US 6,116,172 A · Shank-mounted row chop opener

Abstract

A shank-mounted opener assembly connected to a seed distribution system is provided for both till and no-till operations. The opener assembly includes a spike member that is supported on the shank, a firming point, a seed sensor connected to the seed supply, a seed boot, a seed locking mechanism, and a multi media delivery tube assembly. The seed boot encloses the seed sensor and includes a pair of lateral side walls. The seed boot protects the seed sensor from moving soil and debris. The seed locking mechanism pushes the seed into the soil and forms a shallow layer of soil over the seed dispensed through the seed sensor. If desired, assistive media can be dispensed into the furrow at the same time as seeding. The assistive media are dispensed through the multi-media delivery tube assembly. The assistive media are not dispensed to the furrow until after the seed locking mechanism covers the seed with a shallow layer of soil.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A ground opener assembly attachable to a mounting device and connectable to a seed distribution system that is conveyed by an off road vehicle comprising:

a downwardly-pointing spike member attachable to said mounting device conveyed by said vehicle for engagement with the ground so as to form a furrow therein;
a seed sensor in communication with said seed distribution system through which seed is dispensed into said furrow;
a seed boot enclosing said seed sensor;
and
a firming point positioned between said spike member and said seed boot.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Shank-mounted row chop opener

Life of this patent

Shank-mounted row chop opener

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20