Patent ID: 6502644
Filing Date: 2003-01-07
Classification: A01B

Abstract:
A deep tillage implement having an upright shank with upper and lower ends and leading and trailing edges, the shank supported by a frame for forward movement through soil and a soil working point connected to the lower end of the shank for movement a distance below the surface of the soil in the forward direction, the distance variable over a preselected range of point working depths, the point and shank opening a slit in the soil and causing loosening and other disruption of the soil surface and surface trash during such forward movement, and a wheel assembly for leveling the loosened and disrupted surface behind the shank, the wheel assembly comprising:a support extending rearwardly of an upper portion of the shank; a wheel arm pivotally connected to the support at a location adjacent the upper portion of the shank and extending rearwardly and downwardly to a lower aft end; a leveling wheel connected to the lower end and having a preselected diameter and a circumference, the forwardmost portion of the circumference located a substantial distance behind the trailing edge of the shank so that the soil surface and trash settle prior to contact by the leveling wheel; and a downpressure spring assembly connected to the wheel arm and providing generally constant pressure of the leveling wheel against the soil surface as the working depth is changed.