Agricultural planting implement with telescoping and steerable toolbars and / or row units

Abstract

An agricultural implement includes telescoping toolbars wherein telescoping members can be extended or retracted to increase or decrease the distance between the toolbars. When in a field use configuration, the toolbars can be extended to increase the distance between the toolbars. When in a transport configuration, the toolbars can be retracted to decrease the distance between the toolbars. The toolbars are also configured to move laterally relative to each other. A toolbar assembly can comprise row units, actuators, and / or linkages wherein the row units, actuators, and / or linkages are rotatably connected to the toolbar assembly such that they can provide steering for the implement and / or toolbar(s). The implement can include components to allow for improved steering and can include rotatable wings of a toolbar assembly. The implement and / or system is configured to detect characteristics via sensors, and then perform a task based on those characteristics.

Description

TITLE: AGRICULTURAL PLANTING IMPLEMENT WITH TELESCOPINGAND STEERABLE TOOLBARS AND / OR ROW UNITSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an apparatus, system, and / or a corresponding method of use and / or manufacture having applications in at least the agricultural industry. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to an agricultural implement with telescoping and / or steerable toolbars and / or row units.BACKGROUND

[0002] The background description provided herein gives context for the present disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art.

[0003] Increased tractor horsepower has resulted in larger implements capable of planting or working a much wider swath in a single pass. Transport of these wide implements from a storage area to a field or from one field to another over roads has become an important design consideration. Thus, a dilemma exists between the desirability of a large implement capable of a wide swath while also being easily transportable. Some early planters required separate trailers for transport. In addition to the cost of these special -use transport trailers, these planters are limited in length by the practical requirements of having to load the implement on the trailer and to unload it. The time involved with the use of a separate trailer is increased because in loading the implement on the trailer and then in setting up the implement in the new field, the tractor must be unhitched from the implement and then hitched to the trailer, with the reverse procedure followed at the new site. This loss of time can be significant in view of the short time typically available when good planting conditions prevail, particularly when numerous fields must be planted using the same implement.

[0004] Other attempts to facilitate transport of larger implements include frames with pivoting wing sections on which row units are mounted which may be vertically folded. When folded, the implement is much greater in height, frequently causing problems when attempting to pass under bridges, through gates, and into storage buildings. In addition, even with the two outer wing sections folded, because of the increasing size of agricultural implements, the fixed center section may also restrict transport and storage of the implement.

[0005] Further, some existing implements include multiple, parallel toolbars. However, such existing implements that have multiple toolbars lack the ability to quickly, efficiently, and effectively change / alter the distance between the toolbars. Thus, existing implements with multiple toolbars face a problem in that the distance between the toolbars may lead to good resultswhile performing some agricultural functions but the ability to transport the implement suffers. Similarly, the distance between toolbars of other existing implements may allow for easy transport but effectiveness and efficiency when performing an agricultural function suffers. Additionally, the inability of existing implements to quickly, efficiently, and effectively change / alter the distance between toolbars hurts the implement’s ability to perform some agricultural functions such as planting, drilling, plowing, fertilizing, spraying, and dealing with crop residue in an efficient and effective manner.

[0006] Furthermore, as more and more land is converted to farmland in order to feed the world’s growing population, agricultural fields often include hills, rough terrain, and other challenging types of terrain. Existing agricultural implements can be rigid and lack the flexibility and / or ability to efficiently and effectively perform agricultural functions on hills and / or other challenging terrain. Also, existing agricultural implements often lack the ability to efficiently and effectively perform agricultural functions when turning.

[0007] Existing agricultural implements, such as planters, also often lack the ability to provide for accurate and precise steering of the implement both while the implement is performing an agricultural function and while the implement is being transported.

[0008] Additionally, with the growing cost of agricultural implements it is becoming increasingly important to perform frequent and quality upkeep of agricultural implements and components thereof to preserve and / or increase the lifespan of the implements. For the same reasons, it is becoming increasingly important to avoid situations in which an agricultural implement, or components thereof, may suffer damage. Further, as the sheer size of agricultural implements increases, safety of occupants and those nearby is becoming more and more important. Existing agricultural implements often lack an effective and efficient system capable of detecting dangerous situations and forcing the implement to perform functionality based on such detected dangerous situations.

[0009] Thus, there exists a need in the art for an improved agricultural implement having multiple toolbars wherein the implement is able to vary the distance between said toolbars such that the distance can be relatively large when desirable (such as for field use) and / or can be relatively small when desirable (such as for transport). There exists a further need in the art for an improved agricultural implement having multiple toolbars to have the ability for the toolbars to move laterally relative to each and for components of the toolbars, such as row units, actuators, linkages, and the like, to be rotatable and / or to provide steering for the implement and / or toolbar(s) such that the implement can efficiently and effectively perform agricultural functions when traversing challenging terrain and / or when turning. There exists a further need in the art for an agriculturalimplement that provides accurate and precise steering both when the implement is being used to perform an agricultural function and when the implement is being transported. There exists a further need in the art for an improved agricultural implement, method, and / or system that is capable of (1) detecting particular characteristics that would indicate stress on the implement or components thereof and / or would indicate that damage has occurred and / or danger or damage is imminently possible, and then (2) automatically perform a task based on those detected characteristics to preserve the implement and its components as well as minimize and / or eliminate safety concerns associated with its use.SUMMARY

[0010] The following objects, features, advantages, aspects, and / or embodiments, are not exhaustive and do not limit the overall disclosure. No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage. Any of the objects, features, advantages, aspects, and / or embodiments disclosed herein can be integrated with one another, either in full or in part.

[0011] It is a primary object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to improve on or overcome the deficiencies in the art.

[0012] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement with multiple toolbars wherein one or more of the toolbars is telescopic, and / or otherwise extendable / retractable such as via a pivot point, such that the distance between the toolbars can be increased and / or decreased. For example, an agricultural implement is described herein wherein the distance between toolbars of the implement can be varied such that the distance can be relatively large when desirable (such as when performing an agricultural function in a field) and / or can be relatively small when desirable (such as during transport of the implement).

[0013] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement having multiple toolbars wherein the toolbars are configured to be able to move laterally with respect to each other. The ability for the toolbars to move laterally relative to each other increases the flexibility of the implement and allows the implement to perform agricultural function(s) on challenging terrain such as a hillside.

[0014] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement wherein its components such as row units, actuators, linkages, axle, and the like can provide steering for the implement and / or toolbar(s).

[0015] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement that is capable of accurate and precise steering both when the implement is performing an agricultural function and when the implement is being transported.

[0016] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement, method, and / or system that is capable of (1) detecting particular characteristics that would indicate stress on the implement and / or components thereof and / or would indicate that damage has occurred or that danger or damage is imminently possible, and then (2) automatically perform a task based on those detected characteristics. Such a system helps to preserve the implement and its components as well as minimize and / or eliminate safety concerns associated with its use.

[0017] It is a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement, method, and / or system that includes components such as accelerometer(s), speedometer(s), vision sensor(s), radar sensor(s), LIDAR sensor(s), heat sensor(s), moisture content sensor(s), radio frequency sensor(s), GPS sensor(s), altitude sensor(s), tilt sensor(s) such as gyroscope(s), inertial measurement unit(s) (IMU), camera(s) (capable of capturing still image(s) and / or video), steering sensor(s), position sensor(s), pressure sensor(s), thermometer(s), thermistor(s), fluid level sensor(s), photodetector(s), timer(s), and the like.

[0018] It is still yet a further object, feature, and / or advantage of the present disclosure to provide an agricultural implement, method, and / or system that can measure and / or analyze characteristics of the implement and / or the implement’s environment such as the implement’s speed, acceleration, location, position, trajectory, angle, tilt, angular velocity, magnetic field strength, voltage of component(s) of the implement, current draw of component(s) of the implement, revolutions per minute (RPM) of component(s) of the implement, pressure of component(s) of the implement, captured image(s) and / or video, heat level of component(s) of the implement, soil characteristics (such as moisture content, compaction, temperature, and the like), ambient temperature, fluid level of component(s) of the implement, fluid level of fluid in an agricultural field or other natural form, light or other electromagnetic radiation, a length of time, and the like.

[0019] The agricultural implement, method, and / or system disclosed herein can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, an agricultural implement with telescopic toolbars is helpful in a variety of different situations such as when performing an agricultural function, when transporting the implement, as well as other situations. Further, the ability to provide accurate and precise steering can be applied across many different kinds of implements and / or vehicles including, but not limited to, planters, tractors / tow vehicles, combines, sprayers, plows, rippers, and the like. Additionally, a system to detect particular characteristics associated with an implement, and / or the implement’s environment, and automatically perform a task based on those detected characteristics can be applied to many different types of agricultural implements and / or vehicles including planters, tractors / tow vehicles, combines, sprayers, plows, rippers, and the like.

[0020] It is preferred the apparatus(es), method(s), and / or system(s) be safe, cost effective, and durable. For example, the agricultural implement and / or system described herein can be adapted to resist thermal transfer, electric conductivity, and / or failure (e.g. cracking, crumbling, shearing, creeping) due to excessive and / or prolonged exposure to tensile, compressive, and / or balanced forces acting on the implement and / or system.

[0021] Methods can be practiced which facilitate use, manufacture, assembly, maintenance, and repair of the implement and / or system which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives.

[0022] Disclosed implement(s) can be incorporated into systems which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives. Additionally, disclosed system(s) can be incorporated into larger designs which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives.

[0023] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, an agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprises: a tongue; an axle comprising one or more wheels, wherein the axle is operationally attached to the tongue and a longitudinal axis of the axle is generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tongue; a front toolbar operationally associated with the tongue; a rear toolbar operationally associated with the tongue, wherein the front and rear toolbars are generally parallel; and one or more telescopic members operationally attached to the front toolbar, rear toolbar, and / or both; wherein the one or more telescopic members are capable of extension and retraction such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars can vary.

[0024] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the implement has a field use configuration and a transport configuration.

[0025] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in the field use configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue is generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars, and the longitudinal axis of the axle is generally parallel to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars.

[0026] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in the field use configuration, at least one of the one or more telescopic members are configured to extend, increasing the distance between the front and rear toolbars.

[0027] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in the transport configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue is generally parallel to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars, and the longitudinal axis of the axle is generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars.

[0028] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in the transport configuration, at least one of the one or more telescopic members are configured to retract, decreasing the distance between the front and rear toolbars.

[0029] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the front and rear toolbars are configured to be capable of moving laterally relative to each other.

[0030] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the agricultural implement further comprises a top bar wherein one end of each of the one or more telescopic members is operationally attached to the top bar and the other end of each of the one or more telescopic members is operationally attached to either the front or rear toolbar.

[0031] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the front toolbar, rear toolbar, and top bar constitute a toolbar assembly.

[0032] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the agricultural implement further comprises a plurality of row units rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly such that the row units are steerable and can help facilitate steering of the implement.

[0033] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the toolbar assembly comprises a plurality of linkages rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly such that the linkages are steerable and can help facilitate steering of the implement.

[0034] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of linkages comprises actuator(s), fan(s), sensor(s), electronic component(s), agricultural component(s), and / or a combination thereof.

[0035] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, each of the front and rear toolbars comprises one or more row units.

[0036] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the tongue is telescopic.

[0037] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the rear toolbar comprises a plurality of unconnected sections, wherein at least one of the one or more telescopic members is attached to one of the unconnected sections on one end and is attached to the front toolbar on another end such that extension and / or retraction of the at least one telescopic member(s) alters the distance between the unconnected section and the front toolbar.

[0038] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure an agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprises: a tongue; a steerable axle operationally attached to the tongue, wherein the steerable axle comprises one or more steerable wheels; and a toolbar assembly operationally attached to the tongue; wherein the axle and / or wheels can facilitate steering of the implement when the implement is being towed.

[0039] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the agricultural implement further comprises a product support frame operationally attached to the axle and / or to the tongue.

[0040] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the agricultural implement further comprises at least one of a bulk fill hopper and / or a fertilizer hopper, wherein the bulk fill hopper and / or the fertilizer hopper are supported by the product support frame.

[0041] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the bulk fill hopper is configured to hold and distribute seed.

[0042] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the fertilizer hopper is configured to hold and distribute fertilizer.

[0043] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the agricultural implement further comprises a center pivot operationally connected to the tongue.

[0044] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the toolbar assembly comprises a first wing and a second wing, wherein the first and second wings are independently pivotable about the center pivot.

[0045] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in a field use configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be generally aligned with each other on the same plane and are configured to be generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

[0046] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in a transport configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be stacked on top of each other and are configured to be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

[0047] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, at least one end of the toolbar assembly comprises a secondary steerable axle that comprises secondary steerable wheels.

[0048] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, an agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprises: a tongue; a center pivot positioned at or near one end of the tongue; and a toolbar assembly comprising first and second wings, wherein each of the first and second wings are operationally attached to the center pivot; wherein the first and second wings are each independently rotatable about the center pivot.

[0049] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in a field use configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be generally aligned with each other on the same plane and are configured to be generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

[0050] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, when the implement is in a transport configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be stacked on top of each other and are configured to be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

[0051] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, one end of at least one of the first and / or second wings comprises one or more rotatable wheels.

[0052] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, an operational system for use with an agricultural implement, the system comprises: an agricultural implement comprising: first and second toolbars that are generally parallel, wherein at least one of the first or second toolbars is capable of extension and retraction such that the distance between the first and second toolbars can vary; one or more sensors configured to sense one or more characteristics of the implement and / or the implement’s environment; wherein the system is configured to force the implement to perform a task based on the one or more sensed characteristics.

[0053] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the task comprises limiting functionality of the implement and / or forcing the implement to alter its movement.

[0054] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the task comprises forcing the implement to conduct limp home mode.

[0055] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the one or more characteristics of the implement and / or the implement’s environment includes the implement’s speed, the implement’s acceleration, the implement’s location, the implement’s position, the implement’s traj ectory, the implement’ s angle, the implement’ s tilt, the implement’ s angular velocity, magnetic field strength, voltage of component(s) of the implement, current draw of component(s) of the implement, revolutions per minute (RPM) of component(s) of the implement, pressure of component(s) of the implement, captured image(s) and / or video, heat level of component(s) of the implement, soil characteristics (including moisture content, compaction, and / or temperature), ambient temperature, fluid level of component(s) of the implement, fluid level of fluid in an agricultural field or other natural form, light or other electromagnetic radiation, a length of time, and / or any combination thereof.

[0056] According to at least some aspects of the present disclosure, the one or more sensors includes accelerometer(s), speedometer(s), vision sensor(s), radar sensor(s), LIDAR sensor(s), heat sensor(s), moisture content sensor(s), radio frequency sensor(s), GPS sensor(s), attitude sensor(s), tilt sensor(s) such as gyroscope(s), inertial measurement unit(s) (IMU(s)), camera(s) (capable of capturing still image(s) and / or video), steering sensor(s), position sensor(s), pressure sensor(s), thermometer(s), thermistor(s), fluid level sensor(s), photodetector(s), timer(s), and / or any combination thereof.

[0057] These and / or other objects, features, advantages, aspects, and / or embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reviewing the following brief and detailed descriptions of the drawings. Furthermore, the present disclosure encompasses aspects and / or embodiments not expressly disclosed but which can be understood from a reading of the present disclosure, including at least: (a) combinations of disclosed aspects and / or embodiments and / or (b) reasonable modifications not shown or described.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] Several embodiments in which the present disclosure can be practiced are illustrated and described in detail, wherein like reference characters represent like components throughout the several views. The drawings are presented for exemplary purposes and may not be to scale unless otherwise indicated.

[0059] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an agricultural planter implement in a field use configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 2 shows a top plan view of the agricultural planter implement of Figure 1.

[0061] Figure 3 shows a side elevation view of the planter of Figure 1.

[0062] Figure 4 shows a front elevation view of the planter of Figure 1.

[0063] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an agricultural planter implement in a transport configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 6 shows a top plan view of the planter of Figure 5.

[0065] Figure 7 shows a side elevation view of the planter of Figure 5.

[0066] Figure 8 shows a front elevation view of the planter of Figure 5.

[0067] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of components of an agricultural planter implement in a field use configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0068] Figure 10 shows a top plan view of the components of the planter of Figure 9.

[0069] Figure 11 shows a front elevation view of the components of the planter of Figure 9.

[0070] Figure 12 shows a side elevation view of the components of the planter of Figure 9.

[0071] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of components of an agricultural planter implement in a transport configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 14 shows a top plan view of the components of the planter of Figure 13.

[0073] Figure 15 shows a front elevation view of the components of the planter of Figure 13.

[0074] Figure 16 shows a side elevation view of the components of the planter of Figure 13.

[0075] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the components of the planter of Figure 13 in a field use configuration including additional tanks and tank supports according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0076] Figure 18 shows a top plan view of the components of the planter of Figure 17.

[0077] Figure 19 shows a front elevation view of the components of the planter of Figure 17.

[0078] Figure 20 shows an enlarged side view of linkages of an agricultural planter in a field use configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0079] Figure 21 shows an enlarged side view of linkages of an agricultural planter in a turning configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0080] Figure 22 shows an enlarged side view of linkages of an agricultural planter in a transport configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0081] Figure 23 shows a perspective view of a section of the toolbar, frame, and tongue of an agricultural planter in a lifted configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0082] Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a portion of a wing toolbar of an agricultural planter according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0083] Figure 25 shows a side elevation view of the wing toolbar of Figure 24.

[0084] Figure 26 shows a top elevation view of an agricultural implement in a field use configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0085] Figure 27 shows a top elevation view of the agricultural implement of Figure 26 wherein the implement is in a transport configuration.

[0086] Figure 28A shows a side elevation view of components of the agricultural implement of Figure 26 wherein the toolbar assembly is shown to be in a transport configuration.

[0087] Figure 28B shows a side elevation view of components of the agricultural implement of Figure 26 wherein the toolbar assembly is shown to be in a field use configuration.

[0088] Figure 29 shows a top elevation view of a toolbar assembly of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] Figure 30 shows a top elevation view of the toolbar assembly of Figure 29 wherein the assembly is shown to be in a different configuration than Figure 29.

[0090] Figure 31 shows a top elevation view of an axle assembly of the implement of Figure 29.

[0091] Figure 32 shows a top elevation view of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0092] Figure 33 shows a side elevation view of the implement of Figure 32 according to at least some configurations of the implement.

[0093] Figure 34 shows a rear elevation view of the implement of Figure 32 according to at least some configurations of the implement.

[0094] Figure 35A shows a top elevation view of aspect(s) of the implement of Figure 32 according to at least some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0095] Figure 35B shows a top elevation view of aspect(s) of the implement of Figure 32 according to at least some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0096] Figure 36 shows a side elevation view of aspects of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure and an end elevation view of aspects of the agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0097] Figure 37 shows a top elevation view of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0098] Figure 38 shows a side exploded view of aspects of the implement of Figure 37.

[0099] Figure 39 shows a top elevation view of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0100] Figure 40 shows a top elevation view of an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 41 shows a block diagram of an agricultural system for use with an agricultural implement according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0102] An artisan of ordinary skill in the art need not view, within isolated figure(s), the near infinite number of distinct permutations of features described in the following detailed description to facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0103] The present disclosure is not to be limited to that described herein. Mechanical, electrical, chemical, procedural, and / or other changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. No features shown or described are essential to permit basic operation of the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated.

[0104] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used above have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments of the present disclosure pertain.

[0105] The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural referents.

[0106] The term “or” is synonymous with “and / or” and means any one member or combination of members of a particular list.

[0107] The terms “invention” or “present invention” are not intended to refer to any single embodiment of the particular invention but encompass all possible embodiments as described in the specification and the claims.

[0108] The term “about” as used herein refers to slight variations in numerical quantities with respect to any quantifiable variable. Inadvertent error can occur, for example, through use oftypical measuring techniques or equipment or from differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of components.

[0109] The term “substantially” refers to a great or significant extent. “Substantially” can thus refer to a plurality, majority, and / or a supermajority of said quantifiable variable, given proper context.

[0110] The term “generally” encompasses both “about” and “substantially.”[OHl] The term “configured” describes structure capable of performing a task or adopting a particular configuration. The term “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as “constructed”, “arranged”, “adapted”, “manufactured”, and the like.

[0112] The term “telescopic”, and / or any derivation thereof, refers to any sort of extension and / or retraction regardless of the manner in which extension and / or retraction occurs.

[0113] Terms characterizing sequential order, a position, and / or an orientation are not limiting and are only referenced according to the views presented.

[0114] The “scope” of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The scope of the disclosure is further qualified as including any possible modification to any of the aspects and / or embodiments disclosed herein which would result in other embodiments, combinations, subcombinations, or the like that would be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0115] As used herein, the term “exemplary” refers to an example, an instance, or an illustration, and does not indicate a most preferred embodiment unless otherwise stated.

[0116] The agricultural planter implement 10 shown in at least Figure 1 and described herein can be the same and / or similar as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,961,824 (“the ‘824 patent”), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0117] Figures 1-4 disclose an implement 10 according to some aspects. The implement 10 as shown in Figures 1-4 is in a generally field use or turning configuration. The implement 10 includes a telescoping tongue 12 having a first end 14 and an opposite second end 15. As mentioned, the tongue 12 is telescoping to allow for the length of the tongue to be varied depending on the use or configuration of the implement 10. The tongue 12, as is shown in the figures, may include dual portions, which may be also known as first portion 16 and second portion 17. The portions are separate beginning at the second end 15 of the tongue 12. The tongue is converse generally at the first end 14 in a wye (Y) configuration to combine at or near the hitch 18. The hitch 18 may be any type of hitch for attaching the implement 10 to a tow vehicle, such as a tractor, truck, or other vehicle. The hitch 18 can be seen in many figures including at least Figures 14 and 16. The use of first and second telescoping tongue members 16, 17 allows for thetongue 12 to be more sturdy and / or strong to both pull and support a toolbar assembly 30 such as is included in the figures. However, it should be appreciated that not all embodiments require the use of first and second telescoping tongue members, and instead, a single telescoping tongue member may be utilized. For example, a wye (Y) configuration may extend from the frame 20 of the implement 10 at the second end 15 and extend the length of the tongue member 12 to the first end 14 and exterminating at the hitch 18. Such a telescoping tongue will still allow for the length of the distance between the hitch 18 and the second end 15 of the tongue to be varied according to need.

[0118] As shown in Figure 1, the field use configuration of the implement 10 is such that the toolbar assembly 30 is generally transverse the longitudinal direction of the tongue 12. Therefore, to reduce the distance between the hitch 18 and the toolbar assembly 30, which will aid in controlling the pulling of the implement 10, including turning thereof, the tongue 12 will be in a retracted position.

[0119] When the implement 10 is to be transitioned from the field use configuration to a transport configuration, the length of the sections of the toolbar assembly 30 will be such that simply lifting and rotating the toolbar assembly 30 would cause a portion of the toolbar assembly 30 to contact the tow vehicle, as the distance between the tow vehicle and the second end 15 of the tongue 12 would not be sufficient for such rotation. Therefore, the tongue 12 is a telescoping tongue such that the length of said tongue can be lengthened to increase the distance between the hitch 18 and the second end 15 of the tongue 12.

[0120] Furthermore, while a telescoping tongue 12 has been shown and described, it is to be appreciated that when the length of the tongue 12 is sufficient in relation to the length of at least one-half of the toolbar assembly 30, the tongue need not be telescoping. For example, if the width of the toolbar assembly 30 is such that a simple lifting and rotation thereof would not include interference between the toolbar assembly 30 and the tow vehicle, the tongue 12 need not be extended or retracted, and a set length of tongue may be utilized. Therefore, it is to be appreciated that a telescoping tongue is not needed in all embodiments thereof.

[0121] Referring back to Figures 1-4, at the second end 15 of the tongue 12 is a frame section 20. The frame section 20 is a rigid member and includes such components as transport wheels 22 connected thereto, as well as a toolbar lifting assembly 40 and a rotating mechanism 53. The rotating mechanism 53 can be seen in at least Figure 23. The transport wheels 22 are wheels that can maintain contact with the ground in most situations and / or configurations. As can be seen in the figures, such as in Figures 5-8, when the implement 10 is in a transport configuration, the transport wheels 22 will be the support of the implement 10 opposite the hitch 18 of the implement10, such that the wheels 22 are what support the weight of the implement 10 during transport thereof.

[0122] Also connected to the frame 20 and extending generally transverse thereto in Figures 1-4 is a toolbar assembly 30. The toolbar assembly 30, as is shown in the figures, includes multiple components. For example, the toolbar assembly 30 includes a front or first toolbar 31, an upper bar 32, a rear or second toolbar 33, as well as an arched portion 34 extending generally between the front and rear toolbars 31, 33 and the upper portion / bar 32. According to some embodiments, the arched portion 34 is not included. The toolbar assembly 30 is not to be limited to the exact configuration shown in the figures and is to be generally known as a toolbar assembly for supporting such elements such as row units, markers, additional ground support tires, and the like. For example, as is shown in Figures 1-4, the implement 10 includes a plurality of row units 36. These row units 36 include a plurality of pulling or rear units 37 which are operatively attached to the rear toolbar 33 of the toolbar assembly 30. Such row units may be attached in any way, such as by the use of four bar linkages, as is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 9,282,691, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Likewise, the implement 10 may include a plurality of push or front row units 38, which are shown to be connected to the front toolbar 31 of the toolbar assembly 30. Therefore, the implement 10 as is shown in the figures may be a push / pull type planter / implement in which there are both push row units 38 and pull row units 37. The inclusion of push and pull row units allows for a greater number of row units to be attached to the toolbar assembly 30 such that more seeds can be planted in a single path with the implement 10. However, some embodiments include the use of only push and / or only pull row units.

[0123] Furthermore, the middle or upper bar 32 of the toolbar assembly 30 is shown to be raised above the front and rear toolbars 31, 33. This is connected by one or more arch-type members 34, as is shown in the figures. The inclusion of the upper bar 32 and arch members 34 allows for the re-positioning of the ground support tires 39 of the implement 10. The ground support tires 39 are operatively connected to the toolbar assembly 30 to allow for the wheels to contact the ground when in a field use configuration, such as that shown in Figures 1-4. Positioning the ground support tires 39 between the front and rear row units 38, 37 allows for greater stability of the implement 10 during the field use configuration of the implement 10. However, to provide greater rigidity and stability for the construction of the toolbar assembly 30, the inclusion of the top / middle bar 32 above the ground support tires 39 and connected by the arch 34 still provides clearance for the ground support tires 39 relative to the toolbar assembly 30.

[0124] Furthermore, as is shown in Figures 24 and 25, the ground support tires 39 can be connected to the toolbar assembly 30 via a linkage 81 that also includes an actuator 80 operativelyconnected between the linkage 81 and an arch portion 34 of the toolbar assembly 30. The actuator 80 allows for the toolbar assembly 30, and thus row units 36 to be at least partially lifted off the ground, such as when in a field turn configuration. For example, as is shown in Figure 25, the linkage 81 is connected at a point 82 coinciding with the axle of the ground support tire 39. The linkage 81 extends to have a connection point 83 connecting to a rod of the actuator 80. There is also a connection point 84 of the linkage 81 which connects to the rear toolbar 33 of the toolbar assembly 30. Extending the rod of the actuator 80 will cause the ground support tire 39 to be pushed towards the ground. However, pushing the ground support tire 39 towards the ground will compact the ground to a point wherein the movement of the actuator 80 will be in an upwards manner, such as that shown by the arrow 87 in Figure 25. This is due to the connection of the connection point 83 and connection point 84 of the linkage 81. Continuing to extend the actuator 80 will cause the components of the toolbar assembly 30, including the front toolbar 31, top bar 32, rear toolbar 33, and arch 34 upwards in the direction of the arrow 87. As the row units 36 are connected to the components of the toolbar assembly 30, they will be raised off the ground as well. However, the raising of the row units 36 need only be enough to lift the portions of the row units 36 out of engagement with the ground. While the row units 36 are not in engagement with the ground, it will be easier for the implement 10 to be turned via the tow vehicle, as substantially the only portions of the implement 10 in contact with the ground will be the ground support tires 39 and transport wheels 22. Once the turning of the implement 10 has been completed, the rod of the actuator 80 can be retracted into the housing such that the toolbar assembly 30 and attached row units 36 will be lowered back into contact and engagement with the ground for further planting. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator 80 can also be used to move the ground support tire 39 downward and out of the way in preparation for and during transport when the configuration shown in Figures 24 and 25 is used in combination with a telescopic frame and / or toolbar assembly.

[0125] Referring back to Figures 1-4, still additional components of the implement 10 include markers 35 extending from ends of the toolbar assembly 30. The markers 35, as is known, can be used to aid in determining where the edge or boundary for planting is.

[0126] Additionally, the figures show the inclusion of central hoppers 29 for holding one or more varieties, hybrids, or types of seed to be planted by the row units 36. For example, the row units 36 of the implement 10 may be of any type. For example, the row units and / or seed meters associated therewith may be of the type that are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,282,691; 9,901,026; 9,756,779; and / or 9,474,201; which are all hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. This includes electrically driven seed meters, hydraulically driven seed meters, multi-hybrid type seed meters, and the like. However, it is to be appreciated that these are not the only types of seed meters, row units, seed delivery systems, and the like that are contemplated for use, and it is to be appreciated that generally any type, style, and / or configuration of seed meter, row unit, linkage connection, seed delivery system, down force, and the like can be used and included in the implement 10 according to some embodiments. In addition, a high speed planting implement, such as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,842,072, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety, could be utilized with any of the aspects of any embodiments disclosed herein.

[0127] Furthermore, while not explicitly shown, the planter 10 may include the use of an air seed delivery system, which is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 8,448,585, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Therefore, it is to be appreciated that any type of planting system, including hoppers, row units, seed meters, seed delivery systems, and the like may be included and used with the implement 10 according to some embodiments.

[0128] The implement 10 in the field use configuration is also shown in Figures 9-12 and 17-19. Figures 9-12 and 17-19 show elements of the implement 10 without all of the elements shown in Figures 1-4. For example, the row units 36 have been removed. In addition, the markers 35 and bulk hoppers 29 have also been removed to show the tongue 12 and toolbar assembly 30 in more detail. For example, Figures 9 and 10 show the tongue 12 in greater detail as it attaches to the frame 20 and toolbar assembly 30.

[0129] The implement 10 with all elements in the transport configuration is shown in Figures 5- 8. As is shown in Figures 5-8, the toolbar assembly 30 and all components attached thereto have been lifted above the height of the tongue 12 and rotated approximately 90 degrees, such as in the direction of the arrow 48 in Figure 10. Such rotation can be accomplished by a rotating mechanism 53 wherein one or more actuators operatively positioned and attached to the frame 20 is extended or retracted to rotate the toolbar assembly 30 and all components attached thereto in the direction of the arrow 48. Therefore, a pivoting pillar or cylinder can also be included at the frame 20 and connected to the toolbar assembly 30 to provide for the rotation of the toolbar assembly 30 relative to the tongue 12 and the frame 20.

[0130] To lift said toolbar assembly 30, a toolbar lifting assembly 40 is included and is operatively positioned and attached to the frame 20 at the second end 15 of the tongue 12. The toolbar lifting assembly 40 includes, among other components, one or more lifting actuators connected via a linkage to the toolbar assembly 30. For example, as is shown in the figures, the toolbar lifting assembly 40 includes a first actuator 41 and a second actuator 42. Each of the actuators 41, 42 include a cylinder or housing 44 and a rod 46 for extending and retracting via or relative to the housing 44. In the figures of the disclosure, extension of the actuators 41, 42 will lift the toolbarassembly 30 and components attached thereto relative to the frame 20. While first and second actuators 41, 42 are shown to be included as part of the lifting assembly 40, according to some embodiments two specific actuators are not required. For example, a single actuator capable of lifting the toolbar assembly 30 and components attached thereto is contemplated to be used as part of the lifting assembly 40. Furthermore, a number greater than two actuators can also be utilized to lift the toolbar assembly 30 and attachment components relative to the frame 20. The size and number of actuators can be selected based upon a number of factors. For example, the length of the toolbar assembly 30, the number of row units 36 attached thereto, the size and weight of the bulk hoppers 29, the type of seed being planted via the row units 36, as well as additional factors may dictate the size and number of actuators as part of the lifting assembly 40. Therefore, generally any number of actuators capable of lifting said toolbar assembly 30 and / or attachment components can be included.

[0131] To combine the power of the first and second actuators 41, 42, a trunnion 54 can be operably connected to the actuators 41, 42, such as at the housing 44 of the actuators 41, 42 as shown in at least Figure 13. Therefore, the trunnion 54 will cause the cylinders to act in synchronicity or unison to combine the power of the separate actuators to work as if there was one larger actuator. The trunnion 54 can be any mechanism capable of operably attaching to a portion of the actuators, and not necessarily to the actuators themselves, but to components connected thereto, to combine the power of the actuators to be able to lift the toolbar assembly 30 and attachment components thereto.

[0132] Furthermore, as is shown in at least Figures 11, 13, and 17, the lifting assembly 40 can include a linkage assembly 50, comprising first and second upper linkages 51 as well as first and second lower linkages 52. The upper linkages 51 can be positioned on opposite sides of the first and second actuators 41, 42 and rotatably connected to a center post. The upper linkages 51 can be connected at a first end to the frame 20, such as the rotating pillar of the frame 20, and at a second end to the toolbar assembly 30. Likewise, the lower linkages 52 can be attached at a first or front end to the frame 20, such as at a rotating portion thereof, and at a second end to a portion of the toolbar assembly 30 as well. The actuators 41, 42 can be connected to the frame 20 to allow the actuators to rotate as they extend. The path of the rotation is also aided by the upper and lower linkage arms 51, 52 on opposite sides of the actuators 41, 42. Thus, the length and shape of the linkage arms 51, 52 can provide a desired path for the lifting and rotation of the toolbar assembly 30 via the extension of the actuator rods to best lift the toolbar assembly 30 and attached components. As is shown in Figure 15, the toolbar assembly 30 and attached components have been lifted such that the ground support tire 39 is substantially above the tongue 12 such thatrotation of the toolbar assembly 30 will have enough clearance between the components of the toolbar assembly 30 and the components of the tongue 12 to transition the toolbar assembly 30 from the configuration shown in Figure 1 to the configuration shown in Figure 5. In such configuration shown in Figure 5, the toolbar assembly 30 is generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the tongue 12 such that the implement 10 is in the transport configuration to allow for the implement 10 to be transported from one location to another while taking up a minimal width and height.

[0133] It should be appreciated that, due to the length of the toolbar assembly 30, and thus the weight associated therewith, additional safety, down pressure, and stress reduction mechanisms can be included to prolong the life of the planter. For example, when the toolbar assembly 30 and components attached thereto have been slightly lifted, such as in a turning configuration, any turning of the planter may cause the end sections of the toolbar assembly 30 to want to oscillate or otherwise walk. While the rotating cylinder of the rotating mechanism 53 can aid in mitigating such oscillation or rotation of the ends of the toolbar assembly 30, this cannot prevent all of said rotation. Furthermore, the continued oscillation can create stress on the components of the rotating mechanisms such that the failure rate may be higher than what is desired. Therefore, some embodiments include an anti-rotation link system to aid in preventing or otherwise mitigating the oscillation, rotation, or walking of the toolbar assembly 30, such as when the toolbar assembly 30 is in a turning configuration where it is raised at least partially off the ground. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that such an anti -rotation link system can prevent any oscillation or walking while the toolbar assembly 30 and components thereof are also engaged in the ground, such as to provide a more straight line planting of the row units in the ground.

[0134] Figures 20-22 show details of the anti-rotation link system according to aspects of the present disclosure. The location of the anti-rotation link system is shown to be spaced outwardly from the central frame 20 and lifting assembly 40. However, the exact placement of the antirotation link system relative to the toolbar assembly 30 may be varied according to the length of the toolbar assembly 30, as well as other factors so as to prevent or mitigate the oscillation of the ends or wings of the toolbar assembly 30. Therefore, as shown in Figures 20-22, the anti -rotation link systems includes an anti -rotation link 60, which extends from a toolbar link 64 to and towards a guide or catch of the central frame 20. The anti-rotation link 60 includes a first free end 61, which may be a roller capable of rotating at the end of the link 60. Thus, the roller 61 allows for the guided movement of the link 60 relative to the guide 67, as would be understood. At an opposite end of the link 60 is a link connection point 63 connecting the anti-rotation link 60 to a toolbar link 64. The toolbar link 64 is a mechanism connecting the anti-rotation link 60 to thetoolbar assembly 30, such as at the rear toolbar 33 and / or the upper bar 32. Thus, the toolbar link 64 can be attached to the toolbar assembly 30 in any known manner, such as by bolting, welding, or the like. Further components of the anti-rotation link system include an actuator 66 having one end 62 connected to the anti-rotation link 60 and an opposite end connected to the toolbar link 64. The cylinder or actuator 66, which can be a hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, linear actuator, or some combination thereof, can aid in providing a downforce or down pressure to keep the ends of the toolbar from rotating, swiveling, or walking. Therefore, the actuator 66 can be set to try to aid in maintaining the travel of the toolbar assembly 30.

[0135] As the weight of the toolbar assembly 30 is to be minimized so that the lifting and rotating of the toolbar assembly 30 can be accomplished using the least amount of force, the positioning of fertilizer or other tanks can be moved from their standard location at or near the central frame or at or near the central hoppers 29 to a location as shown in the figures, connected to the first and second components 16, 17 of the telescoping tongue 12. This is shown throughout the figures, and in particular in Figures 1-8. Therefore, as is shown in the figures, the fertilizer or other chemical tanks 28 can be positioned alongside of the tongue 12 and connected operatively thereto. To connect the tanks 28 to the tongue 12, the use of tank supports 24, 26 is included. The tank supports 24, 26, are shown to be on opposite sides of the tongue 12 and connected to only one of the first or second tongue portions 16, 17. However, it should be appreciated, that when a single tongue is utilized, the one or more tank supports 24, 26 can be attached to the single tongue member, or else the only one of the two tank supports be attached to the tongue member. Additionally or alternatively, Figures 32, 33, 37, and 39 show additional or alternative location(s) for positioning bulk product tanks such as tanks used to store seed, fertilizer, and the like. For example, Figures 32, 33, 37, and 39 each include a product support frame wherein bulk product tanks can be positioned on such product support frames.

[0136] It is to be appreciated that many variations can be included according to various embodiments. For example, the number of row units and the width of the toolbar assembly 30 can be varied. In addition, the toolbar assembly 30 can include sections, such as wings. As is shown in Figure 11, the toolbar assembly 30 may be split having an inner section near the frame 20 as well as outer wing sections 56, 57. For example, as viewed in Figure 11, the right side wing is known as the first wing 56, while the left side wing is known as the second wing 57. Having a solid or rigid length of a toolbar along the full length of said toolbar can have a negative impact on the ability of planting of the outer row unit 36. Therefore, some embodiments include a break along the length of the toolbar assembly 30, front toolbar 31, and / or rear toolbar 33, which is shown generally at the wing pivot 58 between the inner section of the toolbar assembly 30 and thewing sections 56, 57. The float or pivot 58 between the outer wing sections 56, 57 and the inner section of the toolbar assembly 30, front toolbar 31, and / or rear toolbar 33 allows for the outer wings to rotate about a horizontal axis relative to the inner wing section. Furthermore, one or more actuators can be provided at the pivot 58 to provide for downforce or down pressure at the outer wings, such as when planting on a hillside or uneven terrain. Such a down pressure configuration is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 10,045,474, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Still additional benefits can be included according to various embodiments.

[0137] Figure 26 shows an agricultural implement 210 according to at least some embodiments. The implement 210 can be the same and / or similar to any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 410, the implement 510, the implement 610, and / or the implement 710. The implement 210 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein. According to various embodiments, the implement 210 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any implement described herein.

[0138] As shown in Figure 26, the implement 210 can comprise a tongue 212, a hitch 218, and a toolbar assembly 230. The tongue 212 can be the same and / or similar as the tongue 12. For example, the tongue 212 can be telescopic. According to some embodiments, the tongue 212 can be and / or comprise a Y hitch / configuration or a T hitch / configuration, which describes the shape of at least some aspect(s) of the tongue 212. In general, a Y hitch / configuration allows for a row unit or other component to be positioned between the points where a tongue is operatively attached to a toolbar assembly. A wye (Y) hitch / configuration is described herein with respect to the tongue 12. In general, a T hitch / configuration includes a single tube that operatively attaches to a toolbar assembly. The hitch 218 can be any suitable hitch that allows the implement 210 to be attached to an agricultural vehicle such as a tractor, truck, prime mover, tow vehicle, and / or any type of machinery capable of towing the implement 210. According to some embodiments, the hitch 218 can be the same or similar to the hitch 18. The hitch 218 allows the implement 210 to be towed by an agricultural vehicle.

[0139] As shown in Figure 26, the implement 210 can include a toolbar assembly 230. The toolbar assembly 230 can comprise a front toolbar 231, a top bar 232, and a rear toolbar 233. The tongue 212 can be operatively connected to the toolbar assembly 230 and / or components thereof such as the front toolbar 231, the rear toolbar 233, and / or the top bar 232. According to some embodiments, at least a portion of the tongue 212 is located at or near the toolbar assembly 230 and / or components thereof such as the front toolbar 231, the rear toolbar 233, and / or the top bar 232. The front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and rear toolbar 233 can each be generally parallel to eachother. The top bar 232 can be positioned between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233. Alternatively, according to some embodiments, the implement 210 does not include a top bar 232.

[0140] According to some embodiments, the front toolbar 231 can comprise zero or more row units. The number of row units can number from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The row units can be any suitable type of row unit such as row units 36 described and shown above. The row units attached to the front toolbar 231 can be referred to as front row units. The front row units can be any suitable type of row unit such as the front / push row units 38 described and shown above. The rear toolbar 233 can comprise zero of more row units wherein the number of row units can number from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The row units can be any suitable type of row unit such as row units 36 described and shown above. The row units attached to the rear toolbar 233 can be referred to as rear row units. The rear row units can be any suitable type of row unit such as the rear / pull row units 37 described and shown above.

[0141] According to some embodiments, in addition to the components noted herein, seed hoppers and / or fertilizer hoppers can be mounted to the top bar 232. The number of seed hoppers can range from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The number of fertilizer hoppers can range from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The seed hopper(s) and / or fertilizer hopper(s) can be operationally connected to one or more row unit(s) to provide seed and / or fertilizer to one or more row units. Additionally or alternatively, the fertilizer hopper(s) can be operationally connected to one or more opener(s) to provide fertilizer to the opener(s), wherein the opener(s) are mounted on the toolbar assembly 230 and / or any other suitable location.

[0142] As shown in Figure 26, the tongue 212 can be operationally attached to an axle 236 wherein the longitudinal axis of the axle 236 is generally transverse and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212. The axle 236 can include one or more wheels 238. The axle 236 and wheels 238 can support the implement 210 and can provide movement and / or steering for the implement 210. While the tongue 212, axle 236, and wheels 238 appear in Figures 26 and 27 to be positioned, at least partially, above the toolbar assembly 230, according to some embodiments, the tongue 212, axle 236, and wheels 238 are positioned below the toolbar assembly 230, including being positioned below the front toolbar 231, rear toolbar 233, and top bar 232, regardless of the configuration of the implement 210.

[0143] Figure 27 provides another view of the implement 210 wherein the implement 210 is in a different configuration. The tongue 212, axle 236, and / or wheels 238 can be rotatable relative to the toolbar assembly 230 such that the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212 can be generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of the front and / or rear toolbars 231, 233 (Figure 26). Additionally, the tongue 212, axle 236, and / or wheels 238 can be rotatable relative to thetoolbar assembly 230 such that the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212 can be generally parallel to the length of the front and / or rear toolbars 231, 233 (Figure 27). While the tongue 212 is shown to be slightly offset from being directly aligned with the top bar 232 in Figure 27 when the implement 210 is in a configuration wherein the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212 is generally parallel to the length of the front and / or rear toolbars 231, 232, the tongue 212 can be positioned such that it is directly aligned with and positioned under the top bar 232 according to some embodiments when in such a configuration. Additionally or alternatively, according to some embodiments, the toolbar assembly 230 can be rotatable relative to the tongue 212, axle 236, and / or wheels 238.

[0144] The implement 210 can be configured such that it is ready and capable to be used in an agricultural field wherein such a configuration can be referred to herein as a field use configuration. The implement 210 can also be configured such that it is ready and capable to be transported wherein such a configuration can be referred to herein as a transport configuration.

[0145] Figure 26 shows the implement 210 in a field use configuration. When the implement 210 is in a field use configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212 can be generally transverse and / or perpendicular to the length of the toolbar assembly 230, front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and / or rear toolbar 233. The implement 210 can be in a field use configuration when performing an agricultural function in an agricultural field. Such agricultural functions include but are not limited to planting, fertilizing, plowing, ripping, spraying, discing, harvesting, and the like. When the implement 210 is in a transport configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue 212 can be generally parallel to the length of the toolbar assembly 230, front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and / or rear toolbar 233. The implement 210 can be in a transport configuration when being transported between agricultural fields, when traversing a road and / or street, when being stored, as well as other situations. Additionally, the tongue 212 can be extended and / or retracted based on the configuration of the implement 210. For example, the tongue 212 can be retracted when the implement 210 is in a field use configuration and can be extended when the implement 210 is in a transport configuration. Also, the tongue 212 can be extended when the implement 210 is in a field use configuration and can be retracted when the implement 210 is in a transport configuration. Lift and rotation of the toolbar assembly 230 can be performed as shown and described above regarding the implement 10 as well as in the ‘824 patent. Additionally, extension and / or retraction of the telescopic tongue 212 can be performed as shown and described above regarding the tongue 12 and / or implement 10 as well as in the ‘824 patent.

[0146] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, according to some embodiments the implement 210 can further comprise at least one telescoping member 234. While Figures 26 and 27 show theimplement 210 comprising eight telescoping members 234, any number of telescopic members 210 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. Each telescoping member 234 can be and / or comprise any kind of telescopic component capable of extension and / or retraction, such as a telescopic cylinder. Each telescoping member 234 can include two ends. According to some embodiments, one end of a telescoping member 234 can be operationally attached and / or mounted to the top bar 232 and the other end can be operationally attached and / or mounted to either of the front or rear toolbars 231, 233. For example, Figures 26 and 27 show that the implement 210 comprises several telescoping members 234. Some telescoping members 234 are configured such that one end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the top bar 232 and the other end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the front toolbar 231. Additionally or alternatively, some telescoping members 234 are configured such that one end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the top bar 232 and the other end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the rear toolbar 233.

[0147] The telescoping members 234 can be extended and / or retracted to vary the distance between the two components to which its ends are operationally attached and / or mounted. For example, telescoping members 234 that are attached to the top bar 232 and the front toolbar 231 can be extended to increase the distance between the top bar 232 and front toolbar 231. In other words, such telescoping members 234 can be extended to extend the front toolbar 231 farther away from the top bar 232. Conversely, such telescoping members 234 that are attached to the top bar 232 and the front toolbar 231 can be retracted to decrease the distance between the top bar 232 and front toolbar 231. Thus, such telescoping members 234 can be retracted to retract the front toolbar 231 closer to the top bar 232. Additionally or alternatively, telescoping members 234 that are attached to the top bar 232 and the rear toolbar 233 can be extended to increase the distance between the top bar 232 and rear toolbar 233. In other words, such telescoping members 234 can be extended to extend the rear toolbar 233 farther away from the top bar 232. Further, such telescoping members 234 that are attached to the top bar 232 and the rear toolbar 233 can be retracted to decrease the distance between the top bar 232 and rear toolbar 233. Thus, such telescoping members 234 can be retracted to retract the rear toolbar 233 closer to the top bar 232. Additionally, since the top bar 232 is located between the front toolbar 231 and rear toolbar 233 according to some embodiments, increasing and / or decreasing the distance between the top bar232 and the front toolbar 231 also increases and / or decreases the distance between the rear toolbar233 and the front toolbar 231. Similarly, increasing and / or decreasing the distance between the top bar 232 and the rear toolbar 233 also increases and / or decreases the distance between the rear toolbar 233 and the front toolbar 231.

[0148] According to some embodiments, the implement 210 does not include a top bar 232. Rather, the toolbar assembly comprises only a front toolbar 231 and a rear toolbar 233. In such embodiments, the telescoping members 234 can be configured such that one end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the front toolbar 231 and the other end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the rear toolbar 233. In such embodiments, extension of the telescoping member(s) 234 causes the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 to extend away from each other, increasing the space between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233. Additionally, in such embodiments, retraction of the telescoping member(s) 234 causes the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 to retract toward each other, decreasing the space between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233.

[0149] While Figures 26 and 27 may not be drawn to scale in terms of the distance between the front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and / or rear toolbar 233, according to some embodiments, when the implement 210 is in a field use configuration (as shown in Figure 26), the telescoping member(s) 234 can be extended such that the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are relatively far apart. Additionally, when the implement 210 is in a transport configuration (as shown in Figure 27), the telescoping member(s) 234 can be retracted such that the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are relatively close together.

[0150] Additionally, when in a transport configuration, the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be such that the total width of the implement 210, including any row units or other components mounted on the toolbar assembly 230, is less than or equal to the length of the axle 236. Thus, when the toolbar assembly 230 is in a fully retracted configuration, the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be such that the total width of the implement 210, including any row units or other components mounted on the toolbar assembly 230, is not more than the length of the axle 236.

[0151] Figures 28A and 28B provide side views of the toolbar assembly 230 of the implement 210 according to some embodiments. Again, Figures 28A and 28B may not be drawn to scale. Figure 28A provides an example view of the toolbar assembly 230 in a transport configuration wherein the telescoping member(s) 234 are generally retracted such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is reduced, minimized, and / or eliminated. Thus, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 of Figure 28A are relatively close together. The configuration of Figure 28A, wherein the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are relatively close together, may be a suitable configuration when transporting the implement 210. According to some embodiments, when the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are configured such that they are relatively close together (which can be advantageous when transporting the implement 210) the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be positioned such that a maximum width between any row units and / or any other componentsof the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is less than or equal to 3 meters. In other words, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be configured such that they are relatively close together wherein the total width, including the toolbar assembly 230 and any components thereon, is less than or equal to 3 meters. Put another way, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 as shown in Figure 28A are configured to be relatively close together such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is such that the width of a fully optioned / fully configured implement 210 is less than or equal to 3 meters. When being transported, the implement 210 is configured to move and / or be towed in a direction parallel to a line extending along the length of the toolbar assembly 230 as described above regarding the implement 10. Thus, by arranging the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 such that they are relatively close together, the implement 210 is rendered as narrow as possible when being transported. Thus, the implement 210 is capable of being narrow, nimble, and easily maneuverable when being transported. Also, while the telescoping members 234 of Figure 28A do not appear to be fully retracted, according to some embodiments, the telescoping members 234 can be fully retracted when the implement 210 is in a transport configuration.

[0152] Figure 28B provides an example view of the toolbar assembly 230 in a field use configuration wherein the telescoping member(s) 234 are generally extended such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is increased and / or maximized. Thus, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 of Figure 28B are relatively far apart. The configuration of Figure 28B, wherein the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are relatively far apart, may be a suitable configuration when the implement 210 is performing an agricultural function in an agricultural field. According to some embodiments, when the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are configured such that they are relatively far apart (which can be advantageous when performing an agricultural function) the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be positioned at any length apart from each other such that a maximum width between any row units and / or any other components of the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is greater than or equal to 3 meters apart. In other words, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be configured such that they are relatively far apart wherein the total width of the apparatus, including the toolbar assembly 230 and any components thereon, is greater than or equal to 3 meters. Put another way, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 as shown in Figure 28B are configured to be relatively far apart such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is such that the width of a fully optioned / fully configured toolbar assembly 230, including row units and all other components, is greater than or equal to 3 meters. Thus, depending on the size and / or positioning of row units and / or any other components on the front and / or rear toolbars 231, 233, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 could be less than 3 meters apart while the components thereon render the total width of the apparatus to be greater than or equal to 3 meters.When performing an agricultural function, the implement 210 is configured to move in a direction generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a line extending along the length of the toolbar assembly 230 as described above regarding the implement 10. This configuration provides for a wide swath which increases efficiency of agricultural functions such as planting. Additionally, at various times while performing agricultural function(s), it may be suitable to alter the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233. Thus, having the capability to do so is advantageous. For example, when traversing and / or clearing crop residue from an agricultural field, it may be desirable to alter the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233.

[0153] According to some embodiments, only one of the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is movable such that its distance from the other toolbar can vary. According to some embodiments, either the front or rear toolbar 231, 233 is stationary while the other is movable such that the movable toolbar can extend away from the stationary toolbar and / or retract toward the stationary toolbar. Additionally or alternatively, according to some embodiments, the implement 210 and toolbar assembly 230 can comprise three or more toolbars wherein one, some, and / or all of the toolbars are movable such that the distance between each of the toolbars can vary.

[0154] Additionally, according to some embodiments, the telescoping member(s) 234 can be partially extended and / or retracted such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 is not at a minimum or maximum but somewhere in between. This ability to perform agricultural functions while varying the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 can be advantageous in that agricultural functions can be performed with improved accuracy, efficiency, and / or efficacy.

[0155] As shown in Figures 28A and 28B, the implement 210 can further comprise zero or more linkage(s) 240. The number of linkage(s) 240 can range from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. Each linkage 240 can be operatively connected to the top bar 232 and / or either the front toolbar 231 or rear toolbar 233 as shown in Figures 28A and / or 28B. According to embodiments, each linkage 240 can be operatively connected to the front and / or rear toolbars 231, 233 and can be positioned generally between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233. The linkage(s) 240 can serve to connect components of the implement 210, including components of the toolbar assembly 230, and provide stability thereat. Each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise an actuator. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise a component and / or machine capable of moving, controlling, and / or powering another component and / or system of the implement 210. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise an electronic component configured to perform an agricultural function such as a fan. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise an agricultural component. Additionallyor alternatively, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise a rigid or semi-rigid support structure. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise a telescoping member 234. Each telescoping member 234 can be considered a linkage 240. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 240 can be and / or comprise the linkage 444 and hinge 445 configuration of Figures 35A and 35B.

[0156] Further, each linkage 240 can be rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly 230. Thus, each linkage 240 can rotate based on the direction of travel of the implement 210. According to some embodiments, the linkage(s) 240 can provide steering for the implement 210. The rotation of the linkage(s) 240 can be controlled such that the linkage(s) 240 can steer and / or control the direction of travel of the implement 210.

[0157] Additionally, as mentioned above and while not shown in Figures 26-28B, each toolbar 231, 233 can each comprise a plurality of row units. The row units, similar to the linkage(s) 240, can be rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly 230. Thus, each row unit can rotate based on the direction of travel of the implement 210. Additionally, the row units can provide steering for the implement 210. The rotation of the row units can be controlled such that the row units can steer and / or control the direction of travel of the implement 210.

[0158] The ability for the implement 210 and / or toolbar assembly 230 (including components thereof) to be steered by components of the toolbar assembly 230, such as the linkage(s) 240, is advantageous in various situations. For example, being able to steer the implement 210 and / or toolbar assembly 230 via components of the toolbar assembly 230 is beneficial when performing an agricultural function, such as planting, on a hill, on a hillside, on rough or uneven terrain, and / or on any other challenging types of terrain. Additionally, the fact that the telescoping members 234, the row units, and / or the linkage(s) 240 (which encompasses the telescoping members 234) can be rotatably connected to a portion of the toolbar assembly 230 and can provide steering, allows the implement 210 to perform an agricultural function, such as planting, while turning. There is no need to lift the toolbar assembly 230 when turning.

[0159] Additionally, the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 are configured to be able to move laterally with respect to each other. The toolbars 231, 233 can be offset such that one toolbar extends further in a horizontal direction than the other toolbar. The front and rear toolbars 231, 233 having the ability to move laterally with respect to each other increases the flexibility of the implement 210 and is advantageous in many different scenarios. For example, when performing an agricultural function, such as planting, on rough / uneven terrain, on a hill, and / or on a hillside, the agricultural function can be performed more effectively and / or more efficiently since the toolbars 231, 233 are able to move laterally. Additionally, the fact that the front and rear toolbars231, 233 are able to move laterally relative to each other allows for the implement 210 to continue performing an agricultural function, such as planting, while turning. There is no need to lift the toolbar assembly 230 and / or components thereof when turning.

[0160] The toolbar assembly 230, including the front and rear toolbars 231, 233, can comprise any suitable wheels and / or wheel configurations to facilitate extension away from each other, retraction toward each other, and / or movement laterally. For example, the toolbar assembly 230, including the front and rear toolbars 231, 233, could comprise wheels 22 and / or tires 39 as described above and / or in the ‘824 patent. Such wheels could be utilized both when the implement 210 is in a field use configuration and / or when the implement 210 is in a transport configuration.

[0161] For example, according to some embodiments, the implement 210 can include the linkage 444 and hinge 445 configuration shown in Figures 35A and 35B and described below to facilitate lateral movement of the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 relative to each other. According to some embodiments, any number of linkage(s) 444 can operationally connect the front toolbar 231 and the top bar 232. According to some embodiments, the implement 210 can include any number of linkage(s) 444 ranging from zero to N wherein N is any number greater than zero. According to various embodiments that include one or more linkage(s) 444, one end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the front toolbar 231 via a hinge 445 and the other end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the top bar 232 via a hinge 445. Thus, the front toolbar 231 and the top bar 232 are able to move laterally with respect to each other. Alternatively or additionally, one or more linkage(s) 444 can operationally connect the rear toolbar 233 and the top bar 232 wherein one end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the rear toolbar 233 via a hinge 445 and the other end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the top bar 232 via a hinge 445. Thus, the rear toolbar 233 and the top bar 232 are able to move laterally with respect to each other. Alternatively or additionally, one or more linkage(s) 444 can operationally connect the front toolbar 231 and the rear toolbar 233 wherein one end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the front toolbar 231 via a hinge 445 and the other end of each linkage 444 is pivotally and / or hingedly connected to the rear toolbar 233 via a hinge 445. Thus, the front toolbar 231 and the rear toolbar 233 are able to move laterally with respect to each other. Additionally or alternatively, while the linkage 444 shown in Figures 35A and 35B includes a single linkage segment, the linkage(s) 444 can include any number of linkage segments ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than one. Thus, the linkage(s) 444 can be and / or comprise a multi-stage linkage such as a scissor linkage. It is noted that for various embodiments that include linkage(s) 444 that include multiple linkage segments, such embodiments are able to adjust the distance between the front and reartoolbars 231, 233 while maintaining the horizontal distance between row units, including push and pull row units, such that adjusting the distance between the front and rear toolbars 231, 233 does not alter the horizontal distance between row units. Altering the horizontal distance between row units during field use could negatively impact planting performance.

[0162] Figures 29 and 30 show two different configurations of a toolbar assembly 330. The toolbar assembly 330 of Figures 29 and 30 can be the same and / or similar to any toolbar assembly described in the present disclosure including, but not limited to, the toolbar assembly 30, the toolbar assembly 230, the toolbar assembly 425, the toolbar assembly 530, the toolbar assembly 630, and / or the toolbar assembly 730. The toolbar assembly 330 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein. The toolbar assembly 330 could be incorporated into any suitable agricultural implement including, but not limited to, all implements described herein. According to various embodiments the toolbar assembly 330 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any toolbar assembly described herein.

[0163] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, the toolbar assembly 330 can include a first toolbar 331, one or more toolbar sections 332, one or more telescoping members 334, one or more guide rails 336, and one or more linkage(s) 338. According to various embodiments, the number of toolbar sections 332 can range from 1 to N where N is any number greater than one. According to various embodiments, the number of telescoping members 334 can range from 1 to N where N is any number greater than one. According to various embodiments, the number of guide rails 336 can range from 1 to N where N is any number greater than one. According to various embodiments, the number of linkage(s) 338 can range from 0 to N where N is any number greater than zero. The first toolbar 331 can comprise zero or more row units. The number of row units can number from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The row units can be any suitable type of row unit such as row units 36 described and shown above. Additionally, the first toolbar 331 could comprise any number of linkage(s), actuator(s), agricultural and / or electronic component(s), and the like. Additionally, or alternatively, according to some embodiments, the first toolbar 331 comprises zero row units and serves as support for the toolbar sections 332. According to some embodiments, the first toolbar 331 can be the same and / or similar to the front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and / or the rear toolbar 233. According to some embodiments, the first toolbar 331 can be positioned in front of the each of the toolbar sections 332 relative to the direction of travel of the toolbar assembly 330 when performing an agricultural function such that the first toolbar 331 is considered the front toolbar and each of the toolbar sections 332 are considered the rear toolbars. According to some embodiments, the first toolbar 331 can be positioned behind each of the toolbarsections 332 relative to the direction of travel of the toolbar assembly 330 when performing an agricultural function such that the first toolbar 331 is considered the rear toolbar and each of the toolbar sections 332 are considered the front toolbars.

[0164] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, one or more toolbar sections 332 can be included. While five toolbar sections 332 are shown in each of Figures 29 and 30, any number of toolbar sections 332 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than one could be included. Each of the toolbar sections 332 could comprise any number of row unit(s), linkage(s), actuator(s), agricultural and / or electronic component(s), and the like. According to some embodiments, each toolbar section 332 can be the same, similar, and / or have similar characteristics to the front toolbar 231, top bar 232, and / or the rear toolbar 233.

[0165] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, each of the toolbar sections 332 is configured to be operationally associated with the first toolbar 331 via at least one telescoping member 334 and / or linkage 338. The first toolbar 331, toolbar sections 332, and / or telescoping member(s) 334 can be configured such that each toolbar section 332 that is operatively attached to a telescoping member 334 can extend away from and / or retract toward the first toolbar 331 based on extension and / or retraction of one or more telescoping members 334. A telescoping member 334 can have two ends, wherein one end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the first toolbar 331 and the other end is operationally attached and / or mounted to a toolbar section 332. The telescoping member 334 can be extended such that the attached toolbar section 332 is moved away from the first toolbar 331, increasing the distance between the first toolbar 331 and the attached toolbar section 332. The telescoping member 334 can be retracted such that the attached toolbar section 332 is moved closer to the first toolbar 331, decreasing the distance between the first toolbar 331 and the attached toolbar section 332. The telescoping members 334 can be the same and / or similar to the telescoping members 234. According to some embodiments, the telescoping members 334 can be and / or comprise telescopic cylinders.

[0166] Figure 29 shows each of the telescoping members 334 in a generally extended state such that the toolbar sections 332 attached to said telescoping members 334 are relatively far away from the first toolbar 331. According to some embodiments, some and / or all of the toolbar sections 332 can be in a generally extended state when the implement is in a field use configuration. Figure 30 shows each of the telescoping members 334 in a generally retracted state such that the toolbar sections 332 attached to said telescoping members 334 are relatively near to the first toolbar 331. According to some embodiments, some and / or all of the toolbar sections 332 can be in a generally retracted state when the implement is in a transport configuration. Additionally, each telescoping member 334 can be configured to extend and / or retract independently of any other telescopingmember 334. Thus, some telescoping members 334 could be in a generally retracted state while some telescoping members 334 could be in a generally extended state causing some toolbar sections 332 to be relatively near to the first toolbar and some toolbar sections 332 to be relatively far from the first toolbar 331. According to some embodiments, some toolbar sections 332 can be extended and / or retracted while others are not.

[0167] Additionally, according to some embodiments, the toolbar sections 332 can be configured as subsets wherein each subset includes at least one toolbar section 332. For example, a first subset could include two toolbar sections 332, and this subset could be configured such that the two toolbar sections extend and / or retract in unison while other toolbar sections 332 of different subset(s) can extend and / or retract independently of the toolbar sections 332 of the first subset. As an example, a subset of toolbar sections 332, wherein the toolbar sections 332 are located near tire location(s), can be configured to extend and / or retract while the other toolbar sections 332 not included in the subset are configured to remain stationary and / or remain near and / or fixed to the first toolbar 331.

[0168] Further, according to some embodiments, one or more of the toolbar sections 332 can be extendable and / or retractable while one or more of the toolbar sections 332 can be stationary, fixed in place, and / or otherwise not able to extend and / or retract. For example, while any number of toolbar sections 332 could be included, Figures 29 and 30 each show five toolbar sections 332. According to some embodiments two of these toolbar sections 332 could be extendable and / or retractable, and the other three toolbar sections 332 could be stationary, fixed in place, and / or otherwise unable to extend and / or retract.

[0169] As shown in Figures 29 and 30, the toolbar assembly 330 can further include guide rail(s) 336. Any number of guide rail(s) 336 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero can be included to help facilitate operational association of the first toolbar 331 and each toolbar section 332. For example, in Figures 29 and 30, two of the toolbar sections 332 that are shown each include two guide rails 336, however, any number of guide rail(s) 336 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero could be included with each toolbar section 332. The guide rail(s) 336 can have two ends wherein one end is operationally attached and / or mounted to the first toolbar 331. Additionally, according to some embodiments, the guide rail(s) 336 can be bolted on to the first toolbar 331 and / or the toolbar sections 332. Any suitable form of attachment other than bolt(s) can be included. The guide rails 336 are configured to maintain stability of the toolbar sections 332 such that the toolbar sections 332 remain stable during extension and / or retraction and also remain stable in extended and / or retracted positions. The guide rail(s) 336 can comprise guides, slots, grooves, wheels, and the like wherein a portion of thetoolbar section 332 can utilize such guides, slots, grooves, and / or wheels during extension and / or retraction to ensure smooth extension and / or retraction. According to some embodiments, the guide rails(s) 336 can be configured to extend and / or retract similar to the telescoping members 334. In such embodiments, the end of the guide rail 336 not operationally attached and / or mounted to the first toolbar 331 can be operationally attached and / or mounted to a toolbar section 332. According to some embodiments, the guide rail(s) 336 can be configured to be solid rail(s) incapable of extension or retraction. In such embodiments, a portion of the toolbar section 332 can slide, and / or otherwise move, along the guides, slots, grooves, and / or wheels of the guide rails 336

[0170] Further, as shown in Figures 29 and 30, the toolbar assembly can include linkage(s) 338. The linkage(s) 338 can be the same and / or similar to the linkage(s) 240. The linkage(s) 338 can serve to connect components of the toolbar assembly 330 and provide stability thereat. Each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise an actuator. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise a component and / or machine capable of moving, controlling, and / or powering another component and / or system of the implement. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise an electronic component configured to perform an agricultural function such as a fan. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise an agricultural component. Additionally or alternatively, each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise a rigid or semi-rigid support structure. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 338 can be and / or can comprise a telescoping member 334 such that the linkage(s) 338 can provide for extension and / or retraction of toolbar sections 332 according to some embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, each linkage 338 can be and / or comprise the linkage 444 and hinge 445 configuration of Figures 35A and 35B.

[0171] Figure 31 shows an axle assembly 340 that could be used with an agricultural implement. The axle assembly 340 could be used with any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, the implement 610, and / or the implement 710.

[0172] The axle assembly 340 can include an axle 342, one or more supports 344, and an attachment mechanism 346. The axle assembly 340 can be rotatably attached and / or mounted to an agricultural implement such that the axle assembly 340 can be rotatable relative to the implement and / or a toolbar assembly of the implement. The axle assembly 340 is configured to be rotated to a particular orientation based on whether the implement is in a field use and / or transport configuration. When in a field use orientation, the axle assembly 340 can be oriented such that the axle assembly 340 can direct the implement in a direction generally perpendicular toand / or transverse to the length of the toolbar assembly and / or toolbar of the implement. When in a transport orientation, the axle assembly 340 can be oriented such that the axle assembly 340 can direct the implement in a direction generally parallel to the length of the toolbar assembly and / or toolbar of the implement.

[0173] The axle 342 can be the same and / or similar to any axle described herein. The axle 342 can comprise one or more supports 344. While four supports 344 are shown in Figure 31, any number of supports ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The supports 344 help to support the various toolbars of the implement with which the axle assembly 340 is associated. The supports 344 can be elongated and / or can be capable of extension and retraction such that they provide support and / or a platform upon which various toolbars can rest when the toolbars are in a fully retracted position, a fully extended position, and / or anywhere in between. For example, when telescoping members of the implement with which the axle assembly 340 is associated are extended to increase the distance between toolbars, the supports 344 can be extended such that the supports 344 can still provide support for the extended toolbar(s) by allowing the extended toolbar(s) to rest on the supports 344. The supports 344 can be made of any suitable material capable of providing support to toolbar(s) and components included on the toolbar(s). The attachment mechanism 346 can be any suitable attachment mechanism capable of providing a rotatable attachment between the axle assembly 340 and the implement and / or any components thereof.

[0174] Figures 32-34 show various views of an agricultural implement 410. The implement 410 can be the same and / or similar to any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 510, the implement 610, and / or the implement 710. The implement 410 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein. According to various embodiments, the implement 410 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any implement described herein.

[0175] As shown in Figures 32-34, the implement 410 can include a tongue 412, a hitch 418, a product support frame 420, a steerable axle 422, a pivotable attachment mechanism 423, one or more steerable wheels 424 supported by the axle 422, a toolbar assembly 425 that includes a first wing 426 and a second wing 428, and a multi-stage lift and center pivot 436. The tongue 412 and the hitch 418 can be the same, similar to, and / or can incorporate any all aspects of any tongue and / or hitch described herein, such as the tongue 12, the tongue 212, the tongue 512, the tongue 612, and / or the tongue 712.

[0176] As shown in Figure 32, the product support frame 420 can be supported by the axle 422 and / or by the tongue 412. The product support frame 420 can be a platform wherein agricultural products can be stored, placed, and / or held. For example, seed, herbicide, pesticide, fungicide, insecticide, fertilizer, and the like could be stored, placed, and / or held on the product support frame 420. According to some embodiments, the product support frame 420 can include a housing wherein agricultural products can be stored, placed, and / or held within the housing of the product support frame 420.

[0177] The steerable axle 422 can be the same, similar, and / or incorporate any and / or all aspects of any axle described herein, such as the axle 236. The axle 422 can comprise one or more steerable wheels 424. While two wheels 424 are shown in Figure 32, any number of wheels ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 can be included. The axle can further include an attachment mechanism 423 to operationally attach the axle 422 to the implement and / or a component thereof such as the tongue 412 and / or toolbar assembly 425. The attachment mechanism 423 can be the same, similar, and / or can incorporate aspects of any axle attachment mechanism described herein. The attachment mechanism 423 can be pivotable and / or rotatable such that the axle 422 and / or wheels 424 thereof can turn, rotate, and / or pivot to provide steering for the implement 410. The axle 422 and / or components thereof can help steer the implement 410 both when the implement is in a field use configuration and when the implement 410 is in a transport configuration. This allows for accurate and precise steering of the implement 410 both when the implement 410 is being used for an agricultural function in an agricultural field and when the implement 410 is being transported. According to some embodiments, the axle 422 is steerable such that the axle 422 provides steering for the implement 410. Additionally or alternatively, according to some embodiments, the wheels 424 are steerable separate from the axle 422 such that the wheels 424 can provide steering for the implement 410 independent of the axle 422. Thus, according to various embodiments, the axle 422 can provide all steering for the implement 410 independent of the wheels 424, the wheels 424 can provide all steering for the implement 410 independent of the axle 422, and / or the axle 422 and wheels 424 can both provide steering for the implement 410. The axle 422 and wheels 424 can be positioned under the product support frame 420 and can support the product support frame 420.

[0178] The toolbar assembly 425 can be the same, similar, and / or can incorporate aspects of any toolbar assembly described herein such as the toolbar assembly 30, the toolbar assembly 230, the toolbar assembly 330, the toolbar assembly 530, the toolbar assembly 630, and / or the toolbar assembly 730. For example, the toolbar assembly 425 could include a front toolbar 430, a top bar 432, and / or a rear toolbar 434 (as shown in Figure 34) according to some embodiments. Thetoolbar assembly 425 can comprise two wings: a first wing 426 and a second wing 428 as shown in Figure 32. The toolbar assembly 425 can be operationally attached to the tongue 412 and / or to another component of the implement 410 via the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436. Both wings 426, 428 can be separately operationally attached to the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436. The multi-stage lift and center pivot 436 can be and / or comprise a two-stage and / or multi-stage lift and pivot such that each of the wings 426, 428 are configured to be able to rotate and / or pivot around the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436 independently of each other as well as being able to be lifted independently of each other. Figure 32 shows a view of the toolbar assembly 425 in a field use configuration wherein the first and second wings 426, 428 are generally parallel to each other, are generally aligned with each other, and the length of each of the wings 426, 428 is generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tongue 412. In a field use configuration, the implement 410 can travel and / or be towed in a direction generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of the toolbar assembly 425 and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tongue 412.

[0179] The wings 426, 428 can each pivot / rotate about the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436 in the direction of the arrows of Figure 32 such that the length of wings 426, 428 are generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tongue 412, are generally aligned with the tongue 412, and are directly and / or indirectly stacked on top of each other. For example, the first wing 426 can be stacked on top of the second wing 428 or vice versa. Thus, not only are both wings 426, 428 capable of pivoting / rotating around the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436, but each wing is configured to be able to be lifted such that one wing can be stacked on top of the other. Any apparatus(es), method(s), and / or system(s) described herein can be used to perform lifting of the wings 426, 428 and / or other components of the toolbar assembly 425. Additionally, Figure 33 shows a lift post 446 wherein the lift post 446 is configured to aid in lifting one or both of the first or second wings 426, 428. The lift post 446 can be any suitable mechanism capable of lifting a toolbar wing. For example, according to some embodiments, the lift post 446 can be and / or comprise the pivot 536 of Figure 38. Additionally or alternatively the lift post 446 can function in the same and / or similar manner as the pivot 536 of Figure 38. This type of configuration, wherein the wings 426, 428 are configured such that the length of the wings 426, 428 are generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the tongue 412, can be a transport configuration and is shown in Figures 33 and 34. In a transport configuration, the implement 410 can travel and / or be towed in a direction generally parallel to the length of the toolbar assembly 425 and / or generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tongue 412. When the implement 410 is in a transport configuration, such as when the wings 426, 428 are stacked on top of each other, the implement 410 is renderedas narrow as possible. Thus, the implement 410 is capable of being narrow, nimble, and easily maneuverable to provide for improved transportation. Alternatively, according to some embodiments, the wings 426, 428 can be rotated / pi voted around the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436 such that they are side-by-side along each other’s length rather than stacked on top of each other.

[0180] Figure 33 shows a side view of the implement 410 in a transport configuration wherein the first wing 426 is stacked on top of the second wing 428. When in a transport configuration, the implement 410 can include a secondary axle 438 wherein the secondary axle 438 comprises one or more secondary wheels 440. While one wheel 440 is visible in Figure 33, any number of wheels ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The secondary axle 438 and / or secondary wheels 440 can be steerable to provide steering for the implement 410 and / or components thereof.

[0181] Figure 34 shows an end view of the components of the implement 410 when the implement 410 is in a transport configuration. Figure 34 shows the first wing 426 stacked on top of the second wing 428. The implement 410 is shown in Figure 34 to include two secondary wheels 440. When in a transport configuration such as that shown in Figure 34, a wing latch 442 can be used to latch and / or lock the wings 426, 428 in place to prevent any jostling, bouncing, and / or any other type of unwanted movement of the wings 426, 428. Prevention of this type of unwanted movement by the wings 426, 428 helps to prevent damage and / or wear-and-tear of the wings 426, 428 which helps to increase the life span and reduce and / or eliminate maintenance and / or replacement costs associated with the wings 426, 428. The wing latch 442 can also be used when in a field use configuration to latch and / or lock the wings 426, 428 in place. In addition to preventing unwanted movement of the wings 426, 428 such latching / locking of the wings 426, 428 also helps to provide for proper positioning of the wings 426, 428 while performing an agricultural function which leads to better accuracy, efficacy, and efficiency of that agricultural function.

[0182] Figures 35A and 35B show top elevation views of portion(s) of the implement 410. As shown in Figure 35A, according to some embodiments, each linkage 444 can be hingedly connected to the front toolbar 430 and / or the rear toolbar 434 via a hinge 445. The hinge 445 can be any suitable off-the-shelf hinge and / or hinge-type device. According to some embodiments, the linkage(s) 444 can be extendable and / or retractable. The linkage(s) 444 can be configured to extend and / or retract to increase and / or decrease the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434. According to some embodiments, the linkage(s) 444 can be any telescoping member described herein such as telescoping member 234, telescoping member 334, and / or any othertelescoping member. According to some embodiments, the linkage(s) 444 can perform extension and / or retraction in a telescopic manner. According to some embodiments, the linkage(s) 444 can perform extension and / or retraction via one or more hinges as shown in Figures 35A and 35B. Additionally or alternatively, as noted above, each linkage 444 can include multiple linkage segments such that each linkage 444 is a multi-stage linkage, such as a scissor linkage. As mentioned above, embodiments wherein the linkage(s) 444 are and / or comprise multi-stage linkages allow for the implement 410 to maintain proper horizontal row unit to row unit spacing while still allowing for the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 to be altered while in a field use configuration.

[0183] Figure 35A shows the front toolbar 430, rear toolbar 434, and linkage(s) 444 in an extended position. Figure 35B shows the front toolbar 430, rear toolbar 434, and linkage(s) 444 in a non-extended and / or retracted position wherein the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 have been pivoted relative to each other in a horizontal plane. Thus, while Figures 35A and 35B may not be drawn to scale, the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 is greater in Figure 35A when in an extended position than in Figure 35B when in a less than extended and / or retracted position.

[0184] The linkage(s) 444 of each wing 426, 428 of the implement 410 can be retracted, pivoted, and / or rotated to decrease the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 before, during, and / or after stacking the wings 426, 428 on top of each other for transport as is shown in at least Figures 33 and 34. Thus, by decreasing the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 of each wing 426, 428 of the toolbar assembly 425 and stacking each wing 426, 428 on top of the other, the width of the implement 410 can be further reduced when in a transport configuration. Therefore, the implement 410 can be more easily transported. Similarly, the linkage(s) 444 of each wing 426, 428 of the implement 410 can be extended, pivoted, and / or rotated to increase the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434. It may be advantageous to increase the distance between the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 when the implement 410 is in a field use configuration.

[0185] While Figures 35A and 35B show that the front toolbar 430, rear toolbar 434, linkage(s) 444, and / or hinge(s) 445 are able to pivot and / or hingedly rotate in a horizontal plane, the front toolbar 430, rear toolbar 434, linkage(s) 444, and / or hinge(s) 445 are also able to hinge and / or rotate multi-dimensionally. Thus, each hinge 445 can include multiple hinges and / or any sort of multi-dimensional hinge device. For example, rather than the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 being able to pivot solely in a horizontal plane the front toolbar 430, rear toolbar 434, linkage(s) 444, and / or hinge(s) 445 could be configured such that the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 arepivotable vertically relative to each other and / or in any other direction. Therefore, the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 of each wing 426, 428 could be stacked on top of each other before, during and / or after the wings 426, 428 are stacked on top of each other to further decrease the width of the implement 410 when in a transport configuration.

[0186] Figures 35A and 35B each show a wheel 447 operatively connected to the front toolbar 430 and / or the rear toolbar 434. While only 1 wheel 447 is shown in Figures 35A and 35B, any number of wheels ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The wheel(s) 447 can be rotatably connected to the toolbar assembly 450 such that the wheel(s) 447 are capable of rotation and / or are able to swivel wherein the wheel(s) can facilitate movement and / or transport of the implement 410 when in a transport configuration and / or a field use configuration. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in Figures 35A and 35B, each wheel 447 can be attachable and / or detachable from the front and / or rear toolbars 430, 434. For example, when the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 are in an extended position relative to each other, as shown in Figure 35A, a wheel 447 can be attached to the front toolbar 430. Additionally, for example, when the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 are in a less than extended and / or retracted position relative to each other, as shown in Figure 35B, a wheel 447 can be attached to the rear toolbar 434.

[0187] Additionally, the linkage 444 and hinge 445 configuration of the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 shown in Figures 35A and 35B allows for the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 to move laterally relative to each other. Movement of the front and rear toolbars 430, 434 laterally relative to each other provides for better flexibility and maneuverability, and therefore efficiency and efficacy, when performing an agricultural function, such as planting, while turning and / or on challenging terrain such as uneven terrain or a hillside.

[0188] Figure 36 shows a side view of a product support frame 448 and a side view of aspect(s) of a toolbar assembly 450 according to some embodiments. The elements shown in Figure 36 can be generally incorporated into the implement 410 and / or any other implement described herein according to some embodiments. Similarly, any elements of the implement 410 and / or any other implement described herein can be incorporated into the elements shown in Figure 36.

[0189] The product support frame 448 can include a lift post 452 and a steerable axle having at least one wheel 454. While only one wheel 454 is shown in Figure 36, the steerable axle can include any number of wheels ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1. The wheel(s) 454 can be swivel wheels and / or can be rotatable such that the wheel(s) 454 and / or axle can provide for transport / movement when the implement is in a transport configuration and / or a field use configuration. The product support frame 448 can further include a tongue 456 whereinthe tongue 456 can include a hitch for connecting the product support frame 448 to an agricultural vehicle such as a tractor. The product support frame 448 can be configured such that it provides a generally flat platform upon which product 458 (which could include but is not limited to fertilizer, pesticide, herbicide, chemicals, water, seed, and the like) can be mounted and / or supported. For example, the product support frame 448 is capable of supporting and / or securing a fertilizer tank, pesticide tank, herbicide tank, chemical tank, water tank, seed hopper, and the like. The lift post 452 can be mounted on the product support frame 448 as is shown in Figure 36. The lift post 452 can operate generally in the same manner as the lift post 446 to lift the toolbar assembly 450 and / or portion(s) thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the lift post 452 can be a multi-stage lift post and can include a center pivot such as the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436 described herein.

[0190] The toolbar assembly 450 can comprise zero or more row units 460 wherein the number of row units 460 can range from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. The toolbar assembly 450 can further comprise one or more linkages 462. While two linkages 462 are shown in Figure 36, the number of linkages 462 can range from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1. The linkage(s) 462 can be the same as and / or function generally in the same manner as any linkage(s) described herein including the linkage(s) 240, the linkage(s) 338, and / or the linkage(s) 444. The toolbar assembly can further include a front toolbar 464 and a rear toolbar 466

[0191] Figure 36 shows a side view of aspects of the toolbar assembly 450 wherein the toolbar assembly 450 is shown to include a first wing 470. While only the first wing 470 of the toolbar assembly 450 is shown on the right side of Figure 36, the toolbar assembly 450 could include multiple wings such as two wings: the first wing 470 and a second wing 472. For embodiments of the toolbar assembly 450 that comprise two wings including the first wing 470 and the second wing 472, a portion of the front toolbar 464 can be part of the first wing 470 and a portion of the front toolbar 464 can be part of the second wing 472. Similarly, a portion of the rear toolbar 466 can be part of the first wing 470 and a portion of the rear toolbar 466 can be a part of the second wing 472. When the implement is in a field use configuration, the wings 470, 472 can be generally aligned such that the portion of the front toolbar 464 of the first wing 470 can be generally aligned with the portion of the front toolbar 464 of the second wing 472 and the portion of the rear toolbar 466 of the first wing 470 can be generally aligned with the portion of the rear toolbar 466 of the second wing 472. The front toolbar 464 can be separable such that it can fold in half when the wings 470, 472 are folded and / or rotated rearwardly to be in a transport configuration as described below. The rear toolbar 466 can also be separable such that it can fold in half when the wings 470, 472 are folded and / or rotated rearwardly to be in a transport configuration as described below.Each wing 470, 472 of the toolbar assembly 450 is configured to be able to pivot around its longitudinal axis such that the row unit(s) 460 thereon can face upward and / or downward rather than outward. Figure 36 shows a side view of aspects of the toolbar assembly 450 wherein the first wing 470 of the toolbar assembly 450 has pivoted such that the row unit(s) 460 thereon face upward or downward. Each wing 470, 472 of the toolbar assembly 450 is configured to be able to fold and / or rotate rearwardly around the lift post 452 and / or center pivot such that the wings 470, 472 are positioned parallel and side-by-side of each other such that they are not aligned when the implement is in a transport configuration. Each wing 470, 472 of the toolbar assembly 450 in Figure 36 has been folded rearwardly after pivoting around its longitudinal axis such that the wings 470, 472 are side-by-side of each other wherein the portions of the front toolbar 464 and rear toolbar 466 of the first wing 470 are vertically aligned relative to each other and the portions of the front toolbar 464 and rear toolbar 466 of the second wing 472 are vertically aligned relative to each other. This vertical alignment can be seen in the end view of the toolbar assembly 450 shown on the left side of Figure 36. The lift post 452 being a multi-stage lift post that includes a center pivot allows for each wing 470, 472 to be pivotable around its longitudinal axis such that the row unit(s) 460 thereon can face upward and / or downward. The lift post 452 being a multistage lift post that includes a center pivot also allows the wings 470, 472 to then be folded and / or rotated such that the wings 470, 472 are positioned side-by-side of each other after each wing 470, 472 pivots around its longitudinal axis. Pivoting the wings 470, 472 so that the row unit(s) of each wing face upward and / or downward rather than outward prior to folding and / or rotating the wings 470, 472 rearwardly allows for a more narrow width of the implement during transport such that the implement is more nimble and maneuverable during transport. The frames of each of the wings 470, 472 are configured to face each other during transport as seen in the end view of the toolbar assembly 450 shown on the left side of Figure 36. According to some embodiments, each wing 470, 472 can be folded and / or rotated around the lift post 452 and / or center pivot without first pivoting each wing 470, 472 around its longitudinal axis.

[0192] Additionally or alternatively to embodiments wherein each wing 470, 472 is pivotable around its longitudinal axis prior to being rotated and / or folded rearwardly, according to some embodiments, each row unit 460 of the wings 470, 472 can be configured to be able to be rotated and / or lifted such that each row unit is positioned above or below one of the toolbars 464, 466 prior to the wings 470, 472 being rotated and / or folded rearwardly. Similar to each wing 470, 472 being pivotable about its longitudinal axis wherein each wing 470, 472 can pivot such that the row unit(s) 460 face upward or downward, each row unit 460 being able to be rotated and / or lifted to be positioned on top of or below the toolbar that it is associated with reduces overall width of theimplement when in a transport configuration wherein the wings 470, 472 are rotated and / or folded rearwardly. The width of the implement is reduced when the row unit(s) 460 are rotated and / or lifted to be positioned above or below a toolbar because the row unit(s) 460 would extend upward or downward rather than outward from the implement.

[0193] Additionally, a rear steerable axle 468 wherein the rear steerable axle 468 has at least one wheel can be attached and / or operatively connected to an end of each wing of the toolbar assembly 450. For example, each wing 426, 428 of the implement 410 can include a rear steerable axle 468 and wheel(s) thereof according to some embodiments. The number of wheels of the rear steerable axle could range from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1. The rear steerable axle 468 and wheel(s) thereof can help facilitate movement of the toolbar assembly 450 and / or implement when the implement is in a transport configuration as described herein. The rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be rotatable, steerable, and / or can be configured to be able to swivel such that the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can provide for steering and / or movement of the implement when in a transport configuration and also can provide for steering and movement of the implement when in a field use configuration as described herein. Additionally, the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be configured to be able to be raised and / or lowered. Thus, the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be utilized when the implement is in a particular configuration. For example, when the implement is in a transport configuration, the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be lowered and, thus, utilized for movement / transportation, and, conversely, when the implement is in a field use configuration, the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be raised and, thus, not utilized for movement / transportation. The opposite is also contemplated herein wherein the rear steerable axle 468 and / or wheel(s) thereof can be lowered when the implement is in a field use configuration and raised when the implement is in a transport configuration.

[0194] Each element shown in Figure 36 can be the same as and / or similar to corresponding / similarly named elements appearing in any of Figures 32-35B. Each element shown in Figure 36 can incorporate aspects of corresponding / similarly named elements appearing in any of Figures 32-35B. According to some embodiments, each element shown in Figure 36 can be the same as and / or similar to any corresponding / similarly named elements described herein. According to some embodiments, each element shown in Figure 36 can incorporate aspects of any corresponding / similarly named elements described herein. All elements shown in Figure 36 can be incorporated into and / or utilized by the implement 410 and / or any other implement described herein.

[0195] Figures 37 and 38 show various views of an agricultural implement 510 and / or components thereof. The implement 510 can be the same and / or similar to any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 610, and / or the implement 710. The implement 510 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein. According to various embodiments, the implement 510 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any implement described herein.

[0196] As shown in Figures 37 and 38, the implement 510 can include a tongue 512, a hitch 518, and a product support frame 520 wherein the product support frame 520 comprises a bulk fill hopper 522 and a fertilizer hopper 524. The tongue 512 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any tongue described herein, such as the tongue 12, the tongue 212, the tongue 412, the tongue 612, and / or the tongue 712. The hitch 518 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any hitch described herein, such as the hitch 18, the hitch 218, the hitch 418, and / or the hitch 718. The product support frame 520 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any product support frame described herein, such as the product support frame 420, the product support frame 620, and / or the product support frame 720. Further, the product support frame 520 can comprise the bulk fill hopper 522 configured to store and distribute seed to each row unit 542 (not all row units 542 in Figure 37 are labeled). The bulk fill hopper 522 can comprise any number of hoses to distribute seed to each row unit 542. Such hoses can be flex hoses such that the hoses will not be damaged and / or otherwise disturbed before, during, and / or after movement of the implement 510 and / or any components thereof including rotation by the wings 532, 534 of the toolbar assembly 530. The product support frame 520 can additionally or alternatively comprise the fertilizer hopper 524 configured to store and distribute fertilizer to each row unit 542. The fertilizer hopper 524 can comprise any number of hoses to distribute fertilizer to each row unit 542. Such hoses can be flex hoses such that the hoses will not be damaged and / or otherwise disturbed before, during, and / or after movement of the implement 510 and / or any components thereof including rotation by the wings 532, 534 of the toolbar assembly 530.

[0197] The implement 510 can further comprise a steerable axle 526. The steerable axle 526 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any axle described herein such as the axle 236, the axle 342, the axle 422, the axle 626, and / or the axle 726. The axle 526 can further comprise one or more steerable wheels 528. The steerable wheels 528 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any wheels described herein, such as the wheels 238, the wheels 424, the wheels 628, and / or the wheels 728. While two steerable wheels 528 are shown inFigure 37, any number of steerable wheels 528 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The steerable axle 526 and steerable wheels 528 can be positioned under the product support frame 520 and can support the product support frame 520.

[0198] The implement 510 can further include a toolbar assembly 530 that comprises a first wing 532 and a second wing 534. The toolbar assembly 530, first wing 532, and second wing 534 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any like components described herein such as the toolbar assembly 425, first wing 426, and second wing 428; the toolbar assembly 630, the first wing 632, and the second wing 634; and / or the toolbar assembly 730, the first wing 732, and the second wing 734. According to some embodiments, one or both of the first wing 532 and / or second wing 534 can be two-piece wings. Two-piece wings allow for proper flex and / or down force when performing an agricultural function so that the agricultural function, such as planting, is performed effectively. Additionally, for embodiments that include two-piece wings, each wing 532, 534 can comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be used to lock each wing 532, 534 in place either while the wing is unfolded, such as when performing an agricultural function, and / or when the wing is folded, such as during transport.

[0199] The implement 510 can further include a pivot 536 that is the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of the multi-stage lift and center pivot 436. Alternatively or additionally, the pivot 536 can be a two-stage pivot shown in more detail in Figure 38. The wings 532 and 534 are capable of rotating / pivoting around the pivot 536 in the direction of the arrows of Figure 37 in the same and / or similar manner as described and / or shown for the implement 410 such that the wings 532, 534 can be rotated / pi voted to be in a field use configuration, a transport configuration, and / or somewhere in between. For example, Figure 37 shows the first wing 532 to be rotated / pi voted such that it is somewhere between a field use configuration and a transport configuration. Figure 37 shows the second wing 534 to be rotated / pi voted such that it is in a field use configuration.

[0200] The implement 510 can further comprise a wing lock 540 which can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of the wing latch 442 according to some embodiments. The wing lock 540 is configured to latch / lock the wings 532, 534 in place whether in a field use configuration and / or in a transport configuration.

[0201] Each wing 532, 534 of the implement 510 can include a rotatable end wheel 538 positioned on an end of each wing 532, 534. The end wheel 538 can be positioned on the end of each wing 532, 534 that is not operationally attached to the pivot 536. While Figure 37 only shows an end wheel 538 on the first wing 532, the second wing 534 can also include an end wheel 538. Each end wheel 538 can be rotatably attached to a wing of the toolbar assembly 530 such that each endwheel 538 can facilitate movement of the implement 510 both when the implement 510 is in a field use configuration and when the implement 510 is in a transport configuration. For example, each end wheel 538 can rotate so that it faces the direction of travel of the implement 510 when the implement 510 is in a field use configuration and when the implement 510 is in a transport configuration.

[0202] Figure 38 shows a view of aspects of the implement 510. Figure 38 shows a side exploded view of the first wing 532, second wing 534, pivot 536, and tongue 512. Figure 38 shows how one wing (the first wing 532 in Figure 38) can be rotated and lifted such that the first wing 532 can be positioned on top of the second wing 534 when the implement is in a transport configuration.

[0203] Figure 39 shows an agricultural implement 610 and / or components thereof. The implement 610 can be the same and / or similar to any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 710. The implement 610 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein, such as the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 710. According to various embodiments, the implement 610 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any implement described herein, such as the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 710.

[0204] The implement 610 can include a tongue 612, a hitch 618, a product support frame 620, a steerable axle 626 comprising one or more steerable wheels 628, a toolbar assembly 630 comprising a first wing 632 and a second wing 634, and a pivot 636. Each component of the implement 610 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of like components from any of the implements described herein. For example, the tongue 612 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any tongue described herein, such as the tongue 12, the tongue 212, the tongue 412, the tongue 512, and / or the tongue 712. The steerable axle 626 and one or more steerable wheels 628 can be positioned under the product support frame 620 and can support the product support frame 620. Further, the pivot 636 can be a two-stage pivot as shown in Figure 38. Also, according to some embodiments, one or both of the first wing 632 and / or second wing 634 can be two-piece wings. Two-piece wings allow for proper flex and / or down force when performing an agricultural function so that the agricultural function, such as planting, is performed effectively. Additionally, for embodiments that include two-piece wings, each wing 632, 634 can comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be used to lock eachwing 632, 634 in place either while the wing is unfolded, such as when performing an agricultural function, and / or when the wing is folded, such as during transport.

[0205] While two steerable wheels 628 are shown in Figure 39, any number of steerable wheels 628 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The implement 610 further shows that each wing 632, 634 comprises a plurality of row units 640. While many row units 640 are shown in Figure 39, any number of row units 640 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero could be included on each wing 632, 634. It should be noted that not all row units 640 in Figure 39 are labeled.

[0206] The implement 610 is further shown to include four toolbar wheels 638, wherein two toolbar wheels 638 are included on each wing 632, 634. While four toolbar wheels 638 are shown in Figure 39, any number of toolbar wheels 638 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero could be included on the toolbar assembly 630. The toolbar wheels 638 can be rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly 630 such that they can rotate to facilitate travel of the implement 610 both when the implement 610 is in the field use configuration and when the implement 610 is in the transport configuration. In this way, each toolbar wheel 638 can function in the same and / or similar manner as each end wheel 538.

[0207] According to some embodiments, each wing 632, 634 of the toolbar assembly 630 can be configured to be pivotable around its longitudinal axis and foldable and / or rotatable around the pivot 636 in the same or similar fashion as described above regarding the toolbar assembly 450 of Figure 36. For example, each wing 632, 634 can be pivotable around its longitudinal axis such that the row unit(s) 640 attached thereto will face upward and / or downward. The pivot 636 can be a multi-stage pivot or two-stage pivot and / or can include a lift according to some embodiments, which can allow for such pivoting. The wings 632, 634 can be rotated and / or folded rearwardly around the pivot 636 after each wing 632, 634 is pivoted around its longitudinal axis such that the wings 632, 634 are positioned side-by-side in the same or similar manner as described above regarding the toolbar assembly 450 of Figure 36. Again, by first pivoting each wing 632, 634 around its longitudinal axis such that the row unit(s) 640 thereon face upward or downward prior to folding and / or rotating each wing 632, 634 rearwardly, the width of the implement 610 is narrower when in a transport configuration without needing to lift one wing on top of the other. It is noted that this narrow nature of the width of the implement 610 when in a transport configuration increases ease, efficacy, and efficiency of transporting the implement 610. According to some embodiments, each wing 632, 634 can be folded and / or rotated around the pivot 636 without first pivoting each wing 632, 634 around its longitudinal axis.

[0208] Additionally or alternatively to embodiments wherein each wing 632, 634 is pivotable around its longitudinal axis prior to being rotated and / or folded rearwardly, according to some embodiments, each row unit 640 of the wings 632, 634 can be configured to be able to be rotated and / or lifted such that each row unit 640 is positioned above or below the toolbar assembly 630 prior to the wings 632, 634 being rotated and / or folded rearwardly. Such rotation and / or lifting of the row unit(s) 640 prior to rearward rotation and / or folding of the wings 632, 634 can be performed in the same or similar fashion as described above with reference to the toolbar assembly 450 of Figure 36. Similar to each wing 632, 634 being pivotable about its longitudinal axis wherein each wing 632, 634 can pivot such that the row unit(s) 640 face upward or downward, each row unit 640 being able to be rotated and / or lifted to be positioned on top of or below the toolbar assembly 630 reduces overall width of the implement 610 when in a transport configuration wherein the wings 632, 634 are rotated and / or folded rearwardly. The width of the implement 610 is reduced when the row unit(s) 640 are rotated and / or lifted to be positioned above or below the toolbar assembly 630 because the row unit(s) 640 would extend upward or downward rather than outward from the implement 610.

[0209] Figure 40 shows an agricultural implement 710 and / or components thereof. The implement 710 can be the same and / or similar to any implement described herein including, but not limited to, the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 610. The implement 710 can include, incorporate, and / or be integrated with any components, features, and / or aspects of any implement described herein, such as the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 610. According to various embodiments, the implement 710 can comprise none, some, and / or all of the components of any implement described herein, such as the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, and / or the implement 610.

[0210] The implement 710 can include a tongue 712, a product support frame 720, a steerable axle 726 comprising one or more steerable wheels 728, a toolbar assembly 730 comprising a first wing 732 and a second wing 734, a pivot 736, an end wheel 738 on an end of each wing of the toolbar assembly 730, and one or more row units 740 on each wing of the toolbar assembly 730. Each component of the implement 710 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of like components from any of the implements described herein. For example, the tongue 712 can be the same as, similar to, and / or can incorporate aspects of any tongue described herein, such as the tongue 12, the tongue 212, the tongue 412, the tongue 512, and / or the tongue 612.

[0211] While four steerable wheels 728 are shown in Figure 40, any number of steerable wheels 728 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1 could be included. The implement710 further shows that each wing 732, 734 comprises a plurality of row units 740. While many row units 740 are shown in Figure 40, any number of row units 740 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero could be included on each wing 732, 734. It should be noted that not all row units 740 in Figure 40 are labeled. The steerable axle 726 and one or more steerable wheels 728 can be positioned under the product support frame 720 and can support the product support frame 720.

[0212] According to some embodiments, the pivot 736 of the implement 710 can be positioned at and / or near the product support frame 720, as is shown in Figure 40. Further, the pivot 736 can be a two-stage pivot as shown in Figure 38

[0213] Figure 41 shows a block diagram of an agricultural system 800 for use with an agricultural implement 810. For example, the system 800 could be used with the implement 10, the implement 210, the implement 410, the implement 510, the implement 610, the implement 710, and / or any other suitable agricultural implement and / or vehicle such as a tractor / tow vehicle, planter, combine, sprayer, plow, ripper, and the like. The system 800 of Figure 41 comprises the implement 810, wherein the implement 810 further comprises an intelligent implement router / intelligent planter router (IIR / IPR) 812, an intelligent implement node / intelligent planter node (IPN / IPN) 814, a plurality of intelligent implement positioning sensors / intelligent planter positioning sensors (IIP / IPP) 816 (wherein each IPP 816 comprises a plurality of sensors 818), a controller 820, and a user interface 822 (wherein the user interface 822 can comprise a display 824). Alternatively, the implement 810 can comprise a plurality of sensors 818 without comprising any IPRs 812, IPNs 814, or IPPs 816.

[0214] While the embodiment of Figure 41 includes only one IPR 812, the system 800 could include any number of IPRs 812 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. While the embodiment of Figure 41 includes only one IPN 814, the system 800 could include any number of IPNs 814 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero. While the embodiment of Figure 41 includes three IPPs 816, the system 800 could include any number of IPPs 816 ranging from zero to N where N is any number greater than zero.

[0215] The IPR(s) 812, IPN(s) 814, and / or IPP(s) 816 may be those which are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,952,365 which is hereby incorporated in its entirety. All child U.S. Patent Applications and U.S. Patents resulting from U.S. Patent No. 10,952,365 are also hereby incorporated in their entirety. For example, according to various embodiments, the IPR(s) 812 can be configured to route data between the controller 820, user interface 822, and / or IPN(s) 814. The IPN(s) 814 can be configured to control aspects of the implement 810, collect data from aspects of the implement 810, and / or communicate with the IPR(S) 812. The IPP(s) 816 can be configuredto detect and / or sense positioning and / or functionality data of the implement 810 and / or components thereof and to communicate with the IPN(s) 814.

[0216] As shown in Figure 41, each IPP 816, and the implement 810 as a whole, can comprise a plurality of sensors 818 ranging from 1 to N where N is any number greater than 1. The IPR(s) 812, IPN(s) 814, and / or IPP(s) 816 can be positioned at any suitable location on the implement 810 such as at row unit(s), somewhere else on a toolbar assembly, and / or any other suitable location. According to some embodiments, no IPR(s) 812, IPN(s) 814, and / or IPP(s) 816 are included in the system 800. According to some embodiments, sensor(s) 818 are positioned in any suitable location on the implement 810 such as at row unit(s), somewhere else on a toolbar assembly, and / or any other suitable location.

[0217] The plurality of sensor(s) 818 can include accelerometers, speedometers, vision sensors, radar sensors, LIDAR sensors, heat sensors, moisture content sensors, radio frequency sensors, GPS sensors, attitude sensors, tilt sensors such as gyroscopes, inertial measurement units (IMU), cameras (capable of capturing still image(s) and / or video), steering sensors, position sensors, pressure sensors, thermometers, thermistors, fluid level sensors, photodetectors, timers, and / or any combination thereof.

[0218] The sensor(s) 818 can be configured to detect, sense, obtain, and / or monitor characteristics regarding the functionality of the implement 810 and / or regarding the implement’s environment including, but not limited to, the implement’s speed, the implement’s acceleration, the implement’s location, the implement’s position, the implement’s trajectory, the implement’s angle, the implement’s tilt, the implement’s angular velocity, magnetic field strength, voltage of component(s) of the implement, current draw of component(s) of the implement, revolutions per minute (RPM) of component(s) of the implement, pressure of component(s) of the implement, image(s) and / or video, heat level of component(s) of the implement, soil characteristics (such as moisture content, compaction, temperature, and the like), ambient temperature, fluid level of component(s) of the implement, fluid level of fluid in an agricultural field or other natural form, light or other electromagnetic radiation, a length of time, and / or any combination thereof.

[0219] As shown in Figure 41, the system 800 can further comprise a controller 820, which can be any type of intelligent control, and can comprise components for establishing communications. Examples of such a controller may be processing units alone or other subcomponents of computing devices. The controller 820 can also include other components and can be implemented partially or entirely on a semiconductor (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (“FPGA”)) chip, such as a chip developed through a register transfer level (“RTL”) design process.

[0220] The controller 820 can comprise one or more processing units and / or processors. A processing unit, also called a processor, is an electronic circuit which performs operations on some external data source, usually memory or some other data stream. Non-limiting examples of processors include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”), and most notably, a central processing unit (“CPU”). A CPU, also called a central processor or main processor, is the electronic circuitry within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetic, logic, controlling, and input / output (“VO”) operations specified by the instructions. Processing units are common in tablets, telephones, handheld devices, laptops, user displays, smart devices (TV, speaker, watch, etc.), and other computing devices.

[0221] The controller 820 can further comprise a memory in the form of zero or more memory components. The memory includes, in some embodiments, a program storage area and / or data storage area. The memory can comprise read-only memory (“ROM”, an example of non-volatile memory, meaning it does not lose data when it is not connected to a power source) or random access memory (“RAM”, an example of volatile memory, meaning it will lose its data when not connected to a power source). Nonlimiting examples of volatile memory include static RAM (“SRAM”), dynamic RAM (“DRAM”), synchronous DRAM (“SDRAM”), etc. Examples of nonvolatile memory include electrically erasable programmable read only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, hard disks, SD cards, etc. In some embodiments, a processing unit, such as a processor, a microprocessor, or a microcontroller, is connected to the memory and executes software instructions that are capable of being stored in a RAM of the memory (e.g., during execution), a ROM of the memory (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer readable medium such as another memory or a disc.

[0222] As shown in Figure 41, the system 800 can further comprise a user interface 822. A user interface is how a user interacts with a machine. The user interface 822 can be a digital interface, a command-line interface, a graphical user interface (“GUI”), oral interface, virtual reality interface, or any other way a user can interact with a machine (user-machine interface). For example, the user interface 822 (“UP’) can include a combination of digital and analog input and / or output devices or any other type of UI input / output device required to achieve a desired level of control and monitoring for a device. Nonlimiting examples of input and / or output devices include computer mice, keyboards, touchscreens, knobs, dials, switches, buttons, speakers, microphones, printers, LIDAR, RADAR, etc. Input(s) received by the user interface 822 can then be sent to the controller 820 and / or any type of controller to control operational aspects of a device such as the implement 810, and / or aspects thereof. According to some embodiments, the userinterface 822 can comprise the controller 820 as is shown in Figure 41. However, according to some embodiments, the controller 820 can be separate from the user interface 822. According to some embodiments, the user interface 822 can be that of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 420,816 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0223] According to some embodiments, the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 can be located, positioned, and / or mounted in / on the implement 810. Thus, a user can interact with the user interface 822 and / or can control / interact with aspects of the implement 810 while present in and / or at said implement 810.

[0224] According to some embodiments, the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 is remote from the implement 810 such that a user can interact with the user interface and / or can control / interact with aspects of the implement 810 while the user is located at a remote location from the implement 810. According to some embodiments, the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 can be portable such that a user can interact with the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 regardless of the location of the user. Thus, a user could interact with the user interface 822 and / or the controller 820 when the user is located in / on / at the implement 810 and / or when the user is located at a remote location from the implement 810.

[0225] As shown in Figure 41, the user interface 822 can include a display 824, which can act as an input and / or output device. More particularly, the display 824 can be a liquid crystal display (“LCD”), a light-emitting diode (“LED”) display, an organic LED (“OLED”) display, an electroluminescent display (“ELD”), a surface-conduction electron emitter display (“SED”), a field-emission display (“FED”), a thin-film transistor (“TFT”) LCD, a bistable cholesteric reflective display (i.e., e-paper), a touch-screen display, etc. The user interface 822 also can be configured with the controller 820 to display characteristics, conditions, data, and / or messages associated with the implement 810, and / or the implement’s environment, in real-time or substantially real-time. As noted, displaying such information can be accomplished when the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 are located locally in / on / at the implement 810 and / or when the interface 822 and / or controller 820 are at a remote location away from the implement 810.

[0226] The various sensor(s) 818 can be configured to send information regarding detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to the controller 820. The controller 820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if the implement 810, and / or any components thereof, is experiencing and / or has experienced stress. The controller 820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if the implement 810, and / or any components thereof, has suffered any kind of damage. The controller820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if there is a possibility of damage to the implement 810, and / or any components thereof. The controller 820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if the implement 810, and / or any components thereof, is likely to suffer any kind of damage and / or if damage is imminent. The controller 820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if the implement 810, and / or any components thereof, are in and / or will be in an unsafe situation. The controller 820 and / or system 800 can utilize the information regarding the detected, sensed, captured, and / or monitored characteristics to determine if the implement 810, and / or any components thereof, is experiencing or will experience any kind of issue.

[0227] As an example, when the system 800 detects that a particular component of the implement 810, such as an actuator, has an unusual current draw, the system 800 can determine that the actuator has suffered damage, that the actuator is worn out and needs to be replaced, that the actuator could cause additional damage to other components of the implement 810, and / or any other suitable determination based on the sensed current draw. As another example, the system 800 could detect that, based on the speed, trajectory, image(s), video, and / or position of the implement 810, the implement 810 is likely to collide with an obstacle and / or suffer some kind of damage if it continues on its current path.

[0228] In the event that the controller 820 and / or system 800 determines that the implement 810, and / or components thereof, is under stress, has suffered damage, that there is a possibility of damage, that damage is likely, that damage is imminent, and / or that the implement 810 or components thereof are operating in an unsafe manner, the controller 820 and / or system 800 can automatically force the implement 810 to perform a task and / or function. Such a task could include limiting functionality of the implement 810 and / or forcing the implement to travel to a particular location 810.

[0229] As an example, if, based on sensed characteristics, the system 800 determines that a component of the implement 810 is under stress, is damaged, there is a possibility of damage, damage is imminent, and / or determines that current operation of the implement 810 is unsafe, the system 800 can limit the functionality of the implement 810 such that the implement 810 is not able to perform a particular functionality. For example, if an actuator had been damaged while planting and continuing to plant could possibly start an electrical fire and / or otherwise cause additional damage to the implement 810, the system 800 could automatically disable the ability for the implement 810 to plant until the issue was addressed and / or resolved.

[0230] As another example, if the system 800 determines that the implement 810, and / or a component thereof, is under stress, is damaged, there is a possibility of damage, damage is imminent, and / or determines that current operation of the implement 810 is unsafe, the system 800 can force the implement 810 to limit functionality of the implement 810 (such as by disabling and / or limiting aspect(s) of the implement 810), force the implement 810 to alter its movement (such as by forcing the implement 810 to move at a slower speed), force the implement 810 to leave the area and / or situation, and / or force the implement 810 to move to a particular location such as a safe location. This type of response is known as “limp home mode”. The system 800 can store a “safe” and / or “home” location wherein the system 800 can force the implement to return to said safe location in a safe manner based on the sensed characteristics.

[0231] Additionally, according to some embodiments, the system 800 is configured to be able to transmit data / information to a remote and / or offsite location such as a farm monitoring station. Such data can be any data related to the system 800, and / or any aspect(s) thereof, including, but not limited to, any data sensed by one or more of the various sensors 818 of the implement 810, any determinations made based on data sensed by the various sensors 818, any conditions related to any aspect(s) of the system 800, any environmental and / or weather data pertinent to the system 800, and the like. For example, the system 800, and / or components thereof such as the controller 820, can transmit sensed characteristics, wherein the characteristics are sensed by the various sensors 818 of the implement 810, to a remote location. A determination can then be made at a remote location, based on the sensed characteristics, whether a component of the implement 810 is under stress, is damaged, there is a possibility of damage, damage is imminent, and / or can determine that current operation of the implement 810 is unsafe. According to some embodiments wherein the system 800, and / or components thereof, determines that a component of the implement 810 is under stress, is damaged, there is a possibility of damage, damage is imminent, and / or that current operation of the implement 810 is unsafe, the system 800 can transmit that determination to a remote location.

[0232] As noted herein, according to some embodiments, the system 800, implement 810, and / or aspect(s) thereof can be controlled and / or receive instructions from a remote location. As noted, the user interface 822 and / or controller 820 can be portable and / or remote such that the system 800, implement 810, and / or any other aspect(s) of the system 800 can be controlled and / or receive instructions remotely from the user interface 822 and / or controller 820. Further, another controller / communications device can be located at a remote location, such as a farm management / monitoring station, wherein this other controller / communications device can be used to control and / or send instructions to aspect(s) of the system 800. Thus, if characteristics aresensed and it is determined that the implement 810, and / or characteristics thereof, is under stress, is damaged, there is a possibility of damage, damage is imminent, and / or that current operation of the implement 810 is unsafe, a user, an automated system, and / or some kind of controller can control and / or send instructions to the implement 810 and / or aspect(s) thereof such that the implement 810 operates, acts, performs tasks, and / or conducts itself in as safe a manner as possible. For example, this type of control and / or instructions could include initiating “limp home mode”, limiting particular functionality of the implement 810 (such as forcing the implement 810 to remain at and / or under a particular speed, forcing component(s) of the implement 810 to operate at and / or under a particular speed, power threshold, and / or electric current / voltage threshold, disabling particular component(s) of the implement 810, and the like), causing the implement 810 to perform a particular task (such as controlling movement of the implement 810, initiating a systems check, initiating a cool down period, and the like), and the like.

[0233] The controller 820, user interface 822, and / or any other aspect(s) of the system 800 can include component(s) for establishing data communication. Such communications component(s) can include any combination of modem(s), router(s), access point(s), bridge(s), gateway(s), hub(s), repeater(s), switch(es), transceiver(s), and the like in order to facilitate communication. The communications component(s) can be configured to perform data communication wirelessly and / or in a wired fashion. The communications component(s) can include one or more communications ports such as Ethernet, serial advanced technology attachment (“SATA”), universal serial bus (“USB”), or integrated drive electronics (“IDE”), for transferring, sending, receiving, and / or or storing data.

[0234] According to some embodiments, the communications component(s) and / or other components of the system 800 are able to perform data communication either within the system 800 and / or externally of the system 800 in a wireless fashion using any sort of wireless connection device and / or protocol. This can include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular data, radio waves, satellite, and / or generally any other form of wireless connection. Therefore, the communications component(s) and / or any other component(s) of the system 800 will include generally any electronic components necessary to allow for such wireless communication.

[0235] According to some embodiments, the communications component(s) and / or other components of the system 800 are able to perform data communication either within the system 800 and / or externally of the system 800 via a wired connection. Wired communication can take the form of CAN bus, Ethernet, co-axial cable, fiber optic line, and / or generally any other device and / or protocol which will allow for wired communication. Therefore, the communicationscomponent(s) and / or any other component(s) of the system 800 will include generally any electronic components necessary to allow for such wired communication.

[0236] According to some embodiments the communications component(s) and / or other aspects of the system 800 can utilize a network to facilitate data communication. The network can be, by way of example only, a wide area network (“WAN”) such as a TCP / IP based network or a cellular network, a local area network (“LAN”), a neighborhood area network (“NAN”), a home area network (“HAN”), or a personal area network (“PAN”) employing any of a variety of communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, near field communication (“NFC”), etc., although other types of networks are possible and are contemplated herein. Communications through the network can be protected using one or more encryption techniques, such as those techniques provided by the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which superseded the Data Encryption Standard (DES), the IEEE 802.1 standard for port-based network security, pre-shared key, Extensible Authentication Protocol (“EAP”), Wired Equivalent Privacy (“WEP”), Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (“TKIP”), Wi-Fi Protected Access (“WPA”), and the like.

[0237] ISO 11783, serial control and communications data network commonly used for tractors and machinery for agriculture and forestry (commonly referred to as “ISO Bus” or “ISOBUS”) is a communication protocol for the agriculture industry based on the SAE JI 939 protocol (which includes CAN bus). According to some embodiments, data communication can be facilitated via ISOBUS. The standard comes in 14 parts: ISO 11783-1 : General standard for mobile data communication; ISO 11783-2: Physical layer; ISO 11783-3: Data link layer; ISO 11783-4: Network layer; ISO 11783-5: Network management; ISO 11783-6: Virtual terminal; ISO 11783- 7: Implement messages application layer; ISO 11783-8: Power train messages; ISO 11783-9: Tractor ECU; ISO 11783-10: Task controller and management information system data interchange; ISO 11783-11 : Mobile data element dictionary; ISO 11783-12: Diagnostics services; ISO 11783-13: File server; ISO 11783-14: Sequence control.

[0238] Ethernet is a family of computer networking technologies commonly used in local area networks (“LAN”), metropolitan area networks (“MAN”) and wide area networks (“WAN”). Systems communicating over Ethernet divide a stream of data into shorter pieces called frames. Each frame contains source and destination addresses, and error-checking data so that damaged frames can be detected and discarded; most often, higher-layer protocols trigger retransmission of lost frames. As per the OSI model, Ethernet provides services up to and including the data link layer. Ethernet was first standardized under the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (“IEEE”) 802.3 working group / collection of IEEE standards produced by the working group defining the physical layer and data link layer’s media access control (“MAC”) of wired Ethernet.Ethernet has since been refined to support higher bit rates, a greater number of nodes, and longer link distances, but retains much backward compatibility. Ethernet has industrial application and interworks well with Wi-Fi. The Internet Protocol (“IP”) is commonly carried over Ethernet and so it is considered one of the key technologies that make up the Internet.

[0239] The Internet Protocol (“IP”) is the principal communications protocol in the Internet protocol suite for relaying datagrams across network boundaries. Its routing function enables internetworking, and essentially establishes the Internet. IP has the task of delivering packets from the source host to the destination host solely based on the IP addresses in the packet headers. For this purpose, IP defines packet structures that encapsulate the data to be delivered. It also defines addressing methods that are used to label the datagram with source and destination information.

[0240] The Transmission Control Protocol (“TCP”) is one of the main protocols of the Internet protocol suite. It originated in the initial network implementation in which it complemented the IP. Therefore, the entire suite is commonly referred to as TCP / IP. TCP provides reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of a stream of octets (bytes) between applications running on hosts communicating via an IP network. Major internet applications such as the World Wide Web, email, remote administration, and file transfer rely on TCP, which is part of the Transport Layer of the TCP / IP suite.

[0241] Transport Layer Security, and its predecessor Secure Sockets Layer (“SSL / TLS”), often runs on top of TCP. SSL / TLS are cryptographic protocols designed to provide communications security over a computer network. Several versions of the protocols find widespread use in applications such as web browsing, email, instant messaging, and voice over IP (“VoIP”). Websites can use TLS to secure all communications between their servers and web browsers.

[0242] It should be noted that any of the telescoping members disclosed herein can take the form of any of numerous types of actuators or other mechanisms. For example, linear actuators, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, mechanical actuators, active orientation systems, or other mechanisms may all be utilized to provide telescoping movement (i.e., linear movement of a device which can impart linear displacement and / or rotational displacement between oppositely connected ends), such as between a front and rear toolbar.

[0243] Therefore, as understood from the present disclosure, the agricultural implement(s), method(s), and / or system(s) provided herein includes the use of multiple toolbars wherein one or more of the toolbars is telescopic such that the distance between the toolbars can be increased and / or decreased. Thus, the distance between toolbars of the implement can be varied such that the distance can be relatively large when desirable (such as when performing an agricultural function in a field) and / or can be relatively small when desirable (such as during transport of theimplement). Therefore, due to the ability to vary the distance between toolbars, the implement s) provided herein allow for easy, nimble, effective, and efficient transport while also providing effective and efficient agricultural functions such as planting. The implement(s) provided herein having multiple toolbars include the ability for the toolbars to move laterally with respect to each other. This enables the implement to effectively and efficiently perform agricultural functions, such as planting, on challenging terrain including, but not limited to uneven terrain, on a hill, and / or on a hillside. The ability for multiple toolbars to move laterally with respect to each other also allows the implement to turn without needing to lift the toolbar assembly and / or row units. Thus, the implement can perform agricultural functions while turning. The implement provided herein also includes the ability for its components such as row units, actuators, linkages, and the like to be rotatably mounted and to steer and / or provide steering for the implement and / or toolbar(s). Again, this allows the implement to effectively and efficiently perform agricultural functions, such as planting, on challenging terrain. Again, including rotatable row units, actuators, linkages, and the like that are capable of providing steering also allows the implement to turn without needing to lift the toolbar assembly and / or row units. Thus, the implement can perform agricultural functions while turning. Further, including a steerable axle, steerable wheels, a secondary steerable axle, and / or secondary steerable wheels provides for highly accurate and precise steering of the implement both when the implement is in a field configuration (and / or is performing an agricultural function in an agricultural field) and when the implement is in a transport configuration (and / or when the implement is being transported). Additionally, the agricultural implement(s), method(s), and / or system(s) provided herein are capable of (1) detecting particular characteristics that would indicate stress on the implement or components thereof and / or would indicate that damage has occurred or that danger or damage is imminently possible, and then (2) automatically performing a task based on those detected characteristics. Thus, the system minimizes and / or eliminates safety concerns of the implement and its components. Additionally, the system(s) allow for more current and efficient upkeep of the implement and its components. Therefore, a user can save money by fixing problems with an implement, and / or its components, as they arise before such problems can lead to further damage.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprising: a tongue; an axle comprising one or more wheels, wherein the axle is operationally attached to the tongue and a longitudinal axis of the axle is generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tongue; a front toolbar operationally associated with the tongue; a rear toolbar operationally associated with the tongue, wherein the front and rear toolbars are generally parallel; and one or more telescopic members operationally attached to the front toolbar, rear toolbar, and / or both; wherein the one or more telescopic members are capable of extension and retraction such that the distance between the front and rear toolbars can vary.

2. The implement of claim 1, wherein the implement has a field use configuration and a transport configuration.

3. The implement of claim 2, wherein when the implement is in the field use configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue is generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars, and the longitudinal axis of the axle is generally parallel to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars.

4. The implement of either of claims 2 or 3, wherein when the implement is in the field use configuration, at least one of the one or more telescopic members are configured to extend, increasing the distance between the front and rear toolbars.

5. The implement of any of claims 2-4, wherein when the implement is in the transport configuration, the longitudinal axis of the tongue is generally parallel to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars, and the longitudinal axis of the axle is generally perpendicular and / or transverse to the length of each of the front and rear toolbars.

6. The implement of any of claims 2-5, wherein when the implement is in the transport configuration, at least one of the one or more telescopic members are configured to retract, decreasing the distance between the front and rear toolbars.

7. The agricultural implement of any of the preceding claims, wherein the front and rear toolbars are configured to be capable of moving laterally relative to each other.

8. The agricultural implement of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a top bar wherein one end of each of the one or more telescopic members is operationally attached to the top bar and the other end of each of the one or more telescopic members is operationally attached to either the front or rear toolbar.

9. The agricultural implement of claim 8, wherein the front toolbar, rear toolbar, and top bar constitute a toolbar assembly.

10. The agricultural implement of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of row units rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly such that the row units are steerable and can help facilitate steering of the implement.

11. The agricultural implement of either of claims 9 or 10, wherein the toolbar assembly comprises a plurality of linkages rotatably attached to the toolbar assembly such that the linkages are steerable and can help facilitate steering of the implement.

12. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein the plurality of linkages comprises actuator(s), fan(s), sensor(s), electronic component(s), agricultural component(s), and / or a combination thereof.

13. The agricultural implement of any claims 1-8, wherein each of the front and rear toolbars comprises one or more row units.

14. The agricultural implement of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tongue is telescopic.

15. The agricultural implement of claim 1, wherein the rear toolbar comprises a plurality of unconnected sections, wherein at least one of the one or more telescopic members is attached to one of the unconnected sections on one end and is attached to the front toolbar on another end such that extension and / or retraction of the at least one telescopic member(s) alters the distance between the unconnected section and the front toolbar.

16. An agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprising: a tongue; a steerable axle operationally attached to the tongue, wherein the steerable axle comprises one or more steerable wheels; and a toolbar assembly operationally attached to the tongue; wherein the axle and / or wheels can facilitate steering of the implement when the implement is being towed.

17. The implement of claim 16, further comprising a product support frame operationally attached to the axle and / or to the tongue.

18. The implement of claim 17, further comprising at least one of a bulk fill hopper and / or a fertilizer hopper, wherein the bulk fill hopper and / or the fertilizer hopper are supported by the product support frame.

19. The implement of claim 18, wherein the bulk fill hopper is configured to hold and distribute seed.

20. The implement of either of claims 18 or 19, wherein the fertilizer hopper is configured to hold and distribute fertilizer.

21. The implement of any of claims 16-20, further comprising a center pivot operationally connected to the tongue.

22. The implement of claim 21, wherein the toolbar assembly comprises a first wing and a second wing, wherein the first and second wings are independently pivotable about the center pivot.

23. The implement of claim 22, wherein, when the implement is in a field use configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be generally aligned with each other on the same plane and are configured to be generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

24. The implement of claim 22, wherein, when the implement is in a transport configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be stacked on top of each other and are configured to be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

25. The implement of any of claims 16-24, wherein at least one end of the toolbar assembly comprises a secondary steerable axle that comprises secondary steerable wheels.

26. An agricultural implement for use with an agricultural vehicle, the implement comprising: a tongue; a center pivot positioned at or near one end of the tongue; and a toolbar assembly comprising first and second wings, wherein each of the first and second wings are operationally attached to the center pivot; wherein the first and second wings are each independently rotatable about the center pivot.

27. The implement of claim 26, wherein, when the implement is in a field use configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be generally aligned with each other on the sameplane and are configured to be generally perpendicular and / or transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

28. The implement of claim 26, wherein, when the implement is in a transport configuration, the first and second wings are configured to be stacked on top of each other and are configured to be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tongue.

29. The implement of any of claims 26-28, wherein one end of at least one of the first and / or second wings comprises one or more rotatable wheels.

30. An operational system for use with an agricultural implement, the system comprising: an agricultural implement comprising: first and second toolbars that are generally parallel, wherein at least one of the first or second toolbars is capable of extension and retraction such that the distance between the first and second toolbars can vary; one or more sensors configured to sense one or more characteristics of the implement and / or the implement’s environment; wherein the system is configured to force the implement to perform a task based on the one or more sensed characteristics.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the task comprises limiting functionality of the implement and / or forcing the implement to alter its movement.

32. The system of either of claims 31 or 32, wherein the task comprises forcing the implement to conduct limp home mode.

33. The system of any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the one or more characteristics of the implement and / or the implement’s environment includes the implement’s speed, the implement’s acceleration, the implement’s location, the implement’s position, the implement’s trajectory, the implement’s angle, the implement’s tilt, the implement’s angular velocity, magnetic field strength, voltage of component(s) of the implement, current draw of component(s) of the implement, revolutions per minute (RPM) of component(s) of the implement, pressure of component(s) of the implement, captured image(s) and / or video, heat level of component(s) of the implement, soil characteristics (including moisture content, compaction, and / or temperature), ambient temperature, fluid level of component(s) of the implement, fluid level of fluid in an agricultural field or other natural form, light or other electromagnetic radiation, a length of time, and / or any combination thereof.

34. The system of any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the one or more sensors includes accelerometer(s), speedometer(s), vision sensor(s), radar sensor(s), LIDAR sensor(s), heat sensor(s), moisture content sensor(s), radio frequency sensor(s), GPS sensor(s), attitude sensor(s), tilt sensor(s) such as gyroscope(s), inertial measurement unit(s) (IMU(s)), camera(s) (capable of capturing still image(s) and / or video), steering sensor(s), position sensor(s), pressure sensor(s), thermometer(s), thermistor(s), fluid level sensor(s), photodetector(s), timer(s), and / or any combination thereof.

Images