Patent ID: 8868300
Filing Date: 2014-10-21
Classification: A01B,A01C

Abstract:
1. A variable rate control system for dispensing or applying at least one agricultural product comprising: a prime mover for movement across the ground at a desired and known rate of travel, the prime mover having a prime mover hydraulic system with a corresponding prime mover hydraulic flow rate; an agricultural implement operatively attached to the prime mover and comprising a transport structure and a toolbar mounted on the transport structure; a plurality of row units mounted on the tool bar, each one of the plurality of row units adapted to dispense and/or apply the at least one agricultural product at individual and controlled rates; at least one agricultural product storage container for storing the at least one agricultural product to be dispensed or applied in operative communication with the plurality of row units, wherein the at least one agricultural product is in the group consisting of at least one type of agricultural seed for dispensation, at least one granular fertilizer for dispensation, and at least one type of liquid for application; a central controller in direct operative communication with each one of the plurality of row units; and a plurality of row unit control mechanisms mounted on the toolbar and in direct operative communication with the central controller, each one of the plurality of row unit control mechanisms being in further operative communication with, and independently controlling the operation of, one of the plurality of the row units, each one of the plurality of row unit control mechanisms comprising: