Seedling Mat

Abstract

To provide a seedling mat that enables a seedling block to be smoothly scraped off.SOLUTION: A seedling mat MT has seeds to be sowed thereon. The seedling mat MT has a seedling floor 1, lines of holes for sowing 5, and first grooves 7. The seedling floor 1 has a first principal face F1 and a second principal face F2 that face each other. The seedling floor 1 allows roots to grow. The lines of holes for sowing 5 are provided on the first principal face F1 side and has seeds to be sown thereon, and extends in a first direction D1. The first grooves 7 are provided on the first principal face F1 side and extend in the first direction D1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a seedling mat. [Background technology]

[0002] The seedling mat described in Patent Document 1 includes a lower layer, a middle layer, and an upper layer. The upper layer has a plurality of seeding holes arranged at a predetermined interval. Slits are formed in the upper layer so as to surround the seeding holes. The slits are formed so as to divide the upper layer into each seeding hole. The slits are formed in a lattice shape in a plan view. By providing the slits, the seedling blocks can be smoothly scraped off by the planting claw mechanism of the rice transplanter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-146537 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the seedling mat described in Patent Document 1, the slits are cuts. Therefore, depending on the situation, the planting claws of the planting claw mechanism may not be able to smoothly enter the slits. As a result, depending on the situation, the seedling blocks may not be scraped off smoothly compared to when the planting claws smoothly enter the slits.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and its object is to provide a seedling mat that allows seedling blocks to be smoothly scraped off. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, seeds are sown in a seedling mat. The seedling mat comprises a seedling bed portion, a plurality of rows of seeding holes, and a plurality of first grooves. The seedling bed portion has a first main surface portion and a second main surface portion opposed to each other. The seedling bed portion allows roots to grow. The plurality of rows of seeding holes are provided on the side of the first main surface portion in which the seeds are placed, and extend along a first direction. The plurality of first grooves are provided on the side of the first main surface portion and extend along the first direction. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, a seedling mat that allows seedling blocks to be smoothly scraped off can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a seedling mat according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIA-IIIA in FIG. 2, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIB-IIIB in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1(a) is a perspective view showing the seedling transplanter according to the embodiment 1. FIG. 1(b) is a perspective view showing the planting claw mechanism of the seedling transplanter according to the embodiment 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state immediately before the planting claw mechanism of the first embodiment picks up the seedling block. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a seedling mat according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIA-VIIIA in FIG. 7. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIB-VIIIB in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a bottom view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 3. [Figure 11] 1(a) is a cross-sectional view of a portion including the first groove and the second groove in the seedling mat according to embodiment 3. FIG. 1(b) is a cross-sectional view of a portion including the first end and the second groove in the seedling mat according to embodiment 3. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a delivery belt of the seedling transplanter according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a side view showing a delivery belt and a seedling mat of the seedling transplanter according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a seedling mat according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 15A is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIA-XVIA in FIG. 15. FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIB-XVIB in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a supplementary planting seedling mat according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 17(a) is a bottom view showing a part of a supplementary seedling mat according to embodiment 6. FIG. 17(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIIIB-XVIIIB in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20A] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a seedling mat according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20B] 11 is a view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 7 of the present invention from one side in the first direction. FIG. [Figure 20C] 13 is a view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 7 of the present invention from one side in the second direction. FIG. [Figure 20D] FIG. 11 is a bottom view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 7 of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20A. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23A] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a seedling mat according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23B] 13 is a view showing a seedling mat according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention from one side in a first direction. FIG. [Figure 23C] 13 is a view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 8 of the present invention from one side in the second direction. FIG. [Figure 23D] FIG. 13 is a bottom view showing a seedling mat according to embodiment 8 of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference symbols and the description will not be repeated. In the drawings, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system are appropriately illustrated to facilitate understanding. In addition, in Figs. 3, 8, 11, 16, and 18, hatching indicating cross sections is omitted to make the drawings easier to see.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) A seedling mat MT and a seedling transplanter 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. First, the seedling mat MT will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the seedling mat MT according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a plan view showing the seedling mat MT.

[0011] A plurality of seeds (not shown) are sown in the seedling mat MT shown in Figs. 1 and 2. The seeds are, for example, vegetable seeds. The seeds may be, for example, rice seeds. The seedlings grown from the seeds are scraped off from the seedling mat MT by the planting claw mechanism 300 (Fig. 4(b)) of the seedling transplanter 100 (Fig. 4(a)), and planted in a field by the seedling transplanter 100. For example, the planting claw mechanism 300 scrapes off a portion of the seedling mat MT in a block shape together with the seedlings grown from the seeds. Hereinafter, the block-shaped portion including the seedlings may be referred to as a "seedling block SB." The seedling block SB will be described later.

[0012] In the example of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the seedling mat MT has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (for example, a substantially rectangular flat plate shape). The seedling mat MT includes a seedbed section 1, a plurality of seeding hole rows 5, and a plurality of first grooves 7. In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, one seeding hole row 5 is surrounded by a dashed line for ease of understanding. A plurality of seeds are arranged in each of the plurality of seeding hole rows 5.

[0013] The seedbed section 1 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (for example, a substantially rectangular flat plate shape). The seedbed section 1 allows roots to grow from the seeds. Thus, the seedbed section 1 accommodates the roots growing from the seeds. Specifically, the seedbed section 1 is made of a material that allows roots to grow from the seeds. The seedbed section 1 includes, for example, at least an organic fiber material. The organic fiber material is a fiber material made of organic matter. The organic fiber material is, for example, coco peat, peat moss, or rice husk. Furthermore, for example, the seedbed section 1 may include a binder, a soil improvement material, a fertilizer, and / or soil.

[0014] The seedbed 1 includes a first main surface F1 and a second main surface F2. The first main surface F1 and the second main surface F2 face each other and are substantially parallel to each other. For example, of the front surface and back surface of the seedbed 1, the first main surface F1 corresponds to the front surface, and the second main surface F2 corresponds to the back surface.

[0015] The multiple sowing hole rows 5 are provided on the side of the first main surface portion F1 and extend along a first direction D1. The first direction D1 is, for example, a direction along the short side of the seedling mat MT. The multiple sowing hole rows 5 are arranged at intervals along a second direction D2. The second direction D2 intersects with the first direction D1. In the first embodiment, the second direction D2 is perpendicular to the first direction D1. The second direction D2 is, for example, a direction along the long side of the seedling mat MT. Each of the multiple sowing hole rows 5 includes multiple sowing holes 31 for arranging seeds. In each sowing hole row 5, the multiple sowing holes 31 are arranged at intervals along the first direction D1.

[0016] The first grooves 7 are provided on the first main surface portion F1 side and extend along the first direction D1. The first grooves 7 are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. According to the first embodiment, by providing the first grooves 7, the planting claw mechanism 300 (FIG. 4(b)) can scrape off the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mat MT more smoothly than when a slit is provided as a cut. This is because the planting claw 320 can easily enter the first groove 7 compared to when the planting claw 320 (FIG. 4(b)) enters the slit as a cut. Scraping off the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mat MT means separating the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mat MT. This point will be described in detail later.

[0017] The first grooves 7 and the seeding hole rows 5 are alternately arranged along the second direction D2. Specifically, the first main surface portion F1 has a plurality of seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3. Each of the plurality of seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3 extends along the first direction D1. The plurality of seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3 are also arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. Each of the seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3 has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0018] The plurality of seeding hole rows 5 are arranged corresponding to the plurality of seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3, respectively. That is, the seeding hole rows 5 are arranged on the corresponding seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3. The first grooves 7 and the seeding hole arrangement surfaces 3 are arranged alternately along the second direction D2. More specifically, the seedbed section 1 includes a plurality of row blocks 10. The plurality of row blocks 10 extend along the first direction D1. Each row block 10 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Each row block 10 extends from one end to the other end of the seedbed section 1 in the first direction D1. The plurality of row blocks 10 are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. The surface of the row block 10 on the side of the first main surface portion F1 is the seeding hole arrangement surface 3. The first grooves 7 and the row blocks 10 are arranged alternately along the second direction D2. In FIG. 1, for ease of understanding, the boundary of the end face of one row block 10 is shown by a dashed line as an example.

[0019] Among the row blocks 10, one block corresponding to one sowing hole 31 corresponds to the seedling block SB. For ease of understanding, in Fig. 1, a block corresponding to the seedling block SB produced in one row block 10 is shown by a dashed line. The seeds sown in the sowing holes 31 grow into seedlings, and the seedling block SB is produced.

[0020] The seedbed section 1 further includes a plurality of first ends 9A. It is preferable that the seedbed section 1 further includes a plurality of second ends 9B.

[0021] The first end portions 9A are arranged corresponding to the first grooves 7, respectively. The first end portions 9A are connected to one end of the corresponding first grooves 7 in the first direction D1. The first end portions 9A are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. Specifically, the first end portions 9A are portions between the row blocks 10 adjacent to each other in the second direction D2 at one end of the seedbed section 1 in the first direction D1 (FIG. 2). Each of the first end portions 9A preferably includes a recess 91. The first end portions 9A and the recesses 91 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 3. In FIG. 1, the boundary of one first end portion 9A is shown by a dashed line as an example for ease of understanding.

[0022] The multiple second ends 9B are arranged corresponding to the multiple first grooves 7, respectively. The second ends 9B are connected to the other ends in the first direction D1 of the corresponding first grooves 7. The multiple second ends 9B are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. Specifically, the second ends 9B are portions between adjacent row blocks 10 in the second direction D2 at the other end of the seedbed section 1 in the first direction D1 (FIG. 2). Each of the multiple second ends 9B preferably includes a recess 91. The configuration of the second ends 9B is similar to the configuration of the first ends 9A.

[0023] Each of the multiple seeding hole rows 5 includes a seeding hole 31A and a seeding hole 31B. As shown in FIG. 2, in a plan view, the seeding hole 31A is disposed between the first end 9A and the first end 9A adjacent to each other in the second direction D2. The seeding hole 31A is a seeding hole 31 located at one end in the first direction D1 among the multiple seeding holes 31 in the seeding hole row 5. In addition, in a plan view, the seeding hole 31B is disposed between the second end 9B and the second end 9B adjacent to each other in the second direction D2. The seeding hole 31B is a seeding hole 31 located at the other end in the first direction D1 among the multiple seeding holes 31 in the seeding hole row 5.

[0024] Next, the first groove 7 and the first end 9A will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIA-IIIA in Fig. 2.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3(a), the first groove 7 is recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the first main surface portion F1. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the planting claw 320 (FIG. 4(b)) can easily enter the first groove 7 from above the first groove 7. As a result, the seedling blocks SB can be more smoothly scraped off from the seedling mat MT. Specifically, the first groove 7 is recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the sowing hole arrangement surface 3. The third direction D3 is a direction from the first main surface portion F1 toward the second main surface portion F2. In other words, the third direction D3 intersects with the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In the first embodiment, the third direction D3 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0026] The first groove 7 preferably has a shape tapered toward the third direction D3. In the example of FIG. 3(a), the first groove 7 has a substantially V-shape in cross section. That is, the first groove 7 has a pair of inclined surfaces 71. The pair of inclined surfaces 71 approach each other toward the third direction D3. However, the shape of the first groove 7 is not particularly limited as long as the first groove 7 is recessed in the third direction D3.

[0027] The sowing holes 31 are recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the first main surface portion F1. Specifically, the sowing holes 31 are recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the sowing hole arrangement surface 3. The sowing holes 31 have, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. However, as long as seeds can be arranged in the sowing holes 31, the shape of the sowing holes 31 is not particularly limited.

[0028] Fig. 3(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line IIIB-IIIB in Fig. 2. In Fig. 3(b), the boundary of the first end 9A is indicated by a dashed line for ease of understanding.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3(b), the first end portion 9A extends from the first main surface portion F1 side to the second main surface portion F2 side.

[0030] Here, the usefulness of providing the first end portion 9A will be explained in comparison with the seedling raising mat described in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication No. 2019-146537) (hereinafter referred to as the "conventional seedling raising mat").

[0031] In conventional seedling mats, the planting claw mechanism picks up seedling blocks in sequence along the horizontal direction. Then, when one row of seedling blocks has been picked up, the seedling mat is fed vertically and a new row of seedling blocks is picked up in sequence along the horizontal direction. A row of seedling blocks is called a "row block."

[0032] In conventional seedling mats, the slit depth is the same in the entire area. Therefore, the slit depth is the same in all seedling blocks included in a row block. As a result, when scraping off a seedling block located at the end of a row block, the planting claw mechanism may not be able to hold the seedling block sufficiently. The reason for this will be described later. The seedling block located at the end of a row block indicates the last seedling block of a row of seedling blocks. If the planting claw mechanism does not hold the seedling block sufficiently, for example, the planting accuracy of the seedling block by the planting claw mechanism may decrease.

[0033] Reasons why the planting claw mechanism may not be able to hold the seedling block sufficiently include, for example, the following.

[0034] That is, when the planting claws of the planting claw mechanism are inserted into the slits of a conventional seedling mat, stress is concentrated in the slits, causing the seedling blocks to be scraped off from the seedling mat. In this case, scraping resistance caused by the planting claws is generated.

[0035] In particular, immediately before scraping off a seedling block located at the end of a row block to be scraped off, the seedling block is connected to the row block to be next scraped off by itself. Therefore, the seedling block located at the end of the row block to be scraped off has a weaker connection to the row block to be next scraped off than when other seedling blocks of the row block are scraped off. Specifically, since the depth of the slits is the same in all seedling blocks included in the row block, the seedling block located at the end of the row block to be scraped off has a particularly weaker connection to the row block to be next scraped off than when other seedling blocks of the row block are scraped off.

[0036] As a result, when the seedling blocks located at the end of the row block are scraped off, the seedling blocks may bend at the slits due to the scraping resistance of the planting claws before the seedling blocks are separated and held by the planting claw mechanism. This may result in the seedling blocks not being held sufficiently by the planting claw mechanism, causing the seedling blocks to come off the planting claw mechanism.

[0037] Therefore, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the seedling mat MT has a first end 9A. By providing the first end 9A, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 (FIG. 1) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed section 1 can be improved. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 is scraped off, the seedling block SB can be well held by the planting claw mechanism 300. Details of this point will be described later with reference to FIG. 5. Similarly, by providing the second end 9B, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 (FIG. 1) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed section 1 can be improved. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 is scraped off, the seedling block SB can be well held by the planting claw mechanism 300.

[0038] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), the thickness d10 of the first end 9A in the third direction D3 is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 (FIG. 1) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed portion 1 can be further improved. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 is scraped off, the seedling block SB can be held more satisfactorily by the planting claw mechanism 300. Details of this point will be described later with reference to FIG. 5. In the example of FIG. 3(b), the thickness d10 of the first end 9A indicates the thickness of the thinnest portion of the first end 9A in the third direction D3.

[0039] Similarly, the second end 9B extends from the side of the first main surface portion F1 to the side of the second main surface portion F2. The thickness d10 of the second end 9B in the third direction D3 is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed portion 1 can be further improved. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 is scraped off, the seedling block SB can be held more satisfactorily by the planting claw mechanism 300. This point is the same as the first end 9A. In the example of FIG. 3(b), the thickness d10 of the second end 9B indicates the thickness of the thinnest part of the second end 9B in the third direction D3.

[0040] It is preferable that the first end 9A includes a recess 91. In this case, the depth d20 of the recess 91 relative to the first main surface portion F1 is shallower than the depth d2 of the first groove 7 relative to the first main surface portion F1. In other words, it is preferable that the depth d20 of the recess 91 relative to the seeding hole arrangement surface 3 is shallower than the depth d2 of the first groove 7 relative to the seeding hole arrangement surface 3. According to this preferable example, while ensuring the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 and the seedbed section 1, it is easier to scrape off the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 compared to when the first end 9A does not have the recess 91.

[0041] Similarly, the second end 9B preferably includes a recess 91. According to this preferred example, while ensuring the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 and the seedbed section 1, it becomes easier to scrape off the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 compared to a case where the second end 9B does not have the recess 91.

[0042] Specifically, the recess 91 has a pair of inclined surfaces 911 and a flat bottom surface 913. The pair of inclined surfaces 911 approach each other toward the third direction D3. The ends of the pair of inclined surfaces 911 in the third direction D3 are connected to both ends of the bottom surface 913 in the second direction D2, respectively. In the example of FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), the inclination angle of the inclined surface 911 with respect to the first main surface portion F1 (specifically, the seeding hole arrangement surface 3) is approximately the same as the inclination angle of the inclined surface 71 with respect to the first main surface portion F1 (specifically, the seeding hole arrangement surface 3). However, as long as the recess 91 is recessed in the third direction D3, the shape of the recess 91 is not particularly limited. Note that the thickness d10 indicates the length from the bottom surface 913 of the recess 91 to the second main surface portion F2.

[0043] Next, the seedling transplanter 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4(a) is a perspective view showing the seedling transplanter 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0044] The seedling transplanter 100 shown in Fig. 4(a) is a riding type in which an operator transplants seedlings while riding and driving the seedling transplanter 100. For example, the seedling transplanter 100 is used to transplant vegetable seedlings in sequence.

[0045] As shown in Fig. 4(a), the seedling transplanter 100 includes a traveling machine body 110 and a seedling planting machine 200. The seedling planting machine 200 is attached to the rear of the traveling machine body 110. The seedling transplanter 100 travels on the traveling machine body 110 while planting seedlings using the seedling planting machine 200.

[0046] The traveling machine body 110 includes a machine body frame 112, front wheels 114, and rear wheels 116. An engine and a transmission that changes the speed of the power from the engine are housed inside the machine body frame 112. The front wheels 114 and rear wheels 116 are driven by the power transmitted to the engine and the transmission. The power of the engine and the transmission are transmitted to a front axle case 114a and a rear axle case 116a, respectively. The power from the engine and the transmission is also transmitted to the seedling planting machine 200.

[0047] The front axle case 114a is supported at the front of the machine frame 112, and has front wheels 114 supported at both left and right ends. Similarly, the rear axle case 116a is supported at the rear of the machine frame 112, and has rear wheels 116 supported at both left and right ends. A step 120 is arranged on the upper part of the machine frame 112, and the operator can move on the step 120.

[0048] A driver's seat 122 is disposed in the center at the front of the traveling machine body 110, and a steering wheel 124, operation pedals 126, and a dashboard 128 are disposed in front of the driver's seat 122. In addition to the steering wheel 124, various operating tools and a display device are disposed on the dashboard 128.

[0049] The seedling planting machine 200 is connected to the traveling body 110 via a lifting link mechanism. The lifting link mechanism includes a pair of upper and lower links, and a lifting cylinder. The upper and lower links are rotated by the lifting cylinder to raise and lower the seedling planting machine 200.

[0050] The seedling planting machine 200 includes a seedling carrier 210, a planting rotor case 220, and a planting claw mechanism 300. A plurality of seedling mats MT are placed on the seedling carrier 210. In FIG. 4(a), the seedling mats MT are omitted for simplification of the drawing. The planting claw mechanism 300 is attached to the planting rotor case 220. The planting claw mechanism 300 scrapes off the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mats MT placed on the seedling carrier 210 and plants the seedling blocks SB one by one. The planting claw mechanism 300 includes a planting claw 320 (FIG. 4(b)), which will be described in detail later. The planting claw mechanism 300 uses the planting claw 320 to scrape off the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mats MT placed on the seedling carrier 210 and plants the seedling blocks SB in the field.

[0051] The seedling planting machine 200 is driven by a PTO shaft extending rearward from the transmission. More specifically, power is transmitted from the PTO shaft through a planting center case to a planting transmission case provided in the seedling planting machine 200, and the power is distributed from the planting transmission case to the planting rotor case 220 and the planting claw mechanism 300. A planting clutch is provided in the planting center case. The planting clutch is configured to connect and disconnect the transmission of power from the engine to the seedling planting machine 200.

[0052] The planting rotor case 220 rotates around the rotation shaft by the power transmitted from the planting transmission case. The planting claw mechanism 300 rotates together with the planting rotor case 220 as the planting rotor case 220 rotates. Specifically, the planting claw mechanism 300 reciprocates between the seedling carrier 210 and the field by rotating around the rotation shaft.

[0053] A seedling mat MT is supplied to the planting claw mechanism 300 from the seedling carrier 210. With the rotational movement of the planting rotor case 220, the planting claw 320 (FIG. 4(b)) of the planting claw mechanism 300 is inserted into the field (e.g., the ground) together with the seedling block SB, and the seedling block SB is planted to a predetermined planting depth.

[0054] The seedling carrier 210 is composed of a plate-shaped member. On the rear surface of the seedling carrier 210, carrier surfaces for carrying seedling mats MT are arranged in the width direction of the traveling body 110 according to the number of planting rotor cases 220. The seedling mats MT are placed on the seedling carrier 210.

[0055] Specifically, the seedling planting machine 200 includes a delivery belt 212 and a rail 214. The delivery belt 212 is approximately perpendicular to the rail 214. The rail 214 extends linearly. That is, the rail 214 extends along a direction DB. The direction DB is approximately parallel to the first direction D1 (FIG. 1). That is, the seedling mat MT is placed on the seedling carrier 210 (delivery belt 212) so that the first groove 7 (FIG. 1) and the rail 214 are approximately parallel to each other.

[0056] The delivery belt 212 is an endless belt disposed on the seedling carrier 210. The delivery belt 212 rotates in a circulating direction DA. Therefore, the seedling mat MT on the delivery belt 212 in the seedling carrier 210 is delivered toward the rail 214 by the delivery belt 212. In addition, the seedling carrier 210 is moved along the rail 214 together with the delivery belt 212 by a drive mechanism (not shown). Therefore, the seedling mat MT on the delivery belt 212 is moved along the rail 214.

[0057] Specifically, each time one seedling block SB is scraped off from the row block 10 of the seedling mat MT by the planting claw mechanism 300, the seedling mat MT is moved along the rail 214 by the distance of one seedling block SB. As a result, a new seedling block SB is disposed at the scraping position by the planting claw mechanism 300. Then, the new seedling block SB is scraped off by the planting claw mechanism 300.

[0058] In addition, each time the delivery belt 212 completes the scraping of all the seedling blocks SB constituting the row block 10 of the seedling mat MT, it delivers the seedling mat MT toward the rail 214. As a result, a new row block 10 is placed on the rail 214 as a scraping target.

[0059] FIG. 4(b) is a perspective view showing the planting claw mechanism 300 of the seedling transplanter 100. As shown in FIG. 4(b), the planting claw mechanism 300 includes an arm portion 310, a planting claw 320, a pushing member 330, a holding member 340, and an attachment member 350. The planting claw 320 is fixed to the arm portion 310. The planting claw 320 can scrape off one seedling block SB from the seedling mat MT. That is, the planting claw 320 enters the first groove 7 (FIG. 1) of the seedling mat MT and scrapes off one seedling block SB from the seedling mat MT.

[0060] The pushing member 330 can push out the seedling block SB in the pushing direction. The pushing direction is the direction in which the planting claw 320 faces. The pushing member 330 can be extended and retracted from the tip of the arm portion 310. Specifically, the pushing member 330 can be extended and retracted between a pushing position and a holding position. The pushing position is a position where the tip of the pushing member 330 is aligned with the tip of the planting claw 320, or a position where the tip of the pushing member 330 protrudes beyond the tip of the planting claw 320. The holding position is a position for holding the seedling block SB, and is a position closer to the arm portion 310 than the tip of the planting claw 320. In FIG. 4(b), the pushing member 330 is located at the holding position.

[0061] When the planting claw 320 scrapes off one seedling block SB from the seedling mat MT, the pushing member 330 is located at the holding position. When the seedling block SB scraped off by the planting claw 320 is carried to the field, the pushing member 330 extends from the holding position to the pushing position and pushes the seedling block SB toward the field. This allows the seedling block SB to be planted in the field.

[0062] When the planting claw mechanism 300 scrapes off the seedling block SB, the holding member 340 is located below the planting claw 320. The seedling block SB is sandwiched between the planting claw 320 and the holding member 340.

[0063] The holding member 340 faces the planting claw 320. The holding member 340 is supported by the arm portion 310. The holding member 340 is attached to the arm portion 310 via an attachment member 350. The attachment member 350 is attached to the arm portion 310. The holding member 340 may be formed from sheet metal.

[0064] The planting claw 320 is substantially U-shaped. The planting claw 320 has a first protrusion 322, a second protrusion 324, and a connecting portion 326. The first protrusion 322 and the second protrusion 324 extend in the extrusion direction (+x direction). The first protrusion 322 and the second protrusion 324 are connected to the connecting portion 326 on the -x direction side, and the first protrusion 322 and the second protrusion 324 are integrated via the connecting portion 326. The planting claw 320 is attached to the arm portion 310 at the connecting portion 326.

[0065] For example, the distance between the outer side of the first protrusion 322 in the -y direction and the outer side of the second protrusion 324 in the +y direction is set according to the width of the seedling block SB. In this specification, the distance between the outer side of the first protrusion 322 in the -y direction and the outer side of the second protrusion 324 in the +y direction may be referred to as the width of the planting claw 320. In one example, the width of the planting claw 320 is approximately equal to the width of the seedling block SB to be taken out.

[0066] Push-out member 330 has a push rod 332 and a pressing piece 334. Push rod 332 extends from arm portion 310 and expands and contracts relative to arm portion 310. Pressing piece 334 is attached to the tip of push rod 332. Pressing piece 334 moves together with expansion and contraction of push rod 332. When pressing piece 334 is viewed from the +x direction side to the -x direction side, pressing piece 334 is U-shaped.

[0067] When the planting claws 320 pick up the seedling block SB and carry it to the field, the push rod 332 pushes out the pressing piece 334 together with the seedling block SB. As a result, the seedling block SB is planted in the field.

[0068] Next, the scraping operation of the seedling block SB from the seedling mat MT will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state immediately before the planting claw mechanism 300 scrapes off the seedling block SB. In FIG. 5, the seedling carrier 210 and the delivery belt 212 are omitted for the sake of simplification of the drawing. For the same reason, the seedlings extending from the sowing hole 31 are omitted from the illustration. In addition, for ease of understanding, the boundaries of some seedling blocks SB are indicated by dashed lines.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 5, among the multiple row blocks 10 of the seedling mat MT, the row block 10A at the bottom is the row block 10 to be scraped by the planting claw mechanism 300. That is, the row block 10A on the rail 214 is the row block 10 to be scraped by the planting claw mechanism 300. In particular, in FIG. 5, the seedling block SB located at the end of the row block 10A in the first direction D1 is the target to be scraped by the planting claw mechanism 300. The seedling block SB to be scraped is disposed at the scraping position PS. In FIG. 5, only the last seedling block SB of the row block 10A remains. The planting claw 320 enters the first end 9A (specifically, the recess 91) connected to the seedling block SB and scrapes the seedling block SB from the seedling mat MT.

[0070] In the example of FIG. 5, the seedling block SB located at the end of the row block 10A is connected to the row block 10B to be scraped next through the first end 9A. As shown in FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), the thickness d10 of the first end 9A in the third direction D3 is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. Therefore, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB and the row block 10B to be scraped next is stronger than when the first groove 7 extends to the first end 9A. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at the end of the row block 10A is scraped, the seedling block SB can be prevented from bending at the first end 9A due to the scraping resistance of the planting claw 320. Therefore, the planting claw 320 can enter the seedling block SB until the tip of the pushing member 330 (specifically, the pressing piece 334) contacts the upper surface SF of the seedling block SB, and the planting claw mechanism 300 can hold the seedling block SB well. This also applies to the case where the seedling block SB that is the last to be scraped off in the row block 10 is connected to the next row block 10 via the second end 9B.

[0071] If the planting claw mechanism 300 can hold the seedling block SB well, for example, the accuracy with which the planting claw mechanism 300 plant the seedling block SB in the field can be improved.

[0072] In addition, the first end 9A includes a recess 91. Therefore, the planting claw 320 can easily scrape off the seedling block SB at the end of the row block 10A, compared to when the first end 9A does not include the recess 91. This is also true when the seedling block SB that is the last to be scraped off in the row block 10 is connected to the next row block 10 via the second end 9B.

[0073] 3(a) and 3(b), the depth d20 of the recess 91 relative to the first main surface portion F1 is shallower than the depth d2 of the first groove 7 relative to the first main surface portion F1. Therefore, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at the end of the row block 10A and the next row block 10B can be ensured.

[0074] In addition, the planting claw mechanism 300 can make the shape of the seedling blocks SB after scraping uniform among the multiple seedling blocks SB by inserting the planting claw 320 into the first groove 7 shown in FIG. 3(a) and scraping off the seedling blocks SB. In addition, the planting claw mechanism 300 can easily scrape off the seedling blocks SB from the seedling mat MT by inserting the planting claw 320 into the first groove 7. Furthermore, by inserting the planting claw 320 into the first groove 7 and scraping off the seedling blocks SB, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a relatively large scraped residue on the side surface EG of the rail 214 side of the next row block 10B after scraping off all the seedling blocks SB constituting one row block 10A. Therefore, the seedling mat MT including the row block 10B can be moved smoothly along the rail 214. As a result, the seedling blocks SB can be accurately positioned at the scraping position PS, and the seedling blocks SB can be accurately scraped off from the seedling mat MT.

[0075] In particular, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(a), the first groove 7 has a substantially V-shape. Therefore, when the planting claw 320 enters the first groove 7, the position of the tip of the planting claw 320 in the second direction D2 is uniquely determined in one row block 10. As a result, the shape of the seedling blocks SB after scraping can be more uniform among a plurality of seedling blocks SB. In addition, after all the seedling blocks SB constituting one row block 10A are scraped, the occurrence of a relatively large scraped residue on the side surface EG of the rail 214 side of the next row block 10B can be more effectively suppressed.

[0076] When the seedling blocks SB located at the end of the row block 10A are to be scraped off, only one seedling block SB is connected to the row block 10B to be scraped off next. Therefore, even if the depth d20 of the recess 91 is shallower than the depth d2 of the first groove 7, the seedling blocks SB located at the end can be easily scraped off by the planting claws 320.

[0077] As described above with reference to Figures 3 and 5, according to embodiment 1, the seedling mat MT has a first end 9A and a first groove 7, which enables smooth scraping of the seedling blocks SB, while allowing the planting claw mechanism 300 to hold the seedling blocks SB well when scraping off the seedling blocks SB located at the end of the row block 10.

[0078] Furthermore, the provision of the second end 9B in addition to the first end 9A of the seedling mat MT has the following advantage: Whether the last seedling block SB to be scraped in the row block 10 is the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 or the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1, the seedling block SB can be well held by the planting claw mechanism 300 during scraping.

[0079] For example, when the seedling blocks SB are scraped off while moving each row block 10 in the circumferential direction DA, if the seedling mat MT is moved back and forth along the rail 214 to scrape off the seedling blocks SB, the seedling block SB at one end in the first direction D1 and the seedling block SB at the other end are alternately targeted for scraping for each row block 10. Therefore, in this case, it is more effective for the seedling mat MT to have both the first end 9A and the second end 9B.

[0080] In addition, providing the first groove 7 has the following advantages. The first advantage is that the water collected in the first groove 7 serves as a guide for the amount of irrigation. For example, irrigation is performed until the first groove 7 is filled with water. The second advantage is that since the first groove 7 can be filled with water, the amount of water that can be absorbed by the seedling mat MT increases. As a result, seedling growth is promoted. In addition, since the water is retained in the first groove 7, the loss of water from the seedling mat MT can be suppressed, resulting in a water-saving effect.

[0081] The seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 includes a seeding hole 31A. Similarly, the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 includes a seeding hole 31B.

[0082] (Embodiment 2) A seedling mat MTX according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 6 to 8. The second embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the first end 9XA and the second end 9XB of the seedling mat MTX according to the second embodiment do not have a recess 91. The seedling transplanter 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as the seedling transplanter 100 described with reference to Fig. 4. Below, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0083] First, the seedling mat MTX will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a seedling mat MTX according to embodiment 2. Fig. 7 is a plan view showing a seedling mat MTX.

[0084] 6 and 7, the seedling bed portion 1 of the seedling mat MTX includes a plurality of first end portions 9XA. It is preferable that the seedling bed portion 1 further includes a plurality of second end portions 9XB.

[0085] The first end portions 9XA are arranged corresponding to the first grooves 7, respectively. The first end portions 9XA are connected to one end of the corresponding first grooves 7 in the first direction D1. The first end portions 9XA are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the first end portions 9XA are portions between adjacent row blocks 10 in the second direction D2 at one end of the seedbed section 1 in the first direction D1. Note that in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, for ease of understanding, as an example, the boundaries of some of the first end portions 9XA are shown by dashed lines, and the boundaries of some of the row blocks 10 are shown by dashed lines.

[0086] The multiple second ends 9XB are arranged corresponding to the multiple first grooves 7, respectively. The second ends 9XB are connected to the other ends in the first direction D1 of the corresponding first grooves 7. The multiple second ends 9XB are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the second ends 9XB are at the other end of the seedbed section 1 in the first direction D1, between adjacent row blocks 10 in the second direction D2. The configuration of the second ends 9XB is similar to the configuration of the first ends 9XA.

[0087] Each of the multiple seeding hole rows 5 includes a seeding hole 31A and a seeding hole 31B. As shown in Fig. 7, in a plan view, the seeding hole 31A is disposed between the first end 9XA and the first end 9XA adjacent to each other in the second direction D2. In addition, in a plan view, the seeding hole 31B is disposed between the second end 9XB and the second end 9XB adjacent to each other in the second direction D2.

[0088] Next, the first groove 7 and the first end 9XA will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIA-VIIIA in Fig. 7.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 8(a), the seedling mat MTX has a first groove 7 and a sowing hole 31, similar to the seedling mat MT shown in FIG. 3(a).

[0090] Fig. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIB-VIIIB in Fig. 7. In Fig. 8(b), for ease of understanding, the boundary of the first end 9XA is indicated by a dashed line.

[0091] As shown in Fig. 8(b), the first end 9XA extends from the first main surface portion F1 side to the second main surface portion F2 side. In the example of Fig. 8(b), the first end 9XA does not have a depression such as a recess or a groove on either the first main surface portion F1 side or the second main surface portion F2 side.

[0092] The surface 93 of the first end 9XA on the first main surface portion F1 side is substantially flush with the first main surface portion F1. In other words, the surface 93 of the first end 9XA on the first main surface portion F1 side is substantially flush with the seed hole arrangement surface 3.

[0093] Therefore, as shown in Fig. 8(a) and Fig. 8(b), the thickness d11 of the first end 9XA in the third direction D3 is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. As a result, according to the second embodiment, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 (Fig. 6) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed portion 1 can be improved. As a result, when the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 is scraped off, the seedling block SB can be well held by the planting claw mechanism 300. This point is the same as that of the first embodiment described with reference to Fig. 5.

[0094] Similarly, the second end 9XB extends from the first main surface portion F1 to the second main surface portion F2. In the example of Fig. 8(b), the second end 9XB does not have a depression such as a recess or a groove on either the first main surface portion F1 side or the second main surface portion F2 side.

[0095] The surface 93 of the second end 9XB on the first main surface portion F1 side is substantially flush with the first main surface portion F1. In other words, the surface 93 of the second end 9XB on the first main surface portion F1 side is substantially flush with the seed hole arrangement surface 3.

[0096] Therefore, as shown in Fig. 8(a) and Fig. 8(b), the thickness d11 of the second end 9XB in the third direction D3 is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. As a result, according to the second embodiment, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10 in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed portion 1 can be improved. Therefore, when scraping off the seedling block SB located at the other end of the row block 10, the planting claw mechanism 300 can hold the seedling block SB well. This is the same as the case of the first end 9XA.

[0097] As shown in Fig. 5, when the seedling blocks SB located at the end of the row block 10A are scraped off, only one seedling block SB is connected to the row block 10B to be scraped off next. Therefore, even if the first end 9XA and the second end 9XB do not have a depression such as a recess or a groove, the seedling blocks SB located at the end can be easily scraped off by the planting claw 320.

[0098] As described above with reference to Fig. 8, according to the second embodiment, the seedling mat MTX has the first end 9XA and the first groove 7, which allows the seedling blocks SB to be smoothly scraped off, and the seedling blocks SB can be well held by the planting claw mechanism 300 when scraping off the seedling blocks SB located at the end of the row block 10. The advantage of the seedling mat MTX having the second end 9XB in addition to the first end 9XA is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0099] (Embodiment 3) A seedling mat MTY according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 13. The third embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the seedling mat MTY according to the third embodiment has a second groove 11. The seedling transplanter 100 according to the third embodiment is the same as the seedling transplanter 100 described with reference to Fig. 4. The following mainly describes the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment.

[0100] First, the seedling mat MTY will be described with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the seedling mat MTY according to embodiment 3. Fig. 10 is a bottom view showing the seedling mat MTY.

[0101] As shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the seedling mat MTY has a plurality of second grooves 11. The plurality of second grooves 11 are provided on the second main surface portion F2 side and extend along the first direction D1. The plurality of second grooves 11 are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2. By providing the second grooves 11, the delivery belt 212 (Fig. 4(a)) of the seedling transplanter 100 can easily deliver the seedling mat MTY in the circumferential direction DA. Details of this point will be described later with reference to Figs. 12 and 13.

[0102] Specifically, the second groove 11 extends along the first groove 7. Moreover, the second groove 11 extends from one end to the other end in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 on the side of the second main surface portion F2.

[0103] Next, the second groove 11 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11(a) is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seedling mat MTY including the first groove 7 and the second groove 11. For example, assuming that the seedling mat MT in Fig. 2 is the seedling mat MTY according to embodiment 3, Fig. 11(a) corresponds to a cross section taken along line IIIA-IIIA in Fig. 2.

[0104] As shown in Fig. 11(a), the second groove 11 is recessed in a direction D4 from the second main surface portion F2. The direction D4 is the opposite direction to the third direction D3. The second groove 11 faces the first groove 7 in the third direction D3 in a portion other than the first end portion 9A and the second end portion 9B of the seedling mat MTY.

[0105] The second groove 11 preferably has a pair of side wall surfaces 11A and a top wall surface 11B. The pair of side wall surfaces 11A face each other in the second direction D2. The pair of side wall surfaces 11A are substantially parallel to each other. The pair of side wall surfaces 11A are substantially perpendicular to the second main surface portion F2. The top wall surface 11B connects both ends of the pair of side wall surfaces 11A in the direction D4. The top wall surface 11B is curved in a convex shape toward the direction D4. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 11(a), the second groove 11 has a substantially U-shape in cross section. However, the shape of the second groove 11 is not particularly limited as long as the second groove 11 is recessed in the direction D4.

[0106] Fig. 11(b) is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seedling mat MTY including the first end 9A and the second groove 11. For example, assuming that the seedling mat MT in Fig. 2 is the seedling mat MTY according to embodiment 3, Fig. 11(b) corresponds to a cross section taken along line IIIB-IIIB in Fig. 2.

[0107] As shown in Fig. 11(b), the second groove 11 is adjacent to the first end 9A of the seedling mat MTY in the third direction D3 at one end of the seedling mat MTY in the first direction D1 (Fig. 9). That is, the first end 9A extends from the side of the first main surface portion F1 to the second groove 11 (specifically, the top wall surface 11B). Also, the second groove 11 faces the recess 91 of the first end 9A in the third direction D3 at one end of the seedling mat MTY in the first direction D1.

[0108] Similarly, the second groove 11 is adjacent to the second end 9B of the seedling mat MTY in the third direction D3 at the other end of the seedling mat MTY in the first direction D1 (FIG. 9). That is, the second end 9B extends from the first main surface portion F1 side to the second groove 11 (specifically, the top wall surface 11B). Also, the second groove 11 faces the recess 91 of the second end 9B in the third direction D3 at the other end of the seedling mat MTY in the first direction D1.

[0109] Next, the details of the delivery belt 212 shown in Fig. 4(a) will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the delivery belt 212 of the seedling transplanter 100. As shown in Fig. 12, the delivery belt 212 of the seedling transplanter 100 is inclined with respect to the up-down direction. The up-down direction is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0110] The delivery belt 212 has a plurality of protrusions 216. The protrusions 216 protrude from a surface 217 of the delivery belt 212. As an example, the protrusions 216 stand vertically from the surface 217 of the delivery belt 212. Also, as an example, the protrusions 216 have a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0111] The multiple protrusions 216 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction DA. Each of the multiple protrusions 216 extends along the direction DB. In other words, each of the multiple protrusions 216 extends along the first direction D1 (FIGS. 9 and 10). In other words, each of the multiple protrusions 216 extends along the second grooves 11 (FIGS. 9 and 10). Furthermore, the interval L2 between adjacent protrusions 216 in the circumferential direction DA is substantially the same as the interval L1 between adjacent second grooves 11 in the second direction D2 (FIG. 10).

[0112] Next, a description will be given of the operation of sending out the seedling mat MTY by the delivery belt 212 with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a side view showing the delivery belt 212 and the seedling mat MTY.

[0113] As shown in Fig. 13, when the seedling mat MTY is placed on the feed-out belt 212, the convex portion 216 of the feed-out belt 212 engages with the second groove 11 of the seedling mat MTY. This prevents the seedling mat MTY from slipping on the feed-out belt 212. As a result, according to the third embodiment, the feed-out belt 212 can reliably feed the seedling mat MTY in the circumferential direction DA. In other words, the feed-out belt 212 can reliably feed the seedling mat MTY toward the rail 214 (Fig. 12).

[0114] Particularly, in the third embodiment, the second groove 11 has a pair of side wall surfaces 11A facing the second direction D2. Therefore, the convex portion 216 of the delivery belt 212 can be smoothly engaged with the second groove 11. Also, when the delivery belt 212 rotates in the circumferential direction DA, the end surface 218 of the convex portion 216 in the circumferential direction DA comes into contact with the side wall surface 11A of the second groove 11. As a result, the seedling mat MTY can be more smoothly delivered in the circumferential direction DA. That is, the seedling mat MTY can be more smoothly delivered toward the rail 214.

[0115] (Embodiment 4) A seedling mat MTZ according to embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The seedling mat MTZ according to embodiment 4 is mainly different from embodiment 2 in that the seedling mat MTZ according to embodiment 4 has a second groove 11. The seedling transplanter 100 according to embodiment 4 is the same as the seedling transplanter 100 described with reference to Fig. 4. Below, the differences between embodiment 4 and embodiment 2 will be mainly described.

[0116] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the seedling mat MTZ according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 14, the seedling mat MTZ has a plurality of second grooves 11. The configuration of the second grooves 11 according to the fourth embodiment is similar to the configuration of the second grooves 11 according to the third embodiment described with reference to Figs. 9 to 13. Therefore, the convex portion 216 of the delivery belt 212 engages with the second grooves 11. As a result, in the fourth embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the delivery belt 212 can reliably deliver the seedling mat MTY toward the rail 214.

[0117] (Embodiment 5) A seedling mat MTA according to embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3, 15, and 16. The main difference between embodiment 5 and embodiment 1 is that the first end 9YA of the seedling mat MTA according to embodiment 5 has a third groove 8. Below, the differences between embodiment 5 and embodiment 1 will be mainly described.

[0118] Fig. 15 is a plan view showing a seedling mat MTA according to embodiment 5. Fig. 16(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIA-XVIA in Fig. 15. Fig. 16(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIB-XVIB in Fig. 15.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 15, in the seedling mat MTA, the first end 9YA further has a third groove 8 in addition to the recess 91. The third groove 8 is provided on the side of the first main surface portion F1. The third groove 8 extends a predetermined distance L20 from the end face ES of the first end 9YA in the first direction D1 toward the first groove 7. The predetermined distance L20 is shorter than the length L20 of the first end 9YA in the first direction D1. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16(a), the third groove 8 is recessed in the third direction D3.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 16(b), the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 at the first end 9YA where the third groove 8 is not formed is greater than the length from the lowermost portion 83 of the third groove 8 to the second main surface portion F2 shown in FIG. 16(a). In the fifth embodiment, the "portion 915 at the first end 9YA where the third groove 8 is not formed" is the "portion 915 at the first end 9YA where the recess 91 is formed". In addition, the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 at the first end 9YA where the third groove 8 is not formed is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2 shown in FIG. 3(a).

[0121] Therefore, according to embodiment 1, the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 (Figure 15) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed section 1 can be improved. As a result, when scraping off the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10, the planting claw mechanism 300 can hold the seedling block SB well. This is the same as in embodiment 1. In addition, the seedling mat MTA of embodiment 4 has the same effects as the seedling mat MT of embodiment 1. In the example of Figure 16 (b), the thickness d10 indicates the length from the bottom surface 913 of the recess 91 to the second main surface portion F2.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 15, in the seedling mat MTA, the second end 9YB further has a third groove 8 in addition to the recess 91. The third groove 8 is provided on the side of the first main surface portion F1. The third groove 8 extends a predetermined distance L20 from the end face ES of the second end 9YB in the first direction D1 toward the first groove 7. The predetermined distance L20 is shorter than the length L20 of the second end 9YB in the first direction D1. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16(a), the third groove 8 is recessed in the third direction D3.

[0123] Also, as shown in FIG. 16(b), the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 where the third groove 8 is not formed at the second end 9YB is greater than the length from the lowest portion 83 of the third groove 8 to the second main surface portion F2 shown in FIG. 16(a). In the fifth embodiment, the "portion 915 where the third groove 8 is not formed at the second end 9YB" is the "portion 915 where the recess 91 is formed at the second end 9YB". In addition, the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 where the third groove 8 is not formed at the second end 9YB is greater than the length d1 from the lowest portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2 shown in FIG. 3(a). Therefore, the structure of the second end 9YB can also improve the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB located at one end of the row block 10 (FIG. 15) in the first direction D1 and the seedling bed portion 1, as in the case of the first end 9YA.

[0124] 16(a) and 16(b), at the first end 9YA and the second end 9YB, the depth d200 of the third groove 8 with respect to the first main surface portion F1 is deeper than the depth d20 of the recess 91. The depth d200 of the third groove 8 is substantially the same as the depth d20 of the first groove 7 shown in FIG. 3(a). The depth d200 of the third groove 8 may be different from the depth d20 of the first groove 7.

[0125] Also, as an example, the cross-sectional shape of the third groove 8 is similar to the cross-sectional shape of the first groove 7. That is, the third groove 8 has a shape that tapers toward the third direction D3. In the example of FIG. 16(a), the third groove 8 has a substantially V-shape in cross-section. That is, the third groove 8 has a pair of inclined surfaces 81. The pair of inclined surfaces 81 approach each other toward the third direction D3. However, the shape of the third groove 8 is not particularly limited as long as the third groove 8 is recessed in the third direction D3.

[0126] The first end 9A and the second end 9B in FIG. 9 may have the third groove 8 in FIG. 15. The first end 9XA and the second end 9XB in FIG. 6 and FIG. 14 may have the third groove 8 in FIG. 15. In this case, the thickness d11 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 (FIG. 8(b)) where the third groove 8 is not formed in the first end 9XA and the second end 9XB is larger than the length d1 (FIG. 8(a)) from the bottom 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. In the example of FIG. 8(b), the thickness d11 indicates the length from the surface 93 to the second main surface portion F2. Furthermore, the thickness d11 in the third direction D3 of the portion 915 where the third groove 8 is not formed in the first end 9XA and the second end 9XB is larger than the length d100 (FIG. 16(a)) from the bottom 83 of the third groove 8 to the second main surface portion F2.

[0127] As described above with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of at least a portion (here, portion 915) of the first end 9YA is greater than the length d1 (FIG. 3(a)) from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. The same applies to the first ends 9A and 9XA. Moreover, the thickness d10 in the third direction D3 of at least a portion of the second end 9YB is greater than the length d1 from the lowermost portion 73 of the first groove 7 to the second main surface portion F2. The same applies to the second ends 9B and 9XB.

[0128] (Embodiment 6) A supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 2, Fig. 17, and Fig. 18. The supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ according to the fifth embodiment is mainly different from the seedling mat MT according to the first embodiment in that it is a mat for growing seedlings for supplementary planting. Below, the differences between the sixth embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0129] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ according to the sixth embodiment. A plurality of seeds (not shown) are sown in the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ shown in FIG. 17. The seedlings grown from the seeds are scraped off from the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ. For example, a part of the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ is scraped off in a block shape together with the seedlings grown from the seeds. Hereinafter, the block-shaped part including the seedlings may be referred to as a "supplementary planting seedling block SBQ". The scraping off of the supplementary planting seedling block SBQ from the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ may be performed, for example, by the planting claw mechanism 300, or may be performed by a supplementary planting claw mechanism (not shown) having a structure similar to that of the planting claw mechanism 300. Hereinafter, the supplementary planting claw mechanism will be given as an example, as necessary.

[0130] 17, the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (for example, a substantially rectangular flat plate shape). The supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ includes a seedling bed portion 1Q, a plurality of sowing holes 31Q, and a plurality of depressions 20.

[0131] Seedbed section 1Q has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (for example, a substantially rectangular flat plate shape). Seedbed section 1Q allows roots to grow from seeds. Otherwise, the configuration of seedbed section 1Q is the same as the configuration of seedbed section 1 shown in FIG.

[0132] The seedbed section 1Q includes a first main surface portion F1Q and a second main surface portion F2Q (FIG. 18(a)). The first main surface portion F1Q and the second main surface portion F2Q face each other and are substantially parallel to each other. For example, of the front surface portion and the back surface portion of the seedbed section 1Q, the first main surface portion F1Q corresponds to the front surface portion, and the second main surface portion F2Q corresponds to the back surface portion.

[0133] A plurality of sowing holes 31Q for arranging seeds are provided on the side of the first main surface portion F1Q. In the example of FIG. 17, the plurality of sowing holes 31Q are arranged in a square lattice pattern. Specifically, a predetermined number K of sowing holes 31Q are arranged at intervals along a first direction D10. K indicates an integer of 2 or more. Furthermore, a sowing hole row 19 consisting of the predetermined number K of sowing holes 31Q is arranged at intervals along a second direction D20. The first direction D10 is, for example, a direction along the short side of the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ. The second direction D20 intersects with the first direction D10. In the sixth embodiment, the second direction D20 is perpendicular to the first direction D10. The second direction D20 is, for example, a direction along the long side of the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ.

[0134] A plurality of depressions 20 are provided on the side of the first main surface portion F1Q. In a plan view, four depressions 20 surround one sowing hole 31Q. Of the four depressions 20, a pair of first depressions 20A are approximately parallel to each other and extend along the first direction D10. The pair of first depressions 20A also face each other in the second direction D20 across the sowing hole 31Q. Of the four depressions 20, a pair of second depressions 20B are approximately parallel to each other and extend along the second direction D20. The pair of second depressions 20B also face each other in the first direction D10 across the sowing hole 31Q. By providing the depressions 20, the replanted seedling block SBQ can be smoothly scraped off from the replanted seedling mat MTQ by the replanting claw mechanism. Scraping the replacement seedling block SBQ from the replacement seedling mat MTQ indicates separation of the replacement seedling block SBQ from the replacement seedling mat MTQ.

[0135] A predetermined number K of first recesses 20A are arranged at intervals along the first direction D10. Furthermore, a first recess row 21 consisting of the predetermined number K of first recesses 20A is arranged at intervals along the second direction D20. Furthermore, a predetermined number K of second recesses 20B are arranged at intervals along the second direction D20. Furthermore, a second recess row 22 consisting of the predetermined number K of second recesses 20B is arranged at intervals along the first direction D10.

[0136] One block corresponding to one sowing hole 31Q corresponds to a supplementary planting seedling block SBQ. The seeds sown in the sowing holes 31Q grow into seedlings, and the supplementary planting seedling block SBQ is produced.

[0137] Next, the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ will be described with reference to Fig. 18(a). Fig. 18(a) is a bottom view showing a part of the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ. As shown in Fig. 18(a), the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ further includes a plurality of recesses 25 on the back surface.

[0138] The multiple back surface depressions 25 are provided on the second main surface portion F2Q side. The multiple back surface depressions 25 are arranged corresponding to the multiple depressions 20 (FIG. 17). In a plan view, the four back surface depressions 25 are arranged in a substantially rectangular shape. Of the four back surface depressions 25, a pair of first back surface depressions 25A are substantially parallel to each other and extend along the first direction D10. Moreover, the pair of first back surface depressions 25A face each other in the second direction D20. Of the four back surface depressions 25, a pair of second back surface depressions 25B are substantially parallel to each other and extend along the second direction D20. Moreover, the pair of second back surface depressions 25B face each other in the first direction D10. By providing the back surface depressions 25, the replacement seedling block SBQ can be more smoothly scraped off from the replacement seedling mat MTQ by the replacement planting claw mechanism.

[0139] A predetermined number K of first back surface depressions 25A are arranged at intervals along the first direction D10. Furthermore, a first back surface depression row 227 consisting of the predetermined number K of first back surface depressions 25A are arranged at intervals along the second direction D20. Furthermore, a predetermined number K of second back surface depressions 25B are arranged at intervals along the second direction D20. Furthermore, a second back surface depression row 28 consisting of the predetermined number K of second back surface depressions 25B are arranged at intervals along the first direction D10.

[0140] Next, the recess 20 and the back surface recess 25 will be described with reference to FIG. 18(b). FIG. 18(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIIIB-XVIIIB in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 18(b), the recess 20 and the back surface recess 25 face each other in the third direction D30. The recess 20 is recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the first main surface portion F1Q. The third direction D30 is a direction from the first main surface portion F1Q toward the second main surface portion F2Q. That is, the third direction D30 intersects with the first direction D10 and the second direction D20. In the sixth embodiment, the third direction D30 is perpendicular to the first direction D10 and the second direction D20.

[0141] The depression 20 has a shape that tapers toward the third direction D3. In the example of Fig. 18(b), the depression 20 has a substantially V-shape in a cross-sectional view. However, as long as the depression 20 is recessed in the third direction D30, the shape of the depression 20 is not particularly limited.

[0142] The back surface depression 25 has a shape that tapers toward the opposite direction of the third direction D3. In the example of Fig. 18(b), the back surface depression 25 has a substantially inverted V shape in a cross-sectional view. However, the shape of the back surface depression 25 is not particularly limited as long as the back surface depression 25 is recessed in the opposite direction of the third direction D30.

[0143] The sowing hole 31Q is recessed in the third direction D3 with respect to the first main surface portion F1. The sowing hole 31Q has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. However, as long as a seed can be placed in the sowing hole 31Q, the shape of the sowing hole 31Q is not particularly limited.

[0144] Next, supplementary planting will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 2 and 15. In the seedling mat MT shown in Fig. 1, for example, localized seedling insufficiency may occur between the seedling raising stage and the planting operation. As an example, a case where seedling insufficiency occurs in the seedling block SBX of the seedling mat MT shown in Fig. 2 will be described. In this case, the supplementary planting claw mechanism is inserted into the first groove 7 to separate the seedling block SBX in which the seeds that are insufficiently raised are arranged from the seedling mat MT. As a result, a hole (hereinafter referred to as "hole HL") is formed in the seedling mat MT at the position where the seedling block SBX was located.

[0145] Meanwhile, the replacement planting claw mechanism is inserted into the depression 20 shown in Fig. 15 to separate the replacement seedling block SBQ with good seedling growth from the replacement seedling mat MTQ. Then, the replacement seedling block SBQ is inserted into the hole HL of the seedling mat MT shown in Fig. 2 to perform replacement planting. In other words, replacement planting is performed by fitting the replacement seedling block SBQ in place of the seedling block SBX in the seedling mat MT.

[0146] In the sixth embodiment, the seedling mat MT is provided with the first groove 7, so that the seedling block SBX can be easily separated from the seedling mat MT. In addition, the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ is provided with the recess 20, so that the supplementary planting seedling block SBQ can be easily separated from the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ. As a result, the supplementary planting work can be carried out smoothly.

[0147] In addition, in the seedling mat MTX of FIG. 6, the seedling mat MTY of FIG. 9, the seedling mat MTZ of FIG. 14, and the seedling mat MTA of FIG. 15, supplementary planting work can be easily performed by using the supplementary planting seedling mat MTQ of FIG.

[0148] (Embodiment 7) A seedling mat MTB according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 19, Fig. 20A to Fig. 20D, and Fig. 21. The seedling mat MTB according to the seventh embodiment differs mainly from the first to sixth embodiments in that it does not have a first end portion 9A, a second end portion 9B, and a recess portion 91. Below, the differences between the seventh embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0149] FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the seedling mat MTB according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 20A is a plan view showing the seedling mat MTB. FIG. 20B is a view (front view) showing the seedling mat MTB from one side D11 in the first direction D1. FIG. 20C is a view (right side view) showing the seedling mat MTB from one side D21 in the second direction D2. FIG. 20D is a bottom view showing the seedling mat MTB. Note that the view (back view) showing the seedling mat MTB from the other side D12 in the first direction D1 is omitted because it is the same as the view (front view) showing the seedling mat MTB from one side D11 in the first direction D1. In addition, the view (left side view) showing the seedling mat MTB from the other side D22 in the second direction D2 is omitted because it is the same as the view (right side view) showing the seedling mat MTB from one side D21 in the second direction D2.

[0150] As shown in Fig. 19 and Figs. 20A to 20D, the seedling mat MTB includes a seedbed section 1, a plurality of sowing hole rows 5, a plurality of first grooves 7, and a plurality of second grooves 11. The plurality of second grooves 11 are opposed to the plurality of first grooves 7 in the third direction D3. In other words, the plurality of second grooves 11 are disposed at the same positions as the plurality of first grooves 7 in the second direction D2.

[0151] The first groove 7 extends from one end to the other end in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 on the side of the first main surface portion F1. The second groove 11 extends from one end to the other end in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 on the side of the second main surface portion F2. In this embodiment, the first groove 7 extends from the end face of one side D11 in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 to the end face of the other side D12 in the first direction D1. The second groove 11 extends from the end face of one side D11 in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 to the end face of the other side D12 in the first direction D1. The seedling mat MTB may be provided with a first end 9A and a second end 9B, for example, as in the first embodiment. The seedling mat MTB may also be provided with a third groove 8, for example, as in the fifth embodiment.

[0152] In this embodiment, the first grooves 7 and the second grooves 11 have different shapes in a cross section along the second direction D2. Therefore, the shape of the first grooves 7 can be made suitable for the first main surface portion F1 side, and the shape of the second grooves 11 can be made suitable for the second main surface portion F2 side.

[0153] For example, the first groove 7 has a tapered shape toward the third direction D3. In this embodiment, the first groove 7 has a substantially V-shape in cross section. Therefore, compared to a case where the first groove 7 is formed into a U-shape in cross section, when the planting claw 320 is inserted into the first groove 7, stress is more likely to be concentrated at the tip of the first groove 7 (the end in the third direction D3), so the seedling block SB can be scraped off smoothly.

[0154] Also, for example, the second groove 11 has an approximately U-shape in cross section. Specifically, similar to the third embodiment, each of the second grooves 11 has a pair of side wall surfaces 11A and a top wall surface 11B. The top wall surface 11B connects both ends of the pair of side wall surfaces 11A in the direction D4. The top wall surface 11B is curved convexly toward the direction D4. Therefore, compared to the case where the second groove 11 is formed in a V-shape in cross section, for example, it is possible to prevent the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB and the seedling bed section 1 from being too low. Therefore, by forming the second groove 11 in a substantially U-shape in cross section, it is possible to prevent the strength of the seedling mat MTB from being too low while improving the water permeability and air permeability of the seedling mat MTB.

[0155] Here, the seedling mat MTB further includes a first shaped portion 13 arranged on the side of the first main surface portion F1 and at the end in the second direction D2. In this embodiment, the seedling mat MTB includes two first shaped portions 13. The first shaped portions 13 are arranged at both ends in the second direction D2.

[0156] The first shaped portion 13 has the shape of at least a part of the first groove 7. Therefore, when a plurality of seedling mats MTB are placed on the delivery belt 212, a groove having the shape of at least a part of the first groove 7 is formed at the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB in the second direction D2. Therefore, when the planting claw 320 is inserted into the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB, the scraping resistance by the planting claw 320 can be prevented from increasing.

[0157] In this embodiment, the first shaped portion 13 has a shape that divides the first groove 7 approximately evenly in the second direction D2. Therefore, when a plurality of seedling mats MTB are placed on the delivery belt 212, a groove having approximately the same shape as the first groove 7 is formed at the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB in the second direction D2. Therefore, the scraping resistance by the planting claw 320 when the planting claw 320 is inserted into the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB can be made approximately the same as the scraping resistance by the planting claw 320 when the planting claw 320 is inserted into the other part of the seedling mat MTB.

[0158] The seedling mat MTB further includes a second shaped portion 14 disposed on the second main surface portion F2 side and at the end in the second direction D2. In this embodiment, the seedling mat MTB includes two second shaped portions 14. The second shaped portions 14 are disposed at both ends in the second direction D2.

[0159] The second shaped portion 14 has the shape of at least a part of the second groove 11. Therefore, when a plurality of seedling mats MTB are placed on the delivery belt 212, a groove having the shape of at least a part of the second groove 11 is formed at the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB in the second direction D2. Therefore, the convex portion 216 of the delivery belt 212 can be prevented from contacting the second main surface portion F2 of the seedling mat MTB, and therefore, a part of the second main surface portion F2 can be prevented from lifting up.

[0160] In this embodiment, the second shaped portion 14 has a shape that divides the second groove 11 approximately evenly in the second direction D2. Therefore, when a plurality of seedling mats MTB are placed on the delivery belt 212, a groove having approximately the same shape as the second groove 11 is formed at the boundary between adjacent seedling mats MTB in the second direction D2. Therefore, it is easy to prevent the convex portion 216 of the delivery belt 212 from contacting the second main surface portion F2 of the seedling mat MTB, and therefore it is easy to prevent a part of the second main surface portion F2 from lifting up.

[0161] Also, the sowing hole 31 is arranged in the center of the seedling block SB. Specifically, in the row block 10, the multiple sowing holes 31 are arranged in the first direction D1 at a pitch P31 (see FIG. 20A). In the row block 10, the distance L31a between the center of the sowing hole 31 located at the end of one side D11 in the first direction D1 and the side of the seedling mat MTB on one side D11 in the first direction D1 is approximately half the pitch P31. Also, in the row block 10, the distance L31b between the center of the sowing hole 31 located at the end of the other side D12 in the first direction D1 and the side of the seedling mat MTB on the other side D12 in the first direction D1 is approximately half the pitch P31.

[0162] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20A. As shown in FIG. 21, each sowing hole 31 has a cylindrical portion 31a and a bottom portion 31b. The cylindrical portion 31a extends in the third direction D3. The cylindrical portion 31a has a substantially cylindrical shape. The bottom portion 31b is connected to the cylindrical portion 31a at the tip of the cylindrical portion 31a in the third direction D3. The bottom portion 31b tapers toward the third direction D3. In this embodiment, the bottom portion 31b has a substantially conical shape.

[0163] In this embodiment, each sowing hole 31 has an edge 31c for facilitating sowing. The edge 31c connects the cylindrical portion 31a and the first main surface portion F1. The edge 31c is formed so as to expand radially from the cylindrical portion 31a toward the first main surface portion F1. Therefore, seeds can be easily put into the sowing hole 31.

[0164] (Embodiment 8) A seedling mat MTC according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 22, Fig. 23A to Fig. 23D, and Fig. 24. The seedling mat MTC according to the eighth embodiment is mainly different from the seventh embodiment in that it is provided with a plurality of second grooves 111. Below, the differences between the eighth embodiment and the seventh embodiment will be mainly described.

[0165] FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing the seedling mat MTC according to the eighth embodiment. FIG. 23A is a plan view showing the seedling mat MTC. FIG. 23B is a view (front view) showing the seedling mat MTC from one side D11 in the first direction D1. FIG. 23C is a view (right side view) showing the seedling mat MTC from one side D21 in the second direction D2. FIG. 23D is a bottom view showing the seedling mat MTC. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23A. The view (back view) showing the seedling mat MTC from the other side D12 in the first direction D1 is omitted because it is the same as the view (front view) showing the seedling mat MTC from one side D11 in the first direction D1. Also, the view (left side view) showing the seedling mat MTC from the other side D22 in the second direction D2 is omitted because it is the same as the view (right side view) showing the seedling mat MTC from one side D21 in the second direction D2.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D, the seedling mat MTC includes a seedbed section 1, a plurality of seeding hole rows 5, a plurality of first grooves 7, a plurality of second grooves 11, and a plurality of second grooves 111. The second grooves 111 are arranged alternately with the second grooves 11 in the second direction D2. The second grooves 111 face the plurality of seeding hole rows 5 in the third direction D3. That is, the second grooves 111 are arranged in the same positions as the plurality of seeding hole rows 5 in the second direction D2. Therefore, the water permeability and air permeability of the seedling mat MTC around the seeds are improved, so that germination can be promoted and spindly growth can be suppressed.

[0167] The second groove 111 has a shape similar to that of the second groove 11. Specifically, the second groove 111 extends from one end to the other end in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 on the side of the second main surface portion F2. In this embodiment, the second groove 111 extends from an end face on one side D11 in the first direction D1 of the seedbed section 1 to an end face on the other side D12 in the first direction D1.

[0168] Also, as shown in FIG. 24, the second groove 111 has a substantially U-shape in cross section. Each of the second grooves 111 has a pair of side wall surfaces 11A and a top wall surface 11B, similar to the second groove 11. Therefore, compared to the case where the second groove 111 is formed in a V-shape in cross section, for example, it is possible to prevent the strength of the connection between the seedling block SB and the seedling bed section 1 from being too low. Therefore, by forming the second groove 111 in a substantially U-shape in cross section, it is possible to prevent the strength of the seedling mat MTC from being too low while improving the water permeability and air permeability of the seedling mat MTC.

[0169] Other structures and effects of the eighth embodiment are the same as those of the seventh embodiment.

[0170] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, the components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, a certain component among all the components shown in one embodiment may be added to a component of another embodiment, or some components among all the components shown in one embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

[0171] In addition, the drawings are mainly schematic illustrations of each component to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of creating the drawings. In addition, the configurations of each component shown in the above embodiment are merely examples and are not particularly limited, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention.

[0172] 1, 9, and 15, the first ends 9A, 9YA and the second ends 9B, 9YB have recesses 91. However, the first ends 9A, 9YA and the second ends 9B, 9YB may have cuts instead of the recesses 91. In this case, for example, the depth of the cut in the first main surface portion F1 is shallower than the depth d2 of the first groove 7 in the first main surface portion F1. [Industrial Applicability]

[0173] The present invention relates to a seedling mat and has industrial applicability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 1 Nursery section 5 Seeding hole row 7 First groove 8 Third groove 9A, 9XA, 9YA 1st end 9B, 9XB, 9YB 2nd end 11 Second groove 11A Side wall 13 First shape part 14 Second shape part 31, 31A, 31B seeding hole 91 Recess F1 1st main surface F2 2nd main surface MT, MTA, MTB, MTC, MTX, MTY, MTZ Seedling Mat

Claims

1. A seedling mat in which seeds are sown, A seedbed portion having a first main surface portion and a second main surface portion opposed to each other and allowing roots to grow; A plurality of seeding hole rows extending along a first direction, the seeding hole rows being provided on the first main surface portion and in which the seeds are arranged; a plurality of first grooves provided on the first main surface portion and extending along the first direction; Equipped with The seeding hole rows and the first grooves are alternately arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, each of the plurality of seed hole rows includes a plurality of seed holes for placing the seeds; Each of the plurality of first grooves is recessed in a third direction, which is a direction from the first main surface portion toward the second main surface portion, with respect to the first main surface portion; The seedbed portion further includes a plurality of first ends arranged to correspond to the plurality of first grooves, The first end portion is connected to one end of the corresponding first groove in the first direction. Seedling mat.

2. The seedling mat according to claim 1 , wherein the thickness in the third direction of at least a portion of the first end portion is greater than the length from the bottom of the first groove to the second main surface portion.

3. Each of the first ends has a recess recessed in the third direction, The seedling mat according to claim 2 , wherein a depth of the recess relative to the first main surface portion is shallower than a depth of the first groove relative to the first main surface portion.

4. The seedling mat according to claim 2 , wherein a surface of each of the plurality of first end portions is substantially flush with the first main surface portion.

5. The seedling mat according to claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of first grooves has a shape tapered toward the third direction.

6. A seedling mat for sowing seeds, comprising: A seedbed portion having a first main surface portion and a second main surface portion opposed to each other and allowing roots to grow; A plurality of seeding hole rows extending along a first direction, the seeding hole rows being provided on the first main surface portion and in which the seeds are arranged; a plurality of first grooves provided on the first main surface portion and extending along the first direction; Equipped with The seeding hole rows and the first grooves are alternately arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, each of the plurality of seed hole rows includes a plurality of seed holes for placing the seeds; Each of the plurality of first grooves is recessed in a third direction, which is a direction from the first main surface portion toward the second main surface portion, with respect to the first main surface portion; a plurality of second grooves provided on the second main surface portion and extending along the first direction; The second grooves are spaced apart along the second direction, Each of the plurality of second grooves is recessed in a direction opposite to the third direction with respect to the second main surface portion. Seedling mat.

7. The seedling mat according to claim 6 , wherein the first groove and the second groove have different shapes in a cross section along the second direction.

8. Each of the second grooves has a pair of side wall surfaces facing each other in the second direction, The seedling mat according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the pair of side wall surfaces are approximately perpendicular to the second main surface portion.

9. Each of the second grooves further has a top wall surface connecting both ends of the pair of side wall surfaces, The seedling mat according to claim 8 , wherein the top wall surface is convexly curved.

10. A seedling mat as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the multiple rows of seeding holes includes a seeding hole arranged between the first end and the first end adjacent to each other in the second direction.

11. the first end portion has a third groove provided on a side of the first main surface portion, the third groove is recessed in the third direction and extends a predetermined distance from an end face of the first end portion in the first direction toward the first groove, A seedling mat as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the thickness in the third direction of the portion of the first end where the third groove is not formed is greater than the length from the bottom of the first groove to the second main surface, and is also greater than the length from the bottom of the third groove to the second main surface.

12. The seedbed portion further includes a plurality of second ends arranged to correspond to the plurality of first grooves, the second end is connected to the other end of the corresponding first groove in the first direction, A seedling mat as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the thickness in the third direction of at least a portion of the second end portion is greater than the length from the bottom of the first groove to the second main surface portion.

13. A first shape portion is further provided on the side of the first main surface portion and at an end portion in the second direction, The seedling mat according to claim 1 , wherein the first shaped portion has a shape of at least a part of the first groove.

14. Further, a second shape portion is disposed on the second main surface portion side and at an end portion in the second direction, The seedling mat according to claim 6 , wherein the second shaped portion has a shape of at least a part of the second groove.

Images