Agricultural soil cultivation machine and methods for soil cultivation

Abstract

Agricultural soil cultivation machine (10) at least comprehensively, - a frame structure (12) for supporting several components, in particular for soil cultivation, - at least one cutting section (14) for shredding plant residues on the surface of soil to be worked and / or driven over by the tillage machine, - at least one reconsolidation section (30) downstream of the cutting section (14) in the direction of travel (F) of the soil cultivation machine (10) for reconsolidating the loosened and / or leveled soil, - wherein the at least one cutting section (14) comprises at least one rotating cutting tool (16) which is pivotably mounted on the frame structure (12) via a rocker arm (20), characterized in that a bracket is assigned to the rocker arm (20), via which the rocker arm (20) with the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) is mounted to the frame structure (12), that the swing arm (20) is mounted to the console by means of elastically deformable bearing elements that generate a preload force, and that at least one linear element (38) is assigned to the console, so that the console and thus the swing arm (20) are designed to be height-adjustable relative to the frame construction (12).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an agricultural soil cultivation machine with the features of independent claim 1 and to a soil cultivation method with the features of independent claim 10.

[0002] Numerous different tillage implements are used in agriculture. One common design consists of a trailed frame with its own chassis and a defined frame width, which is pulled across the field by a tractor. Such tillage implements can be equipped with various components, such as loosening and / or cutting tools and / or reconsolidation tools.

[0003] Such an agricultural soil cultivation machine is disclosed, for example, in US 8,020,629 B1. The machine disclosed therein comprises several rows with different soil cultivation tools arranged successively in the direction of travel, with each row being arranged transversely to the direction of travel of the agricultural machine. A first row arranged in the direction of travel consists of cutting discs, followed in the direction of travel by a second row with a knife roller. A third row with a harrow unit and a fourth row with a packer roller are arranged in the direction of travel following the second row. The knife roller is intended to first shred plant residues on the soil surface. Subsequently, the resulting plant and soil residues are to be incorporated by means of the harrow or packer roller.The tines distribute the material as evenly as possible across the soil, so that it can then be compacted together with the surface soil using the packer roller.

[0004] However, a disadvantage of this well-known design of soil cultivation machines is that the knife rollers are rigidly mounted and suspended on the machine frame or on the support of a machine frame, which means that the knife rollers cannot adapt to uneven ground or the like.

[0005] A comparable agricultural soil cultivation machine is also disclosed in EP 2 868 177 B1. The machine comprises several rows arranged transversely to the direction of travel, each row equipped with different tools. A first row, arranged in the direction of travel, comprises a knife roller, followed in the direction of travel by a second row with a harrow or harrow section. A third row with a knife roller and a fourth row with a packer roller follow the second row in the direction of travel. The knife roller is mounted on the frame or frame structure of the machine via a support arm, but this mounting does not allow for any adjustment to uneven ground.

[0006] Furthermore, US Patent 5,622,227 A discloses a soil cultivation machine with a coupling section, a rigid frame, and several cutting tools mounted on it for shredding crop residues on the soil. The soil cultivation machine also has a reconsolidation section downstream of the cutting section with the cutting tools. The cutting tools are mounted on the frame via a pivoting arm and a bracket, allowing for swiveling and height adjustment.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing an agricultural soil cultivation machine and a soil cultivation method by which the disadvantages mentioned in the prior art are overcome, in that a cutting section, in particular its rotating cutting tools of an agricultural machine, can adapt to uneven ground or the like in a simple manner. Furthermore, the movable suspension of the rotating cutting tools, which is designed to adapt to uneven ground, should have a simple design.

[0008] These problems are solved by an agricultural soil cultivation machine for soil cultivation and / or sowing of material with the features of claim 1, and by a soil cultivation method with the features of claim 10. Further advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims.

[0009] To solve the aforementioned problem, the invention proposes an agricultural soil cultivation machine. The agricultural soil cultivation machine can be designed either as a towed machine or as a three-point linkage machine mounted on a tractor. However, it is also possible for the agricultural soil cultivation machine to be part of a self-propelled agricultural machine, although this is not the typical embodiment of such soil cultivation machines, so this alternative embodiment will not be discussed in detail here.

[0010] The soil cultivation machine comprises at least one frame structure for supporting various components, which are specifically designed for soil cultivation. The frame structure may consist of a central frame and machine sections extending laterally from the central frame. The primary purpose of the frame structure is to provide a stable support and holding structure for the necessary components, tools, and engagement elements used to cultivate the soil in the desired manner.The components mentioned can be, for example, a multitude of tools or engagement elements assigned to the frame structure, which can be arranged one behind the other, particularly in the direction of travel. In this context, these positions are also referred to as sections arranged one behind the other on the frame structure. When sections are mentioned below, this definition can also refer to the arrangement of the tools or engagement elements in rows extending transversely to the direction of travel of the tillage machine.

[0011] The soil cultivation machine further comprises at least one cutting section for shredding crop residues on the surface of soil to be cultivated, wherein the at least one cutting section forms part of the aforementioned components or engagement tools. The at least one cutting section may be designed to shred crop residues on the surface of soil to be cultivated. The at least one cutting section may comprise at least one row of components, at least one of which is provided transversely to the direction of travel on the frame structure.

[0012] Additionally, the tillage machine can further comprise at least one tine section downstream of the at least one cutting section in the direction of travel for distributing crop residues and leveling the soil surface, wherein the at least one tine section forms part of the aforementioned components or engagement tools. In particular, the at least one tine section can be designed for distributing crop residues and / or leveling the loosened soil surface. The at least one tine section can comprise at least one row, preferably two rows, of components, at least one of which is provided transversely to the direction of travel on the frame structure.

[0013] The soil cultivation machine further comprises at least one reconsolidation section downstream of the at least one cutting section in the direction of travel for reconsolidating the soil worked and / or loosened by the at least one cutting section, wherein the at least one reconsolidation section forms part of the aforementioned components or engagement tools. In particular, the reconsolidation section can be designed to reconsolidate the soil worked and / or loosened by the at least one cutting section. The at least one reconsolidation section can comprise at least one row of components, at least one of which is provided transversely to the direction of travel on the frame structure.

[0014] If at least one cutting section is followed by at least one tine section in the direction of travel, then at least one reconsolidation section can be located downstream of the at least one tine section in the direction of travel. Thus, in particular, the soil worked by the at least one cutting section and / or tine section can be reconsolidated by means of the at least one reconsolidation section.

[0015] The at least one cutting section comprises at least one rotating cutting tool, which is pivotably mounted on the frame structure via a rocker arm. The at least one cutting tool assembly can typically rotate about horizontal axes of rotation oriented approximately transversely to the direction of travel of the tillage machine. The at least one rotating cutting tool is freely suspended from the rocker arm, allowing it to optimally adapt to uneven ground. Preferably, the cutting section comprises at least one row of at least one rotating cutting tool, arranged transversely to the direction of travel on the frame structure.

[0016] Furthermore, it is provided that the swing arm is assigned a bracket via which the swing arm is mounted to the frame structure. In particular, the bracket can be a bearing unit via which the swing arm, with the cutting tool rotating on it, can be movably mounted.

[0017] The rocker arm is mounted to the console by means of elastically deformable bearing elements that generate a preload force. These bearing elements can, for example, include elastomer bearings, rubber shear bearings, or similar materials. It is also possible for the bearing elements to generate a preload force on the rocker arm, which can then be transferred to the at least one rotating cutting tool. The preload force generated by the bearings allows for presetting of the at least one rotating cutting tool. The bearing elements can also absorb overloads.

[0018] Furthermore, the console may be mounted on the frame structure in a height-adjustable manner. The console is assigned at least one linear element, allowing the console, and thus also the swing arm, to be adjusted and / or set in height relative to the frame structure. This linear element can be, for example, a pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic cylinder. Alternatively, the linear element can be a spindle, which may be manually operated or adjustable, or adjustable by means of a motor-driven and / or actuated actuator.

[0019] Furthermore, it can be provided that a contact force can be generated on the at least one rotating cutting tool by means of at least one linear element, and this contact force is variably adjustable. The contact force can be a preload force by means of which the at least one rotating cutting tool can be pre-tensioned and / or pre-set. Therefore, when contact force is mentioned below, it should also include the preload force. Depending on the contact force, the at least one rotating cutting tool can be individually adjusted for each field operation to the prevailing environmental and field conditions.

[0020] Additionally or optionally, it may be provided that the contact force is variably adjustable and / or changeable depending on the width of the at least one rotating cutting tool.

[0021] Furthermore, it may be provided that at least one linear element, or its control system, includes a mechanical and / or hydraulic overload protection device. For example, the hydraulic overload protection device could include a hydraulic spring accumulator. Alternatively, any other mechanical overload protection devices for the at least one linear element would also be conceivable. It may also be provided that the console itself includes an overload protection device, which can be hydraulic and / or mechanical. Suitable mechanical overload protection devices could include, for example, elastomer bearings, rubber cords, spring elements, or the like.The overload protection can serve in particular to ensure that the at least one rotating cutting tool can swing upwards and / or deflect upwards when it encounters obstacles, stones and / or other objects and / or uneven ground, so that damage and / or breakage or the like to the at least one rotating cutting tool can be avoided.

[0022] Preferably, the console can be oriented from front top to rear bottom, i.e., the console is pulled in the direction of travel. This means that the console is inclined in the direction of travel in such a way that an opening alignment angle is oriented between a ground surface and a longitudinal direction of the console in the direction of travel, thus clearly defining a pulled orientation of the console. The pulled orientation of the console is preferable because a pushed arrangement could tend to rear up when encountering resistance in the ground, which could lead to disadvantages in depth control and adverse effects on the desired contact pressure of the working tools or tillage implements.

[0023] As already mentioned, the frame structure can, in particular, consist of a central frame and machine sections extending laterally from the central frame. Preferably, a plurality of machine sections can extend from the central frame. Optionally, the machine sections extending laterally from the central frame can each be designed to be hinged relative to one another. Both the central frame and the machine sections can each comprise a cutting section with a series of rotating cutting tools, which rotating cutting tools are each arranged on the frame structure of the central frame and / or the machine sections via a rocker arm and a bracket. In addition, each of the machine sections can comprise at least one reconsolidation section, wherein the at least one reconsolidation section is arranged downstream of the at least one cutting section in the direction of travel.

[0024] Alternatively, it can also be provided that each of the machine sections includes at least one tine section and at least one reconsolidation section, wherein the at least one tine section is downstream of the at least one cutting section and the at least one reconsolidation section is downstream of the at least one tine section in the direction of travel.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the agricultural tillage machine, the at least one cutting section can comprise at least two rotating cutting tools, each of which is individually mounted to the frame structure via a rocker arm. Accordingly, the at least one cutting section can comprise at least two rows of rotating cutting tools, arranged transversely to the direction of travel on the frame structure. In the embodiment with at least two rotating cutting tools, the mounting, suspension, and arrangement of the cutting tools can, of course, be carried out or comprised in the same way as in the embodiment of the agricultural tillage machine with at least one rotating cutting tool.

[0026] It is possible for the at least two rotating cutting tools to be arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel. Alternatively, the at least two rotating cutting tools can be arranged directly one behind the other in the direction of travel. It would also be conceivable for the at least two rotating cutting tool sets to be arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel and offset from each other transversely to the direction of travel, thereby avoiding gaps and enabling full-surface soil cultivation.

[0027] Optionally or additionally, the arms of the at least two rotating cutting unit sections arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel can be coupled to each other via at least one coupling element, wherein the at least one coupling element forms a rigid or at least partially movable coupling connection. In the case of a rigid coupling connection, the at least one coupling element can, for example, comprise a strut, a connecting arm, or the like. In the case of an at least partially movable coupling connection, the at least one coupling element can comprise a spring element, an electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically operated cylinder, or the like.

[0028] Provided that at least one coupling connection exists between the arms of the at least two rotating cutting tools, it may be sufficient for each coupled arm to be assigned only one linear element. Due to this coupling connection, positioning movements of the at least one linear element can be transmitted to both arms and thus to the at least two rotating cutting tools. This allows for component savings and consequently space reduction, as well as a simplified design of the cutting section.

[0029] It may be provided that the at least one rotating cutting tool is designed as a rotating knife roller or the like. The knife roller may, for example, have knives oriented transversely to the direction of travel, which may run in a straight line and / or a spiral. Optionally, the knife rollers may have a closed base body. If the at least one cutting section is designed with at least two rows, each equipped with rotating cutting tools, in particular rotating knife rollers, the cutting tools may be identical or different.

[0030] It can be provided that the at least one tine section comprises at least one support, thereby forming a row which extends transversely to the direction of travel of the agricultural tillage machine. Tools, in particular tines, can be arranged on the at least one support. Preferably, the tines can each be arranged evenly spaced relative to one another on the at least one support.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one tine section can comprise at least two supports arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel, thereby forming at least two rows of tools, the two rows of which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the agricultural tillage machine. The tines on the at least two supports may be offset from each other transversely to the direction of travel or arranged directly one behind the other.

[0032] It may also be provided that the tines are designed as harrow tines, cultivator points, or the like. In particular, it may be provided that the angle of the tools or the tines of at least one tine section can be changed in relation to the soil surface of the soil being cultivated, thereby adjusting their aggressiveness. Additional linear elements, such as pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric cylinders, may be provided for adjusting the tine angles. The angle adjustment can be automatic or manual.

[0033] Furthermore, the at least one reconsolidation section for reconsolidating the loosened soil may include at least one, two, or more rotating packer rollers. The packer rollers are typically arranged at the rear of the tillage machine, and a pivotable and / or height-adjustable mounting of the packer rollers may be advantageous, for example, in conjunction with height adjustability of the entire machine frame to vary the working depth of the other tillage components in the soil being worked. The at least one packer roller arranged at the rear of the machine may, for example, have a plurality of spaced-apart packer rings. Optionally, the reconsolidation section may also include packer tires or similar packer tools.

[0034] As already mentioned, it can be provided as a further option that the at least one tine section and / or the at least one reconsolidation section are height-adjustable on the frame structure, wherein, in particular, the at least one packer roller and / or the at least one tine are mounted height-adjustable on the frame structure. Further linear elements, which can be designed, for example, as pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric cylinders, can be provided for height adjustment of the at least one tine section and / or the at least one reconsolidation section.

[0035] It may also be provided that at least one cutting section in the direction of travel is preceded by depth control wheels and / or that depth control wheels are arranged or assigned between the cutting section and / or the tine section in the direction of travel and / or that depth control wheels are integrated into the cutting section and / or the tine section.

[0036] According to a further development of the invention, the soil cultivation machine can be equipped with elements and / or components for the application of seed, in particular for the application of microgranules. Accordingly, the machine can include at least one storage tank by means of which the seed can be carried and stored. At least one metering device can be provided below the storage tank, so that the seed carried and stored in the tank can be extracted and directly metered or distributed into individual lines. Each line can have an airflow generated by a blower, preferably a radial blower. The airflow generated by the blower can serve as a carrier medium, so that a seed-air flow can be created by mixing and / or blending seed into the airflow of the individual line.The pipeline system, or the individual pipelines, can terminate in ground-level or subsurface application elements, through which the seed can be dispersed into the soil. The application elements can preferably be arranged in the direction of travel before and / or after the reconsolidation section. This allows both soil cultivation and seed sowing to be carried out in a single pass.

[0037] Furthermore, it may be provided that the soil cultivation machine is assigned a control device via which it is possible to control at least one linear element and / or the other linear elements and / or actuating elements mentioned or the like.

[0038] The invention further comprises a soil cultivation method, which includes at least the following steps: First, plant residues on the surface of the soil to be cultivated are shredded by means of at least one cutting section, which comprises at least one rotating cutting tool, which cutting tool is mounted to the frame structure via a rocker arm. A bracket may be associated with the rocker arm, via which the rocker arm with the rotating cutting tool is mounted to the frame structure.

[0039] In a next step, plant residues can optionally be distributed and the surface of the soil leveled by means of a tine section following or downstream of the cutting section in the direction of travel.

[0040] In a further step, the loosened soil is reconsolidated in a reconsolidation section following or optionally following the tine section in the direction of travel.

[0041] Furthermore, it is provided that at least one rotating cutting tool is supplied, which cutting tool is mounted to the frame structure of an agricultural tillage machine via a rocker arm and a bracket associated with the rocker arm. The rocker arm allows the at least one rotating cutting tool to oscillate freely and adapt to uneven ground.

[0042] Subsequently, at least one adjusting element is activated, so that the height of the rotating cutting tool is set relative to the frame structure or in relation to the surface being worked. At the same time, the contact pressure of the at least one rotating cutting tool is set and adjusted in relation to the surface being worked.

[0043] With regard to all the aspects and embodiments of the soil cultivation machine according to the invention mentioned above, it should be noted that these aspects and characteristics can equally be part of the soil cultivation method according to the invention and / or be applied to the method according to the invention. Therefore, whenever certain aspects and embodiments of the soil cultivation machine are mentioned at any point in the above description, these aspects and embodiments should be interpreted as referring equally to the soil cultivation method and should be understood as such.

[0044] The following exemplary embodiments of the invention and its advantages will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual relative sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged for better illustration. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the agricultural soil cultivation machine. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the agricultural soil cultivation machine. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the agricultural soil cultivation machine. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the swing arm with console and rotating cutting tool. Fig. Figure 5A shows an embodiment of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling linear elements, such as those that can be used to adjust soil cultivation tools of the agricultural soil cultivation machine. Fig. Figure 5B shows another embodiment of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling linear elements. Fig. Figure 5C shows a third variant of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling linear elements. Fig. Figure 5D shows a fourth variant of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling linear elements.

[0045] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals necessary for describing the respective figure are shown in the individual figures. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the agricultural soil cultivation machine can be designed and do not constitute an exhaustive limitation.

[0046] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a variant of an agricultural tillage machine 10 with a frame structure 12 for supporting the respective components. The frame structure 12 comprises a central frame (not shown) and two machine sections (also not shown) extending laterally from the central frame, which are designed to pivot relative to the central frame. In particular, the lateral machine sections are designed to pivot approximately 90° relative to the central frame, so that the overall width of the machine 10 can be reduced for transport on roads. Actuating elements (not shown) are provided for pivoting the machine sections; these elements are designed as electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically operated cylinders.

[0047] To connect the tillage machine 10 to a towing vehicle (not shown), the central frame includes a drawbar (not shown) at the front in the direction of travel F. A chassis (also not shown) is also attached to the front of the central frame in the direction of travel F, comprising wheels or pairs of wheels. The chassis is designed to pivot relative to the central frame, allowing it to be lowered for road travel and raised for field travel. Additional actuating elements (not shown) in the form of further electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic cylinders may be provided for this purpose. Depth control wheels (not shown) may also be provided at the front of the machine sections to maintain the working depth and adapt to the terrain.

[0048] The agricultural soil cultivation machine 10 is divided into at least three sections. In the direction of travel F, the soil cultivation machine 10 first comprises a cutting section 14, which is designed for shredding plant residues on the surface of soil (not shown here). The cutting section 14 comprises at least one row of rotating cutting tools 16. This row of rotating cutting tools 16 preferably extends transversely to the direction of travel along the width of the frame structure 12.

[0049] The soil cultivation machine 10 further comprises at least one tine section 24 downstream of the cutting section 14 in the direction of travel F, which is designed for shredding plant residues and leveling the surface of soil (not shown here). The tine section 24 comprises at least two supports 26, 26' arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel F; that is, the tine section 24 comprises rows, each arranged transversely to the direction of travel F of the soil cultivation machine 10, in particular on the frame structure 12. On each of the supports 26, 26', tines 28, 28' are arranged at a uniform distance from one another. The tines 28, 28' can be, for example, harrow tines, cultivator points, or the like.Preferably, the tines 28, 28', arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel F, are offset from each other transversely in the direction of travel F, thus eliminating gaps during soil cultivation and enabling full-surface soil cultivation. In particular, the angle of the tines 28, 28' is also adjustable, thereby changing their aggressiveness. Linear elements (not shown) can be provided for adjusting the angles; these can be, for example, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric cylinders. The angle adjustment can be automatic or manual.

[0050] The soil cultivation machine 10 further comprises at least one reconsolidation section 30 downstream of the tine section 24 in the direction of travel F, which is designed for reconsolidating the loosened soil (not shown here). The reconsolidation section 30 comprises at least one row transverse to the direction of travel, which is formed by a packer roller 32.

[0051] The tines 28, 28' and / or the packer roller 32 are designed and mounted to be height-adjustable relative to the frame structure 12. Additional linear elements, not shown here, such as electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic cylinders or the like, may be provided for adjusting the height of the tines 28, 28' and / or the packer roller 32. The height adjustment can be automatic or manual.

[0052] The rotating cutting tool 16 is in the form of a rotating knife roller 18. The knife roller 18 is mounted on a rocker arm 20, which rocker arm 20 is connected via a bracket 22 (see figure). Fig. 4) is mounted on the frame structure 12 of the machine 10. In particular, the console 22 is mounted on the frame structure 12 or on a further support 27 of the frame structure 12 via a support arm 66, where a bearing unit 64 is formed. The console 22 is mounted on the frame structure 12 in a height-adjustable manner by means of a linear element 28, the linear element 28 comprising an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic cylinder 40. By means of the linear element 38, it is also possible to variably adjust and / or set the preload force or contact force on the cutter roller 18. This allows the cutter roller 18 to be individually adjusted to the respective prevailing environmental and soil conditions in order to achieve optimized soil cultivation. The preload force or contact force can also be adjusted and / or variably changed depending on the width of the cutter rollers 18.

[0053] The soil cultivation machine 10 comprises a control device S, via which in particular the at least one linear element 38 as well as the other linear elements or cylinders or the like not shown here are controlled.

[0054] In the Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the agricultural tillage machine 10. The Fig. The soil cultivation machine 10 shown in Figure 2 basically has a similar design to the one in Figure 2. Fig. Figure 1 shows an agricultural tillage machine 10, wherein only the cutting section 14, initially arranged in the direction of travel F, is designed differently. The cutting section 14 comprises at least two rows, each equipped with a rotating cutting tool 16, 16'. The at least two rows with the rotating cutting tools 16, 16' preferably extend transversely to the direction of travel F along the width of the frame structure 12 and are arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel F, and in particular spaced apart from each other in the direction of travel F. The rotating cutting tools 16, 16' can each be arranged directly one behind the other. It would also be conceivable for the at least two rotating cutting tool rows 16, 16' to be arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel F and offset from each other transversely to the direction of travel F, thereby avoiding gaps and enabling full-surface tillage of the soil.

[0055] The rotating cutting tools 16, 16' are each designed in the form of rotating knife rollers 18, 18'. The knife rollers 18, 18' are each mounted on a rocker arm 20, 20', which rocker arm 20, 20' is mounted to the frame structure 12 of the machine 10 via a bracket 22. In particular, the bracket 22 is mounted to the frame structure 12 or to a further support 27, 27' of the frame structure 12 via a support arm 66, 66', where a bearing unit 64, 64' is provided. The bracket 22 is mounted to the frame structure 12 in a height-adjustable manner by means of a linear element 38, 38', wherein the linear element 38, 38' comprises an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic cylinder 40, 40'. Furthermore, by means of the linear element 38, 38' it is possible to variably adjust and / or set the preload force or contact force on the knife rollers 18, 18'.This allows the 18" and 18" knife rollers to be individually adjusted to the prevailing environmental and soil conditions in order to achieve optimized soil cultivation. The preload or contact force can also be adjusted and / or variably changed depending on the width of the 18" and 18" knife rollers.

[0056] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the agricultural soil cultivation machine 10 with a structure which corresponds to the one described in Fig. The structure of the soil cultivation machine 10 shown in section 2 corresponds at least largely to the design shown.

[0057] In addition to the one in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the at least two rotating cutting tools 16, 16' in the form of cutter rollers 18, 18', arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel F, are coupled to each other via at least one coupling element 34. In particular, the rocker arms 20, 20' of the respective rotating cutting tools 16, 16' are coupled to each other via at least one coupling element 34. The at least one coupling element 34 can form a rigid or a movable coupling connection 36. In the case of a rigid coupling connection, the at least one coupling element 34 can, for example, comprise a strut, a connecting arm, or the like. In the case of a movable coupling connection, the at least one coupling element 34 can comprise a spring element, an electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically operated cylinder, or the like.

[0058] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the swing arm 20, on which a rotating cutting tool 16 is provided. The rotating cutting tool 16 is designed in the form of a cutter cylinder 18. The cutter cylinder 18 preferably has knives oriented transversely to the direction of travel F, which knives run in a straight line and / or a spiral. Optionally, the cutter cylinder 18 can have a closed base body.

[0059] The console 22 preferably consists of two housing halves (not shown here) which accommodate a longitudinal member 42 of the rocker arm 20; that is, the console 22 forms a bearing unit for the rocker arm 20, in particular for the longitudinal member 42 of the rocker arm 20. The console 22 as such is, however, connected via a support arm 66 (see figure). Fig. 1) mounted to the frame structure 12, thereby forming a bearing unit 62. Preferably, the support arm 66 is provided on a top side of at least one housing half of the console 22. The two housing halves are connected to each other, for example, by means of a force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit connection. Preferably, the two housing halves of the console 22 are connected to each other by means of screws or bolts. Four elastomer bearings or rubber cords, not shown here, are further provided in the console 22. The four elastomer bearings generate a preload force, which preload force is transferred to the rocker arm 20 and, in particular, to the cutter roller 18; i.e., the rocker arm 20 is mounted to the console 22 by means of elastically deformable bearing elements that generate a preload force. The elastomer bearings or rubber cords can also beRubber cords absorb an overload if the cutter roller 18 encounters an obstacle and / or uneven ground, thus preventing damage, breakage, or similar issues to the cutter roller 18. Thanks to the elastomer bearings, the rocker arm 20, with the cutter roller 18 mounted on it, can deflect upwards.

[0060] Additionally or optionally, an overload protection device, not shown here, is assigned to the linear element 38 or its control system, which can be designed, for example, in the form of a hydraulic spring accumulator.

[0061] The linear element 38, in particular the cylinders 20, is each equipped with a control device S (see Fig. 1) connected, via which the linear element 38 is controlled. Alternatively, manual adjustment may also be possible.

[0062] The Fig. Figure 5A shows a first version of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling the linear elements 38, 38', 38''. +n , via which linear elements 38, 38', 38'' +n The height of the console 22, 22' and thus the height of the swing arm 20 with the respective knife rollers 46, 46' arranged on it can be adjusted. As it Fig. As can be seen from 5A, there are three double-acting cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +n Provided, which are connected in parallel with both printing sides. Each of the three cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +n has one piston side 44, 44', 44'' +n with a piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n , a piston rod 48, 48', 48'' +n as well as a ring side 50, 50', 50'' +n on. The piston sides 44, 44', 44'' +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n the cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +nare each connected to each other via a first pressure line 52 or fluidically coupled, and the ring sides 50, 50', 50'' +n the cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +n Each cylinder is connected to the other via a second pressure line 54, or fluidically coupled. Pressure is applied to cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +n , especially the piston sides 44, 44', 44'' +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n The first pressure line 52, pressurized with hydraulic pressure, causes the piston rods 48, 48', 48'' to extend. +n , thus causing the knife rollers 18, 18' to work deeper and therefore more aggressively in the soil. The ring sides 50, 50', 50'' +n However, they are each relieved of stress or at least subjected to a slightly lower load.

[0063] A shallower working depth of the knife rollers 18, 18' in the soil is achieved by shaping the piston sides 44, 44', 44'' +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +nrelieved via the first pressure line 52 or subjected to at least a slightly lower load, and the ring lines 50, 50', 50'' +n The second pressure line 54 is subjected to more pressure and / or load than the first pressure line 52. This causes the piston rods 48, 48', 48'' to... +n the cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +n each section is driven in, resulting in a shallower working depth for the knife rollers 18, 18' in the ground.

[0064] About the respective cylinders 40, 40', 40'' +n set pressure level, which is achieved, for example, by applying pressure to the piston sides 44, 44', 44'' +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +nThe pressure is set via the first pressure line 52, and a preload force, and thus a contact force on the knife rollers 18, 18', is generated by the elastomer bearings or rubber cords provided in the console 22. The preload force and the contact force can be adjusted depending on the set pressure level in the cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +n , especially in the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n The control of cylinders 40, 40', 40'' can be varied. +n This is achieved via a control device S, which is designed as a double-acting control unit. Overloads, which occur, for example, when the knife rollers 18, 18' encounter an obstacle, are absorbed primarily by the elastomer bearings or rubber cords, according to the present hydraulic diagram.

[0065] The first pressure line 52 and the second pressure line 54 each have a check valve 56, 56'. Additionally, a spring-loaded check valve 58 is provided in the first pressure line 52, which is connected in series with the check valve 56. Furthermore, the spring-loaded check valve 58 is connected to the second pressure line 54. The check valves 56, 56' and the spring-loaded check valve 58 ensure that when pressure is applied to the piston side 44, 44', 44'', +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n via the first pressure line 52, the second pressure line 54 is shut off with pressure, and that when the ring side 50, 50', 50'' is pressurized +n The first pressure line 52 is shut off by pressure via the second pressure line 54.

[0066] The in Fig. The second variant of a hydraulic circuit diagram shown in 5B includes all components or the same setup as shown in Fig. Hydraulic circuit diagram shown in 5A for controlling the linear elements 38, 38', 38'' +n . Additionally, the first pressure line 52 includes a pressure accumulator 90, which is located between the spring-loaded check valve 58 and the piston side 44, 44', 44''. +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n is arranged and is connected in series with the spring-loaded check valve 58. The pressure accumulator 60 improves ground contour following of the arms 20 with the cutter roller 18, 18' attached to them, thereby compensating for volume changes during positioning movements of the cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +n This is particularly advantageous when encountering bumps or similar unevenness in the ground. For example, forces generated when the cutter rollers 18, 18' strike an obstacle and / or bumps in the ground can be better compensated for by quickly relieving the pressure on the piston sides 44, 44', 44''. +nwith the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n comes.

[0067] The in Fig. The hydraulic circuit diagram shown in 5C (third variant) includes all components or the same setup as shown in Fig. Hydraulic circuit diagram shown in 5B for controlling the linear elements 38, 38', 38'' +n Additionally, the hydraulic circuit diagram shows that Fig. A pressure valve 62 is provided in section 5C, which is connected or fluidically coupled to the first pressure line 52 and the second pressure line 54. The hydraulic preload or preload force and / or the contact force of the bracket 22, and thus of the rocker arm 20 with the respective cutter roller 18, 18' attached to it, are adjusted and / or set by means of the pressure valve 62. The pressure valve 62 serves to ensure that a preset or defined pressure in the first pressure line 52 and in the second pressure line 54 is not exceeded. The pressure valve 62 can be fixed or adjustable, with the adjustment being manual or electro-proportional.

[0068] Through Fig. 5D is a fourth variant of a hydraulic circuit diagram for controlling the linear elements 38, 38', 38''. +n , especially cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +n depicted, with the linear elements 38, 38', 38''+n The height of the console 22 and thus the height of the swing arm 20 with the knife roller 18, 18' arranged on it is adjusted.

[0069] According to Fig. 5D consists of three linear elements: 38, 38', 38'' +n , especially three cylinders 40, 40', 40'' +n The cylinders are designed to be connected in parallel. Each of the three cylinders has a length of 40, 40', 40''. +n has one piston side 44, 44', 44'' +n with a piston chamber 46, 46', 46'', a piston rod 48, 48', 48'' +n as well as a ring side 50, 50', 50'' +n on. The piston sides 44, 44', 44'' +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n the cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +n are each connected to each other via a first pressure line 52 or fluidically coupled, and the ring sides 50, 50', 50'' +n the cylinder 40, 40', 40'' +nThey are each connected to each other via a second pressure line 54, or fluidically coupled. The first pressure line 52 is connected to a pressure source P and the second pressure line 54 is connected to a return line T, i.e., the piston side 44, 44', 44''. +n with the piston chamber 46, 46', 46'' +n The system is pressurized via the pressure source P to a defined pressure. The return line T allows the fluid to flow back via the second pressure line 54 into a tank (not shown). The first pressure line 52 and the second pressure line 54 are connected to each other by a pressure valve 62, which regulates the pressure level in cylinders 40, 40', and 40''. +n The pressure is adjusted. Additionally, pressure valve 62 ensures that a preset pressure is not exceeded. This is achieved by adjusting the pressure level in cylinders 40, 40', 40''. +nThe aggressiveness of the knife rollers 18, 18' is also adjusted, with a piston rod 48, 48', 48'' extended to a great extent. +n a deeper and therefore more aggressive working of the knife rollers 18, 18' in the ground and a retracted piston rod 48, 48', 48'' +n This allows for a shallower and slightly more aggressive working of the knife rollers 18, 18' in the soil.

[0070] The pressure valve 62 can be fixed or adjustable, with the adjustment being manual or electro-proportional.

[0071] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable to a person skilled in the art that modifications or changes to the invention can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims. Reference symbol list 10 soil cultivation machines 12 Frame construction 14 Cutting section 16 cutting tools 16' cutting tool 18 knife roller 18' knife roller 20 swing arms 22 console 24 tine sections 26 carriers 26' carrier 27 Other carrier 27' Further carrier 28 prongs 28' tines 30 Reconsolidation section 32 Packer roller 34 coupling element 36 coupling connection 38 linear elements 40 cylinders 42 longitudinal beams 44 Piston side 44' Piston side 44'' +n Piston side 46 Piston chamber 46' piston chamber 46'' +n piston chamber 48 Piston rod 48' piston rod 48'' +n piston rod 50 ring side 50' ring side 50'' +n Ring side 52 First pressure line 54 Second pressure line 56 Check valve 56' Check valve 58 Spring-loaded check valve 60 pressure accumulators 62 Pressure valve 64 storage units 64' storage unit 66 Support arm F Direction of travel P Pressure source S control unit T return

Claims

[1] Agricultural tillage machine (10) at least comprising, - a frame structure (12) for supporting several components, in particular for soil cultivation, - at least one cutting section (14) for shredding plant residues on the surface of soil to be worked and / or driven over by the tillage machine, - at least one reconsolidation section (30) downstream of the cutting section (14) in the direction of travel (F) of the soil cultivation machine (10) for reconsolidating the loosened and / or leveled soil, - wherein the at least one cutting section (14) comprises at least one rotating cutting tool (16) which is pivotably mounted on the frame structure (12) via a rocker arm (20), characterized by, that the swing arm (20) is associated with a console, via which the swing arm (20) with the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) is mounted to the frame structure (12), that the swing arm (20) is mounted to the console by means of elastically deformable bearing elements that generate a preload force, and that at least one linear element (38) is assigned to the console, so that the console and thus the swing arm (20) are designed to be height-adjustable relative to the frame construction (12). [2] Soil cultivation machine according to claim 1, in which a contact force can be generated on the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) by means of the at least one linear element (38), which contact force is variably adjustable. [3] Soil cultivation machine according to one of the preceding claims, in which a mechanical and / or hydraulic overload protection device for limiting the contact force on the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) is assigned to the at least one linear element (38). [4] Soil cultivation machine according to one of the preceding claims, in which a tine section (24) for distributing the shredded plant residues and leveling the surface of the soil is arranged downstream of the cutting section (14) in the direction of travel (F) of the soil cultivation machine (10), wherein the reconsolidation section (30) for reconsolidating the loosened and / or leveled soil is arranged downstream of the tine section (24) in the direction of travel (F) of the soil cultivation machine (10). [5] Soil cultivation machine according to one of the preceding claims, in which the at least one cutting section (14) comprises at least two rotating cutting tools (16, 16'), which cutting tools (16, 16') are each individually mounted to the frame structure (12) via a rocker arm (20). [6] Soil cultivation machine according to claim 5, in which the at least two rotating cutting tools (16, 16') are arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel (F) or offset one behind the other transversely to the direction of travel (F). [7] Soil cultivation machine according to one of claims 4 to 6, in which the swing arms (20) of the at least two rotating cutting tools (16, 16') can be coupled to each other via at least one coupling element (34), wherein the at least one coupling element (34) forms a rigid or movable coupling connection (36). [8] Soil cultivation machine according to one of the preceding ones, in which the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) is designed as a rotating knife roller (18). [9] Soil cultivation machine according to one of the preceding claims, comprising several foldable machine sections, wherein each of the machine sections is assigned at least one cutting section (14) with at least one rocker arm (20) with at least one rotating cutting tool (16) and / or a tine section (24) and a reconsolidation section (40). [10] Agricultural soil cultivation methods comprising the steps: - Shredding of plant residues on the surface of the soil by means of a cutting section (14) which comprises at least one rotating cutting tool (16) which cutting tool (16) is mounted on the frame structure (12) via a bracket associated with the rocker arm (20), and which rocker arm (20) is mounted on the bracket by means of elastically deformable bearing elements that generate a preload force, - Control of at least one actuating element (28) so that the height of the rotating cutting tool (16) is adjusted in relation to the frame structure (12) or to a surface of a floor to be processed, wherein at the same time the contact force of the at least one rotating cutting tool (16) in relation to the floor is set and adjusted via the control of the at least one actuating element (28), - Reconsolidation of the loosened soil by means of a reconsolidation section (32) following a tine section (24) in the direction of travel (F). [11] Method according to claim 10, wherein, after the chopping of the plant residues on the surface of the soil by means of the cutting section (14), a distribution of plant residues and leveling of the surface of the soil is provided by means of at least one tine section (24) following the cutting section (14) in the direction of travel (F).

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