Patent ID: 12207589

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Any examples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are not exclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

FIG.1is a perspective view of an embodiment of an agricultural seeding implement10(e.g., seeder) having multiple row units12. In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural seeding implement includes a frame14having a hitch assembly16, a main support bar18, and tool frames20. The hitch assembly16is configured to couple to a hitch of a work vehicle (e.g., a tractor) to enable the work vehicle to move the agricultural seeding implement10along a direction of travel22. The hitch assembly16is coupled to the main support bar18, and the main support bar18is coupled to the tool frames20. As illustrated, each tool frame20is supported by a respective wheel24, and the main support bar18is supported by multiple wheels26. In certain embodiments, each tool frame is rotatably coupled to the main support bar to enable the tool frame to follow contours of the soil surface. However, in other embodiments, each tool frame is rigidly (e.g., non-rotatably) coupled to the main support bar (e.g., such that each tool frame and a respective portion of the main support bar form a unitary structure). In the illustrated embodiment, each row unit12is coupled to a toolbar28of a respective tool frame20and configured to deposit agricultural product within the soil. In certain embodiments, the row units12are laterally offset (e.g., offset in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel22) from one another, such that adjacent rows of agricultural product are established within the soil. While the illustrated agricultural seeding implement frame14includes the main support bar18and the tool frames20, in other embodiments, the frame may include other and/or additional elements to support the row units. For example, in certain embodiments, the main support bar may be omitted, a center tool frame may be coupled to the hitch assembly, and the wing tool frames may be coupled to the center tool frame. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the tool frames may be omitted, and the row units may be directly coupled to the main support bar (e.g., toolbar), thereby forming a single row of row units.

As previously discussed, each row unit12of the agricultural seeding implement10is configured to deposit agricultural product (e.g., seed, fertilizer, etc.) into the soil. Certain row units12(e.g., all of the row units12of the agricultural seeding implement10, a portion of the row units12of the agricultural seeding implement10, at least one row unit12of the agricultural seeding implement10, etc.) include an opener configured to open a trench within the soil for agricultural product deposition into the soil. For example, the opener may include a shank and a blade rigidly coupled to the shank. Each row unit12also includes a product tube (e.g., seed tube) configured to deposit the agricultural product into the trench formed by the opener. Accordingly, multiple rows of deposited agricultural product may be formed as the agricultural seeding implement10traverses a field along the direction of travel22.

In certain embodiments, each product tube may receive the agricultural product from a pneumatic distribution system. For example, the agricultural product may be stored within a storage compartment (e.g., coupled to the frame of the agricultural seeding implement, coupled to a frame of an air cart, etc.). A metering system positioned beneath the storage compartment may control the flow of the agricultural product to the pneumatic distribution system. The pneumatic distribution system, in turn, may distribute the agricultural product to the product tubes of the row units via multiple distribution lines. For example, primary distribution lines may extend from the metering system to respective headers coupled to the frame of the agricultural seeding implement, and secondary distribution lines may extend from each header to product tubes of respective row units.

The opener/agricultural product tube of at least one row unit is followed by a closing system. The closing system includes a closing assembly having at least one closing disc configured to close the trench formed by the opener and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench. The closing system also includes a packer assembly that follows the closing assembly. The packer assembly includes a packer wheel configured to pack soil on top of the deposited agricultural product.

In certain embodiments, the row unit includes a link (e.g., first link) configured to pivotally couple to a toolbar of the agricultural seeding implement. The row unit also includes an opener having a shank and a blade rigidly coupled to the shank, in which the shank is pivotally coupled to the link at a pivot joint (e.g., first pivot joint). In addition, the row unit includes a closing system having a packer wheel arm pivotally coupled to the first link at the pivot joint. The closing system also includes a packer wheel rotatably coupled to the packer wheel arm. Furthermore, the closing system includes a closing disc arm pivotally coupled to the packer wheel arm, and a closing disc rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm. The closing disc arm positions a rotational axis of the closing disc rearward of the blade of the opener relative to the direction of travel, and the packer wheel arm positions a rotational axis of the packer wheel rearward of the rotational axis of the closing disc relative to the direction of travel. The closing system also includes a closing disc adjustment assembly configured to control a contact force between the closing disc and the soil surface. Because the contact force between the closing disc and the soil is controllable independently of the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil, each contact force may be adjusted for particular field conditions (e.g., soil composition, soil moisture, etc.). As a result, the closing system disclosed herein may be utilized to effectively close the trench and/or break up the side wall(s) of the trench for a variety of field conditions.

While the agricultural seeding implement10includes one type of row unit in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the agricultural seeding implement may include multiple types of row units and/or other suitable agricultural tools (e.g., spray nozzle(s), finishing reel(s), tillage shank(s), etc.). Furthermore, while the agricultural seeding implement10is configured to be towed through the field by a work vehicle in the illustrated embodiment, in certain embodiments, the agricultural seeding implement may be part of a self-propelled vehicle. For example, the frame of the agricultural seeding implement may be coupled (e.g., directly coupled, rigidly coupled, etc.) to a main frame/chassis of the self-propelled vehicle.

FIG.2is a side view of an embodiment of a row unit12that may be employed within the agricultural seeding implement ofFIG.1, in which the row unit12has an embodiment of a closing system30. As illustrated, the row unit12includes a frame support32and a mounting bracket34. The frame support32and the mounting bracket34are configured to interface with a toolbar of a respective tool frame, thereby securing the row unit12to the agricultural seeding implement frame. While the illustrated embodiment includes a single mounting bracket34, in other embodiments, the row unit may include additional mounting brackets (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more). Furthermore, while the illustrated row unit12is coupled to the toolbar by the frame support32and the mounting bracket34, in other embodiments, the row unit may be coupled to the toolbar by any other suitable connection system (e.g., fastener(s), a welded connection, an adhesive connection, etc.).

In addition, the row unit12includes a first linkage member38, a second linkage member40, and a biasing device, such as the illustrated cylinder42(e.g., hydraulic or pneumatic piston-cylinder assembly). As illustrated, the first linkage member38(e.g., first link) and the second linkage member40(e.g., second link) extend from the frame support32to a packer wheel arm44of the closing system30. The first linkage member38is pivotally coupled to the frame support32, thereby pivotally coupling the first linkage member38to the toolbar of the agricultural seeding implement. In addition, the first linkage member38is pivotally coupled to the packer wheel arm44at a first pivot joint46. In the illustrated embodiment, the second linkage member40is pivotally coupled to the frame support32, thereby pivotally coupling the second linkage member40to the toolbar of the agricultural seeding implement. Furthermore, the second linkage member40is pivotally coupled to the packer wheel arm44at a second pivot joint48. Accordingly, the first and second linkage members form a linkage (e.g., parallel linkage) between the frame support32and the packer wheel arm44. While the linkage is formed by the first and second linkage members in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the packer wheel arm may be coupled to the frame support by any other suitable type of linkage (e.g., a linkage including only the first linkage member, a linkage including only the second linkage member, etc.).

The cylinder42is pivotally coupled to the frame support32and to a shank50of an opener52. In addition, the shank50is pivotally coupled to the first linkage member38and to the packer wheel arm44at the first pivot joint46. A blade54of the opener52is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the shank50and configured to engage the soil56. Applying pressurized fluid (e.g., hydraulic fluid, air, etc.) to the cylinder42urges the packer wheel arm44and the opener52to translate downwardly. Translational movement of the packer wheel arm44and the opener52is controlled by the linkage. For example, the linkage may cause the packer wheel arm44and the opener52to translate along a vertical axis. While the illustrated embodiment utilizes a cylinder42as the biasing member, in alternative embodiments, the row unit may include another suitable type of biasing member, such as a spring or a pneumatic strut, for example.

The blade54is configured to form a trench within the soil56as the row unit12moves along the direction of travel22. In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit12includes an agricultural product tube55(e.g., seed tube) configured to direct agricultural product into the trench formed by the blade54. In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit12includes two agricultural product tubes55configured to deposit two agricultural products (e.g., two different agricultural products) into the soil. However, in other embodiments, the row unit may include more or fewer agricultural product tubes (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or more).

In the illustrated embodiment, the packer wheel arm44includes a first portion58and a second portion60pivotally coupled to one another at a third pivot joint62. The first portion58is pivotally coupled to the first linkage member38and to the second linkage member40, and a packer wheel64of the closing system30is rotatably coupled to the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44. The packer wheel64rotates along the soil surface to both pack the soil on top of deposited agricultural product and to control the penetration depth of the blade54. In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit12includes a packer wheel adjustment assembly66configured to control the penetration depth of the blade54into the soil56. The packer wheel adjustment assembly66includes a fastener68disposed within a slot70in the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44and a corresponding slot72within the first portion58of the packer wheel arm44. While in a locked configuration, the fastener68blocks rotation of the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44with respect to the first portion58of the packer wheel arm44. Conversely, while in an unlocked configuration, the fastener68may be translated within the respective slots to adjust the rotation of the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44about the third pivot joint62relative to the first portion58of the packer wheel arm44. Adjusting the rotation of the second portion60relative to the first portion58controls the vertical position of the packer wheel64relative to the blade54of the opener52, thereby controlling the penetration depth of the blade54. Once a target orientation of the second portion relative to the first portion is established (e.g., corresponding to a target penetration depth), the fastener may be transitioned to the locked configuration, thereby blocking rotation of the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44relative to the first portion58. Furthermore, the contact force between the packer wheel64and the soil56(e.g., the soil surface) and the contact force between the blade54and the soil56may be controlled by controlling the fluid pressure within the cylinder42(e.g., via a valve assembly).

While the illustrated packer wheel adjustment assembly includes a fastener disposed within slots in the packer wheel arm, in further embodiments, other suitable types of packer wheel adjustment assemblies may be utilized. For example, in certain embodiments, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may include a pin configured to be disposed within respective openings in the first and second portions of the packer wheel arm. At least one of the first portion or the second portion of the packer wheel arm may include multiple openings, and the position of the packer wheel relative to the blade may be controlled by disposing the pin within a selected opening of the multiple openings. In further embodiments, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may include a cam and a stopper. The position of the second portion relative to the first portion may be controlled by rotating the cam, thereby controlling the position of the packer wheel relative to the blade. In addition, the stopper may selectively block rotation of the cam to maintain the packer wheel in a selected position. While the packer wheel adjustment assembly is positioned proximate to the linkage members in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may be positioned proximate to the packer wheel or at another suitable location along the packer wheel arm. Furthermore, while the illustrated row unit12includes a packer wheel adjustment assembly, in other embodiments, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may be omitted. In such embodiments, the packer wheel arm may include a single portion.

In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system30of the row unit12includes a closing assembly74configured to close the trench formed by the blade54of the opener52. The closing assembly74includes a closing disc arm76and a single closing disc78rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm76. As illustrated, the closing disc arm76is pivotally coupled to the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44at a fourth pivot joint80, and the closing disc arm76positions a rotational axis82of the closing disc78rearward of the blade54of the opener52relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit12. In addition, the packer wheel arm44positions a rotational axis84of the packer wheel64rearward of the rotational axis82of the closing disc78relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit12. While the closing disc arm76is pivotally coupled to the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the closing disc arm may be pivotally coupled to the first portion of the packer wheel arm.

The closing disc78is configured to close the trench formed by the blade54and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench, thereby enhancing the development of crops from the deposited seeds. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc78is substantially smooth. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc may be wavy and/or have multiple spikes extending radially outward from a central hub of the closing disc. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the closing assembly74has a single closing disc78. However, in other embodiments, the closing assembly may have addition closing discs (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or more), such as multiple closing discs rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm. By way of example, one closing disc may be coupled to the packer wheel arm by a first closing disc arm, and a second closing disc (e.g., positioned rearward of the first closing disc) may be coupled to the packer wheel arm by a second closing disc arm. Each closing disc disclosed herein may be formed from a suitable material. For example, the closing disc may be formed from a rigid material, such as metal (e.g., steel, etc.), or the closing disc may be formed from a resilient material, such as rubber or polyurethane.

The closing assembly74includes a closing disc adjustment assembly86coupled to and extending between the packer wheel arm44(e.g., the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44, the first portion58of the packer wheel arm44, etc.) and the closing disc arm76. The closing disc adjustment assembly86is configured to control a contact force between the closing disc and the soil. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc adjustment assembly86includes a closing disc biasing element88coupled to and extending between the packer wheel arm44(e.g., the second portion60of the packer wheel arm44, the first portion58of the packer wheel arm44, etc.) and the closing disc arm76. The closing disc biasing element88is configured to urge the closing disc78(e.g., the rotational axis of the closing disc) toward the soil (e.g., soil surface). In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element88includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the closing disc toward the soil. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc adjustment assembly86includes a series of openings90disposed along the closing disc arm76and a pin92coupled to an end of the biasing element88. The pin92may be engaged with a selected opening90to control the torque applied by the biasing element88to the closing disc arm76, thereby controlling the contact force between the closing disc and the soil. While the closing disc adjustment assembly includes a pin and openings in the closing disc arm in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the closing disc and the soil. For example, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a pin configured to engage a selected opening of multiple openings in the packer wheel arm (e.g., instead of or in addition to the pin92/openings90in the closing disc arm76). Furthermore, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

The closing disc adjustment assembly86enables the contact force between the closing disc78and the soil56to be controlled substantially independently of the contact force between the packer wheel64and the soil56(e.g., the soil surface). For example, the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil may be adjusted to a first value by controlling the fluid pressure within the cylinder42, and the contact force between the closing disc and the soil may be adjusted to a second value via the closing disc adjustment assembly86. Each contact force may be adjusted for particular field conditions (e.g., soil composition, soil moisture, etc.). As a result, the closing system may be utilized to effectively close the trench and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench for a variety of field conditions (e.g., as compared to utilizing different closing systems for different field conditions).

FIG.3is a side view of another embodiment of a row unit94that may be employed within the agricultural seeding implement ofFIG.1, in which the row unit94has an embodiment of a closing system96. In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit94includes an opener98having a shank100and a blade102rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the shank100. The blade102may be rigidly coupled to the shank via any suitable connection system (e.g., fastener(s), a welded connection, press-fit connection, etc.), or the blade may be integrally formed with the shank (e.g., from a single piece of material). The shank100is movably (e.g., rotatably) coupled to the toolbar28of the agricultural seeding implement. In the illustrated embodiment, the shank100is pivotally coupled to the toolbar28via a bracket104and a pivot joint106. The bracket104is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the toolbar28via a suitable connection system (e.g., fastener(s), a welded connection, an adhesive connection, a press-fit connection, etc.), and the shank100is pivotally coupled to the bracket104via the pivot joint106. While the shank is pivotally coupled to the toolbar via the bracket and the pivot joint in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the shank may be pivotally coupled to the toolbar via another suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, multiple pivot joints, etc.). Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the shank may be translatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, a slide assembly, etc.), thereby enabling the shank to translate relative to the toolbar. In addition, in certain embodiments, the shank may be translatably and rotatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly, thereby enabling the shank to translate and rotate relative to the toolbar.

The row unit94includes a biasing member108configured to urge the blade102to engage the soil56. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member includes a spring (e.g., coil spring). However, in other embodiments, the biasing member may include any other suitable device(s) (e.g., alone or in combination with the spring) to urge the blade to engage the soil. For example, the biasing member may include hydraulic cylinder(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), spring(s), or a combination thereof. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member108extends from the bracket104to the shank100and is configured to urge the opener98to rotate in a first direction110, thereby urging the blade102to engage the soil56. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member may be connected to other suitable element(s), such as the blade and/or the toolbar. Furthermore, the biasing member may be positioned in front of the shank, as illustrated, or behind the shank along the direction of travel. In addition, if the opener is configured to translate relative to the toolbar, the biasing member may be configured to urge the opener to translate toward the soil and/or in the direction of travel22of the row unit.

In certain embodiments, the row unit may include an opener adjustment assembly configured to control the contact force between the blade and the soil. For example, the opener adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the shank and a pin coupled to an end of the biasing member. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the torque applied by the biasing element to the shank, thereby controlling the contact force between the blade and the soil. In other embodiments, the opener adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the blade and the soil. For example, if the biasing member includes pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the opener adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

The blade102is configured to form a trench within the soil56, and a product tube112(e.g., seed tube) positioned behind the blade is configured to deposit agricultural product (e.g., seed, fertilizer, etc.) into the trench formed by the blade102. In the illustrated embodiment, the product tube112is coupled to the shank100of the opener98. However, in other embodiments, the product tube may be coupled to another suitable structure of the row unit (e.g., a frame of the closing system, etc.). The penetration depth of the blade into the soil may be controlled by adjusting the position of the toolbar relative to the surface of the soil. For example, the toolbars of the agricultural seeding implement may be supported by multiple wheels, and the positions of the wheels relative to the toolbars may be adjusted to control the positions of the toolbars relative to the soil surface, thereby controlling the penetration depth of the respective blades into the soil. In the illustrated embodiment, the opener98is configured to deflect in response to contact with an obstacle (e.g., within the soil, on the soil surface, etc.). As the row unit94moves in the direction of travel22, contact between the blade102and an obstacle may drive the opener98to rotate in a second direction114about the pivot joint106against the force/torque of the biasing member108, thereby causing the blade102to disengage the soil56. After the opener98has cleared the obstacle (e.g., the row unit has moved past the obstacle), the force/torque provided by the biasing member108drives the opener to rotate in the first direction110, thereby driving the blade102to re-engage the soil56.

In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system96includes a frame116coupled to the shank100of the opener98. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame116is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the shank100via fasteners118. However, in other embodiments, the frame may be rigidly coupled to the shank via another suitable connection system (e.g., a welded connection, an adhesive connection, a press-fit connection, etc.). Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the frame may be rigidly coupled to the blade via a suitable connection system. As discussed in detail below, the frame may be pivotally coupled to the opener in certain embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame116is only coupled to the toolbar28via the opener98. Accordingly, the frame is not coupled to the toolbar by any structure that bypasses the opener. However, in other embodiments, the frame may be directly and rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the opener and movably coupled to the toolbar (e.g., by a linkage assembly, by a biasing element, etc.).

In addition, the closing system96includes a closing assembly120having a closing disc arm122and a closing disc124rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm122. As illustrated, the closing disc arm122is pivotally coupled to the frame116at a pivot joint126(e.g., first pivot joint), and the closing disc arm122positions a rotational axis128of the closing disc124rearward of the blade102relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. The closing disc124is configured to close the trench formed by the opener and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench, thereby enhancing the development of crops from the deposited seeds. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc124is substantially smooth. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc may be wavy and/or have multiple spikes extending radially outward from a central hub of the closing disc. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the closing assembly120has a single closing disc124. However, in other embodiments, the closing assembly may have additional closing disc(s) (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or more), such as multiple closing discs rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm. By way of example, a first pair of closing discs may be coupled to the frame of the row unit by a first arm, and a second pair of closing discs (e.g., positioned rearward of the first pair of closing discs) may be coupled to the frame of the row unit by a second arm.

The closing assembly120of the closing system96includes a closing disc biasing element130coupled to the closing disc arm122and configured to urge the closing disc124(e.g., the rotational axis of the closing disc) toward the soil56(e.g., soil surface). In the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc biasing element130is also coupled to the frame116. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc biasing element may be coupled to any other suitable structure of the row unit (e.g., the shank of the opener, the packer wheel arm, etc.). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc biasing element130includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the closing disc toward the soil. In certain embodiments, the closing assembly may include a closing disc adjustment assembly configured to control a contact force between the closing disc and the soil. For example, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the closing disc arm and a pin coupled to an end of the biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the torque applied by the biasing element to the closing disc arm, thereby controlling the contact force between the closing disc and the soil. In other embodiments, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the closing disc and the soil. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

The closing system96also includes a packer assembly132having a packer wheel134and a packer wheel arm136. The packer wheel arm136is pivotally coupled to the frame116at a pivot joint138(e.g., second pivot joint), and the packer wheel134is rotatably coupled to the packer wheel arm136. The packer wheel134is configured to pack soil on top of the deposited agricultural product (e.g., to facilitate development of the resulting agricultural crops). The contact surface of the packer wheel may have any suitable shape (e.g., v-shaped, flat, etc.) and/or any suitable tread pattern (e.g., chevron treads, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the packer wheel arm136and the closing disc arm122are configured to rotate independently of one another relative to the frame116. Accordingly, rotation of the packer wheel arm (e.g., in response to contact between the packer wheel and an obstruction) does not directly affect rotation of the closing disc arm, and rotation of the closing disc arm (e.g., in response to contact between the closing disc and an obstruction) does not directly affect rotation of the packer wheel arm. In addition, independent rotation of the closing disc arm and the packer wheel arm enables the contact force between the closing disc124and the soil to be adjusted substantially independently of the contact force between the packer wheel134and the soil.

In addition, the packer wheel arm136positions a rotational axis140of the packer wheel134rearward of the rotational axis128of the closing disc124(e.g., each closing disc) relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. While the illustrated packer assembly includes a single packer wheel, in other embodiments, the packer assembly may include additional packer wheel(s) (e.g., distributed along the direction of travel and/or positioned side-by-side). In addition, the packer wheel (e.g., the rotational axis of the packer wheel) may be oriented at any suitable angle relative to the direction of travel and/or a vertical axis (e.g., to facilitate packing of the soil on top of the deposited agricultural product). In certain embodiments, the angle of the packer wheel (e.g., the rotational axis of the packer wheel) relative to the direction of travel and/or the vertical axis may be adjustable via a suitable adjustment mechanism. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the pivot joint126of the closing disc arm122is positioned forward of the pivot joint138of the packer wheel arm136, such that the closing disc arm pivot joint is separated from the packer wheel arm pivot joint on the frame. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc arm pivot joint may be positioned rearward of the packer wheel arm pivot joint, or the packer wheel arm and the closing disc arm may utilize a common pivot joint.

The packer assembly132of the closing system96includes a packer wheel biasing element142coupled to the packer wheel arm136and configured to urge the packer wheel134toward the soil56(e.g., against the soil surface). In the illustrated embodiment, the packer wheel biasing element142is also coupled to the frame116(e.g., via a bracket). However, in other embodiments, the packer wheel biasing element may be coupled to any other suitable structure of the row unit (e.g., the shank of the opener, etc.). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the packer wheel biasing element142includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the packer wheel biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the packer wheel toward the soil. In certain embodiments, the packer assembly may include a packer wheel adjustment assembly configured to control a contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. For example, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the packer wheel arm and a pin coupled to an end of the biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the torque applied by the biasing element to the packer wheel arm, thereby controlling the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. In other embodiments, the packer wheel adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the packer wheel adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

Because the closing disc arm and the packer wheel arm are independently pivotally coupled to the frame, the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil (e.g., the soil surface) may be controlled substantially independently of the contact force between the closing disc and the soil. For example, the contact force between the closing disc and the soil may be adjusted to a first value (e.g., via the closing disc adjustment assembly, via selection of a closing disc biasing element, etc.), and the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil may be adjusted to a second value (e.g., via the packer wheel adjustment assembly, via selection of a packer wheel biasing element, etc.). Each contact force may be adjusted for particular field conditions (e.g., soil composition, soil moisture, etc.). As a result, the closing system may be utilized to effectively close the trench and/or break up the side wall(s) of the trench for a variety of field conditions (e.g., as compared to utilizing a different closing system for different field conditions).

Furthermore, because the frame116is rigidly coupled to the opener98(e.g., to the shank100of the opener98), the frame116and the elements coupled to the frame (e.g., the packer wheel arm, the packer wheel, the closing disc arm, the closing disc, etc.) move with the opener98as the opener deflects in response to contact with an obstacle/obstruction. Accordingly, in response to the opener98engaging an obstacle/obstruction, the opener, the closing disc, and the packer wheel may disengage the soil. After the opener98has cleared the obstacle/obstruction, the force/torque provided by the opener biasing element108may drive the opener/frame to rotate in the first direction110, thereby driving the opener, the closing disc, and the packer wheel to re-engage the soil.

In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit94including the closing system96is a seeding/seeder row unit, as compared to a planting/planter row unit. Accordingly, a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the opener98, and a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the frame116. That is, an agricultural product storage compartment is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes an agricultural product storage compartment, such as a hopper or a mini-hopper configured to receive agricultural product from a central storage compartment, non-movably coupled to the frame of the row unit). In addition, the seeding/seeder row unit94includes an opener98having a shank100and a blade102(e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a pair of opener discs). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a metering device is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a frame-mounted metering device, such as a vacuum seed meter). However, in other embodiments, an agricultural product storage compartment may be non-movably coupled to the opener and/or to the frame of the row unit, and/or a metering device (e.g., seed meter) may be non-movably coupled to the opener and/or to the frame of the row unit.

FIG.4is a side view of the row unit94ofFIG.3, in which the row unit94has another embodiment of a closing system144. The closing system144includes a frame146pivotally and, in certain embodiments, non-translatably coupled to the opener98at a pivot joint148. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame146is pivotally coupled to the shank100of the opener98at the pivot joint148. However, in other embodiments, the frame146may be pivotally coupled to the blade102of the opener98or another suitable portion of the opener. While the frame146is pivotally coupled to the opener98in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the frame may be rigidly coupled to the opener, as previously discussed with reference toFIG.3. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame146is only coupled to the toolbar28via the opener98. Accordingly, the frame is not coupled to the toolbar by any structure that bypasses the opener. However, in other embodiments, the frame may be directly pivotally and, in certain embodiments, non-translatably coupled to the opener and movably coupled to the toolbar (e.g., by a linkage assembly, by a biasing element, etc.).

In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system144includes a frame biasing element150coupled to the frame146and to the opener98. The frame biasing element150is configured to urge the frame146downwardly relative to the opener98. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame biasing element150includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the frame downwardly relative to the opener. Furthermore, while the frame biasing element150is coupled to the shank100of the opener98in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may be coupled to the blade102of the opener98or to another suitable portion of the opener. In addition, in certain embodiments, the frame biasing element may be coupled to the toolbar (e.g., via the bracket).

In addition, the closing system144includes a closing assembly152having a closing disc arm154and a pair of closing discs156rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm154. As illustrated, the closing disc arm154is pivotally coupled to the frame146at a pivot joint158, and the closing disc arm154positions a rotational axis160of each closing disc156rearward of the blade102relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. The closing discs156are configured to close the trench formed by the opener and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench, thereby enhancing the development of crops resulting from the deposited seeds. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing discs156are substantially smooth. However, in other embodiments, at least one closing disc may be wavy and/or have multiple spikes extending radially outward from a central hub of the closing disc. Furthermore, while the closing assembly152has a pair of closing discs156in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the closing assembly may have more or fewer closing discs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or more), such as a single closing disc rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm. By way of example, a first pair of closing discs may be coupled to the frame of the row unit by a first arm, and a second pair of closing discs (e.g., positioned rearward of the first pair of closing discs) may be coupled to the frame of the row unit by a second arm.

The closing assembly152of the closing system144includes a closing disc biasing element162coupled to the closing disc arm154and configured to urge the closing discs156(e.g., the rotational axes of the closing discs) toward the soil56(e.g., soil surface). In the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc biasing element162is also coupled to the frame146. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc biasing element may be coupled to any other suitable structure of the row unit (e.g., the packer wheel arm, etc.). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the closing disc biasing element162includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the closing disc biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the closing discs toward the soil. In certain embodiments, the closing assembly may include a closing disc adjustment assembly configured to control a contact force between the closing discs and the soil. For example, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the closing disc arm and a pin coupled to an end of the biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the torque applied by the biasing element to the closing disc arm, thereby controlling the contact force between the closing discs and the soil. In other embodiments, the closing disc adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the closing discs and the soil. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the closing disc adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

The closing system144also includes a packer assembly164having a packer wheel166and a packer wheel arm168. In the illustrated embodiment, the packer wheel arm168is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the frame146, and the packer wheel166is rotatably coupled to the packer wheel arm168. Because the packer wheel arm168is rigidly coupled to the frame146, the frame biasing element150urges the packer wheel166toward the soil56(e.g., against the soil surface). The packer wheel arm168may be rigidly coupled to the frame146by any suitable connection system (e.g., fastener(s), a welded connection, an adhesive connection, a press-fit connection, etc.). Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the packer wheel arm168and the frame146may be integrally formed (e.g., from a single piece of material). In addition, because the packer wheel arm is rigidly coupled to the frame, the frame biasing element may be coupled to the packer wheel arm (e.g., instead of the frame), and/or the closing disc arm may be pivotally coupled to the packer wheel arm (e.g., instead of the frame). While the packer wheel arm is rigidly coupled to the frame in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the packer wheel arm may be pivotally coupled to the frame, and a biasing element coupled to the packer wheel arm may urge the packer wheel toward the soil surface (e.g., as discussed above with reference toFIG.3). The packer wheel166is configured to pack soil on top of the deposited agricultural product (e.g., to facilitate development of the resulting agricultural crops). The contact surface of the packer wheel may have any suitable shape (e.g., v-shaped, flat, etc.) and/or any suitable tread pattern (e.g., chevron treads, etc.).

In addition, the packer wheel arm168positions a rotational axis170of the packer wheel166rearward of the rotational axis160of each closing disc156relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. While the illustrated packer assembly includes a single packer wheel, in other embodiments, the packer assembly may include additional packer wheel(s) (e.g., distributed along the direction of travel and/or positioned side-by-side). In addition, the packer wheel (e.g., the rotational axis of the packer wheel) may be oriented at any suitable angle relative to the direction of travel and/or a vertical axis (e.g., to facilitate packing of the soil on top of the deposited agricultural product). In certain embodiments, the angle of the packer wheel (e.g., the rotational axis of the packer wheel) relative to the direction of travel and/or the vertical axis may be adjustable via a suitable adjustment mechanism.

In certain embodiments, the closing system may include a frame adjustment assembly configured to control contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. For example, the frame adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the frame and a pin coupled to an end of the frame biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the torque applied by the frame biasing element to the frame/packer wheel arm, thereby controlling the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. In other embodiments, the frame adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the frame adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

Because the closing disc arm is pivotally coupled to the frame, the contact force between the closing discs and the soil may be controlled substantially independently of the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil (e.g., the soil surface). For example, the contact force between the packer wheel and the soil may be adjusted to a first value (e.g., via the frame adjustment assembly, via selection of a frame biasing element, etc.), and the contact force between the closing discs and the soil may be adjusted to a second value (e.g., via the closing disc adjustment assembly, via selection of a closing disc biasing element, etc.). Each contact force may be adjusted for particular field conditions (e.g., soil composition, soil moisture, etc.). As a result, the closing system may be utilized to effectively close the trench and/or to break up the side wall(s) of the trench for a variety of field conditions (e.g., as compared to utilizing a different closing system for different field conditions).

Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the closing system may include a stop coupled to the opener (e.g., to the shank of the opener) and configured to block downward rotation of the frame beyond a threshold position. In such embodiments, due to contact between the frame and the stop, the frame and the elements coupled to the frame (e.g., the packer wheel arm, the packer wheel, the closing disc arm, the closing disc, etc.) may move with the opener as the opener deflects in response to contact with an obstacle/obstruction. Accordingly, in response to the opener engaging an obstacle/obstruction, the opener, the closing disc, and the packer wheel may disengage the soil. After the opener has cleared the obstacle/obstruction, the force/torque provided by the opener biasing element may drive the opener to rotate in the first direction, thereby driving the opener to re-engaging the soil, and the force/torque provided by the frame biasing element may drive the closing disc and the packer wheel to re-engage the soil.

In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit94including the closing system144is a seeding/seeder row unit, as compared to a planting/planter row unit. Accordingly, a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the opener98, and a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the frame146. That is, an agricultural product storage compartment is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes an agricultural product storage compartment, such as a hopper or a mini-hopper configured to receive agricultural product from a central storage compartment, non-movably coupled to the frame of the row unit). In addition, the seeding/seeder row unit94includes an opener98having a shank100and a blade102(e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a pair of opener discs). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a metering device is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a frame-mounted metering device, such as a vacuum seed meter). However, in other embodiments, an agricultural product storage compartment may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit, and/or a metering device (e.g., seed meter) may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit.

FIG.5is a side view of the row unit94ofFIG.3, in which the row unit94has a further embodiment of a closing system172. The closing system172includes a closing system arm174movably (e.g., rotatably) coupled to the toolbar28of the agricultural seeding implement. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system arm174is pivotally coupled to the toolbar28via the bracket104and the pivot joint106. As previously discussed, the bracket104is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the toolbar28, and the closing system arm174is pivotally coupled to the bracket104via the pivot joint106. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system arm174is pivotally coupled to the bracket104by the same pivot joint106as the shank100of the opener98. However, as discussed in detail below, the closing system arm may be pivotally coupled to the bracket by another pivot joint (e.g., remote from the opener pivot joint). Furthermore, while the closing system arm is pivotally coupled to the toolbar via the bracket and the pivot joint in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the closing system arm may be pivotally coupled to the toolbar via another suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, multiple pivot joints, etc.). In addition, in certain embodiments, the closing system arm may be translatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, a slide assembly, etc.), thereby enabling the closing system arm to translate relative to the toolbar. In addition, the closing system arm may be translatably and rotatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly, thereby enabling the closing system arm to translate and rotate relative to the toolbar.

In addition, the closing system172includes the frame116, as discussed above with reference toFIG.3, and the closing system arm174is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the frame116. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system172includes a frame biasing element176coupled to the frame116and to the bracket104. The frame biasing element176is configured to urge the frame116downwardly relative to the toolbar28. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame biasing element176includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the frame downwardly relative to the toolbar. Furthermore, while the frame biasing element176is coupled to the bracket104in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may be coupled to the toolbar or to another suitable element rigidly coupled to the toolbar.

In certain embodiments, the closing system may include a frame adjustment assembly configured to control the downward force applied to the frame. For example, the frame adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the frame and a pin coupled to an end of the frame biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the downward force applied by the frame biasing element to the frame. In other embodiments, the frame adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the downward force. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the frame adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system172includes the closing disc arm122pivotally coupled to the frame116and closing disc(s)124rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm122. The closing disc arm122positions the rotational axis128of each closing disc124rearward of the blade102of the opener98relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. In addition, the closing system172includes the packer wheel arm136pivotally coupled to the frame116and the packer wheel134rotatably coupled to the packer wheel arm. The packer wheel arm136positions the rotational axis140of the packer wheel134rearward of the rotational axis128of each closing disc124relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. Furthermore, the closing system172includes the packer wheel biasing element142coupled to the packer wheel arm136and configured to urge the packer wheel134toward the soil, and the closing system172includes the closing disc biasing element130coupled to the closing disc arm122and configured to urge each closing disc124toward the soil.

Each of the functions and/or structures of the frame116, the closing assembly120, the closing disc arm122, the closing disc(s)124, the closing disc biasing element130, the packer assembly132, the packer wheel134, the packer wheel arm136, and the packer wheel biasing element142disclosed above with reference toFIG.3may apply to the respective elements of the illustrated embodiment. Furthermore, any of the variations of the frame116, the closing assembly120, the closing disc arm122, the closing disc(s)124, the closing disc biasing element130, the packer assembly132, the packer wheel134, the packer wheel arm136, and the packer wheel biasing element142disclosed above with reference toFIG.3may apply to the respective elements of the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the closing system172may include the closing disc adjustment assembly and/or the packer wheel adjustment assembly disclosed above with reference toFIG.3.

In certain embodiments, a linkage assembly may extend between the opener (e.g., the shank of the opener) and the frame/closing system arm. The linkage assembly may enable the opener to freely rotate through a range of motion in response to engagement of the opener (e.g., the blade of the opener) with an obstacle/obstruction. In addition, if the opener rotates beyond the range of motion in response to engagement with the obstacle/obstruction, the linkage assembly may drive the frame to rotate about the pivot joint. Accordingly, in response to the opener engaging certain obstacles/obstructions, the opener, the closing disc(s), and the packer wheel may disengage the soil. After the opener has cleared the obstacle/obstruction, the force/torque provided by the opener biasing element may drive the opener to rotate in the first direction, thereby driving the opener to re-engaging the soil, and the force/torque provided by the frame biasing element may drive the closing disc(s) and the packer wheel to re-engage the soil. By way of example, the linkage assembly may include a bar having a slot, in which the bar is coupled to the frame. In addition, the linkage assembly may include a pin coupled to the opener and disposed within the slot. The length of the slot may be selected to enable the opener to freely rotate through the range of motion before driving the frame to move.

In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit94including the closing system172is a seeding/seeder row unit, as compared to a planting/planter row unit. Accordingly, a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the opener98, and a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the frame116. That is, an agricultural product storage compartment is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes an agricultural product storage compartment, such as a hopper or a mini-hopper configured to receive agricultural product from a central storage compartment, non-movably coupled to the frame of the row unit). In addition, the seeding/seeder row unit94includes an opener98having a shank100and a blade102(e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a pair of opener discs). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a metering device is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a frame-mounted metering device, such as a vacuum seed meter). However, in other embodiments, an agricultural product storage compartment may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit, and/or a metering device (e.g., seed meter) may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit.

FIG.6is a side view of the row unit94ofFIG.3, in which the row unit94has another embodiment of a closing system178. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system178includes the closing system arm174movably (e.g., rotatably) coupled to the toolbar28of the agricultural seeding implement. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system arm174is pivotally coupled to the toolbar28via the bracket104and a second pivot joint180. As previously discussed, the bracket104is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the toolbar28, and the closing system arm174is pivotally coupled to the bracket104via the second pivot joint180. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pivot joint180is positioned remote from the opener/shank pivot joint106. However, as previously discussed, the closing system arm and the shank may be pivotally coupled to the bracket by the same pivot joint. Furthermore, while the closing system arm is pivotally coupled to the toolbar via the bracket and the pivot joint in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the closing system arm may be pivotally coupled to the toolbar via another suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, multiple pivot joints, etc.). In addition, in certain embodiments, the closing system arm may be translatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly (e.g., a linkage, a slide assembly, etc.), thereby enabling the closing system arm to translate relative to the toolbar. In addition, the closing system arm may be translatably and rotatably coupled to the toolbar via a suitable assembly, thereby enabling the closing system arm to translate and rotate relative to the toolbar.

In addition, the closing system178includes the frame116, as discussed above with reference toFIG.3, and the closing system arm174is rigidly coupled (e.g., non-movably coupled, non-rotatably coupled, non-translatably coupled, etc.) to the frame116. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system178includes the frame biasing element176coupled to the frame116and to the bracket104. The frame biasing element176is configured to urge the frame116downwardly relative to the toolbar28. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame biasing element176includes a single coil spring. However, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may include an alternative biasing device and/or additional biasing device(s) (e.g., leaf spring(s), pneumatic cylinder(s), hydraulic cylinder(s), resilient member(s), etc.) configured to urge the frame downwardly relative to the toolbar. Furthermore, while the frame biasing element176is coupled to the bracket104in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the frame biasing element may be coupled to the toolbar or to another suitable element rigidly coupled to the toolbar.

In certain embodiments, the closing system may include a frame adjustment assembly configured to control the downward force applied to the frame. For example, the frame adjustment assembly may include a series of openings disposed along the frame and a pin coupled to an end of the frame biasing element. The pin may be engaged with a selected opening to control the downward force applied by the frame biasing element to the frame. In other embodiments, the frame adjustment assembly may include other and/or additional elements to control the downward force. For example, if the biasing device(s) include pneumatic cylinder(s) and/or hydraulic cylinder(s), the frame adjustment assembly may include a valve assembly configured to control pressurized fluid flow to the pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder(s).

In the illustrated embodiment, the closing system178includes the closing disc arm122pivotally coupled to the frame116and closing disc(s)124rotatably coupled to the closing disc arm122. The closing disc arm122positions the rotational axis128of each closing disc124rearward of the blade102of the opener98relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. In addition, the closing system178includes the packer wheel arm136pivotally coupled to the frame116and the packer wheel134rotatably coupled to the packer wheel arm. The packer wheel arm136positions the rotational axis140of the packer wheel134rearward of the rotational axis128of each closing disc124relative to the direction of travel22of the row unit94. Furthermore, the closing system178includes the packer wheel biasing element142coupled to the packer wheel arm136and configured to urge the packer wheel134toward the soil, and the closing system178includes the closing disc biasing element130coupled to the closing disc arm122and configured to urge each closing disc124toward the soil.

Each of the functions and/or structures of the frame116, the closing assembly120, the closing disc arm122, the closing disc(s)124, the closing disc biasing element130, the packer assembly132, the packer wheel134, the packer wheel arm136, and the packer wheel biasing element142disclosed above with reference toFIG.3may apply to the respective elements of the illustrated embodiment. Furthermore, any of the variations of the frame116, the closing assembly120, the closing disc arm122, the closing disc(s)124, the closing disc biasing element130, the packer assembly132, the packer wheel134, the packer wheel arm136, and the packer wheel biasing element142disclosed above with reference toFIG.3may apply to the respective elements of the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the closing system178may include the closing disc adjustment assembly and/or the packer wheel adjustment assembly disclosed above with reference toFIG.3.

In certain embodiments, a linkage assembly may extend between the opener (e.g., the shank of the opener) and the frame/closing system arm. The linkage assembly may enable the opener to freely rotate through a range of motion in response to engagement of the opener (e.g., the blade of the opener) with an obstacle/obstruction. In addition, if the opener rotates beyond the range of motion in response to engagement with the obstacle/obstruction, the linkage assembly may drive the frame to rotate about the respective pivot joint. Accordingly, in response to the opener engaging certain obstacles/obstructions, the opener, the closing disc, and the packer wheel may disengage the soil. After the opener has cleared the obstacle/obstruction, the force/torque provided by the opener biasing element may drive the opener to rotate in the first direction, thereby driving the opener to re-engaging the soil, and the force/torque provided by the frame biasing element may drive the closing disc(s) and the packer wheel to re-engage the soil. By way of example, the linkage assembly may include a bar having a slot, in which the bar is coupled to the frame. In addition, the linkage assembly may include a pin coupled to the opener and disposed within the slot. The length of the slot may be selected to enable the opener to freely rotate through the range of motion before driving the frame to move.

In the illustrated embodiment, the row unit94including the closing system178is a seeding/seeder row unit, as compared to a planting/planter row unit. Accordingly, a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the opener98, and a storage compartment (e.g., hopper, mini-hopper, etc.) for agricultural product is not non-movably coupled to the frame116. That is, an agricultural product storage compartment is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes an agricultural product storage compartment, such as a hopper or a mini-hopper configured to receive agricultural product from a central storage compartment, non-movably coupled to the frame of the row unit). In addition, the seeding/seeder row unit94includes an opener98having a shank100and a blade102(e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a pair of opener discs). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, a metering device is not non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit (e.g., as compared to a planting/planter row unit that includes a frame-mounted metering device, such as a vacuum seed meter). However, in other embodiments, an agricultural product storage compartment may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit, and/or a metering device (e.g., seed meter) may be non-movably coupled to the opener or the frame of the row unit.

While the closing system includes a closing system arm174rigidly coupled to the frame116in the embodiments disclosed above with referenced toFIGS.5-6, in other embodiments, the closing system arm may be pivotally coupled to the frame. For example, in certain embodiments, the closing system arm may be a link of a linkage assembly (e.g., having one or more other links pivotally coupled to the bracket/toolbar and the frame). The linkage assembly may control movement of the frame relative to the tool bar. In addition, the frame biasing element may urge the frame downwardly relative to the toolbar.

While the row units disclosed above with reference toFIGS.2-6include a single opener, in other embodiments, at least one row unit may include multiple openers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or more). For example, with regard to the embodiment of the row unit disclosed above with reference toFIG.2, a second opener (e.g., including a shank and a blade) may be coupled (e.g., non-translatably and pivotally coupled, non-translatably and non-pivotally coupled, translatably and pivotally coupled, or translatably and non-pivotally coupled) to the packer wheel arm. An agricultural product tube (e.g., coupled to the second opener) may be configured to deposit agricultural product within a second trench formed by the second opener and, in certain embodiments, the closing disc(s) may be configured to close the second trench/break up the side wall(s), and/or the packer wheel may be configured to pack soil on top of the deposited agricultural product. Furthermore, with regard to the embodiments of the row units disclosed above with reference toFIGS.3-6, a second opener may be coupled (e.g., non-translatably and pivotally coupled, non-translatably and non-pivotally coupled, translatably and pivotally coupled, or translatably and non-pivotally coupled) to the tool bar (e.g., via the bracket104). The second opener may be positioned in front of the first opener along the direction of travel. An agricultural product tube (e.g., coupled to the second opener) may be configured to deposit agricultural product within a second trench formed by the second opener and, in certain embodiments, the closing disc(s) may be configured to close the second trench/break up the side wall(s), and/or the packer wheel may be configured to pack soil on top of the deposited agricultural product.

While only certain features have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

The techniques presented and claimed herein are referenced and applied to material objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the present technical field and, as such, are not abstract, intangible or purely theoretical. Further, if any claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as “means for [perform]ing [a function] . . . ” or “step for [perform]ing [a function] . . . ”, it is intended that such elements are to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claims containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).