Distribution device and agricultural work machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a distribution device (2) for distributing agricultural material, comprising a distribution rod (3) that can be transferred from a folded transport position to an extended working position, wherein means (4) are provided for stiffening the distribution rod (3) in its working position. Furthermore, the invention relates to a work machine (1) having such a distribution device (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a distribution device for distributing agricultural material, comprising a distribution linkage that can be moved from a folded transport position to an unfolded working position. A further aspect of the invention is an agricultural machine with a distribution device.

[0002] Spreading devices are often used as components of agricultural machinery for distributing or applying material to agricultural land. These machines are typically moved at a certain speed along essentially parallel tracks across the agricultural area, and can either be self-propelled or attached to an agricultural tractor.

[0003] The material being spread, usually in fluid or granular form – for example, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, or plant protection products – is often stored in a hopper of the machine and is fed and / or conveyed from the hopper to the spreading device during the spreading process. The spreading device then applies the material to the agricultural land. For this purpose, the spreading device often has suitable application or distribution elements, in particular impact elements, nozzles, or other spraying devices.

[0004] For efficient application of the material across the work area, the distribution elements are typically arranged on a distribution boom which, in its extended working position, stretches across the work area on both sides of the machine, perpendicular to the direction of travel. To increase the area coverage and minimize the number of passes required, the distribution boom, in its extended working position, has a span that usually exceeds the width of the machine many times over.

[0005] For transport purposes, especially when traveling on public roads, the span of the spreading boom must generally be significantly reduced to avoid exceeding the permissible maximum width of the machine. For this reason, such spreading booms are often designed to fold between the extended working position and a space-saving, folded transport position.

[0006] In the interest of increasing efficiency, there is a trend in agriculture towards ever larger spreader boom spans, which places higher demands on their mechanical strength. This is because a larger span generally entails increased mechanical loads, which act particularly on the ends of the spreader boom furthest from the implement. Furthermore, with increasing spans, vibrations of the spreader boom can occur more frequently, especially on uneven terrain, making it more difficult to achieve a uniform distribution of the material.

[0007] To avoid undesirable deformations of the distribution linkage and to reduce vibrations of the distribution linkage, various measures are known in the prior art.

[0008] For example, EP 3 278 663 B1 describes a distribution linkage which does not have a simple I-shaped, but rather an essentially L-shaped cross-section. An additional leg, aligned in the direction of travel when unfolded, increases the rigidity and thus the mechanical stability of the distribution linkage.

[0009] From EP 3 753 406 B1 it is known to arrange an additional stiffening element on the distribution linkage, which has a curved, shell-shaped structure.

[0010] Such additional elements for increasing the rigidity of the spreading boom have proven their worth in agricultural practice. However, these additional elements often have the disadvantage of requiring extra space, which can be noticeable not only in the extended working position but also in the folded transport position of the spreading boom. In unfavorable cases, permissible transport widths can be exceeded.

[0011] Against this background, the invention aims to provide a distribution linkage which, on the one hand, allows a compact transport position and, on the other hand, enables reliable absorption of the mechanical loads occurring in the working position.

[0012] This problem is solved in a distribution linkage of the type mentioned above by the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0013] Means are provided to stiffen the distribution boom in its extended working position. These stiffening means can increase the mechanical stability of the distribution boom during the application of the material. At the same time, a compact, space-saving transport position can be ensured. Preferably, the stiffening means allow, in particular, an improvement in the bending and / or torsional stiffness of the distribution boom.

[0014] In this context, it has proven advantageous if the stiffening elements can be moved from a transport position to a stiffening position. The transport position can be particularly space-saving and advantageously compact for road transport. The stiffening position can increase the mechanical load-bearing capacity of the distribution linkage, especially its stiffness. Furthermore, vibrations of the distribution linkage can be reduced due to the stiffening elements being in their stiffening position. Advantageously, the stiffening elements can be moved from the working position of the distribution linkage to the stiffening position. Similarly, the stiffening elements can be moved from the stiffening position to the transport position to allow for a less space-consuming arrangement of the distribution linkage in its folded transport position.

[0015] It is further proposed that the stiffening elements be transferable from the transport position to the stiffening position via at least one actuator, in particular a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator. This allows for a user-friendly and time-saving transfer of the stiffening elements from the transport position to the stiffening position via remote control. Similarly, the stiffening elements can be transferred from the stiffening position to the transport position in a user-friendly and time-saving manner via the at least one actuator. Furthermore, at least one actuator can also be provided which allows for the active reduction of vibrations of the distribution linkage, wherein the at least one actuator is preferably configured to dynamically excite the stiffening element and / or at a defined frequency. This enables vibration control.

[0016] In this context, it has proven structurally advantageous if the stiffening elements themselves are designed to be length-variable, particularly telescopic. The length-variable stiffening elements can be adjustable between a stiffening position and a transport position. Alternatively or additionally, the stiffening elements can be designed to be slidable along the distribution linkage.

[0017] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the stiffening devices can be moved into one or more intermediate positions between the transport position and the stiffening position. These intermediate positions can be characterized by different degrees of stiffening of the distribution linkage.

[0018] Furthermore, the intermediate positions can also be designed as different transport positions with different space requirements.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the at least one actuator acts as a stiffening element. This allows for a structurally advantageous, weight-saving design with a small number of components. By actuating the actuator, the stiffening position, one or more intermediate positions, or the transport position can be set, particularly by changing its length.

[0020] In this context, it can also be advantageous if the at least one actuator can be coupled to a control unit for the distribution linkage and / or a control unit for the working machine and / or a control unit for the agricultural tractor. This allows the at least one actuator to be controlled reliably and in a user-friendly manner.

[0021] In this context, it is also preferred if the at least one pneumatic or hydraulic actuator is integrated into or coupled to the pneumatic or hydraulic system of the distribution linkage and / or the pneumatic or hydraulic system of the working machine and / or the pneumatic or hydraulic system of the agricultural tractor. This allows the at least one pneumatic or hydraulic actuator to be reliably supplied with a pneumatic or hydraulic medium.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the stiffening elements can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position by means of flaps. This results in a kinematically simple design that is virtually trouble-free and requires little maintenance. With such a design, even untrained operators can reliably move the stiffening elements from the transport position to the stiffening position and back again. Any intermediate positions can also be set easily and safely. Alternatively, instead of a flapping action, the stiffening elements can also be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position by another suitable movement, such as rotation or pivoting.

[0023] In a structurally advantageous embodiment, the stiffening elements can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position by means of flaps around one or more adjustment axes. The adjustment axes are those axes around which the folding movements of the stiffening elements can be performed.

[0024] In this context, a preferred embodiment provides that the adjustment axes of the stiffening elements extend in a substantially horizontal direction. This results in a particularly simple and reliable folding mechanism for the stiffening elements. Alternatively, the adjustment axes can also extend in another spatial direction, particularly vertically. Furthermore, in certain structural configurations of the distribution linkage, especially those with a plurality of stiffening elements, it can be advantageous for the respective adjustment axes of the stiffening elements to extend in different spatial directions.

[0025] From a design perspective, it may also be advantageous if the adjustment axes are arranged in the area of ​​an upper and / or lower chord of the distribution linkage. This allows for a compact, space-saving arrangement in the transport position. Furthermore, the adjustment axes can be easily accessed for maintenance purposes in this way.

[0026] In a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the distribution linkage comprises several linkage elements or segments that can be folded relative to one another about folding axes. Such a distribution linkage can be stored in a space-saving manner in the folded transport position in a user-friendly and reliable manner. At the same time, such a distribution linkage can be easily and robustly moved into the unfolded working position.

[0027] In this context, it is further preferred if the linkage elements are connected to each other via joints. Joints allow for a simple and kinematically advantageous way to achieve the desired freedom of movement of the linkage elements, in particular to enable them to be folded against each other.

[0028] Furthermore, it is proposed that the stiffening means comprise several stiffening elements forming a stiffening linkage. A stiffening linkage allows for reliable stiffening of the distribution linkage in the working position. Moreover, a stiffening linkage enables a weight- and / or space-saving design of the stiffening means. With such a stiffening linkage, an adjustment or increase of the stiffness along defined sections of the distribution linkage, particularly across one or more linkage segments, is also possible. In other words, the stiffness of the distribution linkage is not only increased at a single point, but preferably uniformly along one or more entire linkage sections or segments.Another structurally advantageous embodiment provides that the stiffening elements in the area of ​​the adjustment axes are connected to the linkage elements. This results in a kinematically preferred design, particularly with regard to a compact transport position of the stiffening elements and / or distribution linkage.

[0029] A preferred embodiment provides that some of the stiffening elements are arranged on one side and others on the opposite side of the distribution linkage. Such a design can enable particularly effective stiffening of the distribution linkage in its working position. Furthermore, such a design can facilitate a space-saving arrangement of the distribution linkage in the transport position. In this context, it is particularly preferred if the arrangement of the stiffening elements on one side or the opposite side is adapted to the expected loads in the extended working position of the distribution linkage and / or is selected with a view to achieving the most compact possible folded transport position of the distribution linkage.

[0030] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the stiffening devices have several stiffening elements that span a stiffening body. Such a stiffening body allows for particularly reliable stiffening of the distribution linkage in its extended working position. The shape of the stiffening body also allows the extent or degree of stiffening of the distribution linkage to be adjusted.

[0031] With regard to a particularly rigid distribution device in the extended working position, it has proven advantageous if the stiffening elements form a spreading device that expands at least one linkage element. In such a distribution device, the expanded linkage element can contribute to increased rigidity. The expanding action allows for an effective and reversible geometric stiffening of the distribution device, particularly the distribution linkage.

[0032] In this context, a particularly preferred embodiment provides that the at least one linkage element is designed in two parts, the parts of which can be spread apart by means of two stiffening elements forming a toggle lever. Such a design allows for reliable stiffening and proves to be easy to maintain and resistant to malfunctions.

[0033] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the parts of the linkage element are self-locking in an extended position. This further increases the stability of the distribution linkage in its unfolded working position. In particular, the self-locking mechanism allows the parts of the linkage element to be locked in place in the working position by the weight of the distribution linkage itself.

[0034] In this context, it can be particularly advantageous from a design perspective if the two stiffening elements are arranged in an over-center position of the toggle lever when the parts are spread apart. This over-center position can easily enable self-locking and thus a locking or fixing in the spread position.

[0035] A particularly user-friendly design is characterized by the fact that the parts can be spread open via at least one actuator, in particular a hydraulic actuator. This also allows the degree of spreading, in particular the spreading angle, and thus also the degree of stiffening of the distribution linkage, to be adjusted.

[0036] Another structurally preferred embodiment provides that the two parts of the linkage element are connected to each other at one end via a joint axis and at the other end via the toggle lever.

[0037] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the stiffening elements to have attachments. These attachments can be, for example, sensors, such as those for recording the operating states of the distribution device or environmental conditions. The attachments can also be cameras, for example, for monitoring the distribution components. Additionally, the attachments can be lighting elements such as lamps for illuminating the distribution device or its surroundings. Finally, the attachments can be any other components whose attachment to the stiffening elements proves advantageous in the respective application.

[0038] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the actuator assigned to one or more stiffening means is alternatively or additionally designed in the manner of a damper or the like and is set up to at least partially absorb and / or compensate for forces introduced into the stiffening means from the outside, for example in the event of a collision, in the manner of an overload protection device.

[0039] To solve the aforementioned problem, an agricultural machine with a distribution device is further proposed, in which the distribution device is designed according to one or more of the features described above. The advantages explained in connection with the distribution device result from this.

[0040] Further details and advantages of the distribution device and the working machine according to the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.Fig. Sections 1 to 8b are explained. Each section shows a schematic representation of: Fig. 1b a top view of an agricultural machine attached to a tractor, with a spreading device whose spreading linkage is in the extended working position; Fig. 1b a top view of the working machine as shown in Fig. 1, wherein the distribution linkage is in the folded-up transport position; Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 enlarged top views of different distribution rods with stiffening elements in the unfolded working position; Fig. 4a Detailed view of a distribution linkage with a stiffening element in its stiffening position; Fig. 4b Detailed view of the distribution linkage with a stiffening element according to Fig. 4a, wherein the stiffening element is in its transport position; Fig. 5a Detailed view of another distribution linkage with a stiffening element in its stiffening position; Fig. 5b Detailed view of the distribution linkage with a stiffening element according to Fig. 5a, wherein the stiffening element is in its transport position; Fig. 6a to c different schematic views of a spreading device which spreads a linkage element; Fig. 7a to c further views of the spreading device according to the illustrations in Fig. 6a to c, wherein the spreading device each has an actuator and Fig. 8a and b are partial schematic side views of another distribution linkage in the unfolded working position with stiffening elements.

[0041] The representations according to Fig. Figures 1a and 1b each show a top view of an agricultural machine 1. The machine 1 is a field sprayer for applying fluid-like material, in particular pesticides, to agricultural land. Alternatively, the machine 1 could also be another device for applying or distributing material, in particular granular material.

[0042] The working machine 1 is attached to an agricultural tractor 13, as shown in the illustrations in Fig. 1a and b have a tractor attached. The tractor 13 moves the work machine 1 to spread the material in the direction of travel R across the usable area. Alternatively, the work machine 1 can also be self-propelled.

[0043] The machine 1 has a distribution device 2 for distributing the material. The distribution device 2 enables the material to be distributed evenly across the working area. To distribute the material over as large an area as possible during a single pass in the direction of travel R, the distribution device 2 has a distribution linkage 3.

[0044] In the Fig. In the unfolded working position of the distribution boom 3 shown in Figure 1a, it extends transversely to the direction of travel R in a wing-like manner on both sides of the implement 1. The total width or span of the distribution boom in the working position can be several tens of meters. Numerous nozzle-like distribution elements 12 are arranged on the distribution boom 3, through which the liquid material is applied to the work area. In the working position of the distribution boom, the distribution elements 12 are essentially oriented towards the work area.

[0045] Since the width of the distribution linkage 3 transverse to the direction of travel R in its working position far exceeds the width of the tractor and thus also the permissible maximum widths for journeys on public roads (cf. Fig. 1a), the distribution linkage 3 is between the unfolded working position and a folded transport position according to Fig. 1b is designed to be transportable. In the transport position, the distribution rod 3 has a significantly reduced width or span, so that permissible transport dimensions can be reliably maintained.

[0046] As is also shown in the depictions in Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 3, the distribution linkage 3 is segmented. It comprises several linkage elements 6, which are arranged side by side in a row transverse to the direction of travel R in the working position. The linkage elements 6 have a slender shape and, in the working position, extend with their longitudinal axis transverse to the direction of travel R. Due to different stability requirements depending on their position in the distribution linkage 3, the linkage elements 6 that project far in the working position are designed more delicately than those linkage elements 6 that project less far and are arranged closer to the central axis of the distribution device 2 (see Figure 3). Fig. 2.

[0047] Folding axes A are arranged between each of the linkage elements 6, about which the linkage elements 6 can be folded relative to each other. Based on the illustrations in Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows that the folding axes A of the linkage elements 6 extend in a substantially vertical direction. Due to this arrangement, the linkage elements 6 can be moved from the working position, in which they are oriented substantially transversely to the direction of travel R, to the transport position, in which their longitudinal axis extends substantially in the direction of travel R (see Figure 3). Fig. 1b. In the transport position, the linkage elements 6 are folded against each other.

[0048] By arranging the folding axes A alternately in the direction of travel R, the individual linkage elements 6 can be folded accordion-style from the working position to the transport position. Alternatively, the folding axes A can also be oriented in other spatial directions and / or arranged at other positions on the distribution linkage 3, as long as a less space-consuming transport position can be achieved compared to the working position.

[0049] The distribution device 2 has stiffening means 4 for stiffening the distribution linkage 3 in its working position, which will be shown below first by reference to the illustration in Fig. 2 is explained.

[0050] The stiffening elements 4 are means that allow an increase in the stiffness of the distribution linkage 3 in its operating position. The stiffening elements 4 serve to absorb forces that act on the distribution linkage 3 in its operating position. They can, for example, serve to reduce vibrations of the distribution linkage 3.

[0051] The stiffening means 4 cause an increase in the effective, load-bearing cross-section of the distribution linkage 3 in its working position, cf. Fig. 2. The stiffening means 4 can, for example, comprise rod-like stiffening elements 7, which form a stiffening rod 8, cf. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. In the working position of the distribution linkage 3, the stiffening linkage 8 can be stretched approximately in the manner of a truss, cf. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. According to the descriptions in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 The stiffening linkage 8 enables an increase in the stiffness of the distribution linkage 3 in a substantially horizontal plane.

[0052] The stiffening linkage 8 can be moved forward in the direction of travel R (see Fig. 2), behind or on both sides (cf. Fig. 3) of the distribution linkage 3. Alternatively, the stiffening linkage 8 can also be arranged above or below the distribution linkage 3, as will be shown in later paragraphs, for example, by means of Fig. 8a is described.

[0053] Furthermore, individual stiffening elements 7 or parts thereof can be arranged on one side of the distribution rod 3 and other stiffening elements 7 or parts thereof on the opposite side of the distribution rod 3, cf. Fig. 3.

[0054] The stiffening elements 4, designed as stiffening components 7, are configured such that they occupy as little storage space as possible in the transport position of the distribution linkage 3, since this space is needed for stowing the distribution linkage 3 for transport. For this purpose, the stiffening elements 4 can be moved from a transport position to a stiffening position, as will be shown below in the illustrations in Fig. 4a and b will be explained.

[0055] The representation in Fig. Figure 5a shows a distribution linkage 3 in a side view. A stiffening element 7, in the form of a rod- or beam-like stiffening element, is arranged on the distribution linkage 3 as an example. In a stiffening position, the stiffening element 7 extends according to Fig. 4a essentially in the direction of travel R. In the stiffening position, the stiffening element 7 stiffens the distribution linkage 3. The stiffening is achieved in particular geometrically by increasing the load-bearing cross-section of the distribution linkage 3.

[0056] In a transport position according to Fig. In 4b, the stiffening element 7 is arranged closer to the distribution rod 3. This reduces the space required for the distribution rod 3 in its folded transport position. The distribution rod 3 is not stiffened in the transport position.

[0057] The stiffening element 7 can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position and vice versa by means of flaps around the adjustment axis V. The adjustment axis V extends as shown in the illustration. Fig. 4a and b in a substantially horizontal direction. Alternatively, the adjustment axis V can also extend in another spatial direction, in particular also in a substantially vertical direction.

[0058] As is also shown in the depictions in Fig. The stiffening element 7, which can be removed from sections 4a and b, can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position and from the stiffening position to the transport position via an actuator 5. The actuator 5, in this case a hydraulic cylinder, is arranged such that a stiffening position can be set in an extended, telescoped position, cf. Fig. 4a. On the other hand, in a retracted, non-telescoped position of the actuator 5, the transport position of the stiffening element 7 can be set. The actuator 5 causes the stiffening element 7 to fold or pivot about the adjustment axis V. Depending on the application, the actuator 5 can also be arranged in the opposite orientation.

[0059] According to the representations in Fig. 4a and b, the adjustment axis V is arranged in the area of ​​a lower chord 3.2 of the distribution linkage 3. Alternatively, the adjustment axis V can also be arranged in the area of ​​an upper chord 3.1 of the distribution linkage 3, as shown by way of example in Fig. 5a and b are shown. The operation of the actuator 5 corresponds to the operation already explained above - the stiffening element 7 is in the transport position ( Fig. 5b) into the stiffening position ( Fig. 5a) and vice versa.

[0060] The actuator 5, designed as a hydraulic cylinder, can be coupled to the hydraulic system of the distribution linkage 3, the on-board hydraulics of the working machine 1, or the on-board hydraulics of the tractor 13. Furthermore, the actuator 5 can be integrated into the respective control system of the distribution linkage 3, the working machine 1, or the tractor 13.

[0061] As an alternative to actuation via one or more hydraulic cylinders, the folding process of the stiffening element 7 around the adjustment axis V can also be carried out manually or with one or more other actuators 5, such as mechanical, pneumatic or electrical actuators 5.

[0062] Furthermore, intermediate positions between the stiffening position according to Fig. 4a and Fig. 5a and the transport position according to Fig. 4b and Fig. 5b can be adjusted. These intermediate positions can also form stiffening positions, but they are characterized by a lower degree of stiffening. The intermediate positions can be adjustable in individual steps or continuously. This allows for a required stiffening of the distribution linkage 3, which can be adapted, for example, to expected loads.

[0063] As is also shown in the depictions in Fig. As can be seen from sections 4a to 5b, the stiffening elements 4, in the form of stiffening components 7, are connected to the distribution linkage 3 in the area of ​​the adjustment axes V. This allows the stiffening element 4 to be easily adjusted between the stiffening position and the transport position. At the same time, the distribution linkage 3 can be easily folded compactly into the transport position. Alternatively, the stiffening elements 4 can also be attached to other points on the distribution linkage 3 if this proves to be structurally advantageous in the respective application.

[0064] Furthermore, the actuator 5 itself can also be designed as a stiffening element 4. This can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position, for example, by telescoping or extending an actuating cylinder. This results in a further simplified design with a reduced number of parts.

[0065] Alternatively, the stiffening means 4, for example a stiffening element 7, can itself be designed to be variable in length, e.g. telescopic or extendable, and thus adjustable between a transport position and a stiffening position. Such variable-length stiffening means 4 can be arranged at any position on the distribution rod 3, for example on its front, rear or top.

[0066] The following will be based on the representations in Fig. Sections 6a to c describe an embodiment in which stiffening elements 10 form a spreading device 9 that spreads apart two parts 6.1, 6.2 of a linkage element 6 of the distribution linkage 3. In this case, the spreading device 9 serves as a stiffening means 4.

[0067] The linkage element 6 of the distribution linkage 3 is designed in two parts, cf. Fig. 6a. The two parts 6.1 and 6.2 are connected at one end by a pivot axis H. At the other end, a toggle lever 11 is provided, which connects the two parts 6.1 and 6.2. The toggle lever 11 comprises two rod- or bar-like stiffening elements 10, which are pivotally coupled to each other via a central joint. Depending on the position of the two stiffening elements 10, which form the lever elements of the toggle lever 11, the two parts 6.1 and 6.2 are spread apart to different degrees; see the comparison of Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b.

[0068] The representation according to Fig. Figure 6a shows a possible transport position of the linkage element 6 and thus of the distribution linkage 3, in which the stiffening element 4, here designed as a spreading device 9, is also in the transport position. The transport position is characterized by its relatively small footprint, so that the distribution linkage 3 can be folded up in a space-saving manner; see also Figure 6a. Fig. 1b.

[0069] The representation according to Fig. Figure 6b illustrates a possible working position of the linkage element 6 and thus of the distribution linkage 3, in which the stiffening element 4, here designed as a spreading device 9, is also in the stiffening position. The stiffening position is characterized by the fact that it enables the distribution linkage 3 to be stiffened in its working position.

[0070] The position according to the representation in Fig. Figure 6c shows the stiffening means 4, i.e., the spread-out spreading device 9, in a special, namely self-locking, stiffening position. Fig. Figure 6c shows the toggle lever in an over-center position. In this position, the spreading device 9 is self-locking and spread open. Due to the self-locking, the spreading device 9 is in the position shown in Figure 6c. Fig. 6c is, in a sense, locked. This prevents it from being unintentionally moved out of its self-locking position, for example, due to vibrations or shocks. In the position shown in Fig. 6c the parts 6.1, 6.2 of the linkage element 6 are self-locking and spread open.

[0071] The depictions in the Fig. Figures 7a to c show the spreading device 9 according to the illustrations in Fig. 6a to c, each supplemented by an actuator 5. The actuator 5 is arranged between the joint axis H and the toggle lever 11. The parts 6.1, 6.2 of the linkage element 6 can be spread open via the actuator 5.

[0072] Finally, the illustrations in Fig. Figures 8a and b describe an embodiment in which stiffening means 4 are not arranged in the direction of travel R at the front or rear of the distribution linkage 3, but rather on its upper side, opposite the distribution elements 14. The illustrations in Fig. Figures 8a and b correspond to a partial rear view of the distribution linkage 3 in its unfolded working position.

[0073] The stiffening means 4 form a stiffening linkage 8, which comprises several rod- or beam-like stiffening elements 7 connected to each other by hinges. The stiffening elements 7 are connected to the linkage elements 6 of the distribution linkage 3 in the area of ​​their upper chord 3.1, cf. Fig. 8a and b. In a stiffening position, exemplified in Fig. As shown in Figure 8a, the stiffening rod 8 extends upwards in a substantially vertical direction. The stiffening rod 8, which forms a type of bracing in the stiffening position, stiffens the distribution rod 3 to increase its mechanical stability in the working position. According to the illustrations in Fig. 8a and b the stiffening linkage 8 enables an increase in the stiffness of the distribution linkage 3 in an essentially vertical plane.

[0074] In the transport position of the stiffening element 4, shown in Fig. 8b, the stiffening rod 8 lies essentially flat and thus space-savingly on the upper chord 3.1 of the distribution rod 3. The folding movement between the stiffening position and the transport position of the stiffening rod 8 can be effected manually by the operating personnel or by means of an actuator 5, in particular by means of a hydraulic actuator. The folding is effected by pivoting movements about several adjustment axes V, which in the exemplary embodiment are shown in the illustration in Fig. 8a extend essentially in a horizontal direction.

[0075] Various types of attachments, not shown in the figures, can be mounted on the stiffening means 4, such as the stiffening elements 7 and / or the stiffening rods 8, but also on the actuators 5. These may include, for example, sensors, cameras, lighting elements, adapters, safety devices, etc., which are used for the operation of the distribution device 2 or which may offer additional functionality.

[0076] The distribution device 2 described above for distributing material has means 4 for stiffening the distribution boom 3 in its working position. The stiffening means 4 can increase the mechanical stability of the distribution boom 3 during the dispensing of the material. At the same time, a compact, space-saving transport position of the distribution boom 3 can be ensured. Reference symbol: 1 working machine 2 Distribution device 3 distribution rods 3.1 Upper chord 3.2 Lower belt 4 stiffening agents 5 Actuator 6 Linkage element 6.1 Part 6.2 Part 7 Stiffening element 8 stiffening rods 9 Spreader device 10 stiffening element 11 Knee levers 12 Distribution organ 13 tractor 14 distribution organs A folding axle H articulating axis R direction of travel V-axis adjustment 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] EP 3 278 663 B1

[0008] EP 3 753 406 B1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Distribution device for distributing agricultural material with a distribution rod (3) which can be moved from a folded transport position to an unfolded working position characterized by Means (4) for stiffening the distribution linkage (3) in its working position. [2] Distribution device according to claim 1, characterized by , that the stiffening means (4) can be transferred from a transport position to a stiffening position. [3] Distribution device according to claim 2, characterized by that the stiffening means (4) can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position via at least one actuator (5), in particular a hydraulic actuator. [4] Distribution device according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized by , that the stiffening means (4) can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position by means of flaps. [5] Distribution device according to claim 4, characterized by, that the stiffening means (4) can be moved from the transport position to the stiffening position by means of flaps about one or more adjustment axes (V). [6] Device according to claim 5, characterized by , that the adjustment axes (V) are arranged in the area of ​​an upper chord (3.1) and / or a lower chord (3.2) of the distribution linkage (3). [7] Distribution device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the distribution linkage (3) has several linkage elements (6) which can be folded relative to each other about folding axes (A). [8] Distribution device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the stiffening means (4) have several stiffening elements (7) forming a stiffening rod (8). [9] Distribution device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that part of the stiffening elements (7) are arranged on one side and another part of the stiffening elements (7) are arranged on the opposite side of the distribution rod (3). [10] Distribution device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the stiffening means (4) have several stiffening elements (10) spanning a stiffening body (9). [11] Distribution device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by , that the stiffening elements (10) form a spreading device (9) that spreads at least one linkage element (6). [12] Distribution device according to claim 11, characterized by , that the at least one linkage element (6) is designed in two parts, wherein its parts (6.1, 6.2) are designed to be spread apart via two stiffening elements (10) forming a toggle lever (11). [13] Distribution device according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized by, that the parts (6.1, 6.2) of the linkage element (6) are self-lockingly spread open in a spread position. [14] Distribution device according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized by , that the two parts (6.1, 6.2) of the linkage element (6) are connected to each other at one end via a joint axis (H) and at the other end via the toggle lever (11). [15] Agricultural work machine, in particular field sprayer, with a distribution device (2) according to one of the preceding claims.

Images