Paver equipment

Abstract

A bale paving apparatus includes: a box-shaped frame that holds a bale of material; a conveyor on which the bale rests, the conveyor operative to advance the bale in a longitudinal direction towards a paver head, the paver head ejecting bale material from the apparatus, where the paver head comprises one or more rotors, the or each rotor includes vertically mounted rotatable shafts and a series of blades mounted on at least one of the shafts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a spreader device for spreading material such as straw, hay or alfalfa, which is usually called a bale handling device. Such a device is usually used to spread the basic part of a bale, such as a straw bale, but is not specifically used for the purpose of spreading the straw on the ground. Background Art

[0002] Such devices are known per se. One example of such a device is disclosed in EP 0944300 which discloses a bale spreading device which can be mounted to a tractor or other agricultural vehicle known as a loader via an extending hydraulically operated arm.

[0003] FR2765773 discloses an agricultural machine for chopping straw, comprising a crate and a conveyor belt formed by two endless chains for driving the straw towards a chopper.

[0004] Another example is disclosed in EP 2804465 which discloses a bale handling apparatus having a frame for holding bales of material, a conveyor surface mounted on the frame and on which the bales rest, the conveyor surface being operable to move the bales towards a spreading head which ejects the bale material from the apparatus, wherein the apparatus includes at least one support strut forming part of the frame and located beneath the conveyor surface.

[0005] There is a need to provide an alternative device which can be mounted in particular so that the bales can be loaded more easily and / or spread out more evenly longitudinally or laterally. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bale spreading apparatus, the bale spreading apparatus comprising: a box frame for holding bales of material; a conveyor on which bales are placed, the conveyor being operated to push the bales in a longitudinal direction toward a spreading head, the spreading head ejecting the bale material from the apparatus, wherein the spreading head comprises one or more horizontally mounted rotatable shafts, a series of blades mounted on at least one of the shafts.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bale spreading device, the bale spreading device comprising: a box-shaped frame for holding bales of material; a conveyor on which bales are placed, the conveyor being operated to push the bales in a longitudinal direction toward a spreading head, the spreading head ejecting the bale material from the device, wherein the spreading head comprises one or more vertically mounted rotatable shafts, a series of blades mounted on at least one of the shafts.

[0008] Optionally, all of the blades are mounted relative to a single axis.

[0009] Typically, the device is mounted relative to a tractor or similar device to allow the bale material to be ejected to either side of the tractor. Typically, the device is mounted relative to an articulated arm.

[0010] The device can be installed longitudinally, that is, installed so that the direction of rotation of the conveyor is substantially the same as the direction of travel of the tractor. Alternatively, the device can be installed transversely, that is, installed so that the direction of rotation of the conveyor is substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel of the tractor.

[0011] Optionally, no more than two blades are provided on any circumferential line on the shaft. In other words, preferably, more than one blade is provided, but preferably no more than two blades are radially aligned in any single plane. If four blades are provided, they will all be radially offset, or two blades will be aligned in one radial plane and the other two blades will be aligned in another radial plane. If more blades are provided, they may all be offset from each other or provided in pairs with each pair of blades aligned in a radial plane.

[0012] Preferably, laterally adjacent blades will be radially offset from each other.

[0013] Optionally, a pair of blades are provided as respective opposite tips of an elongate member extending about the shaft and from opposite sides of the shaft.

[0014] Optionally, the blades are spaced apart along the shaft. In one embodiment, the blades are evenly spaced apart on the shaft.

[0015] Optionally, adjacent blades are spaced 10cm to 20cm apart along the axis. In one embodiment, the distance is 15cm.

[0016] Optionally, the tip of the blade is spaced from the centre of the shaft by a distance of between 40cm and 60cm. In one embodiment, the distance is 50cm. Depending on the height of the apparatus and / or the height of the bale, the shaft to which the blade is mounted may move up and down during paving. Preferably, the shaft may be driven up and down. Any movement of the shaft relative to which the blade is mounted will generally be linear. Preferably, the movement of the shaft will be reciprocating.

[0017] Optionally, the blades are each disposed at a 45° angle to an adjacent blade on the shaft.

[0018] Optionally, the blades are arranged such that when viewed along the axis, blade tips are provided every 45° around the axis.

[0019] Alternatively, one motor drives the rotation of a single shaft and the rotation of all blades in the blade mounted relative to the blade. The motor may be mounted co-linearly with the shaft. A direct coupling of the motor into the rotor shaft may be provided. This eliminates the need for a rotor drive coupling and a chain and sprocket drive system connecting the motor to the rotor. Additional rotor supports may be provided to support the motor, which has a direct drive from the motor output shaft to the rotor shaft.

[0020] Whether the axis is horizontal or vertical, the single axis can be mounted approximately in the center of the device relative to the bale.

[0021] The rotor motor can be driven in both directions. In the case where the motor is a hydraulic motor, a two-way valve or the like may be provided to change the direction of rotation of the rotor from clockwise to counterclockwise for use in, for example, feeding and padding.

[0022] A regulator may be provided to adjust the rotational speed of the rotor. The two-way valve may have a flow regulator configured to control and adjust the rotational speed of the rotor. The rotational speed may also be controlled by adjusting the flow using a main flow ratio regulator in the main hydraulic manifold.

[0023] Each of the blades may be mounted relative to the shaft by providing a rotor arm. Each rotor arm is preferably located on the rotatable shaft. The rotor arms are preferably planar. The rotor arms preferably extend substantially equally on each side of the rotatable shaft. A pair of rotor arms may be formed as a single unit. Preferably, a substantially central opening is provided through the rotor arms, through which the rotatable shaft extends. Each rotor arm may be wider at the root and narrower at the tip.

[0024] Each rotor arm is provided with a blade for shredding the bale or forms a blade for shredding the bale.The blade can be formed separately and attached relative to the free end of the rotor arm.

[0025] Each blade will preferably be shaped to optimize the breaking of the bale. Each blade will preferably be elongated. Each blade will preferably have a planar front edge and a planar rear edge (in the direction of rotation). The tip of each blade will preferably be arcuate. In a preferred form, the tip will curve rearwardly (relative to the direction of rotation) towards the root of the blade.

[0026] The blades may be twisted or shaped relative to the direction of rotation. The blades may have angled tips or pointed tips. Blade tips that point toward the center may reduce the amount of friction, reduce resistance and drag, and therefore reduce the load on the motor, which may reduce stalling.

[0027] Each blade may extend adjacent to the root of the rotor arm and extend beyond the tip of the rotor arm. The blade may be attached to the rotor arm at at least two locations, a first location at the inner end of the blade, positioned adjacent to the root of the rotor arm, and a second location adjacent to the tip of the rotor arm, which is located midway along the length of the blade. This configuration may allow the blade to reinforce or further strengthen the rotor arm.

[0028] The paving machine apparatus comprises a paving machine chamber or paving machine box which at least partially defines an interior volume in which one or more bales are received. In a preferred embodiment, the chamber will generally have a pair of upright side walls, a rear wall and a base, with the front side being closed by the paving machine head. The paving machine chamber will generally have an open top. The profile of the side walls may be mesh with portions removed to reduce weight.

[0029] In one form, the rear wall of the paver chamber may be removable.

[0030] The base wall of the paver chamber may be substantially defined by the conveyor.In one form, the conveyor may be a conveyor belt extending over the width of the internal volume and the length of the internal volume.

[0031] In an alternative form, a fixed, substantially solid base wall may be provided. The base wall may be positioned substantially transversely relative to the upright side walls and / or rear wall. The base wall will typically be spaced above the lower plane of the device, which is preferably defined by the lower edges of the side walls. This configuration will preferably provide a gap below the lower side of the base wall and above the lower plane of the device.

[0032] The spreader head may be fixed or movable. Providing a movable spreader head will preferably allow the spreader to be loaded with one or more bales of material by raising the spreader head and then loading the bale or bales through the front end of the spreader. If the spreader head is fixed, provision will usually be made elsewhere in the spreader compartment to allow one or more bales to be loaded into the spreader compartment. This may be achieved, for example, by providing a rear wall as a movable wall.

[0033] Typically, the base wall and upstanding side walls of the paver chamber will define a generally U-shaped profile, with a fixed rear wall or a movable rear wall at least partially defining the chamber.

[0034] If the spreader head is movable, the front end of the spreader chamber may be provided with an angled portion or structure in front of the front end of the conveyor. The angled portion or structure may be generally triangular. The angled portion or structure may be angled to correspond with the angled front end of the conveyor. In use, the front end of the spreader (with the spreader head raised) may be moved to a position adjacent a bale of material, and the angled portion or structure may then be wedged under a portion of the bale and moved until the conveyor (running in the opposite direction during loading) engages the bale to pull the bale into the spreader chamber. The spreader head may then be lowered.

[0035] The paver head may be provided with an angled portion or structure. The angled portion or structure on the paver head may be oriented opposite to the angled portion or structure on the paver chamber. This may create an angled depression when the paver head is closed, which may provide more clearance for the blade. It may create a choke point to increase the velocity of the ejected material.

[0036] A hood may be provided on the spreader head. Where a hood is provided, the hood may preferably extend forwardly adjacent to the front end of the angled portion or structure forward of the front end of the conveyor. The angled portion or structure on the spreader head may be mounted between the hood and the angled portion or structure forward of the front end of the conveyor. The rear end edge of the hood may be aligned with the front end of the angled portion or structure on the spreader head.

[0037] The shroud may be flat, angled or curved.

[0038] The hood may be fixed or movable. In one form, a movable hood may allow the hood to be raised above a substantially horizontal position. Raising the hood may cause material in the rotor to choke. Choking the material in the rotor may serve to enhance the material throw trajectory and thereby increase the paving distance. Because the choking effect is enhanced by raising the hood angle, the throw distance of the ejected material may be increased.

[0039] A drive means, such as a punch for example, may be provided attached to one end of one or more mounting arms mounted relative to the shaft and an opposite end of the one or more mounting arms associated with a portion of the shroud.

[0040] The cover may be made of any material.

[0041] Regardless of whether the paving head is arranged in a fixed configuration or a movable configuration, the shroud may be mounted to or relative to the paving head.

[0042] The upper portion of the paving machine head may be provided with a rotor safety guard structure. Preferably, one or more cover members may be provided to enclose the upper front side of the rotor. The cover member may be mounted to the side wall of the paving machine head.

[0043] The apparatus may be provided with a deflector to deflect the material as it leaves the apparatus. The deflector may be used to deflect the material downwardly into a feed chute or feeder.

[0044] If the rear wall is a movable rear wall, it is preferred that the rear wall pivots about the lower side edge to form a ramp to allow at least one bale to be loaded into the spreader chamber from the end of the chamber opposite the spreader head. In one configuration, it is preferred that the ramp is a substantially planar member. Typically, the ramp / rear wall will extend across the width of the spreader chamber. Preferably, the lower end of the ramp / rear wall is substantially coplanar with the base wall of the spreader chamber and will preferably be angled downwardly when lowered.

[0045] A pivoting rear wall is only one preferred embodiment of providing a movable rear wall, and other configurations of movable rear walls may be provided where preferred.

[0046] The apparatus of the present invention may include one or more bale chain drives. Preferably, more than one bale chain drive will be provided. Preferably, each of the bale chain drives is provided in the form of an endless chain with one or more engaging teeth extending upwardly from the chain within the paving machine chamber.

[0047] In this configuration, the preferably solid base wall of the spreader chamber will typically be provided with an elongated opening for each of the bale chain drives so that the engaging teeth can extend over the working length during rotation of the chain above the level of the base wall so that the engaging teeth of the chain engage the bale and drive it towards the spreader head.

[0048] Where one or more bale chain drives are provided, it is preferred that each of the blades of the paving head is offset from each of the bale chain drives.

[0049] During rotation, the rotating blade of the spreader head will preferably extend rearwardly from the front end of the spreader chamber into the volume of the spreader chamber. The blade will typically extend further rearwardly than the front end of the bale chain drive. In this configuration, the blade of the spreader head can begin to break up the bale and disperse the bale from the portion of the bale behind the front end of the bale chain drive. The use of a conveyor belt is typically not possible because the blade may damage the conveyor belt during rotation.

[0050] Any number of bale chain drives may be provided. In a preferred configuration, at least two bale chain drives are provided, one bale chain drive each on both lateral sides of the longitudinal center line of the spreader chamber.

[0051] Depending on parameters such as the configuration of the paver chamber, the size of the paver chamber, the type of bales to be pave, etc., more than two bale chain drives may be provided.

[0052] As mentioned above, each of the bale chain drives will typically extend longitudinally over at least a portion of the length of the spreader chamber. Preferably, the front end of the bale chain drive will be located forward of the rearmost portion of the rotating blade of the spreader head. Preferably, when closed, particularly in the rear loading configuration, the rear end of the bale chain drive will be located adjacent to and closely spaced from the rear wall of the chamber.

[0053] If the paving machine is provided with one or more bale drive chains, the cover (if provided) may be fixed (or provided as part of, or aligned with, the base wall), wherein the one or more bale drive chains rotate around a front gear or sprocket, which is preferably located behind the cover and below the level of the preferably fixed base wall.

[0054] The chain parts of each bale drive chain will preferably be mounted below the level of the preferably fixed base wall so that only a portion of each of the engaging teeth mounted relative to the chain extends above the upper surface of the base wall. At the end of the preferably endless chain link, the chain will preferably extend around a gear or sprocket and the return portion of the chain will then typically extend below the gear or sprocket and below the base wall, in a space provided below the base wall and above the lower plane of the device.

[0055] Each of the endless chains of the bale chain drive will preferably be mounted to rotate relative to at least two gears or sprockets. Preferably, each of the gears or sprockets will be provided with a plurality of teeth to engage the chain of the bale chain drive and drive the rotation of the chain. In a preferred form, one of the gears or sprockets will be a driver gear or sprocket and the other will be a freely rotating gear or sprocket which rotates due to the rotation of the driver gear or sprocket and is linked by the preferred endless chain.

[0056] In some embodiments, two or more of the gears or sprockets associated with a single bale drive chain may be driver gears or sprockets.

[0057] Typically, a gear or sprocket is provided at the front end of each bale chain drive, and a gear or sprocket is provided at the rear end of each bale chain drive. A gear or sprocket is provided at the front end of the spreader chamber, and a gear or sprocket is provided at the rear end of the spreader chamber.

[0058] The gears or sprockets will preferably be arranged in a plurality of groups, with each group of gears or sprockets being mounted relative to a single shaft. Rotation of the shaft will preferably cause each of the gears or sprockets in a particular group to rotate, or rotation of each of the gears or sprockets in a particular group will preferably cause the shaft to rotate. The number of gears or sprockets in a group will preferably correspond to the number of bale chain drives provided.

[0059] Each of the bale chain drives can be driven forward or reverse at the operator's option. All of the bale chain drives in the equipment are typically driven in the same direction and at the same speed to prevent the bale from skewing when being driven forward.

[0060] One or more guides are preferably provided between the gears or sprockets substantially over the length of each of the chains. One or more guides may be provided for each of the chains. A guide may be located between the upper portion of each chain and the lower return portion of each chain to guide the chain portions and space the chains apart.

[0061] Preferably, any drive motor provided on the apparatus for driving the rotor is mounted relative to one of the side walls of the paving head, relative to the outer surface of that side wall.

[0062] The drive motor (for driving the rotor and / or the conveyor) is usually connected to the hydraulic circuit of the loader or tractor relative to which the device is mounted.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the rear axle associated with the conveyor is a drive axle that is rotated by a drive motor.

[0064] Preferably, the drive motor for driving the rotor is suitably associated with the drive motor for driving the conveyor to optimise the advancement speed of the bales with the rotational speed of the spreader shaft.

[0065] The paving head of the apparatus of the invention may be movable. In a preferred form, the paving head is provided with a generally rectangular outer frame having substantially the same dimensions as the paving chamber. The shaft is typically mounted transversely to the generally rectangular frame and the paving blade is mounted relative to the shaft.

[0066] A pair of mounting arms extending rearwardly from the frame are typically mounted relative to the pivot and upper region of the apparatus. Preferably one or more chambers are provided to raise and lower the spreader head by driving the mounting arms up and down. In this configuration, the spreader head is typically raised to load bales, and the lifting will typically move the entire spreader head out of the front end of the spreader chamber so that bales can be loaded into the spreader chamber.

[0067] Typically, the blades break up the bale and disperse the broken bale from the equipment.

[0068] In one embodiment of the invention, the front portion of the spreader chamber or box may be wider than the rear portion. A pair of converging plates may be provided which converge towards each other midway between the front end of each of the side walls and the rear end of each of the side walls. Typically, this will result in the spreader head having a greater width than the width of the rear portion of the spreader chamber or box. This will preferably reduce the material used and reduce the weight of the equipment even further.

[0069] The converging plates may converge at any angle, but typically converge at an angle between 5° and 15°, with 5° to 10° being particularly preferred. The length of the disc is preferably between 10cm and 50cm, and most preferably about 30cm.

[0070] In this embodiment, there will preferably be no support external to the walls of the paver chamber or box.The paver head with any raising and lowering means will still be located adjacent to the wider front end of the paver chamber or box which is usually open.

[0071] The front portion of the side wall may be higher than the rear portion.

[0072] According to a second aspect, the apparatus may be configured for "side throw" in which material is ejected substantially sideways from a longitudinally mounted apparatus. A transversely mounted apparatus may be used to achieve the same purpose, but a transversely mounted apparatus is considerably longer, which requires more clearance. The apparatus configured for "side throw" preferably allows the longitudinally mounted apparatus to eject material sideways, or at least at an angle to the direction of rotation of the conveyor.

[0073] A horizontally mounted device can be 4m wide, requiring a 5m wide clearance. For a vertically mounted side-throw device, the device can be 1.75m wide, allowing easy access into narrow doorways and passages.

[0074] A vertical rotor cover is used to block the rotor, facilitating sideways discharge / throwing / spreading along narrow passages often encountered in agriculture.

[0075] The vertical rotor will preferably be modified at its lower end. The lower end of the vertical rotor may have blades and / or one or more rotor arms configured differently to accommodate gravity. The lowermost rotor arm may be enlarged or oversized. The lowermost rotor arm may be provided with a shorter blade. The lowermost rotor arm and / or blade may be configured to "sweep" a central area around the lower end of the rotor to prevent material from wrapping around the rotor at the lower end.

[0076] The lowermost rotor arm or blade may be provided with a vertical portion configured to act like a fan blade, thereby generating airflow force to "throw" the material further, especially when the material is small. This can prevent the material from simply falling downward when leaving the device.

[0077] The blade may be rectangular in plan with a V-shaped blade notch in the end of the blade with the tip of the V oriented towards the root of the blade. This shape with a longer straight side provides greater acceleration of the material, but the V-shaped notch may reduce the amount of friction and drag as the rotor blocks the bale flakes, which may prevent the rotor from stalling.

[0078] In an embodiment, the bottom blade may have a vertical plane or portion up to 30 mm below the bottom blade holder to scrape the lower surface around the rotor and create air movement when the material is discharged, thereby using aerodynamic force to throw the straw farther.

[0079] In an embodiment, the bottom blade holder may be equipped with vertical blades or fins, which in one embodiment may be about 100 mm high, for generating air movement and aerodynamic forces, thereby utilizing aerodynamic forces to throw the straw further.

[0080] The bottom plate of the device around the rotor and particularly within the blade span is preferably planar. This can make the lower blades operate more efficiently. The planar bottom plate can also interact with the above-mentioned vertical planes or sections or vertical blades or fins to generate air movement and aerodynamic forces.

[0081] The side-throwing device can be provided with a substantially vertically extending hood. The hood can block the rotor, thereby facilitating side-discharging / throwing / spreading along narrow passages often encountered in agriculture.

[0082] A pair of opposing hoods may be provided, one on each lateral side of the paving head. This may facilitate discharge / throwing / spreading of material to the left and to the right when used with a rotor that can be driven in either direction.

[0083] The hood may be movable or have an adjustable position. The position of the hood can be adjusted between a fully closed position in which material is prevented from leaving the paving machine head and any one of one or more open positions. The fully open position may be one in which the hood is substantially aligned with the direction of the conveyor. Where the discharge opening defined by the hood is small, between 300 mm and 500 mm in width, this is suitable for narrow doorways such as those constructed in stables and pig pens.

[0084] As for the position of the (vertical rotor) hood or (horizontal rotor) hood, the position of the (vertical rotor) hood / (horizontal rotor) hood may be adjustable to accommodate different types of straw bales, flake thicknesses and bale densities. If the (vertical rotor) hood / (horizontal rotor) hood is too tight at the compression point, the rotor will most likely stall in the material.

[0085] After the compression point, the hood may be adjustable / variable. If the rotor is blocked too much, material may back up into the machine and not eject as expected. If it is not blocked enough, the throw distance is reduced and the rotor may stall and block. Therefore, a (vertical rotor) hood / (horizontal rotor) hood whose position can be adjusted to optimize these factors is preferred.

[0086] In one form, the apparatus may be provided with an exit deflector.The exit deflector may extend forwardly and laterally around the front side of the rotor adjacent to the side wall or at least one blocking deflector to direct material to one side of the apparatus.

[0087] The gap between the inside of the exit deflector and the tip of the blade may be between 30mm and 60mm as this will preferably act to accelerate the material outwards and retain a sufficient amount of material around the rotor.

[0088] The degree of clogging is important because there should be enough material around the rotor that the rotor can partially separate the material but not break it up further. The rotor should preferably separate the material but not cut it.

[0089] In one form, a single outlet hood / deflector is provided. The outlet hood / deflector may be movable to allow the casting direction to be changed from right to left (with the rotor having the appropriate direction of rotation). In an embodiment, the outlet hood / deflector may be rotatable to change direction.

[0090] The outlet cover / deflector can be moved by any mechanism, such as a chain drive or a hydraulic drive. The mechanism will preferably be bidirectional, so that the outlet cover / deflector moves in two directions.

[0091] The outlet hood / deflector may include a straight portion extending forwardly adjacent to the sidewall or at least one blocking deflector, an arcuate portion for changing direction, and a second straight portion located on the outlet side thereof. The rearmost straight portion may smooth the change in direction of the material from the sidewall or at least one blocking deflector (as described below). The forward straight portion at the outlet preferably directs the material sideways, rather than rearwardly. The outlet hood / deflector may be positioned so that the forward straight portion is oriented sideways, and preferably even slightly forwardly to ensure that the material is not directed rearwardly.

[0092] In one form, the side-throwing device may also include at least one blocking deflector positioned adjacent to the rotor (the axis of rotation of the rotor), and preferably a pair of opposing blocking deflectors. At least one blocking deflector is preferably angled laterally inwardly toward the rotor. At least one blocking deflector may include an angled wall. The angled wall is preferably planar and smooth. The angled wall may extend from a point behind the rotor (the axis of rotation of the rotor in the feed direction) and to a point at least co-linear with the rotor (the axis of rotation of the rotor) and possibly in front of the rotor (the axis of rotation of the rotor). The angled wall preferably extends inwardly toward the rotor from the plane of the side wall of the device.

[0093] The second wall or support assembly may extend away from the angled wall at an angle to maintain the angled wall at a desired angle.

[0094] The angled wall and second wall or support assembly may be made from a single piece of material that is bent or formed to have an angle between the two portions.

[0095] The apex may be formed at a choke point adjacent to the rotor (the rotation axis of the rotor in the feed direction).

[0096] Preferably, a pair of opposing choke deflectors are provided, one on each lateral side of the rotor. Since the rotor will preferably rotate in one direction at any time (although the direction of rotation may be reversed to change the direction of throw), the choke point may be defined between one of the pair of opposing choke deflectors and the rotor.

[0097] The size of the choke deflector can be adjusted to adjust the angle of the angled wall and thus the degree of choke around the rotor.

[0098] In one form, comprising a pair of opposing blocking deflectors, the outlet hood / deflector is preferably rotatable to move the forward straight portion into angular alignment with the opposing blocking deflector, thereby changing the direction of the throw (along with a reversal of the direction of rotor rotation). This can act to fix the size of the outlet on both sides of the device.

[0099] One or more guides may be provided to guide the movement of the outlet cover / deflector. For example, the outlet deflector may be provided with one or more guide rods that may be seated in an arcuate slot to guide the movement.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, movement of the exit deflector may cause a corresponding reversal of the rotor direction, or a reversal of the rotor direction may cause a corresponding movement of the exit deflector.

[0101] A conveying device, such as a fan, may be provided adjacent to the outlet of the device to help convey the material away from the device. In effect, the material will be accelerated by the rotor and this will propel the material away from the device. However, some material may not be propelled far enough away from the device and providing a conveying device such as a fan may help.

[0102] The conveying device is preferably a pneumatic conveying device.

[0103] The conveying means may be located below the floor level of the device, below the outlet.The conveying means is preferably oriented laterally to direct the air flow laterally.

[0104] The conveyor can be powered in any manner, for example using the same drive as the rotor drive. A chain drive, a gear drive, or even a hydraulic drive can be used.

[0105] On the two lateral sides there can be independently actuated conveying devices depending on the direction of the throw. The actuation can depend on the movement of the exit deflector or the direction of the rotor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] In order that the present invention may be more clearly understood, one or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0107] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the package handling equipment according to the embodiment.

[0108] Figure 2 Contains straw bales Figure 1 Another perspective view of the bale handling equipment.

[0109] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Side view of a bale handling machine.

[0110] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a bale handling apparatus with the spreader head in a raised position.

[0111] Figure 5 Yes Figure 4 The configuration layout Figure 1 Side view of a bale handling machine.

[0112] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partially cut-away side view of a bale handling apparatus.

[0113] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A partially cutaway side view of a bale handling apparatus of FIG. 1 with the spreader head in a raised position.

[0114] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 End view of a bale handling device.

[0115] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 An end view of the paver head of a bale wrapping equipment.

[0116] Fig.10 is a detailed view of a rotor shaft and a drive motor according to an embodiment.

[0117] Fig.11 is a side view of a front end portion of an embodiment of a paving machine apparatus with a proximal side wall removed for clarity.

[0118] Fig.12 is a front view of a portion of a rotor arm showing a blade attachment in an embodiment.

[0119] Fig.13 is an axonometric view of the lower front portion of a paving machine apparatus showing the hood in an upwardly angled orientation.

[0120] Fig.14 Yes Fig.13 An axonometric view of the lower front portion of a paving machine apparatus as seen in FIG. 1 , showing the hood in a neutral orientation.

[0121] Fig.15 is an axonometric view of the front section of a paving machine with the rotor cover and deflector in the raised position.

[0122] Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 but with the deflector in a lowered position.

[0123] Fig.17 is a side view of the front portion of a paving machine apparatus in a side-cast configuration with the vertical rotor cover in a narrow open position.

[0124] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Axonometric drawing of the configuration.

[0125] Fig.19is a side view of the front portion of a paving machine apparatus in a side-cast configuration with the vertical rotor cover in a wider open position.

[0126] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 Axonometric drawing of the configuration.

[0127] Fig.21 is an isometric top view of an embodiment of a paving apparatus in a side-cast configuration with the top wall removed.

[0128] Fig. 22 is a top view of an embodiment of a paving machine apparatus in a side-cast configuration with an exit deflector in a first position for casting to the right.

[0129] Fig.23 is a top view of another embodiment of a paving machine apparatus in a side cast configuration with an exit deflector in a first position for casting to the right.

[0130] Fig.24 is a top view of the paving machine apparatus of an embodiment in a side-cast configuration with the exit deflector in a second position for casting to the left.

[0131] Fig.25 is a top view of another embodiment of a paving machine apparatus in a side-cast configuration with an exit deflector in a second position for casting to the left.

[0132] Fig.26 is an axonometric view of the front portion of a rear loading side throw paving machine apparatus of an embodiment.

[0133] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 An axonometric view of the front of the rear loading side throw paving machine shown in FIG.

[0134] Fig.28 yes Fig.26 An axonometric view of the front portion of the paving machine apparatus shown in FIG. 5 with the top wall in place.

[0135] Fig.29 yes Fig.26 An axonometric view of the front portion of a paving machine apparatus is shown in FIG. 1 with the top structure removed.

[0136] Fig.30 is a side view of a rotor configuration for a side-throw paving machine with sweeper fins on the lowermost rotor arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0137] Reference Figures 1 to 12 , a bale handling apparatus 10 for spreading bale material, such as straw, is shown.

[0138] The bale handling apparatus 10 has a generally rectangular box-like shape. In use, a bale 11 of material such as straw is inserted into the volume 50 of the box area, whereupon a conveyor belt 12 on which the bale 11 sits propels the bale 11 against a bale spreader head 13 .

[0139] The rotor 14 of the paving machine head converts the bales 11 into fragments and simultaneously moves the fragments along the Figure 3 and Figure 6 The device 10 is thrown in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 1 , thereby providing a straw blanket which can be used, for example, for animal bedding or to absorb moisture on muddy ground.

[0140] The illustrated rotor 14 includes a pair of blades 29 disposed at the tip of an elongated member surrounding the axis of rotation and extending from opposite sides of the axis of rotation. Figure 6 Rotates in the direction indicated by arrow B in the figure.

[0141] The device is carried on an extended loading arm of a tractor, ejecting the straw onto the side of the tractor, which is called a loader, for example. The connection of the device to the loader is made by means of a rectangular frame located on the side of the device, while the power for the motor operating the conveyor belt and the rotor is provided hydraulically from the tractor via the loader arm, usually by connecting the hydraulic circuit on the loader to one or more hydraulic motors provided on the device.

[0142] The device achieves structural integrity through a combination of formed sheet metal webs and steel struts.

[0143] In use, the bale handling apparatus is supported by the loading arm of a tractor so that the straw is ejected to the side of the tractor, ie the longitudinal struts extend transversely to the front of the tractor.

[0144] Vertical walls 21a, 21b, 21c extend upwardly from the longitudinal struts 15, 16 and one transverse end strut 17d to form an open box for receiving bales, the box having two closed sides and a closed end formed by the vertical walls 21a, 21b, 21c. The paving head 13 is located at the end of the apparatus remote from the closed end.

[0145] The paving head 13 comprises a rectangular frame 22 which is pivotally connected to first vertical arms 18a, 19c located on the longitudinal bars 15, 16 of the chassis via a paving head rod 23. The paving head rod 23 can be raised and lowered by a pair of hydraulic cylinders 24 on opposite sides of the chassis. Thus, the paving head 13 can be moved from Figure 1 The first lower position shown in FIG. 1 is moved to the Figure 4 and Figure 5The second raised position is shown in .

[0146] exist Figure 1 In the lowered position shown in FIG. 1 , a hood 25 is provided at the base of the paver head 13 .

[0147] A rotating shaft 26 extends between the two sides of the paving head 13. The rotating shaft 26 is driven by a single motor 27. A plurality of rotor arms 28 are located on the rotatable shaft. These arms are in the form of a plate with a central opening through which the shaft 26 extends. The two free ends of these rotor arms 28 form blades 29 for chopping up the bales. The rotor arms 28 are fixed to the rotating shaft so that adjacent blades 29 are positioned at 45° to each other when viewed from the side, so that four adjacent arms space the blades 45° apart from each other over a full 360°, as for example Figure 7 All of the blades 29 are driven to rotate together with the shaft by a single motor.

[0148] exist Figures 1 to 9 In an embodiment of the present invention, by raising the paving machine head to Figure 4 and then forces the front end of the spreader to lie below the rear end of the bale, while Figure 2 The bale is loaded into the apparatus as shown in . Rotation of the conveyor in the reverse direction may help pull the bale into the paver as the loader forces the paver forward.

[0149] Alternatively, the operator may roll one or more cylindrical bales into the paving machine.

[0150] Once loaded, the paver head is lowered.

[0151] Then, when the paver head is in Figure 1 When the bale is in the lowered position, the bale is pushed toward the spreader head by the moving conveyor belt 12. As the bale is forced through the spreader head, the rotating blades chop the bale and throw the chopped straw onto the ground.

[0152] The bale chain 31 is driven by a hydraulic motor 51 and a reduction gearbox to a chain drive on a drive sprocket. The drive sprocket will have a friction clutch to protect the chain and the machine when the bales are fully loaded and abut against the bale chamber rear wall.

[0153] Bales can be loaded from the front of the apparatus, travelling up the bale ramp, by driving the machine forward under the bale and then the bale chain teeth hooking into the bale and pulling the bale forward into the bale volume 50. Two bale chains 31 are located between the paving blades 29 and extend under the bale surface of the paving rotors to minimise any drag from the chains 31 as the paving rotors accelerate the bale sections forward.

[0154] Alternatively, the bales can be loaded into the volume from the rear end of the device by pivoting the rear wall 56 which can form a ramp.

[0155] like Fig.10 As shown in , in an embodiment, one motor 101 drives the rotation of a single shaft 102, and all blades in the blade assembly are mounted relative to the single shaft 102. Fig.10 In the embodiment shown in the figure, the motor 101 is mounted in line with the shaft 102. A direct coupling 103 is provided between the motor and the rotor shaft. This eliminates the need for a rotor drive coupling and a chain and sprocket drive system to connect the motor to the rotor. An additional rotor support 104 may be provided to support the motor, which has a direct drive from the motor output shaft 105 to the rotor shaft 102.

[0156] The rotor motor 101 can be driven in both directions. In the case where the motor 101 is a hydraulic motor, a two-way valve or the like may be provided to change the direction of rotation of the rotor from clockwise to counterclockwise for use in, for example, feeding and padding.

[0157] like Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown in , each of the blades 106 can be mounted relative to the shaft by providing a rotor arm 107. Each rotor arm 107 is shown as being located on a rotatable shaft. The rotor arms 107 are substantially planar. Each illustrated rotor arm 107 extends approximately equally on each side of the rotatable shaft 102. A pair of rotor arms can be formed as a single unit. A substantially central opening 108 is provided through each rotor arm 107, through which the rotatable shaft 102 extends. Fig.11 and Fig.12 Each rotor arm 107 shown in FIG. 1 is wider at the root and narrower at the tip.

[0158] As shown, each blade 106 extends adjacent to the root of the rotor arm 107 and extends past the tip of the rotor arm 107. The blade 106 is attached to the rotor arm 107 at at least two locations 109, with a first location at the inner end of the blade 106, positioned adjacent to the root of the rotor arm 107, and a second location adjacent to the tip of the rotor arm 107, which is located midway along the length of the blade 106. This configuration allows the blade 106 to reinforce or further strengthen the rotor arm 107.

[0159] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG, with the paver head 13 being movable, the front end of the paver room is provided with an angled portion 110 in front of the front end of the conveyor 12. The angled portion 110 shown is generally triangular. The angled portion 110 is angled to correspond to the angled front end of the conveyor 12.

[0160] In use, the front end of the spreader (with the spreader head 13 raised) can be moved to a position adjacent a bale of material and the angled portion 110 is then wedged under a portion of the bale and moved until the conveyor 12 (running in the opposite direction during loading) engages the bale to pull the bale into the spreader chamber. The spreader head 13 can then be lowered.

[0161] The spreader head 13 may be provided with an angled portion 111. As shown, the angled portion 111 on the spreader head 13 is oriented in the opposite direction to the angled portion 110 on the spreader chamber. When the spreader head 13 is closed, this creates an angled depression (e.g. Fig.11 ), thereby providing more clearance for the blade 106. It may also form a choke point to increase the velocity of the ejected material.

[0162] exist Fig.11 In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , a hood 112 is provided on the paver head 13. The hood 112 extends forwardly adjacent to the front end of the angled portion 111. The angled portion 111 on the paver head 13 is mounted between the hood 112 and the angled portion 110 located forward of the front end of the conveyor 12. The rear end edge of the hood 112 is aligned with the front end of the angled portion 111 on the paver head 13 to minimize any capture or obstruction of the material as it leaves the paver head 13.

[0163] The illustrated cover 112 is planar.

[0164] The cover 112 may be Fig.11 As shown in the figure, it is fixed, but it can also be Fig.13 and Fig.14 The movable hood allows the hood 112 to be angled above a substantially horizontal position. Fig.14 The basic horizontal position is shown in Fig.13 1. The angled position is shown in FIG. 1. Adjusting the angle of the hood 13 can allow for adjustable blocking of the material in the rotor 102. Blocking the material in the rotor can serve to enhance the material throw trajectory and thereby increase the paving distance. Because the blocking effect is increased by raising the hood angle, the throw distance of the ejected material can be increased.

[0165] like Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown in , the upper part of the paving machine head 13 can be provided with a rotor safety protection structure. Preferably, one or more cover members 113 are provided to enclose the upper front side of the rotor. As shown, the cover member 113 is mounted to the side wall 114 of the paving machine head.

[0166] The apparatus may be provided with a deflector 115 to deflect material as it leaves the apparatus. The deflector 115 may be used to deflect material downwardly to a feed chute or feeder. Mounting arms 116 may be provided (one on each side of the paving machine head) to hold the deflector in a desired position.

[0167] Figures 17 to 20 The embodiment of the apparatus illustrated in is configured for "sideways throwing" wherein material is ejected substantially laterally from a longitudinally mounted apparatus.

[0168] In this configuration, the paver head 13 is movable but is provided with a vertically oriented, single, centrally mounted rotor 116 rather than a vertically oriented, single, centrally mounted rotor 116. Figures 1 to 16 The rotor is shown in a horizontal orientation.

[0169] As shown, the vertical rotor 116 is modified at its lower end. The lowermost rotor arm 117 is enlarged or oversized compared to the other rotor arms 107. The lowermost rotor arm 117 is also provided with a shorter blade. The lowermost rotor arm 117 and / or blade may be provided to "sweep" a central area around the lower end of the rotor 116 to prevent material from wrapping around the rotor 116 at the lower end.

[0170] use Figures 17 to 20 The vertical rotor cover 118 shown in the figure blocks the rotor 116 to facilitate side discharge / throwing / spreading along narrow channels often encountered in agriculture.

[0171] Figures 17 to 20 The side throwing device shown in the figure is provided with a pair of opposite vertical rotor covers 117, one vertical rotor cover on each of the two lateral sides of the paving machine head. When used with a rotor that can be driven in either direction, this can facilitate left and right side discharge / throwing / paving material.

[0172] The vertical rotor cover may be movable or have an adjustable position. The position of the vertical rotor cover 118 may be adjusted between a fully closed position in which material is prevented from leaving the paver head and any one of one or more open positions. The fully open position may be one in which the vertical rotor cover is substantially aligned with the direction of the conveyor. Where the discharge opening defined by the cover is relatively small, between 300 mm and 500 mm in width, this is suitable for narrow doorways such as those constructed in stables and pig pens.

[0173] In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal vertical rotor cover 118 is movable to set an open position, while the distal vertical rotor cover (obscured in the figure) is fixed in place to allow material to exit only on one side of the paving apparatus.

[0174] The vertical rotor cover 118 is installed between the upper guide 119 and the fixed lower cover 112 .

[0175] The position of the vertical rotor cover 118 may be adjustable to accommodate different types of straw bales, sheet thicknesses and bale densities. If the cover 118 is too tight at the compression point, the rotor 116 will likely stall in the material.

[0176] After the compression point, the hood 118 may be adjustable / variable. If the rotor 116 is blocked too much, material may back up into the machine and not eject as expected. If it is not blocked enough, the throw distance is reduced and the rotor 116 may stall and block. Therefore, a hood 118 that is adjustable in position to optimize these factors is preferred.

[0177] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , the outlet opening defined by the hood 118 is larger than Fig.17 and Fig.18 The outlet opening shown in .

[0178] Figure 21 to Figure 25 The side-throwing paving machine apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a pair of opposing blocking deflectors 210 positioned adjacent to a rotor 211, and specifically adjacent to the axis of rotation of the rotor, i.e., adjacent to a rotor shaft 212. Each blocking deflector 210 has an angled wall 213 facing laterally inward toward the rotor 211. The angled walls 213 of the illustrated embodiment are planar and smooth. Fig.21 The angled wall 213 illustrated in FIG. 2 extends from a point behind the rotor axis 212 to a point at least co-linear with the rotor axis 212. The angled wall 213 extends inwardly toward the rotor 211 from the plane of the side wall of the apparatus.

[0179] The second wall 214 extends away from the angled wall 213 at an angle to maintain the angled wall 213 at a desired angle.

[0180] The angled wall 213 and the second wall 214 of the illustrated embodiment are made from a single piece of material that is bent or formed at an angle.

[0181] An apex 215 is formed at the choke point adjacent to the rotor shaft 212 .

[0182] Since the rotor 211 rotates in one direction at any time (although the direction of rotation can be reversed to change the direction of material throwing), the choke point is defined between one of a pair of opposing choke deflectors 210 and the rotor 211.

[0183] The size of the choke deflector 211 may be adjusted to adjust the angle of the angled wall 213 , which in turn will adjust the degree of choke around the rotor 211 .

[0184] Figure 21 to Figure 25 The side-throwing paving machine apparatus shown in FIG. 2 also includes an outlet hood / deflector 216. The outlet hood / deflector 216 shown extends forward and laterally around the front side of the rotor 211 adjacent to a blocking deflector 210 to direct the material to one side of the apparatus.

[0185] The gap between the inside of the outlet shroud / deflector 216 and the tip of the blade may be between 30 mm and 60 mm, which serves to accelerate the material outwards and retain a sufficient amount of material around the rotor 211 .

[0186] The degree of clogging is important because there should be a sufficient amount of material around the rotor 211 that the rotor 211 can partially separate the material without causing further fragmentation of the material.

[0187] In the illustrated form, a single outlet hood / deflector 216 is provided. The outlet hood / deflector 216 is movable to allow the casting direction to be changed from the right side to the left side (with the appropriate rotation direction of the rotor 211), such as Figure 22 to Figure 25 In this embodiment, the outlet cover / deflector 216 can be rotated to change the casting direction.

[0188] The outlet cover / deflector 216 may be moved by any mechanism (not shown), such as a chain drive or a hydraulic drive. The mechanism will preferably be bidirectional so that the outlet cover / deflector 216 moves in both directions to present a Figure 22 to Figure 25 The position in.

[0189] Figure 21 to Figure 25 The outlet hood / deflector 216 shown in FIG. 2 includes straight portions 217 at both ends and an arcuate portion 218 between the straight portions for changing direction. The rearmost straight portion preferably acts to smooth the change in direction of the material from the blocking deflector 211. The forward straight portion at the outlet directs the material sideways, but does not direct the material rearwardly as the material exits. The outlet hood / deflector 216 is positioned in use so that the forward straight portion is oriented sideways to ensure that the material is not directed rearwardly.

[0190] The illustrated exit hood / deflector 216 is capable of rotation to move the forward straight portion into angular alignment with the opposing blocking deflector 210, thereby changing the direction of the throw (along with a reversal of the direction of rotation of the rotor), as shown. Figure 22 to Figure 25 This movement can also serve to fix the size of the outlets on both sides of the device.

[0191] like Figure 26 to Figure 29 As shown in the rear-loading side-throwing paving machine equipment illustrated in FIG. , one or more guide members may be provided to guide the movement of the outlet deflector 216. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 26 to Figure 28 As shown in FIG. 1 , the outlet cover / deflector 216 is provided with a pair of guide rods 219 which are seated in arcuate slots 220 to guide movement.

[0192] Figure 26 to Figure 29 The rear-loading side-throwing paver shown in the figure is similar to Figures 17 to 25 The front loading side throw paving machine apparatus shown in FIG. 2 differs in that the operator has a significantly better view due to the orientation of the paving machine. This embodiment also shows a drive 222 for the bale feed belt and a rotor drive 223.

[0193] A rear-loading side-throw paver machine is also a smaller and lighter option than a front-loading paver machine, as it does not require hydraulic cylinders to lift the head for bale loading, for example. A rear-loading side-throw paver machine also significantly reduces the weight and pivot effect on the front of the machine.

[0194] A rear loading side throw paving machine machine can position the hood / deflector 216 based on the rotor orientation. The floor of the rotor paving section of the paving machine is at the same level as the top of the bale feed belt.

[0195] like Fig.30 As shown in , the lowest rotor arm can be provided with vertical blades or fins 221 to produce the effect of sweeping the rotor floor and / or to generate aerodynamic force to blow small pieces of straw away from the paving machine. As mentioned above, this can be connected with a laterally directed fan to provide increased aerodynamic force.

[0196] One or more embodiments have been described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bale spreading device, comprising: a box frame that holds bales of material; A conveyor on which bales are deposited, the conveyor being operative to propel the bales in a longitudinal direction towards a spreading head which ejects the bale material from the apparatus, wherein the spreading head comprises one or more rotors, the or each rotor comprising a vertically mounted rotatable shaft and a series of blades mounted on at least one of the shafts.

2. The bale spreading device according to claim 1, wherein: A single shaft is provided with all of the blades mounted relative to the single shaft.

3. The bale spreading device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: No more than two blades are aligned radially about the axis.

4. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: A pair of blades are provided at respective opposite tips of an elongated member extending about the shaft and from opposite sides of the shaft.

5. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The single axle is mounted approximately centrally on the apparatus relative to the bale.

6. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rotor motor can be driven in both directions.

7. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each blade is rectangular with a V-shaped notch in the free end of the blade.

8. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The spreader head is moveable to load one or more bales of material by raising the spreader head and then loading one or more bales through the front end of the spreader.

9. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The paving machine head is stationary and one or more bales are loaded from the end opposite to the paving machine head.

10. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: A series of said blades are mounted on said shaft in opposing pairs via a rotor arm mounted to said shaft and said blades mounted on opposite ends of said rotor arm.

11. The bale spreading device according to claim 10, wherein: The lowermost rotor arm is provided with one or more fins which are angled with respect to the corresponding blade.

12. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The base plate is planar about the shaft within the span of the blade.

13. A bale spreading apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one blocking deflector positioned adjacent the rotor.

14. The bale spreading device according to claim 13, wherein: The at least one choke deflector is angled laterally inwardly toward the rotor.

15. The bale spreading device according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one choke deflector includes an angled wall extending from a point behind the rotor and to a point at least in-line with the rotor.

16. The bale spreading device according to claim 15, wherein: A second wall or support member extends at an angle away from the angled wall to maintain the angled wall at a desired angle.

17. The bale spreading apparatus according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein: A vertex is formed adjacent the choke point of the rotor.

18. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein: A pair of opposed blocking deflectors are provided, one on each lateral side of the rotor.

19. A bale spreading apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a substantially vertically extending outlet hood, the outlet hood being located at least partially in front of the rotor with respect to the bale feed direction.

20. The bale spreading apparatus according to claim 19, wherein: The outlet hood is movable to facilitate discharge of bale material from the paving machine to the left and to the right.

21. The bale spreading apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The outlet cover can be rotated to change direction.

22. A bale spreading apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein: The outlet cover includes straight portions at both ends and an arc portion between the straight portions.

23. A bale spreading apparatus according to claim 22 when dependent on claim 18, wherein The outlet hood is movable to move one of the straight sections into angle alignment with an opposing blocking deflector to change the direction of the cast.

24. A bale spreading apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein: Movement of the outlet shroud causes a corresponding reversal of direction of the rotor, or vice versa.

25. A bale paving apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a pneumatic conveying device disposed adjacent the outlet of the paving machine to assist in conveying material away from the paving machine.

26. The bale spreading apparatus of claim 25, wherein: The pneumatic conveying device is located below the level of the bottom plate of the paving machine and below the outlet.

27. A bale spreading apparatus according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein: The pneumatic conveying device is oriented laterally to direct the air flow laterally.

28. A bale spreading apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein: On the two lateral sides, conveying devices are provided for actuation depending on the throwing direction.

29. A bale spreading device comprising: a box frame that holds bales of material; A conveyor on which bales are deposited, the conveyor being operative to propel the bales in a longitudinal direction toward a spreading head which ejects the bale material from the apparatus, wherein the spreading head comprises one or more horizontally mounted rotatable shafts, at least one of the shafts having a series of blades mounted thereon.

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