WO2024182398A1

WO2024182398A1 - Bulk shrub trimmer head assembly, agricultural vehicle having such assembly and method of guayule seed production

Info

Publication number: WO2024182398A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/017484
Authority: WO
Inventors: Russell E. PROCK
Original assignee: Bridgestone Corp
Current assignee: Bridgestone Corp
Priority date: 2023-02-28
Filing date: 2024-02-27
Publication date: 2024-09-06
Anticipated expiration: 2025-08-28
Also published as: WO2024182398A9

Abstract

Bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies transportable along living, rooted shrubs include a frame with first and second vertical cutters supported thereon. The first and second vertical cutters are laterally spaced apart such that a pass-through opening is defined therebetween. A horizontal cutter is supported on the frame and extends laterally across the pass-through opening. The first vertical cutter trims foliage from a first side of the plurality of living, rooted shrubs and the second vertical cutter trims foliage from a second side of the plurality of living, rooted shrubs. The horizontal cutter trims foliage from a top portion of the living, rooted shrubs. Agricultural vehicles that include one or more of such bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies and methods of production of seeds from existing guayule plants are also included.

Description

BULK SHRUB TRIMMER HEAD ASSEMBLY, AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE HAVING SUCH ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF

GUAYULE SEED PRODUCTION

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure broadly relates to bulk shrub trimming machines and, in particular, to bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies constructed for removing some foliage from planted shrubs while leaving the shrubs alive and rooted within the ground. Agricultural vehicles that include one or more of such bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies and methods of production of seeds from existing guayule plants are also included.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] It is well understood that care and maintenance of trees, shrubs, bushes and other plants can be important to control growth and maintain such plants in a healthy and productive condition. For example, it has been recognized that trimming trees, shrubs, bushes and other plants can help maintain the plants in a particular shape or configuration that may maintain areas between adjacent plants for further growth and/or to provide access between groupings of plants for human or agricultural vehicle traffic. However, it is well known that manually trimming individual plants can be time consuming, expensive and is often limited to suitable working conditions and/or labor availability. As such, tools and equipment of a variety of types and kinds have been developed to aid in trimming trees, shrubs, bushes and other plants.

[0003] It is also well understood trees, shrubs, bushes and other plants can be trimmed into any one of a nearly infinite number of shapes, sizes and configurations, such as may be beneficial for the health and/or productivity of the plants, for human access to the plants and/or for agricultural vehicle traffic traveling between groupings of plants, for example. As such, much of the existing trimming equipment is adapted for use in a variety of applications and/or for trimming plants to different sizes, shapes and/or at differing heights. Accordingly, much of such existing equipment may still require manual manipulation during use.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 4,644,654 discloses a manually transported trimming device that is manipulated by the operator to trim trees to a particular shape or configuration, such as to increase the commercial value of each individual tree when sold. [0005] U.S. Patent No. 5,430,999 discloses an agricultural vehicle outfitted with rotary saw blades for trimming and pruning trees. The rotary saws are moveable mounted to permit tilting of the saw blades to dump and clear cuttings.

[0006] Notwithstanding the common usage and overall success of known devices and equipment, it is believed desirable to develop assemblies, systems and/or methods that may improve over known options and/or otherwise advance the art of maintaining plants and methods of producing seeds from plants, particularly guayule plants.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0007] One example of a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be transportable in a longitudinal direction of travel along a plurality of living, rooted shrubs. The bulk shrub trimmer head assembly can include a frame that can include a mounting point for operative connection to an associated agricultural transport vehicle. The frame can have a depth oriented along the longitudinal direction of travel, a height in a vertical direction and a length in a lateral direction that is transverse to the vertical direction and the longitudinal direction of travel. A first vertical cutter can be supported on the frame and can include a first plurality of cutting surfaces facing in a first longitudinal direction. A second vertical cutter can be supported on the frame in laterally-spaced relation to the first vertical cutter such that a pass-through opening is at least partially defined therebetween. The second vertical cutter can include a second plurality of cutting surfaces facing in the first longitudinal direction. A horizontal cutter can be supported on the frame and can extend laterally across the pass-through opening. The horizontal cutter can be longitudinally offset from the first and second vertical cutters in a second longitudinal direction opposite the first longitudinal direction. The horizontal cutter can include a third plurality of cutting surfaces facing in the first longitudinal direction. The first vertical cutter can be operable to trim foliage from a first side of the plurality of living, rooted shrubs. The second vertical cutter can be operable to trim foliage from a second side of the plurality of living, rooted shrubs. The horizontal cutter can be operable to trim foliage from a top portion of the living, rooted shrubs.

[0008] One example of an agricultural vehicle in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to the foregoing paragraph. The agricultural vehicle can also include an auxiliary power take-off operatively connected to at least one of the first vertical cutter, the second vertical cutter and the horizontal for selective operation thereof.

[0009] One example of a method of harvesting seeds from guayule shrubs across multiple growth seasons can include growing live and rooted guayule shrubs having exterior foliage with a plurality of seeds. The method can also include harvesting the plurality of seeds from the live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving the shrubs alive and rooted. The method can further include trimming foliage from the live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving the shrubs live and rooted. The method can also include waiting for growth of new foliage and a plurality of new seeds along an exterior of the live and rooted guayule shrubs. The method can further include harvesting the plurality of new seeds from the live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving the shrubs alive and rooted.

[0010] The foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated otherwise. These features and elements as well as the operation thereof will become more apparent in light of the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, the following description and drawings are intended to be exemplary in nature and non-limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of one example of an agricultural vehicle including a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure traversing rows of live, rooted plants.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the exemplary bulk shrub trimmer head assembly in FIG. 1 shown traversing rows of live, rooted plants.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of one example of a method of producing plant seeds in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Turning now to the drawings, it is to be understood that the showings are for purposes of illustrating examples of the subject matter of the present disclosure and that the same are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the drawings are not to scale and that portions of certain features and/or elements may be exaggerated for purpose of clarity and/or ease of understanding.

[0015] The present disclosure refers to and describes assemblies and systems for trimming shrubs utilizing a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Additionally, the present disclosure refers to and describes methods of producing seeds in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, such as may include the use of the aforementioned assemblies and systems for trimming shrubs. It should be appreciated that the broader process steps described herein may be accomplished by a variety of equipment configurations and sub-process steps, each of which are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the following disclosure describes trimming guayule shrubs. Particular equipment is generally described as being suitable for such guayule shrub trimming. However, in some cases, other equipment could potentially be implemented to accomplish certain functions associated with trimming guayule shrubs described herein. Additionally, or in the alternative, the present assemblies, systems and methods could potentially be implemented or adapted to harvest other types of shrubs and/or be used in connection with shrubs other than guayule plants.

[0016] As used herein, “aft” refers to the direction toward or otherwise associated with the back or rear end of a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly and/or associated agricultural vehicle. As used herein, “forward” refers to the direction toward or otherwise associated with the front end of a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly and/or associated agricultural vehicle. Generally, the forward direction will represent the direction of motion of a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly and/or associated agricultural vehicle traversing a plot of land during use in operation.

[0017] In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly may be utilized to decrease the amount of time it takes to trim rows of shrubs, such as guayule shrubs, for example. Such a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly can generally include a plurality vertically-oriented cutting bars (e.g., sickle bars) operably mounted in laterally-spaced relation to one another on or along a frame. The plurality of vertically-oriented cutting bars extend forward of the frame and are configured such that a plurality of windows or openings are formed therebetween to receive and trim along the sides of shrubs that pass through the openings as the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly is transported across a plot of land by an associated agricultural vehicle. Additionally, a horizontally-oriented cutting bar (e.g., a sickle bar) is positioned forward or aft of the plurality of vertically-oriented cutting bars. The horizontally-oriented cutting bar can extend across one or more of the plurality of openings and is configured to trim along the top of shrubs that pass through the openings as the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly is transported across a plot of land by an associated agricultural vehicle. As such, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be more efficient and less labor intensive in trimming guayule shrubs to a consistent and uniform size and shape than traditional manual trimming methods or other known trimming techniques. In some cases, such a consistent and uniform size and shape can include an approximately planar top face extending along the rows of guayule shrubs. Additionally, or in the alternative, such a consistent and uniform size and shape can include approximately planar side faces extending in approximate alignment with one another along opposing sides of the rows of guayule shrubs. Typically, the approximately planar side faces will be oriented in approximate alignment with one another along the opposing sides of the rows of guayule shrubs.

[0018] Accordingly, in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure and with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, one non-limiting example of an agricultural vehicle 100 is shown from a side perspective view in FIG. 1. Agricultural vehicle 100 can generally include a vehicle configured to be driven through a field of shrubs, such as guayule shrubs, and be used to trim foliage from live shrubs while the shrubs are still rooted in the ground. Shrubs, as described herein, can include roots disposed in the ground, which may include several stems extending above the ground and acting as a base of the shrub. Shrubs will also include branches extending from the stems on or along which foliage (e.g., leaves, flowers, seeds) is supported and grows. In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, agricultural vehicle 100 is generally configured to separate some portion of existing foliage together with some number of branches from live, rooted shrubs while leaving the stems and roots substantially unaltered.

[0019] Agricultural vehicle 100 can include a vehicle body 102 that can include a chassis 104 and a plurality of wheels 106. Chassis 104 can include a powertrain that can include an engine configured to generate power and a drivetrain configured deliver power to one or more of wheels 106 to propel vehicle 100 in forward and backward directions with the forward direction representing the normal direction of travel during use in operation, as is represented by arrow TRV. In some cases, vehicle 100 can be configured to travel at a speed of approximately 0 to 20 mph, for example, to and/or from a plot of land to be trimmed and/or at a speed approximately 0 to 5 mph, for example, when traversing the plot of land while trimming. Wheels 106 are preferably spaced apart such that the wheels fit within aisles AIS formed along a ground surface GND between adjacent rows ROW of shrubs, such as are shown in FIG. 2. In some cases, the rows can form beds BDS that are raised slightly above the ground surface of aisles AIS.

[0020] In some cases, agricultural vehicle 100 can include one or more bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies 108 operatively associated therewith. It will be appreciated that the one or more bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies can be operatively supported on or along vehicle 100 in any suitable manner and/or through the use of any suitable configuration of systems and/or components. For example, agricultural vehicle 100 can include an adjustable support system 110 to which one or more bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies 108 are operatively connected. If included, adjustable support system 110 can include a plurality of support arms 112 that are pivotally connected to vehicle body 102 at a proximal end 114. In such an arrangement, a distal end 116 of the support arms can be raised and/or lowered by way a plurality of actuator assemblies 118, one or more of which can be operatively disposed along either or each side of vehicle 100. The actuator assemblies can be selectively extendable and retractable to raise and lower the support arms, such as may be operated through the transfer of pressurized fluid (e.g., hydraulic pressure) into and out of the actuator assemblies, for example.

[0021] One or more of bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies 108 are pivotally supported on or along distal end 116 of the support arms by a connection 120 that permits the bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies to be selectively positioned (e.g., raised and lowered) and/or otherwise oriented (e.g., tilted, pivoted) through operation of adjustable support system 110. In some cases, bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 can be secured on or along the support arms such that the orientation of the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly can be adjusted. It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration of systems and/or components could be used. For example, a plurality of actuator assemblies 122, one or more of which can be operatively disposed along either or each side of vehicle 100. The actuator assemblies can be pivotally connected between bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 and support arms 112. In such an arrangement, actuator assemblies 122 can selectively extendable and retractable to vary the position and/or orientation of the one or more bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies, such as may be operated through the transfer of pressurized fluid (e.g., hydraulic pressure) into and out of the actuator assemblies, for example. In the arrangement shown, extending actuator assemblies 122 will tilt or rotate bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 in a clockwise direction around connection 120 and retraction of actuator assemblies 122 will rotate the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly in a counterclockwise direction around connection 120. In this manner, the position and/or orientation of the one or more bulk shrub trimmer head assemblies and the components thereof can be selectively adjusted relative to ground surface GND and/or another desired datum.

[0022] Agricultural vehicle 100 can also include an auxiliary power source 124, sometimes referred to in the art as a power take-off, operable to supply mechanical, hydraulic and/or electrical power to external systems and/or devices. In some cases, the auxiliary power source can provide mechanical rotational output to directly or indirectly drive transmissions or other power transfer devices operatively associated with bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 and/or other systems. Additionally, or in the alternative, the auxiliary power source can provide electrical power to directly or indirectly drive electrical motors coupled with transmissions or other power transfer devices operatively associated with bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 and/or other systems. Further, or as another alternative, auxiliary power source 124 can provide fluid power (e.g., pressurized gas, pressurized hydraulic fluid) to directly or indirectly drive fluid-powered motors coupled with transmissions or other power transfer devices operatively associated with the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly and/or other systems.

[0023] As one non-limiting example, such as is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 can include fluid-powered motors 126 and 128 that are respectively operatively connected to transmission and/or clutch assemblies 130 and 132 (e.g., wobble box transmission). Pressurized fluid can be selectively transferred into and out of fluid-powered motors 126 and 128 respectively through fluid transfer lines 134 and 136. It will be appreciated that pressurized fluid can be transferred from auxiliary power source 124 either through fluid transfer line 138 either directly to the fluid-powered motors or through a manifold and/or control valve assembly 140. It will be recognized and understood, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternatively be used without departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0024] With further reference to agricultural vehicle 100, an operator may sit within cabin 142, which may function similar to a cabin in other vehicles, in order to provide shelter for an operator operating vehicle 100. Cabin 142 can include a seat, steering wheel, and other controls configured to communicate instructions to various systems of vehicle 100 during operation. For example, cabin 142 can include one or more controls configured to operate a throttle to control a speed of vehicle 100, one or more controls one or more controls configured to operate adjustable support system 110, one or more controls configured to operate auxiliary power source 124, and/or one or more controls configured to operate bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108. Additionally, cabin 142 can further include controls for various other systems of agricultural vehicle 100, such as external and internal lighting systems and air conditioning, for example. All of such controls as well as any systems and/or devices thereof are collectively represented in FIG. 1 by dashed box 144. In various embodiments, agricultural vehicle 100 can include a ladder 146 coupled to one side of cabin 142 and configured to allow an operator to enter and exit the cabin.

[0025] Bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 is operative to trim the sides and tops of one or more rows of shrubs as the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly is transported along a plot of land by agricultural vehicle 100. Assembly 108 can include a frame (or frame assembly) 148 that supports a plurality of cutter bar assemblies that are arranged and operable to trim the sides and tops of the one or more rows of shrubs during use in operation. In the arrangement shown and described herein, frame 148 includes a frame section 150, a frame section 152 and a connecting frame section 154 that extends between and operatively connects frame sections 150 and 152 with one another. Frame 148 includes a plurality of frame members 156 that are oriented vertically and extend from an upper end 158 toward a lower (or distal) end 160 disposed toward ground surface GND. In some cases, frame 148 can, optionally, include ground-engaging shoes 162 secured on or along lower end 160 of one or more of frame members 156. If included, ground-engaging shoes 162 can include a base portion 164 dimensioned to slide on or along ground surface GND and a leading portion 166 extending forward from along base portion 164 at an obtuse included angle. In such an arrangement, leading portion 166 can permit ground-engaging shoes 162 to slide along the ground surface without digging into the ground.

[0026] Frame members 156 are spaced apart from one another in a side-to-side or lateral direction such that a pass-through window or opening 168 is at least partially defined between adjacent ones of the frame members. The pass-through openings are dimensioned to receive rows of untrimmed shrubs USH, which exit bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 as trimmed shrubs TSH. As such, in some cases, frame members 156 can be at least approximately laterally aligned with one another and can at least partially form frame section 150. Frame 148 also includes a plurality of frame members 170 that are spaced apart from one another in the side-to-side or lateral direction. Frame members 170 are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as being positioned aft or rearward of frame members 156. However, it is to be recognized and understood that frame members 170 could alternately be positioned forward of frame members 156 without departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0027] In some cases, frame members 170 can be at least approximately laterally aligned with one another and can at least partially form frame section 152. Frame members 170 are oriented vertically and extend from an upper end 172 toward a lower (or distal) end 174. In a preferred arrangement, frame members 170 are substantially shorter in length than frame members 156 with lower ends 174 offset from lower ends 160 in a directly toward upper ends 158 and 172. Also, in a preferred arrangement, frame members 170 can be at least approximately aligned in the longitudinal direction with frame members 156 such that openings 168 extend through frame sections 150 and 152 with an approximately uniform size and shape. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements can alternately be used without departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0028] Frame 148 can also include frame members 176 and 178 that can at least partially define connecting frame section 154. Frame members 176 and 178 together with frame members 156 and 170 can be rigidly interconnected with one another, such as by way of flowed-material joints and/or suitable fastener arrangements, for example. In some cases, frame 148 can include frame members 180 that extend between and operatively connect frame members 156 and frame members 178.

[0029] Bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 further includes a plurality of cutters (or cutter bars) 182 supported on or along frame 148. Cutters 182 are oriented vertically and are disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another along and across frame 148. In a preferred arrangement a pair of cutters are disposed along opposing sides of pass-through openings 168 such that one cutter will trim foliage on or along each side of a row of shrubs passing through the opening. In a preferred arrangement, cutters 182 are laterally offset from at least frame members 156 such that some amount of lateral clearance is disposed therebetween, such as is represented by reference dimension 184 in FIG. 2, for example. Additionally, cutters 182 can project forward of frame members 156 such that the cutters engage incoming shrubs prior to the foliage contacting frame members 156. It will be appreciated that cutters 182 can be operatively driven by auxiliary power source 124 in any suitable manner. As a nonlimiting example, cutters 182 can be operatively connected with fluid-powered motor 126 and/or transmission 130 by way of a drive shaft 186 such that cutters 182 operate approximately synchronously. In such an arrangement, cutters 182 of each opening 168 can trim and thereby approximately simultaneously generate approximately evenly trimmed (e.g., approximately planar) faces along the opposing sides of the rows of trimmed shrubs TSH.

[0030] Bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108 further includes one or more cutters (or cutter bars) 188 supported on or along frame 148. Cutter(s) 188 is/are oriented horizontally and extend along and across pass-through openings 168 to trim foliage on or along the top of one or more rows of shrubs passing through openings 168. Cutter(s) 188 can be supported on or along frame members 170 in any suitable manner, whether disposed forward or aft of frame members 156. In a preferred arrangement, cutter(s) 188 are offset from cutters 182, such as is represented by reference dimension OFS in FIG. 1. While cutter(s) 188 is/are shown as being disposed rearward of cutters 182, it is to be recognized and understood that cutter(s) 188 could alternately be positioned forward of cutters 182 without departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that cutter(s) 188 can be operatively driven by auxiliary power source 124 in any suitable manner. As a non-limiting example, cutter(s) 188 can be operatively connected with fluid-powered motor 128 and/or transmission 132 for operation thereof. In such an arrangement, cutter(s) 188 can trim and thereby generate an approximately evenly trimmed (e.g., approximately planar) face along the top of the rows of trimmed shrubs TSH. In such an arrangement, the top and opposing side faces of one or more rows of shrubs can be trimmed in one pass of the bulk shrub trimmer head assembly with opposing faces disposed along different ones of adjacent aisles AIS being simultaneously trimmed. In a preferred arrangement, multiple rows of shrubs are simultaneously trimmed in such a manner.

[0031] In a preferred arrangement, cutters 182 and cutter(s) 188 can be of a type or kind commonly referred to in the art as sickle bars that include a fixed blade and a reciprocal blade. The fixed blade can include a plurality of cutting teeth 190 that are disposed in spaced relation to one another therealong and include cutting surfaces. The reciprocal blade can include a plurality of cutting teeth 192 that are disposed in spaced relation to one another along the reciprocal blade. The reciprocal cutting teeth include cutting surfaces and are moved relative to the fixed cutting teeth to shear plant material, such as shrub foliage, for example. As such, fluid-powered motors 126 and 128 and/or transmissions 130 and 132 are, respectively, operable to generate reciprocal cutting motion of cutting teeth 190 and 192 relative to one another in cutters 182 and/or cutter(s) 188. However, it will be appreciated that other cutting devices could alternately be used without departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure. For example, sharp static blades, rotary blades, scissor cutting mechanisms, chainsaw blades, or any other cutting mechanisms could alternately be used.

[0032] One plant that may benefit from improved trimming techniques is the guayule plant. The guayule plant (Parthenium argentatum) is a shrub-like plant that contains rubber. Guayule plants are generally planted in soil, frequently in rows, and may be grown for a predetermined period of time prior to harvesting. The guayule plants may contain a number of seeds dispersed throughout the plant which may be harvested and subsequently planted to grow additional guayule plants, thereby increasing the amount of rubber that can be produced. [0033] In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, it has been recognized that increased production of seeds can be obtained from existing guayule plants by trimming the alive and rooted plants at additional intervals. In particular, seeds are harvested at a particular time of year. If the plants are allowed to continue to grow foliage, many of the new seeds develop well inside the foliage envelope of the new growth. Such an arrangement makes it difficult to effectively harvest the new seeds in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

[0034] As such, in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, it has been recognized that guayule plants are capable of producing seeds for multiple growing seasons. In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, a technique has been developed to enable harvesting of seeds from live and rooted plants on a season-after-season basis. In particular, it has been observed that when allowed to continue to grow seed-producing portions of guayule plants will become overgrown with new foliage that renders the harvesting of seeds difficult and inefficient. However, in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, it has been determined that guayule plants can be trimmed back after undergoing seed harvesting. Such action allows new foliage and seeds to grow along the exterior of the plants, which renders the seeds capable of efficient and effective harvesting. Such a cycle of foliage growth followed by seed harvesting can be repeated multiple times, which can beneficially extend the productive life of the existing guayule plants while reducing cost, labor and/or expenditure of resources associated with harvesting guayule seeds for the growth of new plants.

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates one example of a method 200 of production of seeds from guayule plants in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Method 200 includes planting existing guayule seeds for growth of new guayule plants, as is represented by reference number 202 in FIG. 3. Method 200 also includes waiting for new guayule plants to mature and for new foliage with seeds to grow, as is represented by reference number 204. Method 200 further includes harvesting seeds from live and rooted guayule plants while allowing the plants to remain live and rooted, as is represented by reference number 206 in FIG. 3. Method 200 then inquires whether the live and rooted guayule plant has reached its end of life for the production of seeds, as is represented by decision block 208. Upon reaching a YES decision, method 200 proceeds to harvest the live and rooted guayule plant for use in producing rubber or to render the plot of land available for fresh plantings, as is represented by reference number 210 in FIG. 3. However, in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, upon reaching a NO decision at decision block 208, method 200 proceeds to trim some portion of the existing foliage from the live and rooted guayule plants, such as by using agricultural vehicle 100 and/or bulk shrub trimmer head assembly 108, as is represented in FIG. 3 by reference number 212. Method 200 further then includes waiting for new foliage with seeds to grow on the existing, live and rooted guayule plants, as is represented by reference number 214. Method 200 then proceeds to repeat the actions identified and described in connection with reference number 206 and decision block 208 together with reference numbers 212 and 214 until such time as a YES decision is reached at decision block 208 and the live and rooted plant is harvested as in reference number 210.

[0036] As used herein with reference to certain features, elements, components and/or structures, numerical ordinals (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used to denote different singles of a plurality or otherwise identify certain features, elements, components and/or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically defined by the claim language. Additionally, the terms “transverse,” and the like, are to be broadly interpreted. As such, the terms “transverse,” and the like, can include a wide range of relative angular orientations that include, but are not limited to, an approximately perpendicular angular orientation. Also, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” and the like, are to be broadly interpreted and can include, but are not limited to circular shapes and/or configurations. In this regard, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” and the like, can be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,” “peripherally,” and the like.

[0037] Furthermore, the phrase “flowed-material joint” and the like, if used herein, are to be interpreted to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or otherwise flowable material (e.g., a melted metal or combination of melted metals) is deposited or otherwise presented between adjacent component parts and operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. Examples of processes that can be used to form such a flowed-material joint include, without limitation, welding processes, brazing processes and soldering processes. In such cases, one or more metal materials and/or alloys can be used to form such a flowed-material joint, in addition to any material from the component parts themselves. Another example of a process that can be used to form a flowed-material joint includes applying, depositing or otherwise presenting an adhesive between adjacent component parts that is operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. In such case, it will be appreciated that any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials can be used, such as one-part and/or two-part epoxies, for example.

[0038] It will be recognized that numerous different features and/or components are presented in the embodiments shown and described herein, and that no one embodiment may be specifically shown and described as including all such features and components. As such, it is to be understood that the subject matter of the present disclosure is intended to encompass any and all combinations of the different features and components that are shown and described herein, and, without limitation, that any suitable arrangement of features and components, in any combination, can be used. Thus, it is to be distinctly understood claims directed to any such combination of features and/or components, whether or not specifically embodied herein, are intended to find support in the present disclosure. To aid the Patent Office and any readers of this application and any resulting patent in interpreting the claims appended hereto, Applicant does not intend any of the appended claims or any claim elements to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim.

[0039] While the subject matter of the present disclosure has been described with reference to the foregoing embodiments and considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the structures and structural interrelationships between the component parts of the embodiments disclosed, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the embodiments illustrated and described without departing from the principles hereof. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. Accordingly, it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of the present disclosure and not as a limitation. As such, it is intended that the subject matter of the present disclosure be construed as including all such modifications and alterations. [0040] It is believed that the disclosure set forth above encompasses at least one distinct invention with independent utility. While the invention has been disclosed in the exemplary forms, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of various embodiments, materials, compositions and methods may be made within the scope of the present invention, with substantially similar results. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed herein.

[0041] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or combination of elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims of the invention. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the instant invention may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications. Corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or acts for performing the functions in combination with other claim elements as specifically claimed. The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given above.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly transportable in a longitudinal direction of travel along a plurality of living, rooted shrubs, said bulk shrub trimmer head assembly comprising: a frame including a mounting point for operative connection to an associated agricultural transport vehicle, said frame having a depth oriented along said longitudinal direction of travel, a height in a vertical direction and a length in a lateral direction that is transverse to said vertical direction and said longitudinal direction of travel; a first vertical cutter supported on said frame and including a first plurality of cutting surfaces facing in a first longitudinal direction; a second vertical cutter supported on said frame in laterally-spaced relation to said first vertical cutter such that a pass-through opening is at least partially defined therebetween, said second vertical cutter including a second plurality of cutting surfaces facing in said first longitudinal direction; and, a horizontal cutter supported on said frame and extending laterally across said pass-through opening, said horizontal cutter longitudinally offset from said first and second vertical cutters in a second longitudinal direction opposite said first longitudinal direction, said horizontal cutter including a third plurality of cutting surfaces facing in said first longitudinal direction; said first vertical cutter operable to trim a first side of said plurality of living, rooted shrubs, said second vertical cutter operable to trim a second side of said plurality of living, rooted shrubs, and said horizontal cutter operable to trim a top portion of said living, rooted shrubs.

2. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said frame includes a first frame section on which said first and second vertical cutters are supported.

3. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 2, wherein said frame includes a second frame section offset in one of said first and second longitudinal directions from said first frame section with said horizontal cutter supported on said second frame section.

4. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1 -3, wherein said frame includes a connector section extending between and operatively connecting said first and second frame sections.

5. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1 -4, wherein said frame extends laterally between a first frame end and a second frame end, and said frame includes a first ground-engaging shoe disposed along said first frame end and a second ground-engaging shoe disposed along said second frame end.

6. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1 -5, wherein said frame includes first and second first frame members oriented vertically and disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another such that a shrub pass-through window is defined laterally therebetween.

7. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 6, wherein said first and second vertical cutters and said pass-through opening are disposed within said shrub pass-through window with said first vertical cutter disposed adjacent said first first frame member and said second vertical cutter disposed adjacent said second first frame member.

8. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1 -7, wherein said frame includes at least three first frame members oriented vertically with each of said at least three first frame members disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another such that a plurality of shrub pass-through windows are defined along said frame with one of said shrub pass-through windows disposed between adjacent ones of said at least three first frame members.

9. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 8, wherein said first and second vertical cutters are two of a plurality of vertical cutters disposed in laterallyspaced relation to one another along said frame with two of said vertical cutters disposed within each of said plurality of shrub pass-through windows and with at least one of said plurality of vertical cutters disposed adjacent each of said at least three first frame members in laterally-offset relation thereto.

10. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1 -9, wherein said frame includes at least four first frame members oriented vertically with each of said at least four first frame members disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another such that at least three shrub pass-through windows are defined along said frame with one of said shrub pass-through windows disposed between adjacent ones of said at least four first frame members.

11. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 10, wherein said first and second vertical cutters are two of a plurality of vertical cutters disposed in laterallyspaced relation to one another along said frame with two of said vertical cutters disposed within each of said at least three shrub pass-through windows and with at least one of said plurality of vertical cutters disposed adjacent each of said at least four first frame members in laterally-offset relation thereto.

12. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1-11 , wherein said frame includes at least five first frame members oriented vertically with each of said at least five first frame members disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another such that at least four shrub pass-through windows are defined along said frame with one of said shrub pass-through windows disposed between adjacent ones of said at least five first frame members.

13. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 12, wherein said first and second vertical cutters are two of a plurality of vertical cutters disposed in laterallyspaced relation to one another along said frame with two of said vertical cutters disposed within each of said at least four shrub pass-through windows and with at least one of said plurality of vertical cutters disposed adjacent each of said at least five first frame members in laterally-offset relation thereto.

14. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein said frame includes a plurality second frame members oriented vertically and disposed in laterally-spaced relation to one another with said horizontal cutter bar at least partially supported thereon.

15. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 6-14, wherein said frame includes a ground-engaging shoe disposed along two or more of said first frame members.

16. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to claim 15, wherein each of said ground engaging shoes includes a base portion and a leading portion disposed at an obtuse included angle relative to said base portion.

17. A bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein at least one of said first vertical cutter, said second vertical cutter and said horizontal cutter includes first and second blade sections with a plurality of cutting surfaces disposed therealong that shear plant material upon movement of said first and second blade sections relative to one another.

18. Agricultural vehicle comprising: a bulk shrub trimmer head assembly according to any one of claims 1-17; and, an auxiliary power take off operatively connected to at least one of said first vertical cutter, said second vertical cutter and said horizontal cutter for selective operation thereof.

19. A method of harvesting seeds from guayule shrubs across multiple growth seasons, said method comprising: growing live and rooted guayule shrubs having exterior foliage with a plurality of seeds; harvesting said plurality of seeds from said live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving said shrubs alive and rooted; trimming foliage from said live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving said shrubs live and rooted; awaiting growth of new foliage and a plurality of new seeds along an exterior of live and rooted guayule shrubs; and, harvesting said plurality of new seeds from said live and rooted guayule shrubs while leaving said shrubs alive and rooted.

20. A method according to claim 19 further comprising: determining an end of productive life of said live and rooted guayule shrubs after at least a second harvesting of seeds; and, harvesting said live and rooted guayule shrubs by dislodging said shrubs from a base proximate a ground surface.