DISPOSITIVO DE SINGULAÇÃO AGRÍCOLA

Abstract

The invention relates to an agricultural singulation apparatus (5) for singulating granular material, comprising a singulation element (7) which is accommodated in a housing, is mounted rotatably relative to said housing by means of a shaft, and has a plurality of passage openings extending axially through the singulation element. The singulation element defines first and second housing regions (B1, B2). The singulation apparatus further comprises a bell-type element (8), which is configured and arranged in such a way in the second housing region that it defines, together with the singulation element, a first spatial region (RB1) encompassing a first group of passage openings, while a second group of passage openings is formed in a second spatial region (RB2) outside the first spatial region. The second spatial region is connected by the second group of passage openings to communicate with the first housing region (B1), and a pressure difference can be generated, between the first spatial region (RB1) and the first housing region (B1), by means of a pressure reservoir couplable to the second spatial region (RB2).

Description

1 / 81 AGRICULTURAL SINGULATION DEVICE

[0001] The invention relates to an agricultural singulation device for singulation of particulate matter according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] For the farmer, in order to optimize productivity and costs in agricultural operations, it is of great importance to distribute seeds with the greatest possible precision in terms of the quantity applied and the spatial distribution of seeds in agricultural areas. For this purpose, various agricultural implements are known, for example, towed and / or mounted implements. Such implements include, among others, agricultural seeders that serve to distribute particulate material, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers, in an agricultural field. For this purpose, such seeders include, in addition to at least one suitable hopper to contain the particulate material, at least one transport device — in particular pneumatic — to distribute the particulate material to at least one individualization device arranged on the seeder.In other embodiments, the particulate matter may be alternatively or additionally distributed to the singulation device from the hopper by gravity. The singulation device is configured to singulate at least partially the distributable particulate matter and, depending on the type of particulate matter—in particular seeds and / or fertilizers—distribute it as needed towards the agricultural field.

[0003] Depending on the type or variety, particulate matter must be distributed at different seeding rates and / or spacings across the field. To meet this need with generic seeding devices, various Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 10 / 109 2 / 81 solutions are known from the state of the art, such as the known single-seed seeders, described, for example, in each of the patents DE 10 2007 062 968 A1, EP 0 329 095 A1, EP 2 375 880 A1 and EP 3 735 814 A1.

[0004] In the known singulation device, the interior of a housing is subdivided by a singulation disc into two housing regions, so that a pressure difference can be generated in the housing between a first housing region and a second housing region by means of a blower, the singulation disc being mounted rotatably in the housing. The seed grains supplied to the singulation disc are transported, along one rotation of the singulation disc, to a seed tube or drop tube, in which the grains are dispensed one by one and guided to a seed furrow.

[0005] To transport the seed grains, the singulation disc normally has, along its circumferential direction and / or in its outer region close to the circumference, at regular intervals, recesses suitable for transporting individual grains of the granular seed.

[0006] Inside the housing, recesses create fluid connections between the first and second housing regions, and the grains adhere to these recesses due to the pressure difference formed between the housing regions, separated by the singulation disc. In addition, the singulation device has, in a suitable location, a covering element which, by temporarily covering the recesses, suppresses the pressure difference and thus the continuous adhesion of the transported grains to the recesses, and releases them at the location of the seed tube, so that the released grains are fed into the seed tube. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 11 / 109 3 / 81

[0007] In known singulation devices, the supply of seed grains to the singulation disc is carried out in such a way that the seeds are loaded from a seed supply into the housing, typically forming a grain accumulation at the bottom of the housing, from where the individual grains are transported one by one by the singulation disc. The adhesion of an individual grain to a recess of the singulation disc can only occur if the holding force with which the grain is pressed against a recess due to the pressure differential in the housing is sufficient to extract the individual grain from the grain accumulation at the bottom of the housing. In this context, for example, the frictional forces between the individual grains are relevant and must be overcome by the holding force.

[0008] To ensure a desired seeding rate, it is important that each individual recess also carries a single grain to the seed tube, so that — depending on the rotation speed of the singulation disc — a desired rate of individual grains is achieved and, therefore, a defined seeding rate.

[0009] There is a continuous need to optimize the accuracy of seed and / or fertilizer distribution with seeders that do not have a complex construction, that exhibit low wear, long service life and maintenance-free operation, in addition to providing a favorable cost-benefit ratio. In particular, the objective is to maintain a predetermined seeding rate with high precision and avoid damage to the grains to be distributed, ensuring, in particular, precise and trouble-free grain singulation.

[0010] This objective is achieved by an agricultural singulation device for singulating particulate matter according to various aspects of the invention and, in particular, according to the Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 12 / 109 4 / 81 claim 1. Other advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in the various illustrative embodiments of aspects of the invention and, in particular, in the dependent claims.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, an agricultural singulation device is provided for singulation of particulate material, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers. In illustrative embodiments, the singulation device, in this aspect, includes a housing with a shaft rotatably mounted inside, the shaft defining an axis of rotation, a bell element, and a singulation element that is accommodated in the housing and coupled to the shaft inside, such that the singulation element is rotatably mounted relative to the housing and has a plurality of passage openings extending through the singulation element. The singulation element is arranged in the housing such that the interior of the housing is subdivided into a first housing region, as an overpressure region during the operation of the singulation element, and a second housing region. The bell element is arranged in the second housing region.

[0012] Furthermore, the bell element is formed and arranged in such a way that, together with the singulation element, it defines a first spatial region in the second housing region, in which a first group of passage openings from the plurality of passage openings is enclosed by the bell element in the first spatial region, while a second group of passage openings from the plurality of passage openings is formed in a second spatial region of the second housing region, outside the first spatial region. In operation, the first spatial region functions as a subpressure region. The second spatial region is in Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 13 / 109 5 / 81 communication with the first housing region via the second group of passage openings and, inside, between the first spatial region and the first housing region, a pressure differential can be generated by means of a pressure reservoir coupled to the second spatial region.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the invention, an agricultural singulation device is provided for singulation of particulate material, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers. In illustrative embodiments, the singulation device, in this aspect, includes a housing comprising a housing assembly and a cover assembly mounted in a removable manner on the housing assembly, for example, with a housing cover or a flap attached to the cover assembly, wherein the housing assembly or the cover assembly includes a rotatably mounted shaft that defines an axis of rotation. The singulation device further includes a singulation element housed in a defined interior in the housing and coupled to the shaft such that the singulation element is rotatably mounted relative to the housing and has a plurality of passage openings.In some illustrative examples where the cover assembly includes a flap, the flap may be disposed on a wall of the cover assembly housing, for example, a wall of the housing that is penetrated by the axis of rotation, or a wall of the housing that is not penetrated by the axis of rotation, or the flap may cover an opening, formed in the housing by the cover assembly and the housing assembly, which allows external access to the interior of the housing.

[0014] In several illustrative embodiments of the first and / or second aspect of the invention, the singulation element may be Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 14 / 109 6 / 81 supplied as a singulation element that is formed, at least in part, in the form of a drum, hollow cylinder, housing or disc, such as a singulation drum, a singulation housing or a singulation disc.

[0015] In specific illustrative examples of the first and / or second aspect of the invention, the passage openings may extend, without limitation, substantially axially or radially through the singulation element. For example, the passage openings may be formed as passage holes extending substantially parallel or radial to the axis of rotation of the singulation element, as in the case of a singulation disc or a singulation housing. Alternatively, the passage openings may be provided as passage holes formed radially with respect to the axis of rotation if the singulation element is provided as a hollow cylindrical element, for example, a singulation drum.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the second aspect of the invention, the singulation element is arranged in the housing in such a way that a first housing region is defined between the singulation element and the housing assembly, and a second housing region is defined between the singulation element and the cover assembly. The singulation device further includes a bell element arranged between the singulation element and the cover assembly. The bell element is formed and arranged in such a way that, together with the singulation element, it defines a first spatial region in the second housing region, in which a first group of passage openings of the plurality of passage openings is enclosed by the bell element in the spatial region, while a second group of passage openings of the Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 15 / 109 7 / 81 A plurality of passage openings is formed in a second spatial region of the second housing region, outside the first spatial region. The second spatial region is in communication with the first housing region through the second group of passage openings and, inside, between the first spatial region and the first housing region, a pressure differential can be generated by means of a pressure reservoir coupled to the second spatial region.

[0017] In embodiments according to the second aspect, the pressure differential is generated by applying, on a first side of the singulation element, i.e., a side of the singulation element facing the first housing region, a first pressure from a pressure reservoir to the first housing region in the housing, through the second spatial region via the second group of passage openings, while a second pressure, different from the first pressure, is applied through the first spatial region to a second side opposite the first side. In operation, a pressure differential is generated between the first side and the second side.

[0018] According to the various aspects of the invention, by transferring the first pressure to the first housing region through the second group of passage openings, a distribution of the first pressure along the singulation element can be applied to the first housing region, corresponding to a distribution of the passage openings of the second group along the singulation element. In this way, on the one hand, a distributed application of the first pressure in the first housing region can be configured and, on the other hand, in the case of applying a first pressure greater than the second pressure, it is possible Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 16 / 109 8 / 81 to obtain a loosening of an accumulation of grains present in the first housing region in a housing region in which the grains are fed to the singulation element, without the need for mechanical loosening of the grains in the first housing region, for example, by a mechanical agitation movement or agitation elements that may cause damage to the grains, since the application of a high pressure relative to the second pressure for the first housing region leads to a flow around the grains and thus can facilitate the release of individual grains in the first housing region.

[0019] In various aspects of the invention, the bell element can be provided as a separate component from the housing and / or the singulation element. For example, the bell element can be a single component that can be removablely coupled to the housing or the singulation element. In alternative examples, the bell element can be provided as an integral part of the housing or the singulation element; for example, the bell element can be formed monolithically to an inner wall of the housing or monolithically to a surface of the singulation element. In an illustrative example presented herein, the bell element is formed, for example, as a wall with an optional sealing element or as part of a labyrinthine sealing structure between the housing and the singulation element, formed on a surface of the housing or the singulation element.

[0020] In illustrative examples of the various aspects of the invention, the cover assembly may include a housing cover which, together with the housing assembly, defines the interior of the housing. In this case, for example, the second region of the housing may be defined between the housing cover and the element of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 17 / 109 9 / 81 singulation, and the second spatial region can be defined between the bell element and the housing cover. Alternatively or additionally, a flap can be provided on the cover assembly and / or on the housing assembly.

[0021] In the various aspects of the invention, within the housing, between the first housing region and the first spatial region of the second housing region, and between the first spatial region and the second spatial region, a pressure differential can be generated by means of at least one pressure reservoir. For example, an overpressure reservoir can be coupled to the second spatial region and thus to the first housing region. Additionally or alternatively, a subpressure reservoir can be coupled to the first spatial region, wherein the subpressure reservoir provides a pressure lower than the pressure in the first spatial region. In a specific example, the first spatial region can be connected to the ambient atmosphere or to a suction side of a pump, and an overpressure can be applied to the second spatial region; for example, the second spatial region can be connected to a pressure side of a pump.

[0022] In some illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the first group of passage openings may be formed as a first radial row with a first radius in the singulation element to transport individual grains of particulate material, and the second group may be formed as a second radial row with a second radius in the singulation element, the first radius being smaller than the second radius. A radial row denotes a row of passage openings with a constant radius relative to a center of the singulation element, for example, a penetration point of the axis of rotation defined by Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 18 / 109 10 / 81 axis through the singulation element. Additional radial rows with different radii and, optionally, different sizes and / or spacings of passage openings can be provided. As a result, the singulation element can be used to dispense a larger quantity of seeds or for seeds of different grain sizes. A pressure direction for, or pressure distribution in, the first housing region can also be defined using the second radial row. In specific illustrative examples herein, different passage openings with different dimensions can be formed in a radial row and, for example, by means of a mask provided in the singulation element, an adjustable selection of passage openings with a specific dimension can be achieved, while other passage openings with different dimensions are covered by the mask.The mask may be a selection element that can be rotatably mounted and fixed to the singulation element, having at least one passage opening with a dimension greater than or equal to the dimension of the passage openings of the singulation element that have the largest dimension, such that at least one passage opening of the mask may be mounted, in an adjustable orientation, on at least one desired or selected passage opening of the singulation element, so that the unselected passage openings of the singulation element are covered by the mask. In some illustrative examples herein, the first group and the second group may include the same number or a different number of passage openings. For example, for a specific variety of seed and / or fertilizer, a fixed ratio of holes between the passage openings of the first and second groups with respect to the number and / or dimension or dimensions. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 19 / 109 11 / 81 of the passage openings can be implemented in a singulation element provided for that variety, and correspondingly adapted configured singulation elements can be provided for different varieties.

[0023] In some illustrative examples described herein, a singulation device is described in which the first group of passage openings is subdivided into subgroups of passage openings, each with the same dimension, and the passage openings of different subgroups have different dimensions. Furthermore, the singulation device may also include a mask mounted rotationally fixed to the singulation element and configured to adjustably select passage openings of a specific dimension, so that other unselected passage openings are covered by the mask on the singulation element relative to the first spatial region.For example, the mask can be formed by recessed sections of the bell element in an embodiment of the bell element with semi-cylindrical recessed sections, the recessed sections being formed in the bell element in such a way that only one or more selected passage openings from the first group are delimited by the bell element in the first spatial region, so that, viewed from the first spatial region, the unselected passage openings are covered by the bell element, since they are not located in the first spatial region.

[0024] As an alternative to implementing the mask using the bell element, as described above, the mask can be provided as a separate component from the bell element and can have at least one through-opening with a dimension greater than or equal to the dimension of the through-openings of the singulation element with Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 20 / 109 12 / 81 the largest dimension. This ensures that the mask fully exposes each selected passage opening in the first spatial region. In this case, the mask is mounted in the first housing region, on the overpressure side of the singulation element.

[0025] In other examples described herein, the singulation device may additionally include a plurality of retention elements, wherein the mask and the singulation element each have a set of interconnected retention elements from the plurality of retention elements. A mechanical coupling between the mask and the singulation element is obtained by engaging the retention elements of both sets in a selected orientation of the mask relative to the singulation element. In this way, a desired orientation of the mask relative to the singulation element can be defined.

[0026] In some illustrative examples presented here, the masking can be performed by the bell element, with the bell element configured to enclose only a set of passage openings of equal dimensions in the first spatial region. It is not necessary to cover the remaining passage openings with the bell element, which acts as a mask, since these unselected passage openings are located in the second spatial region. In this case, the covering of the passage openings can be omitted, so that the unselected passage openings can be used as flow paths connecting the second spatial region to the first housing region. This has the advantage that a singulation element can be used for different varieties, with the configuration of the singulation element for use with a specific variety being achieved by configuring a specific orientation of the element. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 21 / 109 13 / 81 of the bell in relation to the singulation element.

[0027] For example, the mask, supplied without limitation as the bell element or as a separate component of the bell element, and the singulation element may each have a set of interconnected retaining elements, the mechanical coupling of the mask and the singulation element being achieved by engaging the retaining elements of both sets in a selected orientation of the mask relative to the singulation element.For example, one of the mask and singulation element elements has a plurality of first retaining elements, while the other, of the mask and singulation element, has one or more second retaining elements that can engage with the first retaining elements, so that, when engaging a second retaining element with an associated first retaining element to form an associated pair of retaining elements, a specific orientation of the bell element relative to the singulation element is defined for each second retaining element.

[0028] In illustrative examples herein, retaining elements may be formed, without limitation, as an interlocking toothed section or as a retaining connection between a pin or hook or eyelet or dowel or screw, optionally threaded, as a first or second retaining element, and a hole or depression or opening as a second or first retaining element.

[0029] In the illustrative examples presented here, the singulation element may have, along its circumferential direction, that is, in the azimuthal direction, in the singulation element and / or in its external region near the circumference, at regular intervals, the passage openings of the second group of passage openings. The passage openings of the second group of openings Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 22 / 109 14 / 81 passage openings provide spatial connections between the first housing region and the second spatial region. The passage openings of the first group of passage openings are intended for seed singulation and are designed appropriately for the adhesion of grains with specific geometric dimensions, so that, due to the pressure differential, the grains adhere to the passage openings of the first group of passage openings in operation.

[0030] In some illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the bell element may be rotatably fixed to the housing, for example, to the cover assembly, and the singulation device may further include a labyrinth seal formed by a first sealing section formed on the periphery of the singulation element and a second sealing section on the bell element, such that the first sealing section and the second sealing section are interlocking structures without mechanical contact. The first sealing section and the second sealing section provide a contactless seal between the singulation element and the bell element, in which a labyrinth seal sealing effect is obtained by elongating a flow path through the first and second sealing sections into a gap to be sealed between the singulation element and the bell element.In combination, in the assembled housing, the first and second sealing sections provide substantially increased flow resistance relative to the gap to be sealed. In other words, in the assembled housing, the first and second sealing sections cooperate as a labyrinth seal, so that an interlocking, or combination, of the first and second sealing sections in the housing, between the rotating singulation element and the bell element fixed to it, produces a sealing effect. For example, a. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 23 / 109 15 / 81 The first and second sealing sections, when interlocked, can cause turbulence in a labyrinth structure formed by the interlocking sealing sections, so that the labyrinth seal already achieves sufficient sealing without additional sealing compounds and / or contact seals. A frictionless and wear-free seal in the singulation device is provided in a simple manner. In this case, the labyrinth seal can be formed by a combination of curved rib structures, the curved rib structures in the first and second sealing sections being formed so that, despite the curvature, they are arranged in a non-contact combination when the bell element and the singulation element are mounted in the housing.In the case of curved ribs, it may be advantageous for the curved ribs to be elastically formed so that, during the assembly of the bell element, the first and second sealing sections can slide over each other, despite the mutual recess, in order to achieve the contactless engagement arrangement. In contrast, linearly formed ribs, i.e., ribs without curvature, provide simplified assembly because, with linear ribs, there is no recess between the ribs of the different sealing sections. Thus, the labyrinth seal provides a seal in the housing of the singulation device between the first and second spatial regions, which, without wear, maintains a permanent seal.

[0031] In the illustrative examples presented here, the first and second sealing sections may be formed by a plurality of ribs arranged in an interlaced comb. For example, at least two ribs may be formed in the first sealing section, while at least one rib is formed in the second sealing section, with the ribs in the first and second sections being... Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 24 / 109 16 / 81 The second sealing sections are in non-contact interlocking. Alternatively, at least one rib may be formed in the first sealing section, while at least two ribs are formed in the second sealing section, with the ribs in the first and second sealing sections being in non-contact interlocking. The ribs may have equal or different lengths. For example, the rib lengths may decrease from radially inner ribs to radially outer ribs, monotonically or strictly monotonically. In some specific examples presented here, a radially inner rib may have the greatest length, and subsequent ribs towards the outside may have equal or different lengths, for example, decreasing. In this way, the sealing effect of the labyrinth seal can be structurally enhanced.Different rib lengths can create radially and circumferentially different sealing regions, so that in regions with less sealing and therefore greater flow, dust or dirt that may have accumulated in the labyrinth-type seal can be blown out.

[0032] In the illustrative examples presented here, the labyrinth seal between the bell element and the singulation element can be formed as an annular labyrinth seal formed in the circumferential direction of the singulation element. An annular labyrinth seal provides an advantageous sealing effect on the edge of the singulation element.

[0033] In illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the bell element can be integrated into the housing, for example, into the cover assembly, with the second sealing section formed as a wall, for example, cylindrical, in the housing, Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 25 / 109 17 / 81 coaxial or radial to the axis of rotation, so that the wall delimits the first spatial region from the second spatial region. This provides a structurally simple and compact housing configuration, in which direct access to the singulation element is permitted without separate manual steps for removing additional components supplied in the housing such as the bell element. For example, direct access is possible after removing the cover assembly, and the singulation element is therefore easily replaceable in a few steps.

[0034] In some illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the bell element may be rotatably mounted fixed to the housing, for example, to the cover assembly. The singulation device may further include a contact seal. The contact seal may be formed, for example, by a first contact seal section formed in the bell element and an optional second contact seal section on the periphery of the singulation element, such that the first contact seal section and the singulation element, optionally by means of the second contact seal section, if present, are in direct mechanical contact with each other.The contact seal can be supplied as a renewable wear part, for example, at least one of the first contact seal section and the optional second contact seal section can be supplied as renewable wear parts, so that after excessive wear of the contact seal, for example, of at least one of the contact seal sections, the contact seal, for example, the worn contact seal section(s), can be replaced by a functional contact seal or contact seal section, so that an advantageous and optionally renewable seal is provided. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 26 / 109 18 / 81 by the contact seal in the housing is provided to a sufficient extent.

[0035] In some illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the singulation element may be inclined in the housing relative to a virtual plane oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation. An inclination of the singulation element may provide an advantageous inclination in a grain collection region in the housing, in which the grains are absorbed by the singulation element, an inclination that provides an advantageous accumulation of grains in the grain collection region. For example, the singulation element may be inclined in the housing relative to a vertical orientation, defined by a virtual plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.The inclination of the singulation element can be within an angular range between 0 and 45°, for example, between 0° and 30°, relative to a vertical direction, defined as situated in the virtual plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, in the housing, with an inclined singulation element providing better adhesion of particulate material in passage openings in the seed receiving region.

[0036] In some illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, the first group of passage openings and the second group of passage openings may be formed in a common radial row, i.e., the radial rows of the first and second groups of passage openings have the same radius in the bell element. Furthermore, the bell element may be configured so that only the first group of passage openings is enclosed by at least one wall of the bell element in the first spatial region, while the second group of passage openings is omitted by at least one wall, so as Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 27 / 109 19 / 81 to be exposed to the second spatial region in the housing. This allows a housing configuration where the housing dimensions depend on the shape and dimension of the radial row, so that a compact housing can be provided with a compact singulation element. In illustrative examples, the bell element can perform the function of a mask in the case of a singulation element with passage openings of different dimensions for use with different varieties of seeds and / or fertilizers, as described above.

[0037] In some illustrative examples presented here, the bell element may have a hollow cylindrical wall with a plurality of semi-cylindrical recess sections formed on a cladding surface of the bell element, each of which is associated with the passage openings of the second group of passage openings. In this way, the separation of the first spatial region from the second spatial region is achieved simply by the hollow cylindrical wall in the case of a single radial row formed by the first and second groups.

[0038] In some illustrative examples described herein, the bell element may be rotationally fixed relative to the singulation element. For example, the bell element may be formed as an integral part of the singulation element, or the bell element may be detachably mounted and rotationally fixed to the singulation element. Furthermore, in some illustrative examples, the bell element may be rotationally coupled to the housing, for example, to the cover assembly, by a bearing. In the case of detachable mounting of the bell element to the singulation element, the bell element and the singulation element may be temporarily coupled to each other by means of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 28 / 109 20 / 81 retaining elements, for example, a toothed piece, a pin or similar, so that, in temporary coupling, the singulation element, which is rotationally driven in operation, carries the bell element along the rotary motion relative to the cover assembly, with a desired orientation of the bell element relative to the singulation element also defined by retaining elements. Furthermore, the retaining elements can provide a secure coupling, particularly with orientation retention, between the bell element and the singulation element.Alternatively, instead of a mechanical coupling by means of retaining elements, a mechanical coupling can be implemented by means of a sliding mechanical contact, i.e., a frictional contact, between the bell element and the singulation element, pressing the bell element and the singulation element against each other mechanically, for example, by means of adjustable spring elements to define a desired pressure of one of the bell elements and the singulation element on the other.

[0039] In some illustrative embodiments described herein, the housing, for example, the cover assembly, may include a coaxial channel with the axis of rotation that connects the first space region in communication with the ambient atmosphere of the singulation device. This allows, in a simple way, the coupling of the first space region with the ambient atmosphere, so that the housing can be configured in a compact manner.

[0040] In some illustrative embodiments described herein, the singulation device may also include an additional port in the housing, for example, in the housing assembly, in communication with the first housing region, the additional port being configured for coupling to a pressure reservoir, so as Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 29 / 109 21 / 81 applies, through the additional port, pressure supplied by the pressure reservoir directly to the first region of the housing. In this way, pressure fluctuations in the first region of the housing can be avoided and unwanted flows in the first region of the housing can be suppressed.

[0041] In some advantageous embodiments, the singulation device may further include a cover element held by a support, the support being rotatably mounted and fixed to the housing, and the cover element configured to suppress the pressure differential at a suitable location when the singulation element is rotating. For example, the cover assembly may include the cover element held by the support, the cover element being rotatably mounted and fixed to the cover assembly by the support. The cover element is disposed in the housing relative to the singulation element on a side opposite to the seed side of the singulation element, i.e., in the first region of the space, in order to cover, also on the opposite side, a passage opening of the singulation element which is covered by a seed grain on the seed side in the first region of the housing, and thus suppress the application of the pressure differential to the passage opening.As a result, precise distribution of particulate matter can be implemented in time and place following a predetermined transport path through the singulation element.

[0042] In some early illustrative embodiments, the cover assembly may further include a housing cover into which the bell element is inserted in a rotationally fixed manner, or to which the bell element is rotationally coupled by a bearing. In this case, the first spatial region is defined by Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 30 / 109 22 / 81 bell element independently of the housing cover, while the second spatial region is defined by the bell element and the housing cover. Thus, a pressure differential can be obtained in the second housing region between the first spatial region and the second spatial region. In the case of a bell element rotationally fixed to the cover assembly, the bell element can be mounted removablely to the cover assembly by the cover element support. This allows for reliable mounting of the bell element to the housing cover in a simple manner. For example, the cover element can be fixed to an insert ring that can be mounted removablely and rotationally fixed to a housing cover of the cover assembly. The insertion ring mounting can simultaneously mount the rotationally fixed bell element to the housing cover.The bell element assembly in the housing cover can also be implemented in such a way that the bell element is axially displaceable within the cover assembly, so that manufacturing tolerances can be compensated for by axial displacement. For this purpose, the insertion depth of the bell element in the cover assembly, as a measure of the spacing between the bell element and the cover assembly, can be manually adjustable or self-adjusting due to flows and pressures, in particular by means of, for example, a spring-loaded assembly of the bell element in the cover assembly. For example, a spring element can be provided between the bell element and the cover assembly, and between the bell element and the cover element, for example, a ring insert, in each case allowing axial displacement of the bell element against a spring action of the spring element.

[0043] In an additional advantageous configuration of the first Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 31 / 109 23 / 81 Illustrative embodiments, as described above, the cover assembly may include a first flow channel, or form the first flow channel with an additional component that may be attached to the cover assembly, the first flow channel being configured to provide a pressure, supplied by a pressure reservoir, for example, an overpressure, to the second spatial region in the housing between the singulation element and the cover assembly, outside the bell element in the housing. Furthermore, the cover assembly may include a second flow channel configured to provide a fluid connection between an environment of the singulation device and the first spatial region, or to apply a subpressure to the first spatial region in the housing. By providing these flow channels in the housing, mutual compromise of the first and second spatial regions can be avoided, since they are formed separately from the singulation element in the housing.Furthermore, through the first and second flow channels, it is possible to obtain a directed flow into the housing and thus adjust a flow path within the housing. In specific examples, the cover assembly can form the first flow channel with the housing assembly within the housing, with a pressure reservoir disposed inside or above the housing assembly. A compact housing configuration can thus be achieved, since the first flow channel is not formed solely by the cover assembly.

[0044] In differential pressure-based singulation described here, the singulation element always subdivides the housing into a region of higher pressure and a region of lower pressure. For the grains to adhere to the singulation element, the particulate material is located in the region of higher pressure. This region is Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 32 / 109 24 / 81 is called the overpressure region, and the region of lower pressure is called the underpressure region. The pressure level in the overpressure region may be above the pressure level of the ambient atmosphere. The pressure level in the underpressure region may be below the pressure level of the ambient atmosphere or at the ambient atmosphere. This is not limiting, as it is essential that the pressure level in the overpressure region is above the pressure level in the underpressure region.

[0045] Further details of the invention are evident from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings show:

[0046] Fig. 1 shows a seeding unit of an agricultural seeder in an exploded perspective view according to some illustrative embodiments.

[0047] Fig. 2 shows a housing for an agricultural singulation device in a schematic cutaway view, according to some illustrative embodiments.

[0048] Fig. 3 shows a singulation element in a schematic front view according to some illustrative embodiments.

[0049] Fig. 4 shows a bell element for the singulation element in Fig. 3 in a schematic front view according to some illustrative embodiments.

[0050] Fig. 5 shows a singulation element in a schematic front view according to other illustrative embodiments.

[0051] Fig. 6 shows a bell element for the singulation element in Fig. 5 in a schematic front view according to other illustrative embodiments. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 33 / 109 25 / 81

[0052] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a mask function for the realizations of Figs. 5 and 6.

[0053] Fig. 8 shows a housing for an agricultural singulation device in a schematic cross-sectional view, according to other illustrative embodiments.

[0054] Fig. 9 shows a seeding unit of an agricultural seeder in an exploded perspective view according to other embodiments of Fig. 1.

[0055] Fig. 10 shows the agricultural singulation device of Fig. 9 in a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the singulation device.

[0056] Fig. 11 schematically shows a singulation element according to other embodiments of the invention, in a schematic view with a bell element.

[0057] With reference to the figures, the illustrative embodiments of the various aspects of the invention, as described above, are now described in more detail. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments, according to the representation in the figures, is considered a supplement to the more general description of the first and second aspects of the invention, with the illustrative embodiments and examples described above. In particular, the various aspects of the invention, as described above, together with their illustrative embodiments and examples, as described above, may be combined with the following embodiments and examples, even if a combination is not explicitly described, provided that a specific combination is not explicitly excluded.

[0058] With reference to Fig. 1, a seeding unit 2 of an agricultural seeder, not shown, is represented in a view. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 34 / 109 26 / 81 exploded perspective view. The seeding unit 2 can be fixed by support elements 1 to a structure oriented transversely to the direction of displacement F of the seeder, not shown. In Fig. 1, a structural element 1a of a structure oriented perpendicularly to the direction of displacement F is shown, for example, a telescopic structure, the structural element 1a being a telescopic structural element of the agricultural seeder, not shown. The seeding unit 2 can be fixed to the seeder, not shown, as one of a plurality of seeding units, not shown, on the structure, not shown, so that, by means of at least one additional seeding unit, not shown, in addition to seeding unit 2, one or more additional seeding furrows can be filled with seeds and / or fertilizer can be distributed along one or more furrows. The seeding unit 2 can be movable relative to the structure.

[0059] According to the representation in Figure 1, the seeding unit 2 has a hopper 3 to store the particulate material to be distributed, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers. A lower region of the hopper 3 is configured as an outlet region, in which an outlet opening is arranged, not shown in Figure 1 (see reference 4 in Figure 2). Through the outlet opening, not shown in Figure 1 (see reference 4 in Figure 2), the particulate material to be distributed is fed to a separation device 5, which is arranged below the hopper 3.

[0060] With further reference to Figure 1, the singulation device 5 is described in greater detail. The singulation device 5 includes a housing formed by a housing assembly 6a and a cover assembly 6b mounted in a removable manner to Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 35 / 109 27 / 81 housing assembly 6a. Inside the housing, a singulation element 7, which is actuatable in a rotation direction R around a rotation axis D, is arranged, preferably formed at least partially rotationally symmetrically. As illustrated, the singulation element 7 can be formed as a singulation disc, although this is not limiting and, instead of the singulation disc, a singulation drum or a singulation housing can be provided, additional partition wall sections inside the housing possibly being provided to, for example, in the case of a singulation drum, obtain a demarcation of the first and second housing regions. In any case, the singulation element 7 is configured to singulate, at least partially, the particulate material that may be supplied to the housing by a feed from hopper 3.The housing may include a shaft W rotatably mounted in the housing assembly 6a, by which the singulation element 7 is rotatably driven in operation of the singulation device 5. Although the singulation element 7 is represented in Fig. 1 as being oriented substantially vertically in the housing, i.e., in the case of a singulation disc, the singulation element 7 lies substantially in a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation D, whereas in the case of a singulation housing or singulation drum its axis of rotation is oriented substantially horizontally in the housing, an orientation of the singulation element 7 in the housing may also deviate from a vertical direction in the housing without limiting the scope of the description in this respect. Reference is made here to the explanation of the inclined singulation element in the description, the disclosure relating to it. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 36 / 109 28 / 81 inclined singulation element being incorporated herein in its entirety by reference and, instead of a vertical orientation of the singulation element in the housing, it may have an inclined orientation relative to the vertical orientation.

[0061] According to the representation in Figure 1, the singulation element 7 can be a singulation disc, formed at least partially as a circular disc, or a bowl-shaped singulation disc, rotationally coupled to the shaft W, such that the shaft W establishes a specific rotary motion of the singulation element 7 at a predetermined rotational speed. As explained above, this is not limiting and, instead of a singulation disc or a singulation housing, a singulation drum, not shown, can also be provided.

[0062] The singulation element 7 is arranged in the housing such that a first housing region B1 is defined between the singulation element 7 and the housing assembly 6a, and a second housing region B2 is defined between the singulation element 7 and the cover assembly 6b. Inside the housing, a pressure differential can be generated between the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2 by means of a pressure reservoir, not shown. The housing assembly 6a has an opening in which the singulation element 7 is received at least partially, the opening of the housing assembly 6a possibly being surrounded by an annular flange section 6af.

[0063] According to the representation in Figure 1, the cover assembly 6b may include a housing cover 6b1 which, together with the housing assembly 6a, defines the interior of the housing. Here, the second housing region B2 is defined. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 37 / 109 29 / 81 between the housing cover 6b1 and the singulation element 7.

[0064] With further reference to Figure 1, the singulation element 7 has, along its circumferential direction and / or in its outer housing region near the circumferential line, suitable passage openings 11 at regular intervals. A subset of the passage openings 11 is intended to transport individual grains of particulate material, as described in greater detail below with reference to the other figures. The passage openings 11 provide passage openings through the singulation element 7, so that a spatial connection is created between the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2 of the housing. At least some of the passage openings 11 are dimensioned to receive grains which, due to the pressure differential, adhere to these passage openings 11.Furthermore, the singulation device 5 may additionally have, in a suitable location in the housing, a covering element 12 which, in order to suppress the pressure differential and thus the continuous adhesion of the transported grains in the passage openings 11, temporarily covers the passage openings 11.

[0065] With reference to the representation in Fig. 1, the passage openings 11 are arranged, in the circumferential direction of the singulation element 7, in at least one radial row along an associated diameter or radius, starting from the axis of rotation D, in the housing region of an outer circumference of the disk, with various illustrative embodiments for this described in greater detail below, with reference to the other figures. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the passage openings 11 are arranged in the circumference of the singulation element 7. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 38 / 109 30 / 81 Although only one radial row of passage openings 11, that is, the passage openings 11 only in an annular arrangement with substantially constant radius, is formed in the singulation element 7 in the schematic representation of Fig. 1, this is not limiting and, instead of one radial row, two or more concentric radial rows of passage openings may be provided, as described below in relation to some illustrative embodiments. For example, the passage openings of the different radial rows may all be the same size, or each radial row may have passage openings of a fixed size associated with it, the passage openings of at least two radial rows being different from each other.

[0066] In the illustrative embodiments, the housing is subdivided by singulation element 7 into the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2. This subdivision of the housing by singulation element 7 is implemented in such a way that a pressure differential can be generated between at least the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2.

[0067] As described above, the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2 of the housing are spatially connected to each other by means of the passage openings 11, so that individual grains of particulate material, due to the pressure differential, in particular a resulting suction effect, between the two housing regions B1, B2, are transportable within the passage openings 11. The individual grains are transported, on a first side of the singulation element 7 facing the first housing region, generally Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 39 / 109 31 / 81 The side oriented towards the housing region with the highest pressure is in the direction of rotation R for the covering element 12. The covering element 12 is arranged on one side of the singulation element 7 opposite the first side. The covering element 12 is further configured to temporarily suppress the pressure difference, particularly locally in the housing region of the covering element 12, covering at least partially at least one passage opening 11. Due to the suppressed pressure difference, at least one grain transported by the singulation element 7 is released for detachment in the housing region of the covering element 12. A grain released by the covering element 12 is therefore transferred, at a defined position, to a seed placement assembly 130, as shown in Figure 1.In illustrative examples, the covering element 12 is formed as a roller that rolls, by friction, along the disc while the singulation element 7 rotates. According to the representation in Figure 1, the seed positioning assembly 130 includes disc openers, formed as furrow opening elements 14, depth guide elements 15, and furrow closing devices 16. Furthermore, the seed positioning assembly 130 may include a retarding device, not shown. The retarding device causes a reduction in the grain movement speed. The retarding device may include a holding element, which fixes the grain at the bottom of a furrow. Alternatively or additionally, the retarding device may include a braking element, which alters the grain speed based on the forward speed of the seeding unit 2. The holding element may be configured, for example, to roll or slide.The braking element can be configured, for example, as a... Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 40 / 109 32 / 81 air outlet or for turning.

[0068] With reference to Figure 1, at least one ejector 17 actuated by the singulation element 7 is additionally disposed within the housing, for example, the ejector 17 being actuated by the engagement of teeth in passage openings. The ejector 17 is disposed on the second side of the singulation element 7 and, in the direction of rotation R, downstream of the cover element 12. The ejector 17 is configured to engage at least partially in the passage openings 11 and thus clear the passage openings 11 of blockages and / or contamination. In this case, trapped deposits, grains or other accumulations within the passage openings 11 are loosened by pushing out the ejector elements formed in the ejector 17 and configured to engage in the passage openings 11. This is not limiting and, instead, no pressure interruption element may be provided, only the ejector may be provided.

[0069] With further reference to Fig. 1, a bell element 8 is inserted into the housing formed by the cover assembly 6b and the housing assembly 6a, which, in some illustrative embodiments, as described below, may be supplied rotationally fixed to the housing or, in other illustrative embodiments, as described below, may be supplied rotationally fixed with respect to the housing. The bell element 8 may be a half-housing element or a hollow cylindrical element that is completely open on one side facing the singulation element, while on the opposite side, i.e., one side of the bell element 8 facing the cover assembly 6b, it has only an opening 13c, for example, in the form of a central opening, the opening 13c representing only a partial opening. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 41 / 109 33 / 81 formed in the bell element 8. By means of the central opening 13c, the bell element 8 can be mounted on, and / or supported on, a central cylindrical projection, not visible in Fig. 1, which projects from an inner surface of the cover assembly 6b, facing the bell element 8, from the inner surface of the cover assembly, coaxial with the axis of rotation. For example, by means of the cylindrical projection, not visible in Fig. 1, in some embodiments, as described in greater detail below, a rotationally fixed and precise fixing of the bell element 8 in a predetermined position can be effected without risk of a misaligned mounting of the bell element 8 in relation to the cover assembly 6b and / or the singulation element 7. The central opening 13c of the bell element 8 and the projection, not visible in Fig.1. The cover assembly can also provide a connection between the second housing region B2 and an ambient atmosphere of the singulation device 5, as shown in Fig. 1. An opening in the cover assembly 6b communicates with the projection, not visible in Fig. 1, possibly being partially covered by a cover with a lower opening, not visible in Fig. 1, in order to prevent dirt and dust from entering the housing. As a result, the second housing region B2 can be maintained at ambient pressure or, alternatively, through the openings in the cover assembly 6b and the opening 13c of the bell element 8, a subpressure can be applied to the side of the singulation element 7 facing the bell element 8 by coupling to a subpressure reservoir, not shown.

[0070] In some illustrative embodiments, described in greater detail below, the assembly of bell element 8 in cover assembly 6b can be carried out in such a way that the element of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 42 / 109 34 / 81 bell 8 is inserted into the housing so that it is axially displaceable relative to the cover assembly 6b and is mounted in the housing at a desired insertion depth relative to the cover assembly 6b. When mounting at the desired insertion depth in the housing, manufacturing tolerances between bell element 8 and singulation element 7 can be compensated for by mounting with a defined axial offset. For example, the insertion depth of bell element 8 in the housing can be manually adjusted by inserting or screwing bell element 8 into the projection, not visible in Fig. 1, of the cover assembly 6b. The projection, not visible in Fig. 1, may have an external thread with a predetermined thread pitch, not shown, or be shaped to displace bell element 8 in the axial direction along the projection, not visible in Fig. 1.In other illustrative examples, the insertion depth of the bell element 8 in the housing can also be adjusted due to the flows and pressures in the housing acting on the bell element 8. In other illustrative examples, a spring-loaded mounting of the bell element 8 in the housing can be provided, with the insertion depth of the bell element 8 in the housing defined by spring elements, not shown. This spring-loaded mounting can be self-adjusting, since, due to the flows and pressures in the housing acting on the bell element 8, an axial displacement of the bell element 8 in the housing is defined.

[0071] In some illustrative examples where the bell element 8 is rotatably mounted relative to the housing, the fixing of the bell element 8 to the housing can be effected by the cover element 12 and / or by the ejector 17, these being mounted in the projection, not visible in Fig. 1, by means of a support, for example, according to the representation in Fig. 1, by Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, p. 43 / 109 35 / 81 means of an insertion ring 12a. The cover element 12 and / or the ejector 17 can be fixed to the insertion ring 12a, as shown in Fig. 1, and the support in the form of the insertion ring 12a can be rotatably fixed to the projection, not visible in Fig. 1, of the cover assembly 6b, so that, in this way, the sliding of the bell element 8 from the projection, not shown in Fig. 1, is additionally prevented by the ring insertion 12a. For example, the ring insertion 12a can be fixed removablely or permanently by means of screws or nuts in the projection 13d. In some illustrative examples presented here, a spring element, not shown, may be provided between the bell element 8 and the cover assembly 6b and between the bell element 8 and the ring insert 12a in each case, which allows an axial displacement of the bell element 6b2 against a spring action of the spring element, not shown.

[0072] Although a support in the form of ring insert 12a is represented in Fig. 1, this is not limiting and, instead of ring insert 12a, a partial ring element or a rib element or a link may be provided to hold the cover element 12 and / or the ejector 17 in the projection, not visible in Fig. 1.

[0073] With reference to Fig. 2, some illustrative embodiments are described in which the bell element 8 is rotatably arranged in relation to the cover assembly 6b. Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic cross-sectional view, a housing G1 formed by the cover assembly 6b and the housing assembly 6a, described above with reference to Fig. 1. The representation in Fig. 2 is merely schematic and, in comparison with the representation in Fig. 1, elements and components that are not necessary are not shown. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 44 / 109 36 / 81 for the description of the illustrative embodiments of housing G1. This means that elements and components described with reference to Fig. 1, but not explicitly represented in the schematic representation of Fig. 2, may in fact be present in the embodiments described with reference to Fig. 2, so that the omission, in the representation and description of Fig. 2, of an element or component described with reference to Fig. 1 should not be interpreted as meaning that corresponding elements or components would not be present in connection with Fig. 2, unless explicitly stated in the following description of Fig. 2 that corresponding elements or components are not present in the embodiments described in connection with Fig. 2.

[0074] According to the representation, the G1 housing is formed by the housing assembly 6a and the cover assembly 6b, which can be mounted removablely from each other. For example, the cover assembly 6b and the housing assembly 6a can be connected to each other by at least one bolted connection, not shown, or bayonet-type connection, not shown, so that the cover assembly 6b can be removed from the housing assembly 6a in case of access to the insulation element 7, in order to allow access to the components and parts inside the G1 housing, for example, during maintenance, repair and / or adjustment work, to remove and / or replace individual components or parts inside the G1 housing.

[0075] As shown in Fig. 2, singulation element 7 and bell element 8 are received inside housing G1, singulation element 7 subdividing housing G1 into the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2, as also described above with reference to Fig. 1. The Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 45 / 109 37 / 81 bell element 8 is further disposed in the second housing region B2 between the singulation element 7 and the cover assembly 6b, the bell element 8 being disposed rotatably with respect to the cover assembly 6b. For example, the bell element 8 can be placed in a releasable engagement with the singulation element 7, so that a rotary motion of the singulation element 7 results in the bell element 8 being carried in a synchronous rotary motion of the bell element 8.In the case of a releasable coupling, for example, by means of one or more retaining elements, not shown, or by friction coupling, see also the description above, between the bell element 8 and the singulation element 7, the bell element 8 can be replaced and repaired separately from the singulation element 7, although this does not limit the present description, and the bell element 8 can also be permanently connected or fixed to the singulation element 7 and, in a specific example herein, be integrally formed with the singulation element 7 as a component of a part.

[0076] According to the illustrative embodiments, and as shown schematically in Fig. 2, the bell element 8 can be rotatably mounted to the cover assembly 6b by means of a bearing 14. Here, the bearing 14 is provided in a projection 13d of the cover assembly 6b, the projection 13d projecting as a hollow cylindrical wall from an inner surface of the cover assembly 6b to the opening 13c of the bell element 8, as described above in connection with Fig. 1. In the projection 13d, as described above in connection with Fig. 1, a support 12a can be attached, for example, corresponding to the ring insert 12a of Fig. 1, or a hinge or a rib or a partial ring element, so as Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 46 / 109 38 / 81 that the cover element 12 be mounted fixed in position in the housing relative to the singulation element 7.

[0077] In illustrative examples, bearing 14 may be a ball bearing, a rolling bearing, and the like. This does not limit the present description, and instead of bearing 14, a wiper seal or a labyrinth seal may be formed between bell element 8 and cover assembly 6b.

[0078] With further reference to Figure 2, bell element 8 delimits a first spatial region RB1 in the second housing region B2 relative to a second spatial region RB2, such that the second housing region B2 is subdivided by bell element 8 into the two spatial regions RB1 and RB2. In this case, the first spatial region RB1 is in communication with the aperture 13c of the bell element, while the second spatial region RB2 is not in communication with the aperture 13c of bell element 8.

[0079] As illustrated, the second spatial region RB2 can be defined between the bell element 8 and a housing cover, see housing cover 6b1 in Figure 1, of the cover assembly 6b. Inside the housing, a pressure differential can be generated, in operation, by means of at least one pressure reservoir, not shown, between the first housing region B1 and the first spatial region RB1 of the second housing region B2, as well as between the first spatial region RB1 and the second spatial region RB2.

[0080] According to illustrative and non-limiting embodiments, the singulation device 5 shown may also, in the case of an overpressure singulation embodiment, be actuated directly in the first housing region B1 with a pressure Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 47 / 109 39 / 81 greater than the pressure in the second housing region B2 by means of a pressure reservoir, not shown, connectable to a pressure supply line 33, for example, a blower, not shown (Fig. 2 illustrating an additional flow path by arrow A1'). Alternatively, singulation by underpressure or another type of singulation is also conceivable, for example, by the fact that the first housing region B1 is connected to the ambient atmosphere via the pressure supply line 33, while the second housing region B2 is connected, by means of a suitable supply line, not shown, to a negative pressure reservoir, not shown, for example, a suction element, not shown, so that the pressure in the second housing region B2 is less than the pressure in the first housing region B1.The pressure supply line 33, configured for direct and immediate coupling of the first housing region B1 to a pressure reservoir, not shown, may be provided in housing assembly 6a for additional compressed air supply or pressure application to the first housing region B1, although the pressure supply line 33 is not intended for the exclusive coupling of the first housing region B1 to a pressure reservoir, not shown. The coupling of the first housing region to a pressure reservoir, not shown, in any case, occurs indirectly by means of a flow channel 31 which opens to the second housing region B2 and through which, for example, a flow, as illustrated by arrow A1 in Figure 2, is generated to the second housing region B2.

[0081] With further reference to Figure 2, the flux illustrated by arrow A1 is distributed to the second spatial region RB2, as illustrated by arrows A2 and A3 in Figure 2, without entering the Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 48 / 109 40 / 81 first spatial region RB1. Specifically, the flow illustrated by arrow A1 is distributed in spatial region RB2 around spatial region RB1, such that the singulation element 7 flows against spatial region RB2, outside spatial region RB1, according to the flow illustrated by arrows A2 and A3.

[0082] The singulation element 7 has through openings 11, the through openings 11, which allow connection between the housing regions B1 and B2, being subdivided into a first group of through openings 11a and a second group of through openings 11b. The first group of through openings 11a provides through openings through the singulation element 7 that allow connection between the first spatial region RB1 and the first housing region B1, while the second group of through openings 11b provides through openings through the singulation element 7 that allow connection between the second spatial region RB2 and the first housing region B1.Possible exemplary configurations of the singulation element 7 and the bell element 8, in order to provide the selective communication function of the first and second groups of passage openings between the respective spatial regions RB1 and RB2 and the first housing region B1, are described in greater detail below with reference to Figures 1 and 2. 3 to 6, so that the schematic representation in Fig. 2, which shows the first group 11a radially internal in relation to the second group 11b with respect to the axis of rotation D, should be interpreted as illustrative and not limiting.

[0083] As also schematically shown in Fig. 2 and evident from the description above, the second group 11b of passage openings allows a flux applied to the second spatial region RB2 to be transferred to the first accommodation region. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 49 / 109 41 / 81 B1, as illustrated by arrows A2 and A3. Thus, a pressure applied through channel 31 to the second spatial region RB2, which is positive, as illustrated by the arrows, is applied to the first housing region B1. Furthermore, since the first spatial region RB1 is separated from the second spatial region RB2 by the bell element 8, a pressure applied through the opening 13c, which, according to the orientation of arrows A6, A7, and A8, is opposite to the pressure applied to the second spatial region RB2, can be maintained at a different pressure level than that in the second spatial region.For example, through the opening, ambient atmospheric pressure can be applied to the first spatial region RB1, or the first spatial region RB1 can be coupled to a pressure reservoir, not shown, to generate a pressure differential between the first spatial region RB1 and the first housing region B1, the pressure in the first housing region B1 generally being greater than the pressure in the first spatial region RB1. As a result, the grains of an SG seed adhere to the passage openings of the first group 11a of passage openings, as illustrated by the arrows. A5 and A6. The grains adhered to the passage openings of the first group 11a are transported by the rotating singulation element 7 to a position where the covering element 12 covers a corresponding passage opening of the first group 11a on the side of the first spatial region RB1 and thus interrupts the pressure difference, so that the adhesion of the grain to the passage opening is interrupted and the grain is supplied to a seed tube 18, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0084] With reference to Fig. 2, the flow illustrated by arrows A3 and A4 leads to a seed receiving region in the first housing region B1 where the seed SG accumulates, this Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 50 / 109 42 / 81 flow passing through and thus releasing the seed SG in the seed receiving area without the need for mechanical agitation in the seed receiving area, which could damage the grains in the seed SG.

[0085] With further reference to Figure 2, and according to some specific illustrative examples presented here, the passage openings 11 of one of the groups 11a and 11b may have different numbers of openings and / or dimensions. For example, the passage openings 11 of the first group 11a may have different sizes. For example, the first group 11a may be subdivided into a plurality of subgroups, in which the passage openings in one subgroup have the same size or diameter, but the passage openings of different subgroups have different sizes or diameters. Thus, for example, a subgroup may be assigned to a specific variety of seed or fertilizer, so that the singulation element 7 may be used for different varieties.

[0086] In the illustrative examples presented here, by means of a mask, not shown, placed on the singulation element 7, an adjustable selection of passage openings from a specific subgroup of the first group 11a can be made, that is, passage openings with a specific dimension. The mask, not shown, is configured so that the unselected passage openings, that is, passage openings from other subgroups of the first group 11a and therefore with different dimensions, are covered by the mask, not shown. The mask can be a selection element, not shown, which can be rotationally fixed to the singulation element in the form of a disk or ring, which has at least one passage opening, not shown, with a dimension Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 51 / 109 43 / 81 greater than or equal to one of the dimensions of the passage openings of the singulation element 7, with at least one passage opening, not shown, of the mask, not shown, fixed to the singulation element 7 in an adjustable orientation relative to at least one desired or selected passage opening or to a selected subgroup of the first group 11a of the singulation element 7, such that the unselected passage openings of the other subgroups of the first group 11a of the singulation element 7 are covered by the mask, not shown. For example, the mask, not shown, may be disposed on an overpressure side of the singulation element 7 and, in particular, in the first housing region B1, and be fixed to the singulation element 7.

[0087] In other illustrative examples presented here, the first group 11a and the second group 11b may include the same number or a different number of passage openings. For example, for a specific variety of seed and / or fertilizer, a fixed ratio of holes between the passage openings of the first group 11a and the second group 11b, in relation to the number and / or dimension(s), can be obtained in singulation element 7 as a singulation element provided for that variety, and correspondingly adapted singulation elements can be provided for different varieties.

[0088] For example, the mask, not shown, and the singulation element 7 may each have a set of interconnected retaining elements, not shown, the mechanical coupling of the mask, not shown, and the singulation element 7 being obtained by engaging retaining elements, not shown, of both sets in a selected orientation of the mask, not shown, relative to the singulation element 7. For example, one of the mask, not Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 52 / 109 44 / 81 shown, and the singulation element 7 has a plurality of first retaining elements, not shown, while the other of the mask, not shown, and the singulation element 7 has one or more second retaining elements, not shown, which can engage with the first retaining elements, not shown, such that the engagement of a second retaining element, not shown, with an associated first retaining element, not shown, in an associated pair of retaining elements, not shown, defines a specific orientation of the mask, not shown, relative to the singulation element 7 for each second retaining element, not shown.Retaining elements, not shown, may, without limitation, be formed as interlocking teeth, not shown, or as a locking connection between a pin, not shown, or hook, not shown, or tongue, not shown, or pin, not shown, or screw, not shown, optionally threaded, as a first or second retaining element, not shown, and a hole, not shown, or recess, not shown, or opening, not shown, as a second or first retaining element, not shown.

[0089] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, some illustrative embodiments are now described with respect to singulation element 7 and bell element 8 in Figure 2.

[0090] Fig. 3 shows, in schematic view, a singulation element 7a, according to some illustrative embodiments, the singulation element 7a being usable, corresponding to the singulation element 7 described above, in a singulation device, for example, the singulation device 5, as described above with reference to Fig. 1. The singulation element 7a can be supplied as a singulation element in the form of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 53 / 109 45 / 81 disc, bowl, cup or drum. According to the plan view of Fig. 3, two groups 11a and 11b of passage openings, corresponding to the first group 11a and the second group 11b described above, can be formed as radial rows K1 and K2. The first group 11a in the form of radial row K1 is formed as a circular arrangement of passage openings with a primitive circle diameter TD1 in singulation element 7a, while the second group 11b in the form of radial row K2 is formed as a circular arrangement of passage openings with a primitive circle diameter TD2 in singulation element 7a, with TD2 > TD1.

[0091] In illustrative embodiments described herein, the passage openings of the first group 11a are specifically formed, in particular dimensioned, so that, in each case, exactly one grain of a desired seed is absorbed by a passage opening when a pressure difference between the first housing region B1 and the first spatial region is applied, transported through the separation element 7a and, under the action of the covering element 12, the adhesion of the grain to the passage opening is suppressed. Several passage openings of the first group 11a may be appropriately selected to transport a specified quantity of grains from the seed receiving region to the seed tube, with a certain minimum spacing between adjacent passage openings in the radial row K1 possibly determining an upper limit for the number of passage openings in the radial row K1.

[0092] In illustrative embodiments described herein, the passage openings of the second group 11b may be dimensioned independently of the passage openings of the first group 11a, and a number of passage openings of the second group 11b may be Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 54 / 109 46 / 81 equal to or different from a number of passage openings from the first group 11a.

[0093] In exemplary embodiments, the passage openings of the second group 11b may be arranged in the second radial row K2 such that, with reference to a radial projection of radial row K2 onto radial row K1, or vice versa, each passage opening of the second group 11b is arranged between two passage openings of the first group 11a. This provides a detachment flow in the seed-receiving region immediately before a grain is collected by a passage opening of the first group 11a. This is not limiting and, with reference to a radial projection of radial row K2 onto radial row K1, or vice versa, each passage opening of the second group 11b may be arranged between more than two passage openings of the first group 11a. Alternatively, each passage opening of the first group 11a may be arranged between at least one passage opening of the second group 11b.Thus, a loosening vortex can occur several times before a grain is absorbed by an opening of the first group 11a.

[0094] With reference to Fig. 4, a front view of a bell element 8a is shown schematically, the bell element 8a being usable, corresponding to the bell element 8 described above, in a singulation device, for example, the singulation device 5 described with reference to Fig. 1. The bell element 8a may be formed as a hollow cylindrical element, bowl-shaped or bell-shaped, one side facing the operating singulation element 7a, see Fig. 3, being completely open, and an opposite side being partially open and having an opening 8z which may be formed centrally on this side and, in Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 55 / 109 47 / 81 operation, coaxially with a rotation axis of singulation element 7a, see Fig. 3. Aperture 8z may correspond to aperture 13c described above.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 4, the bell element 8a may have a primitive circle diameter TD3, the primitive circle diameter TD3 corresponding at least to a diameter of the complete opening, not visible in Fig. 4, of the bell element 8 on the opposite side to the opening 8z and therefore corresponding to a diameter of a perimeter line K3 of the complete opening, not visible in Fig. 4.

[0096] According to the illustrative embodiments described herein, the diameters of the primitive circle of the singulation element 7a and the bell element 8a are related as follows: TD2 > TD3 > TD1, the bell element 8a in particular being compatible with the singulation element 7a in such a way that, in the plan view of the bell element 8a and the singulation element 7a in operation, no passage opening intersects the perimeter line K3, in particular the passage openings of the first group 11a are entirely within the perimeter line K3 and the passage openings of the second group 11b are entirely outside the perimeter line K3.

[0097] Although, with reference to Figure 3, only a single radial row K1 formed by the passage openings of the first group 11a and a single radial row K2 formed by the passage openings of the second group 11b are shown, this is not limiting, and at least one of the first and second groups 11a and 11b may be formed by two or more radial rows. In the case of an arrangement of the passage openings of the first group 11a in two or Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 56 / 109 48 / 81 plus radial rows, the diameter of the pitch circle TD1 corresponds to the diameter of the pitch circle of the outermost radial row, that is, the largest diameter of the radial rows formed by the passage openings of the first group 11a. In the additional or alternative case of an arrangement of the passage openings of the second group 11b in two or more radial rows, the diameter of the pitch circle TD2 corresponds to the diameter of the pitch circle of the innermost radial row, that is, the smallest diameter of the radial rows formed by the passage openings of the second group 11b.In each of these two cases, the bell element 8a of Figure 4 is coupled to the singulation element 7a in such a way that, in the plan view of the bell element 8a and the singulation element 7a in operation, no passage openings intercept the perimeter line K3 and, in particular, the passage openings of the first group 11a are entirely within the perimeter line K3 and the passage openings of the second group 11b are entirely outside the perimeter line K3.

[0098] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, some other illustrative embodiments are now described with respect to singulation element 7 and bell element 8 in Figure 2, which should be considered as alternatives to singulation element 7a and bell element 8a described with respect to Figures 3 and 4.

[0099] Fig. 5 shows, in a schematic plan view, a singulation element 7b, according to some other illustrative embodiments, the singulation element 7b being usable, corresponding to the singulation element 7 described above, in a singulation device, for example, the singulation device 5, as described above with reference to Fig. 1. The element Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 57 / 109 49 / 81 of singulation 7b can be provided as a disc, bowl or cup shaped singulation element, and, according to the plan view of Fig. 5, two groups 11a and 11b of through openings, corresponding to the first group 11a and the second group 11b described above, can be formed as a single radial row K4. The first group 11a in the radial row K4 is formed as a circular arrangement of through openings with a pitch circle diameter in singulation element 7a that is substantially identical to the pitch circle diameter of a circular arrangement of through openings of the second group 11b.

[0100] In illustrative embodiments described herein, the passage openings of the first group 11a are specifically formed, in particular dimensioned, so that, in each case, exactly one grain of a desired seed is absorbed by a passage opening when a pressure difference between the first housing region B1 and the first spatial region is applied, transported through the separation element 7b and, under the action of the covering element 12, the adhesion of the grain to the passage opening is suppressed. Several passage openings of the first group 11a may be appropriately selected to transport a specified quantity of grains from the seed receiving region to the seed tube, with a certain minimum spacing between adjacent passage openings in the radial row K1 possibly determining an upper limit for the number of passage openings in the radial row K1.

[0101] In illustrative embodiments described herein, the passage openings of the second group 11b may be dimensioned independently of the passage openings of the first group 11a, and a number of passage openings of the second group 11b may be Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 58 / 109 50 / 81 equal to or different from a number of passage openings from the first group 11a.

[0102] In exemplary embodiments, the passage openings of the second group 11b can be arranged in the radial row K4 so that each passage opening of the second group 11b is located between two passage openings of the first group 11a. This provides a detachment flow in the seed-receiving region immediately before a grain is captured by a passage opening of the first group 11a. This is not limiting, and each passage opening of the second group 11b can be located between more than two passage openings of the first group 11a. In this way, a detachment vortex can occur several times before a grain is captured by a passage opening of the first group 11a. It is also conceivable that each passage opening of the first group 11a is located between more than two passage openings of the second group 11b.More than two passage openings of the second group 11b may be arranged between two passage openings of the first group 11a and / or vice versa.

[0103] With reference to Fig. 6, a front view of a bell element 8b is shown schematically, the bell element 8b being usable, corresponding to the bell element 8 described above, in a singulation device, for example, the singulation device 5 described with reference to Fig. 1. The bell element 8b may be formed substantially as a hollow cylindrical element, bowl-shaped or bell-shaped, one side facing the operating singulation element 7b, see Fig. 5, being completely open, and an opposite side being partially open and having an opening 8z which may be formed centrally therein. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 59 / 109 51 / 81 side and, in operation, coaxially with a rotation axis of singulation element 7b, see Fig. 5. The aperture 8z may correspond to the aperture 13c described above.

[0104] As shown in Fig. 6, the bell element 8b may have a circumferential wall, represented by the circular line K5 in Fig. 6, dimensioned large enough so that all the passage openings of the first group 11a in the singulation element 7b of Fig. 5 are within the circumferential wall K5. The bell element 8b also has niche sections K6 in the circumferential wall K5, so that the outer wall of the bell element 8b, which defines the circumferential wall K5, has, in the niche sections K6, concave sections, that is, facing inwards towards the bell element 8b, correspondingly towards the first spatial region RB1 in Fig. 2, curved niche wall sections that align with the passage openings of the second group 11b of passage openings and expose all of them, that is, do not enclose them within the bell element 8b.The K6 niche sections, or niche wall sections, are dimensioned sufficiently so that, in alignment with the passage openings of the second group 11b, these passage openings are completely exposed by the niche sections and are therefore located outside the bell element 8b, i.e., in the second spatial region RB2, while the passage openings of the first group 11a are located completely inside the bell element 8b, i.e., in the first spatial region RB1, i.e., outside the K6 niche sections.

[0105] Although, with reference to Figure 5, only a single radial row K4 is shown, formed by the passage openings of the first group 11a and the second group 11b, this is not limiting, and at least one of the first and second groups 11a and 11b may be Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 60 / 109 52 / 81 formed by one or more additional radial rows. In the case of an arrangement of the passage openings of the first group 11a in one or more additional radial rows, all these additional radial rows have pitch circle diameters smaller than radial row K4, so that these additional radial rows are formed entirely within a surface section on the surface of the singulation element 7b that is defined by the passage openings of radial row K4. In the additional or alternative case of an arrangement of the passage openings of the second group 11b in two or more radial rows, with one or more additional radial rows, all these additional radial rows have pitch circle diameters larger than radial row K4, so that these additional radial rows are formed entirely outside a surface section on the surface of singulation element 7b that is defined by the passage openings of radial row K4.

[0106] With further reference to Figures 5 and 6, the singulation element 7b and the bell element 8b have a coupling mechanism for coupling the singulation element 7b and the bell element 8b to each other, rotationally fixed in a specific orientation. For example, the singulation element 7b may have retaining elements formed as a tooth, pin or tenon 7p, which may be mechanically fitted with a tooth, pin or tenon 8p of the bell element in order to fix a predetermined orientation of the bell element 8b relative to the singulation element 7b, and vice versa. For example, the tooth or pin 7p may be formed at a specific location or region on the singulation element 7b, or a tooth may be formed along the circumference of the singulation element 7b, so that the mechanical fitting of the tooth, pin or tenon Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 61 / 109 53 / 81 7p define a predetermined orientation of the bell element 8b relative to the singulation element 7b. This can implement a mechanism that allows operation only when the bell element 8b is correctly oriented relative to the singulation element 7b, since only in this case is mechanical engagement possible. Otherwise, mounting the cover assembly 6b (see Figure 2) to the housing assembly 6a (see Figure 2) may not be permitted, thus ensuring correct orientation and preventing operation without correct orientation.

[0107] With regard to Fig. 7, illustrative embodiments are now described in which a masking function, as described above for some illustrative embodiments of the first and second aspects and as described above with reference to Fig. 2, is performed.

[0108] Fig. 7 shows a modified configuration of the singulation element 7b, in which the passage openings of the singulation element 7b described above are formed in different sizes. Consequently, the passage openings of the singulation element 7b can be subdivided into subgroups that have, in each case, at least one opening of associated size, in particular diameter, and passage openings of different subgroups that have different sizes, in particular different diameters. In Fig. 7, a representative of four different subgroups is shown by way of example, namely, a passage opening with diameter d1, a passage opening with diameter d2, a passage opening with diameter d3 and a passage opening with diameter d4, with d1 / d2 / d3 / d4, for example, without limitation, in the ordered series shown with d1 > d2 > d3 > d4, any permutation of d1 to d4 in this size order being conceivable. These openings of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 62 / 109 54 / 81 passages of different diameters can be uniformly distributed along the singulation element 7b, as illustrated by points in Figure 7. In other words, between two adjacent representatives of passage openings with diameter d1, there is, in each case, a passage opening with diameter d2, a passage opening with diameter d3, and a passage opening with diameter d4, and the same occurs for the other representatives of other subgroups.

[0109] According to the representation in Fig. 7, a masking function is performed by the bell element 8b of Fig. 6, with the bell element 8b configured to enclose only one set of passage openings of the same dimension in the first spatial region RB1. According to the representation in Fig. 7, the passage opening with diameter d2 is enclosed in the spatial region RB1, and it is not necessary to cover the remaining passage openings with the bell element 8b, since these unselected passage openings with diameters d1, d3, and d4 are located in the second spatial region RB2. This is achieved, with reference to Figs. 6 and 7, by the fact that the niche sections K6 are dimensioned so that three representatives of the subgroups are always located in exactly one of the niche sections K6.

[0110] Thus, using the bell element 8b together with the singulation element 7b shown in Fig. 7, it is possible to dispense with the covering of passage openings to perform a masking function and, correspondingly, dispense with a separate masking element.

[0111] With further reference to Figure 7, the unselected passage openings, i.e., the passage openings in the second spatial region RB2, can be used as paths of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 63 / 109 55 / 81 flow connecting the second spatial region RB2 to the first housing region B1. This has the advantage that the singulation element 7b can be used as a universal singulation element for different varieties, the adjustment of the singulation element for use with a specific variety being effected by defining a specific orientation of the bell element 8b relative to the singulation element 7b. For this purpose, the bell element 8b and the singulation element 7b can each have a set of interconnected retaining elements 7p1, 7p2, 7p3, 7p4, and 8p. The mechanical coupling of the bell element 8b and the singulation element 7b is achieved by engaging the retaining elements 7p1, 7p2, 7p3, 7p4, and 8p of both sets in a selected orientation of the bell element 8b relative to the singulation element 7b.For example, the bell element 8b has the retaining element 8p, and the singulation element 7b has the plurality of retaining elements 7p1, 7p2, 7p3, 7p4. This is not limiting, and the bell element 8b may have a corresponding retaining element 8p in a corresponding orientation in each subgroup. Furthermore, the converse can also be realized, and at least one retaining element may be provided for the singulation element 7b and, correspondingly, a plurality for the bell element 8b. In any case, the bell element 8b and the singulation element 7b each possess one or more retaining elements, such that a retaining element provided in the bell element 8b and a retaining element provided in the singulation element 7b enter into paired engagement that defines a specific orientation between the bell element 8b and the singulation element 7b.The retaining elements may, without limitation, be formed as interlocking teeth or as a locking connection between a pin, hook, eyelet, etc. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 64 / 109 56 / 81 pin or screw, optionally threaded, as a first or second retaining element and a hole, recess or opening as a second or first retaining element.

[0112] With reference to Fig. 8, some illustrative embodiments are now described in which a bell element 8' is arranged rotationally fixed with respect to the cover assembly 6b. Fig. 8 shows, in a schematic cutaway view, a housing G2 formed by the cover assembly 6b and the housing assembly 6a, described above with reference to Fig. 1. The representation in Fig. 8, as well as in Fig. 2, is merely schematic and, in comparison with Fig. 1, elements and components not necessary to describe the illustrative embodiments of housing G2 are not shown in Fig. 8. This means that elements and components described with reference to Fig. 1, but not explicitly shown in the schematic representation of Fig. 8, may in fact be present in the embodiments described with reference to Fig. 8, so that the omission of an element or component described for Fig. 1 in the representation and description of Fig.8 should not be interpreted as meaning that corresponding elements or components are absent in connection with Fig. 8, unless explicitly stated in the following description of Fig. 8 that corresponding elements or components are not present in the embodiments described in connection with Fig. 8.

[0113] As illustrated, housing G2 is formed by housing assembly 6a and cover assembly 6b, which can be mounted together in a removable manner. For example, cover assembly 6b and housing assembly 6a can be connected to each other by at least one bolted connection, not shown, or bayonet connection, not shown, so that the Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 65 / 109 57 / 81 cover assembly 6b can be removed from housing assembly 6a when access to the insulation element 7 is required, in order to allow access to components and parts within housing G2, for example, during maintenance, repair and / or adaptation work, to remove and / or replace individual components or parts within housing G2.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 8, the singulation element 7 and the bell element 8' are housed within the housing G2, with the singulation element 7 subdividing the housing G2 into the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2, as also described above with reference to Fig. 1. The bell element 8' is additionally disposed in the second housing region B2, between the singulation element 7 and the cover assembly 6b, with the bell element 8' being rotatably fixed to the cover assembly 6b. For example, the bell element 8' can be installed in a removable manner in the cover assembly 6b, for example, by a support element corresponding to support 12, as described above with reference to Fig. 1. Alternatively, the bell element 8' can be formed monolithically with the cover assembly 6b.

[0115] According to the illustrative embodiments, and as shown schematically in Fig. 8, the bell element 8' can be rotationally fixed mounted on a projection 13d of the cover assembly 6b, the projection 13d, as described above, projecting as a hollow cylindrical wall from an inner surface of the cover assembly 6b to the opening 13c of the bell element 8', as also described above in connection with Fig. 1. On the bell element 8', as represented, or alternatively on the projection 13d, not shown in Fig. 8, a support 12a can be fixed, as also Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 66 / 109 58 / 81 described above in connection with Fig. 1, for example, corresponding to ring insert 12a of Fig. 1, or a link or a rib or a partial ring element, so that the cover element 12 is mounted fixed in position in the housing relative to the singulation element 7.

[0116] With further reference to Figure 8, the bell element 8', like the bell element 8 described above, delimits a first spatial region RB1 in the second housing region B2 relative to a second spatial region RB2, such that the second housing region B2 is subdivided by the bell element 8' into the two spatial regions RB1 and RB2. In this case, the first spatial region RB1 is in communication with the aperture 13c of the bell element, while the second spatial region RB2 is not in communication with the aperture 13c of the bell element 8'.The sealing of the first spatial region RB1 with respect to the second spatial region RB2 in the second housing region B2 can, on the one hand, be achieved by rotationally fixed mounting of the 8' bell element in the 13d projection, additional sealing elements, not shown, possibly being provided between the 13d projection and the 8' bell element to obtain the ideal seal between the first spatial region RB1 and the second spatial region RB2 in the 13d projection.

[0117] With further reference to Fig. 8, the G2 housing additionally has a sealing section formed, for example, as a wiper seal 20, which is formed by a first wiper seal section 24 provided in the bell element 8' and a second wiper seal section 22 in a circumference of the singulation element 7, such that the first wiper seal section 24 and the second seal section 22 are in direct mechanical contact with each other and form a wiper seal. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 67 / 109 59 / 81 annular 20. The first and second wiper seal sections 24, 22 can be supplied as replaceable wear parts, so that, after excessive wear of at least one of the wiper seal sections 22, 24, the worn wiper seal section(s) 22, 24 can be replaced by functional wiper seal sections, so that an advantageous seal by the wiper seal 20 is provided in housing G2 to a sufficient extent.

[0118] According to illustrative and non-limiting embodiments, the singulation device 5 shown may also, in the case of an overpressure singulation embodiment, be actuated directly in the first housing region B1 with a pressure greater than the pressure in the second housing region B2 by means of a pressure reservoir, not shown, connectable to a pressure supply line 33, for example, a blower, not shown (Fig. 8 illustrating an additional flow path by arrow A1').Alternatively, singulation by underpressure or another type of singulation is also conceivable, for example, by the fact that the first housing region B1 is connected to the ambient atmosphere via the pressure supply line 33, while the second housing region B2 is connected, by means of a suitable supply line, not shown, to a negative pressure reservoir, not shown, for example, a suction element, not shown, so that the pressure in the second housing region B2 is lower than the pressure in the first housing region B1. The pressure supply line 33, configured for direct and immediate coupling of the first housing region B1 to a pressure reservoir, not shown, may be provided in the housing assembly 6a for additional supply of compressed air or. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 68 / 109 60 / 81 pressure application to the first housing region B1, although the pressure supply line 33 is not intended for the exclusive coupling of the first housing region B1 to a pressure reservoir, not shown. The coupling of the first housing region to a pressure reservoir, not shown, in any case, occurs indirectly by means of a flow channel 31 which opens to the second housing region B2 and through which, for example, a flow, as illustrated by arrow A1 in Figure 8, similarly to arrow A1 in Figure 2, is generated to the second housing region B2.

[0119] With further reference to Figure 8, the flow illustrated by arrow A1 is distributed to the second spatial region RB2, as illustrated by arrows A2 and A3 in Figure 8, without entering the first spatial region RB1. Specifically, the flow illustrated by arrow A1 is distributed in the spatial region RB2 around the spatial region RB1, such that the singulation element 7 flows against the spatial region RB2, outside the spatial region RB1, according to the flow illustrated by arrows A2 and A3.

[0120] The singulation element 7 has through openings 11, with the through openings 11, which allow connection between the housing regions B1 and B2, being subdivided into a first group of through openings 11a and a second group of through openings 11b. The first group of through openings 11a provides through openings through the singulation element 7 that allow connection between the first spatial region RB1 and the first housing region B1, while the second group of through openings 11b provides through openings through the singulation element 7 that allow connection between the second spatial region RB2 and the first housing region B1. Possible Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 69 / 109 61 / 81 exemplary configurations of the singulation element 7 and the bell element 8', in order to provide the selective communication function of the first and second groups of passage openings between the respective spatial regions RB1 and RB2 and the first housing region B1, are described in greater detail above with reference to Figures 1 and 2, 3 and 4, so that the singulation element 7a and the bell element 8a shown and described with respect to these figures can be used as the singulation element 7 and the bell element 8' in the embodiments according to the schematic representation of Fig. 8. The description of Figs. 3 and 4 applies correspondingly to the description of Fig. 8 and is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0121] As also schematically shown in Fig. 8 and evident from the description above, the second group 11b of passage openings allows a flow applied to the second spatial region RB2 to be transferred to the first housing region B1, as illustrated by arrows A2 and A3. In this way, a pressure applied through channel 31 to the second spatial region RB2, positive as illustrated by the arrows, is applied to the first housing region B1. Furthermore, since the first spatial region RB1 is separated from the second spatial region RB2 by the bell element 8, a pressure applied through opening 13c, which, according to the orientation of arrows A6, A7 and A8, is opposite to the pressure applied to the second spatial region RB2, can be maintained at a pressure level different from that in the second spatial region.For example, through the opening, ambient atmospheric pressure can be applied to the first spatial region RB1, or the first spatial region RB1 can be coupled to a pressure reservoir, not shown, to generate a pressure differential between the first. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 70 / 109 62 / 81 spatial region RB1 and the first housing region B1, with the pressure in the first housing region B1 generally being greater than the pressure in the first spatial region RB1. As a result, the grains of a seed SG adhere to the passage openings of the first group 11a of passage openings, as illustrated by arrows A5 and A6. The grains adhered to the passage openings of the first group 11a are transported by the rotating singulation element to a position where the covering element 12 covers a corresponding passage opening of the first group 11a on the side of the first spatial region RB1 and thus interrupts the pressure difference, so that the adhesion of the grain to the passage opening is interrupted and the grain is supplied to a seed tube 18, as shown in Fig. 8.

[0122] With reference to Fig. 8, the flow illustrated by arrows A3 and A4 leads to a seed receiving region in the first housing region B1 where the SG seeds accumulate, this flow passing through and thus releasing the SG seeds into the seed receiving region without the need for a mechanical agitation movement in the seed receiving region, which could damage the SG seed grains.

[0123] Although, with reference to Figure 8 above, the sealing section between the singulation element 7 and the bell element 8' is described as a wiper seal 20, this is not limiting and, instead of the wiper seal 20, a labyrinth seal may be provided. In this case, the labyrinth seal may be formed by a first sealing section corresponding to the sealing section 22 disposed on the circumference of the singulation element 7 and a second sealing section corresponding to the sealing section 24 on the mouth element 8', such that this first sealing section, Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 71 / 109 63 / 81 corresponding to sealing section 22, and this second sealing section, corresponding to sealing section 24, are formed as interlocking structures without mechanical contact. For example, these first and second sealing sections can be formed by a plurality of ribs arranged in an interlocking toothed engagement. Advantageously, the labyrinth seal is formed between the bell element 8' and the singulation element 7 as an annular labyrinth seal formed in the circumferential direction of the singulation element 7.

[0124] With reference to Figures 9 and 9, a seed unit 2' of an agricultural seeder, not shown, is represented in an exploded perspective view, according to other alternative embodiments. The seed unit 2' differs from the seed unit 2 described above, with reference to Figure 1, by a singulation device 5', which replaces the singulation device 5 in Figure 1. Identical reference numbers between Figures 1 and 8 denote identical elements that correspond to each other in Figures 1 and 8, and reference is made to the description of these identical elements with reference to Figure 1 above, which is incorporated integrally by reference to the description of Figures 9 and 9.

[0125] With further reference to Figures 9 and 9, the seed unit 2' can be fixed by support elements 1 to a structure oriented transversely to the direction of displacement F of the seeder, not shown. In Figure 9, a structural element 1a of a structure oriented perpendicularly to the direction of displacement F, for example, a telescopic structure, is shown, the structural element 1a being a telescopic structural element of the agricultural seeder, not shown. The seed unit 2' can be mounted on the structure, not shown, of the seeder, not Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 72 / 109 64 / 81 shown, as one of a plurality of seed units, not shown, such that, by means of at least one additional seed unit, not shown, in addition to the 2' seed unit, one or more additional seed furrows may be filled with seeds and / or fertilizer may be applied along one or more furrows. In some illustrative examples, the 2' seed unit may be movable relative to the structure to compensate for the contour of the soil. For example, at least one 2' seed unit may be provided in a parallelogram joint, not shown, or in another joint arrangement, not shown, adjustable in height and / or laterally displaceable in a seeder, not shown.

[0126] As shown in Fig. 9, the seed unit 2' has a hopper 3 for storing the particulate material to be distributed, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers. A lower region of the hopper housing 3 is configured as a discharge region, in which a discharge opening is disposed (not shown in Fig. 1, see the corresponding description of reference mark 4 in Fig. 2, which is incorporated integrally herein). Through the discharge opening (not shown in Fig. 1, see reference mark 4 in Fig. 2), the particulate material to be distributed is supplied to a separation device 5', disposed below the hopper 3.

[0127] The agricultural singulation device 5' is provided for singulating particulate material, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers. In illustrative embodiments, as described now with reference to Figures 9 and 9, the singulation device 5' comprises a housing that includes a housing assembly 6a with a rotatably mounted shaft W defining an axis of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 73-109 65 / 81 rotation D, and a cover assembly 6b' mounted in a removable manner in the housing assembly 6a. The singulation device 5' further comprises a singulation element 7 which is housed in a defined internal space in the housing. The singulation element 7 is coupled to the shaft W such that the singulation element 7 is rotated with respect to the housing.The singulation element 7 is arranged in the housing in such a way that, between the singulation element 7 and the housing assembly 6a, a first housing region B1' is defined (see the corresponding description of reference signal B1, which is incorporated herein in its entirety), and, between the singulation element 7 and the cover assembly 6b', a second housing region B2' is defined (see the corresponding description of reference signal B2, which is incorporated herein in its entirety), a pressure differential being generable between these regions to cause the particulate material to adhere to the singulation element 7.The singulation device 5' also has a labyrinth seal 20' which is formed by a first sealing section 22 provided in a circumference of the singulation element 7 and a second sealing section 24' in the cover assembly 6b', such that the first sealing section 22 and the second sealing section 24' are engagement structures without mechanical contact.

[0128] As shown in Figure 9, the singulation element 7 can be a singulation disk, at least partially formed as a circular disk or a bowl-shaped singulation disk, which is fixedly and rotationally coupled to the axis W, such that the axis W establishes a specific rotational motion of the singulation element 7 at a predetermined rotational speed. This is not limiting and, instead of a singulation disk or Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 74 / 109 66 / 81 of a singulation housing, a singulation drum, not shown, may be supplied.

[0129] The housing assembly 6a has an opening in which the singulation element 7 is received at least partially, the opening of the housing assembly 6a possibly being surrounded by an annular flange section 6af.

[0130] With further reference to Fig. 10, the cover assembly 6b' has a cover 6b1' and a first flow channel 26' configured to provide an overpressure in an external radial region 6ra' between the cover 6b1' and the singulation element 7. Considering the representation in Fig. 10, the first flow channel 25' in the cover assembly 6b' provides the second spatial region RB2. The cover assembly 6b' also has a second flow channel 28' configured to provide a fluid connection between a singulation device environment 5' and the second housing region B2' or to apply a subpressure to the second housing region B2'. The flow channel 28' provides, in the cover assembly 6b', the first spatial region RB1. For this purpose, for example, an opening 6bi is formed in the cover 6b1', through which a connection can be made to the environment or to a negative pressure reservoir. In some examples, the 6bi aperture can be formed coaxially to the axis of rotation D.The 28' flow channel can be configured correspondingly to the 28 flow channel, with reference made to its description, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0131] Similarly to singulation device 5, singulation device 5' may include a cover element 12 and an element 17, which, in view of Fig. 1 above, may also Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 75 / 109 67 / 81 to be supplied correspondingly for the singulation device 5'.

[0132] In the illustrative embodiments and as shown in Fig. 10, the labyrinth seal 20' provides a separation between a first spatial region RB1 and a second spatial region RB2 in the housing region B2' which is defined between the cover assembly 6b' and the singulation element 7. With the space regions RB1 and RB2 identified above, the function of the bell element is then implemented by the labyrinth seal 20', so that, in connection with the embodiments described with reference to Figs. 9 and 9, the labyrinth seal 20' constitutes a bell element that is configured as an integral part of the cover assembly 6b', the cover assembly 6b' comprising a cover 6b1' on the inner surface of which the labyrinth seal 20' is formed, so that the cover 6b1', integral with the bell element, performs the function of the bell element integrated into it by means of the labyrinth seal 20'.

[0133] In illustrative embodiments described herein, the first flow channel 26' in the cover assembly 6b' can be further configured to subject a seed receiving region 30' of the singulation element 7 to an overpressure relative to the second housing region B2'. The seed receiving region 30' denotes a disc housing region in which the grains are collected by the singulation element 7.

[0134] With reference to Figure 10, singulation element 7 has two radial rows R1 and R2 of passage openings, an inner radial row R1, in relation to the first sealing section 22, a first row with openings assigned to the inner radial region 6ri', and the first group 11a of passage openings. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 76 / 109 68 / 81 corresponding to the description above, for transporting individual nuclei of particulate material. An outer radial row R2, in relation to the first sealing section, a second row, has, in the assembled housing, openings 11' assigned to the outer radial region 6ra' and which are in fluidic communication with the first flow channel 26' in the cover 6b1', being identified as the second group 11b, as described above. The size and / or number of openings 11 and 11' may be the same or different, the size and / or number of openings 11' in the second row may be larger than the size and / or number of openings 11 in the first row.

[0135] In some specific illustrative examples, the size of the 11 openings may be larger than the size of the 11' openings. For example, the size of the 11' openings in the second row may be + / - 50% of the size of the opening in the first row. Additionally or alternatively, the number of openings in each row may be different and / or the openings in at least one row may have different sizes, in particular different diameters.

[0136] With further reference to Figure 10 and according to some specific illustrative examples presented here, the openings in the first row can be subdivided into a plurality of subgroups, in which the passage openings in a subgroup have the same size or diameter, while the passage openings of different subgroups have different sizes or diameters. For example, a subgroup can be assigned to a specific variety of seed or fertilizer, so that the singulation element 7 can be used for different varieties.

[0137] In the illustrative examples presented here, by means of a template, not shown, provided in the singulation element Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 77 / 109 69 / 81 7. An adjustable selection of openings from a specific subgroup of the first row can be made, i.e., openings with a specific dimension. The template, not shown, is configured so that unselected openings, i.e., openings from other subgroups of the first row and, consequently, of different dimensions, are covered by the template, not shown.The template, not shown, may be a selection element, not shown, which may be rotationally fixed to the singulation element 7 in the form of a disc or a ring and has at least one through opening, not shown, having a dimension that is greater than or equal to a dimension of the openings of the singulation element 7 having the largest dimension in the first row, the at least one through opening, not shown, of the template, not shown, being fixable to the singulation element 7 in an adjustable orientation relative to at least one desired or selected opening or selected subgroup of the first row of the singulation element 7, such that unselected openings of the other subgroups of the first row of the singulation element 7 are covered by the template, not shown.For example, the template, not shown, can be arranged on one side of the overpressure of singulation element 7 and, in particular, in the first housing region B1 and can be fixed to singulation element 7. In the representation of Fig. 10, the template, not shown, can be inserted into the bowl-shaped singulation element 7.

[0138] In other illustrative examples described herein, the first and second rows, as described above, may comprise the same number of openings or a different number. For example, for a specific variety of seed and / or fertilizer Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 78 / 109 70 / 81 zante, a fixed ratio of holes between the openings of the first row and the second row can be obtained in singulation element 7, with respect to the number and / or dimension(s) of the openings, as a singulation element provided for this variety, and correspondingly adapted configured singulation elements can be provided for different varieties.

[0139] For example, the template, not shown, and the singulation element 7 may each have a set of retaining elements, not shown, an operational coupling of the template, not shown, and the singulation element 7 being achieved wherein the retaining elements, not shown, of both sets are placed in engagement with each other in a selected orientation of the template, not shown, relative to the singulation element 7.For example, one of the templates, not shown, and the singulation element 7 has a plurality of first retaining elements, not shown, while the other of the templates, not shown, and the singulation element 7 has one or more second retaining elements, not shown, that can engage with the first retaining elements, not shown, such that the engagement of a second retaining element, not shown, with an assigned first retaining element, not shown, to form an assigned pair of retaining elements, not shown, defines a specific orientation of the template, not shown, relative to the singulation element 7 for each second retaining element, not shown.Retaining elements, not shown, may, without limitation, be configured as a toothed engagement, not shown, or as a locking connection between a pin, not shown, or hook, not shown, or nose, not shown, or stud, not shown, or screw, not shown, optionally threaded, as a. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 79 / 109 71 / 81 first or second retaining element, not shown, and a hole, not shown, or recess, not shown, or opening, not shown, as a second or first retaining element, not shown.

[0140] With further reference to Figure 10, the labyrinth seal 20' is represented according to some illustrative embodiments. The first and second seal sections 22, 24' can be formed here similarly to the seal sections 22, 24 described above with reference to the labyrinth seal in connection with Figure 8, by a plurality of ribs 22s and 24s' arranged in the housing in a snap-fit ​​and meshing engagement. For example, the ribs of the plurality of ribs 22s, 24s' of the first and second seal sections 22, 24' are in snap-fit ​​engagement, but without contact with each other. For example, the first seal section 22 may have one rib in snap-fit ​​engagement with two ribs of the second seal section 24', or vice versa. With respect to the labyrinth seal 20' shown in Fig. 10, the first seal section 22 may have two ribs 22s and the second seal section 24' may have one rib 24s'.Ribs 22s and rib 24s' may be in a non-contact interlocking arrangement, as shown in Fig. 10. In this case, the ribs of the first sealing section 22 may have equal or different lengths. As an alternative to the labyrinth seal 20' shown, the first sealing section 22 may have more than two ribs 22s and the second sealing section 24' may have more than one rib 24s', with the ribs of the first and second sealing sections 22 and 24' interlocking in a non-contact interlocking arrangement.

[0141] In some illustrative embodiments and with reference to Figure 10, the singulation element 7 may be inclined at an angle relative to a vertical orientation in the housing, by Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 80-109 72 / 81 example, an angle between 0° and 45°, for example, between 0° and 25°, preferably between 0° and 20°, more preferably between 0° and 15°. The inclination of the singulation element 7 can be adjusted so that an upper edge of the singulation element 7, in a vertical plan view of the singulation element 7 in the housing, covers only a part of the singulation element 7. Such an inclined singulation element allows advantageous adhesion of the grains in the passage openings 11 of the singulation element 7, the adhesion being supported by the force of the weight of the grains in the seed receiving region 30.

[0142] In some illustrative embodiments, the labyrinth seal 20' between the cover assembly 6b' and the singulation element 7 is configured as an annular labyrinth seal 20' formed in the circumferential direction of the singulation element 7.

[0143] In some illustrative embodiments, and with further reference to Fig. 10, a pressure reservoir, not shown, provides a high pressure relative to a pressure in the second housing region B2', and the housing assembly 6a may have a supply line Z8' which is connected to the first housing region B1' and to the cover assembly 6b' to, in each case, subject the first housing region B1' to the high pressure.

[0144] In some other illustrative embodiments, and with further reference to Figure 10, the pressure reservoir, not shown, provides a reduced pressure relative to the pressure in the first housing region B1', and the cover assembly 6b' may have a supply line Z9' configured to subject a radially external side of the labyrinth seal 20' to a high pressure relative to the reduced pressure, the high pressure being greater than the pressure in the first housing region B1'. In this Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 81 / 109 73 / 81 case, the pressure reservoir, not shown, may be supplied as an additional separate pressure reservoir, not shown, to apply pressure, at least in part, to the labyrinth seal 20'.

[0145] In some other illustrative embodiments, and as illustrated in Figure 10, the supply line Z8' can be directly connected to the supply line Z9', so that a fluid flow supplied to the supply line Z8' is fed directly and completely into the supply line Z9', in particular without losses. In this case, the housing region B1' is not directly fed by the supply line Z8'; in particular, there is no direct feed of the housing region B1' by the housing assembly 6a; however, an indirect feed of the housing region B1' occurs through the supply lines Z8' and Z9', which provide a fluid flow to the labyrinth seal 20' through the flow channel 26'. In this case, the flow channel 26' is in fluid communication with the housing region B1 through the radial row openings 11' R2.One radially outer side of the 20' labyrinth seal is subjected to high pressure to provide a sealing effect for the 20' labyrinth seal.

[0146] Although Fig. 10 shows that the Z8' power line is only directly connected to the Z9' power line, this is not limiting and, instead, the Z8' power line can be configured in housing assembly 6a for direct power supply to housing region B1', being a branch, not shown, of the Z8' power line in housing assembly 6a additionally connected to the Z9' power line in cover assembly 6b'. In this case, the radial row R2 with openings 11' is not provided, and the Z9' power line is only connected to Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 82 / 109 74 / 81 flow channel 26' to direct a fluid flow, branched from the Z8' feed line and delivered by the Z9' feed line to the 26' flow channel, only for labyrinth sealing from the side of the 6b' cover assembly.

[0147] In some illustrative embodiments of the singulation devices 5, 5' described above, a fluid supply to a labyrinth seal from the side of the cover assembly 6b, 6b' may be provided to subject the labyrinth seal to pressure from the side of the cover assembly 6b, 6b'. In this case, a specific size of clearance in the engagement between the first and second seal sections 22, 24, 24' may be provided (e.g., by means of a suitable choice of geometric dimensions for the ribs of the first and second seal sections 22, 24, 24' and / or the positioning of the ribs of the first and second seal sections 22, 24, 24'), so that a specific leakage flow through the labyrinth seal to the first housing region B1, B1' is tolerated.For this purpose, for example, a pressure greater than that applied to the first housing region B1, B1' can be applied to the labyrinth seal from the side of the cover assembly 6b, 6b', for example, by means of a suitable pressure source and / or a nozzle formed in the cover assembly 6b, 6b', in order to direct a specific flow to the labyrinth seal. By means of a leakage flow, from the side of the cover assembly. 6b, 6b', through the labyrinth seal for the first housing region B1, B1', for example, a loosening of the particulate material may occur in the seed receiving region 30, 30', so that the friction and adhesion forces between the grains in the material Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 83 / 109 75 / 81 particulate matter in the seed-receiving region 30, 30' are reduced.

[0148] Although, with reference to Figures 9 and 9, embodiments relating to a labyrinth enclosure have been described, this is not limiting and, instead of the labyrinth enclosure, a cleaning enclosure corresponding to the cleaning enclosure 20 can be carried out, as described above with reference to Figure 8.

[0149] Although, in some illustrative embodiments, a coupling of flow channels and / or supply lines in the cover assembly to a pressure reservoir is described, provided to subject the first region of the housing to pressure, this is not limiting and, instead, an additional separate pressure reservoir, for example, a blower, a pressurized gas in a vessel, etc., may be provided solely to support the subjection of the labyrinth seal to pressure from the side of the cover assembly. In this case, the pressure to subject the labyrinth seal to pressure may be provided, at least in part, by the additional separate pressure reservoir. For example, in some specific and non-limiting embodiments described herein, the additional separate pressure reservoir may be integrated, integrable or coupleable to the cover assembly.

[0150] Although, with reference to Figures 1 to 10 above, a housing formed by a housing assembly 6a and a cover assembly 6b are described, with the cover assembly 6b being disposed on the negative pressure side of the singulation element 7, 7a, 7b, while the housing assembly 6a is disposed on the overpressure side of the singulation element 7, 7a, 7b, this is not limiting and, alternatively, a housing may be provided in which the cover assembly is formed by two cover components. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 84 / 109 76 / 81 which are mounted relative to the singulation element and mounted in the housing assembly in such a way that an imaginary plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, in which, in the imaginary plane, the singulation element, according to Figures 1 to 10, as a singulation disc or singulation housing, rests substantially or is parallel to it, is equally substantially perpendicular to the wall sections of the cover components. In other words, the cover components are joined along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0151] Although, with reference to Figures 1 to 10 above, a housing formed by a housing assembly 6a and a cover assembly 6b is described, this is not limiting and, alternatively, a housing may be provided that almost completely surrounds the singulation element 7, 7a, 7b, which has an opening configured so that the singulation element can be removed from the housing, the opening being covered by a flap or a cover element.

[0152] Although the representations in Figures 1 to 10 show the singulation elements in each case as a singulation disk and / or a singulation shell, this is not limiting with respect to the present description of the figures, and any of the embodiments described with reference to Figures 1 to 10 may instead also be carried out with a singulation drum as the singulation element, as now described in greater detail with reference to Figure 11.

[0153] Fig. 11 schematically shows a singulation element 7 configured as a singulation drum, forming a plurality of passage openings 11 that extend radially through the cylindrical surface of the singulation drum. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 85 / 109 77 / 81 7. The passage openings 11 provide a plurality of radial rows formed by groups 11a and 11b of passage openings arranged azimuthal on the cylindrical surface.

[0154] Although Fig. 11 shows only two radial rows, this is not limiting and, instead, more than two radial rows can be formed.

[0155] With further reference to Figure 11, between the radial rows of groups 11a and 11b, a seal 20 is formed, configured as a seal that projects radially from the cylindrical surface and extends completely azimuthal, for example, in the form of a wall. The seal 20 can be configured as part of a labyrinth seal with a housing, not shown, in which the singulation element 7 is received rotationally around a rotational axis D, or as a wiper seal in mechanical contact with the inner walls, not shown, of the housing, not shown.Here, the interior of the singulation element provides a first housing region B1 as an operating overpressure region, and a space within the housing, not shown, between singulation element 7 and an inner wall, not shown, of the housing, provides a second housing region B2 corresponding to the second housing region B2 described above, such that singulation element 7 defines a subdivision of the interior, not shown, of the housing, into the first housing region B1 and the second housing region B2. The seal 20 further defines a subdivision of the second housing region B2 into a first spatial region RB1 and a second spatial region RB2, separated from them by the seal 20. Here, the spatial regions RB1 and RB2 correspond to the spatial regions described above with reference to Figures 1 to 10. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 86 / 109 78 / 81

[0156] An overpressure applied in operation in the second spatial region RB2 is transferred by the second group 11b of passage openings as overpressure to the first housing region B1, while, in the first spatial region RB1, a lower pressure than in the second spatial region RB2 is present. This can be achieved, for example, by applying an overpressure to the second spatial region RB2 (e.g., by coupling the second spatial region RB2 to a pressure reservoir, not shown, with overpressure) and / or by applying a subpressure to the first spatial region RB1 (e.g., by coupling the first spatial region RB1 to a pressure reservoir, not shown, with subpressure).Here, for example, the pressure reservoir, not shown, could be a pump, not shown, with the pressure side coupled to the second space region RB2 and / or the suction side coupled to the first space region RB1, or a plurality of pumps, not shown, could be provided coupled to at least one of the space regions RB1 and RB2.

[0157] With further reference to Fig. 11, coupling to at least one pressure reservoir, not shown, in operation, as described above, produces a flow with flow paths as illustrated by arrows A2, A4 and A6 in Fig. 11. Due to the relative overpressure in the second spatial region RB2, the flow enters, in operation, via flow path A2, through the second group 11b, in the first housing region B1. Furthermore, the flow enters, in operation, via flow paths A4 and A6, through the first group 11a, in the first spatial region RB1.

[0158] In operation, the seed, not shown, is then introduced into the first housing region B1 and is pressed by the flow illustrated by arrow A4 against the passage openings of Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 87 / 109 79 / 81 first group 11a and is maintained in the passage openings by the pressure difference between the first housing region B1 and the first spatial region RB1 until the pressure differential is interrupted, in analogy to the description above with respect to Figures 1 to 10, so that the seed is delivered to a seed tube 18, as illustrated in Figure 11.

[0159] With further reference to Fig. 11, along singulation element 7, multiple radial rows of the first group 11a and multiple radial rows of the second group 11b can be formed, or a plurality of radial rows of the first group 11a can be formed with only one radial row of the second group 11b, corresponding to only one seal 20. For example, a radial row of the second group 11b can be formed at one end of singulation element 7, separated by a seal 20 from the adjacent radial rows of the first group, or an alternating sequence of spatial regions RB1 and RB2, separated by the seals 20, can be provided.Furthermore, it is also conceivable that a radial row of the second group 11b is formed at each end of the singulation element 7, separated in each case by a fence 20 from the adjacent radial rows of the first group, or that a plurality of radial rows of the first group 11a are grouped and formed close to, or surrounded by, a plurality of radial rows of the second group 11b, or vice versa.

[0160] Although, with reference to Fig. 11, embodiments are described in which the seed is provided to the singulation element 7 from within the singulation element 7, this is not limiting and, alternatively, the seed may be provided to the singulation element 7 from outside to the outer cylindrical surface of the singulation element 7. In this case, the singulation element 7 Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 88 / 109 80 / 81 must be modified so that the seal 20 is formed inside the singulation element 7 to delimit compartments inside the singulation element 7 assigned to the radial rows, for example, by disc-shaped sealing elements, supplied separately or integrally in the singulation element 7, so that the interior is subdivided, corresponding to the radial rows, into separate or mutually separated spatial regions, corresponding to the first and second spatial regions RB1 and RB2. By applying pressure to the first and second spatial regions RB1 and RB2 such that the pressure in the first spatial region RB1 is less than the pressure in the second spatial region RB2, the singulation of the seed supplied to the singulation element 7 from the outside occurs in a manner analogous to the singulation described above.

[0161] As can be seen from a combined reading of the present description and, in particular, with reference to the description of Figure 11 above, the seal 20 of Figure 11 performs the function of a bell element, as described above in relation to the various aspects of the invention and with reference to Figures 1 to 10 in various embodiments. Consequently, in the description and representation of Figure 11, the seal 20 should be identified as a bell element.

[0162] If, in this description, approximate language such as “about”, approximately or substantially or similar is used, this denotes an approximation within a usual measurement tolerance or manufacturing tolerance, for example, without limitation, a deviation of at most + / - 20% or at most + / - 15% or at most + / - 10% or at most + / - 5%. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pages 89 / 109 81 / 81

[0163] It is understood that the characteristics mentioned in the exemplary embodiments described above are not limited to these specific combinations and are also possible in any other combinations. It is further understood that the geometries shown in the figures are merely exemplary and are also possible in any other configurations. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 90 / 109

Claims

1 / 7 CLAIMS 1. Agricultural singulation device (5, 5') for singulation of particulate material, in particular seeds and / or fertilizers, comprising: a housing (G1, G2) having a shaft (W) rotatably mounted in an interior of the housing (G1, G2), the shaft (W) defining an axis of rotation (D), a singulation element (7; 7a, 7b) housed in the housing (G1, G2) and coupled to the shaft (W) inside, such that the singulation element (7; 7a, 7b) is rotatably mounted relative to the housing (G1, G2), and having a plurality of passage openings extending through the singulation element (7; 7a, 7b), the singulation element (7; 7a, 7b) being disposed in the housing (G1, G2) such that the interior of the housing (G1, G2) is subdivided into a first region of housing (B1, B1') as an overpressure region during the operation of the singulation element and a second housing region (B2, B2'), and a bell element (B, B';8a, 8b, 8c) arranged in the second housing region (B2, B2'), characterized in that the bell element (8, 8'; 8a, 8b, 8c) is formed and arranged in such a way that, together with the singulation element (7; 7a, 7b), it defines a first spatial region (RB1) within the second housing region (B2, B2') as a subpressure region during the operation of the singulation element (7; 7a, 7b), in which a first group (11a) of passage openings of the plurality of passage openings is enclosed by the bell element (8, 8';8a, 8b, 8c) in the first spatial region (RB1), while a second group (11b) of passage openings of the plurality of passage openings is formed in a second spatial region (RB2) of the second housing region (B2, B2') outside the first spatial region (RB1), wherein the second spatial region (RB2) is in communication connection, by means of the second group (11b) of passage openings, with the first housing region (B1, B1'), and wherein, in operation, a pressure differential is generable between the first spatial region (RB1) and the first housing region (B1, B1') by means of a pressure reservoir that is coupled to the second spatial region (RB2).

2. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first group (11a) of passage openings is formed as a first radial row (K1) having a first radius in the singulation element (7; 7a) to transport individual grains of particulate material, and the second group (11b) is formed as a second radial row (K2) having a second radius in the singulation element (7; 7a), the first radius being smaller than the second radius.

3. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the bell element (8, 8'; 8a, 8c) is rotationally fixed to the housing (G2), and the singulation device (5, 5') further comprises a labyrinth seal (20, 20') which is formed by a first seal section (22) on the periphery of the singulation element (7; 7a) and a second seal section (24, 24') on the bell element (8, 8'; 8a, 8c), such that the first seal section (22) and the second seal section (24, 24') are interconnected structures without mechanical contact. Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, page 92 / 109 3 / 7 4. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 3, characterized in that the first and second sealing sections (22, 24, 24') are formed by a plurality of ribs (22s, 24s') arranged in an interlaced comb.

5. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the labyrinth seal (20, 20') between the bell element (8, 8'; 8a, 8c) and the singulation element (7; 7a) is formed as an annular labyrinth seal (20, 20') formed in the circumferential direction of the singulation element (7; 7a).

6. Singulation device (5'), according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the bell element (8c) is integrated into the housing, the second sealing section (24') being formed as a cylindrical wall coaxial with the axis of rotation (D) that demarcates the first spatial region (6ri') from the second spatial region (6ra').

7. Singulation device (5), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the bell element (8'; 8b) is rotationally fixed to the housing (G2) and the singulation device (5) further comprises a contact seal (20) which includes at least one first contact seal section (22) formed in the bell element (8, 8') such that the first contact seal section (22) and the singulation element (7, 7a) are in direct mechanical contact.

8. Singulation device (5'), according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the singulation element (7) is inclined in the housing relative to a virtual plane oriented normal to the axis of rotation (D).

9. Singulation device (5), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first group (11a) of passage openings and the second group (11b) of passage openings are formed in a single radial row (K4) in the singulation element (7b), and the bell element (8; 8b) is configured so that only the first group (11a) of passage openings is closed by at least one wall (K5, K6) of the bell element (8; 8b) in the first spatial region (RB1), while the second group (11b) of passage openings is omitted by at least one wall (K5, K6) so as to be exposed to the second spatial region (RB2) in the housing (G1).

10. Singulation device (5), according to claim 9, characterized in that the bell element (8; 8b) has a hollow cylindrical wall (K5) with a plurality of semicylindrical recess sections (K6) formed on the surface of the bell element (8; 8b) lining, each of which is associated with the passage openings of the second group (11b) of passage openings.

11. Singulation device (5), according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the bell element (8; 8b) is formed rotationally fixed with respect to the singulation element (7; 7b).

12. Singulation device (5), according to claim 11, characterized in that the bell element (8; 8b) is formed as an integral part of the singulation element (7; 7b) or is mounted in a detachable and rotationally fixed manner on the singulation element (7; 7b). Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 94 / 109 5 / 7 13. Singulation device (5), according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the bell element (8; 8a, 8b) is rotatably coupled to the housing (G1) by a bearing (14).

14. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, on the side of the singulation element (7) in which the bell element (8) is disposed, the housing comprises a channel (13c, 28') coaxial with the axis of rotation (D) connecting the first spatial region (RB1) in communication with an ambient atmosphere of the singulation device (5, 5').

15. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it further comprises an additional port (33) in the housing (G1, G2) for coupling to a pressure reservoir, so as to apply, through the additional port (33), a pressure supplied by the pressure reservoir directly to the first region of the housing (B1).

16. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the passage openings of the first group (11a) and / or the second group (11b) are formed with different dimensions.

17. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the first group (11a) of passage openings is subdivided into subgroups of passage openings, each having the same dimension, and the passage openings of different subgroups have different dimensions. Petition 870250084311, dated 18 / 09 / 2025, pp. 95 / 109 6 / 7 18. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises a mask that is rotationally mounted and fixed to the singulation element (7, 7b) and is configured to adjustably select passage openings of a specific dimension, so that other unselected passage openings are covered by the mask in the singulation element (7, 7b) with respect to the first spatial region (RB1).

19. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 18 in combination with claim 10, characterized in that the mask is formed by the recess sections (K6) of the bell element (8, 8b), the recess sections (K6) being formed in the bell element (8, 8b) such that only one or more selected passage openings of the first group (11a) are closed by the bell element (8, 8b) in the first spatial region (RB1).

20. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to claim 18, characterized in that the mask has at least one passage opening with a dimension that is greater than or equal to a dimension of the passage openings of the singulation element with the largest dimension.

21. Singulation device (5, 5'), according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that it further comprises a plurality of retention elements (7p1, 7p2, 7p3, 7p4, 8p), wherein the mask and the singulation element (7, 7b) each have a set of interconnected retention elements of the plurality of retention elements (7p1, 7p2, 7p3, 7p4, 8p), and a mechanical coupling between the mask and the singulation element (7, 7b) is obtained by placing the retention elements of both sets in interlocking with each other in a selected orientation of the mask relative to the singulation element (7, 7b). Petition 870250084311, dated 09 / 18 / 2025, pp. 97 / 109

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