Transplanter and method for securing seedling stay

Abstract

The present invention reduces the labor of work for adjusting the height of a seedling stay. A transplanter 1 comprises a seedling placement table 25. The seedling placement table 25 is provided with: a seedling placement part 27 having a seedling placement surface 28; a seedling stay 40 for pressing seedlings on the placement surface 28 toward the placement surface 28; and a securing tool 46 for securing the seedling stay 40 at a prescribed height from the placement surface 28. The securing tool 46 is provided with a cam 62 rotating about a shaft 61. The cam 62 is configured to be freely switchable, due to the rotation about the shaft 61, between a state of generating a load with which the seedling stay 40 can be secured and a state of not generating said load.

Description

How to fix the transplanter and seedling stays

[0001] The present invention relates to a transplanter and a method for fixing seedling stays.

[0002] For example, as shown in Patent Document 1, a transplanter is known that includes a seedling tray with a seedling placement section for placing seedlings and a seedling stay that prevents the seedlings placed on the seedling placement section from floating up. The planting device further includes a post that supports the seedling stay from the seedling tray and a fixture that secures the seedling stay to the post. The height of the seedling stay from the seedling placement section on the seedling placement section can be adjusted by adjusting the fixing position of the fixture relative to the post.

[0003] (Regarding the conventional fixture) Figure 14 is a perspective view from above showing a conventional fixture. Figure 15 is a perspective view from below showing a conventional fixture. Figure 16 is a perspective view showing how a conventional fixture supports seedling stays. Figures 14 to 16 show a conventional fixture, namely fixture 100. As shown in Figures 14 to 16, conventional fixture 100 has a box-shaped case 110 with five sides. Case 110 has a first side plate 111, a second side plate 112, a third side plate 113, and a fourth side plate 114, as well as a top plate 115. The first side plate 111 and the second side plate 112 are parallel to each other, and the third side plate 113 and the fourth side plate 114 are parallel to each other. The top plate 115 is disposed perpendicular to each of the side plates 111 to 114.

[0004] The fixture 100 has holes (locking portions) 116 in the first side plate 111 and the second side plate 112, respectively, for inserting and locking the first member 41 of the seedling stay 40. The fixture 100 has holes (guiding portions) 117 in the third side plate 113 and the fourth side plate 114, for inserting and guiding the pillar 44. The holes 117 are rectangular holes slightly larger than the outer dimensions of the prismatic pillar 44.

[0005] The fixture 100 has a female thread 118 formed in the top plate 115, and a butterfly bolt 120 is threaded into the female thread 118. The fixture 100 secures the case 110 to the pillar 44 by tightening the butterfly bolt 120 against the pillar 44. The butterfly bolt 120 has a gripping portion 121 that a user holds when tightening or loosening the butterfly bolt 120. The fixture 100 can lock the seedling stay 40 in the hole 116. Furthermore, the fixture 100 can adjust the distance of the hole 116 from the mounting surface 28 by loosening the butterfly bolt 120 and sliding it along the pillar 44 inserted into the hole 117, and then tightening the butterfly bolt 120 to adjust the height of the seedling stay 40 from the mounting surface 28.

[0006] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-159679

[0007] In conventional transplanters, seedling stays are typically secured to the seedling tray using multiple fasteners. Conventional fasteners (see, for example, Figures 14 to 16 ) can sometimes cause the female threads and butterfly bolts to become stuck due to rust or the accumulation of mud between them. In conventional transplanters, adjusting the height of the seedling stays requires loosening the butterfly bolts, which can be quite labor-intensive. Furthermore, some users prefer to frequently adjust the height of the seedling stays to suit the conditions of the field, the type of seedlings, and other factors. These users desire an easier way to adjust the height of the seedling stays.

[0008] The present disclosure aims to reduce the effort required to adjust the height of seedling stays.

[0009] The transplanter disclosed herein is a transplanter equipped with a seedling loading table, which comprises a seedling loading section having a seedling loading surface, a seedling stay that holds the seedlings on the loading surface toward the loading surface, and a fixing device that fixes the seedling stay at a predetermined height from the loading surface, and the fixing device has a cam that rotates around an axis, and the cam is configured to be able to freely switch between a state in which it generates a load that can fix the seedling stay by rotating around the axis, and a state in which the load is not generated.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, the effort required to adjust the height of the seedling stays can be reduced.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a left side view of a transplanter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a transplanter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a left side view of a planting device. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a seedling support table. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a seedling stay, a post, and a support plate assembled together. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a fixture in use. FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a fixture in use. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fixture in use. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fixture and its use. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a seedling stay secured to the first and second posts. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a seedling stay secured to the fourth and fifth posts. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a seedling stay supported by the first support plate. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a seedling stay supported by the fifth to ninth support plates. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a fixture according to a modified example. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a conventional fixture from above. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a conventional fixture from below. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a seedling stay secured by a conventional fixture.

[0012] <Outline of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure> The following is a summary of the embodiments of the present disclosure. (1) The transplanter of the present disclosure is a transplanter equipped with a seedling loading tray. The seedling loading tray includes a seedling loading section having a seedling loading surface, a seedling stay that holds the seedlings on the loading surface toward the loading surface, and a fixture that fixes the seedling stay at a predetermined height from the loading surface. The fixture includes a cam that rotates about an axis. The cam is configured to be able to switch between a state in which a load capable of fixing the seedling stay is generated and a state in which the load is not generated, by rotating about the axis.

[0013] With the transplanter having the above configuration, the cam of the fixing device can be rotated to switch between the fixed state and the released state of the seedling stays with a single touch. Therefore, the transplanter of the present disclosure can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stays.

[0014] (2) The transplanter according to the embodiment (1) above preferably includes a post attached to the seedling placement section, the seedling stays fixed to the post by the fixing device, the fixing device including a case having a locking portion for locking the seedling stay and a guide portion through which the post passes, and a pressing member for pressing the post inserted in the guide portion, and configured to be displaceable along the post inserted in the guide portion, the pressing member including a cam that rotates around an axis attached to the case, the cam having a rotation range around the axis including a first range in which the outer circumferential surface of the cam presses the post inserted in the guide portion and a second range in which the outer circumferential surface moves away from the post inserted in the guide portion. With this configuration, the seedling stays can be switched between a fixed state and a released state by simply rotating the cam of the fixing device within its rotation range. Therefore, the transplanter disclosed herein reduces the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stays.

[0015] (3) In the transplanter according to the embodiment (2), it is preferable that the fixing device further includes an elastic member disposed between the post inserted in the guide portion and the outer peripheral surface. The elastic member ensures that the pressing member keeps the seedling stay pressed. This ensures that the fixing device keeps the seedling stay fixed. Furthermore, the elastic member can reduce wear on the cam.

[0016] (4) In the transplanter according to the above (2) or (3), it is preferable that the elastic member includes a first portion fixed to the case and a second portion disposed between the post and the outer peripheral surface, the first portion being fixed to the outside of the case, and the second portion extending from the first portion to the inside of the case through an opening formed in the case. In a transplanter having such a configuration, by disposing the first portion outside the case, replacement of the elastic member in the fixing device can be facilitated.

[0017] (5) In the transplanters according to any one of (2) to (4), the pressing member preferably further includes a lever protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the cam. In the transplanter having the above configuration, the user can easily rotate the cam by operating the lever. Therefore, a transplanter having the above configuration of the fixing device can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stays.

[0018] (6) In the transplanter according to any one of (2) to (5), the portion of the outer peripheral surface that presses against the post when the cam is rotated through the first range preferably includes a first surface formed by a flat surface and a second surface formed by a curved surface. With a transplanter of this configuration, when the cam is rotated through the first range, the user can feel a change in the resistance when the position on the outer peripheral surface that presses against the post crosses the boundary between the second surface and the first surface. This allows the user to reliably perceive that the cam has been rotated into the first range. Furthermore, with a transplanter of this configuration, the first surface reliably maintains the cam rotated into the first range.

[0019] (7) In the transplanter according to the above aspect (6), it is preferable that the pressing member has a recess that engages with the case when the cam is rotated to a position where the first surface presses the post. By engaging the recess with the case, the transplanter of this configuration can make it difficult for the seedling stay to be released from its fixed state.

[0020] (8) In the transplanter according to any one of the above embodiments (1) to (7), the cam preferably includes a reinforcing rib. The reinforcing rib ensures the strength of the cam, which bears the load required to fix the seedling stays.

[0021] (9) The disclosed seedling stay fixing method is a method for fixing seedling stays in a transplanter equipped with a seedling tray. The seedling tray includes a seedling tray with a seedling placement surface, a seedling stay that presses the seedlings on the placement surface toward the placement surface, a post attached to the seedling placement surface, and a fixture that fixes the seedling stay to the post. The fixture includes a case having a locking portion that locks the seedling stay and a guide portion through which the post passes, and a pressing member that presses the post inserted through the guide portion, and is configured to be displaceable along the post inserted through the guide portion. The disclosed seedling stay fixing method includes a cam that rotates around an axis attached to the case in the pressing member. The method for fixing a seedling stay disclosed herein includes a step of locking the seedling stay in the locking portion of the case, and a step of rotating the cam to a first range in which the outer surface of the cam presses the pillar inserted into the guide portion, thereby fixing the case to the pillar.

[0022] According to the seedling stay fixing method of the above configuration, the seedling stay can be fixed by the fixing device with one touch by rotating the cam of the fixing device to the first range. Therefore, according to the seedling stay fixing method of the present disclosure, the labor required for adjusting the height of the seedling stay can be reduced.

[0023] (10) The seedling stay fixing method according to the above embodiment (9) preferably further includes a step of rotating the cam to a second range in which the outer peripheral surface is spaced apart from the post inserted in the guide section, thereby releasing the fixation of the case to the post. According to this seedling stay fixing method, by rotating the cam to the second range, the fixation of the seedling stay by the fixing device can be released with a single touch. Therefore, the seedling stay fixing method disclosed herein can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stay.

[0024] (11) In the seedling stay fixing method according to the above (9) or (10), it is preferable to dispose an elastic member between the post inserted in the guide portion and the outer peripheral surface. According to this seedling stay fixing method, the elastic member can reliably maintain the post pressed by the pressing member. This ensures that the seedling stay is fixed by the fixing device. Furthermore, according to the seedling stay fixing method, the elastic member can suppress cam wear.

[0025] <Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure> Hereinafter, the details of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that at least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[0026] (Overall configuration of transplanter) FIG. 1 is a left side view showing a transplanter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a transplanter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 1 and 2 show a transplanter 1, which is an embodiment of the transplanter of the present disclosure. The transplanter 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a body 10 and a planting device 20. Note that, in this embodiment, a transplanter 1 equipped with an eight-row planting type planting device 20 is exemplified, but the transplanter of the present disclosure is not limited by the number of rows that it can plant. Note that the transplanter of the present disclosure includes at least a rice transplanter and a vegetable seedling transplanter.

[0027] The machine body 10 includes a pair of front and rear wheels 11 and 12, a driver's seat 13, a link mechanism 14, a hydraulic cylinder 15, a hood 16, and a prime mover E. The prime mover E is housed inside the hood 16. The transplanter 1 shown in this embodiment is a ride-on transplanter. In the following description, the direction toward the front of the operator seated in the driver's seat 13 is referred to as the front of the transplanter 1, and the direction toward the rear is referred to as the rear. The fore-and-aft direction of the transplanter 1 is indicated by arrow X. In the following description, the direction toward the left of the operator seated in the driver's seat 13 is referred to as the left side of the transplanter 1, and the direction toward the right side is referred to as the right side of the transplanter 1. The left-to-right direction of the transplanter 1 is indicated by arrow Y. The left-to-right direction of the transplanter 1 is also referred to as the width direction. In the following description, the up-and-down direction of the transplanter 1 is indicated by arrow Z. The up-and-down direction of the transplanter 1 is also referred to as the height direction. The up-down direction of the transplanter 1 is perpendicular to the front-rear and left-right directions.

[0028] The machine body 10 is configured to be able to travel under the control of an operator seated in a driver's seat 13. The front wheels 11 and rear wheels 12 are driven to rotate by power generated by a prime mover E. The transplanter 1 may be configured to be remotely controlled or to travel autonomously without requiring an operator to be on board.

[0029] The link mechanism 14 supports the planting device 20 at the rear of the machine body 10 so that it can be displaced in the vertical direction. The transplanter 1 is equipped with a hydraulic pump (not shown) driven by power generated by a prime mover E. The hydraulic pump supplies hydraulic oil to a hydraulic cylinder 15. The hydraulic cylinder 15 expands and contracts by switching between supplying and discharging hydraulic oil using a control valve (not shown). The planting device 20 is displaced in the vertical direction in response to deformation of the link mechanism 14 caused by expansion and contraction of the hydraulic cylinder 15. The machine body 10 further includes an output shaft (PTO shaft) 17 that outputs the power generated by the prime mover E to the outside of the machine body 10.

[0030] The transplanter 1 further includes a fertilizer applicator 18 and a soil leveling device 19. The fertilizer applicator 18 is provided across the rear of the machine body 10 and the planting device 20. The fertilizer applicator 18 is a device that supplies fertilizer to the rice field surface G, and includes a hopper 18a, a feeder 18b, a blower 18c, etc. The soil leveling device 19 is a device that levels the rice field surface G that has been roughened by the movement of the transplanter 1, etc., and is provided below the planting device 20. The soil leveling device 19 includes a support case 19a and a soil leveling body 19b. When power is transmitted to the planting device 20, power is transmitted from the planting device 20 to the soil leveling device 19, causing the soil leveling body 19b to rotate and level the rice field surface G.

[0031] (Configuration of the planting device) Figure 3 is a left side view showing the planting device. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the seedling loading tray. The planting device 20 shown in Figure 3 is a device that removes seedlings to be planted in one location from a mat-like prepared seedlings (hereinafter referred to as a seedling mat) and plants them in the rice paddy surface G (see Figure 1). As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the planting device 20 comprises a transmission case 21, an input shaft 22, a rotating case 23, a float 24, and a seedling loading tray 25.

[0032] A plurality of transmission cases 21 (four in this embodiment) are provided at intervals in the left-right direction of the machine body 10. The front portions of the multiple transmission cases 21 are connected by a single input shaft 22, and the rotation of the input shaft 22 is transmitted to each transmission case 21. The input shaft 22 is connected to the output shaft 17 of the machine body 10. The input shaft 22 transmits the power generated by the prime mover E to the input shaft 22 via the output shaft 17. Each of the multiple transmission cases 21 has a transmission shaft 21a at its rear. The transmission shaft 21a is rotated by the power transmitted from the input shaft 22 to each transmission case 21. The rotating case 23 is supported by the transmission shaft 21a. The rotating case 23 is rotated in accordance with the rotation of the transmission shaft 21a. The rotating case 23 further includes a rotating shaft (not shown) that is rotated in accordance with the rotation of the transmission shaft 21a. The planting arm 23a is supported by the rotating shaft. The planting arm 23a is driven to rotate along a trajectory suitable for planting seedlings as the rotary shaft rotates. The number of rotations of the planting arm 23a is adjusted according to the traveling speed of the machine body 10.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the seedling placing tray 25 is a platform-like device configured to allow seedling mats to be placed thereon. The seedling placing tray 25 has multiple partition walls 26 arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction. The seedling placing tray 25 has multiple seedling placing sections 27 separated by the multiple partition walls 26. The seedling placing tray 25 of this embodiment is configured for planting eight rows of seedlings, and therefore has a total of eight seedling placing sections 27. Each seedling placing section 27 has enough space to place one row of seedling mat. The seedling placing section 27 has a placing surface 28 on which the seedling mats are placed. The placing surface 28 has a downward slope from the front to the rear.

[0034] In the following explanation, the total of eight seedling placing sections 27 will be referred to as the first to eighth seedling placing sections 27, starting from the right, with the first seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the first seedling placing section 27a, the second seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the second seedling placing section 27b, the third seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the third seedling placing section 27c, the fourth seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the fourth seedling placing section 27d, the fifth seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the fifth seedling placing section 27e, the sixth seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the sixth seedling placing section 27f, the seventh seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the seventh seedling placing section 27g, and the eighth seedling placing section 27 being referred to as the eighth seedling placing section 27h.

[0035] The planting device 20 further includes a seedling feeding device 30 at each seedling placing section 27. The seedling feeding device 30 feeds the seedling mat placed on the placing surface 28 of each seedling placing section 27 downward and backward by a predetermined distance when the seedling placing table 25 reaches the extreme positions (right and left ends) in the left-right feeding direction. The seedling feeding device 30 includes a seedling feeding belt 31. The seedling feeding belt 31 is an endless rubber belt. When the seedling placing table 25 reaches the extreme positions (right and left ends) in the left-right feeding direction, the seedling feeding device 30 rotates the seedling feeding belt 31 in the circumferential direction by a predetermined distance. At this time, the seedling mat placed on the placing surface 28 of each seedling placing section 27 is fed downward and backward. At this time, the bottom of the seedling mat is positioned at the seedling removal opening 29 provided at the bottom of the seedling placing section 27. This allows the seedling mat to be in a state where the seedlings to be planted in one location can be taken out from the seedling take-out opening 29.

[0036] The planting device 20 uses the planting arm 23a to take out seedlings to be planted in one place from the part of the seedling mat arranged at the seedling take-out port 29 and plant them in the rice field G.

[0037] (Seedling Stay Configuration) Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the seedling stay, posts, and support plate assembled together. As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the planting device 20 further includes a seedling stay 40. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the seedling stay 40 is positioned on the seedling placement table 25's placement surface 28 side. The seedling stay 40 presses the middle portions of the seedling mat placed on the seedling placement table 25 in the up-down and front-to-back directions toward the placement surface 28, preventing the seedling mat from bending and bulging away from the placement surface 28 (the "floating" phenomenon). The seedling stay 40 also prevents the seedling mat from shifting left and right when the seedling placement table 25 is displaced left and right.

[0038] 3 to 5, the seedling stay 40 is formed by combining a first member 41, a second member 42, and a third member 43. The first member 41, the second member 42, and the third member 43 are all formed from round metal bars (stainless steel in this embodiment).

[0039] The first member 41 and the second member 42 are both provided to extend linearly along the left-right direction of the aircraft body 10. The first member 41 and the second member 42 are disposed in a position in which they are parallel to each other.

[0040] The third member 43 has a shape in which a straight round bar material is bent midway along its length. The third member 43 includes a first portion 43a extending along the feed direction of the seedling mat in the seedling placement section 27, a second portion 43b extending from the upper end of the first portion 43a toward the first member 41, and a third portion 43c extending from the lower end of the first portion 43a toward the second member 42. The third member 43 is bent at the boundary between the first portion 43a and the second portion 43b and at the boundary between the first portion 43a and the third portion 43c. The end of the second portion 43b facing the first member 41 is fixed to the first member 41. The second portion 43b is perpendicular to the first member 41. The end of the third portion 43c facing the second member is fixed to the second member 42. The third portion 43c is perpendicular to the second member 42.

[0041] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in the transplanter 1 of the present disclosure, the seedling stays 40 are composed of a first seedling stay 40 (hereinafter referred to as the first seedling stay 401), a second seedling stay 40 (hereinafter referred to as the second seedling stay 402), a third seedling stay 40 (hereinafter referred to as the third seedling stay 403), and a fourth seedling stay 40 (hereinafter referred to as the fourth seedling stay 404).

[0042] The first seedling stay 401 is disposed on the first seedling placing section 27a and holds down the seedling mat placed on the placing surface 28 of the first seedling placing section 27a. The first seedling stay 401 has three third members 43 that face the placing surface 28 of the first seedling placing section 27a.

[0043] The second seedling stays 402 are arranged in the range of the second seedling placing section 27b to the fourth seedling placing section 27d and hold down the seedling mats placed on each of the seedling placing sections 27b to 27d. The second seedling stays 402 have three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the second seedling placing section 27b, three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the third seedling placing section 27c, and three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the fourth seedling placing section 27d. The second seedling stays 402 are composed of one first member 41, one second member 42, and a total of nine third members 43.

[0044] The third seedling stay 403 is arranged in the range of the fifth seedling placing section 27e to the seventh seedling placing section 27g and holds down the seedling mats placed on each of the seedling placing sections 27e to 27g. The third seedling stay 403 has three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the fifth seedling placing section 27e, three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the sixth seedling placing section 27f, and three third members 43 facing the placing surface 28 of the seventh seedling placing section 27g. The third seedling stay 403 is composed of one first member 41, one second member 42, and a total of nine third members 43.

[0045] The fourth seedling stay 404 is disposed on the eighth seedling placing section 27h and holds down the seedling mat placed on the placing surface 28 of the eighth seedling placing section 27h. The fourth seedling stay 404 has three third members 43 that face the placing surface 28 of the eighth seedling placing section 27h.

[0046] (Configuration of seedling holding rod) As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the planting device 20 further includes a seedling holding rod 49. The seedling holding rod 49 is made of a metal (stainless steel in this embodiment) round bar. The seedling holding rod 49 is arranged on the seedling placing surface 28 side of the seedling placing table 25. The seedling holding rod 49 is arranged at the rearmost and lowest part of the seedling placing table 25. The seedling holding rod 49 holds down the lower end of the seedling mat placed on the seedling placing table 25. The seedling holding rod 49 includes a first rod 49a extending in the left-right direction to the range of the first seedling placing section 27a to the seventh seedling placing section 27g, and a second rod 49b extending in the left-right direction to the range of the eighth seedling placing section 27h.

[0047] In this embodiment, from the viewpoint of the loading capacity of the transplanter 1 on a truck or the like, the planting device 20 is exemplified as being configured so that the eighth seedling placing section 27h can be folded and stored toward the first seedling placing section 27a to the seventh seedling placing section 27g. However, the configuration of the planting device possessed by the transplanter 1 of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the planting device may be of a type with less than eight rows of planting, and a specific seedling placing section 27 may not be foldable.

[0048] (Supporting Structure of Seedling Stays) As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the seedling-carrying table 25 further includes a pillar 44, a support plate 45, and a fixing member 46.

[0049] The pillar 44 is made of a metal square bar (rectangular pillar) and is provided in the seedling placement section 27. The pillar 44 is provided on the end face of the partition wall 26 at the midpoint in the vertical direction, extending linearly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the placement surface 28. The pillar 44 supports the first member 41 located on the upper end side of the seedling stay 40.

[0050] The support plate 45 is made of a metal plate and is provided in the seedling placement section 27. The support plate 45 is provided on the end face of the lower end of the partition wall 26, with its own surface (front and back) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the placement surface 28. It supports the second member 42 located on the lower end side of the seedling stay 40.

[0051] The seedling stay 40 has both left and right ends of the first member 41 fixed to the posts 44 by fasteners 46. The seedling stay 40 has both left and right ends of the second member 42 supported by support plates 45. As a result, the third member 43 of the seedling stay 40 extends along the feed direction of the seedling mat in the seedling placing section 27 and is positioned at a distance from the placing surface 28.

[0052] (Configuration of Fixing Device) Figures 6A, 6B, and 7 are perspective views showing the fixing device in use. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the fixing device and its state of use. Figures 6A, 6B, 7, and 8 show the fixing device 46 provided in the transplanter 1 of the present disclosure. As shown in Figures 6A, 6B, 7, and 8, the fixing device 46 includes a case 50 and a pressing member 60. For ease of explanation, Figures 6B and 7 omit the illustration of the elastic member 70, which will be described later.

[0053] The case 50 is a box-shaped member having five sides. The case 50 has a first side plate 51, a second side plate 52, a third side plate 53, a fourth side plate 54, and a top plate 55. The first side plate 51 and the second side plate 52 are parallel to each other, and the third side plate 53 and the fourth side plate 54 are parallel to each other. The top plate 55 is disposed perpendicular to each of the side plates 51 to 54.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 7 , the case 50 includes a first side plate 51 and a second side plate 52 each having a locking portion 56, which is a hole into which the first member 41 of the seedling stay 40 can be inserted. The locking portion 56 includes a first portion 56a having a circular hole slightly larger than the outer diameter of the first member 41, and a second portion 56b formed by expanding a portion of the hole in the first portion 56a radially outward. The second portion 56b is a portion through which the protrusion 48 formed on the end of the first member 41 passes when the first member 41 is inserted into the locking portion 56. The two first portions 56a formed on the first side plate 51 and the second side plate 52 are arranged coaxially. After the first member 41 is inserted into the case 50 while the protrusion 48 passes through the second portion 56b, the seedling stay 40 is rotated around the axis of the first member 41. The protrusion 48 of the first member 41 functions as a stopper to prevent the first member 41 from slipping out of the locking portion 56. In this way, the first member 41 is locked by the locking portion 56. As a result, the seedling stay 40 is locked to the case 50 at the first portion 41.

[0055] 6A, 6B, 7, and 8, the case 50 has guide portions 57, which are holes for inserting the pillars 44, on the third side plate 53 and the fourth side plate 54. The guide portions 57 are rectangular holes that are slightly larger than the outer dimensions of the prismatic pillars 44. The two opposing guide portions 57 are arranged coaxially.

[0056] The pressing member 60 is a member that presses the column 44 inserted through the guide portion 57. The pressing member 60 includes a shaft 61, a cam 62, and a lever 63. The shaft 61 is provided in the case 50, passing through the first side plate 51 and the second side plate 52. The cam 62 has a shaft hole 62a. The cam 62 is supported so as to be rotatable around the shaft 61 by inserting the shaft 61 into the shaft hole 62a. The lever 63 is a portion that is gripped when the user rotates the cam 62.

[0057] As shown in Figure 8, the cam 62 and the lever 63 are configured to be rotatable within a rotation range R about a shaft 61 provided on the case 50. In this description, the rotation range R is defined based on a line L connecting an axial center position C of the shaft 61 and a shoulder S of the lever 63 in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft 61. The rotation range R is the range between a position P1 on the line L when the lever 63 is rotated to one side (see the upper diagram in Figure 8) and abuts against the fourth side plate 54, and a position P2 on the line L when the lever 63 is rotated to the other side (see the lower diagram in Figure 8) and abuts against the third side plate 53.

[0058] As shown in Figures 6A, 6B, 7, and 8, the case 50 has cutout portions 59 formed in the top plate 55, the third side plate 53, and the fourth side plate 54. The cutout portions 59 are cutout portions that correspond to the ranges through which the lever 63 passes when the cam 62 rotates within its rotation range R. Position P1 on the line L is the position at which the lever 63 rotates to one side (see the upper diagram in Figure 8) and abuts against one end of the cutout portion 59 in the front-to-rear direction (the fourth side plate 54). Position P2 on the line L is the position at which the lever 63 rotates to the other side (see the lower diagram in Figure 8) and abuts against the other end of the cutout portion 59 in the front-to-rear direction (the third side plate 53).

[0059] 8, the cam 62 has an outer peripheral surface 64. The outer peripheral surface 64 is a portion of the cam 62 that can press the post 44 inserted into the guide portion 57. The outer peripheral surface 64 has a shape in which the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 changes depending on the position around the shaft 61.

[0060] The outer peripheral surface 64 includes a portion where the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 is greater than the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 to the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57, and a portion where the distance is smaller than the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 to the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57. The portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 where the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 is greater than the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 to the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57 can press the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57. The portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 where the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 is smaller than the distance from the axis C of the shaft 61 to the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57 is separated from the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57 (cannot press the post 44).

[0061] When the pressing member 60 is rotated to a position where the straight line L is in the first range R1, the cam 62 can press the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57 with the outer peripheral surface 64. When the pressing member 60 is rotated to a position where the straight line L is in the second range R2, the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 moves away from the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57 (does not press the post 44). In other words, as shown in FIG. 8 , the rotation range R includes a first range R1 in which the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 presses the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57, and a second range R2 in which the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 moves away from the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57. Note that the pressing force applied by the cam 62 to the post 44 is greatest when the post 44 is pressed at a portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 that is farthest from the axis C of the shaft 61.

[0062] 8, in the fixing device 46, the portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 that presses against the pillar 44 when the cam 62 is rotated through the first range R1 includes a first surface 64a that is flat and a second surface 64b that is curved. In addition, in the fixing device 46, the portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 that moves away from the pillar 44 when the cam 62 is rotated through the second range R2 includes a third surface 64c that is curved.

[0063] As the cam 62 rotates from the second range R2 toward the first range R1, the position at which the outer peripheral surface 64 presses against the column 44 shifts from the third surface 64c and the second surface 64b to the first surface 64a. The flat first surface 64a of the cam 62 (lever 63) provides the user with a change in tactile feedback. This allows the user to reliably perceive that the cam 62 has rotated into the first range R1. Furthermore, in this case, the flat first surface 64a contacts the elastic member 70, ensuring that the cam 62 remains rotated into the first range R1 even when the user releases the lever 63. It is more preferable that the distance from the center C of the shaft 61 to the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 be greatest at the boundary between the first surface 64a and the second surface 64b.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 8 , the pressing member 60 further includes a recess 66. The recess 66 is a substantially circular depression. The recess 66 is formed in a portion of the lever 63. When the cam 62 (lever 63) is rotated to a position where the first surface 64a contacts the elastic member 70, the recess 66 engages with the case 50 (the upper end of the fourth side plate 54 at the notch 59). By engaging the recess 66 with the case 50, the pressing member 60 is reliably maintained in the rotated state in the first range R1 even when the user releases the lever 63. This makes it difficult for the seedling stay 40 to be released from its locked state. The recess 66 may also be configured to engage with the shaft 73 via the elastic member 70 rather than the case 50. In this case, friction between the pressing member 60 and the elastic member 70 makes it even more difficult for the seedling stay 40 to be released from its locked state.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 8, the pressing member 60 further includes a lightening portion 67. The lightening portion 67 is a portion obtained by hollowing out an intermediate portion of the pressing member 60 in the thickness direction. The provision of the lightening portion 67 reduces the weight of the pressing member 60. This allows the weight of the fixing device 46 to be reduced.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 8 , the pressing member 60 further includes a reinforcing rib 68. The reinforcing rib 68 reinforces the cam 62 and the lever 63 of the pressing member 60. In this embodiment, the reinforcing rib 68 is provided in a thicknesswise intermediate portion of the pressing member 60, dividing the recessed portion 67 into multiple spaces. By providing the reinforcing rib 68, the pressing member 60 can suppress a decrease in strength due to the provision of the recessed portion 67. Furthermore, by providing the reinforcing rib 68, the pressing member 60 can ensure the strength of the cam 62, which bears a load to secure the seedling stay 40. Note that, in the pressing member 60 of this embodiment, the reinforcing rib 68 is provided in a thicknesswise intermediate portion, but may also be provided on an outer side surface of the pressing member 60.

[0067] (Regarding the Elastic Member) As shown in FIGS. 6A and 8 , the fixing device 46 further includes an elastic member 70. The elastic member 70 is an elastic member. In this embodiment, the elastic member 70 is made of rubber. The elastic member 70 is disposed between the post 44 inserted through the guide portion 57 and the outer peripheral surface 64. The elastic member 70 increases the frictional force between the post 44 and the outer peripheral surface 64 compared to when the post 44 and the outer peripheral surface 64 are in direct contact. Therefore, the elastic member 70 suppresses relative positional deviation between the outer peripheral surface 64 and the post 44. The elastic member 70 also prevents direct contact between the outer peripheral surface 64 and the post 44, thereby suppressing wear of the cam 62. The elastic member 70 may have an uneven surface or a special surface treatment applied to the surface in order to increase the frictional force at the portion in contact with the post 44.

[0068] The elastic member 70 includes a first portion 71 and a second portion 72. The first portion 71 is a portion for attaching the elastic member 70 itself to the case 50. In this embodiment, the first portion 71 is a cylindrical portion having an axial hole 71a. The second portion 72 is a portion disposed between the outer peripheral surface 64 and the pillar 44 inserted through the guide portion 57. In this embodiment, the second portion 72 is a sheet-like portion. The second portion 72 is provided by extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the first portion 71.

[0069] The case 50 further includes overhanging portions 51a, 52a (see FIG. 7) that extend the first side plate 51 and the second side plate 52 outward toward the fourth side plate 54. A first portion 71 of the elastic member 70 is attached to the outside of the case 50 by inserting a shaft 73 (see FIG. 7) fixed to the overhanging portions 51a, 52a into the shaft hole 71a. As shown in FIG. 8, the second member 72 is inserted into the inside of the case 50 from the first portion 71 fixed to the overhanging portions 51a, 52a through the opening 54a, and is disposed between the outer peripheral surface 64 and the pillar 44 inserted through the guide portion 57.

[0070] When the cam 62 rotates within the first range R1, the outer peripheral surface 64 presses against the post 44 via the elastic member 70 (second portion 72). When the cam 62 and the lever 63 rotate within the second range R2, the outer peripheral surface 64 is separated from the elastic member 70 (second portion 72). Note that when the cam 62 and the lever 63 rotate within the second range R2, the outer peripheral surface 64 does not need to actively press against the elastic member 70, and may be in contact with the elastic member 70.

[0071] (Regarding the fixation of seedling stays by fixing devices) Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the fixation state of seedling stays on the first and second posts. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the fixation state of seedling stays on the fourth and fifth posts. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the support state of seedling stays by the first support plate. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the support state of seedling stays by the fifth to ninth support plates. As shown in Figures 5 and 9 to 12, the planting device 20 of this embodiment supports seedling stays 40 using fixing devices 46, five posts 44, and nine support plates 45.

[0072] In the following description, the five pillars 44 are referred to as the first through fifth pillars 44, starting from the right. The first pillar 44 is referred to as the first pillar 44a, the second pillar 44 is referred to as the second pillar 44b, the third pillar 44 is referred to as the third pillar 44c, the fourth pillar 44 is referred to as the fourth pillar 44d, and the fifth pillar 44 is referred to as the fifth pillar 44e. Each of the first through fifth pillars 44a through 44e is inserted into the guide portion 57 of each fixture 46. Each of the pillars 44a through 44e supports the fixture 46 so that it can be displaced along its length. The seedling stay 40 can change the distance from the mounting surface 28 of the first member 41 by changing the position of the fixture 46 along the length of the pillars 44. In this description, the distance from the mounting surface 28 of the first member 41 is also referred to as the "height of the seedling stay 40."

[0073] In addition, in the following description, the total of nine support plates 45 will be distinguished by being referred to as the first to ninth support plates 45 in order from the right, with the first support plate 45 being referred to as the first support plate 45a, the second support plate 45 being referred to as the second support plate 45b, the third support plate 45 being referred to as the third support plate 45c, the fourth support plate 45 being referred to as the fourth support plate 45d, the fifth support plate 45 being referred to as the fifth support plate 45e, the sixth support plate 45 being referred to as the sixth support plate 45f, the seventh support plate 45 being referred to as the seventh support plate 45g, the eighth support plate 45 being referred to as the eighth support plate 45h, and the ninth support plate 45 being referred to as the ninth support plate 45k.

[0074] As shown in Figures 5 and 9, in the first seedling stay 401, the first member 41 is fixed to the first pillar 44a and the second pillar 44b by fasteners 46. As shown in Figures 5 and 11, in the first seedling stay 401, the second member 42 is supported by the first support plate 45a and the second support plate 45b. With this configuration, the first seedling stay 401 is provided on the first seedling placement section 27a.

[0075] As shown in Figures 5 and 9, in the second seedling stay 402, the first member 41 is fixed to the second pillar 44b and the third pillar 44c by fasteners 46. As shown in Figure 5, in the second seedling stay 402, the second member 42 is supported by the second support plate 45b, the third support plate 45c, the fourth support plate 45d, and the fifth support plate 45e. With this configuration, the second seedling stay 402 is disposed between the second seedling placing section 27b to the fourth seedling placing section 27d.

[0076] As shown in Figures 5 and 10, in the third seedling stay 403, the first member 41 is fixed to the third pillar 44c and the fourth pillar 44d by fasteners 46. As shown in Figures 5 and 12, in the third seedling stay 403, the second member 42 is supported by the fifth support plate 45e, the sixth support plate 45f, the seventh support plate 45g, and the eighth support plate 45h. With this configuration, the third seedling stay 403 is disposed between the fifth seedling placement section 27e to the seventh seedling placement section 27g.

[0077] As shown in Figures 5 and 10, in the fourth seedling stay 404, the first member 41 is fixed to the fourth pillar 44d and the fifth pillar 44e by fasteners 46. As shown in Figures 5 and 12, in the fourth seedling stay 404, the second member 42 is supported by the eighth support plate 45h and the ninth support plate 45k. With this configuration, the fourth seedling stay 404 is provided on the eighth seedling placement section 27h.

[0078] 10, the fourth pillar 44d includes an upper fourth pillar 44d1 and a lower fourth pillar 44d2. The upper fourth pillar 44d1 is fixed to the left end of the first member 41 of the third seedling stay 403. The lower fourth pillar 44d2 is fixed to the right end of the first member 41 of the fourth seedling stay 404.

[0079] 5, the second support plate 45b includes a second support plate 45b1 located on the right side and a second support plate 45b2 located on the left side. The second support plate 45b1 on the right side supports the left end of the second member 42 of the first seedling stay 401. The second support plate 45b2 on the left side supports the right end of the second member 42 of the second seedling stay 402.

[0080] 5 and 12, the fifth support plate 45e includes a fifth support plate 45e1 located on the right side and a fifth support plate 45e2 located on the left side. The fifth support plate 45e1 on the right side supports the left end of the second member 42 of the second seedling stay 402. The fifth support plate 45e2 on the left side supports the right end of the second member 42 of the third seedling stay 403.

[0081] The eighth support plate 45h includes an eighth support plate 45h1 located on the right side and an eighth support plate 45h2 located on the left side. The right eighth support plate 45h1 supports the left end of the second member 42 of the third seedling stay 403. The left eighth support plate 45h2 supports the right end of the second member 42 of the fourth seedling stay 404.

[0082] Each support plate 45 has a comb-like shape with multiple recesses 45p. Each recess 45p is located at a different position in the front-to-back and up-to-down directions. By changing the recess 45p into which each second member 42 is inserted, the seedling stay 40 can change the distance between the second member 42 and the mounting surface 28.

[0083] (Support Structure of Seedling Holding Rods) The support plates 45 further support the seedling holding rods 49. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the seedling holding rods 49 are inserted through coaxial through-holes 45q provided in each support plate 45. The support plates 45 are provided with multiple through-holes 45q at different positions in the front-to-rear and up-down directions. By selecting through-holes 45q at different positions, the distance of the seedling holding rods 49 from the mounting surface 28 can be changed. In the seedling holding rods 49 shown in this embodiment, the first rod 49a is coaxially inserted through each of the through-holes 45q between the first support plate 45a and the eighth support plate 45h on the right side (45h1), and the second rod 49b is coaxially inserted through each of the through-holes 45q between the eighth support plate 45h on the left side (45h2) and the ninth support plate 45k.

[0084] (Method of fixing seedling stays using a fixing device) The fixing device 46 shown in Fig. 8 can adjust the distance between the locking portion 56 and the mounting surface 28 by sliding the case 50 along the pillar 44 with the cam 62 (lever 63) rotated to the second range R2 (see Fig. 8). This makes it possible to adjust the distance between the first member 41 locked at the locking portion 56 and the mounting surface 28 (the height of the seedling stay 40). After completing the adjustment of the height of the seedling stay 40, the fixing device 46 can fix the seedling stay 40 to the pillar 44 via the fixing device 46 by rotating the cam 62 (lever 63) from the second range R2 to the first range R1 (see Fig. 8).

[0085] The fixing device 46 can release the fixation of the seedling stay 40 to the pillar 44 by rotating the cam 62 (lever 63) that has been rotated to the first range R1 to the second range R2.

[0086] In the fixing device 46, the cam 62 and lever 63 are less likely to become stuck due to rust or the adhesion of mud. Furthermore, the fixing device 46 can fix and release the seedling stay 40 to the post 44 with a single touch by rotating the cam 62 and lever 63. Therefore, the planting device 20 equipped with the fixing device 46 can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stay 40. Furthermore, the planting device 20 equipped with the fixing device 46 makes it easy to adjust the height of the seedling stay 40 to suit the condition of the field (rice field) and the characteristics of the seedlings, and can also reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the fixing device 46.

[0087] (Regarding Modified Fixtures) Figure 13 is a perspective view showing a connecting member according to a modified example. Figure 13 shows a fixed fixture 80, which is a modified example of the fixed fixture provided in the transplanter 1 of the present disclosure. The fixed fixture 80 shown in Figure 13 differs from the conventional fixed fixture 100 (see Figures 14 to 16) that uses a butterfly bolt 109 in that it uses a bolt 81. Note that the fixed fixture 80 has the same configuration as the conventional fixed fixture 100 except for the bolt 81, and includes a female thread 118 in a top plate 115 into which the bolt 81 is threaded.

[0088] The bolt 81 includes a gripping portion 82. The gripping portion 82 is the portion that the user grips when tightening or loosening the bolt 81 threaded into the female thread 118. The radial dimension L1 of the gripping portion 82 is larger than the radial dimension L2 of the gripping portion 121 of the butterfly bolt 109 (see FIGS. 14 to 16 ). This allows the user to tighten or loosen the bolt 81 with less force than the conventional butterfly bolt 109. Therefore, even if the bolt 81 is stuck due to rust or mud, the bolt 81 can be tightened or loosened with less force than the conventional butterfly bolt 109. Therefore, the transplanter 1 equipped with the planting device 20 including the fixture 80 reduces the labor required to adjust the position of the seedling stay 40. Furthermore, the transplanter 1 equipped with the planting device 20 including the fixture 80 facilitates the adjustment of the position of the seedling stay 40 to suit the condition of the field (rice field) and the characteristics of the seedlings.

[0089] <Functions and Effects of the Present Embodiment> (1) The transplanter 1 of the above embodiment includes a seedling loading tray 25. The seedling loading tray 25 includes a seedling loading section 27 having a seedling loading surface 28, a seedling stay 40 that holds the seedlings on the loading surface 28 toward the loading surface 28, and a fixture 46 that fixes the seedling stay 40 at a predetermined height from the loading surface 28. The fixture 46 includes a cam 62 that rotates about an axis 61. The cam 62 is configured to be switchable between a state in which it generates a load capable of fixing the seedling stay 40 and a state in which it does not generate the load, by rotating about the axis 61.

[0090] The transplanter 1 of this embodiment can switch between a fixed state and a released state of the seedling stay 40 by the fixing device 46 with a single touch by rotating the cam 62 of the fixing device 46. Therefore, the transplanter 1 of this embodiment can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stay 40.

[0091] (2) The transplanter 1 of the above embodiment includes a seedling loading table 25. The seedling loading table 25 includes a seedling loading section 27 having a seedling loading surface 28, seedling stays 40 that press the seedlings on the loading surface 28 toward the loading surface 28, posts 44 provided on the seedling loading section 27, and fixtures 46 that secure the seedling stays 40 to the posts 44. The fixtures 46 include a case 50 having a locking section 56 that locks the seedling stays 40 and a guide section 57 through which the posts 44 are inserted, and a pressing member 60 that presses the posts 44 inserted through the guide section 57, and is configured to be displaceable along the posts 44 inserted through the guide section 57. The pressing member 60 includes a cam 62 that rotates around a shaft 61 provided on the case 50. The rotation range R of the cam 62 around the axis 61 includes a first range R1 in which the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62 presses against the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57, and a second range R2 in which the outer peripheral surface 64 moves away from the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57. The transplanter 1 of this embodiment can switch between a fixed state of the seedling stay 40 by the fixture 46 and a released state with a single touch by rotating the cam 62 of the fixture 46 within the rotation range R. Therefore, the transplanter 1 of this embodiment can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stay 40.

[0092] (3) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the fixing device 46 further includes an elastic member 70 disposed between the post 44 inserted through the guide portion 57 and the outer peripheral surface 64. According to the transplanter 1 of this embodiment, the elastic member 70 can reliably maintain the pressing state of the seedling stay 40 by the pressing member 60. This ensures that the fixed state of the seedling stay 40 by the fixing device 46 can be maintained. Furthermore, according to the transplanter 1 of this embodiment, the elastic member 70 can suppress wear of the cam 62.

[0093] (4) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the elastic member 70 includes a first portion 71 fixed to the case 50 and a second portion 72 disposed between the pillar 44 and the outer peripheral surface 64. The first portion 71 is fixed to the protruding portions 51a, 52a located on the outside of the case 50. The second portion 72 extends from the first portion 71 to the inside of the case 50 through an opening 54a formed in the case 50. According to the transplanter 1 of this embodiment, by disposing the first portion 71 on the outside of the case 50, replacement of the elastic member 70 in the fixing device 46 can be facilitated.

[0094] (5) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the pressing member 60 further includes a lever 63 that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface 64 of the cam 62. In the transplanter 1 of this embodiment, the user can easily rotate the cam 62 by operating the lever 63. Therefore, the transplanter 1 of this embodiment can reduce the labor required to adjust the height of the seedling stays 40.

[0095] (6) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the portion of the outer peripheral surface 64 that presses against the post 44 when the cam 62 rotates through the first range R1 includes a first surface 64a formed by a flat surface and a second surface 64b formed by a curved surface. According to the transplanter 1 of this embodiment, when the cam 62 rotates through the first range R1, the user can feel a change in the force when the position on the outer peripheral surface 64 that presses against the post 44 crosses the boundary between the second surface 64b and the first surface 64a. This allows the user to reliably recognize that the cam 62 has rotated into the first range R1. Furthermore, according to the transplanter 1 configured in this manner, the first surface 64a reliably maintains the cam 62 rotated into the first range R1.

[0096] (7) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the pressing member 60 preferably has a recess 66 that engages with the case 50 when the cam 62 is rotated to a position where the first surface 64a presses against the post 44. With the transplanter 1 configured in this way, the recess 66 can be engaged with the case 50 to make it difficult for the seedling stay 40 to be released from its fixed state.

[0097] (8) In the transplanter 1 of the above embodiment, the cam 62 includes a reinforcing rib 68. According to the transplanter 1 configured in this manner, the reinforcing rib 68 ensures the strength of the cam 62, which is subjected to a load for fixing the seedling stay 40.

[0098] (9) The method for fixing the seedling stays 40 in the above embodiment is a method for fixing the seedling stays 40 in a transplanter 1 equipped with a seedling loading table 25. The seedling loading table 25 includes a seedling loading section 27 having a seedling loading surface 28, seedling stays 40 that press the seedlings on the loading surface 28 toward the loading surface 28, posts 44 provided on the seedling loading section 27, and a fastener 46 that fastens the seedling stays 40 to the posts 44. The fastener 46 includes a case 50 having a locking section 56 that locks the seedling stays 40 and a guide section 57 through which the post 44 is inserted, and a pressing member 60 that presses the post 44 inserted through the guide section 57, and is configured to be displaceable along the post 44 inserted through the guide section 57. The method for fixing the seedling stay 40 in this embodiment includes the steps of providing a cam 62 in the pressing member 60 that rotates around an axis 61 provided in the case 50 and locking the seedling stay 40 at the locking portion 56 of the case 50, and rotating the cam 62 to a first range R1 in which the outer surface 64 of the cam 62 presses the pillar 44 inserted into the guide portion 57, thereby fixing the case 50 to the pillar 44.

[0099] According to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 of this embodiment, the fixing device 46 can fix the seedling stay 40 with a single touch by rotating the cam 62 of the fixing device 46 to the first range R1. Therefore, according to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 of this embodiment, the labor required for adjusting the height of the seedling stay 40 can be reduced.

[0100] (10) The method for fixing the seedling stay 40 in the above embodiment further includes a step of rotating the cam 62 to the second range R2 in which the outer peripheral surface 64 is spaced apart from the post 44 inserted in the guide portion 57, thereby releasing the fixation of the case 50 to the post 44. According to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 in this embodiment, by rotating the cam 62 to the second range R2, the fixation of the seedling stay 40 by the fixing device 46 can be released with a single touch. Therefore, according to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 in this embodiment, the labor required for adjusting the height of the seedling stay 40 can be reduced.

[0101] (11) In the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 of the above embodiment, an elastic member 70 is disposed between the post 44 inserted into the guide portion 57 and the outer peripheral surface 64. According to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 of this embodiment, the elastic member 70 can reliably maintain the pressing state of the post 44 by the pressing member 60. This ensures that the fixed state of the seedling stay 40 by the fixing device 46 can be reliably maintained. Furthermore, according to the method for fixing the seedling stay 40 of this embodiment, the elastic member 70 can suppress wear of the cam 62.

[0102] The above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the above-described embodiments, and includes all modifications within the scope equivalent to the configurations described in the claims.

[0103] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Transplanter 25 Seedling loading platform 27 Seedling loading section 28 Loading surface 40 Seedling stay 44 Pillar 46 Fixing device 50 Case 54a Opening 56 Locking section 57 Guide section 60 Pressing member 61 Shaft 62 Cam 63 Lever 64 Outer circumferential surface 64a First surface (first surface) 64b Second surface (second surface) 66 Recess 68 Reinforcing rib 70 Elastic member 71 First portion 72 Second portion R Rotation range (of cam) R1 First range R2 Second range

Claims

1. A transplanter equipped with a seedling mounting table, the seedling mounting table comprising: a seedling mounting section having a seedling mounting surface, a seedling stay for holding the seedlings on the mounting surface toward the mounting surface, and a fixing device for fixing the seedling stay at a predetermined height from the mounting surface, the fixing device comprising a cam that rotates about an axis, the cam being configured to be freely switchable between a state in which a load capable of fixing the seedling stay is generated and a state in which the load is not generated by rotating about the axis.

2. A transplanter as described in claim 1, wherein the seedling support comprises a pillar provided in the seedling placement section, the seedling stay being fixed to the pillar by the fixing device, the fixing device including a case having a locking section for locking the seedling stay and a guide section through which the pillar is inserted, and a pressing member for pressing the pillar inserted in the guide section, and is configured to be displaceable along the pillar inserted in the guide section, the pressing member including the cam that rotates around an axis provided in the case, and the rotation range of the cam around the axis includes a first range in which the outer peripheral surface of the cam presses the pillar inserted in the guide section, and a second range in which the outer peripheral surface is separated from the pillar inserted in the guide section.

3. The transplanter according to claim 2, wherein the fixing device further comprises an elastic member disposed between the pillar inserted into the guide portion and the outer circumferential surface.

4. A transplanter as described in claim 3, wherein the elastic member includes a first portion fixed to the case and a second portion disposed between the pillar and the outer peripheral surface, the first portion being fixed to the outside of the case, and the second portion being provided extending from the first portion to the inside of the case through an opening formed in the case.

5. A transplanter as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein said pressing member further comprises a lever protruding from the outer peripheral surface of said cam.

6. A transplanter as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the portion of the outer circumferential surface which presses against the pillar when the cam is rotated within the first range includes a first surface constituted by a flat surface and a second surface constituted by a curved surface.

7. A transplanter as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein said pressing member has a recess which engages with said case when said cam is rotated to a position where said first surface presses against said post.

8. A transfer machine as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cam includes a reinforcing rib.

9. A method for fixing seedling stays in a transplanter equipped with a seedling carrying table, the seedling carrying table comprising: a seedling carrying section having a seedling carrying surface; a seedling stay for pressing the seedlings on the carrying surface towards the carrying surface; a pillar provided on the seedling carrying section; and a fixing device for fixing the seedling stay to the pillar, the fixing device including a case having a locking section for locking the seedling stay and a guide section through which the pillar is inserted, and a pressing member for pressing the pillar inserted into the guide section, and configured to be displaceable along the pillar inserted into the guide section, the pressing member including a cam that rotates around an axis provided on the case, the method comprising the steps of: locking the seedling stay at the locking section of the case; and rotating the cam into a first range in which the pillar inserted into the guide section is pressed by the outer circumferential surface of the cam, thereby fixing the case to the pillar.

10. A method for fixing a seedling stay as described in claim 9, further comprising a step of rotating the cam to a second range in which the outer peripheral surface is spaced away from the pillar inserted in the guide portion, thereby releasing the fixation of the case to the pillar.

11. A method for fixing a seedling stay as described in claim 9 or 10, wherein an elastic member is disposed between the post inserted into the guide portion and the outer peripheral surface.

Images