Method and apparatus for planting seedlings
US4323019A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 1979 |
| Grant date | Apr 6, 1982 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 1999 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01C11/02
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided for planting tree seedlings or the like. The apparatus includes an elongate tube, and a pair of blades pivotally mounted to the lower end of the tube. The blades are each pivotal between a closed position closing the lower end of the tube, and an open position wherein the lower end of the tube is open. In use, the lower end of the tube is rotatably advanced into the soil, with the rotating blades acting to pulverize the surrounding soil. Also, the blades will be pivoted to the closed position by the resistance of the soil, to prevent the soil from entering the tube. A seedling is then deposited downwardly through the tube, and the tube is rotated in the reverse direction to withdraw the tube from the soil. During reverse rotation, the blades pivot to their open position to permit the tube to lift from the seedling, and act to press and compact the soil about the roots of the seedling.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.