Adjustable depth tool of a row unit to compensate for variability between row units of an implement

Abstract

An adjustable depth tool sets a seed depth of a row unit of an implement. The adjustable depth tool comprises a base positioner (520) that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of a shank (480) of the row unit to provide a coarse seed-depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel (348) of the implement and an adjustable depth handle (510) that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed-depth control to compensate for variability in components of the row unit.

Description

Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOADJUSTABLE DEPTH TOOL OF A ROW UNIT TO COMPENSATE FOR VARIABILITY BETWEEN ROW UNITS OF AN IMPLEMENTCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 775475, filed 21 March 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and implements for using an adjustable depth tool per row unit to compensate for variability in manufacturing and wear for components of row units of an implement.BACKGROUND

[0003] Implement such as planters are used for planting seeds of crops (e.g., corn, soybeans) in a field. Seeds need to be planted with consistent depth, spacing, and with a high speed to decrease planting time. Consistent uniform planting depth of seed is needed to improve uniformity of emergence by placing seeds into a more consistent seedbed and improving seed-to-soil contact. The seed zone is more likely to dry out when planting too shallow. Cooler soil temperature at deeper depths of the seed increases emergence time.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 shows an example of a system for performing agricultural operations (e.g., planting operations) of agricultural fields including operations of an implement having row units in accordance with one embodiment.

[0005] FIG. 2 illustrates an architecture of an implement 200 for planting operations in trenches of agricultural fields in accordance with one embodiment.

[0006] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which the row unit 300 is a planter row unit having an adjustable depth functionality of an adjustable depth tool for uniform depth during planting in accordance with one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 4 illustrates a view of a row unit including a shank and an adjustable depth tool for precisely adjusting seed depth to compensate for row to row variation in depth for planting of agricultural plants (e.g., corn, soybean, cotton, wheat, sorghum, barley, oats, canola, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0008] FIG. 5 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of an upper portion of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a shank of a row unit and an adjustable depth tool in a first position in accordance with some embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of a shank of a row unit and an adjustable depth tool in a second position in accordance with some embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 9 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments

[0013] FIG. 10 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in an assembled condition in accordance with some embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 11 A shows an example of a block diagram of a self-propelled implement 140 (e.g., sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 1 IB shows an example of a block diagram of a system 101 that includes a machine 102 (e.g., tractor, combine harvester, etc.) and an implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment.

[0016] FIGs. 12-13 illustrate alternative embodiments of an adjustable depth tool to compensate for depth variation between row units due to manufacturing and wear variations of components of the row units of an implement.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0017] In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided an adjustable depth tool for setting a seed depth of a row unit of an implement, the adjustable depth tool comprising a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of a shank of the row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement and an adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for variability in components of the row unit.

[0018] In one example, the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having an opening and a first fastening mechanism being inserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0019] In one example, the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having a threaded opening and a first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0020] In one example, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

[0021] In one example, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.

[0022] In one example, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

[0023] In one example of the adjustable depth tool, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0024] In one example of the adjustable depth tool, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0025] In one example of the adjustable depth tool, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing variability in different components of the row unit.

[0026] In one example of the adjustable depth tool, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for wear usage variability in different components of the row unit.

[0027] In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided an agricultural implement comprising a frame and a plurality of row units coupled to the frame for performing agricultural operations in rows of an agricultural field, wherein each row unit includes a shank, a furrow opener, and an adjustable depth tool that includes a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of the shank to provide a coarse depth control of the furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel, and an adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise depth control to compensate for variability in components of the plurality of row units.

[0028] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having an opening and a first fastening mechanism beingAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOinserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0029] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having a threaded opening and a first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0030] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

[0031] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.

[0032] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

[0033] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0034] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0035] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear variability in different components of the row unit including the furrow opener and the gauge wheel arm.

[0036] In one example of the agricultural implement, wherein each base positioner is set to a same position of the shank for each row unit and each adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the corresponding base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear usage variability in different components of the plurality of row units.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] All references cited herein are incorporated herein in their entireties. If there is a conflict between a definition herein and in an incorporated reference, the definition herein shall control.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0038] In order to optimize field production, the delivery of seed (e.g., corn, soybeans, cotton, wheat, sorghum, barley, oats, canola, etc.) into a seed furrow during planting needs to be at a consistent uniform depth among different row units of an implement as the implement performs application passes through a field. Consistent uniform planting depth of seed is needed to improve uniformity of emergence by placing seeds into a more consistent seedbed and improving seed-to-soil contact. Uneven crop emergence limits overall yield potential.

[0039] A depth handle setting determines an opening disc depth relative to gauge wheels of row units (e.g., 8 row units, 16 row units, 24 row units) of an implement to determine a seed planting depth. Wear and manufacturing differences for different components (e.g., disk openers, gauge wheel depth arm, slots in a shank for adjusting the depth handle, etc.) of different row units of an implement can cause seed depth variability across these row units. An operator may set a first group of row units at a first depth setting, a second group of row units at a second depth setting, and possibly a third set of row units at a third depth setting in order to attempt to obtain a uniform seed depth across all row units. Monitoring manufacturing and wear differences in different components of row units that cause differences in actual seed depth between different row units can be difficult to track and remember for implements having a large number of row units (e.g., 8, 16, 24).

[0040] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, an adjustable depth tool having a clamping design compensates for wear and manufacturing differences for different components of different row units in order to allow an operator to set a base positioner of the adjustable depth tool in a same slot position depth setting for all row units of an implement. Depth variations between different row units can be reduced or eliminated by manually adjusting a handle position with respect to the base positioner of the adjustable depth tool. The depth can be set to the same slot position on each row on the entire planter because the variability (e.g., due to wear, manufacturing, etc.) can be zeroed out. This makes it easier to manage the depth setting, especially when a depth change is made due to planting conditions or when changing crops.

[0041] In the following description, numerous details are set forth. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0042] FIG. 1 shows an example of a system for performing agricultural operations (e.g., planting operations, fluid application) of agricultural fields including operations of an implement having row units in accordance with one embodiment. For example, and in one embodiment, the system 100 may be implemented as a cloud based system with servers, data processing devices, computers, etc. Aspects, features, and functionality of the system 100 can be implemented in servers, planters, planter monitors, combines, laptops, tablets, computer terminals, client devices, user devices (e.g., device 190-1), handheld computers, personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, cameras, smart phones, mobile phones, computing devices, or a combination of any of these or other data processing devices.

[0043] In other embodiments, the system includes a network computer or an embedded processing device within another device (e.g., display device) or within a machine (e.g., planter, combine), or other types of data processing systems having fewer components or perhaps more components than that shown in Figure 1. The system 100 (e.g., cloud based system) and agricultural operations can control and monitor planting operations for planting within a planting furrow or trench using an implement or machine. The system 100 includes machines 140-1, 142, 144, 146 and implements 141, 143, 145 coupled to a respective machine. The implements (or machines) can include row units having adjustable depth tools for planting operations of crops within associated fields (e.g., fields 103, 105-1, 107, 109). The system 100 includes an agricultural analysis system 122 that includes a weather store 150-1 with current and historical weather data, weather predictions module 152-1 with weather predictions for different regions, and at least one processing system 132-1 for executing instructions for controlling and monitoring different operations (e.g., planting, fertilizing). The storage medium 136-1 may store instructions, software, software programs, etc. for execution by the processing system and for performing operations of the agricultural analysis system 122. In one example, storage medium 136-1 may contain a planting prescription (e.g., planting prescription that relates georeferenced positions in the field to planting parameters (e.g., soil type, downforce, speed, seed orientation, etc.). The implement 141 (or any of the implements) may include an implement 200 whose sensors and / or controllers may be specifically the elements that are in communication with the network 180-1 for sending control signals or receiving as-applied data.

[0044] An image database 160-1 stores captured images of crops at different growth stages and seed at different positions and orientation in a seed passageway during planting. A dataAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOanalytics module 130-1 may perform analytics on agricultural data (e.g., images, weather, field, yield, etc.) to generate crop predictions 162-1 relating to agricultural operations.

[0045] A field information database 134-1 stores agricultural data (e.g., crop growth stage, soil types, soil characteristics, moisture holding capacity, etc.) for the fields that are being monitored by the system 100. An agricultural practices information database 135-1 stores farm practices information (e.g., as-applied planting information (e.g., seed orientation, seed depth, downforce, etc.), as-applied spraying information, as-applied fertilization information, planting population, applied nutrients (e.g., nitrogen), yield levels, proprietary indices (e.g., ratio of seed population to a soil parameter), etc.) for the fields that are being monitored by the system 100. An implement can obtain seed orientation data and provide this data to the system 100. A cost / price database 138-1 stores input cost information (e.g., cost of seed, cost of nutrients (e.g., nitrogen)) and commodity price information (e.g., revenue from crop).

[0046] The system 100 shown in Figure 1 may include a network interface 118 for communicating with other systems or devices such as drone devices, user devices, and machines (e.g., planters, combines) via a network 180-1 (e.g., Internet, wide area network, WiMax, satellite, cellular, IP network, etc.). The network interface includes one or more types of transceivers for communicating via the network 180-1.

[0047] The processing system 132-1 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic for executing software instructions of one or more programs. The system 100 includes the storage medium 136-1 for storing data and programs for execution by the processing system. The storage medium 136-1 can store, for example, software components such as a software application for controlling and monitoring planting operations or any other software application. The storage medium 136 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive.

[0048] While the storage medium (e.g., machine-accessible non-transitory medium) is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “machine- accessible non-transitory medium” shall also beAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOtaken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The term “machine-accessible non-transitory medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wave signals.

[0049] FIG. 2 illustrates an architecture of an implement 200 for planting operations in trenches of agricultural fields in accordance with one embodiment. The implement 200 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, etc.) includes at least one bulk hopper 202 with each bulk hopper containing a seed variety (e.g., a corn seed variety, a soybean variety, etc.). Each bulk hopper is preferably in fluid communication with an individual seed entrainer (not shown). Each seed entrainer is preferably mounted to a lower outlet of the associated bulk hopper 202. Each seed entrainer is preferably in fluid communication with a pneumatic pressure source and configured to convey air-entrained seeds through a plurality of seed lines 204 to the row units 210-217. A controller 260 (e.g., drive controller) is preferably configured to generate a drive command signal corresponding to a desired rate of seed disc rotation for seed meters of the row units. The drive controller 260 is preferably in data communication with a planter monitor of a machine. The implement also includes sensors 250 (e.g., speed sensors, seed sensors 250a-250h for detecting orientation and passage of seed such as sensor systems, downforce sensors, actuator valves, speed sensors for the machine, seed force sensors for a planter, vacuum, lift, lower sensors for an implement, etc.) for controlling and monitoring operations of the implement. The sensors can be utilized on the implement 200 either row-by-row of row units as sensors 250a-250h or upstream of where the seed lines branches out to the row units as illustrated in Figure 2. The sensors 250a-250h can be sensor systems with light arrays or each sensor can include a camera to capture images of seed passing through the seed passageway.

[0050] The row units can include row unit shanks (or shank tails) that are mechanically coupled to the frames 220-227 which are mechanically coupled to a bar 10. Each row unit shank 262a-262h includes slot positions for an adjustable depth tool 270a-270h to manually adjust a seed planting depth for each row unit. In one example, each adjustable depth tool has sufficient precise depth adjustment such that each depth tool is set in the same slot of each row unit even though manufacturing and wear variability exists for different components of each row unit.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0051] Each row unit can include sensors and components having a seed orientation mechanism (e.g., actuators, air pressure) for obtaining a proper seed orientation and / or positioning of seed during planting in a trench or furrow in an agricultural field. Each row unit may include a respective seed firmer 240-247 for positioning the seed within the trench at a certain depth and also includes a seed orientation functionality to change an orientation of the seed if desired. Each seed firmer can include a first seed vision system (e.g., machine vision, lidar (light detection and ranging)) to determine pre-orientation of the seed after placement in the trench with a seed tube, an actuator to change an orientation of the seed if necessary or desired at least partially based on the pre-orientation data, and a second seed vision system (e.g., machine vision, lidar (light detection and ranging)) to determine a post-orientation of the seed after the seed is positioned and oriented with the seed firmer to confirm that the seed has been orientated with a desired orientation or range of orientations. The row units can include any of the embodiments described herein in conjunction with Figures 2-10.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which the row unit 300 is a planter row unit having adjustable depth functionality of an adjustable depth tool in accordance with one embodiment. The row unit 300 is preferably pivotally connected to the toolbar 14 (e.g., bar 10 of Figure 2) by a parallel linkage 316. An actuator 318 is preferably disposed to apply lift and / or down force on the row unit 300. An opening system 334 preferably includes two opening discs 344 rollingly mounted to a downwardly- extending shank 354 and disposed to open a v-shaped trench 38 or furrow in the soil 40. A pair of gauge wheels 348 is pivotally supported by a pair of corresponding gauge wheel arms 360. The height of the gauge wheels 348 relative to the opener discs 344 sets the depth of the trench 38 using an adjustable depth tool 382 as positioned within a slot of a shank 380. A depth adjustment rocker 368 limits the upward travel of the gauge wheel arms 360 and thus the upward travel of the gauge wheels 348. A down force sensor (not shown) is preferably configured to generate a signal related to the amount of force imposed by the gauge wheels 348 on the soil 40; in some embodiments the down force sensor comprises an instrumented pin about which the rocker 368 is pivotally coupled to the row unit 300.

[0053] Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, a first seed meter 300-1, is preferably mounted to the row unit 300 and disposed to deposit seeds 42 into the trench 38, e.g., through a seed tube 338 disposed to guide the seeds toward the trench. In other embodiments, the seed tube 338 isAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOreplaced with a seed conveyor or belt. An optional second seed meter 300-2 is preferably mounted to the row unit 300 and disposed to deposit seeds 42 into the same trench 38, e.g., through the same seed tube 338. Each of the seed meters 300-1, 300-2 preferably includes a seed side housing 330-1, 330-2 having an auxiliary hopper 332-1, 332-2 for storing seeds 42 to be deposited by the meter. Each of the seed meters 300-1, 300-2 preferably includes a vacuum side housing 340-1, 340-2 including a vacuum port 342-1, 342-2 pulling a vacuum within the vacuum side housing. Each of the seed meters 300-1, 300-2 preferably includes a seed disc that includes seed apertures (not shown). The seed disc preferably separates interior volumes of the vacuum side housing and the seed side housing. In operation, seeds 42 communicated from the auxiliary hopper 332-1, 332-2 into the seed side housing 330-1, 330-2 are captured on the seed apertures due to the vacuum in the vacuum side housing and then released into the seed tube 338. Each of the meters is preferably powered by individual electric drives 315-1, 315-2 respectively. Each drive is preferably configured to drive a seed disc within the associated seed meter. In other embodiments, the drive 315 may comprise a hydraulic drive or other motor configured to drive the seed disc.

[0054] A seed sensor 350 (e.g., an optical or electromagnetic seed sensor configured to generate a signal indicating passage of a seed, sensor systems, seed sensor having a camera to capture images of the seed passing through a seed passageway) may have multiple sensor arrays that are preferably mounted to the seed tube 338 and disposed to send light or electromagnetic waves across the path of seeds 42. In one example, multiple LED arrays are able to detect orientation of the seed as it passes through the seed tube 338. A closing system 336 including one or more closing wheels is pivotally coupled to the row unit 300 and configured to close the trench 38. An example of seed sensor 350 is described in U.S.Publication No. US20220155214A1.

[0055] In one example, a seed firmer 370 is coupled to a component (e.g., shank 354) of the row unit 300 with a bracket 375. The seed firmer is preferably designed to resiliently engage the bottom of the trench 38 in order to press seeds 42 into the soil before the trench is closed. The seed firmer 370 also includes a seed orientation functionality to change an orientation of the seed if desired or necessary. The seed firmer 370 includes a seed vision system 372 (e.g., machine vision, lidar (light detection and ranging)) to determine pre-orientation of the seed after placement in the trench with the seed tube, an actuator 374 to change an orientation of theAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOseed if necessary or desired which may be based on pre-orientation data, and a seed vision system 376 (e.g., machine vision, lidar (light detection and ranging)) to determine a postorientation of the seed after the seed is positioned and potentially oriented with the seed firmer. The post-orientation data of the seed vision system 376 is used to confirm if the seed has a desired seed orientation. The actuator 374 may include at least one of an airstream and one or more mechanical actuators for orientation of the seed in the trench.

[0056] FIG. 4 illustrates a view of a row unit including a shank and an adjustable depth tool for precisely adjusting seed depth to compensate for row to row variation in depth for planting of agricultural plants (e.g., corn, soybean, cotton, wheat, sorghum, barley, oats, canola, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment. In one example, the height of the gauge wheels 348 relative to the opener discs 344 sets the depth of the trench 38 using an adjustable depth tool 490 as positioned within one or more slots 481 of a shank 480. A depth adjustment rocker 496 limits the upward travel of the gauge wheel arm 460 and thus the upward travel of the gauge wheels 348.

[0057] The adjustable depth tool 490 is inserted into a slot position to set for a coarse depth setting. Slot position 481 is one of the slotted positions of the shank 480. The tool 490 includes the handle 492 that fastens to a base positioner 494 that is positioned in one of the slotted positions.

[0058] FIGs. 5-10 illustrate different embodiments of an adjustable depth tool to compensate for depth variation between row units due to manufacturing and wear variations of components of the row units of an implement. FIG. 5 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments. The adjustable depth tool 500 includes a base positioner 520 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 510 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 520 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit. The tool 500 includes an elongated component 530, a first fastening mechanism 512 (e.g., threaded bolt), a body component 540, a depth stop rocker 550 to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of theAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOgauge wheel, and a second fastening mechanism 560 to fasten the depth stop rocker to an end of the body component 540.

[0059] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of an upper portion of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments. The adjustable depth tool 600 includes a base positioner 620 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener (e.g., furrow opening discs, coulter, knife, etc.) with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 610 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 620 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in different components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit and have a uniform seed depth for each row unit. The tool 600 includes an elongated component 630, a fastening mechanism 612 (e.g., threaded bolt, clamping mechanism) to fasten the handle 610 to the base positioner 620 and the elongated component 630. A body component 640 includes a chamber and an end to receive the elongated component.

[0060] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a shank of a row unit and an adjustable depth tool in a first position in accordance with some embodiments. An upper surface of the shank 790 includes slot positions 791-798 to provide a coarse depth control for setting a seed depth. The adjustable depth tool 700 includes a base positioner 720 that is moveable in different slot positions of the shank 790 to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener (e.g., furrow opening discs, coulter, knife, etc.) with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 710 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 720 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in different components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit and have a uniform seed depth for each row unit. The tool 700 includes a fastening mechanism 712 (e.g., threaded bolt, clamping mechanism) to fasten the handle 710 to the base positioner 720 that is fastened to the shank 790. The indicator 722 indicates that the base positioner 720 is positioned in slot position 796.

[0061] FIG. 9 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments. The adjustable depth tool 900 includes a base positioner 920 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustableAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOdepth handle 910 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 920 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit. The tool 900 includes an elongated component 930, a first fastening mechanism 912 and 914 (e.g., threaded bolt and washer), an elongated component 930, a body component 940, a depth stop rocker 950 to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel, and a second fastening mechanism 960 to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component 940.

[0062] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of a shank of a row unit and an adjustable depth tool in a second position in accordance with some embodiments. An upper surface of the shank 790 includes slot positions 791-798 to provide a coarse depth control for setting a seed depth. The adjustable depth tool 700 has been moved from position 796 in FIG. 7 to position 794 in FIG. 8 to change a depth setting for the row unit.

[0063] The elongated component 930 has an opening 932. The first fastening mechanism 912 is inserted into the opening 932 to fasten the adjustable depth handle 910 to the base positioner 920 and the elongated component 930, which is inserted into a first end of the body component 940. A second fastening mechanism 960 fastens the depth stop rocker 950 to a second end of the body component 940.

[0064] FIG. 10 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in an assembled condition in accordance with some embodiments. The adjustable depth tool 1000 includes a base positioner 1020 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 1010 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 1020 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit. The tool 1000 includes an elongated component 1030, a first fastening mechanism 1012 and 1014 (e.g., threaded bolt and washer), a body component 1040, a depth stop rocker 1050 to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel, and a second fastening mechanism 1060 to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component 940.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0065] The first fastening mechanism 1012 is inserted into an opening of the elongated component 1030 to fasten the adjustable depth handle 1010 to an upper ribbed surface 1022 (or notched surface) of the base positioner 1020 and the elongated component 1030, which is inserted into a first end of the body component 1040. A second fastening mechanism 1060 fastens the depth stop rocker 1050 to a second end of the body component 1040.

[0066] FIG. 11 A shows an example of a block diagram of a self-propelled implement 140 (e.g., planter, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment. The implement 140 includes a processing system 1200, memory 105, and a network interface 115 for communicating with other systems or devices. The network interface 115 can include at least one of a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems. The network interface 115 may be integrated with the implement network 150 or separate from the implement network 150 as illustrated in FIG. 11A. The I / O ports 129 (e.g., diagnostic / on board diagnostic (OBD) port) enable communication with another data processing system or device (e.g., display devices, sensors, etc.).

[0067] In one example, the self-propelled implement 140 performs operations for planting applications in rows of a field. Data associated with the planting applications can be displayed on at least one of the display devices 125 and 130.

[0068] The processing system 1200 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic 126 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication unit 128 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting and receiving communications from the network interface 115 or implement network 150. The communication unit 128 may be integrated with the processing system or separate from the processing system.

[0069] Processing logic 126 including one or more processors may process the communications received from the communication unit 128 including agricultural data (e.g., planting data, GPS data, fluid application data, flow rates, etc.). The system 1200 includes memory 105 for storing data and programs for execution (software 106) by the processing system. The memory 105 can store, for example, software components such as application software for analysis of planting applications for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, reflectance signals from sensor arrays, images 108 (e.g., images of seed inAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOa seed passageway, captured images of crops, images of a spray pattern for rows of crops, images for camera calibrations), alerts, maps, etc. The memory 105 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive. The system can also include an audio input / output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).

[0070] The processing system 1200 communicates bi-directionally with memory 105, implement network 150, network interface 115, display device 130, display device 125, and I / O ports 129 via communication links 131-136, respectively.

[0071] Display devices 125 and 130 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or operator. The display devices may include display controllers. In one embodiment, the display device 125 is a portable tablet device or computing device with a touchscreen that displays data (e.g., planting application data with seed depth, seed orientation, liquid or fluid application data, captured images, localized view map layer, high definition field maps of as-applied liquid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data or other agricultural variables or parameters, yield maps, alerts, etc.) and data generated by an agricultural data analysis software application and receives input from the user or operator for an exploded view of a region of a field, monitoring and controlling field operations. The operations may include configuration of the machine or implement, reporting of data, control of the machine or implement including sensors and controllers, and storage of the data generated. The display device 130 may be a display (e.g., display provided by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)) that displays images and data for a localized view map layer, as-applied liquid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data, yield data, controlling an implement (e.g., planter, tractor, combine, sprayer, etc.), steering the implement, and monitoring the implement (e.g., planter, combine, sprayer, etc.). A cab control module 1270 may include an additional control module for enabling or disabling certain components or devices of the implement.

[0072] The implement 140 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation, implement, etc.) includes an implement network 150 having multiple networks. The implement network 150 having multiple networks (e.g., Ethernet network, Power over Ethernet (PoE) network, a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network,Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOetc.) may include a pump 156 for pumping liquid or fluid from a storage tank(s) 190 to row units of the implement, communication module 180 for receiving communications from controllers and sensors and transmitting these communications. In one example, the implement network 150 includes row units 60, 75, 170 having adjustable depth tools for coarse and precise depth adjustment control for various embodiments of this present disclosure.

[0073] Sensors 152 (e.g., speed sensors, seed sensors (e.g., a single sensor disposed at one or more orientations, a first sensor at a first orientation, first location of a seed passageway and a second sensor at a second orientation, second location of the seed passageway, a sensor array at a first orientation, a sensor array at a second orientation, or a combination of a first sensor array at a first orientation and second sensor array or sensor at a second orientation, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes) having light arrays for detecting passage of seed, downforce sensors, actuator valves, OEM sensors, flow sensors, etc.), controllers 154 (e.g., drive system, GPS receiver), and the processing system 120 control and monitoring operations of the implement.

[0074] The OEM sensors may be moisture sensors or flow sensors, speed sensors for the implement, fluid application sensors for a sprayer, or vacuum, lift, lower sensors for an implement. For example, the controllers may include processors in communication with a plurality of sensors. The processors are configured to process data (e.g., fluid application data) and transmit processed data to the processing system 120. The controllers and sensors may be used for monitoring motors and drives on the implement.

[0075] FIG. 1 IB shows an example of a block diagram of a system 101 that includes a machine 102 (e.g., tractor, combine harvester, etc.) and an implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment. The machine 102 includes a processing system 1200, memory 105, machine network 110 that includes multiple networks (e.g., an Ethernet network, a network with a switched power line coupled with a communications channel (e.g., Power over Ethernet (PoE) network), a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.), and a network interface 115 for communicating with other systems or devices including the implement 1240. The machine network 110 includes sensors 112 (e.g., speed sensors), controllers 111 (e.g., GPS receiver, radar unit) for controlling and monitoring operations of the machine or implement. The network interface 115 can include at least one of a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces fromAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOcommunications with other devices and systems including the implement 1240. The network interface 115 may be integrated with the machine network 110 or separate from the machine network 110 as illustrated in Figure 1 IB. The I / O ports 129 (e.g., diagnostic / on board diagnostic (OBD) port) enable communication with another data processing system or device (e.g., display devices, sensors, etc.).

[0076] In one example, the machine is a self-propelled machine that performs operations of a tractor that is coupled to and tows an implement for planting or fluid applications of a field. Data associated with the planting or fluid applications can be displayed on at least one of the display devices 125 and 130.

[0077] In one example, the implement network 150 includes a plurality of row units 50, 60, 900 having adjustable depth tools for coarse and precise depth adjustment control for various embodiments of this present disclosure.

[0078] The processing system 1200 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic 126 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication unit 128 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting and receiving communications from the machine via machine network 110 or network interface 115 or implement via implement network 150 or network interface 160. The communication unit 128 may be integrated with the processing system or separate from the processing system. In one embodiment, the communication unit 128 is in data communication with the machine network 110 and implement network 150 via a diagnostic / OBD port of the I / O ports 129 or via network devices 113a and 113b. A communication module 113 includes network devices 113a and 113b. The communication module 113 may be integrated with the communication unit 128 or a separate component.

[0079] Processing logic 126 including one or more processors may process the communications received from the communication unit 128 including agricultural data (e.g., planting data with seed orientation data, GPS data, liquid application data, flow rates, weed parameters a crop identification, a camera height from a camera to a ground level, a crop stress indicator, a drought stress indicator, and insect indicator for different target regions, etc.). The system 1200 includes memory 105 for storing data and programs for execution (software 106) by the processing system. The memory 105 can store, for example, software components such as plantingAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOapplication software for analysis of planting applications for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, images (e.g., images of seed in a seed passageway, images for camera calibrations, captured images of crops), alerts, maps, etc. The memory 105 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive. The system can also include an audio input / output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).

[0080] The processing system 120 communicates bi-directionally with memory 105, machine network 110, network interface 115, display device 130, display device 125, and I / O ports 129 via communication links 130-136, respectively.

[0081] Display devices 125 and 130 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or operator. The display devices may include display controllers. In one embodiment, the display device 125 is a portable tablet device or computing device with a touchscreen that displays data (e.g., seed orientation data, weed parameters, a crop identification, planting application data, liquid or fluid application data, captured images, localized view map layer, high definition field maps of as-applied liquid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data or other agricultural variables or parameters, yield maps, alerts, etc.) and data generated by an agricultural data analysis software application and receives input from the user or operator for an exploded view of a region of a field, monitoring and controlling field operations. The operations may include configuration of the machine or implement, reporting of data, control of the machine or implement including sensors and controllers, and storage of the data generated. The display device 130 may be a display (e.g., display provided by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)) that displays images and data for a localized view map layer, as-applied liquid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data, yield data, weed parameters, controls a machine (e.g., planter, tractor, combine, sprayer, etc.), steering the machine, and monitoring the machine or an implement (e.g., planter, combine, sprayer, etc.) that is connected to the machine with sensors and controllers located on the machine or implement.

[0082] A cab control module 1270 may include an additional control module for enabling or disabling certain components or devices of the machine or implement. For example, if the user or operator is not able to control the machine or implement using one or more of the displayAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOdevices, then the cab control module may include switches to shut down or turn off components or devices of the machine or implement.

[0083] The implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation, implement, etc.) includes an implement network 150 having multiple networks, a processing system 162 having processing logic 164, a network interface 160, and optional input / output ports 166 for communicating with other systems or devices including the machine 102. The implement network 150 having multiple networks (e.g, Ethernet network, Power over Ethernet (PoE) network, a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.) may include a pump 156 for pumping liquid or fluid from a storage tank(s) 190 to row units of the implement, communication modules (e.g., 180, 181) for receiving communications from controllers and sensors and transmitting these communications to the machine network. In one example, the communication modules include first and second network devices with network ports. A first network device with a port (e.g., CAN port) of communication module (CM) 180 receives a communication with data from controllers and sensors, this communication is translated or converted from a first protocol into a second protocol for a second network device (e.g., network device with a switched power line coupled with a communications channel , Ethernet), and the second protocol with data is transmitted from a second network port (e.g., Ethernet port) of CM 180 to a second network port of a second network device 113b of the machine network 110. A first network device 113a having first network ports (e.g., 1-4 CAN ports) transmits and receives communications from first network ports of the implement. In one example, the implement network 150 includes vision system 1170 having cameras and processors, and autosteer controller for various embodiments of this present disclosure. The autosteer controller may also be part of the machine network 110 instead of being located on the implement network 150 or in addition to being located on the implement network 150.

[0084] Sensors 152 (e.g., speed sensors, seed sensors (e.g., a single sensor disposed at one or more orientations, a first sensor at a first orientation, first location of a seed passageway and a second sensor at a second orientation, second location of the seed passageway, a sensor array at a first orientation, a sensor array at a second orientation, or a combination of a first sensor array at a first orientation and second sensor array or sensor at a second orientation) for detecting passage of seed, downforce sensors, actuator valves, OEM sensors, flow sensors, etc.), controllers 154Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO(e.g., drive system for seed meter, GPS receiver), and the processing system 162 control and monitoring operations of the implement.

[0085] The OEM sensors may be moisture sensors or flow sensors for a combine, speed sensors for the machine, seed force sensors for a planter, liquid application sensors for a sprayer, or vacuum, lift, lower sensors for an implement. For example, the controllers may include processors in communication with a plurality of seed sensors. The processors are configured to process data (e.g., liquid application data, seed sensor data) and transmit processed data to the processing system 162 or 120. The controllers and sensors may be used for monitoring motors and drives on a planter including a variable rate drive system for changing plant populations. The controllers and sensors may also provide swath control to shut off individual rows or sections of the planter. The sensors and controllers may sense changes in an electric motor that controls each row of a planter individually. These sensors and controllers may sense seed delivery speeds in a seed tube for each row of a planter.

[0086] The network interface 160 can be a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems including the machine 102. The network interface 160 may be integrated with the implement network 150 or separate from the implement network 150 as illustrated in FIG. 1 IB.

[0087] The processing system 162 communicates bi-directionally with the implement network 150, network interface 160, and I / O ports 166 via communication links 141-143, respectively. The implement communicates with the machine via wired and possibly also wireless bidirectional communications 104. The implement network 150 may communicate directly with the machine network 110 or via the network interfaces 115 and 160. The implement may also by physically coupled to the machine for agricultural operations (e.g., planting, harvesting, spraying, etc.). The memory 105 may be a machine-accessible non-transitory medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software 106) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The software 106 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the memory 105 and / or within the processing system 1200 during execution thereof by the system 101, the memory and the processing system also constituting machine-accessible storage media. The software 106 may further be transmitted or received over a network via the network interface 115.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0088] In one example, the implement 140, 1240 is an autosteered implement comprising a self-propelled implement with an autosteer controller for controlling traveling of the self-propelled implement. The controllers 154 include a global positioning system to provide GPS coordinates. The vision guidance system 1170 includes at least one camera and a processor. The global positioning system is in communication with the processor, and the processor is in communication with the autosteer controller. The processor is configured to modify the GPS coordinates to a modified GPS coordinates to maintain a desired travel for the self-propelled implement.

[0089] In another example, the machine 102 is an autosteered machine comprising a self-propelled machine with an autosteer controller for controlling traveling of the self-propelled machine and any implement that is coupled to the machine. The controllers 154 include a global positioning system to provide GPS coordinates. The vision guidance system 1170 includes at least one camera and a processor. The global positioning system is in communication with the processor, and the processor is in communication with the autosteer controller. The processor is configured to modify the GPS coordinates to a modified GPS coordinates to maintain a desired travel for the self-propelled machine.

[0090] In one embodiment, a machine-accessible non-transitory medium (e.g., memory 105) contains executable computer program instructions which when executed by a data processing system cause the system to perform operations or methods of the present disclosure.

[0091] It will be appreciated that additional components, not shown, may also be part of the system in certain embodiments, and in certain embodiments fewer components than shown in FIG. 11 A and FIG. 1 IB may also be used in a data processing system. It will be appreciated that one or more buses, not shown, may be used to interconnect the various components as is well known in the art.

[0092] FIGs. 12-13 illustrate alternative embodiments of an adjustable depth tool to compensate for depth variation between row units due to manufacturing and wear variations of components of the row units of an implement. FIG. 12 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with some embodiments. The adjustable depth tool 1200 includes a base positioner 1220 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 1210 is adjustable within anAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOopening of the base positioner 1220 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit. The tool 1200 includes an elongated component 1230, a first fastening mechanism 1212 (e.g., a set screw and a nylock flange nut to secure the depth handle 1210 and component 1230), a body component 1240, a depth stop rocker 1250 to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel, and a second fastening mechanism 1260 to fasten the depth stop rocker to an end of the body component 1240.

[0093] FIG. 13 illustrates a view of different components of the adjustable depth tool in accordance with another embodiment. The adjustable depth tool 1300 includes a base positioner 1320 that is moveable in different slot positions of a shank of a row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement. An adjustable depth handle 1310 is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner 1320 to provide a precise seed depth control by moving within the base positioner to compensate for variability in components of the row unit and allows an operator to set the adjustable depth tool to the same slot position in each row unit. The tool 1300 includes an elongated component 1330, a first fastening mechanism 1312 (e.g., a set screw and a nylock flange nut to secure the depth handle 1310 and component 1330), a body component 1340, a depth stop rocker 1350 to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel, and a second fastening mechanism 1360 to fasten the depth stop rocker to an end of the body component 1340.EXAMPLES

[0094] The following are non-limiting examples.

[0095] Example 1 - In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided an adjustable depth tool for setting a seed depth of a row unit of an implement. The adjustable depth tool includes a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of a shank of the row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement and an adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for variability in components of the row unit.

[0096] Example 2 - the adjustable depth tool of Example 1, the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having an opening and a first fastening mechanism beingAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOinserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0097] Example 3 - the adjustable depth tool of Example 1, the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having a threaded opening and a first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0098] Example 4 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-3, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

[0099] Example 5 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-4, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.

[0100] Example 6 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-5, the adjustable depth tool further comprises a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

[0101] Example 7 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-6, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0102] Example 8 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-7, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0103] Example 9 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing variability in different components of the row unit.

[0104] Example 10 - the adjustable depth tool of any of Examples 1-9, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for wear usage variability in different components of the row unit.

[0105] Example 11 - an agricultural implement comprising a frame and a plurality of row units coupled to the frame for performing agricultural operations in rows of an agricultural field, wherein each row unit includes a shank, a furrow opener, and an adjustable depth tool that includes a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of the shank toAtty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOprovide a coarse depth control of the furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel, and an adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise depth control to compensate for variability in components of the plurality of row units.

[0106] Example 12 - the agricultural implement of Example 11, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having an opening and a first fastening mechanism being inserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0107] Example 13 - the agricultural implement of Example 11, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises an elongated component having a threaded opening and a first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

[0108] Example 14 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-13, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

[0109] Example 15 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-14, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.

[0110] Example 16 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-15, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

[0111] Example 17 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-16, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0112] Example 18 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-17, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

[0113] Example 19 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-18, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear variability in different components of the row unit including the furrow opener and the gauge wheel arm.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO

[0114] Example 20 - the agricultural implement of any of Examples 11-19, wherein each base positioner is set to a same position of the shank for each row unit and each adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the corresponding base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear usage variability in different components of the plurality of row units.

[0115] The foregoing description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred embodiment of the apparatus, and the general principles and features of the system and methods described herein will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. Thus, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments of the apparatus, system and methods described above and illustrated in the drawing figures, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WOCLAIMS1. An adjustable depth tool for setting a seed depth of a row unit of an implement, the adjustable depth tool comprising:a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of a shank of the row unit to provide a coarse seed depth control of a furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel of the implement; andan adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for variability in components of the row unit.

2. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, further comprising:an elongated component having an opening; anda first fastening mechanism being inserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

3. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, further comprising:an elongated component having a threaded opening; anda first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

4. The adjustable depth tool of claim 2, further comprising:a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

5. The adjustable depth tool of claim 4, further comprising:a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.

6. The adjustable depth tool of claim 5, further comprising:a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

7. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

8. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

9. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing variability in different components of the row unit.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO10. The adjustable depth tool of claim 1, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for wear usage variability in different components of the row unit.

11. An agricultural implement comprising:a frame; anda plurality of row units coupled to the frame for performing agricultural operations in rows of an agricultural field, wherein each row unit includes a shank, a furrow opener, and an adjustable depth tool that includes a base positioner that is moveable into a plurality of different positions of the shank to provide a coarse depth control of the furrow opener with respect to a gauge wheel, and an adjustable depth handle that is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise depth control to compensate for variability in components of the plurality of row units.

12. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises:an elongated component having an opening; anda first fastening mechanism being inserted into the opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

13. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises:an elongated component having a threaded opening; anda first fastening mechanism being rotated into the threaded opening to fasten the adjustable depth handle to the base positioner and the elongated component.

14. The agricultural implement of claim 12, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises:a body component having a chamber and a first end to receive the elongated component.

15. The agricultural implement of claim 14, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises:a depth stop rocker to limit an upper range of a gauge wheel arm of the gauge wheel.Atty Dkt. No.: 25052 / WO16. The agricultural implement of claim 15, wherein the adjustable depth tool further comprises:a second fastening mechanism to fasten the depth stop rocker to a second end of the body component.

17. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is ribbed or notched for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

18. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein an upper surface of the base positioner is smooth for contact with a lower surface of the adjustable depth handle.

19. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein the adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of the base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear variability in different components of the row unit including the furrow opener and a gauge wheel arm.

20. The agricultural implement of claim 11, wherein each base positioner of each adjustable depth tool is set to a same position of the shank for each row unit and each adjustable depth handle is adjustable within an opening of a corresponding base positioner to provide a precise seed depth control to compensate for manufacturing and wear usage variability in different components of the plurality of row units.

Images