Patent ID: 7360495

Claim:
An improved method of monitoring penetration of a planting unit into a ground surface comprising: a. engaging a planting unit with a ground surface wherein said planting unit has a planting unit frame and said planting unit frame is cooperatively engaged with a support member wherein the planting unit comprises: i. a seed trench opening assembly operable to create a seed trench in a ground surface; ii. a seed delivery assembly delivering seeds into the seed trench; iii. a seed trench closing assembly operable to close the seed trench; iv. a depth regulating member having a vertical position relative to said seed trench opening assembly, wherein said depth regulating member experiences an actual vertical force that controls ground surface engagement; v. a pivoting arm assembly connecting said depth regulating member to said planting unit frame; and vi. a stop means mechanically engaging a portion of said pivoting arm assembly for defining a limit for vertical motion of said depth regulating member in the direction substantially opposite said ground surface; b. applying down pressure to said planting unit to ensure penetration of said planting unit into said ground surface; c. allowing the planting unit to respond to terrain and elevation changes in said ground surface while maintaining a desired depth of seed placement during travel across said ground surface; d. controlling the down pressure applied to the planting unit; and, e. monitoring penetration of said furrow forming means into said ground surface wherein the depth monitoring means indicates engagement of said arm assembly with said stop means.