North Dakota Patent of the Month – February 2023

As the demand for food increases, so must the supply. The agricultural industry is set on developing novel tools and technologies to keep up with this demand. One of the latest innovations to make a splash in the industry is the crop cart unloading system created by Safe-T-Pull Inc. 

Crop carts are used to transport crops directly from a harvester in the field during harvest. These are typically designed with an open topped hopper so that crops can be loaded directly in. A floor conveyor system then unloads the cart once full. Unfortunately, these unloading systems are typically positioned at steep angles, causing a good deal of crops to fall and get bruised. Moreover, the traditional crop carts require a significant volume of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the tractor to unload the crop, which some older tractors are unable to handle.

Safe-T-Pull’s crop cart is designed to address the inefficiencies and problems that have plagued conventional crop carts. The Safe-T-Pull crop cart is designed to efficiently unload a harvested crop from a crop cart by eliminating the steep angle of traditional unloading conveyors, thus preventing crop damage. Additionally, the unloading door is movably connected to the hopper, providing flexibility in unloading the crop. Furthermore, the system requires less pressurized hydraulic fluid from the tractor, which makes it more compatible with older tractors.

The company’s crop cart unloading system is a game-changer for the agricultural industry. It provides farmers with a more efficient and reliable way of unloading their crops, eliminating potential damage to the crop and increasing overall productivity. The invention underscores the continued importance of innovation in agriculture, which drives the industry forward and helps farmers stay competitive in the ever-evolving marketplace.

Safe-T-Pull is based out of the Red River Valley in Eastern North Dakota. It is an innovative hitch and towing system that makes assisting and pulling trucks, tractors, and other equipment through tough conditions easy and safe.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

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