sensor to detect seed, sensor support set, and, seed delivery system

专利摘要:
SEED DETECTING SENSOR, E, SENSOR SUPPORT SET A sensor and a sensor support set are described. The sensor may include a sensor body, window and frame. When the sensor is mounted on a seed delivery system, an alignment flap or recess in the sensor or delivery system can mate with a recess or alignment flap included in the other of the sensor and the delivery system. The sensor frame can include a side flange close to the sensor window, which can rest on a recess in the delivery system when the sensor is mounted on the delivery system. A mounting flap or groove on one of the sensor or the delivery system can be oriented at an oblique angle to a seed path, and can rest on a mounting groove or flange obliquely angled on the other of the sensor or system in order to support the sensor in the supply system.
公开号:BR102015001921B1
申请号:R102015001921-1
申请日:2015-01-28
公开日:2020-10-20
发明作者:Gregory Harmelink；Elijah B. Garner
申请人:Deere & Company；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

DESCRIPTION FIELD
[001] The following refers to a sowing unit for a sowing machine or seeder, and more particularly to a sowing unit that has a seed supply system with a seed transport mecca. GROUNDS FOR DESCRIPTION
[002] Various types of seed feeders have been developed, which use a pressure differential, or vacuum or positive pressure, to adhere seed to a dosing element. The dosing element picks up seed from a seed bank and subsequently unloads individual seeds. (In some cases, multiple seeds can be unloaded at once.) A common type of seed dispenser is shown in US Patent 5,170,909. In this, a seed disk 48 (numbered in US Patent 5,170,909) contained in a housing is used to dose the seed. The seed bank is positioned on one side of the disk in a lower portion of the disk, while a vacuum is applied to the opposite side of the disk. When the disc is rotated, individual seeds from the seed bank are adhered by the vacuum to the openings that extend through the disc. When the seed reaches a desired release position, the vacuum is terminated, allowing the seed to fall from the disc through a seed tube into a groove formed in the soil below.
[003] Flexible belts were also used in a seed doser by air pressure differential. An example is shown in US patent application 2010/0192818 A1. In this case, a flexible belt that has an arrangement of openings therein is movable along a path in a housing. The seed bank is formed on one side of the belt. Vacuum applied to the opposite side of the belt over a portion of the belt path adheres the seed to the openings, allowing the belt to move the seed to a release position, where the vacuum is cut. The seed then falls off or is removed from the belt.
[004] When seed falls by gravity from the feeder through the seed tube, it can be difficult to maintain accurate and consistent seed spacing at sowing speeds greater than about 8 kph (5mph). To maintain spacing accuracy, a seed delivery system, which controls the seed as the seed moves from the seed feeder to the soil, is desirable. Such a delivery system is shown in US patent application 2010/0192819-Al.
[005] With such a supply system, seed can be transported by a transport mechanism through the supply system for planting. During this (and other) transport, it may be useful to provide a seed sensor to identify the passage of seeds through various points in the supply system. In addition, it may be useful to provide a sensor or sensor assembly that can be safely and relatively easily assembled in the delivery system. DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
[006] A sensor and sensor support assembly are described for a seed supply system.
[007] According to one aspect of the description, a seed supply system with a housing is provided, the supply system including a transport mechanism for moving seed along a seed path through the supply system. In certain embodiments, a sensor may include a sensor body, a sensor window, and a sensor frame. The sensor can include an alignment flap or recess, which can be matched, respectively, with an alignment recess or flap included in the seed delivery system, when the sensor is mounted on the seed delivery system.
[008] In certain embodiments, the sensor frame may include a side flange that extends away from the sensor window, so that the sensor frame is wider across a region close to the sensor window than across a region removed from the sensor window, from a perspective transversal to the seed path. The side flange may include an alignment flap or indentation for coupling with a corresponding seed delivery system alignment indent or flap. The side flange can sit on a side flange recess in the delivery system housing when the sensor body is mounted on the seed delivery system. The side flange recess can be included in a mobile housing cover, with the side flange being seated on the side flange recess when the mobile cover is closed.
[009] In certain embodiments, the sensor may include a mounting flap or mounting flange, oriented at an oblique angle to the seed path. The flange or mounting flange can rest on a correspondingly obliquely angled flange or mounting flap, included in the seed delivery system, to support the sensor in the delivery system. The sensor mounting flange or flange may rest on the supply system mounting flange or flange only when the sensor window is correctly oriented with respect to the seed path.
[0010] In certain embodiments, a sensor support assembly may include first and second mounting flanges defining, respectively, first and second mounting grooves. The first and second mounting grooves can open towards each other, at least in part, and can be oriented, respectively, at the first and second oblique angles with respect to the seed path. A seed sensor can be mounted on the seed delivery system by inserting a first mounting flap into the first mounting groove and inserting a second mounting flap into the second mounting groove, the first and second mounting flaps being oriented , respectively, at the first and second oblique angles with respect to the seed path.
[0011] Several other modalities are contemplated within the scope of the discussion made here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a common agricultural seeder; figure 2 is a side perspective view of a sowing unit frame, seed dispenser and seed supply system; figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the seed dispenser and supply system drives; figure 4 is a perspective view of the seed dispenser with the cover open showing the dosing element; figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the seed dispenser in figure 4; figure 6 is a perspective view of the dosing element of figure 4; figure 7 is a lateral cross section of the dosing element of figure 6 illustrating the orientation of the dosing element installed in a seed doser mounted on a sowing unit; figure 8 is a fragmented cross section of an alternative dosing element; figure 9 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the interior of the dosing element of figure 6; figure 10 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the dosing element and the seed delivery system; Figure 11 is a sectional view of transferring seed from the dosing element to the supply system including the supply system brush belt; figure 12 is a sectional view like figure 11 without the supply system brush belt; Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of the direction of seed entry into the brush belt; Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of the direction of travel of the seed in the dosing element and in the delivery system in the position of releasing the seed from the dosing element; figure 15 is a side sectional view of the dosing element and the delivery system in the transfer, without the brush belt; figure 16 is a perspective view of the inner side of the seed dispenser housing; figure 17 is a side sectional view of the dosing element and dosing housing showing the seed bank formed by the dosing and housing element; figure 18 is a sectional side view as in figure 17 illustrating a prior art seed doser with a disk dosing element; figure 19 is a perspective view of the lower end of the supply system; figures 20 and 21 are seen in perspective of an alternative dosing element; figure 22 is a schematic side view of another arrangement of the seed dispenser and seed supply system; figure 23 is a perspective view of the seed dispenser of figure 22 partially disassembled; figure 24 is a perspective view of the seed dispenser, when viewed along the seed dispenser on line 24-24 of figure 23; figure 25 is a perspective view of the vacuum collector of the seed dispenser in figure 23; figure 26 is a sectional view of the idler assembly frame of the seed feeder of figure 23; figure 27 is a plan view of a vacuum control element in the seed dispenser of figure 23; figure 28 is a perspective view of the seed feeder housing cover of the seed feeder of figure 23; figure 29 is a perspective view of the upper end of the seed dispenser in figure 23; figure 30 is a perspective view showing the seed dispenser of figure 23 in relation to the seed supply system; figure 31 is a side sectional view of another embodiment of the seed dispenser and seed delivery system; figure 32 is a perspective view of certain internal components of the seed supply system of figure 31, including a wear coating and seed sensor; figure 33 is a perspective view of the wear coating and seed sensor shown in figure 32; figure 34 is another perspective view of the wear coating and seed sensor shown in figure 32; figure 35 is an exploded perspective view of the wear liner and seed sensor shown in figure 32; figure 36 is an enlarged perspective view of the A-A portion of figure 35; figure 37A is a perspective view of the seed supply system of figure 31; figure 37B is an enlarged perspective view of figure 37A; figures 37C and 37D are enlarged perspective views of the C-C portion of figure 37A, showing different configurations of a deformable mounting tab of the wear liner shown in figure 32; figure 38 is an enlarged perspective view of a lower portion of the wear liner and seed supply system of figure 32; figure 39 is another enlarged perspective view of a lower portion of the wear liner and seed supply system of figure 32; figure 40A is a side view of the seed moving along the wear liner shown in figure 32; figure 40B is an enlarged side view of the D-D portion of figure 40A; Figure 41 is another side perspective view of a seed unit frame, seed dispenser and seed delivery system, including groove discs, for example; Fig. 42 is a sectional view of the seed delivery system and grooving disks of Fig. 41, taken along the E-E plane of Fig. 41; figure 43 is a side view of portions of the seed sensor and wear liner shown in figure 32; figure 44 is a perspective view of the seed sensor of figure 32 and certain components of the seed supply system of figure 31; and figure 45 is an exploded side view of the seed sensor of figure 32 and certain components of the seed supply system of figure 31.
[0013] The same reference symbols in the various drawings indicate the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] An agricultural sowing machine 10 is shown in figure 1 as a row crop sower. The sowing machine 10 has a central frame 12 on which a plurality of individual sowing units 14 is mounted. The sowing machine 10 has a front to back direction shown by arrow 15 and a transverse direction shown by arrow 17. Each seeding unit 14 is coupled to the central frame 12 by a system of parallel connections 16, so that the individual seeding units can move up and down by a limited degree in relation to the frame 12. large storage tanks 13 contain seeds, which are delivered pneumatically to a mini-seedling in each sowing unit. Each sowing unit 14 has a frame element 18 (figure 2), on which the components of the sowing unit are assembled. The frame element 18 includes a pair of vertical arms 20 at its front end. The arms 20 are coupled to the rear ends of the parallel connection system 16. Grooving discs 28 (not shown in figure 2) are attached to the shaft 22 in a known manner to form a groove open in the soil under the sowing machine, within which seed is deposited. Closing and packing wheels 32 are also mounted on the frame element 18 in a known manner, to close the groove above the deposited seed and to firm the soil in the closed groove. A seed feeder 24 and a seed supply system 400 are also attached to the frame element 18 of the sowing unit.
[0015] The dispenser 24 includes a housing 30 (figure 3) and a cover 34. Housing 30 and cover 34 are coupled together by complementary articulation characteristics 36 and 38 (see figure 5) in the housing and cover, respectively . The hinge feature 36 includes a pivot pin 37 coupled to the housing, while feature 38 is a fully formed hook that wraps around the pivot pin that allows the pivot cover 34 around the pin 37 axis. elastomeric lock 40 is coupled to the housing 30 and has an enlarged portion 42 which is seated in a socket 44 formed in the cover to keep the cover in a closed position on the housing 30.
[0016] The housing 30 is formed with a second hinge element in the form of a pivot pin 46 (figure 3). The pivot pin 46 is seated on a hook element 48 (figure 4) of the mounting frame 50, affixed to the frame element 18. This allows the seed feeder 24 to pivot in relation to the frame element 18 of the sowing unit around an axis 52. A drive spindle 54 is supported by housing 30 and has a drive hub 56 (figure 5) at its end. The spindle 54 is coupled to the output shaft 58 of the electric motor 60 to drive the seed dispenser when in the assembled position shown in figure 3. The seed dispenser 24 is coupled to the supply system by a locking mechanism 68 that includes a metal rod 70 having a hook at one end, seated in an opening in housing 30, when locked. The force system additionally has a mounting hook 72, partially shown in figure 2, which secures the frame element 18 of the seed unit to support the delivery system.
[0017] The supply system 400 is driven by an electric motor 80, also supported by the mounting frame 50. The output shaft of the motor 80 is connected to the supply system via a right angle drive 82. Although the electric motors have been shown to drive both the seed feeder and the delivery system, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of engines, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, etc., can be used, as well as various types of mechanical drive systems .
[0018] With reference to figure 6, a dosing element 100 of the seed doser is shown in greater detail. The dosing element 100 is shown as a one-piece body, in the form of a concave basket. The basket-shaped body has a base portion 102, from which a side wall 104 extends. The side wall 104 ends at an outer edge 106. The side wall has a radially inner surface 108 and a radially outer surface 110 Adjacent to the outer edge 106, the side wall has a flange portion 112, there is an annular arrangement of openings 114 that extend through the side wall between the inner and outer surfaces 108 and 110. The metering element 100 is mounted on the dosing housing for rotation in the direction of arrow 118 in figure 6. In operation, when the dosing element rotates, individual seeds from a seed bank 120 positioned in a lower portion of the dosing element are adhered to the openings 114 on the surface side wall 108 and sequentially transported upward to a release position 164 in an upper portion of the dosing element. Thus, the inner surface is RO also known as the seed side of the dosing element. A series of raised features or projections, such as paddles 116, extend from the inner surface 108 of the side wall 104 typically with a reed positioned behind each opening 114 in the direction of rotation. Each vane forms a facing surface 124 behind the associated opening in the direction of rotation to push the seed adhered to the opening into the delivery system, as described below. As explained above, it is the flange portion 112 that of the dosing element that performs the function of pulling individual seeds from the seed bank and sequentially moving seed to the release position to supply seed individually to the delivery system 400.
[0019] The base portion 102 of the dosing element contains a central drive opening 130 (figure 5), used to support the dosing element on a rotational drive hub 56 for rotation about axis 132, in a manner similar to the assembly of a flat seed disk in a seed dispenser, as is well known. When mounted in the housing 30, the dosing element 100 cooperates with the housing to form a chute to support the seed bank 120, as explained more fully below. Axis 132 is inclined both to a horizontal plane and also to a vertical plane extending from the front and back of the seeder and a plane extending vertically, transversely to the seeder.
[0020] With reference to figure 7, the dosing element 100 is shown in a sectional view. The base portion 102 is a generally flat one, while the flange portion 112 of the inner surface of the side wall 104 is enlarged outwardly, i.e., extending both radially and axially outwardly. As shown in figure 7, the rim portion is frusto-conical. Alternatively, as shown in figure 8, in connection with a side wall side wall 104 'of the dosing element, the inner surface of the side wall flange portion 112 can be spherical-spherical in shape. In addition, although the shoulder portion 112 has been shown to be outwardly enlarged, the shoulder portion could generally be cylindrical without any outward widening, i.e., extending only axially.
[0021] The dosing element 100 can be formed as one piece or constructed of multiple pieces. The dosing element can be more easily shaped from plastic, such as polycarbonate, nylon, polypropylene or urethane. However, other plastics can also be used as other materials, such as metal, etc. the dosing element 100 is sufficiently rigid to be self-supporting in shape, without additional support structure. This is in contrast to the flexible belt metering element shown in US Patent No. 2,960,258, where the belt element is preferably of a flexible elastomeric material and is supported within a support ring. Being self-supporting in shape, the dosing element does not need any support structure to maintain a shape. As a self-supporting element, the dosing element can be rigid or the dosing element can be flexible to change shape when acted in a similar manner to the flexible seed disk of US Patent No. 7,661,377.
[0022] As previously mentioned, the dosing element 100 can be mounted on a drive hub through the central drive opening 130 in the base portion 102. Mounting through the central drive opening 130 provides both mounting support for the drive element dosing as well as the rotational drive of the dosing element. Alternatively, the support of the dosing element can be provided on the outer surface of the side wall. A groove can be formed on the outer surface of the side wall to receive rollers that support the metering element. If the groove is also formed with drive teeth, one of the rollers could be driven by a motor to rotate the metering element. With such possible alternative arrangements, it is not necessary for the dosing element to have a base portion. The seed dosing function is performed by the side wall and, thus, the side wall is the only required portion of the dosing element.
[0023] As shown in figure 7, the dosing element 100, when mounted in the dosing housing, is oriented at an inclination with respect to the vertical, as shown. In this orientation, the openings 114 are situated on a plane 150, inclined at an angle α with respect to the vertical. In this orientation, an upper portion 148 of the dosing element is suspended or extends beyond a lower portion 154. As described below, this allows access to the upper portion 148 of the dosing element for the mechanical seed delivery system 400. As shown, angle α is approximately 24 °. However, any angle will be sufficient, as long as the upper portion 148 extends beyond the lower portion sufficiently to access the seed delivery system from below the dosing element in the seed release position.
[0024] The seed bank 120 is formed at the base of the dosing element 100, as shown in figure 9. Vacuum is applied to the outer surface 110, causing individual seeds to adhere to the openings 114 when the openings move through the bank of seeds. When the dosing element rotates, as shown by arrow 118, seed is moved upwards to a release position 164 in the upper portion 148 of the dosing element. The release position is slightly past the upper point or 12:00 o'clock position on the circular seed travel path, so that the seed is moving somewhat downward in the release position. This facilitates the entry of the seed into the supply system, as more fully described below. Also, because it is after the upper point of the path, the supply system is off-center in relation to the dosing element, providing clearance between the supply system and the seed metering drive. In the release position 164, the inner surface of the flange portion of the metering element faces downwards, so that seed is adhered under the metering element or is suspended from the metering element. See figure 10. The seed delivery system 400 is also positioned under the surface portion of the dosing element in the release position 164 to pick up the seed from the dosing element, as shown in figure 10.
[0025] The seed delivery system 400 includes a housing 402 that has a left side wall 404 (see figure 19) and a right side wall 406 (see figure 3). The terms left and right are used in relation to the direction of travel of the seeder shown by arrow 408. The connection of the left and right side walls to each other is an edge wall 410. An upper opening 416 is formed in the edge wall and side walls to allow the seed to enter housing 402. A lower opening 418 is provided at the lower end forming a discharge site 413 for the seed. A pair of pulleys 420 and 422 are mounted inside the housing 402. The pulleys support a track 424 for rotation within the housing. One of the two pulleys is a drive pulley, while the other pulley is a crazy pulley. The belt has a flexible base element 426 for engaging the pulleys. Elongated bristles 428 are attached to the base element at the proximal or radially internal ends of the bristles, distal ends 430, or radially external, of the bristles touching, or close to touching, the inner surface of the edge wall 410 of the housing.
[0026] As shown in the upper part of figure 10, a seed 152 is in the release position in the dosing element 100 and has just been inserted into the elongated bristles 428 of the delivery system. In the release position, the flange portion 112 of the side wall 104 of the dosing element is generally tangent to the stationary inner surface 412, through which the brush bristles 428 sweep. The surface 412 is on a locking portion 66 of the housing 30. The surface 412 is a continuation of the inner surface 414 of the housing 402 of the seed supply system. Once when the seed is captured in the delivery system, the seed moves in the direction of the belt, shown by arrow 417. The direction of travel of the seed immediately at the time of capture by the seed delivery system 400 is shown by vector 438.
[0027] Before the seed is released from the dosing element, the seed is moving in the direction of vector 160, which is slightly descending, into the elongated bristles 428. With reference to figure 13, vector 160 of the seed direction is at an angle 161 of approximately 60 ° to the length of the elongated bristles 428, shown by arrow 176. As shown in figure 11, the brush belt is positioned so that the seed enters the bristles at the corner of the belt brush. The brush can be positioned so that the seed enters the brush through the distal ends of the bristles or through the side of the bristles.
[0028] The relationship between the seed direction vector 160 in the dosing element and the seed direction vector 438 when the seed is first on the brush belt is shown in figure 14, illustrating the two vectors in the plane that contains both vectors, in release position 164. The angle 163 between the vectors is at least 35 ° and preferably between 50 ° and 80 ° motor. This shows the transverse field of the seed within the bristles, meaning that the seed, before the release position, is moving substantially in a direction other than that in which the brush bristles are moving. This is in contrast to the arrangement shown in Figure 3 of US patent application 2010/0192819-A1, previously mentioned, in which the seed in the dosing disc, on release, is moving in substantially the same direction as the brush bristles. . This is also the ratio by which the waxes sweep over the inner surface of the side wall in relation to the direction of seed travel.
[0029] Figures 11 and 12 show a locking element supported by the dosing housing 30. The locking element 162 is positioned adjacent to a seed displacement path 152, leading to the release position 164 and preventing the movement of the seed from the dosing element before reaching the release position. Once the seed has passed the end 174 of the locking element 162, the seed is free to move with the brush bristles towards the vector 438 in figure 10. The locking element ensures that the seed is consistently fed to the belt brush in the center of the belt, by the width, instead of allowing the seed to enter the belt in random positions across the belt width. As shown in figure 15, the locking element is positioned under the side wall 104 of the dosing element 100 between the vanes 116 and the outer edge 106 of the dosing element. The facing surfaces 124 of the vanes 116 push the seed into the brush bristles. The vanes or projections 116 move further into the brush bristles, which is more deeply into the bristles from their distal ends, when the projections cross the width of the brush, as seen in figure 11. Once when the seed is inside the brush bristles, the seed is swept over the inner surface of the dosing element, from the openings 114 to the outer edge 106 of the dosing element, in the direction of vector 438. The delivery system could be arranged to sweep seed in the opposite direction, that is, away from the outer edge 106 of the dosing element.
[0030] To additionally ensure * consistent seed release from the dosing element and transfer to the delivery system, an ejector 116, supported by the cover 34, rises the outer surface of the dosing element rim portion. See figures 11, 12 and 15. Ejector 116 is in the form of a star wheel having a number of projections 168. Projections 168 extend into openings 114 from outer surface 110 of side wall 104 and force the seed out of openings 114. The ejector is caused to rotate by rotating the dosing element 100 due to the projections 168 engaging the openings 114. The ejector is mounted on the cover 34 via a pivot arm 170 and support 171. Ejector 166 is tensioned against the metering element by a spring 172.
[0031] Turning attention once more to figure 4, a flexible seal 180 is shown on the inner side of the cover 34. This seal is supported against the outer surface 110 of the dosing element 100 forming a vacuum chamber inside the 182 seal. A first portion 184 of the seal is spaced radially further outward over the dosing element which is the second portion 186 of the seal. In the area of the first sealing portion 184, vacuum is applied to the openings 114, causing the seed to adhere to them. There is no vacuum applied to the adjacent openings and outside the second sealing portion 186. An orifice 188 in the cover 34 is adapted to connect the inside of the cover to a vacuum source, in a known manner, for a vacuum seed feeder. The seed release position 164 is within the vacuum chamber. Thus, the brush belt and the ejector are operating in opposition to the vacuum applied to the openings 114 to release the seed from the dosing element.
[0032] With reference to figure 16, the interior of the housing 30 is shown. The housing includes a central shoulder 302 for the drive spindle 54. The housing also includes an opening 304 for receiving the seed from a minitroweed, not shown, mounted outside the housing and surrounding the opening 304. Below the opening 304, the housing wall forms a ramp 306 which extends downwards towards the lower end 308 of the housing. The ramp cooperates with the inner surface 108 of the dosing element to retain the seed bank 120. The housing includes an inward projection 310 forming a cavity 314 (figure 17) outside the housing, within which the upper end, if the seed supply system 400 is placed. The projection is opened at the upper end, forming an observation opening downwards 312, from the inside of the housing to the outside. This downward observation opening 312 allows the brush belt 424 to access the inner surface of the 108 of the dosing chamber and transport seed from the housing
[0033] Figure 17 illustrates the orientation of the dosing element and the cooperation of housing 30 and dosing element 100 to form a chute for the seed bank 120 at the lower end of the dosing element. Figure 17 shows the orientation of the dosing element when the machine sows 10 is on the ground level. At the lower end of the dosing element, the side wall 104 is inclined with respect to the vertical, so that the inner surface 108 is at an angle d with respect to the vertical vector 126. As illustrated in figure 17, the inner surface is approximately 21 degrees from the vertical. The orientation of the housing, adjacent to the dosing element, forming the other side of the chute, is not critical. Seed from the seed bank 120 sits on the top of the inner surface 108 and a component of the force of gravity is perpendicular to the inner surface 108. In operation on a slope, if the dispenser is tilted clockwise or counterclockwise clockwise, as shown in figure 17, the inner surface 108 remains tilted and gravity additionally has a component perpendicular to the inner surface. This is in contrast to a typical disc seed dispenser, shown in figure 18, with a vertically oriented disc 320, which cooperates with a housing wall 322 to form a seed bank 324. If this dispenser is tilted in the opposite direction to clockwise, as seen, seed from the bank will additionally support itself against the disc. However, if the dispenser is tilted clockwise, the seed from the bank will fall away from the disk, allowing the decreased dosing performance in terms of seed to be captured by the disk. The doser evaluation showed better doser performance on a slope, when the angle d is as small as 5 degrees and as large as 75 degrees. The best performance is obtained when the angle d is between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, while the optimal performance is in the range of 20 degrees up to 40 degrees. This last strip provides considerable inclination of the seed feeder on a slope in any direction before performance begins to decline.
[0034] At the upper end of the dosing element, in the release position 164, the inner surface 108 has an angle f with respect to a descending vertical vector 128 in the range of 50 degrees to 90 degrees with the closest to 90 degrees being the best for transferring seed from the dosing element to the brush belt. As shown, the angle f is approximately 68 degrees. The different orientations of the inner surface 108 in relation to the vertical in the seed trough and in the release position are carried out with a dosing element that is rigid. Such variation is not possible with the flat disc metering element shown in figure 18.
[0035] As described above, the seed is adhered to the openings 114 in the dosing element due to the vacuum applied to the outer surface of the dosing element, creating a pressure differential on opposite sides of the dosing element. As an alternative to the vacuum on the outer side of the dosing element, the pressure differential can be created by a positive pressure between the housing 30 and the dosing element 100. Such a system would require seals between the dosing element 100 and the housing 30 to create a positive pressure chamber. In a positive pressure arrangement, the cover 34 only serves as a cover for the rotating dosing element.
[0036] It is possible that more than one seed is adhered to a given opening 114. To prevent more than one seed at a time being transferred to the brush belt, one for double seed eliminators or singulators is affixed to housing 30 along from the seed path from the seed bank to the release position 164. Singulators are in the form of brushes 330 and 332 (figures 5 and 9). The brush 330 has bristles that extend substantially axially and brush the seed over the openings 114 inwardly from the outer edge 106 of the dosing element. The bristles of brush 330 are of variable length, for engaging the seed in several discrete locations along the length of brush 330. Brush 332 has bristles that extend substantially radially and engaging the inner surface of the side wall of the dosing element inside of the vanes 166, and extend along the side wall of the openings 114. Both brushes 330 and 332 act to slightly disturb the seed on the opening and cause the excess seed to fall out. Once removed, the excess seed falls back into the seed bank 120. The brushes can be fixed in position or they can be adjusted to change the degree to which the swept seed is disturbed on the dosing element. A third brush 334 is shown, which generally extends radially to the metering element. The brush 334 serves to define a limit for the seed bank 120. The brushes 330, 332 and 334 are mounted in the housing 30.
[0037] Returning again to figure 10, once when the seed was captured or trapped in bristles 428, the supply system controls the movement of the seed from the seed dispenser to the discharge site. The seeds are kept in the bristles, so that the seeds cannot move vertically in relation to the elongated bristles 428 or in relation to the other seeds in the supply system. In particular, during the movement of the seeds along the vertical side of the delivery system, the seeds are retained on at least the top and bottom of the seeds to prevent any relative movement between the seed and the brush belt. Thus, the relative position of the seeds among themselves is not affected by dynamics of the sowing unit while moving through a field. The seed is transported by the fences from the upper opening 416 to the lower opening 418 with the movement of the seed controlled each time from the upper opening to the lower opening.
[0038] The lower opening 418 of the supply system housing is positioned as close to the base 446 of the pit or groove 448 as possible. As shown, the lower opening 418 of the supply system housing is near or below the surface of the soil 432 adjacent to the seed groove. The base of the supply system should be no more than 2.5 - 5 cm (one or two inches) above the surface of the soil 432. If possible, the bottom end of the supply system should be below the surface of the soil 432. edge wall 410 of the housing forms an exit ramp 434 in the lower opening 418. The lower opening 418 and the ramp 434 are positioned along the curve in the belt path around the pulley 422. The seed, being transported by the distal ends of the bristle, increases in linear speed around the pulley 422, when the distal ends of the bristles travel a greater distance around the pulley 422, than this is done by the base element 426 of the belt. This speed difference is shown by the two arrows 440 and 442.
[0039] At discharge, the velocity has a velocity shown by the vector V. This velocity has a vertical component Vv and a horizontal component VH- The belt is operated at a speed to produce a horizontal velocity component VH that is approximately equal to, but in the opposite direction of, the forward speed of the seeder shown by arrow 408. As a result, the horizontal speed of the seed in relation to the soil is zero or approximately zero. This minimizes the roll of the seed in the seed pit.
[0040] Seed can be inserted into brush waxes in essentially an infinite number of positions. This allows the brush to be operated at the speed necessary to produce the desired horizontal speed component for the seed, regardless of the seed population. The seed dispenser, on the other hand, must be operated at a speed that is a function of both the forward speed of the sowing machine and the desired seed population. Because the belt 424 can be loaded with seed in essentially an infinite number of positions, the belt speed can be operated independently of the speed of the seed feeder. This is not the case with other seed delivery systems, such as that described in US Patent No. 6,681,706, in which the force system of figure 2 has a notched belt for transporting the seed. The seed rate should be timed with the seed rate to ensure that one or more notches pass through the seed rate for each seed that is discharged from the rate.
[0041] Although it is desirable to combine the backward speed of the seed with the forward speed of the sowing machine to minimize the relative speed of seed with respect to the soil, with some types of seed, it may be necessary to operate the brush belt at a different speed to ensure that the seed is discharged from the brush bristles.
[0042] The interior of the lower portion of the supply system housing is shown in figure 19. The supply system housing 402 is a two-piece housing that has an upper housing element 460 and a lower housing 462. The lower housing element carries the lower pulley 422. The lower housing element has an upwardly extending bar portion 464, which slides into a channel formed by walls 466 and 468 in the upper housing element. Springs, not shown, push down on the bar portion 464 to tension the lower housing element downward. Brush belt 424, wrapped around pulleys 420 and 422, holds the upper and lower housing elements together. The brush belt 424 is tensioned by the springs acting on the bar portion 464. A U-shaped metal strip 470 is attached to the upper housing element 460 and bridges the interstice 472 between the upper and lower housing elements to provide a continuous surface to keep seed in the housing between the upper opening 416 and the lower opening 418. The metal strip has a flap at its upper end, curved over and inserted into a slot 418. The metal strip has a flap in its upper end, curved over and inserted into a slot 474 in the upper housing element 460 to hold the metal strip 470 in place. If necessary, a fastener, such as a nut and bolt, can be placed through the bar portion 464 and the upper housing element 460 to secure the upper and lower housing elements together.
[0043] Different dosage elements can be used for different types of seed. Dosing element 100 is intended for soybeans and other crops planted with a very narrow seed spacing. Maize, which is planted at greater spacing between seeds, uses a dosing element 200 shown in figures 20 and 21. Dosing element 200 is constructed in a similar way to dosing element 100 and the same components are given the same reference numbers with the addition of 100. However, the dosing element 200 has half as many openings 214 as the dosing element 100. To avoid the need to replace the ejector 166 when changing the dosing elements, the dosing element 200 has the recess 226 extending into the side wall 204 on the outer surface 210 of the side wall between each opening 214. The recesses 226 provide clearance for the projections 168 of the ejector 166, which are arranged to be inserted into each opening 114 of the element dosage 100. The recesses 226 are not open to the inner surface 208 of the sidewall 204. Thus, there are additional projections 228 on the inner surface of the sidewall 204 between the openings 21 4. Alternatively, the projections 228 and the vanes 216 can be formed as individual projections extending from the inner surface 208.
[0044] The locking element or guide is shown in another arrangement of the seed dispenser and delivery system described in connection with figures 22-31, of the relative application, US patent application Serial No. 12 / 363.968, filed in February 2, 2009. Referring to figure 22, a belt feeder 1200 is shown schematically to illustrate the relationship of the belt 1250 to the row unit structure. The belt 1250 is situated on a plane that is inclined with respect to all three axes, which is the plane of the belt that is inclined with respect to a vertical plane from the front and back, inclined with respect to a vertical and inclined transversal plane relative to a horizontal plane. In addition, the seed catching region 1206 is positioned at the lower end of the belt 1250, while the seed release location or location 1208 is positioned at the upper end of the belt 1250. In the embodiment shown in figure 22, the seed is removed from the belt 1250 at the release location via a seed delivery system 1210. The seed delivery system 1210 is similar to the seed delivery system 400 described above, containing a brush belt 1312 for holding and transporting seed. The seed delivery system 1210 moves the seed from the seed metering belt to the lower end of the row unit between the groove discs where it is deposited within the groove formed in the soil. Seed dispenser 1200 is described completely below with reference to figures 23-30.
[0045] The seed doser 1200 has a frame element 1220 in the form of a plate, which is mounted on the frame of the row unit, in an appropriate manner. The frame element 1220 supports the upper idler pulley 1256 and the lower drive pulley 1260, around which the belt 1250 is wrapped. A gearbox and drive motor (not shown) are coupled to shaft 264 to drive pulley 1260 and belt counterclockwise, as shown in figure 23 and shown by arrow 1261. The frame element 1220 also supports a vacuum collector 1262 that has a hollow internal vacuum chamber 1266. A vacuum hole 1263 extends from the opposite side of the vacuum chamber through the frame element 1220. Collector 1262 has an outer wall 11268 (figure 25 ) containing a main slot 1270 that extends the length of the outer wall. A secondary slot 11272 extends only a small portion of the length of the outer wall.
[0046] Belt 1250 has an external seed hitch face or side 11251. Belt 1250 includes a row of first openings 1252 that cover slot 1270 in manifold 1262. Openings 1252 extend through the belt, allowing air to drain through the strap. The belt additionally has a plurality of features 11254 formed as ribs extending from the seed face 1251. Features 1254 each have a facing face 1255, shown in figure 29, which is facing the direction of travel of the belt . In this embodiment, feature 1254 forms the facing face 1255 which extends outwardly from the seed side 1251 of the belt. In the embodiment shown, features 1254 do not extend laterally to both side edges of the belt, but leave a zone of flat edge 1257 along one edge of the belt. An optional second row of openings 1258 in the belt is positioned to pass over the secondary slot 1272 in the outer wall of the collector 1268. The openings 1258 are only in communication with the vacuum chamber 1266 for the small portion of the path of the openings 1258 over the slot 1272.
[0047] A housing 1276 is affixed to the frame element 1220 and closely positioned on the belt 1250. A portion 1277 of housing 1276 covers the flat edge area 1257 of the belt. Housing 1276, belt 1250 and cover 1278 (shown in figure 28) form a small chamber 1279 that holds a seed bank 1280. A brush 1282 mounted on housing 1276 sweeps across face 1251 of the belt and seals chamber 1279 in the place where the belt enters the chamber to prevent seed from escaping from chamber 1279. Seed enters layer 1279 through an appropriate hole, not shown, in housing 1276 or housing cover 1278.
[0048] The belt 1250 and housing 1276 form a V-shaped chute for the seed bank that extends upwards in the direction of the belt displacement. The confronting faces 1255 formed by the characteristics 1254 of the belt engage the seed in the bank to agitate the seed, creating a circular flow of seeds, as shown by the dashed line 1284 of figure 24. As the belt forms a side of the chute V, seed will always remain in contact with the belt, regardless of the slant or inclination of the sower, as long as enough seed is present in the seed bank. An advantage of the seed dispenser is that when the vacuum is turned off, seed on the belt falls back into the seed bank. This is in contrast to the disc feeders, in which a portion of the seed on the disc above the seed tube will fall on the ground when the vacuum is turned off.
[0049] The idler pulley 1256 is supported by a bearing assembly 1285 on a tube 1286 (figure 26). A flange 1288 welded to tube 1286 is attached to the frame element 1220 by screws 1290. A spacer 1292 is positioned between the flange and frame element 1220. The idler pulley 1256 has a groove 1294 on its outer periphery that is in line with the belt openings 1252. The channels 1296 extend radially through the pulley 1256 into an annular chamber 1298 surrounding the tube 1286. An opening 1300 in the tube 1286 provides communication between the chamber 1298 and the hollow interior 1302 of the tube. The tube is connected to the vacuum source, so the vacuum is applied to the openings 1252 in the belt when the belt moves over the pulley 1256. A fork 1304 is attached to the frame element 1220 with teeth 1306 seated in the groove 1294 on the idler pulley . The teeth filled the groove 1294 to cut the vacuum and create the seed release site 1208. The teeth 1306 extend from the seed release site to the vacuum manifold in the direction of rotation of the idler pulley to seal the vacuum chamber and the groove in the crazy pulley.
[0050] The housing cover 1278 supports the collector and covers the open side of housing 1276, as shown in figure 29. A double seed eliminator 1310 is mounted on the housing cover and, when assembled, is located on top of the belt 1250. The double seed duplicator 1310 is approximately shaped as a wedge and progressively increases in width in the direction of travel of the belt to increase its coverage over the opening 1252. The eliminated double seeds 1310 cause double or multiple seeds of seeds are removed from the belt, resulting in a single seed covering each 1252 opening.
[0051] In operation, when the belt rotates, the face 1255 engages and shakes seed in the seed bank at the bottom of housing 1276. Seed from the seed bank will be adhered to the belt at each opening 1252 due to the vacuum applied to the openings from inside the collector 1262 or by means of positive air pressure on the seed side of the belt. Due to the main slot 1270, the seeds will continue to be retained on the belt when the belt moves from the seed catching region 1206 to the idler pulley 1256. Due to the groove in the idler pulley, the void is kept over the openings when the belt moves around the pulley until the seed and the opening reaches tooth 1306 of fork 1304. Upon reaching tooth 1306, the vacuum is terminated and the seed is released from belt 1250. Alternatively, the seed can be removed mechanically from the belt or removed by a combination of vacuum termination and mechanical removal or the seeds can be removed mechanically while the vacuum is additionally applied.
[0052] The second row of openings 1258 will also operate to keep a seed in it, while opening 1258 moves over the smaller slot 1272. By capturing the seed, openings 1258 act to further agitate the seed bank. In addition, when the openings 1258 reach the downstream end 273 of the secondary slot 1272, the seed is released from the belt. The release site from opening 1258 causes the seed to pass over one of the openings 1252 when the seed falls. If aperture 1252 failed to capture a seed and is empty, however, instead of multiple seeds captured, the falling seed can collide with the multiple seeds and assist in the removal of one or more of the multiple seeds. In this way, the falling seed operates to avoid errors in terms of either no seed or multiple seeds over an opening 1252.
[0053] In the seed release position 1208, the seed is transferred from the dosing belt 1250 to the seed supply system 1210. The seed supply system 1210 includes an endless element also wrapped around pulleys and contained within of a housing 1322. The housing has an upper opening 1324, through which seed is admitted into the supply system. The endless element is shown in the form of a brush belt 1312 having the bristles 1314 that sweep across the face 1251 of the belt 1250 to remove the seed therefrom. In the seed release position 1208, a transition plate 1316 is positioned adjacent to belt 1250. The transition plate has a first curved edge 1318 abutting the edge of the belt when the belt moves through the idler pulley. The brush belt bristles will engage a seed at the opening 1252A at the location shown in figure 19 and will sweep the seed off the belt and across the face 1320 of the transition plate 1316 in the direction of the arrow 1321. The facing face 1255 behind the opening 1252A serves as a rear stop to prevent the brush from ejecting the seed off the metering belt. Confronting face 1255 pushes the seed into the brush bristles. The flap portion 1323, which extends downwardly, of the transition plate, projects into the supply system housing 1210 to allow the brush to continuously trap seed when the seed moves off the belt 1250, onto the plate transition 1316 and into the supply system housing, where the seed is trapped by the brush bristles and the interior surface of the supply system housing 1322. A guide 1325 projects from the surface of the transition plate to guide the seed and retain the seed from sweeping out of the feeder belt prematurely. The guide forms a vertical wall having a first portion 1326 adjacent to the seed path on the belt 1250 just before the release position 1208. A second portion 1328 of the vertical wall extends in the direction of seed travel on the brush belt 1312. Seed it must pass the corner or curve 1330 on the vertical wall before being moved off the 1250 feeder belt by the seed delivery system.
[0054] Guide 1325 and locking element 162 ensure that seed enters the brush belt in a consistent manner and in the same location across the width of the brush belt. This consistent transfer of seed from the seed dispenser to the seed delivery system helps to improve the accuracy of placing the seed in the furrow in the soil.
[0055] As also noted above, certain sowing machines can include several different systems for transporting seed from a seed bank to a planting position. For example, a seed dispenser can include a dosing element, which can carry seed from a seed bank around a generally circular (or other) path. In a release position, the seed can be ejected from the dosing element for transport along a seed path (for example, in a different direction) via a seed delivery system. Because such a delivery system (or others) - as well as the seed it carries - can be subject to wear and tear during operation, it may be useful to provide an appropriately designed wear liner to protect portions of the supply system. In various configurations, such a coating can help to reduce wear on various supply system components, as well as wear on the seed being transported by the supply system. In certain configurations, in light of the expected wear on the coating (wear that could otherwise directly impact the seed and / or various other supply system components), such a coating can be configured to be replaceable without the need for specialized tools, equipment or techniques.
[0056] In certain embodiments, a seed delivery system may include a brush belt (or other) to transport seed from the release position on the dosing element (or other location) to a sowing position. (The discussion of various insert configurations below may include the discussion of a brush belt delivery system. It will be understood, however, that the described insert can also be used in several other seed transport systems, including belt systems) . In such a configuration, the brush belt bristles (or the moving components of other transport mechanisms) can cause wear to the delivery system through contact between the bristles, seeds, or other components, and various surfaces or features of the system supply (for example, several internal surfaces of the seed supply system housing). Similarly, wear to the supply system can result from debris (for example, dirt, rocks, plant material, and others) that is transported into and through the supply system housing by the bristles (or other components).
[0057] Wear to the seed itself can also occur through contact between the seed and the supply system housing, various debris, or various other components. For example, when seed is transported through the delivery system by a brush belt (or other mechanism), the seed can come in contact with various surfaces (or other characteristics) inside the supply system housing. As such, the seed itself, or several coatings of the seed (for example, fertilizer, antipathogen, or other coatings), can be described as harmful wear. The loss of seed coating through such wear can, for example, be particularly prevalent in humid environments (although loss of coating can also be a problem in other environments). A wear coating oriented along the brush belt path or other transport and seed mechanism (for example, a wear coating, configured to include a wear coating insert for the delivery system housing) can address these and other problems.
[0058] Referring now to figures 31 and 32, in a modality of the sowing unit 14, the seed delivery system 400 may include housing 402 partially enclosing brush belt bristles 428, which can generally move in one direction clockwise (as shown in figure 31) within housing 402. The upper opening 416 may be formed in the upper housing portion 402b to allow the seed to enter housing 402 (for example, from the dosage 100). The bristles 428 can extend through the upper opening 416 to receive seed from the dosing element 100 (for example, when seed 152 is ejected from the dosing element 100 by ejector 166 in the release position (or location 164). Seed 152 can then be transported by bristles 428 through housing 402 along seed path 1402 (a portion of which is indicated by the arrow in figures 31 and 32). At the discharge location 413 (for example, in the lower housing portion 402b), the seed 152 can be discharged from the housing 402 (and the bristles 428) to the deposit within a groove opened by the groove discs 28. In certain modalities, the seed sensor 1404 can be included along the seed path 1402 (or anywhere) in order to detect the passage of the seed 152 through the seed delivery system 400. (it will be understood, in light of the discussion given here, that various other configurations may also be possible. For example, the housing portion 402b can be formed as a separate component from the housing portion 402a (or other portions of the housing 402), the bristles 428 can be replaced with another seed transport mechanism, etc. In addition, in various configurations, the seed delivery system 400 can be configured in a generally vertical orientation (as shown in the various figs uras), a generally horizontal orientation, or otherwise. As such, the housing portion 402b may not necessarily be above the housing portion 402a, in which case the portions may not necessarily be the current "upper" or "lower" portions with respect to the orientation of the seed delivery system 400 Similarly, in various configurations, the top opening 416 can generally be viewed as an inlet opening, rather than necessarily a "top" opening.)
[0059] As can be seen in figure 31, the wear liner insert 1400 can extend along the seed path 1402 inside the housing 402, in order to protect the housing 402, seed 152, and various other components of the sowing unit 14 against wear (for example, to protect against harmful contact between the seed 152, the bristles 428, the housing 402, various debris carried by the bristles 428, and others). In various embodiments, insert 1400 can be configured to be easily replaceable, so that when a first insert 1400 reaches the end of its life, the first insert can be easily removed from the seed supply system 400 can be installed in your place.
[0060] The wear coating insert 1400 can be manufactured in several known ways and can be composed of various materials or combinations of materials, including various metals, plastics, composite materials, and others. In certain embodiments, insert 1400 can be manufactured to include a steel substrate (for example, tempered steel 1075) or a stainless steel substrate (for example, stainless steel 304). In certain embodiments, various coatings (for example, as superimposed on a metal or other substrate) can be used in order to provide an appropriate wear-resistant surface for contact with bristles 428 or seed 152. In certain embodiments, for example , chrome plate can be used. It has been found, for example, that the chromium plating may be effective in preventing the transfer of the seed coating material from the seed 152 to the insert 1400.
[0061] As discussed in greater detail below, in various modalities, insert 1400 can be formed of multiple pieces or distinct sections. In such embodiments, the various pieces of insert 1400 may be formed from (or coated with) the same material (s) or may be formed from (or coated with) different materials. (Likewise, in a single-piece or other configuration, several connected 1400 insert portions can be formed from (or lined with) various materials.) For example, in the case of a 1400 three-piece insert, two pieces (for example, an upper and center piece) can be formed of hardened steel, and a third piece (for example, a lower piece) can be formed of stainless steel, with all three pieces plated with chrome (or coated with another way). Such a varied configuration can be useful, for example, in light of the potential for different type or intensity of contact between the various components of the system and the seed 152, when the seed moves through the seed delivery system 400. For example, due to centrifugal inertia, when seed 152 moves through a curved portion of seed path 1402, seed 152 may be more likely to contact insert 1400 (or contact insert 1400 with greater force) than when seed 152 moves moves through a straighter portion of the seed path 1402. As such, for example, the upper and lower sections of the insert 1400 (e.g., sections covering the curved portions of the seed path 1402) can be formed of (or overlaid) com) a set of materials and a central section of insert 1400 (for example, a section that mainly covers the straight portions of the seed path 1402) can be formed from (or coated with) another set of materials.
[0062] With reference to figures 33-35, the insert 1400 is represented as being formed from three distinct sections. The upper insert section 1400a, for example, may extend along the interior of housing 402 from release position 164 to an upper portion of seed sensor 1404. The medium insert section 1400b may extend along the interior housing 402 from a lower portion of the seed sensor 1404 to the lower insert section 1400c. The lower insert section 1400c can then extend from the medium insert section 1400b to the seed discharge site 413. As shown in figures 33-35, inserts 1400a, 1400b, and 1400c can each be formed as elongated strips, although other configurations may be possible. In certain configurations, certain of these sections (or others) can overlap, while others cannot. For example, as shown in figures 33-35, the upper insert section 1400a may not overlap with the central insert section 1400b, which may overlap the lower insert section 1400c. It will be understood that several other configurations may also be possible, including configurations with larger (or smaller) numbers of insert sections, with several insert sections extending over different portions of the interior of housing 402 or seed path 1402, and others shapes, (as noted above, in various embodiments, the seed delivery system 400 can be oriented generally vertically, generally horizontally, or otherwise. As such, section 1400a may not necessarily be a current "top" section of the insert 1400, and section 1400c may not necessarily be a current "bottom" section of insert 1400.)
[0063] In order to assist in the alignment of insert 1400 with, and the retention of insert 1400 within, housing 402, various features can be provided in insert 1400 (and in housing 402). Additionally with reference to figures 33-35, for example, each of the insert sections 1400a, 1400b, and 1400c can include one or more alignment tabs 1406 that extend away from the wear surface 1418 (this surface 1418 which can, as noted above, be interposed between housing 402 and bristles 428, seed 152, and others). Similarly, various insert sections (for example, center and bottom insert sections 1400b, 1400c) may include one or more retaining tabs 1408, which may also extend away from the wear surface 1418 and which may be generally longer longer than the various alignment tabs 1406. As shown in figures 33-35, certain retaining tabs 1408 may include a wider portion, closer to the main body of insert 1400, with a narrower portion at the opposite end. Also as shown in figures 33-35, this may result, at least in part, from the inclusion of the shoulder 1448 in certain retaining tabs 1408.
[0064] Other features can also be included to assist in alignment or retention of insert 1400, to provide additional protection for seed 152 or other components of the sowing unit 14, or to provide other functionality. In certain embodiments, several flanges can be provided in various portions of the insert 1400. As shown in figures 33-35, for example, the upper insert section 1400a can include the upper flange 1410, the central insert section 1400b can include central flanges 1412, and the lower insert section 1400c can include the lower flanges 1414. Several other features can also be included, such as the mounting hook 1416, shown in figures 33-35, as included in the central insert section 1400b.
[0065] It will be understood, in light of the discussion made here, that the inclusion in the various figures of the various characteristics in a particular insert section (for example, insect sections 1400a, 1400b, or 1400c) may represent only an example configuration and as such, it may not be intended to limit the description to the particular modalities explicitly represented. For example, various features represented (and described) as being included in insert section 1400b can additionally (or additionally) be included in insert sections 1400a or 1400c. Likewise, in embodiments with a different number (or configuration) of insert sections, several features represented (and described) here as being included in a particular insert section 1400a, 1400b, or 1400c can be additionally (or alternatively) included in another insert section.
[0066] With reference now also to figure 36, the portion A-A of figure 35 is represented in an enlarged view. As can be seen in figure 36, seed sensor 1404 can include detection unit 1420 (for example, a sapphire window over an optical sensor or another sensor) which may require a line of sight to (or another unimpeded perspective) about) the seed 152, in order to determine the passage of the seed 152 along the seed path 1402. Consequently, it may be useful to provide a configuration of the insert 1400 that preserves such a line of sight (or other perspective). For this purpose, for example, the upper insert section 1400a can be configured to align with a portion of the seed sensor 1404 that is downstream of the detection unit 1420, from the perspective of the seed path 1402. (In the discussion below, unless otherwise noted, "upstream" and "downstream" will also be used without obstructing seed detection 152 by detection unit 1420.
[0067] Additionally with reference to figure 36, it may also be useful to provide a configuration of the wear surface 1418 (and the upper and central insert sections 1400a and 1400b) that properly protects the sensor body 1404. Consequently, in certain embodiments, wear surface 1418 may include extended wear surface 1418a in the upper insert section 1400a and extended wear surface 1418b in the lower insert section 1400b. As shown, the extended wear surfaces 1418a, 1418b can largely cover the portion of the seed sensor 1404 that is exposed to the seed path 1402 or bristles 428 (in addition to the detection unit 1420), thereby further protecting the sensor 1404 against wear.
[0068] Other features can also be included to assist in alignment and retention of insert 1400 with respect to seed sensor 1404, as well as to provide other functionality. For example, the sensor alignment tab 1422 can be provided on the wear surface 1418b, with the sensor tab 1424 forming a complementary sensor recess 1426 in the seed sensor 1404. With such a configuration, for example, the alignment tab of sensor 1422 can be inserted into the sensor recess 1426 to assist in aligning the central insert section 1400b with (and retaining the central insert section 1400b on) the seed sensor 1404.
[0069] Continuing, it can be seen that the detection unit 1420 can form (or can be included in the seed sensor 1404 near the) upstream boss 1428a and downstream boss 1428b. In certain embodiments, the thickness of the insert sections 1400a and 1400b on the wear surfaces 1418a and 1418b, respectively, can be configured to approximately approximate the depth of the shoulders 1428a and 1428b with respect to the exposed surface of the detection unit 1420. Thus, for example, when the seed 152 moves across the surface 1418a, the detection unit 1420, and then the surface 1418b, the seed 152 can be presented with a relatively smooth contact surface. By eliminating certain sharp or otherwise abrupt edges along the seed path 1402, such a configuration can, for example, contribute to the further reduction in wear on the seed 152 (or various components of the seed delivery system) 400).
[0070] In certain modalities, alternative configurations may also be possible. For example, the shoulder 1428b can be configured to be deeper than the shoulder 1428a, so that the seed 152 is cliffed and on the wear surface 1418b without acute contact with the insert section 1400b, instead of causing with the seed 152 being deflected inwards (towards the bristles 428) by a potentially acute contact with a sudden "wall". Similarly, in certain embodiments, the thickness of the central insert section 1400b on the wear surface 1418b can be configured to be less than the depth of the shoulder 1428b, which can result in the same "Cliff" effect when the seed 152 moves over the surface 1418b.
[0071] Referring also to figures 37A-37D, insert 1400 may include (as also described above) several alignment tabs 1406 and several retaining tabs 1408. In turn, housing 402 can include several alignment openings 1432 and several retaining openings 1434, which can be configured, respectively, in a complementary arrangement with the various flaps 1406 and 1408. This can, for example, facilitate the relatively easy installation of insert 1400 inside housing 402, including, without using specialized tools, equipment, or procedures. (As shown, openings 1432 extend through housing 402. It will be understood that other configurations may be possible. For example, several openings 1432 may not extend through housing 402, but may, in contrast, define an alignment recess ( not shown) inside housing 402, into which several corresponding alignment tabs 1406 can be inserted.)
[0072] As can be seen in detail in figure 37B, for example, when insert 1400 is installed in housing 402, several alignment tabs 1406 in insert 1400 can be inserted into the corresponding alignment openings 1432 in housing 402. The complementary configuration alignment tabs 1406 and alignment openings 1432 can therefore provide both a visual indicator and a tactile indicator that insert 1400 is properly aligned with housing 402. For example, in order to install insert 1400 into housing 402, an operator can open the cover 1438 around the hinges 1430, position the insert 1400 (or several sections 1400a, 1400b, or 1400c thereof) in order to insert the alignment tabs 1406 into the alignment openings 1432, then close the cover 1438 to further retain insert 1400 in place within housing 402. (It will be understood that the reference to alignment of insert 1400 with housing 402 it can also comprise the alignment of the insert 1400 with other components of the seed supply system 400 (for example, bristles 428), which can properly be aligned with the housing 402 during the operation of the seed supply system 400.)
[0073] Continuing, when the alignment tabs 1406 are properly aligned with the alignment openings 1432 (or the insert 1400 is otherwise properly aligned with the housing 402), the retaining tabs 1408 can also be aligned with the corresponding openings retainer 1324 in housing 402. As can be seen in the various figures, retaining tabs 1408 can be deformable to assist in retaining insert 1400 within housing 402. For example, as shown in the enlarged view in figures 37C and 37D , the retaining tab 1408 can be inserted into the retaining opening 1434 in the non-deformed configuration 1408a (see figure 37C), then curved or otherwise deformed (see figure 37D) for the example deformed configuration 1408b in order to resist removing the retaining flap 1408 from the retaining opening 1434 (and thus assisting the movement of the insert 1400 away from its aligned orientation). In certain embodiments, the shoulder 1448 (not shown in figures 37A-D) may rest against an internal surface of the housing 402 when the retaining flap 1408 is fully inserted into the retaining opening 1434, with the flange 1408 being curved in (or next to) shoulder 1448 to secure insert 1400 in housing 402.
[0074] Other configurations may also be possible. In certain configurations, several retaining openings 1434 may not extend completely through housing 402. Likewise, several retaining tabs 1408 can be configured to include various other retaining characteristics and to otherwise deform to secure insert 1400 in the housing. 402. For example, several retaining tabs 1408 may include a hook or shoulder feature (not shown) that can rest against a corresponding protrusion or recess (not shown) of several retaining openings 1434 to secure insert 1400 in housing 402 In such a configuration, for example, the retaining flaps 1408 can deform by deflecting to the side, so that the hook / shoulder of the flap 1408 releases the protrusion / recess of the corresponding opening 1434, then bouncing back. to seat the hook / shoulder of the flap 1408 against the projection / recess of the opening 1434 and thus resist the removal of the flap 1408 from the opening 1434.
[0075] Other characteristics can also assist in the alignment (or retention) of insert 1400 with respect to housing 402. For example, with reference again to figure 32, opening 1440 can be provided in housing 402, through which the upper flange 1410 can be inserted. When the housing cover 1438 (not shown in figure 32) is closed, the housing cover can hold flange 1410 against housing 402 in opening 1440 and thus resist removal of flange 1410 from opening 1440. This can serve to additionally retain insert 1400 in proper alignment within housing 402. The similar interaction between housing 402, cover 1438, opening 1444 and extended flange 1442 can also serve to align and retain insert 1400 within housing 402. (It will be understood that other configurations may also be possible (for example, the extended flange 1442 can be replaced (or supplemented) by a number of distinct smaller flanges (not shown) providing similar functionality with respect to one or more corresponding openings in housing 402.)
[0076] With reference also to figures 38 and 39, in certain embodiments, the mounting hook 1416 can be used to support the lower insert section 1400c in the housing 402. For example, the lower housing 402a may include the mounting flap 1446 , on which the mounting hook 1416 can be placed. Such a configuration can be useful for the lower insert section 1400c, as it can strongly resist downward forces on the insert section 1400c which, otherwise, could tend to eject the insert section 1400c from the lower opening lower opening 418 of the 402 housing.
[0077] As also noted above, it may be useful to configure transitions between different sections of insert 1400, in order to avoid sharp edges along the seed path 1402, and the associated potential for increased wear. In certain embodiments, in a transition from an upstream insert section (for example, the central insert section 1400b) to a downstream insert section (for example, the lower insert section 1400c) it may be appropriate to provide increased clearance between the wear surfaces of the respective inserts and the seed transport mechanism carrying the seed 152. With reference also to figures 40A and 40B, for example, in the transition of the seed 152 between the central insert section 1400b and the lower insert section 1400c, the shoulder 1436 (or another increase in clearance from bristles 428) can be provided. In this way, when seed 152 moves from central insert section 1400b to lower insert section 1400c, seed 152 may undergo a "cliff" instead of a "wall", which may allow the seed 152 tilt outward on the lower insert section 1400c, rather than causing seed 152 to be sharply deflected inward towards bristles 428.
[0078] It will be understood that several other configurations can be additionally (or alternatively) employed in order to avoid sharp edges or impacts on the seed 152 (or components of the seed supply system 400) at the transition points. For example, in a configuration in which the central insert section 1400b and the lower insert section 1400c do not overlap, the central insert section 1400b can be configured to be thicker than the central insert section 1400b, so that the lower insert section 1400c provides greater clearance between the wear surface 1418 and the bristles 428 (or other components of the seed delivery system 400) than this occurs with the central insert section 1400b. (with respect to the use of the term "clearance", it will be understood that, in certain configurations, bristles 428 and other components can currently contact various portions of the wear surface 1418. In such a configuration, although bristles 428 or other components cannot currently "cleaning" the wear surface 1418, it will be understood that a "greater" gap may simply indicate a lesser degree of contact or deflection of the bristles 428 through the insert 1400 than a "lesser" gap, in other words, in a configuration in which the wear surface 1418 extends further into the bristles 428).
[0079] As also noted above, certain portions of insert 1400, such as the lower wear-coated flanges 1414, may extend outside housing 402, thus forming portions of insert 1400 that are external to housing 402. Such components may, among other functions, assist in protecting housing 402 (and other components of the seed supply system 400) from external wear. For example, as noted above, groove discs 28 can be mounted on shaft 22 to make grooves for planting seed 152. In several cases, deflection and deformation of discs 28 can cause discs 28 to contact housing 402 (or other components of the seed delivery system 400), which can lead to wear. Features, such as lower flanges 1414, can protect against this and other types of wear. Flanges 1414 can also, among other benefits, provide additional structural stability and support for housing 402 (for example, to resist deflection or deformation of housing 402 from contact with discs 28, debris, or other objects).
[0080] With reference also to figures 41 and 42, groove opening discs 28 of various sizes can be mounted on shaft 22. For example, groove opening discs 28a can have a diameter that extends beyond the flanges 1414. In such a configuration, the deflection or deformation of the disks 28a (shown in figure 42 by the double-headed arrows representing the disk movement and by the dashed lines representing a deflected / deformed position of the disks 28a) can cause part of the disks 28a move towards housing 402. The lower flanges 1414 can then protect housing 402 from contacting disks 28a by extending out of housing 402 to intercept the body of disks 28a when they approach housing 402. Similarly, in certain embodiments, groove discs 28b may have a diameter that extends to, but not after, the lower flanges 1414. In such a configuration o, deflection or deformation of discs 28b (not shown in figure 42) can cause part of discs 28b to move towards housing 402. Lower flanges 1414 can then protect housing 402 from contacting discs 28b by from the extension out of housing 402 to intercept the outer edges of discs 28b when they approach housing 402.
[0081] As also noted above, it may be useful to provide speed sensor 1404, configured in various ways, to detect the seed moving along the seed path 1402 within the supply system 400. Consequently, it may be useful to provide a seed sensor, and related assembly, which can be safely and relatively easily mounted in place, with respect to seed path 1402 (for example, mounted in housing 402 of the seed supply system 400). In addition, it may be useful to configure such a sensor or assembly so that proper alignment of the sensor (for example, with respect to seed path 1402, housing 402, and others) is obtained.
[0082] In certain embodiments, a system of angled mounting frames can be provided, with a set of mounting frames included in the sensor (for example, on a main body or other sensor component) and a corresponding set of structures included in the delivery system 400 (for example, included in housing 402 or wear liner 1400). For example, a set of mounting flanges can be included in the seed delivery system 400 (for example, in housing 402 or wear liner 1400), which flanges can extend out of the delivery system towards the sensor to define a set of mounting slots. In certain embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the interior of these grooves can be oriented at a generally oblique angle to the seed path 1402 (for example, when determined based on the movement of the speed of the bristles 428 or another transport device seed). In addition, a set of corresponding mounting tabs can be included in the speed sensor 1404, the mounting tabs including, at least in part, an obliquely angled geometry (with respect to the seed path 1402) which is generally complementary to the obliquely angled portion the grooves within the mounting flanges. In this way, by aligning the obliquely angled portions of the various mounting slots and mounting flaps, the sensor can be safely mounted on the delivery system 400.
[0083] In certain embodiments, such a configuration may additionally allow relatively simple sliding mounting of sensor 1404. For example, as discussed in more detail below, the obliquely angled portions of the mounting tabs on sensor 1404 can generally form opposite sides ( of a trapezoid, with the obliquely angled portions of the mounting slots on the delivery system 400 forming opposite (non-parallel) sides of a similar trapezoid. In this way, to mount the sensor 1404 on the delivery system 400, the narrow end of the trapezoid formed by the mounting tabs can be slid on the wider end of the trapezoid formed by the mounting grooves until the mounting tabs are firmly seated in the mounting grooves . This can, for example, allow the relatively simple installation of sensor 1404 in the seed supply system 400, while also ensuring the proper mounting orientation of sensor 1404 with respect to seed path 1402.
[0084] It will be understood, in relation to this and other examples, that such an assembly configuration (or another) can be reversed in the various modalities. For example, with respect to the obliquely angled mounting flaps and mounting slots, it may be additionally (or alternatively) possible to include mounting flanges (and the corresponding mounting slots) on the sensor 1404, with complementary mounting flaps included in the delivery system 400 (for example, in housing 402 or wear liner 1400).
[0085] Continuing, in certain embodiments, and as described in part above, the delivery system 400 (for example, the wear liner 1400) may include several alignment tabs. In certain embodiments, a corresponding alignment recess can be included in sensor 1404, so that the supply system alignment tab 400 is coupled with the alignment recess in sensor 1404 when sensor 1404 is properly aligned with the supply system 400 (for example, when sensor 1404 is properly aligned with seed path 1402). As noted above, a reverse configuration may also be possible. For example, an alignment tab can be included in sensor 1404, which can be matched with a corresponding alignment recess in the seed delivery system 400 (for example, a recess in housing 402 or wear liner 1400) when the sensor 1404 is properly aligned. Various other configurations may also be possible, as described in more detail below.
[0086] With reference also to figures 43 and 44, several characteristics of an example configuration of sensor 1404 are represented. In certain embodiments, sensor 1404 may include a sensor window frame 1450, which can generally surround sensor window 1452. (In figure 43, sensor body 1466 has been removed for clarity of display of sensor window 1452 and the sensor frame 1450.) The sensor window 1452 can be a sapphire or other glass window, which provides a transparent shield along the line of sight between the seed path 1402 and various components within the sensor 1404, or can be a window of various other materials. In certain embodiments, the sensor frame 1450 can be constructed of various materials, such as glass, metal, plastic, or various composite materials, and can be constructed in a number of known ways. In certain embodiments, the frame 1450 can provide a compression seal with the sensor body 1466. The frame 1450 can be attached to the sensor body 1466 (or to several other components of the sensor 1404) in several known ways.
[0087] With respect to the above discussion, it will be understood that, in certain configurations, an optical line of sight may not necessarily be required between the seed path 1402 and the various internal components of sensor 1404. For example, if spectrum radiation does not visual is used by sensor 1404 to identify seed 152 moving along seed path 1402, sensor window 1452 may not need to be a transparent window. In such a case, sensor window 1452 can be viewed as a virtual window comprising a region through which sensor 1404 receives signals from seed path 1402. In such a configuration, sensor frame 1450 can be viewed as "wrapping" the sensor window, if frame 1450 includes such a region.
[0088] In certain embodiments, and as also shown in figure 36, the wear liner 1400 (or housing 402) can include several tabs, such as alignment tab 1422. The sensor frame 1450 can, in certain embodiments, include a corresponding alignment tab, such as tab 1424. As shown in the various figures, tab 1424 can generally define an alignment recess, such as recess 1426. In certain embodiments, as can be seen in figure 43, the recess 1426 can extend completely through frame 1450. In this and other configurations, recess 1426 can assist in properly aligning sensor 1404 with supply system 400. For example, when sensor 1404 is properly mounted on supply system 400 , the tab 1422 can be inserted in the recess 1426, which can assist in aligning sensor 1404 with, and retaining, sensor 1404 in the delivery system 400. (as with several other features from this description, a reverse configuration (not shown) may also be possible. For example, an alignment tab can be included in the sensor frame 1450 (or another characteristic of sensor 1404) and a corresponding alignment recess can be included in the delivery system 400 (for example, in the wear liner 1400 or in the housing 402 )).
[0089] The sensor frame 1450 can additionally (or alternatively) include several other features. In certain embodiments, for example, the sensor frame 1450 may include an upper edge 1454 and a lower edge 1456, each of which can be oriented at an oblique angle to the seed path 1402 when sensor 1404 is properly aligned with in relation to the supply system 400. Similarly, several mounting holes 1458 can be included in the frame 1450, as can be included the recess 1462 or others (not shown), this recess (s) which can be useful for maintenance of a suitable compression seal with the sensor body 1466. In addition, in certain embodiments, the sensor frame 1450 may include the side flange 1460, which can provide a wider portion of the frame 1450 along the sensor window 1452, from a perspective transversal to the seed path 1402. As discussed in more detail below, the side flange 1460 can also provide several functionalities. In certain embodiments, for example, the side flange 1460 can additionally improve various seals between the sensor frame 1450 and other portions of the sensor 1404. For example, the additional material of the side flange 1460 can increase the stiffness of the sensor frame 1450 by window 1452, which can improve the integrity of a glass seal within the sensor frame 1450 as well as maintain compression of the seal with the sensor body 1466.
[0090] Additionally with reference to figure 44, and with reference also to figure 45, the sensor body 1466 may additionally (or alternatively) include various angled features. For example, the sensor body may include an upper mounting flap 1468 and a lower mounting flap 1470, one or both of which can be angled at an angle to the seed path 1402, when sensor 1404 is properly aligned with the delivery system 400. In certain embodiments, for example, and as shown in the various figures, tabs 1648 and 1470 can generally form opposite (non-parallel) sides of a trapezoid.
[0091] Such a configuration of the flaps 1468 and 1470 can be useful to orient and properly mount the sensor 1404 with respect to the supply system supply system supply system 400. For example, various components of the supply system 400 (for example, housing 402, wear liner 1400, or other component) may include mounting characteristics that are generally complementary to the obliquely angled flaps 1468 and 1470. As shown in figures 44 and 45, for example, the upper mounting flange 1472 and the flange of bottom mounting 1474 can be included in housing 402 and can extend away from housing 402, towards sensor 1404. Flanges 1472 and 1474 can define, respectively, a mounting groove 1476 and a lower mounting groove 1478, each of which can be obliquely angled with respect to seed path 1402. As such, similarly to flaps 1468 and 1470, the surfaces above inner top and bottom, respectively, of grooves 1476 and 1478 (i.e., surfaces 1476a and 1478a) can generally form opposite (non-parallel) sides of a trapezoid.
[0092] With respect to the various characteristics discussed here, it will be understood that the terms such as "superior" and "inferior" can be used for convenience to describe a particular modality represented in a particular figure. As such, it will be understood that such terms are not intended to limit and describe and that other configurations may be possible. For example, a characteristic denoted as a "superior" characteristic here may, in certain embodiments, be oriented below or beside a characteristic denoted as a "inferior" characteristic. In addition, it will be understood that various features discussed as exhibiting obliquely angled geometry may also include several other geometric features. For example, mounting tabs 1468 and 1470, or mounting grooves 1476 and 1478 can include various portions that have curved, non-angled, or other geometry (not shown).
[0093] In certain embodiments, if one or both of the upper mounting flap assemblies 1468 and groove 1476 and lower mounting flap 1470 and groove 1478 are configured with similar oblique angles, these feature sets can assist in aligning sensor 1404 with (and attaching sensor 1404 to) of the delivery system 400. For example, with such an angled configuration of these characteristics, it may be possible to insert tabs 1468 and 1470 into slots 1476 and 1478, respectively, when sensor 1404 is in orientation appropriate with respect to the seed path 1402. Additionally, the flaps 1468 and 1470 are inserted in the grooves 1476 and 1478, the upper and lower surfaces 1468a and 1470a of the flaps 1468 and 1470 can be seated, respectively, against the upper and lower inner surfaces 1476a and 1478a of grooves 1476 and 1478 only when the sensor window 1452 is properly aligned with the seed path 1402. This way For example, sensor 1404 can be properly oriented and aligned with respect to delivery system 400 and seed path 1402 without the need for other specialized tools, equipment, or procedures. In certain embodiments, several stops 1482 can also be provided, against which a surface on the right side of the sensor body 1466 or the flaps 1468 and 1470 (from the perspective of figure 45) can be seated when the sensor 1404 is properly mounted, ( as with several other features of this description, a reverse configuration may also be possible, in which several obliquely angled mounting tabs are included in the delivery system 400, with corresponding obliquely angled mounting grooves included in sensor 1404 (for example, as in figure 46). Additionally, it will be understood that a similar mounting arrangement (not shown) can additionally (or alternatively) be made with respect to the mounting slots 1476 and 1478 and the edges 1454 and 1456 of the sensor window 1450.)
[0094] Additionally with reference to figure 45, the housing cover 1438 can additionally assist in attaching the sensor 1404 to the seed supply system 400. For example, before the insertion of the mounting flaps 1468 and 1470 (or edges 1454 and 1456 ) in the mounting slots 1476 and 1478, the cover 1438 can be rotated around hinges 1430 (see figures 32 and 37A) for an open orientation. The mounting tabs 1468 and 1470 (or edges 1454 and 1456) can then be slid into the mounting slots 1476 and 1478 until the sensor window 1452 is properly aligned (for example, until the tabs 1468 and 1470 are fully seated on the grooves 1476 and 1478). The housing cover 1438 can then be closed (and locked) in order to secure the sensor 1404 in place with respect to housing 402.
[0095] In certain embodiments, to additionally assist in this (or other) functionality, the cover 1438 can include the side flange recess 1480, which can be configured with a geometry that is generally complementary to the side flange 1460 of the sensor frame 1450 (for example, with the side flange recessed lip 1480a, contoured to conform to the side flange profile 1460. Consequently, when the flaps 1468 and 1470 (or edges 1454 and 1456) are fully seated in the grooves 1476 and 1478, and the cover 1438 is closed, the side flange 1460 can be seated on the recess 1480, which can additionally secure the sensor 1404 in an appropriate orientation.In certain embodiments, as shown in figure 45, the contours of the recess lip 1480a can also generally conform to the various contours and characteristics of the 1466 sensor body.
[0096] Referring also to figure 46, another example configuration of a sensor and a sensor mounting set is shown. For example, housing 402 (or another component of the seed delivery system 400) may include the upper mounting flap 1492 and the lower mounting flap 1494, which can be oriented at the first and second oblique angles to the travel path. seed 1402 (not shown in figure 46). As such, for example, mounting tabs 1492 and 1494 can generally form opposite (non-parallel) sides of a trapezoid. Correspondingly, sensor body 1466 (or other characteristic of sensor 1404) may include upper mounting flange 1484 and lower mounting flange 1486, which may extend away from sensor body 1466. Flanges 1484 and 1486 each one of which can also be obliquely angled with respect to the seed path 1402. As such, similarly to the flaps 1492 and 1494, the upper and lower inner surfaces, respectively, of the grooves 1488 and 1490 (for example, the surfaces 1488a and 1490a) they can generally form opposite (non-parallel) sides of a trapezoid.
[0097] In certain embodiments, if one or both of the top mounting flap and slot assemblies 1492 and 1488 and bottom mounting flap and slot 1494 and 1490 are configured with similar oblique angles, these feature sets can assist in sensor alignment 1404 with (and attaching sensor 1404 to) seed delivery system 400. For example, with such an angled configuration of these characteristics, it may be possible to insert flaps 1492 and 1494, respectively, into slots 1488 and 1490 only when sensor 1404 is in proper orientation with respect to the delivery system 400. Additionally, when the flaps 1492 and 1494 are inserted into the grooves 1488 and 1490, the surface and bottom surfaces 1492a and 1494a of the flaps 1492 and 1494 can be seated, respectively, against the surfaces upper and lower internal sections 1488a and 1490a of slots 1488 and 1490 only when the sensor window 1452 is properly aligned with the path seed 1402. In this way, for example, the seed sensor 1404 can be properly oriented and aligned with respect to the seed delivery system 400 and the seed path 1402 without the need for other tools, equipment, or specialized procedures. In certain embodiments, stops 1496 and 1498 can also be provided, against which, for example, surfaces on the right side of flanges 1484 and 1486 (from the perspective of figure 46) can be seated when sensor 1404 is properly mounted. Likewise, in certain embodiments, stops 1500 at flanges 1484 and 1486 can serve a similar purpose. (As with the various other features in this description, several alternative configurations may also be possible. For example, obliquely angled flanges / grooves (not shown) can be included in the sensor frame 1450, within which the mounting tabs on the mounting system seed supply 400 (for example, tabs 1492 and 1494) can be inserted.)
[0098] It will be understood that a seed sensor and sensor assembly, as described here, may differ in several ways from the example sensor 1404, represented in the various figures. It will also be understood that the described seed sensor and the described set can be used with a variety of systems other than the seed delivery system 400. In addition, the current detection mechanism of sensor 1404 may take several known forms, and may not be covered in full detail by the discussion here.
[0099] The terminology used here is only for the purpose of describing particular modalities and is not intended to limit the description. When used here, the singular forms "one", "one" and "o", "a" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be further understood that the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising", when used in this description, specify the presence of features, integrators, steps, operations, elements, and / or components mentioned, but do not exclude the presence or addition one or more other characteristics, integrators, stages, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.
[00100] The description of the present description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the description in the manner described. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the description. Modalities explicitly referenced here have been chosen and described to better explain the principles of the description and its practical application, and to allow others of common knowledge in the art to understand the description and recognize many alternatives, modifications, and variations in the example (s) (s) described.
[00101] For example, the general orientation of the seed feeder and the supply system may differ from that shown in the figures. In particular, the figures illustrate a generally vertically oriented delivery system. However, the delivery system can, in contrast, be generally horizontal or at an arbitrary angle with respect to the horizon. Therefore, any guiding words, such as various forms of "up", "down", "top", "bottom", "above" and "below", used here, are only for the purpose of describing the particular modalities and are not intended to limit description.
[00102] Consequently, several modalities and implementations other than those explicitly described are within the scope of the claims that follow.

权利要求:
Claims (26)
[0001]
1. Sensor (1404) to detect a seed (152) in a seed delivery system (400) when a belt conveyor mechanism from the seed delivery system moves the seed along a seed path (1402) across least in part extending in a direction of movement of the belt conveyor mechanism through a belt housing (402) of the seed delivery system, the belt housing including at least one of a first alignment tab (1424) and a first alignment recess (1426), the sensor comprising: a sensor body (1466); a sensor window (1452); a sensor frame (1450) mounted on the sensor body and surrounding, at least in part, the sensor window; and characterized by the fact that the sensor also comprises at least one of a second alignment recess (1426) and a second alignment tab (1424) included in at least one sensor frame and the sensor body, at least one of the second alignment recess and the second alignment flap being interlockable with at least one of the first alignment flap and the first alignment recess when sliding in a lateral direction with respect to the seed path; wherein, when the sensor body is mounted on the belt housing, the at least one of the second alignment recess and the second alignment flange, respectively, is coupled with at least one of the first alignment flap and the alignment recess of so that the sensor window faces the belt conveyor mechanism.
[0002]
2. Sensor (1404) according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a side flange (1460) included in the sensor frame, the side flange extending away from the sensor window so that the sensor frame , including the side flange, is wider through a first region close to the sensor window (1452) than through a second region removed from the sensor window, from a perspective transversal to the seed path (1402).
[0003]
Sensor (1404) according to claim 2, characterized in that the side flange (1460) includes, at least in part, the at least one of the second alignment recess (1426) and the second alignment flap ( 1424).
[0004]
4. Sensor (1404) according to claim 2, characterized in that the side flange (1460) rests on a side flange recess (1480) included in the housing (402) when the sensor body (1466) is mounted on the seed supply system (400).
[0005]
5. Sensor (1404) according to claim 4, characterized in that the belt is a brush belt (424).
[0006]
Sensor (1404) according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises: at least one mounting tab (1468) included in at least one of the sensor body (1466) and the sensor frame (1450) , the at least one mounting tab being oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the seed path (1402) when the sensor body is mounted on the seed supply system (400); wherein the seed delivery system includes at least one mounting flange (1472), the at least one mounting flange defining, at least in part, at least one mounting groove (1476), at least one mounting groove being oriented, at least in part, in the first oblique angle with respect to the seed path; and wherein the at least one mounting tab rests on at least one mounting groove to support the sensor body in the seed delivery system.
[0007]
7. Sensor (1404) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one mounting tab (1468) aligns with the seat in at least one mounting groove (1476) only when the sensor window ( 1452) is in a first orientation in relation to the seed path (1402).
[0008]
8. Sensor (1404) according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises: at least one mounting flange (1484) included in at least one of the sensor body (1466) and the sensor frame (1450) , the at least one mounting flange defining, at least in part, at least one mounting groove (1488), at least one mounting groove being oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the travel path seed (1402) when the seed body is mounted on the seed supply system (400); wherein the seed delivery system includes at least one mounting flap (1492), at least one mounting flap being oriented, at least in part, at the first oblique angle with respect to the second path; and wherein the at least one tapered mounting tab rests on at least one mounting groove to support the sensor body in the seed delivery system.
[0009]
Sensor (1404) according to claim 8, characterized in that the at least one mounting flap (1492) aligns with the seat in at least one mounting groove (1488) only when the sensor window ( 1452) is in a first orientation in relation to the seed path (1402).
[0010]
10. Sensor (1404) to detect a seed (152) in a seed supply system (400) when a belt conveyor mechanism of the seed supply system moves the seed along a seed path (1402) through the less in part extending in a direction of movement of the belt conveyor mechanism through a belt housing (402) of the seed delivery system, the belt housing including a first mounting feature (1472) with a first surface of assembly (1476a) oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the seed path, the sensor comprising: a sensor body (1466); a sensor window (1452); a sensor frame (1450) mounted on the sensor body and surrounding, at least in part, the sensor window; and characterized by the fact that the sensor also comprises a second mounting feature (1468) with a second mounting surface (1468a) oriented, at least in part, at the first oblique angle with respect to the seed path when the sensor body is mounted on the belt housing; wherein the first and second mounting surfaces engage, at least in part, along the first oblique angle to support the sensor body in the seed delivery system when sliding in a lateral direction with respect to the seed path.
[0011]
Sensor (1404) according to claim 10, characterized in that the second mounting surface (1468a) is included in a mounting tab (1468) included in at least one of the sensor body (1466) and the sensor frame (1450); wherein the first mounting surface (1476a) is included in a mounting groove (1476) defined, at least in part, by a mounting flange (1472) included in the seed supply system (400); and wherein the first and second mounting surfaces engage along the first oblique angle when the mounting tab is seated in the mounting groove.
[0012]
12. Sensor (1404) according to claim 11, characterized in that the mounting tab (1468) aligns with the seat in a mounting groove (1476) only when the sensor window (1452) is in a first orientation in relation to the seed path (1402).
[0013]
13. Sensor (1404) according to claim 10, characterized in that the second mounting surface (1488a) is included in a mounting groove (1488) defined, at least in part, by a mounting flange (1484) ) included in at least one of the sensor body (1466) and the sensor frame (1450); wherein the first mounting surface (1492a) is included in a mounting flap (1492) included in the seed delivery system (400); and wherein the first and second mounting surfaces (1492a, 1488a) engage along the first oblique angle when the mounting tab is seated in the mounting groove.
[0014]
14. Sensor (1404) according to claim 13, characterized in that the mounting flap (1492) aligns to rest on the mounting groove (1488) only when the sensor window (1452) is in a first orientation in relation to the seed path (1402).
[0015]
Sensor (1404) according to claim 10, characterized in that it additionally comprises: at least one of the alignment recess (1426) and a first alignment tab (1422) included in at least one of the sensor frame (1450) and the sensor body (1466); wherein the seed delivery system (400) includes at least one of a second alignment tab (1422) and a second alignment recess (1426); and where, when the sensor body (1466) is mounted on the seed supply system, at least one of the first alignment tab and the alignment recess, respectively, with at least one of the second alignment recess. and the second alignment tab.
[0016]
16. Sensor (1404) according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises: a side flange (1460) included in the sensor frame (1450), the side flange extending away from the sensor window (1452) so that the sensor frame, including the side flange, is wider through a first region close to the sensor window than through a second region removed from the sensor window, from a perspective transversal to the seed path (1402).
[0017]
17. Sensor (1404) according to claim 16, characterized in that the side flange (1460) includes, at least in part, the at least one of a second alignment recess (1426) and a second alignment tab (1422).
[0018]
18. Sensor (1404) according to claim 16, characterized in that the side flange (1460) rests on a side flange recess (1480) included in the belt housing (402) when the sensor body (1466) ) is mounted on the seed supply system (400).
[0019]
19. Sensor (1404) according to claim 18, characterized in that the side flange recess (1480) is included in a movable cover (1438) of the belt housing (402), the side flange (1460) being seated in a side flange recess when the movable cover is closed.
[0020]
20. Sensor support assembly for a seed sensor (1404) for a seed delivery system (400), the seed delivery system including a belt conveyor mechanism for moving a seed (152) over a seed path (1402) at least partly extending in a direction of movement of the belt conveyor mechanism through a belt housing (402) of the seed delivery system, the sensor support assembly comprising: a first flange mounting flange (1472), the first mounting flange defining, at least in part, a first mounting groove (1476), the first mounting groove being oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the seed; and a second mounting flange (1474), the second mounting flange defining, at least in part, a second mounting groove (1478), the second mounting groove being oriented, at least in part, at a second oblique angle with with respect to the seed path and opening, along a portion of the second mounting groove, in the direction to the first mounting groove; characterized by the fact that the seed sensor is mounted in the belt housing by inserting a first mounting flap (1468) into the first mounting groove when sliding in a lateral direction with respect to the seed path and inserting a second mounting flap (1470) in the second mounting groove when sliding in the lateral direction, the first mounting flap being oriented, at least in part, at the first oblique angle with respect to the seed path and the second mounting flap being oriented, at least in part , in the second oblique angle in relation to the seed path.
[0021]
21. Seed supply system (400) comprising a sensor (1404) to detect seed (152) in the seed supply system (400) when a belt conveyor mechanism of the seed supply system moves (400) the seed (152) along a seed path (1402) through a housing (402) of the seed supply system (400), the sensor (1404) comprising: a sensor body (1466); a sensor window (1452); and a sensor frame (1450) mounted on the sensor body (1466) and surrounding, at least in part, the sensor window (1452); wherein the seed delivery system (400) includes at least one of a first alignment tab (1406) and a first alignment recess (1432), the sensor at least one of a second alignment recess (1426) and a second alignment tab (1424) included in at least one sensor frame (1450) and the sensor body (1466); wherein, when the sensor body (1466) is mounted on the seed supply system (400), the at least one of a second alignment recess (1426) and a second alignment tab (1424), respectively, with at least one of the first alignment tab (1406) and the first alignment recess (1432); characterized by the fact that it further comprises: a side flange (1460) included in the sensor frame (1450), the side flange (1460) extending away from the sensor window (1452) so that the sensor frame (1450), including the side flange (1460), is wider through a first region close to the sensor window (1452) than through a second region removed from the sensor window (1452), from a perspective across the seed path (1402) .
[0022]
22. Seed delivery system (400) according to claim 21, characterized in that the side flange (1460) includes, at least in part, the at least one of the second alignment recess (1426) and the second alignment tab (1424).
[0023]
23. Seed delivery system (400) according to either of claims 21 or 22, characterized by the fact that the side flange (1460) rests on a side flange recess (1480) included in the housing (402) when the sensor body (1466) is mounted on the seed supply system (400).
[0024]
24. Seed delivery system (400) according to claim 23, characterized by the fact that the side flange recess (1480) is included in a movable cover (1438) of the housing (402), the side flange (1460) being seated in a side flange recess (1480) when the movable cover (1438) is closed.
[0025]
25. Seed delivery system (400) according to any one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that it additionally comprises at least one mounting flap (1492, 1494) included in at least one of the sensor body (1466) and a sensor frame (1450), at least one mounting tab (1492, 1494) being oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the seed path (1402) when the sensor body (1466 ) is mounted on the seed supply system (400); wherein the seed delivery system (400) includes at least one mounting flange (1484, 1486), the at least one mounting flange (1484, 1486) defining, at least in part, at least one mounting groove ( 1488, 1490), at least one mounting groove (1488, 1490) being oriented, at least in part, at a first oblique angle with respect to the seed path (1402); and wherein the at least one mounting tab (1492, 1494) rests on at least one mounting groove (1488, 1490) for mounting the seed body (1466) to the seed supply system (400).
[0026]
26. Seed delivery system (400) according to claim 25, characterized in that the at least one mounting flap (1492, 1494) aligns with the seat in at least one mounting groove (1488, 1490 ) only when the sensor window (1452) is in a first orientation in relation to the seed path (1402).

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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EP2901837B1|2017-11-08|

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EP2901837A1|2015-08-05|

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US20150216110A1|2015-08-06|

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BR102015001921A2|2015-09-22|

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AR100475A1|2016-10-12|

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US9345189B2|2016-05-24|

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法律状态:
2015-09-22| B03A| Publication of an application: publication of a patent application or of a certificate of addition of invention|

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2018-02-27| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|

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2019-08-13| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: suspension of the patent application procedure|

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2020-05-05| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|

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2020-10-20| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 28/01/2015, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US14/170,391|US9345189B2|2014-01-31|2014-01-31|Sensor and sensor mount assembly for seed delivery system|

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US14/170391|2014-01-31|

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