Patent · US Expired

Agricultural apparatus with an automatic positioning mechanism and method

US4607716A · kind A · utility

28Cited by
7References
19Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateOct 14, 1983
Grant dateAug 26, 1986
Priority date
Expiry dateOct 14, 2003

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA01B69/004
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Automatic steering mechanism for use on apparatus for forming raised beds or ridges and furrows and lowered beds with uniform spacing with the apparatus being of a type comprising a self-propelled vehicle having a steering apparatus for steering the vehicle and a ground engaging implement carried by the vehicle for forming a guiding surface, such as provided by a ridge or furrow in the ground along the path of travel of the vehicle as the vehicle moves. The steering mechanism comprises a framework adapted to be secured to the vehicle. In one form, it also comprises a boom structure mounted on the framework for pivotal movement about a horizontal axis extending longitudinally of the vehicle; and an arm, pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of the boom structure for pivotal movement. A follower carried by the arm follows the guide surface formed in the ground. An electrical circuit is provided responsive to movement of said arm from its generally vertical position to control the movement of a steering assembly whereby movement of said arm causes operation of the steering assembly to automatically steer the vehicle in accordance with the movement of the follower. In another arrang…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.