seed orientation

Abstract

A seed metering and delivery device (705, 751, 773, 775, 777, 803, 903, 1003, 1103, 1203) includes: a seed meter (128, 707) comprising a seed meter disk (709, 714) rotatable about a seed meter disk axis (711), the seed meter disk (709, 714) including at least a front end (713) configured to follow a seed supply path (715) with the first seed meter disk (709, 714). The system moves one or more seeds (1387) to a removal position (717) at a speed; and a delivery system (723) comprising: a seed belt (735, 935, 1439) configured to pass through a seed delivery path (737) around a first seed belt pulley (725, 727) and a second seed belt pulley (731), the seed belt (735, 935, 1439) having at least a working surface (1309) supporting the one or more seeds (1387) and wheel surfaces (292, 210, 220). 12, 1305, 1307, 1309, 1313, 1315, 1317), the first seed pulley (725, 727) is positioned adjacent to the front (713) of the seed metering disc (709, 714) such that at least some portions of the working surface (1309) at the removal position (717) at least partially cross the seed supply path (715); and a seed belt housing (739), the seed belt housing being positioned at the front (713) of the seed belt (735, 935, 1439). The opposite side of the working surface (1309) at least partially covers at least a portion of the seed delivery path (737), and the seed tape housing (739) includes at least an outer surface (1305) and an inner surface (1307), the inner surface (1307) being arranged opposite to the working surface (1309) of the seed tape (735, 935, 1439) to form a recessed space (1311) between the working surface (1309) and the inner surface (1307) of the seed tape (735, 935, 1439).

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is an international application that claims priority to U.S. Application No. 18 / 445,671, filed December 22, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to a seed delivery device. Background Technology

[0004] Agricultural row crop planters typically include a seed hopper connected to a seed metering system that delivers seeds into furrows formed by disc-shaped furrow opener blades. Multiple of these row crop planters are typically mounted parallel to a tool bar attached to a tractor. For example, as of the date of this filing, twenty-four, thirty-six, or even forty-eight row units are typically attached to a single tractor.

[0005] In typical existing row crop growers, seeds are delivered in batches from the seed hopper to a metering system. The metering system precisely individualizes the batch of seeds and, most preferably, delivers these individualized seeds at highly predictable and repeatable time intervals. Improved metering systems have been developed extensively and have generally proven to be quite reliable. The row crop grower then delivers one seed at a time into the ground, typically into a furrow created by the furrow opener blades.

[0006] In existing technologies, a common method for delivering seeds from a seed hopper to the soil is a gravity-feed system that positions the seed tube inlet below the seed metering system. Individual seeds fall from the metering system along the seed tube and into a furrow formed by furrow opener blades positioned in front of the seed tube. While this standard method of seed delivery represents a significant improvement over older technologies, there is still room for improvement in terms of desired seed placement and orientation.

[0007] Crop yield is influenced by various factors, such as seed placement, soil quality, weather, irrigation, and nutrient application. Seeds are typically planted in furrows formed by trays or other mechanisms in the planting machine's row unit. Seed placement depth is crucial because seeds planted at different depths will germinate at different times, resulting in uneven crop growth. Seed spacing can affect yield because plants planted too close together compete for nutrients, while plants planted too far apart waste space. Seed orientation can affect the timing of plant germination, thus affecting the uniformity of plant growth, as well as canopy closure and shading of adjacent plants. Therefore, improving methods for controlling the position and orientation of seeds in the furrows would be beneficial to achieve more uniform germination and growth.

[0008] There are various methods for orienting seeds for planting. Examples of orienting systems include PCT Publications WO2018013858A1, WO2018013859A1, WO2018013860A2, and WO2018013861A1. U.S. Patent Publications US2020 / 0367425A1 and US2022 / 0192079A1 describe a particular type of seed orienter, both of which disclose a seed orienting coil. Seeds are accelerated by air injected into the coil, and the air is expelled through at least one vent. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In some embodiments, a seed delivery device includes: a seed meter having a metering unit configured to receive seeds; a seed conveyor and a orientation assembly coupled to the seed meter and having a conveyor belt for receiving single-seedled seeds; an impeller that moves the single-seedled seeds through the conveyor belt; a seed orientation device configured to orient the single-seedled seeds in a predetermined orientation; and a seed outlet path configured to deliver the single-seedled and oriented seeds into a seed trench.

[0010] The seed conveyor and orientation assembly may have a guide having a seed sliding surface in its cross-section and a guide wall offset at an angle from the seed sliding surface, the guide wall and the seed sliding surface being configured to engage with the single-seed as the single-seed moves through the conveyor belt.

[0011] The metering unit can be configured to provide the seeds to the seed conveyor and orientation component in a pre-selected orientation.

[0012] The conveyor belt can deliver seeds to the seed orientation device.

[0013] The seed orientation device may include a curved seed path and a pressurized air system for guiding airflow parallel to the curved path.

[0014] A row unit for planting seeds includes: a frame configured to be coupled to a tool bar; a seed furrow opening assembly carried by the frame and configured to form a seed furrow; a seed delivery device carried by the frame and configured to deliver a seed into the seed furrow; and a seed furrow closing assembly carried by the frame and configured to close the seed furrow over a seed in the seed furrow.

[0015] The seed delivery device may include: a seed meter having a metering unit configured to receive seeds; a seed conveyor and orientation assembly coupled to the seed meter and having a conveyor belt for receiving the single-seedled seeds; an impeller that moves the single-seedled seeds through the conveyor belt; a seed orientation device configured to orient the single-seedled seeds in a predetermined orientation; and a seed outlet path configured to deliver the single-seedled and oriented seeds into the seed trench.

[0016] The seed orientation device may include a curved seed path configured to apply centrifugal force to the monoculture seeds.

[0017] In one aspect, a method of planting using row units includes the following steps: forming seed furrows in soil using the row units; single-seedling seeds using a metering unit carried by the row units; transferring the single-seedling seeds from the metering unit to a seed conveyor and a directional assembly; capturing and conveying the single-seedling seeds between a guide and the impeller; directionalizing the single-seedling seeds; dispensing the single-seedling and directional seeds from the seed conveyor and the directional assembly into the seed furrows; and closing the seed furrows using a seed furrow closure assembly.

[0018] Seeds can be oriented by applying centrifugal force to the single-seed.

[0019] In some implementations, air may be injected into the seed path. In other implementations, air is not injected.

[0020] Seed metering and delivery equipment may include a seed meter. The seed meter may include a seed meter disk rotatable about an axis of the seed meter disk. The seed meter disk may include at least a front end, which may be configured to move one or more seeds along a seed supply path at a seed meter disk speed to a removal position.

[0021] The delivery system may include a first seed pulley rotatable about an axis of a first seed pulley. The first seed pulley may be positioned close to the seed metering disc (e.g., with a spacing of 6-36 inches, or similar). The delivery system may include a second seed pulley rotatable about an axis of a second seed pulley. The second seed pulley may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley (e.g., with a spacing of 0.3 to 6 feet, or similar).

[0022] The delivery system may include a seed belt. The seed belt may be configured to pass around at least a portion of the seed delivery path around the first seed belt pulley and / or the second seed belt pulley. The seed belt may have at least a working surface capable of supporting the one or more seeds and a wheel surface. The first seed belt pulley may be positioned adjacent to the front of the seed metering disc such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position at least partially cross the seed supply path.

[0023] The delivery system may include a seed band housing. The seed band housing may be positioned to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed band. The seed band housing may include at least an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed band, thereby forming a recessed space between the working surface of the seed band and the inner surface. The recessed space size may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation of the one or more seeds.

[0024] The seed belt can be configured to receive one or more seeds from the front of the seed metering disc, the seeds being conveyed along the working surface at a seed belt speed. The seed belt can be configured to deliver the one or more seeds along at least a portion of the seed delivery path to a delivery discharge position near the second seed belt pulley (e.g., with a spacing between 0.3 and 6 feet, or similar spacing).

[0025] Other technical features can be readily understood by those skilled in the art from the following figures, description and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Although this specification concludes with claims, which specifically point to and expressly claim protection for what are considered embodiments of this disclosure, various features and advantages can be more readily identified when the following description of exemplary embodiments is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A simplified side view of the row cells used for planting.

[0027] Figure 2 For can be used Figure 1A simplified right elevation view of a seed delivery and orientation device in a row unit, the seed delivery and orientation device being combined with an exemplary disk and handle.

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A simplified right-hand elevation of the seed delivery and orientation device, but with the disc and handle removed.

[0029] Figure 4 A simplified partial side elevation view of the seed metering disc and conveyor belt in operation, showing the seed transfer process.

[0030] Figure 5 Along the seed delivery device and orientation component Figure 4 The sectional view taken by section line 5'.

[0031] Figure 6 A simplified right elevation view of a seed delivery and orientation device, which is related to... Figure 3 The equipment is similar, but it has a twisted central conveyor belt.

[0032] Figure 7A An example of a seed metering and delivery device with variable indentation size for conveying one or more seeds is shown.

[0033] Figure 7B An example of a seed metering and delivery device with variable indentation size for conveying one or more seeds is shown.

[0034] Figure 7C An example of a seed metering and delivery device with variable indentation size for conveying one or more seeds is shown.

[0035] Figure 7D An example of a seed metering and delivery device with variable indentation size for conveying one or more seeds is shown.

[0036] Figure 7E An example of a seed metering and delivery device with variable indentation size for conveying one or more seeds is shown.

[0037] Figure 8 An example of a seed metering and delivery device is shown, which has a component that may affect the size of the pit in which the one or more seeds are delivered.

[0038] Figure 9 An example of a seed metering and delivery device is shown, which has one or more components that may affect the orientation of the one or more seeds.

[0039] Figure 10An example of a seed metering and delivery device is shown, which has various delivery discharge location orientations for the one or more seeds.

[0040] Figure 11 An example of a seed metering and delivery device is shown, which includes a secondary furrow opener / ditch digger to deliver one or more seeds into the secondary furrow.

[0041] Figure 12 An example of a seed metering and delivery device is shown, which includes a directional tube and a secondary furrow opener / ditch digger to deliver one or more seeds into the secondary furrow.

[0042] Figure 13 Two cross-sectional views are shown at two different locations along the seed delivery path, showing the seed pits and seed bands.

[0043] Figure 14 Two cross-sectional views are shown at two different locations along the seed delivery path, showing the seed pits and seed bands.

[0044] Figure 15 Two cross-sectional views are shown at two different locations along the seed delivery path, showing the seed pits and seed bands.

[0045] Figure 16 Two cross-sectional views are shown at two different locations along the seed delivery path, showing the seed pits and seed bands.

[0046] Figure 17 A cross-sectional view showing the seed pits and seed bands along the seed delivery path. Detailed Implementation

[0047] All references cited in this paper are incorporated herein in their full text. In the event of any conflict between the definitions in this paper and those in the incorporated references, the definitions in this paper shall prevail.

[0048] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in the various views denote the same or corresponding parts.

[0049] The illustrations shown herein are not actual views of any planting machine row unit or any part thereof, but are merely idealized representations used to describe exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, identical elements may retain the same numbering across the figures.

[0050] The following description provides specific details of the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced without employing many of these specific details. In fact, embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced in conjunction with conventional techniques employed in the industry. Furthermore, the description provided below does not encompass all elements forming a complete structure or component. Only the process behaviors and structures necessary for understanding embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below. Other conventional process behaviors and structures may also be employed. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not drawn to scale.

[0051] As used herein, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “containing,” “characterized in,” and their grammatical equivalents are inclusive or open-ended terms (which do not exclude additional unlisted elements or method steps), and also include the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “substantially consisting of” and their grammatical equivalents.

[0052] As used herein, the term “may” as used with respect to materials, structures, features, or methodological behavior indicates that such content is intended for use in implementing embodiments of this disclosure; the term is used rather than the more restrictive term “is” to avoid implying that other compatible materials, structures, features, and methods that may be used in combination with it should or must be excluded.

[0053] As used herein, the term “configured as” means that the size, shape, material composition, and arrangement of one or more of at least one structure and at least one device are conducive to the operation of one or more of the structure and the device in a predetermined manner.

[0054] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form following "a" and "the" is also intended to include the plural form.

[0055] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0056] As used herein, for ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “bottom,” “above,” “upper,” “top,” “front,” “back,” “left,” and “right” may be used to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another as shown in the figure. Unless otherwise stated, spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of materials in addition to those shown in the figure.

[0057] As used herein, the term “about” for a given parameter includes the numerical value and has a meaning determined by the context (e.g., it includes the range of error associated with the measurement of the given parameter).

[0058] As used throughout the text, "range" is used as a simplified notation to describe each value within the range. Any value within the range can be chosen as an endpoint of the range.

[0059] Figure 1 An embodiment of an agricultural planting machine row unit 100 is shown. The row unit 100 has a frame 110 pivotally connected to a tool rod 112 via a parallel linkage 114, thereby enabling each row unit 100 to move vertically independently of the tool rod 112 and other row units 100. The frame 110 operably supports one or more hoppers 116, a downpressure control system 118, a seed furrow opening assembly 120, a seed delivery device 126, a seed furrow closing assembly 146, a compaction wheel assembly 154, and a row cleaning assembly 162. Figure 1 The row unit 100 shown can be used with a conventional planter or a centrally loaded planter. When used with a centrally loaded planter, the hopper 116 can be replaced with one or more micro hoppers, and the frame 110 can be modified accordingly, as is well known to those skilled in the art.

[0060] The downforce control system 118 is configured to apply lifting force and / or downforce to the row unit 100, as disclosed in U.S. Patent 9,408,337 entitled “Agricultural Row Unit Apparatus, Systems and Methods”, issued August 9, 2016.

[0061] The seed furrow opening assembly 120 includes a pair of furrowing discs 122, which are rotatably supported by a downwardly extending handle 124 of a frame 110. The furrowing discs 122 are arranged to open outward and backward so as to open V-shaped seed furrows 104 in the soil 102 as the planter travels in the forward direction D in the field.

[0062] Seed delivery device 126 includes a seed meter 128 and a seed tube 130, which together deliver seeds to soil 102 at a preselected rate. The seed meter 128 can be any commercially available seed meter, such as a finger meter or a vacuum seed meter, such as the vSet® meter available from Precision Planting LLC (23333 Tonline Road, Tremont, Illinois 61568). The seed meter 128 can be configured to orient seeds to the seed tube 130 in a preselected orientation using any selected method, such as the method shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2019 / 0230846, published August 1, 2019, entitled "Systems, Implements, and Methods for Seed Orientation with Adjustable Singulators During Planting".

[0063] Seed tubes 130 are positioned between furrowing discs 122 to deliver seeds from seed metering devices 128 into the furrows 104. The depth of the furrows 104 is controlled by a pair of depth-limiting wheels 134 positioned adjacent to the furrowing discs 122. The depth-limiting wheels 134 are rotatably supported by depth-limiting wheel arms 136, which are pivotally fixed at one end to the frame 110 about a pivot pin 138. A rocker arm 140 is pivotally supported on the frame 110 by a pivot pin 142. Rotation of the rocker arm 140 about the pivot pin 142 sets the depth of the furrows 104 by limiting the upward travel of the depth-limiting wheel arms 136 (and therefore the depth-limiting wheels 134) relative to the furrowing discs 122. The rocker arm 140 can be adjusted and positioned via a linear actuator 144 mounted to the row unit frame 110 and pivotally coupled to the upper end of the rocker arm 140. The linear actuator 144 can be remotely controlled or automatically actuated, for example, as disclosed in U.S. Patent 9,864,094 entitled “System for Soil Moisture Monitoring”, issued January 9, 2018.

[0064] The downforce sensor can be configured to generate a signal relating to the magnitude of the force exerted by the depth-limiting wheel 134 on the soil 102. In some embodiments, the pivot pin 142 of the rocker arm 140 may include a downforce sensor, such as the instrumented pin disclosed in U.S. Patent 8,561,472 entitled “Load Sensing Pin”, issued October 22, 2013.

[0065] The seed furrow closure assembly 146 includes a closure arm 148 pivotally attached to the row unit frame 110. A pair of biased closure wheels 150 are rotatably attached to the closure arm 148 and angled to “close” the seed furrow 104 by pushing the walls of the opened seed furrow 104 back over the placed seed 106. An actuator 152 may be pivotally attached at one end to the closure arm 148 and at the other end to the row unit frame 110 to vary the downward pressure applied by the closure wheels 150 according to soil conditions. The seed furrow closure assembly 146 may be of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent 9,848,524 entitled “Agricultural Seed Trench Closing Systems, Methods, and Apparatus,” issued December 26, 2017.

[0066] The compaction wheel assembly 154 includes an arm 156 pivotally attached to the row unit frame 110 and extending rearward from and aligned with the seed furrow closure assembly 146. The arm 156 rotatably supports the compaction wheel 158. An actuator 160 is pivotally attached at one end to the arm 156 and at the other end to the row unit frame 110 to vary the magnitude of the downward pressure applied by the compaction wheel 158, thereby compacting the soil above the seed furrow 104.

[0067] The row clearing assembly 162 can be a CleanSweep® system available from Precision Planting LLC (Address: 23333 Tollion Road, Tremont, 61568, Illinois). The row clearing assembly 162 includes an arm 164 pivotally attached to the forward end of the row unit frame 110 and aligned with the seed furrow opening assembly 120. A pair of row clearing wheels 166 are rotatably attached to the forward end of the arm 164. An actuator 168, pivotally attached at one end to the arm 164 and at the other end to the row unit frame 110, adjusts the downforce acting on the arm, thereby varying the working intensity of the row clearing wheels 166 according to crop residue levels and soil conditions.

[0068] Row unit 100 may optionally carry other sensors 170. In some embodiments, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, sensor 170 detects soil conditions before and / or after planting. In some embodiments, also for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, sensor 170 includes sensors for monitoring seed presence and mobility, seed spacing, or other parameters that help monitor the proper functioning of the seed orientation system.

[0069] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further details show what can be used for Figure 1 An embodiment of a seed delivery and orientation device in a row unit. (See example from...) Figure 2 Clearly, the exemplary disc 122 is suspended from the handle 124 and creates furrows in the soil directly in front of the secondary furrow opener 170. The seed delivery device 126 includes a seed meter 128, a seed conveyor, and a orientation assembly 200. The seed meter 128 receives seeds 106 from the seed hopper 116, monocultures the seeds 106, and then conveys the monoculture seeds 106 to the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200. The seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 preferably delivers the oriented seeds 106 from the oriented seed outlet path 244 into the secondary furrows created by the secondary furrow opener 170.

[0070] like Figure 3 The best shown in the figure (the figure and) Figure 2 Similarly, but for ease of illustration (exemplary disc 122 and handle 124 have been removed), conveyor belt 201 delivers seeds 106 from seed meter 128 to seed orientation coil assembly 240. Seeds 106 from conveyor belt 201 will preferably slide along a surface within seed delivery outlet 230, preferably without bouncing, tumbling, or other similar phenomena. Seeds 106 enter an optional seed collector 232 from seed delivery outlet 230, which provides a suitable connection between conveyor belt 201 and seed orientation coil assembly 240.

[0071] In the area adjacent to the seed collector 232, the seed-riding surface 292 is completely enclosed and without ventilation holes. However, immediately thereafter, as the seeds continue to travel along the spiral path 290, the spiral path is provided with an open side as a ventilation hole 268. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the surface can be completely open. In alternative embodiments, the surface is covered by a breathable surface, which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, may include drill holes made by laser, drill bit, chemical milling, or any other suitable technique. In other alternative embodiments, the vents 268 are made of porous, microporous, or other breathable materials that provide ventilation throughout the outer wall. For illustrative and non-limiting purposes, these materials include: porous materials (including but not limited to mesh or sieve), sintered metal, porous carbon, porous carbon-graphite, porous carbon-silicate, open-cell foam of any suitable composition, and other breathable materials and components. In some alternative embodiments, ventilation is provided only selectively at key locations; or in other alternative embodiments, ventilation is provided along the entire seed-riding surface 292.

[0072] The ventilated outer coil 260 can include any degree of rotation, although, as shown, the degree of rotation includes approximately a full 360 degrees. The relatively small diameter helps to increase the centrifugal force generated in the coil. After passing through the ventilated outer coil 260, the seed then enters and passes through the oriented seed outlet path 244. The operation of such a seed orienter is further described in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2022 / 0192079A1, entitled "Aerodynamic and Centrifugal Seed Orientation System for Agricultural Planters," published June 23, 2022.

[0073] In some embodiments, the seed collector 232 incorporates an air intake structure into the seed orientation coil assembly 240, as taught in, for example, U.S. Patent Publication No. US2022 / 0192079A1. In such embodiments, the air intake structure preferably drives air through an air injection nozzle into the helical passage 290. In areas adjacent to the air intake structure (e.g., within the seed collector 232), the helical passage 290 is preferably completely closed and airtight. However, the immediately following vented outer coil 260 is provided with an open internal vent 268, which, as shown, may be completely open or, in alternative embodiments, covered by a breathable surface.

[0074] In some alternative embodiments, the intake structure is positioned further along the spiral path 290, between the seed collector 232 and the tail end of the oriented seed outlet path 244, as shown in the injection core 58 described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0367425A1. In such embodiments, seeds entering the seed orientation coil assembly 240 are preferably delivered at an appropriate speed to travel along the seed riding path 292 and, if seed guide walls are provided, engage smoothly with the seed guide walls.

[0075] In most embodiments, the conveyor belt 201 is configured to accelerate the seeds 106 such that when the seeds are released from the seed delivery outlet 230 into the seed collector 232 and the seed riding path 292, the seeds possess sufficient energy to orient the seed orientation coil assembly 240 and sufficient momentum to transport them to the ground. In most embodiments, the conveyor belt 201 is further configured to ensure uniform seed spacing by eliminating timing deviations caused by the dynamic effects of the row units.

[0076] While a seed orientation coil assembly 240 may be included in some embodiments, in some alternative embodiments, no other seed orientation device is provided besides the conveyor belt 201. In alternative embodiments, the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 are configured to orient seeds in a preselected orientation by other suitable seed orientation devices, such alternative embodiments being shown and described in the following documents: U.S. Patent Application Publication 2020 / 0367425 entitled "Seed Orientation System for Agricultural Planters," published November 26, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application Publication 2022 / 0192079 entitled "Aerodynamic and Centrifugal Seed Orientation System for Agricultural Planters," published June 23, 2022, and further described below.

[0077] In other alternative embodiments, the seed meter 128 is configured to orient the seeds before or during delivery to the seed conveyor and orienting assembly 200. For example, the seed meter 128 may include a vision system and a seed sorter with features (e.g., bumps) configured to orient the seeds, such as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2019 / 0230846, published August 1, 2019, entitled "Systems, Implements, and Methods for Seed Orientation with Adjustable Singulators During Plaiting". Figure 4 As shown in A-4C. In other alternative embodiments, other types of seed orientation systems will be employed, including, but not limited to, those described in the background section above.

[0078] Figure 4 Seed delivery device 126 is shown in simplified form. The seed delivery device includes a seed meter 128, a seed conveyor, and a orientation assembly 200. Seed delivery device 126 receives seeds 106 from seed hopper 116, singles the seeds 106 in seed meter 128, and then conveys the single-seedled seeds 106 from seed meter 128 to seed delivery outlet 230.

[0079] In one embodiment, the seed meter 128 has a seed disk 131 (measuring unit) that rotates about an axis 135 rotatably mounted in the seed meter in the direction shown by arrow 133. The seed meter 128 is preferably a vacuum type known in the art, such that a vacuum source (not shown) is located behind the seed disk 131 (from...). Figure 4 From a certain perspective, a vacuum is created, thereby establishing a pressure difference across the apertures 129 in the disc. As the apertures 129 rotate past the seed pool at a location generally indicated by reference numeral 127, the pressure difference causes individual seeds 106 to be caught in each aperture 129, thus allowing the seeds to be carried by the disc as shown. The size and spacing of the apertures can vary depending on the type of seeds to be planted. When the apertures cross, for example, the boundary of axis 196 (preferably located at approximately the 3 o'clock position on the seed disc 131), the vacuum source is substantially disconnected (e.g., by terminating the vacuum seal, as is known in the art), so that the seeds 106 are released from the disc as they pass through axis 196. In one embodiment, the seeds 106 fall from the disc in a substantially vertical manner along axis 192 and, after precise single-seedling and timing, into the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200. In another embodiment, the seed 106 may be directly incorporated into the bristles or scraper 206, as described in the following U.S. patents: US 8813663B2, US 8850998B2, US 9480199B2, US 9510502B2, US 9661799B2, US 9686906B2, US 9699955B2, US 9807922B2, US 9807924B2, US 9820429B2, US 9861031B2, and US 10004173B2. In other embodiments, the metering unit may be the metering element 100 as described in US 8850998B2.

[0080] In some embodiments, seeds 106 may fail to align with and travel along subsequent seed paths upon arrival at the seed conveyor and orientation component 200 due to inertia and momentum; for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, seeds may tumble and / or bounce. Allowing seeds 106 to tumble, bounce, or otherwise take indirect paths as they pass through the seed conveyor and orientation component 200 can result in significant differences in the time required for seeds to enter the soil from the seed meter 128. In other words, seeds 106 traveling along a curved seed path between two points will require more travel time than seeds 106 traveling at the same speed but bouncing along the seed path and thus traveling in a straight line between the same two points. This leads to inconsistent seed spacing, which can result in undesirable seed accumulation and correspondingly larger-than-expected gaps. To limit the impact of such unpredictable seed path timing, it has historically been necessary to use lower planting speeds that are more tolerant of timing deviations.

[0081] According to the teachings of the present invention, a seed conveyor and a directional assembly 200 are configured to stabilize and constrain the individually and sequentially arranged seeds 106, causing them to slide on the seed-riding surface 292. For the purposes of this disclosure, the seeds constrained to slide on the seed-riding surface 292 do not substantially tumble or bounce, but rather slide along the seed-riding surface 292 in a substantially continuous contact with it. When the seeds 106 are thus constrained, there is a force, or equivalent force, generated by the friction of the seeds sliding on the surface, the direction of which is generally opposite to the direction of the seeds' travel along the seed path.

[0082] The seed conveyor and orienting assembly 200 includes a conveyor belt 201 tensioned around upper and lower pulleys. An example of this conveyor belt arrangement is described in PCT Publication WO2013 / 049198. Figure 2As described in A-2C and related texts, and available from the SpeedTube™ system of Precision Planting LLC (address: Tremont, Illinois). For illustrative and non-limiting purposes, drive device 204 may include a rotary drive motor and pulley at the first end, and an idler pulley at its distal end. In other embodiments, the seed conveyor and orienting assembly 200 will be driven by a lower pulley; and in still other embodiments, different motor types and configurations are used. Almost all modern agricultural row planting equipment is equipped with one or more suitable sources of power: electricity, pressurized air, hydraulic fluid, and prime mover. With this in mind, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, drive device 204 may draw power from one of these sources, and therefore may include an electric motor, pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, friction wheel, gear actuator, or the like. In most embodiments, the drive speed of the conveyor belt 201 and the seed meter 128 is preferably proportional to or otherwise related to and dependent on the ground speed of the row unit 100 in order to reasonably provide consistent seed spacing regardless of the ground speed of the agricultural planter row unit 100.

[0083] As shown, the conveyor belt 201 has an annular central belt 202 and a plurality of bristles 203 (e.g., impellers) that are firmly attached to and protrude outward from the central belt 202. However, in some alternative embodiments, other impellers are used instead of the bristles 203 for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, such as the scraper disclosed in the aforementioned PCT disclosure WO2013 / 049198, or an elastic or elastomeric material (e.g., foam rubber or elastic sheet) with a suitable geometry.

[0084] The seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 further includes a guide surface 210 on one side of the seed conveyor, the guide surface being disposed adjacent to the bristles or scraper 203. The guide 210 includes an angled seed collector 218, which slides downward along each seed 106 as it is released from the seed disk 131 and is captured between the guide 210 and the bristles or scraper 203.

[0085] As shown, the spacing between the annular belt 202 and the guide 210 is chosen such that the seed 106 traveling along the guide 210 will be pressed into and held against the guide 210 in a way that does not cause damage, and will not be able to slip between them due to not simultaneously maintaining contact with the brush or scraper 203 or its equivalent and the guide 210. In this embodiment, the spacing is fixed, thereby simplifying the structure and operation of the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200. In some alternative embodiments, the spacing is adjustable, allowing the operator to adjust the device to constrain seeds of different types, geometries, or sizes. In other alternative embodiments, a spring is provided to elastically hold the annular belt 202 against the guide 210. In still other alternative embodiments, sensors and automatically adjustable drive mechanisms (such as screw drives for illustrative and non-limiting purposes) are provided to automatically apply appropriate pressure to press the annular belt 202 against the guide 210.

[0086] In some alternative embodiments, it may be desirable to provide a small amount of disturbance within the guide 210. In such embodiments, bumps or other surface irregularities may be provided that disturb the seed 106 as it passes through and comes into contact with it.

[0087] When the length and geometry of the conveyor belt 201 allow, in some embodiments, the spacing between the annular belt 202 and the guide 210 can be set manually or automatically to prevent them from contacting each other. If a malfunction is detected manually or automatically within the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 (e.g., the annular belt 202 cannot move or rotate), the annular belt 202 is separated from the guide 210 to allow the seeds 106 to pass through, thus ensuring that the seeds can still pass through the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 and be planted in the soil.

[0088] In addition to appropriate spacing, the stiffness and packing density of the bristles 203 need to be selected to prevent individual seeds from slipping between adjacent bristles and potentially losing contact with the guide 210. In alternative embodiments employing elastic or elastomeric materials (such as foam rubber or elastic sheets), similarly, the density or elasticity of the foam rubber or elastic sheet in the aforementioned alternative embodiments needs to be selected to ensure that each seed 106 simultaneously contacts both the annular belt 202 and the guide 210. This combination achieves instantaneous contact and stabilization between the seeds and the guide 210.

[0089] In adopting the aforementioned PCT publication WO2013 / 049198 Figure 2 C Figure 5 A, Figure 5 D and Figure 10In some alternative embodiments of the scraper disclosed in B, the seed 106 is subjected to acceleration, including the application of centrifugal force, near the end of the guide 210 before it is released from the guide 210. In such embodiments, seed orientation can be further achieved by employing a suitable “V” geometry of the guide 210 as taught and shown herein.

[0090] Although the seed acceleration effect, including centrifugal force, is shown in the aforementioned PCT Publication WO2013 / 049198 as being located near the seed outlet, in other alternative embodiments, other locations within the conveyor belt 201 will be designed to provide such centrifugal force application in conjunction with the appropriate geometry of the guide 210. The conveyor belt 201 may be configured to include a change in conveying direction at one or more locations along the guide 210 between the seed meter 128 and the seed delivery outlet 230. For illustrative and non-limiting purposes, in some embodiments, the conveyor belt employs a simple, continuous curved geometry, at least in the seed transport section, which is closer to a circular outline than... Figure 3 The outline of the number "0" shown.

[0091] Figure 6 Another alternative embodiment is shown, in which the conveyor belt 201, which is generally shaped like the number "0", has been replaced with a twisted conveyor belt 206. As can be seen from the illustration of the twisted conveyor belt 206, the conveyor belt is twisted in a roughly pretzel-like manner, transforming the conveyor belt 201 into a twisted conveyor belt 206 by forming a twist of approximately 180 degrees between the top and bottom of the conveyor belt. The specific degree of twist can deviate widely and be higher or lower than the approximately 180 degrees shown in the figure, which will be determined by a designer with expertise in the relevant field after consulting this disclosure and considering the required centrifugal force and other relevant factors. This twist means that seeds traveling from the seed meter 128 along the twisted conveyor belt 206 to the seed delivery outlet 230 will travel along a spiral path, essentially under continuous centrifugal force. In some embodiments, the sliding surface 212 is additionally provided with an inclined ramp, such as as described in U.S. Patent Application Publications 2020 / 0367425 and 2022 / 0192079.

[0092] With this in mind, regardless of whether the conveyor belt is curved, twisted, or has sufficient curvature only near the seed delivery outlet 230, the conveyor belt 201 can provide the required orientation within the seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200, without relying on the seed orientation coil assembly 240. Therefore, in some embodiments of these alternative embodiments, the designer will choose to omit the seed orientation coil assembly 240. In other embodiments, adding the seed orientation coil assembly 240 further enhances the benefits of the already seed-oriented conveyor belts 201, 206. Such considerations and decisions should be determined by a designer with expertise in the relevant field after considering the teachings of this disclosure.

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, the drive device 204 and the seed disk 131 rotate in opposite directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, respectively. However, in an alternative embodiment, the positions of the seed conveyor and the orientation assembly 200 may be flipped relative to the seed disk 131; in such an embodiment, the drive device 204 and the seed disk 131 may rotate in the same direction (e.g., clockwise). Examples of such an arrangement and rotation direction (also including a scraper instead of bristles 203) are described in the aforementioned PCT Publication WO2013 / 049198. Figure 11 A to Figure 11 E is shown and described therein.

[0094] In one embodiment, Figure 5The simplified cross-sectional view is taken along a horizontal plane. As shown, the vertical plane 219 includes the vertical seed drop axis 192 and is generally parallel to and offset from the vertical plane defined by the main surface of the annular band 202. The guide surface 210 has two surfaces, namely the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212, which together form a "V"-shaped channel opening toward the annular central band 202. The bristles or scraper 203 travels in the channel opening of the guide surface 210. The guide wall angle 213 between the vertical plane 219 and the guide wall 211 is preferably greater than the sliding surface angle 214 between the vertical plane 219 and the sliding surface 212. In some embodiments, the sliding surface angle 214 is 0 to 60 degrees, 0 to 45 degrees, or about 45 degrees. The guide wall angle 213 is the complementary angle of the sliding surface angle 214 and the angle formed by the small open space 216, such that the three angles together form a straight line. As shown, in some embodiments, the seed 106 will be aligned or be aligned by appropriate techniques such that the primary surface of the seed 106 will slide on the sliding surface 212, while the secondary surface of the seed 106 will slide on the guide wall 211. The seed 106, after passing through the guide surface 210, is pressed by the brush or scraper 203 into the intersection between the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212, thereby forming a small open space 216 between the seed 106 and the bottom of the “V”-shaped channel opening (adjacent to the intersection between the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212). The small open space 216 is formed at an angle of 80 to 95 degrees, or about 90 degrees, or an acute angle. Although shown and described, Figure 5 It is cut along the horizontal plane, but it should be understood that in some embodiments and within a portion of the travel range, the travel of the annular center band 202 may deviate from the direction of the vertical path of travel. In such cases, with Figure 5 Similar sectional views will also deviate from the vertical direction, as will vertical plane 219. Therefore, it should be understood that references to vertical and horizontal in this document are merely illustrative (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As shown), this invention is not intended to be limited thereto. In one embodiment, the sliding surface angle is 45 degrees, the guide wall angle is 45 degrees, and the angle formed by the small open space 216 is 90 degrees.

[0095] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the bristles or scraper 203 do not extend all the way to the intersection between the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212, thus keeping the open space 216 open and unobstructed over most or all of the area of ​​the guide surface 210. However, in some alternative embodiments, the bristles or scraper 203 do extend all the way to the intersection between the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212.

[0096] When the bristles or scraper 203 do not extend all the way to the intersection between the guide wall 211 and the sliding surface 212, air can be naturally drawn into the open space 216 by means of the travel of the conveyor belt 201 and the seeds 106 carried therein. In some embodiments, this airflow helps orient the seeds and facilitate their entry into the soil. However, in some alternative embodiments, the airflow can be enhanced by providing vents at suitable locations within the guide 210 or at other locations adjacent to the open space 216, thereby improving the transport of air into the seed passage. In other alternative embodiments, air can be injected into the open space 216 or the bristles or scraper 203 at one or more suitable locations. When air is thus injected and properly guided, this air supply can serve as an air intake structure into the seed orientation coil assembly 240, as taught in, for example, U.S. Patent Publication No. US2022 / 0192079A1. However, regardless of how the air is introduced into and moves within the open space 216, in some embodiments this air can also help transport oversized seeds, debris, and other materials from the conveyor belt 201.

[0097] Most preferably, the seed sliding surface 212 is continuously and uninterruptedly connected to the seed mounting surface 292. Similarly, in some embodiments, the guide wall 211 is continuously and uninterruptedly connected to a similar guide wall adjacent to the seed mounting surface 292. This helps ensure that the seeds 106 enter the seed orientation coil assembly 240, which maintains sliding contact with the seed mounting surface, from the conveyor belt 201, preferably without bouncing, tumbling, or the like.

[0098] The seed conveyor and orientation assembly 200 preferably further includes a back plate 220, which is configured to maintain the position of the central belt 202 relative to the guide surface 210. Although in a simplified... Figure 4 and Figure 5 Although not shown, it should be understood that in many embodiments, the conveyor belt 201 will also include a housing surrounding and enclosing the central belt 202 and the brush or scraper 203.

[0099] Figure 7A An example of a seed metering and delivery device 705 is shown. Device 705 may include a seed meter 707. Seed meter 707 may include a seed meter disk 709 rotatable about a seed meter disk axis 711. Seed meter disk 709 may include at least a front end 713, which may be configured to move one or more seeds 1387 along a seed supply path 715 at a seed meter disk speed to a removal position 717.

[0100] Delivery system 723 may include a first seed pulley 725 rotatable about a first seed pulley axis 727. The first seed pulley 725 may be positioned close to the seed metering disc 709 (e.g., with a spacing of 6-36 inches, or similar). Delivery system 723 may include a second seed pulley 731 rotatable about a second seed pulley axis 733. The second seed pulley 731 may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley 725 (e.g., with a spacing of 0.3 to 6 feet, or similar).

[0101] The delivery system 723 may include a seed belt 735. The seed belt 735 may be configured to pass around at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737, surrounding a first seed belt pulley 725 and / or a second seed belt pulley 731. The seed belt 735 may have at least a working surface (not shown) capable of supporting one or more seeds 1387 and a wheel surface (not shown). The first seed belt pulley 725 may be positioned adjacent to the front 713 of the seed metering disc 709 such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position 717 at least partially cross the seed supply path 715.

[0102] The delivery system 723 may include a seed band housing 739. The seed band housing 739 may be positioned (e.g., discontinuously) to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737 on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed band 735. The seed band housing 739 may include at least an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface (not shown). The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed band 735, thereby forming a recessed space (not shown) between the working surface and the inner surface of the seed band 735. The recessed space size may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation (not shown) of the one or more seeds 1387. A portion of the seed cartridge housing 739 may include an angled wall 739-1 that may extend above the seed metering disk 709 near the removal position 717, such that the angled wall 739-1 may push or deflect the one or more seeds 1387 away from the seed metering disk 709 and into the seed delivery path 737.

[0103] Seed belt 735 can be configured to receive one or more seeds 1387 from the front 713 of seed metering disc 709, the seeds 1387 being carried along the working surface at seed belt speed (e.g., without mixing with seed belt protrusions, if present). Seed belt 735 can be configured to convey the one or more seeds 1387 along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737 to a delivery discharge position 741 near the second seed belt pulley 731 (e.g., spaced between 0.3 and 6 feet, or similarly spaced).

[0104] In one or more cases, the seed metering disk 709 may rotate in a seed metering disk movement plane (not shown). The first seed pulley 727 may rotate in a first seed pulley movement plane (not shown). For example, the device 705 may be configured such that the seed metering disk movement plane and the first seed pulley movement plane may be substantially (e.g., within a few degrees of deviation, etc.) parallel to each other and / or non-intersecting.

[0105] In one or more cases, for example, the seed metering disc axis 711 and the first seed pulley axis 727 may be substantially (e.g., within a few degrees, etc.) parallel to each other and / or non-intersecting.

[0106] Figure 7B An example of a seed metering and delivery device 751 is shown. Device 751 shows one or more of the following situations: the delivery system 723 and / or the seed delivery path 737 may be oriented relative to the seed metering disk 709 in a non-planar / non-parallel arrangement (e.g., as indicated by the arrangement range arrow 753), for example, possibly extending to an orthogonal arrangement (not shown).

[0107] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B In one or more cases, the seed metering disk 709 may rotate in a seed metering disk movement plane (not shown). The first seed pulley 725 may rotate in a first seed pulley movement plane (not shown). The device 751 may be configured such that the seed metering disk movement plane and the first seed pulley movement plane may be substantially (e.g., within a few degrees of deviation, etc.) non-parallel and / or intersect each other.

[0108] In one or more cases, the seed metering disc axis 711 and the first seed pulley axis 727 may be substantially (e.g., within a few degrees, etc.) not parallel and / or intersect each other.

[0109] Figure 7C An example of a seed metering and delivery device 773 is shown. Device 773 may include a seed meter 707. Seed meter 707 may include a seed meter disk 709 rotatable about a seed meter disk axis 711. Seed meter disk 709 may include at least a front end 713, which may be configured to move one or more seeds 1387 along a seed supply path 715 at a seed meter disk speed to a removal position 717.

[0110] Delivery system 723 may include a first seed pulley 725 rotatable about a first seed pulley axis 727. The first seed pulley 725 may be positioned close to the seed metering disc 709 (e.g., with a spacing of 6-36 inches, or similar). Delivery system 723 may include a second seed pulley 731 rotatable about a second seed pulley axis 733. The second seed pulley 731 may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley 725 (e.g., with a spacing of 0.3 to 6 feet, or similar).

[0111] The delivery system 723 may include a seed belt 735. The seed belt 735 may be configured to pass around at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737, surrounding a first seed belt pulley 725 and / or a second seed belt pulley 731. The seed belt 735 may have at least a working surface (not shown) capable of supporting one or more seeds 1387 and a wheel surface (not shown). The first seed belt pulley 725 may be positioned adjacent to the front 713 of the seed metering disc 709 such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position 717 at least partially cross the seed supply path 715.

[0112] The delivery system 723 may include a seed tape housing 739. The seed tape housing 739 may be positioned (e.g., discontinuously) to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737 on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed tape 735. The seed tape housing 739 may include at least an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface (not shown). The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed tape 735, thereby forming a recessed space (not shown) between the working surface and the inner surface of the seed tape 735. The recessed space may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation (not shown) of the one or more seeds 1387. A rotatable seed removal wheel 740 (e.g., a brush with or without bristles) may be positioned near the removal position 717 above the seed metering disk 709 such that the seed removal wheel 740 can push the one or more seeds 1387 and / or deflect the one or more seeds 1387 to exit the seed metering disk 709 and enter the seed delivery path 737.

[0113] Seed belt 735 can be configured to receive one or more seeds 1387 from the front 713 of seed metering disc 709, the seeds 1387 being carried along the working surface at seed belt speed (e.g., without mixing with seed belt protrusions, if present). Seed belt 735 can be configured to convey the one or more seeds 1387 along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737 to a delivery discharge position 741 near the second seed belt pulley 731 (e.g., spaced between 0.3 and 6 feet, or similarly spaced).

[0114] Figure 7D An example of a seed metering and delivery device 775 is shown. A seed metering disk 709 is rotatable about a seed metering disk axis (not shown). The seed metering disk 709 may include at least a front end 713, which may be configured to move one or more seeds 1387 to a removal position 717 along a seed supply path 715 at a seed metering disk speed.

[0115] Delivery system 723 may include a first seed pulley 725 rotatable about a first seed pulley axis 727. The first seed pulley 725 may be positioned close to the seed metering disc 709 (e.g., with a spacing of 1-36 inches, or similar). Delivery system 723 may include a second seed pulley 731 rotatable about a second seed pulley axis 733. The second seed pulley 731 may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley 725 (e.g., with a spacing of 0.3 to 6 feet, or similar).

[0116] The delivery system 723 may include a seed belt 735. The seed belt 735 may be configured to pass around at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737, surrounding a first seed belt pulley 725 and / or a second seed belt pulley 731. The seed belt 735 may have at least a working surface (not shown) capable of supporting one or more seeds 1387 and a wheel surface (not shown). The first seed belt pulley 725 may be positioned adjacent to the front 713 of the seed metering disc 709 such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position 717 at least partially cross the seed supply path 715.

[0117] The delivery system 723 may include a seed tape housing 739. The seed tape housing 739 may be positioned (e.g., discontinuously) to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737 on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed tape 735. The seed tape housing 739 may include at least an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface (not shown). The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed tape 735, thereby forming a recessed space (not shown) between the working surface and the inner surface of the seed tape 735. The recessed space may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation (not shown) of the one or more seeds 1387. A rotatable seed removal wheel 743 may be positioned above the seed metering disk 709 near the removal position 717, such that the seed removal wheel 740 can push the one or more seeds 1387 and / or deflect the one or more seeds 1387 to exit the seed metering disk 709 and enter the seed delivery path 737.

[0118] Seed belt 735 can be configured to receive one or more seeds 1387 from the front 713 of seed metering disc 709, the seeds being carried along the working surface at seed belt speed (e.g., without mixing with seed belt protrusions, if present). Seed belt 735 can be configured to convey the one or more seeds 1387 along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737 to a delivery discharge position 741 near the second seed belt pulley 731 (e.g., spaced between 0.3 and 6 feet, or similarly spaced).

[0119] Figure 7E An example of a seed metering and delivery device 777 is shown, comprising a cross-sectional view of one or more elements. A seed metering disk 714 is rotatable about a seed metering disk axis (not shown). The seed metering disk 714 can be configured to move one or more seeds 1387 to a removal position 717 along a seed supply path 715 at a seed metering disk speed.

[0120] Delivery system 723 may include a first seed pulley 725 rotatable about a first seed pulley axis 727. The first seed pulley 725 may be positioned close to the seed metering disc 709 (e.g., with a spacing of 6-36 inches, or similar). Delivery system 723 may include a second seed pulley 731 rotatable about a second seed pulley axis 733. The second seed pulley 731 may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley 725 (e.g., with a spacing of 0.3 to 6 feet, or similar).

[0121] The delivery system 723 may include a seed belt 735. The seed belt 735 may be configured to pass around at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737, surrounding a first seed belt pulley 725 and / or a second seed belt pulley 731. The seed belt 735 may have at least a working surface (not shown) capable of supporting one or more seeds 1387 and a wheel surface (not shown). The first seed belt pulley 725 may be positioned adjacent to the seed metering disc 709 such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position 717 at least partially cross the seed supply path 715.

[0122] The delivery system 723 may include a seed band housing 739. The seed band housing 739 may be positioned (e.g., discontinuously) to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737 on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed band 735. The seed band housing 739 may include at least an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface (not shown). The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed band 735, thereby forming a recessed space (not shown) between the working surface and the inner surface of the seed band 735. The recessed space size may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation (not shown) of the one or more seeds 1387.

[0123] Seed belt 735 can be configured to receive one or more seeds 1387 from seed metering disc 709, the seeds being carried along a working surface at seed belt speed (e.g., without mixing with seed belt protrusions, if present). Seed belt 735 can be configured to deliver the one or more seeds 1387 along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737 to a delivery discharge position 741 near the second seed belt pulley 731 (e.g., spaced between 0.3 and 6 feet, or similarly spaced).

[0124] Figure 8 An example of a seed metering and delivery device 803 is shown, the device having one or more components that may affect the size of the pit in which one or more seeds 1387 can be delivered. In one or more cases, device 803 may include an actuator and / or spring 805 that can be mechanically communicated with seed tape housing 739. Actuator 805 may be configured to change the spatial displacement (not shown) of seed tape housing 739 relative to seed tape 735. The change in spatial displacement may correspond to a change in the gap spacing (not shown) between the inner surface (not shown) and the working surface (not shown) of seed tape 735 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. In one or more cases, actuator 805 may be an electric, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic device.

[0125] In one or more cases, the spring 805 can be configured to change the spatial displacement (not shown) of the seed tape housing 739 relative to the seed tape 735. The change in spatial displacement can correspond to a change in the gap spacing between the inner surface (not shown) and the working surface (not shown) of the seed tape 735 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737.

[0126] In one or more cases, device 803 may include a tensioner 807 (e.g., a pulley or the like) that can be mechanically communicated with seed belt 735. Tensioner 807 may be configured to change the tension on seed belt 735. The change in tension may at least partially change the gap between the inner surface (not shown) and the working surface (not shown) of seed belt 735 along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737. The change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface may at least partially change the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess size (not shown) along at least a portion of seed delivery path 737.

[0127] Figure 9An example of a seed metering and delivery device 903 is shown, the device having one or more components that may affect the orientation of one or more seeds 1387 as they are conveyed along at least a portion of a seed delivery path 737. In one or more cases, the seed belt housing 739 may be configured with at least one air port 907. The at least one air port 907 may be configured to deliver an airflow 909 to one or more locations along the seed delivery path 737 between an inner surface (not shown) and a working surface (not shown) of the seed belt 735.

[0128] In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 may at least have a forward-pointing orientation. As the one or more seeds travel along the seed delivery path 737, an airflow 909 may apply an airflow force (not shown) to the one or more seeds. For example, the airflow force may cause the one or more seeds 1387 to have a forward-pointing orientation. In one or more cases, the device 903 may include a blower (not shown) configured to provide airflow 909 to at least the seed carrier housing 739.

[0129] Figure 10 An example of a seed metering and delivery device 1003 is shown, which has various delivery discharge positions 741 oriented toward the one or more seeds 1387 as one or more seeds 1387 are conveyed along at least a portion of a seed delivery path 737.

[0130] In one or more cases, the device 1003 may be configured such that the delivery discharge position 741 may be tangent to the second seed pulley 731. The orientation of the delivery discharge position 741 relative to the ground reference 1011 on which the device 1003 may be mounted may be within, for example, + / - 45 degrees (e.g., as indicated by reference numeral 1009).

[0131] Figure 11 An example of a seed metering and delivery device 1103 is shown, the device having a secondary furrow opener / ditch digger 170 to dispense one or more seeds 1387 into a secondary furrow (not shown). Device 1103 may include the furrow opener 170, which may be configured to create a seed secondary furrow (not shown) in a field (not shown) on which device 1103 may be laid. In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 may be conveyed via a seed belt 735 to a delivery discharge location 741 and / or a seed collector 232 (as described herein). The one or more seeds 1387 may be conveyed into a secondary furrow (not shown) created by the secondary furrow opener 170.

[0132] Figure 12An example of a seed metering and delivery device 1203 is shown, the device having a delivery discharge pipe 1203 and a secondary furrow opener / ditch digger 170 for discharging one or more seeds into a secondary furrow / ditch (not shown). The device 1203 may include the furrow opener 170, which may be configured to create seed secondary furrows (not shown) in farmland (not shown) on which the device 1203 may be laid. In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 may be conveyed via a seed belt 735 to a delivery discharge location 741 and / or a seed collector 232 (as described herein).

[0133] In one or more cases, device 1203 may include a dispensing tube 1221 configured to deliver one or more seeds from delivery discharge position 741 and / or seed collector 232 to seed furrow opener 170. Dispensing tube 1221 may include an upper opening 1223 through which one or more seeds 1387 can be received from delivery discharge position 741 and / or seed collector 232. Dispensing tube 1221 may include a lower opening 1225 through which one or more seeds can be discharged from dispensing tube 1221 to furrow opener / ditcher 170.

[0134] In one or more cases, the dispensing tube 1221 may include a dispensing track 1227 with a continuous curved portion 1231 disposed on the inner surface (not shown) of the dispensing tube 1221. The continuous curved portion 1231 of the dispensing track 1227 may be configured to cause the one or more seeds to be oriented with their tips pointing forward, at least by the applied centrifugal force, as the one or more seeds travel through the continuous curved portion 1231 of the dispensing track 1227 to the lower opening 1225.

[0135] In one or more cases, the dispensing tube 1221 may be substantially (e.g., at least 85% or similar) hollow and / or free of any internal structure. In one or more cases, the continuous curved portion 1231 of the dispensing track 1227 may include one or more helical segments (not shown). In one or more cases, the dispensing tube 1221 may be configured with a substantially curved outer surface.

[0136] refer to Figures 7A to 12 , Figure 13 Two cross-sectional views 1303 and 1330 are shown at two different locations on the seed delivery path 737, illustrating seed pits and seed bands 935. In any seed metering and delivery device described herein, the pit dimensions have a cross-sectional area. Any seed metering and delivery device described herein can be configured such that the cross-sectional area can vary along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. Figures 13 to 16In the image, cross-sectional images AA and BB respectively represent Figure 7A , Figure 7C , Figure 7D , Figure 7E , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Example cross-sections of either the AA section and / or the BB section shown.

[0137] refer to Figure 13 The cross-section 1303 may include an outer surface 1305 and an inner surface 1307 of the seed band shell 739. The inner surface 1307 may be arranged opposite to the working surface 1309 of the seed band 935, thereby forming a recessed space 1311 between the working surface 1309 and the inner surface 1307 of the seed band 935. The dimensions of the recessed space 1311 (e.g., recess size) may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation of the one or more seeds 1387.

[0138] In one or more cases, the inner surface may include at least a guide surface 1313 and / or a riding surface 1315. The guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 may be arranged opposite to the working surface 1309 of the seed band 935, thereby further defining the recess space 1311. As the one or more seeds 1387 travel along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737, a change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the seed recess 1311 may at least partially alter the orientation of the one or more seeds (e.g., to a tip-forward orientation).

[0139] In one or more cases, the seed band 935 may include a smooth surface 1317, which may define a working surface 1309 for supporting one or more seeds. The smooth surface 1317 may include one or more materials. The one or more materials may be one or more of the following: rubber materials, nylon materials, elastomer materials, felt materials, fiber materials, and / or polymer materials.

[0140] In one or more cases, the seed tape housing 739 can be configured to be variably positioned relative to the seed tape 935 such that the gap between the inner surface 1307 and the working surface 1309 of the seed tape 935 varies along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. This variation in the gap between the inner surface 1307 and the working surface 1309 can at least partially cause the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess size to vary along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. In one or more cases, this variation in cross-sectional area can mechanically manipulate the one or more seeds 1387 within the recess space 1311. In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 can at least have a forward-pointing orientation (not shown). Mechanical manipulation can cause the one or more seeds 1387 to be oriented with their tips pointing forward.

[0141] In one or more cases, a change in at least a portion of the cross-sectional area / recess space 1311 along the seed delivery path 737 can cause the one or more seeds 1387 to be oriented with their tips pointing forward.

[0142] In one or more cases, one or more friction-induced textures and / or one or more friction-induced materials (not shown) may be disposed on the inner surface 1307 of the seed carrier shell 739. In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 may have at least a forward-pointing orientation (not shown). As the one or more seeds 1387 travel along the seed delivery path 737, the one or more friction-induced textures and / or the one or more friction-induced materials may apply a torque to the one or more seeds 1387. The torque may cause the one or more seeds 1387 to be oriented with their tips forward (not shown).

[0143] In one or more cases, the variation of the cross-sectional area / dimple size 1311 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737 can correspond to the following: the cross-sectional area / dimple size 1311 is larger near the first seed pulley 725, while the cross-sectional area / dimple size 1311 is smaller near the second seed pulley 731.

[0144] In one or more cases, the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 can form a first geometry. The inner surface 1307 can be configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 can change along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. The change in arrangement can form a second or more geometry. The second or more geometries can at least partially form a second or more cross-sectional area of ​​the recess size 1311.

[0145] exist Figure 13In the diagram, cross section 1330 shows examples of different cross sections BB of the recessed space 1311 formed by different geometries of the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 at the descent point along the seed delivery path 737. In cross section 1330, the one or more seeds 1387 can be oriented in a specific (e.g., desired, tip-forward, etc.) orientation in (e.g., smaller, different) cross-sectional area / recess size 1311.

[0146] exist Figure 14 In the diagram, cross section 1403 shows examples of different cross sections AA of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1403, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be varied by changing the gap between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed tape 1439 (e.g., via one or more techniques described herein).

[0147] The seed band 1439 may include a plurality of protrusions 1441, each protrusion having a tip that collectively defines a working surface 1309 supporting one or more seeds 1387. The plurality of protrusions 1441 may comprise one or more materials. These materials may be rubber, nylon, elastomer, felt, fiber, and / or polymer. In one or more cases, the plurality of protrusions 1441 may comprise bristles.

[0148] Cross section 1430 illustrates examples of different cross sections BB of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1430, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be varied by changing the gap between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed band 1439 (e.g., via one or more techniques described herein). In cross section 1430, the one or more seeds 1387 can be oriented in a specific (e.g., desired, tip-forward, etc.) orientation in a (e.g., smaller, different) cross-sectional area / recess size 1311.

[0149] exist Figure 15 In the diagram, cross section 1503 shows examples of different cross sections AA of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1503, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be varied by changing the gap between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed belt 1439 (e.g., via one or more techniques described herein).

[0150] Cross section 1530 illustrates examples of different cross sections BB of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1530, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be varied by changing the gap between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed band 1439 (e.g., via one or more techniques described herein). In cross section 1530, the one or more seeds 1387 can be oriented in a specific (e.g., desired, tip-forward, etc.) orientation in a smaller, different cross-sectional area / recess size 1311.

[0151] exist Figure 16 In the diagram, cross section 1603 shows examples of different cross sections AA of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1603, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be changed by altering the geometry between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed band 1439.

[0152] exist Figure 16 In the diagram, cross section 1630 shows examples of different cross sections BB of the recess space 1311. In cross section 1630, the cross-sectional area of ​​the recess space 1311 can be changed by altering the geometry between the riding surface 1315 and the guide surface 1313 and the working surface 1309 of the seed band 1439. In cross section 1630, the one or more seeds 1387 can be oriented in a specific (e.g., desired, tip-forward, etc.) orientation in a (e.g., smaller, different) cross-sectional area / recess size 1311.

[0153] In one or more cases, for example, in cross section 1603, the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 may form a first angle 1609 between the entire length of the guide surface 1313 and the entire length of the riding surface 1315 (e.g., obscured by the one or more seeds 1387).

[0154] In one or more cases, for example, in cross section 1630, the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 can form a first angle 1609 between the entire length of the guide surface 1313 and at least a portion of the length 1315-1 of the riding surfaces 1315-1 and 1315-2 (e.g., obscured by the one or more seeds 1387), thereby producing a BB variation in the cross-sectional area of ​​the seed pit 1311.

[0155] refer to Figures 7A to 16In one or more cases, the rotation of the first seed pulley 725 and / or the second seed pulley 731 can be adjustable to achieve a change in seed belt speed. In one or more cases, the change in seed belt speed can at least partially cause a change in the gap between the inner surface 1307 and the working surface 1309 of the seed belt 935 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737. The change in the gap between the inner surface 1307 and the working surface 1309 can at least partially cause a change in the pit size / cross-sectional area of ​​the seed pit 1311 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path 737.

[0156] In one or more cases, the one or more seeds 1387 may at least have a forward-pointing orientation. Variations in the seed belt speed can cause the one or more seeds to adopt a forward-pointing orientation. In one or more cases, the variation in the seed belt speed is operable such that the seed belt speed is greater than the seed metering disc speed.

[0157] In one or more cases, the seed tape housing 739 may be configured to be detachable from the seed metering and delivery device (not shown). The seed tape housing 739 may be replaced by one or more other seed tape housings (not shown). The one or more other seed tape housings may be configured to vary the gap between the inner surface 1307 and the working surface 1309 of the seed tape 935 along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the variation in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface at least partially varying the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0158] refer to Figure 7A In one or more cases, the seed metering disk 709 may include a rear section (not shown) and a plurality of holes 757, which may be arranged in a circular pattern spaced inward from the outer edge 759 of the seed metering disk 709 and form a seed supply path 715. One or more of the plurality of holes 757, or each hole 757, may extend through the seed metering disk 709 between the front 713 and the rear 713 and / or may be configured to hold one or more seeds 1387 in a suitable position on the front 713 of the seed metering disk 709 by a pressure differential across the plurality of holes 757. In one or more cases, the pressure differential across the plurality of holes 757 may be reduced near the removal position 717.

[0159] exist Figure 17In the diagram, cross section 1730 shows examples of different cross sections BB of the pit space 1311. In cross section 1730, the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit space 1311 can be changed by translating the guide surface 1313 along the wall 1319. In one or more cases, for example, in cross section 1730, the arrangement of the guide surface 1313 and the riding surface 1315 can form a first angle 1709 between the entire length of the guide surface 1313 and at least a portion of the length 1315-1 of the riding surfaces 1315-1 and 1315-2 (e.g., obscured by the one or more seeds 1387), thereby producing a change in the cross-sectional area BB of the seed pit 1311.

[0160] Examples of orientation systems include PCT Publications WO2018013858A1, WO2018013859A1, WO2018013860A2, and WO2018013861A1. In other embodiments, seed orientation devices (such as those described in U.S. Patent Publications US2020 / 0367425A1 and US2022 / 0192079A1) may be used in conjunction with seed dispensing tube 130 to orient seeds after they have been discharged from seed metering unit 128 and seed dispensing tube and before they have been placed in planting furrows.Other systems supporting seed orientation and compatible with this disclosure are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent Application Publications US20200367425A1 and US20220192079A1; PCT Publications WO2020 / 227670A2, WO2023 / 062450A1, WO2023 / 062463A1, WO2023 / 062476A1, WO2023 / 062498A1, WO2023 / 062499A1, and WO2023 / 0 Applications No. 62500A1, WO2023 / 062507A2, WO2023 / 089408A1, WO2023 / 105319A1, WO2023 / 161736A1, WO2023 / 161737A1, WO2023 / 161738A1, and WO2023 / 007284A1; and PCT applications No. PCT / IB2023 / 058731 (filed on September 4, 2023) and No. PCT / IB2023 / 058732 (filed on September 4, 2023). (Submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058614 (submitted on August 31, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 060415 (submitted on October 16, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058733 (submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 061921 (submitted on November 27, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 061922 (submitted on November 27, 2023), PCT / IB2 PCT / IB2023 / 058735 (submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058736 (submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058737 (submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058738 (submitted on September 4, 2023), PCT / IB2023 / 058739 (submitted on September 4, 2023), and PCT / IB2023 / 058740 (submitted on September 4, 2023).

[0161] Example

[0162] The following is a non-restrictive example.

[0163] Example 1 - A row unit for planting seeds includes: a frame configured to be coupled to a tool rod; a seed furrow opening assembly carried by the frame and configured to form a seed furrow; a seed delivery device carried by the frame and configured to deliver seeds into the seed furrow; and a seed furrow closing assembly carried by the frame and configured to close the seed furrow over the seeds in the seed furrow, the seed delivery device having: a metering unit having a metering disc configured to receive seeds and output single-seed seeds; a seed conveyor and orientation assembly having a conveyor belt for receiving the single-seed seeds; an impeller that moves the single-seed seeds through the conveyor belt; a seed orientation device configured to orient the single-seed seeds in a predetermined orientation; and a seed outlet path configured to deliver the single-seedled and oriented seeds into the seed furrow.

[0164] Example 2 - The row unit according to Example 1, wherein the seed orientation device includes a curved seed path configured to apply centrifugal force to the monolithized seed.

[0165] Example 3 - The row unit according to Example 2, wherein the curved seed path further includes a spiral structure.

[0166] Example 4 - The row unit according to Example 3, wherein the curved seed path is provided with an inclined slope.

[0167] Example 5 - A row unit according to Example 1, wherein the conveyor belt includes a guide having a seed sliding surface in its cross-section and a guide wall offset at an angle from the seed sliding surface, the guide wall and the seed sliding surface being configured to engage with the single-seed as the single-seed moves through the conveyor belt.

[0168] Example 6 - The row unit according to Example 5, wherein the impeller is configured to press the monolithic seed toward the connection between the seed sliding surface and the guide wall and press the monolithic seed against each of the seed sliding surface and the guide wall as the seed travels along the guide.

[0169] Example 7 - A row unit according to Example 5, wherein the guide includes a curved seed path configured to apply a centrifugal force to the monolithic seed, thereby pressing the monolithic seed toward the connection between the seed sliding surface and the guide wall and pressing the monolithic seed against each of the seed sliding surface and the guide wall as the seed travels along the guide.

[0170] Example 8 - A row unit according to Example 7, wherein the guide further includes a spiral structure.

[0171] Example 9 - A row unit according to Example 1, wherein the impeller includes a brush belt having a belt and a plurality of bristles protruding therefrom.

[0172] Example 10 - A row unit according to Example 5, wherein the impeller includes a brush belt having a band and a plurality of bristles projecting therefrom; a first portion of the bristles contacts the sliding surface of the seed, a second portion of the bristles contacts the guide wall, and a third portion of the bristles contacts the monolithized seed.

[0173] Example 11 - The row unit according to Example 10 further includes an open space between the plurality of bristles and the connection between the seed sliding surface and the guide wall.

[0174] Example 12 - A row unit according to Example 1, wherein the impeller includes a set of scrapers.

[0175] Example 13 - The row unit according to Example 1, wherein the seed conveyor and orientation assembly further includes an air intake structure that injects air into the seed path within the seed conveyor and orientation assembly.

[0176] Example 14 - A row unit according to Example 13, wherein the air intake structure injects air into the seed orientation device.

[0177] Example 15 - A seed delivery device includes: a metering unit having a metering disc configured to receive seeds and output single-seedled seeds; a seed conveyor and a orientation assembly having a conveyor belt for receiving the single-seedled seeds; an impeller that moves the single-seedled seeds through the conveyor belt; a seed orientation device configured to orient the single-seedled seeds in a predetermined orientation; and a seed outlet path configured to deliver the single-seedled and oriented seeds into a seed trench.

[0178] Example 16 - A seed delivery device according to Example 15, wherein the seed orientation device includes a spiral path.

[0179] Example 17 - A seed delivery apparatus according to Example 15, wherein the seed orientation device includes a guide having a seed sliding surface in its cross-section and a guide wall offset at an angle from the seed sliding surface, the guide wall and the seed sliding surface being configured to engage with the single-seed as the single-seed moves through the conveyor belt.

[0180] Example 18 - A method for planting using row units, comprising the following steps: forming seed furrows in soil using the row units; single-seedling seeds using a metering disc carried by the row units; transferring the single-seedled seeds from the metering disc to a seed conveyor and a directional assembly; capturing and conveying the single-seedled seeds between a guide and the impeller; directionalizing the single-seedled seeds; dispensing the single-seedled and directional seeds from the seed conveyor and the directional assembly into the seed furrows; and closing the seed furrows using a seed furrow closure assembly.

[0181] Example 19 - A method for planting using row units according to Example 18, wherein the step of orienting the single-seed includes applying centrifugal force to the single-seed.

[0182] Example 20 - A method for planting using row units according to Example 18, wherein the step of orienting the single-seed includes injecting air into the seed path.

[0183] Example 21 - A seed metering and delivery device may include a seed meter. The seed meter may include a seed meter disk rotatable about an axis of the seed meter disk. The seed meter disk may include at least a front end, which may be configured to move one or more seeds along a seed supply path to a removal position at a first seed meter disk speed.

[0184] The device may include a delivery system. The delivery system may include a first seed pulley rotatable about an axis of a first seed pulley. The first seed pulley may be positioned close to the seed metering disc. A second seed pulley rotatable about an axis of a second seed pulley. The second seed pulley may be positioned distal to the first seed pulley.

[0185] The seed belt can be configured to pass around the first seed belt pulley and the second seed belt pulley along the seed delivery path. The seed belt can have at least a working surface that can support one or more seeds and a wheel surface. The first seed belt pulley can be positioned adjacent to the front of the seed metering disc such that at least some portions of the working surface can at least partially cross the seed supply path at the removal position.

[0186] The device may include a seed band housing, which may be positioned to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed band. The seed band housing may include at least an outer surface and / or an inner surface. The inner surface may be arranged opposite the working surface of the seed band, thereby forming a recessed space between the working surface of the seed band and the inner surface. The recessed space may be configured to receive and / or accommodate changes in the orientation of one or more seeds.

[0187] The seed belt can be configured to receive one or more seeds from the front of the seed metering disc, the seeds being carried along the working surface at a seed belt speed. The seed belt can be configured to deliver the one or more seeds along at least a portion of the seed delivery path to a delivery discharge position near the second seed pulley.

[0188] Example 22 - The device according to Example 21, wherein the pit size has a cross-sectional area. The device may be further configured such that the cross-sectional area varies along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0189] Example 23 - The device according to Example 22, wherein the inner surface may include at least a guide surface and a riding surface. The guide surface and the riding surface may be arranged opposite to the working surface of the seed belt, thereby further defining the recessed space. As the one or more seeds travel along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the change in cross-sectional area may at least partially alter the orientation of the one or more seeds.

[0190] Example 24 - The device according to Example 23, wherein the seed tape housing can be configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface can form a first angle between the entire length of the guide surface and the entire length of the riding surface.

[0191] Example 25 - The device according to Example 23, wherein the seed belt housing can be configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface can form a first angle between the entire length of the guide wall and at least a portion of the length of the riding wall.

[0192] Example 26 - The device according to Example 23, wherein the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface can form a first geometry. The inner surface can be further configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface can change along at least a portion of the seed delivery path. The change in arrangement can form a second or more geometries. The second or more geometries can at least partially form a second or more cross-sectional area of ​​the recess size.

[0193] Example 27 - A device according to any one of Examples 22 to 26, wherein the device may be further configured such that the change in the cross-sectional area can mechanically manipulate the one or more seeds within the pit space.

[0194] Example 28 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 22 to 27, wherein the seed tape housing can be configured to be variably positioned relative to the seed tape such that the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape varies along at least a portion of the seed delivery path. The variation in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface can at least partially cause the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size to vary along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0195] Example 29 - The device according to Example 28 further includes an actuator in mechanical communication with the seed tape housing. The actuator can be configured to cause a change in spatial displacement of the seed tape housing relative to the seed tape. This change in spatial displacement can correspond to a change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0196] Example 30 - The device according to Example 29, wherein the actuator may be an electric device, a pneumatic device, and / or a hydraulic device.

[0197] Example 31 - The device according to Example 28 further includes one or more springs in mechanical communication with the seed tape housing. The one or more springs may be configured to cause a change in spatial displacement of the seed tape housing relative to the seed tape. This change in spatial displacement may correspond to a change in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0198] Example 32 - The apparatus according to any one of Examples 22 to 31 further includes a tensioner in mechanical communication with the seed tape. The tensioner can be configured to change the tension on the seed tape. The change in tension can at least partially change the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path. The change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface can at least partially change the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0199] Example 33 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 32, wherein the rotation of the first seed pulley and / or the second seed pulley can be adjustable to achieve a change in the seed belt speed.

[0200] Example 34 - The device according to Example 33, wherein a change in the seed belt speed can at least partially cause a change in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed belt along at least a portion of the seed delivery path. The change in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface can at least partially cause a change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0201] Example 35 - A device according to any one of Examples 21 to 34, wherein the seed tape housing can be configured to be removable from the device. The seed tape housing can be configured to be replaceable with one or more other seed tape housings. The one or more other seed tape housings can be configured to vary the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path. The variation in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface can at least partially vary the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

[0202] Example 36 - A device according to any one of Examples 21 to 35, wherein the seed tape housing may be configured with at least one air port. The at least one air port may be configured to deliver airflow to one or more locations along the seed delivery path between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape.

[0203] Example 37 - In the device according to Example 36, the one or more seeds may have at least a forward-pointing orientation. As the one or more seeds travel along the seed delivery path, the airflow may apply an airflow force to the one or more seeds. The airflow force may cause the one or more seeds to adopt the forward-pointing orientation.

[0204] Example 38 - A device according to any one of Examples 21 to 37, wherein one or more friction-induced textures and / or one or more friction-induced materials may be disposed on the inner surface of the seed belt housing.

[0205] Example 39 - The device according to Example 38, wherein the one or more seeds may have at least a forward-pointing orientation. As the one or more seeds travel along the seed delivery path, the one or more friction-induced textures and / or the one or more friction-induced materials may apply a torque to the one or more seeds. The torque may cause the one or more seeds to adopt the forward-pointing orientation.

[0206] Example 40 - A device according to any one of Examples 22 to 39, wherein the one or more seeds may have at least a forward-pointing orientation. A change in the cross-sectional area along at least a portion of the seed delivery path may cause the one or more seeds to have the forward-pointing orientation.

[0207] Example 41 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 27 to 39, wherein the one or more seeds may have at least a forward-pointing orientation. Mechanical manipulation may cause the one or more seeds to adopt the forward-pointing orientation.

[0208] Example 42 - A device according to any one of Examples 33 to 41, wherein the one or more seeds may have at least a forward-pointing orientation. A change in the seed band velocity may cause the one or more seeds to adopt the forward-pointing orientation.

[0209] Example 43 - A device according to any one of Examples 22 to 42, wherein the device may be further configured such that a variation in the cross-sectional area along at least a portion of the seed delivery path corresponds to a situation where the cross-sectional area is larger near the first seed pulley and smaller near the second seed pulley.

[0210] Example 44 - A device according to any one of Examples 21 to 43, wherein the delivery discharge position may be tangent to the second seed pulley. The angle between the delivery discharge position and a ground reference on which the device may be mounted may be within the range of + / - 45 degrees.

[0211] Example 45 - The apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 44 further includes a furrow opener, which can be configured to create a seed furrow in a field. The one or more seeds can be conveyed from the delivery discharge location to the seed furrow.

[0212] Example 46 - The device according to Example 45 further includes a dispensing tube configured to deliver one or more seeds from the delivery discharge position to the seed furrow. The dispensing tube may include an upper opening through which the one or more seeds can be received from the delivery discharge position. The dispensing tube may include a lower opening through which the one or more seeds can be discharged from the dispensing tube. The dispensing tube may include a dispensing track with a continuous curved portion disposed on the inner surface of the dispensing tube. The continuous curved portion of the dispensing track may be configured to at least utilize the centrifugal force applied when the one or more seeds travel through the continuous curved portion of the dispensing track to the lower opening to cause the one or more seeds to be oriented in a forward-pointing manner.

[0213] Example 47 - The device according to Example 46, wherein the dispensing tube may be substantially hollow and / or contain no internal structure.

[0214] Example 48 - The device according to Example 46, wherein the continuous curved portion of the distribution track may include one or more helical segments.

[0215] Example 49 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 48, wherein the seed metering disk is rotatable in a seed metering disk movement plane. The first seed pulley is rotatable in a first seed pulley movement plane. The apparatus may be further configured such that the seed metering disk movement plane and the first seed pulley movement plane are substantially parallel to each other and / or do not intersect.

[0216] Example 50 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 49, wherein the axis of the seed metering disc and the axis of the first seed pulley may be substantially parallel to each other and / or not intersect each other.

[0217] Example 51 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 50, wherein the seed metering disk is rotatable in a seed metering disk movement plane. The first seed pulley is rotatable in a first seed pulley movement plane. The apparatus may be further configured such that the seed metering disk movement plane and the first seed pulley movement plane may be substantially non-parallel to each other and / or intersect each other.

[0218] Example 52 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 51, wherein the axis of the seed metering disc and the axis of the first seed pulley may be substantially non-parallel to each other and / or intersect each other.

[0219] Example 53 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 22 to 52, wherein the seed metering disk may further include a rear and / or a plurality of eyelets, the plurality of eyelets being arranged in a circular pattern spaced inward from the outer edge of the seed wheel and forming the seed path. One or more of the plurality of eyelets, or each of the eyelets, may extend through the seed metering disk between the front and rear, and / or may be configured to hold one or more seeds in a suitable position on the front of the seed metering disk by means of a pressure differential across the plurality of eyelets.

[0220] Example 54 - The device according to any one of Examples 36 to 51 further includes a blower that can be configured to provide airflow to at least the seed tape housing.

[0221] Example 55 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 54, wherein the seed band may include a plurality of protrusions having tips that collectively define a working surface supporting one or more seeds.

[0222] Example 56 - The device according to Example 55, wherein the plurality of protrusions may comprise one or more materials. The one or more materials may be rubber, nylon, elastomer, felt, fiber, and / or polymer.

[0223] Example 57 - The device according to Example 55 or Example 56, wherein the plurality of protrusions may include one or more bristles.

[0224] Example 58 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 21 to 54, wherein the seed strip may include a non-protruding surface that may define a working surface supporting the one or more seeds.

[0225] Example 59 - The device according to Example 58, wherein the non-protruding surface comprises one or more materials. The one or more materials may be rubber, nylon, elastomer, felt, fiber, and / or polymer.

[0226] Example 60 - A device according to any one of Examples 46 to 59, wherein the dispensing tube may be configured with a substantially curved outer surface.

[0227] Example 61 - A device according to any one of Examples 53 to 60, wherein the pressure differential across the plurality of orifices can be reduced near the removal location.

[0228] Example 62 - An apparatus according to any one of Examples 33 to 61, wherein the variation of the seed belt speed is adjustable in operation such that the seed belt speed can be greater than the speed of the seed metering disk.

[0229] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form “a” and “described” are intended to include both the plural and singular forms. It should also be further understood that, when used in this specification, the term “comprising” indicates only the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The foregoing description is intended to enable those skilled in the art to practice and use the invention and is provided in the context of the patent application and its claims. Various modifications to preferred embodiments of the devices and the general principles and features of the systems and methods described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, but should be given the broadest scope consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A seed metering and delivery device, comprising: A seed metering device, the seed metering device including a seed metering disk rotatable about an axis of a seed metering disk, the seed metering disk including at least a front end, the front end being configured to move one or more seeds to a removal position along a seed supply path at a first seed metering disk speed. as well as Delivery system, the delivery system comprising: A first seed pulley capable of rotating about the axis of a first seed pulley, the first seed pulley being positioned close to the seed metering disc; A second seed pulley capable of rotating around the axis of the second seed pulley, the second seed pulley being disposed far from the first seed pulley; A seed belt configured to pass around a first seed belt pulley and a second seed belt pulley along a seed delivery path, the seed belt having at least a working surface supporting one or more seeds and a wheel surface, the first seed belt pulley being positioned adjacent to the front of the seed metering disc such that at least some portions of the working surface at the removal position at least partially cross the seed supply path; and A seed band housing is positioned to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path on the opposite side of the working surface of the seed band. The seed band housing includes at least an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface being arranged opposite to the working surface of the seed band to form a recessed space between the working surface and the inner surface of the seed band. The recessed space is sized to receive and accommodate a change in orientation of one or more seeds. The seed band is configured to: The one or more seeds are received from the front of the seed metering disc, and the one or more seeds are carried along the working surface at a seed belt speed; and One or more seeds are delivered to a delivery discharge position near the second seed pulley along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The pit size has a cross-sectional area, and the device is further configured such that the cross-sectional area varies along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The inner surface includes at least a guide surface and a riding surface, which are arranged opposite to the working surface of the seed belt, thereby further defining the recessed space, and the change in the cross-sectional area at least partially alters the orientation of the seed as the one or more seeds travel along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The seed belt housing is configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface forms a first angle between the entire length of the guide surface and the entire length of the riding surface.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The seed belt housing is configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface forms a first angle between the entire length of the guide wall and at least a portion of the length of the riding wall.

6. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface forms a first geometry, and the inner surface is further configured such that the arrangement of the guide surface and the riding surface changes along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the change in arrangement forming a second or more geometry, the second or more geometry at least partially forming a second or more cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size.

7. The device according to claim 2, wherein, The device is further configured such that the change in the cross-sectional area mechanically manipulates the one or more seeds within the recessed space.

8. The device according to claim 2, wherein, The seed tape housing is configured to be variably positioned relative to the seed tape such that the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape changes along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface causing at least part of the change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

9. The device of claim 8, further comprising an actuator in mechanical communication with the seed tape housing, the actuator being configured to cause a change in spatial displacement of the seed tape housing relative to the seed tape, the change in spatial displacement corresponding to a change in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein, The actuator is at least one of the following: an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a hydraulic actuator.

11. The device of claim 8, further comprising one or more springs in mechanical communication with the seed tape housing, the one or more springs being configured to cause a change in spatial displacement of the seed tape housing relative to the seed tape, the change in spatial displacement corresponding to a change in the gap spacing between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

12. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a tensioner in mechanical communication with the seed strip, the tensioner being configured to cause a change in tension on the seed strip, the change in tension causing at least partially a change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed strip along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface causing at least partially a change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

13. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The rotation of at least one of the first seed pulley or the second seed pulley is adjustable to achieve a change in the seed belt speed.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein, The change in the seed belt speed causes, at least in part, a change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed belt along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, and the change in the gap between the inner surface and the working surface causes, at least in part, the change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

15. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed with a shell is further configured as follows: It can be detached from the device; as well as It can be replaced by one or more other seed band housings configured to vary the gap between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed band along at least a portion of the seed delivery path, the variation of the gap between the inner surface and the working surface causing at least part of the variation of the cross-sectional area of ​​the pit size along at least a portion of the seed delivery path.

16. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed tape housing is provided with at least one air port configured to deliver airflow to one or more locations along the seed delivery path between the inner surface and the working surface of the seed tape.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein, The one or more seeds have at least a forward-pointing orientation; as the one or more seeds travel along the seed delivery path, the airflow applies an airflow force to the one or more seeds; and the airflow force causes the one or more seeds to be oriented with their tips forward.

18. The device according to claim 1, wherein, One or more friction-induced textures and / or one or more friction-induced materials are disposed on the inner surface of the seed belt shell.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein, The one or more seeds have at least a forward-pointing orientation; as the one or more seeds travel along the seed delivery path, the one or more friction-induced textures and / or the one or more friction-induced materials apply a torque to the one or more seeds; and the torque causes the one or more seeds to maintain the forward-pointing orientation.

20. The device according to claim 2, wherein, The one or more seeds have at least a forward-pointing orientation, and the change in the cross-sectional area along at least a portion of the seed delivery path causes the one or more seeds to be in the forward-pointing orientation.

21. The device according to claim 7, wherein, The one or more seeds have at least a forward-pointing orientation, and the mechanical manipulation causes the one or more seeds to be in the forward-pointing orientation.

22. The device according to claim 13, wherein, The one or more seeds have at least a forward-pointing orientation, and the change in the seed velocity causes the one or more seeds to adopt the forward-pointing orientation.

23. The device according to claim 2, wherein, The device is further configured such that the variation in the cross-sectional area along at least a portion of the seed delivery path corresponds to a situation where the cross-sectional area is larger near the first seed pulley and smaller near the second seed pulley.

24. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The delivery discharge position is tangent to the second seed pulley, and the angle between the delivery discharge position and the ground reference on which the device is mounted is within the range of + / -45 degrees.

25. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a furrow opener configured to create a seed furrow in a field, wherein one or more seeds are conveyed from the delivery discharge location to the seed furrow.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a dispensing tube configured to deliver the one or more seeds from the delivery discharge position to the seed furrow, the dispensing tube comprising: The upper opening allows the one or more seeds to be received from the delivery / discharge position through the upper opening. The lower opening allows one or more seeds to be discharged from the distribution tube through the lower opening; as well as A distribution track with a continuous curved portion is disposed on the inner surface of the distribution tube. The continuous curved portion of the distribution track is configured to cause the one or more seeds to be oriented with their tips pointing forward by at least the centrifugal force applied when the one or more seeds travel through the continuous curved portion of the distribution track to the lower opening.

27. The device according to claim 26, wherein, The distribution tube is at least one of the following: substantially hollow, or without any internal structure.

28. The device according to claim 26, wherein, The continuous curved section of the distribution track includes one or more helical segments.

29. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed metering disk rotates in a plane of movement of the seed metering disk, and the first seed pulley rotates in a plane of movement of the first seed pulley. The device is further configured such that the plane of movement of the seed metering disk and the plane of movement of the first seed pulley are at least one of the following: substantially parallel to each other, or do not intersect each other.

30. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The axis of the seed metering disc and the axis of the first seed pulley are at least one of the following: substantially parallel to each other, or do not intersect each other.

31. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed metering disk rotates in a plane of movement of the seed metering disk, and the first seed pulley rotates in a plane of movement of the first seed pulley. The device is further configured such that the plane of movement of the seed metering disk and the plane of movement of the first seed pulley are at least one of the following: substantially non-parallel to each other, or intersecting each other.

32. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The axis of the seed metering disc and the axis of the first seed pulley are at least one of the following: substantially non-parallel or intersecting.

33. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed metering disc further includes a rear end and a plurality of orifices arranged in a circular pattern at intervals from the outer edge of the seed wheel to form the seed path. Each of the plurality of orifices extends through the seed metering disc between the front and the rear end and is configured to hold one or more seeds in the proper position on the front end of the seed metering disc by means of a pressure difference across the plurality of orifices.

34. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a blower configured to provide the airflow to at least the seed belt housing.

35. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed strip includes a plurality of protrusions having tips, the tips collectively defining the working surface supporting one or more seeds.

36. The device according to claim 35, wherein, The plurality of protrusions comprise one or more materials, which are one or more of the following: rubber, nylon, elastomer, felt, fiber, or polymer.

37. The device according to claim 35, wherein, The plurality of protrusions include bristles.

38. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The seed strip includes a smooth surface that defines a working surface supporting one or more seeds.

39. The device according to claim 38, wherein, The non-protruding surface comprises one or more materials, which are one or more of the following: rubber materials, nylon materials, elastomer materials, felt materials, fiber materials, or polymer materials.

40. The device according to claim 26, wherein, The distribution pipe is configured with a generally curved outer surface.

41. The device according to claim 33, wherein, The pressure difference across the plurality of orifices decreases near the removal location.

42. The device according to claim 13, wherein, The change in the seed belt speed is adjustable in operation so that the seed belt speed is greater than the speed of the seed metering disk.

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