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

The invention is a treatment apparatus for seeds that can treat them continuously or in batches. The treatment fluid is delivered onto the seeds through an atomizer wheel and is increased in absorption and adhesion with the seed being treated. The apparatus can enhance the vaporization of the treatment fluid and also add heat to the seed. Conditioned air, including dehumidified air, can be provided to the seeds to enhance the vaporization of the treatment fluid. The treatment fluid temperature can be altered. Heated air can be directed at the centrifugal plate with an air delivery duct, and the fluid can also be preheated before application to the seeds. The technical effect of the invention is to provide a more effective treatment for seeds through improved absorption, adhesion, and vaporization of the treatment fluid.

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 which they are applied.

These situations include the use of rare or expensive seed, the use of older seed or seed with low germination rates, the use of seed known to be contaminated or infested, the use of seed known to have been produced in conditions likely to lead to contamination or infestation, and the use of seed in fields known to be prone to contamination or infestation.

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