Distribution device for distributing a flowable medium and method for applying extracts to agricultural land

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for applying flowable media, in particular extracts, especially so-called liquid manure, to surfaces, and particularly to agricultural land. Such devices and methods have been known in the art for a long time. For example, these substances are conveyed from a tank to a distribution device, which then distributes them to a multitude of lines, such as hoses, and these ultimately apply the substance to the surface.

[0002] EP 0 430 347 B1 discloses a mobile device for injecting liquid fertilizer, such as slurry, into the soil. A rotating element cuts a groove into the ground. Liquid fertilizer is conveyed from a container via a distribution device into the area of ​​the rotating element to distribute the liquid fertilizer evenly near the soil groove.

[0003] EP 3 744 163 B1 discloses a fertilizing device with a distribution device and distribution plate for liquid substances. The distribution plate consists of two parts, each part having through-openings. By rotating the two parts relative to each other, the through-opening of the distribution plate can be adjusted, thereby varying the cross-section through which the liquid substance flows.

[0004] US Patent 2022 / 295692 A1 discloses a manure spreader consisting of a perforated plate and a perforated cover. These can be rotated relative to each other to allow or block the flow of manure. The spreader may also include a cutting device for shredding solids in the manure.

[0005] EP 4 085 744 discloses a further distribution device with adjustable passage cross-section.

[0006] Such distribution devices typically have a large number of openings through which the extract can pass. In addition, a type of rotary valve is usually provided, which passes over these openings and thus facilitates the discharge.

[0007] It can happen that the extract contains interfering elements, such as wood chips or similar debris. These can disrupt the distribution system and, for example, block a motor, rotary valve, or other component of the system. In this case, the discharge through that distributor stops or is reduced, resulting in a partial failure of the application process.

[0008] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of reducing the susceptibility to malfunctions of such extract discharges. According to the invention, this is achieved by a distribution device according to independent claim 1 and a method according to claim 7. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0009] A preferred device for applying a flowable medium, in particular an extract, to agricultural land comprises a reservoir for receiving the extract, and furthermore a conveying line for conveying the extract to a distribution device, as well as a distribution device according to the invention.

[0010] The distribution device comprises an inlet and / or a feed device by means of which the extract can be supplied to a receiving chamber of the distribution device, as well as a plurality of outlets through which the extract (from the receiving chamber) can be distributed to a plurality of discharge lines. Furthermore, the distribution device has a distribution body rotatable within the receiving chamber with respect to a rotational axis, which can be driven by a motor, and a control device for controlling this motor.

[0011] According to the invention, the device has at least one sensor device which detects at least one value that is characteristic of the proper functioning of the distribution device, and the control device is suitable and intended to control the motor taking into account this characteristic value.

[0012] In a further embodiment according to the invention, the control device is suitable and intended to open and / or close the receiving space taking into account this characteristic value.

[0013] Furthermore, the two aforementioned configurations are advantageously combined, i.e., the control device is both suitable and intended to control the motor taking into account this characteristic value, and also suitable and intended to open and / or close the receiving space taking into account this characteristic value.

[0014] It is therefore particularly proposed that the proper functioning of the distribution device and especially the motor be monitored directly and / or indirectly, and that the motor be controlled in response to this monitoring.

[0015] Preferably, the outlets are equipped with pipes, and in particular flexible pipes and hoses. These hoses preferably terminate at different positions, and in particular at positions that allow the extract to be applied to the usable area.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the reservoir is a tank. This reservoir is particularly mobile and can be arranged on or attached to a vehicle.

[0017] A particularly preferred receiving volume of this distribution device and / or the receiving space of this distribution device is greater than 2 dm³, preferably greater than 3 dm³, preferably greater than 4 dm³, preferably greater than 8 dm³, preferably greater than 10 dm³ and particularly preferably greater than 15 dm³.

[0018] A receiving volume of the distribution device is particularly preferred: less than 100 dm³, less than 80 dm³, less than 60 dm³, less than 50 dm³, and most preferably less than 40 dm³.

[0019] In another advantageous embodiment, the device includes a conveying device and, in particular, a pumping device to convey the extract from the reservoir to the distribution device.

[0020] A central conveying line is particularly preferred, which preferably branches off into further branch lines in order to distribute the extract to several distribution facilities if necessary.

[0021] In another advantageous embodiment, the motor is a hydraulic motor and preferably at least one supply line is provided which supplies a hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic motor, as well as at least one outlet which carries the hydraulic fluid away from the hydraulic motor.

[0022] Hydraulic motors are particularly suitable for the present application, as such devices or machines are usually used on or with agricultural vehicles.

[0023] In one embodiment according to the invention, the sensor device is suitable and designed to detect at least one value that is characteristic of the operation of this motor, wherein the sensor device is preferably selected from a group of sensor devices that includes pressure sensors, speed sensors, and flow sensors. Therefore, the sensor device is preferably suitable and designed to indirectly determine the operation of the motor and / or the distribution body.

[0024] In this way, the sensor device can indirectly detect a blockage in the distribution system or the extract distributor. When using a hydraulic motor, this results in two separate flow rates: one of the hydraulic fluid and the other of the extract, for example, liquid manure.

[0025] For example, a sensor could detect an increase in pressure at the hydraulic motor. In this case, the sensor would be a pressure sensor. Alternatively, it would also be possible to measure the flow rate entering or leaving the hydraulic motor. In this case, the sensor would be a flow sensor.

[0026] Alternatively, a fault could cause the rotational speed at the distribution unit to drop or the engine to stall. In this case, the sensor is most likely a tachometer.

[0027] In addition, sensors could be used, particularly when using other motors, to determine parameters such as torque. It would also be possible to detect and / or determine the torque of a hydraulic motor. This, too, could indicate a potential blockage or obstruction in the distribution system.

[0028] Alternatively, the sensor could determine a value characteristic of the extract flow. For example, it could measure the pressure in the discharge line or the flow rate in the supply line leading from the reservoir to the distribution device(s). It could also measure the pressure in the supply line through which the extract is fed to the distribution device(s). Finally, it could be possible to install such a sensor in the receiving chamber.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the sensor device is a pressure sensor suitable and designed to detect the pressure of the hydraulic fluid and / or the pressure at the hydraulic motor and / or the pressure in an extract line. In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor device is a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid and / or the flow rate of the extract.

[0030] According to the invention, the distribution device has a further controllable output that allows a direct outlet of the extract from the distribution device into the environment, wherein a drive device is provided which is suitable and intended to cause this output to be opened or closed.

[0031] Direct discharge of the extract means that it is not directed through a hose or other pipe, but directly into the environment, for example directly onto an agricultural field to be cultivated.

[0032] Preferably, the extract is discharged directly from the distribution device onto the floor. The device is preferably designed such that the extract exiting the distribution device falls directly onto the floor and does not rebound off other objects or elements of the device, such as rods, hoses, or the like.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the outlet has a larger cross-section than the individual discharge lines for the extract. Particularly preferably, the outlet also has a larger flow cross-section than the total cross-section resulting from summing the flow cross-sections of all the individual outlets.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the output is arranged on the underside of the distribution device in an operating state.

[0035] By appropriately dimensioning this outlet, it is possible that when the outlet is opened, all extract is drawn out of the collection chamber, but in particular, through a suction effect, jammed or wedged elements can also be pulled out of the individual openings.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one disk is arranged within the receiving space of the distribution device, which has a plurality of openings, wherein the extract can be guided through these openings to the individual outlets. Preferably, the distribution body has a plurality of contact elements which pass over these openings.

[0037] The distribution device preferably comprises two such discs. Preferably, the distribution body is arranged between these two discs.

[0038] The distribution body particularly preferably has at least two, preferably at least three, and preferably at least four arms on which the aforementioned contact bodies are arranged. In this area, i.e., between these contact bodies and the discs, wedging of, for example, pieces of wood or the like can occur. In this case, the distribution body can be completely blocked.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the number of these outputs of the distribution device is between 4 and 60, preferably between 6 and 50, and particularly preferably between 8 and 48.

[0040] According to the invention, the control device is suitable and designed to initiate at least two different measures upon detection of an error. According to the invention, one of these measures is a reciprocal movement of the distribution body.

[0041] According to the invention, one of these measures is an opening of the aforementioned further exit of the recording space.

[0042] For example, as a first step, the distribution element can be moved by a predetermined angle in the opposite direction of rotation, then back in the original direction, and this process repeated one, two, or three times. In this way, a blockage can be cleared, or an obstructing object can ultimately be forced through the opening.

[0043] A pivot angle by which the distribution body is pivoted during the reciprocal movement is particularly preferred: >5°, preferably >10°, preferably >20°, preferably >30°. In a further preferred embodiment, this pivot angle is <100°, preferably <90°, preferably <80°. However, it would also be conceivable to first perform several rotations in one direction and then one or more rotations in the opposite direction.

[0044] Should this measure prove insufficient, for example, should the sensor device still output a value characteristic of a blockage of the wedge body, it is possible as a further measure to initiate the opening of said outlet in order to clear the individual openings of the blockages.

[0045] Preferably, the device includes a display unit that is suitable and intended to inform a user about a malfunction of a distribution unit. Preferably, the display unit is also suitable and intended to inform the user about a measure that the control unit initiates to correct a fault.

[0046] It is conceivable that a series of measures would be taken in the event of a blockage. As a first step, the direction of rotation of the distributor body could be reversed three or more times to clear the blockage.

[0047] If the blockage is still not cleared, the distributor outlet can be opened for a specified period of time, for example 2 seconds, in particular a valve on the distribution device can be opened to empty it.

[0048] Preferably, the control device causes the second output to open for a predetermined period. This period is preferably longer than 0.5 seconds, more preferably longer than 1 second, and more preferably longer than 2 seconds.

[0049] Furthermore, this period is preferably less than 20 seconds, preferably less than 15 seconds, preferably less than 10 seconds and preferably less than 8 seconds.

[0050] As mentioned above, preferably one sensor device is provided for several distribution units. However, it would also be preferable to have several distribution units and / or to assign a sensor device to each distribution unit.

[0051] The measures described here are preferably carried out while the reservoir is in motion or during a journey.

[0052] In a further preferred embodiment, the device has a plurality of distribution devices and, particularly preferably, each of these distribution devices is assigned a sensor device.

[0053] Preferably, in this embodiment a main line for the hydraulic fluid is provided and at least two or more branch lines then lead to the individual distribution devices or their motors.

[0054] In another advantageous embodiment, the device has a display unit that, for example, indicates errors to the user. This can indicate to the user that a specific distribution unit is blocked or that an error has occurred in a particular distribution unit.

[0055] As mentioned above, it is possible that the aforementioned additional output of the distribution device opens automatically when a fault occurs. It would also be conceivable that this second output is opened by user input, for example, the user being asked via a display device whether they wish to open the corresponding distribution device.

[0056] The present invention relates to a distribution device for distributing a flowable medium, and in particular an extract, onto agricultural land. The distribution device has an inlet through which the extract can be supplied to a receiving chamber of the distribution device, and a plurality of outlets through which the extract can be distributed to a plurality of application lines. Furthermore, the distribution device preferably has a distribution element within the receiving chamber that is rotatable with respect to a rotational axis and is preferably driven by a motor. A control device for controlling this motor is also provided.

[0057] According to the invention, at least one sensor device is provided which detects at least one value that is characteristic of the proper functioning of the distribution device, and furthermore, this control device is suitable and intended to control the motor taking into account this characteristic value.

[0058] In the embodiment according to the invention, the distribution device has a further outlet through which the flowable medium can be released directly from the receiving chamber into the environment.

[0059] Preferably, the motor in question is a hydraulic motor, to which a hydraulic fluid is supplied for its operation.

[0060] The present invention further relates to a method for applying a flowable medium, in particular an extract, to agricultural land, wherein a reservoir receives the extract and a conveying line conveys the extract (in particular from the reservoir) to a distribution device, wherein the distribution device has an inlet by means of which the extract is supplied to a receiving chamber of the distribution device, as well as a plurality of outlets by means of which the extract is distributed to a plurality of application lines, and wherein the distribution device has within the receiving chamber a distribution body rotatable with respect to a rotational axis, which is driven to rotate by a motor, and wherein a control device further controls this motor.

[0061] According to the invention, the device has a sensor device which detects at least one value that is characteristic of the proper functioning of the distribution device and which controls the motor taking into account this characteristic value and causes the receiving space to open taking into account this characteristic value (in particular to achieve an emptying of this receiving space).

[0062] It is therefore also proposed from a procedural standpoint that, in the event of a fault, the control device controls the motor accordingly, drives it reciprocally, and causes the receiving chamber to open for the (immediate) release of the flowable medium.

[0063] According to the invention, if a fault occurs, an outlet of the distribution device is opened, through which the extract then falls directly into the environment and in particular onto a floor.

[0064] In another preferred method, the motor is a hydraulic motor and the sensor device detects at least one value that is characteristic of the proper functioning of this motor.

[0065] Preferably, the control device can initiate at least two different actions in response to a detected value.

[0066] Further advantages and embodiments are shown in the attached drawings: These show: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a device according to the invention; and Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a distribution device.

[0067] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a device 1 according to the invention. This device has a reservoir or tank 2. From this reservoir 2, the flowable medium, and in particular the extract, is conveyed by means of a conveying line 4 to a total of four distribution devices 6. Branch lines 4a and 4b are provided for this purpose.

[0068] Each of the individual distribution devices 6 has a hydraulic motor 72. These hydraulic motors are each supplied with a hydraulic fluid from a supply line 74. The reference numeral 76 indicates the return flow of this hydraulic fluid.

[0069] Reference numeral 8 here denotes a sensor device that can, for example, detect the pressure or flow rate of the hydraulic fluid. In addition, or alongside this, a sensor device 8 can also be provided that directly detects the rotational speed or torque of the motor 72.

[0070] In addition, appropriate flow measuring devices or pressure measuring devices could also be provided in the supply line 4.

[0071] Reference numeral 80 designates a control device which controls the distribution devices 6 shown, or their hydraulic motors 72, also using a signal from the sensor device 8. In addition, this control device is preferably also suitable and intended to cause the respective receiving chambers of these distribution devices 6 to open and / or close.

[0072] For example, if the sensor device detects a reduced flow rate in the hydraulic line or the extract line, this can be interpreted as a fault in a specific distribution device 6.

[0073] Reference numbers 66a and 66b identify two outputs of the distribution device.

[0074] Fig. 2Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a distribution device 6. This device has an inlet 62, or an inlet, through which an extract can be supplied to the distribution device 6. The distribution device 6 forms a receiving chamber 64, which serves to receive the extract. Preferably, this receiving chamber 64 has a cylindrical volume.

[0075] Within this receiving space 64, two stationary plates or disks 82, 84 are provided, each having a plurality of openings 82a. These openings 82a each lead to individual outputs 66a, 66b of the distribution device 6, wherein a predetermined number of outputs 66a lead in a first direction and a further number of outputs 66b lead in a second direction opposite to this first direction.

[0076] Reference numeral 62 designates a feeding device for feeding the extract into the distribution device 6.

[0077] Reference numeral 72 designates a motor, and in particular a hydraulic motor. This hydraulic motor drives a distribution body 78. This distribution body has a plurality of contact elements 78a, which here rub against the openings 82a of the two plates or discs 82, 84, thus facilitating the conveyance of the extract from the distribution device.

[0078] Certain materials within the extract can cause the rotational movement of the distribution body 78 to be slowed down or blocked.

[0079] A sensor device can detect this jamming or blockage, and a control system for the hydraulic motor can initiate appropriate countermeasures as explained above, such as a reciprocal movement of the distribution body or an opening of the receiving chamber.

[0080] Reference numeral 88 schematically designates a further outlet or opening device, particularly for opening the receiving chamber during operation. Preferably, a drive device (not shown) is provided which can open and / or close this opening device 88 or the further outlet. This opening device is preferably located at the mounting point of the distribution device. For example, a support foot of the distribution device could also serve as the opening device. It should also be noted that the individual figures describe features that may be advantageous on their own. Those skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a particular feature described in a figure can be advantageous even without incorporating other features from that figure.Furthermore, the expert recognizes that advantages can also arise from a combination of several features shown in individual or different figures.

Claims

1. A distribution device (6) for distributing a flowable medium, in particular an extract, onto agricultural land, wherein the distribution device (6) comprises an inlet (62) by means of which the extract can be fed into a receiving chamber (64) of the distribution device (6), as well as a plurality of outlets (66a, 66b) through which the extract can be distributed to a plurality of application lines, and wherein the distribution device (6) comprises, within the receiving chamber (64), a distribution body (78) rotatable about an axis of rotation, which is driven by a motor (72) to rotate and a control device (80) is provided to drive this motor (72), wherein at least one sensor device (8) is provided that detects at least one value characteristic of the proper functioning of the distribution device (6), and the control device (80) is suitable and designed to control the motor (72) while taking this characteristic value into account, and the distribution device (6) comprises a further outlet (88) through which the flowable medium can be discharged directly from the receiving chamber (64) into the environment, wherein the distribution device (6) includes the additional controllable outlet (88), which enables direct discharge of the extract from the distribution device (6) into the environment, wherein a drive device is provided that is suitable and intended to cause this outlet (88) to open and close, and wherein the control device (80) is suitable and intended to initiate at least two different measures upon detection of a fault, one of these measures being a reciprocating movement of the distribution body (78) and another measure being the opening of the additional outlet (88) of the receiving chamber (64).

2. Apparatus (1) for applying a flowable medium, in particular an extract, to agricultural land, comprising a reservoir (2) for holding the extract, a delivery line (4) for conveying the extract to a distribution device (6), and a distribution device (6) according to claim 1, wherein the control device (80) is suitable and designed to open the receiving chamber (64) taking this characteristic value into account.

3. Apparatus (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the motor (72) is a hydraulic motor, and at least one supply line (74) is provided to supply a hydraulic fluid to the motor (72), as well as at least one discharge line (76) to discharge the hydraulic fluid from the motor (72).

4. A device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the sensor device (8) is suitable and intended to detect at least one value that is characteristic of the operation of this motor (72), wherein the sensor device (8) is preferably selected from a group of sensor devices (8) comprising pressure sensors, speed sensors, and flow sensors.

5. A device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims 2-4 characterized in that at least one disc (82, 84) is arranged within the receiving chamber (64) of the distribution device (6), which disc has a plurality of openings (82a) and through which the extract can be directed to the individual outlets (66a, 66b) through these openings (82a), wherein, preferably, the distribution body (78) comprises a plurality of contact bodies (78a) that pass over these openings (82a).

6. A device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims 2-5 characterized in that the device (1) comprises a plurality of distribution devices (6), and, most preferably, each of these distribution devices (6) is associated with a sensor device (8).

7. A method for applying a flowable medium, in particular an extract, to agricultural land, wherein a reservoir (2) holds the extract, and a delivery line (4) conveys the extract to a distribution device (6), wherein the distribution device (6) comprises an inlet (62), by means of which the extract is fed into a receiving chamber (64) of the distribution device (6), as well as a plurality of outlets (66a, 66b) through which the extract is distributed to a plurality of application lines, and wherein the distribution device (6) comprises, within the receiving chamber (64), a distribution body (78) rotatable about an axis of rotation, which is driven by a motor (72) to rotate and a control device (80) controls this motor (72), wherein the device (1) comprises at least one sensor device (8) that detects at least one value characteristic of the proper functioning of the distribution device (6), and the control device (80) controls the motor and an opening of the receiving chamber (64) taking this characteristic value into account, wherein the distribution device (6) comprises a further controllable outlet (88) that allows for direct discharge of the extract from the distribution device (6) into the environment, wherein a drive device opens and closes the outlet (88), wherein the control device (80) initiates at least two different measures upon detection of a fault, one of these measures being a reciprocating movement of the distribution body (78) and another measure being the opening of the further outlet (88) of the receiving chamber.

8. A method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the motor (72) is a hydraulic motor, and the sensor device (8) detects at least one value that is characteristic of the proper operation of this motor (72).