Distribution device for granular material

Abstract

Distribution device (10) for granular material, in particular seed, for an agricultural distribution machine, comprising: a distribution chamber (14) in which a main air-material flow introduced by a main conveying line (12) can be divided into several individual air-material flows that can be discharged from the distribution chamber (14) by outlets (16, 16a-16f); and at least one return line (24, 24a, 24f) which is connected to at least one outlet (16, 16a-16f) of the distribution chamber (14) and through which material from at least one individual air-material flow can be directed back into the main conveying line (12); wherein the return line (24, 24a, 24f) comprises a articulated line element (48, 48f), characterized in that two separate line channels (50a, 50b) run within the articulated line element (48, 48f).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a distribution device for granular material according to the preamble of claim 1, an agricultural distribution machine according to the preamble of claim 13 and an assembly method for a distribution device according to the preamble of claim 14.

[0002] Due to varying working widths and seed-dependent row spacing, a specific number of placement devices are used when spreading granular material, such as seeds or fertilizer. For example, agricultural spreaders are known to be equipped with 24 placement devices to deposit the granular material along 24 spaced rows on the agricultural field. Agricultural machines equipped with 32 placement devices are also common, allowing the granular material to be deposited along 32 spaced rows on the agricultural field.

[0003] Due to the varying number of storage devices, different distribution systems are used. These systems have distribution chambers with a different number of outlets through which individual air-material flows can be directed from the distribution chamber towards the storage devices. Within the distribution chamber, a main air-material flow introduced via a main conveying line is divided into the required number of individual air-material flows so that these can be directed to the storage devices via discharge lines.

[0004] Modern distribution systems are also equipped with return lines, through which material from individual air-material flows can be routed back into the main conveying line when material discharge along individual rows needs to be temporarily interrupted. Depending on the number of outlets and return lines of the distribution system, the end mounting points of the return lines can be spaced at different distances from each other. The greater the number of outlets from the distribution chamber of the system, the further outward the upper mounting point of the return line is positioned. Until now, the return lines have been formed by flexible or deformable hoses, which allowed for the easy compensation of radial and axial misalignment of the return line mounting points.

[0005] However, in some distribution devices, flexible hoses cannot be used in the return lines, for example because the return lines are intended to have several internal conduits.

[0006] The object underlying the invention is therefore to be able to use identical parts in the return line in different models of a distribution device, in which the use of hoses in the return line is not possible or should be avoided, regardless of the number of outlets of the distribution chamber of the distribution device or the storage devices used.

[0007] The problem is solved by a distribution device of the type mentioned above, wherein the return line comprises a flexibly mounted line element.

[0008] The flexible mounting allows for various orientations and angles of the cable section. This means the return line and its associated cable fittings can be used with different distribution device models, even those with varying spacing or offsets between the cable fittings. Across all models, the return line can be implemented with the same cable section, regardless of the number of outlets in the distribution chamber or the storage devices used. Cable sections adapted to the number of outlets in the distribution chamber or the number of mounting points in the return line are unnecessary. This significantly reduces the number of different parts across all models. Furthermore, the flexible mounting of the cable section allows for the compensation of assembly tolerances, even without the use of flexible hoses.Despite its flexible mounting, the cable link is not movable during operation because it is fixed by two cable clamps at its ends. The flexible mounting of the cable link is therefore particularly advantageous during the assembly of the distribution device. The cable link is thus preferably mounted with a flexible joint at least on one side.

[0009] If the conductor link is articulated at both ends, its movement can be eliminated. The articulated conductor link can be one-piece or multi-piece.

[0010] The granular material could be, for example, seed or fertilizer. Accordingly, the agricultural spreading machine could be a seed drill or a fertilizer spreader. The spreading device could be part of the spreading head of the agricultural spreading machine.

[0011] The articulated connecting element can be articulated at one or both ends in such a way that it can not only pivot but also move translationally. This allows manufacturing tolerances to be compensated for, thus achieving length compensation.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the articulated pipe section is designed as a rigid pipe. The pipe section is therefore stiff or inflexible. The pipe section can, for example, be a plastic part, in particular an injection-molded plastic part. The pipe section can thus be a plastic tube. Preferably, the pipe section has a substantially circular cross-section. Alternatively, the pipe section can also have other cross-sectional shapes.

[0013] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is advantageous in which the return line has a first line receptacle, wherein a first articulated section of the articulated line member is arranged on the first line receptacle. The first articulated section of the articulated line member can be detachably connected to the first line receptacle without damage. Preferably, the orientation or angle of the line member can be changed after the first articulated section of the line member and the first line receptacle have been connected by pivoting the line member, provided that the line member is not yet fixed at the opposite end.

[0014] Furthermore, a distribution device is preferred in which the first cable receptacle and the first joint section of the articulated cable link form a joint bearing, in particular a ball-and-socket joint bearing. The first cable receptacle can be designed as a ball joint head and the first joint section as a socket joint. Alternatively, the first cable receptacle can be designed as a socket joint and the first joint section as a ball joint head. The socket joint forms the counterpart to the ball joint head and at least partially encloses it. As an alternative to the socket joint, the ball joint head can also engage in a substantially cylindrical bearing section, so that the joint bearing allows translational movement of the cable link. If the ball joint head is enclosed by a socket joint, preferably only rotational movements of the articulated cable link are possible.The joint mounting can allow multi-axial, in particular triaxial, rotation of the jointly mounted conduit segment relative to the first conduit point if the jointly mounted conduit segment is not fixed. The joint mounting can prevent translational movements of the jointly mounted conduit segment relative to the first conduit point.

[0015] The first cable connection and the articulated cable link can also be connected via a bellows. In this case, the cable link is articulated via the bellows.

[0016] In another preferred embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the second return line has a second cable receptacle, wherein a second articulated section of the articulated cable member is arranged on the second cable receptacle. The second articulated section of the articulated cable member can be detachably connected to the second cable receptacle without damage. Preferably, the orientation or angle of the cable member can be changed after connecting the second articulated section of the cable member and the second cable receptacle by pivoting the cable member, provided that the cable member is not yet fixed at the opposite end.

[0017] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is preferred in which the second cable receptacle and the second joint section of the articulated cable member form a joint bearing, in particular a ball-and-socket joint bearing. The second cable receptacle can be designed as a ball joint head and the second joint section as a socket joint. Alternatively, the second cable receptacle can be designed as a socket joint and the second joint section as a ball joint head. The socket joint forms the counterpart to the ball joint head and at least partially encloses it. As an alternative to the socket joint, the ball joint head can also engage in a substantially cylindrical bearing section, so that the joint bearing allows translational movement of the cable member. If the ball joint head is enclosed by a socket joint, preferably only rotational movements of the articulated cable member are possible.The joint mounting can allow multi-axial, in particular triaxial, rotation of the jointly mounted conduit segment relative to the second conduit receptacle, provided the jointly mounted conduit segment is not fixed. The joint mounting can prevent translational movements of the jointly mounted conduit segment relative to the second conduit receptacle.

[0018] In another embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the joint bearing formed by the first cable receptacle and the first joint section of the articulated cable member and / or the joint bearing formed by the second cable receptacle and the second joint section of the articulated cable member is equipped with a guide device. This guide device is configured to guide the articulated cable member along a predetermined path of movement during a pivoting motion and / or to limit the pivoting motion of the articulated cable member. The guide device may include a guide pin that is guided in a guide slot of the guide device. When the cable member pivots, the guide pin preferably moves within the guide slot and is guided by the guide slot during the pivoting motion of the cable member.The guide pin can be located at the cable receptacle or the articulated section of the cable link. Furthermore, the guide slot can be located at the articulated section of the articulated cable link or at the cable receptacle. The guide device can also function as a stop. For example, the guide pin abuts the contour of the guide slot when the cable link has been pivoted into an end position.

[0019] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention with a return element is preferred. The return element connects several return lines to the main conveying line. Several secondary line receptacles for several articulated line sections can be formed on the return element. Preferably, several articulated line sections open into the return element. The return element can be a return funnel.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, two separate conduit channels extend within the articulated conduit member. The two conduit channels are preferably separated from each other by a partition extending within the articulated conduit member. One conduit channel within the articulated conduit member can be a return channel through which material from at least one air-material flow can be directed back into the main conveying line. Another conduit channel within the articulated conduit member can be an air discharge channel through which air from at least one individual air-material flow directed towards the main conveying line can be introduced into a discharge line before reaching the main conveying line, wherein the discharge line is connected to a placement device, for example, a seed coulter.Minimum cross-sectional areas of the conduit channels may be required if two or more than two outlets are joined before the air-material flow is introduced into the return line.

[0021] In a further development of the distribution device according to the invention, the return line is connected to at least two outlets of the distribution chamber. Preferably, the return line has a bundling section which is configured to combine at least two individual air-material flows before they are introduced into the articulated line section. Within the bundling section, at least two individual air-material flows are combined to form a collective flow comprising the at least two individual air-material flows. The bundling section can be part of a bundling element on which the first line receptacle is also formed.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the distribution device according to the invention has a collection chamber into which several return lines open and in which air from several air-material flows introduced into the collection chamber can be separated for introduction into several air discharge lines of the distribution device, each connected to a discharge line. The air separated in the collection chamber is not returned to the main conveying line. Impairment of the flow within the main conveying line due to an excessive amount of returned air is thus effectively avoided. Only a small amount of un-separated air remains, through which the material is transported back into the main conveying line.The separated air, which is introduced into the application line, also serves to transport the material still present in the application line to a deposition device, such as a seed drill. The individual air-material flows are introduced into the separation collection area via return lines. Before entering the separation collection area, several individual air-material flows can be bundled, for example, via a bundling section. Within the bundling section, two or more individual air-material flows can be combined before entering the separation collection area. In this case, the individual air-material flows are introduced into the separation collection area as a single, combined flow. Therefore, air from a combined flow comprising several individual air-material flows can also be separated in the separation collection area.

[0023] The air introduced into the air discharge lines is routed via the application lines to the depositing devices of the agricultural spreading machine, thus assisting the conveying of the granular material in the respective application lines. The depositing devices can be, for example, seed coulters. The air discharge lines preferably serve as a bypass. The main conveying line can be designed as a riser pipe.

[0024] In a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the separation collection area is partially or completely circumferential. The separation collection area can, for example, be annular in shape. The separation collection area can thus be designed as an annular chamber. A separation surface and / or a separation edge, particularly circumferential, can be arranged in the separation collection area, wherein the separation surface and / or separation edge leads to the separation of an airflow without material loading or with a reduced material loading. The separated airflow can then be fed to one or more discharge lines via one or more air discharge lines.

[0025] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is preferred in which the separator collection area has one, and in particular only one, air discharge opening connected to several or all of the air discharge lines. Several air discharge openings may also be present. The one or more air discharge openings preferably form the transition area between the separator collection area and the air discharge lines.

[0026] The distribution device according to the invention is further advantageously developed in that the air discharge opening is formed circumferentially. The air discharge opening is preferably designed as an annular air discharge slot. The air discharge opening can, for example, have an opening profile with several turns or loops. The air discharge opening can have a meandering or zigzag opening profile.

[0027] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is preferred in which one or more material inlet protection elements are arranged between the separating collection area and the air discharge lines. These elements are air-permeable and designed to prevent the introduction of material into the air discharge openings. The material inlet protection element can be a grid, screen, or mesh, particularly a circumferential one. The material inlet protection element is preferably permeable to air but impermeable to the granular material. Alternatively, the material inlet protection element can be a material filter that is permeable to air but impermeable to the granular material. Thus, the material inlet protection element has air passage openings whose size prevents the material from passing through. The air passage openings can also be formed by perforating the material.

[0028] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is preferred in which several material inlet protection elements are arranged between the separation collection area and the air discharge openings, which together form a grid and / or labyrinth structure that is air-permeable and designed to prevent the introduction of material into the air discharge opening. The grid bars of the grid structure can form one or more rows. The labyrinth passages of the labyrinth structure can be located in spaced-apart planes.

[0029] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by an agricultural spreading machine of the type mentioned at the outset, wherein the spreading device of the spreading machine according to the invention is designed according to one of the embodiments described above. With regard to the advantages and modifications of the agricultural spreading machine according to the invention, reference is therefore first made to the advantages and modifications of the spreading device according to the invention.

[0030] The agricultural spreading machine is preferably a seed drill or a fertilizer spreader. The agricultural spreading machine can be an implement that can be attached to a tractor via a three-point linkage. The agricultural spreading machine can be a mounted spreader, in which case the tractor acts as the carrier vehicle. Furthermore, the spreading machine can be a trailed spreader, in which case the tractor acts as the towing vehicle.

[0031] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by an assembly method of the type mentioned above, wherein a flexibly mounted line element of the return line is aligned within the framework of the method according to the invention. By aligning the flexibly mounted line element, the angle of inclination of the line element is changed and adapted to the model of the distribution device. Due to the flexibly mounted connection, several different line elements with different curvature profiles are not required for distribution devices with a different number of outlets.

[0032] The assembly method is preferably used to assemble a distribution device according to one of the embodiments described above. In a preferred embodiment of the assembly method according to the invention, the articulated conductor link is aligned via a joint bearing, in particular a ball joint bearing.

[0033] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained and described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 An embodiment of the distribution device in a schematic sectional view, wherein the deflection elements are in a spreading position; Fig. 2 those in the Fig. 1. Distribution device shown in a schematic sectional view, wherein the deflection elements are in a return position; Fig. 3 a separation collection area of ​​a distribution device according to the invention including a material inlet protection element in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 4 a separation collection area of ​​a further distribution device according to the invention including material introduction protection element in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 5 a separation collection area of ​​a further distribution device according to the invention including material introduction protection element in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 6. The flow crossing area of ​​a distribution device in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 7 the flow crossing area of ​​another distribution device in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 8 an embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the distribution chamber of which has a first number of outlets, in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 9 an embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the distribution chamber of which has a second number of outlets, in a schematic sectional view; Fig. 10 a bundling section of a distribution device according to the invention from the outside; Fig. 11 the in the Fig. 10 bundling section shown in a schematic sectional view; and Fig. 12 a articulated conductor element of a return line of a distribution device according to the invention in a sectional view.

[0034] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a distribution device 10, which is used as the distribution head of an agricultural seed drill. The distribution device 10 comprises a main conveying line 12, which is oriented essentially vertically. The main conveying line 12 is formed section by a corrugated pipe. A main air-material flow rises through the main conveying line 12 and is introduced into a distribution chamber 14 of the distribution device 10. The distribution chamber 14 has several outlets 16a-16f arranged along its circumference, whereby the main air-material flow introduced into the distribution chamber 14 is divided into several individual air-material flows that can be discharged from the distribution chamber 14 through the outlets 16a-16f.Outlets 16a-16f are each connected to a distribution passage 18a, 18f, so that the individual air-material flows discharged from distribution chamber 14 can be fed via distribution passages 18a, 18f to distribution lines 20a, 20f. Distribution lines 20a, 20f each lead to a placement device for depositing the seed onto an agricultural area. The placement devices can, for example, be seed coulters.

[0035] Behind the outlets 16a-16f are switchable deflection elements 22a, 22f. The switchable deflection elements 22a, 22f are designed as pivotable flaps. Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, the deflection elements 22a, 22f can be designed as a rocker with two arms or as two positively coupled spherical segment elements. By means of the switchable deflection elements 22a, 22f, the connection between the respective outlet 16a-16f and the discharge line 20a, 20f via the discharge passage 18a, 18f can be locked and unlocked. In the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 1, this connection is enabled. Furthermore, the connection between the respective outlets 16a, 16f and a separator collection area 28 can be blocked or enabled via a return line 24a, 24f using the deflection elements 22a, 22f. In the state shown in the Fig. In the state shown in 1, this connection is blocked.

[0036] The Fig. Figure 2 shows the distribution device after the deflection elements 22a, 22f have been switched from the discharge position to a return position. In the return position, the deflection elements 22a, 22f block the connection between the respective outlet 16a, 16f and the discharge line 20a, 20f via the discharge passage 18a, 18f. Furthermore, the connection between the respective outlet 16a, 16f and the separator collection area 28 via the return line 24a, 24f is enabled.

[0037] When the deflection elements 22a, 22f are in the return position, the individual air-material flows are fed to a collection chamber 28 via return lines 24a, 24f and flow crossing areas 26a, 26f. Several return lines 24a, 24f open into the collection chamber 28. In the collection chamber, air is separated from several individual air-material flows introduced into the collection chamber 28. The separated air is then introduced into several air discharge lines 34a, 34f of the distribution device 10, with the air discharge lines 34a-34f being connected back to the discharge lines 20a, 20f, so that the separated air is supplied to the storage devices.In an embodiment not shown, it is also conceivable that the deflection elements 22a, 22f block the connection between the application line 20a, 20f and the air discharge line 34a, 34f in the application position and release this connection only in the return position.

[0038] The separation collection area 28 is a circumferential annular chamber. A circumferential separation edge 30 is arranged within the separation collection area 28, which causes the separation of an airflow without material content. The separated airflow is discharged from the separation collection area 28 via a circumferential air discharge opening 32 and introduced into the air discharge lines 34a, 34f. The air discharge opening 32 is an annular air discharge slot equipped with a material inlet protection element 36. The material inlet protection element 36 is air-permeable and prevents material from entering the air discharge lines 34a, 34f. The material inlet protection element 36 is a grid, with the grid bars arranged along a grid ring. The grid bars are spaced apart such that the seeds cannot pass through them.If the airflow separated by the separating edge 30 still contains individual seeds, these are prevented from flowing into the air discharge lines 34a, 34f by the material inlet protection element 36.

[0039] The separating collection area 28 further comprises a material return opening 38 connected to the main conveying line 12, through which the returned material can be reintroduced into the main conveying line 12. The material return opening 38 is circumferential. A return section 40 of the main conveying line 12 connects directly to the material return opening 38 of the separating collection area 28. An upright pipe section 42 of the main conveying line 12 is arranged between the return section 40 of the main conveying line 12 and the distribution chamber 14. The separating collection area 28 is arranged below the upright pipe section 42. The separating collection area 28 incorporates a funnel-shaped return component, which also includes a section of the main conveying line 12. The return component includes an expansion nozzle 44 for the main air-material flow flowing through the main conveying line 12.

[0040] Between outlets 16a, 16f and the separator collection area 28 are flow crossing areas 26a, 26f, in which a return line 24a, 24f and an air discharge line 34a, 34f cross. The respective return lines 24a, 24f run from top to bottom, namely from each outlet 16a-16f at the distribution chamber 14 to the separator collection area 28. The respective air discharge lines 34a, 34f run from bottom to top, namely from each separator collection area 28 to the respective discharge line 20a, 20f.Because a return line 24a, 24f and an air discharge line 34a, 34f intersect in the flow intersection area 26a, 26f, the individual air-material flow, which lies radially inside above the flow intersection area 26a, 26f, can be directed radially outwards below the flow intersection area 26a, 26f before reaching the separation collection area 28. Conversely, the air flow, which lies radially inside below the flow intersection area 26a, 26f and is separated in the separation collection area 28, can be directed radially outwards above the flow intersection area 26a, 26f for introduction into the discharge line 20a, 20f. Thus, the material flowing into the separation collection area 28 can also be introduced into the radially inside main conveying line 12 after air separation.

[0041] The distribution device 10 further comprises a control device (not shown) for controlling the switching operations of the deflection elements 22a, 22f, wherein the control device takes into account the length of the respective discharge line 20a, 20f and the conveying time of the respective individual air-material flow through the discharge line 20a-20f when determining switching times for the deflection elements 22a, 22f.

[0042] The Fig. Figure 3 shows material inlet protection elements 36, which are arranged between the separator collection area 28 and the air discharge lines 34 of a distribution device 10. The material inlet protection elements 36 are ribs that together form a labyrinth structure. The labyrinth structure is air-permeable and prevents material from being introduced into the air discharge openings 34. Air is separated from the air-material flow entering the separator collection area 28 via the return line 24 at the separator edge 30. The separated air is discharged from the separator collection area 28 via the material inlet protection elements 36 and the air discharge opening 32 and introduced into the air discharge line 34. A flow crossing area 26 is located between the outlets at the distribution chamber 14 and the separator collection area 28, in which a return line 24 and an air discharge line 34 each cross.The return line 24 and the air discharge line 34 are wound around each other in a helical fashion over half a turn in a flow crossing area 26.

[0043] During the Fig. In the distribution device 10 shown in Figure 4, the material inlet protection element 36 is designed as a circumferential sheet metal with a plurality of air outlet openings 32. The ring-shaped sheet metal prevents the material, i.e., the seed, from being introduced into the air outlet openings 34.

[0044] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a material inlet protection element 36, which has a grid structure. The grid bars are arranged on a surrounding grid ring and spaced apart from each other in such a way that the granular material, i.e., the seed, cannot pass through the grid bars. The grid bars extend from the separation edge 30 to just below the upper wall of the separation collection area 28, thus creating a continuous air discharge opening 32. The introduction of granular material into the air discharge lines 34 is therefore effectively prevented.

[0045] The Fig. Figure 6 shows a distribution device 10 in which deflection units 60 are connected to the outlets 16 of the distribution chamber 14. The deflection units 60 are each equipped with a pivotable deflection element 22. The deflection element 22 can be pivoted between a dispensing position and a return position. In the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 6, the deflecting element 22 is in the discharge position. In the discharge position, the connection between the respective outlet 16 and the discharge line 20 via the discharge passage 18 is open. Furthermore, the connection between the outlet 16 and the separating collection area 28 via the return line 24 is closed. Consequently, the individual air-material flow discharged from the distribution chamber 14 via the outlet 16 is introduced directly into the discharge line 20 without return and thus fed to the storage device connected to the discharge line 20.

[0046] In the Fig. Figure 7 shows a distribution device 10 in which the deflecting element 22 of the deflection unit 60 is in the return position. In the return position, the connection between the respective outlet 16 and the discharge line 20 via the discharge passage 18 is blocked. Furthermore, the connection between the respective outlet 16 and the separator collection area via the return line 24 is opened. The individual air-material flow discharged from the distribution chamber 14 via the outlet 16 is thus directed into the return line 24 and guided radially outwards in the flow crossing area 26. The air separated in the separator collection area 28 is then introduced into the discharge line 20 via the air discharge line 34. The separated air is guided radially outwards in the flow crossing area 26, so that it can be introduced into the external discharge line 20.

[0047] The Fig. Figure 8 shows a distribution device 10, wherein the distribution device 10 has a distribution chamber 14 with 24 outlets 16d-16f. Deflection units 60 are connected to the outlets 16d-16f, each of which contains a movable deflection element 22. The position of the deflection element 22 can also be manually adjusted from the outside by means of a lever 46f. When the deflection elements 22 are in the return position, two individual air-material flows, which leave the distribution chamber 14 through adjacent outlets 16d-16f, are introduced into a bundling section 58f. In the bundling section 58f, the two individual air-material flows are combined before being introduced into a articulated line element 48f of the return line 24f. Within the articulated conductor element 48f are two conductor channels 50a, 50b, which are separated from each other by a partition 52.The conduit 50b is a return channel through which material from the previously combined air-material flows can be conveyed back into the main conveying line 12. The conduit 50a is an air discharge channel through which air separated within the separating collection area 28 from the air-material flows introduced into the separating collection area 28 can be introduced into a discharge line 20f, the discharge line 20f being connected to a placement device, for example, a seed coulter. The conduit channels 50a and 50b have different lengths, such that the partition 52 within the return body 62 forms an outer wall of the conduit element 48f. The articulated mounting of the conduit element 48f is implemented via articulated bearings 54f and 56f in the end regions of the conduit element 48f.

[0048] Due to the 24 outlets 16d-16f of the distribution chamber 14, the joint bearings 54f, 56f have a specific distance and offset from each other. This relative positioning of the joint bearings 54f results in a specific angle of attack α1 of the articulated conduit member 48f.

[0049] Distribution chamber 14 of the in the Fig. The distribution device 10 shown in Figure 9 has 32 outlets 16c-16f, so that the upper joint bearings 54f are located further outwards due to the increased space requirements. Nevertheless, a conductor link 48f can be used in the return line 24f, which is identical in construction to the one in the Fig. The line element 48f shown in Figure 8 is located on the articulated section. This is possible because the line element 48f is articulated via the ball-joint bearings 54f and 56f, allowing for a different angle of attack α2 to be set on the line element 48. During the assembly of the distribution device 10, a suitable angle of attack α1, α2 is set on the articulated line elements 48f via the ball-joint bearings 54f and 56f. This results in a significant reduction in the number of parts across all models. Furthermore, the articulated mounting of the line elements 54f allows for the compensation of assembly tolerances, even without the use of flexible hoses.

[0050] The articulated pipe sections 48f are rigid pipes made of plastic, specifically injection-molded plastic parts. The pipe sections 48f are therefore plastic pipes or plastic pipe segments.

[0051] As in the Fig. 10 and Fig. As shown in Figure 11, two outlets 16a, 16b of a distribution chamber 14 are connected via deflection units 60a, 60b to a bundling section 58. In the bundling section 58, the individual air-material flows discharged from the distribution chamber 14 via outlets 16a, 16b are combined into a collecting flow and introduced via a channel 50b in the line section 48 into a return body 62 connected to the main conveying line 12. Within the return body 62, air is separated and then introduced via a channel 50a of the line section 48 into application lines, which are connected to placement devices such as seed coulters.

[0052] The connecting element 48 is articulated via the joint bearings 54, 56, whereby a pivoting movement on the connecting element 48 is enabled after loosening one of the two joint bearings.

[0053] The Fig. Figure 12 shows that the return line 24 has a first line receptacle 64a, wherein a first joint section 66a of the articulated line member 48 is arranged on the first line receptacle 64a. The first joint section 66a of the articulated line member 48 is connected to the first line receptacle 64a in a non-destructively detachable manner. The first line receptacle 64a and the first joint section 66a of the articulated line member 48 form a ball-and-socket joint 54. The first line receptacle 64a is designed as a joint head, wherein the first joint section 66a is designed as a socket. The socket forms the counterpart to the joint head and partially encloses it. The articular head is enclosed by the articular socket to such an extent that only rotational movements of the articulated conduction 48 are possible if the conduction 48 is not fixed in the lower part.Translational movements of the jointly mounted conduction element 48 with respect to the first conduction reception 64a are prevented by the joint mounting 54.

[0054] The return line 24 further comprises a second line receptacle 64b, wherein a second joint section 66b of the articulated line member 48 is arranged at the second line receptacle 64b. The second joint section 66b of the articulated line member 48 is connected to the second line receptacle 64b in a non-destructively detachable manner. The second line receptacle 64b and the second joint section 66b of the articulated line member 48 form a joint bearing 56 designed as a ball joint bearing. The second joint section 66b of the line member 48 is designed as a rod end. The second joint section 66b is designed as a cylindrical rod end receptacle. Because the second conduit receptacle 54b is not cup-shaped, the conduit member 48 can be moved translationally within the joint bearing 56, provided that the conduit member 48 is not fixed in the upper area.Furthermore, the conductor element 48 has a circumferential shoulder 74, which serves as a pivot stop. In specific pivot positions of the conductor element 48, the circumferential shoulder 74 comes into contact with a circumferential collar of the return body 52, the circumferential collar forming the second conductor receptacle 64b. A cylindrical conductor section 76 is arranged between the circumferential shoulder 74 and the joint section 66b, which is designed as a joint head. This cylindrical conductor section allows linear movement of the conductor element 48 despite the presence of the circumferential shoulder 74.

[0055] The articulated bearing 54 formed by the first cable receptacle 64a and the first joint section 66a of the articulated cable member 48 is equipped with a guide device 68. The guide device 68 has a guide pin 70 which is guided in a guide slot 72. The articulated cable member 48 is guided by the guide device 68 along a predetermined path of movement during a pivoting motion. Furthermore, the pivoting motion of the articulated cable member 48 is limited by the guide device 68 at least in one pivoting direction.

[0056] During the Fig. In the distribution device 10 shown in Figure 12, an angle of attack α is established due to the radial offset of the mounting points or the pivot points of the conductor element 48. This angle of attack α can be adjusted during the assembly process of the distribution device 10. Reference symbol list 10 Distribution device 12 Main supply line 14 Distribution Chamber 16, 16a-16f Departures 18, 18a, 18f Application passes 20, 20a, 20f Discharge lines 22, 22a, 22f Deflection elements 24, 24a, 24f Return lines 26, 26a, 26f Flow crossing area 28 Separation collection area 30 separating edge 32 Air outlet 34, 34a, 34f air discharge lines 36 material entry protection elements 38 Material return opening 40 Return area 42 Line section 44 Expansion nozzle 46f lever 48, 48f Governing member 50a, 50b conduit 52 Partition wall 54, 54f Joint bearing 56, 56f Joint bearing 58, 58f Bundling section 60, 60a, 60b Deflection units 62 return bodies 64a, 64b Line recordings 66a, 66b Joint sections 68 Guide system 70 guide pin 72 guide slots 74 Shoulder 76 Line section α, α1, α2 Angle of attack

Claims

[1] Distributor (10) for granular material, in particular seed, for an agricultural distribution machine, with - a distribution chamber (14) in which a main air-material flow introduced through a main conveying line (12) can be divided into several individual air-material flows that can be discharged from the distribution chamber (14) through outlets (16, 16a-16f); and - at least one return line (24, 24a, 24f) which is connected to at least one outlet (16, 16a-16f) of the distribution chamber (14) and through which material from at least one air-material single flow can be conveyed back into the main conveying line (12); characterized by , that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) includes a articulated line element (48, 48f). [2] Distribution device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the articulated conduit element (48, 48f) is designed as a rigid conduit. [3] Distribution device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) has a first line receptacle (64a), wherein a first articulated section (66a) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) is arranged at the first line receptacle (64a). [4] Distribution device (10) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the first conduit receptacle (64a) and the first joint section (66a) of the articulated conduit member (48, 48f) form a joint bearing (54, 54f), in particular a ball joint bearing. [5] Distribution device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) has a second line receptacle (64b), wherein a second articulated section (66b) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) is arranged at the second line receptacle (64b). [6] Distribution device (10) according to claim 5, characterized by, that the second conduit receptacle (64b) and the second joint section (66b) of the articulated conduit member (48, 48f) form a joint bearing (56, 56f), in particular a ball joint bearing. [7] Distribution device (10) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized by , that the joint bearing (54, 54f) formed by the first conduit receptacle (64a) and the first joint section (66a) of the articulated conduit member (48, 48f) and / or the joint bearing (56, 56f) formed by the second conduit receptacle (64b) and the second joint section (66b) of the articulated conduit member (48, 48f) is equipped with a guide device (68) which is designed to guide the articulated conduit member (48, 48f) during a pivoting movement along a predetermined path of movement and / or to limit the pivoting movement of the articulated conduit member (48, 48f). [8] Distribution device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by a return body (62) which connects several return lines (24, 24a, 24f) to the main conveying line (12), wherein several second line receptacles (64b) for several articulated line elements (48, 48f) are formed on the return body (62). [9] Distribution device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that within the articulated conduit element (48, 48f) two separate conduit channels (50a, 50b) run. [10] Distribution device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) is connected to at least two outlets (16, 16a-16f) of the distribution chamber (14) and has a bundling section (58, 58f) which is designed to combine at least two air-material individual flows before introducing them into the articulated line element (48, 48f). [11] Distribution device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a separation collection area (28) into which several return lines (24, 24a, 24f) open and in which air from several air-material flows introduced into the separation collection area (28) can be separated for introduction into several air discharge lines (34, 34a, 34f) of the distribution device (10), each connected to a discharge line (20, 20a, 20f). [12] Distribution device (10) according to claim 11, characterized by , that the separating collection area (28) is partially or completely circumferential, wherein the separating collection area (28) preferably has one, in particular only one, air discharge opening (32) connected with several or all air discharge lines (34, 34a, 34f). [13] Agricultural spreading machine for spreading granular material, with - a distribution device (10) with a distribution chamber (14) in which a main air-material flow introduced through a main conveying line (12) can be divided into several individual air-material flows that can be discharged from the distribution chamber (14) through outlets (16, 16a-16f); and - several depositing devices for depositing the granular material onto an agricultural area, wherein the depositing devices are each connected via a discharge line (20, 20a, 20f) to an outlet at the distribution chamber (14); characterized by , that the distribution device (10) is designed according to one of the preceding claims. [14] Assembly method for a distribution device (10) for granular material, in particular for a distribution device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps: - Providing an assembly of the distribution device (10), wherein the assembly comprises a distribution chamber (14) and wherein in the distribution chamber (14) a main air-material flow introduced by a main conveying line (12) can be divided into several individual air-material flows that can be discharged from the distribution chamber (14) by outlets (16, 16a-16f); and - Connecting at least one outlet of the distribution chamber (14) to a return line (24, 24a, 24f) through which material from at least one air-material single flow can be conveyed back into the main conveying line (12); characterized by the step: - Aligning a articulated conductor link (48, 48f) of the return line (24, 24a, 24f). [15] Assembly method according to claim 14, characterized by , that the articulated conductor link (48, 48f) is aligned via a joint bearing (54, 54f, 56, 56f), in particular a ball joint bearing.

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