Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MULCHING STUBBLE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to agriculture and in particular to soil
cultivation.
The invention has been developed primarily as a method and apparatus for
cutting post-
harvest crop stubble and will be described hereinafter with reference to this
application.
However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this
particular field of
use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way
be
considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part
of the
common general knowledge in the field.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least
one of the
disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.
It is an object of the invention in its preferred form to provide a method and
apparatus
for cutting post-harvest crop stubble.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to an aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for
cutting post-
harvest crop stubble, the apparatus including:
a support frame;
a plurality of layover bars coupled to the frame for laying over the stubble;
and
a plurality of cutting discs for cutting the stubble.
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Preferably, each of the layover bars is associated with a respective one of
the cutting
discs. In use, the layover bars preferably precede the cutting discs and are
angled
sideward across the path of the cutting discs such that stubble can be laid
over and cut by
the cutting discs. In use, the layover bars preferably precede the cutting
discs and are
angled sideward across the path of the cutting discs such that the layover
bars first
engage the stubble and further forward movement of the layover bars directs
the stubble
to one side, thereby laying over the stubble.
Preferably, the layover bars are pivotally coupled to the frame. In use, the
layover bars
are preferably biased by gravity to a downward operative position. In use, a
first layover
bar, is preferably pivotally coupled to the frame such that engagement of the
first
layover bar with an unyielding feature located on the ground temporarily
pivots the first
layover bar upward. More preferably, each of the layover bars is releasablly
coupled to
the frame. Most preferably, each of the layover bars transition from a
coupling to the
frame downwardly and away from a direction of travel during use, such that a
substantially smooth transitioned engagement can be presented to the stubble.
Preferably, the cutting discs are substantially circular. More preferably,
each of the
cutting discs is orientated to respectively define substantially parallel
planes, such that in
use they come into to cutting engagement with laid over stubble. More
preferably,
cutting disc angle is adjustable. Most preferably, cutting disc downward
pressure is
adjustable.
Preferably, each of the cutting discs is rotateably coupled to the frame. More
preferably,
each of the cutting discs is self sharpening. Most preferably, the cutting
discs are each
coupled to a pivot arm of the frame. The pivot arm being preferably biased to
a
downward operative position, for enabling engaging cutting contact between
each of the
cutting discs and the ground during use. The pivot arm being preferably
adapted to
temporarily pivot upwardly, upon engagement of a first cutting disc with an
unyielding
feature on the ground. Cutting disc downward pressure is preferably
adjustable. Cutting
disc downward pressure is preferably adjustable by hydraulic depth control
across the
width of the machine.
Preferably, the apparatus includes a plurality of wheels coupled to the frame
for
supporting the frame during use. The relative height of the coupling of the
layover bars
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to the wheels is preferably adjustable. The relative height of the cutting
discs to the
wheels is preferably adjustable. More preferably, during use, the relative
height of the
cutting discs to the wheels is preferably set such that the cutting discs
penetrate the
ground for enabling cutting of the stubble.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of
example
only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an apparatus for cutting post-harvest
crop
stubble according to the invention;
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the apparatus of FIG 1;
FIG. 3 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG 1;
FIG. 4 is a plan view of the apparatus of FIG 1;
FIG. 5 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG 1, shown attached to a tractor;
FIG. 6 is a perspective schematic view of the apparatus of FIG 1, shown laying
over and cutting of post-harvest crop stubble; and
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for a method of cutting post-harvest crop stubble
according to
the invention.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
Referring to the figures, there is disclosed an embodiment apparatus 100 for
cutting
post-harvest crop stubble. The apparatus includes: a support frame 110; a
plurality of
layover bars 120 coupled to the frame for laying over the stubble; and a
plurality of
cutting discs 130 for cutting the stubble. It will be appreciated that the
apparatus is
suitable for laying over and cutting straw stubble.
FIGs 1 though 4 show, an embodiment apparatus 100 for cutting post-harvest
crop
stubble. The frame 110 is adapted for towing behind (or being pulled by) a
tractor, or
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similar heavy machinery. It would be appreciated that alternative means of
moving the
apparatus may be used.
In this embodiment, each layover bars 120 is associated with a respective one
of the
cutting discs 130. However, as the purpose for the layover bars is to lay the
stubble over
across the path of the cutting discs, and as that the spacing of the cutting
discs determine
the typical cut length of the stubble, a different ratio (or association) may
be used
between layover bars and cutting discs. It will be appreciated that, the
purpose for the
layover bars is to lay the stubble over across the path of the cutting discs,
and that the
layover bars need not specifically cross the path of the cutting discs or
comprise a 1:1
ratio between the layover bars and the cutting discs.
By way of example, each of the layover bars 120 has a leading arcuate portion
124 and a
substantially straight trailing portion 126. Each layover bars 120 is further
angled
sideward, with respect to the apparatus intended direction of travel, across
the path of the
cutting discs.
In use, the layover bars 120 preferably precede the cutting discs, and are
angled
sideward across the path of the cutting discs, wherein the layover bars first
engage the
stubble such that forward movement of the layover bars directs the stubble to
one side,
thereby laying over the stubble. The stubble is laid over and cut by the
cutting discs.
The layover bars preferably transition - from their coupling to the frame -
downwardly
and away from an intended direction of travel during use, such that a
substantially
smooth transitioned engagement can be presented to the stubble.
By way of example, each of the layover bars 120 are pivotally coupled 122 to
the
frame 110, and are biased by gravity to a downward operative position. As best
shown
in FIG. 3, when used in an intended direction 350, this pivotal coupling and
bias enables
the layover bars to temporarily pivot upward 320 and 322 (with respect to the
frame)
when it come in contact with an unyielding feature (not shown) located on the
ground.
Each of the layover bars can be releasablly coupled to the frame for
facilitating
replacement upon damage or excessive wear.
In this embodiment, each of the cutting discs 130 are substantially circular,
and are
orientated in a substantially parallel planes - such that in use they come
into to cutting
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engagement with laid over stubble. Cutting disc angle can be adjusted along
with the
downward pressure applied for cutting. Each cutting disc 130 is rotatably
mounted to
the frame 110 by a fixing 132. The cutting discs can be self sharpening.
By way of example, the cutting discs 130 are coupled to a pivot arm 112 of the
frame 110. The pivot arm pivots about a pin 114 and being biased to a downward
operative position by a compression spring 116. The bias further enables
improved
cutting engagement between the cutting disc and the ground during use. As best
shown
in FIG. 3, the pivot arm adapted to temporarily pivot upwardly 312 (against
the
bias 316) upon engagement of a cutting disc with an unyielding feature (not
shown) on
the ground. Cutting disc downward pressure is thereby adjustable by setting
the bias
force exerted by the compression spring 116. Cutting disc downward pressure
can be
adjusted by hydraulic depth control across the width of the machine.
FIG 5 and FIG. 6 show an embodiment apparatus 100 in use, being towed by a
tractor
560 in an intended direction (indicated by arrow 550). The apparatus includes
a
plurality of wheels 540 that engage the ground 542 in a conventional manner,
for
enabling the apparatus to move along the ground while maintaining a height
there above.
The height of the frame above the ground is set such that a layover bar 120
(typically the
and substantially straight trailing portion 126) moved across (above or
proximal to or in
contact with) the ground, and a portion 534 of the cutting disc 130 penetrates
the ground
for improved cutting of stubble. The relative height of the coupling of the
layover bars
to the wheels can be adjusted or set. The relative height of the cutting discs
to the
wheels is also preferably adjustable. During use, the relative height of the
cutting discs
to the wheels is preferably set such that the cutting discs penetrate the
ground for
enabling cutting of the stubble.
FIG. 6 shows a is a perspective schematic 600 of the apparatus 100 laying over
and
cutting of post-harvest crop stubble. In this embodiment, the apparatus is
being moved
in the direction 650. The layover bars 120 preferably precede the cutting
discs, and are
angled sideward across the path of the cutting discs 130. The layover bars can
first
engage the stubble (at 660a) such that forward movement of the layover bars
directs the
stubble to one side (at 660b), thereby ultimately laying over the stubble (at
660c). The
stubble being laid over (at 660d) is then cut (at 660e and 6600 by the cutting
discs. The
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layover bars, while being angled sideward across the path of the cutting
discs, preferably
transition downwardly and away from a direction of travel during use 650, such
that a
substantially smooth transitioned engagement can be presented to the stubble.
The
cutting disc can be spacing across the direction of travel to enable the
stubble to be cut
and segmented such that a relatively evenly distribution of cut stubble
segments
FIG. 7 shows an embodiment flowchart 700 for a method of cutting post-harvest
crop
stubble, as herein described. The method comprises the steps of:
STEP 710: providing an apparatus (for example apparatus 100) as herein
described;
STEP 730: move the apparatus in an intended direction for cutting post-harvest
crop stubble;
STEP 740: using the apparatus for laying over the stubble;
STEP 750: using the apparatus for cutting the stubble.
By way of example only, the method can include adjusting or setting (STEP 720)
any
one or more of the following:
> cutting disc angle;
A cutting disc spacing;
A cutting disc downward pressure;
A relative height of the layover bars;
A relative height of the cutting discs; and
> relative height of the frame.
In an embodiment, by way of example only, any one or more of the following set
of
configurable features may be user adjustable. Similarly, in an alternative
embodiment,
by way of example only, any one or more of the following set of configurable
features
may be factory set (i.e. not adjustable).
> cutting disc angle;
A cutting disc spacing;
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A cutting disc downward pressure;
A relative height of the layover bars;
A relative height of the cutting discs; and
A relative height of the frame.
In an embodiment, by way of example only, the apparatus lays stubble across
the front
of one or more self-sharpening cutting disc (or coulters), wherein the stubble
is cut by
the discs in situ, and thereby left relatively evenly distributed across the
soil surface. A
130mm disc spacing can be used to enable a relatively evenly distribution of
cut stubble
segments across the soil surface. It will be appreciated that relatively low
soil
compaction occurs during this method of operation. The cutting discs have an
adjustable
cutting angle, down pressure and cutting depth (typically using hydraulic
depth control).
The discs can be adjusted to enable a full cut-out of weeds at a shallow depth
as well as
straight-line cutting.
It will be appreciated that the illustrated apparatus can provide hydraulic
depth control
across the width of the machine, with adjustable disc angle and down pressure.
The
result of using the apparatus can provide that more post-harvest crop stubble
(or trash) is
cut and remains evenly distributed, which can significantly reduced fire risk.
The
illustrated apparatus is suitable for management of post-harvest straw
stubble.
There are significant advantages in using the disclosed apparatus and a method
of
operation thereof. These advantages can include any one or more of the
following:
A the disclosed apparatus lays stubble to one side;
A stubble is cut and/or bruised in short lengths with self-sharpening discs;
A stubble is relatively evenly distributed across the soil surface, with
relatively low
soil disturbance;
> stubble crown remains in the soil, which can facilitate stubble retention
and
reduced risk of wind erosion;
A cut stubble can improve soil moisture retention;
A cut stubble can improve organic matter in the soil;
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A cut stubble can reduce fertilizer and chemical costs;
It will be appreciated that the illustrated apparatus can also provide any one
or more of
the following benefits:
A relatively simple, fast and efficient management of post-harvest crop
stubble (or
trash);
A relatively low energy (about 7 to 9kw/m on level country) requirements;
A results in a relatively low soil disturbance;
A provides a relatively even distribution of trash;
A provides conditions for relatively low wind erosion.
It will be appreciated that the illustrated apparatus cuts post-harvest crop
stubble for
mulching. A method of cutting post-harvest crop stubble is also disclosed.
Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples,
it will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in
many other
forms.
Interpretation
Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment"
means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in
connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in
various
places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the
same
embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or
characteristics
may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of
ordinary skill
in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.
In the claims below and the description herein, any one of the terms
comprising,
comprised of or which comprises is an open term that means including at least
the
elements/features that follow, but not excluding others. Thus, the term
comprising,
when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to the
means or
elements or steps listed thereafter. For example, the scope of the expression
a device
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comprising A and B should not be limited to devices consisting only of
elements A and
B. Any one of the terms including or which includes or that includes as used
herein is
also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features
that follow the
term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means
comprising.
Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term coupled, when used in the claims,
should not
be interpreted as being limitative to direct connections only. The terms
"coupled" and
"connected", along with their derivatives, may be used. It should be
understood that
these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Thus, the scope of
the
expression a device A coupled to a device B should not be limited to devices
or systems
wherein an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B.
It means
that there exists a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be
a path
including other devices or means. "Coupled" may mean that two or more elements
are
either in direct physical, or that two or more elements are not in direct
contact with each
other but yet still co-operate or interact with each other.
As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives
"first",
"second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that
different
instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply
that the
objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally,
spatially, in ranking,
or in any other manner.
As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of terms "horizontal",
"vertical",
"left", "right", "up" and "down", as well as adjectival and adverbial
derivatives thereof
(e.g., "horizontally", "rightwardly", "upwardly", etc.), simply refer to the
orientation of
the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader,
or with
reference to the orientation of the structure during nominal use, as
appropriate.
Similarly, the terms "inwardly" and "outwardly" generally refer to the
orientation of a
surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as
appropriate.
Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary
embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes
grouped
together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the
purpose of
streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of
the various
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inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be
interpreted as
reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than
are
expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect,
inventive
aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed
embodiment. Thus,
the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly
incorporated into this
Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate
embodiment of
this invention.
Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not
other
features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different
embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form
different
embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the
following
claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.
Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as a method or
combination
of elements of a method that can be implemented by a processor of a computer
system or
by other means of carrying out the function. Thus, a processor with the
necessary
instructions for carrying out such a method or element of a method forms a
means for
carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element
described
herein of an apparatus embodiment is an example of a means for carrying out
the
function performed by the element for the purpose of carrying out the
invention.
In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth.
However, it is
understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these
specific
details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques
have not
been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this
description.
Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred
embodiments
of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and
further
modifications may be made thereto, and it is intended to claim all such
changes and
modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any
formulas given
above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality
may be
added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged
among
functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within
the scope
of the present invention.
