Agricultural distribution machine for distributing different goods

The agricultural distribution machine efficiently switches between distribution items using a control device and sowing coulters to maintain uniform distribution patterns despite 180° turns, addressing inefficiencies in existing machines.

DE102019122913B4Active Publication Date: 2026-02-05HORSCH MASCHINEN SE & CO KG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102019122913
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2019-08-27
Publication Date
2026-02-05
Estimated Expiration
2039-08-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Agricultural distribution machines often require inefficient 360° turns to continue the alternating sequence of different distribution items, such as seed and fertilizer, leading to inefficiencies in distribution patterns.

Method used

An agricultural distribution machine with a control device that allows for variable and position-dependent switching of distribution output between different distribution items, such as seed and fertilizer, using sowing coulters and cellular wheel locks, enabling efficient and uniform distribution patterns despite 180° turns.

Benefits of technology

Enables the continuation of desired distribution patterns with alternating sequences of different materials without the need for inefficient 360° turns, allowing for precise and efficient distribution of multiple materials in varying positions and directions.

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Abstract

Agricultural distribution machine (100) for distributing different materials and preferably for selectively switching an output between the different materials, comprising: - a first storage container (1) for receiving a first material, - a second storage container (2) for receiving a second material, - a plurality of seed coulters (A, 10, Z) arranged side by side, preferably for selectively dispensing the material, and - a control device (20) for controlling the output of the material, wherein - the control device (20) is configured to switch the output of the material from a first seed coulter (A, 10, Z) from the first material to the second material and / or to no material or vice versa, and to switch the output of the material from a second seed coulter (A, 10, Z) from the second material and / or from no material to the first material or vice versa, characterized in thatthat the control device (20) is designed to perform switching for a connecting journey, for a change of direction and / or for an essentially 180° turn (X) of the agricultural distribution machine (100), preferably in such a way that a distribution pattern with different distribution materials can be continued.
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Description

The invention relates to an agricultural distribution machine for distributing different (in particular granular) distribution products, e.g. for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution products, and to a method for controlling such an agricultural distribution machine.With regard to the general prior art, reference can first be made to U.S. Pat. No. 9,596,803 B2, U.S. Pat. No. 2007 / 0 048 434 A1, U.S. Pat. No. 2014 / 0 165 890 A1, DE 10 2014 111 088 A1, DE 10 2007 034 997 B4 and DE 28 26 658 A1.In the prior art, agricultural distribution machines for distributing granular different distribution materials (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.) in the most varied embodiments are known. FIG. 12 schematically shows a conventional distribution goods discharge pattern with two different distribution goods. In this case, the different distribution products are distributed in alternating sequence by means of a multiplicity of sowing coulters of the agricultural distribution machines. However, one problem here is that the agricultural distribution machines often have to travel an inefficient 360° turn, which is symbolically represented by four turning arrows in FIG. 12, in order to be able to continue the distribution item output pattern with alternating sequence of the different distribution items.An object of the invention is to create an alternative and / or improved agricultural distribution machine, preferably an agricultural distribution machine, with which different distribution products can be discharged in particular efficiently, variably, depending on position and / or depending on the direction of travel.The invention relates to an agricultural distribution machine for distributing different (in particular granular) distribution products and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution products.The distribution machine can be, for example, a (in particular pneumatic) sowing machine, preferably for drilling and / or single-grain sowing.The different distribution materials can comprise, for example, different seed varieties, seed and fertilizers, different seed varieties and fertilizers and / or different fertilizers, etc.The agricultural distribution machine comprises a first storage container for receiving a first distribution item (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.) and a second storage container for receiving a second distribution item (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.).The agricultural distribution machine comprises a plurality of sowing coulters, which are arranged in particular next to one another, for example for the optional output of the distribution material, in particular of the first distribution material and of the second distribution material.The agricultural distribution machine comprises a control device for (e.g. indirect or direct) controlling the output of the distribution item, in particular of the different distribution items, e.g. of the first distribution item and of the second distribution item (and optionally of a third distribution item).Controlling the output may include, for example, activating (expediently starting) an output, deactivating (expediently stopping) an output and / or quantitatively changing an output.The control device can comprise, for example, a computing unit, a data processing unit, a controller and / or a job computer, optionally, for example, with a computing model, computing program, etc.The agricultural distribution machine is preferably characterized in that the control device is designed to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least one first sowing coulter from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) or preferably vice versa and / or to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least one second sowing coulter from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) to the first distribution material or preferably vice versa.The switching can be effected, for example, variably, position-dependently and / or direction-dependently.In this way, in particular a plurality of different distribution item output patterns with different distribution items can be realized.This makes it possible, for example, for a desired, in particular uniform, distribution material discharge pattern (for example with alternating sequence between different distribution materials) to be continued despite a substantially 180° turn of the agricultural distribution machine.For example, medium-symmetric distribution material discharge patterns (e.g., starting from the center of the row of blades, the same distribution material can be discharged at the same distance to the left and to the right, for example, with the same sowing blades) and / or non-medium-symmetric distribution material discharge patterns can be generated (e.g., starting from the center of the row of blades, different distribution material can be discharged at the same distance to the left and to the right, for example, with the same or different sowing blades). Optionally in addition, the respective working depth of the sowing coulters and thus the depositing depth of the distribution item can be changed (in particular by means of control by the control device).It is possible that the first sowing coulter is an outermost (e.g. left) sowing coulter and the second sowing coulter is an outermost (e.g. right) sowing coulter and are designed, for example, to discharge different items to be distributed.The control device is preferably designed to switch over, for example, the output of the distribution material of at least some or preferably all of the sowing coulters between the first sowing coulter and the second sowing coulter from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) or, for example, vice versa, and / or to switch over from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) to the first distribution material or, for example, vice versa.It is possible that the control device is configured to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least one of each second sowing coulters or of at least one of each third sowing coulters from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) or vice versa, for example. The counting sequence of the sowing coulters can begin, for example, with the first outermost sowing coulter or the second outermost sowing coulter.It is possible, for example, for the control device to be designed to switch over the output of the distribution material of the sowing coulters with an even share number from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) or preferably vice versa, and / or to switch over the output of the distribution material of the sowing coulters with an odd share number from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) to the first distribution material or preferably vice versa. The counting sequence of the sowing coulters can begin, for example, with the first outermost sowing coulter or the second outermost sowing coulter.It is possible for the sowing coulters to be assigned to a first row of coulters.The agricultural distribution machine can have, for example, a second row of share with a plurality of sowing share.The first row of blades and the second row of blades can be arranged one behind the other, for example.The sowing coulters of the first coulter row and the sowing coulters of the second coulter row can be arranged (e.g. in the longitudinal direction of the first coulter row and of the second coulter row), for example, offset with respect to one another, preferably by a substantially half line spacing.It is possible that the sowing coulters of the first row of coulters and the sowing coulters of the second row of coulters have the same or different line distances and / or have the same or different working depths.It is possible for the agricultural distribution machine to have at least two, at least three or at least four cell rotors which can be operated independently of one another for, for example, volumetric metering of the distribution material. For example, at least two cell rotors for the first distribution item and at least one cell rotor for the second distribution item or vice versa can be provided. It is also possible to provide, for example, at least two cell rotors for the first distribution item and at least two cell rotors for the second distribution item.It is possible that the agricultural distribution machine has at least one first cellular wheel lock with at least one first cellular rotor for, for example, volumetric metering of the first distribution item, and at least one second cellular wheel lock with at least one second cellular rotor for, for example, volumetric metering of the second distribution item.The at least one first cell rotor and the at least one second cell rotor can preferably be operated independently of one another.It is possible for the agricultural distribution machine to have at least one first cellular wheel lock with at least two first cellular rotors that can be operated independently of one another for volumetric metering of the first distribution item, for example, and / or to have at least one or at least two second cellular wheel locks with at least two second cellular rotors that can be operated independently of one another for volumetric metering of the second distribution item, for example.The at least two first cell rotors and the at least two second cell rotors can preferably be operated independently of one another.The at least two first cell rotors can be accommodated, for example, in a common metering housing and / or arranged substantially coaxially with respect to one another. Alternatively or additionally, the at least two second cell rotors can be accommodated in a common metering housing and / or arranged substantially coaxially with respect to one another.It is possible that at least two cell rotors are connected in series and / or at least two cell rotors are connected in parallel.It is also possible for a plurality of metering devices (in particular rotary feeder valves) to be provided each with only one cell rotor for volumetric metering of the distribution material, for example, and for the individual cell rotors of the metering devices to be operable preferably independently of one another.The first cellular wheel sluice can have e.g. at least two control elements, preferably control flaps (e.g. half-side flaps) for the selective distribution of the first distribution item between at least two distribution item outlets. Alternatively or additionally, the second cellular wheel sluice can have, for example, at least two control elements, preferably control flaps (for example half-side flaps), for the selective distribution of the second distribution item between at least two distribution item outlets. The distribution material outlets preferably lead into a pneumatic distribution material conveying system for conveying air-assisted transport of the (expediently first and / or second) distribution material, preferably to at least one distribution tower and from the at least one distribution tower to the plurality of sowing coulters.The first cellular wheel lock preferably has a fall lock in which the at least two control elements of the first cellular wheel lock can be arranged.The second cellular wheel lock preferably has a fall lock in which the at least two control elements of the second cellular wheel lock can be arranged.The agricultural distribution machine can have, for example, a first distribution tower (expediently comprising an upper or lower distribution head), preferably for the optional distribution of the first distribution item and / or of the second distribution item.It is possible for the agricultural distribution machine to have, for example, a second distribution tower (expediently comprising an upper or lower distribution head), preferably for the optional distribution of the first distribution item and / or of the second distribution item.The first distribution tower can preferably be connected to e.g. at least two or at least three cell rotors operable independently of one another for the purpose of supplying material to be distributed (e.g. by means of control by the control device), wherein embodiments are also possible in which the first distribution tower can be connected e.g. to only one cell rotor for the purpose of supplying material to be distributed.The optional second distribution tower can preferably be connected to at least one, at least two or at least three cell rotors that can be operated independently of one another for supplying material to be distributed (e.g. by means of control by the control device), wherein embodiments are also possible in which the second distribution tower can be connected to only one cell rotor for supplying material to be distributed, for example.A plurality of the sowing coulters can be designed, for example, in order to discharge the first item to be distributed and the second item to be distributed jointly and thus, for example, substantially synchronously.A plurality of the sowing coulters can be connected to the first distribution tower and the second distribution tower, for example, for the purpose of supplying items to be distributed (preferably with different items to be distributed).The control device can be designed, for example, to preferably automatically carry out the selective switching, in particular, as a function of predetermined parameters.The parameters can comprise, for example, at least one of the following: surface-specific field contours or surface-specific field properties, type and / or nature of the different distribution goods, process-specific requirements, in particular lanes required by subsequent field work, and / or location coordinates of a position determination system.It is possible for the control device to be designed to carry out the preferably selective switching as a function of a direction of travel (in particular a change in the direction of travel) of the agricultural distribution machine and / or as a function of position (in particular by means of position coordinates of a position determination system (e.g. GPS)).A priority shift can be provided, for example, in order to override the preferably selective switching, wherein the priority shift can comprise, for example, a driving lane shift.The priority circuit can reduce or deactivate the output of the first item to be distributed and / or of the second item to be distributed, for example for establishing travel lanes.An input device (e.g. an operating device, a control panel, a display device, a touch panel, a keyboard, an input field, an app, an interface (e.g. a user interface, a digital interface and / or a data interface) and / or a mobile terminal)) can be provided, for example, by means of which an execution plan can be transmitted to the control device, wherein the execution plan can define the preferably selective switching, in particular in order to achieve a expediently desired distribution material output pattern and / or to be able to continue after a change in the direction of travel or position, for example.The input device can be designed, for example, for manual input of the execution plan by an operator and / or comprise an interface for transmitting the execution plan in the form of a data packet.It is possible for the control device to be designed, for example, in order to control, preferably as a function of the distribution material, a working depth (preferably including lifting from the ground and thus, for example, deactivating soil working) and / or a share pressure of a plurality of sowing shares in an expediently variable manner. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be designed, for example, to control line intervals of a plurality of sowing coulters in an expediently variable manner, for example in that the output of distribution material from specific sowing coulters can be deactivated or activated.The control device is designed to execute the changeover for a connection travel, for a change in the direction of travel and / or an essentially 180° turn and preferably for a change in position of the agricultural distribution machine, preferably in such a way that a preferably uniform distribution material output pattern with different distribution materials can be continued, e.g. a expediently uniform distribution material output pattern with alternating sequence between different distribution materials.The control device can be designed, for example, to actuate at least one of the following for switching over:at least one of a plurality of independently operable cell rotors for in particular volumetric metering of the distribution material,at least one control element (preferably a control flap, e.g. a half-side flap) of at least one rotary feeder gate, wherein the at least one control element is configured for the selective distribution of the distribution item between at least two (in particular at least three) distribution item outlets, and / orat least one control element (e.g. a valve, a flap and / or a switch) in the pneumatic distribution material conveying system for transporting metered distribution material to the sowing coulters. The control elements can be part of the first distribution tower and / or part of the second distribution tower and / or expediently part of the sowing coulters.A switchover can be effected, for example, in that the at least two distribution towers are supplied with different distribution goods, for example, depending on the direction of travel, wherein for this purpose either the cell rotors can be controlled differently and / or the control elements (for example the control flaps, in particular half-side flaps) can be brought into the corresponding switching positions in each case. According to an alternative or supplementary embodiment, it is possible that outlets (e.g. valves, flaps and / or diverters) can be switched in each case on at least one distributor tower.It is possible for the agricultural distribution machine to have a third storage container for receiving a third distribution item (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.), and / or a third distribution tower for distributing the distribution item to a plurality of sowing coulters.It is possible for the control device to be designed, for example, to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least the first sowing coulter (in particular of the sowing coulters of the agricultural distribution machine) between at least three different distribution materials and / or to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least the second sowing coulter (in particular of the sowing coulters of the agricultural distribution machine) between at least three different distribution materials.In the context of the invention, the distribution item can comprise the first distribution item, the second distribution item and / or, for example, the third distribution item.The first distribution material, the second distribution material and / or the third distribution material can be, in particular, different distribution materials (e.g. different seed varieties or e.g. seed and fertilizer or different seed varieties and fertilizer etc.).The sowing coulters can comprise, for example, disc sowing coulters (for example single disc coulters or double disc coulters), tine coulters, drag coulters and / or chisel coulters.It is possible that the switching and thus the selective distribution take place in particular depending on the position and / or depending on the direction of travel, e.g. such that despite a change in position and / or despite a change in the direction of travel of the agricultural distribution machine, the switching can ensure that the different distribution goods can be discharged at the desired position and thus advantageously a desired distribution goods discharge pattern can be achieved and in particular continued.The control device is preferably designed to cause the selective switching, for example by actuating cell rotors, control elements (for example control flaps, in particular half-side flaps) and / or other suitable control elements (for example on or in one or more distribution towers, on the sowing coulters and / or other suitable positions, in particular in the pneumatic distribution material conveying system for transporting the different distribution materials).The selective switching makes it possible, for example, for the first distribution material (e.g. seed) to be able to be selectively discharged into the rows of seeds and for the second distribution material (e.g. fertilizer) to be able to be discharged next to the rows of seeds (e.g. operating mode A) or for the first distribution material (e.g. seed) to be discharged into the rows of seeds and for the second distribution material (e.g. fertilizer) likewise to be (expediently directly) discharged into the rows of seeds (e.g. operating mode B).The metering of the rotary feeder locks and / or the rotary feeder is preferably volumetric metering.The invention also relates to a method of controlling an agricultural distribution machine, preferably as disclosed herein.The agricultural distribution machine serves for distributing different distribution items and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution items.The agricultural distribution machine comprises a first storage container for receiving a first distribution item, a second storage container for receiving a second distribution item, a plurality of sowing coulters arranged next to one another, and a control device for (preferably indirectly or directly) controlling the output of the distribution item (expediently the different distribution items, for example the first distribution item, the second distribution item and / or the third distribution item).The sowing coulters serve in particular for, for example, selective discharge of the distribution material (expediently of the first distribution material, of the second distribution material and / or of the third distribution material).The method is characterized in particular in that the control device switches over the output of the distribution material of at least one first sowing coulter from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) or preferably vice versa, and / or switches over the output of the distribution material of at least one second sowing coulter from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material (in particular no distribution material output) to the first distribution material or preferably vice versa.The disclosure relating to the agricultural distribution machine also applies expediently to the method.The storage containers can be separate storage containers, for example, or can be formed in a single storage device (for example, a double or multiple tank).The above-described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another. Other advantageous developments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims or result from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the appended figures. FIG. 1 shows an agricultural distribution machine according to an embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 shows an enlarged partial region of the agricultural distribution machine of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 shows a change in the direction of travel / change in position of the agricultural distribution machine of FIG. 1, in particular a 180° turn, FIG. 4 shows an agricultural distribution machine according to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 shows an enlarged partial region of the agricultural distribution machine of FIG. 4, FIG. 6 shows an agricultural distribution machine according to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder for an agricultural distribution machine according to an embodiment of the invention, in a first flap position, FIG. 8 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder for an agricultural distribution machine according to an embodiment of the invention, in a second flap position, FIG. 9 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder for an agricultural distribution machine according to an embodiment of the invention, in a third flap position, FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a rotary feeder for an agricultural distribution machine according to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 11 shows a schematic illustration of a distribution material delivery pattern with three different distribution materials generated by an agricultural distribution machine according to one embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 12 shows a schematic illustration of a distribution material output pattern with two different distribution materials and a 360° turn of an agricultural distribution machine for continuation of the distribution material output pattern according to the prior art.The embodiments described in the figures partially correspond, wherein the same reference numerals are used for similar or identical parts and reference can also be made to the description of the other embodiments for explanation thereof.FIG. 1 shows an agricultural distribution machine 100 for distributing different, in particular granular, distribution products and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution products, wherein FIG. 2 shows an enlarged partial region of the agricultural distribution machine 100.The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises a first storage container 1 for receiving a first distribution item (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.), a second storage container 2 for receiving a second distribution item (e.g. seed, fertilizer, etc.) and a plurality of adjacent sowing coulters A, 10, Z for the optional output of the first distribution item and the second distribution item.The first distribution item and the second distribution item are different distribution items, for example different seed types or seed on the one hand and fertilizer on the other hand.The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises, by way of example, twenty sowing coulters A, 10, Z, reference marks A forming a first outermost sowing coulter and reference mark Z forming a second outermost sowing coulter.A control device 20 serves to control the dispensing of the different distribution goods.The discharged different distribution goods are schematically illustrated by dashed lines for the first distribution goods and dotted lines for the second distribution goods. They form an in particular uniform distribution material discharge pattern with alternating sequence between the first distribution material and the second distribution material.A first metering device designed as a cellular wheel sluice 30 serves for the in particular volumetric metering of the first distribution item, wherein a second metering device designed as a cellular wheel sluice 40 serves for the in particular volumetric metering of the second distribution item. The rotary feeder locks 30 and 40 can be configured, for example, as described with reference to FIGS. 7, 8, 9 to 10.Thus, for example, the rotary feeder 30 can comprise two independently operable rotary cells 31. The cell rotors 31 can be driven, for example, by a respective drive motor (metering motor). Similarly, the rotary feeder 40 can comprise two independently operable rotary cells 41. The cell rotors 41 can likewise be driven, for example, by a respective dedicated drive motor (metering motor).The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises a first distribution tower 50 with a preferably upper distribution head and a second distribution tower 60 with a preferably upper distribution head, by means of which the metered first distribution material and the metered second distribution material can be fed to the sowing coulters A, 10, Z.In the exemplary embodiment, the first distribution tower 50 for supplying items is connected to all twenty sowing coulters A, 10, Z, and likewise the second distribution tower 60 for supplying items is connected to all twenty sowing coulters A, 10, Z.A pneumatic distribution material conveying system serves for conveying air-assisted transport of the metered first distribution material and the metered second distribution material via the first distribution tower 50 and / or via the second distribution tower 60 to the sowing coulters A, 10, Z. The conveying air can be generated by one or more flow generating devices 70 (e.g. fans).A drive vehicle 200 (e.g. a carrier and / or towing vehicle, e.g. a tractor or the like) serves for moving the agricultural distribution machine 100.Reference sign D identifies the forward travel direction, in particular the traction direction, of the drive vehicle 200 and thus of the agricultural distribution machine 100.The control device 20 is designed to switch over the dispensing of the distribution item from the sowing coulters A, 10, Z between the different distribution items, preferably including a switching over to no dispensing of the distribution item and / or including a switching over from no dispensing of the distribution item to a dispensing of the first distribution item and / or of the second distribution item.The control device 20 enables, in particular, the output of the distribution material of the first sowing coulter A to be switched over from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material output (or expediently vice versa), and for example the output of the distribution material of the second sowing coulter Z is switched over from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material output to the first distribution material (or expediently vice versa).By selective switching in the context of the invention, a plurality of different distribution material dispensing patterns with different distribution materials can be realized.The control device 20 can, for example, cause a selective switching over, so that the output of the distribution item of at least one of each second sowing coulters A, 10, Z or of at least one of each third sowing coulters A, 10, Z is switched over from the first distribution item to the second distribution item and / or to no distribution item (in particular no distribution item output) or, for example, vice versa. The counting sequence of the sowing coulters A, 10, Z can begin with, for example, one of the two outermost sowing coulters A, Z.The control device 20 can, for example, cause a selective switching over, so that the output of the distributed material of the sowing coulters A, 10, Z with an even coulter number is switched over from the first distributed material to the second distributed material and / or to no distributed material (in particular no distributed material output) or preferably vice versa, and / or the output of the distributed material of the sowing coulters A, 10, Z with an odd coulter number is switched over from the second distributed material and / or from no distributed material (in particular no distributed material output) to the first distributed material or preferably vice versa. The counting sequence of the sowing coulters A, 10, Z can begin with, for example, one of the two outermost sowing coulters A, Z.For example, an input device I can be provided, by means of which an execution plan for realizing a distribution material output pattern can be transmitted to the control device 20, wherein the execution plan defines the selective switching in order to generate the desired distribution material output pattern.The input device I can be designed, for example, for manual input of the execution plan by an operator (for example via a touch screen) and / or comprise an interface for transmitting the execution plan in the form of a data packet.FIG. 3 shows a change in the direction of travel and / or position of the agricultural distribution machine 100, in particular a 180° turn X.FIG. 3 at the top shows that the agricultural distribution machine 100 can generate an in particular uniform distribution material discharge pattern with alternating sequence between the first distribution material and the second distribution material.In order to be able to continue the distribution material discharge pattern with alternating sequence between the first distribution material and the second distribution material despite a 180° turn of the agricultural distribution machine 100, the control device 20 is designed to switch over the discharge of the distribution material of the sowing coulters A, 10, Z from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and the discharge of the distribution material from the second distribution material to the first distribution material. By the switching, an inefficient 360° turn as shown in Fig. 12, for example, is not required.By means of the changeover, it is possible, for example, to generate and preferably continue medium-symmetrical distribution material discharge patterns (for example starting from the center of the row of share, the same distribution material can be discharged in each case at the same distance to the left and to the right, for example using the same sowing share).By means of the changeover, for example, non-medium-symmetric distribution material discharge patterns (for example starting from the center of the row of share, different distribution material can be discharged in each case at the same distance to the left and to the right, for example using the same or different sowing share) can be generated and preferably continued (for example despite a substantially 180° turn X).FIG. 4 shows an agricultural distribution machine 100 according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein FIG. 5 shows an enlarged partial region of the agricultural distribution machine 100.The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises three storage containers for different distribution items, namely a storage container 1 for a first distribution item, a storage container 2 for a second distribution item, and a storage container 2' for a third distribution item.The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises three cellular wheel locks, namely a first cellular wheel lock 30 for the first distribution item, a second cellular wheel lock 40 for the second distribution item and a third cellular wheel lock 40' for the third distribution item.The individual sowing coulters A, 10, Z are designed in order to be able to discharge, on the one hand, together the first item to be distributed and the second item to be distributed and, on the other hand, together the third item to be distributed and the second item to be distributed in alternating sequence.The discharged different distribution goods are schematically represented by dashed lines for the first distribution goods, solid lines for the second distribution goods and dotted lines for the third distribution goods. They form an in particular uniform distribution material discharge pattern with alternating sequence between jointly discharged first distribution material and second distribution material and jointly discharged third distribution material and second distribution material.In order to be able to continue the distribution item output pattern, for example despite a substantially 180° turn of the agricultural distribution machine 100 (compare e.g. FIG. 3 ), the control device 20 is configured to switch the common output of the first distribution item and second distribution item to the common output of the second distribution item and third distribution item and to switch the common output of the third distribution item and second distribution item to the common output of the second distribution item and first distribution item.FIG. 6 shows an agricultural distribution machine 100 according to another embodiment of the invention, having three storage containers 1, 2, 2' for different distribution items, namely a storage container 1 for a first distribution item, a storage container 2 for a second distribution item, and a storage container 2' for a third distribution item.Three cellular wheel locks 30, 40, 40' for metering the different distribution items and three distribution towers 50, 60, 60' for distributing the metered different distribution items to the sowing coulters A, 10, Z are provided.The agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises in particular two crop rows, namely a first crop row with a plurality of sowing coulters A, 10, Z and a second crop row with a plurality of sowing coulters A', 10', Z1'. The first row of blades and the second row of blades are arranged one behind the other, so that the sowing blades A, 10, Z of the first row of blades and the sowing blades A', 10', Z1' of the second row of blades are arranged offset from one another in the longitudinal direction of the first row of blades and the second row of blades, for example by a substantially half line spacing.It can be seen from FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to 6 that the selective switching also enables different operating modes, for example. Thus, for example, the first distribution material (e.g. seed) can be selectively applied to the seed rows and the second distribution material (e.g. fertilizer) can be applied next to the seed rows (operating mode A) or the first distribution material (e.g. seed) can be applied to the seed rows and the second distribution material (e.g. fertilizer) can likewise (expediently directly) be applied to the seed rows (operating mode B).FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder 30 for an agricultural distribution machine 100 in a first flap position.The cellular wheel sluice 30 serves for volumetric metering of the in particular first distribution material from the first storage container 1, and it comprises two independently operable cellular rotors 31 which are arranged substantially coaxially to one another and are accommodated in a common metering housing. The cell rotors 31 can be driven, for example, by a respective dedicated metering motor.The cellular wheel sluice 30 comprises two control elements 32, preferably two control flaps 32, for the selective distribution of the first distribution item between three distribution item outlets 33 for the pneumatic distribution item conveying system.The flap position ("central") shown in FIG. 7 generates a distribution of the distribution material to the central distribution material outlet 33 and in particular an output of the distribution material in the fertilizer horizon.FIG. 8 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder 40 for the agricultural distribution machine 100 in a second flap position.The cellular wheel sluice 40 serves for volumetric metering of the in particular second distribution material from the second storage container 2, and comprises two independently operable cellular rotors 41, which are arranged substantially coaxially to one another and are accommodated in a common metering housing. The cell rotors 41 can be driven, for example, by a respective dedicated metering motor.The cellular wheel sluice 40 comprises two control elements 42, preferably two control flaps 42, for selectively distributing the second distribution item between three distribution item outlets 43 for the pneumatic distribution item conveying system.The flap position ("outside") shown in FIG. 8 generates an output of the distribution item to the left-hand distribution item outlet 43 and to the right-hand distribution item outlet 43, wherein no distribution item is allocated to the central distribution item outlet 43.FIG. 9 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder 40' for the agricultural distribution machine 100 in a third flap position.The rotary feeder 40' serves for volumetric metering of the in particular third distribution material from the third storage container 2'. It comprises two independently operable cell rotors 41', which are arranged substantially coaxially to one another and are accommodated in a common dosing housing. The cell rotors 41' can be driven, for example, by a respective dedicated metering motor.The cellular wheel sluice 40' comprises two control elements 42', preferably two control flaps 42', for the selective distribution of the third distribution item between three distribution item outlets 43' for the pneumatic distribution item conveying system.The flap position ("mix") shown in FIG. 9 produces an output of a sub-quantity of material to the central outlet 43' of material to be distributed and thus into the fertilizer horizon and a sub-quantity of material to the right outlet 43'.It is possible, for example, to selectively leave individual cell rotors 31, 41, 41' stationary and thus to deactivate them, to change the output of the different distribution items between specific sowing coulters A, 10, Z depending on the position and / or direction, and / or to mix different distribution items for joint output. The control elements 32, 42, 42' and / or other control elements in the pneumatic distribution material conveying system (e.g. valves, flaps or switches on one or more distribution towers 50, 60 and / or directly on the sowing coulters A, 10, Z) can also be controlled by the control device 20 in order to be able to realize a selective switching.FIG. 10 shows a sectional view of a rotary feeder 30 for an agricultural distribution machine 100 according to another embodiment of the invention.The cellular wheel sluice 30 serves for volumetric metering of the distribution material. It comprises two independently operable cell rotors 31 which are arranged substantially coaxially with respect to one another and are accommodated in a common metering housing.The cellular wheel sluice 30 comprises two control elements 32, preferably two control flaps 32, for the selective distribution of the distribution item between four distribution item outlets 33 for the pneumatic distribution item conveying system.FIG. 11 shows a schematic representation of a shift diagram for an agricultural distribution machine 100 according to an embodiment of the invention for distributing three different distribution goods and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the three different distribution goods in order to be able to continue a desired distribution goods output pattern with uniformly alternating sequence of the discharged distribution goods despite a substantially 180° turn X.For this purpose, the agricultural distribution machine 100 comprises in particular three cellular wheel locks each having two control elements, as described, for example, with reference to FIGS. 7, 8, 9 to 10.The first item to be distributed is schematically represented by an "oval" (0). The second distribution item is schematically represented by a "plus" (+). The third item to be distributed is schematically represented by a "star" (*).By selectively switching over the control elements 32, 42, 42' as shown in FIG. 11, the desired distribution material discharge pattern can be continued despite a turning X of only 180° of the agricultural distribution machine 100. An inefficient 360° turn as shown in Figure 12 is not required.The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a large number of variants and modifications are possible, which likewise make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. Moreover, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the subclaims independently of the related features and claims.List of reference characters1 Storage container, in particular for first distribution item 2 Storage container, in particular for second distribution item 2' Storage container, in particular for third distribution item 30 Cellular wheel lock for metering the (in particular first) distribution item 40 Cellular wheel lock for metering the (in particular second) distribution item 40' Cellular wheel lock for metering the (in particular third) distribution item 31 Cellular rotor 41 Cellular rotor 41' Cellular rotor 32 Control element, in particular control flap 42 Control element, in particular control flap 42' Control element, in particular control flap 33 Distribution item outlet, preferably in pneumatic distribution item conveying system 43 Distribution item outlet, preferably in pneumatic distribution item conveying system 43' Distribution item outlet, preferably in pneumatic distribution item conveying system 50 Distribution tower 60 Distribution tower 60' Distribution tower 70 Flow generating device, In particular, blower 10 is a sowing coulter A, preferably outermost sowing coulter Z, preferably outermost sowing coulter 20 is a control device I input device 100 is an agricultural distribution machine D is a forward travel direction 200 is a drive vehicle

Claims

Agricultural distribution machine (100) for distributing different distribution items and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution items, having: - a first storage container (1) for receiving a first distribution item, - a second storage container (2) for receiving a second distribution item, - a multiplicity of sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) arranged next to one another, preferably for selectively outputting the distribution item, and - a control device (20) for controlling the output of the distribution item, wherein - the control device (20) is designed to switch over the output of the distribution item of a first sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) from the first distribution item to the second distribution item and / or to no distribution item or vice versa, and to switch over the output of the distribution item of a second sowing coulter (A, 10, z) to switch from the second distribution item and / or from no distribution item to the first distribution item or vice versa, characterized in that - the control device (20) is designed to carry out the switching for a connection travel, for a change in the direction of travel and / or for a substantially 180° turn (X) of the agricultural distribution machine (100), preferably such that a distribution item output pattern can be continued with different distribution items.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the first sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) is an outermost sowing coulter (A) and the second sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) is an outermost sowing coulter (Z).Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least some of the sowing coulters (10) between the first sowing coulter (A) and the second sowing coulter (Z) from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material or vice versa, and to switch over from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material to the first distribution material or vice versa.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed - to switch over the output of the distribution material of at least one of each second sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) or of at least one of each third sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material or vice versa, or - to switch over the output of the distribution material of the sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) with an even coulter number from the first distribution material to the second distribution material and / or to no distribution material or vice versa, and to switch over the output of the distribution material of the sowing coulters with an odd coulter number from the second distribution material and / or from no distribution material to the first distribution material or vice versa.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) are assigned to a first row of coulters.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 5, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) has a second row of share with a multiplicity of sowing shares (A', 10', Z1'), and the first row of share and the second row of share are arranged one behind the other, wherein the sowing shares (A, 10, Z) of the first row of share and the sowing shares (A', 10', Z1') of the second row of share are arranged offset with respect to one another in the longitudinal direction of the first row of share and of the second row of share.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 6, characterized in that the sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) of the first row of coulters and the sowing coulters (A', 10', Z1') of the second row of coulters have the same or different line spacings and / or have the same or different working depths.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) has at least three or at least four cell rotors (31, 41) which can be operated independently of one another for the, in particular, volumetric metering of the distribution material.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) - has at least one first cellular wheel lock (30) with at least one first cellular rotor (31) for metering the first material to be distributed, and - has at least one second cellular wheel lock (40) with at least one second cellular rotor (41) for metering the second material to be distributed, and - preferably the at least one first cellular rotor (31) and the at least one second cellular rotor (41) can be operated independently of one another.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) - has at least one first cellular wheel lock (30) having at least two first cellular rotors (31), which can be operated independently of one another, for metering the first material to be distributed, and - has at least one second cellular wheel lock (40) having at least two second cellular rotors (41), which can be operated independently of one another, for metering the second material to be distributed, and - preferably the at least two first cellular rotors (31) and the at least two second cellular rotors (41) can be operated independently of one another.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that - the at least two first cell rotors (31) are accommodated in a common metering housing and / or are arranged coaxially with respect to one another, and / or - the at least two second cell rotors (41) are accommodated in a common metering housing and / or are arranged coaxially with respect to one another.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that - the first cellular wheel lock (30) has at least two control elements (32), preferably control flaps (32), for the selective distribution of the first distribution material between at least two distribution material outlets (33), and / or - the second cellular wheel lock (40) has at least two control elements (42), preferably control flaps (42), for the selective distribution of the second distribution material between at least two distribution material outlets (43).Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) - has a first distribution tower (50), preferably for the selective distribution of the first distribution material and of the second distribution material, and - has a second distribution tower (60), preferably for the selective distribution of the first distribution material and of the second distribution material.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 13, characterized in that - the first distribution tower (50) for supplying distribution material can be brought into connection with at least two or at least three cell rotors (31, 41) which can be operated independently of one another, and / or - the second distribution tower (60) for supplying distribution material can be brought into connection with at least one, at least two or at least three cell rotors (31, 41) which can be operated independently of one another.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of the sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) - are designed to discharge the first distribution item and the second distribution item together, and / or - are connected to the first distribution tower (50) and the second distribution tower (60) for supplying distribution item.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to carry out the switching as a function of predetermined parameters.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 16, characterized in that the parameters comprise at least one of the following: - area-specific field contours or area-specific field properties, - type and / or nature of the different distribution products, - process-specific requirements, in particular lanes required by subsequent field operations, and / or - location coordinates of a position determination system.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to carry out the switching as a function of a direction of travel (D) and / or a position of the agricultural distribution machine (100).Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a priority shift is provided in order to override the switching, wherein the priority shift preferably comprises a travel lane shift, wherein the travel lane shift reduces or deactivates the output of the first distribution item and / or of the second distribution item for applying travel lanes.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an input device (I) is provided, by means of which an execution plan can be transmitted to the control device (20), wherein the execution plan defines the switching.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to Claim 20, characterized in that the input device (I) is designed for manual input of the execution plan by an operator and / or comprises an interface for transmitting the execution plan in the form of a data packet.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to control, in particular as a function of the distribution material, a working depth, a share pressure and / or line spacings of a plurality of sowing shares (A, 10, Z) in a variable manner.Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to actuate at least one of the following for switching over: - at least one of a plurality of cell rotors (31, 41) which can be operated independently of one another, - at least one control element (32, 42), preferably a control flap (32, 42), of at least one cell wheel lock (30, 40), wherein the at least one control element (32, 42) is designed for the selective distribution of the distribution material between at least two distribution material outlets (33, 43), and / or - at least one control element in the pneumatic distribution material conveying system for transporting metered distribution material to the sowing coulters (A, 10, Z).Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the agricultural distribution machine (100) has - a third storage container (2') for receiving a third item of distribution, and / or - a third distribution tower (60').Agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (20) is designed to switch over the output of the distribution material of the first sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) between at least three different distribution materials and to switch over the output of the distribution material of the second sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) between at least three different distribution materials.Method for controlling an agricultural distribution machine (100) for distributing different distribution items and preferably for selectively switching over an output between the different distribution items, preferably an agricultural distribution machine (100) according to one of the preceding claims, having: - a first storage container (1) for receiving a first distribution item, - a second storage container (2) for receiving a second distribution item, - a multiplicity of sowing coulters (A, 10, Z) arranged alongside one another, preferably for selectively outputting the distribution item, and - a control device (20) for controlling the output of the distribution item, wherein - the control device (20) controls the output of the distribution item of a first sowing coulter (A, 10, z) switches from the first item to the second item and / or to no item or vice versa and switches the output of the item to be distributed of a second sowing coulter (A, 10, Z) from the second item and / or from no item to be distributed to the first item or vice versa, characterized in that - the control device (20) carries out the switching for a connection travel, for a change of the direction of travel and / or for a substantially 180° turn (X) of the agricultural distribution machine (100), preferably in such a way that a distribution-item output pattern with different items can be continued.

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