WO2017059253A1

WO2017059253A1 - Rail mount for agricultural planter

Info

Publication number: WO2017059253A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/054783
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert Blackwell
Original assignee: Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-10-01
Filing date: 2016-09-30
Publication date: 2017-04-06

Abstract

A system and apparatus for attaching ground engaging tools (28) to an agricultural implement (10) is provided. The system includes a frame (20, 30) configured to be attached to or mounted on an agricultural implement (10). The frame (20, 30) is configured to operatively attach or mount one or more ground engaging tools (28) at predefined increments along the frame (20, 30) of the system. The system may include holes, slots, grooves, or the like (37) configured to attach one or more ground engaging tools (28). The location of the holes, slots, grooves, or the like (37), may be configured to provide a predefined gap (40) between adjacent ground engaging tools (28). Furthermore, the configuration of the holes, slots, grooves, or the like (37), of a single rail system (34) may provide multiple predefined tool arrangements, whereas the ground engaging tools (28) to be converted from one predefined gap (40) between adjacent tools (28) to a different gap (40) between adjacent tools (28) based on the application or process to be performed.

Description

TITLE : RAIL MOUNT FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANTER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U. S.C. § 1 19 to Provisional Application Serial No. 62/235,630, filed October 1, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to a forward folding agricultural implement. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a forward folding agricultural implement frame. Even more specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to the mounting of a ground engaging tool on a forward folding agricultural implement frame.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As the power of tractors and agricultural efficiency has increased, agricultural implements, such as planters have increased in span, or width, to accommodate larger numbers of individual row units. Large planters generally include a main frame having a forward hitch assembly for drawing by a tractor and left and right wing sections pivotally attached to a portion of the main frame. The pivoting wing connections allow the wings to fold relative to the main frame for transport and storage of the planter. Early planters pivotally displaced the wings vertically to reduce planter width and to provide clearance for transport through narrow spaces. However, as the size of planters has increased, planter wings are generally folded in a forward direction to accommodate longer planter wings or wing sections. This has required the incorporation of telescoping hitch assemblies and specific folding functions to accommodate planter wings of increased length.

Traditionally, the center toolbar and the wing sections of an agricultural planter have been comprised of a square or rectangular frame member, and the row units have been attached to the center toolbar and wing sections via a U-bolt that encircles the frame member. The square or rectangular shaped frame members also typically include additional structural plates and/or support structures attached along the frame. The location along the frame of the toolbar and/or wing(s) where a row unit may be attached can be limited by the location of critical support structures of the frame, such as the location of bracing, cross members, etc. Therefore, the frame would limit the user to only a limited number of potential configurations for attaching row units related to the gap between adjacent row units. Additionally, when setting up the row unit gap, to achieve the desired spacing or row gap between adjacent row units, a user would typically have to secure a first row unit in place and go through the tedious process of measuring the gap between each subsequent row unit, attaching the next row unit, and rechecking the spacing to ensure that the subsequent row unit had not shifted or slid along the frame member while the U-bolt was being tightened and/or adjusted. Furthermore, because the frame member is typically a smooth surface, even when the row unit is secured to the frame member, it is possible for the row unit to slide along the frame member during operation of the planter when the row unit is engaged with the ground. The spacing between the row units on a planter can be of great importance. A row unit shifting or sliding along the frame as little as one inch can result in an intended gap of fifteen (15) inches being narrowed to fourteen (14) inches on one side and an increased gap of sixteen (16) inches on the other side. The gap spacing between row units being altered can create issues when later trying to apply a spray or fertilizer directly to the plant or in the gap between the rows of plants. Some agricultural applicators include ground engaging tools that align with the gap between rows for applying spray or fertilizer. Non-uniform gap spacing can also hinder plant

growth/development and increase compaction of the soil.

Therefore, there exists a need in the art for an apparatus that allows for a row unit to be attached at any location along the center toolbar and/or wing(s), as well as allowing for adjustment of the spacing between adjacent row units of an agricultural planter that overcomes the deficiencies in the art. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is a primary object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to improve on and/or overcome the deficiencies in the art.

It is another object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to provide an agricultural implement with ground engaging tools.

It is yet another object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to provide an apparatus and system to assist with mounting ground engaging tools on an agricultural implement. It is a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to provide an apparatus and system to assist with spacing of the ground engaging tools mounted on the agricultural implement.

It is still a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to provide an apparatus and system that allows the ground engaging tools to be converted from one particular gap spacing to another gap spacing.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the invention to provide an apparatus and system that allows the ground engaging tools to be attached or mounted at any location along the agricultural implement.

These and/or other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention is not to be limited to or by these objects, features and advantages. No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage.

Accordingly, one aspect of the invention includes an agricultural implement known as a forward folding agricultural planter. The planter may be connected to a tow tractor and may also include a transport configuration and a field use configuration. The planter includes, at least in part, a tongue for connection to a tow vehicle. The planter may also include a main toolbar attached to the tongue away from the tow vehicle, as well as one or more wings pivotally coupled to the main toolbar. The wings may pivot about a generally vertical axis relative to the main toolbar. The main toolbar pivot allows the wings to be folded in a generally forward direction when converting the planter from the field configuration to the transport configuration. The wings may include one or more sections, for example, a wing may include an inner section and an outer section. The inner and outer sections of the wing may be pivotally coupled such that the outer section may pivot about a generally horizontal axis relative to the inner section.

Furthermore, the planter may also include a plurality of ground engaging tools, also known as row units. The row units may be attached to the main toolbar and/or the wings. Additionally, the row units are typically positioned adjacent to one another and evenly spaced along the main toolbar and/or wings depending on the agricultural operation being performed.

However, the present invention further includes an apparatus and system for mounting a ground engaging tool or row unit at any point along the main toolbar and/or wings, wherein the variations of the gap between adjacent row units are predefined. The system includes a rail with predefined locations for attaching row units that provide specific gaps between adjacent row units. A user may quickly reconfigure the row units between different predefined gap spacing' s based on the agricultural operation being performed. The rail may allow the user to attach a row unit at any location along the frame of the center toolbar and/or wing(s) irrespective of the location of bracing, cross members, and other critical support structures that may otherwise prevent attachment of a row unit at a specific location. The rail may include multiple sections that may be attached to the main toolbar and/or the wings of the agricultural implement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a forward folding agricultural implement.

Figure 2 is a rear view of the forward folding agricultural implement of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a rail mount apparatus for attaching a row unit to an agricultural tool bar with a wide gap between adjacent row units.

Figure 4 is a front view of the rail mount apparatus for attaching a row unit to an agricultural tool bar with a wide gap between adjacent row units of Figure 3.

Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a rail mount apparatus for attaching a row unit to an agricultural tool bar with a narrow gap between adjacent row units.

Figure 6 is a front view of the rail mount apparatus for attaching a row unit to an agricultural tool bar with a narrow gap between adjacent row units of Figure 5.

Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a rail mount apparatus for attaching a row unit to an agricultural tool bar with an intermediate spacing.

Figure 8 is a rear view of the frame of a rail mount apparatus.

Figure 9 is a side view of the frame of a rail mount apparatus of Figure 8.

Various embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the invention. Figures represented herein are not limitations to the various embodiments according to the invention and are presented for exemplary illustration of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An apparatus and system for mounting ground engaging tools to an agricultural implement is disclosed. An agricultural implement may be used to plant seed, apply fertilizer, work ground, etc. For example, an agricultural implement referred to as a plow may be used for turning over the soil, an agricultural planter may be used to plant the seed, and an applicator may be used to apply chemicals. Generally, agricultural implements comprise various types of ground engaging tools that are configured based on the agricultural operation to be performed. For example, a plow may include a cutting disk and a blade attached to a main toolbar for loosening and turning over the soil. A planter may include an assembly known as a row unit, the row unit generally configured to insert a seed into the soil. Depending on the type of seed being planted and other conditions, such as the soil type or expected climate/growing conditions, the row units may be spaced at any distance along the toolbar and/or wings of the planter to provide the preferred or optimal gap between rows. For example, corn may require a gap of thirty (30") inches between rows, whereas soybeans may only require a gap of fifteen (15") inches between rows. However, while the spacing may be varied, it is important to maintain a uniform or consistent gap between each adjacent ground engaging tool and/or row unit.

As will be understood, a rail system 34 for mounting ground engaging tools, such as a row unit 28, to a toolbar of an agricultural implement includes at least a frame 36 that comprises a plurality of attachment locations 37 along the frame 36. The frame 36 may be mounted on or permanently attached to the toolbar of an agricultural implement, such as a planter 10.

Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, an agricultural planter 10 is shown. The planter 10 may include a tongue 12 that extends longitudinally from a main or center toolbar 20. The tongue 12 typically includes a hitch 14 opposite the center toolbar 20, with the hitch 14 configured to attach the planter 10 to a tow vehicle, such as an agricultural tractor. The tongue 12 may be configured to extend telescopically. A telescoping tongue 12 may include a hollow rectangular member disposed about a smaller rectangular member, the smaller rectangular member configured to slide within the larger hollow rectangular member to lengthen or shorten the tongue 12. It should also be appreciated that the telescoping tongue 12 may include additional members or sections as well, depending on the length needed. The additional tongue sections can be hollow and received within one another to allow the length of the tongue 12 to vary.

The center toolbar 20 is generally perpendicular to the tongue 12. The center toolbar 20 may be supported by ground engaging wheels 16 that may include one or more hydraulic cylinders that may be used to raise and lower the center toolbar 20. The center wheels 16 may be used to raise the center toolbar 20 when the planter 10 is required to make a rum, or the center wheels 16 may also support the entire planter 10 when in a transport configuration. As shown in Figs. 1-2, a pair of wings 22 are pivotally attached to each end of the center toolbar 20. It should be understood that an agricultural implement, such as a planter 10, may include one or more wings 22, but wings 22 are not required. Each wing 22 may include one or more wing wheels 18 for supporting and lifting or lowering the wing 22. For example, the wing wheels 18 may aid with depth control of the row unit 28 by setting the distance between the wing frame 30 and the ground. The wing wheels 18 may also be used to raise the wing 22 when the planter 10 is required to make a turn.

It should be noted that in a field use configuration, as shown in Figs. 1-2, the wings 22 are generally perpendicular to the tongue 12. Alternatively, when the planter 10 is in a transport configuration, the wings 22 may be folded such that they are generally parallel to the tongue 12. As the wings 22 transition from the field use configuration to the transport configuration, the tongue 12 may telescope to provide sufficient distance between the tractor that is towing the planter 10 and the center toolbar 20 for the wings 22 to fold forward. When converting from a transport configuration to a field use configuration, and vice versa, the wings 22 may be pivoted about a generally vertical axis created by a hinge. The wings 22 may also include a pivot 26. The pivot 26 allows the wing 22 to flex or rotate about a generally horizontal axis. For example, a hinge or pin may be utilized to provide the rotation movement of a first section of the wing 23 relative to a second section of the wing 24. The pivot 26 may be configured to allow the second section of wing 24 to rotate or flex relative to the first section of the wing 23 when the planter 10 travels over uneven and hilly terrain. For example, the wing 22 may flex at the pivot 26 to ensure that the row units 28 attached along the wing 22 maintain contact with the ground as the planter 10 travels over an uneven surface. It should be understood that a wing 22 may include one or more pivot 26 locations along the length of the wing 22, or no pivots 26 at all. The number of pivots 26 included along a wing 22 typically will depend on the length of the wing 22. For example, a longer wing 22 may require additional pivots 26 in order to allow for the appropriate flex in the wing 22 to ensure all of the row units 28 attached to the wing 22 remain in contact with the ground when required. However, if a wing 22 is shorter, no pivots 26 may be required.

Shown in Fig. 1 are a plurality of row units 28 mounted to the center toolbar 20 and the wings 22 of a planter 10. The row units 28 are attached in an adjacent manner to the rear of the toolbar 20 and wings 22, away from the hitch 14. The number of row units 28 mounted along the toolbar 20 and/or the wings 22 may be based on the length of the planter 10, as determined by the overall length of the toolbar 20 and wings 22. It may also depend on the type of seed being planted. For example, it is contemplated that a shorter length planter 10 will likely have fewer row units 28 than a longer planter 10. Additionally, the desired gap between adjacent row units 28 may determine the number of row units 28 attached to the toolbar 20 and/or wings 22. As disclosed, the gap between the row units 28 may be configured based on the type of seed being planted. For example, if the row units 28 are configured to plant com seed, there may be a twenty (20") inch gap or even a thirty (30") inch gap between adjacent row units 28. The gap between row units 28 is typically the distance measured between the location where a row unit 28 inserts a seed into the ground and the location where an adjacent row unit 28 inserts a seed into the ground.

Examples of how the gap between row units 28 is measured or determined is shown by reference numeral 40 in Fig. 4 and Fig. 6. An example of a row unit for use with the present invention is found in U. S. Application Nos. 13/829,726, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety. However, any type of row unit 28 could be used with the invention. The agricultural implement is not limited to a planter with row units, but instead could be adapted for use with any agricultural implement having ground engaging tools such as seed drills, cultivators, fertilizer and pesticide applicators, and the like.

Referring to Fig. 3, an exploded assembly drawing of a section of the wing 22 is shown. The wing 22 includes a frame or toolbar member 30 that extends longitudinally in the direction of the wing 22. As shown in Fig. 3, the frame member 30 is a square tubular- shaped member, but it should be understood that the frame member 30 may be configured in any number of shapes that would provide the necessary structural qualities. For example, the frame 30 could be constructed in circular, rectangular, or I-beam shape. Furthermore, the frame 30 may be configured as a solid or hollow member, depending on desired characteristics. For example, if the additional weight is required to help drive the ground engaging tool or row unit into the ground, the additional weight of a solid member may be desired. Alternatively, if a lighter frame 30 is preferred, a hollow member may be desired for the frame 30. To avoid or prevent compaction of the soil when planting is one example of a reason for using a lighter frame 30 member.

The rail system 34, as shown in Fig. 3, may be attached to the frame member 30 of the center toolbar 20 or wing(s) 22. For example, the rail system 34 can be welded or otherwise fixed, such as by use of bolts, clamps, or the like, to connect to the frame member 30. The rail system 34 may include rail bar 36 configured for attaching at least one row unit 28. The rail bar 36 may comprise one or more horizontally oriented bars, plates, or combinations that include holes, slots, grooves, or the like, configured for attaching one or more row units 28 along the rail system 34. The rail bar 36 may be a flat length of steel, an I-beam, or an L-shaped bracket (as shown in Fig. 3). The rail bar can be designed and configured to support the weight of the ground engaging tool or row unit that will be mounted to it, as well as be able to withstand the forces exerted when the ground engaging tool or row unit 28 is engaged with the ground. For example, the row units 28 shown in Fig. 1 will generate an upward force and a rearward force (away from the hitch 14) on the rail bar 36. In another aspect of the invention, a ground engaging tool, such as a plow, may generate a downward force and a rearward force (away from the hitch 14) as it engages the ground to turn over the soil. The rail bar 36 may be configured to provide a flat surface for attaching row units 28, such that all row units 28 will be aligned along a horizontal axis that runs parallel to the center tool bar 20 and/or wing(s) 22. For example, the rail system 34 can include vertical brackets 38 that provides sufficient depth between the frame 30 and the location of the rail bar(s) 36 such that the rail bar(s) 36 can run generally parallel to the frame 30 to provide a uniform point of attachment for all of the row unit 28. This may ensure that all row units 28 attached to a specific section of the rail system 34 will shut-off at the same location, as defined by a horizontal axis running parallel to the rail bar 36. For example, when a planter 10 reaches the end of a field and stops and/or lifts the center toolbar and/or wing(s) to disengage the row unit(s) 28 from the ground, the last seed planted by each row unit should create a generally straight line. The holes, slots, grooves, or the like, for attaching one or more row units 28 to the rail system are configured to allow the row units 28 to be attached at predefined locations providing a specific gap 40 or spacing between adjacent row units 28. For example, the holes 37 shown in Figs. 3-4 demonstrate a configuration providing a thirty (30") inch gap 40 between adjacent row units 28. Whereas Figs. 5-6 demonstrate a configuration providing a fifteen (15") inch gap 40' between adjacent row units 28. The location of the holes, slots, grooves, or the like, along the rail system may be configured to provide any gap or spacing that may be desired by a potential operator. Furthermore, the holes, slots, grooves, and the like, may be configured such that the operator may convert the row units 28 from one predefined gap to another by attaching the row units 28 by using a different hole 37 configuration that is included in the rail bar 36. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the row units 28 are attached using holes 37 configured to provide a thirty (30") inch gap 40 between the row units 28. But also shown in Fig. 4 are additional unused holes 37. Referring to Fig. 6, additional row units 28 are attached using the holes 37 corresponding to a fifteen (15") inch gap 40'. Furthermore, Fig. 7 shows yet another potential configuration of holes 37 for attaching row units 28 that provide a twenty (20") inch gap.

It should be understood that the partem, location, and/or spacing of the holes, slots, grooves, or the like, may be configured based on the size and dimensions of a particular ground engaging tool or row unit 28. Furthermore, a rail system 34 may be configured or adapted to attach a ground engaging tool or row unit 28 from various manufacturers. For example, one particular rail system 34 may be configured for attaching row units 28 from manufacturer ABC, whereas another rail system 34 may be for attaching row units 28 from manufacturer XYZ. It should also be understood that the configuration of holes, slots, or grooves for attaching one manufacturers row units 28 to provide a thirty (30") inch gap may be different than the configuration for attaching a second manufacturers row units 28 to get the same thirty (30") inch gap between adj acent row units 28.

The positioning of the holes may also provide additional advantages. For example, as the holes are predefined with respect to spacing, one can be assured that, depending on the grouping of holes selected, they will have the correct spacing for row units or other ground-engaging tools, without the need to constantly measure. The implement can be quickly transformed from a wider gap to a narrower gap between row units (or vice versa) with the confidence that the row units will be spaced according to agronomic and/or preferred spacing.

The rail system 34 may also include one or more vertically oriented brackets 38 configured to mount or attach the rail system 34 to the frame 30 of the center toolbar 20 or wing(s) 22. For example, the vertical brackets 38 of the rail system 34 may be configured to attach the rail system 34 to the frame 30 via a U-bolt 32 disposed about the frame member 30. Any size or shape U-bolt configured to fit around the outer surface of the frame 30 and configured to attach the rail system 34 may be used. It should also be understood that the rail system 34 may be attached to the frame 30 via a weld, bolted to the frame 30 via a hole through the frame 30, or incorporated as part of the frame 30, i.e. the frame 30 itself includes the features of the rail system 34. As shown in Fig. 3, the rail system 34 includes vertical brackets 38 comprised of a length/segment of C-channel that is attached to a pair of horizontal rail bars 36. It should be understood that the vertical brackets 38 may be of any size or shape capable of supporting the rail bar(s) 36 and configured to be attached or mounted to the frame 30 of the center toolbar and/or the wing(s) 22. Furthermore, the vertical brackets 38 may be configured to provide sufficient spacing between the rail bar 36 and the frame 30 of the toolbar 20 or wing(s) 22 to allow a row unit 28 to be attached at any location along the rail bar 36. For example, the vertical bracket 38 may provide a sufficient gap between the frame 30 and rail bar 36 such that a support structure or structural plate of the frame 30 will not prevent a row unit 28 from being attached at a specific location. It is also contemplated that the rail system 34 may be a single piece configured to attach directly to the frame 30, while still including holes, slots, grooves, or the like for attaching one or more row units 28.

The rail system may be provided in sections of varying lengths that correspond with the length of the center toolbar 20, the wing(s) 22, or sections of a wing 23, 24. The length of each section of the rail system 34 may be configured to allow the wing(s) 22 to flex and/or fold. For example, the rail system 34 may be configured to be attached to the wing 22 or sections of the wing 23, 24 such that the rail system 34 will allow an outer section of the wing 24 to rotate relative to an inner section of the wing 24 at a pivot 26.

Referring to Figs. 3-4, an example configuration for attaching row units 28 to a section of a wing 22 utilizing the rail system 34 is shown. Shown in Figs. 3-4 are a plurality of row units 28 attached to a planter 10 using a rail system 34, the row units 28 are mounted to the rail system 34 using the set of holes 37 configured to provide a thirty (30") inch gap 40 between adjacent row units 28.

Referring to Figs. 5-6, an example configuration for attaching row units 28 to a section of a wing 22 utilizing the rail system 34 is shown. Shown in Figs. 5-6 are a plurality of row units 28 attached to a planter 10 using a rail system 34, the row units 28 are mounted to the rail system 34 using the set of holes 37 configured to provide a fifteen (15") inch gap 40' between adjacent row units 28.

Referring to Fig. 7, an example configuration for attaching row units 28 to a section of a wing 22 utilizing the rail system 34 is shown. Shown in Fig. 7 are a plurality of row units 28 attached to a planter 10 using a rail system 34, the row units 28 are mounted to the rail system 34 using the set of holes 37 configured to provide a twenty (20") inch gap 40 between adjacent row units 28. It should be understood that a single rail system 34 may include a configuration of holes, slots, grooves, or the like to provide all of the various row unit 28 gaps demonstrated in Figs. 3-7. One of the many advantages provided by the rail system 34 is that it would allow the user to add or subtract row units 28 from an agricultural implement such as a planter 10, as well as switch between various gap 40 configurations. For example, a user may attach row units 28 to the rail system 34 at locations configured to provide a thirty (30") inch gap 40 for planting corn, and then move row units 28 to the locations configured to provide a fifteen (15") inch gap 40" for planting soybeans. The rail system 34 may allow the user to quickly and efficiently switch or adjust between various gap 40 configurations as required based on the agricultural process to be performed. The configuration of the holes, slots, grooves, or the like, may be configured to ensure specific gap 40 spacing's are uniform along the rail system. It is also contemplated that the configuration of holes, slots, grooves, or the like, may be configured to provide attachment of a row unit 28 or ground engaging tool at any point along an agricultural implement, irrespective of the implements frame design and/or support structures and bracing. While the figures primarily relate to the attachment of row units 28 to a planter 10, it should be understood that the rail system 34 may be configured for use with other agricultural implements. For example, the rail system 34 may be configured for use with a plow to attach or mount the diggers, plow shanks, or tines at a predefined gap. The rail system 34 may also be configured for use with an anhydrous applicator, whereas the rail system 34 may define the gap between the disks to ensure the anhydrous is applied between the rows of planted crops.

Referring to Figs. 8-9, an example embodiment of a rail system apparatus 34 is shown. Fig. 8 represents a rear view of a section of the rail system apparatus 34. The rail system 34 may include one or more horizontally oriented frame members 36 comprising holes 37, slots, grooves, or the like, configured to attach a row unit 28 or other ground engaging tool. The pattem, location, configuration, and/or orientation of the holes 37, slots, grooves, or the like may be adapted or configured to operatively engage the row units or ground engaging tools provided by various manufacturers. The rail system may include diagrams, markings, or any other indications to provide a user which connection (i.e., holes) to utilize depending on the type of ground engaging tool, the manufacturer, the spacing, and/or any other factor that may come into play when trying to space the ground- engaging tools at a distance between one another that will be set and maintained without much input from the user.

As shown in Fig. 8, the two horizontal frame members 36 are connected by a plurality of vertical brackets 38. The vertical brackets 38 are one example of a

configuration for mounting or attaching the rail system 34 to an agricultural implement. As shown in Fig. 3, the vertical tabs may be configured to removably attach the rail system 34 to a planter 10 using a U-bolt. It is contemplated though that the rail system 34 may be attached to an agricultural implement by any acceptable method. For example, the rail system 34 may be welded to the planter 10 or the holes 37, slots, or grooves for attaching a ground engaging tool may be included as part of the center toolbar 20 and/or wing(s) 22. The length of the frame member(s) 36 may be configured based on the agricultural implement that the rail system apparatus 34 will be attached or mounted to. Shown in Fig. 9 is a side view of an example embodiment of a rail system apparatus 34. In this example configuration, it can be seen that the horizontal rail frame 36 is an L-shaped section and the vertical brackets 38 are sections of C-channel. The rail system 34 generally may be manufactured from a steel alloy, but any material providing the necessary strength and physical characteristics may be utilized.

Still further options may be considered. For example, some planters, while not front folding, may include both pulled and pushed ground-engaging tools. Therefore, a second or additional rail system can be included on the front side of the frame member 30 to provide for preset spacing thereat as well. Still further, when a twin-row planter is used, the rail system 34 could include additional connection types to allow for the various linkages and/or row units to be attached at the preset spacings provided. However, a user can be assured, based upon the preformed and preset spacing of the connections in the rail system 34 that the chosen spacing between row units, based upon the connection points chosen, will be maintained.

An agricultural implement including an apparatus capable of mounting ground engaging tools to the implement at various predefined gaps between adjacent tools has thus been described. The present invention contemplates numerous variations, options and alternatives, and is not to be limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Other changes are considered to be part of the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A rail mounting apparatus for use with an agricultural implement comprising: a rail frame comprising a plurality of apertures, said plurality of apertures configured to operatively attach one or more row units; and

wherein the plurality of apertures are configured to provide/define the horizontal spacing between the one or more row units attached to the rail frame.

2. The rail mount apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of apertures are configured to define a predetermined gap between the one or more row units attached to the rail frame.

3. The rail mount apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rail frame is configured to be operatively attached to a toolbar of an agricultural implement.

4. The rail mount apparatus of claim 3, wherein the agricultural implement is a front folding agricultural planter.

5. The rail mount apparatus of claim 3, wherein the rail frame is attached to the toolbar by a U-bolt.

6. The rail mount apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more row units attached to the rail frame includes a first row unit and a second row unit, said first row unit configured to be adjacent to the second row unit.

7. The rail mount apparatus of claim 6, wherein the plurality of apertures of the frame are configured to provide/define a fifteen inch gap/spacing between the location where the first row unit engages the ground and the location where the second row unit engages the ground.

8. The rail mount apparatus of claim 6, wherein the plurality of apertures of the frame are configured to provide/define a twenty inch spacing between the one or more adjacent row units measured from the location where the row units engage the ground.

9. The rail mount apparatus of claim 6, wherein the plurality of apertures of the frame are configured to provide thirty inch gap/spacing between the location where the first row unit engages the ground and the location where the second row unit engages the ground.

10. The rail mount apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rail frame comprises one or more L-shaped frame members oriented horizontally and positioned adjacent one another, said one or more L-shaped frame members secured to one another by a plurality of vertically oriented C-channel members.

1 1. An agricultural planter comprising:

a tongue comprising a first end and a second end, said first end comprising a hitch;

a main toolbar attached to the second end of the tongue;

one or more wing toolbars pivotally coupled to the main toolbar; and

a rail operatively connected to the main toolbar and the one or more wing toolbars, said rail including a plurality of predefined row unit connections corresponding to predefined spacing of the row units connected to the rail.

12. The agricultural planter of claim 1 1, wherein the agricultural planter is a forward folding planter.

13. The agricultural planter of claim 11 , wherein the rail is configured to operatively mount one or more row units to the main toolbar and the one more wing toolbars.

14. The agricultural planter of claim 1 1, wherein the plurality of predefined row unit connections include a plurality of slots configured to attach the row unit.

15. A rail mounting apparatus for use with an agricultural implement comprising: a tongue comprising a first end and a second end, said first end comprising a hitch configured to be attached to a tow vehicle;

a main frame attached to the second end of the tongue;

a rail frame configured to be operatively mounted to the main frame; and

wherein the rail frame includes a plurality of predefined attachment points for attaching one or more row units, said plurality of attachment points configured to define (corresponding to) the spacing/distance between the adjacent row units.

16. The rail mounting apparatus of claim 15, further comprising one or more wing sections pivotally coupled to the main frame.

17. The rail mounting apparatus of claim 16, wherein the rail frame is configured to be operatively mounted to the one or more wing sections.

18. The rail mounting apparatus of claim 15, wherein the plurality of predefined attachment points include a plurality of apertures configured for attaching the row unit.

19. The rail mounting apparatus of claim 18, wherein the plurality of apertures of the rail frame are configured to define the horizontal spacing between the one or more ground engaging tools.

20. The rail mounting apparatus of claim 15, wherein the rail frame is configured to provide attachment of one or more row units at any point along the main frame.