Seed grain conditioning apparatus
US4993316A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 1990 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB02B1/04
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for automatically increasing the moisture content of seed grain up to a target moisture content preparatory to planting in order to promote early germination of the seed grain. The apparatus includes a hopper for holding untreated seed grain, a grain conveying means for transfer of the grain from the hopper past a moisture sensing station, a seed grain wetting station, a mixing area, and a discharge chute for discharge of treated seed grain. The moisturizing medium can be water alone or water mixed with other suitable ingredients such as nutrients or a surfactant. At the moisture sensing station, the moisture of the untreated seed grain is continuously monitored. A calibrated moisture sensor generates an electronic signal proportionate to the moisture content of the seed grain. This signal is used to control the application rate of the wetting mixture. The rate can be controlled by varying the speed with which the seed grain passes the wetting station, or by varying the amount of moisture applied to seed grain passing at a constant rate, or a combination of the two. The seed grain is thoroughly mixed with the applied moisture prior to discharge through the discharge ch…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.