Seed treatment device with improved fluid application

Abstract

A seed treater provides enhanced seed coating capabilities and performance. The seed and/or treatment fluid may be heated for improving vaporization and absorption by the seed. Air may be injected in the seed treater to provide heat, dehumidified air, and to provide vaporization enhancement, and component cleaning functions. The functions may be controlled by a control processor based on recipes and may be changed dependent upon sensed or input environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 624,668, filed Apr. 16, 2012, entitled SEED TREATER WITH IMPROVED FLUID APPLICATION MEANS, said application being hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for surface treatment of seeds. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device for surface treatment of seeds having an improved fluid application means.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Seeds that are planted for agricultural and other purposes are often treated prior to planting. The treatments may accomplish many different purposes including deterrence or prevention of insect and other anima pests that would target sown or newly germinated seed for attack. These animals may directly cause damage to the seed or may introduce one or more pathogens, including viruses, directly into the seed. Treatments may also target bacteria, molds and fungus...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015]A further feature and advantage of embodiments of the present invention is a cleaner fluid treatment bowl and centrifugal plate. Due to the enhanced dispersion of the warmed fluid, the increased absorption of the fluid by the seeds, and the air-scrubbing of the components, such as the spinning centrifugal plate, a greater percentage of fluid remains with the seeds. There is therefore less buildup of leftover fluid within the treatment area, resulting in cleaner post-treatment equipment.

[0016]Another feature and advantage of embodiments of the present invention is a reduced amount of time to treat a batch of seeds. Increased dispersal of treatment fluid and absorption of fluid by the seeds means that the seeds need to spend less time

Problems solved by technology

These animals may directly cause damage to the seed or may introduce one or more pathogens, including viruses, directly into the seed.

Also, post-planting application may not penetrate the soil to a level or location where it would be effective.

Treatment of seeds, however, involves applications of chemicals and other agents that are expensive and may even be toxic to the seeds on

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