Wire dispensing apparatus

Abstract

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Description

WIRE DISPENSING APPARATUS TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to a wire dispensing apparatus and, more particularly, to an agricultural wire dispensing apparatus in the form of a wire payoff mechanism. The apparatus can dispense wire from a moving vehicle (i.e. the apparatus can be mobile / portable) and is particularly though not exclusively suited for dispensing trellis wire. BACKGROUND ART Trellis wire is primarily used in horticultural applications to support overlying coverings and canopies for crops, and to also support the crops themselves, such as crop branches and vine-type crops. As such, trellis wire tends to be of a larger gauge then traditional fence wire (e.g. trellis wire can have a diameter of around 2.5mm), A known mechanism for dispensing trellis wire comprises a stem frame which extends up from a fixed base. A coil / roll of the trellis wire (e.g. ~ 25 - 50 kg in weight and 750 - 1000 m in length) is located on the stem frame and sits on the base. The wire is progressively wound off the stem frame. Because trellis wire is comparatively heavy and cumbersome to use, the size of the trellis wire coil / roll that is loaded onto the existing mechanism is limited. In practice, when trellis wire is dispensed along trellis rows, the resultant shorter overall length of the coil / roll results in many more wire joins being required along the trellis rows, Each such join typically represents a weak point and can cause problems for mechanical harvesting and pruning, It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Disclosed herein is apparatus for dispensing wire. The apparatus is particularly suited for dispensing trellis wire and will, at least in part, be described in this context. However, it should be understood that the apparatus can be adapted for use with a variety of different wire types. The apparatus as disclosed herein can dispense wire from a moving vehicle (e.g. from the front of or from the rear (e.g. rear tray) of a utility vehicle, truck, tractor, or from a trailer (e.g. box trailer) towed behind a vehicle, etc.). The apparatus as disclosed herein can comprise a base that is configured to support the apparatus at a surface (e.g. the surface can be located at or in the vehicle which then moves the apparatus in use). For example, the base can be configured to sit in and / or on a rear tray of a box trailer, at the front or rear of a farm or utility vehicle, at the front or rear of a truck or tractor such as on a flat platform thereof, tray or bed, on a pallet that is e.g, engaged by tines of a tractor, etc. When the apparatus is used at the front of e.g. a tractor, the base may be carried by the tines or front loader arms of the tractor, or it may be modified to enable it to engage with a three-point linkage of the tractor, etc, The base may be designed such that the apparatus is enabled to be mobile / portable, even though the apparatus can be used at a fixed location, Thus, when the base is located at the surface, the apparatus can e.g. be carried at the front of, or towed or carried behind, a vehicle, etc. The apparatus as disclosed herein can also comprise a wire cradle mountable for rotation at the base. The cradle can be configured to support a coil or roll of wire thereat. The rotation of the wire cradle at the base can facilitate wire payoff from the coil / roll in use. Movement of the vehicle can cause the rotation of the wire cradle at the base. The apparatus as disclosed herein can further comprise a braking mechanism. In accordance with the present disclosure, the braking mechanism can be configured such that, in use on the vehicle, and as wire is dispensed from the wire cradle, the braking mechanism can act on the wire cradle to brake the rotation thereof when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed from the wire cradle. Decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed may, for example, be caused by the vehicle slowing or stopping, and / or by ‘overrun’ of the wire cradle. Conversely, increased tension can, for example, be caused by the vehicle accelerating, The braking mechanism can help to prevent such overrun of the wire being dispensed (i.e. to prevent excessive or inadvertent ‘payoff’ of wire in use). The braking mechanism can also ensure a more uniform rate of wire dispensing. In this regard, the vehicle can act as the ‘motive means’ or ‘motor’ for the payoff of wire from the apparatus, and the braking mechanism can help to ‘regulate’ or ‘control’ wire payoff / dispensing (e.g. as the vehicle speed and / or direction varies). The braking mechanism can also assist in mitigating ‘pulsing’ of wire payoff and can reduce vibrational ‘resonance’ of the wire during payoff. The braking mechanism may be configured to operate dynamically, i.e. to intermittently apply the braking effect to slow or retard rotation of the wire cradle when there is decreased, reduced or no tension on the wire being dispensed (such as when the wire becomes slack during vehicle slowing, braking or turning and / or during cradle overrun), Because the apparatus employs such a braking mechanism, it can enable a much heavier coil or roll of wire to be deployed at and ‘paid-off” from the wire cradle. For example, a coil / roll of trellis wire of ~500 kg and 10,000 m in length may be deployed. Being able to use such a long coil of wire can reduce downtime and wire coil changeover time. It can also reduce the overall number of wire joins. The braking mechanism can also eliminate the need for manual braking (e.g. braking by a person positioned next to the wire dispensing apparatus in use). Such manual braking can be extremely dangerous when a coil of trellis wire is being dispensed due to such wire being heavier and more cumbersome than standard fence wire. As set forth below, the apparatus as disclosed herein may further comprise a safety-type cage located in use to surround the wire cradle to prevent a user from inadvertently accessing the spinning coil of wire, Typically, the apparatus operates from a front of, a rear of, or behind the vehicle. One benefit of arranging the apparatus at the front of the vehicle, is that the user can view the apparatus during use and whilst driving. This can be especially important when the user is alone in the vehicle. The vehicle can move along or adjacent to e.g. a crop row, paddock, etc. During such operation, the braking mechanism can facilitate wire dispensing in a safe and effective manner. In one form, the braking mechanism may comprise a mechanical mechanism that is arranged at the base to engage with and brake the rotation of the wire cradle at the base. The mechanical mechanism can be configured such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed decreases, the mechanical mechanism is caused to engage with and brake the rotation of the wire cradle at the base. The mechanical mechanism may be further configured such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the mechanical mechanism is caused to disengage from, to free the rotation of, the wire cradle at the base. In practice, the mechanical mechanism may ‘toggle’ between engagement and disengagement, In another form, the braking mechanism may comprise an electromechanical system arranged for selectively engaging with and braking the rotation of the wire cradle at the base. The electromechanical system may be activated by a controller and / or by a braking mechanism of the vehicle. For example, the electromechanical system may take advantage of existing power and / or braking systems of the towing vehicle(s), such as the power take-off of e.g. a tractor, or an existing trailer braking system used for heavy trailers. The electromechanical system may be configured to ‘simulate’ the mechanical mechanism (i.e. when tension on the wire being dispensed decreases, the system can be caused to engage with and brake the rotation of the wire cradle, and when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the system can be caused to disengage from, to free the rotation of, the wire cradle at the base). Such decreases in wire tension can correspond to vehicle slowing, braking and / or turning; whereas such increases in wire tension can correspond to vehicle acceleration and / or turning, In some embodiments, the electromechanical system may be an electric or an electric / hydraulic system. The electromechanical system may be actuated either by a dedicated accelerometer and / or by operator brake pedal pressure / depression. The electric or electric / hydraulic system may be connected to (e.g. plugged or coupled into) a corresponding electric or electric / hydraulic system of the vehicle, s0 as to be powered thereby and to be activated therewith, In some embodiments, the mechanical mechanism may comprise a drum brake. The drum brake may e.g. be based on or repurposed from an existing mechanical drum brake setup (e.g. such as drum brakes that are employed in cars or on trailers). The drum brake may be arranged between the base and the wire cradle and can support the rotation thereon of the wire cradle. In this regard, when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed, the drum brake may brake the rotation of the wire cradle. Conversely, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the drum brake may free the wire cradle for rotation, For example, the wire cradle may be mounted to a wheel hub / drum of the drum brake (e.g. via a mounting plate). The mounting plate of the wire cradle may be supported by the shaft and bearings of the drum brake. Further, a back plate of the drum brake may be mounted to the base. In use, brake pad(s) of the drum brake may be selectively activated by the decreased or increased tension of the wire being dispensed to respectively brake or free the wheel hub / drum for rotation with respect to the back plate of the drum brake. For example, the brake pad(s) of the drum brake may be selectively activated by a mechanical linkage which is arranged to be activated by the decreased or increased tension of the wire being dispensed from the apparatus, In a variation, the drum brake may be electromechanically powered and operated. For example, when electromechanically powered and operated, activation of the drum brake may be determined by e.g. an accelerometer, and / or from a signal sent when the brakes of the vehicle are applied. The drum brake may also be controlled via a programmable logic controller. In other embodiments, the mechanical mechanism may comprise a brake pad. The brake pad may be mounted at the distal end of an actuation arm. Again, the brake pad may make use of the same or similar (e.g. hard wearing / abrasive) materials to vehicle brake pads. For example, original vehicle brake pads may be employed. The brake pad may engage with an external wall of the wire cradle which may be fabricated from a metal such as steel to interact with the hard wearing / abrasive material of vehicle brake pads. The actuation arm may be pivotally mounted with respect to the base. The actuation arm may be configured such that, when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed, the actuation arm can be caused to be pivoted to bring the brake pad into engagement with the external wall of the wire cradle to thereby brake the rotation of the wire cradle. The actuation arm may also be configured such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the actuation arm is caused to be pivoted to disengage the brake pad with the external wall of the wire cradle to thereby free the wire cradle for rotation, Thus, the brake pad can be intermittently caused to bear against the external wall of the wire cradle. As above, the brake pad can ‘toggle’ between engaged and disengaged positions. In some embodiments, the actuation arm may be pivotally mounted with respect to the base at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends. The actuation arm proximal end may be connected to a spring biasing mechanism that is arranged to act between the actuation arm proximal end and the base to cause the brake pad at the distal end to be biased into engagement with the wire cradle external wall during such decreased or no tension on the wire, In some embodiments, the bias of the spring biasing mechanism may be overcome when tension on the wire being dispensed increases. For example, a connector may be arranged to connect to the distal end of the actuation arm. The connector may take the form of a tether, such as a chain, rope, tie, etc. The connector may be arranged such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, this applies tension to the connector to overcome the bias of the spring biasing mechanism to thereby cause the actuation arm to pivot so that the brake pad is disengaged from the wire cradle external wall. In some embodiments, tension may be applied to the connector by a moveable wire directional change device. The wire directional change device may be mounted for movement with respect to the base. The wire directional change device may be configured such that the increased tension in wire being dispensed from the wire coil causes the wire directional change device to be moved. Such movement may translate to tension being applied to the connector to disengage the brake pad from the wire cradle external wall. In some embodiments, the wire directional change device may comprise a guide roller around which passes the wire being dispensed from the wire coil in use. The guide roller may be mounted to a support framework of the wire directional change device. The wire directional change device may also be connected (e.g. at a lower end thereof) to the connector such that increased tension in dispensed wire causes the guide roller and the support framework of the wire directional change device to be moved (e.g. to pivot) with respect to the base. This movement may act on the connector which in turn may act on the actuation arm to cause it to pivot and disengage the brake pad from the wire cradle external wall. In some embodiments, the wire directional change device may further comprise opposing in-use vertically extending rollers located adjacent to the wire coil and between which passes the wire as it is initially dispensed from the wire coil in use. The vertical rollers may be mounted to a separate support framework (i.e. separate to the guide roller). The dispensed wire may pass and change direction from the vertical rollers to the guide roller, In other embodiments, the guide roller and vertical rollers may be replaced with a single wire directional change unit that is mounted to a support framework of the wire directional change device. The unit may comprise opposing in-use vertically extending rollers and opposing in-use horizontally extending rollers. The wire being dispensed from the wire coil can pass between these opposing vertical and horizontal rollers in use. In some embodiments, the guide, vertical and horizontal rollers may be supported on and by roller bearings to ensure a smooth and hindrance free passage therethrough of the wire being dispensed by and from the apparatus. In some embodiments, when the apparatus is to be used at the front of a vehicle (e.g. a tractor), a final wire guide (e.g. roller(s)) may be supported on a payoff arm that projects laterally from the apparatus and beyond the vehicle to an extent such that the wire is able to be dispensed out of a path of travel (e.g. forward travel) of the vehicle. In some but not all embodiments, the braking mechanism may further comprise a static brake, The static brake may be configured to act continuously on (i.e. to always provide a braking effect to) the wire cradle in use to brake the rotation thereof, and to prevent ‘overrun’ or ‘runaway’ of the wire coil, The static brake may be configured to ‘dampen’ the rotation of the wire cradle in use. The static brake may, for example, be located at the base to act generally at an opposite side of the wire cradle to the mechanical mechanism. In some embodiments, the static brake may comprise a brake pad (e.g. as set forth above). The brake pad may be mounted at the distal end of an actuation arm. The brake pad may bear against an external wall of the wire cradle. The actuation arm may be pivotally mounted with respect to the base at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends. The actuation arm may be biased by a spring biasing mechanism that is connected to act between the actuation arm proximal end and the base such that the static brake pad at the distal end is constantly biased into engagement with the wire cradle external wall, The static brake may cooperate with either the mechanical mechanism or the electromechanical system to help ensure a uniform rate of delivery of wire from the dispensing apparatus. The static brake can ‘permanently’ brake throughout wire payoff. In some embodiments, the electromechanical system may comprise an electrically powered braking mechanism. In other embodiments, the electromechanical system may comprise an electro-hydraulic powered braking mechanism. For example, known electric and electric-hydraulic braking mechanisms can be adapted and / or reconfigured for use in the present apparatus, In some embodiments, the electromechanical system may be activated by a controller. The controller may, for example, comprise an accelerometer. The accelerometer may be arranged with respect to (e.g. on or in the vehicle). The accelerometer may be configured to activate the braking mechanism when the vehicle slows, brakes or turns, The accelerometer may cooperate with a programmable logic controller, as part of a control sequence for the electromechanical system, Alternatively, or additionally, the electromechanical system may be activated by the vehicle braking mechanism itself. For example, the electromechanical system may be activated by a brake in a prime mover vehicle (e.g. when a driver depresses or applies a braking force to a brake pedal). Alternatively, or additionally, the electromechanical system may be activated by a braking mechanism of a towing or towed vehicle (i.e. the towing or towed vehicle on or in which the apparatus is located, such as a tractor, box trailer). In this regard the electromechanical system may act on the wire cradle when the braking mechanism of the towing or towed vehicle is activated, In some embodiments, the electromechanical system may further comprise a disc brake or, as set forth above, a drum brake that is arranged to act on the wire cradle in use to brake the rotation thereof. The disc or drum brake may be configured to be actuated by the controller and / or by the vehicle braking mechanism, The disc or drum brake may be powered electrically or electro-hydraulically (e.g. by the vehicle or trailer electric or electro-hydraulic braking system). The disc or drum brake may employ brake pads that are configured similarly to that as outlined above. In some embodiments, the wire cradle may comprise an axle that is mounted to extend away from the base. A rotational bearing may be mounted on the axle. A cradle part for supporting the coil of wire thereat may be mounted with respect to the rotational bearing, In use, the cradle part may rotate on the axle as wire is dispensed from the wire coil. In some embodiments, the cradle part may comprise a cradle base. A generally cylindrical external wall can project up from and surround the cradle base. A spindle can be surrounded by the external wall and can also project up (e.g. centrally) from the cradle base. The coil of wire can be located on the spindle / cradle base whereby a lower portion of the wire coil can be surrounded by the generally cylindrical external wall in use. As set forth above for the mechanical braking mechanism, the cylindrical external wall can cooperate with the brake pad(s). In other embodiments, the cradle part may comprise (e.g. it may incorporate) a disc or drum. As set forth above for the electromechanical braking mechanism, the disc or drum can cooperate with an electric or electric-hydraulic braking mechanism (e.g. with brake pads operated by a disc- or drum-braking mechanism). In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise a wire coil hat. The wire coil hat may be configured for resting on top of the wire coil in use. The hat may be inverted. In this regard, the hat may comprise an in-use lower portion that protrudes into a hollow of the wire coil. The hat may also comprise an in-use upper portion that protrudes up and out from the lower portion and over at least part of the top of the wire coil in use. The wire coil hat may be configured to interact with, and to move down along the spindle in use as wire is progressively dispensed from the apparatus. The wire coil hat can serve to laterally guide out the wire being dispensed from the wire coil in use, to ensure an even release and to help prevent wire ‘binding’, ‘snagging’ or tangling. In this regard, the hat may help to prevent the wire from being pulled tightly against the spindle, causing the wire to bind thereat. The wire coil hat may have a generally frusto-conical configuration, with this configuration typically used in the inverted orientation. In some embodiments, the wire cradle may generally be centrally located within and above the base of the apparatus (e.g. the centre of gravity of a ‘loaded’ wire cradle can be centred within the apparatus), thereby contributing to the stability and mobility / portability of the apparatus. In some embodiments, the base of the apparatus may comprise a frame having opposing sides and opposing ends. For example, the base frame can have a square, rectangular, diamond, obround, etc. shape. In other embodiments, the base of the apparatus may be configured for locating onto the forward-facing tines or loader arms of e.g. a tractor (e.g, the base may sit on and be secured to a pallet or platform, or it may have a pallet-like configuration to directly locate on the tines). In yet other embodiments, the base of the apparatus may be configured for engaging with a three-point linkage of e.g. a tractor, In some embodiments, the base frame may be configured to locate peripherally beyond the wire cradle. By providing a base frame that in use locates peripherally beyond the wire cradle, the frame can impart stability to the rotating wire cradle. In some embodiments, the base frame may be lifted by forward-facing tines or loader arms of e.g. a tractor. In other embodiments, the base frame may be lifted (e.g. by a forklift, crane, etc.) onto a flat (e.g. rear) tray of a vehicle, such as a flat- bed truck, trailer base (e.g. box trailer base), etc. In use, movement of the vehicle can facilitate wire being dispensed from the wire coil (i.e. the vehicle can act as a motor and the wire dispensing apparatus can enable wire to be ‘paid-off” directly from the moving vehicle). In some embodiments, the base frame may be sized and configured to locate closely or snugly on the flat tray of the vehicle (e.g. to fit closely or snugly on a platform / pallet, or within a trailer, such as a box trailer). For example, when the base frame is square or rectangular, it may be sized to fit closely or snugly within e.g. a box trailer. Also disclosed herein is apparatus for dispensing wire. The apparatus may generally be configured as set forth above. As also set forth above, the apparatus can comprise a base that is configured to support the apparatus at a surface. Additionally, as set forth above, the apparatus can comprise a wire cradle mountable for rotation at the frame. The cradle can be configured to support a coil of wire thereat. In accordance with the present disclosure, the base can be sized and configured for location on a flat tray of a vehicle, such as a box trailer or vehicle rear tray. In use, the size and configuration of the base can be such as to restrain the apparatus against movement with respect to and during movement of the vehicle. In this way, the apparatus may become ‘integrated’ with the vehicle, whereby the vehicle can, in effect, act as a ‘motive means’ or ‘motor’ for the apparatus (i.e. movement of the vehicle can result in wire being dispensed from the apparatus, whilst the base is restrained with respect to the vehicle). For example, and as set forth above, the base may comprise a frame that has opposing sides and opposing ends. The sides and ends may locate closely against corresponding sides and ends of the vehicle flat tray. For example, the sides and ends may locate closely (e.g. snugly) against corresponding sides and ends of a box trailer. Also disclosed herein is a system for dispensing wire. The system can comprise wire dispensing apparatus as set forth above. The system can also comprise a vehicle. The wire dispensing apparatus can be arranged at or with respect to the vehicle to move therewith in use. In accordance with the present disclosure, the system can be configured such that, once wire that has been dispensed from the wire dispensing apparatus has been restrained remotely from the vehicle (e.g. at a fence) and when the vehicle moves in use, the wire dispensing apparatus is able to continue to dispense the wire therefrom. In some embodiments, the vehicle at which the wire dispensing apparatus is arranged can be one or more of: a trailer such as a box trailer (e.g. the trailer can be towed behind a prime mover such as a four-wheel drive vehicle, truck, tractor, etc.); a truck, the apparatus being arranged at a flat bed or a tray thereof; a utility vehicle, such as a farm utility vehicle, the apparatus being arranged at a flat bed or a tray thereof; a tractor, the apparatus being arranged at a front or rear of the tractor such as at a platform or pallet. Also disclosed herein is a method for dispensing wire. The method can comprise dispensing wire and restraining it remotely from a wire dispensing apparatus (i.e. being apparatus such that as set forth above), The method can also comprise moving the wire dispensing apparatus away from where the wire is restrained. The method as disclosed herein may employ the system as set forth above — i.e. the vehicle may move the wire dispensing apparatus away from where the wire is restrained. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective schematic view of a first embodiment of wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein, when located in a box-type trailer. Fig. 2 is a rear perspective view of part of the apparatus embodiment of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective close-up view of part of the apparatus embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective schematic view of a second embodiment of wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein, when located in a box-type trailer, Figs. 5A & 5B are two perspective close-up views of the apparatus embodiment of Fig, 4, Fig. 6 is a perspective detail of the apparatus embodiment of Figs. 4 and 5. Fig. 7 is another perspective detail of the apparatus embodiment of Figs. 4 and 5. Fig. 8 is a perspective schematic view of a third embodiment of wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein, Fig. 9 is a first perspective schematic plan view of the embodiment of Fig, 8 in use. Fig. 10 is a second perspective schematic plan view of the embodiment of Fig. 8 in use. Fig. 11 is an exploded schematic of a typical mechanical drum brake configuration for use in the third embodiment of the wire dispensing apparatus of Figs. 8 to 10 (source: ‘How a Car Works’ - https: / / www.howacarworks.com / brakes / renewing-drum-brake-shoes). Fig. 12 is a schematic view of wire dispensing apparatus generally according to the first embodiment when located at the front of a tractor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting, Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure. Figs. 1 to 3 illustrate a first embodiment of a wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein. Figs. 4 to 7 illustrate a second embodiment of a wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein. Figs, 8 to 10 illustrate a third embodiment of a wire dispensing apparatus as disclosed herein. Fig. 12 illustrates wire dispensing apparatus that is generally configured in accordance with the first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, but is modified to enable its location at the front of a tractor. The first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3 is, in most respects, similar to the second embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7, except that the first embodiment employs a different wire directional change device and also does not employ a static brake. The second embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7 employs a static brake as an option. The third embodiment of Figs. 8-10 is, in a number of respects, similar to the first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, although the braking mechanism is significantly modified. The embodiment of Fig. 12 employs a modified wire directional change device such as that of Figs. 1 to 3. In general, like reference numbers will hereafter be used to denote similar or like parts, Referring to each of the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 8, a wire dispensing apparatus is shown in the form of a wire payoff mechanism 10. In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7 the wire payoff mechanism is designated 10” but hereafter the reference number 10 will mainly be used. The payoff mechanism 10 as illustrated is particularly suited for dispensing trellis wire and will be described in this context. However, it should be understood that the payoff mechanism can be adapted (e.g. reconfigured) for use with a variety of other wire types. The wire payoff mechanism 10 is designed and configured to be mobile / portable, rather than ‘static’ as per known payoff devices of the prior art. The payoff mechanism 10 can be carried at the front of a vehicle (e.g, a tractor Tr as shown in Fig. 12), or carried or towed behind a vehicle V (e.g. behind a four-wheel drive vehicle, utility or farm utility (side-by-side) vehicle, tractor, truck, etc.). In each case, it can be seen that the vehicle acts as a type of ‘motive means’ or ‘motor’ for the payoff mechanism 10, as will be explained in more detail below. The wire payoff mechanism 10 comprises a base in the form of a sledge 12. The sledge 12 of Figures 1 to 8 is configured to fit neatly (e.g. snugly) into a standard box trailer T, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, and as best shown in Figs. SA & 5B. The sledge 12 can instead locate on a carry-all or vehicle tray. When snugly located, this prevents the wire payoff mechanism 10 from sliding / moving around in the vehicle in use. However, in the embodiment of Fig. 12, the sledge can be modified 12° to enable it to engage with front loader arms La of the tractor Tr, In another variation, the sledge 12° can be configured to locate on forward-facing tines that are mounted on the tractor front loader. For example, suitable hollow box sections (e.g. for tine- or arm- receiving) can e.g. be welded under the sledge. In yet another variation, the sledge 12° can be modified to connect to three-point linkages located at the front of the tractor Tr. Instead of sledge 12°, the apparatus can be located on a known pallet P that is configured to receive therein and locate on forward-facing tines of the tractor. In the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 8, the box trailer T is towed behind the vehicle V and thus effectively forms a part of the vehicle. The sides and / or ends of the sledge 12 can sit close to or can abut against the side walls SW and end walls EW of the box trailer T. As above, this can prevent the sledge 12 from sliding / moving around in the box trailer T, making the wire payoff operation more stable. A sledge 12 that is fully loaded with a wire coil C can be located (e.g. lifted, such as by a forklift, crane, etc.) into the box trailer T. Alternatively, the fully loaded sledge 12 can be lifted onto a flat / rear tray of another vehicle type (e.g. truck, utility vehicle, tractor, carry-all, etc.). In this regard, the sledge 12 can be reconfigured to match a truck flat bed, a pallet, a tractor platform, etc. to enable the wire payoff mechanism 10 to be supported and restrained thereat. In yet another alternative, the modified fully loaded sledge 12° (or pallet P) can be engaged by and retained at the loader arms La, tines or three-point linkages arranged at the front of the tractor Tr, and may then be lifted to a suitable operating height, ready for use. An example of this is shown in Fig. 12. By matching the size and configuration of the sledge 12, 12 to a tray, flat bed, arms, tines, etc. this can in use serve to restrain the payoff mechanism 10 against movement with respect to and during movement of the vehicle V. In such case, the payoff mechanism 10 effectively becomes ‘integrated’ with the vehicle to move therewith. Suitable tie-down or locking mechanisms can also be employed to ensure integrity of the sledge 12, 12” with the flat / rear tray, arms, tines, etc. of the given vehicle type. Hereafter, the payoff mechanism 10 will mainly be described with reference to the sledge 12. The payoff mechanism 10 also comprises a wire cradle which takes the form of a cylindrical coil support 14 that is mounted for rotation at and supported by the sledge 12. The coil support 14 is designed to support the coil / roll C of trellis wire thereon. In this regard, a cradle part of the coil support 14 takes the form of a cradle base frame 16 (see Figs. 2, 3 and 6), with a lower region of the coil C locating (i.e. sitting) on the base frame 16 and locating within an external cylindrical wall 18 that is connected to extend up from the base frame 16. As explained below, the external cylindrical wall 18 is configured to cooperate with a braking mechanism. In addition to a braking mechanism, the sledge 12 is also configured with a wire guiding mechanism to be mounted to the sledge 12 in proximity of the coil support 14, as described in more detail below. The wire coil C can weigh up to ~500 kg and have a length of wire of ~10,000 m, and hence is bulky and cumbersome to handle manually. However, the sledge 12 along with the braking mechanism (described below) enables the payoff mechanism 10 to be mobile, in that the payoff mechanism 10 can be lifted and located on and then deployed from a moving trailer T, truck or tractor front or rear tray / platform, etc. As a result, the wire coil C becomes considerably easier to use out in the field. Because of its bulk, weight and in-use momentum, a spinning wire coil C can be extremely dangerous. Hence, typically a safety-type cage (not shown for the sake of clarity) is located in use to surround the wire coil C in proximity of the coil support 14. The safety cage can have an opening through which the wire being dispensed passes. The opening can be surrounded by vertical and horizontal rollers to facilitate wire passage, the rollers generally being configured as described below. The safety cage can serve to prevent inadvertent contact with the spinning wire coil C by an operator. In use, as a vehicle V towing the trailer T or forward-carrying the wire payoff mechanism 10 is driven along e.g. a crop row, the vehicle acts as a kind of motor for the payoff mechanism 10. The strand of wire W being fed off along the row, is progressively tied off at points along the crop row. Thus, as the vehicle V moves, taking the payoff mechanism 10 along with it, and because the wire strand W is tied off (i.e. restrained) remotely of the vehicle, this causes the coil support 14 to rotate at the sledge 12. The payoff mechanism 10 is configured to enable the strand of wire W to be continuously paid off from and by the payoff mechanism 10. The wire W can thus continue to be fed along e.g. a crop row whilst it is being paid off from mechanism 10 and whilst the vehicle V and e.g. trailer T drive along e.g. the crop row. As explained below, the payoff mechanism 10 is configured such that it can accommodate vehicle speed changes, uneven terrain, directional changes, etc. As set forth above, the sledge 12 locates under and supports the coil support 14 for rotation thereat. The sledge 12 also extends peripherally beyond the coil support 14. This imparts stability to the rotating coil support 14 in use. In this regard, in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 3 and 4 to 7, and 8 the sledge 12, 12’ is typically square / rectangular, comprising a grid-like framework 20, with this framework extending beyond the underside of the coil support 14 around the periphery (e.g. circumference) thereof. However, when the sledge 12 is modified for use with e.g. a three-point linkage of a tractor (e.g. for the embodiment of Fig, 12), the shape of the framework can be modified as required. Generally, the coil support 14 is centrally located within and above the framework 20 (see e.g. Fig. 5B). This means that the centre of gravity of a ‘fully loaded’ coil support 14 is centred within the payoff mechanism 10. This leads to a more balanced operation of the payoff mechanism when, for example, the coil support 14 is rotating at higher speeds in use. This arrangement also contributes to the stability and mobility / portability of the payoff mechanism 10. As set forth above, the sledge 12 can be modified in shape and configuration. For example, the sledge 12 can be circular, elliptical, triangular, etc. In each such case, the sledge may still locate peripherally beyond the coil support 14 (e.g. protruding around and beyond the periphery thereof). Typically, circular, elliptical and triangular sledge shapes will not be as well suited to a close / snug location within e.g. a box trailer, flat tray or bed, etc. In each of the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 3, 4 to 7, and 8, the framework 20 comprises opposing sides 22 (see e.g. Figs. 1, 2, 6 & 7) that are spaced to locate adjacent to the sidewalls SW of the box trailer T. The framework 20 also comprises opposing ends 24 (see Figs. 6 & 7). The spacing of the sides 22 and the ends 24 is such that the sledge 12 can fit closely or snugly within sidewalls SW and end walls EW of the box trailer T. As explained above, this enhances the in- use stability of the payoff mechanism 10, The coil support 14 cooperates with a vertically extending axle 26 that is mounted generally centrally with respect to the framework 20 of sledge 12. The coil support 14 comprises a rotational bearing 28 (see esp. Fig. 3) that is mounted to rotate on the axle 26. In turn, the base frame 16 and cylindrical wall 18 are fixedly mounted with respect to the rotational bearing 28 such that, in use, the coil support 14 is able to rotate on the axle 26 as a strand of wire W is being dispensed from the wire coil C (e.g. as the vehicle V drives along a crop row). A spindle 30 for supporting the wire coil C on the coil support 14 is secured to project up centrally from the base frame 16 of the coil support 14. The spindle 30 comprises four evenly spaced arms 32 against which the coil C of wire is rotated around. The spindle 30 rotates together with the base frame 16, cylindrical wall 18 and bearing 28 on the axle 26 as a strand of wire W is being dispensed from the wire coil C. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, a wire coil hat 33 is shown for use with the payoff mechanism 10. The hat 33 can also be used with the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7. As best shown in Fig, 3, the hat 33 is configured to locate over but to also couple with the arms 32 of spindle 30 (i.e. so as to rotate with the spindle in use). The hat 33 is generally frusto-conical in shape and is inverted in use. The hat comprises four generally trapezoidal portions 35, with each trapezoidal portion 35 locating in use between a respective adjacent two of the spindle arms 32. The trapezoidal portions 35 extend from a wider ring-cap portion 34 of hat 33 that is configured for resting on top of the wire coil C in use. The ring-cap portion 34 protrudes up and out to lie over at least part of the top of the wire coil C in use. As a result, the sides of the trapezoidal portions 35, being located below the ring-cap portion 34, can act to guide the wire W that is being dispensed from the wire coil C in use (i.e. the hat 33 guides the strand W of wire as it unwinds from the wire coil C). An in-use lower portion 36 of each trapezoidal portion 35 protrudes into a hollow of the wire coil C (see esp. Fig. 3) so that the hat 33 is able to slide down on the spindle arms 32 and rest on top of the wire coil C prior to use. In use, the weight of the hat 33 is such that, as the wire coil C rotates, the hat 33 rotates therewith, but it also moves down along the spindle 30 as wire is progressively dispensed from the payoff mechanism 10. The hat 33 serves to laterally guide out the wire W being dispensed from the wire coil C in use, to ensure an even release and to help prevent wire ‘binding’, ‘snagging’ or tangling. In this regard, the hat 33 helps to prevent the wire W from pulled tightly against the arms 32 of spindle 30, which can otherwise cause the wire to bind at the arms. In accordance with the present disclosure, the wire payoff mechanism 10 also comprises a braking mechanism that is located at the sledge 12. The braking mechanism shown in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 7 is a fully mechanical mechanism. However, the coil support 14, and more particularly, the base frame 16 and bearing 28, can readily be reconfigured with a disc or drum brake to enable the payoff mechanism 10 to be used with an electromechanical braking mechanism (e.g. an electrical or electro-hydraulic braking system). An example is shown in Fig, 11 and will be described below, Such a disc or drum brake can be connected so as to be activated by a braking system of the vehicle V, or by a powered braking system of the trailer T. For example, when a user depresses a brake pedal in the vehicle, this can activate the disc or drum brake so as to apply a braking effect to the coil support 14. Again, this can prevent inadvertent wire payoff and overrun, The electrical braking system can draw its power from the vehicle or trailer, For example, the electrical braking system can be connected to the power take-off of a tractor. The electro- hydraulic braking system can be coupled to an electro-hydraulic system of the vehicle V or trailer T. Additionally or alternatively, a control system can be provided (e.g. integrated) with the payoff mechanism 10. The control system can employ a PLC-type controller. Such a system can comprise an accelerometer that can form part of a control circuit and procedure. For example, as the vehicle slows, the accelerometer can signal to the control system to activate the disc or drum brake so as to apply a braking effect to the coil support 14, and vice versa as the vehicle accelerates. The control system can also be supplied to act as an override (e.g. to activate if the vehicle slows but vehicle braking has not been applied — so-called failsafe control). Yet again, this can prevent inadvertent wire payoff and overrun. In each of its mechanical and electromechanical forms, the braking mechanism is configured to operate on the coil support 14 in use to brake the rotation thereof. The braking mechanism can act as a ‘moderator’ to the operation of the payoff mechanism 10 (e.g. such that it ‘syncs’ with vehicle speed). The braking mechanism can ensure a uniform rate of delivery of wire being paid off by the payoff mechanism 10. The braking mechanism can also help to prevent excessive or inadvertent ‘payoff’ of wire in use. These attributes can be especially important when dispensing wire from the front or back of a moving vehicle, which typically may not move at a constant velocity, especially over uneven terrain, and which may slow or suddenly stop, or which may accelerate, for a variety of reasons. The braking mechanism can operate automatically and can thereby obviate the need to employ a manual braking method (e.g. it can avoid an extremely dangerous case of a person sitting in / on the rear tray of a moving vehicle to manually brake the payoff mechanism), As best shown in Figs. 2 and 7, a mechanical form of the braking mechanism is shown for each of the embodiments. The braking mechanism takes the form of a brake 60 that is configured to operate intermittently or dynamically to provide a braking effect to the coil support 14. Throughout wire payoff, the intermittently operating brake 60 can assist in preventing ‘pulsing’ of wire payoff, as well as acting to mitigate wire vibrational ‘resonance’ during payoff. The intermittent brake 60 can also prevent ‘overrun’ of wire being dispensed from the payoff mechanism 10. More specifically, the intermittent brake 60 is configured to apply a braking effect to the coil support 14 when there is decreased or no tension on the wire W being dispensed from the payoff mechanism 10 (e.g. when the wire W is generally slack). However, once the tension on the wire W reaches a certain level, the intermittent brake 60 is configured to be disengaged from applying the braking effect to the coil support 14. This frees the wire W to continue to be ‘paid off’ by the payoff mechanism 10. The intermittent brake 60 can ‘oscillate’ between brake engaged and disengaged configurations as the payoff mechanism 10 traverses along e.g. a crop row, and as the vehicle speed varies, and also during vehicle turning, and as the wire W is paid-off from coil C and restrained at various points along the row, The intermittent brake 60 can also help the payoff mechanism 10 to accommodate variability in the rate of wire dispensing. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, the intermittent brake 60 comprises two brake pads 61 (see Fig. 2). Each brake pad 61 is mounted to a respective C-channel 64 that is disposed at the distal end of a brake actuating arm 66. In use, the brake pad 61 is arranged to bear against the external surface of wall 18 to assist in braking the rotation of coil support 14. However, in use, the brake pad 61 only intermittently bears against the external surface of wall 18. Typically, the wall 18 is of steel, and a car brake pad provides an optimal hard-wearing and abrasive material to engage with and act on such a surface. In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7, the intermittent brake 60 comprises a single brake pad 61 mounted at C-channel 64 at the distal end of actuating arm 66. Again, the brake pad 61 is arranged to intermittently bear against the external surface of wall 18 to assist in braking the rotation of coil support 14. In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7, the intermittent brake 60 may also cooperate with an optional permanent brake 40. This option is explained in further detail below. As best shown in Fig. 7, the actuating arm 66 of the intermittent brake 60 is pivotally mounted at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends via a bolt 68 to an upstand 70. The upstand 70 projects upwardly from the framework 20. The brake pad 61 is biased into engagement with the external surface of wall 18 by a spring biasing mechanism. The spring biasing mechanism for the intermittent brake 60 takes the form of two coil springs 72, 74 that are each connected to the framework 20 via a rear upstand 76 of the sledge 12. Incidentally, each rear upstand 76 of the sledge 12 takes the form of a truss 77 to provide increased sledge strength, as well as increased brake and wire guidance bearing capacity at that end of the sledge. Again, as best shown in Fig, 7, the coil springs 72, 74 are each also connected to a proximal end of the actuating arm 66 via a connector pin 78. The actuating arm 66 has an intermediate bend 67 located where bolt 68 passes therethrough, with the bend enhancing the spring bias action of the coil springs 72, 74 on the arm 66. One of the coil springs 72 is connected to a turnbuckle 80 which, in turn, connects spring 72 to rear upstand 76 and which can be used to adjust the tension in that coil spring. The other coil spring 74 is not adjustable. The turnbuckle 80 provides a sufficient degree of adjustability to enable ‘fine-tuning’ of the intermittent brake 60. To facilitate intermittent engagement and disengagement of the brake pad 61 with the external surface of wall 18, a connector in the form of a connector chain 82 is provided. The connector chain 82 is arranged to connect to the distal end of the actuating arm 66, via an eyelet 84 mounted to a rear of the actuating arm 66 (Fig. 2) or mounted to a C-channel 64 (Fig. 7). The chain 82 can comprise a turnbuckle 86 for adjustment (Fig. 2). Instead of a chain, the connector can take the form of a rope, tie, etc., although a chain tends to be harder-wearing and longer-lasting. In use, when a sufficient tension force is applied to the connector chain 82, this can overcome the bias of the coil springs 72, 74 to thereby pivot the distal end of the actuating arm 66 away from the external surface of wall 18. This causes the disengagement of the brake pad(s) 61 with the external surface of wall 18, freeing the coil support 14 for rotation. As explained below, this tensioning of the connector chain 82 occurs when tension is applied to the wire W being dispensed (i.e. the connector chain 82 disengages the brake pad(s) 61 to free up the wire coil support 14 for rotation). In both embodiments of Figs. 1 to 7, this tension is applied to the connector chain 82 via a wire guiding mechanism in the form of a wire directional change device. However, the form of the wire directional change device in the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3 differs to that in each of the embodiments of Figs. 4 to 7 and Fig. 12. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, the wire directional change device takes the form of a wire guide mechanism 120 and a separate wire roller mechanism 130. In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7, the guide and roller mechanisms are not separated. In the embodiment of Fig. 12, the wire directional change device comprises the wire guide mechanism 120 but does not employ a wire roller mechanism 130. Rather, as explained in further detail below, an additional wire guide mechanism 150 is provided on the end of a laterally extending wire payoff arm 152. As best shown in Fig. 2, the wire guide mechanism 120 comprises an opposing pair of in-use vertically extending, spaced rollers 102 between which passes the strand of wire W that is being dispensed from the wire coil C in use. The vertical rollers 102 help to guide the passage of, as well as provide a directional change in, the wire strand W in use. In this regard, the vertical rollers 102 help to facilitate a change of direction to the wire strand W whereby the wire strand passes forwards from the coil C and then passes laterally away to the wire roller mechanism 130. A similar arrangement is employed in the wire guide mechanism 120 of the embodiment of Fig. 12. The vertical rollers 102 are mounted to rotate with respect to a support arm 122 that extends up from the sledge framework 20. The support arm 122 is braced at an intermediate location by a brace arm 124 that extends down to connect to an end 24 of the framework 20. The rollers 102 are supported on the arm 122 by upper and lower laterally projecting support bars 126, 128. Upon passing from the coil C through the vertical rollers 102, the wire strand W then travels laterally away to the wire roller mechanism 130 (or, in the embodiment of Fig. 12, laterally away to the wire guide mechanism 150 provided on the end of payoff arm 152). The wire roller mechanism 130 comprises a pulley 132 which is generally horizontally arranged (i.e. to rotate about a generally vertical axle 133). The axle 133 is mounted such that the pulley 132 can rotate with respect to a pivot arm 134. In this regard, extending laterally from an upper end of the pivot arm 134 are upper and lower support plates 135, 136 (i.e. the plates 135, 136 are connected e.g. welded at the upper end of arm 134), The wire strand W passing from the rollers 102 is guided onto the pulley 132 by a U-shaped guide plate 138 which is mounted to extend from the support plates 135, 136, with the guide plate 138 also extending around the pulley 132. The pivot arm 134 is, in turn, pivotally connected at an intermediate location to a vertical upstand 140 via a pivot pin 142 (e.g. a bolt). The upstand 140 is fixed to extend up from the sledge framework 20 and is generally equivalent to the upstand truss 94 shown and described in the embodiment of Figs, 4 to 7. The upstand 140 supports the pivot arm 134, In this regard, in use, the pivot arm rocks / pivots in a back-and-forth, limited range, pivoting action around the pivot pin 142, The wire roller mechanism 130 serves to direct the wire strand W to a wire guide eyelet 145 that is mounted to the end wall EW of the trailer T. Once the wire strand W passes through the wire guide eyelet 145, it is fed to the crop row. Typically, the vertical rollers 102 and the pulley 132 are supported on and by roller bearings to ensure a smooth, robust and hindrance free passage therethrough of wire being dispensed by the payoff mechanism 10, An opposite lower end of the pivot arm 134 is connected to the connector chain 82, with the connector chain 82 thereby connecting the distal end of the arm 66 to the lower end of pivot arm 134. Due to the action of the coil springs 72, 74 on the proximal end of arm 66, the distal end of arm 66 is generally urged towards the wall 18 (i.e. the brake pads 61 are biased into braking engagement with the wall 18). This biasing action acts on the connector chain 82 and causes the lower end of pivot arm 134 to be pivoted generally in towards the wall 18 of coil support 14. This, in turn, causes the upper end of pivot arm 134 to be urged away from the wall 18 of coil support 14. Thus, when there is little to no tension on the wire strand W passing through the pulley 133, the brake pads 61 are biased into braking engagement with the wall 18, thereby slowing or retarding rotation of the coil support 14 with respect to the sledge 12. This means that the brake pads 61 serve to prevent an overrun of wire being released from the wire coil C. In the embodiment of Figs. 8 to 10, a mechanical drum brake 160 is provided in place of brake pads 61. A typical mechanical drum brake configuration is shown in Fig. 11 (source / reference: ‘How a Car Works’ - https: / / www.howacarworks.com / brakes / renewing-drum-brake-shoes). For example, the mechanical drum brake 160 can be of a known / existing type that is sourced from a car or trailer. A benefit of using an existing mechanical drum brake setup is that it is already configured to act as a mounting / bearing as well as a brake. Thus, the mechanical drum brake 160 can provide both mounting / bearing and braking functions to the rotating wire coil support as disclosed herein. In this regard, and as shown in Figs. 8 to 10, the drum brake 160 is located in use to operate between the sledge 12 and an overlying modified wire coil support 14°. As further illustrated by Fig. 11, a known drum brake 160 comprises a wheel hub that forms a part of the brake drum 162. And, as indicated by Fig. 8, the wheel hub / drum 162 is mounted to the underside of a centrally located mounting plate 164 of the modified coil support 14’ via wheel studs 166, The wheel studs 166 extend from the hub / drum 162, through predefined holes of the mounting plate 164 and are then secured to the mounting plate by retaining nuts attached at their free / protruding end. As also illustrated by Fig. 11, the drum brake 160 comprises a backplate 168. In the arrangement of Figs. 8-10, the backplate 168 is secured to the sledge 12 (e.g. via welding or by being bolted, etc. thereto). A shaft 170 of the drum brake 160 extends centrally up from and is integrated with the backplate 168, with shaft 170 extending into and through a recess of the mounting plate 164. The wheel hub / drum 162 are supported for rotation on and by the shaft 170 via known internal bearings of the drum brake 160 (bearings not shown in Fig. 11). A free / protruding end of the shaft 170 can also be secured to the mounting plate via a suitable retaining nut, Thus, with the mounting plate 164 of the coil support 14° secured to the wheel hub / drum 162, the coil support 14” is thereby supported for rotation on and by the shaft 170. As explained below, the mechanical drum brake 160 of the embodiment of Figs. 8 to 10 is configured to be operated mechanically by the wire roller mechanism 130. As explained in more detail below, the roller mechanism 130 is rotatably mounted with respect to the sledge 12 in a manner that causes selective release of the drum brake 160, via its action on a push-pull rod 172, to thereby release the drum brake for rotation but also to re-brake the rotation of the drum (i.e. to release and re- brake rotation of the coil support 14°), In this regard, actuation and release of the drum brake 160 is via an externally threaded, spring-loaded push-pull rod 172. One end of the push-pull rod 172 is connected to a coil spring 173 which is arranged to spring-load (i.e. apply tension to) the rod. An opposite end of the rod 172 is connected to a release lever of the drum brake (not shown). The coil spring 173 acts to pull the rod 172 away from the drum brake 160 to thereby cause the drum brake release lever to apply the brake. In this regard, the drum brake release lever simultaneously acts on a leading brake shoe 174 and a trailing 176 brake shoe of the drum brake 160 (see Fig. 11). More particularly, the drum brake release lever is caused to act on the braking cylinders 178, 180 that in turn drive the brake shoes 174, 176 into braking engagement (or braking disengagement) with the brake hub / drum 162 in use. Thus, the coil spring 173 loads (i.e. applies tension to) the rod 172 such that the brake shoes 174, 176 are normally pulled into braking engagement to brake or restrict rotation of the coil support 14” and wire coil C. However, when tension is applied to the strand of wire W as it is being released by the wire payoff mechanism 10, the tensioned wire acts on the roller mechanism 130. As above, the roller mechanism 130 is rotatably mounted with respect to the sledge 12 to rotate in a way that pushes the rod 172 towards the drum brake 160, causing the drum brake release lever to release the drum brake to thereby free up the coil support 14’ and wire coil C for (un-braked) rotation, This is explained in further detail below. As best shown in Fig. 8, the modified coil support 14° again comprises an external cylindrical wall 18°, However, this wall 18° is not externally engaged by brake pads 61, rather it is simply provided to locate and surround a base of the wire coil C in use. The modified coil support 14’ also comprises four radial arms 182 that each extend outwardly of mounting plate 164 and inwardly of wall 18’ and are connected (e.g. welded) at each arm end to the plate 164 and wall 18” respectively. Thus, the arms 182 support the wall 18” in use and also support the spindle 30 of the coil support 14’. In this regard, each arm 182 provides a support upon which a respective lower end 33 of a respective spindle arm 32 can be located and secured (e.g. by welding thereto) to extend upwardly therefrom in use. Thus, together the mounting plate 164, arms 182, wall 18°, and arms / lower ends 32, 33 provide a seat for the wire coil C. In use, as the mounting plate 164 and wheel hub / drum 162 rotate on the shaft 170, the arms 32 of the spindle 30 also rotate, allowing the stem of wire to spin (e.g. as a strand of wire W is being dispensed from the payoff mechanism 10). The wire guide mechanism 120 is omitted (for clarity) in Fig. 8 but is shown in each of Figs. 9 and 10 and is generally the same as that shown in the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3. In this regard, in the embodiment of Figs. 8 to 10, the wire guide mechanism 120 also comprises vertically orientated rollers 102 and horizontal rollers 108 which serve to guide the wire as it is paid off from the wire coil C in use. As the wire changes direction, the wire guide mechanism 120 is arranged to facilitate feeding of the wire strand W to the pulley 133 of wire roller mechanism 130 (Figs. 8 & 10). Further, the wire roller mechanism 130 can feed the wire strand W to a wire guide mechanism 150 (as described below with reference to Fig. 12) which serves to dispense wire laterally outside a footprint of whatever vehicle is carrying the payoff mechanism 10 and providing for its locomotion. As best shown in Fig. 8, the pulley 133 of roller mechanism 130 is mounted to an upper end of a vertical arm 134 via upper and lower support plates 135, 136, The vertical arm 134 is mounted next to a vertical upstand 140, the mounting being such that the vertical arm 134 is able to rotate about its elongate (vertical) axis, with the arm 134 rotating with respect to the upstand 140. Such rotation (clockwise in each of Figs. 8 to 10) is ‘momentary’ — i.e. it is caused by the pulley 133 being offset from the vertical arm 134, whereby the tensioned wire strand W passing through and acting on the pulley 133 causes the arm 134 to rotate about its elongate (vertical) axis. A lower end of the arm 134 is connected to a laterally projecting actuator foot 184. When the arm 134 is caused to rotate (clockwise) by tension applied to the wire strand W in use, the actuator foot 184 is caused to pivot in towards the wall 18’ of coil support 14°. At a remote end of actuator foot 184 is affixed (e.g. by welding) an upstanding guide plate 186. The guide plate 186 comprises a vertical (elongate) aperture that receives therethrough, for back-and-forth sliding therein, the threaded rod 172. However, as shown in Fig. 10, locking nut pairs 187 and 189 are provided and are screwed onto the rod 172 to locate on either side of the guide plate 186, but with each nut pair being in spaced relation to the plate 186. This means that the rod 172 is still able to be pulled by the coil spring 173 through the guide plate, until the nut pair 187 engages against plate 186. Here, it will be seen that an eyelet 190 is coupled to the end of rod 172, with one end of the coil spring 173 being attached to the rod end via eyelet 190. However, when the arm 134 is caused by the tensioned wire strand W to rotate (clockwise), this causes the actuator foot 184 to pivot in towards the wall 18” of coil support 14°. As a result, the guide plate 186 is also moved in towards the wall 18’ of coil support 14’, with the plate 186 now pushing against the nut pair 187. This causes the rod 172 to be pushed inwardly (i.e. against the tension being applied by the coil spring 173), with a remote end of the rod 172 being connected to act on the drum brake release lever to cause it to release the drum brake, thereby freeing up the coil support 14” and wire coil C for (un-braked) rotation. Once the tension on the wire strand W begins to ease, whereby the arm 134 is now free to rotate back (i.e. anticlockwise), and the actuator foot 184 and guide plate 186 are thereby moved back away from the wall 18" of coil support 14°, the coil spring 173 is able to act on the rod 172 to draw it back away from under the coil support 14’, thereby releasing the drum brake release lever such that the drum brake is applied, and rotation of the coil support 14’ and wire coil C is once again braked / restricted. In Figure 8, it will also be seen that a lower end of the arm 134 may optionally be coupled to a coil spring 188. Spring 188 can be arranged to assist with rotating back the arm 134 (i.e. once the tension on the wire strand W begins to ease). Further, it be seen in Figs. 9 and 10 that an opposite end 192 of coil spring 173 is itself attached to one end of a lever 194. The lever 194 is pivotally mounted 196 at an intermediate location to the sledge end 24. An opposite end of the lever 194 is attached via a pin-and-eyelet 198 to a turnbuckle 200. Twisting of the turnbuckle 200, which in turn acts on the lever 194, allows the tension on the spring 173 to be adjusted. The lever 194 also has a number of attachment positions 202 for each of the spring end 192 and pin-and-eyelet 198 of the turnbuckle 200, to vary (i.e. increase or decrease) the moment and therefore to further adjust the tension force applied to the spring 173. Thus, the mechanical drum brake 160 and associated activation mechanisms are arranged to operate in response to wire strand tensioning or release in what is essentially a similar manner to the payoff mechanisms 10, 10° described above with reference to the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 3 and 4 to 7. As set forth above, the drum brake 160 can instead be operated electromechanically. Increased tension in the wire strand W is typically caused by the vehicle V moving away from a location at which the wire is being restrained (e.g. ata remotely located fence line or fence post, etc.). With such increased tension in the wire strand W, this causes the wire strand W to act (i.e. to pull or apply tension) on the pulley 133. This force is translated onto the upper end of the pivot arm 134, causing it to pivot about the pivot pin 142 and generally in towards the coil C. The resultant momentary pivoting force is translated through arm 134, causing the lower end of pivot arm 134 to pivot generally away from the wall 18 of coil support 14, overcoming the bias of the coil springs 72, 74. This pivoting away of the lower end of pivot arm 134 applies the tension force to the connector chain 82 which, in turn, acts on the arm 66 and causes the brake pads 61 to be moved away from the coil support 14 (i.e. disengaged from external wall 18). This frees the coil support 14 for rotation to thereby release wire to the remote location (e.g. to a growing fence line). However, as soon as an excess of wire is released from the coil C, whereby there is a drop in tension of the wire strand (i.e. there is reduced, little, or no tension on the wire strand W), the bias of the coil springs 72, 74 acts on the arm 66 and causes the brake pads 61 to be moved back into braking engagement with the wall 18 of coil support 14, In practice, this movement between braking and release of the coil support 14 ensures a more uniform and consistent rate of wire payoff. In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7, the guide mechanism and roller mechanism are incorporated into one unit. In this regard, and as best shown in Fig. 7, the integrated wire guide and roller mechanism 90 is mounted via a pivot bolt 92 to an opposing rear upstand truss 94 of the sledge 12. An opposite end of the connector chain 82 is connected to a lower end 96 of a pivoting arm 98 of the guide / roller mechanism 90. The pivoting arm 98 pivots on the pivot bolt 92 and with respect to the rear upstand truss 94 but is configured for limited range pivotal movement with respect to the sledge 12. The guide / roller mechanism 90 further comprises an opposing pair of in-use vertically extending, spaced rollers 102’ between which passes the strand of wire W that is being dispensed from the wire coil C in use. Again, the vertical rollers 102” help to guide the passage of, as well as a directional change in, the wire strand W in use. In this regard, the vertical rollers 102’ help to facilitate a change of direction to the wire strand W (i.e. the wire strand passes forwards from the coil C and then passes generally rearwards from the trailer T). The vertical rollers 102° are mounted to rotate on a support frame 104 that forms an upper part of the guide / roller mechanism 90. In this regard, the support frame 104 is mounted to an upper portion of the pivoting arm 98 via spaced, generally parallel and laterally extending support arms 105, 106. Thus, in use, the support frame 104, along with the rollers 102’, are able to move with the pivoting arm 98. As best shown in Figs. 5A and 5B, the guide / roller mechanism 90 also comprises an opposing pair of in-use horizontally extending, spaced rollers 108. The strand of wire W that is dispensed from the wire coil C also passes between the horizontal rollers 108. Thus, the horizontal rollers 108 cooperate with the vertical rollers 102’ to help constrain and guide the passage and direction of the wire strand W in use. Again, the horizontal rollers 110 are mounted to rotate on the support frame 104 located at the upper part of the guide / roller mechanism 90. Thus, in use, the support frame 104 and both the vertical rollers 102° and horizontal rollers 108 are able to move with the pivoting arm 98. As set forth above, the vertical rollers 102° and horizontal rollers 108 are typically supported on and by roller bearings to enable smooth, robust and hindrance free passage therethrough of dispensed wire. As it functions to guide the strand of wire W being dispensed from the wire coil C, the guide / roller mechanism 90 is again arranged to transfer to the intermittent brake 60 the tension being applied to the wire strand W in use. As set forth above, the tension in the wire strand W typically increases in use when e.g. the wire strand is remotely connected to and restrained at e.g. a fence post or fence line of e.g. a crop row, etc., and with the vehicle V moving generally away from this location to thereby tension the wire. As a result of this tension, the wire strand W is caused to bear against rollers 102’ of the guide / roller mechanism 90, causing the pivoting arm 98 to pivot with respect to the rear upstand 94 (i.e. about the pivot bolt 92) to thereby move the lower end 96 of the guide / roller mechanism 90 generally away from the wire coil C. This pivoting movement translates to a tension force being applied to the connector chain 82, More specifically, at a certain level of tension in the wire strand W, the momentary pivoting force at the lower end 96 of the arm 98 is sufficient to overcome the bias of the coil springs 72, 74, whereby the lower end 96 pivots away from the wall 18 of coil support 14. This pivoting away of lower end 96 applies the tension force to the connector chain 82 which acts on the arm 66 and causes the brake pad 61 to be moved away from the coil support 14 (i.e. to disengage from external wall 18), Again, this frees the coil support 14 for rotation. Once the tension reduces or is released in the wire strand W, the bias of the coil springs 72, 74 acts on the arm 66 via connector pin 78, to thereby cause the arm 66 to pivot so that brake pad 61 is moved back into engagement with the external wall 18. This action of brake pad 61 assists in preventing coil and thus wire overrun. As mentioned above, in the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7 there is the option of a static brake in the form of a permanent brake 40. The permanent brake 40 can be configured to apply a degree of braking force to the coil support 14 to further assist in the prevention of wire overrun. The permanent brake 40 can operate ‘all the time’ to provide a continuous braking effect to moderate the rotational speed of coil support 14 and to help prevent ‘overrun’ of wire being dispensed from the payoff mechanism 10. When the permanent brake 40 option is employed, the intermittent brake 60 and the permanent brake 40 can work together to moderate rotation of coil support 14 and can cooperate to ensure a more uniform rate of wire payoff. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the permanent brake 40 comprises a brake pad 41 (e.g. a car brake pad) that is mounted within an angle 44 that is disposed at the distal end of a permanent brake actuating arm 46. In use, the brake pad 41 is arranged to bear against an external surface of the cylindrical wall 18 to act as a brake to rotation of the coil support 14, The brake pad 41 generally acts at an opposite side to brake pad 61. Typically, the brake pad 41 continuously bears against the external surface of wall 18. The actuating arm 46 is pivotally mounted at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends via a bolt 48 to an upstand 50. The upstand 50 projects upwardly from the framework 20. The brake pad 41 is biased into engagement with the external surface of wall 18 by a spring biasing mechanism. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the spring biasing mechanism takes the form of a coil spring 52 that is connected at one end to the framework 20 via another upstand 54. An opposite end of the coil spring 52 is connected to a turnbuckle 56 which can be used to adjust the tension in the coil spring 52. The turnbuckle 56 is, in turn, connected to a proximal end of the actuating arm 46. The actuating arm 46 has an intermediate bend 58 along its length, the bend 58 located closer to the arm proximal end, with the bend 58 enhancing the spring biasing action of the coil spring 52, In use, the coil spring 52 is adjusted to generally ensure that brake pad 41 is continuously urged to bear against the external surface of wall 18. The turnbuckle 56 may be adjusted such that the permanent brake 40 applies a ‘light’ braking effect to the coil support 14. Referring specifically to the embodiment of Fig. 12, a schematic view of the tractor Tr is shown, with a wire payoff mechanism 10 according to the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3 being located on the front loader arms La of the tractor Tr. The location of the payoff mechanism 10 on the adjustable front loader arms La of the tractor Tr enables the payoff mechanism 10 to be lifted to a suitable operating height in use. As set forth above, the payoff mechanism 10 is generally configured in accordance with the first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3 but is modified to facilitate its location at the front of the tractor Tr. In this regard, the sledge can either be modified 12’ to enable it to engage with front loader arms La of the tractor Tr, or it can be replaced with a platform or pallet P that is configured to connect to (e.g. to receive therein) the loader arms La. In other variations, the sledge 12° or platform / pallet P can locate on forward-facing tines that are mounted on the loader arms, or it can be further modified to connect to three-point linkages located at the front of the tractor Tr. In the embodiment of Fig, 12, the wire directional change device of the payoff mechanism 10 still comprises the wire guide mechanism 120. However, the wire roller mechanism 130 is removed. Instead, an additional wire guide mechanism 150 is provided and located on the end of a laterally extending wire payoff arm 152. The payoff arm 152 is mounted to extend laterally from the support arm 122 that extends up from the sledge. The length of payoff arm 152 can be adjustable to suit different vehicle types. However, in each application in which it is used, the length of payoff arm 152 is predetermined to ensure that wire W is paid off from the payoff mechanism 10 out of (i.e. beyond) the line of travel of the vehicle, such as tractor Tr. Typically, this line of travel will be a forward travel of the vehicle. This ensures that the wire W being dispensed does not become entangled with the vehicle (e.g. with the wheels, etc. thereof). It also allows the operator of the vehicle to focus on the line of travel (e.g. such as when driving the vehicle along a crop row). The driver can also see the wire as it is being dispensed from the mechanism 10. The wire payoff mechanism 10 otherwise functions as described above. In this regard, upon passing from the coil C through the vertical rollers of the wire guide mechanism 120, the wire strand W then travels laterally away through the vertical rollers of the wire guide mechanism 150 located at the end of payoff arm 152. From here, the wire can then be fed on to the given application, such as fencing, canopy construction, etc. In summary, the embodiments of the wire payoff mechanism 10, 10° as disclosed herein are configured in a mobile / portable format and yet are able to operate safely and consistently, despite impacts from uneven terrain and uneven forces applied to the wire being dispensed. In this regard, the braking mechanism can help to ensure a uniform rate of wire payoff from the payoff mechanism and can also help to prevent excessive or inadvertent wire payoff, This can allow the payoff mechanism to be located on and to operate from the front, back or rear of a moving vehicle. Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the apparatus.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Apparatus for dispensing wire from a moving vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a base that is configured to support the apparatus at a surface of the vehicle; a wire cradle mountable for rotation at the base, the cradle configured to support a coil of wire thereat; a braking mechanism being configured such that, in use on the vehicle, and as wire is dispensed from the wire cradle, the braking mechanism acts on the wire cradle to brake the rotation thereof when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed from the wire cradle.

2. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the braking mechanism comprises; a) a mechanical mechanism that is arranged at the base to engage with and brake the rotation of the wire cradle at the base, the mechanical mechanism being configured such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed decreases, the mechanical mechanism is caused to engage with and brake the rotation of the wire cradle at the base, and such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the mechanical mechanism is caused to disengage from, to free the rotation of, the wire cradle at the base; b) an electromechanical system arranged for selectively engaging with and braking the rotation of the wire cradle at the base, the electromechanical system being activated by a controller and / or by a braking mechanism of the vehicle, 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 3. Apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein in the case of a), the mechanical mechanism comprises a drum brake, the drum brake being arranged between the base and the wire cradle and to support the rotation thereon of the wire cradle such that® when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed, the drum brake is caused to brake the rotation of the wire cradle; when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the drum brake is caused to free the wire cradle for rotation. 4, Apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the wire cradle is mounted to a wheel hub / drum of the drum brake, and wherein a back plate of the drum brake is mounted to the base, with brake pad(s) of the drum brake being selectively activated by the decreased or increased tension of the wire being dispensed to respectively brake or free the wheel hub / drum for rotation with respect to the back plate of the drum brake.

5. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the brake pad(s) of the drum brake are selectively activated by a mechanical linkage which is arranged to be activated by the decreased or increased tension of the wire being dispensed from the apparatus, 6. Apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein in the case of a), the mechanical mechanism comprises a brake pad mounted at the distal end of an actuation arm, the actuation arm being pivotally mounted with respect to the base and arranged such that: when there is decreased or no tension on the wire being dispensed, the actuation arm is caused to be pivoted to bring the brake pad into engagement with an external wall of the wire cradle to thereby brake the rotation of the wire cradle; when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, the actuation arm is caused to be pivoted to disengage the brake pad with the external wall of the wire cradle to thereby free the wire cradle for rotation.

7. Apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the actuation arm is pivotally mounted with respect to the base at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends, and wherein the actuation arm proximal end is connected to a spring biasing mechanism that is arranged to act between the actuation arm proximal end and the base to cause the brake pad at the distal end to be biased into engagement with the wire cradle external wall during such decreased or no tension on the wire, whereas the bias of the spring biasing mechanism is overcome when tension on the wire being dispensed increases.

8. Apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein a connector is arranged to connect to the distal end of the actuation arm, the connector being arranged such that, when tension on the wire being dispensed increases, this applies tension to the connector to overcome the bias of the spring biasing mechanism to thereby cause the actuation arm to pivot so that the brake pad is disengaged from the wire cradle external wall, 9. Apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein tension is applied to the connector by a moveable wire directional change device, the wire directional change device being mounted for movement with respect to the base, the wire directional change device being configured such that the increased tension in wire being dispensed from the wire coil causes the wire directional change device to be moved whereby such movement translates to tension being applied to the connector to disengage the brake pad from the wire cradle external wall.

10. Apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the wire directional change device comprises a guide roller around which passes the wire being 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 dispensed from the wire coil in use, the guide roller being mounted to a support framework of the wire directional change device, the wire directional change device also connected to the connector, such that increased tension in dispensed wire causes the guide roller and the support framework of the wire directional change device to be moved with respect to the base, the movement acting on the connector which in turn acts on the actuation arm to cause it to pivot and disengage the brake pad from the wire cradle external wall.

11. Apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the wire directional change device further comprises opposing in-use vertically extending rollers located adjacent to the wire coil and between which passes the wire as it is initially dispensed from the wire coil in use, the vertical rollers being mounted to a separate support framework, with the dispensed wire passing and changing direction from the vertical rollers to the guide roller.

12. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 11, wherein the braking mechanism further comprises a static brake that is configured to act continuously on the wire cradle in use to brake the rotation thereof.

13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the static brake is located at the base to act generally at an opposite side of the wire cradle to the mechanical mechanism.

14. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12 or 13, wherein the static brake comprises a brake pad mounted at the distal end of an actuation arm that is pivotally mounted with respect to the base at an intermediate location between its distal and proximal ends, the actuation arm biased by a spring biasing mechanism that is connected to act between the actuation arm proximal end and the base such that the brake pad at the distal end is constantly biased into engagement with the wire cradle external wall, 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 15. Apparatus as claimed in claim 2, or any one of claims 12 to 14 when dependent on claim 2, wherein in the case of b), the electromechanical system is activated by:

1. a controller that comprises an accelerometer, the accelerometer arranged with respect to the vehicle and configured to activate the braking mechanism when the vehicle slows or brakes; and / or ii. the vehicle braking mechanism, such as by a brake in a prime mover vehicle and / or by a braking mechanism of a towing vehicle, with respect to which the apparatus is located.

16. Apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein in the case of ii., the electromechanical system is configured to act on the wire cradle when: - a brake pedal is depressed by a driver in the prime mover vehicle; - the towing vehicle braking mechanism is activated, 17. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2, 16 or 16, wherein the electromechanical system comprises an electric braking mechanism or an electric-hydraulic braking mechanism.

18. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 or 15 to 17, wherein the electromechanical system further comprises a disc or drum brake that is arranged to act on the wire cradle to brake the rotation thereof, the disc or drum brake configured to be actuated by the controller and / or by the vehicle braking mechanism.

19. Apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the disc or drum brake is powered electrically or electro-hydraulically.

20. Apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wire cradle comprises an axle that is mounted to extend away from the base, a rotational bearing that it is mounted on the axle, and a cradle part for 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 supporting the coil of wire thereat, the cradle part being mounted with respect to the rotational bearing such that, in use, the cradle part is able to rotate on the axle as wire is dispensed from the wire coil.

21. Apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein the cradle part comprises a cradle base, a generally cylindrical external wall projecting up from and surrounding the cradle base, and a spindle surrounded by the external wall and projecting up from the cradle base, the coil of wire being located on the spindle / cradle base whereby a lower portion of the wire coil is surrounded by the generally cylindrical external wall in use.

22. Apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the apparatus further comprising a wire coil hat, the hat being inverted and configured for resting on top of the wire coil in use, the hat comprising an in-use lower portion that protrudes into a hollow of the wire coil, and an in-use upper portion that protrudes up and out from the lower portion and over at least part of the top of the wire coil in use.

23. Apparatus as claimed in claim 22, when dependent on claim 21, wherein the wire coil hat is configured to interact with, and to move down along the spindle in use as wire is progressively dispensed from the apparatus.

24. Apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base comprises a frame having opposing sides and opposing ends.

25. Apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein the wire cradle is generally centrally located within and above the base frame.

26. Apparatus for dispensing wire from a moving vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a base that is configured to support the apparatus at a surface of the vehicle; 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 a wire cradle mountable for rotation at the frame, the cradle configured to support a coil of wire thereat; wherein the base is sized and configured for location on a flat tray of a vehicle, such as a box trailer or vehicle front or rear tray, whereby in use, the size and configuration of the base is such as to restrain the apparatus against movement with respect to and during movement of the vehicle.

27. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26, wherein the base comprises a frame having opposing sides and opposing ends, and wherein the sides and ends locate closely against corresponding sides and ends of the vehicle flat tray, such as against corresponding sides and ends of the box trailer, 28. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 or 27, the apparatus being otherwise as defined as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 25, 29. A system for dispensing wire from a moving vehicle, the system comprising: wire dispensing apparatus as set forth in any one of the preceding claims; the vehicle, the wire dispensing apparatus being arranged at or with respect to the vehicle to move therewith in use; the system being configured such that, once wire being dispensed from the wire dispensing apparatus has been restrained remotely from the vehicle, and when the vehicle moves in use, the wire dispensing apparatus continues to dispense the wire therefrom.

30. A system as claimed in claim 29, wherein the vehicle at which the wire dispensing apparatus is arranged is one or more of: a trailer such as a box trailer; a truck, the apparatus being arranged at a flat bed or a tray thereof; 18586702_1 (GHMatters) P113803.AU.1 a utility vehicle, such as a farm utility vehicle, the apparatus being arranged at a flat bed or a tray thereof; a tractor, the apparatus being arranged at a front or a rear thereof.

31. A method for dispensing wire, the method comprising: dispensing wire and restraining it remotely from a wire dispensing apparatus, the apparatus being as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 28, moving the wire dispensing apparatus away from where the wire is restrained.

32. A method as claimed in claim 31, wherein the method employs the system as set forth in claim 29 or 30, such that the vehicle moves the wire dispensing apparatus away from where the wire is restrained.

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