Pioneer Hi-bred International, Inc.

David C Smith

Daniel M Goldman

Jason J Kelsick

Joseph Kevin Gogerty

James L Hunter

Joshua Luke Mongan

Timothy P Meyer

Loren Steenhoek

Barry Stott

Timothy J Wilhelm

Kent Hoeppner

Matthew K Glendenning

David E Johnson

Kent L Hoeppner

Barry L Stott

The invention is directed to an apparatus, method and system for a seed planter. The seed planter has a planting, dispensing and metering assembly operatively attached to a mobile supporting structure. The metering assembly has separated seed pre-staging and/or staging positions for staging pre-specified counts of seed separated from other counts in the batch and maintaining separation of the pre-specified counts of seed from other counts in the batch for planting. Alternatively, the metering assembly has separated seed staging positions for staging a batch of seed in singulated form for planting.

Seed planter

An automated seed detection and planting synchronization apparatus, method and system is disclosed. The invention includes a seed detection protocol configured to monitor a derived metric equated to timing of movement of a seed carried by a seed metering unit from a seed pick-up to seed drop point. For controlling synchronization of planting of seed, a seed metering unit empty notification signal is provided if the derived metric is satisfied and sensor readings confirm the absence of seed in the seed metering unit.

Automated seed detection and planting synchronization apparatus, method and system

Growing community of inventors

Ankeny, IA, United States of America

David C Smith