Lee Lee Arbuckle

US Patent:

6868659, Mar 22, 2005

Filed:

Jun 12, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/460533

Inventors:

Lee Arbuckle - Billings MT, US
William E. Larsen - Bozeman MT, US
Brian W. Sindelar - Belgrade MT, US
Brad W. Wright - Belgrade MT, US
Stephen M. Sanford - Bozeman MT, US

Assignee:

Arbuckle Ranch, Inc. - Billings MT

International Classification:

A01D045/30

US Classification:

56130

Abstract:

An apparatus for harvesting the seed of native plant species with a cam mechanism that increases the zone of controlled brushing from a point of contact between the rotating brushes and combs to a four-inch span over which the rotating combs remain perpendicular to the surface of the brush while following an arc path nearly concentric to that of the brush shaft. The comb assembly consists of a belt stretched around a plurality of wheels and evenly spaced combs attached to the belt by a plurality of bars. The comb assembly pivots so that the distance between the rotating combs and rotating brushes can be adjusted to achieve maximum yield for a particular species. A method for harvesting native seeds using the harvester with the cam mechanism and adjustable comb assembly.

US Patent:

6640530, Nov 4, 2003

Filed:

Jan 26, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/771492

Inventors:

Lee Arbuckle - Billings MT 59102

International Classification:

A01D 4530

US Classification:

56130

Abstract:

A harvester includes a brush assembly having a plurality of flexible, radial bristles extending from a central axis of the brush assembly. The brush assembly is adapted and constructed for rotation in a first direction. A comb assembly having a plurality of axially extending combs mounted in a position spaced radially from and parallel to a central axis of the comb assembly is also provided. The comb assembly is adapted and constructed for rotation in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the brush assembly. A mounting assembly secures the brush assembly and the comb assembly such that the bristles of the brush assembly come into contact with the combs of the comb assembly when the brush assembly and the comb assembly are rotating. A method of harvesting of grass seeds while minimizing damage to the standing grass from which the seed is harvested is also disclosed.