Abstract:
A method of sorting and categorizing seed departs from the traditional method of sorting based primarily on size of the seeds and instead sorts primarily on the basis of shape of the seeds. Sorted categories based primarily on shape can reduce the number of categories of the same type of seed that need to be packaged and inventoried. It simplifies warehousing, selection and planting of the seed. Optionally, the method can include sorting a substantial portion of a type of seed primarily by shape and sorting at least a portion of the remainder of the seed by traditional methods which also include size as a factor.

Description:
This application claims the benefit of provisional application No. 60/063,861, filed Oct. 31, 1997. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to seed. More particularly, though not exclusively, the present invention relates to a method of sorting and categorizing hybrid seed into different sub-products. 
     2. Problems in the Art 
     In the hybrid seed corn industry, seed is typically sorted and categorized into sub-products based on the size of the seed. When the seed is harvested, the seeds are sorted by size and packaged for sale in separate packages based on the size. When a customer buys seed for planting, the bag of seed will contain seed from one size category depending on the farmer&#39;s needs or preferences. However, across multiple locations and seed crop years, growing conditions commonly vary sufficiently to cause a range of size-out for a given hybrid of seed. As a result, throughout the life cycle of most hybrids, a range of sizes is produced. Typically, for most hybrids, approximately 7 sub-products comprise the total sample. Sometimes an 8th or 9th size for a given hybrid is produced for those products that exhibit a substantial size response to varying growing conditions. Each of these sizes and sub-products must be tracked and packaged individually by the seed company. Each must be kept separate through the entire process requiring unique space for computerization, warehousing, shipping, invoicing, and ultimately detailed customer efforts to achieve desirable planting in a field. 
     Another issue contributing to the growing complexity of inventory management in the seed corn business are so-called “technology products”, or products of biotechnology and other scientific disciplines which bring rapid expansions to the seed corn line-up. 
     Since different customers have different preferences, a seed company may find itself selling approximately one half of its seed volume in non-preferred sub-products. This percentage may be significantly larger for hybrid seed at both ends of the seed size spectrum. For customers who are adaptable, this is not a large issue. However, many customers demand a certain seed size. To some customers, seed size preference ranks higher than the hybrid preference. 
     A need can therefore be seen for a system for sorting and categorizing seed which improves customer satisfaction and a seed company&#39;s efficiency. 
     Features of the Invention 
     A general feature of the present invention is the provision of a method for sorting and categorizing seed which overcomes problems found in the prior art. 
     A further feature of the present invention is the provision of a method for sorting and categorizing seed which involves sorting and categorizing seed based on the shape of the seeds. 
     Further features, objects and advantages of the present invention include: 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which divides the seeds into two general categories, flat and round. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which reduces the total number of sub-products resulting in ease of use as growers seek consistency of sub-products across hybrids. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which simplifies warehousing of the seed. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which makes seed easier to fit into customers&#39; sub-product preferences. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which simplifies inventory management including conditioning, bagging, warehousing, initial shipping, and interplant shipment. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which provides improved plantability through all planter types. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which reduces the cost of managing and maintaining the sub-products. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which eliminates undesirable size categories. 
     A method for sorting and categorizing seed which simplifies the sub-product system which makes future expansion through technology introductions more feasible. 
     These as well as other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following specification and claims. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The method of sorting and categorizing seed of the present invention is a simple yet advanced system for dividing seed, for example corn, into logical sub-units for effective planting. Using seed shape rather than seed size as a primary determinate, the system avails many advantages. These advantages extend throughout many components of the seed delivery process, with significance for the customer, sales representatives, and seed companies. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one example of a sizing system which utilizes seed shape. 
     FIG. 2 illustrates a study on percentage of seed drop utilizing a Case-IH 800 Early Riser where the drum pressure was at 9 oz. for all samples except CD2 and CD4 where the drum pressure was at 11 oz. 
     FIG. 3 illustrates a study of the effect of speed on seed drop utilizing a John Deere 7000 planter. 
     FIG. 4 illustrates a study comparing a John Deere 7000 (JD 700) and a Kinze planter for plantability in finer pickup units. 
     FIG. 5 illustrates a study of percent seed drop under varying ounces of vacuum for various kernel sizes. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The present invention will be described as it applies to its preferred embodiment. It is not intended that the present invention be limited to the described embodiment. It is intended that the invention cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalencies which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     As discussed above, in the prior art, hybrid corn seeds are sorted and packaged into many different sizes. Customers are often disappointed when a hybrid&#39;s “size-out” forces them to switch from their preferred choice. The many different seed sizes also presents invoicing and warehousing challenges for sales representatives, dealers, and employees. The present invention helps to consolidate the number of sub-products (sorted by size) in any particular hybrid from approximately 9 with prior art systems down to potentially 4 sub-products, with 75%-90% of the unit volume falling within two sub-products. These two sub-product categories include pilot design flat (PDF) and pilot design round (PDR). The PDF/PDR system of the present invention allows customers to have the same or similar accuracy as with the prior art system, while improving in some categories. 
     As is well known in the art, some seeds are sized and then categorized according to widely used category identifiers. For example, hybrid corn seeds are sized according to the following category identifications: F12, F13, F14, F15, F16, F17, R22, R23, R24, R25, R26, CD2, CD4, CD5. The letter F means the seed is relatively flat in shape. The letter R means the seed is relatively round in shape. The letters CD mean that the seed is mixture of relatively round and relatively flat seeds. In all cases, however, each category is sorted primarily based on the size of the seed. The number following the letter(s) F, R, or CD indicates the size of the seeds in that category. For example, F12 are the largest flat seeds, whereas F17 are the smallest flat seeds for those identified categories. R22 is the largest, and R26 the smallest round seeds for those identified categories. Even in the CD categories, although mixtures of flats and rounds, the number indicates the average size of seeds in the category; namely the average size of seeds in CD2 are the largest, and the average size of seeds in CD5 are the smallest of the above-listed identified categories. The precise sizing criteria for each of these categories is known in the art and will not be repeated here. 
     Most hybrid corn seeds fall with categories CD4, CD5, F14, F15, R23, and R24 (generally on the order of over 70% of the seeds, and many times in the range of 85% to 95%). Categories CD2, F13, and R22 can account for most of the remainder (for example, most of the remaining 5% to 15%). As is known in the art, categories CD2, F13, and R22 are on the large side of the spectrum of size of such seeds, and therefore, are generally preferred for mechanized planters that use a plate or disc to pick up seeds prior to delivery to the ground. Currently, under 10% of mechanized planters in use are these plate or disc planters. The remaining planters generally operate on air or vacuum or utilize a finger to pick up seeds. 
     Tables 3-6 list these basic seed size category identifiers in the context of comparing performance of planters with those traditional sorted seed sizes versus category identifications for seeds sorting according to the present invention. 
     As will be explained in more detail, the present invention can optionally use a few of the traditional categories (e.g. F13 and R22), but also uses the identifiers PDF and PDR. As can be appreciated, the present invention can be used to sort seeds that are best suited for or preferable to farmers with plate or disc planters. Therefore, categories F13 and R22 can be used with the present invention to supply such seeds for plate or disc planters, because farmers usually want larger seeds for these planters. However, these categories are sorted not only by size (i.e. the seeds are the relatively largest of the traditional categories), but also by shape (i.e. flats versus rounds). 
     Categories PDF and PDR, however, are primarily sorted by shape and actually end up with a mixture of seed sizes, generally in the range of medium to smaller in size. Air (or vacuum) or finger planters have been found to operate effectively with such a mixture, primarily based on shape not size. 
     FIG. 1 illustrates diagrammatically that prior art seed sorting (labeled “traditional”) is based primarily on size and. The left side of the diagram of FIG. 1 illustrates a range of seed sizes (small to medium). Boxes  10  and  12  indicate the categories CD5 and CD4 when sorted. Even though each category CD5 and CD 4 includes a variety of shapes of seeds (e.g. flats and rounds), category CD5 (box  10 ) is characterized primarily by being comprised of seeds of the same size (relatively small). Category CD4 (box  12 ) is characterized primarily by being comprised of seeds of the same size (larger than CD5; and generally a medium average seed size). 
     In comparison seed sorting by the present invention, labeled “trial” in FIG. 1 takes in the seeds to be sorted but as indicated at boxes  14  and  16 , sorts primarily on the basis of shape. Category PDF (box  14 ) comprises seeds of generally or relatively flat shape, but a mixture of sizes (e.g. from the smaller to the medium sizes). Category PDR (box  16 ) comprises seeds of generally or relatively round shape, but a mixture of sizes. 
     FIG. 1 therefore illustrates with a few examples the difference between traditional seed sorting (based primarily on seed size) and that of the invention (based primarily on seed shape). 
     Table 1 illustrates that PDF and PDR sorted seeds perform well with respect to stand count, doubles and skips, both generally and with respect to different planter types (plate, air, or finger). Table 1 also illustrates the same for two other categories of sorted seed that optionally can be used with the invention, namely traditionally categories F14 and R23. If PDF and PDR are used, along with sorting out F14 and R23, four total categories would be available. This reduces the number of categories from seven, eight, or sometimes nine to just four. As explained above, F14 and R23 might be used to have a supply of relatively large seeds, sorted by shape, available particularly for use with plate planters. Table 1 shows, however, that PDF and PDR operate with plate planters. 
     Table 2 illustrates the efficacy of PDF versus PDR by comparing seeds dropped per acre and stand count, doubles, and skips. 
     Table 3 is illustrating the efficacy of PDF and PDR, as well as F14 and R23, relative to the traditional categories based primarily on seed size (e.g. CD2, CD4, CD5, F13, F15, F16, R22, R24, R25, R26) for a given planter type (John Deere 7200) and different discs, showing all compare favorably. Table 4 shows the same for a John Deere 7000 planter. Tables 5 and 6 show the same for a Kinze planter and IH planter, respectively. 
     FIGS. 2-5 are illustrations of the same points for different planters: 
     FIG. 2 illustrates a study on percentage of seed drop utilizing a Case-IH 800 Early Riser where the drum pressure was at 9 oz. for all samples except CD2 and CD4 where the drum pressure was at 11 oz. 
     FIG. 3 illustrates a study of the effect of speed on seed drop utilizing a John Deere 7000 planter. 
     FIG. 4 illustrates a study comparing a John Deere 7000 (JD 700) and a Kinze planter for plantability in finer pickup units. 
     FIG. 5 illustrates a study of percent seed drop under varying ounces of vacuum for various kernel sizes. 
     Tables 7 and 8 illustrate the same points for different planters, but show the data limited to seeds sorted according to PDF and PDR. They do not show direct comparisons with seeds sorted by traditional size categories. 
     With the emergence of new types of corn planters, the needs of users have evolved. Over time, relatively strong preferences of seed types have been developed by the users. Larger sized seeds are generally less desirable since they are packaged in 60,000 kernel count units (per bag) compared to 80,000 kernel count units which is standard. In addition, the larger size kernels require more handling since more bags and more overall weight are required per acre. On the other hand, smaller sized seed are generally considered by growers to be somewhat more difficult to plant accurately due to their small size. In general, small seed is perceived by users to be poorer quality. 
     Flat and round sizes work well with older-design plate-type planters. However, flat and round sizes also work well in plateless planters such as air planters or finger planters. 
     The pilot design seed (PDS) of the present invention divides the seed by shape while largely omitting consideration for the seed&#39;s size. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one example of such a system. The present invention has several characteristics representing significant changes from prior art systems. As discussed above, seeds sorted and categorized under the system of the present invention result primarily in two sub-products, pilot design flats (PDF), and pilot design rounds (PDR). These two sub-products would comprise approximately 75%-90% of the seed for most seed hybrids. Of course, this percentage could vary. The remaining 10%-25% of the sample could be divided into traditional sub-products. The PDF and PDR sub-products demonstrate excellent interchangeability. In other words, a corn planter set up to plant PDF, with little or no adjustment, would also do a good job of planting PDR sub-products. These shape divided sub-products plant with good accuracy through plate-type planters, even though they are comprised of a mixture of medium to small kernel sizes. In addition, interchangeability between hybrids will be improved over the prior art helping to reduce the number of required disc changes. 
     Testing with the system of the present invention has revealed additional unexpected shifts from traditional thinking. 
     First, all hybrids may not fit the system perfectly. Hybrids which are small seeded, and give rise to PDF with 2,000 or more kernels per pound, may not plant with sufficient accuracy as PDF. 
     Second, as kernel counts approach 2,000 seeds per pound, excessive planting speeds may not be tolerable. The growers may have to abide more closely to planter manufacturers speed recommendations. 
     Third, throughout the life cycle of many hybrids, the most common number of sub-products per hybrid using the present invention will be four. Some hybrids may be offered in only two sub-products. Theoretically, hybrids with a narrow range of medium sized seed (no very large seed and no very small seed) could be offered as one sub-product for the entire hybrid. 
     Testing of the system of the present invention was conducted on a variety of planter brands and types including plate, finger and air-type planters. No adjustments whatsoever were made to any of the planters in transitioning from traditional sizes to the pilot design seed of the present invention. In field testing, no difficulties were encountered in the planting process. There were no issues of seed sorting in the seed box, or seed bridging. Testing of the emerged crop was also evaluated. Detailed stand counts compared total plant populations to targeted seed drop, frequency of skips, and frequency of doubles and triples. Tables 1 and 2 illustrate test data conducted with emerged crops. 
     In short, the PDS seed of the present invention performed very well. The PDS seed planted as well or better than traditional sizes. PDF appeared to perform as well as PDR. There was no distinguishable differences in results from plate, finger, or air-type planters. 
     Next, seed quality lab tests were conducted on a variety of hybrids. These tests were conducted for plate planters as well as finger and air-type planters. The hybrids were tested on a cross section of planter brands looking at a variety of common planter settings and speeds. Tables 3-6 and FIGS. 2-5 illustrate test results on a cross section of planters. In most cases, PDF performed as well as better than traditional sizes. PDR similarly compared very favorably. Tables 7 and 8 illustrate the plantability of PDF and PDR through plate planters. In summary, the plantability of PDF and PDR through plate planters is satisfactory. These two sub-products meet the needs of all planter types and provide accurate planting. 
     The basic discard rate at the time of conditioning (scalping/tipping) is essentially unchanged for the PDS system of the present invention as compared to the traditional approach. More importantly, due to the nature of the PDS approach, the percentage of undesirable sizes is greatly reduced or eliminated. 
     Increased warehouse utilization at seed company locations would be realized through PDS conditioning of the present invention. Warehouse utilization would be increased by storing less kernel sizes, resulting in more available warehouse space. Warehousing efficiency for the system of the present invention is largely impacted by the total number of sub-products in the system as compared to prior art systems. With more categories of sizes as found in the prior art, more dedicated rows in warehouses are required and there is more likelihood of incomplete rows and vacant floor space. In the prior art, the average number of sub-products per hybrid is about 6.55. In contrast, the average using the system of the present invention will be 4.0. A difference of 2.55 sub-products per hybrid across 100 main hybrids, for example, gives rise to a reduction in total subcategories of 459. The present invention therefore increases warehouse efficiency significantly. 
     The system of the present invention, as a result of the reduced average number of sub-products per hybrid, simplifies shipping in a variety of ways. First, interplant shipments, i.e. shipments between two different plants of the same seed company, can be reduced. For example, using the prior art sorting system, one particular company plant may produce certain sub-products of a hybrid, but may need to sell other sub-products (e.g., seeds of a different size) which are produced at another company plant. In that scenario, the sub-products would have to be shipped from the other company plant. Using the PDS system of the present invention, these interplanted units would be available within either PDF or PDR, thus eliminating this interplant situation. This results from the fact that PDR and PDF would comprise a high percentage of the total volume of seed. As a result, both sub-products would be produced at all production locations. 
     The present invention will also simplify inventory management to a significant extent as compared to prior art systems. This is primarily due to the consolidation of seed sizes into PDS. 
     The process of modifying conditioning towers to handle PDS may be required to practice the present invention. With the system of the present invention, up to 95% of the total seed volume will be destined for one of only two sub-products. Conditioning towers may have to be repiped to permit distribution of this high percentage of seed across all segments of the tower. 
     In the preferred embodiment, all PDF and PDR seeds will be packaged in 80,000 kernel units. All PDF seeds will be palletized in counts of 66 units per pallet. All PDR seeds will be palletized in counts of 54 units per pallet. Any remaining sub-products not falling within the PDR or PDF sub-products will be packaged in 60,000 kernel units in 66 count pallets. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been set forth in the drawings and specification, and although specific terms are employed, these are used in a generic or descriptive sense only and are not used for purposes of limitation. Changes in the form and proportion of parts as well as in the substitution of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Seed Sizing Study 
               
               
                 3751 Field Test 
               
               
                 Planter Types 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                 # of Locs 
                   
                 # of Locs 
                   
                 # of Locs 
               
               
                   
                 Finger 
                 9 
                 Air 
                 9 
                 Plate 
                 10 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                 PDF/PDR 
                 % Target 
                 % of Reg 
                 PDF/PDR 
                 % Target 
                 % of Reg 
                 PDF/PDR 
                 % Target 
                 % of Reg 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                 # 
               
               
                   
                 Locs 
               
               
                 Standard Count 
                 28 
                 30,225 
                 100.7% 
                  97.1% 
                 29,506 
                 99.9% 
                 98.0% 
                 27,243 
                 94.9% 
                 102.7% 
               
               
                 Doubles 
                 26 
                  1,250 
                 — 
                  85.0% 
                  1,237 
                 — 
                 70.1% 
                  1,678 
                 — 
                  82.2% 
               
               
                 Skips 
                 26 
                   671 
                 — 
                 172.9% 
                  1,374 
                 — 
                 95.4% 
                  1,631 
                 — 
                  98.9% 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Target Stand Count 
                   
                 30,002 
                   
                   
                 29,533 
                   
                   
                 28,700 
                   
               
               
                 Stand Count 
                 F14/R23 
                   
                 31,126 
                   
                   
                 30,106 
                   
                   
                 26,524 
               
               
                 Doubles 
                 F14/R23 
                   
                  1,471 
                   
                   
                  1,765 
                   
                   
                  2,041 
               
               
                 Skips 
                 F14/R23 
                   
                   388 
                   
                   
                  1,441 
                   
                   
                  1,649 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Seed Sizing Study 
               
               
                 3751 Field Test 
               
               
                 Comparisons by PDF vs PDR 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 # of 
                 SEEDS DROPPED/ACRES 
                 Trial as 
                 Trial as % 
                 Reg as % 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Plots 
                 PDR 
                 PDR 
                 PDF/PDR 
                 Reg 
                 Target 
                 % of Reg 
                 of Target 
                 of Target 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Stand Count 
                 15 
                 29,380 
                   
                   
                 29,393 
                 29,193 
                 100.0% 
                 100.6% 
                 100.7% 
               
               
                   
                 13 
                   
                 28,409 
                   
                 28,879 
                 29,623 
                 98.4% 
                 95.9% 
                 97.5% 
               
               
                   
                 28 
                   
                   
                 28,929 
                 29,154 
                 29,393 
                 99.2% 
                 98.4% 
                 99.2% 
               
               
                 Doubles 
                 15 
                 1,509 
                   
                   
                 1,897 
                 — 
                 79.5% 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                   
                 13 
                   
                 1,271 
                   
                 1,621 
                 — 
                 78.4% 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                   
                 28 
                   
                   
                 1,399 
                 1,769 
                 — 
                 79.1% 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 Skips 
                 15 
                 1,348 
                   
                   
                 1,248 
                 — 
                 108.0% 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                   
                 13 
                   
                 1,115 
                   
                 1,095 
                 — 
                 101.8% 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                   
                 28 
                   
                   
                 1,240 
                 1,177 
                   
                 105.4% 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Maxim Treated Lots 
               
               
                 JD7200 
               
             
          
           
               
                 KS 
                 Disc 
                 Vacuum 
                 # Tests 
                 Maximum 
                 Minimum 
                 Average 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 CD2 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 30 
                 1024 
                  980 
                 1001 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                 45 
                 1016 
                  930 
                  997 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                 15 
                 1030 
                  960 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                 21 
                 1030 
                  990 
                 1012 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 14.0 
                  3 
                 1010 
                 1000 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                  4 
                  992 
                  981 
                  987 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 15 
                 1008 
                  983 
                  997 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 20 
                 1024 
                  977 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                 17 
                 1008 
                  994 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                 11 
                 1008 
                  994 
                 1002 
               
               
                 CD4 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 43 
                 1028 
                  980 
                 1010 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                 30 
                 1060 
                  990 
                 1011 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  7 
                 1030 
                 1009 
                 1015 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                 15 
                 1060 
                 1018 
                 1030 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 27 
                 1015 
                  993 
                 1001 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 30 
                 1015 
                  980 
                 1001 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 31 
                 1020 
                  980 
                 1004 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                 18 
                 1060 
                 1000 
                 1017 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  3 
                 1020 
                 1010 
                 1014 
               
               
                 CD5 
                 R 
                 4.0 
                  1 
                 1000 
                 1000 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 22 
                 1133 
                  970 
                 1040 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  6 
                 1110 
                 1020 
                 1063 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 18 
                 1080 
                 1000 
                 1014 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 11 
                 1050 
                  930 
                 1007 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                  2 
                 1040 
                 1010 
                 1025 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  7 
                 1070 
                 1010 
                 1036 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  1 
                 1030 
                 1030 
                 1030 
               
               
                 F13 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                  4 
                 1010 
                  994 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  8 
                 1030 
                  997 
                 1009 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  1 
                 1004 
                 1004 
                 1004 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  3 
                  999 
                  996 
                  997 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  3 
                 1004 
                 1004 
                 1004 
               
               
                 F14 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 26 
                 1921 
                 1000 
                 101.6 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                 13 
                 1090 
                 1000 
                 101.9 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  3 
                 1020 
                 1010 
                 1017 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  6 
                 1060 
                 1030 
                 1045 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 20 
                 1006 
                  978 
                  996 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 22 
                 1026 
                  993 
                 1007 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 16 
                 1060 
                  990 
                 1009 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  7 
                 1040 
                 1007 
                 1022 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  2 
                 1040 
                 1034 
                 1037 
               
               
                 F15 
                 R 
                 4.0 
                  1 
                 1000 
                 1000 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 41 
                 1046 
                  820 
                 1005 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  5 
                 1070 
                 1008 
                 1026 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                 10 
                 1060 
                  960 
                 1022 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  3 
                 1050 
                  980 
                 1020 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 22 
                 1011 
                  985 
                  998 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 33 
                 1031 
                  950 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 10 
                 1060 
                  970 
                 1012 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                 14 
                 1060 
                 1000 
                 1024 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  2 
                 1040 
                 1030 
                 1035 
               
               
                 F16 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 15 
                 1104 
                 1000 
                 1039 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  3 
                 1070 
                 1040 
                 1057 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  1 
                 1060 
                 1060 
                 1060 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 10 
                 1045 
                  986 
                 1016 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                  8 
                 1031 
                 1000 
                 1014 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                  3 
                 1060 
                 1010 
                 1033 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  4 
                 1080 
                 1020 
                 1045 
               
               
                 PDF 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 16 
                 1083 
                  980 
                 1024 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  9 
                 1070 
                 1010 
                 1039 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  2 
                 1030 
                 1030 
                 1030 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  3 
                 1090 
                 1040 
                 1070 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                 12 
                 1016 
                  985 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 11 
                 1028 
                  970 
                 1006 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 10 
                 1050 
                  970 
                 1019 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  3 
                 1070 
                 1040 
                 1053 
               
               
                 PDR 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                  5 
                 1020 
                  970 
                 1001 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  7 
                 1001 
                  980 
                  997 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  2 
                 1010 
                 1001 
                 1006 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  2 
                 1030 
                  980 
                 1005 
               
               
                 PDR 
                 R 
                 14.0 
                  1 
                  980 
                  980 
                  980 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                  1 
                  990 
                  990 
                  990 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                  4 
                 1006 
                  994 
                  998 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                  9 
                 1007 
                  950 
                  993 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  5 
                 1000 
                  990 
                  996 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  2 
                 1001 
                  990 
                  996 
               
               
                 R22 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                  1 
                 1010 
                 1010 
                 1010 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  7 
                 1050 
                  980 
                  999 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  5 
                 1000 
                  980 
                  993 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  3 
                 1005 
                  990 
                  998 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  1 
                  991 
                  991 
                  991 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  3 
                  996 
                  989 
                  993 
               
               
                 R23 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 11 
                 1008 
                  994 
                  991 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                 30 
                 1003 
                  950 
                  996 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                 13 
                 1014 
                  980 
                  999 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                 15 
                 1010 
                  990 
                 1005 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 14.0 
                 16 
                 1044 
                 1002 
                 1019 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                  1 
                  991 
                  991 
                  991 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 26 
                 1004 
                  930 
                  988 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                 27 
                 1010 
                  960 
                  997 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                 16 
                 1010 
                  970 
                  998 
               
               
                 R24 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 19 
                 1012 
                  989 
                  999 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                 28 
                 1018 
                  960 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  5 
                 1005 
                 1000 
                 1002 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                 13 
                 1028 
                  990 
                 1010 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 14.0 
                  3 
                 1020 
                 1010 
                 1013 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 6.0 
                  1 
                  994 
                  994 
                  994 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                  9 
                 1001 
                  963 
                  993 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                 24 
                 1007 
                  950 
                  994 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                 21 
                 1010 
                  970 
                 1001 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                 14 
                 1013 
                  977 
                  999 
               
               
                 R25 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                  1 
                 1009 
                 1009 
                 1009 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                  1 
                  979 
                  979 
                  979 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                  1 
                 1006 
                 1006 
                 1006 
               
               
                 R26 
                 R 
                 6.0 
                 13 
                 1050 
                  990 
                 1013 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 8.0 
                  2 
                 1010 
                 1002 
                 1006 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 10.0 
                  2 
                 1020 
                 1010 
                 1015 
               
               
                   
                 R 
                 12.0 
                  2 
                 1050 
                 1020 
                 1035 
               
               
                 R26 
                 S 
                 6.0 
                  5 
                 1007 
                  980 
                  992 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 8.0 
                 12 
                 1010 
                  960 
                  993 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 10.0 
                  4 
                 1005 
                  990 
                 1000 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 12.0 
                  4 
                 1020 
                 1000 
                 1010 
               
               
                   
                 S 
                 14.0 
                  1 
                 1004 
                 1004 
                 1004 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Maxim Treated Lots 
               
               
                 JD7000 
               
             
          
           
               
                 KS 
                 Disc 
                 RPM 
                 # Tests 
                 Maximum 
                 Minimum 
                 Average 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 CD2 
                 65 
                 22 
                  988 
                  895 
                  956 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 53 
                 1019 
                  893 
                  950 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  3 
                  973 
                  951 
                  959 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 28 
                 1053 
                  960 
                  996 
               
               
                 CD4 
                 65 
                 23 
                  997 
                  930 
                  976 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 56 
                 1025 
                  951 
                  990 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  3 
                 1017 
                 1008 
                 1011 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 26 
                 1045 
                  986 
                 1017 
               
               
                 CD5 
                 65 
                 11 
                 1014 
                  966 
                  986 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 20 
                 1069 
                   
                  992 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 10 
                 1141 
                 1016 
                 1060 
               
               
                 F13 
                 65 
                  4 
                  961 
                  899 
                  938 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                  8 
                  985 
                  919 
                  952 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  2 
                  938 
                  933 
                  936 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  7 
                 1021 
                  927 
                  982 
               
               
                 F14 
                 65 
                 10 
                  972 
                  929 
                  956 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 31 
                  988 
                  926 
                  958 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  4 
                  965 
                  934 
                  955 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 15 
                 1011 
                  957 
                  990 
               
               
                 F15 
                 65 
                 16 
                  988 
                  929 
                  958 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 39 
                 1016 
                  919 
                  964 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 19 
                 1104 
                  981 
                 1014 
               
               
                 F16 
                 65 
                  7 
                 1009 
                  957 
                  981 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 13 
                 1068 
                  951 
                  987 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  5 
                 1129 
                  993 
                 1043 
               
               
                 PDF 
                 65 
                  2 
                  972 
                  957 
                  965 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 10 
                  991 
                  952 
                  967 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  3 
                  970 
                  962 
                  965 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  5 
                 1037 
                  973 
                 1000 
               
               
                 PDR 
                 65 
                  3 
                  998 
                  982 
                  990 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 11 
                 1019 
                  988 
                 1004 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  3 
                 1005 
                  992 
                  998 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  6 
                 1045 
                  993 
                 1018 
               
               
                 R22 
                 65 
                  4 
                  996 
                  958 
                  981 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                  8 
                 1008 
                  953 
                  985 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  2 
                  967 
                  960 
                  964 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  6 
                 1039 
                  960 
                  996 
               
               
                 R23 
                 65 
                 15 
                 1003 
                  958 
                  988 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 34 
                 1016 
                  962 
                  993 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                  4 
                  988 
                  993 
                  995 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 19 
                 1046 
                  990 
                 1014 
               
               
                 R24 
                 65 
                 11 
                 1008 
                  981 
                  991 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 34 
                 1014 
                  964 
                  989 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 12 
                 1035 
                 1002 
                 1017 
               
               
                 R25 
                 75 
                  1 
                 1010 
                 1010 
                 1010 
               
               
                 R26 
                 65 
                  7 
                 1007 
                  999 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                  9 
                 1032 
                  989 
                 1012 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                  4 
                 1065 
                 1037 
                 1051 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 5 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Maxim Treated Lots 
               
               
                 KINZE 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 KS 
                 Disc 
                 Tests 
                 Maximum 
                 Minimum 
                 Average 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 CD2 
                 37 
                  988 
                  805 
                  889 
               
               
                   
                 CD4 
                 36 
                 1003 
                  917 
                  968 
               
               
                   
                 CD5 
                  9 
                  993 
                  949 
                  971 
               
               
                   
                 F13 
                  7 
                  890 
                  847 
                  873 
               
               
                   
                 F14 
                 28 
                  962 
                  848 
                  897 
               
               
                   
                 F15 
                 18 
                 1000 
                  817 
                  896 
               
               
                   
                 F16 
                  7 
                 1003 
                  927 
                  950 
               
               
                   
                 PDF 
                 13 
                  950 
                  913 
                  931 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 13 
                  987 
                  954 
                  972 
               
               
                   
                 R22 
                  7 
                  953 
                  932 
                  943 
               
               
                   
                 R23 
                 26 
                  985 
                  933 
                  963 
               
               
                   
                 R24 
                 19 
                 1001 
                  931 
                  952 
               
               
                   
                 R25 
                  1 
                 1012 
                 1012 
                 1012 
               
               
                   
                 R26 
                  5 
                  988 
                  971 
                  979 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 6 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Maxim Treated Lots 
               
               
                 IH800 
               
             
          
           
               
                 KS 
                 Disc 
                 Pressure 
                 Tests 
                 Maximum 
                 Minimum 
                 Average 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 CD2 
                 11.0 
                 24 
                 1050 
                  990 
                 1019 
               
               
                 CD4 
                 9.0 
                 25 
                 1050 
                  975 
                 1010 
               
               
                   
                 11.0 
                  1 
                  996 
                  996 
                  996 
               
               
                 CD5 
                 9.0 
                 11 
                 1020 
                  980 
                 1004 
               
               
                 F13 
                 9.0 
                  4 
                 1010 
                 1000 
                 1005 
               
               
                 F14 
                 9.0 
                 11 
                 1050 
                 1000 
                 1018 
               
               
                 F15 
                 9.0 
                 20 
                 1050 
                  991 
                 1009 
               
               
                 F16 
                 9.0 
                  7 
                 1020 
                  991 
                 1006 
               
               
                 PDF 
                 9.0 
                  2 
                 1030 
                 1000 
                 1015 
               
               
                 PDR 
                 9.0 
                  3 
                 1000 
                  999 
                  999 
               
               
                 R22 
                 9.0 
                  4 
                 1010 
                  993 
                 1001 
               
               
                 R23 
                 9.0 
                 15 
                 1020 
                 1000 
                 1006 
               
               
                 R24 
                 9.0 
                 16 
                 1020 
                  996 
                 1007 
               
               
                 R26 
                 9.0 
                  7 
                 1020 
                 1000 
                 1003 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 7 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Plate Planter Test Results for PDF and PDR Sizes(1) 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 JD 
                 JD 
                 IH 
                 IH 
               
               
                 HYBRID LOT 
                 KS 
                 K/LB 
                 PLATE 
                 RESULT 
                 PLATE 
                 RESULT 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 3162 C52JEA 
                 PDF 
                 1755 
                 B9-24X 
                 1001 
                 C9-24 
                  999 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1603 
                 B2-24 
                 1047 
                 C2X-24 
                 1014 
               
               
                 3223 P20JAC 
                 PDF 
                 2012 
                 B9-24 
                 1038 
                 C9-24 
                 1032 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1820 
                 B25-24 
                 1025 
                 C25-24 
                 1027 
               
               
                 3335 P222JBGG 
                 PDF 
                 2088 
                 B190-24 
                 1052 
                 C9-24 
                 1060 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1912 
                 B3-24 
                 1013 
                 C3-24 
                 1013 
               
               
                 3489 P24JBE 
                 PDF 
                 1636 
                 B6-24 
                 1002 
                 C697-24 
                 1020 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1476 
                 B150-24 
                 1014 
                 C2X-24 
                  992 
               
               
                 3496 P13JAC 
                 PDF 
                 2132 
                 B9-24 
                 1044 
                 C9-24 
                 1038 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1732 
                 B150-24 
                 1083* 
                 C2X-24 
                 1014 
               
               
                 3559 P24JBK 
                 PDF 
                 2192 
                 B19-24 
                 1030 
                 C190-24 
                  989 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1946 
                 B3-24 
                 1001 
                 C3-24 
                 1021 
               
               
                 3563 P87JDN 
                 PDF 
                 1944 
                 B9-24 
                 1025 
                 C9-24 
                 1016 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1756 
                 B25-24 
                 1004 
                 C25-24 
                 1016 
               
               
                 3573 
                 PDF 
                 2249 
                 B6-24X 
                 1041 
                 C697-24 
                 1050 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 B9-24X 
                  972 
                 C9-24 
                  963 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 2085 
                 B150-24 
                 1037 
                 C2X-24 
                 1010 
               
               
                 (2)3751 P11JGC 
                 PDF 
                 2003 
                 B6-24 
                 1002 
                 C697-24 
                 1023 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1696 
                 B150-24 
                 1013 
                 C150-24 
                 1035 
               
               
                 3893 C11JGF 
                 PDF 
                 2047 
                 B9-24X 
                 1006 
                 C9-24 
                 1032 
               
               
                   
                 PDR 
                 1824 
                 B25-24 
                 1004 
                 C2X-24 
                 1020 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 *Best plate found, sorting noted with smaller plate.  
               
               
                 (1)Maxim + Apron treatment except as noted(1)  
               
               
                 (2)Captan + Apron treatment  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 8 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Plate Planter Test Results for PDF and PDR Sizes 
               
               
                 Canadian Results — All Treated With Captan/Apron 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Hybrid 
                   
                   
                 JD 
                 JD 
                 IH 
                 IH 
               
               
                 Lot 
                 KS 
                 K/LB 
                 Plate 
                 Result 
                 Plate 
                 Result 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 3752 
                 PDF 
                 1897 
                 B6-24 
                 1049 
                 C697-24 
                 1023 
               
               
                 C51JBE 
                 PDR 
                 1609 
                 B150-24 
                 1015 
                 C150-24 
                 1048 
               
               
                 3984 
                 PDF 
                 1713 
                 B6-24 
                  989 
                 C697-24 
                 1016 
               
               
                 C5JBY 
                 PDR 
                 1612 
                 B1-24X 
                  995 
                 C1X-24 
                 1021 
               
               
                 3515 
                 PDF 
                 1748 
                 B7-24X 
                 1040 
                 C7-24X 
                 1050 
               
               
                 C51JBA 
                 PDR 
                 1587 
                 B1-24X 
                 1045 
                 C2X-24 
                 1045 
               
               
                 3820 
                 PDF 
                 2066 
                 B9-24 
                 1002 
                 C9-24 
                 1004 
               
               
                 C87JEX 
                 PDR 
                 1834 
                 B25-24 
                 1021 
                 C25-24 
                 1003 
               
               
                 3860 
                 PDF 
                 1909 
                 B6-24 
                 1020 
                 C697-24 
                 1056 
               
               
                 C51JBK 
                 PDR 
                 1713 
                 B150-24 
                 1045 
                 C2X-24 
                 1040 
               
               
                 3893 
               
               
                 C51JBN 
                 PDF 
                 1938 
                 B6-24 
                 1035 
                 C697-24 
                 1060 
               
               
                 C51JCN 
                 PDR 
                 1711 
                 B150-24 
                 1035 
                 C2X-24 
                 1006 
               
               
                 3970 
                 PDF 
                 1833 
                 B7-24X 
                 1020 
                 C7-24X 
                 1057 
               
               
                 C51JBX 
                 PDR 
                 1664 
                 B1-24X 
                 1030 
                 C150-24 
                 1050