Patent Description:
Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of an agricultural planter row unit <NUM>. The row unit <NUM> is comprised of a frame <NUM> pivotally connected to a toolbar <NUM> by a parallel linkage <NUM> enabling each row unit <NUM> to move vertically independently of the toolbar <NUM>. The frame <NUM> operably supports one or more hoppers <NUM>, a seed meter <NUM>, a seed delivery mechanism <NUM>, a downforce control system <NUM>, a seed trench opening assembly <NUM>, a trench closing assembly <NUM>, an optional packer wheel assembly <NUM>, and an optional row cleaner assembly <NUM>. It should be understood that the row unit <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be for a conventional planter or the row unit <NUM> may be a central fill planter, in which case the hoppers <NUM> may be replaced with one or more mini-hoppers and the frame <NUM> modified accordingly as would be recognized by those of skill in the art.

The optional downforce control system <NUM> is disposed to apply lift and/or downforce on the row unit <NUM> such as disclosed in <CIT>. The downforce applied by downforce control system <NUM> can be determined by methods disclosed in <CIT>.

The seed trench opening assembly <NUM> includes a pair of opening discs <NUM> rotatably supported by a downwardly extending shank member <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The opening discs <NUM> are arranged to diverge outwardly and rearwardly so as to open a v-shaped trench <NUM> in the soil <NUM> as the planter traverses the field. The seed delivery mechanism <NUM>, such as a seed tube or seed conveyor, is positioned between the opening discs <NUM> to deliver seed from the seed meter <NUM> into the opened seed trench <NUM>. The depth of the seed trench <NUM> is controlled by a pair of gauge wheels <NUM> positioned adjacent to the opening discs <NUM>. The gauge wheels <NUM> are rotatably supported by gauge wheel arms <NUM> which are pivotally secured at one end to the frame <NUM> about pivot pin <NUM>. A rocker arm <NUM> is pivotally supported on the frame <NUM> by a pivot pin <NUM>. It should be appreciated that rotation of the rocker arm <NUM> about the pivot pin <NUM> sets the depth of the trench <NUM> by limiting the upward travel of the gauge wheel arms <NUM> (and thus the gauge wheels) relative to the opening discs <NUM>. The rocker arm <NUM> may be adjustably positioned via a linear actuator <NUM> mounted to the row unit frame <NUM> and pivotally coupled to an upper end of the rocker arm <NUM>. The linear actuator <NUM> may be controlled remotely or automatically actuated as disclosed, for example, in International Publication No. <CIT>.

An optional downforce sensor <NUM> is configured to generate a signal related to the amount of force imposed by the gauge wheels <NUM> on the soil. In some embodiments the pivot pin <NUM> for the rocker arm <NUM> may comprise the downforce sensor <NUM>, such as the instrumented pins disclosed in <CIT>.

An optional seed meter <NUM> may be any commercially available seed meter, such as a finger-type meter or a vacuum seed meter. One exemplary vacuum seed meter is the VSet® meter, available from Precision Planting LLC, <NUM> Townline Rd, Tremont, IL <NUM>.

An optional packer wheel assembly <NUM> comprises an arm <NUM> pivotally attached to the row unit fame <NUM> and extends rearward of the closing wheel assembly <NUM> and in alignment therewith. The arm <NUM> rotatably supports a packer wheel <NUM>. An actuator <NUM> is pivotally attached at one end to the arm <NUM> and at its other end to the row unit frame <NUM> to vary the amount of downforce exerted by the packer wheel <NUM> to pack the soil over the seed trench <NUM>.

An optional row cleaner assembly <NUM> may be the CleanSweep® system available from Precision Planting LLC, <NUM> Townline Rd, Tremont, IL <NUM>. The row cleaner assembly <NUM> includes an arm <NUM> pivotally attached to the forward end of the row unit frame <NUM> and aligned with the trench opening assembly <NUM>. A pair of row cleaner wheels <NUM> are rotatably attached to the forward end of the arm <NUM>. An actuator <NUM> is pivotally attached at one end to the arm <NUM> and at its other end to the row unit frame <NUM> to adjust the downforce on the arm to vary the aggressiveness of the action of the row cleaning wheels <NUM> depending on the amount of crop residue and soil conditions.

Referring to <FIG>, a monitor <NUM> is visible to an operator within the cab of a tractor pulling the planter. The monitor <NUM> may be in signal communication with a GPS unit <NUM>, the trench closing assembly actuator <NUM> and the optional packer wheel assembly actuator <NUM> to enable operational control of the trench closing assembly <NUM> and the optional packer wheel assembly <NUM> based on the signals generated by trench closing sensors <NUM>, which are described in International Publication No. <CIT>. Also as discussed later, the monitor <NUM> may be programmed to display operational recommendations based on the signals generated by the trench closing sensors <NUM>. The monitor <NUM> may also be in signal communication with the row cleaner actuator <NUM>, the downforce control system <NUM>, the depth adjustment actuator <NUM> to enable operational control of row cleaner assembly <NUM>, the downforce control system <NUM> and the trench opening assembly <NUM>, respectively.

<FIG> illustrate a trench closing assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment. The trench closing assembly <NUM> is adapted to be attached to row unit <NUM>. Trench closing assembly <NUM> has a frame <NUM>, an actuator <NUM>, a pair of closing wheels <NUM>, and optionally, a pair of press wheels <NUM>. While illustrated with a pair of press wheels <NUM>, a single press wheel <NUM> can be used. Actuator <NUM> can apply one force to frame <NUM>, and this force can be divided between the closing wheels <NUM> and the press wheels <NUM>.

Actuator <NUM> can be any actuator that can apply a force. Examples of actuators include, but are not limited to, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, electro-mechanical actuators, and electro-hydraulic actuators. In one embodiment, actuator <NUM> is a pneumatic actuator, such as an air bag or an air cylinder. A gas supply (not shown) can be connected to nozzle <NUM> to supply gas (such as air) to actuator <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, frame <NUM> has a main frame <NUM> having a connection bracket <NUM> that is adapted to be connected to row unit <NUM>. Optionally, one or more bolts <NUM> extending through apertures <NUM> (<FIG>) in the connection bracket <NUM> for mounting the frame <NUM> to the row unit <NUM>. Extending up from connection bracket <NUM> is actuator bracket <NUM>. Actuator bracket <NUM> in one embodiment has a first bracket arm <NUM>-<NUM>, a second bracket arm <NUM>-<NUM>, and a cross connector <NUM> connecting first bracket arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket arm <NUM>-<NUM>. Main frame <NUM> has a first wing <NUM>-<NUM> and a second wing <NUM>-<NUM> extending laterally outward transverse to a direction of travel of trench closing assembly <NUM>. As best viewed in <FIG>, extending downwardly from connection bracket <NUM> is a first inner bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and a second inner bracket <NUM>-<NUM> to which the first wing <NUM>-<NUM> and second wing <NUM>-<NUM> are respectively attached. Extending downwardly from wings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> at an end opposite to where the wings <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> attach to inner brackets <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> are outer brackets <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively. Extending downwardly from wings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> and between inner brackets <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> and outer brackets <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> are middle brackets <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively.

As seen in <FIG>, an actuator base <NUM> is connected to first base arm <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. A first transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> is connected to first base arm <NUM>-<NUM>, and a second transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> is connected to second base arm <NUM>-<NUM>. Connected to first transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> at an end opposite to where the first base arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second base arm <NUM>-<NUM> connect is a transfer block <NUM> through which a hole <NUM> extends. As shown in <FIG>, a transfer bar <NUM> is disposed through the hole <NUM> in the transfer block <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, transfer bar <NUM> has a longitudinal bar <NUM> and a transverse bar <NUM>. Transfer bar <NUM> can be a unitary part, or (as shown) longitudinal bar is disposed through a bore in the transverse bar <NUM>. Longitudinal bar <NUM> is generally oriented parallel to the direction of travel of trench closing assembly <NUM>, and transverse bar <NUM> is generally oriented transverse to the direction of travel. At each end of transverse bar <NUM> are tabs <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. Tabs <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are for mating with respective swing arms <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, via respective holes <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, as best seen in <FIG>.

Transfer bar <NUM> divides the force from actuator <NUM> between closing wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) and press wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>). Closing wheels <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are connected to swing arms <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively. Force applied to transfer bar <NUM> is transferred through transverse bar <NUM> to tabs <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. Also, force is transferred to press wheel frame <NUM> via longitudinal bar <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, press wheel frame <NUM> has a first arm <NUM>-<NUM>, a second arm <NUM>-<NUM>, a first cross brace <NUM>, which can optionally have a hole <NUM> for receiving longitudinal bar <NUM>, a second cross brace <NUM> having a hole <NUM> for receiving longitudinal bar <NUM>, and a mounting arm <NUM> to which press wheels <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are mounted through bracket <NUM>. Press wheel frame <NUM> is pivotably disposed between inner brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) and outer brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) about pivots <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively.

Swing arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>) are pivotably disposed between inner brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) and outer brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) about pivots <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively.

As illustrated in <FIG>, first base arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second base arm <NUM>-<NUM> are pivotably connected to main frame <NUM> through a first pivot arm <NUM> and a second pivot arm <NUM>. First pivot arm <NUM> has a first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and a second arm <NUM>-<NUM>. First pivot arm <NUM> and second pivot arm <NUM> are pivotably disposed between inner brackets <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. First pivot arm <NUM> pivots about pivot <NUM>, and second pivot arm pivots about pivot <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, press wheels <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed on bracket <NUM>. Bracket <NUM> has a plurality of holes <NUM> for adjustable mating to mounting arm <NUM>. Wheels of different diameters can be attached to bracket <NUM> or a different placement of wheels can be used to change the distribution of force with the adjustable mating.

Optionally, a scrapper <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>) can be included. Scrapper <NUM> is attached to swing arm <NUM> and is disposed to receive a closing wheel <NUM>. While shown with one scrapper <NUM>-<NUM>, a scrapper <NUM>-<NUM> (not shown) can be attached to swing arm <NUM>-<NUM> similar to scrapper <NUM>-<NUM> being connected to swing arm <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another trench closing assembly 250A according to another embodiment. The trench closing assembly 250A is adapted to be attached to row unit <NUM>. Trench closing assembly 250A has a frame 251A, an actuator <NUM>, a pair of closing wheels <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and optionally, a press wheel 255A. As illustrated, the press wheel 255A may comprise a pair of press wheels 255A-<NUM>, 255A-<NUM>, but a single press wheel (see e.g., <FIG>) may be utilized. Actuator <NUM> can apply one force to frame 251A, and this force can be divided between the closing wheels <NUM> and the press wheel 255A.

Referring to <FIG>, frame 251A has a main frame 1200A having a connection bracket 1201A that is adapted to be connected to row unit <NUM>. As in the previous embodiment, one or more bolts <NUM> (<FIG>) can extend through apertures <NUM> in connection bracket 1201A for mounting the frame 251A to the row unit <NUM>. Extending up from connection bracket 1201A is actuator bracket 1210A. In one embodiment, actuator bracket 1210A has a first bracket arm 1211A-<NUM>, a second bracket arm 1211A-<NUM>, and a cross connector 1212A connecting first bracket arm 1211A-<NUM> and second bracket arm 1211A-<NUM>. Actuator bracket 1210A can be made from separate parts or as a single part. As best viewed in <FIG> and <FIG>, extending downwardly from connection bracket 1201A are first bracket 1204A-<NUM> and second bracket 1204A-<NUM> with cross-braces 1208A-<NUM> and 1208A-<NUM> extending first bracket 1204A-<NUM> and second bracket 1204A-<NUM>. Extending outward, transverse to the direction of travel, are optional stops 1229A. Stop 1229A-<NUM> is disposed on first bracket 1204A-<NUM>, and stop 1229A-<NUM> is disposed on second bracket 1204A-<NUM>. Stop 1229A-<NUM> cooperates with stops 1228A (1228A-1a and 1228A-1b) on first swing arm 1220A-<NUM> and stops 1259A (1259A-1a and 1259A-1b) on first arm 1251A-<NUM>. Stop 1229A-<NUM> cooperates with stops 1228A (1228A-2a and 1228A-2b) on second swing arm 1220A-<NUM> and stops 1259A (1259A-2a and 1259A-2b) on second arm 1251A-<NUM>. The angle of rotation of swing arms 1220A and first and second arms 1251A can be limited.

As viewed in <FIG> and <FIG>, extending through first bracket 1204A-<NUM> is pivot 1206A-<NUM> transverse to the direction of travel. Extending through second bracket 1204A-<NUM> is pivot 1206A-<NUM> transverse to the direction of travel. Pivots 1206A-<NUM> and 1206A-<NUM> allow for pivoting of swing arms 1220A-<NUM> and 1220A-<NUM>, respectively, first arm 1251A-<NUM> and second arm 1251A-<NUM>, respectively, and arms 1295A-<NUM> and 1295A-<NUM>, respectively.

Swing arms 1220A-<NUM> and 1220A-<NUM> are pivotably disposed about pivots 1206A-<NUM> and 1206A-<NUM>, respectively. Swing arms 1220A-<NUM> and 1220A-<NUM> are adjustable transverse to the direction of travel along pivot 1206A-<NUM> and pivot 1206A-<NUM>, respectively. This allows for changing the width of spacing of closing wheels <NUM>.

Illustrated in <FIG>, press wheel frame 1250A has a first arm 1251A-<NUM> and a second arm 1251A-<NUM>. First arm 1251A-<NUM> and second arm 1251A-<NUM> pivot about pivots 1206A-<NUM> and 1206A-<NUM>, respectively. Mounting arm 1256A is connected to both first arm 1251A-<NUM> and second arm 1251A-<NUM>. First arm 1251A-<NUM> can optionally include stops 1259A-1a and 1259A-1b to limit the rotation of first arm 1251A-<NUM> about pivot 1206A-<NUM>. Second arm 1251A-<NUM> can optionally include stops 1259A-2a and 1259A-2b to limit the rotation of second arm 1251A-<NUM> about pivot 1206A-<NUM> at stops 1229A-<NUM> and 1229A-<NUM>, respectively. As seen in <FIG>, mounting arm 1256A can have a plurality of holes 1257A to provide adjustment for the distance of press wheels 255A along the direction of travel.

As viewed in <FIG>, also connected to press wheel frame 1250A is arm 1290A. Arm 1290A connects with brackets 1214A-<NUM> and 1214A-<NUM>. Brackets 1214A-<NUM> and 1214A-<NUM> are connected to actuator base 1213A (as seen in <FIG> and <FIG>). As force is applied from actuator <NUM> through actuator base 1213A, force is applied to both the closing wheels <NUM> and press wheels 255A. Arm 1290A is also connected to arms 1295A-<NUM> and 1295A-<NUM>. Arms 1295A-<NUM> and 1295A-<NUM> are disposed about pivots 1206A-<NUM> and 1206A-<NUM>, respectively. Crossbar 1260A is connected to arms 1295A-<NUM> and 1295A-<NUM> and is disposed transverse to the direction of travel. As seen in <FIG>, crossbar 1260A has a first end 1261A-<NUM> disposed in opening 1225A-<NUM> of swing arm 1220A-<NUM> and a second end 1261A-<NUM> disposed in opening 1225A-<NUM> of swing arm 120A-<NUM>.

In another embodiment, an angle sensor <NUM>, which is described in International Publication No. <CIT> as angle sensor <NUM>, or in International Publication No. <CIT> as angle sensor <NUM>, can be included. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the angle sensor is a Hall effect sensor <NUM> and a magnet <NUM>. While it can be installed on either the right or left side, Hall effect sensor <NUM> is illustrated as being disposed on second bracket 1204A-<NUM> adjacent to arm 1295A-<NUM>. A magnet <NUM> is disposed on arm 1295A-<NUM>. In this embodiment, the angular rotation of arm 1295A-<NUM>, which is connected to the entire assembly of the closing wheels <NUM> and press wheels 255A, is measured as the average of both closing wheels <NUM> and both press wheels 255A.

Optionally, a bracket <NUM> can be included to route a line (not shown) through. The line could be for applying material into the furrow, such as fertilizer, herbicide, or insecticide. Bracket <NUM> can be connected to crossbar 1260A as seen in <FIG>.

As seen in <FIG>, there is an arm 1296A pivotably disposed between brackets 1214A-<NUM> and 1214A-<NUM> about pivot 1293A and between first bracket 1204A-<NUM> and second bracket 1204A-<NUM> about pivot 1295A.

Optionally, a trailing arm (not shown), such as the bracket <NUM> and flap <NUM> from International Publication No. <CIT>, can be included. The optional trailing arm can be connected to mounting arm 1256A at connection 1288A.

Optionally, toe angle shim 1290A (1290A-<NUM> and 1290A-<NUM>) can be included to change the toe angle of closing wheels 254A (254A-<NUM>, 254A-<NUM>) by being disposed over axle 1291A (1291A-<NUM>, 1291A-<NUM>), respectively.

The trench closing assembly <NUM> or 250A can be a single stage by not including press wheels <NUM>, 255A and the associated press wheel frame <NUM>, 1250A.

In any of the embodiments, the distribution of force between the closing wheels <NUM> and press wheels <NUM> can be adjusted. In some embodiments, <NUM>% of the force applied by actuator <NUM> is applied to the closing wheels <NUM> and <NUM>% to the press wheels <NUM>. In another embodiment, <NUM>% of the force can be applied to the closing wheels <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a trench closing assembly 250B according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, trench closing assembly 250B has a main frame 251B that is pivotably connected to row unit <NUM>. Disposed on row unit frame <NUM> is bracket <NUM> that extends over main frame 251B. Disposed between bracket <NUM> and main frame 251B is actuator <NUM> to apply a variable force to trench closing assembly 250B. Closing wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) are disposed on main frame 251B. Pivotably connected to main frame 251B is secondary frame 252B. Secondary wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>), such as press wheels, are disposed on secondary frame 252B. Extending upward from main frame 251B is bracket <NUM>, and extending upward from secondary frame 252B is bracket <NUM>. Connecting brackets <NUM> and <NUM> is depth adjustor 253B. The relative angle between main frame 251B and secondary frame 252B is adjusted with depth adjustor 253B. This allows secondary wheels <NUM> to act as gauge wheels for closing wheels <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a trench closing assembly 250C according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, trench closing assembly 250C has a main frame 251C that is pivotably connected to row unit <NUM>. Trench closing assembly 250C has a frame 251C, an actuator <NUM>, a pair of closing wheels <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and optionally, a press wheel 255C. As illustrated, the press wheel 255C may comprise a pair of press wheels 255C-<NUM>, 255C-<NUM>, but a single press wheel (see, e.g., <FIG>) may be utilized. Actuator <NUM> can apply one force to frame 251C, and this force can be divided between the closing wheels <NUM> and the press wheel 255C.

Referring to <FIG>, frame 251C has a main frame 1200C having a connection bracket 1201C that is adapted to be connected to row unit <NUM>. As in a previous embodiment, one or more bolts <NUM> (<FIG>) can extend through apertures <NUM> in connection bracket 1201C for mounting the frame 251C to the row unit <NUM>. Extending up from connection bracket 1201C is actuator bracket 1210C. In one embodiment, actuator bracket 1210C has a first bracket arm 1211C-<NUM>, a second bracket arm 1211C-<NUM>, and a cross connector 1212C connecting first bracket arm 1211C-<NUM> and second bracket arm 1211C-<NUM>. Actuator bracket 1210C can be made from separate parts or as a single part. As best viewed in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, extending downwardly from connection bracket 1201C are first bracket 1204C-<NUM> and second bracket 1204C-<NUM> with cross-braces 1208C-<NUM>, 1208C-<NUM>, and 1208C-<NUM> extending first bracket 1204C-<NUM> and second bracket 1204C-<NUM>. Extending outward, transverse to the direction of travel, are optional stops 1229C. Stop 1229C-<NUM> is disposed on first bracket 1204C-<NUM>, and stop 1229C-<NUM> is disposed on second bracket 1204C-<NUM>. Stop 1229C-<NUM> cooperates with stops 1228C (1228C-1a and 1228C-1b) on first swing arm 1220C-<NUM>. Stop 1229C-<NUM> cooperates with stops 1228C (1228C-2a and 1228C-2b) on second swing arm 1220C-<NUM>. The angle of rotation of swing arms 1220C can be limited.

As viewed in <FIG>, extending through first bracket 1204C-<NUM> is pivot 1206C-<NUM> transverse to the direction of travel. Extending through second bracket 1204C-<NUM> is pivot 1206C-<NUM> transverse to the direction of travel. Pivots 1206C-<NUM> and 1206C-<NUM> allow for pivoting of swing arms 1220C-<NUM> and 1220C-<NUM>, respectively.

Swing arms 1220C-<NUM> and 1220C-<NUM> are pivotably disposed about pivots 1206C-<NUM> and 1206C-<NUM>, respectively. Swing arms 1220C-<NUM> and 1220C-<NUM> are adjustable transverse to the direction of travel along pivot 1206C-<NUM> and pivot 1206C-<NUM>, respectively. This allows for changing the width of spacing of closing wheels <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, an actuator base 1213C is connected to first base arm 1214C-<NUM> and second base arm 1214C-<NUM>. First base arm 1214C-<NUM> and second base arm1214C-<NUM> are pivotably connected to pivot <NUM>. Also first transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed about pivot <NUM>. Disposed forward of pivot <NUM> in a direction of travel is pivot <NUM>. Pivot <NUM> is disposed through swing arm 1220C-<NUM> and swing arm 1220C-<NUM>, and first transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> are pivotably disposed about pivot <NUM>. Disposed rearward of pivot <NUM> in a direction of travel is pivot <NUM>. Pivot <NUM> is disposed through swing arm 1220C-<NUM> and swing arm 1220C-<NUM>, and first transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second transfer arm <NUM>-<NUM> are pivotably disposed about pivot <NUM>. Also disposed about pivot <NUM> are first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>. Disposed between first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM> is cross brace <NUM>. As viewed in <FIG>, cross brace <NUM> has a hole <NUM> for bolt <NUM> to be disposed through. As viewed in <FIG>, mounting arm 1256C is connected between first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>. Mounting arm 1256C has the same design as a previous embodiment. An arm 1296C is disposed about pivot 1293C between first base arm 1214C-<NUM> and second base arm 1214C-<NUM>. Arm 1296C is also disposed about pivot <NUM> between first bracket 1204C-<NUM> and second bracket 1204C-<NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, an adjustor <NUM> is included for changing the relative position of closing wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) to press wheels 255C (255C-<NUM> and 255C-<NUM>). By changing the relative position, the percentage of the applied force from actuator <NUM> is changed between the closing wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) the press wheels 255C (255C-<NUM> and 255C-<NUM>). Adjustor <NUM> has a bracket <NUM> having a first arm <NUM>-<NUM> a second arm <NUM>-<NUM>, a cross-connector <NUM>, and a hole <NUM> through cross-connector <NUM>. Bracket <NUM> can be made as a unitary part or from separate parts. First arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM> are pivotably disposed about pivot <NUM>. Pivot <NUM> is disposed through swing arm 1220C-<NUM> and swing arm 1220C-<NUM>. Disposed through hole <NUM> is bolt <NUM>. Bolt <NUM> is also disposed through hole <NUM> in cross brace <NUM>. Knob <NUM> is disposed about bolt <NUM> to adjust the position of bolt <NUM>. Optionally, a retaining nut <NUM> can be disposed at the end of bolt <NUM> to retain knob <NUM> on bolt <NUM>. Optionally, force sensor <NUM> can be disposed between knob <NUM> and cross brace <NUM> about bolt <NUM>. The combined down force applied to closing wheels <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) and press wheels 255C (255C-<NUM> and 255C-<NUM>) can be measured by force sensor <NUM>. An example of force sensor <NUM> is a load sensor, such as the Case IH Load Sensor, Part No. <NUM>, from Precision Planting, LLC.

As bolt <NUM> is adjusted upwards by knob <NUM>, pivot <NUM> is pulled upwards by first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM>, which raises swing arms 1220C (1220C-<NUM> and 1220C-<NUM>) under adjustor <NUM>. As bolt <NUM> is adjusted downwards by knob <NUM>, pivot <NUM> is lowered by first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM>, which lowers swing arms 1220C (1220C-<NUM> and 1220C-<NUM>) under adjustor <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a wheel <NUM> according to one embodiment. Wheel <NUM> can be used as press wheel <NUM>, 255A or 255C. Wheel <NUM> comprises a spoke disk <NUM> having a hub <NUM> and a plurality of spokes <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>) radially disposed about hub <NUM>. Disposed at the end of a spoke <NUM> is a cleat <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>). Each spoke <NUM> can be a two part spoke. <FIG> illustrates the spoke disk <NUM> having a plurality of spoke arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>). Each spoke arm <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> has a leading edge <NUM> and a trailing edge <NUM>. The radial end of each spoke arm <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> has a respective notch <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>. Received within each notch <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> is a respective flange <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of the spoke disk <NUM> showing flanges <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> disposed in the respective notches <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> of spoke arms <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. As best viewed in <FIG> and <FIG>, a respective cleat <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> is attached to each of the respective flanges <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>. As best viewed in <FIG>, the cleat <NUM> can have an L shape. Referring to <FIG>, a forward edge <NUM> of each of the cleats <NUM> is shown aligned with the leading edge <NUM> of the respective spoke arm <NUM>, with a rearward end <NUM> of each cleat <NUM> extending rearwardly of the trailing end <NUM> of the spoke arm <NUM> substantially spanning the space between the adjacent radial spokes <NUM>.

In one aspect, wheel <NUM> can move soil from the sides of a seed trench to knit the soil together to increase the amount of closing of the seed trench.

<FIG> illustrate another embodiment of a wheel 1300A. Wheel 1300A can be used as press wheel <NUM>, 255A or 255C. Wheel 1300A comprises a spoke disk 1310A and a hub 1301A. Spoke disk 1310A can be molded as a unitary part. Spoke disk 1310A has plurality of spokes 1302A (1302A-<NUM> to 1302A-<NUM>). Connecting spokes 1302A is a tread 1320A. Tread 1320A has a rib 1315A (1315A-<NUM> to 1315A-<NUM>) disposed at the radial end of spoke 1302A. Between each rib 1315A, there is a tread portion 1316A (1316A-<NUM> to 1316A-<NUM>). Tread portion 1316A can extend through the entire width W of a rib 1315A, or tread portion 1316A can extend only a portion of the width W to leave a gap 1317A (1317A-<NUM> to 1317A-<NUM>).

To control the flow of fluid (e.g., air) to actuator <NUM>, a control valve <NUM> can be included. As illustrated in <FIG> for an eight row system, there can be a control valve <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>) associated with each actuator <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>). A fluid supply line <NUM> can supply fluid (e.g., air) from a fluid supply system. While shown schematically, control valve <NUM> can be disposed on the row unit <NUM>, trench closing assembly <NUM>, or on toolbar <NUM>. Different locations are shown in <FIG> for illustrating different locations, but they can all be the same. Section control can also be used. <FIG> illustrates section control in which a control valve <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>) supplies fluid to two or more actuators <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>). While shown with one control valve <NUM> to two actuators <NUM>, any amount of sectioning can be used up to having one control valve <NUM> supplying all actuators <NUM> (not shown). Each control valve <NUM> can be in signal communication with monitor <NUM> for controlling each valve <NUM>. While illustrated for air, which can be vented to atmosphere, the fluid can by hydraulic, which can further include a return line (not shown). An example of control valve <NUM> is the ITV series (such as ITV <NUM>) electro-pneumatic valve from SMC Pneumatics. This electro-pneumatic valve has a solenoid supply valve for inlet air and a solenoid valve for exhaust to atmosphere. When air is needed to the actuator, the inlet air valve is open and the valve to atmosphere is closed. When air pressure at the actuator needs to be reduced, the inlet air valve is closed, and the valve to atmosphere is opened.

While a single control valve <NUM>, such as the ITV <NUM> valve, can be used, an equivalent valve system 258A can be used that is made from component parts. Valve system 258A is illustrated in <FIG>. Valve system 258A is supplied with fluid (e.g., air) from line <NUM> to inlet valve <NUM>. Inlet valve <NUM> discharges to line <NUM>, which is connected to actuator <NUM>, exhaust valve <NUM>, and pressure sensor <NUM>. Pressure sensor <NUM> is in signal communication with a circuit <NUM>, which is in signal communication with monitor <NUM>. Exhaust valve <NUM> discharges to atmosphere, such as through optional line <NUM>.

As is described in International Publication No. <CIT>, control of the amount of force to actuator <NUM> can be based on input from one or more of the trench closing sensor, the angle sensor, a force sensor <NUM>, which is disposed on trench closing assembly <NUM>, or position sensor <NUM>. The control can be closed loop or open loop. Force sensor <NUM> can be disposed on trench closing assembly <NUM> at any location that measures the force on any part of trench closing assembly <NUM>. In one embodiment, force sensor <NUM> is disposed to measure a force applied to press wheels <NUM>. An example of a location is at location <NUM>-A or location <NUM>-B, which is illustrated in <FIG>. For location <NUM>-A, a load sensing pin can be used. For location <NUM>-B, a Wheatstone bridge can be used.

For packing/firming wheels in general, a force sensor <NUM> can be a load pin installed on the axle, on the arm connecting the packing/firming wheel to the trench closing assembly <NUM> or row unit <NUM>, at the connection of the packing/firming wheel arm to trench closing assembly <NUM> or row unit <NUM>, or where a spring/actuator connects to the packing/firming wheel frame. <FIG> illustrate various locations for force sensors <NUM> on different press wheel systems 9255A, 9255B, 9255C, and 9255D. Each press wheel system 9255A, 9255B, 9255C, and 9255D has a press wheel <NUM> and mounting arms <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. Press wheel system 9255A, 9255B, 9255C and 9255D have a connection bracket <NUM> for connection to row unit <NUM> or to closing system <NUM>. A load sensor <NUM> can be disposed between connection bracket <NUM> and row unit <NUM> or closing system <NUM>. A load sensing pin <NUM> can be disposed on axle <NUM> or as shown in <FIG> on axles <NUM>-<NUM> or <NUM>-<NUM>. A force sensor <NUM>, such as a Wheatstone bridge, can be disposed on arm <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> or <NUM>-<NUM>) or as shown in <FIG> on arm <NUM> or shank <NUM>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, a force sensor <NUM> can be disposed where spring <NUM> is attached to frame <NUM> or 9251A. In <FIG>, a force sensor <NUM> can be disposed at connection <NUM>.

Force sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are in signal communication with monitor <NUM>.

In another embodiment, instead of a force sensor <NUM>, a position sensor <NUM> can be used. Referring to <FIG>, modified mounting arm 1256A has a first section 1256A-<NUM> and a second section 1256A-<NUM> connected with hinge <NUM> and with biasing member <NUM> (such as a spring) disposed between first section 1256A-<NUM> and second section 1256A-<NUM>. Position sensor <NUM> includes a transmitter <NUM> and a receiver <NUM>. It is understood that the positions of transmitter <NUM> and receiver <NUM> can be switched. An example of the transmitter <NUM> and receiver <NUM> are a magnet and Hall effect sensor. As downward forces are applied to modified mounting arm 1256A, biasing member <NUM> is compressed, and the distance between transmitter <NUM> and receiver <NUM> is reduced. Position sensor <NUM> is in signal communication with monitor <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a soil leveler <NUM> according to one embodiment. As illustrated, soil leveler <NUM> is attached to mounting arm 1256C of trench closing assembly 250C. Soil leveler has a first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and a second bracket <NUM>-<NUM> for attaching to mounting arm 1256C. Pivotably connected to first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM> through pivot <NUM> are first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM>. Optionally, to stabilize first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM> is cross brace <NUM> connecting first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM>. To adjust a relative angle between the first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM> and first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>, each arm <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) have a slot <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> shown, and <NUM>-<NUM> not shown). A fastener <NUM> is disposed through slots <NUM> and through first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>. Each arm <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) have a space <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) having notches <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>), respectively. Plate <NUM> is engagable with notches <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). Attached to plate <NUM> and disposed about fastener <NUM> is biasing element <NUM> (such as a spring). Moving plate <NUM> to different notches <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) adjusts the amount of biasing force applied to arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). Attached to arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) is flap <NUM>. Flap <NUM> can be a unitary part, or as illustrated, flap <NUM> has plate <NUM> attached to arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) and flap portion <NUM> attached to plate <NUM>. Optionally, flap portion <NUM> can have a serrated edge <NUM> for engaging the soil. Serrated edge <NUM> can be sloped upwards from edges <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) to a center <NUM> of flap portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate another soil leveler 8000A. As illustrated, soil leveler 8000A is attached to mounting arm 1256C of trench closing assembly 250C. Soil leveler 8000A has a first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM> for attaching to mounting arm 1256C. Connected to first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM> are first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM>. As shown, first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed between first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>, but first arm <NUM>-<NUM> and second arm <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed outside of first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>. Arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) have a first section <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) for connecting to first bracket <NUM>-<NUM> and second bracket <NUM>-<NUM>. Extending laterally outward (transverse to the direction of travel) is a lateral segment <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). Disposed downwardly from lateral segment <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) is leg <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). Disposed in leg <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) is a hole <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). While not shown, a drag line extends from hole <NUM>-<NUM> to hole <NUM>-<NUM> and has a length to drag across the ground. Examples of the drag line include, but are not limited to, a chain, a wire, a cable, or a rope. Each bracket <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) have an adjustment slot <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) through which fastener <NUM> is disposed, and fastener <NUM> is disposed through first section <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) of arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). Fastener <NUM> is also disposed through each bracket <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) and each first section <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) of arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>). The relative angle between the brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) and the arm <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) can be adjusted by pivoting about fastener <NUM>. To adjust a distance between holes <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) and brackets <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>), first sections <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>) can optionally have a plurality of holes <NUM> for adjusting a position of arms <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>).

<FIG> illustrate a trench closing assembly 250D according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, trench closing assembly 250D has a main frame 251D that is connected to row unit <NUM>. Trench closing assembly 250D has a frame <NUM>, an actuator <NUM>, a pair of closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM>, and optionally, a press wheel 255D.

<FIG> are enlarged perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of the closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> of the trench closing assembly 250D. The closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> are mirror images of one other and therefore only one closing wheel is shown in <FIG> generally designated by reference number 254D. In this embodiment, the closing wheels 254D comprise a generally dish-shaped body <NUM> in the form of a disc blade with a circumferential edge <NUM> and having a concave surface <NUM> on one side and a convex surface <NUM> on the opposing side. As best viewed in <FIG>, the closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> are mounted so as to be disposed on each side of the open furrow with their convex sides <NUM> oriented inward toward the open furrow. The closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> are also oriented such that they angle outwardly upward (i.e., their respective circumferential edges <NUM> are closer to one another or they converge toward one another in the direction of the soil surface). Additionally, the closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> are mounted at an angle with respect to one another fore and aft (i.e., in the direction of travel) such that their respective circumferential edges <NUM> are closer to one another toward the rear than toward the forward direction of travel. Thus, due to their orientation and the convex shape toward the open furrow, as the row unit is drawn through the field causing the closing wheels to rotate through the soil, the closing wheels act to push the soil inward toward the open furrow, thus "closing" or filling the furrow with soil to cover the previously deposited seed.

The circumferential edge <NUM> of the dish-shaped body <NUM> may be continuous or the circumferential edge <NUM> may include a series of radially spaced notches <NUM> that are cut or otherwise formed around the outer circumferential periphery resulting in a series of radially spaced teeth or spikes <NUM>. The notches <NUM> may be formed, so that each tooth or spike <NUM> curves or sweeps opposite the direction of rotation as indicated by arrow <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this rearward swept orientation will reduce the amount of soil thrown by the teeth <NUM> because the teeth rotate out of the soil more vertically than if the teeth were straight. To improve penetration into the soil, the convex side <NUM> may be ground down, beveled or otherwise formed to taper toward the circumferential edge <NUM> as best viewed in <FIG>, so the circumferential edge <NUM> is thinner or sharper for easier penetration into the soil.

The dish shaped body <NUM> may have a generally flat or planar central region <NUM> with bolt holes <NUM> and a central aperture <NUM> for mounting to a hub or spindle as shown in <FIG>.

The closing wheel 524D may be fabricated by any suitable means. One exemplary manner of fabrication is to cut the body <NUM> out of flat plate steel having a generally uniform thickness to produce a wheel blank. The blank may then be placed in a forming die and pressed to the desired dish-shape. The dish-shaped blank may then undergo further processing, such as cutting the notches <NUM>, if desired, to form teeth <NUM> around the outer circumferential periphery. The outer circumferential periphery may then be ground or tapered to produce a thinner or sharper outer circumferential edge. Alternatively the notches or teeth may be cut into the blank before being pressed to the desired dish shape.

As illustrated, the press wheel 255D may comprise a pair of press wheels 255D-<NUM>, 255D-<NUM>, but a single press wheel (see, e.g., <FIG>) may be utilized. Actuator <NUM> can apply one force to frame 251D, and this force can be divided between the closing wheels <NUM> and the press wheel 255D.

Turning to <FIG>, frame 251D has a connection bracket <NUM> and an attachment bracket <NUM>. Connection bracket <NUM> can have one or more bolts 1209D extending through apertures 1207D in connection bracket <NUM> for mounting the frame 251D to the row unit <NUM>. Connection bracket <NUM> (as with connection brackets <NUM> and 1201A) can be varied to mate attachment to different styles of row units. Connection bracket <NUM> has a first side <NUM>-<NUM>, a second side <NUM>-<NUM>, and a plate <NUM> disposed between first side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM>. First side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM> each have a post <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively, protruding perpendicularly outward.

Attachment bracket <NUM> connects to connection bracket <NUM>. Attachment bracket <NUM> provides a common structure for mounting other parts (e.g., actuator <NUM>, frame <NUM>) while connection bracket <NUM> has a varied structure to mate with different styles of row units. Attachment bracket has a first side <NUM>-<NUM>, a second side <NUM>-<NUM>, a crossbar <NUM> disposed between first side <NUM>-1and second side <NUM>-<NUM>, and plate <NUM> disposed between first side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM>. First side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM> each have a u-shaped opening <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively, for connection to posts <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively. First side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM> have openings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively, for accepting pivots <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively. Attachment bracket <NUM> can be secured to connection bracket with fastener <NUM>. Optionally, attachment bracket <NUM> can also have an opening <NUM> disposed in first side <NUM>-<NUM> or second side <NUM>-<NUM> for accepting a pin. While connection bracket <NUM> is illustrated with separate parts it may be fabricated as a unitary part.

Optionally, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, a guard <NUM> can be disposed on frame <NUM> ahead of closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM>. Guard <NUM> can prevent rocks, rootballs, or other trash from approaching closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM>. The height of guard <NUM> can be adjusted by changing the placement of arms <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> on frame <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, a press wheel mounting arm <NUM> has a first side <NUM>-<NUM>, a second side <NUM>-<NUM>, a plate <NUM> disposed between first side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM>, a hole <NUM> through plate <NUM> for passage of sleeve <NUM>, axle hubs <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> for mounting press wheels 255D-<NUM> and 255D-<NUM>, respectively, and, optionally, a handle cradle <NUM>.

Turing to <FIG>, frame <NUM> is pivotally connected to frame 251D through pivots <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. Frame <NUM> has a first side <NUM>-<NUM> and a second side <NUM>-<NUM>, a plate <NUM> connecting first side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM>, a connection arm <NUM> extending rearwardly along the direction of travel from plate <NUM>, a cross-brace <NUM>-<NUM> connecting connection arm <NUM> to first arm <NUM>-<NUM>, a cross-brace <NUM>-<NUM> connecting connection arm <NUM> to second arm <NUM>-<NUM>. First side <NUM>-<NUM> and second side <NUM>-<NUM> have openings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> for disposing about pivots <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, respectively. Mounting arm <NUM> can attach to frame <NUM> at connections <NUM>-1a and <NUM>-2a or to <NUM>-1b and <NUM>-2b. The plurality of connections allows the distance between closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM>, and press wheel 255D (255D-<NUM>, 255D-<NUM>) to be changed. There can be one connection <NUM> or a plurality of connections <NUM>. As the mounting arm <NUM> position is changed, there are also corresponding connections <NUM>-a and <NUM>-b (matching in number to connection <NUM>) for connecting handle assembly <NUM> to frame <NUM>. Frame <NUM> also has connections <NUM> (<NUM>-1a, <NUM>-1b, <NUM>-2a, and <NUM>-2b) for mounting closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM>. While there can be one set of connections <NUM>, the plurality of connections <NUM> allow for forward and back placement of the closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> on frame <NUM>, or closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> can be offset from each other with one closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> being mounted to a forward location (the "a" position) or to a rear location (the "b" position). As illustrated, closing wheels 254D-<NUM>, 254D-<NUM> are offset from each other. Optionally, frame <NUM> can have an opening <NUM> in either the first side <NUM>-<NUM> or second side <NUM>-<NUM> (shown in <NUM>-<NUM>) for accepting a pin. Frame <NUM> can be raised to allow opening <NUM> and opening <NUM> to align for accepting a pin (not shown). This allows trench closing assembly 250D to be raised for transport or when closing is not needed. While illustrated on one side, openings <NUM> and <NUM> can be disposed on both sides.

Actuator <NUM> is disposed between plate <NUM> and plate <NUM> to apply a force to plate <NUM> to cause frame <NUM> to pivot and apply pressure to closing wheels 254D-<NUM> and 254D-<NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, handle assembly <NUM> is illustrated. Handle assembly <NUM> has a sleeve <NUM> having a first diameter <NUM> and a second diameter <NUM>. Second diameter <NUM> is small enough to be disposed through load sensor <NUM>, and first diameter <NUM> is large enough so that it cannot pass through load sensor <NUM>. Sleeve <NUM> has a bracket <NUM> (u-shaped bracket as illustrated or any other shape) for accepting handle <NUM>. Disposed on sleeve <NUM> below bracket <NUM> are bevel washers <NUM> and <NUM>. Bevel washer <NUM> and bevel washer <NUM> are disposed with their concave surfaces facing each other. This allows bevel washers <NUM> and <NUM> to flex to absorb shocks experienced by trench closing assembly 250D to prevent overloading of load sensor <NUM>. Before bevel washers <NUM> and <NUM> reach maximum flex, first diameter <NUM> will contact plate <NUM> to limit the travel. Load sensor <NUM> is a pancake load sensor. Load sensor <NUM> has a hole <NUM> for passage of sleeve <NUM>. Disposed on the underside of load sensor <NUM> are a plurality of feet <NUM> to allow load sensor <NUM> to flex and measure force. Load sensor <NUM> can be disposed on mounting arm <NUM> directly, or as shown in <FIG>, a plate <NUM> can be disposed between load sensor <NUM> and mounting arm <NUM>. Optionally, a washer <NUM> (<FIG>) can be disposed about sleeve <NUM> under mounting arm <NUM>. Handle assembly <NUM> is connected to frame <NUM> at connection <NUM>-a or <NUM>-b with a bracket <NUM> (u-shaped bracket) and a bolt <NUM> connecting bracket <NUM> with sleeve <NUM>. In the horizontal position, handle <NUM> locks handle assembly <NUM> in place against mounting arm <NUM>. In the vertical position, handle <NUM> releases handle assembly <NUM> from engagement with mounting arm <NUM>. Bolt <NUM> can be adjusted to set a vertical placement of mounting arm <NUM> relative to frame <NUM>.

Load sensor <NUM> can be connected to a network directly through a plug (not shown) having a CAN processor to allow direct communication over a CAN network. The CAN processor can communicate pressure readings and provide control signals over the CAN network. Alternatively, load sensor <NUM> can be connected to a control module (either an on-row module, or a module controlling a plurality of row) to communicate pressure readings that are then processed by the control module.

<FIG> illustrate another embodiment of a wheel 1300B. Wheel 1300B can be used as press wheel <NUM>, 255A, 255C or 255D. Wheel 1300B comprises a spoke disk 1310B and a hub 1301B. Spoke disk 1310B can be molded as a unitary part. Spoke disk 1310B has plurality of spokes 1302B (1302B-<NUM> to 1302B-<NUM>). Connecting spokes 1302B is a tread 1320B. Tread 1320B has a rib 1315B (1315B-<NUM> to 1315B-<NUM>) disposed at the radial end of spoke 1302B. Between each rib 1315B, there is a tread portion 1316B (1316B-<NUM> to 1316B-<NUM>). Tread portion 1316B can extend through the entire width A of a rib 1315B, or tread portion 1316B can extend only a portion of the width A to leave a gap 1317B (1317B-<NUM> to 1317B-<NUM>). Wheel 1300B can be similar to wheel 1300A. Tread portion 1316B can be flexible to allow tread portion 1316B to deflect inward towards hub 1301B. To limit the amount of flex of tread portion 1316B, stops 1318B can be disposed radially outward from spoke disk 1310B between spokes 1302B. The height of stops 1318B (as a percentage of the distance between spoke disk 1310B and tread portion 1316B) and the width of stops 1318B (as a percentage of the distance between spokes 1302B) can be varied to regulate the amount of flex permitted for tread portion 1316B so that mud that is built up on tread portion 1316B will come off of tread portion 1316B.

<FIG> illustrate a fluid control assembly <NUM> according to one embodiment. Fluid control assembly <NUM> controls the flow of fluid to and from actuator <NUM>. Fluid control assembly has a housing <NUM>. There is a fluid inlet port <NUM> from a fluid source (not shown). In one embodiment, the fluid can be air, but other fluids can be used. There is an outlet port <NUM> on housing <NUM> to return fluid to the fluid source, or in the case of air, outlet port <NUM> can vent to atmosphere. Fluid control assembly <NUM> has a conduit <NUM> on housing <NUM> to provide fluid communication to actuator <NUM>. Fluid control assembly <NUM> has a port <NUM> disposed through housing <NUM> to allow signal communication with communication port <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG> with the housing <NUM> removed, board <NUM> can be seen having communication port <NUM> disposed on board <NUM>. Board <NUM> contains circuitry (not shown) to control fluid control assembly <NUM>. A first valve <NUM> and a second valve <NUM> are disposed on board <NUM>. First valve <NUM> and second valve <NUM> can be identical. Examples of these valves are <NUM>-way pneumatic valves from Asco Valve, Inc. , <NUM> Park Avenue, Florham Park, NJ, <NUM>. These valves can operate normally closed.

First valve <NUM> has an inlet <NUM>, which is in fluid communication with inlet port <NUM>, and an outlet <NUM>, which is in fluid communication with conduit <NUM>. Second valve <NUM> has an inlet <NUM>, which is in fluid communication with conduit <NUM>, and an outlet <NUM>, which is in fluid communication with outlet port <NUM>. Seals <NUM>, such as o-rings, can seal inlet <NUM>, outlet <NUM>, inlet <NUM>, and outlet <NUM>.

Also disposed in fluid control assembly <NUM> is a pressure sensor <NUM>, which is in data communication with board <NUM>. While pressure sensor <NUM> can be disposed anywhere in fluid control assembly <NUM>, it is illustrated as being disposed on board <NUM>. Pressure sensor <NUM> is in fluid communication with conduit <NUM> through conduit <NUM>. An example of pressure sensor <NUM> is a Honeywell board mounted pressure sensor.

Turning to <FIG>, fluid communication of conduit <NUM> is illustrated. Conduit <NUM> is in fluid communication outlet <NUM> through port <NUM>. Conduit <NUM> is in fluid communication with pressure sensor <NUM> through conduit <NUM>. Conduit <NUM> is in fluid communication with inlet <NUM> through port <NUM>. Outlet <NUM> is in fluid communication with outlet port <NUM> through port <NUM>. Inlet port <NUM> is in fluid communication with inlet <NUM> through port <NUM>. Seals <NUM> can be disposed in ports <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>.

Communication port <NUM> can be any port used in various types of signal/data communication. Examples include, but are not limited to, Computer Area Network (CAN) port, USB, Ethernet, or RS-<NUM>. All processing of signals and control can be done on board <NUM>, or signals can be sent to monitor <NUM> or a remote controller (not shown) for processing and control to return a signal to fluid control assembly <NUM> to control valves <NUM> and <NUM>. Closed loop control can be used to control the pressure in actuator <NUM> to a selected value that is set by an operator. The selected value can be a selected amount of pressure for actuator <NUM>, or the selected value can be a selected position for trench closing assembly <NUM>, 250A, 250B, 250C or 250D, such as from position sensor <NUM>. As the hardness of soil changes, more or less pressure is needed to maintain the same amount of closing. In harder soils, an increase in pressure may be needed to obtain the same amount of closing, and in softer soils, a decrease in pressure may be used.

In another embodiment, pressure to actuator <NUM> can be controlled based on an amount of closing as measured by a trench closing sensor. Trench closing sensors are described in International Patent Publication No. <CIT>, or in <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>.

In operation, when valves <NUM> and <NUM> are closed, pressure in actuator <NUM> can be measured by pressure sensor <NUM>. If additional pressure is needed in actuator <NUM>, valve <NUM> can be opened (with valve <NUM> closed) to place inlet port <NUM> in fluid communication to conduit <NUM> to actuator <NUM>. If too much pressure is in actuator <NUM>, valve <NUM> can be opened (with valve <NUM> closed) to place outlet port <NUM> in fluid communication to conduit <NUM> to actuator <NUM>.

Fluid control assembly <NUM> can be disposed anywhere on trench closing assembly <NUM>, 250A, 250B, 250C, 250D or on row unit <NUM>.

In another embodiment, a feed forward control method is provided to adjust the downforce control system <NUM> based on a force applied to the actuator <NUM>. If a change in force applied by the actuator <NUM> is applied, the same amount of change or a portion thereof can also be made to the downforce control system <NUM>. This can be done to balance the force on the row unit <NUM>. For example, if an increase of <NUM> units of force is to be applied by the actuator <NUM>, then a signal can be sent to also increase the force applied by the downforce control system <NUM> by an additional <NUM> units of force. In other embodiments, the change of force to the downforce control system <NUM> can be the opposite to the change in force applied by the actuator <NUM>. For example, if an increase of <NUM> units of force is to be applied by the actuator <NUM>, then a signal can be sent to decrease the force applied by the downforce control system <NUM> by <NUM> units of force. In either embodiment, the amount of change to the downforce control system <NUM> can be less than, equal to, or greater than the change in force applied by the actuator <NUM>.

In another embodiment, there can be just one sensor <NUM> per row to control both the actuator <NUM> and the downforce control system <NUM>. Sensor <NUM> is not separately illustrated, but it is a reference to any of the following sensors: downforce sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, position sensor <NUM>, angle sensor <NUM>, trench closing sensor <NUM>, or load sensor <NUM>. Because of the close proximity of the closing system <NUM> (or its alternatives) to the opening system <NUM>, the soil is going to be approximately the same in terms of one or more of hardness, moisture, texture, etc. Setting the force for one system (i.e., the closing system <NUM> or the opening system <NUM>) will dictate a proportional amount of force needed for the other system (i.e., the opening system <NUM> or the closing system <NUM>). For example, if the downforce sensor <NUM> measures a change in force indicating that the soil is harder and sends a signal to the downforce control system <NUM> to increase the downforce to the row unit <NUM>, the same signal can be sent to the actuator <NUM> to also increase the downforce applied by the actuator <NUM>. The amount of force can be the same or a portion thereof. The force applied to the downforce control system <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> can be proportional to each other. By way of example, the absolute amount of force needed to open a <NUM> inch deep trench in the soil is greater than the amount of force needed to open a <NUM> inch deep trench in the soil, but the amount of force required to close the <NUM> inch deep trench as compared to the <NUM> inch deep trench may not be the same percentage change as the force needed to open the respective trenches. The system can thus adjust one system relative to the other system for a given depth.

In another embodiment, instead of or in conjunction with any of the various sensors (i.e., force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, force sensor <NUM>, position sensor <NUM>, angle sensor <NUM>, trench closing sensor <NUM> or load sensor <NUM>), the force applied by the actuator <NUM> can be obtained from a downforce prescription map. An example of a downforce prescription map is described in <CIT>. The amount of downforce applied can be prescribed based on one or more of hardness, texture, moisture, organic matter, or any other soil data layer that impacts the force needed to open or close a seed trench.

Claim 1:
A trench closing assembly (250D) for a row unit (<NUM>) of an agricultural planter, the row unit (<NUM>) having a row unit frame (<NUM>) supporting an opener disk (<NUM>) for opening a seed trench (<NUM>) in a soil surface as the row unit (<NUM>) travels in a forward direction of travel, the trench closing assembly (250D) comprising:
a main frame (251D) supported by and extending rearwardly from the row unit frame (<NUM>) with respect to the forward direction of travel;
first and second closing wheels (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>); and
an actuator (<NUM>);
wherein
said main frame (251D) comprising:
a connection bracket (<NUM>) for mounting the main frame (251D) to said row unit frame (<NUM>);
an attachment bracket (<NUM>) connected to said connection bracket (<NUM>); and
a frame member (<NUM>) pivotally connected to said attachment bracket (<NUM>), the frame member (<NUM>) having first and second side arms (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>),
wherein said first closing wheel (<NUM>-<NUM>) is rotatably supported from said first side arm (<NUM>-<NUM>) on a first side of the open seed trench (<NUM>) and wherein said second closing wheel (<NUM>-<NUM>) is rotatably supported from said second side arm (<NUM>-<NUM>) on a second side of the open seed trench (<NUM>), said first and second closing wheels (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) configured to cooperate with one another to close the open seed trench (<NUM>) with soil as the row unit (<NUM>) travels in the forward direction of travel;
wherein said actuator (<NUM>) is supported between said attachment bracket (<NUM>) and said frame member (<NUM>) such that when actuated, said actuator (<NUM>) causes said frame member (<NUM>) to pivot downwardly relative to said attachment bracket (<NUM>) thereby applying a down force to said first and second closing wheels (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>).