Pneumatic fertilizer spreader and method for operating a pneumatic fertilizer spreader

Abstract

The invention relates to a pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) for spreading granular material onto an agricultural area (LA), which comprises at least one distribution boom (5) with several boom sections (12) and several distribution lines (6) of different lengths, wherein the distribution lines (6) can be supplied with an air volume flow generated by means of a flow generation device (9) for conveying the material being spread. The invention is characterized by a control and / or regulating unit (24) which is configured to control and / or regulate at least one actuating device (23) connected to individual linkage sections (12) in order to change a working width.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pneumatic fertilizer spreader and a method for operating a pneumatic fertilizer spreader.

[0002] Fertilizer spreaders with a spreading boom are known from the prior art. The problem is the risk, especially with wide spreading booms, of unintentionally and unseen driving into an obstacle, such as a tree or a power pole.

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a fertilizer spreader by means of which the risk of colliding with an obstacle while driving can be reduced. Likewise, the fertilizer spreader can be designed to avoid or minimize damage when driving against an obstacle.

[0004] These problems are solved by a pneumatic fertilizer spreader with the features of independent claim 1 and by a method for operating a pneumatic fertilizer spreader with the features of method claim 15. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the claims and the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0005] According to the invention, a pneumatic fertilizer spreader is provided, which is designed for spreading granular material onto an agricultural area.

[0006] The invention relates to a pneumatic fertilizer spreader for spreading granular material onto an agricultural area, which comprises at least one distribution boom with several boom sections and several distribution lines of different lengths, wherein the distribution lines can be supplied with a volume flow of air generated by means of a flow generation device for conveying the material being spread.

[0007] The flow-generating device is preferably formed by a fan that can be operated at a variable speed, or by at least two or more fans, each of which can be operated at a variable speed. The fan can preferably be a centrifugal fan and / or the like.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment, a control and / or regulating unit may be provided to control and / or regulate the rotational speed of a drive that powers the flow-generating device. Preferably, the drive is an electric, hydraulic, and / or pneumatic drive. Preferably, the drive may consist of at least one motor. The motor may, for example, be a hydraulic motor and / or an electric motor.

[0009] By controlling and / or regulating the rotational speed of the flow generation device, the flow velocity of the generated air volume flow can be changed, which also allows the air pressure in the distribution lines and / or an airflow divider device to be changed automatically.

[0010] The air volume flow can be varied depending on the rotational speed of the flow generation device.

[0011] Preferably, an airflow divider device can be provided, which is coupled to the flow generation device and the distribution lines. Preferably, the airflow divider device is configured to divide the air volume flow generated by the flow generation device among the distribution lines. In particular, the flow generation device can be coupled to the airflow divider device, preferably exclusively to the airflow divider device, in order to provide at least a substantially uniform pressure level in all distribution lines.

[0012] The flow generation device and / or the airflow divider device is / are preferably associated with the distribution linkage, in particular with a central section of the distribution linkage, and especially spatially associated. Spatial association can be achieved, for example, by a single structural unit.

[0013] Preferably, a plurality of connecting lines with identical and / or different cross-sections are arranged for the respective connection between the airflow divider device and the distribution lines. The connecting lines can, for example, be formed by connecting nozzles. Alternatively or cumulatively, the connecting lines can be formed by pipe sections. The velocity of the supply airflow can also be varied by means of the connecting lines with identical and / or different cross-sections, as well as the connecting connections with identical and / or different cross-sections.

[0014] According to the invention, a control and / or regulating unit is provided which is designed to control and / or regulate at least one actuating device connected to individual linkage sections in order to change a working width.

[0015] The working width can be defined by the extension of the spreading boom in its unfolded state, preferably in a direction transverse to the direction of travel. The spreading boom is, for example, unfolded during operation of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader.

[0016] According to the invention, it is provided that the working width can be changed. Preferably, for changing the working width, at least one adjusting device connected to individual boom sections is controlled and / or regulated.

[0017] Preferably, at least one adjusting device is provided to change the position of each individual linkage section, preferably to rotate it.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, each individual linkage section can be rotatably connected to another linkage section by means of at least one joint. This means that individual linkage sections are rotatable relative to other linkage sections, so that the control and / or regulation only rotates the individual linkage section.

[0019] Preferably, it may be provided that the at least one actuating device is set up to rotate the individual linkage section by means of the at least one joint about a first, upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0020] The at least one joint is configured to allow rotation of the at least two linkage sections about the first axis of rotation. Preferably, the at least one joint is configured to provide at least one degree of freedom for the movement of the at least two linkage sections relative to each other about the first axis of rotation. Preferably, the at least one joint is formed by at least one pivot joint.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least two linkage sections are rotatable to each other by means of the at least one joint about a second axis of rotation oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the linkage sections.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one joint may be configured to allow the rotation of the at least two linkage sections about the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation. This means that the joint has at least two degrees of freedom. Alternatively, the at least one joint may be formed by two joints, each of which has at least one degree of freedom. Preferably, a first joint configured to allow the rotation of the at least two linkage sections about the first axis of rotation and a second joint configured to allow the rotation of the at least two linkage sections about the second axis of rotation may be provided.

[0023] The longitudinal extent is the axis along which the respective linkage section extends with its greatest dimension. This means that the other dimensions, namely the height and width, of the respective linkage section are smaller than the longitudinal extent.

[0024] With the distribution boom extended, preferably during operation of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader, the longitudinal extent of the boom section preferably extends transversely to a direction of travel of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader, or along a longitudinal extent of the fertilizer spreader, which preferably corresponds to the direction of travel. The first axis of rotation can be oriented in the direction of travel, preferably during operation of the fertilizer spreader and / or with the distribution boom extended.

[0025] When the distribution boom is folded, preferably during transport, preferably road travel, or storage of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader, the longitudinal extension of the boom sections no longer extends transversely to the direction of travel, but advantageously along the longitudinal extension and / or a vertical extension of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader, thereby reducing the working width.

[0026] Upright orientation means that the upright oriented axis of rotation is arranged at an angle to the vertical direction. Preferably, the angle is acute. Preferably, the angle is between 0° and 45°. Preferably, the upright oriented axis of rotation is substantially parallel to the vertical direction. Substantially means that small deviations are possible, for example, a deviation of no more than 5°.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment, it may be provided that at least one position detection device is provided which is configured to detect the position of the individual linkage section relative to another linkage section.

[0028] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is designed to control and / or regulate at least one positioning device to change the working width based on the detected position of each boom section relative to another boom section.

[0029] In order to rotate the at least two boom sections relative to each other to change the working width by controlling and / or regulating the at least one positioning device, it is necessary to determine how each boom section is arranged relative to the other, i.e., to know the position of each boom section relative to the other. The control and / or regulating unit is configured to actuate the at least one positioning device accordingly, based on the determined position of the boom sections relative to each other and the working width of the boom sections, preferably by transmitting control and / or regulating signals to the at least one positioning device.

[0030] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is provided to control and / or regulate at least one actuating device in such a way that the individual linkage section can be rotated about the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation, thereby allowing the working width to be changed.

[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment, it may be provided that, for changing the working width, the control and / or regulating unit is set up which can control and / or regulate at least one positioning device by means of manual user input and / or automatically.

[0032] Preferably, it can be provided that a corresponding signal can be transmitted to the control unit via manual user input, informing the control unit to change the working width. For example, manual user input can be achieved by pressing a button, switch, a corresponding point on a screen, and / or the like. Preferably, the manual user input can transmit to the control unit which at least one actuating device, and accordingly which individual linkage section, is to be rotated.

[0033] Alternatively or cumulatively, the control unit for changing the working width can be configured to control and / or regulate at least one positioning device based on an application map. Preferably, the application map can be predefined for the control unit.

[0034] The control and / or regulating unit is set up to automatically control and / or regulate at least one actuating device for changing the working width, preferably based on sensor data from a sensor unit and / or the application map.

[0035] Preferably, the control unit is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one positioning device for changing the working width based on the area to be spread with material. Preferably, the area to be spread can be defined by field boundaries, areas where no material is to be spread, and / or the like. Preferably, the control unit is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one positioning device for changing the working width in such a way that individual boom sections are rotated, preferably around the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation, so that material can only be spread in the area to be spread.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, it may be provided that, in order to change the working width, the control and / or regulating unit is set up to control and / or regulate at least one positioning device on the basis of objects detected by means of at least one sensor unit in an environment of the fertilizer spreader.

[0037] Preferably, at least one sensor unit is provided which is configured to detect objects in the vicinity of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader. Preferably, the at least one sensor unit for detecting objects can be a radar-based, ultrasound-based, laser-based, camera-based sensor unit, and / or the like.

[0038] The objects in question could be, for example, obstacles such as rigid and / or moving objects, people, and / or the like.

[0039] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate at least one positioning device in such a way as to change the working width, such that the corresponding individual boom section which is assigned to the detected object, preferably the detected object which is located in front of the respective boom section, is rotatable.

[0040] Preferably, it is provided that, in order to change the working width by rotating individual boom sections around the first axis of rotation and / or second axis of rotation, a collision with the object can be prevented; and / or a collision with the object can be used to cause a rotation of the boom sections around the first axis of rotation and / or second axis of rotation; and / or a working width of the spreading boom can be changed by rotating the boom sections around the first axis of rotation and / or second axis of rotation according to specifications, preferably the area to be applied.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the distribution lines extend along the rod sections, wherein at least some of the distribution lines extend over at least two rod sections and are formed from at least two distribution line sections that can be detachably connected to each other by means of at least one detachable connection, preferably a plug connection.

[0042] This is preferred for switching between operating the pneumatic fertilizer spreader and transporting the pneumatic fertilizer spreader.

[0043] Preferably, the respective distribution pipe sections can be at least partially rigid, thereby reducing the influence of curved sections on the airflow. The rigid distribution pipe sections can also preferably reduce wear, as they can be made of hard or resistant material. Furthermore, the positioning of the respective distribution pipe sections relative to the distribution boom and / or the crop and / or the agricultural area can be improved by the at least partially rigid design of the respective distribution pipes.

[0044] Because the individual distribution line sections are rigidly constructed, a correspondingly detachable connection is necessary. To enable a repeatable connection between the individual distribution line sections, it is provided that the distribution line sections can be detachably connected to each other by a detachable connection, preferably a plug connection, preferably a sleeve element.

[0045] Preferably, it may be provided that the detachable connection remains in place or is detached by controlling and / or regulating at least one positioning device for changing the working width.

[0046] It can happen that the control and / or regulating unit controls and / or regulates at least one actuator in such a way that the rotation of an individual linkage section releases the detachable connection to another linkage section. This fluidically separates the respective distribution line sections.

[0047] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit can be predefined, for example by manual user input and / or by the control and / or regulating unit, when the releasable connection exists or is released, preferably by: - a specification of a maximum rotation angle of the individual linkage section when rotating about the first axis of rotation and / or the second relative to each other; and / or - a specification of a maximum travel distance for at least one actuating device.

[0048] Preferably, an angle detection device is provided, which is configured to detect a rotation angle between one and the other linkage section. Preferably, the angle detection device is configured to transmit the detected rotation angle to the control unit. Preferably, the angle detection device can comprise an angle sensor, preferably an angle potentiometer, and / or further sensors configured to detect a rotation angle. Preferably, the angle detection device can be part of the position detection device.

[0049] Alternatively or cumulatively, it may be provided that a travel distance detection unit is provided which is set up to detect the travel distance of at least one actuator.

[0050] Up to the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance, it is intended that when the individual linkage section is rotated around the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation, the respective distribution line sections are or remain connected.

[0051] Preferably, the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance can be preset by manual user input of the control unit. Preferably, at least one rotation limit is dependent on the detachable connection of the respective distribution line sections. For example, the coupling element can determine how far the distribution line sections can move apart before the detachable connection between them breaks.

[0052] According to a further preferred embodiment, it may be provided that at least one metering device is provided which is configured to meter a quantity of distribution material into the distribution lines.

[0053] According to a further preferred embodiment, the metering device can be spatially assigned to the distribution rod. Such spatial assignment can be achieved, for example, by means of a single structural unit.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to change the quantity of distributed material dosed into the distribution lines by the metering device by controlling and / or regulating the metering device based on the detected position, preferably the detected angle of rotation and / or the detected travel distance.

[0055] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to change the quantity of distributed material dosed into the distribution lines by the dosing device by controlling and / or regulating the dosing device in such a way that: - if the detected rotation angle and / or the detected travel distance is smaller than the maximum rotation angle and / or the detected travel distance, a quantity of distributed material can be dosed into the distribution lines; - if the detected rotation angle and / or the detected travel distance is equal to or greater than the maximum rotation angle and / or the detected travel distance, no distributed material can be dosed into the distribution lines.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, the control unit is configured to determine whether the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance are exceeded when controlling and / or regulating the at least one actuator for changing the working width. Preferably, the control unit is configured to determine this based on automated control and / or regulation, preferably based on the detected objects and / or the application map.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to perform proactive control and / or regulation of the dosing device by determining whether the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance are exceeded.

[0058] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to determine at what point in time the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance are exceeded and accordingly no more distributed material should be conveyed through the corresponding distribution lines.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to additionally modify the quantity of material metered into the distribution lines by the metering device based on the conveying time of the material through the distribution lines and / or the actual position of the fertilizer spreader.

[0060] Due to the conveying time, the control and regulation unit is set up to prevent the dosing of the distributed material, but even after the dosing of the distributed material into the respective distribution line has ended, the distributed material is conveyed to the distribution elements for a period of time, the conveying time.

[0061] Similarly, according to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to perform anticipatory control and / or regulation of the dosing device by determining when the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance can be undercut.

[0062] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to determine at what time and / or at what position the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance can be undercut and accordingly the distributed material should again be conveyable through the corresponding distribution lines.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to additionally modify the quantity of material metered into the distribution lines by the metering device based on the conveying time of the material through the distribution lines and / or the actual position of the fertilizer spreader.

[0064] Due to the conveying time, the control and regulation unit is set up to control and / or regulate the dosing device, to resume the dosing of the distributed material, whereby the distributed material only arrives at the distribution elements after the conveying time has elapsed following the resumption of dosing into the respective distribution line.

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that at least some distribution lines are assigned airflow-controlling elements, which are configured to influence the air volume flow in the at least some distribution lines. It is conceivable that a retaining element is provided on which the airflow-controlling elements are arranged. Preferably, the retaining element is designed to be complementary to the distribution lines, at least in areas where the airflow-controlling elements are located, that is, in particular, such that the airflow-controlling elements can be assigned to the distribution lines, and preferably connected to them.

[0066] Preferably, the retaining element is connected to the individual linkage section in such a way that when the individual linkage section rotates, the retaining element rotates with the individual linkage section. Preferably, the retaining element is arranged relative to the individual linkage section in such a way that, when the individual linkage section has finished rotating about the vertically oriented axis of rotation, the retaining element, in particular the airflow-influencing elements, can be connected to, or is already connected to, the distribution lines.

[0067] Alternatively or cumulatively, a separate positioning device can be assigned to the holding element. Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate the separate positioning device based on changes in the working width, in particular the rotation of the individual boom section.

[0068] Alternatively or cumulatively, it can be provided that the airflow-influencing elements are assigned to the distribution lines, preferably connected, wherein the position of the airflow-influencing elements can be changed by means of appropriate actuating elements, in particular the control and / or regulating unit is set up to control and / or regulate the actuating elements, preferably by means of changing the working width.

[0069] Because the detachable connection between the distribution line sections can be disengaged based on the position of each linkage section relative to the other, the length of the distribution line exposed to airflow is reduced. Consequently, the pressure in the distribution line also changes. This affects the entire pneumatic system, especially the other distribution lines.

[0070] In order to counteract the influence on the pneumatic system, the airflow-influencing elements are assigned to at least some distribution lines, especially those distribution lines which extend over at least two linkage sections.

[0071] Preferably, the airflow-influencing elements can be designed as sliders, flaps, rotary elements, and / or the like. Preferably, each airflow-influencing element can be assigned at least one actuating element, which is configured to influence the position of the airflow-influencing element in the distribution duct in order to influence the air volume flow. Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one actuating element in order to influence the air volume flow through the airflow-influencing elements.

[0072] According to a preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be configured to control and / or regulate the airflow-influencing elements based on the detected position of each linkage section relative to the other linkage section.

[0073] Preferably, the control unit is configured to control and / or regulate the airflow-influencing elements in the distribution ducts based on the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance. If the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance is not exceeded, the control unit is configured not to control and / or regulate the at least one actuator. This means that the airflow remains unchanged with respect to the airflow-influencing elements. If the maximum rotation angle and / or the maximum travel distance is exceeded, the control unit is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one actuator.

[0074] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one actuating element based on the airflow-exposed length of the respective distribution line and / or a cross-section of the respective distribution line.

[0075] Because the distribution lines have different lengths, different cross-sections are also provided in order to achieve a uniform pressure in the respective distribution lines.

[0076] The lengths of the distribution lines and / or the cross-sections are constant and can be specified to the control unit.

[0077] Preferably, the airflow-influencing elements are arranged to influence the cross-section of the respective distribution line.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the distribution linkage may include a support structure. Preferably, the support structure may be coupled to a frame of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader and be arranged to be height-adjustable and movable relative to the frame.

[0079] Height adjustment can be implemented using a height adjustment unit, for example, a parallelogram arranged between the frame and a support structure, and / or a linear unit. The parallelogram and / or the linear unit can be equipped with at least one actuator (e.g., one or more hydraulically and / or pneumatically operated linear drives such as cylinders or the like) to change the distance to the reference surface, i.e., to pivot the parallelogram or to adjust the linear unit.

[0080] Preferably, the height of the distribution linkage can be changed by means of the height adjustment unit.

[0081] Preferably, the adjustment unit is configured to change the height of the distribution boom relative to the reference surface, for example the agricultural area, by changing at least one actuator of the height adjustment unit.

[0082] The height adjustment unit, preferably the parallelogram and / or the linear unit, can expediently be part of the distribution linkage, or can in particular be connected to the support device of the distribution linkage with the parallelogram and / or the linear unit.

[0083] According to a further preferred embodiment, the distribution linkage may include a linkage center section. Preferably, the linkage center section is rotatably coupled to the support device about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. This allows the distribution linkage to follow the direction of travel in response to forces acting upon it.

[0084] Preferably, the control unit is configured to change the rotational position of the distribution rod by means of its rotatable coupling to the support structure. Preferably, this change in rotational position includes control and / or regulation of the distribution rod's rotational position. Preferably, a sensor device is provided and configured to detect the rotational position of the distribution rod. Preferably, the control unit is configured to perform the change in rotational position based on the detected rotational position.

[0085] Preferably, at least one actuator is provided which is coupled to the carrier device and the distribution linkage, and wherein the control and / or regulating unit is configured to influence the actuator, preferably on the basis of the detected rotational position of the distribution linkage.

[0086] According to a further preferred embodiment, the control and / or regulating unit may be set up to control and / or regulate at least one actuating unit based on the changed working width of the boom sections.

[0087] Because the working width can be changed by controlling and / or regulating at least one actuating device on individual boom sections, the result is that, for example, rotating an individual boom section renders the spreading boom asymmetrical, for instance, with respect to its center point, such as the axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. This means that a left-hand boom has a different length than a right-hand boom. Consequently, changing the length of a particular boom alters the corresponding lever arm relative to the axis of rotation of the boom's central section, resulting in a rotation of the central section around this axis.

[0088] Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate at least one actuating unit based on the position of the individual linkage section relative to the other linkage section.

[0089] According to the invention, the underlying problem is solved by a method.

[0090] The inventive method for operating a pneumatic fertilizer spreader, preferably a pneumatic fertilizer spreader according to a previously described embodiment, comprises the following process steps: - Providing a pneumatic fertilizer spreader comprising at least one distribution boom with several boom sections and several distribution lines of different lengths, wherein the distribution lines can be supplied with a volume flow of air generated by a flow generation device to convey the material being spread, - Changing a working width by controlling and / or regulating at least one positioning device connected to individual boom sections by means of a control and / or regulating unit.

[0091] In the context of the invention, the individual steps of the process can be carried out in a defined sequence; however, it is also conceivable that the steps of the process can be carried out in any sequence. An arbitrary change between the process steps is also conceivable. Furthermore, the process can be extended by adding further process steps.

[0092] Preferably, the steps of the procedure are carried out continuously and / or at intervals.

[0093] The control unit includes, for example, a computer unit, an on-board computer, and / or similar components, and also comprises a control circuit, in particular a hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical control circuit, wherein the control circuit is suitably designed for hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical signal and / or command transmission. This signal and / or command transmission can also be wireless (e.g., via WLAN).

[0094] In the context of the invention, the term "control unit" encompasses, in particular, the entirety of components for signal and / or command transmission. Accordingly, this also includes computer units, CPUs, and / or the like. Likewise, it also includes control devices integrated into the respective sensors, sensor units, or sensor arrangements. It should also be noted that the signals and / or data from the sensors, measuring devices, detection devices, and / or the like can each be used as feedback for a control variable.

[0095] It should be noted that the terms "control," "regulate," "control device," "regulating device," and "control and / or regulating unit" can refer to electronic, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic controls or regulators that, depending on their design, can perform control and / or regulating tasks. Even though the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately include "regulate." Likewise, the use of the term "regulate" can also include "control."

[0096] Regarding the advantages and embodiments of the method according to the invention, reference is made to the advantages and embodiments of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader according to the invention.

[0097] For the purposes of the application, features disclosed in conjunction with other features may also be considered disclosed on their own. Features linked by "and / or" are to be understood as disclosed both on their own and in combination with the other features.

[0098] To avoid repetition, it should be noted that the embodiments and features according to the invention can be combined with the device and / or the method in any way and without restriction. Accordingly, all embodiments and features according to the invention are disclosed and claimable for both the device and the method.

[0099] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual relative sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged for better illustration in relation to other elements. The figures show: Fig. 1. A pneumatic fertilizer spreader in a perspective view; Fig. 2 the fertilizer spreader according to Fig. 1 in a side view; Fig. 3 a section of the distribution linkage; Fig. 4 the section according to Fig. 3 with a twisted single linkage section; Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. 8 schematic representations of the functioning of elements that influence airflow; Fig. 9 Influencing a rotational position by changing the working width.

[0100] The in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. The embodiments shown in Figure 9 are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation.

[0101] One embodiment of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 is shown in the figures. The pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 can be used to efficiently apply, or distribute, granular agricultural materials in desired quantities on agricultural land (LF). Examples of such materials include agricultural fertilizers, microgranules, seeds, and the like.

[0102] The fertilizer spreader 1 is designed as a fertilizer spreader 1 pulled by a towing vehicle (e.g., a tractor, not shown here), but the fertilizer spreader 1 can also be self-propelled or mounted on a towing vehicle. The fertilizer spreader 1 could also be an autonomous vehicle (e.g., fully autonomous or semi-autonomous) or mounted on an autonomous carrier vehicle.

[0103] The fertilizer spreader 1 comprises a frame R supporting the components of the fertilizer spreader 1, as well as at least one storage container 3 for carrying and / or providing the spreading material. Two or more storage containers 3 for two or more, in particular different, spreading materials may also be provided, i.e., in particular, mounted on the frame R of the fertilizer spreader 1.

[0104] To achieve maximum efficiency, i.e., a large working width, the fertilizer spreader 1 has a spreading boom 5 extending transversely to the direction of travel FR with a large working width (e.g., 24 meters, 30 meters, 36 meters or more). The spreading boom 5 comprises a support structure 10 connected to the frame R, a boom center section 11, and outriggers 13 pivotably mounted on the boom center section 10 relative to the boom center section 11. Preferably, each outrigger has at least one boom section 12, which can be rotatably assembled about vertically oriented axes. The boom center section 1 can also be referred to as a boom section 12.

[0105] To comply with a permissible transport width (e.g. 3 meters in Germany), the booms 13 are pivotably mounted on the central section of the linkage 10 about upright oriented axes 14.

[0106] The distribution linkage 5, in particular its central linkage section 11, is supported by a bearing 15, which according to the Fig. 2 is shown only in outline, rotatable transversely to the direction of travel FR about a pivot axis oriented in the direction of travel relative to the frame R on the support structure 10. The rotational position can be controlled and / or regulated, in particular by means of an actuating device (not shown) which can be controlled by a control device, and which can be mounted, in particular, between the linkage center section 11 and the support structure 10 and / or between the linkage center section 11 and the frame R.

[0107] The frame R can also preferably be expediently designed in multiple parts, wherein the individual parts can in turn be connected by means of a permanent (e.g. welding) and / or detachable (e.g. screws or similar machine elements) connection.

[0108] The frame R also includes a chassis 16 with running wheels, which according to the exemplary embodiments can in particular be a tandem chassis, and a connecting device 17 for connection to a towing vehicle. In addition, the storage container 3 is part of the frame R.

[0109] To adjust the height of the distribution linkage 5, the support device 10 is mounted on the frame R in a height-adjustable manner by means of a height adjustment device 10.1, for example a parallelogram.

[0110] The central section 11 of the distribution boom 5 is associated with a metering device 4 and a metering container 18; in particular, these form a single structural unit. A conveying system 19, comprising a conveying line and / or a conveying device 20, opens into the metering container 18. However, several conveying lines and / or conveying devices 20 could also open into the metering container 18 in order to supply it with one, two, or more different spreading materials.

[0111] Preferably, both the storage container 3 and the dosing container 18 taper downwards in a funnel shape, with at least one outlet opening (not shown here) arranged at the lowest point in each case.

[0112] The outlet opening is formed by an opening in the respective container 3, 18, through which, for example, distributed material from the storage container 3 is conveyed into the conveying system 19 and / or from the dosing container 18 into the dosing device 4, whereby the outlet opening thus simultaneously forms the inlet of the conveying system 19 and / or the dosing device 4.

[0113] The material being spread from the metering device 4 is conveyed to the distribution elements 8 attached to the distribution boom 5 by means of distribution lines 6 along the distribution boom 5. During operation of the fertilizer spreader 1, the material is transported along the distribution lines 6 by means of an airflow, whereby the distribution lines 6 are coupled, i.e., operatively connected, by means of a flow-generating device (e.g., one or more blowers such as centrifugal blowers, radial blowers, axial blowers, diagonal blowers, cross-flow blowers, or the like).

[0114] A plurality of distribution lines 6 are attached along the distribution rod 5, each of which, according to the exemplary embodiments, has a distribution element 8 attached. However, two or more distribution elements 8 per distribution line 6 would also be conceivable or possible, with each distribution line 6 having a distribution element 8 assigned to its respective outer end, which forms an outlet opening 7. Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 have different lengths extending from the metering device 4 along the distribution rod 5.

[0115] In order to achieve a compact distribution linkage 5, the distribution lines 6 are also arranged one above the other, meaning that a large number of distribution lines 6 are arranged one above the other.

[0116] Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 are essentially symmetrical to each other on the distribution linkage 5 with respect to the central linkage section 11. In addition, the opposing distribution elements 8 each have at least a largely identical height position.

[0117] Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 have separation points, not shown here, between the rod center section 11 and the booms 13 or between the rod sections 12 of the booms 13.

[0118] The distribution elements 8 can be formed, in particular, by impact plates, against which the material to be distributed is conveyed by means of the air volume flow and subsequently distributed, for example, in a fan shape, depending on the shape of the impact plate. However, the distribution elements 8 can also be formed by an arc-shaped end section of the distribution lines 6, which can then, for example, act as impact plates themselves.

[0119] The distances between the distribution elements 8 can be such that, in particular, a full-surface distribution of the material being distributed is made possible by means of the spreading fans generated by the distribution elements 8, and in particular a seamless distribution of the material being distributed is made possible.

[0120] According to an alternative embodiment, it would also be conceivable that the distribution elements 8 are arranged on the distribution rod 5 in such a way, or that the spreading patterns created by the distribution elements 8 are such that the spreading patterns overlap. For example, a double or triple overlap of the spreading patterns could be provided, which in turn could increase the distribution quality, as shown in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0121] To supply the dosing device 4 with the respective distributed material, it is operatively connected to at least one storage container 3, whereby the operative connection can be made by means of a conveying system 19 with, for example, a conveying line 20 and by means of the dosing container 18.

[0122] The conveying system 19 according to the embodiment examples comprises a conveying line 20 or conveying device 20 leading into the metering container 18; however, two or more conveying lines 20 could also be provided, in particular for different spreading materials.

[0123] The conveying system 19, or the conveying line 20 or the conveying facility 20, is at least divided into two parts, that is, it has several conveying sections 21, 22.

[0124] The conveying system 19 and / or the conveying sections 21, 22 can be formed by one or more screw conveyors and / or conveyor belts and / or the like.

[0125] Alternatively or additionally, the conveying system can also be formed, at least in sections, by a pneumatic conveying system, in which distributed material is conveyed by means of an air volume flow along the conveying line 20.

[0126] The metering device 4 is assigned to the rod center section 11 and / or the support device 10 in such a way that these follow the vertical movements and / or the rotary movements of the distribution rod 5 at least largely synchronously.

[0127] Preferably, the pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 comprises at least a frame R supporting components of the fertilizer spreader 1, a storage container 3 for carrying and providing the material to be distributed (e.g., seeds, fertilizer and / or the like).), a distribution linkage 5 extending transversely to the direction of travel FR, which distribution linkage 5 has a support device 10, a linkage center section 11 and booms 13 rotatably attached to the linkage center section 11, wherein distribution lines 6 with distribution elements 8 and a metering container 18 operatively connected to the storage container 3 by means of a conveying system 19 are attached to the distribution linkage 5, wherein the distribution lines 6 can be supplied with an air volume flow to convey the distributed material along the distribution lines 6 to the distribution elements 8 and wherein, by means of at least one metering device 4 forming a structural unit with the distribution linkage 5 and operatively connected to the metering container 18, distributed material can be metered into the distribution lines 6.

[0128] In the following Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Section 9 describes in more detail the further structure and operation of the fertilizer spreader 1, in particular the changing of the working width according to the invention by controlling and / or regulating at least one positioning device 23 by means of a control and / or regulating unit 24.

[0129] In the Fig. Figure 3 shows a part of the distribution linkage 5, with linkage sections 12. It is provided that at least two linkage sections 12 are rotatably connected to each other by means of at least one joint 26 about a first, upright-oriented axis of rotation 27. The longitudinal extent 35 of the linkage sections 12 is shown schematically.

[0130] At least one actuating device 23 is provided, which is coupled to the linkage sections 12. The at least one actuating device 23 is designed as a hydraulic cylinder. The actuating device 23 is configured to rotate the linkage sections 12 relative to each other about the first axis of rotation 27. Likewise, a control and / or regulating unit 24 is provided, which is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one actuating device 23, thereby achieving a rotation of the linkage sections 12 relative to each other.

[0131] Furthermore, the at least two linkage sections 12 are additionally connected to each other by means of at least one joint 23 rotatably about a first axis of rotation oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the linkage sections.

[0132] In addition, a second actuating device 34 is provided, which is designed to rotate the two linkage sections 12 by means of the at least one joint 12 about the axis of rotation 29 oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the linkage sections.

[0133] A position detection device 36 is also provided. The position detection device 36 is configured to detect the position of at least two linkage sections 12 relative to each other, wherein the control and / or regulating unit 24 is configured to control and / or regulate at least one actuating device 23 based on the detected position of the at least two linkage sections 12 relative to each other.

[0134] Likewise, a sensor unit 37 is provided, which is configured to detect objects in the vicinity of the fertilizer spreader 1. For example, the sensor unit 37 can be radar-based, ultrasound-based, laser-based, and / or the like. To change the working width, the control and / or regulation unit 24 is provided, which controls and / or regulates at least one actuator 23 based on objects detected by at least one sensor unit 37 in the vicinity of the fertilizer spreader 1.

[0135] In the Fig. 4 is a single linkage section 25 rotated about the upright oriented axis of rotation 27 by means of at least one adjusting device 23, thereby changing the working width.

[0136] At least some of the distribution lines 6 extend over two rod sections 12 and comprise at least two distribution line sections 30, which can be detachably connected to one another by means of a detachable connection 31. This is advantageous because the distribution lines 6 are at least partially rigid and therefore not sufficiently flexible when the rod sections 12 are rotated about the first axis of rotation 24 and / or the second axis of rotation 25.

[0137] When changing the working width by rotating the individual linkage section 12, 25, for example about the vertically oriented axis of rotation 27, it is possible that the detachable connection 31 will be released, so that the distribution line sections 30 are no longer fluidly connected to each other. This means that, due to the change in the airflow in the distribution line section 30, the length of the distribution line 6 subjected to the airflow changes; therefore, it is provided to compensate for the pressure difference resulting from the release of the detachable connection.

[0138] According to the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. Eight airflow-controlling elements 32 are provided, which are adapted to the length of the distribution pipe section 6 that is no longer subjected to the air volume flow by rotation about the upright oriented axis of rotation 27. Because the length of this distribution pipe section 6 is known, the airflow-controlling element 32 can be designed accordingly.

[0139] Preferably, the respective airflow-influencing elements 32 are arranged to be rotatable about the vertically oriented axis of rotation 27, such that they move with the individual linkage section 12, 25 in accordance with the rotational movement of the individual linkage section 12, 25. This is shown schematically in the Fig. 5 shown. In the Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic view as in Fig. Figure 5 is shown as indicated. The distribution line section 30 and the airflow-influencing element 32 are not connected to each other in a non-rotated position of the individual linkage section 12, 25.

[0140] In the Fig. In 7, the individual linkage section 12, 25 is rotated about the vertically oriented axis of rotation 27, which also rotates the airflow-influencing element 32 about the axis of rotation 27. The airflow-influencing element 32 is now, as shown in the Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of the air volume flow through the distribution pipe section 30, in conjunction with which the cross-section of the distribution pipe section 30 has been adjusted accordingly. The air volume flow through the distribution pipe section 30 is influenced and modified accordingly by the airflow-controlling element 32.

[0141] Alternatively or cumulatively, the airflow-influencing elements 32 can be assigned to the distribution line or the distribution line sections and be movable relative to them, for example rotatable and / or displaceable, whereby the cross-section of the distribution line section can be changed and accordingly the pressure in the distribution line, in particular of the distribution line section which is subjected to air volume flow.

[0142] In the Fig. Figure 9 introduces a further function. The distribution linkage 5 is rotatably coupled to the support device 10 about a pivot axis 33 oriented in the direction of travel. The distribution linkage 5 and the support device 10 are each connected to at least one actuating unit 34.

[0143] The control and / or regulating unit 24 is set up to control and / or regulate at least one actuating unit 34, based on the change in the working width, for example by rotating individual linkage sections 12, 25 around the upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0144] By rotating individual linkage sections 12, 25, as in the Fig.As shown in Figure 9, the corresponding lever, in particular its length, of the distribution linkage changes, resulting in different forces acting on the booms and causing them to rotate about the axis of rotation 33 oriented in the direction of travel. The control and / or regulating unit is designed to control and / or regulate at least one actuating unit 34 according to the change in the working width, preferably by rotating individual linkage sections 12, 25, in particular to control and / or regulate such that the distribution linkage 5 remains essentially in its position, for example, horizontal position and / or rotational position.

[0145] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made and equivalents used as substitutes without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made without departing from the relevant scope. Consequently, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but is intended to encompass all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. Reference symbol list: 1 pneumatic fertilizer spreader 2 Distributed goods 3 storage containers 4 Dosing device 5 distribution rods 6 distribution line 7 Outlet opening 8 distribution element 9 Flow generating device 10 Supporting institution 10.1 Height adjustment device 11 Linkage middle section 12 Linkage section 13 outriggers 14 upright oriented axis 15 Storage 16 Chassis 17 Connection device 18 dosing containers 19 Funding system 20 Conveyor line 21,22 Funding section 23 Actuator 24 Control and / or regulating unit 25 individual linkage sections 26 joint 27 upright oriented axis of rotation 28 second axis of rotation 29 second actuator 30 Distribution line section 31 detachable connection 32 airflow-influencing element 33 Rotation axis oriented in the direction of travel 34 Actuator FR direction of travel LF agricultural area R frame

Claims

Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) for spreading granular material onto an agricultural area (LA), comprising at least one spreading boom (5) with several boom sections (12) and several distribution lines (6) of different lengths, wherein the distribution lines (6) can be supplied with an air volume flow generated by a flow generation device (9) for conveying the material, characterized by a control and / or regulating unit (24) which is configured to control and / or regulate at least one actuating device (23) connected to individual boom sections (12) for changing a working width. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the respective individual boom section (12, 25) is rotatably connected to another boom section (12) by means of at least one joint (26), wherein the at least one actuating device (23) is configured to rotate the individual boom section (12, 25) by means of the at least one joint (26) about a first axis of rotation (27) oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal extension (35) of the boom sections (12) and / or a second axis of rotation (28) oriented upright. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to claim 2, characterized by at least one position detection device (36) which is configured to detect the position of the individual boom section (12, 25) relative to another boom section (12), wherein the control and / or regulating unit (24) is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one adjusting device (23) on the basis of the detected position of the individual boom section (12, 25) relative to another boom section (12) in order to change the working width. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control and / or regulating unit (24) is provided to change the working width, which can control and / or regulate at least one actuating device (23) by means of manual user input and / or automatically. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control and / or regulating unit (24) is provided to change the working width, which controls and / or regulates at least one actuating device (23) on the basis of objects detected by means of at least one sensor unit (37) in an environment of the fertilizer spreader (1). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution lines (6) extend along the boom sections (12), wherein at least some of the distribution lines (6) extend over at least two boom sections (12) and are formed from at least two distribution line sections (30) that can be detachably connected to each other by means of at least one detachable connection (31), preferably a plug connection. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least a metering device (4) which is configured to meter a quantity of material to be distributed into the distribution lines (6). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 7, characterized in that the metering device (4) is spatially assigned to the distribution boom (5), preferably the metering device (4) is coupled to the distribution boom (5). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of claims 3 and 7 to 8, characterized in that the control and / or regulating unit (24) is configured to change the quantity of material metered into the distribution lines (6) by the metering device (4) by controlling and / or regulating the metering device (4) on the basis of the detected position. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the control and / or regulating unit (24) is configured to change the quantity of material dosed by the metering device (4) into the distribution lines (6) in advance based on a conveying time of material through the distribution lines (6) and / or an actual position of the fertilizer spreader (1). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claims 3 and 6, characterized by the airflow-influencing elements (32) assigned to at least some distribution lines (6), which are arranged to influence the air volume flow in the at least some distribution lines (6), wherein the control and / or regulating unit (24) is arranged to control and / or regulate the airflow-influencing elements (32) on the basis of the detected position. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution linkage (5) comprises a support device (10) coupled to a frame (R) of the fertilizer spreader (1), wherein the support device (10) is height-adjustable relative to the frame (R) by means of a height adjustment unit. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 9, characterized in that one of the several boom sections (12) is a boom center section (11), wherein the boom center section (11) is rotatably coupled to the carrier device (10) about an axis (33) oriented in the direction of travel (FR), wherein at least one actuating unit (34) is provided which is coupled to the carrier device (10) and the boom center section (11) and which is configured to influence a rotational position of the boom center section (11) relative to the carrier device (10). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 10, characterized in that the control and / or regulating unit (24) is configured to control and / or regulate at least one actuating unit (34) on the basis of the changed working width boom sections (12). Method for operating a pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1), preferably a pneumatic fertilizer spreader according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the method steps: - providing a pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) which comprises at least one distribution boom (5) with several boom sections (12) and several distribution lines (6) of different lengths, wherein the distribution lines (6) can be supplied with an air volume flow generated by means of a flow generation device (9) for conveying the distributed material, - changing a working width by controlling and / or regulating at least one actuating device (23) connected to individual boom sections (12) by means of a control and / or regulating unit (24).

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