Automated Plant Distribution Methods and Systems

Abstract

A plant dispensing unit for planting plants may include a set of ejectors for engaging and retaining plant balls of a row of plant balls in a tray having a plurality of rows. Each ejector may be configured to eject the engaged plant ball with force. A plant dispensing unit may include a funnel assembly configured to receive an ejected plant ball and direct it to a shoe configured to receive the ejected plant ball from the funnel and position the plant ball for planting. A plant dispensing unit may include a control system coupled to an ejector drive system a shoe drive system, for operatively coordinating actions of the plant dispensing unit. A plant dispensing unit may include a flat feeder for operating a tray feeding system of the plant dispensing unit to index rows of the tray for engagement by the ejectors.

Description

1 / 45 “AUTOMATED PLANT DISPENSING SYSTEMS AND METHODS” CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDERS

[0001] The present invention claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. U.S. 63 / 453,831, filed March 22, 2023, for a MECHANICAL TRANSPLANTER, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present version of these modalities refers, in general, to the field of automatic mechanical planters for plants and stakes. 2. Discussion of the Related Technique

[0003] These modalities refer to the mechanical planting of plants and stakes and, more particularly, to devices that can automate what has traditionally been a manual operation in planting plants in the ground or soil for crop production. Although this description refers to “plants,” it should be understood to encompass all things that are planted in the ground, including stakes, flowers, and others.

[0004] Agriculture is very important to all nations and economies. Agriculture consumes water resources and generally requires a lot of unskilled manual labor. Manual labor is becoming increasingly difficult to find, and that which is found is becoming expensive. It would be helpful if some of this manual labor could be eliminated as it involves repetitive operations in the agricultural industry. This would result in less burden for farmers and producers and, quite possibly, in a better quality product.

[0005] Generally, crops are started in greenhouse operations in feed trays. This allows the growing season to extend and bring the plants to a size where they can be more easily replanted in the ground. Seeds or cuttings are planted indoors and cared for until they reach a predetermined size. For farms that do commercial planting, the number of plants requiring replanting can be extremely large. The faster they can get the plants into the ground, the faster the plants will mature and Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 158 / 304 2 / 45 produce the product. Manual labor can be unreliable and inconsistent, whereas mechanical devices, once properly fitted, are more reliable and efficient.

[0006] Plants or cuttings can also grow very large indoors. This results in complex rooting, which can make removing plants from the tray cells difficult and result in plant losses.

[0007] There are also visual cues that can indicate whether a plant has a good chance of becoming productive. This visual inspection can be learned, but it requires concentration and experience. It can be difficult to find manpower that can perform this inspection quickly and consistently. It would be helpful if some kind of vision or inspection system or sensor were available that would screen out plants that don't have a good chance of becoming productive. It is not efficient to put resources into a plant that doesn't have a good chance of producing marketable products.

[0008] An inspection system can also be used to determine whether or not there is a plant growing in a feeder tray cell before an attempt is made to pull the plant or plant clump from the cell. The inspection system can be used to tell the system to “skip” a cell that has no growth for transplanting.

[0009] So, there is pressure to grow the plants, pressure to get them to a certain size by a certain planting date, then pressure to remove them from the tray cells and into the ground or to be planted. Any time saved in any of these operations contributes to the overall efficiency and profitability of the farm or any entity involved in the cultivation process. Mechanical efficiency, once targeted, can be far more efficient and less costly than manual labor.

[0010] For the reasons mentioned above, there is a need for a mechanical plant transplanter. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit for planting plants, including: a frame comprising a release bar; an ejector assembly coupled to the frame, wherein the ejector assembly includes: a Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 159 / 304 3 / 45 ejector mounting compartment; an assembly of ejectors mounted in the ejector mounting compartment in a row, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, and a release assembly configured to load,to lock and release the ejector release mechanism; and an ejector drive system configured to translate the ejector assembly horizontally and vertically between a plant clod engagement position and a plant clod ejection position and to align the ejector assembly to eject each engaged plant clod into a hopper; a hopper assembly spaced relative to the frame and including a hopper configured to receive an ejected plant clod and direct it to a shoe; a shoe assembly spaced relative to the frame,The planter assembly includes: a shoe configured to receive the plant clod ejected from the hopper and position the plant clod for planting; a shoe mechanism configured to plant the positioned plant clod in the soil; and a shoe drive system configured to operationally control the shoe mechanism to plant the plant clod in the soil; and a control system coupled to the ejector drive system and the shoe drive system, to operationally coordinate actions of the plant dispensing unit, wherein the plant dispensing unit is configured to perform the following actions: (a) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod engagement position, (b) move the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod in the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork,(a) whereby the engagement of each plant clod in the corresponding ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, (c) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to the hopper, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, thereby sending the ejected plant clod through the hopper to the position, Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 160 / 304 4 / 45 of the planting shoe and finally into the soil, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to the position of the second unpositioned ejector near the funnel, causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby the inclination of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting shoe position and finally into the soil, and (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

[0012] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, the shoe mechanism further includes: a kicker arm having a movable end coupled to the frame and a free end having a hammer, wherein the hammer is configured to move between forward and backward positions, wherein, when the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting, the hammer is moved backward to make contact with the plant clod with the hammer, thereby planting the plant clod in the soil.

[0013] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, in which the shoe drive system is configured to operate the kicker arm so that the hammer moves forward at a faster rate than the hammer moves backward.

[0014] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, which additionally includes a sensor coupled to the frame and configured to verify that the ejector has engaged the plant clod, and wherein the plant dispensing unit is additionally configured to: for each ejector positioned close to the hopper, but before ejecting, determine, using the sensor, whether the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod; and during steps (d) and (e), release the ejector mechanism only upon determination that the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod.

[0015] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor and the plant dispensing unit includes Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 161 / 304 5 / 45 additionally an infrared laser.

[0016] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, to the funnel which additionally includes an upper perimeter which has an oval shape and a lower perimeter which has a circular shape, and the funnel which additionally includes a tube attached to the lower perimeter.

[0017] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, to the funnel which additionally includes a guide flap extending downwards from a front side of a lower end of the tube.

[0018] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, which additionally includes a flat feeder coupled to the frame and configured to align the plant clod tray for engagement of each row of plant clods in the tray.

[0019] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, a flat feeder that includes a tray feeding system comprising: drive components configured to align the plant clod tray; and a tray feeding drive system configured to operate the drive components, wherein the tray feeding drive system is coupled to the control system.

[0020] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, a flat feeder which additionally includes a brake system configured to decelerate the downward displacement rate of a loaded tray in the flat feeder.

[0021] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, wherein the ejector drive system and the shoe drive system each include an electric motor and an actuator.

[0022] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, in which the locked release assembly is released by the release bar that engages the Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 162 / 304 6 / 45 release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the funnel, through which the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released.

[0023] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a method for dispensing plants, including the steps of: (a) moving an ejector assembly of a plant dispensing unit to a plant clod engagement position, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and further configured to retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, wherein each ejector further includes a release assembly configured to lock, load and release the ejector release mechanism; (b) moving the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod from the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork,(a) whereby the engagement of each plant clod in the ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, (c) move the ejector assembly to a plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to a hopper of the plant dispensing unit, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, thereby sending the ejected plant clod through the hopper to a shoe of the plant dispensing unit, whereby the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting in the soil, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to position the second unpositioned ejector close to the hopper,causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally to the soil (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

[0024] In some respects, the techniques described in the present Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 163 / 304 7 / 45 inventions relate to a method for dispensing plants that additionally includes the step of: for each plant clod positioned in the shoe, operating a kicker arm of the plant dispensing unit to push the plant clod backward, whereby the plant clod is planted in the soil.

[0025] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a method for dispensing plants that additionally includes the step of: after operating the kicker arm to push the plant clod backward, moving the kicker arm forward to reset the position of the kicker arm.

[0026] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a method for dispensing plants which additionally includes the steps of: for each ejector positioned near the hopper, before ejecting, determining, using a sensor on the plant dispensing unit, whether the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod; and during steps (d) and (e), releasing the ejector mechanism only upon determining that the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod.

[0027] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a method for dispensing plant material, wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor and the plant dispensing unit additionally includes an infrared laser.

[0028] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a method for dispensing plants that additionally includes the step of: when all the plant clumps in a row have been engaged by ejectors, operating a tray feeding system of the plant dispensing unit to align the next row for engagement.

[0029] In some respects, the techniques described in the present invention relate to a plant dispensing unit, wherein the actuation of the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism additionally includes the locked release assembly which is released by a release bar that engages the release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the hopper, whereby the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 164 / 304 8 / 45 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The aspects, features and advantages above and others of the various embodiments of the present invention will be more evident from the following more specific description thereof, presented together with the following drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of a mechanical transplanter.

[0032] Figure 2 shows a front view of one embodiment of a mechanical transplanter.

[0033] Figure 3 shows a front perspective view of a modal of several important elements with missing elements showing a grabber in a first position.

[0034] Figure 4 shows a front perspective view of a form of several important elements with missing elements showing a gripper in a second position.

[0035] Figure 5 shows a front perspective view of a embodiment of several important elements with missing elements showing an overview of how the device interacts with the existing structure.

[0036] Figure 6 shows a front left perspective view of an embodiment of the device with cover parts removed to see the internal elements.

[0037] Figure 7 shows a front perspective view of an embodiment of the device with cover parts removed to see the internal elements.

[0038] Figure 8 shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the device showing an embodiment of the inspection, vision or sensor system.

[0039] Figure 9 shows a front-back perspective view of an embodiment of the device showing the arrangement of elements with grippers in the first position.

[0040] Figure 10 shows a front side view of a type of grabber.

[0041] Figure 11 shows a rear side view of a Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 165 / 304 9 / 45 gripper mode of Figure 10.

[0042] Figure 12 shows a forked stick with tines that are used to grasp a plant or clod of plant.

[0043] Figure 13 shows a rear side of a type of grabber.

[0044] Figure 14 shows a right side view of another type of mechanical transplanter.

[0045] Figure 15 shows a left side view of the embodiment of Figure 14.

[0046] Figure 16 shows a rear side view of the embodiment of Figure 14.

[0047] Figure 17 shows a front side view of the embodiment of Figure 14

[0048] Figure 18 shows a background of the modality of Figure 14.

[0049] Figure 19 shows a top view of the embodiment of Figure 14.

[0050] Figure 20 shows a right side, front, top perspective view of the modality of Figure 14.

[0051] Figure 21 shows a right side perspective view of the background of the modality of Figure 14.

[0052] Figure 22 shows a front left side perspective view of the modality of Figure 14.

[0053] Figure 23 shows a right side view of the embodiment of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0054] Figure 24 shows a left side view of the embodiment of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0055] Figure 25 shows a right side perspective view of the background of the modality of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0056] Figure 26 shows a left side perspective view of the version in Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0057] Figure 27 shows a right side view of the version in Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0058] Figure 28 shows a left side view of the modality Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 166 / 304 10 / 45 of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0059] Figure 29 shows a rear view of the embodiment of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0060] Figure 30 shows a front view of the version in Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0061] Figure 31 shows a top right perspective view of the modality of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0062] Figure 32 shows a right-back perspective view of the version in Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0063] Figure 33 shows a top-left perspective view of the modalities of Figure 14 with some elements in a different position.

[0064] Figure 34 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper showing how plant clods are retained and released.

[0065] Figure 35 shows a second side of a configuration of a gripper to help explain how the spring-driven system works.

[0066] Figure 36 shows a perspective view of the second side of the modality of Figure 35.

[0067] Figure 37 shows a second partial side perspective view of the gripper and its interaction with a partial view of the trigger mechanism and a partial view of the translation mechanism.

[0068] Figure 38 shows a second partial side perspective view of the gripper and its interaction with a partial view of the trigger mechanism in a different position and a partial view of the translation mechanism.

[0069] Figure 39 shows one side of a configuration of the trigger firing mechanism in the non-active position.

[0070] Figure 40 shows one side of a configuration of the firing mechanism with the trigger in the active position.

[0071] Figure 41 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper in a position and interaction with partial views of the funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0072] Figure 42A shows one side of a configuration of a gripper in another position and the interaction with partial views of the funnel, Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 167 / 304 11 / 45 sensor and translation mechanism.

[0073] Figure 42B shows one side of a configuration of a gripper in another position and the interaction with partial views of the trigger mechanism, translation mechanism and feeder.

[0074] Figure 43 shows one side of a configuration of a gripper in a pre-loading position and the interaction with partial views of the trigger, firing mechanism, translation mechanism and feeder.

[0075] Figure 44 shows one side of an embodiment of a grabber in an initial loading position and the interaction with partial views of the translation and feeder mechanism.

[0076] Figure 45 shows one side of a configuration of a grabber in a loaded position and the interaction with partial views of the translation and feeding mechanism.

[0077] Figure 46 shows one side of a configuration of a grabber in an initial return position and the interaction with partial views of the translation and feeder mechanism.

[0078] Figure 47A shows one side of a configuration of a gripper in a return position and the interaction with partial views of the trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0079] Figure 47B shows one side of a configuration of a gripper in a return position and the interaction with partial views of the sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0080] Figure 48 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper near the sensor position and the interaction with partial views of the sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0081] Figure 49 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper in a grasping position and the interaction with partial views of the funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0082] Figure 50 shows one side of a embodiment of a gripper in a post-capture position and the interaction with partial views of the funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0083] Figure 51 shows one side of a modality of a grabber in a pre-dispensing position and the interaction with partial views of Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 168 / 304 12 / 45 funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0084] Figure 52 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper in a partially unloaded position and the interaction with partial views of the funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0085] Figure 53 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper in a post-dispensing position and the interaction with partial views of the funnel, sensor, trigger, firing mechanism and translation mechanism.

[0086] Figure 54A shows a right side perspective view of another embodiment of a dispensing unit 237.

[0087] Figure 54B shows a right side elevation view of the dispensing unit of Figure 54A with camera 277 and sensor 278.

[0088] Figure 54C shows a front view of the dispensing unit of Figure 54A.

[0089] Figure 55A shows another right side perspective view of dispensing unit 237.

[0090] Figure 55B shows a plan view of dispensation 237 from Figure 55A.

[0091] Figure 55C shows a right side elevation view of dispensing unit 237 from Figure 55A.

[0092] Figure 55D shows a back view of dispensing unit 237 from Figure 55A.

[0093] Figure 55E shows an end view of dispensing unit 237 of Figure 55A from the dispenser side.

[0094] Figure 56A shows a top perspective view of another embodiment of an ejector drive system.

[0095] Figure 56B shows a side view of the ejector drive system of Figure 56A.

[0096] Figure 56C shows a side end view of the front dispenser of the ejector drive system of Figure 56A.

[0097] Figure 56D shows an exploded view of the ejector drive system elements of Figure 56A.

[0098] Figure 57A shows a perspective view of a drive rail 241 with a dispensing unit or ejector assembly 243. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 169 / 304 13 / 45

[0099] Figure 57B shows a second perspective view of the drive rail 241 and ejector or dispensing unit assembly 243 of Figure 57A.

[0100] Figure 57C shows a side view of drive rail 241.

[0101] Figure 57D shows a side view of the drive rail 241 and ejector assembly 243.

[0102] Figure 57E shows a front end view of the drive rail 241 and ejector assembly 243 in the horizontal or gripping position.

[0103] Figure 57F shows a front end view of the dispensing unit assembly in the vertical position.

[0104] Figure 58A shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of an ejector compartment assembly 244.

[0105] Figure 58B shows a front view of the ejector compartment assembly 244 of Figure 58A.

[0106] Figure 59A shows an exploded view of the ejector compartment assembly 244 and attached to an arm 248 showing various elements thereof.

[0107] Figure 59B shows another exploded view of the ejector compartment assembly 244 showing various elements thereof.

[0108] Figure 60A shows an exploded view of the ejector compartment assembly 244 with several elements removed for better understanding of their interaction.

[0109] Figure 60B shows another exploded view of the ejector compartment assembly 244 with several elements removed for better understanding of their interaction.

[0110] Figure 61A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the flat feeder 251 attached to a dispensing unit 237.

[0111] Figure 61B shows a rear end view of dispensing unit 237 attached to an embodiment of flat feeder 251.

[0112] Figure 61C shows a side elevation view of the unit. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 170 / 304 14 / 45 dispensing 237 fixed to a flat feeder modality 251.

[0113] Figure 61D shows a back view of dispensing unit 237 with flat feeder 251 attached.

[0114] Figure 61E shows a front view of the dispensing assembly.

[0115] Figure 61F shows a detail of the perspective view of Figure 61A.

[0116] Figure 62A shows a rear view of the 251 flat feeder with components removed.

[0117] Figure 62B shows a side view of the flat feeder 251 and cover 255.

[0118] Figure 62C shows a front perspective view of the flat feeder cover 255 with elements removed.

[0119] Figure 62D shows a rear perspective view of the flat feeder cover 255 with elements removed.

[0120] Figure 62E shows a top plan view of the flat feeder.

[0121] Figure 63A shows a rear view of an embodiment of the motor 258, drive shaft 259 and flat aligned gear or wheel 260 of the tray feed system 257.

[0122] Figure 63B shows a side view of the tray 257 feeding system shown in Figure 63A.

[0123] Figure 63C shows a perspective view of the tray257 feeding system and cover.

[0124] Figure 63D shows the other side of the tray 257 feeding system shown in Figure 63A.

[0125] Figure 63E shows a rear view of the power system cover.

[0126] Figure 63F shows a side view of the power supply system cover.

[0127] Figure 64A shows a perspective view of the tray 257 feeding system and its other components.

[0128] Figure 64B shows a side end view of tray 257 feed system from Figure 64A. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 171 / 304 15 / 45

[0129] Figure 64C shows a front view of the tray 257 feeding system and other components. Figure 64D shows a top view of the tray 257 feeding system and attached components.

[0130] Figure 65A shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the planting shoe mechanism 263 with components removed to view the interior.

[0131] Figure 65B shows a perspective view of the planting shoe mechanism 263 from Figure 65A with added components.

[0132] Figure 65C shows a side view of the planting shoe mechanism 263.

[0133] Figure 65D shows a top view of the planting shoe mechanism 263 showing another embodiment of the funnel 264.

[0134] Figure 66A shows a top perspective view of another embodiment of funnel 264 and funnel assembly 268.

[0135] Figure 66B shows a side view of an embodiment of funnel assembly 268.

[0136] Figure 66C is a front view of an embodiment of funnel assembly 268.

[0137] Figure 67 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for dispensing plants.

[0138] Figure 68 is a schematic diagram of control systems for the plant dispensing unit.

[0139] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the various views of the drawings. Skilled individuals will observe that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in understanding various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially viable embodiment are often not represented in order to facilitate an unobstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 172 / 304 16 / 45

[0140] The following description should not be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of exemplary embodiments. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims.

[0141] Reference throughout this descriptive report to “a (01) embodiment”, “a embodiment” or similar language means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the phrases “in a (01) embodiment”, “in a embodiment” and similar language throughout this descriptive report may all, but not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0142] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0143] With reference to the detailed drawings, in which similar elements are indicated by similar numerals, Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a mechanical transplanter 18. The transplanter 18 has a left frame 22 and a right frame 20. A cover 24 covers elements below; the cover 24 is necessary to keep sunlight away from the plant roots (not shown) since sunlight can adversely affect plant roots and growth. Figure 1 also shows a feeder 26. The feeder 26 receives trays full of plants that have stems and leaves and arranges the plants 38 so that they can be pulled up by the right and left grippers 30, 28. Figure 1 shows the grippers 28, 30 in the first position 58. Figure 2 shows a front view of the mechanical transplanter 18. Figure 2 shows how the transplanter 18 interacts with existing technology. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 173 / 304 17 / 45

[0144] Figure 3 shows a front perspective view of some elements with others removed to better visualize and explain how they work together. Feeder 26 is shown to have a feeder drive 42 that translates feeder 26 horizontally toward and in the opposite direction to grippers 28, 30. Grippers 28, 30 are shown in the first position 58 from which plants 38 are dispensed into hopper 36.

[0145] Plants 38 are loaded onto feeder 26, so that the stems and leaves are in an approximately horizontal position away from feeder 26. Feeder 26 has divisions 40, in which the stems and leaves are located. As can be seen, the divisions 40 are angled to allow the stems and leaves to be arranged in an untangled position relative to each other. This aids in removing plants 38 from cells 41 of tray 43.

[0146] Figure 4 shows a front perspective view similar to that in Figure 3. For explanatory purposes, the left gripper 28 will be used to explain how the device works. It should be understood that the right gripper 30 would function in almost the same way. In Figure 4, the left gripper 28 is shown in the second position 60. The left gripper 28 is rotated from an angled vertical position to an approximately horizontal one, and this position is translated in such a way that the bottom 112 of the fork 92 can engage the plants 38 to pluck them from the cells 41 of the tray 43. It is here that the vision system 70 is used to indicate to the left gripper 28 whether there are any plants 38 that may not conform to the standards. The vision system can assist in gripping and can even indicate whether or not a plant 38 is present in cell 41.Once the plants 38 are grasped by the left gripper 28, the gripper translates horizontally and vertically to return to the first position 58, as explained in Figure 4 by the right gripper 30.

[0147] Figure 5 shows another front perspective view of the device with several components missing to further discuss how the elements function and how they are arranged. This Figure 5 shows the left gripper 28 in the second position 60 and the right gripper 30 in the first position 58. Also more visible in this Figure are the funnel 36 and plate of Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 174 / 304 18 / 45 funnel 37, which feeds the shoe assembly 48 and eventually row 74 on the ground 75.

[0148] Figure 6 shows another front perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 18 from the opposite side to that shown in Figures 3 and 4 and with several additional elements shown. This shows the gripper actuator 44 on the right gripper 30, the gripper actuator 44 can also be seen on the left gripper 28.

[0149] Figure 7 shows a front perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 18. This view shows the cells 41 in the tray 43 more clearly. It also shows the plate 46 which helps to hold the divisions 40 in a configuration parallel to each other.

[0150] Figure 8 shows a rear perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 18. In this view, the vision system 70 is shown. As noted, the vision system 70 can be used to determine if there is a plant in an individual cell 41 before the grippers 28, 30 remove the plants 38 from cells 41. The vision system 70 can also be used to perform a quality check on the plants 38 once removed from cells 41. This check would help determine if plant 38 had a good chance of flowering or if another plant from another cell 41 should be pulled. There is little point in placing a plant 38 that is unhealthy or has a malformation.

[0151] Figure 9 is a front-back perspective view of a mechanical transplanter 18. In this view, cells 41 in tray 43 can be seen more clearly in a position extending below the bottom edge 39 of the divisions 40. When cells 41 of tray 43 are located below the bottom edge 39 of the divisions 40, the left and right grippers 28, 30 can pull plants 38 out of cells 41. As a row of plants 38 is pulled out of cells 41, tray 43 indicates a vertical direction towards the ground 75 (not shown in this Figure). Once the plants 38 are removed from cells 41 in tray 43, tray 43 falls into a storage area (not shown) from where it is subsequently collected for replanting.

[0152] Figure 10 shows a first side view, as an example, of the left gripper 28. Figure 11 shows a second view. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 175 / 304 19 / 45 left gripper side 28.

[0153] In Figure 11, one can see frame 96 housing the elements that constitute the device that both grips the plants 38 from the individual cells 41 and also forcefully ejects the plants 38 into the funnel 36 and, finally, onto the soil 75. This embodiment uses an air cylinder 94 with controls 98. The air cylinder 94 is fixed to a pair of forks 92. The forks 92 have teeth 108, generally two on each fork 92. This embodiment shows two forks 92 fixed to each cylinder 94. Each cylinder 94 also has a rod 88 that moves in and out of the cylinder 94. A piston block 90 is fixed to one end of the rod 88. It should be understood that other methods of ejecting the plants 38 into the funnel 38 and soil 75 could be used, such as a solenoid and other mechanical, electrical or other methods or means. Mechanical. This ejection of the 38 plants can be timed with other elements to optimize planting time and spacing and other parameters.

[0154] Figures 10 and 11 also show the translation of the piston block 19 from a position near the bottom of the air cylinder 94 to a position far from the air cylinder 94. Both views show teeth 108 of the forks 92 that engage the plants 38. This is approximately the position that the plants 38 are in when plucked from the cells 41 of the tray 43. When the left gripper 28 translates and rotates from the second position 60 to the first position 58, the rod 88 of the air cylinder 94 would be engaged and translated from inside the air cylinder 94 to this position, where it is at a maximum position far from the air cylinder 94. This would translate the piston block 90 from the first position 125 to the second position 127. As can be seen, the translation of the piston block 90 to the second position 127 would eject, at by force, plant 38 of the teeth 108 of the fork 92 and to the funnel 36 and, finally, to the soil 75, thus planting plant 38.Other methods of ejecting the plants 38 could also be used, as noted.

[0155] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a 92 fork that has 108 teeth.

[0156] Figure 13 shows one side of an embodiment of a gripper 30 showing the air cylinders 94 fixed to the frame 96. The air cylinders 94 have a rod 88 extending from the lower section. The rod 88 is fixed to a piston block 90. ​​Also fixed near the bottom of the air cylinder 94 Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 176 / 304 20 / 45 is a 92 fork.

[0157] As can be observed, the logic and programming of the operation of these elements can be optimized based on soil conditions, the size, shape and weight of the plants 38 being planted. This mechanical transplanter 18 can uproot and plant many plants 38 more consistently and with less variability than human labor.

[0158] Figure 14 shows a second embodiment of the mechanical transplanter device 180. The transplanter 180 has several components, such as a feeder 176 that houses the loaded trays 178 containing plant clods 185. This is connected to the translation mechanism 210, which has a compartment and gripping control 191 and gripping motors 192. The translation mechanism 210 is used to translate and rotate the right gripper 190 and left gripper 188. A compartment 168 is located below the translation mechanism 210. The right and left grippers 190, 188 move from inside the compartment 168 to outside the compartment 168 to grip plant clods 185 from the tray 178 of the feeder 176.

[0159] Figure 14 shows the right grabber 190 engaging with the feeder 176 to obtain plant clods 185. The left grabber 188 already has the plant clods 185 engaged and is ejecting them into the hopper 194. From the hopper 194, the plant clods 185 are forced through the shoe 200 and into the planting soil 225. As the plant clod 185 is ejected, the grabber 188 aligns the translation mechanism 210 and the trigger 218 of the firing mechanism 220 fires another ejector 219 to eject another plant clod 185 into soil 225.

[0160] The mechanical transplanter 180 also has a control box 174 to control and coordinate the various elements that make up the transplanter 180. There is an electrical / mechanical connector 182 to attach the mechanical transplanter 180 to a tractor or other device. The connector 182 can supply electrical and mechanical power to the transplanter 180. Near the bottom of the transplanter 180 is located a ski 198. The ski 198 runs along the ground 225 to make a flat path in the ground 225 to allow the shoe 200 to guide the plant clods 185 from the grabber. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 177 / 304 21 / 45 ejection 188, 190.

[0161] The Figures are arranged to allow for a better explanation of the device's operation as it is working on planting the plant clods 185 in the soil 225.

[0162] As noted, Figure 14 shows the right grabber 190 engaging the feeder tray 178 176 to engage the plant clods 185. The left grabber 188 is ejecting the plant clods 185 into the funnel 194, into the shoe 200 and into the soil 225. In this Figure, the left grabber 188 is pointing to the left.

[0163] Figure 15 shows a left side view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the left and right grippers 188, 190 aligned in the same position as in Figure 14. Figure 15 shows the sensor plate 204 located in compartment 168 and near the funnel 194. The sensor plate 204 is shaped like the capital letter E and is fixed to the bottom of compartment 168 on its long side, so that the points of the E are upwards, vertically. There are two sensor transmitters 205 located on the central post of the E and they point in opposite directions. Each outer post of the E has a sensor receiver 206 that corresponds to a sensor transmitter 205. The transmitters 205 and receivers 206 are for verifying that the plant clods 185, when engaged by the grippers 188, 190, during the cycle, are present and have sufficient root growth for planting. This operation will be explained more fully below.

[0164] Figure 16 shows a rear view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the grippers 188, 190 in the same position as in Figure 14. This view shows the sensor plate 204, sensor transmitters 205 and sensor receivers 206 more clearly. In this view, the gripper 188 can be seen passing between the central post of the sensor plate 204 and the arm on the left that houses the sensor receiver 206. The trigger 218 that engages the lever 216 near the top of the left gripper 188 can also be seen.

[0165] Figure 17 shows a front view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the grippers 188, 190 in the same position as in Figure 14. In this view, the control box 174 is shown more clearly on top of the translation mechanism 210 and the plant clods 185 can be seen located in the feeder tray 178 176. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 178 / 304 22 / 45

[0166] Figure 18 shows a back view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the grippers 188, 190 in the same position as Figure 14. The right gripper 190 can be seen removing plant clods 185 from the tray 178 of the feeder 176.

[0167] Figure 19 shows a top view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the grippers 188, 190 in the same position as in Figure 14. In this view, the gripping motors 192 for operating the translation mechanism 210 and the gripping control 191 for interfacing with the feeder motor 177 of the feeder 176 and control box 174 can be seen. The control box 174 controls the logic and operation for the mechanical and electrical elements of the device.

[0168] Figure 20 shows a top front perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 180 with the grippers 188, 190 in the same position as in Figure 14. Compartment 168 has a left frame 172 and a right frame 170.

[0169] Figure 21 shows a right side perspective view of the back of the mechanical transplanter 180. The left gripper 188 can be seen together with the sensor plate 204 and the sensor receiver 206 for the right gripper 190.

[0170] Figure 22 shows a front left side perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The left side of the left gripper 188 can be seen.

[0171] Figure 23 shows a right side view of the mechanical transplanter 180. In this figure, the left gripper 188 is ejecting plant clods 185 and is nearly empty. The right gripper 190 has been reloaded with plant clods 185 and has been aligned between the sensor transmitter 205. The sensor transmitter 205 is located on the center post of the sensor plate 204 and the sensor receiver 206 is located on the nearest post of the right frame 170 of the sensor plate 204. As the right gripper 190 aligns, a signal is transmitted from the sensor transmitter 205 in the direction of the right frame 170 to the sensor receiver 206. If the signal is blocked, then it indicates that there is a loaded plant clod 185. If the signal is almost entirely released, this indicates a bad plant clod 185 or no plant clod 185. The logic in control box 174 then knows that this position should be Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 179 / 304 23 / 45 equipped when the right gripper 190 aligns with the ejection position, so that a good plant clod 185 is ejected into the planting position.

[0172] Figure 24 shows a left side view of the mechanical transplanter 180. In this figure, the left grabber 188 is ejecting plant clods 185 into the funnel 194 and into the soil 225. The right grabber 190 has been reloaded with plant clods 185 and is waiting to eject.

[0173] Figure 25 shows a right side perspective view of the mechanical planter 180. In this figure, the left grabber is ejecting plant clods 185 into the funnel 194 and onto the ground 225. The right grabber 190 has been reloaded with plant clods 185 and is waiting to eject.

[0174] Figure 26 shows a left side perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 180. In this view, the left gripper 188 is dispensing or ejecting plant clods 185 and the right gripper 190 has been loaded with plant clods 185 and is ready to begin dispensing or ejecting.

[0175] Figure 27 shows a right side view of the mechanical transplanter 180. In this figure, the left gripper 188 has completely dispensed the plant clods 185 and is being translated towards the back of the transplanter 180 by means of the translation mechanism 210. As can be seen, the left gripper 188 is being generated and translated so that it can engage the plant clods 185 and remove them from the feeder tray 178 176. The right gripper 190 has aligned itself by means of the translation mechanism 210 over the hopper 194 and has begun ejecting the plant clods 185 into the hopper forcefully so that they are planted in the soil 225.

[0176] Figure 28 shows a left side view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The left and right grippers 188, 190 are located in the same positions as those in Figure 27. In this view, it can be seen that the plant clod 185 is being ejected into the hopper 194 for planting into the soil 225. The left gripper 188 can also be seen as it moves into the position to load plant clods 185 and engage or load the springs 215 of the ejectors 219. The ejectors 219 are spring-loaded mechanisms that have a lever 216 located nearby. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 180 / 304 24 / 45 of the top of the ejectors 219 and forks or teeth 211 located near the bottom. A pin 217 is engaged with the lever 216 to charge the springs 215 of the ejectors 219. When the plant clod 185 is ejected, the firing mechanism 220 moves the trigger 218 to engage the lever 216 which releases the pin 217 from the lever 216 allowing the spring 215 to return to the tension-free position which ejects the plant clod 185 from the ejector 219 and into the funnel 194, best shown in Figures 34, 35.

[0177] Although this method uses a mechanical spring system to obtain and eject the plant clods 185, it should be understood that several other types of systems must be used, such as electrical systems, pneumatic systems and others.

[0178] Figure 29 shows a rear view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The grippers 188, 190 are in the same position as those in Figure 27.

[0179] Figure 30 shows a front view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The grippers 188, 190 are in the same position as those in Figure 27.

[0180] Figure 31 shows a top front perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The grippers 188, 190 are in the same position as those in Figure 27.

[0181] Figure 32 shows a right side perspective view of the back of the mechanical transplanter 180.

[0182] Grippers 188, 190 are in the same position as those in Figure 27.

[0183] Figure 33 shows a left front perspective view of the mechanical transplanter 180. The grippers 188, 190 are in the same position as those in Figure 27.

[0184] Figure 34 shows a detailed first side view of the left gripper 188, in this embodiment, the left gripper 188 is used to discuss the operation of this device, but it would be understood that the right gripper 190 is a mirror image of the left gripper 188.

[0185] In Figure 34, the plant clod 185 can be seen attached to the ejectors 219. The ejectors 219 are attached to the left gripper 188. Figure 34 shows that two of the plant clods 185 have been ejected and a third clod Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 181 / 304 25 / 45 of plant 185 is in the process of being ejected by ejector 219.

[0186] Figure 35 shows the second side of the left gripper 188 of Figure 34. As can be seen, the plant clod 185 is almost ejected from the ejector 219 as the spring 215 is being released from the lever 216 near the top of the left gripper 188. In this figure, the springs 215 on the right of the gripper 188 are shown in a loose or relaxed position. This indicates that these springs 215 for these ejectors 219 have been discharged and the plant clods 185 have been fully ejected. The third ejector 219 from the right in this figure is only partially discharged and the plant clod 185 is partially ejected.

[0187] The springs 215 to the left of the partially ejected plant clod 185 are fully extended or charged and secured to pin 217 and held by lever 216. To move from the charged spring 215 position to the uncharged spring 215 position requires that the trigger 218 of the firing mechanism 220 engage with lever 216, causing the lever to rotate and, in doing so, disengages pin 217 from lever 216. Pin 217 holds one end of spring 215. When lever 216 is rotated by trigger 218, pin 217 is released and spring 215 is free to compress or release, which ejects the plant clod 185 from the teeth 211 of ejector 219 and into hopper 194, shoe 200 and thus, by force, into the ground. 225.

[0188] Figure 36 shows one side of the left gripper 188, where the interaction of pin 217, spring 215 and lever 216 can be seen more clearly. It should be noted that the two right springs 215 are in the fully relaxed position, the third spring 215 from the right is in a partially relaxed position and the springs 215 to the left of the third spring from the right are in the fully extended or loaded position.

[0189] Figure 37 shows a side view of an example of the left gripper 188 and its interaction with the firing mechanism 220 and trigger 218. It should be noted that only the leftmost spring 215 is in the partially released position and the springs 215 to the right of that are in the fully extended or loaded position.

[0190] As can be seen, the ejector 219 had pin 217 released from lever 216 by trigger 218, pressing lever 216, causing lever 216 to rotate and thus release pin 217, so that the spring Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 182 / 304 26 / 45 215 compress and eject the plant clod 185 from the teeth 211 of the ejector 219 and into the funnel 194, some elements are not shown in this Figure.

[0191] Figure 38 shows the same side view of an example of the left gripper 188, where the trigger 218 is in the slack position. The slack position is used when the gripper 188 is fully loaded and passing through the arms of the sensor plate 204, so that the sensor transmitter 205 and sensor receiver 206 can “read” to see if the plant clods 185 are located before ejection into the hopper 194.

[0192] Figure 39 is a detailed side view of an embodiment of the firing mechanism 220 with the trigger 219 in the unloaded position.

[0193] Figure 40 is a detailed side view of an embodiment of the firing mechanism 220 with the trigger 219 in the release position.

[0194] Figure 41 shows a side cutaway view of the left grabber 188 and the interaction between the sensor plate 205, sensor transmitter 205, translation mechanism 210, trigger mechanism 220 and trigger 219. In this view, the grabber 188 has finished forcibly ejecting the plant clods 185 into the hopper 194 and is returning to the loading position adjacent to the feeder 176, not shown.

[0195] Figure 42A shows a side cutaway view of the left gripper 188 as it begins to rotate from a mostly vertical to a horizontal position.

[0196] Figure 42B shows a side cutaway view of the left grab 188 as it approaches the horizontal position close to the feeder 176.

[0197] Figure 43 shows a side cutaway view of the left gripper 188 as it engages the feeder 176 to grasp the plant clods 185. As the left gripper 188 is pushed against the tray 178, the teeth 211 engage the root cutting of the plant clod 185 and, as they do, the ejector 219 is pushed into the gripper 188 so that the pins 217 of each ejector 219 translate to the lever 216, causing the lever 216 to rotate and the pin 217 to engage in the lever 216. The spring 215 is in the extended or loaded position at this point. As this is completed, the plant clod 185 is engaged by the teeth 211 of the ejector 219, the pin 217 is engaged in the lever 216, and the gripper 188 is ready. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 183 / 304 27 / 45 to turn and translate back to near the funnel 194 for ejection of the plant clods 185.

[0198] Figure 44 shows the gripper 188 in the fully engaged position so that the ejectors 219 are loaded with the plant clods 185 and the springs 215 are fully extended.

[0199] Figure 45 shows grabber 188 as it is being moved away from feeder 176. Figure 46 shows grabber 188 further away from the position of feeder 176.

[0200] Figure 47A shows gripper 188 as it begins to rotate from the horizontal to the vertical position.

[0201] Figure 47B shows gripper 188 as it approaches the vertical position.

[0202] Figure 48 shows the gripper 188 in the fully vertical position as it approaches the sensor plate 204, so that the sensor transmitter 205 and the sensor receiver 206 can sense whether a plant clod 185 was engaged and then report to the control box 174.

[0203] Figure 49 shows the grabber 188 and plant clods 185 passing between the sensor transmitters 205 and the sensor receiver 206 of the sensor plate 204 and inspecting to complete the engagement of plant clod 185.

[0204] Figure 50 shows the gripper 188 and plant clods 185 after inspection by the sensor transmitter 205 and sensor receiver 206. In this position, the logic recognizes whether or not there is a plant clod 185 on the teeth 211 of the ejector 219 and will adjust the position of the gripper 188 on the funnel 194 so that a plant clod 185 is ejected from the ejector 219 at the appropriate time to then be forcibly ejected into the funnel 194 and the soil 225.

[0205] Figure 51 shows the grabber 188 and plant clods 185 translating towards the funnel 194, where the trigger 218 is approaching to engage the lever 216 of the ejector 219. When the trigger 218 engages the lever 216, this causes the lever 216 to rotate, disengaging the pin 217 from the lever 216, releasing the spring 215 and causing the plant clod 185 to be ejected from the ejector 219 into the funnel 194 and the soil 225.

[0206] Figure 52 shows that grabber 188 ejected two lumps of Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 184 / 304 28 / 45 plant 185 and is continuing to align itself by means of the translation mechanism 210 to forcibly eject more clods from plant 185 into hopper 194.

[0207] Figure 53 shows the grabber 188 fully unloaded and ready to be re-fed with plant clods 185.

[0208] Figure 54A shows a right side perspective view of another embodiment of a plant dispensing unit 237. The skilled person will understand that, although the term “unit” is used in the present invention to indicate that the various unitary components and elements work together and are coordinated as a cohesive and coordinated unit, the planting “unit” is also considered as a planting system, i.e., comprising multiple coordinated elements, modules and / or devices.

[0209] The dispensing unit 237 includes a dispensing unit frame 542, to which the other dispensing unit elements are coupled. The dispensing unit frame 542, in some embodiments, is coupled to the flat feeder 251 (as shown in Figure 61A-61D). This dispensing unit 237 has a pair of drive rails 241 on each side of the unit 237. Two ejector drive systems 239 are located on top of the unit 237. The ejector drive systems 239 are interconnected to the ejector assemblies 243, one ejector drive system 239 feeding an ejector assembly 243. The ejector assemblies 243 translate from a first position to a second position along the drive rails 241.Ejector assemblies 243 have several components and are used to grip plants from trays, rotate and translate the plants to the proper position, and trigger to eject the plants for planting as previously explained. A release bar trigger 240 is also shown to indicate whether the ejector assembly 243 should eject the plant clod 185. The release bar trigger 240 includes a fixed / stationary trigger tab 540, which interacts with the release tab 249 of each ejector to release the spring 246 and eject the plant clod 185.

[0210] This embodiment also shows a camera 277 with sensor 278. The camera 277 and sensor 278 can be used in conjunction with an IR source (not shown). The IR source indicates to the camera 277 and sensor 278 that there is a plant clod 185 on the teeth 108 of the fork 92. If the sensor 278 Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 185 / 304 29 / 45 showing a plant clod 185, the ejector 267 forcefully ejects the plant clod 185 into the hopper 264 of the hopper assembly 268 of the planting shoe mechanism 263 and finally into the soil or earth. If the IR source and sensor 278 do not read the presence of a plant clod 185, it quickly aligns until sensor 278 receives a positive IR signal that a plant clod 185 is present. When checking for the presence of plant clods 185, the unit 237 can save time by quickly aligning to the next plant clod position and ejecting the next plant clod 185 quickly enough so that a plant clod 185 is still planted at the next regularly coordinated time.That is, instead of ejector 267 ejecting without a plant clod 185 using regular time and shoe drive system 265, then operating kicker assembly 652 in coordinated time but without a plant clod 185 to plant, ejector drive system 239 aligns ejector assembly 243 quickly through the position(s) of the empty ejector(s) and to the next ejector 267 with a plant clod 185, so that the next ejector 267 with a plant clod 185 arrives at the ejection location in the next coordinated time and therefore shoe drive system 265 is still operating kicker assembly 652 to plant a plant clod 185 in coordinated time.The ejector assembly 243, sensor system, ejector drive system 243, and control system 6805 are configured to move through up to and including four empty ejectors 267 and still have the next ejector 267 with plant clod 185 in place at the next regular coordinated time. The ability to detect missing plant clods 185, communicate the information to the control system 6805, vary the speed of the ejector assembly 243, and move the ejector 243 at very fast speeds is therefore advantageous for increasing the number of plant clods 185 that can be ejected in a given period of time and for significantly improving efficiency.

[0211] This method simplifies the number of components, precision and speed with which plants are gripped from the trays and forcefully ejected into the hopper 264 of the shoe 200 and thus into the ground / soil (not shown).

[0212] Figures 54B and 54C show additional views of the embodiment shown in Figure 54A. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 186 / 304 30 / 45

[0213] Figure 55A shows another right side perspective view of dispensing unit 237. The ejector assembly 243 can be seen in two positions, one in Figure 55B and a second position shown in Figure 55C.

[0214] This embodiment also shows a camera 277 with sensor 278. The camera 277 and sensor 278 can be used in conjunction with an IR source (not shown). The IR source indicates to the camera 277 and sensor 278 that there is a plant clod 185 on the teeth 108 of the fork 92. If the sensor 278 shows a plant clod 185, the ejector 267 forcefully ejects the plant clod 185 into the funnel 264 of the funnel assembly 268 of the planting shoe mechanism 263 and finally into the soil or earth. If the IR source and sensor 278 do not read the presence of a plant clod 185, it quickly aligns until the sensor 278 receives a positive IR signal that a plant clod 185 is present.By checking for the presence of plant clods 185, the unit can save time by not ejecting when no plant clod 185 is present, it can align to the next plant clod position and eject plant clods 185 faster, thereby increasing the number of plant clods 185 that can be ejected in a given period of time and significantly improving efficiency.

[0215] The embodiment shown in these Figures benefits from only a single ejector drive system 239 per ejector assembly 243. Each ejector drive system 239 can control the movement of a single ejector assembly 243 precisely and quickly. This embodiment allows the plant clods 185 to be aligned to the position near the funnel 264. Once the plant clods 185 are aligned to the proper position, they are forcefully ejected into the funnel 264 and thus into the ground (not shown).

[0216] Figure 56A shows a top perspective view of another embodiment of the ejector drive system 239 and the connection of the ejector drive system 239 and related components. Figures 56A to 56D show various views of this ejector drive system 239 and components and how they are interconnected. The ejector drive system 239, in some embodiments, includes an electric motor and an actuator. In some embodiments, the electric motor is a servo motor. In some Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 187 / 304 In modes 31 / 45, the 239 ejector drive system includes an integrated encoder.

[0217] Figure 57A shows a perspective view of a drive rail 241 with an ejector assembly 243 attached. To obtain plant clods 185 for ejection, the teeth 108 of the fork 92 of the ejector assembly 243 are inserted into the plant clods 185 in the trays 43 of the flat feeder 251. A complete row of plant clods 185 is obtained and translated horizontally from the flat feeder 251 to a release point near the hopper 264 and forcefully ejected into the planting shoe mechanism 263 and finally into the soil. Each plant clod 185 is forcefully ejected at exactly the same position in the hopper 264.

[0218] An infrared (IR) laser and sensor 278 is used to check that teeth 108 of fork 92 of ejector assembly 243 contain a plant clod 185. If teeth 108 do not contain a plant clod 185, then alignment to that position does not occur and it jumps to the next position, where teeth 108 contain a plant clod 185.

[0219] Figures 58A and 58B show two views of the ejector assembly compartment 244 and related components. The ejector assembly 243 forcefully ejects the plants into the hopper 264, thereby bringing the plants to the ground as quickly and precisely as possible. The teeth 108 of the fork 92 grip the plant clod 185 from the tray and are spring-loaded 246.

[0220] Figures 59A and 59B show two views of the ejector assembly 243 and related components attached to an arm 248. The arm 248 interconnects with components coupled to the ejector drive system 239 and the drive rails 241. Also shown in these exploded views are other components of the ejector compartment 244 and how they interconnect.

[0221] Figures 60A and 60B show different views of the arm 248 connected to a plant ejector 267 with some of the components such as a fork 92 with teeth 108, piston housing 245, spring 246 and shaft 247 that constitute a single ejector 267. A release tab 249 and tooth 108 of the fork 92 are also shown.

[0222] The ejector release mechanism for each plant ejector Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 188 / 304 32 / 45 267 is shown in Figures 59A-B and Figures 60A-B. The plant ejector comprises shaft 247 encapsulated by spring 246. A top end of shaft 247 and spring 246 are held in place by the ejector mounting compartment 244. A bottom end of each shaft 247 is coupled to beam 304. Release flap 249 is rotatably coupled to shaft 147 at the top end of shaft 247.

[0223] The piston housing 245 includes a clamp 300 extending outward from a front side of the ejector 267. The piston housing 245 is coupled to the shaft 247 for translation along the longitudinal geometric axis of the shaft 247. The clamp 300 includes a clamp groove 312 configured to retain a lower end of the spring 246. The clamp 300 also includes a lower surface 302. The clamp 300 and the spring 246 are therefore integrated so that the downward movement of the lower end of the spring 246 also pushes the piston housing 245 downward until the full extension of the spring 246 is achieved or the downward movement of the piston housing 245 is restrained (thus also restraining further extension of the spring 246). In some embodiments, the downward movement of the piston compartment 245 is stopped by the lower surface 302 in contact with a top surface of the beam 304.

[0224] The release assembly 306 of Figures 60A-B includes a body 308, a release tab 249, and a crimp 310. A top end of the body 308 is rotatably coupled to the top end of the shaft 247. The crimp 310 is located near a lower end of the body 308 and is configured to have the lower surface 302 of the piston compartment 245 sealed and supported by the crimp 310, thereby retaining the piston compartment 245 in an upper position, thereby retaining the spring 246 in a compressed position.

[0225] Release tab 249 is configured to interact with trigger tab 540 of release bar trigger 240 (shown in Figures 54AB), whereby alignment of ejector assembly 243 causes release tab 249 of the next ejector 267 to contact the stationary trigger tab 540 (relative to the plant dispensing unit 237). As alignment of ejector assembly 243 with the next ejector progresses, the angle of trigger tab 540 causes the release bar assembly to Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 189 / 304 33 / 45 release rotates progressively outward and away from the shaft 247. The outward rotation thereby moves the flange 310 outward enough that it removes the flange 310 from its support in the clamp compartment 245, thereby releasing the compressed spring 246. The release of the compressed spring 246 then pushes the clamp compartment 245 downward along the shaft 247 with speed, whereby a foot 314 of the piston compartment 245 forcefully and rapidly pushes the plant clod 185 out of the teeth, causing the plant clod 185 to be forcefully ejected from the teeth 108.

[0226] Because the hopper 264 and the release bar trigger 240 / firing tab 540 are fixed to the plant dispensing unit 237 in stationary positions, each use of the stationary firing tab 540 to release the spring 246 results in each plant clod 185 being ejected in the same position relative to the hopper 264. This results in greater planting accuracy, since each plant clod 185 loaded into the ejector assembly 243 enters the hopper 264 substantially in the same location and with substantially the same trajectory and force.

[0227] It will be understood by the skilled that, in place of the compressible spring 246 shown in Figures 60A-B, alternative tilting means may be used to provide the ejection force.

[0228] Figure 61A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a flat feeder 251. Figures 61B to 61E show the flat feeder 251 in various views with other components, such as the dispensing unit 237 attached. The flat feeder 251 is shown with a tray 43 positioned for the ejector assemblies 243 to grasp the plant clods 185 from the tray cells 43. The flat feeder 251 has a cover 255 with viewing slots 253 in the vertical component. Also shown are the brake slots 254 in the vertical component. The brake slots 254 house brake wheels 252 to control the downward speed rate of a newly loaded tray 43 filled with plant clods 185 (not shown).

[0229] Figure 61D shows the ejector assembly 243 in position to grip the plant clods 185 into the cells of the tray loaded into the flat feeder 251. The ejector assembly 243 is aligned in Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 190 / 304 34 / 45 direction to the full plant row of tray 43 in flat feeder 251, where the teeth 108 of the forks 92 grip the plant clods 185 (not shown).

[0230] Figure 61C shows the ejector assembly 243 in the mode for ejecting plant clods 185 into the funnel 264 of this embodiment.

[0231] Figures 61A to 61E show various views of the combined unit of dispensing unit 237 and flat feeder 251.

[0232] Figures 62A to 62E show various elements and views of the flat feeder 251 with tray feed system 257 and brake system 620 attached.

[0233] The brake system 620 includes brake wheels 252 and passive brake mechanism 622. A portion of each brake wheel 252 passes through a brake slot 254, through which the brake wheels 252 engage a new tray as it is released on top of the cover 255. Engagement of the tray with the brake wheels 252 activates the passive brake mechanism 622, which slows the uncontrolled fall of the new tray 43.

[0234] The brake control allows a plurality of trays 43 to be sequentially loaded into the flat feeder 251 for dispensing without damaging the trays below due to the new tray falling from the top of the flat feeder 251 (which must be taller in order to accommodate the loading of multiple trays at once). In some embodiments, two, three, four or five trays 43 can be loaded into the flat feeder 251, so that all trays 43 are in the flat feeder at the same time.

[0235] Figures 63A to 63F show the tray 257 feed system and various views of some of the components attached to it.

[0236] Figures 64A to 64D show internal components of the tray 257 feed system and the interconnection between them.

[0237] The tray feed system 257 includes the feed system cover 600, which houses the drive components of the tray feed system 257. The drive components include the tray feed drive system 258, drive shaft 259, and aligned gear / wheel 260. As shown in Figures 63A, 63B, and 64D, the tray feed drive system Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 191 / 304 35 / 45 285 is coupled to and operatively rotates the drive shaft 259. The aligned gears 260 are mounted on the drive shaft 259. The tray feed system 257 controls the tray alignment by components that project through corresponding tray feed slots 624 in the flat feeder cover 255 and interact with the rear surface of the tray 43. As the wheels are aligned, the components align the tray downwards.

[0238] The tray feed drive system 258, in some embodiments, includes an electric motor and a drive. In some embodiments, the electric motor is a servo motor. In some embodiments, the tray feed drive system 258 includes an integrated encoder.

[0239] Figure 65A shows a partial cutaway view of another embodiment of a planting shoe mechanism 263. Figures 65B to 65D show various views of the shoe mechanism 263 combined with the funnel assembly 268. The shoe mechanism 263 is used to prepare the soil, and to receive the forcefully ejected plant and the plant clod 185. This embodiment uses a single shoe drive system 265. This single shoe drive system 265 electrically interconnects the various elements of the planting shoe mechanism 263 that prepares the soil for the plant clod 185. Due to the fact that there is a shoe drive system 265 connected to this shoe mechanism 263, the mechanical components can be controlled more precisely and more quickly.The shoe drive system 265 is electronically interconnected to one or more controllers which are interconnected to other controllers that control the other elements of the dispensing unit 237 to eject the plant clod 185 with speed and precision.

[0240] The 265 shoe drive system, in some embodiments, includes an electric motor and a drive. In some embodiments, the electric motor is a servo motor. In some embodiments, the 265 shoe drive system includes an integrated encoder.

[0241] As previously revealed above, the shoe mechanism includes ski 198 and shoe 200. Ski 198, shoe 200 and funnel 264 are mounted on a shoe frame 650. The shoe frame 650 is Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 192 / 304 36 / 45 located in relation to the ejector assemblies 243, so that each ejected plant clod is directly received by the funnel 264. In some embodiments, the shoe frame 650 is directly coupled to the dispensing unit frame 542. In other embodiments, the shoe frame 650 is coupled to the dispensing unit frame 542 by means of at least one intermediate frame / element. As previously disclosed in the present invention, the ski 198 passes over the soil surface and softens it in preparation for planting. The shoe 200 includes a front portion that plows a narrow furrow in the soil, and a rear portion that includes two vertically inclined plates with a gap between them. The plates run through the furrow plowed by the front portion of the shoe 200 and also receive the plant clod 185 from the funnel 264.

[0242] Figure 65A shows a kicker assembly 652 comprising an arm 654 and a hammer 656. The kicker assembly 652 is operated by the shoe drive system 265. The kicker assembly 652 is movably coupled to the shoe frame 650 and operatively controlled by the shoe drive system 265 to move forward and backward (relative to the tractor's movement, i.e., forward is the direction of the tractor's travel). In operation, the plant clod 185 is forcefully ejected from an ejector 267 and moves downward through the funnel 264 and is guided downward into the furrow by the rear portion of the shoe 200.The shoe drive system 265 moves the hammer 656 from the front position to the rear position, whereby the hammer 656 contacts the plant clod 185 and pushes the plant clod 185 backward, then ejecting the plant clod 185 through the rear end of the shoe 200 and into the furrow as the dispensing unit moves forward. The shoe drive system 265 then rapidly moves the kicker assembly 652 so that the hammer 656 is moved to the front position to ensure that the hammer 656 is in position to plant the next plant clod 185, before the next plant clod 185 is ejected.

[0243] Figure 66A shows a perspective view of funnel assembly 268. Funnel assembly 268 has a funnel 264. The mounting structure for the other components is also included. Funnel 2647 has an inlet 270 to receive the ejected plant clods 185 (not shown) and Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 193 / 304 37 / 45 an outlet 271 to direct the ejected plant clods 185 to the ground. Figures 66B and 66C show elevation views of the funnel assembly 268.

[0244] The funnel 264 comprises an upper perimeter 660 which has an elongated (oval) shape, transitioning into a lower perimeter 662 which has a circular shape, as shown in Figure 66A. The oval shape of the upper perimeter 660 is oriented so that the long geometric axis of the oval shape is generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the plant dispensing unit 237 to allow the plant lumps 185 ejected from each side of the plant dispensing unit 237 to enter the inlet 270. The lower perimeter 662 of the funnel is coupled to a vertically oriented tube 664. A guide flap 667 is coupled to and extends downward from a front side 668 of the tube 664 (where the front side 668 is the side in the direction of travel). Tube 664 is coupled to a support 669 for mounting on the shoe frame 650, as shown in Figure 65B. The guide tab 667 is angled from the vertical towards the support 669, as shown in Figure 66B.

[0245] In operation, the plant clod 185 is forcefully ejected from the ejector over the top of the funnel, through which the plant clod enters the funnel and subsequently the tube, and exits through a lower end of the tube. The guide flap guides the plant clod downwards so that, when the plant clod enters the soil below, it is located in the proper position in relation to the hammer of the shoe mechanism, so that the hammer can push the plant clod into the furrow.

[0246] Because electric controls and motors are used and electronically interconnect many of the elements comprising the dispensing unit 237, flat feeder 251 and shoe mechanism 263, these elements can be electronically optimized in relation to other embodiments of similar mechanical devices for planting clods in the ground. Electronic controls and interconnectivity are used for many of the disclosed elements in order to enhance the function and speed of planting.

[0247] Because of the precision and speed of these revealed modalities, the hopper 264 was optimized in location and model to help the plant clods 185 be forcefully ejected into the ground. The elements Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 194 / 304 The revealed 38 / 45 features can increase the speed and accuracy of ejecting plant clods 185 into the ground, and the hopper 264 could thus be reduced in size, shortening the displacement time of the plant clods 185 as accuracy is increased. In other words, due to the fact that the other elements of this device have been optimized with controllers, interconnectivity, and electronics and coordinated in their operation, the hopper 264 could be optimized, and this also increases the accuracy and speed at which the plant clods 185 could be planted. Not only is the ejection time reduced, but accuracy is also increased.

[0248] This increase in speed, precision and automation of the improved modalities intensifies planting efficiency, helping to make mechanical transplanter more effective and economical.

[0249] Figure 67 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for dispensing plants.

[0250] In step 6710, (a) move a set of ejectors from a plant dispensing unit to a plant clod engagement position, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and further configured to retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, wherein each ejector further comprises a release assembly configured to lock, load, and release the ejector release mechanism,

[0251] In step 6720, (b) move the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod in the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork, whereby engaging each plant clod in the ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism,

[0252] In step 6730, (c) move the ejector assembly to a plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to a plant dispensing unit hopper,

[0253] In step 6740, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the release mechanism Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 195 / 304 The 39 / 45 ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to a shoe on the plant dispensing unit, whereby the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting in the soil.

[0254] In step 6750, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to position the second unpositioned ejector close to the funnel, causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally to the soil.

[0255] In step 6760, (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

[0256] With reference to Figure 68 below, a schematic diagram of the 6800 control systems for the plant dispensing unit is shown.

[0257] The 6805 control system includes at least one processor, non-transient memory, and code. The 6805 control system is connected to a 6835 user interface.

[0258] The control system 6800 is operatively coupled to the shoe drive system 6810, tray feed drive system 6815, first ejector drive system 6820 and second ejector drive system 6825. The control system 6800 coordinates the timing and other aspects of the drive systems 6810, 6815, 6820 and 6825 to synchronize the different planting unit mechanisms for dispensing and planting the plant clods 185. The control system 6800 also coordinates the first ejector drive system 6810 with the second ejector drive system 6820 so that they alternate ejecting the plant clods 185 into the hopper 264 and avoid ejecting plant clods 185 into the hopper simultaneously.

[0259] The optional 6830 sensor is coupled to the control system to send information related to whether a plant clod 185 is engaged in an ejector fork 92, as described above. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 196 / 304 40 / 45

[0260] Because these electric controls and motors are used and electronically interconnect many of the elements comprising the dispensing unit 237, flat feeder 251 and shoe mechanism 263, these elements can be electronically optimized based on other embodiments of similar mechanical devices for planting clods in the ground. Electronic controls and interconnectivity are used for many of the disclosed elements in order to enhance the function and speed of planting.

[0261] Additional aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0262] Clause 1. A plant dispensing unit for planting plants comprising: a frame including a release bar; an ejector assembly coupled to the frame, wherein the ejector assembly comprises: an ejector assembly compartment; an ejector assembly mounted in the ejector assembly compartment in a row, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, and a release assembly configured to load, lock, and release the ejector release mechanism;and an ejector drive system configured to translate the ejector assembly horizontally and vertically between a plant clod engagement position and a plant clod ejection position and to align the ejector assembly to eject each engaged plant clod into a hopper; a hopper assembly spaced relative to the frame and including a hopper configured to receive an ejected plant clod and direct it to a shoe; a shoe assembly spaced relative to the frame, wherein the shoe assembly comprises: the shoe configured to receive the plant clod ejected from the hopper and position the plant clod for planting; a shoe mechanism configured to plant the positioned plant clod in the soil; and a shoe drive system configured to operatively control the shoe mechanism to plant the plant clod in the soil; and a control system coupled to the ejector drive system and to the; Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 197 / 304 41 / 45 shoe drive system, for operationally coordinating actions of the plant dispensing unit, wherein the plant dispensing unit is configured to perform the following actions: (a) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod engagement position, (b) move the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod in the row of plant clods on the corresponding ejector fork, whereby the engagement of each plant clod on the corresponding ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, (c) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to the hopper, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, thus,(e) For a second, unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly so that the second unpositioned ejector is positioned close to the funnel, causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby tilting the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector forces the plant clod into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally into the soil, and (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

[0263] Clause 2. The plant dispensing unit of the clause, wherein the shoe mechanism further comprises: a kicker arm having a movable end coupled to the frame and a free end having a hammer, wherein the hammer is configured to move between forward and backward positions, wherein, when the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting, the hammer is moved backward to make contact with the plant clod with the hammer, thereby planting the plant clod in the soil.

[0264] Clause 3. The plant dispensing unit of clause 2, wherein the shoe drive system is configured to operate the kicker arm so that the hammer moves forward at a faster rate than the hammer moves backward. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 198 / 304 42 / 45

[0265] Clause 4. The plant dispensing unit of clause 1, which further comprises a sensor coupled to the frame and configured to verify that the ejector has engaged the plant clod, and wherein the plant dispensing unit is further configured to: for each ejector positioned close to the hopper, but before ejecting, determine, using the sensor, whether the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod; and during steps (d) and (e), release the ejector mechanism only upon determination that the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod.

[0266] Clause 5. The dispensing plant unit of clause 4, wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor and the dispensing plant unit further comprises an infrared laser.

[0267] Clause 6. The dispensing unit of the plant of clause 1, wherein the funnel further comprises an upper perimeter which has an oval shape and a lower perimeter which has a circular shape, and the funnel which further comprises a tube coupled to the lower perimeter.

[0268] Clause 7. The dispensing unit of the plant in clause 6, wherein the funnel further comprises a guide flap extending downward from a front side of a lower end of the tube.

[0269] Clause 8. The plant dispensing unit of clause 1, which further comprises a flat feeder coupled to the frame and configured to align the plant clod tray for the engagement of each row of plant clods in the tray.

[0270] Clause 9. The plant dispensing unit of clause 8, wherein the flat feeder comprises a tray feeding system comprising: drive components configured to align the plant clod tray; and a tray feeding drive system configured to operate the drive components, wherein the tray feeding drive system is coupled to the control system.

[0271] Clause 10. The plant dispensing unit of clause 8, wherein the flat feeder additionally comprises a braking system configured to decelerate a downward displacement rate of a loaded tray in the flat feeder.

[0272] Clause 11. The plant dispensing unit of the clause Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 199 / 304 43 / 45 1, wherein the ejector drive system and the shoe drive system each comprise an electric motor and an actuator.

[0273] Clause 12. The plant dispensing unit of clause 1, wherein the locked release assembly is released by the release bar that engages the release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the hopper, whereby the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released.

[0274] Clause 13. A method for dispensing plants, comprising the steps of: (a) moving an ejector assembly of a plant dispensing unit to a plant clod engagement position, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and further configured to retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, wherein each ejector further comprises a release assembly configured to lock, load and release the ejector release mechanism; (b) moving the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod from the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork,(a) whereby the engagement of each plant clod in the ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, (c) move the ejector assembly to a plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to a hopper of the plant dispensing unit, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, thereby sending the ejected plant clod through the hopper to a shoe of the plant dispensing unit, whereby the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting in the soil, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to position the second unpositioned ejector close to the hopper,causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 200 / 304 44 / 45 in this way, sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally to the soil (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

[0275] Clause 14. The method for dispensing plants of clause 13, which further comprises the step of: for each plant clod positioned on the shoe, operating a kicker arm of the plant dispensing unit to push the plant clod backward, whereby the plant clod is planted in the soil.

[0276] Clause 15. The method for dispensing plants from clause 14, which further comprises the step of: after operating the kicker arm to push the plant clod backward, moving the kicker arm forward to reset the position of the kicker arm.

[0277] Clause 16. The method for dispensing plants in clause 13, which further comprises the steps of: for each ejector positioned near the hopper, before ejecting, determining, using a sensor on the plant dispensing unit, whether the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod; and during steps (d) and (e), releasing the ejector mechanism only upon determining that the positioned ejector has engaged the plant clod.

[0278] Clause 17. The method for dispensing plants of clause 16, wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor and the plant dispensing unit additionally comprises an infrared laser.

[0279] Clause 18. The method for dispensing plants in clause 13, which further comprises the step of: when all plant clumps in a row have been engaged by ejectors, operating a tray feeding system of the plant dispensing unit to align the next row for engagement.

[0280] Clause 19. The plant dispensing unit of clause 1, wherein the actuation of the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism further comprises a locked release assembly which is released by a release bar that engages the release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the hopper, whereby the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released.

[0281] Although the invention disclosed in the present invention has been described by means of specific embodiments, examples and applications thereof, Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 201 / 304 45 / 45 Numerous modifications and variations could be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pages 202 / 304

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Plant dispensing unit for planting plants, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: a frame including a release bar; an ejector assembly coupled to the frame, the ejector assembly comprising: an ejector mounting compartment; an array of ejectors mounted in the ejector mounting compartment in a row, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and retains the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, and a release assembly configured to load,to lock and release the ejector release mechanism; and an ejector drive system configured to translate the ejector assembly horizontally and vertically between a plant clod engagement position and a plant clod ejection position and to align the ejector assembly to eject each engaged plant clod into a hopper; a hopper assembly spaced relative to the frame and including a hopper configured to receive an ejected plant clod and direct it to a shoe; a shoe assembly spaced relative to the frame,The shoe assembly comprises: a shoe configured to receive the plant clod ejected from the hopper and position the plant clod for planting; a shoe mechanism configured to plant the positioned plant clod in the soil; and a shoe drive system configured to operationally control the shoe mechanism to plant the plant clod in the soil; and a control system coupled to the ejector drive system and the shoe drive system, to operationally coordinate actions of the plant dispensing unit, wherein the plant dispensing unit is configured to perform the following actions: (a) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod engagement position, (b) move the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod in the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork,(a) whereby the engagement of each plant clod in the corresponding ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, (c) move the ejector assembly to the plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to the hopper, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, whereby the ejected plant clod is sent through the hopper to the planting position of the shoe and finally into the soil, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to position the second unpositioned ejector close to the hopper, causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector,whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thereby sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally into the soil, and (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

2. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the shoe mechanism further comprises: a kicker arm having one end movably coupled to the frame and a free end having a hammer, wherein the hammer is configured to move between forward and backward positions, wherein when the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting, the hammer is moved backward to make contact with the plant clod with the hammer, thereby planting the plant clod in the soil.

3. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 300 / 304 3 / 6 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the shoe drive system is configured to operate the kicker arm so that the hammer moves forward at a faster rate than the hammer moves backward.

4. Plant dispensing unit according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises at least one of a sensor and a camera coupled to the frame and configured to verify whether a plant clod is engaged with a positioned ejector, wherein the plant dispensing unit is further configured to plant each plant clod at a coordinated time and wherein steps (d) and (e) further comprise: before releasing each release assembly, determining whether a plant clod is engaged with the positioned ejector, and upon determining that a plant clod is not engaged with the positioned ejector, aligning the ejectors until at least one of the sensor and camera determines that a plant clod is engaged with the positioned ejector, wherein the alignment is performed at a speed such that the plant clod is planted at the coordinated time.

5. Plant dispensing unit according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED in that the sensor is an infrared sensor and the plant dispensing unit further comprises an infrared laser.

6. Plant dispensing unit according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the funnel additionally comprises a tube attached to the lower perimeter.

7. Plant dispensing unit according to claim 6, CHARACTERIZED in that the funnel further comprises a guide flap extending downward from a front side of a lower end of the tube.

8. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises a flat feeder coupled to the frame and configured to align the plant clod tray for the engagement of each row of plant clods in the tray.

9. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the flat feeder comprises a Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 301 / 304 4 / 6 tray feeding system comprising: drive components configured to align the plant clod tray; and a tray feeding drive system configured to operate the drive components, wherein the tray feeding drive system is coupled to the control system.

10. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the flat feeder further comprises a brake system configured to decelerate the downward displacement rate of a loaded tray in the flat feeder.

11. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the ejector drive system and the shoe drive system each comprise an electric motor and an actuator.

12. Plant dispensing unit, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the locked release assembly is released by the release bar that engages the release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the hopper, whereby the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released.

13. Method for dispensing plants, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the steps of: (a) moving an ejector assembly of a plant dispensing unit to a plant clod engagement position, wherein each ejector has a fork configured to engage a plant clod from a row of plant clods in a tray having a plurality of rows, and further configured to retain the engaged plant clod in the fork, wherein each ejector has an ejector release mechanism with tilting means configured to forcefully eject the engaged plant clod, each ejector further comprises a release assembly configured to lock, load and release the ejector release mechanism; (b) moving the ejector assembly to engage each plant clod from the row of plant clods in the corresponding ejector fork,through which the engagement of each plant clod in the ejector loads and locks the ejector release mechanism, Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page. 302 / 304 5 / 6 (c) move the ejector assembly to a plant clod ejection position, whereby a first ejector is positioned close to a hopper of the plant dispensing unit, (d) in response to the movement of the ejector assembly, cause the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the hopper, thereby sending the ejected plant clod through the hopper to a shoe of the plant dispensing unit, whereby the plant clod is positioned on the shoe for planting in the soil, (e) for a second unpositioned ejector, align the ejector assembly to position the second unpositioned ejector close to the hopper,causing the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector, whereby the tilting of the ejector release mechanism of the second ejector causes the plant clod to be forcefully ejected into the funnel, thus sending the ejected plant clod through the funnel to the planting position of the shoe and finally to the soil (f) repeat step (e) until all plant clods have been ejected.

14. Method for dispensing plants, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises the steps of: for each plant clod positioned in the shoe, operating a kicker arm of the plant dispensing unit to push the plant clod backward, whereby the plant clod is planted in the soil.

15. Method for dispensing plants, according to claim 14, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises the steps of: after operating the kicker arm to push the plant clod backward, moving the kicker arm forward to reset the kicker arm position.

16. Method for dispensing plants, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the plant dispensing unit further comprises at least one of a sensor and a Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page.303 / 304 6 / 6 camera configured to verify whether a plant clod is engaged with a positioned ejector, and wherein the plant dispensing unit is additionally configured to plant each plant clod at a coordinated time, wherein steps (d) and (e) each additionally comprise: before releasing each release assembly, determining, using at least one of a sensor and a camera of the plant dispensing unit, whether a plant clod is engaged with the positioned ejector; and upon determining that a plant clod is not engaged with the positioned ejector, aligning the ejectors until at least one of the sensor and the camera determines that a plant clod is engaged with the positioned ejector, wherein the alignment is performed at a speed such that the plant clod is planted at the coordinated time.

17. A method for dispensing plants, according to claim 16, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the sensor and camera includes an infrared sensor and the plant dispensing unit further comprises an infrared laser.

18. A method for dispensing plants, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises the step of: when all the plant clumps in a row have been engaged by the ejectors, operating a tray feeding system of the plant dispensing unit to align the next row for engagement.

19. Method for dispensing plants, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the actuation of the release assembly to release the ejector release mechanism further comprises a locked release assembly that is released by a release bar that engages the release assembly when the ejector is positioned close to the hopper, whereby the tilting means of the ejector mechanism are released. Petition 870250085405, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 304 / 304

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