Patent ID: 6612378
Filing Date: 2003-09-02
Classification: A01B

Abstract:
A one-pass field tillage implement that leaves the soil untilled at and below seed planting depth, thereby eliminating soil density changes at and below seed planting depth for greater root development and improved plant health, the tillage implement comprising:a wheeled frame having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis and adapted to be pulled by a prime mover; a toolbar operably secured to said wheeled frame for supporting at least three longitudinally spaced tillage tool assemblies, including, a first tillage tool assembly disposed substantially transverse to said longitudinal axis, said first tillage tool assembly adapted to cut and chop crop surface residue as the tillage implement is pulled through the field, while leaving the soil untilled at and below seed planting depth; a second tillage tool assembly disposed longitudinally rearward of said first tillage tool assembly, said second tillage tool assembly adapted to penetrate and loosen an upper crust soil layer and to lift and distribute said chopped crop residue on said soil surface as the tillage implement is pulled through the field, while leaving the soil untilled at a depth at and below seed planting depth; a third tillage tool assembly disposed longitudinally rearward of said second tillage tool assembly, said third tillage tool assembly adapted to drag over said soil surface thereby leveling said soil surface such that said soil surface is substantially smooth and ready for planting; a gauge wheel assembly operably secured to said tool bar, said gauge wheel assembly adapted to limit tillage depth of said soil to an elevation above seed planting depth, thereby eliminating soil density changes at and below seed planting depth, whereby plant root development and plant health are improved.