Planting machines and work vehicles

Abstract

To provide a planting machine and work vehicle that are less prone to poor germination. [Solution] The planting machine comprises a furrowing section, a dropping section, a soil covering section, and a compaction roller 6. The furrowing section forms a furrow G1 in the field F1. The dropping section drops the planting target X1 into the furrow G1. The soil covering section covers the planting target X1 in the furrow G1 with soil. The compaction roller 6 rolls within the furrow G1, compacting the covered soil G15. The compaction roller 6 has a pressing surface 601 that is pressed against the inner surface G14 of the furrow G1 toward the outward direction in the width direction of the furrow G1.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a planter and a work vehicle that form grooves in a field and plant planting objects.

Background Art

[0002] As a related technique, a planter is known that is connected to the rear side of a vehicle body of a work vehicle (such as a tractor) and is towed by the vehicle body to plant planting objects (for example, see Patent Document 1). The planter according to the related technique is a sugarcane transplanter that drops cut sugarcane seedlings of a predetermined length by a cutter into a groove formed in a field as a planting object.

[0003] This planter includes a furrowing part that forms a groove, a dropping part (guide part) that drops a planting object (seed sugarcane) into the groove, a covering part that covers the planting object in the groove with soil, and a pressing roller that presses the groove after covering with soil by the covering part. Such a planter realizes "deep planting" of the planting object.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the configuration of the related art described above, for example, when groove collapse occurs due to the influence of wind, rain, etc., there is a possibility that the planting object is buried and germination failure due to asphyxiation is caused.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a planter and a work vehicle that are less likely to cause germination failure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A planting machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a furrowing section, a dropping section, a soil covering section, and a compaction roller. The furrowing section forms a furrow in the field. The dropping section drops the planting material into the furrow. The soil covering section covers the planting material in the furrow with soil. The compaction roller rolls within the furrow and compacts the covered soil. The compaction roller has a pressing surface that is pressed against the inner surface of the furrow toward the outside in the width direction of the furrow.

[0008] A work vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the planting machine and a vehicle body. The vehicle body connects to the planting machine and tows the planting machine. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a planting machine and work vehicle that are less prone to poor germination. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic left side view of the entire work vehicle according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1, taken from the upper left rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1, taken from the upper left rear. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1, taken from the upper left front. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the lower unit of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a three-view drawing of the lower unit of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the compaction roller of the planting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a schematic explanatory diagram of the operation of the planter according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing another example of the press roller of the planter according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of the lower unit of the planter according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view of the lower unit of the planter according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of the press roller of the planter according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the press roller of the planter according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of the press roller of the planter according to a modification of Embodiment 3.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are an example of embodying the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings, for example, illustrations of fasteners such as screws, bolts or nuts, various cover members, and detailed shapes of each part are appropriately omitted.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [1] Overall Configuration First, the overall configuration of the work vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. The planter 1 according to the present embodiment constitutes the work vehicle 10 together with the vehicle body 2 of the work vehicle 10. The planter 1 is connected to the vehicle body 2 of the work vehicle 10 and is towed by the vehicle body 2. That is, the work vehicle 10 includes the planter 1 and the vehicle body 2 that connects and towes the planter 1.

[0013] The planter 1 forms a groove G1 in the field F1 to plant the planting target X1. The "planting" referred to in the present disclosure includes "transplanting" seedlings grown in another place to the field. In this embodiment, as an example, the planting target X1 planted by the planter 1 in the field F1 is a sugarcane seedling for planting obtained by cutting sugarcane seedlings to an appropriate length. That is, in this embodiment, a sugarcane transplanter that plants sugarcane (transplants) by planting sugarcane seedlings as the planting target X1 in the groove G1 of the field F1 will be described as an example of the planter 1.

[0014] Here, the vehicle body 2 connects the planter 1 to the rear side of the vehicle body 2 (the side opposite to the forward direction of the vehicle body 2). That is, the planter 1 is connected to the rear side of the vehicle body 2 and is a device that moves forward together with the vehicle body 2 while being towed by the vehicle body 2 when the vehicle body 2 moves forward. In particular, in this embodiment, the planter 1 does not have a power source that generates power by itself and executes work by using the force towed by the vehicle body 2.

[0015] The vehicle body 2 of the work vehicle 10 referred to in the present disclosure means a vehicle that performs various operations in the field F1 as a work area. As an example, it is an agricultural machine (agricultural implement) such as a tractor. In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the case where the work vehicle 10 is a riding type tractor equipped with the planter 1 will be described as an example. That is, the work vehicle 10 is configured by connecting the planter 1 to the tractor as the vehicle body 2 in a towable state. In this work vehicle 10, by driving the vehicle body 2 in a work area such as the field F1, a planting operation of planting the planting target X1 on the locus of the planter 1 in the work area becomes possible. Also, in this embodiment, as an example, the work vehicle 10 is assumed to operate by the operation (including remote operation) of a person (operator), but is not limited to this, and the work vehicle 10 may be an unmanned aircraft that operates by autonomous driving.

[0016] In this disclosure, "field" refers to a work area where the work vehicle 10 moves and performs tasks such as planting (including transplanting), and includes paddy fields, fields, orchards, and pastures where crops are grown. For example, if field F1 is where crops (agricultural products) such as sugarcane, sugar beets, rice, wheat, soybeans, or buckwheat are grown, the crops grown in field F1 are agricultural products. Furthermore, if trees are grown in a nursery, the nursery becomes field F1, and if trees that will become timber are grown in a forest, as in forestry, the forest becomes field F1. In this case, the crops grown in field F1 are trees or shrubs. In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the work vehicle 10 is used for planting (transplanting) sugarcane seedlings, and the explanation will take the example of field F1 being a field for growing sugarcane.

[0017] In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, the vertical direction when the work vehicle 10 is in a usable state is defined as the up-down direction D1. The forward-backward direction D2 and the left-right direction D3 (see Figure 2) are defined based on the direction as seen from the perspective of the person (operator) sitting in the vehicle body 2 (driver's compartment 21) of the work vehicle 10. The left side of the left-right direction D3 refers to the left side when the vehicle body 2 is traveling forward (moving forward), and the right side of the left-right direction D3 refers to the right side when the vehicle body 2 is traveling forward (moving forward). The outward side of the left-right direction D3 refers to the outward side of the work vehicle 10 in the left-right direction D3, and the inward side of the left-right direction D3 refers to the inward side of the work vehicle 10 in the left-right direction D3. However, these directions are not intended to limit the direction of use (direction during use) of the work vehicle 10 and the planting machine 1.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle body 2 has a driver's unit 21, front wheels 22, and rear wheels 23. The vehicle body 2 further has a power source (engine, motor, etc.) and control devices. A person (operator) can ride in the driver's unit 21. The driver's unit 21 is equipped with a steering device, a transmission, and operating devices. The front wheels 22 and rear wheels 23 are provided in pairs, for example, on the left and right sides. The vehicle body 2 is configured to be able to move when the rear wheels 23 are driven by power generated by the power source. Here, the front wheels 22 function as steering wheels, enabling turning in the left and right direction D3. As a result, the vehicle body 2 can move in the forward and backward direction D2 and left and right direction D3 within the field F1 according to the operation of the person riding in the driver's unit 21. For example, the vehicle body 2 performs planting work while meandering within the field F1.

[0019] As described above, the planting machine 1 is connected to the rear side of the vehicle body 2. Therefore, the planting machine 1 includes a connecting part 11 for connecting the planting machine 1 to the rear of the vehicle body 2, and a base 12 (see Figure 3). The connecting part 11 is located at the front end of the base 12 and connects the base 12 to the rear side of the vehicle body 2 (opposite the direction of forward movement of the vehicle body 2). In this embodiment, the planting machine 1 is detachably connected to the vehicle body 2, and it is also possible to connect a work machine other than the planting machine 1 to the vehicle body 2.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3, the base 12 has a main frame 121 and a pair of vertical frames 122. The main frame 121 is a frame material formed in a rectangular frame shape in plan view and is positioned behind the connecting portion 11. The pair of vertical frames 122 are frame materials each having a length in the front-rear direction D2 and are connected to the main frame 121 so as to straddle both ends of the main frame 121 in the front-rear direction D2.

[0021] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the planting machine 1 further comprises a furrowing section 3, a dropping section 4, a soil covering section 5, a compaction roller 6, a seedling cutting section 7 (see Figure 4), and a fertilizer application section 8, in addition to the connecting section 11 and the base 12. Furthermore, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment further comprises a loading section 13, a fence section 14, a step 15, a seat 16, and a pair of drive wheels 17. In Figure 3, the connecting section 11, the fertilizer application section 8, the loading section 13, the fence section 14, the step 15, the seat 16, and the pair of drive wheels 17 are shown by dashed lines (two-dot lines).

[0022] The loading section 13 is positioned on the main frame 121 such that its upper surface is approximately horizontal. The fence section 14 is positioned on three sides of the outer perimeter of the loading section 13, excluding the rear (i.e., the front, left, and right sides). As a result, the space above the loading section 13 is enclosed on three sides by the fence section 14, excluding the rear, and whole sugarcane seedlings can be loaded into this space. The sugarcane seedlings can be loaded into the loading section 13 in a position where they are leaning against the fence section 14.

[0023] Step 15 is located at the rear end of the loading section 13. By using step 15, the worker can get on and off the loading section 13. The seat 16 is located in the center of the left-right direction D3 at the rear of the loading section 13. The worker can sit on the seat 16.

[0024] A pair of drive wheels 17 are positioned on both sides of the base 12 in the left-right direction D3 and are rotatably supported relative to the base 12. Specifically, the base 12 has a pair of axle frames 123 positioned below both ends of the main frame 121 in the left-right direction D3. The drive shaft 171, which is the axis of rotation for the pair of drive wheels 17, is rotatably supported relative to the pair of axle frames 123. As a result, the pair of drive wheels 17, which are fixed to both ends of the drive shaft 171 in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction D3), are rotatably supported relative to the base 12. The drive shaft 171 transmits the power generated by the pair of drive wheels 17 to the seedling cutting unit 7 and the fertilizer application unit 8, etc., via a power transmission mechanism such as a sprocket and chain. In other words, when the planting machine 1 is towed, the pair of drive wheels 17 roll across the field F1, causing the drive shaft 171 to rotate, and the power (rotational force) generated by this rotation is used to drive the seedling cutting unit 7 and the fertilizer application unit 8, etc.

[0025] Furthermore, a supply port 131 that opens upward is formed approximately in the center of the loading section 13 in a plan view (in front of the seat 16). The seedling cutting section 7 is located below the supply port 131. The supply port 131 is an opening for loading sugarcane seedlings loaded in the loading section 13, and the sugarcane seedlings loaded from the supply port 131 are supplied to the seedling cutting section 7.

[0026] The furrowing unit 3 forms a furrow G1 in the field F1. The furrowing unit 3 is fixed to the base 12 so as to be located in the lower front part of the base 12. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the furrowing unit 3 has a pair of outer walls 31, a lower furrowing device 32, and a subsoiler 33. In this embodiment, the components of the furrowing unit 3 are basically made of metal, and the material is selected according to the required strength and weather resistance. However, the components of the furrowing unit 3 are not limited to metal, and for example, resin or wood may be used as appropriate. In addition, the subsoiler 33 may be retractable in preparation for when it is not in use, but in this embodiment, the explanation will be given using the state in which the subsoiler 33 is not retracted as an example.

[0027] The pair of outer walls 31 are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction D3, with their front ends touching each other and inclined to move away from each other as they move towards the rear. As a result, the pair of outer walls 31 form a roughly V-shape in plan view.

[0028] The lower groover 32 is roughly triangular pyramidal in shape and is fixed to the lower front end of the pair of outer walls 31. In other words, the lower groover 32 protrudes forward from the front end of the pair of outer walls 31. The tip (front end) of the lower groover 32 is pointed.

[0029] The subsoiler 33 is located behind the lower furrower 32 and protrudes downward from the lower surface of the lower furrower 32. The subsoiler 33 is a plate-shaped member with thickness in the left-right direction D3.

[0030] By providing the furrowing unit 3 with this configuration, as the planting machine 1 moves forward pulled by the vehicle body 2, a furrow G1 with a roughly inverted trapezoidal cross-section is formed in the field F1 by the front ends of the pair of outer walls 31 and the lower furrower 32, as shown in Figure 5. That is, as the furrowing unit 3 moves forward through the field F1 while pushing the soil away with the front ends of the pair of outer walls 31 and the lower furrower 32, a furrow G1 is formed in the area that the furrowing unit 3 passes through. Furthermore, in the center of the bottom surface G11 of the furrow G1 in the width direction (left-right direction D3), the subsoiler 33 breaks up the hardpan layer and forms a drainage ditch G12. Then, on both sides of the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the furrow G1 on the surface of the field F1, the pushed-away soil is piled up to form an embankment G13.

[0031] The seedling cutting unit 7 is fixed to the base 12. The seedling cutting unit 7 cuts whole sugarcane seedlings fed in from the supply port 131 to an appropriate length, processing them into sugarcane seedlings for planting as the planting target X1. The seedling cutting unit 7 has, for example, a cylinder cutter, and rotates the cutter with the driving force from a pair of drive wheels 17 to cut the sugarcane seedlings fed in from the supply port 131 to an appropriate length. The planting target X1 (sugarcane seedlings) cut by the seedling cutting unit 7 is sent to the dropping unit 4.

[0032] The dropping unit 4 functions as a chute that drops the planting target X1 into the furrow G1 formed in field F1. The dropping unit 4 is fixed to the base 12 so as to be located below the seedling cutting unit 7. The planting target X1 (sorghum seedlings) cut in the seedling cutting unit 7 are introduced into the dropping unit 4 as they fall from the seedling cutting unit 7. The dropping unit 4 guides the planting target X1 as it passes through the dropping unit 4 and drops the planting target X1 into the furrow G1 formed by the furrowing unit 3. The dropping unit 4 controls the falling position and orientation of the planting target X1 as it falls from the seedling cutting unit 7.

[0033] In this embodiment, the dropping section 4 is integrated with the groove-making section 3 and together with the groove-making section 3 constitutes the lower unit 40. The lower unit 40 is positioned below the base 12 and fixed to the base 12. Specifically, the lower unit 40 is positioned between a pair of vertical frames 122 of the base 12, and the upper end of the lower unit 40 is fixed to the pair of vertical frames 122 using fasteners such as bolts and nuts.

[0034] Here, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment is a "single-row planting" machine that plants the planting target X1 in approximately one row. However, this planting machine 1 shares parts other than the lower unit 40 (furrowing section 3 and dropping section 4) with a "double-row planting" machine that plants the planting target X1 in two rows. For example, the seedling cutting section 7 supplies two rows of planting target X1 in the left-right direction D3 to the dropping section 4, similar to the "double-row planting" machine. Accordingly, two supply ports 131 for feeding sugarcane seedlings into the seedling cutting section 7 are also arranged side by side in the left-right direction D3.

[0035] The fertilizer application unit 8 is fixed to the base 12 so as to be located below the seat 16. In other words, the fertilizer application unit 8 is located behind the seedling cutting unit 7. The fertilizer application unit 8 applies fertilizer by discharging it into the furrow G1 formed by the furrowing unit 3. The fertilizer application unit 8 discharges fertilizer through a hose 81 located behind the dispensing unit 4, and the hose 81 determines the position where the fertilizer falls. The fertilizer application unit 8 applies fertilizer into the furrow G1 after the planting target X1 (sugar seedlings) have been dropped into the furrow G1 from the dispensing unit 4.

[0036] Furthermore, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment includes a pair of support frames 18 extending rearward from the lower unit 40. Each of the pair of support frames 18 has a length in the front-rear direction D2, and its front end is rotatably supported by the lower unit 40. This allows the rear ends of the pair of support frames 18 to be moved in the up-down direction D1. In addition, the planting machine 1 includes a biasing member 19, including a spring or the like, which biases the rear ends of the pair of support frames 18 downward.

[0037] The soil covering section 5 is located behind the dropping section 4 (lower unit 40) and covers the planting target X1 in the trench G1 with soil. In this embodiment, the soil covering section 5 is supported at the center of a pair of support frames 18 in the front-rear direction D2. The soil covering section 5 has a pair of soil covering discs 51 and a pair of support sections 52. The pair of soil covering discs 51 are rotatably supported at the lower ends of the pair of support sections 52. The upper ends of the pair of support sections 52 are fixed to the pair of support frames 18.

[0038] The pair of soil covering discs 51 are spaced apart from each other so that they are located outside the lower unit 40 in the left-right direction D3. The pair of soil covering discs 51 are mounted in an inclined position with respect to the front-rear direction D2 such that the distance between them narrows as they move towards the rear. As a result, when the planting machine 1 is towed forward by the vehicle body 2, the soil covering section 5 functions to break up the soil of the embankment section G13 with the pair of soil covering discs 51 and drop it into the trench G1.

[0039] The compaction roller 6 is located behind the soil covering section 5 and compacts the covered soil by rolling within the trench G1. The compaction roller 6 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a length in the left-right direction D3. The compaction roller 6 is rotatably supported by a roller shaft 61 supported at the rear ends of a pair of support frames 18. The compaction roller 6 is narrower than the lower unit 40 in the left-right direction D3. As a result, when the planting machine 1 is pulled forward by the vehicle body 2, the compaction roller 6 rolls on the bottom surface G11 of the trench G1, compacting the soil that the embankment section G13 has dropped into the trench G1.

[0040] According to the planting machine 1 configured as described above, as the planting machine 1 moves forward while being towed by the vehicle body 2, the following steps are performed as shown in Figure 5: formation of a furrow G1 ("furrowing process"), dropping of the object to be planted X1 ("planting process"), and covering of the object to be planted X1 with soil ("soil covering process").

[0041] In other words, first, the furrowing unit 3 forms a furrow G1 in the field F1 (furrowing process). At this time, the furrowing unit 3 advances through the field F1 while pushing away the soil with the front ends of the pair of outer walls 31 and the lower furrowing device 32, so that a furrow G1 with a roughly inverted trapezoidal cross-section is formed in the area that the furrowing unit 3 has passed through.

[0042] The bottom surface G11 of the trench G1 is substantially planar (flat), and its width (left-right direction D3) is defined by the distance between the outer surfaces of the pair of outer walls 31. A drainage ditch G12 is formed in the center of the bottom surface G11 of the trench G1 in the width (left-right direction D3), and embankment sections G13 are formed on both sides of the trench G1 in the width (left-right direction D3) on the surface (ground surface) of the field F1. Furthermore, the inner surface G14 of the trench G1 is shaped to match the shape of the pair of outer walls 31, and is an inclined or curved surface such that the width (left-right direction D3) of the trench G1 becomes larger towards the opening side (upper side). In other words, the pair of inner surfaces G14 have a shape such that the distance between them decreases as they approach the bottom surface G11.

[0043] Next, when the operator loads whole sugarcane seedlings into the supply port 131, the seedling cutting unit 7, driven by the driving force from the drive wheels 17, cuts the sugarcane seedlings to an appropriate length. The planting target X1 (sugarcane seedlings) cut by the seedling cutting unit 7 falls downward from the seedling cutting unit 7 and is dropped into the trench G1 through the dropping unit 4 (planting process). At this time, the dropping unit 4 controls the falling position and orientation of the falling planting target X1 so that the planting target X1 is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the trench G1 (the direction of travel of the planting machine 1) and dropped onto both sides of the drainage groove G12 on the bottom surface G11 of the trench G1. In other words, in this embodiment, the seedling cutting unit 7 supplies two rows of planting targets X1 in the left-right direction D3 to the dropping unit 4, similar to "double-row planting". Therefore, the planting targets X1 dropped from the dropping unit 4 are also dropped on both sides in the width direction (left-right direction D3) relative to the drainage ditch G12.

[0044] Subsequently, fertilizer is applied from the fertilizer application section 8 to the area around the planting target X1 within the trench G1, and then the covering section 5 uses a pair of covering discs 51 to break down a portion of the soil from the embankment section G13 and drop it into the trench G1. As a result, the covered soil G15 covers the planting target X1. Finally, the compaction roller 6 compacts the soil G15, completing the planting of the planting target X1 in the trench G1.

[0045] As described above, by forming a trench G1 and dropping the planting material X1 (sugar seedlings) into the trench G1, it is possible to achieve "deep planting," where the planting material X1 is planted at a depth of, for example, 20 cm to 30 cm from the ground surface, by adjusting the depth of the trench G1. Furthermore, since the bottom surface G11 of the trench G1 is formed by crushing the hard pan layer and creating a drainage trench G12, water at the bottom surface G11 of the trench G1 can be drained through the drainage trench G12, making it difficult for water to accumulate in the trench G1 and preventing the planting material X1 from rotting.

[0046] However, in a planting machine 1 capable of such "deep planting," if, for example, the trench collapses due to wind and rain, the planting target X1 may be buried, leading to poor germination due to suffocation. In other words, after the planting target X1 is planted in the trench G1 using the method described above, for example, due to wind and rain, a portion of the soil on the inner surface G14 of the trench G1 or the embankment G13 may collapse and accumulate on the planting target X1 in the trench G1, causing the planting target X1 to be buried deeper than expected, which may lead to poor germination of the planting target X1.

[0047] Therefore, in this embodiment, by adopting the configuration described below for the dropping section 4 and / or the compaction roller 6, a planting machine 1 and work vehicle 10 are provided that achieve "deep planting" while being less prone to poor germination. The configuration of the dropping section 4 and the compaction roller 6 will be explained in detail in the sections "[2] Configuration of the Lower Unit" and "[3] Configuration of the Compaction Roller" below.

[0048] [2] Configuration of the lower unit Next, the configuration of the lower unit 40 of the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0049] As described above, the lower unit 40 is a unit that integrates the groove-making section 3 and the discharge section 4, and is positioned below the base 12. In this embodiment, the lower unit 40 is made of metal, and the material is selected according to the required strength and weather resistance. However, the components of the lower unit 40 are not limited to metal, and for example, resin or wood may be used as appropriate.

[0050] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the lower unit 40 has a furrowing section 3 consisting of a pair of outer walls 31, a lower furrowing device 32, and a subsoiler 33, and a dropping section 4. The dropping section 4 is located below the seedling cutting section 7 and guides the planting target X1 that is cut by the seedling cutting section 7 and falls from the seedling cutting section 7, dropping it into the furrow G1 formed by the furrowing section 3.

[0051] Here, the dropping section 4 has an intake port 43, an outlet port 44, and a width-adjusting section 400. The intake port 43 is an opening for taking in the planting target X1 (sugar seedlings). It is an opening for dropping the planting target by discharging the planting target. The width-adjusting section 400 is located between the intake port 43 and the outlet port 44, and as it approaches the outlet port 44, it moves the planting target X1 inward in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1.

[0052] Specifically, the intake port 43 is an opening on the upper surface of the lower unit 40 that opens upward and is positioned behind the furrowing section 3, facing the lower surface of the seedling cutting section 7. The discharge port 44 is an opening on the lower surface of the lower unit 40 that opens downward and is positioned behind the furrowing section 3, facing the bottom surface G11 of the furrow G1. The dropping section 4 takes in the planting target X1 that has been cut by the seedling cutting section 7 and fallen from the seedling cutting section 7 through the intake port 43 to the dropping section 4, guides the planting target X1, and drops it into the furrow G1 through the discharge port 44.

[0053] The width-adjusting section 400, located between the intake port 43 and the discharge port 44, guides the planting target X1 so that it moves closer to the discharge port 44 (i.e., downwards) and towards the inside of the groove G1 in the width direction (left-right direction D3). As a result, the planting target X1 dropped from the dropping section 4 is dropped onto the bottom surface G11 of the groove G1, at a position closer to the center in the width direction (left-right direction D3).

[0054] In other words, as shown in Figure 8, the planting target X1 dropped from the dropping section 4 is planted at a position away from both ends of the widthwise bottom surface G11 of the trench G1. In this embodiment, the planting target X1 is planted immediately on both sides of the drainage trench G12. Therefore, as shown in "Trench Collapse" in Figure 8, even if, for example, a portion of the soil on the inner surface G14 of the trench G1 or the embankment G13 collapses and accumulates in the trench G1 due to the effects of wind and rain, the planting target X1 is unlikely to be buried.

[0055] For example, as shown by the dashed lines (double-dotted lines) in the "groove collapse" section of Figure 8, if the planting targets X1 are planted at both ends in the width direction of the bottom surface G11 of the groove G1, the planting targets X1 will be buried due to groove collapse. In contrast, in this embodiment, the planting targets X1 are planted closer to the center in the width direction of the bottom surface G11 of the groove G1, so even if groove collapse occurs, the planting targets X1 are less likely to be buried. As a result, according to this embodiment, it is possible to realize a planting machine 1 and work vehicle 10 that are less likely to suffer from poor germination of the planting targets X1 due to them being buried deeper than expected.

[0056] More specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the groove-making section 3 has a pair of outer walls 31 that are positioned opposite each other in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1 and contact the inner surface G14 of the groove G1. The width-adjusting section 400 has a pair of inner walls 41 that are positioned opposite each other in the width direction of the groove G1 between the pair of outer walls 31 and inclined to move closer to each other as they extend downward.

[0057] In short, in this embodiment, the lower unit 40 employs a double-wall structure having a pair of outer walls 31 (of the groove-making section 3) and a pair of inner walls 41 (of the discharge section 4) positioned inside them. Both the outer walls 31 and the inner walls 41 are plate-like members with thickness along the left-right direction D3. The pair of inner walls 41 located on the inside are inclined with respect to the vertical direction (up-down direction D1) such that the distance between them narrows towards the bottom. The lower ends of the pair of inner walls 41 constitute the discharge port 44.

[0058] As a result, the planting material X1 (sugar seedlings) taken in from the intake opening 43 of the dropping section 4 slides along the surface of the pair of inner walls 41 as it falls between the pair of inner walls 41. In other words, as the planting material X1 falls inside the dropping section 4, it is pushed inward in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1 by the pair of inner walls 41 of the width-adjusting section 400.

[0059] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the width-adjusted portion 400 further has a pair of protrusions 42 that project rearward from the lower rear ends of the pair of inner walls 41. The pair of protrusions 42 are plate-shaped members and are arranged along the same plane as the pair of inner walls 41. In this embodiment, the inner wall 41 and the protrusions 42 are formed as a continuous and integral piece from a single metal plate.

[0060] With this configuration, the width-adjusting portion 400 has sufficient length in the front-to-back direction D2 at its end (lower end) on the discharge port 44 side. Therefore, the width-adjusting portion 400 makes it easier to adjust the orientation of the planting object X1 discharged from the discharge port 44 along the front-to-back direction D2.

[0061] Furthermore, as described above, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment is equipped with a pair of drive wheels 17 (see Figure 2) that are located on both sides of the groove G1 in the width direction (left-right direction D3) relative to the furrow-making section 3 and are rotatable around a drive shaft 171 (see Figure 2). Here, the drive shaft 171 penetrates holes 311 formed in a pair of outer walls 31 and is located above a pair of inner walls 41.

[0062] In other words, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, each of the pair of outer walls 31 of the grooved section 3 has a hole 311 that penetrates the outer wall 31 in the thickness direction. The hole 311 is an elongated hole with a length along the vertical direction D1 and has an open shape that faces upward. In this embodiment, the pair of axle frames 123 that support the drive shaft 171 are movable in the vertical direction D1 relative to the main frame 121, so when the pair of axle frames 123 move in the vertical direction D1, the drive shaft 171 moves in the vertical direction D1 within the hole 311.

[0063] Thus, by forming holes 311 in the pair of outer walls 31 for the drive shaft 171 (see Figure 2) to pass through, interference between the drive shaft 171 and the pair of outer walls 31 can be avoided. Furthermore, since the drive shaft 171 is located above the pair of inner walls 41, in other words, the height of the pair of inner walls 41 is lower than that of the drive shaft 171, interference between the drive shaft 171 and the pair of inner walls 41 can also be avoided.

[0064] Furthermore, as described above, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment includes a covering section 5 that covers the planting target X1 in the trench G1 with soil, and a compaction roller 6 that rolls within the trench G1 and compacts the covered soil G15. Here, the height of the width section 400 is kept lower than the lower end of the support shaft 62 that supports the compaction roller 6. That is, the front ends of a pair of support frames 18 to which the compaction roller 6 is attached at the rear end are rotatably supported relative to the lower unit 40 by the support shaft 62. In other words, the support shaft 62 indirectly supports the compaction roller 6 via the pair of support frames 18. In Figure 6, the support shaft 62 is shown by a dashed line.

[0065] The support shaft 62 is fixed so as to span between a pair of outer walls 31. The height of the width-adjusting section 400 (the pair of inner walls 41) is kept lower than the lower end of the support shaft 62. This prevents the support shaft 62 from interfering with the width-adjusting section 400 (the pair of inner walls 41).

[0066] Furthermore, the dropping section 4 has multiple intake ports 43 for each discharge port 44. In this embodiment, the lower unit 40 has two intake ports 43 for each discharge port 44. The planting targets X1 taken in from the two intake ports 43 are moved inward in the left-right direction D3 by the width adjustment section 400 and then dropped out from one discharge port 44.

[0067] With this configuration, while the planting machine 1 is a "single-row planting" machine that plants the planting targets X1 in approximately one row, it is possible to share parts other than the lower unit 40 (furrow-making section 3 and dropping section 4) with a "double-row planting" machine that plants the planting targets X1 in two rows. In other words, the dropping section 4 can take in the planting targets X1 discharged from the seedling cutting section 7 for the "double-row planting" machine through two intake ports 43.

[0068] [3] Composition of the compaction roller Next, the configuration of the compaction roller 6 of the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 9 to 11.

[0069] As described above, the planting machine 1 includes a furrowing section 3 for forming furrows G1 in the field F1, a dropping section 4 for dropping the planting target X1 into the furrows G1, a covering section 5 for covering the planting target X1 in the furrows G1 with soil, and a compaction roller 6. The compaction roller 6 rolls within the furrows G1, compacting the covered soil G15.

[0070] The compaction roller 6 is located behind the soil cover section 5 and is rotatably supported by a roller shaft 61 supported at the rear ends of a pair of support frames 18. The compaction roller 6 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with length in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1. In this embodiment, the compaction roller 6 is made of metal, and the material is selected according to the required strength and weather resistance. However, the components of the compaction roller 6 are not limited to metal; for example, resin or wood may be used as appropriate.

[0071] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the compaction roller 6 has a pressing surface 601 that is pressed against the inner surface G14 of the groove G1 toward the outside in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1. In other words, when the compaction roller 6 is inserted into the groove G1, it has pressing surfaces 601 on the parts facing the inner surface G14 of the groove G1, that is, on both end faces in the left-right direction D3.

[0072] With this configuration, as the compaction roller 6 rolls within the groove G1 and compacts the bottom surface G11, the pressing surface 601 is pressed against the inner surface G14 of the groove G1, as shown in Figure 10, making it possible to compact the inner surface G14 of the groove G1. In other words, by compacting not only the bottom surface G11 but also the inner surface G14, the compaction roller 6 improves the strength of the inner surface G14 of the groove G1, making it less likely for the groove to collapse. As a result, this embodiment makes it possible to realize a planting machine 1 and work vehicle 10 that are less likely to suffer from poor germination of the planting target X1 due to the planting target X1 being buried deeper than expected.

[0073] Furthermore, by compacting the inner surface G14 with the pressing surface 601 of the compaction roller 6, friction between the inner surface G14 and the roller can be kept to a minimum compared to when the inner surface G14 is compacted with the pair of outer walls 31 of the furrowing section 3. In other words, since the compaction roller 6 moves within the furrow G1 while rotating itself, friction between the pressing surface 601 and the inner surface G14 can be kept relatively low, and the load on the vehicle body 2 that pulls the planting machine 1 can be kept to a minimum.

[0074] More specifically, in this embodiment, the pressing surface 601 is inclined at an angle along the inner surface G14 of the groove G1 with respect to the vertical direction (up-down direction D1). In other words, in the roughly cylindrical compaction roller 6, the pressing surfaces 601 located on both sides in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction D3) are formed in a roughly conical shape. To put it another way, the compaction roller 6 is formed such that the dimension in the left-right direction D3 becomes larger towards the center (roller axis 61).

[0075] With this configuration, the inner surface G14 is pressed against the pressing surface 601, which is an inclined surface along the inner surface G14, making it easier to uniformly compress the entire inner surface G14.

[0076] Here, the inclination angle θ1 of the pressing surface 601 is less than or equal to the inclination angle θ2 of the inner surface G14 of the groove G1 formed in the groove-making section 3. In this embodiment, as an example, as shown in Figure 10, the inclination angle θ1 of the pressing surface 601 is the same as the inclination angle θ2 of the inner surface G14 of the groove G1 formed in the groove-making section 3.

[0077] With this configuration, the pressing surface 601 does not get caught on the inner surface G14, and the compaction roller 6 can be introduced into the groove G1, thus ensuring that the bottom surface G11 is also compacted.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the compaction roller 6 has a shaft portion 603 that is pressed against both sides of the groove G1 in the width direction (left-right direction D3) in the field F1. In other words, since embankment portions G13 are formed on both sides of the groove G1 in the width direction in the field F1, the shaft portion 603 will press against the embankment portions G13. The shaft portion 603 is a cylindrical part through which the roller shaft 61 passes.

[0079] With this configuration, not only the inner surface G14 but also the embankment G13 will be compacted, so the strength of the embankment G13 will be improved, and trench collapse due to the collapse of the embankment G13 will be less likely to occur.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outer circumferential surface 602 of the compaction roller 6 has a recess 604 in the center of the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1. In other words, the outer diameter of the compaction roller 6 in the center of the left-right direction D3 is smaller than the outer diameters of both ends of the left-right direction D3. In this embodiment, as an example, the outer circumferential surface 602 consists of a curved surface with the central part of the left-right direction D3 as the recess 604.

[0081] With this configuration, the compaction roller 6 compacts the ends (hem) of the groove G1 more strongly than the center of the bottom surface G11 in the width direction. This prevents groove collapse while ensuring drainage and water permeability in the center of the bottom surface G11 in the width direction.

[0082] Figure 11 also shows a modified example of the compaction roller 6. In the compaction roller 6 shown in Figure 11, the pressing surface 601 has a shape that includes a step. In other words, the pressing surface 601 may include a stepped portion. In this case, when the pressing surface 601 is pressed, a step is also formed on the inner surface G14 of the groove G1, making groove collapse even less likely. Furthermore, in the compaction roller 6 shown in Figure 11, the recess 604 on the outer circumferential surface 602 is omitted.

[0083] [4] Modified form The following lists some modifications of Embodiment 1. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0084] The shape and dimensions of each part of the planting machine 1 are not limited to those described in Embodiment 1.

[0085] Furthermore, the configuration of the planting machine 1, which enables "deep planting" while minimizing germination failure, only needs to be adopted in at least one of the dropping section 4 and the compaction roller 6; it is not necessary for both to be adopted.

[0086] Furthermore, the power transmission mechanism that transmits power from the pair of drive wheels 17 to the seedling cutting unit 7 and the fertilizer application unit 8, etc., is not limited to sprockets and chains, etc., but may also include, for example, gears and / or belts. Alternatively, the driving force for the seedling cutting unit 7 and the fertilizer application unit 8, etc., may be supplied from the PTO (Power Take-Off) shaft of the vehicle body 2 that pulls the planting machine 1, or it may be supplied directly from a power source such as a motor.

[0087] Furthermore, it is not necessary for the planting machine 1 to be towed by the vehicle body 2; the planting machine 1 may be self-propelled. In addition, a crushing rotor may be positioned in front of the furrowing section 3, and the planting machine 1 may be mounted on the rear of the rotary tilling device.

[0088] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, although the planting machine 1 is a "single-row planting" machine, parts other than the lower unit 40 (furrowing section 3 and dropping section 4) are shared with a "double-row planting" machine, but this is not essential. In other words, parts other than the lower unit 40 may also be dedicated to a "single-row planting" machine.

[0089] Furthermore, the planting machine 1 is not limited to "single-row planting," but may also be a planting machine that plants the target object X1 in multiple rows, such as "two-row planting," "three-row planting," or "four-row planting."

[0090] Furthermore, the planting target X1 is not limited to sugarcane seedlings (sugarcane seedlings), but may also be, for example, sugar beet seedlings or other crops.

[0091] (Embodiment 2) As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment differs from that of Embodiment 1 in the configuration of the lower unit 40. Hereinafter, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 will be denoted by common reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0092] In the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment, the pair of inner walls 41 are inclined with respect to the vertical direction (up and down direction D1) such that the distance between them increases towards the bottom. When the object to be planted X1 falls inside the dropping section 4, it falls through the space between the pair of inner walls 41 and the pair of outer walls 31.

[0093] Here, the width-adjusting portion 400 has a pair of extensions 45 that project backward from the rear ends of the pair of outer walls 31 and are inclined to move closer to each other as they move backward. In this embodiment, the rear ends of the pair of extensions 45 constitute the discharge port 44.

[0094] As a result, the planting target X1 (sugar seedlings) that fall through the space between the pair of inner walls 41 and the pair of outer walls 31 are pushed inward in the width direction (left-right direction D3) of the groove G1 by the pair of extensions 45. Consequently, according to this embodiment, it is possible to realize a planting machine 1 and work vehicle 10 that are less prone to poor germination of the planting target X1 due to the planting target X1 being buried deeper than expected.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment as well, similar to Embodiment 1, the pair of inner walls 41 may be inclined with respect to the vertical direction (up and down direction D1) such that the distance between them narrows towards the bottom. In this case, even when the object to be planted X1 falls inside the dropping section 4, the pair of inner walls 41 of the width-adjusting section 400 will be moved inward in the width direction (left and right direction D3) of the groove G1.

[0096] The configuration of Embodiment 2 (including modified versions) can be adopted in appropriate combination with the various configurations (including modified versions) described in Embodiment 1.

[0097] (Embodiment 3) As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment differs from that of Embodiment 1 in the configuration of the compaction roller 6. Hereafter, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 will be denoted by common reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0098] In the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, the compaction roller 6 has a central member 63, a pair of end members 64, and a roller shaft 61. The pair of end members 64 include a pressing surface 601 and are arranged on both sides of the groove G1 in the width direction (left-right direction D3) relative to the central member 63. The roller shaft 61 passes through the central member 63 and the pair of end members 64. Here, the fixing position of the pair of end members 64 with respect to the roller shaft 61 is changeable.

[0099] In other words, the compaction roller 6 is divisible into a central member 63 and a pair of end members 64. The central member 63 and the pair of end members 64 are integrated only after the pair of end members 64 are fixed to the roller shaft 61. Here, the axial dimension (left-right direction D3) of the compaction roller 6 can be adjusted by changing the fixing position of the pair of end members 64 with respect to the roller shaft 61 in the axial direction (left-right direction D3). In the example in Figure 14, the axial dimension (left-right direction D3) of the compaction roller 6 is larger in the second state than in the first state.

[0100] This makes it possible to adjust the distance between the pair of pressing surfaces 601, allowing the compaction roller 6 to be used for grooves G1 of various widths. By adjusting the distance between the pair of pressing surfaces 601 according to the width of the groove G1, the inner surface G14 is properly pressed against the pressing surfaces 601, making it easier to suppress groove collapse.

[0101] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the compaction roller 6 of the planting machine 1 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the roller shaft 61 is pre-integrated with the central member 63 by passing through the central member 63, and the compaction roller 6 is assembled by fixing a pair of end members 64 to the roller shaft 61. The roller shaft 61 has multiple fixing parts 611 (three in the example of Figure 15), and the end members 64 are fixed to any of the fixing parts 611 by fixing screws 612. Here, the fixing position of the pair of end members 64 to the roller shaft 61 is changed depending on which fixing part 611 the fixing screws 612 are tightened to.

[0102] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, the shaft portion 603 may be tapered. In this case, the embankment portion G13, which is compacted by the shaft portion 603, can be made more resistant to collapse.

[0103] Furthermore, the fixing position of the pair of end members 64 with respect to the roller shaft 61 may be infinitely adjustable.

[0104] The configuration of Embodiment 3 (including modified versions) can be appropriately combined with various configurations (including modified versions) described in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2.

[0105] [Notes on the invention] The following is an overview of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiments. Note that each configuration and processing function described below can be selected and combined as desired.

[0106] <Note 1> A furrowing section for forming trenches in the field, A dropping unit for dropping the planting target into the trench, A covering portion for covering the planting target in the trench, The system includes a compaction roller that rolls within the groove and compacts the covered soil, The pressing roller has a pressing surface that is pressed against the inner surface of the groove toward the outward direction in the width direction of the groove. Planting machine.

[0107] <Note 2> The compaction roller has a shaft portion that is pressed against both sides in the width direction of the groove in the field. The planting machine described in Appendix 1.

[0108] <Note 3> The pressing surface is inclined at an angle with respect to the vertical direction, along the inner surface of the groove. The planting machine described in Appendix 1 or 2.

[0109] <Note 4> The inclination angle of the pressing surface is less than or equal to the inclination angle of the inner surface of the groove formed in the groove-making section. The planting machine described in Appendix 3.

[0110] <Note 5> The pressing surface includes a stepped portion, The planting machine described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0111] <Note 6> The outer circumferential surface of the pressing roller has a recess in the center of the width direction of the groove. The planting machine described in any of the appendices 1 to 5.

[0112] <Note 7> The pressing roller comprises a central member, a pair of end members including the pressing surface and positioned on both sides of the groove in the width direction relative to the central member, and a roller shaft passing through the central member and the pair of end members. The fixing position of the pair of end members with respect to the roller shaft can be changed. A planting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 6.

[0113] <Note 8> A planting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 7, The system comprises a vehicle body that connects to and tows the aforementioned planting machine, Work vehicle. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0114] 1 Planting machine 2. Vehicle body 3 Groove section 4 Dropping 5 Soil covering part 6. Compaction roller 10 Work Vehicles 61 Roller shaft 63 Central Member 64 End member 601 Pressing surface 602 Outer surface 603 Shaft 604 recess F1 field G1 groove G14 Inside surface X1 Planting targets θ1, θ2 Tilt angle

Claims

1. A furrowing section for forming trenches in the field, A dropping unit for dropping the planting target into the trench, A covering portion for covering the planting target in the trench, The system includes a compaction roller that rolls within the groove and compacts the covered soil, The pressing roller has a pressing surface that is pressed against the inner surface of the groove toward the outward direction in the width direction of the groove. Planting machine.

2. The compaction roller has a shaft portion that is pressed against both sides in the width direction of the groove in the field. The planting machine according to claim 1.

3. The pressing surface is inclined at an angle with respect to the vertical direction, along the inner surface of the groove. The planting machine according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The inclination angle of the pressing surface is less than or equal to the inclination angle of the inner surface of the groove formed in the groove-making section. The planting machine according to claim 3.

5. The pressing surface includes a stepped portion, The planting machine according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The outer circumferential surface of the pressing roller has a recess in the center of the width direction of the groove. The planting machine according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The pressing roller comprises a central member, a pair of end members including the pressing surface and positioned on both sides of the groove in the width direction relative to the central member, and a roller shaft passing through the central member and the pair of end members. The fixing position of the pair of end members with respect to the roller shaft can be changed. The planting machine according to claim 1 or 2.

8. A planting machine according to claim 1 or 2, The system comprises a vehicle body that connects to and tows the aforementioned planting machine, Work vehicle.

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