app2017 example

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<invention-title id="d2e43">Gardening Tool</invention-title>
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<abstract id="abstract">
<p id="p-0001" num="0000">A gardening tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. An arm attachment portion is coupled substantially at the first end of the elongated body. The arm attachment portion is configured to at least partly wrap around a user's forearm. The tool also includes a pivotally adjustable handle that is coupled to and extends substantially laterally from the elongated body. The handle is disposed between the first and the second end of the elongated body. The tool further includes a pad that is coupled to the elongated body. The pad is disposed between the handle and the arm attachment portion, and its position is adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated portion. A adapter mechanism is disposed at the second end of the elongated body. The adapter mechanism is configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads.</p>
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<description id="description">
<?summary-of-invention description="Summary of Invention" end="lead"?>
<heading id="h-0001" level="1">FIELD OF THE INVENTION</heading>
<p id="p-0002" num="0001">The invention generally relates to gardening and, more particularly, the invention relates to tools having auxiliary features for those with mobility limitations.</p>
<heading id="h-0002" level="1">BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION</heading>
<p id="p-0003" num="0002">Gardening is an activity that provides a number of physical and mental benefits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, walking and gardening are the most popular physical activities among adults age 65 and older. Unfortunately, many of these individuals suffer from underlying health conditions and mobility issues that make it difficult to garden. Arthritis is one such condition, and is estimated to affect one out of five adults in the United States. Approximately 52.5 million adults in the United States suffer from arthritis and are unable to garden without discomfort.</p>
<heading id="h-0003" level="1">SUMMARY OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS</heading>
<p id="p-0004" num="0003">In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a gardening tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. An arm attachment portion is coupled substantially at the first end of the elongated body. The arm attachment portion is configured to at least partly wrap around a user's forearm. The tool also includes a pivotally adjustable handle that is coupled to and extends substantially laterally from the elongated body. The handle is disposed between the first and the second end of the elongated body. The tool further includes a pad that is coupled to the elongated body. The pad is disposed between the handle and the arm attachment portion, and its position is adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated portion. An adapter mechanism is disposed at the second end of the elongated body. The adapter mechanism is configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads.</p>
<p id="p-0005" num="0004">The adapter mechanism may be spring loaded. The adapter mechanism may include a first portion on the tool head and a second portion on the elongated body. The user can release the tool head from the gardening tool by applying a force on the tool head directed substantially towards the first end. The user then applies a rotational force on the tool head directed substantially around the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. The user may then apply a force on the tool head directed substantially away from the first end. In some embodiments, the user may additionally, or alternatively, press a release button to release the tool head.</p>
<p id="p-0006" num="0005">The position of one or more of the handle, the pad and the arm attachment portion may be adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the gardening tool. The length of the elongated body may be adjustable. In some embodiments, adjusting the length of the elongated body moves at least one of the arm attachment portion, the handle, the pad, or the adapter mechanism relative to the others. Furthermore, the handle may be pivotally adjustable while translationally fixed on the elongated body.</p>
<p id="p-0007" num="0006">In some embodiments, the arm attachment portion comprises a strap. The strap may wrap around the user's arm. To that end, the strap may include Velcro.</p>
<p id="p-0008" num="0007">In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a method of gardening provides a gardening tool. The gardening tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. An arm attachment portion configured to at least partly wrap around a user's forearm is coupled to the elongated body, and the arm attachment portion is disposed substantially at the first end of the elongated body. The tool also includes a pivotally adjustable handle coupled to and extending substantially laterally from the elongated body. The handle is disposed between the first end and the second end of the elongated body. The gardening tool may also include a pad coupled to the elongated body. The pad may be disposed between the handle and the arm attachment portion, and the position of the pad may be adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated body. An adapter mechanism may be disposed at the second end of the elongated body, the adapter mechanism may be configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads. The method attaches a user's arm to the arm attachment portion and rests the user's arm on the pad. The user grips the handle with his/her hand and applies a force to the gardening tool.</p>
<p id="p-0009" num="0008">In some embodiments, the handle is configured to be gripped with a neutral hand grip. The user may adjust the pivot of the handle and/or the length of the elongated body. The gardening tool also may have LED lights that may be activated by a user.</p>
<p id="p-0010" num="0009">To release the tool head, the user may apply a force on the tool head directed substantially towards the first end, apply a rotational force on the tool head directed substantially around the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, and apply a force on the tool head directed substantially away from the first end. In some embodiments, the user may also release the tool head by pressing a release button.</p>
<p id="p-0011" num="0010">In accordance with another embodiment, a gardening tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. A first handle is coupled to and extends substantially laterally from the elongated body. The handle is adjustable and is disposed between the first end and the second end of the elongated body. The tool also includes a second handle disposed substantially at the first end. The tool may also have an adapter mechanism configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads disposed at the second end of the elongated body.</p>
<?summary-of-invention description="Summary of Invention" end="tail"?>
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<heading id="h-0004" level="1">BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS</heading>
<p id="p-0012" num="0011">Those skilled in the art should more fully appreciate advantages of various embodiments of the invention from the following &#x201c;Description of Illustrative Embodiments,&#x201d; discussed with reference to the drawings summarized immediately below.</p>
<p id="p-0013" num="0012">Figure is a perspective view of a gardening tool in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention.</p>
<p id="p-0014" num="0013"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a side perspective view of the gardening tool shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrating adjustable positioning of features thereof.</p>
<p id="p-0015" num="0014"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3D</figref> are side views of an adapter mechanism of the gardening tool in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.</p>
<p id="p-0016" num="0015"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-4C</figref> are perspective views showing various tool heads in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention.</p>
<p id="p-0017" num="0016"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a gardening tool in accordance with the invention.</p>
</description-of-drawings>
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<?detailed-description description="Detailed Description" end="lead"?>
<heading id="h-0005" level="1">DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS</heading>
<p id="p-0018" num="0017">In illustrative embodiments, a gardening tool has a number of features that work alone and in combination to assist with daily gardening activities. These features may assist those suffering from injury and/or mobility issues caused by arthritis (e.g., arthritis of the wrist). The gardening tool may have an arm attachment portion configured to couple with a user's forearm. Additionally, the tool may have a pad on which a user's arm may rest. The tool may also have a handle that extends laterally from the body of the tool. The user may be able to grip the handle with a neutral hand grip. The tool further may include an adapter mechanism that allows for rapid interchanging of tools with the user's free hand. Details of illustrative embodiments are discussed below.</p>
<p id="p-0019" num="0018"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of a gardening tool <b>10</b> in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention. The gardening tool <b>10</b> has an elongated body <b>12</b> with a first end <b>14</b> (also referred to as &#x201c;proximal end <b>14</b>&#x201d;) and a second end <b>16</b> (also referred to as &#x201c;distal end <b>16</b>&#x201d;). Coupled to the second end <b>16</b> is a tool head <b>28</b>. In some embodiments, the tool head <b>28</b> is interchangeable. To that end, the tool <b>10</b> has an adapter mechanism <b>30</b> that allows for interchanging of tool heads <b>28</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0020" num="0019">While gardening, users frequently apply axial and rotational forces on the tool <b>10</b>. With conventional gardening tools, the application of forces and moments on the tool are relayed through and around the joints of the wrist. For example, the wrist frequently undergoes radial flexion and/or ulnar flexion, which may be painful for those suffering from mobility conditions (e.g., arthritis of the wrist). Performing common gardening tasks using conventional gardening tools can be impractical for this mobility-limited population segment. Accordingly, it would be beneficial to have a gardening tool that reduces user discomfort.</p>
<p id="p-0021" num="0020">The gardening tool <b>10</b> has a number of features that assist with common gardening tasks. For example, in some embodiments, the gardening tool <b>10</b> has an arm attachment portion <b>18</b> disposed substantially at its first end <b>14</b>. The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> secures the arm of the user to the gardening tool <b>10</b>. As a result, accidental slipping and dropping of the tool <b>10</b> is mitigated. Furthermore, the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> allows the user to leverage the strength of their upper arm while controlling the tool <b>10</b>. By using the strength of the upper arm to help leverage the tool <b>10</b>, the application of force at the wrist joint is minimized.</p>
<p id="p-0022" num="0021">The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may attach to a variety of locations on the arm of the user. Preferably, the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> is configured to attach around the forearm of a user. To that end, in some embodiments, the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may include a cuff or a Velcro strap <b>20</b>. As shown, the strap <b>20</b> may be adjustable to accommodate various forearm sizes and may also be padded for additional comfort. The strap <b>20</b> may be coupled to the elongated body <b>12</b> substantially at the first end <b>14</b>, or anywhere else along the elongated body <b>12</b>. Furthermore, some embodiments may have multiple arm attachment portions <b>18</b>. It should be understood that while the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> is shown as including strap <b>20</b>, this is not intended to limit all illustrative embodiments of the arm attachment portion <b>18</b>. The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may be any suitable arm attachment mechanism known to those having skill in the art.</p>
<p id="p-0023" num="0022">To further provide user comfort and functionality, the gardening tool <b>10</b> may also have a handle <b>22</b>. The handle <b>22</b> allows the user to obtain a comfortable grip on the tool <b>10</b> without requiring excessive stress on the wrist (e.g., excessive radial flexion and/or ulnar flexion). To that end, the handle <b>22</b> extends substantially laterally from the elongated body <b>12</b>. In preferred embodiments, the handle <b>22</b> is longitudinally aligned with the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> as shown in the figure. This alignment helps maintain the user's wrist in a neutral position. Accordingly, the user is able to maintain a neutral grip on the handle <b>22</b> while using the tool <b>10</b> and minimize discomfort associated with gripping conventional gardening tools. Additionally, the handle <b>22</b> may be pivotally adjustable to further enhance user comfort and preference. Specifically, the handle <b>22</b> may pivot back and forth around a pivot axis <b>24</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>). In some embodiments, the user may lock the handle <b>22</b> in place at a desired pivot angle.</p>
<p id="p-0024" num="0023">As mentioned above, the handle <b>22</b> helps maintain wrist neutrality while the user applies force to the tool <b>10</b> (e.g., while performing common gardening tasks). To that end, the surface of the handle <b>22</b> may be contoured to facilitate hand grip and user comfort. The handle <b>22</b> may be made of a number of materials including, for example, wood, plastics (e.g., polypropylene, and/or fiber reinforced plastics), aluminum and/or stainless steel.</p>
<p id="p-0025" num="0024">Additionally, in some embodiments, a pad <b>26</b> is coupled to the elongated body <b>12</b>. As the user grips the handle <b>22</b> with a neutral grip, the user's wrist is supported by the pad <b>26</b>. In some other embodiments, the user's forearm may be supported on the pad <b>26</b>. The pad <b>26</b> may be disposed between the handle <b>22</b> and the arm attachment portion <b>18</b>. However, the location of the pad <b>26</b> on the elongated body <b>12</b> is adjustable. For example, the pad <b>26</b> may be moved closer to the handle <b>22</b> to provide wrist support. In some other embodiments, the pad <b>26</b> may be moved closer to the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> to provide forearm support. In further embodiments, the length of the pad <b>26</b> may extend substantially all the way from the handle <b>22</b> to the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> to provide a larger range of support. Additionally, the location of the pad <b>26</b> may be adjustable to accommodate different length arms.</p>
<p id="p-0026" num="0025">Furthermore, the pad <b>26</b> may be waterproof and/or water resistant to help withstand conditions encountered in outdoor gardening (e.g., watering plants and/or weather). To that end, the pad <b>26</b> may be formed from a number of materials including, for example, shock absorbing material such as sponge rubber and/or low-resistance polyurethane foam (commonly referred to as memory foam). The pad <b>26</b> may also come in a number of different shapes and is not limited to the embodiment shown herein.</p>
<p id="p-0027" num="0026"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a side perspective view of the gardening tool <b>10</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrating an adapter mechanism. As discussed above, the position of the pad <b>26</b> can be adjusted along the elongated body <b>12</b>. Elongated body <b>12</b> may include pull-pin holes <b>32</b> to adjust the position of the pad <b>26</b> to accommodate different user arm lengths. The user may quickly adjust the position of the pad <b>26</b> by pulling pins <b>34</b> from a first position <b>34</b>A and pushing the pins <b>34</b> into a second position <b>34</b>B. While the above discussion refers to pulling and pushing the pins <b>34</b>, it should be understood that, in some embodiments, pull-pins <b>34</b> are spring loaded. Accordingly, the user may release the pull-pin <b>34</b> and the force of the loaded spring will push the pin <b>34</b> into the hole <b>32</b>. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pad <b>26</b> may have one or more coupling members <b>36</b> that limit the position of the pad <b>26</b> in accordance with the position of the pins <b>34</b>. Alternatively, or additionally, the pad <b>26</b> may be movably mounted to the elongated body <b>12</b>, and may slide along the elongated body when the push-pin <b>34</b> is removed. In illustrative embodiments, a single push-pin <b>34</b> may be used to lock in the position of the pad <b>26</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0028" num="0027">In some embodiments, the position of the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> is also adjustable. The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may also using coupling members <b>36</b> in a manner similar to the pad <b>26</b>, or it may be directly mounted to an extendable portion <b>38</b> of the elongated body <b>12</b> as shown. The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the elongated body <b>12</b>. The arm attachment portion <b>18</b> may also be moved <b>40</b> along the longitudinal axis of the tool <b>10</b>. The attachment portion <b>18</b>, similar to the pad <b>26</b>, may use the push-pins <b>34</b> and the push-pin holes <b>32</b> to fix the location and orientation of the attachment portion <b>18</b>. To that end, extendable portion <b>38</b>, at least part of which may fit within external housing <b>41</b> of the elongated body <b>12</b>, may also have holes <b>32</b> through which push-pins <b>34</b> may be inserted.</p>
<p id="p-0029" num="0028">The adapter mechanism <b>30</b> may also be mounted on extendable portion <b>38</b>. In some embodiments, the extendable portions <b>38</b> on which the arm attachment portion <b>18</b> and the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> are mounted are not necessarily a single uniform piece. For example, each of the extendable portions <b>38</b> may move independently of the other. It should be understood that the mounting mechanism for the pad <b>26</b>, the arm attachment portion <b>18</b>, and the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> are all interchangeable. The above described embodiment is not intended to limit illustrative embodiments of the invention.</p>
<p id="p-0030" num="0029">As described above, the handle <b>22</b> may be pivotally <b>42</b> adjustable around a pivot axis <b>24</b>. In some embodiments, after the handle <b>22</b> is pivoted, the handle <b>22</b> may be locked in a specific pivot orientation. In some other embodiments, once locked, the handle <b>22</b> may have a limited pivot range. For example, when digging into soil with the tool <b>10</b>, the handle <b>22</b> may be in position <b>22</b>A as the user presses into the soil. When the user pulls back on the handle <b>22</b> to dig the soil out of the ground, the handle <b>22</b> may pivot towards position <b>22</b>B. In some embodiments, the user can lock or loosen the pivoting <b>42</b> of the handle <b>22</b>. The handle <b>22</b> may also be loosened so that it freely pivots.</p>
<p id="p-0031" num="0030"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3D</figref> schematically show the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> of the gardening tool <b>10</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. As discussed above, the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> allows interchanging of tool heads <b>28</b>. However, it should be understood that the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> allows for both attachment and release of tool heads <b>28</b>. Specifically, the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> provides for the engagement and disengagement of tool heads <b>28</b> to the elongated body <b>12</b>. In some embodiments, the disengagement and engagement of tool heads <b>28</b> is performed by the same adapter mechanism <b>30</b>. Accordingly, adapter mechanism <b>30</b> may also be referred to as release mechanism <b>30</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0032" num="0031"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref> shows the first step for activating the release mechanism <b>30</b>. In some embodiments, the release mechanism <b>30</b> is spring loaded. Accordingly, the user begins by pushing the tool head <b>28</b> in towards the first end <b>14</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> shows the second step for activating the release mechanism <b>30</b>. The user turns the tool head <b>28</b> around the longitudinal axis <b>44</b> of the tool <b>10</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3C</figref> shows the last step for activating the release mechanism <b>30</b>. The user then pulls the tool head <b>28</b>. The internal spring that is compressed upon inserting the tool head <b>28</b> eases the effort needed to pull the tool head <b>28</b> from the elongated body <b>12</b>. These three movements (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3C</figref>) allow the user to quickly remove the currently engaged tool head <b>28</b>. As described further below, in some embodiments, a release button may be used alone or in conjunction with these steps to release the tool head <b>28</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0033" num="0032"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3D</figref> schematically shows a detail of the adapter mechanism <b>30</b>. In some embodiments, the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> has two parts: an elongated body portion <b>30</b>A attached to the elongated body <b>12</b>, and a tool head portion <b>30</b>B attached to, or that attaches to, the tool head <b>28</b>. In some embodiments, however, the adapter mechanism <b>30</b>B may be unitary with the tool head <b>28</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0034" num="0033">To reinsert the tool head <b>28</b>, or to insert a different tool head <b>28</b>, the user merely presses the tool head <b>28</b> until it snaps into place on the elongated body <b>12</b>. Specifically, the tool head portion <b>30</b>B is pressed into the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A until the tool head <b>28</b> snaps into place on the elongated body <b>12</b>. In some embodiments, the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> has locking alignment projections <b>46</b> and recesses <b>48</b>. In illustrative embodiments, to engage or disengage the tool head <b>28</b>, the projections <b>46</b> and the recesses <b>48</b> have to be aligned.</p>
<p id="p-0035" num="0034">The adapter mechanism <b>30</b> may be spring loaded. In illustrative embodiments, engaging the tool head portion <b>30</b>B with the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A begins by aligning the projections <b>46</b> and recesses <b>48</b>, as shown in the figure. The tool head portion <b>30</b>B is pressed into the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A until the projections <b>46</b> pass lip <b>51</b>. The tool head portion <b>30</b>B is rotated with respect to the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A, or vice-versa, until the projections <b>46</b> and recesses <b>48</b> are no longer aligned. The spring loaded adapter mechanism <b>30</b> then presses the projections <b>46</b> against the inside of lip <b>51</b>. Furthermore, some embodiments have grooves (not shown) on the inside of the lip <b>51</b> configured to accept the projections <b>46</b>. The spring presses the projections <b>46</b> against the grooves and mitigates unintended disengagement of the tool head portion <b>30</b>B that might otherwise occur when the tool head <b>28</b> experiences rotational forces. In illustrative embodiments, to disengage the tool head portion <b>30</b>B, the tool head <b>28</b> is pressed into the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A to counter the force of the spring. The tool head portion <b>30</b>B is then rotated with respect to the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A (e.g., in a direction opposite the rotation used to engage the tool head portion), or vice-versa, until projections <b>46</b> are once more aligned with recesses <b>48</b>. The tool head portion <b>30</b>B may then be pulled from the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A. The spring loaded adapter mechanism <b>30</b> may also help disengage the tool head <b>28</b> by pushing the tool head portion <b>30</b>B away from the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A.</p>
<p id="p-0036" num="0035">Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second end <b>16</b> has lights <b>50</b>. The lights <b>50</b> may include LED lights <b>50</b>. A user may simply press the power button <b>52</b> to operate the on and off switch for the lights <b>50</b>. In some embodiments, the tool <b>10</b> may have lights <b>50</b> to assist gardeners who prefer to work in the cooler temperatures of dusk and dawn. In darker conditions, the lights <b>50</b> may be of assistance while aligning the projections <b>46</b> with the recesses <b>48</b>. In some embodiments, a button <b>49</b> may be an adapter release button <b>49</b>. In such embodiments, the user presses the adapter release button <b>49</b> prior to releasing the tool head <b>28</b> as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3C</figref>. The adapter release button <b>49</b> is coupled to a locking mechanism that prevents release of the tool head <b>28</b> from the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> until the button <b>49</b> is pressed. In illustrative embodiments, the adapter release button <b>49</b> may prevent accidental release of tool heads <b>28</b>. However, in some other embodiments, simply pressing the button <b>49</b> ejects the tool head <b>28</b>, without the need for the steps described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3C</figref>.</p>
<p id="p-0037" num="0036"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-4C</figref> are perspective views showing various tool heads <b>28</b>A-<b>28</b>C in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the invention. As shown, a variety of gardening tool heads <b>28</b> may be used with the gardening tool <b>10</b>. For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref> shows a trowel tool head <b>28</b>A. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4B</figref> shows a garden hoe tool head <b>28</b>B. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4C</figref> shows a shovel tool head <b>28</b>C. The illustrated tool heads <b>28</b>A-<b>28</b>C are merely exemplary and not intended to limit illustrative embodiments of the invention. As shown, the tool heads <b>28</b>A-<b>28</b>C are not attached to an elongated body <b>12</b>. However, all three tool heads <b>28</b>A-<b>28</b>C may be attached to the elongated body <b>12</b> using the attachment mechanism <b>30</b>. Accordingly, all three tool heads <b>28</b>A-<b>28</b>C may be interchanged on the elongated body <b>12</b>. Specifically, a user may engage the adapter mechanism <b>30</b> by pressing the tool head portion <b>30</b>B into the elongated body portion <b>30</b>A to couple the tool head <b>28</b>A-C to the elongated body <b>12</b>. The user may disengage the tool head <b>28</b> as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3C</figref>.</p>
<p id="p-0038" num="0037"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the gardening tool <b>10</b> in accordance with the invention. In illustrative embodiments, the gardening tool <b>10</b> functions as a shovel <b>54</b>. Unlike the earlier gardening tool <b>10</b>, the shovel <b>54</b> is gripped with both hands. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the elongated body <b>12</b> of the shovel <b>54</b> is longer to accommodate both hands, and to increase leverage. In some embodiments, gardening tool <b>10</b> may have an adjustable elongated body <b>12</b> that us extendable.</p>
<p id="p-0039" num="0038">In some embodiments, the shovel <b>54</b> has many of the same features as gardening tool <b>10</b> described above. For example, the shovel <b>54</b> has an adapter mechanism <b>30</b>. The adapter mechanism <b>30</b> may be used with any other tool heads <b>28</b>, such as those described with reference to gardening tool <b>10</b>. Therefore, while the figure shows a shovel <b>54</b>, it should be understood that any tool head <b>28</b> may be used in accordance with the two-handed model referred to herein as the shovel <b>54</b>. While not shown, the shovel <b>54</b> may have the handle <b>22</b>, the arm attachment portion <b>18</b>, and/or the pad <b>26</b>. The previous discussion regarding these features also applies to the shovel <b>54</b>. Furthermore, the elongated body <b>12</b> functions in a similar manner to the elongated body <b>12</b> described above, and may have holes <b>32</b> to accommodate push-pins <b>34</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0040" num="0039">The shovel <b>54</b> has an extended handle <b>56</b>. The extended handle <b>56</b> extends longitudinally from shaft <b>55</b>. Usually, when grasping a shovel <b>54</b>, the user has one hand near the rear of the shovel <b>54</b>, and another hand near the middle of the shovel <b>54</b>. The extended handle <b>56</b> provides an easily accessible grip to the user, so that the user does not have to reach to the middle of the shaft <b>55</b>. Because the extended handle <b>56</b> provides a better reach, users do not have to bend as much as with traditional shovels. Additionally, the extended handle <b>56</b> may be adjusted in multiple directions. For example, in some embodiments, adjusting the position of the handle <b>56</b> on the shaft <b>55</b>, or the angle of the handle <b>56</b>, may be performed with a single movement. The center cap <b>60</b> is pulled upwards, which unlocks the handle <b>56</b> from the shaft <b>55</b>. Unlocking the handle <b>56</b> allows the user to pivot the handle <b>56</b> back and forth, to move the handle <b>56</b> longitudinally on the shaft (e.g., slide up and down the shaft), or to rotate the handle <b>56</b> (e.g., up to 360 degrees). The user then releases the center cap <b>60</b>, and the handle <b>56</b> is locked in position. The shovel <b>54</b> may use push-pins <b>34</b> and holes <b>32</b> as described above to accommodate different locations for the handle <b>56</b> along the shaft <b>55</b>. Accordingly, the user may adjust the extendable handle <b>56</b> to whatever grip is most comfortable for them.</p>
<p id="p-0041" num="0040">Additionally, in some embodiments, the shovel <b>54</b> has a rear adjustable handle <b>58</b> that provides a better and more comfortable grip than the blunt rear of a standard shovel. The rear adjustable handle <b>58</b> is able to rotate 360 degrees, allowing the user to adjust the shovel to best fit their needs. The orientation of the rear adjustable handle <b>58</b> may also be locked. Adjusting the handles <b>56</b> and <b>58</b> allows the user to create better leverage for gardening (e.g., digging or carrying material).</p>
<p id="p-0042" num="0041">Although the above discussion discloses various exemplary embodiments of the invention, it should be apparent that those skilled in the art can make various modifications that will achieve some of the advantages of the invention without departing from the true scope of the invention. For example, although a push-pin system has been described for moving various components of the tool, it should be understood that other methods for attaching components to the tool are known by those in the art.</p>
<?detailed-description description="Detailed Description" end="tail"?>
</description>
<us-claim-statement>What is claimed is:</us-claim-statement>
<claims id="claims">
<claim id="CLM-00001" num="00001">
<claim-text><b>1</b>. A gardening tool comprising:
<claim-text>an elongated body having a first end and a second end;</claim-text>
<claim-text>an arm attachment portion coupled to the elongated body, the arm attachment portion being disposed substantially at the first end of the elongated body and configured to at least partly wrap around a user's forearm;</claim-text>
<claim-text>a pivotally adjustable handle coupled to and extending substantially laterally from the elongated body, the handle being disposed between the first end and the second end of the elongated body;</claim-text>
<claim-text>a pad coupled to the elongated body, the pad being disposed between the handle and the arm attachment portion, the position of the pad being adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated body;</claim-text>
<claim-text>an adapter mechanism disposed at the second end of the elongated body, the adapter mechanism configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00002" num="00002">
<claim-text><b>2</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the adapter mechanism is spring loaded.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00003" num="00003">
<claim-text><b>3</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the adapter mechanism comprises a first portion on the tool head and a second portion on the elongated body.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00004" num="00004">
<claim-text><b>4</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the adapter mechanism is configured to release the tool head when the user applies:
<claim-text>a force on the tool head directed substantially towards the first end,</claim-text>
<claim-text>a rotational force on the tool head directed substantially around the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, and</claim-text>
<claim-text>a force on the tool head directed substantially away from the first end.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00005" num="00005">
<claim-text><b>5</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00004">claim 4</claim-ref> wherein the adapter mechanism is configured to release the tool head when the user presses a release button.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00006" num="00006">
<claim-text><b>6</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the position of the handle, the pad and the arm attachment portion along the longitudinal axis of the gardening tool are all adjustable.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00007" num="00007">
<claim-text><b>7</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the handle is pivotally adjustable while translationally fixed on the elongated body.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00008" num="00008">
<claim-text><b>8</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the arm attachment portion comprises a strap.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00009" num="00009">
<claim-text><b>9</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00008">claim 8</claim-ref> further comprising Velcro.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00010" num="00010">
<claim-text><b>10</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref> wherein the length of the elongated body is adjustable.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00011" num="00011">
<claim-text><b>11</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00010">claim 10</claim-ref> wherein adjusting the length of the elongated body moves at least one of the arm attachment portion, the handle, the pad, or the adapter mechanism relative to the others.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00012" num="00012">
<claim-text><b>12</b>. A method of gardening comprising:
<claim-text>providing a gardening tool comprising:</claim-text>
<claim-text>an elongated body having a first end and a second end,</claim-text>
<claim-text>an arm attachment portion coupled to the elongated body, the arm attachment portion being disposed substantially at the first end of the elongated body and configured to at least partly wrap around a user's forearm,</claim-text>
<claim-text>a pivotally adjustable handle coupled to and extending substantially laterally from the elongated body, the handle being disposed between the first end and the second end of the elongated body,</claim-text>
<claim-text>a pad coupled to the elongated body, the pad being disposed between the handle and the arm attachment portion, the position of the pad being adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated body, and</claim-text>
<claim-text>an adapter mechanism disposed at the second end of the elongated body, the adapter mechanism configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads;</claim-text>
<claim-text>attaching a user's arm to the arm attachment portion;</claim-text>
<claim-text>resting the user's arm on the pad;</claim-text>
<claim-text>gripping the handle with the user's hand; and</claim-text>
<claim-text>applying a force to the gardening tool.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00013" num="00013">
<claim-text><b>13</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> wherein the handle is configured to be gripped with a neutral hand grip.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00014" num="00014">
<claim-text><b>14</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> further comprising activating LED lights.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00015" num="00015">
<claim-text><b>15</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> further comprising adjusting the pivot of the handle.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00016" num="00016">
<claim-text><b>16</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> further comprising adjusting the length of the elongated body.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00017" num="00017">
<claim-text><b>17</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> further comprising releasing the tool head by applying:
<claim-text>a force on the tool head directed substantially towards the first end,</claim-text>
<claim-text>a rotational force on the tool head directed substantially around the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, and</claim-text>
<claim-text>a force on the tool head directed substantially away from the first end.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00018" num="00018">
<claim-text><b>18</b>. The method as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref> further comprising releasing the tool head by pressing a release button.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00019" num="00019">
<claim-text><b>19</b>. A gardening tool comprising:
<claim-text>an elongated body having a first end and a second end;</claim-text>
<claim-text>a first handle coupled to and extending substantially laterally from the elongated body, the handle being adjustable and disposed between the first end and the second end of the elongated body;</claim-text>
<claim-text>a second handle disposed substantially at the first end; and</claim-text>
<claim-text>an adapter mechanism disposed at the second end of the elongated body, the adapter mechanism configured to allow for interchanging of gardening tool heads.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00020" num="00020">
<claim-text><b>20</b>. The gardening tool as defined by <claim-ref idref="CLM-00019">claim 19</claim-ref> wherein the second handle is adjustable.</claim-text>
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<invention-title id="d2e43">SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADJUSTING WHEEL SPACING OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT</invention-title>
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<first-name>Nathan Paul</first-name>
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<state>WI</state>
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<first-name>William Allen</first-name>
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<abstract id="abstract">
<p id="p-0001" num="0000">A wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement includes a controller having a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement, receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement, receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement, and output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal, wherein a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel varies based on the first signal.</p>
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<description id="description">
<?summary-of-invention description="Summary of Invention" end="lead"?>
<heading id="h-0001" level="1">BACKGROUND</heading>
<p id="p-0002" num="0001">The present disclosure relates generally to agricultural implements, and more particularly to systems and methods for adjusting wheel spacing of an agricultural implement.</p>
<p id="p-0003" num="0002">Certain agricultural implements (e.g., sprayers) are used to distribute agricultural product (e.g., fertilizer) as the agricultural implement travels across a field. The agricultural implement may improve crop yield and/or farming efficiency by increasing the speed at which the agricultural product is distributed. Typically, rows of crops are planted with predetermined row spacing. Unfortunately, fixed spacing between wheels of the agricultural implement may limit the row spacing options available to an operator or may cause the agricultural implement to run over and/or to damage the rows of crops in the field.</p>
<heading id="h-0002" level="1">BRIEF DESCRIPTION</heading>
<p id="p-0004" num="0003">Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed invention are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but rather these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of possible forms of the invention. Indeed, the invention may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.</p>
<p id="p-0005" num="0004">In one embodiment, a wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement includes a controller having a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement, receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement, receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement, and output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, and third signal, wherein a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel varies based on the first signal.</p>
<p id="p-0006" num="0005">In one embodiment, a wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement includes a controller having a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement, receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement, receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement, and a fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement. The processor is also configured to output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, third, and fourth signals.</p>
<p id="p-0007" num="0006">In one embodiment, a method of operating a wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement includes a controller having a processor and a memory to receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement, receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement, receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement, and a fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement. The method also includes using the controller to output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, third, and fourth signals.</p>
<?summary-of-invention description="Summary of Invention" end="tail"?>
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<heading id="h-0003" level="1">DRAWINGS</heading>
<p id="p-0008" num="0007">These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:</p>
<p id="p-0009" num="0008"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a top view of an embodiment of an agricultural implement having a wheel adjustment system;</p>
<p id="p-0010" num="0009"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a top view of another embodiment of an agricultural implement having the wheel adjustment system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;</p>
<p id="p-0011" num="0010"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the wheel adjustment system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>;</p>
<p id="p-0012" num="0011"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a display that may be used as part of the wheel adjustment system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>;</p>
<p id="p-0013" num="0012"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a portion of a display that may be used as part of the wheel adjustment system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>; and</p>
<p id="p-0014" num="0013"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for operating the wheel adjustment system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>.</p>
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<heading id="h-0004" level="1">DETAILED DESCRIPTION</heading>
<p id="p-0015" num="0014">One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.</p>
<p id="p-0016" num="0015">When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles &#x201c;a,&#x201d; &#x201c;an,&#x201d; &#x201c;the,&#x201d; and &#x201c;said&#x201d; are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms &#x201c;comprising,&#x201d; &#x201c;including,&#x201d; and &#x201c;having&#x201d; are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Any examples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are not exclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments.</p>
<p id="p-0017" num="0016"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a top view of an embodiment of an agricultural implement <b>10</b> having a wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> (e.g., tread width adjustment system or wheel spacing adjustment system). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is a sprayer, although it should be understood that the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> disclosed herein may be used with any of a variety of agricultural implements (e.g., planter, harvester, or the like) or vehicles (e.g., off-road vehicle, tractor, truck, or the like). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural implement <b>10</b> includes a frame <b>14</b> and a cab <b>15</b> supported above the ground by wheels <b>16</b> (e.g., wheels or tracks). As shown, a wheel support assembly <b>17</b> (e.g., adjustable wheel support assembly) includes multiple axles <b>18</b> (e.g., adjustable axles or telescoping axles) that each extend between the frame <b>14</b> and a respective one of the wheels <b>16</b>. The agricultural implement <b>10</b> may include a boom <b>20</b> (e.g., laterally extending arms) to facilitate application of an agricultural product to the field and a storage chamber <b>22</b> (e.g., tank) to store the agricultural product.</p>
<p id="p-0018" num="0017">The agricultural implement <b>10</b> is configured to travel forward in a direction of travel <b>24</b> across a field, and the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> is configured to cause the wheels <b>16</b> to move laterally <b>26</b> (e.g., inwardly and outwardly between an innermost position and an outermost position, generally perpendicular to the direction of travel <b>24</b>). In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of each axle <b>18</b> is configured to move (e.g., shift, telescope, extend, retract, etc.) laterally <b>26</b> relative to the frame <b>14</b> to cause the respective wheel <b>16</b> to move laterally <b>26</b> relative to the frame <b>14</b>. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the wheels <b>16</b> may move independently or separately via adjustment of the corresponding axle <b>18</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0019" num="0018">The wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> may include various sensors to monitor characteristics of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. For example, position sensors <b>28</b> may be disposed proximate to each axle <b>18</b> to monitor respective current positions of the wheels <b>16</b>. In some embodiments, the position sensors <b>28</b> are coupled to or integrated within actuators <b>30</b> (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, or electronic actuators) that are configured to drive each axle <b>18</b>. In some embodiments, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> includes a speed sensor <b>32</b> configured to monitor the ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>, a load sensor <b>34</b> (e.g., load cell) configured to monitor the weight of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>, a vertical position sensor <b>36</b> configured to monitor the vertical position (e.g., height) of the frame <b>14</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and/or of the boom <b>20</b> coupled to the frame <b>14</b>, and/or a seat sensor <b>38</b> (e.g., seat switch) configured to monitor whether an operator is seated within the seat of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0020" num="0019">As discussed in more detail below, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> may include a controller <b>40</b> that is configured to process signals, such as signals received from the sensors <b>28</b>, <b>32</b>, <b>34</b>, <b>36</b>, <b>38</b>, to determine an appropriate action and/or to provide an appropriate output. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to determine whether adjustment of a respective position of one or more wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may determine an appropriate rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may output a control signal (e.g., to a valve configured to adjust a flow of control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b>) to cause adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> and/or a signal to provide an indication (e.g., visual and/or audible indication) related to the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b>. As discussed in more detail below, the controller <b>40</b>, valve (e.g., proportional valve), and actuator <b>30</b> may be part of a proportional control system that enables proportional control of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0021" num="0020">As noted above, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> may be adapted for use with any of a variety of vehicles. For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a top view of another embodiment of an agricultural implement <b>10</b> that may include the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the wheel support assembly <b>17</b> includes a first movable support member <b>52</b> (e.g., adjustable axle or movable frame) that extends between the frame <b>14</b> and multiple wheels <b>16</b> on a first lateral side <b>54</b> (e.g., left side) of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and a second movable support member <b>56</b> (e.g., adjustable axle or movable frame) that extends between the frame <b>14</b> and multiple wheels <b>16</b> on a second lateral side <b>58</b> (e.g., right side) of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, the support members <b>52</b>, <b>56</b> are configured to move laterally <b>26</b> relative to the frame <b>14</b> (e.g., a fixed portion of the frame <b>14</b> that supports the cab <b>15</b>) to cause the wheels <b>16</b> coupled thereto to move laterally <b>26</b> relative to the frame <b>14</b>. Accordingly, the wheels <b>16</b> on the first side <b>54</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> may move simultaneously upon movement of the first movable support member <b>52</b>, and the wheels on the second side <b>58</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> may move simultaneously upon movement of the second movable support member <b>56</b>. As shown, the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is configured to travel forward in the direction <b>24</b> across the field, and the agricultural implement <b>10</b> includes the cab <b>15</b>, the boom <b>20</b>, and the storage chamber <b>22</b>. As shown, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> includes the sensors <b>28</b>, <b>32</b>, <b>34</b>, <b>36</b>, <b>38</b>, the actuators <b>30</b>, and the controller <b>40</b>. In some embodiments, multiple actuators <b>30</b> may be provided to drive each movable support member <b>52</b>, <b>56</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0022" num="0021"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> includes the controller <b>40</b> (e.g., electronic controller), which includes a processor <b>60</b> and a memory <b>62</b>. The controller <b>40</b> may be mounted within the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and is configured to receive various signals (e.g., inputs) related to the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may receive signals indicative of the current position of each wheel <b>16</b> (e.g., from the position sensors <b>28</b>), a signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> (e.g., from the ground speed sensor <b>32</b>), a signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> (e.g., from the weight sensor <b>34</b>), a signal indicative of a vertical position of the frame <b>14</b> and/or of the boom <b>20</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> (e.g., from the height sensor <b>36</b>), a signal indicative of an operator's presence in a seat of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> (e.g., from the seat sensor <b>38</b>), a signal indicative of a desired wheel spacing or desired wheel position (e.g., input by the operator via an operator interface <b>64</b> or accessed from the memory <b>62</b>), or any combination thereof.</p>
<p id="p-0023" num="0022">The controller <b>40</b> may be configured to process the received signals to determine an appropriate action and/or to provide an appropriate output. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to determine whether adjustment of a respective position of one or more wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate based on the received signals. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may determine an appropriate rate of adjustment (e.g., inches per second) of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> based on the received signals. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may provide a control signal to cause adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> based on the received signals. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may provide the control signal to a valve <b>66</b> (e.g., proportional valve) that is configured to adjust a flow of control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b>, thereby adjusting the position of the wheel <b>16</b> (e.g., via the illustrated axle <b>18</b> or via the support members <b>52</b>, <b>56</b>) toward the desired position at the determined rate of adjustment. As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may instruct components of the operator interface <b>64</b>, such as a display <b>70</b>, a speaker <b>72</b>, and/or an indicator <b>74</b> (e.g., a multi-colored indicator), to provide an indication (e.g., visual and/or audible indication) related to the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0024" num="0023">With the foregoing in mind, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may determine that adjustment is appropriate if the current position varies from the desired position for the wheel <b>16</b> (e.g., varies by more than 0.5, 1, 2, or 3 inches, or more than 1, 5, or 10 percent) and/or if one or more criteria (e.g., ground speed, weight, vertical height, and/or operator presence) are satisfied. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may determine that adjustment is appropriate if the ground speed is within a predetermined range of ground speeds (e.g., 0 to 10, 0 to 5, 0.5 to 5, or 1 to 3 miles per hour [mph]), the weight of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is within a predetermined range of weights, the vertical position is within a predetermined range of vertical positions, the operator is present in the seat, or any combination thereof.</p>
<p id="p-0025" num="0024">In some such cases, the respective predetermined ranges may be fixed (e.g., at manufacturing or by the operator) and stored in the memory <b>62</b>, and each signal may be evaluated separately and used to determine whether adjustment is appropriate (e.g., if each parameter is within its fixed respective predetermined range, the adjustment is appropriate). In some embodiments, the multiple signals may be evaluated together (e.g., input into an algorithm) to determine whether adjustment is appropriate. Thus, the respective predetermined ranges may vary during operation of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. For example, in some embodiments, the predetermined range of ground speeds at which adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> is appropriate may vary based on the weight and/or the vertical position. In certain embodiments, while the weight is relatively low (e.g., below a predetermined threshold), the controller <b>40</b> may enable adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> across a relatively large range of ground speeds (e.g., 0 to 10 mph), but while the weight is relatively higher (e.g., above the predetermined threshold), the controller <b>40</b> may block adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> at lower ground speeds (e.g., 0 to 0.5 mph) and/or at higher ground speeds (e.g., 5 to 10 mph) of the range of ground speeds. Such a configuration may enable efficient adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> while advantageously reducing wear on the components of the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> and/or improving stability, for example.</p>
<p id="p-0026" num="0025">In certain embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may determine the appropriate rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> based on the ground speed, the weight, the vertical position, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary continuously and/or proportionally with the ground speed over the predetermined range of ground speeds. In some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary linearly, exponentially, or according to any suitable curve (e.g., bell curve), with the ground speed over the predetermined range of ground speeds. As noted above, the controller <b>40</b> may receive and evaluate the weight and/or the vertical position of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> to determine the appropriate rate of adjustment. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary continuously and/or proportionally with the weight and/or the vertical position over the predetermined respective ranges. In some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary linearly, exponentially, or according to any suitable curve (e.g., bell curve), with the weight and/or the vertical position over the predetermined respective ranges.</p>
<p id="p-0027" num="0026">For example, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to determine that a first rate of adjustment is appropriate at a first, relatively slow ground speed(s) within the predetermined range of ground speeds and that a second, different rate of adjustment is appropriate at a second, relatively faster ground speed(s) within the predetermined range of ground speeds. In some such cases, the first rate may be relatively slower, and the second rate may be relatively faster, which may reduce wear on certain components of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> at lower ground speeds. In some such cases, the first rate may be relatively faster, and the second rate may be relatively slower, which may increase stability of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> at higher ground speeds. The controller <b>40</b> may be configured to generally balance efficient adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>, wear on the components, and stability.</p>
<p id="p-0028" num="0027">As noted above, the controller <b>40</b> may consider the ground speed, the weight, and/or the vertical position together to determine the appropriate rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>. For example, in some embodiments, the first ground speed(s) at which the first rate of adjustment of the position of the wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate may vary based on the weight and/or the vertical position. In certain embodiments, at a given ground speed(s), the rate of adjustment may be relatively faster while the weight and/or the vertical position is relatively low (e.g., below respective predetermined thresholds or at a first respective value) and the rate of adjustment may be relatively slower while the weight and/or the vertical position is relatively high (e.g., above the predetermined threshold or at a second respective value).</p>
<p id="p-0029" num="0028">In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to generate and to provide a control signal to control (e.g., open) the valve <b>66</b> to provide control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b> while the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is stationary. Such control signals may cause the wheel <b>16</b> to move laterally at a first rate while the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is stationary. In some such embodiments, the controller <b>30</b> may control the valve <b>66</b> to a first position that enables a first flow of control fluid (e.g., at a first rate) while the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is stationary and control the valve <b>66</b> to increase the flow of the control fluid to increase the rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> as the agricultural implement's <b>10</b> ground speed increases from the stationary position. In some embodiments, if the agricultural implement <b>10</b> remains stationary for more than a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5, 10, 20, or 30 seconds) and/or if the agricultural implement's <b>10</b> ground speed remains below a threshold (e.g., 0.5 mph) for the predetermined period of time after opening the valve <b>66</b>, the controller <b>30</b> may block further adjustment of the position of the wheels <b>16</b> (e.g., by controlling the valve <b>66</b> to a closed position). In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may provide an indication (e.g., via components of the operator interface <b>64</b>) instructing the operator to increase the ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> to continue and/or to resume adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0030" num="0029">In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may not control the valves <b>66</b> and/or may block movement of the wheels <b>16</b> while the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is stationary. In some embodiments, if the controller <b>40</b> receives the signal indicative of the desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> while the ground speed is outside of the range of predetermined ground speeds (i.e., while stationary), then the controller <b>40</b> may not immediately initiate adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b>. However, if the ground speed moves within the range of predetermined ground speeds within a predetermined time (e.g., 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 seconds) after receipt of the desired position, the controller <b>40</b> will then open the valve <b>66</b> to cause adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> toward the desired position. In some such embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may provide an indication (e.g., via components of the operator interface <b>64</b>) of the predetermined range of ground speeds and/or the predetermined time to enable the operator to effect adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> to the desired position. Such configurations may enable the operator to set the desired wheel spacing while stationary or at low ground speeds, while advantageously reducing wear on the components of the adjustable axle assembly <b>12</b>, for example.</p>
<p id="p-0031" num="0030">In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to block adjustment (e.g., block initiation of movement or stop movement by controlling the valve <b>66</b> to a closed position) of the wheels <b>16</b> under various circumstances. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may block adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> if the ground speed, the weight, and/or the vertical position are outside of the respective predetermined ranges. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to block adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> if the signal from the seat sensor <b>38</b> indicates that the operator is not present within the seat and/or the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to block adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> if the current position matches the desired position (e.g., within 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or more inches or within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 percent).</p>
<p id="p-0032" num="0031">In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> is configured to limit the ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> during adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>. For example, while the controller <b>40</b> controls the valve <b>66</b> to provide the control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may also control a speed control system <b>65</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> to limit the ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and/or to maintain the ground speed within the predetermined range of ground speeds. In some such embodiments, if the operator attempts to increase and/or decrease the ground speed outside of the predetermined range of ground speeds during adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may provide an indication (e.g., via components of the operator interface <b>64</b>) that the ground speed is limited during the adjustment and may not be changed. In some embodiments, the operator may override the ground speed limiting function of the controller <b>40</b> to quickly stop adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> and enable operator adjustment of the ground speed by selecting an appropriate override input (e.g., a virtual button on the display <b>70</b> or other actuator within the cab <b>15</b>).</p>
<p id="p-0033" num="0032">In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> is configured to provide an indication (e.g., visual and/or audible indication) related to the current position of the wheels, the ground speed, the predetermined range of ground speeds, the weight, the predetermined range of weights, the vertical position, the predetermined range of vertical positions, a current rate of adjustment, operator instructions or feedback related to changes in operation of the agricultural implement <b>12</b> that will change the rate of adjustment, or the like. The indication may be provided via various components, such as the display <b>70</b>, the speaker <b>72</b>, and the indicator <b>74</b>, that together form the operator interface <b>64</b>. For example, in some embodiments, the display <b>70</b> may be configured to provide a numerical indicator of the current position of each wheel <b>16</b> and/or a numerical indicator of the desired position of each wheel <b>16</b>. By way of another example, in some embodiments, the display <b>70</b> and/or the speaker <b>72</b> may provide visual (e.g., text) or audible (e.g., spoken) instructions to increase or to decrease the ground speed, weight, and/or boom height, in order to increase the rate of adjustment, to increase or to decrease the ground speed, weight, and/or boom height to enable adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b>, or the like. The display <b>70</b> may be configured to receive operator inputs, such as the desired wheel position for each wheel <b>16</b>, and to provide the operator inputs to the controller <b>40</b>. The speaker <b>72</b> may be configured to provide a chime (e.g., beep) or other audible sound (e.g., spoken message) in response to receipt of the signal indicative of the desired position at the controller <b>40</b>, in response to the wheel <b>16</b> being located outside of a range about the desired position, and/or during adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0034" num="0033">In some embodiments, the indicator <b>74</b> may be a multi-colored indicator (e.g., a light, a lighted button, etc.) and may be positioned within the cab <b>15</b> (e.g., on an armrest or console) or may be a virtual indicator (e.g., virtual light or virtual button) on the display <b>70</b>. In some embodiments, the indicator <b>74</b> may be an actuator (e.g., a button) that is configured to receive an input from the operator. For example, actuation of the indicator <b>74</b> may instruct the controller <b>40</b> to adjust the position of the wheel <b>16</b> to a particular desired position (e.g., preset position stored in the memory <b>62</b>). In some embodiments, actuation of the indicator <b>74</b> for more than a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more seconds) may instruct the controller <b>40</b> to adjust the position of the wheel <b>16</b> to a particular desired position, such as another preset position, an innermost position, or an outermost position. In some embodiments, actuation of the indicator <b>74</b> more than once within a predetermined amount of time (e.g., two actuations within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more seconds) may instruct the controller <b>40</b> to adjust the position of the wheel <b>16</b> to another particular desired position (e.g., different than the position(s) instructed by a single actuation or by holding the indicator <b>74</b>), such as another preset position, an innermost position, or an outermost position. Furthermore, the indicator <b>74</b> may illuminate with various colors to provide information related to the wheel <b>16</b> position and/or the adjustment process to the operator. For example, the indicator <b>74</b> may illuminate with a first color while the wheel <b>16</b> is moving toward the particular desired position, a second color while the wheel <b>16</b> is moving to the another desired position (e.g., the innermost or outermost position), and/or a third color if the current position of the wheel <b>16</b> does not match the desired position. The indicator <b>74</b> may illuminate continuously or in a blinking pattern based on the current status of the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b>. For example, the indicator <b>74</b> may be solid while the current position matches the desired position and may blink during adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>. In some embodiments, the indicator <b>74</b> may illuminate with various colors that indicate the rate of adjustment. For example, the indicator <b>74</b> may illuminate with a first color while the rate of adjustment is relatively slow and with a second color while the rate of adjustment is relatively fast.</p>
<p id="p-0035" num="0034">The controller <b>40</b> disclosed herein is an electronic controller having the processor <b>60</b> and the memory device <b>62</b>. The controller <b>40</b> may also include one or more storage devices and/or other suitable components. The processor <b>60</b> may be used to execute software, such as software for determining whether adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate, an appropriate rate for adjustment of the wheels, controlling the valves <b>66</b>, providing indications, and so forth. Moreover, the processor <b>40</b> may include multiple microprocessors, one or more &#x201c;general-purpose&#x201d; microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors, and/or one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICS), or some combination thereof. For example, the processor <b>40</b> may include one or more reduced instruction set (RISC) processors.</p>
<p id="p-0036" num="0035">The memory device <b>62</b> may include a volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and/or a nonvolatile memory, such as ROM. The memory device <b>34</b> may store a variety of information and may be used for various purposes. For example, the memory device <b>62</b> may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) for the processor <b>60</b> to execute, such as instructions for determining whether adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate, an appropriate rate for adjustment of the wheels, controlling the valves <b>66</b>, providing indications, and so forth. The storage device(s) (e.g., nonvolatile storage) may include read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, a hard drive, or any other suitable optical, magnetic, or solid-state storage medium, or a combination thereof. The storage device(s) may store data (e.g., predetermined ranges, baseline weight of the agricultural implement, desired positions of the wheels <b>16</b>, etc.), instructions (e.g., software or firmware for determining whether adjustment of the wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate, an appropriate rate for adjustment of the wheels, controlling the valves <b>66</b>, providing indications, and so forth), and any other suitable data.</p>
<p id="p-0037" num="0036"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is an embodiment of the display <b>70</b> that may be used in the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. As shown, the display <b>70</b> is a touchscreen display and enables the operator to view various indications. As shown, the display <b>70</b> provides a numerical indicator <b>76</b> of the desired wheel spacing (e.g., desired position) of each wheel <b>16</b> and a numerical indicator <b>78</b> of the current position of each wheel <b>16</b>. In some embodiments, the display <b>70</b> may enable the operator to input the desired wheel spacing and/or position of the wheel <b>16</b>. For example, the operator may use the display <b>70</b> to input the desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> by typing in a numerical value or selecting from one or more preset desired positions stored in and accessible from the memory <b>62</b>. As shown, the display <b>70</b> may provide other indications, such as a ground speed <b>80</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and any other of the other indications disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the display <b>70</b> may include a representation of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> and/or may include bars extending between the wheels <b>16</b> with corresponding numerical indicators representative of the current position of each wheel <b>16</b> and/or the spacing between wheels <b>16</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0038" num="0037"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a portion of a display <b>70</b> that may be used as part of the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. As shown, the display <b>70</b> is a touchscreen display that includes a virtual button <b>82</b>. In some embodiments, actuation of the virtual button <b>82</b> may provide a signal indicative of the desired position (e.g., a preset position) of the wheels <b>16</b> to the controller <b>40</b>. For example, one or more desired positions of the wheel <b>16</b> may be saved to the memory <b>62</b> (e.g., at manufacturing or via operator input). The operator may subsequently select a desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> via actuation of the virtual button <b>82</b>. In some embodiments, the virtual button <b>82</b> may be configured to enable the operator to select one of multiple different stored or preset desired positions (e.g., by holding the virtual button <b>82</b> for various periods of times or by tapping the virtual button <b>82</b> to scroll through and select one of the multiple different desired positions). In some embodiments, multiple different virtual buttons <b>82</b> each corresponding to a different stored or preset desired position may be provided on the display <b>70</b>. One virtual button <b>82</b> may be provided to adjust the wheel spacing between front and rear wheels (e.g., in the agricultural implement <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>) or multiple virtual buttons <b>82</b> may be provided to separately adjust front and rear wheel spacing or a position of each wheel <b>16</b>. The virtual button <b>82</b> may provide a numerical indicator <b>84</b> of the desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> and/or a numerical indicator <b>86</b> of the current position of the wheel <b>16</b>. The virtual button <b>82</b> may additionally or alternatively include any of the features of the indicator <b>74</b> described above, such as the multicolored illumination.</p>
<p id="p-0039" num="0038"><figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a flow chart of a method <b>100</b> for adjusting a position of the wheel <b>16</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>, in accordance with an embodiment. The method <b>100</b> includes various steps represented by blocks. It should be noted that the method <b>100</b> may be performed as an automated procedure by a system, such as the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b>. Although the flow chart illustrates the steps in a certain sequence, it should be understood that the steps may be performed in any suitable order, certain steps may be omitted, and certain steps may be carried out simultaneously, where appropriate.</p>
<p id="p-0040" num="0039">In step <b>102</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. As discussed above, the first signal may be provided by the speed sensor <b>32</b> coupled to the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. In step <b>104</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. The second signal may be provided by the operator via input of a numerical value at the display <b>70</b>, via selection of a particular desired position from multiple desired positions stored in the memory <b>62</b>, or actuation of the indicator <b>74</b>, for example. In step <b>106</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel <b>16</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. The third signal may be provided by the position sensor <b>28</b>, which may be coupled to the actuator <b>30</b> that drives the wheel support assembly <b>17</b>, such as the axle <b>18</b> or the support members <b>52</b>, <b>56</b>. In step <b>108</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. The fourth signal may be provided by the weight sensor <b>34</b>, which may be coupled to a suitable location of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> (e.g., at or below the storage chamber <b>22</b>) to monitor the weight of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. In step <b>110</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive a fifth signal indicative of a height of the frame <b>14</b> or of the boom <b>20</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. The fifth signal may be provided by the vertical position sensor <b>36</b>, which may be coupled to the frame <b>14</b> or to the boom <b>20</b>. In step <b>112</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may receive a sixth signal indicative of the operator's presence in the seat of the agricultural implement <b>10</b>. The sixth signal may be provided by the seat sensor <b>35</b> coupled to the seat.</p>
<p id="p-0041" num="0040">In step <b>114</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may determine whether adjustment of one or more wheels <b>16</b> is appropriate based on some or all of the signals received in steps <b>102</b>-<b>112</b>. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may determine that adjustment is appropriate if the current position varies from the desired position for the wheel <b>16</b> and/or if one or more vehicle criteria (e.g., ground speed, weight, vertical height, and/or operator presence) are satisfied. If adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> is inappropriate, the controller <b>40</b> may provide an indication that adjustment is inappropriate and/or an indication of why the adjustment is inappropriate (e.g., the one or more criteria are not met, the current position matches the desired position, or the like), via the operator interface <b>64</b>, as shown in step <b>116</b>. As noted above, the indication may include operator instructions or feedback related to recommended changes in operation of the agricultural implement <b>12</b> (e.g., increase or decrease speed, weight, and/or vertical position, resume a seated position, or the like) needed to satisfy the one or more vehicle criteria. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to block adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> (e.g., by closing the valve <b>66</b>) of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> if one or more vehicle criteria are not satisfied. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may block adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b> if the sixth signal indicates that the operator is not seated in the seat.</p>
<p id="p-0042" num="0041">If adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> is appropriate, in step <b>118</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may determine an appropriate rate of adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> based on some or all of the signals received in steps <b>102</b>-<b>112</b>. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary continuously and/or proportionally with the ground speed, the weight, and/or the vertical position over the predetermined respective ranges. In some embodiments, the appropriate rate of adjustment may vary linearly, exponentially, or according to any suitable curve (e.g., bell curve) or function, with ground speed, the weight, and/or the vertical position over the predetermined respective ranges.</p>
<p id="p-0043" num="0042">In step <b>120</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel <b>16</b> of the agricultural implement <b>10</b> based on some of all of the signals received in steps <b>102</b>-<b>112</b>. For example, the controller <b>40</b> may provide the control signal to the valve <b>66</b> that is configured to adjust a flow of control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b>, thereby adjusting the position of the wheel <b>16</b> toward the desired position at the determined rate of adjustment. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may be configured to generate and to provide the control signal to open the valve <b>66</b> to provide control fluid to the actuator <b>30</b> while the agricultural implement <b>10</b> is stationary.</p>
<p id="p-0044" num="0043">In some embodiments, in step <b>116</b>, the controller <b>40</b> may provide an indication before, during, or after adjustment of the position of the wheel <b>16</b>. For example, in some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may instruct components of the operator interface <b>64</b>, such as the display <b>70</b>, the speaker <b>72</b>, and/or the indicator <b>74</b>, to provide an indication (e.g., visual and/or audible indication) related to the current position of the wheels, the ground speed, the predetermined range of ground speeds, the weight, the predetermined range of weights, the vertical position, the predetermined range of vertical positions, a current rate of adjustment, operator instructions or feedback related to changes in operation of the agricultural implement <b>12</b> that will change the rate of adjustment, or the like.</p>
<p id="p-0045" num="0044">The embodiments disclosed above generally relate to an automatic mode of operation in which the controller <b>40</b> receives the desired position of the wheel <b>16</b> (e.g., via operator input or selection of a numerical value related to the desired position) and automatically moves the wheel <b>16</b> toward the desired position at the appropriate rate, if such adjustment is appropriate (e.g., based on the ground speed, weight, vertical position, and/or operator's presence). However, the wheel adjustment system <b>12</b> may be configured to additionally or alternatively operate in a manual mode of operation in which the controller <b>40</b> enables the operator to hold a switch (e.g., virtual button on the display) to manually move the wheel <b>16</b> toward a desired position. In some embodiments, the controller <b>40</b> may only enable such manual adjustment of the wheel <b>16</b> if the criteria for adjustment are met (e.g., based on the ground speed, weight, vertical position, and/or operator's presence) in the manner discussed above. In some cases, in the manual mode, the controller <b>40</b> may determine the appropriate rate of adjustment and cause the wheel <b>16</b> to move at the appropriate rate given the various conditions in the manner set forth above. Certain features and steps are discussed with respect to one wheel <b>16</b>; however, it should be understood that multiple wheels <b>16</b> may be adjusted simultaneously or at different times via the techniques disclosed herein. Additionally, it should be understood that the agricultural implement <b>10</b> may be an autonomous vehicle, and in such cases, the operator interface <b>64</b> may be located at a base station that is remote from and in wireless communication with the agricultural implement <b>10</b>.</p>
<p id="p-0046" num="0045">While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.</p>
<?detailed-description description="Detailed Description" end="tail"?>
</description>
<claims id="claims">
<claim id="CLM-00001" num="00001">
<claim-text><b>1</b>. A wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement, comprising:
<claim-text>a controller having a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to:
<claim-text>receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement; and</claim-text>
<claim-text>output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, and third signals, wherein a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel varies based on the first signal.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00002" num="00002">
<claim-text><b>2</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, wherein the processor is configured to receive a fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement, and the rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel varies based on the fourth signal.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00003" num="00003">
<claim-text><b>3</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00002">claim 2</claim-ref>, comprising a load cell configured to be coupled to the agricultural implement, wherein the load cell is configured to monitor the weight of the agricultural implement and to provide the fourth signal to the processor.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00004" num="00004">
<claim-text><b>4</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, comprising a seat switch configured to be coupled to a seat of the agricultural implement, wherein the seat switch is configured to monitor an operator's presence in the seat and to provide a fourth signal indicative of the operator's presence in the seat to the processor, and the processor is configured to block adjustment of the position of the wheel of the agricultural implement if the fourth signal indicates that the operator is not present in the seat.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00005" num="00005">
<claim-text><b>5</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, wherein the processor is configured to receive a fourth signal indicative of a height of a boom of the agricultural implement, and the rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel varies based on the fourth signal.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00006" num="00006">
<claim-text><b>6</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, wherein the processor is configured to cause a multi-colored indicator to illuminate with a first color during adjustment of the position of the wheel and to illuminate with a second color, different from the first color, when the current position of the wheel corresponds to the desired position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00007" num="00007">
<claim-text><b>7</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, comprising a touchscreen display that is configured to enable an operator to input the desired position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00008" num="00008">
<claim-text><b>8</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00007">claim 7</claim-ref>, wherein the touchscreen display is configured to provide numerical indications of the desired position of the wheel and of the current position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00009" num="00009">
<claim-text><b>9</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, wherein the rate of adjustment increases proportionally with speed while the agricultural implement travels between 0.5 and 5 miles per hour.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00010" num="00010">
<claim-text><b>10</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, wherein the controller is configured to provide a speed control signal to a speed control system of the agricultural implement to limit the ground speed of the agricultural implement during adjustment of the position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00011" num="00011">
<claim-text><b>11</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00001">claim 1</claim-ref>, comprising a position sensor integrated within an actuator that is configured to drive the wheel laterally relative to a frame of the agricultural implement, wherein the position sensor is configured to provide the third signal to the processor.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00012" num="00012">
<claim-text><b>12</b>. A wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement, comprising:
<claim-text>a controller having a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to:
<claim-text>receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement; and</claim-text>
<claim-text>output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, third, and fourth signals.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00013" num="00013">
<claim-text><b>13</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref>, wherein the control signal causes a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel to vary based on the first and fourth signals.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00014" num="00014">
<claim-text><b>14</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref>, comprising a load cell configured to be coupled to the agricultural implement, wherein the load cell is configured to monitor the weight of the agricultural implement and to provide the fourth signal to the processor.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00015" num="00015">
<claim-text><b>15</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00014">claim 14</claim-ref>, wherein the processor is configured to receive a fifth signal indicative of a height of a boom of the agricultural implement, and the control signal varies based on the fifth signal.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00016" num="00016">
<claim-text><b>16</b>. The system of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00012">claim 12</claim-ref>, wherein the processor is configured to cause a multi-colored indicator to illuminate with a first color during adjustment of the position of the wheel and to illuminate with a second color, different from the first color, when the current position of the wheel corresponds to the desired position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00017" num="00017">
<claim-text><b>17</b>. A method of operating a wheel adjustment system for an agricultural implement, comprising using a controller having a processor and a memory to:
<claim-text>receive a first signal indicative of a ground speed of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a second signal indicative of a desired position of a wheel of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a third signal indicative of a current position of the wheel of the agricultural implement;</claim-text>
<claim-text>receive a fourth signal indicative of a weight of the agricultural implement; and</claim-text>
<claim-text>output a control signal to adjust a position of the wheel of the agricultural implement based on the first, second, third, and fourth signals.</claim-text>
</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00018" num="00018">
<claim-text><b>18</b>. The method of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00017">claim 17</claim-ref>, comprising, using the controller, varying a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel based on the first and the fourth signals.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00019" num="00019">
<claim-text><b>19</b>. The method of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00017">claim 17</claim-ref>, comprising, using the controller, instructing a multi-colored indicator to illuminate with a first color during adjustment of the position of the wheel and to illuminate with a second color, different from the first color, when the current position of the wheel corresponds to the desired position of the wheel.</claim-text>
</claim>
<claim id="CLM-00020" num="00020">
<claim-text><b>20</b>. The method of <claim-ref idref="CLM-00017">claim 17</claim-ref>, comprising, using the controller, varying a rate of adjustment of the position of the wheel proportionally with the ground speed of the agricultural implement while the agricultural implement travels between 0.5 and 5 miles per hour.</claim-text>
</claim>
</claims>
</us-patent-application>