Seed orientation system for an agricultural planter

Abstract

A seed orientation system for an agricultural planter includes a seed delivery tube that moves seeds from a seed collector through a curved passageway in a seed orientation disk tube assembly. The seed orientation disk tube assembly receives randomly oriented seeds from a planter seed meter, orients the seeds with the pointed end down with the embryo facing the adjacent seed row, and places the seeds into the soil in the orientation. The seed orientation system can be retrofitted onto an existing planter row unit, replacing an existing seed tube.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of the patent application entitled "SEED ORIENTATION SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANTERS," having an international filing date of May 8, 2020, an international application number of PCT / US2020 / 032185, and a national application number of 202080050215.8.

[0002] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 885,965, filed August 13, 2019, entitled "SEED ORIENTATION SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANTERS," and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 845,093, filed May 8, 2019, entitled "SEED ORIENTATION SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANTERS," which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention relates to a planting device for agricultural row crop planters, and more particularly to a seed orientation system for placing seeds in the soil in an optimized growth orientation. BACKGROUND

[0005] Agricultural row crop planters typically include a seed hopper connected to a seed metering system that delivers seeds into a furrow formed by a disk opener blade. Row crop planters are typically installed in parallel along a toolbar attached to a tractor. There are typically multiple planting or row units arranged along the toolbar. For example, it is common to attach 24 row units to a single tractor. Seeds are spaced apart underground by the metering system and seed tube. The metering system precisely separates bulk seeds before they are dropped into the ground, typically into a furrow cut by the opener blade. A typical row unit delivers seeds into the furrow without any attempt to maintain the orientation of the seeds or to control the bounce or roll of the seeds.

[0006] In an effort to optimize field production, there have been efforts to change the delivery of seeds. The standard method of seed delivery is a gravity drop system whereby the seed tube has an inlet below the seed metering system. The separated seeds then drop from the metering system, down the seed tube, and into a trench (furrow) prepared by an opener blade arranged in front of the seed tube. This method can cause problems with seed placement, seed spacing, and the relative speed of the seeds as they hit the ground.

[0007] Prior art methods for seed delivery improvement have focused on seed conveyors, such as US 8,789,482 “Seeding Machine with Seed Delivery System.” Seed conveyors can include a brush belt that transports seed from a seed metering system to the ground. This method moves seed down to a discharge point closer to the ground and can accelerate seed in a rearward direction, eliminating much of the rolling of seed in the trench (furrow). However, these types of methods do not orient the seed.

[0008] Many mechanical systems have attempted to better optimize seed placement. U.S. Patent Publication 2019 / 0230846 “Systems, Implements, and Methods For Seed Orientation With Adjustable Singulators During Planting” describes a seed disk with a vision system for determining seed orientation. The orientation mechanism is a disk that physically places each seed in a mechanical singulator, which then positions the seed for ground delivery through a plurality of orientation rails. Operation of the orientation rails is controlled by the vision system. The mechanical aspects of how the seed is oriented are not included in this disclosure. Furthermore, the combination of a mechanical system with a vision system arranged close to the ground is expensive and prone to failure.

[0009] Recent research has demonstrated the importance of orienting seed for increased crop yield. “The Effects of Planting Techniques on Maize Grain Yield and Silage Production” by T. Kaufman, Illinois State University, September 12, 2013, demonstrates that optimal seed placement can increase yield in a given field by 14-19%. Optimal seed placement includes directing seed to the ground in a consistent location, as ideally, yield potential is greatest when all seeds germinate from the soil within a given time frame. When some plants germinate earlier or later than the majority of the crop, yield can be greatly reduced.

[0010] Optimizing seed orientation, with the tip down and the embryo facing the adjacent row during planting, results in faster and more uniform emergence, increased light interception, and faster canopy closure, resulting in reduced weed pressure. When the tip of the seed is pointing down toward the ground, the root and coleoptile do not waste time and energy to wrap around the seed. As a result, the crop has faster and more uniform emergence and greater plant growth uniformity.

[0011] There are further production advantages when the embryo of the seed is oriented toward the next row. The leaf structure of a corn plant is aligned with the embryo / embryo direction. When the embryo is facing the next row, the leaves are oriented between the rows, rather than over the adjacent plants in the same row. With the optimized leaf structure, the plant has greater light interception. In addition, the optimized leaf structure provides faster canopy closure, which maintains moisture and reduces weed pressure.

[0012] All of these factors contribute to increased yield for the producer, but current seed planters do not have the ability to economically and effectively orient the seed. This technology has been sought since the beginning of modern agriculture. Although previous attempts have been made to geometrically orient the seed, none have been successful. Therefore, there is a need for a seed orientation system that economically and effectively places the seed tip down and the embryo facing the next row in the furrow. SUMMARY

[0013] The present invention includes a novel seed orientation system that generally consists of a geometrically optimized orientation device, where air flow is used to orient the seed. Air flow parallel to the seed direction through the spiral passage creates a centrifugal force to maintain the seed's stability and position throughout transport. Air flow parallel to the seed direction within the spiral passage also serves to orient the seed with the tip first. The lateral component of the air flow of the seed direction helps to position the seed against the spiral passage. A novel capture / enclosure system is included to maintain seed orientation when presented to the ground.

[0014] The entire system is intended to be installed into the existing row unit on an existing agricultural planter between the existing furrow opener and row closer. The system can receive seed from the existing planter divider meter in any orientation, orient the seed with the tip down, face the embryo to the entire row, and then eject / seed the seed into the ground in the orientation. The oriented seed sees better root growth and earlier / more uniform emergence. In addition, the corn leaves are oriented when the seed is planted with the embryo facing the adjacent row. This maximizes sunlight and the crop achieves canopy more quickly, which optimizes weed control and moisture retention.

[0015] The components and terminology of the present invention relate to corn kernels. While corn is the seed type presented, this benefit is not limited to corn. Generally, corn fields are optimized in yield when the corn seed tips are down and the embryo faces the adjacent row. The same benefit applies to other crop types. It is envisioned that the present invention can improve production and yield of a variety of crops where seed orientation is important.

[0016] The present invention is a seed orientation system for an agricultural seeding machine, the seed orientation system comprising: a seed collector for receiving seeds from the agricultural seeding machine; a seed delivery tube operably connected at a first end to the seed collector; a seed orientation disk tube assembly connected to a second end of the seed delivery tube, the seed orientation disk tube assembly defining a spiral passageway from a seed entry hole to an oriented seed exit hole; and a subfurrow opener disposed adjacent the oriented seed exit hole, said subfurrow opener including a wedge to cut a furrow within a seeding machine furrow.

[0017] The agricultural seeding machine can be a row seeder attached to a tractor in various ways. A typical corn row seeder includes a seed hopper for containing bulk seed. The seed hopper includes an opening for directing seed to a seed meter. Delivery of the seed can generally be by a vacuum method, but other delivery methods are envisioned. The seed meter then attempts to separate and space apart the seeds for delivery to the ground. The metered seeds then flow into a seed tube that transports the seeds into a furrow. It is envisioned that if a meter is not needed, the seeds can come directly from the seed hopper. One or more closing wheels then close the furrow around the seeds. The seeds fall from the seed tube into the furrow in a random orientation in an uncontrolled manner.

[0018] To improve seed orientation, the present invention connects a seed orientation system to an existing seed tube. The seed orientation system includes a seed orientation support structure that includes one or more connection flanges for connection to an agricultural seeding machine. The seed orientation support structure further includes support connections for a seed collector and a seed orientation disk tube assembly. The seed orientation support structure can include a mounting assembly for a subfurrow opener. The seed orientation support structure also prevents soil and debris from the opener wheel from entering the furrow back to the location of the inserted seed.

[0019] In another embodiment, the existing seed tube can be replaced in its entirety by a seed collector and seed delivery tube. The seed path of the seed collector and seed delivery tube will reduce the variation in seed orientation and tumbling imparted by the use of the existing seed tube. A seed orientation support structure will optionally provide support for the seed collector. The seed orientation support structure will include one or more connection flanges to connect to an agricultural seeding machine. The seed collector and seed delivery tube can be connected at a first end to a row unit handle located at the seed meter outlet and at a second end to a seed orientation disk tube assembly. The seed orientation support structure can further include support connections for the seed collector and seed orientation disk tube assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, the seed orientation system can include an air supply system. The air supply system can be independent or connected to the air system of the row unit, the seeding machine frame, or the tractor. The air system can include connections to provide air flow to the seed orientation disk tube assembly. When using the existing seed tube, the air system can also provide air to the seed collector and seed delivery tube. In embodiments where the seed tube is replaced with a more efficient seed path, the air system can further provide air to the seed collector. The feed path can be a dedicated air feed line that does not contact the injector core, or can come from the injector core acting as a manifold.

[0021] The seed is then transported from the seed delivery tube to the seed orientation disk tube. The spiral path of the seed orientation disk tube assembly is disposed within an outer disk tube that includes a central bore in which an injector core is disposed. The path can also be curved in shape. The injector core is a cylindrical structure that defines an open central region. At a first end, the injector core is operably connected to an air inlet line. The air feed is branched into two paths at the top of the injector core. The first path is to the seed collector and the second path is to the injector core that feeds the nozzles. At a second end, the injector core is closed by an end wall. In alternative embodiments, the second end of the injector core can contain some exhaust ports. The air inlet feed is operably connected to the first end of the injector core that includes an injector exhaust system disposed through the outer wall of the injector core. The injector exhaust system includes a plurality of exhaust holes or nozzles. The air flow from the nozzles impinges on the seed at an angle of about 45 degrees, having both parallel and perpendicular components on the seed. The exhaust holes in the first embodiment are circular, but can have various shapes, placements, and angles around the injector core.

[0022] The outer tube includes an outer venting system disposed around the outer wall of the outer tube. The spiral passageway of the outer tube includes a seed ride surface that intersects with a seed guide wall, the spiral passageway further including a seed exit path. The seed ride surface is profiled radially outwardly angled to direct seed to the intersection region of the seed guide wall abutting the seed ride surface. Alternative embodiments of the path profile can be circular or curved to position the seed in the center of the curve. The spiral passageway in the first embodiment includes at least three turns, but embodiments with less or more than three turns are contemplated. Alternative embodiments can use a passageway that is not a spiral shape but a combination of curved, radial, or radial shapes, or any passageway that can implement a centrifugal force on the seed. Alternatively, the air jet pattern and the shape of the seed path can be curved instead of using a spiral pattern. The jet follows the curvature of the path along the curved path can be single or multiple. The venting outer tube preferably uses a smooth surface to slide the seed and maintain stability and orientation, preventing rotation and / or tumbling.

[0023] The venting outer tube spiral passageway includes a seed entry hole at a first end and a seed exit path at a second end. A series of nozzles direct air flow from the jet core laterally through the passageway and out of the venting ports on the outer wall of the outer tube.

[0024] With respect to seed positioning, the seed has two flat sides, one of which has a germ on the side. Thus, the germ will point vertically from one of the flat sides on the seed. Since the seed rides along the seed path with one of the flat sides and is ejected into the ground with the flat surfaces parallel to the planting row, the germ will always face vertically to the area between the rows, not to another seed in its current row. Such a benefit is that the germinated corn plant lines up its leaf structure in the row instead of overlapping with the adjacent plant.

[0025] The exit path from the spiral passageway includes a curved shape that continues the seed ride surface to the ground. The seed combines the velocity from the spiral path with the centrifugal force of the curved exit path to ride the curved exit path without changing its pointed end downward orientation.

[0026] The seed furrow opener is located below and in front of the exit path with respect to the direction of travel. The seed furrow opener has a slice wedge shape to form the soil to pinch / wedge the seed and maintain its orientation. It is contemplated in the first embodiment that the seed has enough downward velocity to be propelled into the seed furrow. Thus, the seed is held in the subsoil in an interference fit. It is contemplated that the shape of the wedge can be changed to also provide an interference fit. Alternative embodiments can use a closing wheel, disc, or blade positioned close to the seed to help capture the seed instead of relying entirely on an interference fit or wedge.

[0027] The profile of the sub furrow boot needs to taper down to allow capture of seeds of various sizes. The profile must also have an extended bottom to prevent the seed tip from hitting the bottom of the sub furrow and bouncing back before wedge / cone lock. The angle of the exit path from the tube helps to reduce the seed / ground speed increment. Preferably, at a typical 5 mph seeding speed and a likely to be 5 mph horizontal speed increment, the seed speed should be reduced to about 2 mph. At a slower 3 mph seeding speed, the seed will fall completely into the sub furrow; however, this speed depends on the horizontal component of the actual exit speed of the seed and will vary depending on the air availability of the entire system.

[0028] The invention is a seed orientation system for positioning a seed in a furrow, the seed orientation system comprising: a seed orientation tube arranged to receive a seed from a planter, the seed orientation tube comprising a curved seed path; and a pressurized air system for directing a parallel air flow parallel to the curved path. Further, the parallel air flow directs the seed in a seed tip down orientation on a flat side of the seed and pushes the seed down along the curved path to a seed exit path. The curved path can have a spiral shape and the curved seed path can comprise a seed guide wall and a seed ride surface. The pressurized air system comprises can comprise a plurality of nozzles to direct a radial air flow through the curved path and out a series of exhaust ports.

[0029] The invention is a seed orientation system for delivering an oriented seed to a furrow, the seed orientation system comprising: a seed delivery assembly for receiving the seed from an agricultural planting machine and providing access for the seed to a seed orientation tube assembly; a seed orientation tube assembly connected to the seed delivery assembly, the seed orientation tube assembly defining a curved passageway for the seed from a seed entry hole to a seed exit hole; and a sub furrow boot arranged adjacent to the seed exit hole, the sub furrow boot comprising a wedge to cut a furrow under a planter furrow. The seed delivery assembly can comprise a seed collector or a seed delivery tube or other connecting means. The seed delivery assembly further comprises a seed receiving hole and an air line connection to provide air to the seed delivery assembly.

[0030] The invention further includes a method of seeding oriented seeds using a seed planter, the method comprising: positioning a seed orienting system on the seed planter, the seed orienting system operably positioned to receive seeds from the seed planter; connecting a high flow pressurized air line to the system, to a seed orienting disc tube assembly; connecting a seed collector air line from the seed orienting disc tube to a seed collector; advancing the seeds from the seed collector through a seed delivery tube to the seed orienting disc tube assembly; feeding the seeds into an exhaust outer disc tube of the seed orienting disc tube, the exhaust outer disc tube defining a helical passageway to a seed exit path, the exhaust outer disc tube comprising a plurality of exhaust ports radially disposed about an outer wall of the exhaust outer disc tube; injecting pressurized air into an injector core of the seed orienting disc tube, the injector core comprising a plurality of air injectors radially disposed about an outer wall of the injector core; orienting the seeds into position as air flows over the seeds, the seeds subjected to centrifugal forces as they are advanced through the helical passageway; maintaining the seeds in a point down orientation within the helical passageway; directing the seeds to the seed exit path; and inscribing a subfurrow within a main furrow, the subfurrow for capturing or wedging the seeds to maintain their orientation and / or position.

[0031] The method further includes maintaining a flow of air through the injector core and the exhaust outer disc tube to push the seeds up along the seed ride surface to the seed guide wall with the help of centrifugal forces induced on the seeds as they travel their curved / helical passageway. The exhaust outer disc tube includes a seed ride surface and a seed guide wall. The seed ride surface is angled radially outward to where it intersects the seed guide wall. The air injectors of the injector core can be radially aligned with the exhaust ports of the exhaust outer disc tube. The air flow from the injectors impinges on the seeds at an angle, creating two main (pressure) force vector components on the seeds. One component pushes parallel to the seed path and the other pushes perpendicular to the seed path. The parallel component of the air flow flows over the seed from behind, both pushing the seed forward and causing the seed to orient point forward in the flow (as the orientation has the lowest stable aerodynamic cross section (lowest drag)). The parallel air flow component also increases the speed of the seed, which makes soil capture possible. The perpendicular component of the air flow, in combination with centrifugal forces, pushes the seed into the seed ride surface and guide wall to provide the stability needed to maintain the point forward orientation.

[0032] In one embodiment, the invention is a method of seeding seeds in an oriented position by using a seed orienting disc tube assembly. The seed orienting disc tube assembly includes a curved seed path and a plurality of nozzles directed at the curved path. The method includes the steps of:

[0033] propelling the seed from a seed funnel to the seed orientation pan- coil assembly; directing the seed into an exhaust outer coil of the seed orientation pan-coil assembly defining a curved seed path to a seed exit path, the exhaust outer coil including a plurality of exhaust ports arranged radially about an outer wall of the exhaust outer coil; directing pressurized air into an injector core of the seed orientation pan-coil, the injector core including a plurality of air injector nozzles arranged radially about an outer wall of the injector core, the nozzles directed radially at the seed on the curved path; orienting the seed to the oriented position by directing a flow of air on the seed parallel to the seed path and transverse to the seed path, the seed subjected to centrifugal forces as it is propelled through the curved path; maintaining the seed in a seed point forward orientation by contact with the curved path; and directing the seed to ride down the seed exit path with a seed point down and seed flat side directed to an adjacent seed row.

[0034] The foregoing overview is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or implementation of its subject matter. The following drawings and detailed description make more particular reference to various embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] The following detailed description of various embodiments of the subject matter can be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of a seed orientation system integrated into a planter row unit.

[0037] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a seed orientation system.

[0038] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of a seed orientation system.

[0039] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a seed collector used on a first embodiment of a seed orientation system.

[0040] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a seed orientation pan-coil assembly in a first embodiment of a seed orientation system.

[0041] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of an injector core taken along section line 6A' of Figure 5

[0042] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of an exhaust outer coil taken along section line 6B' of Figure 5

[0043] Figure 7 ​​is a cross-sectional view of a seed orientation disk assembly used in a first embodiment of a seed orientation system.

[0044] Figure 8 is a rear view of a seed orientation system.

[0045] Figure 9 is a detailed view of a seed orientation system from Figure 8

[0046] Figure 10 is a side view of a planter row unit with an alternative embodiment of a seed collector.

[0047] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a seed collector.

[0048] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of an exhaust outer tube showing the position of a seed and representative centrifugal forces on the seed.

[0049] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of an exhaust outer tube showing the position of a seed and representative air forces.

[0050] While various embodiments are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed application to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the subject matter defined by the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figure 1 A row unit 10 is shown mounted with a seed orientation system 30 of the present invention. Row unit 10 is an example of a common planter unit designed for the purpose of delivering seed 28 into a furrow. Row unit 10 is typically mounted on a tool bar that is attached to a tractor or similar traction device along with other identical or similar planter row units. The row units can be in pairs, from a few units to as many as forty-eight row units.

[0052] A typical row unit 10 includes a seed hopper 12 for storing seed 28 for planting. Seed 28 is directed by means of a seed meter 13. Seed meter 13 can use a conventional vacuum disk driven by a vacuum delivery line 14. Seed meter 13 is used to space apart seed 28 at a desired interval for delivery to the ground. Seed 28 is delivered from seed meter 13 through a seed tube 22 to the ground.

[0053] ​The shank structure 16 provides structural support for the seed funnel 12, seed meter 13, and seed tube 22. The opener blade 18, gauge wheel 26, and closing wheel 20 are also attached to the shank 16. The opener blade 18 forms a trench or furrow in the soil in front of the seed tube 22. The gauge wheel 26 controls the depth of the furrow and the closing wheel 20 closes the furrow over the seed 28.

[0054] In the first embodiment, the seed orientation system 30 is mounted to the row unit 10. The seed orientation system 30 includes a seed collector 32 operably attached to the seed tube 22. The seed collector 32 collects the seed 28 and changes its direction through a seed transfer tube 36 to a seed orientation disc tube assembly 40. The seed 28 travels through a helical path of the seed orientation disc tube assembly 40 to a directed seed exit path 44. A seed furrow opener 46 forms a wedge-shaped seed furrow 151 (see FIG. 1) within the furrow 150 for capturing the directed seed 28. Figure 10

[0055] The movement of the seed 28 through the seed orientation system 30 is aided by air from a central blower / fan. The air is first directed to a system air intake 42 disposed on an upper surface of the seed orientation disc tube assembly 40. An air line 38 is then directed to the seed collector 32 for moving the seed 28 from the seed collector 32 to the seed orientation disc tube assembly 40.

[0056] The seed orientation support structure 34 provides structural support for the seed collector 32, seed transfer tube 36, seed orientation disc tube assembly 40, and seed furrow opener 46. The seed orientation support structure 34 can be connected to the shank structure 16 at one or more locations. The seed orientation support structure 34 also serves to keep debris out of the furrow and to prevent rock strikes.

[0057] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A seed orientation system 30 is depicted. The seed orientation system 30 includes a seed collector 32 that directs the seed 28 from the seed tube 22 through a seed transfer tube 36 to a seed orientation disc tube assembly 40. The seed collector 32 includes a seed inlet aperture 48 and a seed exit aperture 50. The seed inlet aperture 48 is sized to mate with the seed tube 22. An air line connection 52 is disposed adjacent the seed inlet aperture. The seed collector 32 can include various recesses or flanges for connecting to the seed orientation support structure 34, as well as pins 54 and 55.

[0058] The seed transfer tube 36 is attached at a first end to the seed exit aperture 50 and at a second end to the seed orientation disc tube 40. It is contemplated that the seed transfer tube 36 will include a mating flange 56 and retaining pin 57 for connecting to the seed orientation disc tube 40. The pin 41 retains the seed orientation disc tube assembly 40 relative to the support structure 34. ​

[0059] The seed directional pan 40 includes an injector core 58 that resides within an exhaust outer pan 60. The injector core 58 includes an air intake feed 42 at a first end and an exhaust feed 62 that provides air through the air line 38 to the air line connection 52 on the seed collector 32. The injector core 58 also includes a plurality of nozzles 64 arranged in a spiral pattern around an outer surface of the injector core 58.

[0060] The exhaust outer pan 60 defines a bore for the injector core 58. The exhaust outer pan 60 includes a seed inlet 66 that mates with the flange 56 of the seed delivery tube 36. A plurality of exhaust ports 68 are arranged around an outer surface of the exhaust outer pan 60. The exhaust ports 68 can have a variety of shapes including rectangular, circular, oval, or other random shapes. The size or shape of the exhaust ports 68 need not be uniform. At a second end of the exhaust outer pan 60, the seed outlet path 44 extends toward the ground. A seed sensor 82 can be attached to the exhaust outer pan 60 near the outlet path 44 in order to monitor seed flow.

[0061] The seed directional support structure 34 is connected to the row unit handle 16 by hooks 76 and flange mounts 78. It is contemplated that the geometry and location of this connection point can vary depending on the structure of the row unit 10. The seed directional support structure 34 supports the seed directional pan 40 by a flange 70 that extends from a second end of the exhaust outer pan 60. The flange 70 mates within a notch 72 of the seed directional support structure 34. The seed furrow opener 46 is connected to the seed directional support structure 34 by rollers 79 and 80.

[0062] Figure 4 An intersection between the seed tube 22 and the seed delivery tube 36 is depicted. The seed tube 22 is inserted through the seed inlet bore 48. The air line connection 52 is operably connected to an air vane nozzle 84 that directs air toward the seed 28. The air vane nozzle 84 propels the seed 28 into the seed delivery tube 36. The seed 28 exiting the seed tube 22 is in a random orientation with high rotational energy as it falls from the seed meter 13 without any attempt at orientation.

[0063] Figures 5 to 7 A first embodiment of the seed directional pan assembly 40 is depicted, where the random position of the seed 28 is changed to a directed tip-down position. Figure 5 An exploded view of the seed directional pan assembly 40 is shown. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the injector core 58 taken at section line 6A' in Figure 5 Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the injector core 58 taken at section line 6A' in Figure 5 ​Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the exhaust outer tube 60 taken at section line 6B' in Figure 6A. The injector core 58 is nested within the exhaust outer tube 60. The exhaust outer tube 60 is attached to the seed directional support structure 34 at the flange 70 and the mounting point 71.

[0064] The shape of the injector core 58 is generally cylindrical with an air hole 85 at the first end and a closed back end 86. A plurality of nozzles 64 are shown in a helical pattern forming an air passage between the central hole 87 of the injector core and the exhaust outer tube 60.

[0065] The shape of the exhaust outer tube 60 is generally cylindrical with an open central hole for insertion of the injector core 58. The outer wall of the exhaust outer tube 60 includes a plurality of exhaust ports 68 forming an air passage. The exhaust outer tube 60 also includes a seed inlet 66 leading to a helical passageway 90.

[0066] Figure 6B The helical passageway 90 of the exhaust outer tube 60 is shown. The helical passageway 90 includes a seed ride surface 92 that intersects with a seed guide wall 94. The seed ride surface 92 is curved so as to have a tighter or smaller radius toward the back end 96 and a wider radius at the seed inlet end 95. The seed guide wall 94 intersects the seed ride surface 92 at ninety degrees to form a seed ride path 97. The plurality of exhaust ports 68 are generally arranged at the level of the seed ride path 97 on the seed ride surface 92. In the first embodiment, the helical passageway 90 completes three turns around the injector core 58.

[0067] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view is shown when the injector core 58 is arranged within the exhaust outer tube 60. In the first embodiment, the outer wall of the injector core 58 forms the inner barrier of the helical passageway 90. Thus, the exhaust outer tube 60 does not require an inner wall or barrier. The helical passageway 90 terminates at the seed exit path 44. The curvature of the helical passageway 90 changes as it transitions to the seed exit path 44, thus the flats of the corn seed 28 remain firmly against the exit wall. The change in direction of the path also separates somewhat chaotic air flow from the injector nozzles and leaves only a nice laminar flow, which helps the seed 28 maintain its orderly state of flat sliding (pointed end forward) on the smooth path surface.

[0068] Figure 8 and Figure 9The seed orientation outlet path 44 and sub furrow boot 46 are shown as part of the seed orientation disk assembly 40. The seed orientation outlet path 44 is a continuation of the spiral passageway 90. A seed sensor 82 is disposed near the seed outlet point 45. The purpose of the seed sensor 82 is to make sure that the row unit 10 is actually planting seed 28 and if not, to alert the person in the tractor that the row is not planting because the seed 28 is out in the hopper or the seed 28 is jammed in the seed tube.

[0069] As Figure 3 shown, the sub furrow boot 46 can define an outlet path hole 47 that holds the outlet path 44 and a support structure hole 49 that allows the sub furrow boot 46 to be mounted to the seed orientation support structure 34. The sub furrow boot 46 also has the feature of an extended bottom slot or extension 43 that shapes the sub furrow to prevent the seed tip from hitting the bottom of the sub furrow and bouncing out of its orientation. The seed sensor 82 is operably connected to the structure of the sub furrow boot 46. The outlet path also sweeps back to help reduce the incremental horizontal velocity of the seed 28 relative to the ground that the seed 28 will be contacting.

[0070] When the seed 28 exits the outlet path 44, it will fly in the air for a short distance, thus maintaining its stable state. The outlet path 44 aims the seed 28 at the sub furrow that is formed by the sub furrow boot 46. The sub furrow boot 46 forms a wall in the soil that contacts the flat side of the seed 28, thus wedging the seed 28 into the soil, thus maintaining its orientation.

[0071] The sub furrow boot 46 also has a back swept blade 51. This is to prevent obstructions from the soil from entering the seed path as the planter initially falls into the soil. This is possible because the seed 28 is shot back at an angle, thus not contacting the front blade 51. This back swept front blade 51 also helps to prevent the sub furrow wall from prematurely collapsing in loose soil. A collapsed wall would cause the seed 28 to bounce, thus losing its orientation.

[0072] Figure 10 and Figure 11An alternative seed collector design is shown where the existing seed tube 22 is removed and the seed orientation system 130 is connected directly to the seed meter 13. The seed orientation system 130 is mounted to the row unit 100. The seed orientation system 130 includes a seed collector 132 operably attached to the seed meter 113. The seed collector 132 collects the seed 28 and changes its direction through a seed transfer tube 136 to a seed orientation disk tube assembly 140. The seed 28 travels through the helical path of the seed orientation disk tube assembly 140 to a directed seed exit path 144. A subfurrow opener 146 forms a wedge-shaped subfurrow slot 151 within a furrow 150 for capturing the directed seed 28. The furrow opener blade 18 forms the furrow 150 and the subfurrow opener 146 forms the subfurrow slot 151 within the furrow 150.

[0073] The movement of the seed 28 through the seed orientation system 130 is aided by air from a central blower / fan. The air is first directed to a system air intake 142 disposed on an upper surface of the seed orientation disk tube assembly 140. An air line 138 is then directed to the seed collector 132 for moving the seed 28 from the seed collector 132 to the seed orientation disk tube assembly 140. The seed collector 132 captures the seed 28 directly from the seed meter 113 and gently transports the seed 28 under air power in the most direct and efficient possible path to the seed orientation disk tube assembly 140. This configuration improves seed spacing and minimizes seed tumbling. The seed orientation support structure 134 provides structural support for the seed orientation disk tube assembly 140 and the subfurrow opener 146.

[0074] In operation, the seed orientation system 30, 130 delivers the seed 28 from the row unit 10, 100 to the ground in an optimal growth orientation. The seed 28 is placed in the seed hopper 12. The seed hopper 12 includes an opening that directs the seed 28 to the seed meter 13. The seed meter 13 then attempts to separate the seed 28 and space the seed 28 apart for delivery to the ground. The seed orientation system 30, 130 collects the seed 28 from the seed tube 22 or from the seed collector 132 that replaces the seed tube 22.

[0075] A high flow pressurized air system propels the seed 28 from the seed collector 32, 132 through the seed transfer tube 36, 136 to the seed orientation disk tube assembly 40, 140. A primary factor in seed stability is to capture / gather the seed 28 as lightly as possible from the seed meter. Ideally, the seed 28 slides lightly into the orientation disk tube rather than tumbling. This can be achieved with a very gentle and gradual collector path 32, 132 from the meter to the disk tube to reduce sharp angled impacts that cause tumbling. Tumbling seed 28 entering the orientation disk tube can cause tumbling through the entire disk tube as the air jets only increase the chaotic energy of the tumbling seed 28 rather than stabilizing the seed 28.

[0076] The seeds 28 enter the exhaust outer tube 60 of the seed orientation tube assembly 40, 140 which defines a helical passageway 90 to the seed exit path 44, 144. The exhaust outer tube 60 includes a plurality of exhaust ports 68 radially disposed about an outer wall of the exhaust outer tube 60.

[0077] Pressurized air is injected into the injector core 58 of the seed orientation tube assembly 40, 140. The injector core includes a plurality of air injectors or nozzles 64 radially disposed about an outer wall of the injector core 58. The nozzles 64 direct a concentrated air flow over the helical passageway 90 of the exhaust outer tube 60. It is contemplated that the nozzles can be aligned with the exhaust ports 68.

[0078] The seeds 28 enter the helical passageway 90 at random locations. The air flow through the injector core and the exhaust outer tube 60 pushes the seeds up the seed ride surface 92 to the seed guide wall 94. As shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13 As the seeds 28 travel their curved / helical passageway 90, a centrifugal force is created on the seeds 28. The air flow from the injector nozzles 64 impinges on the seeds 28 at an angle, creating two major (pressure) force vector components on the seeds. One component pushes parallel to the seed path and the other pushes perpendicular to the seed path. The parallel component of the air flow flows over the seeds 28 from behind the seeds 28, both pushing the seeds 28 forward and causing the seeds 28 to orient their tips forward in the flow (as this orientation has the lowest stable aerodynamic cross section (lowest drag)). This parallel air flow component also increases the speed of the seeds, which makes soil capture possible. The parallel air flow can be a combination of the air flow generated by the seed meter and the air flow directed to the seed delivery tube. The perpendicular component of the air flow, in combination with the centrifugal force, pushes the seeds 28 into the seed ride surface 92 and the seed guide wall 94 to provide the stability needed to maintain the tips oriented forward.

[0079] After the seed 28 is oriented, the position of the seed 28 must be stabilized until the ground. It is easy to orient the seed 28 for a few seconds, but due to the shape of the seed 28, the seed 28 can easily roll out of control. Keeping the seed 28 stable after orientation requires a combination of techniques. To maintain the position of the seed 28, a low-friction surface for the helical path 90 is preferred. A low-friction, low-roughness, and / or smooth surface reduces any roll of the seed 28, as the seed 28 will not “dig into” or “grab” the surface but instead cause the seed 28 to slide, thereby maintaining the oriented position. An energy-absorbing surface is also beneficial, as it will “dampen” the impact energy of a rolling seed 28 and allow the seed 28 to ride rather than roll and / or tumble, and helps maintain the oriented position. The path from the seed meter 13 to the orientation disk tube 40, 140 also benefits from the features listed above for the helical path 90.

[0080] The curved path also serves to maintain seed orientation by centrifugal force. Centrifugal force acts on the seed 28 to drive the seed 28 into the surface for stabilization and to reduce bounce, roll, and help maintain the oriented position. In addition to the helical passageway 90, the ride surface 92 shape / profile with the guide wall 94 helps to precisely position, stabilize, and maintain the orientation of the oriented seed 28. The curved shape of the ride surface will also help to align the seed 28 longitudinally along the seed path, which helps the orientation process.

[0081] The seed 28 is then directed to the seed exit path 44, 144, and then into a subfurrow carved within the main furrow, which serves to capture or wedge the seed 28 to maintain its orientation and / or position. If the seed 28 is advanced into the interference fit subfurrow into the soil in which the seed 28 is wedged, the seed orientation can be captured / preserved. The subfurrow profile preferably needs to taper down to allow capture of seeds 28 of various sizes. The profile should also have an extended bottom to prevent the seed tip from hitting the bottom of the subfurrow and bouncing back before the wedge / cone lock.

[0082] The seed orientation disk tube assembly 40, 140 is angled relative to the normal of the ground to help reduce the seed / ground speed increment. At a typical 5 mph seeding speed and a likely 5 mph horizontal speed increment, the angled disk tube should reduce the speed increment to about 2 mph. At a slower 3 mph seeding speed, the seed 28 will fall completely into the subfurrow.

[0083] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present application. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0084] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an overly idealized or formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Claims

1. A seed orientation system for an agricultural planter having a plurality of adjacent spaced row units, each row unit of the plurality of adjacent spaced row units configured to open a seed furrow in a soil surface as the agricultural planter passes through a field in a forward direction of travel to form adjacent spaced seed rows, the seed orientation system delivering a seed into each of the opened seed furrows, the seed having a pointed end and at least one flat side, the seed orientation system comprising: a seed orientation tube assembly mounted to each row unit of the plurality of adjacent spaced row units, the seed orientation tube assembly receiving the seed from a seed source, the seed orientation tube assembly comprising: an air exhaust outer tube defining a helical passageway between a seed inlet and a seed outlet, the helical passageway disposed about a central bore; an injector core received within the central bore of the air exhaust outer tube, the injector core having a central bore open at a first end and closed at a second end, the open first end in communication with an air source, the injector core having a plurality of air nozzles defined by channels extending between the central bore and an outer surface of the injector core, wherein air from the air source in communication with the central bore of the injector core is directed through the plurality of air nozzles to form an outward air flow; wherein, as a seed from the seed source enters the air exhaust outer tube through the seed inlet, the outward air flow through the plurality of air nozzles creates a first force vector and a second force vector on the seed, the first force vector pushing the seed outward into the helical passageway, the second force vector pushing the seed along the helical passageway toward the seed outlet; wherein the first and second force vectors cause the seed to orient with the pointed end of the seed facing the seed outlet and the at least one flat side of the seed abutting the helical passageway as the seed is slidably pushed along the helical passageway toward the seed outlet by the second force vector, whereby the seed exits through the seed outlet with the pointed end oriented downward toward a bottom of the seed furrow and the at least one flat side oriented toward one of the adjacent spaced seed rows.

2. The seed orientation system of claim 1, wherein the helical passageway includes a seed ride surface intersecting a seed guide wall to form a helical seed ride path.

3. The seed orientation system of claim 2, wherein the air exhaust outer tube includes a plurality of air exhaust ports disposed in a helical path coincident with the helical seed ride path.

4. The seed orientation system of claim 3, wherein the plurality of air nozzles in the injector core are aligned with the plurality of air exhaust ports.

5. The seed orientation system of claim 1, further comprising A subfurrow opener adjacent the seed outlet and configured to form a wedge-shaped slot in a bottom of the seed furrow to capture a seed exiting the seed outlet to maintain the same orientation of the seed in the seed furrow as the seed exits the seed outlet.

6. The seed orientation system of claim 1, wherein The spiral passageway has a smaller radius proximate the seed outlet than proximate the seed inlet.

7. The seed orientation system of claim 1, wherein The seed orientation disc tube assembly is angled relative to a normal to the soil surface to reduce a horizontal velocity of a seed exiting the seed outlet relative to the soil as the agricultural planter travels in a forward travel direction.

8. The seed orientation system of claim 1, wherein The seed outlet sweeps rearward from a forward travel direction of the agricultural planter to reduce a horizontal velocity of a seed exiting the seed outlet relative to the soil as the agricultural planter travels in a forward travel direction.

9. The seed orientation system of claim 1, further comprising: a seed collector supported on the row unit and positioned between the seed source and the seed orientation disc tube assembly, the seed collector receiving seeds from the seed source.

10. The seed orientation system of claim 9, wherein The row unit includes a seed meter configured to discharge individual seeds into a seed tube, the seed collector being mounted to a lower end of the seed tube.

11. The seed orientation system of claim 10, further comprising: a seed delivery tube that directs seeds received by the seed collector to the seed orientation disc tube assembly.

12. The seed orientation system of claim 11, wherein The seed collector is in communication with the air source to form an air flow that directs seeds received by the seed collector through the seed delivery tube to the seed orientation disc tube assembly.

13. The seed orientation system of claim 9, wherein The row unit includes a seed meter configured to discharge individual seeds, the seed collector being positioned to directly receive seeds discharged by the seed meter.

14. The seed orientation system of claim 9, further comprising: a support structure mounted to the row unit, the support structure having a forward end that supports the seed collector and a rearward end that supports the seed orientation disc tube assembly.

15. The seed orientation system of claim 14, further comprising: a subfurrow opener mounted at the rearward end of the support structure, the subfurrow opener configured to form a wedge-shaped slot in a bottom of the seed furrow to capture a seed exiting the seed outlet to maintain the same orientation of the seed in the seed furrow as the seed exits the seed outlet.

16. The seed orientation system of claim 1, further comprising a seed sensor positioned proximate the seed outlet.

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