WO2010091469A2

WO2010091469A2 - Agricultural assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2010091469A2
Application number: PCT/AU2010/000148
Authority: WO
Inventors: Miles Christopher Ellery; Brett Mccouat
Original assignee: Ausinco Technologies Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2009-02-11
Filing date: 2010-02-11
Publication date: 2010-08-19
Also published as: WO2010091469A3; AU2010213359A1

Abstract

An agricultural assembly is disclosed. The invention comprises a plurality of components or assemblies able to be alternatively attached to an agricultural toolbar to form an assembly or series of assemblies able to meet the agricultural or cultivation requirements at the optimal level of performance. The assemblies typically comprise at least a rotatable hinged front mounting clamp bracket with an adjustable pivot block attached to the clamp bracket. The pivot block engages various stop adjustment wedges, allowing control of the lateral movement of the main extension arm assembly ensuring best performance in a variety of planting conditions. The pivot block assembly also houses the adjustment mechanism for specific regulation of a spring ram tensioning device that provides a calibrated download on the press wheel, ensuring optimal planting conditions. The length of the main extension arm assembly is also adjustable over a calibrated scale allowing easy and consistent adjustment for operating conditions. The press wheel has an offset hub capability which allows it to remove potential mud or soil build up while still allowing the press wheel to track straight in the furrow. The press wheel has attached to it a chain loop bracket with is mounted forward rather than aft, ensuring less inter-assembly fouling and allowing increased numbers of assemblies to be attached within a given cultivator frame. The chain loop is able to be stowed forward on the on the chain loop bracket further reducing fouling opportunities. The press wheel assembly has a mud scraping device which is adjustable in all dimensions and is calibrated to allow consistent adjustment for specific operating conditions. The depth drum, coulter disk and parallelogram assembly is designed to cut a furrow in the soil and to deliver seeds and fertiliser into the furrow at the optimal depth and relative distances. The depth drum and coulter disc can be raised and stowed easily for skip row operations or for transportation, the disc and most other components can be readily removed or replaced without disassembly or removal of the major components. The seed delivery boot and gas delivery system is easily installed and remains precisely located and at the correct depth to match the calibrated depth of the seed boot bottom and so the gas delivery system remains undamaged when drawn through the soil. The slimline tyne shank is designed to cut a furrow in the soil and to deliver seeds and fertiliser into the furrow at the optimal depth and relative distances. The device is able to accept a multitude of tyne types, including those required for simultaneous gas fertiliser delivery. The gas fertiliser delivery system is integrated into the slimline tyne shank, sowing boot and sowing point, ensuring optimal fertiliser delivery and longevity of the equipment. The tyne shank and seed boot are slim lined and low profile to minimise soil shatter and balling or build up of mud and stubble as the sowing point and tyne shank pass through the soil. An inter-row tyne with J knife point and integrated gas fertilizer delivery system is designed to cut a furrow in the soil and to deliver fertiliser into the furrow at the optimal depth and relative distance from adjacent planted seed. The gas fertiliser delivery system is integrated into the tyne shank, and enclosed by the J knife point, ensuring optimal fertiliser delivery and longevity of the equipment. The J knife point is slim lined and low profile to minimise soil shatter and balling or build up of mud and stubble as the sowing point and tyne shank pass through the soil. The double disc opener is designed to cut a furrow in the soil and to deliver seeds and fertiliser into the furrow at the optimal depth and relative distances. The device includes mud scrapers, double discs, seed boot and an integrated gas fertilizer delivery system. The gas fertiliser delivery system is integrated into the seed boot ensuring optimal fertiliser delivery and longevity of the equipment. The seed boot, seed boot bottom, discs, bearings, hubs, double stub axle, and seed boot guard are all able to be separately removed and replaced in the field by a single operator. The depth of all assemblies can be accurately and easily adjusted to a calibrated depth and the assembly can be fixed against its hard stop for easy stowage during transportation or when not required for operational use. The critical components normally subject to high wear and weather exposure are treated to ensure longevity in harsh operating conditions.

Description

AGRICULTURAL ASSEMBLY

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention.

This invention relates to an agricultural assembly.

The invention particularly relates, but is not limited to, an agricultural assembly having a plurality of cultivator units mounted on a toolbar; to the cultivator units; and associated equipment therefor.

2. Prior Art.

In the agricultural environment, when planting seeds for large scale applications such as commercial farms, a cultivator apparatus may be towed behind a tractor or fixed to the tractor's three-point linkage to create channels or furrows in the soil, which is followed by planting of a seed within the channel, which in turn is typically followed by a press wheel assembly to press down on the soil to cover the seed and firm down the soil to provide optimal soil conditions for germination. Usually, a plurality of cultivator units are attached to a toolbar that aligns the planter units and press wheels at selected distances apart from each other and that there are a number of toolbars mounted in parallel in a frame attachable to a tractor via a tow bar or three-point linkage.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

To achieve best utility from the cultivator in large commercial applications, the maximum number of planter and press wheel assemblies are attached to the frame in total. Typically, when there is a plurality of assemblies, operational adjustments between each of the assemblies is not consistent because there is no form of calibration of these adjustments. This results in non-uniform seed planting and pressing and thus uneven and diminished germination

It is therefore a preferred object of the invention to be able to connect the cultivator assembly to a plurality of toolbars in a frame by a mechanism that is easy to utilize and allows greater flexibility in mounting and adjusting the position of each assembly when there are multiple assemblies mounted on each tool bar. These accurate adjustments enable greater numbers of assemblies to be mounted per toolbar without increasing the likelihood of inter-assembly fouling and clashing either between assemblies on the same toolbar or between assemblies from one toolbar to another within a frame of toolbars.

The cultivator units are typically operated in large and often remote field situations where additional support is limited. Because there is operational benefit to attaching as many assemblies as possible to the toolbars and frames, the ability to have one operator easily and accurately attach these assemblies is important.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to be able to easily and accurately attach and detach these assemblies in the field by a single operator without the use of specialised tooling or large in-field support equipment.

Various types of press wheel arrangements, such as trailing press wheel gangs or individual frame-mounted press wheel assemblies have been utilized, but these types of arrangements are often not suited for uneven terrain and do not track well during turns. Individual press wheel assemblies are often cumbersome to use and expensive, and space limitations on the main frame can hinder proper placement. Typically, when there is a plurality of press wheel assemblies, operational adjustments between each of the assemblies is not consistent because there is no form of calibration of these adjustments. This results in non-uniform seed planting and pressing and thus uneven and diminished germination.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to overcome the uneven tracking of the press wheel on poor or uneven terrain and poor tracking during turns, as well as allowing the entire cultivator assembly to store effectively when folded for transportation. In one preferred form of the invention, lateral movement of the press wheel assembly is adjustable and controllable such that optimum tracking can be achieved for varying soil and operational conditions including long straight row formations or alternatively cultivation in smaller fields requiring curves or smaller radius turns. This same press wheel lateral control also allows the press wheel to be stowed for folded transportation without fouling or excessive wear. To enable the lateral movement of the assembly as described, it is necessary to provide a pivot point, which typically involves a boss and lugs connected by a bolt and nut. Because of the load and vibration demands placed upon press wheel assemblies, these pivot points suffer from increased compression pressure, friction and wear during continued operations, resulting in restriction of movement when tightened.

It is thus another preferred object of this invention to provide a pivot attachment method that enables superior strength and stability, while reducing tightening compressive pressures and friction, allowing better freedom of movement and reduced wear.

The large variety of soil conditions, crop types, tilling and planting methods require different press wheel applications and capabilities. Press wheel assemblies achieve the desired tamping of the soil in the seed furrow by applying specific pressures to a wide variety of size, width and shaped press wheels. Typically, press wheel assembly down-pressure is achieved utilizing extension or torsion springs which are subject to fatigue and breakage adjacent to the connecting or hooked end portions. The pressure applied is also un-calibrated and the subject of guess work or trial and error by the operator.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide a calibrated download on the press wheel to ensure optimal planning conditions, while providing a more stable and fatigue free adjustment mechanism.

Typically, the arms of press wheel assemblies have been able to be varied in length to accommodate varying operational soil and planting conditions. However, these adjustments have been adhoc and subject to guess work by the operator.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide an easy to use, fully adjustable and calibrated extension arm assembly to enable consistent longitudinal adjustments to be applied to suit all operational planting conditions encountered. These adjustments are easily completed and repeatable, enabling the operator to adjust the plurality of press wheel assemblies on even the largest of multiple in-frame cultivator assemblies. The calibrated longitudinal positioning, utilised in conjunction with the calibrated down load applied to the main extension arm, enable consistent, repeatable and exacting locational forces to be applied to ensure maximise planting conditions.

Soil can easily accumulate on and around the press wheel, especially in wet or muddy conditions, and it is necessary to continually remove these build ups to ensure continuous even pressure on the overlaying soil, and thus coverage of the seeds. A variety of mud scraping methods and mechanisms have been developed, but typically they have either provided insufficient adjustment, or it has not been possible to consistently adjust the mechanism for optimal performance.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide a number of methods to ensure that mud and soil does not accumulate on the press wheel. It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide an easy to use, incremental and calibrated adjustment mechanism within the mud scraper assembly.

The invention preferably includes the ability to change or rotate the press wheel axle hub assembly such that the press wheel can be set to track in a slight offset position, either left or right of centre, such that the movement of the press wheel as it tracks through and across the soil, skews any accumulated mud or soil from the press wheel thus keeping the press wheel free of soil build up. The assembly main extension arm and pivot mechanisms are designed such that when the press wheel is used in an offset position, there is suitable compensation applied and the entire main extension arm and press wheel assembly tracks longitudinally in a straight track. The invention also preferably includes an easy to use, incremental and calibrated adjustment mechanism within a mud scraper assembly to allow consistent and accurate locational positioning of the mud scraper relative to the press wheel, thus ensuring the press wheel is clear of build up and the optimum performance of the mud scraper and press wheel mechanism as a whole.

To gather and locate the disturbed soil and stubble from the tilling and planting process, and to even out the surface after the press wheel has traversed the pressed seed furrow, a solid chain loop is typically dragged over the ground immediately following the press wheel. The mounting bracket for the chain loop it typically positioned aft most of the press wheel, which increases the likelihood of inter-press wheel assembly fouling or clashing when there is a plurality of press wheel assemblies. To overcome this interference or fouling, the lateral distance between assemblies must be increased, reducing the number of assemblies able to be mounted on each toolbar and within the cultivator in total.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to position the chain loop mounting bracket forward of each press wheel axle to reduce the likelihood of inter-assembly fouling, consequently allowing a decrease of the lateral spacing between assemblies and thus increasing the number of assemblies able to be mounted on each toolbar and aboard a specific cultivator.

Cutting and lateral displacement of trash, roots and stubble from the tilling or sowing path is critical to effective planting and germination of the sown seed in agriculture. Typical depth drum and coulter disc assemblies are inefficient and do not adequately prepare the soil for the tilling or sowing process and allow build up of stubble and trash on the cultivator mechanism.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide a leading depth drum and coulter disc assembly that is effective in cutting and displacement of trash, roots and stubble from the sowing path as the assembly passes along the cultivation path.

Various types of ground engagement apparatus, such as depth drum and coulter disc are used to cut through the trash, roots and stubble within the soil to allow ploughing, sowing and planting mechanisms clearer and easier passage through the soil thus optimising cultivation and planting conditions. The assembly unit housing the depth drum and coulter disc are typically uncalibrated and difficult to attach, manage, adjust, stow and operate.

The depth of the coulter disc, and thus the cut that it produces, is critical for the correct location of the planted seed and thus the germination of the seed. Whilst many of the ground engagement apparatus have some form of adjustment, the adjustment is either too coarse to allow accurate depth management, or is not calibrated or easily reproducible across the great number of apparatus attached to large agricultural machinery systems. It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide a leading depth drum and coulter disc assembly that follows the contours of the ground to ensure even cutting depth.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide a suitably calibrated and easy to use depth selection and adjustment system to allow the depth of the coulter disc below the soil to be easily, accurately and reproducibly selected across a plurality of apparatus.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide an adjustment method to vary the download applied to the depth drum and to have the adjustment able to be easily, accurately and consistently adjusted.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide effective cutting and displacement of trash, roots and stubble at the necessary depth such that ground disturbance is minimised and planting efficiency is maximised.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide a break out mechanism that allows the ground engagement device to remain engaged in a variety of difficult cultivation environments, but which will lift over or move free of struck obstacles in the ground as it passes through the ground thus minimising possible damage to the ground engagement device or assembly.

Typically coulter disc and parallelogram assemblies allow for a tyne assembly to be attached to and integral to the break out mechanism, but in line with and directly aft of the coulter disc assembly. In some agricultural environments it is preferred that the tyne assembly be able to be offset from the lateral position of the coulter disc, allowing either the primary or a secondary tyne head, or both, to be operated simultaneously thus being able to apply seed or fertiliser through either tyne laterally displaced to the coulter disc.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to be able to provide a secondary tyne head that is able to be laterally displaced from the longitudinal line of the coulter disc and primary tyne head. It is also a preferred object of the invention that the secondary tyne head is able to be located either left or right or both left and right of the lateral position of the primary tyne head. It is also a preferred object of the invention that the longitudinal position of the secondary tyne head or heads is easily adjusted in the field by a single operator and the lateral adjustment is accurate and incremental and easily reproducible to enable consistent positioning of the secondary tyne head or heads.

When the depth drum and coulter disc are not required to be in an operational position, either when not required for use in skip row operations or during transportation, it is essential that the entire assembly be easily stowed such that ground engagement no longer occurs. Typically this is accomplished by either assembly removal or a locking mechanism. Typically this stowed position is a part of the standard adjustment system and is not easily located or achieved.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide an assembly uplock mechanism that allows the depth drum and coulter disc to be lifted and stowed easily and quickly and which can be achieved by a single operator in the field.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to provide a transportation or stowage capability such that stowage can be achieved without the coulter disc and the depth drums crossing over or fouling without having to remove either part of the disc assembly.

Soil can easily accumulate on and around the depth drum and coulter disc, especially in wet or muddy conditions, and it is necessary to continually remove these build ups to ensure there is no fouling of the depth drum or interference on the coulter disc. A variety of mud scraping methods and mechanisms have been developed, but typically they have either provided insufficient adjustment, or it has not been possible to consistently adjust the mechanism for optimal performance.

It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide a method to ensure that mud and soil does not accumulate on the depth drum and coulter disc.

During normal use, the coulter disc, in moving through the soil, is subject to gradual wear. Typically this wear causes the disc to reduce in radial size. As the diameter of the disc reduces the disc's position relative to the depth drum changes. Because this relative position of the coulter disc and depth drum is significant in the correct performance of the coulter disc, lateral adjustment of the position of the coulter disc is essential. It is therefore another preferred object of this invention to provide a method of adjusting the relative position of the depth drum and coulter disc by adjustment of the coulter disc lateral position. It is also another preferred object of this invention to provide a method of adjusting the lateral position of the coulter disc that is achievable by a single operator in the field and is accurately reproducible.

Attachment of the parallelogram assembly to a toolbar, or connection of additional cultivation or ground engagement devices or assemblies to a parallelogram assembly is typically difficult to achieve and can prove to be impossible by a single operator in the field. Consequently, altering or adjusting toolbar assemblies, adding or removing assemblies and altering the entire toolbar and cultivator assembly layout is difficult to achieve.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide a system and method of attachment, detachment and adjustment of a parallelogram assembly on a toolbar that is easy, reproducible and achievable by a single operator in the field. It is also another preferred object of the invention to allow ease of connection of additional cultivation units or ground engagement devices to the main parallelogram assembly without having to alter the layout or performance of the parallelogram assembly.

Various types of ground engagement apparatus, such as a tyne shank with leading disc or tyne shank alone, are used to create the channels or furrows in the soil into which the seed is planted, but these types of arrangements are often not suited to the wide variety of agricultural conditions encountered. Tyne shanks are typically not designed to minimise soil shatter which occurs as the tyne shank and seed boot pass through the soil in the process of creating the furrow and planting the seed. Tyne shanks typically cause soil shatter and clumping as their blunt leading edges are forced through soil above the sowing point which is cutting the planting furrow under the surface. Typically, tyne shanks are also not designed to reduce or limit the build up of mud on the leading edge of the tyne shank as it passes through wet or moist soil or the build up of stubble on the leading edge of the tyne shank as it passes through previously cropped fields.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to be able to minimise soil shatter, and mud and stubble build up on the leading edge of the tyne shank as it passes through the wide variety of soil, moisture levels and planting conditions encountered.

The depth of the sowing point, and thus the furrow that it produces, is critical for the correct location of the planted seed and thus the germination of the seed. Whilst many of the ground engagement apparatus have some form of adjustment, the adjustment is either too coarse to allow accurate depth management, or is not calibrated or easily reproducible across the great number of apparatus attached to large agricultural machinery systems.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide a suitably calibrated and easy to use depth selection and adjustment system to allow the depth of the sowing point below the soil to be easily, accurately and reproducibly selected across a plurality of apparatus.

When the sowing point is not required to be in an operational position, either when not required for use or during transportation, it is essential that the tyne and tyne shank be properly stowed to avoid damage and fouling. Typically this is accomplished by either tyne shank removal or locating the shank at the upper extremity of its range of operational movement. Typically this stowed position is a part of the standard adjustment system and is not easily located or achieved.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide a stop mechanism on the tyne shank to precisely limit the travel such that the exact stowage position is easily and always located, making stowage or parking of the tyne shank easily achieved by a single operator.

Delivery of the seed into the soil and provision of fertiliser through a gas fertilizer delivery system can occur separately or simultaneously depending upon the agricultural requirements. Typically, a single ground engagement apparatus is unable to provide for both delivery methods, or if it is able to, then the additional attachments required for the gas fertiliser delivery are poorly coupled with the apparatus and are normally manually attached to the outside of the tyne shank and sowing point. These additional protrusions cause increased drag and friction as the tyne shank and additional attached apparatus are dragged through the soil. Additionally, the extra protrusions and their attachment systems become easily worn and damaged, and tend to become loose, break off or need to be regularly replaced. When the systems become worn, the components tend to move around, thus not providing the specified or optimal distance between the planted seed and the gas fertiliser delivered into the adjacent soil. Additionally, should gas fertiliser delivery items, or part thereof, break off or become worn, the gas fertiliser delivery system becomes inefficient or ineffective as well as the gas leaking to atmosphere causing loss of fertilizer from the soil and possibly causing occupational health and safety issues.

It is therefore another preferred object of the invention to provide a ground engagement apparatus that is able to deliver the seed and gas fertiliser either separately or simultaneously, where the gas fertiliser system is integrated into the tyne shank and sowing point, is not subject to abnormal wear such that the seed and fertiliser delivery system becomes inefficient or ineffective and the distance between the planted seed and delivered fertiliser is always optimised.

It is also another preferred object of the invention to be able to easily select the delivery system required and thus the type of sowing point required, and to be able to remove and replace the sowing point without affecting operational efficiency of the entire seed or gas fertilizer delivery systems.

Various types of ground engagement apparatus, such as a double disc openers with leading disc or double disc openers alone, are used to create the channels or furrows in the soil into which the seed is planted, but this type of arrangement is often not suited to some agricultural conditions encountered. Typically, in fully developed farming country with friable soil, double disc openers are the preferred apparatus used, as they minimise soil shatter which occurs as the apparatus passes through the soil in the process of creating the furrow and planting the seed.

Inherent in the design of any double disc opener is a pair of angled discs that move together to cut into and thus create the required furrow in the soil. As a consequence of their passage through the soil, these angled discs are subject to a variety of loads, especially side loads. The angled discs then transfer these loads into their bearings and the housing that locates the stub axles where the disc hub and bearings are situated. In traditional designs the axle, hub and bearing assembly is a fixed part of the entire assembly. During normal use, the bearings and stub axles are occasionally sheared off when the double disc opener assembly strikes an object in the soil with significant force, or through normal wear, tear and fatigue. Because the typical assembly is a complete unit, the entire assembly will thus require replacement when damage occurs.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to have the stub axles, hub and bearing assemblies removable and replaceable as separate components in the field.

The double disc opener typically includes an integrated seed delivery system that terminates with a seed boot that is typically located at the rear, between the two discs of the double disc opener to allow immediate and accurate seed location in the furrow made by the discs. Typically the seed boot suffers significant wear as the bottom of the seed boot passes through the soil that is displaced by the two discs. This disturbed and accelerated soil impinges on the seed boot and causes the seed boot to wear and burr resulting in inferior seed placement as the inside of the seed boot is no longer smooth thus preventing easy seed flow though the tube. Typically the seed boot is a complete assembly and needs to be entirely replaced when wear causes unacceptable or inferior planting.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to reduce the wear on the seed boot and to be able to easily replace the worn section of the seed boot in the field.

The discs of the double disc opener are subject to normal wear as the apparatus is used in typical agricultural situations as they cut a furrow through the soil in varying conditions. Additionally, the axle stubs, hubs and bearings are subject so loads and wear in normal operations. The seed boot, as it passes through the soil and is impinged on by displaced soil during planting, is also subject to wear and tear. All of these components; the discs, stub axles, hubs, bearings and seed boots are thus subject to significant wear and tear and require removal and replacement at regular intervals. Typically it is difficult to access these items in the field, especially the pair of discs of the double disc opener, which are typically difficult to remove, either singularly or as a pair.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to make access to, removal and replacement of, the discs, stub axles, hubs, bearing and seed boot separately or of the entire assembly possible by a single operator in the field. The depth of the cut of the double disc opener and the seed boot depth in the furrow produced are critical for the correct location of the planted seed and thus the germination of the seed. Whilst many of the ground engagement apparatus have some form of adjustment, the adjustment is either too coarse to allow accurate depth management, or is not calibrated or easily reproducible across the great number of apparatus attached to large agricultural machinery systems.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to provide a suitably calibrated and easy to use depth selection and adjustment system to allow the depth of the cut of the double disc opener and seed boot to be easily, accurately, separately and reproducibly selected across a plurality of apparatus.

When the double disc opener is not required to be in an operational position, either when not required for use or during transportation, it is essential that the double disc opener assembly be properly stowed to avoid damage and fouling. Typically this is accomplished by either the double disc opener shank removal or locating the shank at the upper extremity of its range of operational movement. Typically this stowed position is a part of the standard adjustment system and is not easily located or achieved.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to provide a stop mechanism on the double disc opener shank to precisely limit the vertical travel such that the exact stowage position is easily and always located, making stowage or parking of the double disc opener assembly easily achieved by a single operator.

Delivery of the seed into the soil and provision of fertiliser through a gas fertilizer delivery system can occur separately or simultaneously depending upon the agricultural requirements. Typically, a single ground engagement apparatus is unable to provide for both delivery methods, or if it is able to, then the additional attachments required for the gas fertiliser delivery are poorly coupled with the apparatus and are normally manually attached laterally to the outside of the double disc opener assembly. These additional protrusions cause increased drag and friction on the agricultural assembly as additional attached apparatus and protrusions are dragged through the soil. Additionally, the extra protrusions and their attachment systems become easily worn and damaged, and tend to become loose, break off or need to be regularly replaced. When the systems become worn, the components tend to move around, thus not providing the gas fertilizer in the specified or optimal location relative to or within the furrow. Additionally, should gas fertiliser delivery items, or part thereof, break off or become worn, the gas fertiliser delivery system becomes inefficient or ineffective as well as the gas leaking to atmosphere causing loss of fertilizer from the soil and possibly causing health and safety issues.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to provide a ground engagement apparatus that is able to deliver gas fertiliser, where the gas fertiliser system is positioned onto and connected externally to the seed boot such that it runs down the rearmost face of the seed boot, clear of the seed boot but located securely onto the rear of the seed boot such that it does not interfere with the seed boot.

It is also a still further preferred object of the invention to be able to easily select the delivery system required, and to be able to remove and replace parts without affecting operational efficiency of the entire seed or gas fertilizer delivery systems.

It is significant to note the environment within which these cultivating apparatus operate, are maintained and stored. Typically such machinery is required to work in dry, hard, compacted and occasionally rocky soils or alternatively in sandy, loamy or clay based soils that are difficult to till when wet. The machinery often remains outdoors for long periods of time, exposed to the elements, and is rarely garaged. Maintenance on these types of machinery is infrequent at times, leading to rusting and seizing of components, and yet the cultivator assemblies are expected to continue to operate for extended periods in harsh environments despite the lack of care.

It is therefore a still further preferred object of the invention to provide a quality of manufacturing and a specific finish on critical components within the assembly such that the ruggedized and finished product is able to cope with the harshest operating and maintenance conditions and still function effectively over a longer period of time.

Other preferred objects will become apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To enable the invention to be better understood, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a 3D view of a press wheel assembly;

Figure 2 is a similar view, from the rear, showing the press wheel assembly attached to a section of a toolbar;

Figure 3 shows two 3D sectional views and two sectional side elevational views of a front mount hinged clamp bracket;

Figure 4 shows the hinged bracket assembly in an alternate and inverse position;

Figure 5 shows a sectional 3D view of an adjustable pivot block;

Figure 6 shows 3D views of wedges for use with the pivot block of Figure 5;

Figure 7 shows a further 3D view of the pivot block, with the tear drop pins exploded;

Figure 8 shows a sectional side elevational view of the pivot block and main extension arm;

Figure 9 shows a 3D sectional view and sectional plan view of the main extension arm assembly;

Figure 10 shows two side elevational views of the main extension arm assembly; Figure 11 shows a side elevational view of a press wheel;

Figure 12 shows two sectional elevational views of the main extension arm assembly fitted with a mud scraper;

Figure 13 shows a sectional 3D view and side elevational view of the lower end of the main extension arm;

Figure 14 shows a lateral adjustment mechanism for a scraper for the press wheel; Figure 15 shows two 3D sectional views of a chain loop for the press wheel; Figure 16 shows a sectional view of a hanging lug for the chain loop;

Figure 17 shows an exploded 3D view of the lower extension arm and the press wheel;

Figure 18 shows side and rear elevational views of a parallelogram and coulter disc assembly;

Figure 19 shows a side elevational view of the assembly of Figure 18 in the operating position;

Figure 20 is a sectional side elevational view of an adjuster arm for the assembly of Figures 18 and 19;

Figure 21 shows two side elevational views of the assembly in the operating position and in the stowed or skip-row position;

Figure 22 shows the assembly with a breakout assembly and tyne box attached thereto;

Figure 23 shows three views of the breakout assembly for the parallelogram assembly;

Figure 24 shows side and end elevational views of the breakout and tyne box assemblies;

Figure 25 shows a 3d view of a slim line tyne, with a sowing point omitted;

Figure 26 shows side and end elevational views of the tyne, with associated sowing equipment;

Figure 27 shows an end elevational view, and a sectional side elevational view on line A-A, of the tyne;

Figure 28 shows a side elevational view of the tyne attached to a cultivator via a tyne box;

Figure 29 shows five 3D views of a gas fertilizer sowing point;

Figure 30 shows a side elevational view and 3D view of a tyne with the sowing point of Figure 29; Figure 31 shows forward and rearward views of an inter-row tyne assembly;

Figure 32 shows side and end elevational views of the inter-row tyne assembly;

Figure 33 shows a 3D view of a double disc opener assembly;

Figure 34 shows three views of the opener assembly of Figure 33;

Figure 35 shows an oblique 3D exploded view of the opener assembly; and

Figure 36 shows a cut-away side elevational view of the opener assembly.

Any notations or dimensions shown on the drawings are by way of illustration only, and are not limiting to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Figure 1 shows a 3D view of a press wheel assembly which includes the hinged front mount clamp bracket, pivot block assembly, main wheel extension assembly, press wheel assembly and mud scraper assembly, to be hereinafter described in more detail.

Figure 2 is a 3D view that shows of the press wheel assembly attached to a truncated toolbar and positioned to follow a cultivator and planter on a separate toolbar.

Figure 3 is two 3D sectional views and two sectional side elevational views of the front mount hinged clamp bracket. The upper side elevational view demonstrates the two most typical sizes used for the invention, namely those designed to attach to a 100mm x 100mm or 75mm x 75mm toolbar. The upper 3D view demonstrates the hinged clamp bracket (1) in the closed position. The fixed bracket (2) has a D-fitting (3) that retains a pivoting bolt assembly (4) that engages within the hinged clamp bracket and is then locked into place to retain the entire bracket to the required toolbar by tightening of the attachment nut (5). The fixed bracket assembly also has toolbar locater lugs (6) that allow the hinged clamp assembly to rest upon the toolbar during mounting, locating and clamping operations. These lugs allow the single operator to rest the fixed bracket upon a toolbar whether the clamp assembly is upright or inverted during attachment or detachment operations. The third view shows the hinged clamp bracket (1) rotated to the open position away from the fixed bracket (2). In this view the engagement lug (7) that retains the pivoting bolt assembly (4) is more clearly demonstrated, and the rotation of the pivoting bolt assembly can be clearly seen.

Figure 4 demonstrates the hinged bracket assembly secured in its alternate and inverse position, which thus allows the operator to select their preferred attachment method.

Figure 5 has a sectional 3D view of the adjustable pivot block (8) which is attached at one end to the hinged front mount clamp bracket (2) and at the other to a trailing arm mechanism (9). The pivot block allows lateral movement about a vertical pivot (10) and vertical movement about a horizontal pivot point (11). The amount of lateral movement about the vertical pivot point is controlled by locating variously sized wedges (12) onto the hinged clamp bracket. These wedges restrict the lateral movement of the pivot block by varying amounts, the thicker the wedge, the greater the restriction and less lateral movement provided.

Figure 6 has three 3D views of typical wedges (12) that are used in the adjustable pivot block to vary and control the lateral movement about its pivot point. Also shown is the bolt hole (13) that attaches the wedge to the adjustable pivot block.

Figure 7 shows another 3D sectional view of the pivot block, this time with the tear drop pins (13) exploded. These pins are used to locate and attach the pivot block to the front mounting clamp bracket (2) and to the trailing arm assembly (9) as previously described. The tear drop pins pass through both sets of pivot points and are affixed to the clamp and pivot block by retaining bolts (14). Because the tear drop pins are affixed by said bolts, there is no requirement to retain the pins with a standard bolt and nut that would act as the pin or shaft in the pivot point. This eliminates any form of applied compression that would normally occur when the standard nut and bolt are tightened to ensure retention. The single sided tear drop pin affixing ensures superior strength and friction reduction without compromising freedom of movement or durability. The tear drop pins used also allow ease of removal for adjustment or maintenance.

Figure 8 is a sectional side elevational view of the pivot block (8) and main extension arm (9) assembly where the spring ram (15) attaches to a shaped bracket (16) via a series of attachment bolt locator holes (17) that enable location of the spring tensioning ram proving the required adjustment to and calibration of the spring tension applied to the attached main extension arm. The other end of the spring ram is attached to the rear of the main extension arm assembly (9). The assembly comprising the main extension arm and spring ram has three pivot points, thus translating the variable location of the spring ram within the shaped bracket into a calibrated and reproducible variable download to the main extension arm mechanism.

Figure 9 shows a 3D sectional view and a sectional plan view of the adjustable main extension arm assembly (9) comprising a grooved bracket (18) and main extension slide arm (19) where the main extension arm locates into and slides within the grooved bar allowing longitudinal movement and adjustment of the main extension slide arm. The grooved bar has a floating plate (20) and locating bolt (21). When the main extension arm is longitudinally located in a required position within the grooved bar, the locating bolt fastens and locks the main extension arm into place. The main extension slide arm contains a series of calibrated indentations (22) located variously along its length and marked according to the calibration scale, such that the position of the main extension slide arm within the main extension arm assembly can be determined and reproduced to ensure accurate and measurable longitudinal positioning providing for precision planting and ease of operation.

Figure 10 is two side elevational views of the entire main arm extension assembly depicting the main extension slide arm (19) in two positions within the grooved bar of the main extension arm (9).

Figure 11 is a side elevational view of a typical press wheel, showing the relative position of the mud scraper assembly (20) in relation to the other major components of a press wheel assembly.

Figure 12 has two sectional elevational views of the rearmost end of a typical main extension arm assembly showing the mud scraper (21) relative to the press wheel (22). The views show the mechanism by which the mud scraper is variously positioned along the lower end of the main extension arm (19) such that its position is adjustable along a notched and calibrated scale (23). Figure 13 has a sectional 3D view and a side elevational view of the lower end of the main extension arm (19) and the calibrated scale (23). The mud scraper stand arm (24) has notches locates along one side that fit precisely onto the calibrated scale lugs. Once accurately positioned on the scale, the mud scraper stand arm is able to be locked into position with a bolt (25). Precise positioning along the calibrated scale allows accurate and reproducible adjustments of the mud scraper ensuring ease of use and optimal operational performance in varied conditions.

Figure 14 shows the lateral adjustment mechanism which comprises the stand arm (24), lateral mounting arm (26), slide arm (27), scraper point mounting bar (28) and mud scraper point (29) which together allows consistent and accurate lateral positioning of the scraper against the press wheel.

Figure 15- is two sectional 3D views that show the chain loop (30) attached to the chain loop bracket (31). The second view shows the attachment of the chain loop mount bracket (32) to the lower attachment point (33) at the end of the adjustable extension slide arm (19). The chain loop mount bracket is attached forward of the press wheel, increasing the rearward clearance and allowing greater angular or lateral movement of the press wheel without clashing or interfering with other press wheel assemblies or components of the entire cultivator either in operation or when folded for transportation. Also shown on Figure 15 is the chain loop hanging lug (34) which retains the chain in its stowed position when not required for use or during transportation.

Figure 16 is a close-up sectional view of the chain loop hanging lug (34) with the chain loop (30) hanging from it in the stowed position. The forward position of the hanging lug and stowed chain loop ensures that the chain loop does not have to be removed when not in use or for transportation with the stowed chain in a fixed position that minimizes the chance of fouling or damage.

Figure 17 is an exploded 3D view of the lower extension arm (19) and press wheel (35) and axle (36) assembly. The design allows the press wheel axle hub (37) to be installed on either side of the axle bush (38) such that the press wheel can be set to track in a slight offset position, either left or right of centre, such that the movement of the press wheel as it tracks through and across the soil, skews any accumulated mud or soil from the press wheel thus keeping the press wheel free of soil build up. The assembly main extension arm and pivot mechanisms are designed such that when the press wheel is used to an offset position, there is suitable compensation applied and the entire main extension arm and press wheel assembly tracks longitudinally in a straight track.

Figure 18 is a side and rear elevational views of a typical parallelogram and coulter disc assembly.

Figure 19 is a side elevational view of the parallelogram and coulter disc assembly when in the operating position with the leading depth drum (39) rolling along at ground level and the coulter disc (40) operating below ground level. The sets of parallel arms (41) and the spring tensioning mechanism (42) enable the depth drum and coulter disc to follow the contours of the ground being cultivated while maintaining an adequate downward cutting force on the coulter disc. When the relative distance between the depth drum and the coulter disc needs to be varied, adjusting the cutting depth of the coulter disc in the ground to suit the cultivating conditions, the pressure release plate (43) is actuated, which releases the lock mechanism (44) from the adjuster arm (45) allowing adjustment of the cutting depth of the coulter disc against a graduated scale on the actuating arm.

Figure 20 is a sectional side elevational of the parallelogram and coulter disc assembly adjuster arm (45) which clearly shows the engagement of the lock mechanism (46) along the calibrated depth scale, the combination of which allows easy, calibrated and reproducible depth adjustment of the coulter disc.

Figure 21 has two side elevational views of the parallelogram and coulter disc assembly, the first showing the assembly in the normal operating position and the second in the stowed or skip row position. By placing the unit in the skip row position the assembly may remain attached to the agricultural cultivator toolbar assembly while being able to be operationally disengaged from the soil. This allows operators to either transport the assembly without dismantling, or to selectively engage and disengage assemblies to meet their cultivation needs. In the Figure, the hinged attachment bracket (2), which attaches the assembly to the toolbar, remains at the same height in either the operating or skip row positions. The raising of the assembly to the skip row position is achieved by releasing the top end of the spring tensioning mechanism (42) and repositioning it to the skip row attachment position (47) on the main assembly bar. Placing the assembly back into the operating position is the reverse of this process.

Figure 22 is a side elevational view of the entire parallelogram assembly when in the operating position with the standard break out assembly (48) and tyne box (49) attached. When the ground engaging unit encounters an obstacle such as a rock or stump, the device is pivoted upward and away from the obstacle by a break-away or breakout mechanism to thereby prevent damage to the ground opening tool. The break-away mechanism comprises a spring that applies a force independent of the parallelogram as a separate break-away unit. The break out assembly is attached to the parallelogram assembly by a pair of hinged clamps (50). The break out assembly can be used separately from the parallelogram assembly according to the cultivation conditions.

Figure 23 has three views of the breakout assembly separate from the parallelogram assembly. The first view is a side elevational view of the breakout assembly in the operating position with sowing tyne attached. The second view is a side elevational view of the breakout assembly in the transport position. The third view is an oblique 3D view of the breakout assembly in the operating position. The hinged clamps (50) attach the breakout unit to the parallelogram assembly on a precisely designed bar that allows full functionality of the parallelogram and breakout assembly without compromising operational capability. The breakout spring (51), breakout lever (52) and breakout linkages (53) allow the ground engagement device to pivot upward and away to thereby prevent damage to the ground opening tool. The break-away mechanism applies a specified force independent of the parallelogram. The tyne box (49) allows attachment of a ground engagement device such as a sowing tyne or double disc opening device to provide tillage and sowing as required by the operating conditions. The tyne box has a calibrated ground engagement device height and depth adjustment system that allows precise and reproducible adjustment across a plurality of devices. The second view shows the tyne box with the ground engagement device in the fully up or stowed position which is then locked into a precise position within the depth adjustment system.

Figure 24 has a side elevational and end elevational view of the breakout and tyne box assembly showing an offset tyne assembly with tyne attached. The offset tyne assembly (54) attaches to the breakout assembly and tyne box (49) at the lower section of the tyne box at the breakout linkages (53). The Figure depicts the offset tyne box with an inter row tyne (55) attached to the left side of the offset tyne box (54). Any variety of tyne assembly or other agricultural device may be attached to the offset tyne box on either side of the parallelogram assembly to meet the cultivation requirements of the operator.

Figure 25 shows a 3D view of a typical slim line tyne without a sowing point attached.

Figure 26 has both side and end elevational views showing the slimline upper tyne shank (56), hard stop (57), slimline lower tyne shank (58), sowing point boot (59) seed boot (60), gas fertiliser supply attachment pipes (61) and the twin calibrated tyne shank depth adjustment holes (62).

Figure 27 shows an end elevational view and a sectional side view through A-A. The end elevational view depicts the low profile and slim lines of the upper tyne shank (56), lower tyne shank (58), sowing point boot (59) and seed boot (60). The low profiles, slim lines and shaped leading edges all contribute to the reduced soil shatter, mud build up and balling of soil and stubble during cultivation. The sectional view depicts the gas fertiliser supply attachment pipes (61) and the internal channels (63) that deliver the gas fertilizer into the soil via the gas fertilizer sowing point that is located into the sowing boot (59). The view also depicts the integrated seed boot (60) that provides the delivery path through which the seed will be sown.

Figure 28 is a side elevational view with the slimline tyne shank (56) attached to a typical cultivator assembly via a tyne box (49). The second view is a 3D view that depicts the slimline tyne shank positioned within a tyne box and raised up against its hard stop in a transportation position.

Figure 29 shows five 3D views of a typical gas fertilizer sowing point that is located into the sowing boot for gas fertilizer delivery.

Figure 30 is a side elevational view and 3D view of the typical slimline tyne shank with gas fertilizer sowing point. The slimline tyne shank can accommodate various types of sowing points. The various sowing points are attached to the tyne by insertion into the sowing boot (59). A rubber grommet (64) is used to provide a gas seal between the tyne gas fertilizer outlets (65) and the gas fertilizer sowing point (66). The sowing point is then fixed by insertion of a locating pin (67). Locating of the sowing point into the lower tyne shank correctly positions the sealing grommets and sowing point such that the fertilizer gas flow is completely internal and passes through a fully integrated and sealed system until it reaches the outlets built into the sowing point. Because the slimline tyne shank contains the gas fertilizer delivery systems both integrated and physically within the lower tyne shank, sowing boot and sowing point, the slim profile of the lower tyne shank is unaffected by application of the gas delivery system and the optimal planting conditions and reduced drag and wear benefits of the slimline tyne shank are unaffected by the use of the gas delivery system.

Figure 31 shows forward and rearward isometric views of an inter row tyne assembly.

Figure 32 has both side and end elevational views of the inter row tyne showing the upper tyne shank (68), lower tyne shank (69), hard stop (70), J knife point (71) J knife attachment point (72) and J knife leading edge tungsten tiles (73). The figure also depicts the gas fertiliser supply hoses (74) gas fertiliser supply hose integrated retaining brackets (75) hose joiner (76) lower flexible hoses (77) and lower hose retainer (78). This figure provides a holistic view that depicts the invention for clarity, without specifying preferred embodiments.

The assembly is attached to a cultivator unit toolbar at the tyne box head (79) by the toolbar clamp (13). The depth of the fertiliser delivered is determined through adjustment of the tyne shank (76) within the tyne box head (79) and locating the tyne shank depth adjustment holes (80) against calibrated locating holes (81) in the tyne box head (79) and fixing the tyne shank in place with the locating pin (82).

Figure 33 is an oblique 3D view of a typical double disc opener assembly. This figure depicts the invention for clarity, without specifying preferred embodiments.

Figure 34 has three views of a typical double disc opener assembly. The first view is a forward elevational view, the second is a side elevational view and the third is a rearward elevational view of the entire assembly. Figure 35 is an oblique 3D exploded view of the entire double disc opener assembly. The main frame (83) has attached to it the mud scraper assembly (84). The double stub axle (85) attaches to the bottom of the main frame (83) and also includes the stub axles (86) on either side. The seed boot guard (87) fits onto the lower section of the double stub axle (86). The discs (88) fit on either side of the double stub axle and are held into place by the inner and outer bearings (89), hubs (90) and dust covers (91). The seed boot (92) and replaceable seed boot bottom (93) locate into, slide through and are held in place by the main frame.

Figure 36 is a cutaway side elevational view of the double disc opener where the near-most disc has been removed to display the components and assemblies there behind. The relative operating positions of the main frame (83) and seed boot (92) are demonstrated, especially showing the location of the lower segment of the seed boot bottom (93) immediately behind, and protected by, the seed boot guard (87) and also demonstrating both of their exact positions relative to the cutting edges of the disc (88).

It will be readily apparent to the skilled addressee that the present invention provides an agricultural assembly, and components and assemblies therefor, which have many advantages over the prior arrangements.

Various changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments described and illustrated without departing from the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An agricultural assembly comprising: at least one toolbar having attached thereto one or more components by at least a hinged front mounting clamp bracket; to which is optionally attached an adjustable pivot block; and optionally attached to said pivot block is an adjustable main extension arm assembly which includes at least one or more of an adjustable bent arm, a spring and tensioning mechanism, an axle, press wheel, chain loop mounting bracket, chain loop and/or adjustable mud scraper; or attached to said assembly is at least one of a parallelogram assembly, slimline tyne and shank, inter row tyne and/or double disc opener.

2. A hinged front mounting clamp for the assembly of Claim 1, wherein: the hinged front mounting clamp comprises at least a fixed bracket and hinged clamp bracket, wherein the hinged clamp bracket can be closed with and engaged upon said fixed bracket.

3. The hinged front mounting clamp of Claim 2, wherein: the clamp bracket can be specifically mounted to either a 100 mm x 100 mm or 75 mm x 75 mm toolbar, or other specified size toolbar as required.

4. The hinged front mounting clamp of Claim 2 or Claim3, wherein: said fixed bracket has a retaining mechanism and a pivoting bolt assembly that releasably engages with and locates the hinged clamp bracket to retain the entire bracket and mechanism to the required toolbar, allowing the hinged front mount clamp to be affixed by a single operator while providing the stability and rigidity required in operational use; and said fixed bracket has toolbar locater lugs that allow the hinged clamp assembly to rest upon said toolbar during mounting, locating and clamping operations.

5. The hinged front mounting clamp bracket of any one of Claims 2 to 4, wherein: the body of the fixed bracket contains locating lugs that allow attachment to a pivot block either upright or rotated to the inverse position, providing for the fixed bracket to rest upon a selected toolbar from above or drawn to the same toolbar from below during the process of being connected to said toolbar, enabling single operator affixing and positioning of the entire assembly.

6. An adjustable pivot block, wherein: said adjustable pivot block is attached to and retained by the hinged front mounting clamp bracket, said pivot block allowing the main extension arm assembly to move laterally, about said pivot block, wherein said pivot block lateral movement is controlled or adjusted by variable wedge insertion therein; and said adjustable pivot block is attached to said front mounting clamp bracket and retained by tear drop pins ensuring freedom of movement under load and operational conditions.

7. The adjustable pivot block of Claim 6, wherein: said adjustable pivot block includes a calibrated spring tensioning assembly comprising a shaped bracket housing a series of locator holes to enable location of the spring ram wherein said locator holes enable relocation of the spring ram therein proving the required adjustment to and calibration of the spring tension for and downward force on said attached main extension arm.

8. The adjustable pivot block of Claim 6 and Claim 7, wherein: the locator holes are proscribed in a calibrated curve that allows single operator relocation of the spring ram, said calibrated spring tensioning assembly having guides and calibration marks employed therein and thereon to ensure accurate and easy location of said spring ram.

9. The adjustable pivot block of any one of Claims 6 to 8, wherein: the calibrated spring tensioning assembly is attached to said adjustable pivot block and said main extension arm such that said calibrated spring tensioning assembly and main extension arm assemblies are free to rotate about two common points of attachment.

10. A press wheel main extension arm assembly, wherein: the press wheel main extension arm assembly comprises at least a front attachment point, a calibrated spring and tensioning mechanism, a grooved bar and an adjustable main extension arm and a rear axle mounting point.

11. The press wheel main extension arm assembly of Claim 10, wherein: the front attachment point is connected to a forward assembly, typically a pivot block, by such as a tear drop pin such that the freedom of movement of said front attachment point under load and operational conditions is not restricted.

12. The press wheel main extension arm assembly of Claim 10 or Claim 11, wherein: the calibrated spring ram tensioning mechanism spring tensioning assembly is attached such that said calibrated spring tensioning assembly and main extension arm assemblies are free to rotate about two common points of attachment forming a proscribed and calibrated arc of movement for said calibrated spring ram tensioning assembly and main extension arm assemblies, whereas movement along said proscribed arc provides for and maintains specified spring tension for the spring tensioning assembly

13. The press wheel main extension arm assembly of any one of Claims 10 to m

12, wherein: the main extension slide arm fits within and slides into said grooved bar, allowing longitudinal movement and adjustment of said main extension slide arm.

14. The press wheel main extension arm assembly of any one of Claims 10 to

13, wherein: the position of the main extension slide arm is adjustable over a calibrated range by defined locating holes and a locking mechanism, whereby the main extension slide arm position is able to altered to the required length easily and consistently by a single operator.

15. The main extension arm assembly of any one of Claims 10 to 14, wherein: the main extension arm assembly comprises at least a main extension arm, a main extension slide arm, an axle, a press wheel, a chain loop mounting bracket and an adjustable mud scraper mount.

16. The main extension arm assembly of any one of Claims 10 to 15, wherein: the press wheel has a removable and interchangeable hub such that it allows said press wheel to be set to track in a neutral position or offset to the left or right longitudinally causing it to skew and shed attached soil without affecting tracking capabilities.

17. The main extension arm assembly of any one of Claims 10 to Claim 15, wherein: the chain mounting bracket is attached to the press wheel and axle such that the bracket is forward mounted of said axle and clear of all other aspects of the entire assembly and furthermore has attached to it a chain loop that either trails during operation,

18. The main extension arm assembly of Claim 15 or Claim 17, wherein: the chain mounting bracket is alternatively temporarily mounted forward on said chain loop mounting bracket such that it is clear of said press wheel, mud scraper and mud scraper mount.

19. A press wheel mud scraper wherein: the assembly is attached to a press wheel chain loop mounting bracket and comprises at least a slotted main extension arm, a stand arm, a lateral mounting arm, a slide arm, a hook and a scraper.

20. The press wheel mud scraper of Claim 19, wherein: the stand arm is able to be located into the shaped grooved slot of the main extension arm of the mud scraper assembly such that said stand arm is movable along the length of said grooved slot allowing adjustment thereof whilst retaining said stand arm within said slot.

21. The main extension arm and press wheel mud scraper of Claim 10, Claim 11, or Claim 19, wherein: said extension arm has along its side a series of calibrated markings and corresponding locators pins wherein said locator pins are engaged by the lower portion of said stand arm such that as the stand arm is moved in said grooved slot the longitudinal position of said stand arm is nodally located along calibrated markings accordingly.

22. The press wheel mud scraper of any one of Claims 19 to 21, wherein: the stand arm is rigidly maintained at its calibrated position by a single bolt mechanism such that the position is also easily altered, adjusted to another required calibrated position and then locked into place again by said bolt mechanism.

23. The press wheel mud scraper of any one of Claims 19 to 22, wherein: the lateral position of said scraper is determined by lateral adjustment of said hook on said slide arm by lateral movement on said lateral mounting arm, such that it allows consistent and accurate lateral positioning of the scraper relative to the press wheel ensuring optimum mud removal for varying operational conditions.

24. A parallelogram assembly wherein: the assembly comprises at least a pair of parallel arms, a spring tensioning assembly, a leading depth drum and coulter disc assembly, a hinged mounting clamp system, a breakout assembly, a tyne box assembly and a download tensioning system.

25. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24, wherein: the depth drum is positioned in front of and proximate to the coulter disc such that their interaction is maximised; said leading depth drum being positioned immediately prior to said coulter disc such that said leading depth drum pushes down and out on agricultural stubble such that the combined effect of the depth drum and coulter disc is to cleanly cut the trash, roots and stubble and then displace such swarf as to maximise the tilling and sowing process while minimising soil displacement and shatter.

26. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24 or Claim 25, wherein: the relative lateral position of the depth drum and coulter disc is adjustable such that the adjustment of the lateral position of the coulter disc relative to the depth drums is achievable by a single operator in the field and is accurately reproducible.

27. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24, wherein: a coulter disc mud scraper and an interference depth drum clamp are provided to prevent mud and soil build up on the coulter disc assembly.

28. The parallelogram assembly of any one of Claims 24 to 26, wherein: the vertical location of said coulter disc can be easily adjusted by altering said download tensioning system, such that the relative position of said leading depth drum and said coulter disc is altered, thus providing accurate, calibrated and reproducible coulter disc cutting depths.

29. The parallelogram assembly of any one of Claims 24 to 26, wherein: the geometry of the parallel arm system provides for the relative vertical location of the coulter disc and depth drum to remain constant and follow the contours as it traverses varying cultivation surfaces and conditions.

30. The parallelogram assembly of any one of Claims 24 to 28, wherein: the spring tensioning system can be released and repositioned onto said parallel arm system such that said depth drums and coulter disc system move in unison and are held and stowed upward and clear of ground engagement without the coulter disc and the depth drums crossing over or fouling and without having to remove the either part of the disc assembly.

31. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24, wherein: the tyne head assembly comprises a primary tyne head and, if required a pair of secondary tyne heads, such that a secondary tyne head is able to be laterally displaced from the longitudinal line of the coulter disc and primary tyne head.

32. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24 or Claim 31, wherein: a secondary or offset tyne head is able to be located either left or right or both left and right of the lateral position of the primary tyne head; and the longitudinal position of the secondary tyne head or heads is easily adjusted in the field by a single operator and the lateral adjustment is accurate and incremental and easily reproducible to enable consistent positioning of the secondary tyne head or heads.

33. The parallelogram assembly of Claim 24, Claim 29 or Claim 30, wherein: the tyne head assembly includes a break out mechanism that allows the ground engagement device or devices to remain engaged in a variety of difficult cultivation environments, but which will lift over or move free of struck obstacles in the ground as it passes through the ground thus minimising possible damage to the ground engagement device or assembly.

34. The parallelogram assembly of any one of Claims 24 to 29, wherein: each of the depth drum and coulter disc are on separate, quick release axles such that their removal and replacement is easily accomplished.

35. The parallelogram assembly of any one of Claims 24 to 26, wherein: the parallelogram assembly of can be easily attached to or detached from an agricultural toolbar by a single operator by use of the hinged clamp system; and said hinged clamp system also providing for additional devices which are able to be attached to it at multiple points, either as part of said parallelogram assembly attachment system or at additional hinged clamping points.

36. A slimline tyne shank wherein: the slimline tyne shank comprises at least an upper tyne shank, a slimline lower tyne shank, a sowing boot, a sowing point, a sowing point saddle, a gas fertilizer delivery system, an upper shank hard stop and adjustment holes.

37. The slimline tyne shank of Claim 36, wherein: the upper tyne shank includes a hard stop that allows the entire tyne shank to be quickly and easily positioned when not required for operations or in a parked position for transportation; and said hard stop is in a consistent fixed position which allows the entire shank to be properly located and secured by a single operator.

38. The slimline tyne shank of Claim 36 or Claim 37, wherein: the upper tyne shank includes a pair of locator holes that are incrementally marked to allow an operator to accurately and consistently position the slimline tyne shank at exactly the correct height required for optimal planting depth in all types of planting conditions.

39. The slimline tyne shank of any one of Claims 36 to 38, wherein: the lower tyne shank and sowing boot are integrated, slim lined and shaped to reduce the overall profile of said lower tyne shank and sowing boot, and thus minimising soil shatter and balling or build up of mud and stubble as the sowing point and tyne shank pass through the soil.

40. The slimline tyne shank of any one of Claims 36 to 39, wherein: said lower tyne shank has a shaped leading edge which further reduces soil shatter and mud and stubble build up on said leading edge; and the reduced profile and integrated components of said slimline tyne shank reduces drag and wear of components and systems as said slimline tyne shank passes through the soil during cultivation operations.

41. The slimline tyne shank of Claim 36, wherein: the gas fertilizer delivery system is integrated into and is physically within the lower tyne shank, sowing boot and sowing point; said gas fertilizer delivery system contains attachment tubes built into said sowing boot allowing ease of connection to the external gas fertilizer supply system; and said attachment tubes pass the gas through internal channels within said sowing boot and into the integrated lower tyne shank, and then further into the sowing point via sealing grommets.

42. The slimline tyne shank of Claim 36 or Claim 41, wherein: the locating of said sowing point into said lower tyne shank correctly positions the sealing grommets and sowing point such that the fertilizer gas flow is completely internal and passes through a fully integrated and sealed system until it reaches the outlets built into the sowing point.

43. The slimline tyne shank of Claim 36, Claim 41 or Claim 42, wherein: said slimline tyne shank contains the gas fertilizer delivery systems both integrated and physically within the lower tyne shank, sowing boot and sowing point such that the slim profile of the lower tyne shank is unaffected by application of the gas delivery system and the optimal planting conditions and reduced drag and wear benefits of said slimline tyne shank are unaffected by the gas delivery system.

44. An inter-row tyne wherein: the inter row tyne comprises at least an upper tyne shank, a lower tyne shank, tyne head and toolbar attachment clamp, a J knife point, a gas fertilizer delivery system, an upper shank hard stop and depth adjustment holes.

45. The inter-row tyne of Claim 44, wherein: the lower tyne shank includes a hard stop that allows the entire tyne shank to be quickly and easily positioned when not required for operations or in a parked position for transportation; and said hard stop is in a consistent fixed position which allows the entire shank to be properly located and secured by a single operator.

46. The inter-row tyne of Claim 44, wherein: the tyne head and upper tyne shank each include a series of locator holes that are incrementally marked to allow an operator to accurately and consistently position the tyne shank at exactly the correct height required for optimal fertilizer delivery depth in all types of planting conditions.

47. The inter-row tyne of any one of Claims 44 to 46, wherein: the gas fertiliser system is integrated into the J knife point and shaped to reduce the overall profile of said J knife point, thus minimising soil shatter and balling or build up of mud and stubble as the J knife point passes through the soil; and said J knife point has a hardened and shaped leading edge which further reduces soil shatter and mud and stubble build up on said leading edge.

48. The inter-row tyne of any one of Claims 44 to 47, wherein: the reduced profile and integrated components of said gas fertiliser system and J knife point reduces drag and wear of components and systems as said J knife point passes through the soil during cultivation operations.

49. The inter-row tyne of Claim 44, Claim 47 or Claim 48, wherein: the gas fertilizer delivery system is integrated into said tyne and is physically enclosed by the J knife point; and said gas fertilizer delivery system contains attachment brackets built into said tyne head allowing ease of connection to the external gas fertilizer supply system.

50. The inter-row tyne of Claim 44, or any one of Claims 47 to 49, wherein: said attachment tubes pass the gas through the hose joiner and into the flexible hoses enclosed within said J knife point.

51. The inter-row tyne of Claim 44, or any one of Claims 47 to 50, wherein: accurate locating of the replaceable J knife point onto the lower tyne shank correctly positions the gas fertiliser delivery system such that the slim profile of the J knife point is unaffected by application of the gas delivery system and the optimal planting conditions and reduced drag and wear benefits of said J knife point are unaffected by the gas delivery system.

52. A double disc opener wherein: the double disc opener comprises at least a main frame, a double stub axle assembly, twin discs, hubs, bearings, seed boot guard, seed boot assembly and gas fertiliser system.

53. The double disc opener of Claim 52, wherein: the main frame upper shank includes a series of locator holes that are incrementally marked to allow an operator to accurately and consistently position the shank and main frame at exactly the correct height required for optimal planting depth in all types of planting conditions.

54. The double disc opener of Claim 52 or Claim 53, wherein: the main frame shank includes a hard stop that allows the entire main frame to be quickly and easily positioned when not required for operations or in a parked position for transportation.

55. The double disc opener of any one of Claims 52 to 54, wherein: the hard stop is in a consistent fixed position which allows the entire main frame and double disc opener assembly to be properly located and secured by a single operator.

56. The double disc opener of Claim 52, wherein: the main frame mud scrapers that operate on each disc are able to be readily and easily tilted out of the scraping plane of operation and located such that said mud scraper is completely clear of the disc that it scrapes.

57. The double disc opener of Claim 52 or Claim 56, wherein: the disc to be readily removed without disassembly or removal of the mud scraper.

58. The double disc opener of Claim 52, wherein: the double stub axles and seed boot guard are able to be attached to and removed from the main frame for replacement without loss of functionality.

59. The double disc opener of Claim 52 or Claim 58, wherein: the double stub axle allows further attachment of the seed boot guard such that the seed boot guard is positioned vertically below the double stub axle assembly to the correct depth to match the calibrated depth of the seed boot bottom, thus providing front edge impact protection for said seed boot bottom.

60. The double disc opener of Claim 52, Claim 58 or Claim 59, wherein: the stub axle assembly allows the double stub axle, double discs, hubs and bearings to be attached, connected and removed in the field by a single operator without affecting removal of the double disc opener assembly or main frame assembly.

61. The double disc opener of Claim 52, wherein: the seed boot is able to be inserted into and removed from the main frame by a single operator.

62. The double disc opener of Claim 52 or Claim 61, wherein: the seed boot comprises an upper segment and seed boot bottom such that said seed boot bottom can be easily removed and replaced in the field should it be subject to excessive wear.

63. The double disc opener of Claim 52, Claim 61 or Claim 62, wherein: the seed boot is integrated into it a rear attachment system allowing ease of connection of an external gas fertilizer delivery system.

64. The double disc opener of Claim 52, or any one of Claims 61 to 63, wherein: the gas fertilizer delivery system is attached to the seed boot and seed boot bottom such that the seed boot, seed boot bottom and seed boot guide provide both attachment of the gas delivery system to the seed boot assembly and protection of the gas fertilizer delivery system when the seed boot and gas fertiliser system is moving through the soil.

65. The double disc opener of Claim 52, or any one of Claims 61 to 64, wherein: the gas delivery system remains precisely located and undamaged when drawn through the soil, and thus provides fertilizer for optimal planting conditions without wear of external components.