Dispensing device for applying spray liquid and for attaching to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer

Abstract

The invention relates to a spreading device (1) for spreading spray liquid and for attaching to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50) comprising: - a fastening device (2) for mechanical connection with a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50) and for fluid-communicating connection of the application device (1) to at least one fluid-carrying supply line (52) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), - at least one metering device (3) for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or shutting off spray liquid, and - at least one connecting device (4) for fluid-communicating connection of the fastening device (2) to a metering device (3), - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed such that the spatial distance (X, Y) of the at least one metering device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable. Furthermore, the invention relates to an agricultural field sprayer (50) for applying spray liquid.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an application device for applying spray liquid and for attaching to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer, as well as an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid.

[0002] From DE 10 2017 110 564 A1, a multi-nozzle body for arrangement on a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer extending transversely to the direction of travel is known. The multi-nozzle body comprises a first and a second coupling nozzle for connecting application elements designed as spray nozzles.

[0003] According to DE 10 2017 110 564 A1, several multi-nozzle bodies are arranged on a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer. The multi-nozzle bodies are designed such that a spraying element of the first coupling of a first multi-nozzle body is 50 cm away from a spraying element of the first coupling of a second multi-nozzle body. The spraying element of the second coupling of the first multi-nozzle body is 25 cm away from a spraying element of the second coupling of the second multi-nozzle body. Thus, the second couplings reduce the distance between two multi-nozzle bodies. The second couplings of a multi-nozzle body are rigid and fixed in length. Therefore, the distance between the first and second couplings of a multi-nozzle body is also predetermined and fixed.This results in fixed spray widths for the agricultural field sprayer.

[0004] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide an application device for applying spray liquid and for attaching to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer, as well as an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid, which allows an arbitrary or predetermined distance between two application elements in order to ensure a high variability of an application device and / or a field sprayer.

[0005] This problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Further advantageous developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention comprises a dispensing device for dispensing spray liquid and for attaching to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer.

[0007] The application device has a fastening device for mechanical connection to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer and for fluid communication between the application device and at least one fluid-carrying supply line of an agricultural field sprayer. The fastening device can be designed to be either fixed or rigidly connected to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer, so that both can move as a unit or only as a unit together.

[0008] Furthermore, the dispensing device has at least one metering device for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or shutting off the spray liquid. Thus, with the help of the at least one metering device, spray liquid can either be dispensed or not dispensed.

[0009] Furthermore, the dispensing device, e.g., for each metering unit, has at least one connecting device for fluid communication between the mounting device and the at least one metering unit. Consequently, spray fluid can flow from the mounting device via the at least one connecting device to the at least one metering unit.

[0010] Furthermore, at least one connecting device is designed such that the spatial distance between at least one metering device and the mounting device is variable. This allows for a specific or predetermined distance between two metering devices, thus ensuring a high degree of variability in an application device and / or a field sprayer.

[0011] Furthermore, at least one connecting device can be designed to be length-adjustable and / or telescopic and / or rotatable. This design allows for easy adjustment of the distance between a fastening device and a dispensing device.

[0012] The at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one metering device is, for example, only displaceable along or against a first spatial direction. Consequently, the direction in and against which the at least one metering device can be adjusted by means of the at least one connecting device can be determined or specified.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one metering device is, for example, only displaceable along or against a second spatial direction. Consequently, the direction in and against which the at least one metering device can be adjusted by means of the at least one connecting device can also be defined or specified here.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one metering device is, for example, only displaceable along or against a third spatial direction. This configuration also makes it possible to define or specify the direction in and against which the at least one metering device can be adjusted by means of the at least one connecting device.

[0015] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the mounting device such that the at least one metering device can be rotated, for example, only about a first, second, or third spatial direction. Thus, the distance between the mounting device and the metering device can also be changed with respect to, for example, a first spatial direction.

[0016] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the mounting device such that the at least one metering device can be arranged at any desired or predetermined position, e.g., simply within a first fictitious plane spanned by a first and a third spatial direction, which may be perpendicular to each other. The first fictitious plane may be oriented or aligned in the same direction as the Earth's surface. Thus, the distance between the mounting device and the metering device within the first fictitious plane can be freely changed. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the mounting device can be changed in two spatial directions, e.g., a first and a third spatial direction, which may be perpendicular to each other.Consequently, the variability of an application device and / or a field sprayer can be increased, since different spray widths can be achieved with this design.

[0017] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can alternatively or additionally be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the mounting device such that the at least one metering device can be arranged at any desired or conceivable position, e.g., merely within a second fictitious plane spanned by a second and a third spatial direction, which can be perpendicular to each other. The second fictitious plane can be oriented or aligned substantially perpendicular to a plane that is oriented or aligned in the same way as the Earth's surface. With this configuration, the distance between the mounting device and the metering device within the second fictitious plane can be freely changed. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device in two spatial directions, e.g.,A second and a third spatial direction, which can be perpendicular to each other, can be modified for the mounting device. Consequently, the variability of an application device and / or a field sprayer can be increased, since different spray widths can be achieved with this design.

[0018] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of at least one metering device relative to the mounting device such that the at least one metering device can be arranged at any desired or foreseeable position in space. The first spatial direction, the second spatial direction, and / or the third spatial direction can be perpendicular to each other. This configuration allows for maximum variability of an application device and / or a field sprayer, as the distance between the mounting device and the metering device is freely variable. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the mounting device can be changed in all three spatial directions, e.g., a first, a second, and a third spatial direction, which can be perpendicular to each other.

[0019] The three spatial directions can run along three coordinate axes, which result in or span a three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0020] It is also possible for at least one connecting device to have a first and a second arm, which together form a telescopic, variable-length, or self-retracting cantilever arm. The first arm may be slidably or telescopically connected to the second arm, or the first arm and the second arm may be rotatably connected, and together they form a self-retracting cantilever arm. A self-retracting cantilever arm may be a two-part cantilever arm, the first part of which can be fixed or rotatably attached, for example, to the spray boom. Alternatively, a self-retracting cantilever arm may be a two-part cantilever arm, the second part of which may be movable, rotatable, slidable, or telescopic relative to the first part.

[0021] Furthermore, the first arm can be arranged with its first end fixed or rotatable to the fastening device or can be arranged on a spray boom of a field sprayer.

[0022] The first arm can be rotatably or slidably / telescopically connected to the second arm at its second end. Furthermore, the first arm can be designed or arranged to be relatively rotatable or twistable on the mounting device at least within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees or even through 360 degrees.

[0023] The second arm can be connected to the first arm at its first end in a way that allows it to rotate relatively freely or be moved / telescopically. The second arm can also be located at its second end on at least one dosing device. Furthermore, the second arm can be designed to rotate or twist relative to the first arm within an angular range of 0 to 100 degrees or through 360 degrees.

[0024] Furthermore, at least one connecting device may include an actuator, e.g. a linear actuator or a linear drive or a rotary actuator, for changing the spatial distance between the dosing device and the fastening device.

[0025] The at least one connecting device and / or the actuator can be continuously variable or stepped. The actuator can also have a housing and a control output, which can be configured as a shaft. Furthermore, the actuator can be attached by its housing to a first arm of the at least one connecting device or to the mounting device, or it can be attached to a spray boom of a field sprayer. The actuator can also be connected by its control output to a second arm of the at least one connecting device. By attaching the at least one connecting device and / or the actuator, the first and second arms can be moved relative to each other. The actuator can be configured as a servo motor, a stepper motor, an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a hydraulic actuator.

[0026] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can have a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can have two end stops that limit the displacement or rotation of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device. The two end stops can be formed on the first or second arm. Thus, the locking mechanism can have two end stops that limit the rotation of a second arm relative to a first arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0027] Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have at least one detent point between two end stops. This at least one detent point can define a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the at least one dispensing device and the fastening device can be achieved.

[0028] The locking mechanism can also include a spring-loaded locking pin. Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have at least one detent hole as a detent point into which a locking pin can be engaged. The at least one detent hole can be arranged in a first arm of the at least one connecting device or in a second arm of the at least one connecting device. The spring-loaded locking pin can be arranged in a second arm of the at least one connecting device or in a first arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0029] Furthermore, the at least one metering device can have at least one dispensing element for dispensing a spray liquid and at least one controllable valve for releasing and blocking a liquid flow.

[0030] The at least one dispensing element can be arranged at the at least one valve or at an outlet of the at least one valve. The at least one dispensing element can also be arranged downstream of the at least one valve or downstream of an outlet of the at least one valve.

[0031] The at least one valve can be configured to open or close selectively. The at least one valve can also be configured for control via pulse width modulation. Thus, the at least one valve can be configured to be either openable or closeable, assuming only one of these states.

[0032] The at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can also be configured such that the path of a spray liquid from the valve to the dispensing element is less than 20 cm. The distance between the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be constant or fixed. Furthermore, the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be arranged or connected to each other in such a way that the at least one metering device is always movable as a whole / unit or always together with its at least one valve and its at least one dispensing element relative to the mounting device. In addition, the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be arranged or connected to each other in such a way that the distance and spatial orientation of the two relative to each other is fixed or unchangeable.

[0033] The at least one application element can further be oriented such that it can apply the spray liquid in or against the second spatial direction. This second spatial direction can be oriented towards the earth's surface or essentially perpendicular to the earth's surface.

[0034] Furthermore, at least one application element can be designed as a nozzle and / or as a trailing hose.

[0035] Furthermore, at least one dosing device may have a rotatable dispensing element carrier that can be adjusted to different positions.

[0036] The dispensing element carrier can be rotatably designed to be connected to at least one connecting device, such as a second arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0037] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device and the at least one metering device can be designed such that the dispensing element carrier is rotatable relative to the at least one connecting device.

[0038] Furthermore, at least two dispensing elements can be arranged or attached to the dispensing element carrier.

[0039] The dispensing element carrier can be designed such that only the dispensing element oriented in a second spatial direction can be fluidly connected to the mounting device via at least one connecting device. This second spatial direction can be oriented towards the earth's surface or essentially perpendicular to it. A dispensing element, through which spraying fluid can and / or is intended to be dispensed, can be quickly and easily changed and / or positioned by manually rotating the dispensing element carrier or by rotating it with the aid of an actuator.

[0040] Upstream of the application element carrier, at least one controllable valve can be arranged to release or close the spray fluid for exit from the at least one application element. In other words, the application element carrier can be arranged between the at least one controllable valve and the at least one application element.

[0041] A second aspect of the present invention comprises an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid.

[0042] It is expressly pointed out that the features of the application device, as mentioned under the first aspect, can be used individually or in combination with each other in the agricultural field sprayer.

[0043] In other words, the features relating to the application device mentioned above under the first aspect of the invention can also be combined with further features under the second aspect of the invention. This makes it possible to create a field sprayer with which any desired, predefinable, or adjustable distance between application elements can be achieved, thereby ensuring a high degree of variability in the field sprayer's operation.

[0044] An agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid includes a spray boom that is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer.

[0045] Furthermore, the agricultural field sprayer has at least one application device for dispensing spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom as described in the first aspect. Several application devices may be arranged or attached to the spray boom at intervals from one another.

[0046] Furthermore, the agricultural field sprayer includes at least one supply line to supply at least one application device with spraying fluid.

[0047] At least one application device is arranged on the spray boom and fluidly connected to at least one supply line. This makes it possible to apply spraying fluid using the field sprayer.

[0048] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of an application device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device in a first spatial direction relative to the mounting device is variable, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. Alternatively, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction can be fixed.

[0049] The spatial distance of at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device within a first fictitious plane, spanned by a first and a third spatial direction, can be changed.

[0050] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of an application device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device in a third spatial direction relative to the mounting device is variable, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. In addition, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction can be fixed.

[0051] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of the application device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device relative to the mounting device is variable in a second spatial direction, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the mounting device and / or in a first spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. Alternatively, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a first spatial direction can be fixed.

[0052] The spatial distance of at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device within a second fictitious plane, spanned by a second and a third spatial direction, can also be changed.

[0053] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of an application device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device in a third spatial direction relative to the mounting device is variable, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the mounting device in a first spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. Thus, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device to the spray boom and / or in a first spatial direction can also be unchangeable.

[0054] Furthermore, at least one connecting device of the dispensing device can be rotatable, e.g., on the mounting device. The spatial distance between the at least one metering device and the mounting device can be constant in the first hypothetical plane.

[0055] The axis of rotation can also be oriented essentially perpendicular to the course of the spray boom or to the earth surface or along the second spatial direction, thereby allowing the distance between two metering devices of adjacent application devices to be changed.

[0056] In the present description, "essentially perpendicular" can be understood to mean that an axis of rotation or fictitious plane is also to be considered perpendicular if it deviates by + / - 10% from an ideal perpendicular on a plane or on / to a spray boom.

[0057] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These schematically show: Fig. 1 a sectional view of an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid in a first state; Fig. 2 the field sprayer from Fig. 1 in a second state; Fig. 3 a view of a spreading device Fig. 1 and Fig. 2; Fig. 4 an enlarged view of the connection device of the dispensing device Fig. 3 according to a first embodiment; Fig. 5 an enlarged view of the connection device of the dispensing device Fig. 3 according to a second embodiment, wherein Fig. 5 compared to Fig. 3 is shown rotated by 90 degrees; Fig. 6 the field sprayer from Fig. 1 in a third state; and Fig. 7 the field sprayer from Fig. 1 in a fourth state.

[0058] In the following description, the same reference symbols are used for the same objects.

[0059] Fig. Figure 1 shows a sectional view of an agricultural field sprayer 50 for applying spray liquid in a first state, wherein Fig. 2 the field sprayer 50 from Fig. 1 shows in a second state.

[0060] For the sake of simplicity and brevity, the following are listed below: Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 described together.

[0061] This shows Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 an agricultural field sprayer 50 for applying spray liquid with a spray boom 51, which is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer 1 (perpendicular to the surface of the drawing sheet) and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer 1.

[0062] The field sprayer 50 has several application devices 1 for applying spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom 51. The application devices 1 are arranged or attached to the spray boom 51 at intervals from each other.

[0063] Furthermore, they show Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, that the field sprayer 50 comprises a supply line 52 for supplying each application device 1 with spraying fluid, wherein the application devices 1 are arranged on the spray boom 51 and are fluidly connected to the supply line 52. Thus, it is possible to apply spraying fluid using the field sprayer 50.

[0064] The application devices 1 for dispensing spray liquid and for attaching to the spray boom 51 of the field sprayer 50 each have a fastening device 2 for mechanical connection to the spray boom 51 of the agricultural field sprayer 50 and for fluid communication between the application device 1 and the fluid-carrying supply line 52. Each fastening device 2 is designed such that it is rigidly connected to the spray boom 51, so that both can only move together as a unit.

[0065] Furthermore, each application device 1 includes two metering units 3 for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or shutting off the spray liquid. Thus, the metering units 3 can either dispense spray liquid or not dispense it.

[0066] Furthermore, they show Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, that each dispensing device 1 per metering unit 3 has a connecting device 4 for fluid-communicating connection of the fastening device 2 with a metering unit 3. Consequently, spray fluid can flow from the fastening device 2 via the connecting device to the metering unit 3.

[0067] The connecting devices 4 are designed such that the spatial distance X of a metering device 3 relative to the mounting device 2 is variable. Generally speaking, the connecting devices 4 are designed to be length-adjustable and / or telescopic and / or rotatable. Consequently, any desired distance between two metering devices is possible, thus ensuring a high degree of variability in the application devices and / or the field sprayer.

[0068] When comparing the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. It is noticeable that each connecting device 4 is designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be displaced along and against a first spatial direction R1. With regard to Fig. 2. Each connecting device 4 can also be configured to change the spatial position of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the metering device 3 can be arranged at any or foreseeable position within a first fictitious plane E1, spanned by the first and a third spatial direction R1, R3. Here, the first fictitious plane E1 is oriented or aligned in the same way as the Earth's surface.

[0069] According to Fig. 1 and Fig. The first spatial direction R1, the second spatial direction R2, and the third spatial direction R3 are aligned perpendicular to each other. The three spatial directions R1, R2, and R3 run along three coordinate axes, which together form a three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0070] Furthermore, they show Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, that each metering device 3 has two dispensing elements 11 for dispensing a spray liquid and a controllable valve 12 for releasing and blocking a liquid flow.

[0071] The application elements 11 are arranged at an outlet of the valve 12. Each application element 11 is arranged downstream of the valve 12 or downstream of an outlet of the valve 12. Specifically, each application element 11 is designed as a nozzle, but can also be designed as a trailing hose.

[0072] Furthermore, the valve 12 is designed to be selectively opened or closed. The valve 12 is designed for control by means of pulse width modulation, and is configured such that it can only be opened or closed.

[0073] The valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 are designed such that the path of a spray liquid from the valve 12 to the dispensing element 11 is less than 20 cm. Furthermore, the distance between the valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 is constant or unchangeable. In other words, the valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 are arranged or connected to each other in such a way that a metering device 3 is always movable as a whole / unit, or always together with its valve 12 and its dispensing elements 11, relative to the mounting device 2.

[0074] Furthermore, they Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, that each metering device 3 has a rotatable dispensing element carrier 13 that can be adjusted to different positions. The dispensing element carrier 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the connecting device 4. In other words, the connecting device 4 and the metering device 3 are designed such that the dispensing element carrier 13 is rotatable relative to the connecting device 4.

[0075] As already mentioned, two dispensing elements 11 are arranged or attached to the dispensing element carrier 13. The dispensing element carrier 13 is designed such that only the dispensing element 11 oriented in the direction of the second spatial direction R2 is fluidly connected to the fastening device 2 via the connecting device 4. The dispensing element 11, through which the spraying fluid is to be dispensed, can be quickly and easily changed or positioned by manually rotating the dispensing element carrier 13 or by rotating it with the aid of an actuator.

[0076] Upstream of the application element carrier 13, the controllable valve 12 is arranged to release or close off spray fluid for exit from an application element 11 by means of the controllable valve 12.

[0077] Fig. Figure 3 shows a view of a dispensing device 1. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, wherein Fig. 4 an enlarged view of the connecting device 4 of the dispensing device 1 from Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment.

[0078] According to Fig. The connecting device 4 has a first and a second arm 6, 7, which together form a telescopic or length-variable cantilever arm 5. The first arm 6 is designed to be slidable or telescopic with respect to the second arm 7.

[0079] The first arm 6 is fixedly arranged at its first end 6A to the mounting device 2, and its second end 6B is slidably and telescopically connected to the second arm 7. In other words, the second arm 7 is slidably and telescopically connected to the first arm 6 at its first end 7A. The second arm 7 is arranged at its second end 7B on a metering device 3.

[0080] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the connecting device 4 comprises an actuator 8, e.g. a linear actuator or a linear drive, for changing the spatial distance X between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2. The connecting device 4 and the actuator 8 are continuously variable.

[0081] The actuator 8 has a housing 9 and a control output 10, which can be configured as a shaft. The actuator 8 is attached to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4 via its housing 9. The actuator 8 is connected to the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4 via its control output 10. In this case, the actuator 8 is configured as a stepper motor. However, it can also be configured as a servo motor or as a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator.

[0082] According to Fig. The connecting device 4 has a locking mechanism with two end stops 14, 15 that limit the displacement of the metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2. The two end stops 14, 15 are formed on the second arm 7.

[0083] Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have several detent points (not shown) between the two end stops 14, 15, each detent point defining a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the metering device 3 and the fastening device 2 can be achieved. The locking mechanism can have a spring-loaded detent pin and several detent holes as detent points into which the detent pin can be engaged. The detent holes can optionally be arranged in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4 or in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4. The same applies to the spring-loaded detent pin. This, too, can be arranged in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4 or in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4.

[0084] How Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, the delivery element carrier 13 is rotatable to the connecting device 4 or to the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4.

[0085] Fig. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the connecting device 4 of the dispensing device 1. Fig. 3 according to a second embodiment, wherein Fig. 5 compared to Fig. Figure 3 is shown rotated by 90 degrees - see the coordinate systems shown. Fig. 3 and Fig. 5.

[0086] Accordingly Fig. The connecting device 4 has a first and a second arm 6, 7, which together form a movable cantilever arm 5. More precisely, the first arm 6 is rotatably connected to the second arm 7, and together they form the cantilever arm 5.

[0087] Furthermore, it is from Fig. It can be seen that the first arm 6 is fixed to rotation with its first end 6A on the fastening device 2. However, it is also possible that the first arm 6 is rotatably mounted on the fastening device 2 with its first end 6A.

[0088] Furthermore, the first arm 6 is rotatably connected to the second arm 7 at its second end 6B. In other words, the second arm 7 is rotatably connected to the first arm 6 at its first end 7A.

[0089] According to Fig. 5 The second arm 7 with its second end 7B is arranged on a metering device 3, wherein the second arm 7 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first arm 6 within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees. Although not shown, it is mentioned for the sake of completeness that the first arm 6 may be designed or arranged on the mounting device 2 to be rotatable relative to the first arm 6 within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees or even by 360 degrees.

[0090] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 5, that the connecting device 4 includes an actuator 8, e.g. a rotary actuator, for changing the spatial distance X between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2. The connecting device 4 and the actuator 8 are continuously variable.

[0091] The actuator 8 has a housing 9 and a control output 10, which is designed as a shaft. Furthermore, the actuator 8, with its housing 9, is attached to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4. In contrast, the actuator 8, with its control output 10, is connected to the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4.

[0092] Furthermore, actuator 8 is designed as an electric actuator. However, it can also be designed as a servo motor, a stepper motor, or a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator.

[0093] According to Fig. The connecting device 4 has a locking mechanism with two end stops 14, 15 that limit the rotation of the metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2. Specifically, the two end stops 14, 15 limit the rotation of the second arm 7 relative to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4. The two end stops 14, 15 are formed on the first arm 6.

[0094] Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have detents (not shown) between the two end stops 14, 15, each detent defining a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the metering device 3 and the fastening device 2 can be achieved. The locking mechanism can have a spring-loaded detent pin and several detent holes as detent points into which the detent pin can be engaged. The detent holes can be arranged in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4 or in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4, and the spring-loaded detent pin can be arranged in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4 or in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4.

[0095] Fig. Figure 6 shows the field sprayer 50 from Fig. 1 in a third state, whereas in Fig. 7 the field sprayer 50 from Fig. 1 is represented in a fourth state.

[0096] It is pointed out that the description concerning the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 also on the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is applicable or applies.

[0097] In Fig. Figure 6 shows an exemplary dispensing device 1 in a third state. It can be seen that each connecting device 4 is designed to change the spatial position of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the metering device 3 can be displaced along or against a second spatial direction R2.

[0098] In Fig. 6. The connecting devices 4 are thus designed to change the spatial position of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the metering device 3 can be arranged at any or a foreseeable position within a second fictitious plane E2, spanned by the second and third spatial directions R2, R3. The second fictitious plane E2 is oriented essentially perpendicular to a plane that is oriented or aligned in the same way as the Earth's surface.

[0099] In contrast, in Fig. Figure 7 shows an exemplary dispensing device 1 in a fourth state. Here, the connecting devices 4 are configured to change the spatial position of a metering device 3 relative to the mounting device 2 such that the metering device 3 can be displaced along or against a first and second spatial direction R1, R2. Thus, each connecting device 4 is configured to change the spatial position of a metering device 3 relative to the mounting device 2 such that the metering device 3 can be arranged at any or a foreseeable position in space.

[0100] Back to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. In particular, the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, that the connecting devices 4 of an application device 1 are designed such that the spatial distance X of a metering device 3 in a first spatial direction R1 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable, but the spatial distance Y of the metering device 3 to the spray boom 51 or in a second spatial direction R2 is constant.

[0101] It is also possible in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The spatial distance of a metering device 3 relative to the mounting device 2 within a first fictitious plane E1, spanned by the first and third spatial directions R1, R3, can be changed. Thus, the connecting devices 4 of an application device 1 can be designed such that the spatial distance of a metering device 3 in the third spatial direction R3 relative to the mounting device 2 is changeable, while the spatial distance Y of the metering device 3 to the spray boom 51 or in the second spatial direction R2 remains constant.

[0102] In contrast, they Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, that the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 are designed such that the spatial distance Y of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable in the second spatial direction R2, but the spatial distance X of the metering device 3 to the fastening device 2 and / or in the first spatial direction R1 is constant.

[0103] Furthermore, in the Fig. 6 and Fig.7. The spatial distance of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 within a second fictitious plane E2, spanned by the second and third spatial directions R2, R3, can be changed. Thus, the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 can be designed such that the spatial distance of a metering device 3 in the third spatial direction R3 relative to the fastening device 2 is changeable, but the spatial distance X of the metering device 3 to the fastening device 2 in the first spatial direction R1 remains constant.

[0104] Alternatively, the connecting devices 4 of the application device 1 can be rotatably mounted on the fastening device 2, wherein the spatial distance between a metering device 3 and the fastening device 2 in the first fictitious plane E1 is constant. The axis of rotation can be oriented essentially perpendicular to the course of the spray boom 51 or to the ground surface, or along the second spatial direction R2. Thus, the distance between two metering devices 3 of adjacent application devices 1 can be changed. Reference symbol list 1 Dispensing device 2 Fastening device 3 Dosing device 4 Connection device 5 cantilever 6 first arm 6A first end 6B second end 7 second arm 7A first end 7B second end 8 Actuator 9 cases 10 Control output 11 Dispensing element 12 valve 13 discharge element carriers 14 End stop 15 End stop 50 agricultural field sprayers 51 spray booms 52 Supply line E1 first fictional level E2 second fictional level R1 first spatial direction R2 second spatial direction R3 third spatial direction X spatial distance Y spatial distance QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2017 110 564 A1 [0002, 0003]

Claims

[1] Application device (1) for applying spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), comprising: - a fastening device (2) for mechanical connection to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50) and for fluid-communicating connection of the application device (1) to at least one fluid-carrying supply line (52) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), - at least one metering device (3) for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or shutting off spray liquid, and - at least one connecting device (4) for fluidly connecting the fastening device (2) to a dosing device (3), - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed such that the spatial distance (X, Y) of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable. [2] Dispensing device according to claim 1, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to be variable in length and / or telescopic and / or rotatable, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) in such a way, a. that the at least one metering device (3) is displaceable along or against a first spatial direction (R1), b. and / or that the at least one metering device (3) is displaceable along or against a second spatial direction (R2), c. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) is displaceable along or against a third spatial direction (R3). [3] Dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) such that the at least one dosing device (3) is rotatable about a first, second or third spatial direction (R1, R2, R3). [4] Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) in such a way, a. that the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a first fictitious plane (E1) spanned by a first and a third spatial direction (R1, R3) which are aligned perpendicular to each other, b. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a second fictitious plane (E2) spanned by a second and a third spatial direction (R2, R3) which are aligned perpendicular to each other, c. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position in the room. [5] Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) has a first and a second arm (6, 7) which together form a telescopic or length-adjustable or internally movable cantilever arm (5), - wherein the first arm (6) is designed to be displaceable or telescopic with the second arm (7), or - wherein the first arm (6) is rotatably connected to the second arm (7) and together they form a movable cantilever arm (5). [6] Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) comprises an actuator (8) for changing the spatial distance (X, Y) between the dosing device (3) and the fastening device (2). [7] Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) has a locking mechanism, - wherein the locking mechanism has two end stops (14, 15) which limit the displacement or rotation of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2), and / or - wherein the locking mechanism has at least one locking point between two end stops (14, 15), - wherein the at least one locking point defines a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the at least one dosing device (3) and the fastening device (2) can be achieved. [8] Agricultural field sprayer (50) for applying spray liquid, comprising: - a spray boom (51) which is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer (1) and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer (1), - at least one dispensing device (1) for dispensing spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom (51) according to one of the preceding claims, - at least one supply line (52) for supplying the at least one application device (1) with spray liquid, - wherein the at least one dispensing device (1) is arranged on the spray boom (51) and is fluidly connected to the at least one supply line (52). [9] Field sprayer according to claim 8, - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one metering device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable within a first fictitious plane (E1) spanned by a first and a third spatial direction (R1, R3). [10] Field sprayer according to claim 8 or 9, - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one metering device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable within a second fictitious plane (E2) spanned by a second and a third spatial direction (R2, R3). [11] Field sprayer according to one of claims 8 to 10, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) of the dispensing device (1) is rotatably mounted on the fastening device (2), - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one metering device (3) to the fastening device (2) in the first fictitious plane (E1) is constant, and - wherein the axis of rotation is aligned substantially perpendicular to the course of the spray boom (51) or to the earth's surface or along the second spatial direction (R2), whereby the distance between two metering devices (3) of adjacent application devices (1) can be changed.

Images