Apparatus and related method for tillage / cultivation operations

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus and related method for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation. In one embodiment, an apparatus (5) for coupling with a tyne shank or bar (14) of a tyne or cultivator assembly arranged to be drawn or towable in a direction of travel for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation is disclosed. In one form, the apparatus (5) is arranged for driving movement of a ground engaging element (10) for use in the tillage or ground cultivation operation. The apparatus (5) comprises an actuator assembly (X) arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis (X) of the apparatus. The actuator assembly (506) may comprise a housing (520) having an open end (525), a movable member (550) operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis (X) between a first position in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing's open end. The actuator assembly (506) may further comprise a first chamber (560A) arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber (560B) radially spaced from the first chamber region, and arranged operable between the movable member (550) and the housing (520). The actuator assembly (506) may be configured so that movement of the movable member (550) toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber (560A) under pressure, and movement of the movable member (550) toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber (560B) being caused to expand same upon removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS AND RELATED METHOD FOR TILLAGE / CULTIVATION OPERATIONS

[0002] Field

[0003] This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus and related method for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0004] Related applications

[0005] The present applications claims the benefit of Australian provisional patent application No. 2024900403 filed on 19 February 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0006] Background

[0007] Australian farmers have universally adopted conservation agriculture (CA) systems which, although environmentally sustainable and highly productive, are largely reliant on herbicidal weed control. This reliance has resulted in the increase of herbicide resistant populations of small seeded weed species, such as (for example) fleabane, feathertop Rhodes grass, barnyard grass and sow-thistle, that proliferate crop and fallow phases, and are considered to cost producers more than $100M annually.

[0008] There are now very high frequencies of glyphosate resistance in fleabane (-95%), Feathertop Rhodes grass (-68%), barnyard grass (-36%) and sowthistle (-14%) populations that are considered to have increased costs of control by -$55 / ha / yr. These resistant species can survive early season herbicide treatments and may, regardless of further treatments, progress to reproductive development and maturity. Small seeded weed species such as fleabane, Feathertop Rhodes grass and sow-thistle are prolific seed producers, and even low densities (<1 .0 plant m2) of maturing plants can establish and sustain large and persistent seed banks. Thus, the in-crop survival of these plants is a significant threat to Australia’s food security.

[0009] Tillage is highly effective in controlling problematic weed species and is used to address herbicide resistant populations. However, in these instances entire paddocks are cultivated which jeopardises the sustainability and productivity of highly effective CA systems. Accordingly, improvements to existing tillage technologies in addressing weed removal while maintaining compatibility with accepted / evolving CA farming principles are routinely sought.

[0010] Summary

[0011] In a first aspect, an embodiment provides an apparatus for use with a tyne assembly or other like support assembly used in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in alignment with an axis, a ground engaging element configured so as to be driven in accordance with or along the axis by the actuator assembly, wherein, the apparatus is configured so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable so as to drive the ground engaging element by way of the actuator assembly from a non-ground engaging state toward a ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby.

[0012] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the ground engaging element from the non-ground engaging state toward a ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, then moving the ground engaging element to a state or condition in which the ground engaging element is clear of engagement with the ground.

[0013] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that operating the ground engaging element to said state or condition in which the ground engaging element is clear of the ground places or resets the ground engaging element to a standby state or condition ready awaiting another operation to the ground engaging state on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground

[0014] In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that the ground engaging element is selectively operable by way of the actuator assembly from the non-ground engaging state in which the ground engaging element is clear or free from engagement with the ground (e.g., in a ‘standby’ condition), toward the ground engaging state in which the ground engaging element engages with the ground so as to engage / work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, then back toward the non-ground engaging state. In this manner, the ground engaging element is able to remain in the non-ground engaging or standby condition above the ground in anticipation of being driven by the actuator assembly toward the ground engaging state on the identification of the target organic material (e.g., an identified unwanted organic matter such as a weed) or soil requiring excavation.

[0015] Accordingly, embodiments of the apparatus can be used for providing a means for active and targeted tillage of weed bearing ground. The selective or active nature of the operation of an embodiment of an apparatus consistent with the present disclosure seeks, in one sense, to reduce unnecessary damage to the ground / soil (e.g., soil / weed scatter / distribution, moisture loss, reduction in input energy, etc) during a tillage operation, as compared to conventional tillage strategies. In this manner, considerations of prospective damage to the ground / soil help inform the strategy used in a tillage operation. With at least the above in mind, the skilled reader will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure could render conventional cultivator bars (with the modules set at the planted crop row spacing) as targeted / active mechanical weeder with correct spacing to integrate into the relevant systems / assemblies.

[0016] Embodiments of the above-described aspect, and those described below, may comprise any of the following features.

[0017] In an embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises a housing having an open end, and configured so as to be couplable with the tyne or other like support assembly.

[0018] In another embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises a movable body arranged to carry the ground engaging element, the movable body operably coupled with the housing so as to be selectively movable between a first condition in which the movable body is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second condition in which the movable body is an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end so as to enable the ground engaging element to engage with the ground during operation.

[0019] In an embodiment, the actuator assembly is configured so that movement of the movable body toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to act under pressure so as to become operable in a first interior or chamber region, and movement of the movable body toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to become operable in a second interior or chamber region on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0020] In an embodiment, the actuator assembly is configured so that movement of the movable body toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to act under pressure so as to become operable in a first interior or chamber region internal of the movable body, and movement of the movable body toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to become operable in a second interior or chamber region internal of the movable body on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0021] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that the first interior or chamber region is fluidly or hydraulically isolated from the second interior or chamber region.

[0022] In one embodiment, the movable body has an interior region between first and second closure or sealing arrangements which hosts the first and second interior or chamber regions.

[0023] In another embodiment, the actuator assembly comprises a piston arrangement arranged in fixed relation with the housing and fixed or stationary relative to movement of the movable body, and arranged so as to extend into the interior region of the movable body via an opening formed in the second closure or sealing arrangement, the piston arrangement configured so as to facilitate provision of a fluid pathway fluidly connecting with the first interior or chamber region interior of the movable body. The piston arrangement may comprise rod and head portions whereby the head portion is provided at or near a free end of the rod portion, and wherein the rod portion is configured so as to extend through the opening of the second closure or sealing arrangement of the movable body so as to provide and / or support the head portion in the interior region of the movable body in a generally coaxial manner. The head portion may be configured so as to sealingly divide or partition the interior region of the movable body into first and second interior regions for forming, respectively: (i) a first chamber, defined with the first closure or sealing arrangement and a first portion of the head portion for receiving the non-compressible fluid, and (ii) a second chamber, defined with the second closure or sealing arrangement, the rod portion, and a second portion of the head portion for receiving the compressible fluid. In operation of the latter embodiment, introduction of the non- compressible fluid into the first chamber under pressure causes movement the movable body toward the second condition, which movement causes a volume of the second chamber to reduce thereby compressing the compressible fluid contained therein and placing the compressible fluid into a respective pressurised state, which pressurised state is operable for moving the movable body toward the first condition on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the first chamber is subject

[0024] In an embodiment, the actuator assembly is configured so that movement of the movable body toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being deliverable under pressure via the fluid pathway so as to act in the first interior or chamber region between the first closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement, and movement of the movable body toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to act in a second interior or chamber region between the second closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0025] In an embodiment, the first interior or chamber region is operable between the movable body and an interior region of the housing and defined in part by the cooperability of interior regions provided by respective portions of the housing and the movable body.

[0026] In an embodiment, the second interior or chamber region is operable between the movable body and the housing and defined in part between respective corresponding or facing portions of the movable body and the housing.

[0027] In an embodiment, the first and second interior or chamber regions are in part separated by a portion of the movable body in a manner in which the second interior or chamber portion is radially offset from the first interior or chamber region.

[0028] In an embodiment, the first and second interior or chamber regions are provided in coaxial relation such that the second interior or chamber region surrounds at least a portion of the first interior or chamber region.

[0029] In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a guide member arranged in fixed relation relative to and coaxial with the housing, the guide member arrangeable in sliding relation with the movable body so that the movable body is movable in accordance with the axis by way of guidance provided by the guide member, a tubular portion of the movable body providing an interior region receivable of the guide member and which interior region is cooperable with an interior region provided by the guide member for providing or defining the first interior or chamber region. The guide member may be of tubular form.

[0030] In an embodiment, a bearing assembly operates between a portion of the guide member and the tubular portion of the movable body for providing or facilitating sliding relation therebetween.

[0031] In an embodiment, a portion of an exterior wall of the guide member and a portion of an interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable body that in part defines the first interior or chamber region are shaped in a generally complimentary circular, non-circular, or polygonal manner.

[0032] In one embodiment, the complimentary shape of the portions of the guide member and the interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable body is configured so as to resist or prevent relative rotation between the housing and the movable body about the axis.

[0033] In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured so as to provide a first opening through which the non-compressible fluid can be selectively caused to ingress and egress from the first interior or chamber region, and a second opening through which the compressible fluid can be introduced into the second interior or chamber region.

[0034] In one embodiment, the movable body comprises an annular wall which extends into the interior region of the movable body’s tubular portion, which annular wall is receivable by the interior region of the guide member so as to be in sliding relation with the guide member, the annular wall providing an interior region which is cooperable with the interior region of the guide member in providing the first interior or chamber region.

[0035] In a second aspect, an embodiment provides an apparatus for coupling with a tyne bar of a tyne or cultivator assembly arranged to be drawn or towable in a direction of travel for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus arranged for driving movement of a ground engaging element for use in the tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis of the apparatus, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable body is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable body is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non- compressible fluid is subject.

[0036] The apparatus may be configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the movable member from the first position toward the second position so that a ground engagement element carried by the movable member is able to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, operation of the movable member toward the second position pressurising the compressible fluid in the second chamber for causing movement of the movable member back toward the first position so as to place the ground engaging element clear of engagement with the ground on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0037] The apparatus may be configured so that movement of the movable member toward the first position places or resets the movable member to a standby state or condition ready awaiting another operation toward the second position for causing the ground engaging element to perform another ground engaging operation on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

[0038] In an embodiment, the apparatus may comprise a means or arrangement for coupling the apparatus with the relevant tyne bar so that the apparatus is operable in respect of an inter-row region of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0039] The first chamber may be operable between the movable member and an interior region of space of the housing and defined in part by the cooperability of the interior regions of space provided by respective portions of the housing and the movable member.

[0040] The first and second chambers may be provided in coaxial relation relative to the axis such that the second chamber surrounds at least a portion of the first chamber.

[0041] The second chamber may be configured operable between the movable member and the housing, the second chamber being defined in part between respective corresponding or facing portions of the movable member and the housing.

[0042] The first and second chambers may be separated in part by a wall portion of the movable member in a manner in which the second chamber is radially offset from the first chamber.

[0043] The movable member may be configured having a tubular portion which opens to an interior region of space within the housing which extends from an end of the housing that is opposite its open end, wherein the interior region of space provided by the housing accommodates the first chamber.

[0044] The interior region of space of the housing may be defined by a tubular portion extending coaxially relative the axis from the end of the housing opposite its open end, which tubular portion of the housing is configured so as to be receivable by the tubular portion of the movable member in a manner allowing the movable member to move relative to the extending tubular portion of the housing allowing a volume of the first chamber to vary during movement of the movable member during movement toward the second position.

[0045] The end of the housing opposite its open end may be configured with a first inlet means for enabling the non-compressible fluid to ingress / egress into the first chamber for enabling selective movement of the movable member toward the second position.

[0046] The second chamber may be configured so as to be coaxial with the axis and radially spaced or offset from the first chamber so as to surround a portion of the tubular portion of the movable member.

[0047] The movable member may be configured so that a portion of its tubular portion slidingly bears against an interior wall of the housing in a sealing like manner, thereby forming a first sealed end operable for, in part, closing the second chamber.

[0048] In an embodiment, a portion of the housing adjacent the open end is configured so that it slidingly bears against an exterior wall of the movable member in a sealing like manner, thereby forming a second sealed end operable for, in part, closing the second chamber.

[0049] The apparatus may be configured so that movement of the movable member between the first and second positions operates to modify the respective volumes of the first and second chambers, so that: (a) an increase of the volume of the first chamber caused when the movable member is moving toward the second position causes a decrease in the volume of the second chamber, and (b) an increase of the volume of the second chamber caused when the movable member is moving toward the first position causes a decrease in the volume of the first chamber.

[0050] In an embodiment, the apparatus may be configured so that a decrease in the volume of the second chamber caused when the movable member is moved toward the second position operates to pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber which, on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the first chamber is subject at about the second position, causes an expansion of the second chamber subjecting the non-compressible fluid resident in the first chamber to a compressive force causing egress of the non-compressible fluid from the first chamber thereby biasing the movable member toward the first position.

[0051] In an embodiment, the apparatus may be configured so that on the first chamber becoming active due to ingress of non-compressible fluid under pressure, movement of the movable member toward the second position operates to increasingly pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber which acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end about the first chamber and spaced from the axis, which increasing pressure operates to bias a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act radially away or offset from the axis so as to be in substantial coaxial relation with a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid which acts in substantial colinear relation with the axis, the coaxial relationship of both resultant forces thereby stabilising the movable member as it moves toward the second position.

[0052] In another embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that on the second chamber becoming active or expanding due to removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible is subject for maintaining the movable member at or near the second position, the pressurised compressible fluid resident in the second chamber acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end about the first chamber at an increasing distance from the open end within which the movable member is retracting through as the movable member moves toward the first position, the uniform distribution of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid along and about the first end of the second chamber cooperating with the increasing distance of same from the open end operating to bias a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act substantially along the axis thereby stabilising the movable member as it moves toward the first position.

[0053] In an embodiment, the resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber in cooperation with the resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid in the first chamber operates to substantially maintain, or facilitate a bias toward, a substantially stabilised coaxial relationship between the housing and the movable member during relative movement between the first and second positions.

[0054] In one embodiment, the extending tubular portion of the housing may operate as a guide member that is arranged in fixed relation relative to and coaxial with the housing and the axis, the guide member arrangeable in sliding relation with the tubular portion of the movable member so that the movable member is movable in accordance with or along the axis by way of guidance provided by the guide member.

[0055] In an embodiment, the first and second chambers may be separated by at least a portion of the movable member and / or the guide member. ln another embodiment, the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end of the second chamber may be provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near an interior most end of the tubular portion of the movable member in a direction away from and substantially transverse the axis.

[0056] In another embodiment, the portion of the housing constituent of the second sealed end of the second chamber may be provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near the open end of the housing in a direction toward and substantially transverse the axis.

[0057] In a further embodiment, the first and second sealed ends of the second chamber may be sealed by way of respective sealing arrangements.

[0058] In an embodiment, the maintaining of the coaxial relationship between the housing and the movable member during movement between the first and second positions facilitates effective operation of the respective sealing arrangements of the first and second sealed ends of the second chamber.

[0059] The movable member may be operably coupled with the housing so as to be movable between the retracted and extended states in a manner enabling movement of the movable member along the axis while substantially preventing or restraining movement of the movable member about the axis.

[0060] In an embodiment, a portion of an exterior wall of the guide member and a portion of an interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable member are shaped in a generally complimentary circular, noncircular, or polygonal manner.

[0061] In another embodiment, the complimentary shape of the portions of the guide member and the interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable member is configured so as to resist or prevent relative rotation between the housing and the movable member about the axis.

[0062] In an embodiment, a bearing assembly operates between a portion of the guide member and the tubular portion of the movable member for providing or facilitating sliding relation therebetween.

[0063] The apparatus may be configured so as to provide a second inlet means in the housing through which the compressible fluid can be introduced into the second chamber.

[0064] The apparatus may comprise a tubular member which is received by and opens into the interior region of space of the tubular portion of the guide member so as to be provided in sliding relation with the guide member movable, the tubular member providing an interior region of space which is cooperable with the interior region of space of the guide member for providing the first chamber.

[0065] In an embodiment, the apparatus is couplable by way of a coupling arrangement to or with the tyne assembly or other like support assembly so as to be, relative to the direction the tyne assembly or other like support assembly is moving over the ground: upstream of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, downstream of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, on the left hand side of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, on the right hand side of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly.

[0066] In another embodiment, the apparatus is arranged operable with a levelling means configured operable for use in providing the apparatus substantially at a desired height relative to the ground during operation, the levelling means configured operable for providing passive stabilisation (or, in some embodiments, active stablisation) of the apparatus for enabling the ground engaging element of the apparatus to engage the ground to provide a substantially consistent incursion depth across a plurality of operations of the apparatus. In an arrangement in which multiple apparatus are each coupled with a respective tyne shank or leg of a broader tyne or cultivator assembly, one or more of the apparatus is / are arranged so as to operable with a respective levelling means so that each respective apparatus is provided substantially at a desired height relative to the ground during operation (either passively or actively). In such embodiments, each apparatus is arranged so as to be benefit from localised levelling relative to the ground during the operation.

[0067] In one embodiment, the levelling means is configured so that a height of the apparatus relative to the ground proximal or adjacent the apparatus is maintained passively by way of a 4-bar parallelogram linkage mechanism or arrangement.

[0068] The levelling means may be configured so that the apparatus trails the tyne bar to which it is attached or is provided ahead of the tyne bar to which it is attached.

[0069] In a third aspect, an embodiment provides an apparatus for use with a tyne assembly or other like support assembly used in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member or body is operably coupled with the housing so as to be selectively movable between a first condition in which the movable member or body is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second condition in which the movable member or body is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, the movable member or body having an interior region between first and second closure or sealing arrangements, a piston arrangement arranged in fixed relation with the housing and fixed or stationary relative to movement of the movable member or body, and arranged so as to extend into the interior region of the movable member or body via an opening formed in the second closure or sealing arrangement, the piston arrangement configured so as to facilitate provision of a fluid pathway fluidly connecting with a first portion of the interior region of the movable member or body, wherein movement of the movable member or body toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being deliverable under pressure via the fluid pathway so as to act in the first portion of the interior region between the first closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement, and movement of the movable member or body toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to act in a second portion of the interior region between the second closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0070] Embodiments of the apparatus of the third aspect may comprise any of the features of the apparatus of the second aspect, or as otherwise described herein. Further, embodiments of the apparatus of the first, second or third aspects may comprise any of the following features.

[0071] In an embodiment, the movable member or body (hereinafter, movable body) may be of tubular form.

[0072] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that a ground engaging element is carried by the movable body in a manner so that, in use, selective movement of the movable body toward the second condition causes the ground engaging element to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target or unwanted organic material or soil hosted thereby (e.g., an identified unwanted organic matter such as a weed).

[0073] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured so that the ground engaging element is selectively operable by way of the apparatus between a non-ground engaging state (e.g. when the movable body is in the first condition) in which the ground engaging element is clear or free from engagement with the ground (e.g. in a ‘stand-by’ condition), and a ground engaging state (e.g. when the movable body is in the second condition) in which the ground engaging element engages a region of ground for excavating or severing target or unwanted organic matter hosted thereby.

[0074] In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured operable so as to (via, for example, the actuator assembly) return or revert the movable body toward the non-ground engaging state following a movement toward the ground engaging state. In this manner, the ground engaging element is able to remain in the first (or stand-by) condition above the ground in anticipation of being driven by the apparatus toward the ground engaging state, for example, on the identification of target organic or soil material requiring excavation. In this manner, embodiments of the apparatus can be used for providing a means for active and targeted tillage of weed bearing ground.

[0075] In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a bearing assembly configured operable between an interior wall of the housing and an exterior wall of the movable body for facilitating rolling contact (or reduced frictional contact) between the housing and movable body. In one form, the bearing assembly facilitates rolling contact between the corresponding or relevant walls of the housing and movable body. ln one embodiment, the bearing assembly comprises one or more sets of one or more bearing elements, the or each set of bearing element(s) being carried by a respective portion of the exterior wall of the movable body or a portion of the interior wall of the housing.

[0076] In an embodiment, the or each bearing elements of a respective set of bearing elements are arranged so that respective axes of rotation of the or each constituent bearing element(s) are aligned substantially parallel with one another.

[0077] In an embodiment, the housing and the movable body are operably coupled or associated by way of a prismatic joint or sliding arrangement configured operable between the housing and the movable body so as to define the scope of movement of the movable body between the retracted and extended states. In an embodiment, the movable body is prismatically coupled / associated with the housing so as to permit relative movement with respect to the housing along an axis of the apparatus while resisting rotation about the axis. In an embodiment, the apparatus may be configured so as to drive the ground engaging element in a linear motion along the axis to engage the ground.

[0078] In another embodiment, a cross-sectional profile of an exterior wall of the movable body and a cross-sectional profile of an interior wall of the housing is of complimentary non-circular or polygonal form. In this manner, the complimentary cross-sectional profile or form of the exterior wall of the movable body and the interior wall of the housing operate so as to resist rotation about the longitudinal axis.

[0079] In an embodiment, the piston arrangement comprises rod and head portions whereby the head portion is provided at or near a free end of the rod portion, and wherein the rod portion is configured so as to extend through the opening of the second closure or sealing arrangement of the movable body so as to provide and / or support the head portion in the interior region of the movable body in a generally coaxial manner.

[0080] In one embodiment, the head portion is configured so as to sealingly divide or partition the interior region of the movable body into first and second interior regions for forming, respectively:

[0081] (i) a first chamber, defined with the first closure or sealing arrangement and a first portion of the head portion for receiving the non-compressible fluid, and

[0082] (ii) a second chamber, defined with the second closure or sealing arrangement, the rod portion, and a second portion of the head portion for receiving the compressible fluid, whereby introduction of the non-compressible fluid into the first chamber under pressure causes movement the movable body toward the second condition, which movement causes a volume of the second chamber to reduce thereby compressing the compressible fluid contained therein and placing the compressible fluid into a respective pressurised state, which pressurised state is operable for moving the movable body toward the first condition on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the first chamber is subject. ln an embodiment, the second chamber is ‘loaded’ or ‘charged’ with an amount of compressible fluid, and the second chamberthen closed thereby preventing egress of the compressible fluid.

[0083] In an embodiment, the movable body remains in the second condition while the non-compressible fluid remains under pressure in its respective pressurised state.

[0084] In an embodiment, the compressible fluid is pressurised in the second chamber so that, when the movable body is in the second condition, on the respective pressurised state of the non- compressible fluid being removed, the pressurised state of the compressible fluid causes movement of the movable body toward the first condition.

[0085] In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises or is arranged operable with a control means or module for use in controlling operation of the apparatus. In this manner, the control means or module may be provided in the form of an electronic controller configured for controlling enabling and disabling of supply of the non-compressible fluid toward the apparatus.

[0086] The non-compressible fluid may be a fluid from any of the following: a petroleum based hydraulic fluid, a water-based hydraulic fluid, a synthetic blend hydraulic fluid, a biodegradable hydraulic fluid. The skilled reader would appreciate other types of fluids suitable for use in the present context.

[0087] In one operable embodiment, the non-compressible fluid may be sourced from a hydraulic power take off module or a source / supply of hydraulic fluid provided with a means of towing the apparatus. The skilled reader will appreciate various way in which hydraulic fluid can be sourced for operation for operation of the apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0088] The compressible fluid may be a fluid of any of the following: Nitrogen, compressed air, carbon dioxide, or any suitable inert gas. The skilled reader will appreciate the different types of compressible fluids that could be used in the present context.

[0089] In an embodiment, the rod portion is configured so as to facilitate provision of a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first chamber for ingress / egress of the non-compressible fluid to / from the first chamber. In one form, the rod portion is of tubular form.

[0090] In one embodiment, the first fluid pathway is provided in the form of a first fluid passage formed with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to provide an inlet and, spaced from the inlet, an outlet opening into or in fluid communication with the first chamber. In one form, the first fluid passage is generally coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the rod portion.

[0091] In an embodiment, the rod portion is configured so as to facilitate provision of a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second chamber for use in introducing or communicating the compressible fluid toward the second chamber. In this manner, the second chamber can be provided with the compressible fluid to a predetermined pressure. ln an embodiment, the second fluid pathway is provided in the form of a second fluid passage formed, at least in part, with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to provide an inlet and, spaced from the inlet, an outlet opening into or in fluid communication with the second chamber. In one form, the second fluid passage is formed at least in part with a wall of the rod portion of the piston arrangement.

[0092] In one form, the second fluid passage is formed at least in part with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to be offset the first fluid passage. In one form, the second fluid passage is radially offset from the first fluid passage relative a longitudinal axis of the rod portion.

[0093] In one embodiment, the rod portion of the piston arrangement comprises an assembly having first and second members which are assembled together so as to form the rod portion.

[0094] In an embodiment, the first member is tubular and provides the first fluid passage within the hollow region of the tubular section.

[0095] In another embodiment, the first member is configured with a channel, groove, or passage at or near its exterior wall for use as, at least in part, the second fluid passage.

[0096] In an embodiment, the second member is of tubular form, and the channel or groove formed on the exterior wall of the first tubular member is covered by way of the second member being assembled with and about the first member thereby providing the second fluid passage.

[0097] In an embodiment, the housing is closed by way of a closure provided at or near an end which opposes its open end, which closure supports, at least in part, the piston arrangement in extending into the interior region of the movable body.

[0098] In an embodiment, the closure of the housing is configured so as to provide a first opening that fluidly registers or links with the first fluid passage when the piston arrangement is in part supported by the housing’s closure for enabling fluid communication between the opening of the housing’s closure and the first chamber.

[0099] In an embodiment, the closure of the housing is configured so as to provide a second opening, wherein both the closure and the piston arrangements are each configured so that the second opening of the housing’s closure fluidly registers or links with the second fluid passage when the piston arrangement is in part supported by the housing’s closure for enabling fluid communication between the second opening of the housing’s closure and the second chamber.

[0100] In an embodiment, the piston head is configured with a recess which receives the outlet of the second fluid passage, the piston head further configured with a channel or passage that fluidly registers or links the second chamber with said recess of the piston head for enabling fluid communication between the second opening of the housing’s closure and the second chamber. The inlet of the first fluid passage can be placed in fluid communication via the first opening of the housing’s closure with a source of non-compressible fluid. In one arrangement, the inlet of the first fluid passage may be connectable with an existing non-compressible fluid supply of existing agricultural equipment.

[0101] The inlet of the second fluid passage can be placed in fluid communication via the second opening of the housing’s closure with a source of compressible fluid for introducing a quantity of the compressible fluid into the second chamber for preparing the chamber for operable use.

[0102] Depending on the tillage or ground cultivation operation the apparatus can be coupled with the tyne assembly (e.g., a tyne shank of the tyne assembly) or other like support structure in a number of different orientations relative to the direction of movement over the ground (e.g. by a tow- vehicle / tractor, etc). In this regard, and in one implementation of use, for example, the apparatus (or multiple apparatuses of similar configuration) can be located / coupled with shanks of tyne assemblies (or other like support structure) so that operation of the apparatus causes the carried ground engaging tool to be capable of engaging ground in desired inter-row region(s) having regard to the configuration of tyne assemblies involved in tillage or cropping operations. In one sense, simulated embodiments of the apparatus of the present disclosure lend well to inter-row tillage / cropping operations. However, embodiments of the apparatus of the present disclosure may be configured for use in intra-row tillage / cropping operations. The skilled reader would appreciate the nature and scope of such modifications or configurations to enable intra-row operations in view of the context of the present disclosure.

[0103] The apparatus may be couplable to or with the tyne or other like support assembly via a coupling arrangement so as to be, relative to the direction the tyne or other like support assembly is moving over the ground: upstream of the tyne or other like support assembly, downstream of the tyne or other like support assembly, on the left or right hand sides of the tyne or other like support assembly. In one form, the coupling arrangement comprises or operates with an existing attachment means (e.g. a standard attachment point or provision on the relevant tyne or other like support assembly) provided with the tyne or other like support assembly.

[0104] In an embodiment, the apparatus and / or the coupling arrangement may be configured so as to enable the location, position, and / or angular orientation of the apparatus relative to the movable support or tyne shank to be changed or adjusted, either before operation or in-situ. In one embodiment, the apparatus and / or the coupling arrangement may be configured so that the apparatus can translate laterally relative to the direction of travel (eg. sideways), can translate forward / backward relative to the direction of travel, and / or rotate about a vertically aligned axis. Embodiments or implementations enabling such functionality may be particularly useful for mounting on a robotic platform.

[0105] More than one like formed apparatus may be couplable to the tyne or other like support assembly and or arranged in different orientations so as to enable multiple regions of ground to be targetable during operation.

[0106] In one embodiment, one or more apparatuses are configured so as to be capable of movement laterally relative to the direction of travel during a tillage operation. In one form, each apparatus may be coupled with its respective tyne or other like support assembly using a coupling arrangement configured so as to provide a translation or displacement means or arrangement to allow the supported apparatus to be capable of moving across (or within) its local inter-row centreline thereby allowing it to increase its ‘reach’ within one or both of the adjacent inter-row regions on either side. Such movement may be laterally or arc like. The translation or displacement means or arrangement may comprise any suitable componentry that can be configured so as to result in any translational or displacement enabling movement, such as for example, one or more linear bearings, lead screws or like mechanical or mechanised arrangements (e.g., swing type mechanisms). In this manner, for example, the effectiveness of the assembly of the apparatus (and indeed, even the effectiveness of a single apparatus when enabled in this manner) can be increased in that more ground during a single pass of the assembly can be the subject of active targeted tillage. The skilled reader will understand that any means by which translation or displacement of the apparatuses can be enabled / controlled can be used.

[0107] The apparatus may comprise or be arranged operable with a means for identifying targetable regions of ground or organic matter to engage for working purposes. In an embodiment, such identification means may be arranged operable with the controls means so as to inform selective operation of the apparatus.

[0108] Selective operation of the apparatus may be based on any of the following: informed by a manual observation or identification of a target weed by an operator of the apparatus or suitable sensing means operable with a control means (e.g., a suitably configured electronic programmable logic controller). Such control means may be operable so as to receive an input from one or more sensor module(s) configured for sensing organic material as the tillage / cultivation operation progresses, and the control means configured with suitable means for processing the sensory input for discriminating between any sensed organic matter so as to identify target organic material for excavation using the apparatus.

[0109] In an embodiment, selective operation of the apparatus may involve the use of or incorporation of GPS location techniques associated with pre-mapping of targetable plant / weeds.

[0110] The apparatus may be arranged operable with a levelling means configured operable for use in levelling operation of an embodiment of the apparatus relative to the ground. Embodiments of such a means may be configured operable for maintaining operation of an embodiment of the apparatus at about a predetermined height relative to the ground at which the ground engaging element operates. In this manner, a depth to which the ground engaging portion engages the ground can be controlled or reliably maintained during a tillage / cropping operation. In one form, the apparatus is arranged so as to be cooperably supported at a predetermined spacing from the ground by way of the movable support and a rollable element provided in rolling contact with the ground. In one embodiment, an embodiment of the apparatus is carried by a body that is coupled with the tyne / support assembly in a rotatable manner so that the body, and consequentially the apparatus, can rotate relative to the movable support. In another form, the coupling between the apparatus and the movable support is configured so as to bias the apparatus toward the ground, which bias is resisted by way of the rollable element being in rolling contact with the ground. Bias of the apparatus is also configured (e.g., by way of a spring loaded arrangement and / or the centre of mass, location, and size of the apparatus) so as to also accommodate vertical movement of the apparatus operating against the applied bias due to the rollable element encountering non-uniform (e.g. undulating) surface topography during a tillage / cultivation operation. In another embodiment, the levelling means is configured so as to be adjustable so that the desired height of operation of the apparatus can be adjusted as might be required for a given tillage / cropping operation. The skilled reader will appreciate that the levelling means can be configured so that the degree of bias can be changed or adjusted as might be required for a given tillage / cropping operation.

[0111] In another form, the orientation of the apparatus relative to the ground could be maintained passively by way of a 4-bar parallelogram linkage mechanism or arrangement. The skilled reader will appreciate other ways that the apparatus can be maintained relative to the ground during use or the working depth of the tool can be controlled (passively or actively).

[0112] In one embodiment, the levelling means is configured so that the apparatus trails the movable support, Embodiments could be configured where the apparatus is operable ahead of the movable support.

[0113] Embodiments of the apparatus of the present first, second and / or third aspects, or as otherwise described herein, may be embodied with any of the features described herein so as to provide a system. In an embodiment, the system may comprise more than one embodiments of the first, second, or third aspects of the apparatus (or as otherwise described herein), whereby each apparatus is coupled with a tyne bar or shank of a tyne or ground cultivation assembly.

[0114] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment provides an apparatus for use in operating a ground engaging element or tool for use in excavating or severing organic material or soil from a region of ground subject to a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable body is operably coupled with the housing so as to be selectively movable between a first condition in which the movable body is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second condition in which the movable body is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, the movable body having an interior region between first and second closure or sealing arrangements, a piston arrangement arranged in fixed relation with the housing and fixed or stationary relative to movement of the movable body, and arranged so as to extend into the interior region of the movable body via an opening formed in the second closure or sealing arrangement, the piston arrangement configured so as to facilitate provision of a fluid pathway fluidly connecting with a first portion of the interior region of the movable body, wherein movement of the movable body toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being deliverable under pressure via the fluid pathway so as to act in the first portion of the interior region between the first closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement, and movement of the movable body toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to act in a second portion of the interior region between the second closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0115] Embodiments of the apparatus of the fourth aspect may comprise or be configured operable with, either individually or in combination, any of the features described above in relation to the apparatus of the first, second or third aspects, or as otherwise described herein.

[0116] In a fifth aspect, an embodiment provides a system for carrying out a tillage or ground cultivation operation involving one or more tyne assemblies (or other like support means), the system comprising: one or more apparatus comprising an actuator assembly and a ground engaging element configured so as to be driven by the actuator assembly in respect of an axis of the apparatus, the or each apparatus coupled with a respective tyne assembly (or other like support means), wherein, the or each apparatus are arranged so that each are, during movement of the assembly, selectively operable for driving the relevant ground engaging element in accordance with or along the axis from a first condition in which the ground engaging element is held in a non-ground engaging state to a second condition in which the ground engaging element is engageable with the ground so as to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing organic matter or soil targetable by the relevant apparatus.

[0117] In one form, the system is configured so that one or more apparatus are arranged so as to return the relevant ground engaging element toward the first condition or non-ground engaging state (e.g., a standby condition) following engagement with the ground.

[0118] In an embodiment, the apparatus of the present aspect comprises or is arranged operable with any of the features of the apparatus of the first, second, third or fourth aspects, or as otherwise described herein. ln an embodiment, the system comprises means for selectively operating the or each apparatus on identification of a target region of ground or organic matter to be excavated or severed within reach of the relevant apparatus. In an embodiment, the system comprises means for identifying a target region / weed to be targeted.

[0119] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a plurality of apparatus coupled with a respective portion of the tyne assembly. In an embodiment, the portions of the tyne assembly to which a respective apparatus is coupled are spaced laterally relative to a direction the tyne assembly is being towed during use. In an embodiment, the system comprises the tyne assembly.

[0120] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment provides a method for excavating or severing organic material or soil from a region of ground subject to a tillage or ground cultivation operation involving use of a tyne assembly (or other like support means), the method comprising: providing one or more apparatus comprising an actuator assembly and a ground engaging element configured so as to be driven by the actuator assembly in respect of an axis of the apparatus, coupling the or each apparatus with the tyne assembly (or other like support means), operating the or each apparatus in a selective manner so as to drive the relevant ground engaging element in accordance with or along the axis from a first condition in which the ground engaging element is held in a non-ground engaging state to or toward a second condition in which the ground engaging element is engageable with the ground so as to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing organic matter or soil targetable by the relevant apparatus.

[0121] In an embodiment, the apparatus is arranged according to the apparatus of the first or second aspects, or as otherwise described herein.

[0122] In an embodiment, the method comprises operating the or each apparatus so as to return the ground engaging element toward the first condition or non-ground engaging state following operation of the ground engaging element at the second condition or ground engaging state.

[0123] In an embodiment, the method comprises selectively operating the or each apparatus on identification of a target region of ground or organic matter to be excavated or severed within reach of the relevant apparatus.

[0124] In an embodiment, the second chamber of the apparatus is filled with a compressible fluid (e.g., Nitrogen) to a predetermined pressure sufficient for returning the movable body toward the first condition from the second condition.

[0125] In an embodiment, the first fluid passage is placed in fluid communication with a source of non- compressible fluid. In one form, the source of non-compressible fluid is provided as part of the tillage / cultivation equipment of the tillage / cultivation operation.

[0126] In an embodiment, operating the apparatus so as to cause the movable body to move from the first condition toward the second condition enables, on compression of the compressible fluid, the movable body toward return toward the first condition on removal or reduction of a pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject for movement toward the second condition.

[0127] In an embodiment, coupling of the apparatus with a respective tyne assembly is arranged so as to enable the ground engaging element to operate in respect of a respective intra-row or inter-row region of ground subject to the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0128] In an embodiment, operation of the apparatus is on a selective basis informed by any of the following: a manual observation or identification of target organic material or region of soil by an operator of the apparatus or a sensing means as described herein.

[0129] In an embodiment, operation of the apparatus may involve varying a speed of the tyne assembly over the ground and / or a speed of movement of the movable body between the first and second conditions on a per movement basis or during such a movement. In this manner, an excavation or ground engaging profile followed by the ground engaging element can be varied or configured as required in excavating or severing the target organic material or soil.

[0130] In an embodiment, the or each apparatus is positioned with a portion of the tyne assembly so as to engage or work ground within an inter-row region of a tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0131] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides an apparatus for coupling with a tyne assembly or other like support assembly for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly, a ground engaging element configured so as to be driven by the actuator assembly, wherein, the apparatus is configured so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable so as to drive the ground engaging element by way of the actuator assembly from a non-ground engaging state toward a ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, and return toward the non-ground engaging state.

[0132] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides a method of undertaking a tillage or ground cultivation operation using an apparatus coupled with a tyne bar of a tyne or ground cultivation assembly, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a ground engaging element arranged to be carried by the movable member so as to be moved in accordance with or along the axis for engaging the ground when the movable member is provided in the second position, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject, the method comprising: moving the apparatus over the ground during the tillage or cultivation operation, and, operating the apparatus in a selective manner on selection of a target organic material or region of ground so as to drive the ground engaging element by way of the actuator assembly from the first position toward the second position so as to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing the target organic material or soil hosted thereby, then moving the ground engaging element to a state or condition in which the ground engaging element is clear of engagement with the non-ground engaging state.

[0133] In an embodiment, the method may comprise, for causing the movable member to move toward the second position, introducing non-compressible fluid into the first chamber so as to enable movement of the movable member toward the second position for engaging the ground with the ground engaging element, movement of the movable member toward the second position serving to pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber.

[0134] In an embodiment, the method may comprise, for causing the movable member to move back toward the first position, removing or reducing the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject thereby enabling the pressurised compressible fluid to move the movable member toward the first position.

[0135] In an embodiment, arrival of the movable member toward the first position resets or positions the ground engaging element to or in a standby state or condition ready awaiting another movement toward the second position so as to engage the ground on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

[0136] In an embodiment, the method may comprise coupling of the apparatus with a respective tyne bar of the tyne or cultivator assembly so as to enable the ground engaging element to work an inter-row region of the ground the subject of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0137] In an embodiment, the method may comprise charging the second chamber of the apparatus with a compressible fluid to a predetermined pressure sufficient for returning the movable member toward the first condition from the second condition.

[0138] In an embodiment, the method may comprise placing the first fluid passage in fluid communication with a source of non-compressible fluid.

[0139] In an embodiment, the source of non-compressible fluid is provided as part of the tillage / cultivation equipment of the tillage / cultivation operation.

[0140] In an embodiment, the method may comprise operating the apparatus so as to cause the movable member to move from the first condition toward the second condition enables, on compression of the compressible fluid, the movable member to return toward the first condition on removal or reduction of a pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject for movement toward the second condition.

[0141] In an embodiment, the method may comprise operating the apparatus on a selective basis informed by any of the following: a manual observation or identification of target organic material or region of soil by an operator of the apparatus or a sensing means as described herein.

[0142] In an embodiment, operating of the apparatus involves varying a speed of the tyne assembly over the ground and / or a speed of movement of the movable member between the first and second conditions on a per movement basis or during such a movement.

[0143] In an embodiment, the apparatus is arranged according to the apparatus of the first, second or third aspects, or as otherwise described herein.

[0144] In a further aspect, there is provided a system for use in carrying out a tillage or ground cultivation operation involving one or more tyne assemblies (or other like support means), the system comprising: one or more apparatus couplable with a respective tyne of the relevant tyne assembly, each apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a ground engaging element arranged to be carried by the movable member so as to be moved in accordance with or along the axis for engaging the ground when the movable member is provided in the second position, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non- compressible fluid is subject.

[0145] In an embodiment, the or each apparatus may be configured operable so as to be, when in use where the relevant apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the movable member from the first position toward the second position so that a ground engagement element carried by the movable member is able to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, operation of the movable member toward the second position pressurising the compressible fluid in the second chamber for causing movement of the movable member back toward the first position so as to place the ground engaging element clear of engagement with the ground on removal or reduction to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

[0146] In an embodiment, the or each apparatus is configured so that movement of the movable member toward the first position places or resets the movable member to a standby state or condition ready awaiting another operation toward the second position for causing the ground engaging element to perform another ground engaging operation on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

[0147] In another embodiment, the or each apparatus comprises a means or arrangement for coupling the apparatus with the relevant tyne bar so that the apparatus is operable in respect of an inter-row region of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0148] Any embodiment of a system as described herein, or any embodiment or implementation of a method as describe described herein, wherein the or each apparatus is configured according to any embodiment of the apparatus of the first, second, third or fourth aspects, or as otherwise described herein, for enabling active or targeted tillage capability for use in a tillage or cultivation operation.

[0149] In a further aspect, an embodiments provides a cultivator bar or related assembly comprising one or more apparatus arranged according to any embodiment of the apparatus of first, second, third or fourth aspects, for enabling active or targeted tillage capability for use in a tillage or cultivation operation.

[0150] In another aspect, there is provided a method of undertaking a tillage or ground cultivation operation comprising operating an embodiment of a system as described herein, comprising carrying out an embodiment or implementation of a method as described herein using one or more apparatus configured according to any embodiment of the apparatus of the first, second, third or fourth aspects, or as otherwise described herein.

[0151] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides an active tool for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation comprising an apparatus configured according to any embodiment of the apparatus of the first, second, third or fourth aspects, or as otherwise described herein, or an embodiment of a system as described herein.

[0152] Embodiments of the present aspect may comprise any of the features, either individually or in combination, as described in relation to apparatus of any of the first, second, third or fourth aspects, or as otherwise described herein. Further, such embodiments may be operated in accordance of the above described methods, or those as otherwise described herein.

[0153] In a further aspect, an embodiment provides a cultivator bar or related assembly comprising one or more embodiments of an apparatus as described herein thereby enabling active or targeted tillage capability for use in a tillage or cultivation operation.

[0154] In this specification, where a literary work, act or item of knowledge (or combinations thereof), is discussed, such reference is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the information referred to formed part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Such information is included only for the purposes of providing context for facilitating an understanding of the inventive concept / principles and the various forms or embodiments in which those inventive concept / principles may be exemplified.

[0155] Various aspects, examples or embodiments described herein can be practiced alone or in combination with any one or more of the other described aspects, examples or embodiments, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. The various described aspects, examples or embodiments can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features described in relation to the other aspects, examples or embodiments. Furthermore, optional features described in relation to one aspect, example or embodiment can optionally be combined alone or together with other features described in relation different aspects, examples or embodiments.

[0156] For the purposes of summarising the various aspects, examples, or embodiments exemplifying the principles described herein, certain aspects, advantages and novel features have been described above and herein. It is to be understood, however, that not necessarily all such advantage(s) may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimises one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantage(s) as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0157] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0158] Furthermore, throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “include” or variations such as “includes” or “including”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0159] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0160] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non-limiting figures, in which:

[0161] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure attached to a shank portion of a tyne assembly.

[0162] Figure 2 shows a high-level exploded view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 1.

[0163] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 1.

[0164] Figure 4a shows an elevation view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 , when in a retracted condition (without tool connected); the lower portion of Figure 4a shows a cross section view taken across section E-E about midway along the axial length of the apparatus.

[0165] Figure 4b shows an elevation view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 when in an extended condition (without tool connected).

[0166] Figure 5 shows a cross section view across section A-A (retracted state) identified in Figure 4a.

[0167] Figure 6 shows a cross section view across section B-B (extended state) identified in Figure 4b. Figure 7 shows a close-up view of a portion of the cross section shown in Figure 6 and identified as

[0168] Figure 8 shows a close-up view of another portion of the cross section shown in Figure 6 and identified as “F8”.

[0169] Figure 9a shows a schematic plan view of an implementation of use of one embodiment of the apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0170] Figure 9b shows a view of one embodiment of the apparatus involved in the implementation shown in Figure 9a.

[0171] Figure 9c shows a schematic plan view of another implementation of use of one embodiment of the apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0172] Figure 9d shows a schematic plan view of a further implementation of use of one embodiment of the apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0173] Figure 10 shows a schematic plan view of a tillage operation.

[0174] Figure 11 shows an elevation view of another embodiment of the apparatus of the present disclosure, in which a levelling means is used.

[0175] Figure 12a shows a cross-section view taken across section F-F of another embodiment of an apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure, when in a retracted condition (with prismatic sliding functionality); the lower portion of Figure 12a shows a cross section view taken across section T-T about midway along the axial length of the apparatus.

[0176] Figure 12b shows the cross-section view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 12a, when in a partial extended condition.

[0177] Figure 13a shows a cross-section view taken across section G-G of another embodiment of an apparatus arranged in accordance with the present disclosure, when in a retracted condition (without prismatic sliding functionality).

[0178] Figure 13b shows a cross-section view of the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 13a, when in a partial extended condition.

[0179] Detailed Description of Specific Embodiment(s)

[0180] With reference to Figures 1 to 6 there is shown one embodiment of an apparatus 5 for use in operating a ground engaging element or tool (hereinafter, tool 10) for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation (e.g., excavating or severing unwanted organic material such as weeds W or region of soil (e.g., in the form of a divot) from a region of ground). The apparatus 5 is arranged so as to be couplable with a shank 14 of a tyne assembly or other / like support assembly (hereinafter, tyne assembly 15) that is movable over the ground by way of a prime mover (such as for example a tractor T referenced in Figure 10) as part of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

[0181] Broadly, in the context described in the present disclosure, the apparatus 5 comprises an actuator assembly 6 arranged for providing driving movement of the tool 10 in alignment with or along an axis X for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation. The skilled reader will appreciate that embodiments of the apparatus 5 (and respective apparatus 505, 705 described below), and indeed the broader principles described in the present disclosure, may also be used in other applications for providing driving movement of componentry in accordance with or along an axis.

[0182] The tool 10 is configured so as to be driven in accordance with or along the axis X by the actuator assembly 6. The apparatus 5 is configured so as to be, in use, selectively operable so as to drive the tool 10 by way of the actuator assembly 6 from a non-ground engaging state or position toward a ground engaging state / position to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating / severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby.

[0183] With reference to Figures 2, 3, 5 and 6, the actuator assembly 6 comprises a housing 20 having an open end 25. In the form shown in the Figures, and with specific reference to Figure 3 (showing an exploded form of the apparatus 5) the housing 20 is or tubular (and cylindrical) form and provided in the form of an assembly of first 20A and second 20B parts provided of tubular (and cylindrical) form. Both of the first 20A (provided in the form of a guide extension section) and second 20B (provided in the form of a barrel guide section) parts are assembled together to define the housing 20 by way of a threaded engagement involving corresponding engaging ends 20A-E, 20B-E of the respective parts 20A, 20B. In this manner, the open end 25 of the housing 20 is provided by way of a free end of the housing’s second part 20B.

[0184] The housing 20 is of tubular form and closed at an end 30 opposite the free end 25 (when assembled to form the housing) by a closure 35 (provided in the form of a head plate body). The closure 35 is fastened to an annular rim 32 of the end 30 using a plurality of fasteners F (e.g., 6 x M6x20mm fasteners). In the form shown, and to provide an indication of geometrical scale, the length of the housing 20 is about 300 mm (which, in an embodiment, allows for a 'stroke’ length of about 150mm) and its outside diameter is between from about 60mm to about 80mm, although the skilled reader will appreciate that the dimensions may vary as required while still availing of the principles described herein. The skilled reader will understand that the allowable stroke is informed, at least in part, by the length of the housing. Furthermore, the skilled reader will appreciate the desire to reduce dimensions as much as possible whilst maintaining performance, including structural rigidity, given the desire to enable embodiments of the apparatus 5 to package smaller as they become more advanced. As will be described below, the closure 35 is configured so as to provide first 40 and second 45 openings that communicate with respective fluid pathways along which respective non-compressible and compressible fluids are communicated into separate chambers (as will be described below) enabling operation of the apparatus 5. The non-compressible fluid may be a fluid from any of the following: a petroleum based hydraulic fluid (e.g., a petroleum based mineral oil), a water-based hydraulic fluid, a synthetic blend hydraulic fluid, a biodegradable hydraulic fluid. From testing and / or simulations of prototype versions to date, operational pressures of the non-compressible fluid have been found to be in the order of about 30 Bar to about 35 Bar. The compressible fluid may take the form of Nitrogen (a common gas used in pneumatic applications), but other possible examples may include, compressed air, carbon dioxide, or any suitable inert gas. The skilled reader would appreciate other types of non-compressible and compressible fluids that would be suitable for use in the present context.

[0185] The actuator assembly 6 of the apparatus 5 further comprises a movable member or body 50 of tubular form (provided, for example, in the form of a sliding barrel section). The movable member or body 50 (hereinafter, movable body 50) is operably associated or coupled with the housing 20 so as to be movable between a first condition or position in which the movable body 50 is in a ‘retracted’ state C1 (as shown in Figures 4a and 5) relative to the housing 20, and a second condition or position in which the movable body 50 moves to an ‘extended’ state C2 (as shown clearly in Figures 4b and 6) relative to the housing 20 via the housing’s open end 25. As shown in Figures 4a and 5, when in the retracted state C1 , the movable 50 body is nested or accommodated / housed substantially within the assembled housing 20 (but it will be appreciated that a portion of the movable body 50 could project from the assembled housing 20 when in the retracted state C1). As shown in Figures 4b and 6, when in the extended state C2, a free end 55 of the movable 50 body projects or extends from the assembled housing 20.

[0186] In broad operation, the apparatus 5 is configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus 5 is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection or identification (e.g., by way of a suitable sensing and identification means) of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the tool 10 from the non-ground engaging state toward the ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, then moving the tool 10 to a state or condition in which the tool 10 is clear of engagement with the ground. This therefore provides for an active targeted tillage tool.

[0187] The movable body 50 has an interior region of space 60 defined by / between first 65 and second 70 closure or sealing arrangements (hereinafter, first 65 and second 70 end caps). Each of the first 65 and second 70 end caps are configured so as to threadedly engage with respective opposite ends 55, 57 of the movable body 50 (as shown in Figure 5) thereby defining the interior region 60 in a fluidly sealed manner. As shown in Figure 5, each of the first 65 and second 70 end caps are provided with regions of thread formed on respective exterior portions which engage with corresponding regions of thread formed on respective interior portions of the opposite ends 55, 57 of the movable body 50.

[0188] The apparatus 5 further comprises a piston arrangement 80 that comprises a rod assembly 80R and a piston head portion 80H. The piston arrangement 80 is arranged in fixed relation with the housing 20 remains and fixed or stationary relative to movement of the movable body 50 when moved between the retracted and extended states. The piston arrangement 80 is arranged so as to extend into the interior region 60 of the movable body 50 via an opening 85 (being of passage like form) formed in the second end cap 70. The piston arrangement 80 is configured so as to facilitate provision of a first fluid pathway or passage F1 fluidly connecting with a first portion 60A of the interior region 60 of the movable body 50.

[0189] Broadly, in operation, when in the retracted (or standby) state C1 , movement of the movable body 50 toward the extended state C2 (second condition) is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being deliverable via the fluid passage F1 so as to act in the first portion 60A of the interior region 60 between the first end cap 65 and the piston arrangement 80. In this manner, the actuator assembly 6 drives the tool 10 so as to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating / severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby. The apparatus 5 may be configured operable so as to return or revert the movable body 50 back toward the non-ground engaging state (e.g., the retracted state C1) following a movement toward the ground engaging state. In this manner, the ground engaging element is able to remain in the first (or stand-by) condition above the ground in anticipation of being driven by the apparatus 5 toward the ground engaging state, for example, on the identification of target organic material or soil requiring excavation. In this manner, embodiments of the apparatus 5 can be used for providing a means for active and targeted tillage of weed bearing ground.

[0190] When in the extended state C2, movement of the movable body 50 toward the retracted state C1 (first condition) is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to act (e.g., in a pneumatic spring like manner) in a second portion 60B of the interior region 60 between the second end cap 70 and the piston arrangement 80 on removal or reduction of the pressure applied to the first portion 60A causing egress of the non-compressible fluid from the first portion 60A of the interior region 60. As can be seen Figures 5 and 6, operation of the movable body 50 between the retracted C1 and extended states C2 is generally coaxial with and along an axis X. Control of the delivery and egress of the non-compressible fluid via the first fluid passage F1 may be enabled / controlled by a suitably configured controller module (e.g., an electronic programmable logic controller).

[0191] For the case of a tillage operation in the context of the present application of use, the apparatus 5 is configured so that the tool 10 is carried by the movable body 50 (via the barrel extension 188 which, in the present embodiment, connects with the free end 55 of the movable body 50). Figure 2 depicts one nonlimiting attachment arrangement, in which the tool 10 is connected with the barrel extension 188 by way of attachment aperture AT which is itself connected with the movable body 50. With reference to Figure 3, an embodiment of a barrel extension 188’ is provided that attaches with the end 55 of the movable body 50 (in the manner indicated by the arrowed path shown in Figure 3) by way of a threaded engagement between complimentary threaded regions provided on an interior wall of the barrel extension 188’ and an exterior wall of the end 55 of the movable body 50. The barrel extensions 188, 188’, as indicated in Figure 3 serves as a placeholder for the tool 10 for demonstrative / explanative purposes. The skilled reader would appreciate various ways in which the tool 10 can be attachably carried or supported by the movable body 50. The tool 10 is positioned relative the movable body 50 so that when the movable body 50 is in the retracted state C1 , the tool 10 is generally clear of or free from engagement with the ground, and engageable with the ground when in the extended state C2. The retracted state C1 of the movable body 50 is therefore a ‘stand-by’ state in which the tool 10 is clear or free of engagement of the ground. When the tool 10 is selectively operated to work the ground for excavating / severing target organic material (e.g. weed W) or soil, the non-compressible fluid is caused to flow under sufficient pressure into the first portion 60A of the interior region 60 so as to move the movable body 50 toward the extended state C2 thereby causing the tool 10 to engage the ground for excavation purposes. The tool 10 is therefore able to remain in the ‘stand-by’ condition above the ground in anticipation of being selectively driven as needed.

[0192] The housing 20 and the movable body 50 are operably coupled or associated by way of a prismatic sliding arrangement PJ configured to define the scope or range of movement of the movable body 50 between the retracted C1 and extended states C2. Prismatic joints are a one degree of freedom kinematic pairing (the housing 20 and the movable body 50 in the present context) which constrains the relative motion of the two bodies (20, 50) to sliding along a common axis (the axis X in the present context), without rotation. When the apparatus 5 is used in a tillage operation for active targeted weed excavation, engagement of the tool 10 with the ground subjects the element to forces which attempt to rotate the tool 10 about the axis X. The prismatic sliding arrangement PJ therefore operates to resist these torsional / twisting forces and achieve correct orientation of an x-axis asymmetric tool 10 with reference to tractor T travel direction.

[0193] It will be appreciated that use of a prismatic joint or sliding arrangement is not essential and could be replaced with conventional circular cylinder geometry. In such instances, the movable body 50 could be configured to carry dished (or convex / concave) blade tools which are permitted to rotate about the axis X (e.g., on engagement with the ground) and would therefore perform similarly irrespective of orientation.

[0194] With reference to Figures 3, 4a / b, and 5, the movable body 50 is prismatically coupled or associated with the housing 20 via the prismatic joint or sliding arrangement PJ, specifically the housing’s second part 20B. In this manner, the prismatic joint / sliding arrangement PJ operates to permit relative movement with regard to the housing 20 along the axis X, while resisting rotation about the axis. To enable the prismatic joint / sliding arrangement PR, a cross-sectional profile of an exterior wall of the movable body 50 and a cross-sectional profile of an interior wall of the second part 20B of the housing 20 is of complimentary polygonal form so as to resist rotation about the axis X. With reference to Figure 3, the polygonal form of the embodiment of the movable body 50 shown comprises eight sides formed from four primary, generally planar, segments 50A-50D equispaced about the axis X, and four chamfered sides 50F each provided between adjacent primary sides. As indicated in Figure 3, the interior wall of the second part 20B of the housing 20 is shaped or formed so as to compliment the exterior polygonal form or profile of the movable body 50 so that a generally splined relationship can be established between the two parts thereby preventing rotation about the axis X when the movable body 50 is in the extended state C2. The skilled reader will appreciate that the configuration shown can take other forms, as the external shape of the movable body 50 could be, for example, formed from the remnants of a larger outer diameter (OD) tube wall. The characteristic sought is a complimentary shaping of corresponding regions of the exterior wall of the movable body 50 and the interior wall of the second part 20B of the housing 20 so that relative movement between the interfacing components 50, 20B about the axis X is resisted, but that axial relative movement is allowed.

[0195] With reference to Figures 3-6, the prismatic joint / sliding arrangement PJ comprises a bearing assembly 90 configured operable between the interior wall of the second part 20B of the housing 20 and the exterior wall of the movable body 50 for facilitating rolling contact (or reduced frictional contact) between the housing 20 and the movable body 50. The bearing assembly 90 is carried by portions of the primary sides 50A-50D of the exterior wall of the movable body 50. Particularly, the bearing assembly 90 comprises four sets 90A-90B of multiple bearing elements, with each bearing set being carried by a portion of a respective primary side 50A-50D. It will be understood that the bearing assembly 90 is not visible in the cross-section views shown in Figures 5 and 6 due to the plane across which respective cross-sections (A-A, B-B) are taken not passing the through the bearing assembly 90 (but instead across diagonally opposing ‘corners’ of the movable body 50).

[0196] Each bearing set 90A-90D comprises twenty (20) bearing elements each arranged so that their respective axes of rotation are parallel each other and orthogonal with the axis X. In alternate arrangements, the skilled reader will appreciate that the bearing assembly 90 could be carried (using, for example, a substantially similar arrangement of the respective bearing elements) by a portion of the interior wall of the second part 20B of the housing 20. The skilled reader will appreciate that the bearing assembly 90 can take many forms of appropriate materials, which could, for example, include engineered plastics which are formed so as to enable sliding or relative movement between contacting surfaces / components to occur. Thus, it will be understood that while a bearing assembly 90 used in the described embodiment comprises multiple bodies / elements to achieve the bearing functionality, this is not essential for the present disclosure. As noted, an engineered plastic option can readily replace these elements with a sliding surface, for example, fixed to one body. The skilled reader will appreciate that other solutions for providing bearing / sliding functionality will have utility with the present disclosure.

[0197] With reference to Figure 6, the piston head portion 80H of the piston arrangement 80 is provided at a free end of the rod assembly 80R. The rod assembly 80R is configured so as to extend through the opening 85 of the second end cap 70 of the movable body 50 so as to provide the piston head portion 80H in the interior region 60 of the movable body 50 in a generally coaxial manner.

[0198] The piston head portion 80H is configured so as to sealingly divide the interior region 60 of the movable body 50 into the first 60A and second 60B interior regions for forming, respectively (i) a first chamber (hereinafter, first chamber 60A) with the first end cap 65 and a first side 80H-A of the piston head portion 80H for receiving the non-compressible fluid, and (ii) a second chamber (hereinafter, second chamber 60B) with the second end cap 70, the rod assembly 80R, and a second side 80H-B of the piston head portion 80H for receiving the compressible fluid. In the embodiment shown, the first chamber 60A is fluidly or hydraulically isolated from the second chamber 60B.

[0199] The non-compressible (e.g., hydraulic oil) and compressible (e.g., Nitrogen) fluids are communicated into the respective first 60A, second 60B chambers by way of respective first F1 and second F2 fluid pathways (as will be described below) that are facilitated by way of the rod assembly 80R of the piston arrangement 80.

[0200] The rod assembly 80R is exemplified by way of an assembly of a tubular feed member 80R-A and a rod member 80R-B (which is of tubular form). As shown in Figure 3 and each of Figures 5 and 6, the rod assembly 80R is formed by the rod member 80R-B being assembled about the tubular feed member 80R-A.

[0201] The assembly forming the rod assembly 80R is configured so as to facilitate provision of the first fluid passage F1 (see Figure 3) for providing an inlet 100 which fluidly communicates with the opening 40 of the closure 35, and, spaced (axially) from the inlet, an outlet 104 opening into the first chamber 60A via the head portion 80H, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. As can be seen, the tubular feed member 80R-A provides the first fluid passage F1 as the axial hollow region of the tubular section. The first fluid passage F1 is generally coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the rod assembly 80R (which is generally aligned with the axis X).

[0202] The assembly forming the rod assembly 80R is also configured (as will be described in further detail below) so as to provide the second fluid passage F2. The second fluid passage F2 has an inlet 106 and an outlet 108 (see Figure 3) which are fluidly connected by a groove or channel G. The second fluid passage F2 is formed, at least in part, by the assembly of the members 80R-A and 80R-B so that the inlet 106 fluidly communicates with the opening 45 of the closure 35. Spaced from the inlet 106 is the outlet 108 which is fluidly connected with the second chamber 60B via a widening 140 of a recess 120 (formed generally coaxial in the second side 80H-B of the piston head portion 80H). The recess 120 is fluidly linked with the second chamber 60B via a number of channels 145 which open to the second chamber via respective apertures 150, as shown in Figure 8.

[0203] The second fluid passage F2 is formed in part with a wall of the tubular feed member 80R-A. As seen in Figure 3, the tubular feed member 80R-A is configured with the channel or groove G at or near its exterior wall that runs along a substantive portion of the axial length of the tubular feed member. Being also of tubular form, and when assembled about the tubular feed member 80R-A, the rod member 80R-B then covers the channel or groove G formed on the exterior wall of the first tubular member thereby completing and providing the second fluid passage F2. In this manner, the second fluid passage F2 is formed so as to be radially spaced or offset (e.g., radially offset relative to the axis X) from the first fluid passage F1 by way of the cooperation of the assembly of the tubular feed member 80R-A and the rod member 80R-B.

[0204] The arrangement between the assembly of the tubular feed 80R-A and rod 80R-B members and their engagement with the piston head portion 80H and the closure 35 will now be described outlining the provision of the first F1 and second F2 fluid passages.

[0205] As will be seen in Figure 5, the tubular feed member 80R-A inserts within the rod member 80R-B so that opposite ends 112, 114 of the tubular feed member 80R-A project from respective opposite ends 116, 118 of the rod member 80R-B, with the terminal end of the end 118 of the rod member 80R-B coming into abutment with an annular protrusion 111 of the tubular feed member 80R-A. As shown in Figure 8, respective ends 114,118 of the tubular feed member 80R-A and the rod member 80R-B are received within the recess 120 formed generally coaxial (with the axis X) in the second side 80H-B of the piston head portion 80H, with the assembly of the tubular feed 80R-A and the rod 80R-B members extending through the opening 85 of the second end cap 70. The end 118 of the rod member 80R-B threadedly engages with a complimentary thread provided on a region of an interior wall of the recess 120 of the piston head portion 80H.

[0206] With reference to Figure 7, respective ends 112,116 of the tubular feed 80R-A and rod 80R-B members fit within a passage 125 (which communicates with the opening 40) formed generally coaxial (with the axis X) in the closure 35. The end 116 of the rod member 80R-B threadedly engages with a complimentary thread provided on a region of an interior wall of the passage 125 of the closure 35 and locates so as to ensure that the inlet 106 of the second fluid passage F2 fluidly communicates with the opening 45 (as described below). O-rings 126a, 126b (with respective backup rings as might be required) are provided in respective recesses to confer a fluid sealing between corresponding surfaces as shown in Figure 7. Specifically, O-ring 126a is provided in a suitably formed recess of the passage 125 of the closure 35 so as to provide a fluid seal, at the region shown in Figure 7, between the passage 125 and the inlet 106 of the tubular rod member 80R-B barrier between non-compressible and compressible fluids (oil and nitrogen). Similarly, O-ring 126b, are provided in suitably formed recesses of the exterior wall of the end 112 of the tubular feed member 80R-A so as to provide a fluid seal between the end 112 and the passage 125, as shown in Figure 7.

[0207] The passage 125 of the closure 35 is formed providing an annular recess 130 which is in fluid communication with the opening 45 by way of a channel 132. As seen in Figure 3, the inlet 106 of the second fluid passage F2 opens to an annular recess 134 formed near the end 112 of the tubular feed member 80R-A. The positioning of the assembly of the tubular feed 80R-A and rod 80R-B members within the passage 125 is configured so that the (four) apertures 136 (see Figure 3) provided in the end 116 of the rod member 80R-B each register in fluid communication with the annular recess 134.

[0208] With reference to Figure 8, respective ends 114,118 of the tubular feed 80R-A and rod 80R-B members assemble within the recess 120 formed in the second side 80H-B of the piston head portion 80H. The end 118 of the rod member 80R-B threadedly engages with the complimentary thread provided on a region of an interior wall of the recess 120 as shown. Inward of the threaded region of the interior wall of the recess 120 the geometry of the recess widens (indicated generally as 140 in Figure 8) so as to enable fluid registration or communication with the outlet 108 of the second fluid passage F2 when in position in the recess 120. Fluid communication between the widened region 140 of the recess 120 and the second chamber 60B is provided by way of the channels 145 that open into the second chamber 60B through respective apertures 150 provided on the second side 80H-B of the piston head portion 80H. Seals (126c, 126e, 126f) and o-rings (126d) are used with the end cap 70 and piston head 80-H to provide fluid sealing between the non- compressible and compressible fluids. Seal 126c is provided in a suitably formed recess (upper positioned of the piston head 80-H) of the outer circumferential wall of the piston head 80-H so as to provide a fluid seal between piston head 80-H and the interior wall of the movable body 50. O-ring 126d is provided in a suitably formed recess of the exterior wall of the end 114 of the tubular feed member 80R-A so as to provide a fluid seal between end 114 and the base of the recess 120 formed in the piston head 80-H. Seal 126e is provided in a suitably formed recess of the interior wall of the opening 85 of the second end cap 70 so as to provide a fluid seal between the second end cap 70 and the exterior wall of the rod member 80R-B. Seal 126f is provided in a suitably formed recess (lower disposed as compared seal 126c) of the outer circumferential wall of the piston head 80-H so as to provide a fluid seal between piston head 80-H and the interior wall of the movable body 50. Bearing 127 is provided in a suitably formed recess of the exterior wall of the piston head 80-H so as to assist with relative sliding movement between piston head 80-H and the interior wall of the movable body 50.

[0209] Any of the o-rings 126a, 126b, 126c, 126e, 126f may be of any of the following designations: AS- 568-013, AS-568-014, AS-568-129. Furthermore, any of the seals 126c, 126e, 126f may be of any of the following designations: R16ML00200F711 , R16ML00450F711 , R54MR00450F711 . The skilled reader would readily appreciate the appropriateness of existing seals for use in the context of the present disclosure.

[0210] Accordingly, on assembly of the tubular feed 80R-A and rod 80R-B members with the closure 35, a fluid communication pathway is established fluidly linking the opening 45, the channel 132, the annular recess 130, the apertures 136, the recess 134, both of the inlet 106 and outlet 108 fluidly linked by channel or groove G, the widened region 140 of the recess 120, channels 145, and the second chamber 60B. In this manner, compressible fluid can be delivered to the second chamber 60B on introduction through the opening 45.

[0211] Entry of the compressible fluid into the second chamber 60B is shown in Figure 8. Delivery of the compressible fluid to the second chamber 60B may be actioned during a setup process of the apparatus 5 in which a predetermined quantity of compressible fluid is supplied to the second chamber 60B for enabling the pneumatic spring like functionality. The opening 45 of the closure 35 can be placed in fluid communication with a source of compressible fluid for introducing an appropriate quantity of compressible fluid into the second chamber 60B under sufficient pressure (simulations of prototypes to date have involved pressures from about 3 to about 3.5 Bar for initial ‘charging’, but more or less pressure could be operable and / or relevant for appropriate operation). Once the desired amount of compressible fluid is entered into the second chamber 60B, the opening 45 is closed and locked off. The use of pneumatic spring functionality as described is advantageous in providing a more compact arrangement than spring arrangements using, for example, coil springs.

[0212] For active selective operation of the movable body 50 (the lower portion of which carries the tool 10, as described below), the opening 40 of the closure 35 can be connectable in fluid communication with a source of the non-compressible fluid (e.g., that used or already provided with existing tillage / farming equipment to which the apparatus 5 will be coupled with) so as to communicate non- compressible fluid into the first chamber 60A. The non-compressible fluid is introduced into the first chamber (effectively within the interior region 60A) under a predetermined pressure. Increasing pressure of the non-compressible fluid causes movement of the movable body 50 toward the extended state, which movement causes a volume of the second chamber (effectively within the interior region 60B) to reduce thereby compressing the compressible fluid (e.g., Nitrogen) that is contained therein and placing the compressible fluid into a respective pressurised state. The now pressurised state of the compressible fluid operates to move the movable body 50 back toward the retracted state (in a spring like manner) on removal or reduction of the pressure of the non- compressible fluid. In this manner, the tool 10 is able to remain in the stand-by condition above the ground in anticipation of being driven toward the ground engaging state when desired. While residing otherwise in the ‘stand-by’ state, selective operation of the apparatus 5 can be implemented on identification / selection of a target weed W for excavation purposes. In this manner, embodiments of the apparatus 5 can be used for providing a means for active and targeted tillage for row cropping systems.

[0213] As shown in Figures 1 , 2, and 9b, the apparatus 5 is coupled to / with the shank 14 of the tyne assembly 15 by way of a coupling arrangement 170. In the form shown, the coupling arrangement 170 comprises two pairs of fasteners F that operate with respective clamp portions 175A and 175B which extend from a body 180 and are configured so as to clamp about a region of the housing 20 of the apparatus 5. As seen in Figure 2, the dashed line shows the assembly of the apparatus 5 with the coupling arrangement 170, also including the assembly of a wiper seal extension 186 (which receives the second part 20B of the housing 20) which serves to clean a barrel extension 188 (which attaches to the end 55 of the movable body 50), and the tool 10 (which attaches to the barrel extension 188). The body 180 comprises two or more passages 185 through which bolts can be inserted. The body 180 is aligned relative to the tyne assembly 15 so that the passage 185 suitably registers with a corresponding aperture (not shown but implied) of an existing or standard mounting point thereby enabling the bolts / screws to pass through for securement with a complimentary nut. The coupling arrangement 170 also provides an arrangement (not shown) for mating or coupling the body 180 to / with the shank 14 so as to maintain a predetermined orientation of the apparatus relative to the shank 14, particularly relevant when coupled with a prismatic joint / slider and asymmetric tool 10. The skilled reader will appreciate that any suitable coupling arrangement can be used to secure the apparatus 5 with the tyne assembly 15 and / or provide a keying or spline function between the attached components.

[0214] Depending on the tillage / cultivation operation the apparatus 5 can be coupled with the shank 14 of the tyne assembly 15 in a number of different orientations. In this regard, the apparatus 5 (or multiple units) can be located / coupled with shanks of tyne assemblies (or other like support structure) so that operation of the apparatus 5 causes the carried tool 10 to be capable of engaging ground in any desired intra (laR) or inter-row (IrR) regions of a tillage / cultivation operation, as indicated in Figure 10. Examples of possible positioning of the apparatus 5 can include: upstream / ahead or downstream / behind of the tyne shank 14, on the left or right-hand sides of the tyne shank 14 (as shown in Figure 1). In other embodiments, the apparatus 5 could be mounted behind the tyne shank 14 which could assist with packaging, protection of the geometry of the carried tool 10 (e.g., blade) with respect to the axis X, as well as protecting from interference with larger weeds during operation.

[0215] More than one apparatus 5 may be couplable to a tyne shank 14 as a tillage / cultivation operation may require. In this manner, multiple apparatus 5 can be orientated about a tyne shank 14 so as to be capable of targeting multiple areas for active weed and targeted excavation during a tillage / cultivation operation. Of course, the targetable area of a tillage or ground cultivation operation can be increased when using an assembly of multiple tyne assemblies with each carrying one or more apparatus 5 orientated as required.

[0216] In other embodiments, the apparatus (5) and / or the coupling arrangement (170) may be configured so as to enable the location, position, and / or angular orientation of the apparatus relative to the tyne shank (14) to be changed or adjusted, either before operation or in-situ. In one embodiment, the apparatus (5) and / or the coupling arrangement (170) may be configured so that the apparatus can translate laterally relative to the direction of travel (eg. sideways), can translate forward / backward relative to the direction of travel, and / or rotate about a vertically aligned axis. Embodiments or implementations enabling such functionality may be particularly useful for mounting on a robotic platform.

[0217] The skilled reader will appreciate that the apparatus 5 need not be connected to a shank 14 of a tyne assembly 15, but could be coupled to other structures of farming equipment that are being moved across the ground as part of a farming or tillage operation. For example, with the increasing use of unmanned autonomous or remotely operated drone technology in farming, any number of apparatuses 5 may be coupled to structures or platforms that are being towed or are part of a drone (or like vehicle e.g. unmanned ground vehicle (UGV)) for undertaking (remotely or autonomously) a tillage / cultivation operation.

[0218] Selective operation of the apparatus 5 can be implemented in a number of ways, including manual observation or identification of a target weed by an operator of the apparatus 5. Selective operation may also be informed via a suitable sensing means operable with a control means (e.g., a suitably configured electronic programmable logic controller). Such control means may be operable so as to receive an input from one or more sensor module(s) configured for sensing organic material or soil as the tillage / cultivation operation progresses. The control means may be configured for selective sensing of organic material / soil so as to differentiate weeds from desired plants. The control means may be configured with suitable means for processing the sensory input for discriminating between any sensed organic matter / soil so as to identify target organic material or soil for excavation using the apparatus 5.

[0219] Sensing means could also be arranged so as to receive an input from a sensor module configured for sensing organic material as a tillage or cultivation operation progresses. The electronic controller may be configured with suitable means for processing the sensory input for discriminating between any sensed organic matter so as to identify one or more target organic material for excavation using the apparatus 5. Suitable sensing modules may comprise any of the following in isolation (individually) or combination: a visible light camera module or modules, sensors using different light wavelengths, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology, laser range sensors, infrared sensors, acoustic / sonar. The skilled reader would appreciate the various types of sensors applicable for use in the present context. The identification module may be configured so as to avail of normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) and / or Al technologies for determining whether any sensed input is representative of a prospective weed to be excavated. Embodiments may also include use of GPS location techniques associated with pre-mapping of targetable plant / weeds.

[0220] Figures 9a-d, and 10 serve to provide context of the apparatus 5 as might be used with multiple tyne assemblies 15 as part of a tillage operation. It is noted that the content of Figures 9a-d and 10 are representative only and not to be considered a limiting outline of use of the apparatus 5 in the present context. Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of an example distribution of weed W and plant P material relative to a usual row cropping operation, showing the intra laR and inter IrR row regions which can be targeted using multiple units of the apparatus 10 orientated as appropriate with the tyne assemblies 15.

[0221] Figure 9a represents an assembly of a plurality of tyne assemblies 15 having respective shanks 14 to which an apparatus 5 (shown as a black square shape) of the present disclosure is coupled with. Noted on Figure 9a is the direction of tow by a prime mover such as a tractor T (refer Figure 10) that each of the apparatuses 5 are towed in the tillage operation. Dashed lines trailing from each tyne shank 14 are indicated. Figure 9b shows an isolated perspective view of the outer most apparatus 5 (identified in Figure 9a) as coupled with a shank 14 of its respective tyne assembly 15 as part of the overall towed assembly 200. Shown also in Figure 9b is the range of movement M of the tool 10 between the retracted C1 and extended C2 states.

[0222] Figure 9c shows an arrangement which is a variation on that shown in Figure 9a. For the arrangement shown the apparatus 5 is configured so that it is capable of movement laterally relative to the direction of travel of the towed assembly 200. For the arrangement shown, each apparatus 5 of the assembly 200 is coupled with its respective tyne shank 14 using a coupling arrangement that provides a translation or displacement means or arrangement 201 to allow the supported apparatus 5 to be capable of moving laterally across or within its local inter-row IrR region allowing it to increase the ‘reach’ of the relevant apparatus 5 within its respective inter-row region IrR to about either side of the bounding local intra-row regions. In this manner, the effectiveness of the assembly 200 can be increased in that more ground during a single pass of the assembly 200 can be the subject of active targeted tillage by the collection of apparatuses (5). The translation or displacement means or arrangement 201 may comprise any suitable componentry that can be configured so as to result in any translational or displacement enabling movement, such as for example, one or more linear bearings, lead screws or like mechanical or mechanised arrangements that enable a displacement of any of the apparatuses (5) to occur (e.g., swing type mechanisms). Such movement may be laterally or arc like. The skilled reader will understand that any means by which displacement of the apparatuses (5) can be enabled / controlled can be used.

[0223] Figure 9d an arrangement which is a variation on that shown in Figures 9a and 9c. For the arrangement shown a plurality of apparatuses 5 are configured in an assembly having first R1 and second R2 rows as shown. As seen in Figure 9d, each of the apparatuses 5 of the second row R2 are laterally offset from those of the first row R1. In this manner, the apparatuses 5 of the second row R2 are positioned so as to be operable adjacent or within the intra-row region (laR). In this manner, the effectiveness of the assembly can be increased or improved to enable more ground (during a single pass of the assembly 200 to be the subject of active targeted tillage by the collection of apparatuses (5)). The skilled reader will appreciate that more rows comprising apparatuses (5) can be included as desired / needed, any such rows can be arranged to carry apparatuses (5) positioned so as to be operable within inter-row IrR or intra-row laR regions; for example, multiple apparatus (5) may be operable at different regions of an inter-row region IrR while being positioned at a different row of the tyne assembly. Furthermore, the concepts shown in both Figures 9c and 9d can be included such that one or more of a plurality of apparatuses 5 of a multi-row assembly like that shown in Figure 9d can be operable with a respective translation means or arrangement 201 so as to enable the respective apparatus 5 to be movable laterally relative to the tow direction of the assembly. The skilled reader will appreciate that a large number of different configurations are possible using the principles of the present disclosure when applied to multi-row tyne assemblies.

[0224] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the apparatus 5 can be operated so that the speed of the movement of the movable body 50 toward the extended state can be varied (for each movement or during each movement) so as to affirmatively control the time that the tool 10 is engaged with the ground, thereby, advantageously, controlling the ground engagement profile as desired (which could be informed by the geometry and / or location of the target weed requiring excavation and the relative soil profile). The speed of the movement of the movable body 50 toward the extended state can also be varied in relation to the speed that the apparatus 5 is being towed at, which speed might be variable or kept constant. Having regard to Figure 11 , embodiments of the apparatus of the present disclosure may be arranged operable with a levelling means configured operable for use in levelling operation of an embodiment of the apparatus and / or the tool 10 relative to the ground. Embodiments of such a means may be configured operable for maintaining operation of an embodiment of the apparatus 5 at about a predetermined height relative to the ground at which the tool 10 operates. In this manner, a depth to which the ground engaging portion of the tool 10 engages the ground can be controlled or reliably maintained during a tillage / cropping operation. In one form, the apparatus 5 is arranged so as to be cooperably supported at a predetermined spacing from the ground by way of the movable support and a rollable element 310 provided in rolling contact with the ground. In one embodiment, an embodiment of the apparatus 5 is carried by a host body that is coupled with the tyne / support assembly in a rotatable manner so that the host body, and consequentially the apparatus, can rotate relative to the movable support. In another form, the coupling between such an apparatus 5 and the movable support is configured so as to bias the apparatus 5 toward the ground, which bias is resisted by way of the rollable element being in rolling contact with the ground. Bias of the apparatus 5 is also configured (e.g., by way of a spring-loaded arrangement and / or the centre of mass, location, and size of the apparatus) so as to also accommodate vertical movement of the apparatus operating against the applied bias due to the rollable element encountering non-uniform (e.g. undulating) surface topography during a tillage / cultivation operation. In another embodiment, the levelling means may be configured so as to be adjustable so that the desired height of operation of the apparatus can be adjusted as might be required for a given tillage / cropping operation. The skilled reader will appreciate that the levelling means can be configured so that the degree of bias can be changed or adjusted as might be required for a given tillage / cropping operation.

[0225] Following from the above, Figure 11 shows a schematic elevation view of an arrangement 300 using an apparatus 302 configured in accordance with the present disclosure where an embodiment of a levelling means is shown. Like numerals are retained for ease of explanation. The apparatus 302 (having a tool 10 with respective ground engaging blade as shown) is carried by an arm 304 that itself is, at a proximal end 306, rotatably coupled (shown at 312) with a tyne shank 14 of a tyne assembly 15. At a distal end 308 of the arm 306, there is carried a wheel 310 that is biased in rolling contact with the ground over which the tyne assembly 15 is being towed by way of the rotatable coupling 312. In this manner, the apparatus 302 is caused to trail the tyne shank 14. The biased rotatable coupling 312 is spring loaded so as to bias or prejudice the wheel 310 to remain in rolling contact with the ground thereby accommodating non-uniform surface topography during operation. One or more stops or detents (e.g., provided in the form of pins 314) are provided in the arm 304 to serve as limit stops when brought into engagement with the tyne shank 14 thereby defining the maximum allowable downward movement of the wheel 310. In this manner, the operational proximity of the apparatus 302 relative to the ground (e.g., height) can be defined or preset ensuring consistency in the depth that the tool 10 works the ground during operation. Regardless of the topography of the surface over which the apparatus 302 is being towed. For the embodiment shown in Figure 11 , the apparatus 302 is shown closer to the wheel 310, but the skilled reader will appreciate that the position of the apparatus 320 could be located at any position along the length of the arm 306. Furthermore, embodiments may be realised which permit elevation of the tyne shank 14 (e.g., through lifting of the cultivator bar row to which it is attached) for lifting the assembly clear of the ground (and not for the wheel 310 to continue to track the surface). This is a practical aspect useful for transport to / from site.

[0226] In an arrangement in which multiple apparatus are each coupled with a respective tyne shank or leg of a broader tyne or cultivator assembly, one or more of the apparatus is / are arranged so as to operable with a respective levelling means so that each respective apparatus is provided substantially at a desired height relative to the ground during operation (either passively or actively). In such embodiments, each apparatus is arranged so as to be benefit from localised levelling relative to the ground during the operation.

[0227] In some embodiments, the levelling means may comprise existing equipment designed and produced for such purposes, such as for example, equipment made and sold by Orthman (www. on man.com.a ) known as Parallel Linkage BedListers. It will be appreciated that embodiments of the apparatus of the present disclosure can be realised so as to be operable with any existing levelling equipment.

[0228] In the form shown, the arrangement 300 is configured so that the apparatus 302 (and tool 10) trails the tyne shank 14, but arrangements could be configured where the apparatus 302 (and the tool 10) are operable ahead of the tyne shank 14. In another form, the orientation of the tool 10 relative to the ground could be maintained passively by way of a 4-bar parallelogram linkage mechanism or arrangement. Embodiments could be realised to additionally add the ability to compensate the orientation of the tool 10 or the apparatus 302 for inadvertent movement. Any such compensation could be done passively so that the arm 304, the tool 10 or the apparatus 302 remains generally parallel to the ground surface by coupling the tool 10 or apparatus 302 with the mount via a 4-bar parallelogram so that when the arm 304 moves the apparatus 302 stays at the same angle so that the blade of the tool 10 remains at a desired angle (e.g., angle gamma shown in Figure 11) of inclination with the ground surface. The skilled reader will appreciate other ways that the tool 10 or apparatus 302 or the working depth of the tool 10 can be controlled can be maintained reliably relative to the ground during use passively (e.g. requiring little to no unnecessary energy input) or actively. The skilled reader will appreciate that active arrangements would be possible with the requirement for additional energy requirements.

[0229] Figures 12 and 13 show further embodiments 505 (Figures 12a and 12b) and 705 (Figures 13a and 13b) consistent with the present disclosure. While the general functionality of the embodiments 505, 705 remains substantially the same as that of the apparatus 5, an advantage of the embodiments 505, 705 is that compressible and non-compressible fluids do not act across the same piston arrangement thereby reducing or avoiding contamination issues that can be prevalent in traditional / conventional arrangements. As will be described below, both of the embodiments 505, 705 share a characteristic in that the closed interior or chamber regions that hold respective non- compressible and compressible fluids are physically separated from one another. In each of the embodiments 505, 705, first 560A, second 560B chambers accommodating respective non- compressible and compressible fluids are separated and arranged coaxial one another relative to the axis X.

[0230] With reference to Figure 12a, the embodiment 505 of the apparatus (hereinafter, apparatus 505) is shown in cross-section taken across section F-F, as indicated in the schematic at the lower portion of Figure 12a showing section T-T (which is taken about mid-way along the axial length of the apparatus 505).

[0231] The apparatus 505 comprises an actuator assembly 506 arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with or along an axis X of the apparatus. The actuator assembly 506 comprises a housing 520 having an open end 525. For one application, the actuator assembly 506 is arranged for providing driving movement of a tool 10 (not shown in Figures 12 and 13) carried by a mount portion 550A of a movable member (hereinafter, movable body 550 - described below) in alignment with the axis X. The movable body 550 is operable with the housing 520 and selectively moveable along the axis X between a first position, in which the movable body 550is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable body 550 is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end 525.

[0232] The actuator assembly 506 comprises the first chamber 560A arranged operable substantially concentric the axis X between the moveable body 550 and the housing, and the second chamber 560B, which is radially spaced from the first chamber 560A, and arranged operable between the moveable body 550 and the housing 520. The actuator assembly 506 is configured so that movement of the movable body 550 toward the second position is enabled by way of a non- compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber 560A under pressure, and movement of the movable body 550 toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber 560B being caused to expand same upon removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject. The fluids noted above for the embodiment of the apparatus 5 are also relevant to the present embodiment.

[0233] Consistent with the operation of the apparatus 5, the actuator assembly 506 is configured so as to be, in use, selectively operable so as to drive the tool 10 from a non-ground engaging state (e.g., a standby state) toward a ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating / severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby. The actuator assembly 506 then reverts the tool 10 toward the standby state following engagement with the ground (e.g., so as to be ready for the next active ground engagement event).

[0234] In an embodiment, the apparatus 5 may be configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the movable body 550 from the standby position toward the second position so that the tool 10 carried by the moveable member is able to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby. Operation of the movable member 550 toward the second position pressurises the compressible fluid in the second chamber 560B for causing movement of the moveable body 550 back toward the standby position so as to place the tool 10 clear of engagement with the ground on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject. Movement of the movable body 550 toward the standby position places or resets the movable body ready awaiting another operation toward the extended position (C2) for causing the tool 10 to perform another ground engaging operation on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

[0235] The housing 520 is provided in the form of a finite length tubular (cylindrical) member or circular cross-section aligned coaxial about the axis X. The coaxiality of the first 560A and second 560B chambers relative to the axis X is such that the second chamber surrounds (being radially spaced or offset from) at least a portion of the first chamber. In the context of the present application, the length of the housing 520 can be from about 200 to about 300mm, and its outside diameter is between from about 60 to about 70mm. In an embodiment, the length of the housing 520 is informed by the desired stroke length (e.g., 150mm) and the length of the chamber holding the compressible fluid (which could be about 300mm in length). Accordingly, the housing 520 length accounts for at least these lengths (as the skilled reader will appreciate).

[0236] The housing 520 is closed at an end 530 opposite the free end 525 by a closure 535 (provided in the form of a head plate body). The closure 535 is fastened to an annular rim 532 of the end 530 using a suitable fastening system, e.g., a threaded engagement, bolt or screw arrangement (e.g., using flange arrangements, clamp arrangements, etc. The skilled reader will appreciate other fastenings systems applicable in the present context. As will be described below, the first chamber 560A is operable between the movable body 550 and the housing 520 and defined in part by the cooperability of interior regions (eg. interior regions of space) provided by respective portions of the housing 520 and the movable body 550. For the embodiment shown, the closure 535 is configured so as to provide a first 540 opening that enables a non-compressible fluid to ingress / egress to / from the first chamber 560A in a selective manner via a passage 612.

[0237] The actuator assembly 506 of the apparatus 505 further comprises a body 550 of generally cylindrical form. The movable body 550 is operably associated or coupled with the housing 520 so as to be movable in a sliding manner between a first condition in which the movable body 550 is in a ‘retracted’ state C1 (as shown in Figure 12a) relative to the housing 520, and a second condition in which the movable body 550 is caused to be moved to an ‘extended’ state C2 (partial extended state shown in Figure 12b) relative to the housing 520 via the housing’s open end 525.

[0238] The movable body 550 comprise first 550A and second 550B portions in which the first portion 550A provides a mounting portion (hereinafter, mount portion 550A) to which a ground engaging tool 10 may be attached or connected, and the second portion 550B is of tubular form (hereinafter, tubular portion 550B) as shown. The mount portion 550A is of generally solid elongate form having a uniform circular cross section along a finite length. The tubular portion 550B extends from an end of the mount portion 550B for assembly internal of the housing 520 in the manner shown in Figures 12a / b. As shown in Figures 12a and 12b, when in the retracted state, the portion 550B of the movable body 550 is generally nested or accommodated / housed with the housing 520, with the mount portion 550A of the movable body 550 projecting from the housing 520 when in the retracted and (partial) extended states (as seen in Figure 12b) for carrying the tool 10.

[0239] The apparatus 505 comprises a guide member 620 which is of tubular form (hereinafter, guide tube member 620) having an interior region 618. The guide tube member 620 is fixedly connected with an annular bushing 537 which extends from the inward facing side of the closure 535, as shown in Figures 12a / b. It will be seen that the annular bushing 537 provides the passage 612 that fluidly connects the opening 540 with the first chamber 560A (described below). The connection between the guide tube member 620 and the annular bushing 537 may be any appropriate fastening arrangement providing a secure and fluidic seal connection therebetween, e.g. threaded engagement, adhesive fastening system, interference fit arrangement, using a suitable welding process appropriate to the materials from which the parts are formed, or, if suitable manufacturing process / techniques permit, manufactured as one body. The guide tube member 620 extends to about the end cap 565 when in the retracted state as shown in Figure 12a, which extension length may depend on the scope of the stroke of the movable body 550 required.

[0240] Similar to the apparatus 5, a bearing assembly 590 operates between a portion of the guide tube member 620 and the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 for providing or facilitating sliding relation therebetween. The interior region 618 of the tubular portion 550B ofthe movable body 550 is dimensioned so as to receive the guide tube member 620 in a generally coaxial manner shown in Figure 12a. When assembled in coaxial relation with the guide tube member 620, the movable body 550 moves along the length of the guide tube member 620 in accordance with the axis X when moving between the retracted and extended states. As will be seen, the dimensioning of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 is sufficient to allow the bearing assembly 590 to operate between an external facing wall of the guide tube member 620 and an interior facing wall of the tubular portion 550B. In this manner, as with the apparatus 5 described above, rolling / sliding contact can be enabled via the bearing assembly 590 between the guide tube member 620 and the movable body 550 to the prismatic joint or sliding arrangement. In one embodiment, the bearing assembly 590 is substantially the same as the bearing assembly 90 provided for the apparatus 5. However, as described above, other arrangements / solutions can be used that provide a bearing or sliding function allowing contacting materials or components to slide or move relative the other can be used with the principles of the present disclosure without limitation (e.g., engineered plastics).

[0241] The movable body 550 comprises an annular wall 622 (provided in the form of a tubular like member having an interior region 624 coaxial with the axis X) which extends into the interior region of the movable body’s tubular portion 550B. The annular wall 622 (which can be provided by way of a tubular member, section, or segment) is receivable by the interior region of the guide tube member 620 so as to be in sliding relation with the guide tube member 620. The annular wall 622 provides an interior region which is cooperable with the interior region of the guide tube member 620 in providing the first chamber 560A. As shown in Figure 12a / b, the interior region 618 of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 hosts or accommodates the annular wall 622. The annular wall 622 extends from an interior wall of the interior region 618 (at an end of the mount portion 550A as shown in Figure 12a) so as to be in coaxial relation with the movable body 550 relative to the axis X. The annular wall 622 is dimensioned so as to fit in a slidingly capable manner within the guide tube member 620. For sealing purposes, an interior wall of the guide tube member 620 is provided with an annular recess 566C at its distal end sufficient for seating an appropriate seal element to ensure fluidic sealing of the first chamber 560A. As will be seen in Figure 12a and 12b, the respective interior regions of the guide tube member 620 and annular wall 622 cooperate to define the first chamber 560A which hosts or accommodates the non-compressible fluid during operation.

[0242] In operation, and consistent with the principles of the apparatus 5 described above, when provided in the otherwise retracted state (see Figure 12a), filling of the first chamber 560A via the inlet 540 with non-compressible fluid enables the movable body 550 to move toward (see partial extended state shown in Figure 12b) the extended state. As the extension continues, the cooperation between the guide tube member 620 and the annular wall 622 tube members continues in providing the first chamber 560A. In this manner, the first chamber 560A is coaxial with the axis X. As the non-compressible fluid fills the first chamber 560A under pressure, the movable body 550 moves toward the extended state (C2) thereby increasing the volume of the first chamber 560A during this movement. As will be understood by the present disclosure, movement of the movable body 550 between the retracted (C1) and extended (C2) positions operates to modify the respective volumes of the first 560A and second chambers 560B, so that: (a) an increase of the volume of the first chamber 560A caused when the movable body 550 is moving toward the extended position C2 causes a decrease in the volume of the second chamber 560B, and (b) an increase of the volume of the second chamber 560B caused when the movable body 550 is moving toward the retracted position C1 causes a decrease in the volume of the first chamber 560A.

[0243] As shown in Figures 12a and 12b, a distal end of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 50 comprises a head portion 570 configured so as to provide a region of increased dimension (relative to the otherwise general uniform / elongate form of the tubular portion 550B) sufficient to meet with the interior wall of the housing 520 for providing both in sliding relation with one another. The head portion 570 of the movable body 550 constituent of a first sealed end 1E of the second chamber 560B may be provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near an interior most end of the tubular portion of the movable body 550 in a direction away from and substantially transverse the axis X. It will be seen that the exterior wall of the head portion 570 comprises: an annular recess 567A dimensioned so as to seat a bearing, and another annular recess 567B dimensioned so as to seat a sealing element. In this manner, the head portion 570 of the tubular portion 550 serves to establish a fluid seal with the interior wall of the housing 520 while enabling relative sliding movement of the movable body 550 for moving between the retracted and extended states. The head portion 570 and the end cap 565 configured so that the head portion 570 may be retained with the housing 520 by way of the end cap 565 once the end of stroke condition is reached.

[0244] The open end 525 of the housing 520 is provided by way of a closing or sealing arrangement 565 (hereinafter, end cap 565). As shown in Figure 12a, the end cap 565 comprises first 565A and second 565B portions in which: the first portion 565A provides an opening through which the movable body 550 moves during operation, and the second portion 565B is formed providing an annular wall which receives the lower end of the housing 520 as shown. The first portion 565A of the housing 520, which is constituent of a second sealed end 2E of the second chamber 560B, may be provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near the open end 525 of the housing 520 in a direction toward and substantially transverse the axis X. The end cap 565 is fixedly connected with the end of the housing 520 in a fluid sealing manner. The first portion 565A of the end cap 565 comprises: a recess 566A formed in an interior wall of the opening so as to seat a respective sealing element, and a further recess 566B formed in the interior wall of the opening so as to seat a respective bearing and wiper arrangement.

[0245] Broadly, the second chamber 560B is operable between the movable body 550 and the housing 520 and defined in part between respective corresponding or facing portions of the movable body 550 and the housing 520 and the first 1 E and second 2E sealed ends. The end cap 565 and the head portion 570 of the movable body 550 operate with an exterior wall of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 and the interior wall of the housing 520 to define the second chamber 560B which accommodates the compressible fluid. The second chamber 560B is of annular or ring like shaped form and surrounds the first chamber 560A in a coaxial manner. In this manner, the first 560A and second 560B chambers are separated by a portion of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 in which the second chamber 560B is radially offset from the first chamber 560A. The first 560A and second 560B chambers are provided in coaxial relation such that the second chamber 560B surrounds at least a portion of the first chamber 560A. The first 560A and second 560B chambers are provided in coaxial relation with the axis X.

[0246] A portion of an exterior wall of the guide tube member 620 and a portion of an interior wall of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 are shaped in a generally complimentary polygonal form. The non-circular complimentary shaping of the portions of the guide member 620 and the interior wall of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 are configured so as to resist or prevent relative rotation between the housing 520 and the movable body 550 about the axis X. In this manner, and as with the apparatus 5, the housing 520 and the movable body 550 are operably coupled or associated by way of a prismatic joint or sliding arrangement. The prismatic joint / sliding arrangement therefore operates to resist torsional / twisting forces about the axis X and achieve correct orientation of an x-axis asymmetric tool 10 with reference to tractor T travel direction. Reference is made to the cross-section view of the apparatus 505 shown at the lower portion of Figure 12a where it seen that the exterior wall of the first tube member 620 and the interior wall of the tubular portion 550B of the movable body 550 are of polygonal form so as to cooperate to resist torsion / twisting forces about the axis X. As will be seen in Figures 12a and 12b, an inlet 545 is provided through the housing 520 and the annular wall 565B of the end cap 565 that enables fluid communication to be established between the second chamber 560B and a source of a compressible fluid so as to enable ‘charging’ of the second chamber 560 with compressible fluid prior to operation.

[0247] It will be understood that a decrease in the volume of the second chamber 560B caused when the movable body 550 is moved toward the extended position C2 operates to pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber 560B. On removal or reduction of the pressure to which to the first chamber 560A is subject at about the extended position C2, the pressurisation of the second chamber 560B causes an expansion (of its volume) of the second chamber subjecting the non-compressible fluid resident in the first chamber 560A to a compressive force which causes egress of the non-compressible fluid from the first chamber. This action thereby biases the movable body 550 toward the retracted position C1.

[0248] On the first chamber 560A becoming active due to ingress of non-compressible fluid under pressure, movement of the movable body 550 toward the extended position C2 operates to increasingly pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber 560B. The force resulting from this pressurisation acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the movable body 550 constituent of the first sealed end 1E about the first chamber 560A and spaced from the axis X. The increasing pressure in the second chamber 560B operates to bias a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act radially away or offset from the axis X so as to be in substantial coaxial relation with a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid which acts in substantial colinear relation with the axis X. The coaxial relationship of both resultant forces thereby stabilises the movable body 550 as it moves toward the second position.

[0249] On the second chamber 560B becoming active or expanding due to removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible is subject for maintaining the movable body 550 at or near the second position, the pressurised compressible fluid resident in the second chamber 560B acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the moveable member constituent of the first sealed end 1 E about the first chamber 560A at an increasing distance from the open end within which the movable body 550 is retracting through as the movable body 550 moves toward the retracted position C1. The uniform distribution of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid along and about the first end 1 E of the second chamber 560B cooperates with the increasing distance of same from the open end 525 operating to bias the resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act coaxially with the axis X thereby stabilising the movable body 550 as it moves toward the retracted position C1 .

[0250] The resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber 560B in cooperation with the resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid in the first chamber 560A may operate to substantially maintain, or facilitate a bias towards, a substantially stabilised coaxial relationship between the housing 520 and the movable member 550 during relative movement between the retracted C1 and extended positions C2.

[0251] With reference to Figure 13a, the embodiment 705 of the apparatus (hereinafter, apparatus 705) is shown in cross-section form taken across section G-G. The configuration of the apparatus 705 is substantially the same as for the apparatus 505 but is of circular form. In this manner, the apparatus 705 is modified from the apparatus 505 to account for the removal of the prismatic joint / sliding arrangement (which is not necessary but has advantage in various circumstances).

[0252] The apparatus 705 comprises an actuator assembly 706 comprising a housing 720 having an open end 725. The actuator assembly 706 is arranged for providing driving movement of a tool 10 (not shown in Figure 13) in accordance with or along the axis X. Consistent as described above with the operation of the apparatus 5, 505, the actuator assembly 706 is configured so as to be, in use, selectively operable so as to drive the tool 10 from a non-ground engaging (standby) state toward a ground engaging state to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby.

[0253] The housing 720 is provided in the form of a finite length tubular (cylindrical) member or circular cross-section coaxial about the axis X. In the form shown, the length of the housing 720 is between from about 200 to about 260mm and its outside diameter is between from about 60 to about 70mm.

[0254] The housing 720 is closed at an end 730 opposite the free end 725 by a closure 735 (provided in the form of a head plate body). The closure 735 is fastened to an annular rim 732 of the end 730 using a suitable fastening system (possible solutions of which would be well known to the skilled reader). The closure 735 is configured so as to provide a first 740 opening that enables a non-compressible fluid to ingress / egress to / from a first chamber 760A in a selective manner.

[0255] Like with the apparatus 505, the actuator assembly 706 of the apparatus 705 comprises a movable body 750 (of cylindrical form) operably associated or coupled with the housing 720 so as to be movable between retracted (as shown in Figure 13a) and extended (partial extended state shown in Figure 13b) states relative to the housing 720. The movable body 750 comprises a mount portion 750A to which the tool 10 may be mounted / attached, and a tubular portion 750B. The mount portion 750A is of generally solid elongate form having a uniform circular cross section along a finite length. The tubular portion 750B extends from an end of the mount portion 750B for assembly internal of the housing 720 in the manner shown in Figures 13a / b.

[0256] The apparatus 705 comprises a guide member 820 which is of tubular form (hereinafter, guide tube member 820) having an interior region 824. The guide tube member 820 is fixedly connected with an annular bushing 737 which extends from the inward facing side of the closure 735, as shown in Figures 13a / b. It will be seen that the annular bushing 737 provides a passage 812 that fluidly connects the opening 740 with a first chamber 760A (described below). The connection between the guide tube member 820 and the annular bushing 737 may be any appropriate fastening arrangement providing a secure and fluid seal connection therebetween, e.g. threaded engagement, adhesive fastening system, push fit arrangement, or suitable welding process appropriate for the materials. The guide tube member 820 extends to about the end cap 765 as shown in Figure 13a.

[0257] As shown in Figures 13a and 13b, a distal end of the tubular portion 750B of the movable body 750 comprises a head portion 770 configured so as to provide a region of increased dimension (relative to the otherwise general uniform / elongate form of the tubular portion 750B) sufficient to meet with the interior wall of the housing 720 for providing both in sliding contact relation with one another. It will be seen that the exterior wall of the head portion 770 comprises: an annular recess 767A dimensioned so as to seat a bearing, and another annular recess 767B dimensioned so as to seat a sealing element. It will be seen that the interior wall of the tubular portion 750B (at an end proximal with the underside of the closure 735) of the movable body 750 comprises an annular recess 767C dimensioned so as to seat a sealing element for sealing between corresponding regions of the tubular portion 750B and the guide tube member 820. In this manner, the head portion 770 of the tubular portion 750 serves to establish a fluid seal with the interior wall of the housing 720 while enabling relative sliding movement of the movable body 750 for moving between the retracted and extended states. The head portion 770 is configured so that it may be retained with the housing 720 by way of the end cap 765 once the end of stroke condition is reached.

[0258] The tubular portion 750B of the movable body 750 provides an interior region 824 and is dimensioned so as to receive the guide tube member 820 in the (sliding) manner shown in Figure 13a / b. When assembled in coaxial relation with the guide tube member 820, the movable body 750 moves along the length of the guide tube member 820 in accordance with the axis X when moving between the retracted and extended states.

[0259] In operation, and consistent with the principles of the apparatus 5, 505 described above, when provided in the otherwise retracted state C2 (see Figure 13a), filling of the first chamber 760A via the inlet 740 with non-compressible fluid enables the movable body 750 to move toward (see partial extended state shown in Figure 13b) the extended state. As the extension continues, the cooperation between the guide tube member 820 and tubular portion 750B of the movable member 750 continues in providing the first chamber 760A. In this manner, the first chamber 760A is coaxial with the axis X.

[0260] The opening end 725 of the housing 720 is provided by way of a closing or sealing arrangement 765 (hereinafter, end cap 765). As shown in Figure 13a, the end cap 765 comprises first 765A and second 765B portions in which: the first portion 765A provides an opening through which the movable body 750 moves during operation, and the second portion 765B is formed providing an annular wall which receives the end of the housing 720 as shown. The end cap 765 is fixedly connected with the end of the housing 720 in a fluid sealing manner. The first portion 765A of the end cap 765 comprises: a recess 766A formed in an interior wall of the opening so as to seat a respective sealing element, and a further recess 766B formed in the interior wall of the opening so as to seat a respective bearing and wiper arrangement. Like the apparatus 5, the end cap 765 and the head portion 770 of the movable body 750 operate with an exterior wall of the second portion 750B of the movable body 750 and the interior wall of the housing 720 to define the second chamber 760B which accommodates the compressible fluid. As will be seen in Figures 13a and 13b, an inlet 745 is provided through the housing 720 and the second portion 765B of the end cap 765 that enables fluid communication to be established between the second chamber 760B and a source of a compressible fluid so as to enable ‘charging’ of the second chamber 760B with compressible fluid prior to operation. While any equivalent of the annular wall 622 and the bearing assembly (590) are omitted from the apparatus 705, due to the circular geometry of the functional componentry, operation of the apparatus 705 is substantially the same as that for the apparatus 505 as regards the first 760A and second 760B chambers.

[0261] The apparatuses 5, 505, 705, (collectively, apparatus 5) of the present disclosure could be applied to all row cropping systems whether broad-acre or horticultural (e.g., vegetable) with the presence of inter-row weeds (W). Furthermore, the apparatus 5 of the present disclosure could also be used in the fallow condition as a non-chemical approach. In one form, use of the apparatus 5 could be particularly applicable to wide row-crop systems (e.g. sorghum, maize, cotton, etc). When used in a narrow configuration the said device could find particular application in narrow broad-acre cropping situations, e.g. wheat, barley, etc, as well as horticultural applications (e.g., vegetables).

[0262] Embodiments of the apparatus 5 may be used in conjunction with other tillage cultivation tools for both intra-row and combined inter / intra-row tillage / cultivation operations.

[0263] Embodiments of the apparatus 5 of the present disclosure may provide a tool which can be mounted to conventional tyne tool bars of the tyne assembly thereby rendering those tynes site-specific targeted (i.e. spot) tillage devices for, in one aspect, inter-row weed control. The apparatus 5 can be configured so as to include any suitable means of coupling or attachment to universally utilised existing agricultural mounting points and could be utilised across wide tool bars typical of tractor- powered agriculture. Embodiments of the apparatus 5 could also be mounted to any platform, such as for example, a robotic autonomous platforms or system whether large scale or small (e.g. swarm) devices involving a single or low number of tynes in a low number module configuration providing a smaller but sufficiently active / functional tillage platform. Farming operators may find advantage in the presently described principles given ease of adoption / use of the apparatus 5 across any tyne- bar system.

[0264] Embodiments of the apparatus 5 of the present aspect may provide a hydraulic-gas powered actuator that is compact, having high power capacity, enabling high bend resistant due to its prismatic sliding operability for providing active engagement of ‘sweeps’ to mechanically excavate unwanted organic material such as weeds (or regions of soil, e.g. in the form of divots) from the space between crop rows (i.e. inter-row weed excavation).

[0265] The skilled reader will be readily aware of the appropriate materials from which any of the constituent components described herein can be formed from for use in the present context, e.g., high strength metallic materials such as high strength steels, use of tungsten coatings where appropriate, and / or having non-corrosive characteristics. The latter are not exhaustive as the skilled reader will be aware of various materials suitable for use.

[0266] Advantages of the principles of the present disclosure may be readily seen in benefits to growers in reduced herbicide reliance and the availability of low cost weed control that alleviates the burden of managing such weeds. These attributes, along with the weed control efficacy, prospectively drive grower adoption, with technology evaluations in collaboration with grower and industry representatives aimed at reinforcing these values and the weed control opportunity. As noted above, the principles of the present disclosure could render conventional cultivator bars (with the modules set at the planted crop row spacing) a mechanical weeder with correct spacing to integrate into that system.

[0267] The words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is to be understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of any aspect of the principles described herein. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that a wide variety of modifications, variations, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of any aspect of the principles described, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as falling within the ambit of the inventive concept.

[0268] It will be appreciated that future patent applications maybe filed in Australia or overseas on the basis of, or claiming priority from, the present application.

[0269] It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention or inventions.

Claims

Claims1 . An apparatus for coupling with a tyne bar of a tyne or cultivator assembly arranged to be drawn or towable in a direction of travel for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus arranged for driving movement of a ground engaging element for use in the tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis of the apparatus, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber region, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the movable member from the first position toward the second position so that a ground engagement element carried by the movable member is able to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, operation of the movable member toward the second position pressurising the compressible fluid in the second chamber for causing movement of the movable member back toward the first position so as to place the ground engaging element clear of engagement with the ground on removal or reduction to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the apparatus is configured so that movement of the movable member toward the first position places or resets the movable member to astandby state or condition ready awaiting another operation toward the second position for causing the ground engaging element to perform another ground engaging operation on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the apparatus comprises a means or arrangement for coupling the apparatus with the relevant tyne bar so that the apparatus is operable in respect of an inter-row region of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

5. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first chamber is operable between the movable member and an interior region of space of the housing and defined in part by the cooperability of the interior regions of space provided by respective portions of the housing and the movable member.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first and second chambers are provided in coaxial relation relative to the axis such that the second chamber surrounds at least a portion of the first chamber.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second chamber is operable between the movable member and the housing, the second chamber being defined in part between respective corresponding or facing portions of the movable member and the housing.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first and second chambers are separated in part by a wall portion of the movable member in a manner in which the second chamber is radially offset from the first chamber.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the movable member is configured having a tubular portion which opens to an interior region of space within the housing which extends from an end of the housing that is opposite its open end, wherein the interior region of space provided by the housing accommodates the first chamber.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the interior region of space of the housing is defined by a tubular portion extending coaxially relative the axis from the end of the housing opposite its open end, which tubular portion of the housing is configured so as to be receivable by the tubular portion of the movable member in a manner allowing the movable member to move relative to the extending tubular portion of the housing allowing a volume of the first chamber to vary during movement of the movable member during movement toward the second position.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the end of the housing opposite its open end is configured with a first inlet means for enabling the non-compressible fluid to ingress / egress into the first chamber for enabling selective movement of the movable member toward the second position.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the second chamber is configured so asto be coaxial with the axis and radially spaced or offset from the first chamber so as to surround a portion of the tubular portion of the movable member.

13. The apparatus of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the movable member is configured so that a portion of its tubular portion slidingly bears against an interior wall of the housing in a sealing like manner, thereby forming a first sealed end operable for, in part, closing the second chamber.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein a portion of the housing adjacent the open end is configured so that it slidingly bears against an exterior wall of the movable member in a sealing like manner, thereby forming a second sealed end operable for, in part, closing the second chamber.

15. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the apparatus is configured so that movement of the movable member between the first and second positions operates to modify the respective volumes of the first and second chambers, so that: (a) an increase of the volume of the first chamber caused when the movable member is moving toward the second position causes a decrease in the volume of the second chamber, and (b) an increase of the volume of the second chamber caused when the movable member is moving toward the first position causes a decrease in the volume of the first chamber.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the apparatus is configured so that a decrease in the volume of the second chamber caused when the movable member is moved toward the second position operates to pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber which, on removal or reduction of the pressure to which to the first chamber is subject at about the second position, causes an expansion of the second chamber subjecting the non-compressible fluid resident in the first chamber to a compressive force causing egress of the non-compressible fluid from the first chamber thereby biasing the movable member toward the first position.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 16 when dependent on claim 13, wherein the apparatus is configured so that on the first chamber becoming active due to ingress of non- compressible fluid under pressure, movement of the movable member toward the second position operates to increasingly pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber which acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end about the first chamber and spaced from the axis, which increasing pressure operates to bias a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act radially away from the axis so as to be in substantial coaxial relation with a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid which acts in substantial colinear relation with the axis, the coaxial relationship of both resultant forces thereby stabilising the movable member as it moves toward the second position.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17 when dependent on claim 13, wherein the apparatus is configured so that on the second chamber becoming active or expanding due to removal or reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible is subject for maintaining the movable member at or near the second position, the pressurised compressible fluid resident in the second chamber acts substantially uniformly on and along the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end about the first chamber at an increasing distance from the open end within which the movable member is retracting through as the movable member moves toward the first position, the uniform distribution of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid along and about the first end of the second chamber cooperating with the increasing distance of same from the open end operating to bias a resultant force consequential of the pressurisation of the compressible fluid so as to act substantially along the axis thereby stabilising the movable member as it moves toward the first position.

19. The apparatus of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber in cooperation with the resultant force consequential of any state of pressurisation of the non-compressible fluid in the first chamber operates to substantially maintain, or facilitate a bias toward, a substantially stabilised coaxial relationship between the housing and the movable member during relative movement between the first and second positions.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 19 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the extending tubular portion of the housing operates as a guide member that is arranged in fixed relation relative to and coaxial with the housing and the axis, the guide member arrangeable in sliding relation with the tubular portion of the movable member so that the movable member is movable in accordance with or along the axis by way of guidance provided by the guide member.21 . The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 26, wherein the first and second chambers are separated by at least a portion of the movable member and / or the guide member.

22. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 21 when dependent on claim 13, wherein the portion of the movable member constituent of the first sealed end of the second chamber is provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near an interior most end of the tubular portion of the movable member in a direction away from and substantially transverse the axis.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 22 when dependent on claim 14, wherein the portion of the housing constituent of the second sealed end of the second chamber is provided in the form of a peripheral or circumferential flange structure extending from at or near the open end of the housing in a direction toward and substantially transverse the axis.

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 23 when dependent on claim 14, wherein thefirst and second sealed ends of the second chamber are sealed by way of respective sealing arrangements.

25. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 24 when dependent on claim 19, wherein the maintaining of the coaxial relationship between the housing and the movable member during movement between the first and second positions facilitates effective operation of the respective sealing arrangements of the first and second sealed ends of the second chamber.

26. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 25, wherein the movable member is operably coupled with the housing so as to be movable between the retracted and extended states in a manner enabling movement of the movable member along the axis while substantially preventing or restraining movement of the movable member about the axis.

27. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to claim 26 when dependent on claim 20, wherein a portion of an exterior wall of the guide member and a portion of an interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable member are shaped in a generally complimentary circular, non-circular, or polygonal manner.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the complimentary shape of the portions of the guide member and the interior wall of the tubular portion of the movable member is configured so as to resist or prevent relative rotation between the housing and the movable member about the axis.

29. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 28 when dependent on claim 20, wherein a bearing assembly operates between a portion of the guide member and the tubular portion of the movable member for providing or facilitating sliding relation therebetween.

30. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the apparatus is configured so as to provide a second inlet means in the housing through which the compressible fluid can be introduced into the second chamber.31 . The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 30 when dependent on claim 20, wherein the apparatus comprises a tubular member which is received by and opens into the interior region of space of the tubular portion of the guide member in a manner enabling it to be in sliding relation with the guide member, the tubular member providing an interior region of space which is cooperable with the interior region of space of the guide member for providing in part the first chamber.

32. An apparatus for use with a tyne assembly or other like support assembly used in a tillage or ground cultivation operation, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end,a movable member is operably coupled with the housing so as to be selectively movable between a first condition in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second condition in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, the movable member having an interior region between first and second closure or sealing arrangements, a piston arrangement arranged in fixed relation with the housing and fixed or stationary relative to movement of the movable member, and arranged so as to extend into the interior region of the movable member via an opening formed in the second closure or sealing arrangement, the piston arrangement configured so as to facilitate provision of a fluid pathway fluidly connecting with a first portion of the interior region of the movable member, wherein movement of the movable member toward the second condition is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being deliverable under pressure via the fluid pathway so as to act in the first portion of the interior region between the first closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement, and movement of the movable member toward the first condition is enabled by way of a compressible fluid being caused to act in a second portion of the interior region between the second closure or sealing arrangement and the piston arrangement on reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the apparatus is configured so that a ground engaging element is carried by the movable member in a manner so that, in use, selective movement of the movable member toward the second condition causes the ground engaging element to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target or unwanted organic material or soil hosted thereby.

34. The apparatus of claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the apparatus is configured operable so as to return or revert the movable member toward the non-ground engaging state following a movement toward the ground engaging state.

35. The apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the apparatus comprises a bearing assembly configured operable between an interior wall of the housing and an exterior wall of the movable member for facilitating rolling contact between the housing and movable member.

36. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the bearing assembly is carried by a portion of the exterior wall of the movable member or a portion of the interior wall of the housing.

37. The apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 36, wherein the housing and the movable member are operably coupled or associated by way of a prismatic joint or sliding arrangement configured operable between the housing and the movable member so as to define the scopeor range of movement of the movable member between the retracted and extended states, the prismatic joint or sliding arrangement configured operable so as to permit relative movement with regard to the housing along an axis while resisting rotation about the axis.

38. The apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein a cross-sectional profile of an exterior wall of the movable member and a cross-sectional profile of an interior wall of the housing is of complimentary circular, non-circular or polygonal form.

39. The apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 38, wherein the piston arrangement comprises rod and head portions whereby the head portion is provided at or near a free end of the rod portion, and wherein the rod portion is configured so as to extend through the opening of the second closure or sealing arrangement of the movable member so as to provide the head portion in the interior region of the movable member in a generally coaxial manner.

40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the head portion is configured so as to sealingly divide the interior region of the movable member into first and second interior regions for forming, respectively:(i) a first chamber with the first closure or sealing arrangement and a first portion of the head portion for receiving the non-compressible fluid, and(ii) a second chamber with the second closure or sealing arrangement, the rod portion, and a second portion of the head for receiving the compressible fluid, whereby introduction of the non-compressible fluid into the first chamber under pressure causes movement the movable member toward the second condition, which movement causes a volume of the second chamber to reduce thereby compressing the compressible fluid contained therein and placing the compressible fluid into a respective pressurised state, which pressurised state is operable for moving the movable member toward the first condition on removal or reduction of the pressure to which the first chamber is subject.41 . The apparatus of claim 39 or claim 40, wherein the rod portion is configured so as to facilitate provision of a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first chamber for ingress / egress of the non-compressible fluid to / from the first chamber.

42. The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the first fluid pathway is provided in the form of a first fluid passage formed with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to provide an inlet and, spaced from the inlet, an outlet opening into or in fluid communication with the first chamber.

43. The apparatus of any one of claims 38 to 42, wherein the rod portion is configured so as to facilitate provision of a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second chamber for use in introducing or communicating the compressible fluid to the second chamber.

44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the second fluid pathway is provided in the form of asecond fluid passage formed, at least in part, with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to provide an inlet and, spaced from the inlet, an outlet opening into or in fluid communication with the second chamber.

45. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the second fluid passage is formed at least in part with the rod portion of the piston arrangement so as to be offset the first fluid passage.

46. The apparatus of any one of claim 45, wherein the second fluid passage is radially offset from the first passage relative to a longitudinal axis of the rod portion.

47. The apparatus of any one of claims 36 to 46, wherein the rod portion of the piston arrangement comprises an assembly having first and second members which are assembled together to form the rod portion.

48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the first member is of tubular form and provides the first fluid passage as the hollow region of the tube section.

49. The apparatus of claim 47 or claim 48, wherein the first member is configured with a channel, groove, or passage at or near its exterior wall for use as, at least in part, the second fluid passage.

50. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein the second member is of tubular form, and the channel, groove, or passage formed on the exterior wall of the first tubular member is covered by way of the second member being assembled with and about the first member thereby providing the second fluid passage.51 . The apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 50, wherein the housing is closed by way of a closure provided at or near an end which opposes its open end, which closure supports, at least in part, the piston arrangement in extending into the interior region of the movable member.

52. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein the closure of the housing is configured so as to provide a first opening that fluidly registers or links with the first fluid passage when the piston arrangement is in part supported by the housing’s closure for enabling fluid communication between the opening of the housing’s closure and the first chamber.

53. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein the closure of the housing is configured so as to provide a second opening, and wherein both the closure and the piston arrangements are each configured so that the second opening of the housing’s closure fluidly registers or links with the second fluid passage when the piston arrangement is in part supported by the housing’s closure for enabling fluid communication between the second opening of the housing’s closure and the second chamber.

54. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the piston head is configured with a recess which receives the outlet of the second fluid passage, the piston head further configured with a channel or passage that fluidly registers or links the second chamber with said recess of the piston head for enabling fluid communication between the second opening of the housing’s closure and the second chamber.

55. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is couplable by way of a coupling arrangement to or with the tyne assembly or other like support assembly so as to be, relative to the direction the tyne assembly or other like support assembly is moving over the ground: upstream of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, downstream of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, on the left hand side of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly, on the right hand side of the tyne assembly or other like support assembly.

56. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is arranged operable with a levelling means configured operable for use in providing the apparatus substantially at a desired height relative to the ground during operation, the levelling means configured operable for providing passive stabilisation of the apparatus for enabling the ground engaging element of the apparatus to engage the ground to provide a substantially consistent incursion depth across a plurality of operations of the apparatus.

57. The apparatus of claim 56, wherein the levelling means is configured so that a height of the apparatus relative to the ground proximal or adjacent the apparatus is maintained passively by way of a 4-bar parallelogram linkage mechanism or arrangement.

58. The apparatus of claim 56 or claim 57, wherein the levelling means is configured so that the apparatus trails the tyne bar to which it is attached or is provided ahead of the tyne bar to which it is attached.

59. A method of undertaking a tillage or ground cultivation operation using an apparatus coupled with a tyne bar of a tyne or ground cultivation assembly, the apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable member is in a retracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a ground engaging element arranged to be carried by the movable member soas to be moved in accordance with or along the axis for engaging the ground when the movable member is provided in the second position, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject, the method comprising: moving the apparatus over the ground during the tillage or cultivation operation, and, operating the apparatus in a selective manner on selection of a target organic material or region of ground so as to drive the ground engaging element by way of the actuator assembly from the first position toward the second position so as to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing the target organic material or soil hosted thereby, then moving the ground engaging element to a state or condition in which the ground engaging element is clear of engagement with the non-ground engaging state.

60. The method of claim 59, comprising, for causing the movable member to move toward the second position, introducing non-compressible fluid into the first chamber so as to enable movement of the movable member toward the second position for engaging the ground with the ground engaging element, movement of the movable member toward the second position serving to pressurise the compressible fluid resident in the second chamber.61 . The method of claim 59 or claim 60, comprising, for causing the movable member to move back toward the first position, removing or reducing the pressure to which the non- compressible fluid is subject thereby enabling the pressurised compressible fluid to move the movable member toward the first position.

62. The method of claim 59 or claim 61 , wherein arrival of the movable member toward the first position resets or positions the ground engaging element to or in a standby state or condition ready awaiting another movement toward the second position so as to engage the ground on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

63. The method of claim 59 or claim 62, comprising coupling of the apparatus with a respective tyne bar of the tyne or cultivator assembly so as to enable the ground engaging element towork an inter-row region of the ground the subject of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

64. The method of any one of claims 59 to 63, comprising charging the second chamber of the apparatus with a compressible fluid to a predetermined pressure sufficient for returning the movable member toward the first condition from the second condition.

65. The method of any one of claims 59 to 64, comprising placing the first fluid passage in fluid communication with a source of non-compressible fluid.

66. The method of any one of claims 59 to 65, wherein the source of non-compressible fluid is provided as part of the tillage / cultivation equipment of the tillage / cultivation operation.

67. The method of any one of claims 59 to 66, comprising operating the apparatus so as to cause the movable member to move from the first condition toward the second condition enables, on compression of the compressible fluid, the movable member to return to the first condition on removal or reduction of a pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject for movement toward the second condition.

68. The method of any one of claims 59 to 67, comprising operating the apparatus on a selective basis informed by any of the following: a manual observation or identification of target organic material or region of soil by an operator of the apparatus or a sensing means as described herein.

69. The method of any one of claims 59 to 68, wherein the operating of the apparatus involves varying a speed of the tyne assembly over the ground and / or a speed of movement of the movable member between the first and second conditions on a per movement basis or during such a movement.

70. The method of any one of claims 59 to 69, wherein the apparatus is arranged according to the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 31 , the apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 58.71 . A system for use in carrying out a tillage or ground cultivation operation involving one or more tyne assemblies (or other like support means), the system comprising: one or more apparatus couplable with a respective tyne of the relevant tyne assembly, each apparatus comprising: an actuator assembly arranged for providing driving movement in substantial alignment with an axis, the actuator assembly comprising: a housing having an open end, a movable member operable with the housing and selectively movable along the axis between a first position in which the movable member is in aretracted state relative to the housing, and a second position in which the movable member is in an extended state relative to the housing via the housing’s open end, a ground engaging element arranged to be carried by the movable member so as to be moved in accordance with or along the axis for engaging the ground when the movable member is provided in the second position, a first chamber arranged operable substantially concentric the axis between the movable member and the housing; and a second chamber radially spaced from the first chamber, and arranged operable between the movable member and the housing, the actuator assembly configured so that movement of the movable member toward the second position is enabled by way of a non-compressible fluid being caused to be introduced into the first chamber under pressure, and movement of the movable member toward the first position from at or near the second position is enabled by way of a compressible fluid in the second chamber being caused to expand same upon reduction of the pressure to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

72. A system of claim 71 , wherein the apparatus is configured operable so as to be, when in use where the apparatus is being moved over the ground during the tillage or ground cultivation operation, selectively operable, on selection of a target organic material or region of ground, for driving the movable member from the first position toward the second position so that a ground engagement element carried by the movable member is able to engage or work a region of the ground for excavating or severing target organic material or soil hosted thereby, operation of the movable member toward the second position pressurising the compressible fluid in the second chamber for causing movement of the movable member back toward the first position so as to place the ground engaging element clear of engagement with the ground on removal or reduction to which the non-compressible fluid is subject.

73. A system of any one of claims 71 to 72, wherein the or each apparatus is configured so that movement of the movable member toward the first position places or resets the movable member to a standby state or condition ready awaiting another operation toward the second position for causing the ground engaging element to perform another ground engaging operation on identification or selection of another target organic material or region of ground.

74. The system of any one of claims 1 to 73, wherein the or each apparatus comprises a means or arrangement for coupling the apparatus with the relevant tyne bar so that the apparatus is operable in respect of an inter-row region of the tillage or ground cultivation operation.

75. A system of any one of claims 71 to 74, or a method of any one of claims 59 to 70, wherein theor each apparatus is configured according to the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 31 or the apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 58, for enabling active or targeted tillage capability for use in a tillage or cultivation operation.

76. A cultivator bar or related assembly comprising one or more apparatus according to the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 31 , or an apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to58, for enabling active or targeted tillage capability for use in a tillage or cultivation operation.

77. A method of undertaking a tillage or ground cultivation operation comprising operating a system according to any one of claims 71 to 73, comprising carrying out a method of any one of claims 59 to 70 using or in respect of one or more of the apparatus configured according to any one of claims 1 to 31 or an apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 58.

78. An active tool for use in a tillage or ground cultivation operation comprising an apparatus according to the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 31 or an apparatus of any one of claims 32 to 58, or a system according to any one of claims 71 to 75.

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