Dispensing unit for agricultural dispenser and method of operating dispensing unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispensing unit (10) for an agricultural dispenser. The invention relates to a distribution unit (10) having a fertilizing device (22) for fertilizing on the field and a seeding device (34) for seeding on the field, the fertilizing device (22) and the seeding device (34) being fastened on a support mechanism (12), the support mechanism (12) allowing a change in the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the seeding device (34).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a dispensing unit for an agricultural dispenser according to the preamble of claim 1 , and to a method for operating a dispensing unit according to the preamble of claim 14 .

[0002] The dispensing unit of an agricultural dispenser can be equipped with both a fertilizing device and a sowing device for the combined delivery of fertilizer and seeds. The fertilizing device and the sowing device are usually fastened to a common support mechanism, wherein the support mechanism allows the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device to be changed due to its structure.

[0003] For example, document US 2015 / 0230391 A1 discloses a distributing unit having a fertilizing device for fertilizing and a sowing device for sowing, wherein the height difference between the fertilizing device and the sowing device can be determined in order to achieve a sowing depth that is as uniform and targeted as possible.

[0004] Document DE 10 2010 015 166 B4 discloses an angle adjustment for a seed distribution line, wherein the adjustment depends on the properties of the seed and the travel speed.

[0005] However, in many applications, it is necessary to maintain a specific longitudinal distance between fertilizer and seeds on the farmland, wherein the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds may vary due to the variable relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device.

[0006] Therefore, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to maintain a desired longitudinal distance between the fertilizer applied and the seeds sown on the farmland when the distribution unit has a carrying mechanism that allows the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device to be changed.

[0007] This problem is solved by a distribution unit of the type mentioned at the outset, wherein the distribution unit according to the invention has a position detection system, which is suitable for detecting the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device based on sensors, which relative position affects the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer applied on the farmland and the seeds sown on the farmland.

[0008] By detecting the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device based on the sensor, it can be determined whether the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds caused by the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device is within the permissible range. If the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds is outside the permissible range, measures need to be taken to correct the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds. For example, these measures can involve changing the position and / or orientation of the fertilizing device and / or the sowing device. Alternatively or additionally, the operation of the fertilizer metering device and / or the seed metering device of the distribution unit can be at least temporarily adjusted, so as to correct the longitudinal distance between the seeds separately metered by the seed metering device and the fertilizer portion produced by the fertilizer metering device. Therefore, through the position detection system, fertilization and sowing can be coordinated with each other, so that, despite the change in relative position, the expected longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds is still maintained or particularly restored.

[0009] The fertilizing device may be a fertilizing coulter. The fertilizing coulter may be a disc coulter and / or comprise one or more coulter discs and / or a fertilizing line.

[0010] The sowing device can be a sowing coulter. The sowing coulter can be a disc coulter and / or include one or more coulter discs and / or sowing lines.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit according to the invention, the position detection system has at least one sensor and an electronic data processing device, wherein the electronic data processing device is suitable for evaluating sensor data from the sensor to detect the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device. The sensor data are not necessarily distance data. The sensor data can be data about the position and / or orientation of the fertilizing device and / or data about the position and / or orientation of a component connected to the fertilizing device (e.g., a component of a carrier mechanism). The sensor data can also be data about the position and / or orientation of the sowing device and / or data about the position and / or orientation of a component connected to the sowing device (e.g., a component of a carrier mechanism). Such data allow conclusions to be drawn about the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device and can be processed by the data processing device in this regard.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit according to the present invention, the fertilizing device has a fertilizer distribution port for distributing fertilizer in the direction of the soil of the farmland. Alternatively or additionally, the sowing device may have a seed distribution port for distributing seeds in the direction of the soil of the farmland. The supporting mechanism preferably allows the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer distribution port and the seed distribution port to be changed. The relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device can be detected by a sensor-based position detection system, preferably including the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer distribution port and the seed distribution port. The position detection system is preferably suitable for determining the position of the fertilizer distribution port and the position of the seed distribution port, and / or the longitudinal offset of the fertilizer distribution port and / or the seed distribution port from the starting position. The fertilizer distribution port, in particular by its position, predetermines the distribution time of the fertilizer. The seed distribution port, in particular by its position, predetermines the distribution time of the seeds.

[0013] In another preferred embodiment of the distribution unit according to the invention, the carrier mechanism allows the orientation of the fertilizing device to be changed, wherein the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device can be detected by a position detection system based on sensors, including the orientation of the fertilizing device and / or the relative orientation of the fertilizing device and the sowing device. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier mechanism allows the orientation of the sowing device to be changed, wherein the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device can be detected by a position detection system based on sensors, including the orientation of the sowing device and / or the relative orientation of the sowing device and the fertilizing device. By changing the inclination of the fertilizing device relative to the soil, the distribution direction of the fertilizer is changed, thereby changing the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds. By changing the inclination of the sowing device, the distribution direction of the seeds is changed, thereby changing the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds. Therefore, the orientation detection of the fertilizing device and / or the sowing device can be used to determine whether the longitudinal distance between the applied fertilizer and the sown seeds is within the permissible range.

[0014] Furthermore, the distribution unit according to the invention is preferred, wherein the carrier has an attachment part, by which the carrier can be fastened to a unit carrier of the distributor, in particular a crossbeam. The carrier preferably comprises a deflection mechanism, which affects the sowing, and by which the sowing device can be deflected relative to the attachment part of the carrier, in particular in order to follow the soil contour of the farmland. For example, the deflection mechanism can be a parallelogram linkage mechanism. By means of the deflection mechanism, the sowing device can be deflected up and down in the vertical direction, so that the desired sowing depth can be maintained even on uneven terrain with bumps and potholes.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment of the dispensing unit according to the invention, at least one sensor of the position detection system is suitable for detecting the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing. The sensor of the position detection system can be a position sensor, in particular an angle sensor. The sensor is preferably arranged on the deflection mechanism affecting sowing. Alternatively, the sensor can, for example, optically detect the soil profile, so that the deflection of the deflection mechanism can be calculated. The electronic data processing device is preferably suitable for calculating the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing. The electronic data processing device is preferably suitable for calculating the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer distribution port and the seed distribution port based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing.

[0016] Furthermore, a distribution unit according to the invention is preferred in which the carrier mechanism comprises a deflection mechanism for influencing the fertilization. By means of the deflection mechanism for influencing the fertilization, the fertilization device can be deflected relative to the attachment part of the carrier mechanism, in particular in order to follow the soil contour of the agricultural field. The deflection mechanism for influencing the fertilization device preferably comprises a plurality of (e.g. two) connecting rods connected to each other in an articulated manner, wherein one connecting rod is articulated to the attachment part and one connecting rod is articulated to the fertilization device.

[0017] Preferably, a further improvement of the distribution unit according to the present invention is that at least one sensor of the position detection system is suitable for detecting the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting the fertilization. The sensor of the position detection system can be a position sensor, in particular an angle sensor. The sensor is preferably arranged on the deflection mechanism affecting the fertilization. Alternatively, the sensor can, for example, optically detect the soil profile, so that the deflection of the deflection mechanism can be calculated. The electronic processing device is preferably suitable for calculating the relative position between the fertilization device and the sowing device based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting the fertilization. The electronic data processing device is preferably suitable for calculating the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer distribution port and the seed distribution port based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism affecting the fertilization.

[0018] Furthermore, a distribution unit according to the invention is preferred in which the deflection mechanism affecting sowing and the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization are mechanically coupled to each other. The deflection mechanism affecting sowing and the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization are preferably coupled to each other via a coupling rod. The deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing preferably leads to the deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization. Conversely, the deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization may lead to the deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing. Preferably, the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization has a free wheel relative to the deflection mechanism affecting sowing, so that the deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting sowing leads to the deflection of the deflection mechanism affecting fertilization, but not vice versa.

[0019] The fertilization depth can be varied by means of a movable adjusting element of the dispensing unit. The adjusting element can be designed as a rotatable eccentric. The adjusting element preferably connects the deflection mechanism that influences the sowing to the coupling rod. The upper hinge point of the coupling rod can be changed by twisting the adjusting element, thereby changing the distance between the fertilization device and the deflection mechanism that influences the sowing. Several fertilization depths can be set by means of the adjusting element.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment of the distribution unit according to the invention, the deflection mechanism for influencing the fertilization comprises a suspension device, in particular a leaf spring suspension device. The suspension device can connect an attachment part of a carrier device to the fertilization device, by which the carrier device can be fastened to a unit carrier, in particular a crossbeam. The suspension device preferably allows the fertilization device to be compressed and / or rebound, in particular in the vertical direction.

[0021] Preferably, a further improvement of the distribution unit according to the invention is that the position detection system is adapted to calculate a smooth operation value characterizing the smooth operation of the fertilizing device, in particular based on a position change of the fertilizing device determined over a period of time and / or based on a relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device determined over a period of time. Alternatively or additionally, the position detection system may be adapted to calculate a smooth operation value characterizing the smooth operation of the sowing device, in particular based on a position change of the sowing device determined over a period of time and / or based on a relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device determined over a period of time. Based on the respective smooth operation values, it can be determined whether the smooth operation of the fertilizing device and the smooth operation of the sowing device are within an admissible range. If the smooth operation of the fertilizing device and / or the smooth operation of the sowing device are outside the admissible range, measures can be taken to improve or increase the smoothness of operation.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the distribution unit according to the present invention has a fertilizer metering device suitable for metering the fertilizer to be applied. The fertilizer metering device can be a fertilizer portioner, which is suitable for portioning the fertilizer to be applied, that is, combining the fertilizer to be applied into a pile of several particles (i.e., multiple portions) and distributing it in bundles at predetermined time intervals, thereby forming a distribution cycle, rather than the usual continuous fertilization on a continuous belt. In addition, the distribution unit can have a seed metering device, which is suitable for metering seeds to be sown. In particular, the seed metering device is a seed separation device, which is suitable for separating out seeds to be sown. Preferably, the distribution unit has a control device, wherein the control device can be suitable for controlling the operation of the fertilizer metering device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be suitable for controlling the operation of the seed metering device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be suitable for coordinating the operation of the fertilizer metering device and the operation of the seed metering device with each other according to the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device. By controlling the operation of the fertilizer metering device and / or the seed metering device according to the relative position between the fertilizer device and the sowing device, even if the fertilizer device and / or the sowing device deflect so that the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer device and the sowing device changes, the desired placement relationship between the fertilizer and the seed can be achieved on the farmland soil. In this way, even if the fertilizer device and / or the sowing device are adjusted to adapt to the soil contour, the synchronization of fertilization and sowing can be achieved by coordinating the distribution time of fertilizer and seed. The fertilizer metering device may include a rotatably driven distribution element, such as a distribution wing. Controlling the operation of the fertilizer metering device may result in a temporary speed adjustment at the distribution element, such as a temporary acceleration or deceleration, thereby temporarily changing the frequency of providing the fertilizer portion. The seed metering device may include a rotatably driven separation element, such as a separation disc. Controlling the operation of the seed metering device may result in a temporary speed adjustment at the separation element, such as a temporary acceleration or deceleration, thereby temporarily changing the frequency of providing the separated seed (single seed).

[0023] In another preferred embodiment of the distribution unit according to the present invention, the fertilizing device comprises a fertilizing line and / or a fertilizer distribution opening. Alternatively or additionally, the sowing device comprises a sowing line and / or a seed distribution opening. The control device may be adapted to control the positioning drive device according to the relative position between the fertilizing line and the sowing device to change the position of the fertilizer distribution opening and / or the orientation of the fertilizing line. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may be adapted to control the positioning drive device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device to change the position of the seed distribution opening and / or the orientation of the sowing line. The positioning drive device may be an electric motor. The positioning drive device may be a linear motor. The control device may be adapted to control the compaction force of the fertilizing device and / or the sowing device on the soil according to the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device, thereby improving the running stability.

[0024] The problem to be solved by the present invention is further solved by the method mentioned at the beginning, wherein, in the context of the method according to the present invention, the change in the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device is detected by a position detection system. Then, the control device controls the operation of a fertilizer metering device of the distribution unit according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device, and the fertilizer metering device is suitable for metering the fertilizer to be applied. In particular, the fertilizer metering device controlled by the control device is a fertilizer portioner suitable for portioning the fertilizer to be applied. Alternatively or additionally, the control device controls the operation of a seed metering device of the distribution unit according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device, and the seed metering device is suitable for metering the seeds to be sown. The seed metering device controlled by the control device is preferably a seed separation device, which is suitable for separating the seeds to be sown.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the control device controls the positioning drive device of the distribution unit according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device to change the position of the fertilizer distribution opening of the distribution unit and / or the orientation of the fertilizer line of the distribution unit. Alternatively or additionally, the control device controls the positioning drive device of the distribution unit according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device to change the position of the seed distribution opening of the distribution unit and / or the orientation of the sowing line of the distribution unit.

[0026] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be explained and described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a dispensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of a deflection mechanism of a distributing unit influencing sowing is shown;

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a dispensing unit shown as it travels over a pothole in the soil of a farm field;

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a dispensing unit shown as it travels over a ridge of soil in a farm field;

[0031] Figure 5 is a schematic side view of a distribution unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a first fertilization depth is set on a fertilization device;

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A schematic side view of a distribution unit is shown, wherein a second fertilization depth is set on the fertilization device;

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic side view of a distribution unit is shown, wherein a third fertilization depth is set on the fertilization device;

[0034] Figure 8 is a schematic side view of a dispensing unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic side view of a deflection mechanism of a distributing unit influencing sowing is shown;

[0036] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a dispensing unit shown traveling over a ridge of soil in a farm field; and

[0037] Fig.11 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a dispensing unit shown as it travels over potholes in the soil of an agricultural field.

[0038] Figure 1 A distributing unit 10 of an agricultural distributor is shown, with which fertilizers and seeds can be distributed on the farmland. An agricultural distributor usually has a plurality of distributing units 10 arranged adjacent to one another transversely to the direction of travel, wherein each distributing unit is assigned, for example, to a row, so that fertilizers and seeds can be distributed in rows on the farmland. Therefore, the corresponding distributing units 10 are also called row units.

[0039] The dispensing unit 10 comprises a carrier mechanism 12. The carrier mechanism 12 comprises an attachment member 14, by means of which the carrier mechanism 12 is fastened to a unit carrier 16 of the dispenser. The unit carrier 16 is a crossbeam extending transversely to the direction of travel, to which a plurality of dispensing units 10 can be fastened.

[0040] The carrier 12 comprises a deflection mechanism 18 having two connecting rods 20a, 20b connected to each other in an articulated manner, wherein the connecting rod 20a is articulated to the attachment part 14. A fertilizing device 22 is attached to the connecting rod 20b, which is used to fertilize the farmland. The fertilizing device 22 is a fertilizer coulter, comprising two coulter discs 24, wherein, in this illustration, the front coulter disc 24 is removed so that a fertilizing line 26 arranged between the coulter discs 24 can be seen. Fertilizer to be applied can be supplied to the fertilizing line 26, and the fertilizer is distributed in the direction of the farmland soil B through a fertilizer distribution opening 28 of the fertilizing line 26. The fertilizing line 26 can be connected to a fertilizer metering device for metering the fertilizer to be applied. For example, the fertilizer metering device can be a fertilizer distributor that meters fertilizer so that fertilizer portions can be placed on the farmland through the fertilizing line 26. A fertilizer portion is a pile of several fertilizer granules, which can be formed into bundles and placed on the farmland. Thus, a distribution cycle is formed between the individual fertilizer portions, which is different from the previously common continuous fertilization in the form of a belt, in which the variable relative position between the fertilization device and the sowing device is irrelevant.

[0041] The support mechanism 12 further comprises a deflection mechanism 30, wherein the deflection mechanism 30 is constructed as a parallelogram linkage mechanism having an upper link 32a and a lower link 32b. The links 32a, 32b of the deflection mechanism 30 are connected to the attachment part 14 in an articulated manner on one side and to the support part 35 in an articulated manner on the other side. A sowing device 34 in the form of a sowing coulter is attached to the support part 35. The sowing device 34 is used to place seeds on the farmland and comprises two coulter discs 36 and a sowing device 38 arranged between the coulter discs 36. The separated seeds are distributed to the farmland through a seed distribution opening 40 of the sowing line 38. In the direction of travel in front of the seed distribution opening 40, the sowing device 34 comprises a furrow former 42, which is used to form a sowing furrow opened by the coulter disc 36.

[0042] The fertilizing device 22 can be deflected by the deflection device 18 to follow the soil contour of the field relative to the attachment part 14 of the support device 12. The sowing device 34 can be deflected by the deflection device 30 to follow the soil contour of the field relative to the attachment part 14 of the support device 12.

[0043] The seed particles are separated out by a seed metering device 44, which is configured as a seed separation device. The seed metering device 44 may include a rotatably driven separation element, such as a separation disk, wherein seed receiving recesses in the separation disk are used to separate out the seed particles. The seed metering device 44 is loaded with seeds from a storage container 46, wherein the storage container 46 is connected to the carrier mechanism 12 via a container carrier 48.

[0044] The support device 12 allows the relative position between the fertilizing device 22 and the sowing device 34 to be changed by means of the deflection device 18 and the deflection device 30 .

[0045] The dispensing unit 10 comprises position detection systems 52, 54, by means of which the relative position between the fertilizing device 22 and the sowing device 34 can be detected based on sensors, which relative position affects the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer applied on the farmland and the seeds sown on the farmland. The position detection system comprises a sensor 54 and an electronic data processing device 52, wherein the electronic data processing device 52 evaluates the sensor data of the sensor to detect the relative position between the fertilizing device and the sowing device 34. The carrier 12 allows the longitudinal distance x between the fertilizer dispensing opening 28 and the seed dispensing opening 40 to be changed. The relative position between the fertilizing device 22 and the sowing device 34 detected by the position detection systems 52, 54 is related to the longitudinal distance x between the fertilizer dispensing opening 28 and the seed dispensing opening 40. Since the fertilizer dispensing opening 28 determines the dispensing point of the fertilizer and the seed dispensing opening 40 determines the dispensing point of the seeds, the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer applied on the farmland and the seeds sown on the farmland can be determined based on the longitudinal distance x between the fertilizer dispensing opening 28 and the seed dispensing opening 40.

[0046] The sensor 54 is arranged at the hinge between the links 20a and 20b of the deflection mechanism 18 and is used to detect the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 18 that affects fertilization. The sensor 54 is configured as an angle sensor and detects the angle between the links 20a and 20b. Based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 18 that affects fertilization, the electronic data processing device 52 calculates the longitudinal distance x between the fertilizer distribution opening 28 and the seed distribution opening 40. The deflection mechanism 18 that affects fertilization and the deflection mechanism 30 that affects sowing are mechanically connected to each other via a connecting rod 58. The connecting rod 58 is hinged on the lower connecting rod 32b of the deflection mechanism 30 and the connecting rod 20b of the deflection mechanism 18.

[0047] If the data processing device 52 determines that the longitudinal distance x is outside the permissible range due to the deflection of the fertilizing device 22 and / or due to the deflection of the sowing device 34, so that the longitudinal distance x causes the relative position between the fertilizer and the seed on the farmland to be not as expected, the operation of the fertilizer metering device and / or the operation of the seed metering device 44 can be adjusted by the control device 50. By adjusting the operation of the fertilizer metering device and / or the seed metering device, the distribution time of the generated fertilizer portions and / or the separated seeds can be temporarily adjusted, so that fertilization and sowing are synchronized again by distributing fertilizer and seeds at a coordinated time. For this purpose, for example, the speed of the rotatably driven distribution element (e.g. distribution wing) of the fertilizer metering device and / or the speed of the separation element (e.g. separation disc) of the seed metering device 44 can be temporarily adjusted.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, in addition to the sensor 54 on the deflection mechanism 18, the position detection system may alternatively or additionally include a sensor 56 on the deflection mechanism 30. The sensor 56 is used to detect the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 30. The deflection state of the deflection mechanism 30 is detected by the sensor 56 through the position of the upper link 32a.

[0049] The electronic data processing device 52 then also calculates the longitudinal distance x between the fertilizer dispensing opening 28 and the seed dispensing opening 40 based on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 30 that affects the sowing. The position detection system may include either or both sensors 54,56.

[0050] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The kinematic coupling of the deflection mechanism 18 and the deflection mechanism 30 via the coupling rod 58 is shown.

[0051] The distribution unit 10 comprises a depth guide roller 66 which is arranged laterally beside the sowing device 34. Behind the coulter disc 36 of the sowing device 34 are catch rollers 62 for catching the sown seeds and V-shaped pressure rollers 64 for closing the sowing furrow.

[0052] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated distribution situation, the depth guide roller 66 passes over the depression, so that the sowing device 34 is deflected downward relative to the attachment part 14 by the deflection mechanism 30. The deflection of the deflection mechanism 30 also has an influence on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 18 that influences the fertilization via the coupling rod 58, so that the fertilization device 22 is guided in a manner specific to the soil contour despite the absence of a depth control roller on the fertilization device 22.

[0053] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated distribution state, the depth guide roller 66 passes over the projection, so that the sowing device 34 is deflected upward relative to the attachment part 14 by the deflection mechanism 30. Via the coupling rod 58, this deflection also has an effect on the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 18 that influences the fertilization, so that the fertilization device 22 is again guided in a manner specific to the soil contour.

[0054] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the fertilization depth of the fertilizer can be changed by means of an adjustment element 60. The adjustment element 60 is configured as an eccentric and connects the lower connecting rod 32a of the deflection mechanism 30 to the coupling rod 58. The upper hinge point of the coupling rod 58 can be changed by means of the adjustment element 60, so that the distance between the coulter disc 24 of the fertilization device 22 and the deflection mechanism 30 can be changed. Figure 5 In the settings shown, the minimum fertilization depth T is set 0 .

[0055] like Figure 6 As shown, by twisting the eccentrically arranged element 60, the fertilization depth can be adjusted to a dimension T 1 .like Figure 7 As shown, further twisting of the eccentrically disposed element 60 results in a further increase in the fertilization depth to a dimension T 2 .

[0056] Figure 8 A dispensing unit 10 is shown in which the deflection device 18 for influencing the fertilization comprises a suspension 68 which is designed as a leaf spring suspension.

[0057] The distribution unit 10 includes a position detection system 52, 56 for detecting the relative position between the fertilizing device 22 and the sowing device 34 based on sensors, which affects the longitudinal distance of the fertilizer applied on the farmland and the seeds sown on the farmland.

[0058] like Fig. 9 As shown, the sensor 56 of the position detection system is arranged on the upper link 32 a of the deflection mechanism 30 , so that the deflection state of the deflection mechanism 30 can be determined by the orientation of the upper link 32 .

[0059] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the fertilizing device 22 can also follow the contour of the soil B by means of a leaf spring suspension 68 between the attachment part 14 and the fertilizing device 22. In this regard, when traveling over the bumps (see Fig.10 ) and when driving over potholes (see Fig.11 ), you can maintain the appropriate fertilization depth.

[0060] Reference numerals

[0061] 10 Allocation Unit

[0062] 12 Carrying mechanism

[0063] 14 Attachment parts

[0064] 16 unit carrier

[0065] 18 Deflection mechanism

[0066] 20a,20b Connecting rod

[0067] 22 Fertilizer device

[0068] 24 Coulter disc

[0069] 26 Fertilization Line

[0070] 28 Fertilizer distribution port

[0071] 30 Deflection mechanism

[0072] 32a,32b Connecting rod

[0073] 34 Seeding device

[0074] 35 Load-bearing components

[0075] 36 Coulter disc

[0076] 38 Seeding Line

[0077] 40 Seed distribution port

[0078] 42 Furrow former

[0079] 44 Seed metering device

[0080] 46 Storage Containers

[0081] 48 container carrier

[0082] 50 Control device

[0083] 52 Data processing device

[0084] 54 Sensors

[0085] 56 Sensors

[0086] 58 Connecting rod

[0087] 60 Adjustment element

[0088] 62 Capture Roller

[0089] 64 Pressure roller

[0090] 66 Depth guide roller

[0091] 68 Suspension

[0092] B. Soil

[0093] T 0 ,T 1 ,T 2 Fertilization depth

[0094] x vertical distance

Claims

1. A dispensing unit (10) for an agricultural dispenser, comprising: A fertilizing device (22) for applying fertilizer on farmland; and A sowing device (34) for sowing seeds on a farmland, The fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) are fastened to a supporting mechanism (12), and the supporting mechanism (12) allows the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) to be changed. The distribution unit (10) is characterized in that it comprises a position detection system (52, 54, 56), which is suitable for detecting the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) based on sensors, and the relative position affects the longitudinal distance between the fertilizer applied on the farmland and the seeds sown on the farmland.

2. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The position detection system (52, 54, 56) has at least one sensor (54, 56) and an electronic data processing device (52), wherein the electronic data processing device (52) is adapted to evaluate sensor data from the sensor in order to detect the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34).

3. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that - the fertilizing device (22) has a fertilizer distribution opening (28) for distributing fertilizer toward the farmland soil (B); and - the sowing device (34) has a seed distribution opening (40) for distributing seeds in the direction of the farmland soil (B); The supporting mechanism (12) allows the longitudinal distance (x) between the fertilizer dispensing port (28) and the seed dispensing port (40) to be changed, and the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) can be detected by the position detection system (52, 54, 56) based on the sensor, including the longitudinal distance (x) between the fertilizer dispensing port (28) and the seed dispensing port (40).

4. Dispensing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The supporting mechanism (12) allows the orientation of the fertilizing device (22) to be changed, wherein the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) includes the orientation of the fertilizing device (22) and / or the relative orientation of the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34).

5. Dispensing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The support means (12) has an attachment part (14) by means of which the support means (12) can be fastened to a unit support (16) of the dispenser, in particular to a crossbeam. The support means (12) preferably comprises a deflection means (30) for influencing sowing, by means of which the sowing device (34) can be deflected relative to the attachment part (14) of the support means (12), in particular in order to follow the soil contour of the farmland.

6. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 5, It is characterized in that At least one sensor (54, 56) of the position detection system (52, 54, 56) is adapted to detect a deflection state of the deflection mechanism (30) influencing sowing.

7. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 5 or 6, It is characterized in that The support means (12) comprises a deflection means (18) for influencing fertilization, by means of which the fertilization device (22) can be deflected relative to the attachment part (14) of the support means (12), in particular in order to follow the soil contour of the agricultural field.

8. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 7, It is characterized in that At least one sensor (54, 56) of the position detection system (52, 54, 56) is adapted to detect a deflection state of the deflection mechanism (18) influencing fertilization.

9. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 7 or 8, It is characterized in that The deflection device (30) influencing sowing and the deflection device (18) influencing fertilization are mechanically coupled to one another.

10. Dispensing unit (10) according to one of claims 7 to 9, It is characterized in that The deflection device (18) for influencing fertilization comprises a suspension device (68), in particular a leaf spring suspension device.

11. Dispensing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The position detection system (52, 54, 56) is suitable for calculating a smooth operation value characterizing the smooth operation of the fertilizing device (22), in particular based on a position change of the fertilizing device (22) determined over a period of time and / or based on a relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) determined over a period of time.

12. Dispensing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The distribution unit (10) comprises: - a fertilizer metering device, in particular a fertilizer portioner, suitable for metering the fertilizer to be applied, in particular for portioning the fertilizer to be applied; - a seed metering device (44), in particular a seed particle separation device, suitable for metering seeds to be sown, in particular for separating seeds to be sown; and - a control device (50), preferably adapted to: - controlling the operation of the fertilizer metering device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34); and / or - controlling the operation of the seed metering device (44) according to the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34); and / or - The operation of the fertilizer metering device and the operation of the seed metering device (44) are coordinated with each other according to the relative position between the fertilizer application device (22) and the sowing device (34).

13. The dispensing unit (10) according to claim 12, It is characterized in that - the fertilizing device (22) comprises a fertilizing line (26) and / or a fertilizer distribution port (28); and / or - the sowing device (34) comprises a sowing line (38) and / or a seed distribution opening (40), Wherein, the control device (50) is suitable for: - controlling the positioning drive device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) to change the position of the fertilizer distribution opening (28) and / or the orientation of the fertilizing line (26); and / or - controlling the positioning drive device according to the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) to change the position of the seed distribution opening (40) and / or the orientation of the sowing line (38).

14. Method for operating a dispensing unit (10), in particular a dispensing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The method comprises the following steps: - detecting a variable relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) by means of a position detection system (52, 54, 56); The control device (50) controls the relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34). - controlling the operation of a fertilizer metering device of the distribution unit (10) suitable for metering the fertilizer to be applied, in particular the operation of a fertilizer portioner suitable for portioning the fertilizer to be applied; and / or - Controlling the operation of a seed metering device (44) of the distribution unit (10) adapted to meter the seeds to be sown, in particular a seed separating device adapted to separate out the seeds to be sown.

15. The method according to claim 14, It is characterized in that The control device (50) controls the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34) according to the detected relative position between the fertilizing device (22) and the sowing device (34). - controlling the positioning drive of the distribution unit (10) to change the position of the fertilizer distribution opening (28) of the distribution unit (10) and / or the orientation of the fertilizer application line (26) of the distribution unit (10); and / or - controlling the positioning drive of the distribution unit (10) to change the position of the seed distribution opening (40) of the distribution unit (10) and / or the orientation of the seeding line (38) of the distribution unit (10).

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