at its rearward end to thesame lateral member 4202 and is connected at its forward end to forward plate 4120 (FIG. 68 ) of theintermediate subframe 4100B. The operation of theactuator system 4300 with respect to exerting down force and lift force to thegauge wheel 4050 and the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 operates in substantially the same manner as explained above in connection with the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000 described above with reference toFIGS. 52A and 52B and therefore it will not be repeated here. - Rather than airbags for the
actuator system 4300, the first andsecond actuators spring assembly 2300 described above in connection with the second rowcleaner assembly embodiment 2000 may be utilized. The downforce exerted by theactuator system 4300 on thegauge wheel 4050 and row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2300/056395). Theactuator system 4300 of each of the rowcleaner assemblies 4000 of theplanter 10 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of theplanter 10, or collectively across theentire planter 10. - The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditions and the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the row
cleaner wheels 4060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example, in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that thegauge wheel 4050 will more firmly pack thesoil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of abetter seed trench 38 and to prevent or minimize soil falling into theseed trench 38 before the seed is deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce may be desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may be employed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator system 4300. -
FIG. 71 illustrates an alternative mounting arrangement that may be utilized with any of the embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies cleaner assemblies toolbar 14 as shown inFIGS. 2, 2A, 18, 18A, 34, 34A, 53, 53A , the rowcleaner assemblies unit frame shank 254 or to other structural members of therow unit frame 210 with a mountingbracket 220 as shown inFIG. 71 . AlthoughFIG. 71 is shown using the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 1000, the same or similar mounting structure as recognized by those of skill in the art would be suitable for all of the embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies FIG. 71 includes reference numbers corresponding to each of the rowcleaner assemblies bracket 220. -
FIG. 72 illustrates another alternative embodiment that may be utilized with any of the embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies reference number 5000 and is shown as being similar to the rowcleaner assembly 2000, in that it utilizes the samerear strut subframe 2100D,lower subframe 2100C,gauge wheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 as the rowcleaner embodiment 2000. However, in this embodiment, theupper subframe 2100A, theintermediate subframe 2100B, the linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 are removed and replaced with aparallel arm linkage 5002. Theparallel arm linkage 5002 is pivotally connect at its rearward end to arow unit bracket 5004 attached to therow unit frame 210. The forward end of theparallel arm linkage 5002 is pivotally attached to therear strut subframe 2100D and to thelower subframe 2100C, at the same point as theintermediate subframe 2100B and linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 would have been pivotally connected inembodiment 2000. Theactuator system 2300 is removed and replaced with theactuator system 5300 connected between abracket member 5006 and theparallel arm linkage 5002 to provide the desired downforce and optional lift force to thegauge wheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. Theactuator system 5300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators. The downforce and optional lift force exerted by theactuator system 5300 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2020/056395). The actuators comprising theactuator system 5300 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of theplanter 10, or collectively across theentire planter 10. - Although not separately illustrated, the same or a substantially similar modifications may be used with each of the
row unit assemblies alternative embodiment 5000 may be utilized,FIG. 72 includes reference numbers corresponding to each of the rowcleaner assemblies alternative embodiment 5000 as described and illustrated inFIG. 72 . For example, utilizing therow unit assembly upper subframe 1100A,intermediate subframe 1100B, linkages 1200-1, 1200-2, may be removed and replaced with theparallel arm linkage 5002 and actuator system 1300 may be removed and replaced by theactuator system 5300 as described in the paragraph above. Similarly, utilizing therow unit assembly 3000, theintermediate subframe 3100B, linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may be removed and replaced with theparallel arm linkage 5002 mounted to thelower subframe 3100C) andactuator system 3300 may be replaced by theactuator system 5300 as described in the paragraph above. Similarly, utilizing therow unit assembly 3000A (i.e., without the gauge wheel 3050), theupper subframe 3100A,intermediate subframe 3100B, linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 (and optionally therear strut subframe 3100D) may be removed and replaced with theparallel arm linkage 5002 mounted to thelower subframe 3100C and theactuator system 3300 may be replaced with theactuator system 5300 as described in the paragraph above. Likewise, the utilizing therow unit assembly 4000 theupper subframe 4100A,intermediate subframe 4100B and linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 may be removed and replaced with theparallel arm linkage 5002 mounted to thelower subframe 4100C) andactuator system 4300 may be replaced by theactuator system 5300 as described above. Similarly, utilizing therow unit assembly 4000A (i.e., without the gauge wheel 4050), theupper subframe 4100A,intermediate subframe 4100B, linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 (and optionally therear strut subframe 4100D) may be removed and replaced with theparallel arm linkage 5002 mounted to thelower subframe 4100C and theactuator system 4300 may be replaced with theactuator system 5300. -
FIGS. 73-80 illustrate another embodiment of a rowcleaner assembly 6000 incorporating an embodiment of a third rowcleaner wheel assembly 6010. AlthoughFIGS. 73-79 show the rowcleaner assembly 6000 utilizing the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000, it should be appreciated that any of the other embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies cleaner wheel assembly 6010. Thus, rather than including separate sets of drawing figures for each of the row cleaner assembly embodiments,FIGS. 73-80 include reference numbers corresponding to each of the row cleaner assembly frames 1100, 2100, 3100, 4100, their respective components that may be adapted to include the third rowcleaner wheel assembly 6010. -
FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 incorporating an embodiment of a third rowcleaner wheel assembly 6010.FIG. 74 is a front perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 .FIGS. 75 and 76 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 .FIGS. 77 and 78 are top and bottom plan views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 .FIG. 79 is an exploded right front perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 .FIG. 80 is an exploded left front perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 . - Referring to
FIGS. 79 and 80 , a mountingbar 6080 is configured to mount to thelower subframe connectors 6081 extending throughapertures 6082 in the mountingbar 6080 which align with theapertures Nuts 6083 on the back side of thelower subframe connectors 6081 securing the mountingbar 6080 to thelower subframe bar 6080 includes arearward aperture 6084 for mounting the second row cleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the mountingbar 6080 via the second row cleaner axle bolt 1061-2, 2061-2, 3061-2, 4061-2 in the same manner as previously described when mounting the second row cleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-2, 2030-2, 3030-2, 4030-2 of the respectivelower subframe bar 6080 may include anenlarged aperture 6086 for aligning with and receiving a bushing for securing the second row cleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-2, 2030-2, 3030-2, 4030-2 of the respectivelower subframe bar 6080 includes anaperture 6086, which may be an elongated aperture, through which the third row cleanerwheel axle bolt 6061 extends. The thirdwheel axle bolt 6061 extends through acentral opening 6064 in the third rowcleaner wheel 6060. Abushing 6065 is received over the end of the third row cleanerwheel axle bolt 6061 and thebushing 6065 is received within ahub 6070 having acentral opening 6071. Thehub 6070 is secured to the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 bynuts 6072 threadably received over threadedconnectors 6074 which extend throughapertures 6066 in the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 and through alignedholes 6073 in thehub 6070. Anut 6075 on the back side the mountingbar 6080 receives the end of the third row wheel cleanerwheel axle bolt 6061 thereby axially restraining the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 onto the mountingbar 6080, while thebushing 6065 permits the third rowcleaner wheels 6060 to freely rotate about the respective row cleanerwheel axle bolt 6061. A spacer and washers (not shown) may be provided over the rowcleaner axle bolt 6061 to position the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 outwardly away from the mountingbar 6080 and the second row cleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2. Although not shown inFIG. 79 , a scraper may be provided over the third row cleanerwheel axle bolts 6061 to scrape dirt or mud from the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 as it rotates similar to that described above in connection with theembodiments - It should also be appreciated that although
FIGS. 73-80 show the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 being mounted on the second side, adjacent to the second row cleaner wheels 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2, the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 may be mounted on the first side adjacent to the first row cleaner wheel 1060-1, 2060-1, 3060-1, 4060-1. -
FIGS. 81-85 illustrate another embodiment of a rowcleaner assembly 7000 incorporating an embodiment of a rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010. AlthoughFIGS. 81-85 show the rowcleaner assembly 7000 utilizing the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000, it should be appreciated that any of the other embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies cleaner diverter assembly 7000. Thus, rather than including separate sets of drawing figures for each of the row cleaner assembly embodiments,FIGS. 81-85 include reference numbers corresponding to each of the row cleaner assembly frames 1100, 2100, 3100, 4100 and their respective components that may be adapted to include the rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010. -
FIG. 81 is a right front perspective view of the rowcleaner assembly 7000 incorporating an embodiment of a rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010.FIGS. 82 and 83 are top and bottom plan views, respectively, of the rowcleaner assembly 7000 with the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 .FIG. 84 is the same view of the row cleaner assembly 70000 as shown inFIG. 81 , but with the row cleaner wheels removed to better illustrate the embodiment of the rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010.FIG. 85 is the same view asFIG. 84 but showing the rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010 exploded.FIG. 86 is rear perspective view of the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 . - Referring to
FIGS. 84-86 , the rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010 includes a vertically orienteddiverter plate 7012 that is supported at the forward end of thelower subframe cleaner frame assembly cleaner embodiments diverter plate 7012 is disposed between and extends forwardly of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2 in the direction of travel as illustrated. It has been found that in some conditions, the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2 may pull the crop residue in both directions while leaving some of the residue in the row or seed bed which can result in some crop residue being trapped in theseed trench 38 formed by the trailingopening assembly 234. Thus by positioning adiverter plate 7012 that extends forwardly and between the row cleaning wheels, thediverter plate 7012 lifts and divides the crop residue forward of the row cleaning wheels forcing the crop residue to one or both sides so the row cleaner wheels can more effectively move the crop residue from the row or seed bed, making it less likely that any crop residue will become trapped in theseed trench 38. - A
leading edge 7014 of thediverter plate 7012 may be angled to form a sharp knife edge. In other embodiments, the leadingedge 7014 may have a flat, rounded or blunt edge. In some embodiments, thediverter plate 7012 may have a profile such that an upper portion of theleading edge 7014 a is convex in the direction oftravel 11 and alower portion 7014 b is concave in the direction oftravel 11. - In one embodiment, the
diverter plate 7012 is sandwiched between two side plates 7016-1, 7016-2. As best viewed inFIG. 85 , thediverter plate 7012 includes an elongated vertically orientedslot 7018 that aligns withapertures 7020 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2. Threadedconnectors 7022 extend through theapertures 7020 and theelongated slot 7018 and are secured by nuts 7024. Theelongated slot 7018 permits thediverter plate 7012 to be vertically adjustable relative to the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 so that thediverter plate 7012 may be positioned to contact the soil surface or to penetrate into the soil surface at a desired depth, which may be less than the seed depth or greater than the seed depth. - As best viewed in
FIGS. 84 and 85 , the rowcleaner diverter assembly 7010 may include anadaptor assembly 7030 configured to mount with the forwardly extending row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2; 2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 comprising thelower subframe FIGS. 85 and 86 , theadaptor assembly 7030 may include a vertically orientedplate 7032 attached to a base plate 7034 (such as by welding or other suitable connection means). Rearwardly extending arms 7036-1, 7036-2 may attach to the base plate 7034 (such as by welding or other suitable connection means). The rearwardly extending arms 7036-1, 7036-2 may haveapertures 7038 positioned to align with theapertures apertures 7038 are positioned to align with theapertures apertures adaptor assembly 7030 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2; 2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 in combination with other bolts and nuts (not shown). Thevertical plate 7032 may include vertically spaced apertures 7040 (FIG. 85 ) that align with any one of a series of upper and lower horizontally spacedapertures 7042 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2. Threadedconnectors 7044 may extend through the alignedapertures diverter plate 7012 to thevertical plate 7032 of theadaptor assembly 7030. It should be appreciated that the series ofapertures 7042 permit the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 to be adjustably positioned forwardly and rearwardly with respect to theadapter assembly 7030, and thus the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2; 2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 and the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2 to vary the distance that thediverter plate 7012 projects forwardly or rearwardly of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2. -
FIG. 87 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the diverter assembly adapted for use with the embodiment of thelower subframe 4100C of the rowcleaner assembly 4000 as shown inFIGS. 50 and 69 . In this embodiment, thelower subframe 4100C includes afront projection 7050 extending forwardly from the row cleaner support arms 4130-1, 4130-2. Each of the other embodiments of the rowcleaner assemblies similar front projection 7050. With this embodiment, theadaptor assembly 7030 may be omitted and the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 may mount directly to thefront projection 7050 by threadedconnectors 7044 extending through theapertures 7042 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 and through theapertures 7052 in thefront projection 7050, secured by nuts 7046. Thediverter plate 7012 attaches to the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 using the threadedconnectors 7022 extending through theapertures 7020 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 aligned with theelongated slot 7018 in thediverter plate 7012 and secured by nuts 7024 as in the previous embodiment. - It may be desirable to measure the load experienced by the row
cleaner assembly actuator system FIGS. 88-91 each of theembodiments - One way to measure the load experienced by the respective row cleaner assemblies is to utilize a load sensor 8000 disposed on the
lower subframe wheel axle bolt cleaner assemblies - In another embodiment, the load sensor 8000 may be a Wheatstone bridge 8004 disposed on one or both of the row cleaner support arms 1130-1, 1130-2; 2130-1, 2130-2; 3130-1, 3130-2; 4130-1, 4130-2 of the respective
lower subframes - In another embodiment, load sensor 8000 may comprise a load sensor 8010 substantially the same as the handle assembly described in PCT Publication No. WO2019169369 which is designated by reference number (i.e., “1600”) therein. Referring to
FIGS. 88-93 , the load sensor 8010 is an assembly comprising asleeve 8012 having ahandle bracket 8014 at an upper end for pivotally connecting ahandle 8016 with apivot pin 8018. Referring toFIGS. 92-93 , alateral plate 8020 extends between the linkages 1200-1, 1200-2; 2200-1, 2200-2; 3200-1, 3200-2; 4200-1, 4200-2, or between the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2; 2121-1, 2121-2; 3121-1, 3121-2; 4121-1, 4121-2 of theintermediate subframe lateral plate 8020 may be thebase member intermediate subframe lateral plate 8020 includes ahole 8021 through which thesleeve 8012 extends. Acontact plate 8022 having a convexlower surface 8023 and acentral bore 8024 therethrough is disposed above thelateral plate 8020 so that the convexlower surface 8023 contacts thelateral plate 8020. Aload sensing member 8030, such as a “pancake” load sensor (FIGS. 95-96 ) having ahole 8032 therethrough, is disposed above thecontact plate 8022. Theload sensing member 8030 includes a plurality of feet 8033 (FIG. 96 ) positioned to allow theload sensing member 8030 to flex and measure force. The flexing of theload sensing member 8030 generates a load signal that is communicated to themonitor 50 or a control module (discussed later). - As best viewed in
FIG. 94 , thesleeve 8012 has afirst diameter 8034 and a largersecond diameter 8035 resulting in ashoulder 8036 therebetween. The first andsecond diameters hole 8032 in theload sensing member 8030. Thefirst diameter 8034 is sized to pass through thecentral bore 8024 of thecontact plate 8022, but thesecond diameter 8035 andshoulder 8036 are sized such that they are unable to pass through thecentral bore 8024 of thecontact plate 8022. - Referring again to
FIGS. 92 and 93 ,bevel washers sleeve 8012 below thehandle bracket 8014 and above theload sensing member 8030. Thebevel washers bevel washers cleaner assembly load sensing member 8030. Before thebevel washers shoulder 8036 of thesleeve 8012 will contact the upper surface of thecontact plate 8022 to limit the vertical travel of thesleeve 8012. Awasher 8045 may be disposed below thelateral plate 8020. Ashaft 8046 is received within a bore 8047 (FIG. 94 ) at the lower end of thesleeve 8012. Anaxle bracket 8048 is mounted to the lower end of theshaft 8046. Theaxle bracket 8048 includes anaperture 8049 for receiving either the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2; 2061-1, 2061-2; 3061-1, 3061-2; 4061-1, 4061-2 or a rod 8050 extending between row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2; 2130-1, 2130-2, 3130-1, 3130-2; 4130-1, 4130-2 proximate the axis of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2; 2061-1, 2061-2; 3061-1, 3061-2; 4061-1, 4061-2. - It should be appreciated that although
FIGS. 88-92 show all of the various types of load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 on one rowcleaner assembly cleaner assembly monitor 50 to maintain a desired downforce. The load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 may be in direct communication with the monitor or via a control module, or the load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 may be part of a closed loop system or an open loop system together with theactuator system cleaner assembly cleaner assemblies planter 10. In either case, the signals from the load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 are communicated to and are processed by the control module. In yet another embodiment, the controller may be a single or multiple row control module as described in PCT Publication No. WO2014018717 wherein the load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 are connected to a CAN network having a CAN processor. In such an embodiment, the CAN processor may communicate signals from the load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 over the CAN network and the CAN processor may communicate control signals over the CAN network to control the downforce of one or more rowcleaner assemblies - The following are non-limiting examples.
- Example 1—an agricultural row cleaner (1000) comprising: an assembly bracket (1010) adaptable for connection to an agricultural toolbar (14); a linkage (1040) pivotably connected to the assembly bracket (1010); an actuator (1020) disposed between the assembly bracket (1010) and the linkage (1040); a first row cleaner wheel arm (1030-1) pivotably connected to the linkage (1040) and a first row cleaner wheel (1060-1) rotatably connected to the first row cleaner wheel arm (1030-1) at an end opposite to the linkage (1040); a second row cleaner wheel arm (1030-2) pivotably connected to the linkage (1040) and a second row cleaner wheel (1060-2) rotatably connected to the second row cleaner wheel arm (1030-2) at an end opposite to the linkage (1040); a first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) pivotably connected to the linkage (1040); a second gauge wheel arm (1035-2) pivotably connected to the linkage (1040); and a gauge wheel (1050) disposed on an axle (1051) between the first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) and the second gauge wheel arm (1035-2) at ends opposite to the linkage (1040).
- Example 2—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 1, wherein the assembly bracket (1010) comprises a top plate (1011) and a front plate (1012) extending downwardly from the top plate (1011).
- Example 3—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of any preceding Example, wherein the linkage (1040) comprises: a four bar linkage (1040) pivotably attached to the assembly bracket (1010) and extending rearward from a direction of travel (1), wherein the four bar linkage (1040) has an upper right bar, (1041) a lower right bar (1042), an upper left bar (1043), and a lower left bar (1044); and a crossbar (1045) connecting the lower right bar (1042) and the lower left bar (1044).
- Example 4—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 3, wherein: the first row cleaner wheel arm (1030-1) is pivotably connected to the upper right bar (1041) and the lower right bar (1042); the second row cleaner wheel (1030-2) arm is pivotably connected to the upper left bar (1042) and the lower left bar (1044); the first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) is pivotably connected to the upper right bar (1041); and the second gauge wheel arm (1035-2) is pivotably connected to the upper left bar (1043).
- Example 5—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 4, wherein the actuator (1020) is disposed between the top plate (1011) and the crossbar (1045).
- Example 6—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of any preceding Example further comprising a pin (1052) connecting the first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) and the second gauge wheel arm (1035-2).
- Example 7—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 6, wherein the pin (1052) comprises a load pin.
- Example 8—The agricultural row cleaner (1000) of any preceding Example, wherein the axle (1051) comprises a load pin.
- Example 9—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of any preceding Example, further comprising a load sensor (1075) disposed on the first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) or the second gauge wheel arm (1035-2).
- Example 10—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of any of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, or 9 further comprising a load sensor assembly (1600) comprising: a sleeve (1603); a connection bracket (1606) connected to the sleeve (1603) and disposed about a second axle (1061) that connects the first row cleaner wheel (1060-1) and the second row cleaner wheel (1060-2); a handle (1609) connected to the sleeve (1603) at an end opposite to the connection bracket (1606); a connection plate (1053) disposed between the first gauge wheel arm (1035-1) and the second gauge wheel arm (1035-2) and having a hole (1053) through which the sleeve (1603) is disposed; and a load sensor (1610) disposed between the handle (1609) and the connection plate (1053) with the sleeve (1603) disposed through the load sensor (1610).
- Example 11—The agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 10 further comprising a contact plate (1604) disposed between the load sensor (1610) and the connection plate (1053).
- Example 12—the agricultural cleaner (1000) of Example 10 or 11 further comprising a pair of washers (1601, 1602) disposed between the handle (1609) and the load sensor (1610).
- Example 13—the agricultural row cleaner (1000) of Example 2, wherein the top plate (1011) and the front plate (1012) are a unitary part.
- The foregoing description and drawings are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Various modifications to the embodiments and to the general principles and features of the modular metering system and meter modules, and processes described herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Thus, the disclosure should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the appended claims and the full scope of the equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Claims (13)
1. An agricultural row cleaner comprising:
an assembly bracket adaptable for connection to an agricultural toolbar;
a linkage pivotably connected to the assembly bracket;
an actuator disposed between the assembly bracket and the linkage;
a first row cleaner wheel arm pivotably connected to the linkage and a first row cleaner wheel rotatably connected to the first row cleaner wheel arm at an end opposite to the linkage;
a second row cleaner wheel arm pivotably connected to the linkage and a second row cleaner wheel rotatably connected to the second row cleaner wheel arm at an end opposite to the linkage;
a first gauge wheel arm pivotably connected to the linkage;
a second gauge wheel arm pivotably connected to the linkage; and
a gauge wheel disposed on an axle between the first gauge wheel arm and the second gauge wheel arm at ends opposite to the linkage.
2. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 , wherein the assembly bracket comprises a top plate and a front plate extending downwardly from the top plate.
3. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 wherein the linkage comprises:
a four bar linkage pivotably attached to the assembly bracket and extending rearward from a direction of travel, wherein the four bar linkage has an upper right bar, a lower right bar, an upper left bar, and a lower left bar; and
a crossbar connecting the lower right bar and the lower left bar.
4. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 3 , wherein:
the first row cleaner wheel arm is pivotably connected to the upper right bar and the lower right bar;
the second row cleaner wheel arm is pivotably connected to the upper left bar and the lower left bar;
the first gauge wheel arm is pivotably connected to the upper right bar; and
the second gauge wheel arm is pivotably connected to the upper left bar.
5. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 4 , wherein the actuator is disposed between the top plate and the crossbar.
6. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 further comprising a pin connecting the first gauge wheel arm and the second gauge wheel arm.
7. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 6 , wherein the pin comprises a load pin.
8. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 wherein the axle comprises a load pin.
9. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 further comprising a load sensor disposed on the first gauge wheel arm or the second gauge wheel arm.
10. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1 , further comprising a load sensor assembly comprising:
a sleeve;
a connection bracket connected to the sleeve and disposed about a second axle that connects the first row cleaner wheel and the second row cleaner wheel;
a handle connected to the sleeve at an end opposite to the connection bracket;
a connection plate disposed between the first gauge wheel arm and the second gauge wheel arm and having a hole through which the sleeve is disposed; and
a load sensor disposed between the handle and the connection plate with the sleeve disposed through the load sensor.
11. The agricultural row unit of claim 10 further comprising a contact plate disposed between the load sensor and the connection plate.
12. The agricultural row unit of claim 10 or 11 further comprising a pair of washers disposed between the handle and the load sensor.
13. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 2 , wherein the top plate and the front plate are a unitary part.
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2021
- 2021-03-23 AU AU2021251467A patent/AU2021251467A1/en active Pending
- 2021-03-23 US US17/907,417 patent/US20230122377A1/en active Pending
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EP4132257A1 (en) | 2023-02-15 |
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CA3176951A1 (en) | 2021-10-14 |
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AU2021253223A1 (en) | 2022-10-20 |
WO2021205267A1 (en) | 2021-10-14 |
AU2021251467A1 (en) | 2022-11-03 |
US20230165185A1 (en) | 2023-06-01 |
CA3176952A1 (en) | 2021-10-14 |
WO2021205266A1 (en) | 2021-10-14 |
BR112022019810A2 (en) | 2022-11-16 |
WO2021205264A1 (en) | 2021-10-14 |
EP4132255A1 (en) | 2023-02-15 |
EP4132254A1 (en) | 2023-02-15 |
CN115697038A (en) | 2023-02-03 |
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