Planting device, distribution system, planting assembly and kit for planting device

Abstract

A planting device for planting a root in soil includes an outer tube, an intermediate tube disposed within the outer tube, an inner tube disposed within the intermediate tube, and a finger moveable between open and closed positions. The intermediate tube is moveable between base and planting positions, and has a receiving portion configured to receive the root. The inner tube is moveable between neutral and retaining positions, and has a soil-engaging portion. The planting device is configurable between base, planting and retracting configurations. In the base configuration, the intermediate and inner tubes are, respectively, in the base and neutral positions. In the planting configuration, the intermediate and inner tubes are, respectively, in the planting and retaining positions. In the retracting configuration, the intermediate tube is between the planting and base positions, the finger is offset from the closed position, and the inner tube is in the retaining position.

Description

PLANTING DEVICE, DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM,PLANTING ASSEMBLY AND KIT FOR PLANTING DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 561,456, filed March 5, 2024 entitled “Planting Device, Distribution System, Planting Assembly and Kit for Planting Device”, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to planting devices, distribution systems, planting assemblies and kits for planting devices.BACKGROUND

[0003] For farmers, planting fruit and vegetable roots is a cyclical task that can be time consuming and labor intensive.

[0004] Conventional planting systems have been developed over the years to simplify this task. However, these conventional planting systems can leave gaping holes in the soil, which can be detrimental to the growth of the roots. Additionally, conventional planting systems may not be suitable for some types of agriculture and / or for some types of roots. For example, some conventional planting systems may not be used in plash culture to plant bare roots, as these conventional planting systems may tear the plastic layer disposed over the soil.

[0005] Therefore, there is a desire for a technology that can facilitate planting bare roots into soil while minimizing the impact on surrounding soil and that can be used with different types of farming methods.SUMMARY

[0006] It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a planting device for planting a root in soil, the planting device includes an outer tube, an intermediate tube, an inner tube, a soil-engaging portion and a finger. The intermediate tube is at least partially disposed within the outer tube, is moveable relative to the outer tube between a base position and a planting position, and has at a bottom thereof, a receiving portion configured to receive the root. The inner tube is at least partially disposed within the intermediate tube, is moveable relative to the outer and intermediate tubes, is moveable relative to the outer tube between a neutral position and retaining position. The soil-engaging portion is connected to one of the inner and intermediate tubes. The finger is moveably connected to the intermediate tube proximate to the receiving portion. The finger is moveable between a closed position, in which the finger is configured to apply a clamping force on the root received in the receiving portion, and an open position, in which the finger is spaced from the receiving portion. The planting device is configurable between a base configuration, a planting configuration and a retracting configuration. In the base configuration, the intermediate tube is in the base position, and the inner tube is in the neutral position. In the planting configuration, the intermediate tube is in the planting position, with the receiving portion being configured to be received in the soil, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to engage the soil above the receiving portion. In the retracting configuration, the intermediate tube is between the planting position and the base position, and the finger is offset from the closed position, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to retain the root in the soil.

[0008] In some embodiments, in response to the intermediate tube moving from the planting position toward the base position, the finger engages the inner tube causing the finger to move toward the open position.

[0009] In some embodiments, in response to the inner tube being moved to a compacting position, the soil-engaging portion is configured to compact the soil.

[0010] In some embodiments, the finger moves between the open and closed positions in an arcuate path about a finger pivot.

[0011] In some embodiments, the planting device further includes a biasing element biasing the finger toward the closed position.

[0012] In some embodiments, with the finger being between the closed position and an intermediate position, the intermediate position being between the open and closed positions, the biasing element biases the finger toward the closed position, and with the finger being between the intermediate position and the open position, the biasing element biases the finger toward the open position.

[0013] In some embodiments, with the finger being in the closed position, a spacing is defined between an upper end of the finger and the receiving portion, the spacing being configured to receive part of the root therein. In some embodiments, the part of the root is a heart of the root.

[0014] In some embodiments, the receiving portion has an arcuate profile.

[0015] In some embodiments, the arcuate profile is generally semi-circular.

[0016] In some embodiments, the receiving portion has an indicator for indicating an optimal position of a heart of the root.

[0017] In some embodiments, the soil-engaging portion has generally annular shape, and defines opening configured to receive part of the finger therein.

[0018] In some embodiments, the planting device is for use in plasticulture.

[0019] In some embodiments, the soil-engaging portion is connected to a bottom of the inner tube.

[0020] In some embodiments, the planting device further includes a damper disposed between the intermediate tube and the inner tube.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present technology, a distribution system includes a distribution frame assembly, a plurality of brackets, a plurality of planting devices according to the above aspect or according to the above aspect and one or more of the above embodiments, and an actuating assembly. The plurality of brackets is operatively connected to the distribution frame assembly, and is moveable around the distribution frame assembly. Each one of the plurality of planting devices is operatively connected to one of the plurality of brackets. The actuating assembly is configured to selectively connect to one of the plurality of planting devices. The actuating assembly has a first actuating member and a second actuating member. The first actuating member is configured to operatively connect to the intermediate tube of the one of the plurality of planting devices for causing movement of the intermediate tube, and the second actuating member is configured to operatively connect to the inner tube of the one of the plurality of planting devices for causing movement of the inner tube.

[0022] In some embodiments, the intermediate tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices has a first mover operatively connectable to the first actuating member, the inner tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices has a second mover operatively connectable to the second actuating member, the outer tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices defines a first outer slot for enabling movement of the first mover, and a second outer slot for enabling movement of the second mover, and the intermediate tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices defines an intermediate slot for enabling movement of the second mover.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first actuating member is a first rail, and the first mover is a first roller configured to roll on the first rail, and the second actuating member is a second rail, and the second mover is a second roller configured to roll on the second rail.

[0024] In some embodiments, the distribution system includes a guiding member for causing one of the plurality of planting devices to move from a planting orientation, inwhich the one of the plurality of planting devices is configured to plant a root, to a receiving orientation in which the one of the plurality of planting devices is configured to receive the root in the receiving portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the distribution system includes an other guiding member for causing the planting device to move from the receiving orientation to the planting orientation.

[0026] In some embodiments, the plurality of planting devices includes a set of left planting devices and a set of right planting devices.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sets of left and right planting devices are longitudinally offset from one another.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a planting system including a planting frame, a ground-engaging member rotationally connected to the planting frame, the distribution system according to the above aspect or according to the above aspect and one or more of the above embodiments, and a transmission system operatively connected to the ground-engaging member and the distribution system, such that rotation of the ground-engaging member causes rotation of the plurality of brackets.

[0029] In some embodiments, the transmission system is configured so that while one of the plurality of planting devices is in the base, planting and retracting configurations, a speed of the one of the plurality of planting devices relative to the soil is zero.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a kit for a planting device for planting a root, the kit including an outer tube, an intermediate tube, an inner tube and a finger.

[0031] The intermediate tube is at least partially receivable within the outer tube, and has at a bottom thereof a receiving portion configured to receive the root.

[0032] The inner tube is at least partially receivable within the intermediate tube, and has at a bottom thereof a soil-engaging portion.

[0033] The finger is moveably connectable to the intermediate tube proximate to the receiving portion. The finger is moveable between a closed position, in which the finger is configured to apply a clamping force on the root received in the receiving portion, and an open position, in which the finger is spaced from the receiving portion. The planting device is configurable between a base configuration, a planting configuration and a retracting configuration. In the base configuration, the intermediate tube is in a base position, and the inner tube is in a neutral position. In the planting configuration, the intermediate tube is in a planting position, with the receiving portion being configured to be received in the soil, and the inner tube is in a retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to engage the soil above the receiving portion. In the retracting configuration, the intermediate tube is between the planting position and the base position, and the finger is offset from the closed position, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to retain the root in the soil.

[0034] In the context of the present specification, unless expressly provided otherwise, the words “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. have been used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they modify from one another, and not for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

[0035] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0036] As used herein, the term “about” in the context of a given value or range refers to a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0037] As used herein, the term “and / or” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example “A and / or B” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[0038] For purposes of the present application, terms related to spatial orientation when referring to a planting device and components in relation thereto, such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “forwardly”, “rearwardly”, “left”, “right”, “above” and “below”, are as they would be understood by a driver of a vehicle to which the planting device is connected, in which the driver is sitting on the vehicle in an upright driving position, with the vehicle steered straight-ahead and being at rest on flat, level ground.

[0039] Implementations of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned object and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

[0040] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of implementations of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view taken from a rear side of a planting system according to an embodiment of the present technology, the planting system being connected to a tractor;

[0043] Figure 2 is a perspective view taken from a rear, top, left side of the planting system of Figure 1;

[0044] Figure 3 is a perspective view taken from a rear, top, right side of part of the planting system of Figure 1;

[0045] Figure 4 is a rear elevation view of the part of the planting system of Figure3;

[0046] Figure 5 is a perspective view taken from a rear, top, right side of a bracket and a planting device of the planting system of Figure 1, the planting device being in a planting orientation;

[0047] Figure 6 is a perspective view taken from a front, bottom, right side of the bracket and the planting device of Figure 5, with the planting device being in a receiving orientation;

[0048] Figure 7 is a perspective view taken from a front, bottom, left side of the bracket and the planting device of Figure 6;

[0049] Figure 8 is a perspective view taken from a rear, top, left side of the planting device of Figure 5, and a finger of the planting device being in an open position;

[0050] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal center plane of the planting device of Figure 5, with the finger being in a closed position;

[0051] Figure 10 is a perspective view taken from a rear, top, right side of the planting device of Figure 1, with an intermediate tube being in a planting position and an inner tube being in a retaining position;

[0052] Figure 11 A is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal center plane of the planting device of Figure 10, with a root being held by the finger which is in the closed position;

[0053] Figure 1 IB is a close-up of part of the planting device and the root of Figure 11 A;

[0054] Figure 12A is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal center plane of the planting device of Figure 10, with the intermediate tube being offset from the planting position, and the finger being offset from the closed position;

[0055] Figure 12B is a close-up of part of the planting device and the root of Figure 12A;

[0056] Figure 13 A is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal center plane of the planting device of Figure 10, with the intermediate tube being offset from the planting position, and the finger being offset from the closed position;

[0057] Figure 13B is a close-up of part of the planting device and the root of Figure 12A; and

[0058] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal center plane of the planting device of Figure 10, with the intermediate tube being in the base position, and the inner tube being in the retaining position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including”, “comprising”, or “having”, “containing”, “involving” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter as well as, optionally, additional items. In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements.

[0060] Shown in Figure 1 is a planting system 30 that is connected to a tractor 20. It is contemplated that the planting system 30 could be connected to another vehicle. The planting system 30 includes a planting frame 32, a left ground-engaging assembly 34, a right ground-engaging assembly 36 and a distribution system 38. The distribution assembly 38 includes a plurality of planting devices 100, which will be described in greater detail below. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the planting system 30 could be selfdriven. That is, the planting system 30 may not be connected to a vehicle, and would insteadhave a motor operatively connected to the left and right ground-engaging assemblies 36 for propelling the planting system 30.

[0061] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the planting frame 32 is configured to connect to the vehicle such that the planting system 30 can be pulled (or pushed) by the tractor 20. In the present embodiment, the planting frame 32 is connected to the tractor 20 by a three- point hitch 33, though other ways of connecting the planting frame 32 to the vehicle 20 are contemplated. The planting frame 32 is selectively moveable between an elevated position and a lowered position. In the elevated position, the planting system 30 is in a nonoperating state, and the left and right ground-engaging assemblies 34, 36 do not engage a ground surface. In the lowered position, the planting system 30 is in an operating state, and the left and right ground-engaging assemblies 34, 36 engage a ground surface. The planting system 30 is configured such that when the planting system 30 is connected to the tractor 20, the planting system 30 can selectively be adjusted between the non-operating and operating states.

[0062] The left ground-engaging assembly 34 is operatively connected to the planting frame 32 on a left side thereof, and the right ground-engaging assembly 36 is operatively connected to the planting frame 32 on a right side thereof. It is contemplated that the number of ground-engaging assemblies may vary from one embodiment of the planting system 30 to another. For example, in some embodiments, the planting frame 32 could be provided with three or more ground-engaging assemblies. The left and right ground- engaging assemblies 34, 36 are selectively moveable between an elevated position and a lowered position.

[0063] The left ground-engaging assembly 34 includes a wheel 40, and the right ground-engaging assembly 36 includes a wheel 41. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the wheels 40, 41 could be replaced by other ground-engaging components, such as, for example, track systems. The wheels 40, 41 are configured to be driven by engaging and rolling on the ground when the planting system 30 is caused to move by the tractor 20. The wheel 40 is operatively connected to the distribution assembly 38 via a transmission system 39. In other embodiments, the wheel 41 could be operativelyconnected to the distribution assembly 38 via a transmission system. In yet other embodiments, both of the wheels 40, 41 could be operatively connected to the distribution assembly 38 via one or more transmission systems. As will be described in greater detail below, the transmission system 39 is configured to cause parts of the distribution assembly 38 to move at predetermined speeds.

[0064] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the distribution assembly 38 will now be described in greater detail. The distribution assembly 38 includes a distribution frame assembly 50, a plurality of brackets 52 (only one shown in Figure 3) operatively connected to the distribution frame assembly 50, a plurality of the planting devices 100 (only one shown in Figure 3), each planting device 100 being operatively connected to a respective bracket 52, and actuating assemblies 56 operatively connected to the distribution frame assembly 50.

[0065] The distribution frame assembly 50 includes left and right panels 60, 61 that are connected to the left and right ground-engaging assemblies 34, 36 fixed to the planting frame 32. Each left and right panels 60, 61 has a generally trapezoidal shape. It is contemplated that the shape of the left and right panels 60, 61 may vary. The left and right panels 60, 61 are interconnected by connecting members 62. The left and right panels 60, 61 each have, a front guiding member 64 disposed at a front end thereof, and a rear guiding member 66 disposed at a rear end thereof (only front and rear guiding members 64, 66 connected to the left panel 60 are shown Figure 3).

[0066] The distribution frame assembly 50 further includes a distribution transmission system 70. In the present embodiment, the distribution transmission system 70 includes four sprockets 72a, 72b, 72c, 72d and a chain 74, all of which are connected to the left panel 60. The distribution transmission system 70 also includes another four sprockets (not shown) and another chain (not shown) that is connected to the right panel 61. It is contemplated that that distribution transmission system 70 may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the distribution transmission system 70 may include pulleys and cables.

[0067] Features of the left panel 60 will be described herewith. The sprockets 72a, 72b, 72c, 72d are rotationally connected to the left panel 60. Additionally, the sprocket 72a is operatively connected to the wheel 40 of the left ground-engaging assembly 34 via the transmission system 39, such that the sprocket 72a is driven by the wheel 40 of the left ground-engaging assembly 34. The chain 74 is operatively connected to each one of the sprockets 72a, 72b, 72c, 72d, and extends proximate to a periphery of the left panel 60. Thus, in response to the wheel 40 rotating by engaging the ground, the sprocket 72a rotates, which in turns transmits motion to the other sprockets 72b, 72c, 72d via the chain 74. The distribution frame assembly 50 also includes an other distribution transmission system (not annotated in accompanying Figures) that is connected to the right panel 61, and that is also operatively connected to the wheel 40.

[0068] The plurality of brackets 52 are connected to the chain 74 and to the chain connected to the right panel 61. Although only one bracket 52 is illustrated in Figure 3, the distribution assembly 38 includes twenty brackets 52 spaced from one another. It is contemplated that the number of brackets 52 may vary from one embodiment to another. The brackets 52, along with the planting devices 100 connected to respective brackets 52, will be described in greater detail below.

[0069] Although only one actuating assembly 56 is shown in Figure 3, there are two laterally spaced actuating assemblies 56 in the present embodiment. As they are the same, only the actuating assembly 56 disposed on the left side of the planting frame 32 (and shown in the Figure 3), will be described herewith. The actuating assembly 56 is disposed proximate to the left panel 60, and is connected to the connecting members 62.

[0070] The actuating assembly 56 includes a left piston 80, two left guiding assemblies 81a, 81b, a right piston 82 and two right guiding assemblies 83a, 83b. The left guiding assemblies 81a, 81b can assist in guiding a movement of the left piston 80. Likewise, the right guiding assemblies 83a, 83b can assist in guiding a movement of the right piston 82. In some embodiments, one or more of the guiding assemblies 81a, 81b, 83a, 83b can be omitted. The left piston 80 and the left guiding assemblies 81a, 81b are operatively connected to a left rail 84, whereas the right piston 82 and the right guidingassemblies 83a, 83b are operatively connected to a right rail 86. Thus, upon actuation of the left pistons 80, the left rail 84 is configured to move in a vertical direction, and upon actuation of the right piston 82 the right rail 86 is configured to move in a vertical direction. It will be noted that the left and right pistons 80, 82 and thus the left and right rails, 84, 86, are configured to operate independently from one another. As will be described below, the left and right pistons 80, 82 can be caused to move due to a limit switch. In the present embodiment, the left and right pistons 80, 82 are pneumatic pistons. It is contemplated that in other embodiments the left and right pistons could be other types of pistons 80, 82, such as, for example, hydraulic pistons.

[0071] With reference to Figures 5 to 7, the brackets 52 and the planting device 100, will now be described in greater detail. As mentioned above, there are twenty brackets 52, and twenty planting devices 100. Only one bracket 52 and its associated planting device 100 will be described herewith. In the illustrated bracket 52, the planting device 100 is connected to a left side thereof. Brackets adjacent to the illustrated bracket 52 will have their planting device 100 connected to a right side thereof such that the planting device 100 will be disposed in a laterally alternating configuration. Thus, of the twenty planting devices 100, ten planting devices 100 are disposed on the left side of the distribution frame assembly 50, and ten planting devices 100 are disposed on the right side of the distribution frame assembly 50.

[0072] The bracket 52 is sized to extend horizontally between the left and right panels 60, 61. The bracket 52 defines an aperture 90, which as will be described below, is sized to receive part of the planting device 100 therethrough.

[0073] The planting device 100 is pivotally connected to the bracket 52 via a bracket pin 92. The bracket pin 92 enables the planting device 100 to pivot about an axis 93 between a planting orientation (shown in Figures 4 and 5) and a receiving orientation (shown in Figures 6 and 7). In the planting orientation, the planting device 100 is generally oriented vertically. In the receiving orientation, the planting device 100 is generally oriented horizontally. As the planting device 100 pivots between the planting and receivingorientations, part of the planting device 100 passes through the aperture 90 (partially illustrated in Figure 1).

[0074] Referring to Figures 8 to 10, the planting device 100 will now be described in greater detail. The planting device 100 includes an outer tube 102, an intermediate tube104 that is received in the outer tube 102, and an inner tube 106 that is received in the intermediate tube 104. As will be described below, the intermediate tube 104 is moveable relative to the outer tube 102 between a base position (shown in Figures 8 and 9) and a planting position (shown in Figures 10 and 11A), and the inner tube 106 is moveable relative to the outer tube 102 (and relative to the intermediate tube 104) between a neutral position (shown in Figures 8 and 9) and a retaining position (shown in Figure 10, 11 A, 12A, 13A and 14).

[0075] The outer tube 102 is the component of the planting device 100 that is connected to the bracket pin 92. The outer tube 102 is sized to receive part of the intermediate and inner tubes 104, 106 therein. The outer tube 102 defines two circumferentially slots 110, 112. Each slot 110, 112 extends from a top of the outer tube 102 toward a bottom thereof. When the planting device 100 is in the planting orientation, the slot 110 is disposed on a left side of the outer tube 102, and the slot 112 is disposed on a right side of the outer tube 102.

[0076] The intermediate tube 104 is partially received in the outer tube 102. Indeed, as will be described below, part of the intermediate tube 104 extends vertically beyond a lower end of the outer tube 102. The intermediate tube 104 has a tubular portion 121 and a receiving portion 120 that extends from the tubular portion 121.

[0077] The intermediate tube 104 has a roller 105 that is disposed at an upper end of the tubular portion 121. More specifically, the roller 105 is disposed on a left side of the intermediate tube 104, and extends through the slot 110 of the outer tube 102. The roller105 is configured to be received in the left rail 84. As will be described below, the actuating assembly 56 is configured to cause movement of the intermediate tube 104 via engagement with the roller 105.

[0078] The intermediate tube 104 further has a spring 111 disposed therein, below the roller 105. It is contemplated that the spring 111 could be replaced with another resilient member or another damping member. As will be described below, the spring 111 is configured to engage with the inner tube 106 for dampening movement between the intermediate tube 104 and the inner tube 106.

[0079] The intermediate tube 104 also defines a slot 123 on the right side thereof. The slot 123, which extends along most of the tubular portion 121 is aligned with the slot 112 defined on the outer tube 102.

[0080] At a lower end thereof (i.e., at the part extending beyond the lower end of the tube 102), the intermediate tube 104 has the receiving portion 120 that is configured to receive a root to be planted therein. The receiving portion 120, unlike the tubular portion 121, is half-tubular, with a profile of the receiving portion 120 defining a semi-circle. A root can be disposed on the receiving portion 120 via the open side thereof. In the present embodiment, the open side of the receiving portion 120 is disposed on the right side of the intermediate tube 104. The receiving portion 120 defines left and right recesses 122 on either side thereof. The left and right recesses 122 are physical indicators that can be used for positioning the root in an ideal position. The left and right recesses 122 can also assist in providing clearance for accommodating a heart of the root, the heart generally being the largest part of the root. For example, a heart of the root can be aligned with the left and right recesses 122. Positioning the root in the ideal position can assist in improving the planting process thereof. It is contemplated that the receiving portion 120 may be provided with, instead of the left and right recesses 122, other types of physical and / or visual indicators (e.g., markings).

[0081] The intermediate tube 104 further has an engaging member 124 that is disposed proximate to the engaging portion 120. More specifically, the engaging member 124 is disposed on a left side of the intermediate tube 104. Thus, the engaging member 124 is disposed opposite to the open side of the receiving portion 120. The engaging member 124 extends generally radially from the intermediate tube 104. As the planting device 100 moves relative to the left panel 60 due to the movement of the bracket 52, the engagingmember 124 is configured to engage with the front and rear guiding members 64, 66 for causing the planting device 100 to be adjusted between the planting and receiving orientations. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, another part of the planting device 100 may be configured to engage with the front and rear guiding members 64, 66. For example, in some embodiments, it could be a soil-engaging portion 200 of the planting device 100, which will be described below, that could be configured to engage with the front and rear guiding members 64, 66. It is contemplated that the shape and / or size of the engaging member 124 may vary from one embodiment to another.

[0082] The planting device 100 also includes a finger 130 that is disposed proximate to the engaging portion 120. More specifically, the finger 130 is disposed on a right side of the intermediate tube 104. Thus, the finger 130 is disposed on the open side of the receiving portion 120 (opposite to the engaging member 124). The finger 130 is pivotally connected to the intermediate tube 104 via a finger pivot 132 and brackets 134. Thus, the finger 130 is pivotable about a finger axis 133 between an open position (Figure 8) and a closed position (Figures 9 and 10), both of which will be described in greater detail below.

[0083] Referring to Figure 9, the finger 130, according to at least one embodiment thereof, will now be described in greater detail.

[0084] The finger 130 has a positioning portion 140 disposed at a top thereof, a connecting portion 142, an abutting portion 144, a body portion 146 and an engaging portion 148 disposed at a bottom thereof.

[0085] The positioning portion 140 is generally linear, and can be engaged to cause the finger 130 to move between the open and closed positions.

[0086] The connecting portion 142 has a pivot connecting end 150 and a spring connecting end 152. The pivot connecting end 150 is configured to connect to the finger pivot 132, and the spring connecting end 152 is configured to connect to a spring 180, which will be described in greater detail below. The connecting portion 142 has an elongated shape, which is for, inter alia, spacing a top of the finger 130 from part of theintermediate tube 104 (else range of motion of the finger 130 may be limited due to the proximity with the intermediate tube 104).

[0087] Between the connecting portion 142 and the abutting portion 144, the finger 130 defines a finger recess 143. The finger recess 143 is configured to provide clearance so that when the finger 130 is in the closed position, the finger 130 does not abut part of the intermediate tube 104 (i.e., a bottom edge of the tubular portion 121 of the intermediate tube 104 is partially received in the finger recess 143).

[0088] The abutting portion 144 is configured to abut the inner tube 106, for, as will be described in greater detail below, causing the finger 130 to be offset from the closed position.

[0089] The body portion 146 further extends downwardly therefrom and has an arcuate side. The arcuate side is for providing a spacing 160 between the receiving portion 120 and the body portion 146. This spacing 160 is configured to accommodate for a largest part of the root, which may be the heart thereof. One may note that the spacing 160 is generally aligned with the left and right recesses 122.

[0090] The engaging portion 148 is generally flat. The engaging portion 148 is configured to engage the root that is received in the receiving portion 120.

[0091] When the finger 130 is in the open position, the engaging portion 148 is spaced from the receiving portion 120, and the positioning portion 140 engages the intermediate tube 104. The engagement between the positioning portion 140 and the intermediate tube 104 can assist in stabilizing the finger 130 in the open position. When the finger 130 is in the closed position, the engaging portion 148 is configured to engage the root, and if there is no root received in the receiving portion 120, then the engaging portion 148 is configured to engage the receiving portion 120.

[0092] Still referring to Figures 8 to 10, the intermediate tube 104 also has the spring 180. The spring 180 is connected to the intermediate tube 104 and to the finger 130. In more detail, the spring 180 is connected to a connection point 182 on the intermediate tube 104 and to the spring connecting end 152 of the finger 130. The spring 180 isconfigured to bias the finger 130 toward the closed position or toward the open position, depending on a position of the finger 130. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the spring 180 could be replaced by another biasing element, such as, for example, a polymeric material.

[0093] Best seen in Figure 9, when the finger 130 is in the closed position, the connection point 182 (schematically shown in Figure 9) is disposed vertically between the pivot connecting end 150 and the spring connecting end 152, with the pivot connecting end 150 being disposed vertically higher than the spring connecting end 152. As a result of this configuration, the spring 180 biases the finger 130 toward the closed position while the pivot connecting end 150 remains above a line extending between the connection point 182 and the pivot connecting end 150.

[0094] Once the finger 130 moves past an intermediate position, which is between the open and closed positions, the spring 180 biases the finger 130 toward the open position. The intermediate position (schematically shown by dotted lines in Figure 4) may generally correspond to a position where the connection point 182, the pivot connecting end 150 and the spring connecting end 152 are linearly aligned.

[0095] With reference to Figures 9 and 10, the inner tube 106 will now be described in greater detail. The inner tube 106 is partially received in the intermediate tube 104, with part of the inner tube 106 extending vertically beyond a lower end of the tubular portion 121 of the intermediate tube 104.

[0096] The inner tube 106 has a roller 107 that is disposed at an upper end thereof. More specifically, the roller 107 is disposed on the right side of the inner tube 106 (i.e., opposite to the roller 105), and extends through the slot 112 of the outer tube 102 and through the slot 123 of the intermediate tube 104. The roller 107 is configured to be received in the right rail 86. As will be described in greater below, the actuating assembly 56 is configured to cause movement of the inner tube 106 via engagement with the roller 107.

[0097] The inner tube 106 further has a soil-engaging portion 200 that is disposed at a lower end thereof. More specifically, the soil-engaging portion 200 is positioned such that when the intermediate tube 104 is in the base position and the inner tube 106 is in the neutral position, the soil-engaging portion 200 is disposed below the engaging member 124 and the finger pivot 132. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the soil-engaging portion 200 could be disposed elsewhere on the planting device. In some embodiments, instead of being connected to the inner tube 106, the soil-engaging portion 200 could be interpreted as being part of the planting device 30 (separate from the inner tube 106). For example, there could be a left soil-engaging portion and a right soil-engaging portion for the side distribution assembly 38, with the each of the left and right soil-engaging portions being configured to engage the ground every time one of the planting devices 100 passes therebelow. Thus, the soil-engaging portion 200 could be configured to engage the soil without necessarily being connected to the inner tube 106.

[0098] The soil-engaging portion 200 has a generally annular shape so as to receive the receiving portion 120 therethrough. It is contemplated that the shape of the soilengaging portion 200 may vary from one embodiment to another. The soil-engaging portion 200 also defines an opening 202 (best seen in Figure 7) that is sized to receive the finger 130 therethrough. As will be described in greater detail below, the soil-engaging portion 200 is configured to retain a root that has been planted into the soil and / or retain soil above the root that has been planted, and can also compact soil around the root. In some instances, a bottom of the inner tube 106 can also engage the root that has been planted into the soil and / or retain soil above the root that has been planted.

[0099] With reference to Figures 1, 2, 5 to 7, 11A, 11B, 12A, 12B, 13A, 13B and 14, a description of a root 101 being planted into the ground 108, which is covered by a plastic layer 109, by one of the planting devices 100 will now be provided. It is understood that the present technology could be used to plant roots in grounds that are not covered by a plastic layer.

[0100] During operation, the planting system 30 is in the operating state, and the tractor 20 pulls the planting system 30. The planting system 30 is disposed over an area inwhich the roots are to be planted. The wheel 40 of the left ground-engaging assembly 34 rolls on the ground. Rotation of the wheel 40 is transferred to the sprocket 72a via the transmission 39. In turn, rotation of the sprocket 72a causes the chain 74 to move. Movement of the chain 74 causes all the brackets 52 and their associated planting devices 100 to continuously move around the planting distribution frame assembly 50.

[0101] As shown in Figures 1 , 6 and 7, when the bracket 52 and the planting device 100 are at a top of the planting distribution frame assembly 50, the planting device 100 is in the receiving orientation, with the open side of the receiving portion 120 being oriented toward the top. The finger 130 can be moved to the open position manually, or via an engaging member that is part of the planting distribution assembly 50.

[0102] At this stage, the root 101 can be disposed in the receiving portion 120. The root 101 may be positioned in the receiving portion such that a heart thereof (generally corresponding to a widest part of the root 101) is aligned with the left and right recesses 122.

[0103] The finger 130 can then be moved to the closed position manually, or via another engaging member that is part of the planting distribution frame assembly 50. When the finger 130 is in the closed position, the spacing 160 provided between the finger 130 and the receiving portion 120 provides enough clearance for the heart of the root 101. Additionally, when the finger 130 is in the closed position, the engaging portion 148 thereof engages the root 101. More specifically, the root 101 is clamped between the receiving portion 120 of the intermediate tube 104 and the engaging portion 148 of the finger 130. This can assist in maintaining the root 101 in place as the bracket 52 and the planting device 100 move around the planting distribution frame assembly 50.

[0104] As mentioned above, the movement of the bracket 52 and the planting device 100, and thus the root 101, is continuous, such that they continue to move along the periphery of the planting distribution frame assembly 50. Eventually the engaging member 124 of the planting device 100 engages with the front guiding member 64, which causes the planting device 100 to move to the planting orientation. To move from the receiving orientation to the planting orientation, the planting device 100 pivots about the axis 93, andpart of the planting device 100 passes through the opening 90 defined in the bracket 52. When the planting device 100 is in the planting orientation, the root 101 does not slip or fall out of the receiving portion 120 because of the clamping effect provided by the receiving portion 120 and the finger 130.

[0105] As the bracket 52, the planting device 100 and the root continue to move along a bottom of the periphery of the planting distribution frame assembly 50, the planting device 100 operatively connects to the actuating assembly 56. More specifically, the roller 105 is received in the left rail 84, and the roller 107 is received in the right rail 86. It will be noted that at this stage, due to a configuration of the transmission 39 and the transmission system 70, a linear velocity of the bracket 52, and thus of the planting device 100, is null with respect to the ground 108 and the plastic layer 109. That is, as the planting system 30 moves forward at a given linear speed due to the tractor 20, the bracket 52 and the planting device 100 are configured move rearwardly at the same given linear speed.

[0106] At this stage, the planting device 100 is in a base configuration, with the intermediate tube being in the base position, and the inner tube 106 being in the neutral position.

[0107] The actuating assembly 56 then causes the planting device 100 to move to the planting configuration and plant the root 101. In some instances, the actuating assembly 56 could be caused to actuate by limit switches.

[0108] In more detail, with reference to Figures 10, 11 A and 1 IB the pistons 80a, 80b, 80c cause the rail 84 to move vertically downward. Since the roller 105, which is connected to the intermediate tube 104, is received in the rail 84, the roller 105 also moves down along the slot 110 of the outer tube 102, which does not move in the vertical direction. As the roller 105 is connected to the intermediate tube 104, movement of the roller 105 causes the intermediate tube 104 to move to the planting position.

[0109] In this embodiment, movement of the intermediate tube 104 from the base position to the planting position causes the inner tube 106 to move from the neutral position to the retaining position, because a top of the inner tube 106 engages a top of theintermediate tube 104 via the spring 111. The presence of the spring 111 dampens the movement between the intermediate tube 104 and the inner tube 106. In other embodiments, the inner tube 106 can be caused to move by the intermediate tube 104 differently, for example, via a shoulder. In some embodiments, the pistons 82a, 82b, 82c could be configured to cause the rail 86 to move downward at the same time as the pistons 80a, 80b, 80c cause the rail 84 to move downward. As the roller 107 of the inner tube 106 is received in the rail 86, the rail 86 also moves downward.

[0110] Thus, when the planting device 100 is in the planting configuration, the intermediate tube 104 is in the planting position, and the inner tube 106 is in the retaining position.

[0111] As shown in Figure 11 A, in this configuration, the receiving portion 120 has pierced through the plastic layer 109 and into the ground 108 until the soil-engaging portion 200 abuts a top of the plastic layer 109. Thus, the soil-engaging portion 200 can be said to limit vertical movement of the planting device 100. The configuration of the receiving portion 120 and the finger 130 results in a hole made thereby to be relatively narrow and wedged shaped.

[0112] It will be appreciated that the planting system 30 could be equipped with sensors that cause the rail 84 to move downward until the soil-engaging portion 200 engages a top of the plastic layer 109 (or the ground 108).

[0113] As mentioned above, since the speed of the planting device 100 is null with respect to the ground 108 and the plastic layer 109, the planting device 100, once inserted into the ground 108 and the plastic layer 109, does not cause the plastic layer 109 to rip more than necessary.

[0114] Then, the actuating assembly 56 causes the planting device 100 to move to the retracting configuration.

[0115] In more detail, the rail 84 is caused, via the pistons 80a, 80b, 70c, to move in the upward while the rail 86 is generally kept at the same vertical position. As a result,the roller 105 and the intermediate tube 104 are caused to move toward the base position, while the roller 107 and the inner tube 106 remain in the retaining position.

[0116] As the intermediate tube 104 moves upward, since the finger 130 is connected to the intermediate tube 104, it also moves upward. Eventually, the abutting portion 144 of the finger 130 abuts a bottom of the inner tube 106, which causes the finger 130 to pivot about the finger pivot 133 and be offset from the closed position, thereby releasing the root 101. The finger 130 continues to moves upward with the intermediate tube 104, but the root 101 stays in its position due to the presence of the soil-engaging portion 200 thereabove.

[0117] With reference to 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B, the intermediate tube 104 continues to move toward the base position, such that the finger 130 continues to move upwardly. Eventually, the engaging portion 148 of the finger 130 engages the inner tube 106. It will be appreciated that this configuration of the finger 130 can assist in limiting a size of the hole in which the root 101 is received, which can be beneficial for growth of the root 101.

[0118] The rail 86 can then be moved, via the pistons 82a, 82b, 82c, further vertically downward to cause the inner tube 106 to move to a compacting position in order to compact soil above and / or around the root 101, which can further benefit the growth of the root 101. Then, the rail 86 can be moved, via the pistons 82a, 82b, 82c, vertically upward to cause the inner tube 106 to return to the neutral position.

[0119] Eventually, since the bracket 52 and the planting device 100 are continuously moving along the planting distribution frame assembly 50, the planting device 100 is disconnected from the actuating assembly 56. Then, the engaging member 124 engages the rear guiding member 66 to cause the planting device 100 to move to back to the receiving orientation.

[0120] In some embodiments, the planting device 100 may be provided as a kit that can be assembled and connected to the planting system 30.

[0121] Thus, the present technology enables the planting of bare roots in soils that are covered with a plastic layer.

[0122] The planting system 30 implemented in accordance with some non-limiting implementations of the present technology can be represented as presented in the following clause.

[0123] CLAUSE 1: A planting device (30) for planting a root (101) in soil, the planting device (3) comprising an outer tube (102), an intermediate tube (104), an inner tube (106), a finger (130) and a soil-engaging portion (200). The intermediate tube (104) is at least partially disposed within the outer tube (106), is moveable relative to the outer tube (102) between a base position and a planting position, and has, at a bottom thereof, a receiving portion (120) configured to receive the root (lOl). The inner tube (106) is at least partially disposed within the intermediate tube (104), and is moveable relative to the outer and intermediate tubes (102, 104). The inner tube (106) is moveable relative to the outer tube (102) between a neutral position and retaining position. The soil-engaging portion (200) is moveable relative to the outer tube (102). The finger (130) is moveably connected to the intermediate tube (104) proximate to the receiving portion (120). The finger (130) is moveable between a closed position, in which the finger (130) is configured to apply a clamping force on the root (101) received in the receiving portion (120), and an open position, in which the finger (130) is spaced from the receiving portion (120). The planting device (30) is configurable between base, planting and retracting configurations. In the base configuration, the intermediate tube (104) is in the base position, and the inner tube (106) is in the neutral position. In the planting configuration, the intermediate tube (104) is in the planting position, with the receiving portion (120) being configured to be received in the soil, the inner tube (106) is in the retaining position, and the soil-engaging portion (200) is configured to engage the soil above the receiving portion (120). In the retracting configuration, the intermediate tube (104) is between the planting position and the base position, the finger (130) is offset from the closed position, the inner tube (106) is in the retaining position, and the soil-engaging portion (200) is configured to retain the root in the soil.

[0124] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A planting device for planting a root in soil, the planting device comprising: an outer tube; an intermediate tube at least partially disposed within the outer tube, the intermediate tube: being moveable relative to the outer tube between a base position and a planting position, and having, at a bottom thereof, a receiving portion configured to receive the root; an inner tube at least partially disposed within the intermediate tube, the inner tube: being moveable relative to the outer and intermediate tubes, and being moveable relative to the outer tube between a neutral position and retaining position, a soil-engaging portion connected to one of the intermediate tube and the inner tube; a finger moveably connected to the intermediate tube proximate to the receiving portion, the finger being moveable between: a closed position, in which the finger is configured to apply a clamping force on the root received in the receiving portion, and an open position, in which the finger is spaced from the receiving portion; the planting device being configurable between: a base configuration, in which: the intermediate tube is in the base position, and the inner tube is in the neutral position; a planting configuration, in which:the intermediate tube is in the planting position, with the receiving portion being configured to be received in the soil, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to engage the soil above the receiving portion; a retracting configuration, in which: the intermediate tube is between the planting position and the base position, and the finger is offset from the closed position, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to retain the root in the soil.

2. The planting device of claim 1 , wherein in response to the intermediate tube moving from the planting position toward the base position, the finger engages the inner tube causing the finger to move toward the open position.

3. The planting device of claim 1 or 2, wherein in response to the inner tube being moved to a compacting position, the soil-engaging portion is configured to compact the soil.

4. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the finger moves between the open and closed positions in an arcuate path about a finger pivot.

5. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a biasing element biasing the finger toward the closed position.

6. The planting device of claim 5, wherein:with the finger being between the closed position and an intermediate position, the intermediate position being between the open and closed positions, the biasing element biases the finger toward the closed position, and with the finger being between the intermediate position and the open position, the biasing element biases the finger toward the open position.

7. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein with the finger being in the closed position, a spacing is defined between an upper end of the finger and the receiving portion, the spacing being configured to receive part of the root therein.

8. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the receiving portion has an arcuate profile.

9. The planting device of claim 8, wherein the arcuate profile is generally semicircular.

10. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the receiving portion has an indicator for indicating an optimal position of a heart of the root.

11. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the soil-engaging portion has generally annular shape, and defines opening configured to receive part of the finger therein.

12. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the planting device is for use in plasticulture.

13. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the soil-engaging portion is connected to a bottom of the inner tube.

14. The planting device of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a damper disposed between the intermediate tube and the inner tube.

15. A distribution system comprising: a distribution frame assembly; a plurality of brackets operatively connected to the distribution frame assembly, the plurality of brackets being moveable around the distribution frame assembly; a plurality of planting devices according to any one of claims 1 to 13, each one of the plurality of planting devices being operatively connected to one of the plurality of brackets; and an actuating assembly configured to selectively connect to one of the plurality of planting devices, the actuating assembly having: a first actuating member configured to operatively connect to the intermediate tube of the one of the plurality of planting devices for causing movement of the intermediate tube; and a second actuating member configured to operatively connect to the inner tube of the one of the plurality of planting devices for causing movement of the inner tube.

16. The distribution system of claim 15, wherein: the intermediate tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices has a first mover operatively connectable to the first actuating member; the inner tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices has a second mover operatively connectable to the second actuating member;the outer tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices defines a first outer slot for enabling movement of the first mover, and a second outer slot for enabling movement of the second mover; and the intermediate tube of each one of the plurality of planting devices defines an intermediate slot for enabling movement of the second mover.

17. The distribution system of claim 16, wherein: the first actuating member is a first rail, and the first mover is a first roller configured to roll on the first rail, and the second actuating member is a second rail, and the second mover is a second roller configured to roll on the second rail.

18. The distribution system of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the distribution system includes a guiding member for causing one of the plurality of planting devices to move from a planting orientation, in which the one of the plurality of planting devices is configured to plant a root, to a receiving orientation in which the one of the plurality of planting devices is configured to receive the root in the receiving portion.

19. The distribution system of claim 18, wherein the distribution system includes an other guiding member for causing the planting device to move from the receiving orientation to the planting orientation.

20. The distribution system of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the plurality of planting devices includes a set of left planting devices and a set of right planting devices.

21. The distribution system of claim 20, wherein the sets of left and right planting devices are longitudinally offset from one another.

22. The distribution system of any one of claims 15 to 21 , further comprising a damper disposed between the intermediate tube and the inner tube.

23. A planting system comprising: a planting frame; a ground-engaging member rotationally connected to the planting frame; the distribution system of any one of claims 15 to 22; and a transmission system operatively connected to the ground-engaging member and the distribution system, such that rotation of the ground-engaging member causes rotation of the plurality of brackets.

24. The planting system of claim 23, wherein the transmission system is configured so that while one of the plurality of planting devices is in the base, planting and retracting configurations, a speed of the one of the plurality of planting devices relative to the soil is zero.

25. A kit for a planting device for planting a root, the kit comprising: an outer tube; an intermediate tube at least partially receivable within the outer tube, the intermediate tube having at a bottom thereof a receiving portion configured to receive the root; an inner tube at least partially receivable within the intermediate tube, the inner tube having at a bottom thereof a soil-engaging portion; a finger moveably connectable to the intermediate tube proximate to the receiving portion, the finger being moveable between:a closed position, in which the finger is configured to apply a clamping force on the root received in the receiving portion, and an open position, in which the finger is spaced from the receiving portion; the planting device being configurable between: a base configuration, in which: the intermediate tube is in a base position, and the inner tube is in a neutral position; a planting configuration, in which: the intermediate tube is in a planting position, with the receiving portion being configured to be received in soil, and the inner tube is in a retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to engage the soil above the receiving portion; a retracting configuration, in which: the intermediate tube is between the planting position and the base position, and the finger is offset from the closed position, and the inner tube is in the retaining position, the soil-engaging portion being configured to retain the root in the soil.

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