Agricultural machine and method for operating an agricultural machine

Abstract

The invention relates to an agricultural machine (10), in particular a spreading machine and / or a soil cultivation machine, comprising a main frame structure (12) and at least one roller unit (50) arranged on the main frame structure (12), which roller unit (50) is composed of pivoting units (60) with roller wheels (54) mounted thereon, wherein the pivoting units (60) are mounted on the main frame structure (12) in a manner that allows their position to be changed and are movable into a transport configuration and a working configuration relative to the main frame structure (12), wherein motor-driven actuating elements (70) that can be changed in length are provided for changing the position.To create an agricultural machine (10) with which axle loads for travel on roads are increased and disadvantages during field work are avoided, it is provided that a change of position, from a working configuration to a transport configuration, takes place in opposite directions of movement (BR). The invention also relates to a method for operating an agricultural machine (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an agricultural machine, in particular a spreading machine and / or a tillage machine. The invention also relates to a method for operating an agricultural machine.

[0002] An agricultural machine, for example, was already known from the prior art through DE 10 2016 119 883 A1. The machine is designed as a spreading machine and has a frame and at least one soil roller for soil compaction, mounted on the frame in the rear half of the machine. The soil roller serves as the chassis for driving and / or transporting the machine on roads and paths and consists of a central section and side sections arranged on either side of the central section. In order to easily increase the possible axle loads for the chassis when driving and / or transporting the machine on roads and paths, the central section is permanently offset forward, i.e., both in the field and on the road, by at least the diameter of the soil roller's wheels relative to the side sections.However, such a permanent offset makes the machine very long. Furthermore, an offset of the wheels of the soil roller has several disadvantages in fieldwork, as uneven reconsolidation usually occurs between the offset wheels, sometimes causing unevenness.

[0003] The object of the invention is therefore to eliminate the described disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it aims to create an agricultural machine with which axle loads can be increased for travel on roads and disadvantages during field work can be avoided.

[0004] These problems are solved by an agricultural machine having the features of independent claim 1, and by a method having the features of method claim 19. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the claims and the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, an agricultural machine, in particular a spreading machine and / or a soil cultivation machine, is provided.

[0006] The agricultural machine, specifically the spreading machine and / or tillage machine, comprises a main frame structure and at least one roller unit arranged in the rear half of the main frame structure with respect to the direction of travel. This roller unit is composed of pivoting units (e.g., two, three, or more pivoting units) with roller wheels mounted on them. The pivoting units are mounted on the main frame structure in a way that allows their position relative to the direction of travel to be changed. The machine can be configured for transport (e.g., travel on roads and paths, with the machine's working tools in the transport position, e.g., raised and not in contact with the ground) and for working (e.g., travel on a field, with the machine's working tools in the working position).(lowered and in contact with the ground) movable relative to the main frame structure, wherein motorized actuating elements that can be changed in length are provided for changing the position between the swivel units and the main frame structure.

[0007] In order to create an agricultural machine with which axle loads can be increased for driving the machine on roads and disadvantages during field work are avoided, a first aspect of the invention provides that a change in position of at least two pivoting units from a working configuration to a transport configuration takes place in opposite directions of movement.

[0008] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for operating an agricultural machine, in particular a spreading machine and / or tillage machine, is provided, especially as described in this disclosure. The agricultural machine, or the spreading machine and / or tillage machine, comprises a main frame structure and at least one roller unit arranged on the main frame structure in its rear half with respect to the direction of travel. This roller unit is composed of pivoting units with roller wheels mounted thereon. The pivoting units are mounted on the main frame structure in a manner in which their position relative to the direction of travel can be changed, and the change in position is effected by means of motorized actuating elements arranged between the pivoting unit and the main frame structure.

[0009] The method is advantageously characterized by moving the agricultural machine in a working configuration with the contact surfaces of the roller wheels of at least two swivel units oriented almost linearly to each other transversely to the direction of travel, or by moving the agricultural machine in a transport configuration with the contact surfaces of the roller wheels of at least two swivel units arranged offset from each other in the direction of travel.

[0010] Furthermore, the method is characterized by transferring the agricultural machine from a working configuration to a transport configuration by changing the position of at least two pivoting units in opposite directions of movement.

[0011] The invention utilizes the knowledge that by changing the position of at least two pivoting units, and thus at least two roller wheels, in opposite directions, a working configuration of the agricultural machine is enabled in which the roller wheels are at least largely aligned with each other, thus creating optimal conditions for fieldwork, and a transport configuration of the agricultural machine is enabled in which the roller wheels are offset from each other in such a way that the roller wheels act like two axles, thereby achieving an optimized weight distribution for road travel.

[0012] The invention is thus characterized in that raising or lowering the machine, or transferring it from a transport configuration to a working configuration or vice versa, is accomplished by pivoting units performing a change of position in opposite directions of movement.

[0013] To avoid repetition, it should be noted that the following embodiments and features of the invention can be combined in any way and freely with the agricultural machine, or the spreading machine and / or tillage machine and / or the method. Accordingly, all embodiments and features of the invention are disclosed and claimable for both the agricultural machine, or the spreading machine and / or tillage machine, and for the method.

[0014] In the context of the invention, the definition of direction of travel includes in particular a direction of travel of the agricultural machine, especially a direction in which it is moved along a field or along a road.

[0015] A preferred embodiment of the invention may provide that the roller wheels are designed to be used in a working configuration of the agricultural machine as a packer roller (e.g., a reconsolidation roller in contact with the soil) and in a transport configuration of the agricultural machine as a chassis. Thus, preferably only one type of roller wheel is provided on the agricultural machine according to the invention.

[0016] To ensure consistent weight distribution across all roller wheels in both working and transport configurations, it is advantageous to adjust the position of the swivel units in such a way that the roller wheels of the swivel units remain in constant ground contact (i.e., in ground contact in both working and transport configurations). Specifically, the roller wheels maintain constant ground contact even during the swivel units' position changes from the working to the transport configuration, or vice versa. This constant ground contact also allows the use of roller wheels with smaller diameters and lower load-bearing capacities, and eliminates the need for cutouts in the main frame structure to accommodate the movement of larger diameter roller wheels.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the roller wheels of the swivel units are permanently in contact with the ground with a support force that is essentially the same or defined differently. This can mean, in particular, that the motorized actuators can be controlled in the same way or defined differently, and that differences in the support force may be caused by different weight forces acting on the roller wheels.

[0018] In particular, the continuous ground contact and the resulting use of identical roller wheels make it possible to employ roller wheels with such a width that, for example, two seed coulters arranged at defined intervals are positioned behind each roller wheel. It could also be provided that each roller wheel has only one seed coulter or three or more seed coulters positioned behind it. In particular, it is thus possible for each roller wheel to have an identical number of seed coulters. This means that, according to a preferred embodiment, it is expediently possible for the machine to be designed as a distribution machine with working tools designed as seed coulters for distributing the material, and for each roller wheel to have an identical number of seed coulters positioned behind it.

[0019] A preferred embodiment of the invention may provide that the roller wheels are divided into at least three sections, wherein an inner section is assigned to a pivoting unit and wherein two sections, located outside the inner section, are assigned to at least one (or two) outer pivoting units, wherein a change in position of the inner section relative to the outer sections from a working configuration to a transport configuration occurs in opposite directions of movement. In particular, the outer sections may be spaced apart from one another and mounted on a pivoting unit and may have a common support structure.

[0020] The pivoting units can be mounted on the main frame structure in such a variable manner relative to the direction of travel that a change in the position of the pivoting units results in a change in the height position (e.g. position perpendicular to the direction of travel) and / or the longitudinal position (e.g. position in the direction of travel or against the direction of travel) of the roller wheels of the pivoting units.

[0021] Opposite directions of movement can be implemented in a variety of ways. For example, opposite directions of movement could involve a rotational pivoting of the pivoting units relative to the direction of travel around a pivot point (e.g., a pivot point, pivot axis, and / or similar) oriented transversely to the direction of travel. This means, for example, that at least one pivoting unit is rotated in the direction of travel and at least one pivoting unit is rotated in the opposite direction to the direction of travel.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that oppositely oriented directions of movement could include an axial displacement of the pivot units in the opposite direction to the direction of advance. For example, at least one pivot unit could be axially displaced in the direction of advance, and at least one pivot unit could be axially displaced opposite to the direction of advance.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable that oppositely oriented directions of movement include a translational movement of the pivot units in the opposite direction to the direction of advance. For example, at least one pivot unit would be moved translationally in the direction of advance, and at least one pivot unit would be moved translationally in the opposite direction to the direction of advance.

[0024] A counter-oriented rotary pivoting in the direction of advance and opposite to the direction of advance can be expediently carried out such that, depending on the magnitude of the rotation, the height of the pivoting units and the offset of the roller wheels of the pivoting units in the direction of advance (or transversely to the direction of advance) are changed, and / or that, depending on the magnitude of the rotation, the offset of the roller wheels of the pivoting units and the transport height are changed. In particular, it is thus possible for a height adjustment and an offset to be directly dependent on each other.

[0025] To further improve rotary pivoting, the pivoting units and the respective effective lever lengths of the motorized actuators can have essentially the same transmission ratios. Alternatively or additionally, the motorized actuators and / or their control mechanisms and / or their lever lengths and / or their transmission ratios can be coordinated such that the wheel loads of all roller wheels or defined roller wheels and / or the lifting and lowering movements of the pivoting units are at least largely identical. The cross-sections of the actuators (e.g., piston areas of hydraulic cylinders) can also be coordinated.

[0026] To prevent uncontrolled movements of the swivel units in a working or transport configuration, one embodiment of the invention provides that the swivel units, and in particular the motorized actuators associated with them, can be locked in a working and / or transport configuration. Locking can be achieved, for example, by pressure control, especially if the actuators are designed as hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, for which, for example, locking valves can be functionally assigned to the motorized actuators. Alternatively or additionally, locking can also be achieved by equipping the motorized actuators with mechanical stroke limiters. Plug-in systems, such as locking pins, are also conceivable for locking; these can be installed, for example, between the swivel unit and the main frame structure.

[0027] It should be noted that in the present description and in the claim definitions, any reference to a diameter of a roller wheel always refers to the roller wheel of the swivel unit with the smallest diameter.

[0028] To achieve an optimized position of the roller wheels in a working configuration, i.e., during field work, the pivoting units can be moved relative to the main frame structure in such a way that, in the working configuration, the contact surfaces of the roller wheels, preferably all roller wheels, are at least nearly linear (e.g., aligned) to each other transversely to the direction of travel, and / or the roller wheels, preferably all roller wheels, are aligned and / or concentric transversely to the direction of travel. It should be noted that the definition of "nearly linear" in the context of the invention specifically includes an offset that is less than 5% or 3% of the diameter of the roller wheels and can, for example, also be essentially zero.

[0029] To achieve an optimized position of the roller wheels in a transport configuration, the pivoting units can be moved relative to the main frame structure in such a way that, in the transport configuration, the roller wheels of at least two, preferably adjacent, pivoting units are offset from each other in the direction of travel. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that, in the transport configuration, the roller wheels of adjacent pivoting units, preferably their contact surfaces, have a distance from each other in the direction of travel that is at least 5%, 10%, or 20% of the diameter of the roller wheels.Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that in the transport configuration the roller wheels of adjacent swivel units, preferably their contact surface, have a distance to each other in the direction of travel that is a maximum of 90% or 75% or 50% of a diameter of the roller wheels.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the roller wheels can be formed by wheels that can be pressurized with air (e.g., packer wheels, chassis wheels), and each pivoting unit is assigned at least two such wheels, preferably aligned with each other and spaced apart from each other transversely to the direction of travel. Furthermore, it is optionally possible for the roller wheels (e.g., the wheels that can be pressurized with air) to have the same diameter and / or the same width. For example, they may each expediently have a substantially identical contact area.

[0031] To create the most flexible roller unit possible, the swivel units can have a combined linear extent (e.g., total width perpendicular to the direction of travel) of a maximum of 4 meters, 3.5 meters, or 3 meters, and / or each swivel unit can have a linear extent (e.g., total width perpendicular to the direction of travel) of at least 0.5 meters, 0.75 meters, or 1 meter. This ensures that all swivel units are sufficiently stable and that the permissible transport width of the machine is maintained. It is also possible for the swivel units to have identical linear extents and / or different linear extents.

[0032] To achieve optimized ground contour following of the roller unit, particularly in the working configuration, at least one pivoting unit can be mounted transversely to the direction of travel, pivoting (e.g., swiveling) around a pivot axis oriented in the direction of travel. Furthermore, the pivoting travel can be limited by limiting elements, particularly to prevent collisions between adjacent pivoting units or their roller wheels.

[0033] To comply with legal requirements, i.e., to enable the agricultural machine to be moved on public roads in a transport configuration without restrictions, a further development of the invention provides that at least one pivoting unit (e.g., at least one roller wheel) is assigned a braking unit (e.g., functional). To avoid negatively affecting the driving characteristics, it is preferably possible for one braking unit to be assigned to two pivoting units, with the two pivoting units having opposite directions of movement for changing position.

[0034] The pivoting units comprise, for example, a support structure with at least one rocker arm, wherein it is possible that the pivoting unit has at least one rocker arm, which is preferably oriented at least partially parallel to the direction of travel, wherein the roller wheels are rotatably mounted on the rocker arm by means of axle stubs or axles, wherein the rocker arms of all pivoting units are essentially the same length, in particular a length in the direction of travel between a pivot point (e.g. formed by a pivot axis oriented transversely to the direction of travel) on the main frame structure and a center point of the axle stubs and / or axles is essentially the same length.

[0035] To create an agricultural machine with high impact capacity, a further development of the invention provides that the main frame structure and the roller unit form a central part of the machine, and that the machine also has side sections. For this purpose, it is advantageously possible that side frame structures are pivotably mounted on the left and right sides of the main frame structure, and that side roller units with roller wheels are arranged on the side frame structures in such a way that, in the working configuration of the machine, the contact surfaces of all roller wheels are at least nearly linear (e.g., aligned) with each other transversely to the direction of travel.

[0036] The main frame structure and the roller unit thus form a central part of the machine, while the side frame structures and the side roller units form the side parts of the machine. In the working configuration, the roller unit and the side roller units are essentially oriented horizontally to each other, while in the transport configuration, the side roller units are oriented essentially perpendicular to the roller unit by pivoting the side frame structures.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that working tools (e.g. cutting discs, tines, seed shares and / or the like) are positioned upstream and / or downstream of the roller unit and / or the side roller units, wherein the working tools have an essentially identical distance to each other along the entire working width of the machine in working configuration relative to the direction of travel.

[0038] It is possible that, in order to specify a magnitude of movement in the respective direction of movement of the swivel units, at least one motorized actuator is equipped with means designed to limit the travel of the motorized actuator. For this purpose, for example, a stroke limiter in the form of stroke limiting elements can be used.

[0039] In particular, all actuating elements can be controlled simultaneously, preferably by means of a control device, and perform a corresponding change in position.

[0040] To achieve the most robust possible motorized actuators, a preferred embodiment of the invention allows the motorized actuators to be designed as hydraulic cylinders (e.g., single-acting and / or double-acting) and to be connected to each other via hydraulic lines in a parallel circuit (e.g., to form a hydraulic compensation system). Alternatively or additionally, at least one hydraulic cylinder may be assigned a pressure relief valve and / or the hydraulic cylinders may be controlled by a control device such that they exhibit at least largely synchronous (e.g., identical) and / or defined (e.g., by different weights or forces acting on the cylinders) asynchronous (e.g., different) travel speeds.

[0041] It is possible that the hydraulic cylinders can be pressurized variably via a control device for lowering the swivel unit. In particular, it can be provided that some roller wheels (e.g., the roller wheels of an internal swivel unit) are coupled to a pressure relief system which is preferably configured in a transport configuration to apply a lower hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic cylinders of the swivel units assigned to them. Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable that the pressure relief system is configured to apply a lower air pressure to the roller wheels formed by the wheels.

[0042] The pressure relief valve ensures that even when the hydraulic cylinders are fully extended or retracted, and the machine is fully raised or lowered, the inner roller wheels or swivel units in transport configuration can move upwards when driving over embankment crests or other elevations. This allows the roller wheels of the outer swivel units to press against the ground with the same force as the roller wheels of the inner swivel units. The pressure relief valve forces oil out of the hydraulic cylinders associated with the inner swivel unit. This prevents the machine from tipping over, even on roads with significant central elevations or banked sections, as the pressure relief valve allows oil to escape back into the hydraulic system.

[0043] It is possible that at least one hydraulic cylinder is designed as a depth adjustment cylinder and is equipped with means to limit the travel of the hydraulic cylinder, wherein the remaining hydraulic cylinders are coupled to the depth adjustment cylinder by means of a control device and can be controlled by means of pressure regulation in such a way that their pressure does not exceed a maximum pressure of the depth adjustment cylinder, whereby a pressure relief valve may preferably be provided for this purpose which is, for example, configured to ensure that when the depth adjustment cylinder is moved to its stop, i.e., when the depth adjustment cylinder is at its stroke limit, oil is forced out of the depth adjustment cylinder, in particular through, for example, a free return line into the control device or the hydraulic system to which the remaining hydraulic cylinders are connected.

[0044] It is possible that at least one pivoting unit is resiliently mounted relative to the main frame structure, with a coil spring and / or a damping element being provided for the suspension. It is possible that the motorized actuators are designed as hydraulic cylinders and that at least one damping element is arranged on the side of the cylinder chamber and / or the hydraulic line connected to it, through which the hydraulic cylinder lowers at least one pivoting unit. The damping element is preferably a hydraulic accumulator. The coil spring can advantageously be mounted between the pivoting unit and the main frame structure.

[0045] The motorized actuators can preferably be controlled by a control unit, for example, an operating unit accessible to the operator at their workstation, so that they can remotely control the transfer of the machine from a transport configuration to a working configuration or vice versa from the operator's workstation. Automated transfer of the machine from a transport configuration to a working configuration or vice versa would also be conceivable. In particular, all actuators can be controlled simultaneously and execute the corresponding change in position.

[0046] The control unit comprises, for example, a computer unit, an on-board computer, and / or the like, and also includes a control and / or regulation circuit, in particular a hydraulic and / or pneumatic and / or electrical control and / or regulation circuit, wherein the control and / or regulation circuit is expediently designed for hydraulic and / or pneumatic and / or electrical signal and / or command transmission. This signal and / or command transmission can also be wireless (e.g., via WLAN). In the context of the invention, the term "control unit" includes, in particular, the entirety of the components for signal and / or command transmission. Accordingly, it also includes computer units, CPUs, and / or the like. It should also be noted that the term "control unit" can refer to electronic and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic controls or regulators, which, depending on their design, can perform control and / or regulation tasks.Although the term "taxes" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass "rules." Likewise, the use of the term "rules" can also imply the existence of "taxes."

[0047] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. 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 in relation to other elements. The figures show: Fig. 1. A perspective view of a design variant of an agricultural machine in the form of a spreading and soil cultivation machine. Fig. 2A a perspective view of a design variant of an agricultural machine with a roller unit and a main frame construction in a working configuration, Fig. 2B a top view of an agricultural machine according to the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2C a side view of an agricultural machine according to the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2D detailed view of the roller unit in a side view according to the Fig. 2C, Fig. 3A a perspective view of a design variant of an agricultural machine with a roller unit and a main frame construction in a transport configuration, Fig. 3B a top view of an agricultural machine according to the Fig. 3A, Fig. 3C a side view of an agricultural machine according to the Fig. 3A, Fig. 3D detailed view of the roller unit in a side view according to the Fig. 3C, Fig. 4 a top view of a design variant of an agricultural machine with a roller unit and a main frame construction in a working configuration, and with schematically shown side frame constructions mounted on the main frame construction on the left and right.

[0048] The in the Fig. The embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals, and reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures to avoid repetition. The embodiments shown are merely examples of how the agricultural machine and the method according to the invention can be designed and implemented and do not represent an exhaustive limitation.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a design variant of an agricultural machine 10 in the form of a spreading and soil cultivation machine in a working configuration, that is, that it has both working tools 24 for distributing agricultural material and working tools for soil cultivation.

[0050] The machine 10 comprises a main frame structure 12 and a roller unit 50 comprising roller wheels 54, arranged on the main frame structure 12 in its rear half with respect to the direction of travel VR.

[0051] Side frame structures 14 are pivotally mounted on the main frame structure 12 on both the left and right sides, for example by means of hinges 16. Side roller units 52 with roller wheels 54 are also arranged on the side frame structures 14. All roller wheels 54 are advantageously designed to be identical.

[0052] The working tools 24 can be, or are, mounted directly or by means of tool frames on the main frame structure 12 or the side frame structures 14. The working tools 24 are arranged upstream and / or downstream of the roller unit 50, with the working tools 24 maintaining an identical distance from each other along the entire working width of the machine 10 in its working configuration relative to the direction of travel VR.

[0053] In the forward direction VR, the main frame structure 12 includes a drawbar 18, which is designed to couple the agricultural machine 10 to an agricultural towing vehicle (e.g., a tractor) (not shown here). A storage container 20 is also arranged on the main frame structure 12 for carrying and supplying at least one agricultural distribution material (e.g., granular seed, fertilizer, and / or the like). A soil roller 22, extending across the entire working width and designed as a tire packer roller, is arranged on the main frame structure 12 and the side frame structure 14 at the front in the forward direction VR. The wheels of the soil roller 22 are identical to the roller wheels 54. Following the soil roller 22 in the forward direction VR are soil cultivation tools 24 in the form of a disc harrow. The roller unit 50 follows the soil cultivation tools 24.Following the roller unit 50 in the direction of advance VR are working tools 24 in the form of seed coulters 26, which are connected to the storage container 20 by means of distribution towers 28 and are set up to deposit the respective material in a working configuration of the machine 10 in a ground area 40.

[0054] The Fig. Figures 2 to 4 show different, highly simplified views of exemplary embodiments of an agricultural machine 10, which are based on the following: Fig. 2 to 4 will be described.

[0055] The Fig. Figures 2 to 4 each show a main frame structure 12 and at least one roller unit 50 arranged on the main frame structure 12 in its rear half with respect to the direction of travel VR.

[0056] The roller unit 50 is composed of swivel units 60 with roller wheels 54 mounted on them. The roller wheels are designed to be in a working configuration (position in field work; Fig. 1; Fig. 2 and Fig. 4) the agricultural machine 10 as a packer roller and in a transport configuration (journeys on roads and paths, Fig. 3) to be used as a chassis for the agricultural machine 10. In the working configuration, the working tools 24 and seed coulters 26 are appropriately lowered (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 2D), that is, in contact with a ground surface 40, and in the transport configuration the working tools 24 or seed shares 26 are excavated appropriately (see e.g. Fig. 3D), meaning they are not in contact with a ground surface of 40.

[0057] The pivot units 60 are mounted on the main frame structure 12 in a manner that allows their position relative to the direction of travel VR to be changed, the change in position being effected by means of motorized actuating elements 70 arranged between the pivot unit 60 and the main frame structure 12. According to the invention, it is particularly provided that a change in position of at least two pivot units 60 from a working configuration to a transport configuration occurs in oppositely oriented directions of movement BR. The directions of movement BR are schematically and exemplarily represented in the figures by oppositely oriented arrows.

[0058] As can also be seen from the figures, the change in position of the pivoting units 60 preferably occurs in such a way that the roller wheels 54 of the pivoting units 60 are permanently in contact with the ground, wherein the roller wheels 54 of the pivoting units 60 preferably maintain this contact with the ground with a substantially identical or defined different support force. This means that the change in position occurs in such a way that the roller wheels 54 are permanently in contact with a ground surface 40, preferably also during the transition of the roller wheels 54 from a working configuration to a transport configuration.

[0059] According to the exemplary embodiments, the roller wheels 54 are divided into at least three sections 66, wherein an inner section 66 is assigned to a pivoting unit 60, and wherein two sections 66, located outside the inner section 66, are assigned to at least one outer pivoting unit 60, with the inner section 66 changing position relative to the outer sections 66 from a working configuration to a transport configuration in opposite directions of movement BR. The outer sections 66 are spaced apart from each other and are mounted on a pivoting unit 60, and they share a common support structure.

[0060] The pivot units 60 are mounted on the main frame structure 12 in a variable manner relative to the direction of travel VR, such that a change in the position of the pivot units 60 results in a change in the height and longitudinal position of the roller wheels 54 of the pivot units. According to the exemplary embodiments, this is achieved by a rotational pivoting of the pivot units 60 in the opposite direction to the direction of travel VR about a pivot point 30 (e.g., pivot axis) oriented transversely to the direction of travel VR. Alternatively or additionally, a change in position could also be achieved by an axial displacement and / or a translational movement of the pivot units 60 in the opposite direction.

[0061] To achieve uniform working conditions during fieldwork, it is provided that in a working configuration the contact surfaces 58 of the roller wheels 54 are at least nearly linear to each other transversely to the direction of travel VR and / or the roller wheels 54 are aligned and / or concentric transversely to the direction of travel VR. The contact surfaces 58 in the Fig. 2D and Fig. 3D models are each schematically represented by thick lines as an example.

[0062] In contrast, to achieve the best possible weight distribution during road or field travel, i.e., in a transport configuration, the roller wheels 54 are arranged offset from one another in the forward direction VR by at least two pivoting units 60. To achieve optimized weight distribution, the roller wheels 54, preferably their contact surface 58 in the forward direction VR, have a distance A1 from each other that is at least 5%, 10%, or 20% of the diameter of the roller wheels 54. Alternatively or additionally, to achieve optimized weight distribution while maintaining a compact design of the machine 10, the roller wheels 54, preferably their contact surface 58 in the forward direction VR, can have a distance A1 from each other that is a maximum of 90%, 75%, or 50% of the diameter of the roller wheels 54.

[0063] Each pivoting unit 60 is assigned, according to the exemplary embodiments, at least two (or three or four) roller wheels 54, aligned with each other and spaced apart transversely to the direction of travel VR. The roller wheels 54 are in turn spaced apart from each other and have a width such that two seed coulters 26, spaced apart from each other in a defined grid pattern, are arranged downstream of each roller wheel 54. It could also be provided that each roller wheel 54 has only one seed coulter 26 or three or more seed coulters 26 downstream. In particular, each roller wheel 54 has an identical number of seed coulters 24 downstream. For example, this also applies to the roller wheels 54 of the side roller units 52.

[0064] To comply with the legally mandated maximum width for a transport configuration, the swivel units 60 can be designed such that their combined linear extent A2 is a maximum of 4 meters, 3.5 meters, or 3 meters. Furthermore, each swivel unit 60 can have a linear extent A2 of at least 0.5 meters, 0.75 meters, or 1 meter. The inner and outer swivel units 60 can have different linear extents A2.

[0065] The pivoting units 60 each have swing arms 62 which are oriented at least partially parallel to the direction of travel VR and on which the roller wheels 54 are rotatably mounted by means of axle stubs or axles 64. Furthermore, the swing arms 62 are essentially the same length; in particular, the length in the direction of travel VR between a pivot point 30 on the main frame structure 12 and a midpoint of the axle stubs or axles 64 is essentially the same.

[0066] As from the Fig. 1, but also from the schematic, highly simplified top view of the Fig. As shown in Figure 4, side frame structures 14 are pivotably mounted on the left and right sides of the main frame structure 12, with side roller units 52 with roller wheels 54 being arranged on the side frame structures 14. In a working configuration, the contact surfaces 58 of the roller wheels 54, preferably all roller wheels 54, are at least nearly linear to each other transversely to the direction of travel VR and / or the roller wheels 54, preferably all roller wheels 54, are aligned and / or concentric transversely to the direction of travel VR.

[0067] The main frame structure 12 and the roller unit 50 thus form a central section, as do the side frame structures 14 and the side roller units 52 side sections of the machine 10. The roller unit 50 and the side roller units 52 are essentially oriented horizontally to each other in the working configuration (see Fig. 1) and wherein in the transport configuration the side roller units 52 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the roller unit 52 by pivoting the side frame structures 14.

[0068] To specify the magnitude of the movement in the respective direction BR of the swivel units 60, it is provided that at least one motorized actuator 70 is equipped with means for limiting the travel of the motorized actuator 70. This can be achieved, for example, by a mechanical stroke limiter 72, e.g., according to the Fig. 3C using insert elements.

[0069] The motorized actuators 70 are expediently designed as hydraulic cylinders.

[0070] The swivel units 60 and their respective effective lever lengths of the motorized actuating element 70 have essentially the same transmission ratios, meaning that their lever lengths and / or their transmission ratios are coordinated such that the wheel loads of all roller wheels 54 or defined roller wheels 54 and / or the lifting and lowering movements are essentially identical. The cross-sections of the hydraulic cylinders are also coordinated accordingly.

[0071] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made and equivalents used as substitutes without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made without departing from the relevant scope. Consequently, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but is intended to encompass all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. Reference symbol list: 10 agricultural machines 12 Main frame construction 14 side frame construction 16 Folding joint 18 Towing device 20 storage containers 22 Floor roller 24 work tools 26 sowings 28 distribution tower 30 Linkage 40 floor area 50 roller unit 52 side roller unit 54 roller wheel 58 Footprint 60 swivel unit 62 Swing arm 64 axle Section 66 70 Actuator 72 Stroke limit VR drive direction BR Direction of movement A1 distance A2 linear extension

Claims

[1] Agricultural machine (10), in particular a distribution machine and / or soil tillage machine, comprising a main frame structure (12) and at least one roller unit (50) arranged on the main frame structure (12) in the rear half thereof with respect to the direction of advance (VR), which roller unit (50) is composed of pivoting units (60) with roller wheels (54) mounted thereon, wherein the pivoting units (60) are mounted on the main frame structure (12) in a manner that can be changed in their position relative to the direction of advance (VR) and are movable into a transport configuration and a working configuration relative to the main frame structure (12), wherein motorized adjusting elements (70) that are variable in length are provided for changing the position between the pivoting units (60) and the main frame structure (12), characterized bythat a change in position of at least two swivel units (60) from a working configuration to a transport configuration takes place in oppositely oriented directions of movement (BR). [2] Agricultural machine according to claim 1, characterized by that the roller wheels (54) are designed to be used as a packer roller in a working configuration of the agricultural machine (10) and as a chassis in a transport configuration of the agricultural machine (10). [3] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a change in position of the swivel units (60) takes place in such a way that the roller wheels (54) of the swivel units (60) are permanently in contact with the ground, in particular also during the change in position of the swivel units (60) from the working configuration to the transport configuration. [4] Agricultural machine (10) according to claim 3, characterized by that the roller wheels (54) of the swivel units (60) are permanently in ground contact with a substantially equal or defined different supporting force. [5] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the roller wheels (54) are divided into at least three sections (66), wherein an inner section (66) is assigned to a pivoting unit (60) and wherein two sections (66) lying outside the inner section (66) are assigned to at least one outer pivoting unit (60), wherein a change in position of the inner section (66) relative to the outer sections (66) from a working configuration to a transport configuration takes place in oppositely oriented directions of movement (BR). [6] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the swivel units (60) are mounted on the main frame structure (12) in a changeable manner relative to the direction of advance (VR) in such a way that a change in the position of the swivel units (60) results in a change in the height and / or the longitudinal position of the roller wheels (54) of the swivel units (60). [7] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that oppositely oriented directions of movement (BR) - comprise an oppositely oriented rotational pivoting of the pivot units (60) relative to the direction of advance (VR) about a linkage (30) oriented transversely to the direction of advance (VR) and / or - comprise an oppositely oriented axial displacement of the swivel units (60) relative to the direction of advance (VR) and / or - comprise an oppositely oriented translational movement of the pivoting units (60) relative to the direction of advance (VR). [8] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the swivel units (60), in particular the motorized actuating elements (70) assigned to the swivel units (60), can be fixed in a working configuration and / or a transport configuration. [9] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the swivel units (60) are moved relative to the main frame construction (12) in such a way that in the working configuration - the contact surfaces (58) of the roller wheels (54), preferably of all roller wheels (54), are at least almost linear to one another transversely to the direction of advance (VR) and / or - the roller wheels (54), preferably all roller wheels (54), are aligned and / or concentric transversely to the direction of advance (VR). [10] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the swivel units (60) are moved relative to the main frame construction (12) in such a way that in the transport configuration - the roller wheels (54) of at least two, preferably adjacent, pivoting units (60) are arranged offset from one another in the direction of advance (VR), and / or - the roller wheels (54) of adjacent pivoting units (60), preferably their contact surface (58), have a distance (A1) from one another in the direction of advance (VR) which is at least 5% or 10% or 20% of a diameter of the roller wheels (54) and / or - the roller wheels (54) of adjacent pivoting units (60), preferably their contact surface (58), have a distance (A1) from one another in the direction of advance (VR) which is at most 90% or 75% or 50% of a diameter of the roller wheels (54). [11] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the roller wheels (54) - are formed by wheels which can be pressurised with air pressure and each pivoting unit (60) is assigned at least two such wheels, which are preferably aligned with one another and arranged at a distance from one another transversely to the direction of propulsion (VR) and / or - have the same diameter and / or width. [12] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - the swivel units (60) have a total linear extension (A2) of a maximum of 4 meters, or 3.5 meters, or 3 meters and / or - each swivel unit (60) has a linear extension (A2) of at least 0.5 meters, or 0.75 meters, or 1 meter. [13] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - a braking unit is assigned to at least one swivel unit (60), or - a braking unit is assigned to two swivel units (60), which two swivel units (60) have oppositely oriented directions of movement (BR) for changing the position. [14] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the pivoting units (60) have at least one rocker (62), which is preferably oriented at least in sections parallel to the direction of advance (VR), wherein the roller wheels (54) are rotatably mounted on the rocker (62) by means of axle stumps and / or axles (64), wherein the rockers (62) of all pivoting units (60) are substantially the same length, in particular a length in the direction of advance (VR) between a linkage (30) on the main frame structure (12) and a center point of the axle stumps and / or axles (64) is substantially the same length. [15] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat side frame structures (14) are pivotally mounted on the left and right of the main frame structure (12) and side roller units (52) with roller wheels (54) are arranged on the side frame structures (14) in such a way that, in the working configuration of the machine (10), the contact surfaces (58) of all roller wheels (54) are at least almost linear to one another transversely to the direction of advance (VR). [16] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that, in order to specify a size of the movement in the respective direction of movement (BR) of the pivoting units (60), at least one motorized actuating element (70) is designed to be provided with means which are designed to limit a travel path of the motorized actuating element (70). [17] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the motorized actuating elements (70) are designed as hydraulic cylinders and - the motorized actuators (70) are connected to each other by means of hydraulic lines via a parallel circuit and / or - at least one hydraulic cylinder is assigned a pressure relief valve and / or - that the hydraulic cylinders can be controlled by means of a control device in such a way that they have at least largely synchronous or defined asynchronous travel speeds. [18] Agricultural machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the machine is designed as a distribution machine with working tools (24) designed as sowing coulters (26) for distributing the material to be distributed and that an identical number of sowing coulters (26) is arranged downstream of each roller wheel (54). [19] Method for operating an agricultural machine (10), in particular for operating a distribution machine and / or soil tillage machine, with a main frame structure (12) and at least one roller unit (50) arranged on the main frame structure (12) in the rear half thereof with respect to the direction of advance (VR), which roller unit (50) is composed of pivoting units (60) with roller wheels (54) mounted thereon, wherein the pivoting units (60) are mounted on the main frame structure (12) in a manner which can be changed in their position relative to the direction of advance (VR), and the change in position is effected by means of motorized actuating elements (70) arranged between the pivoting unit (60) and the main frame structure (12), characterized by - moving the agricultural machine in a working configuration with contact surfaces (58) of the roller wheels (54) of at least two pivoting units (60) oriented almost linearly relative to one another transversely to the direction of advance (VR), or moving the agricultural machine in a transport configuration with contact surfaces (58) of the roller wheels (54) of at least two pivoting units (60) arranged offset relative to one another in the direction of advance (VR), - transferring the agricultural machine (10) from a working configuration into a transport configuration by changing the position of at least two pivoting units (60) in oppositely oriented directions of movement (BR).

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