Pneumatic fertilizer spreader and method for influencing rotary movements of a spreading boom

Abstract

The invention relates to a pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) for spreading material onto an agricultural area (LA), comprising at least one distribution boom (5) with a boom center section (11), at least two arms (13) rotatably coupled to the boom center section (11), and a support device (10), wherein the support device (10) is coupled to a frame (R) of the fertilizer spreader (1), and wherein the distribution boom (5) has several distribution lines (6) with distribution elements (8). The invention is characterized in that the linkage middle part (11) is rotatably coupled to the support device about an upright oriented axis of rotation (23).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pneumatic fertilizer spreader and a method for influencing movements of a distribution linkage of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader.

[0002] Pneumatic fertilizer spreaders are known from the prior art which, based on force acting on the distribution linkage and resulting swaying movements of the distribution linkage, generate a force acting on the distribution linkage which counteracts the force acting on it, thereby suppressing swaying movements.

[0003] However, under the influence of force, pitching and / or yaw movements of the distribution linkage can occur, which are not counteracted.

[0004] The object of the invention is therefore to eliminate the described disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a fertilizer spreader is to be provided by means of which movements of the spreading boom caused by pitching and yawing movements can be compensated.

[0005] These problems are solved by a pneumatic fertilizer spreader with the features of independent claim 1 and by a method for influencing movements of a distribution linkage of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader with the features of method claim 14. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the claims and the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0006] According to the invention, a pneumatic fertilizer spreader for spreading material onto an agricultural area is provided, comprising at least one distribution boom with a boom center section, at least two booms rotatably coupled to the boom center section, and a support device, wherein the support device is coupled to a frame of the distribution machine, and wherein the distribution boom has several distribution lines with distribution elements.

[0007] According to the invention, the invention is characterized in that the rod center part is rotatably coupled to the support device about an upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0008] Any pitching and / or yaw movements that occur can be transmitted to the entire spreading boom via the rotatable coupling of the boom's central section to the support structure around the vertically oriented axis of rotation, causing the entire spreading boom to rotate around this axis. Without this rotational capability, the pitching and / or yaw movements would cause the boom arms connected to the central section to oscillate, particularly forwards and backwards, resulting in high forces acting on the arms due to the large working widths.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that at least one pressure-medium actuated positioning device is coupled to the linkage center part and the support device, wherein the at least one pressure-medium actuated positioning device is configured to influence rotary movements of the distribution linkage about the upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0010] In order to avoid excessive damage and deflections of the distribution rod when rotating around the upright oriented axis of rotation, preferably at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device is provided, which is designed to influence, preferably dampen and / or counteract, the rotational movements of the distribution rod.

[0011] Preferably, the pressure-medium-actuated positioning device is configured to return the distribution linkage from a rotated position to a zero position due to the rotational movements. The zero position is characterized by the fact that no external forces act on the distribution linkage and that the distribution linkage, preferably in its extended state, extends transversely to the direction of travel. Preferably, in the zero position, the distribution linkage extends perpendicular to the direction of travel.

[0012] According to a further preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one pressure-medium actuated positioning device is equipped to influence the rotary movements of the distribution linkage about the upright oriented axis of rotation by means of at least one pressure control device.

[0013] Preferably, the at least one pressure control device is fluidically coupled to the at least one actuating device. Preferably, the at least one pressure control device and the at least one actuating device are arranged within a common pressure medium circuit.

[0014] The rotary movements of the distribution linkage, through the coupling of the at least one actuating device with the linkage's central section and the support device, result in a corresponding movement of the at least one actuating device. This causes pressure changes within the at least one actuating device, i.e., pressure fluctuations occur, and pressure medium can be conveyed to and / or from the at least one actuating device. The at least one pressure control device is designed to influence, preferably dampen and / or counteract, these pressure fluctuations.

[0015] Preferably, it may be provided that the at least one pressure control device is set up to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device based on the rotary movements of the distribution rod around the upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0016] This means that the pressure control device is set up to compensate for, or preferably counteract, pressure fluctuations.

[0017] Accordingly, the rotational movements that generate the pressure fluctuations are also compensated for, preferably counteracted.

[0018] Automatic in this context means that at least one pressure control device is installed to automatically compensate for, or preferably counteract, pressure fluctuations.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, it may be provided that the at least one pressure control device includes at least: - a pressure storage device; and / or - a valve assembly with at least one pressure regulating valve.

[0020] Preferably, the pressure storage device comprises at least one pressure accumulator. Preferably, the at least one pressure accumulator has a preload, wherein the preload is preferably a preload with a preload pressure. This means that a minimum pressure of the pressure medium is required to fill the at least one pressure accumulator with pressure medium and / or to extract pressure medium.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one pressure accumulator is connected to at least one pressure medium line, wherein the at least one pressure medium line is fluidically connected to the actuator for supplying the at least one actuator.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one pressure storage device is configured to automatically receive and release pressure medium, preferably based on pressure fluctuations in the at least one actuating device. For example, if the pressure in the at least one actuating device or the respective pressure medium line decreases below the pre-charge pressure, pressure medium can be supplied from the at least one pressure storage device to the at least one actuating device via the pressure medium line. The same applies analogously to an increase in pressure. For example, if the pressure in the at least one actuating device or the respective pressure medium line increases above the pre-charge pressure, pressure medium can be supplied to the at least one pressure storage device via the pressure medium line.

[0023] It is therefore preferably provided that the pressure control device is configured to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device, independently of any pressure sensor. It is particularly preferred that the pressure control device includes at least one pressure storage device and is configured to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device, independently of any sensor, preferably any sensor.

[0024] Alternatively or cumulatively, it may be provided that the at least one pressure control device comprises a valve device, preferably a valve device with at least one pressure medium control valve.

[0025] Preferably, the valve assembly is designed to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations in the at least one actuating device, which are generated by the rotary movements of the distributor linkage around the vertically oriented axis of rotation, in order to counteract these rotary movements. For this purpose, the valve assembly preferably includes at least one pressure medium control valve and / or the valve assembly is designed as a pressure medium control valve, preferably as a pressure control valve.

[0026] Unlike proportional directional control valves, pressure control valves can automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations. If, during operation of the distribution machine, the electrical control signal to the pressure control valves is kept constant, and pressure fluctuations occur in at least one actuator due to movements or vibrations of the distribution linkage around its vertically oriented axis of rotation in and / or opposite to the direction of travel, these pressure fluctuations are detected and compensated for by the pressure control valve.

[0027] Pressure sensors in the hydraulic circuit of at least one actuator can be omitted, resulting in cost savings. Furthermore, the speed for compensating pressure fluctuations is increased, as direct compensation by the hydraulic control valves is faster than the prior art method of detecting pressure fluctuations with an additional pressure sensor, followed by transmission to a control unit for processing, and subsequent output of corresponding signals to the valve unit by the control unit.

[0028] Accordingly, a particularly preferred embodiment provides that pressure fluctuations can be automatically compensated, independent of any pressure sensors. Preferably, no pressure medium sensor, in particular no pressure sensor and / or no differential pressure sensor, is arranged in the pressure medium circuit and / or used to control the pressure medium regulating valves. The costs for such pressure sensors can thus be avoided.

[0029] In summary, according to a preferred embodiment, the pressure control device is designed to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device, independently of any pressure sensors.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one actuating device may comprise two essentially opposing working areas, also referred to as pressure chambers. The terms working area and pressure chamber can be used synonymously. Preferably, the working areas are configured to generate an actuating force. The respective actuating force can compensate for rotational movements of the distribution linkage around the vertically oriented axis of rotation.

[0031] The effective range of at least one actuating device is defined as an area of ​​the actuating device in which the pressure force of pressure medium is converted or can be converted into a movement of an actuating element of the actuating device.

[0032] The two opposing operating ranges mean that a pressure force from the hydraulic fluid in one operating range generates a force on the distribution linkage around the vertically oriented axis of rotation, and a pressure force from the hydraulic fluid in the other operating range generates a force on the distribution linkage in the opposite direction. In other words, a hydraulic fluid control valve can be used for each direction of rotation of the distribution linkage.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one actuating device may be formed by at least one hydraulic cylinder or by at least two hydraulic cylinders. Preferably, it may be formed by at least one double-acting hydraulic cylinder and / or at least two single-acting and / or double-acting hydraulic cylinders.

[0034] A particularly advantageous design is that of a double-acting hydraulic cylinder. A pressure medium line can be connected to each working section, allowing pressure medium to be supplied to and discharged from these sections. Preferably, the valve assembly is fluidically connected to the pressure medium lines, with a pressure medium control valve preferably arranged in each pressure medium line to influence the pressure applied to the respective working section.

[0035] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the pressure medium control valves are designed as pressure control valves, for example, as electromagnetically controlled proportional pressure control valves. Alternatively, instead of pressure control at the operating points, flow rate control can also be implemented. According to this variant, the pressure medium control valves can be designed as flow rate control valves, for example, as electromagnetically controlled flow rate control valves.

[0036] In a further embodiment, at least one sensor is arranged on the distributor linkage to detect the rotational movement of the distributor linkage around the upright oriented axis of rotation.

[0037] Furthermore, the distribution machine can have a control device which is designed to determine a setpoint value of a pressure or actuating force of the pressure medium acting on the effective areas, depending on a rotary movement of the distributor linkage detected by at least one sensor, and to adjust the pressure medium control valves electrically to the setpoint value.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the control device can be configured to electrically adjust the valve device, preferably the pressure medium control valves, to the setpoint specification based on a predetermined characteristic curve of the pressure medium control valves.

[0039] The characteristic curve of the pressure control valves defines a relationship between the setpoint and the electrical control signal, e.g., the energizing signal, of the pressure control valves. This has the advantage that the pressure on the manifold can be precisely adjusted to the setpoint via the characteristic curve of the pressure control valves.

[0040] The pressure control valves operate by setting the desired setpoint at the respective operating range, e.g., where the desired pressure is achieved. The characteristic curve can be stored in the control unit or a data storage device of the fertilizer spreader. A single characteristic curve can be stored that applies to at least one pressure control valve. Alternatively, a separate characteristic curve can be stored for each pressure control valve.

[0041] For example, if the setpoint determined by the rotational position specifies the required pressure of the hydraulic fluid at the operating points, the electrical control signal for the hydraulic fluid control valves, e.g., their energization, can be determined from the characteristic curve and used for the active control and / or regulation of the rotational position of the distributor linkage. If, for example, a defined differential pressure or differential force is required at the operating points, the hydraulic fluid control valves are electrically controlled according to the characteristic curve(s) stored in the control unit, thus generating a defined differential pressure or differential force.

[0042] Accordingly, in a further embodiment, the control device is designed to determine the setpoint without a sensor-detected pressure value of the hydraulic fluid. Furthermore, the control device can be configured to determine a control current for actuating the hydraulic fluid control valves solely based on the characteristic curve and the rotational position of the sensor device or a value calculated therefrom. This offers the advantage of enabling particularly cost-effective and rapid control and / or regulation for damping horizontal vibrations. During phases in which the control device maintains a constant electrical control signal for the hydraulic fluid control valves, the rotational movements are dampened by the hydraulic fluid control valves detecting and independently compensating for pressure fluctuations generated at the operating points.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the control device can be designed to variably adjust a damping characteristic for damping vibrations in and against the direction of travel of the pressure-medium-actuated actuator, in particular depending on a determined travel movement or generally determined movement parameters of the fertilizer spreader.

[0044] According to this embodiment, the control device can therefore be designed to determine a control current for controlling the pressure medium control valves exclusively on the basis of the characteristic curve, on the basis of the detected rotational position or a quantity calculated therefrom and on the basis of the determined driving movement or generally determined movement parameters of the agricultural distribution machine.

[0045] According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one sensor device may be provided which is configured to detect the rotational movements of the distribution rod about the vertically oriented axis of rotation. Preferably, the at least one sensor device is configured to detect the rotational position of the distribution rod. This allows the sensor device to detect how the distribution rod is moving and / or its current position, i.e., its rotational position.

[0046] Preferably, a control and / or regulating unit is provided which is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one pressure-medium-actuated positioning device on the basis of the detected rotational movements and / or the detected rotational position in order to influence the rotational movements of the distribution linkage, preferably in such a way that the pressure-medium-actuated positioning device counteracts the detected rotational movements.

[0047] The rotational position of the distribution linkage with respect to the upright oriented axis of rotation can be detected, for example, by an angle detection device, such as an angle potentiometer and / or the like, wherein the angle detection device is configured to detect an angle of rotation between the linkage center section and the support device.

[0048] Alternatively or cumulatively, it may be provided that a travel distance detection unit is provided which is set up to detect the travel distance of at least one actuator.

[0049] Preferably, the carrier device may be coupled to a frame of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader and be designed to be height-adjustable relative to the frame.

[0050] Height adjustment can be implemented using a height adjustment unit, for example, a parallelogram arranged between the frame and a support structure, and / or a linear unit. The parallelogram and / or the linear unit can be equipped with at least one actuator (e.g., one or more hydraulically and / or pneumatically operated linear drives such as cylinders or the like) to change the distance to the reference surface, i.e., to pivot the parallelogram or to adjust the linear unit.

[0051] Preferably, the height of the distribution linkage can be changed by means of the height adjustment unit.

[0052] Preferably, the adjustment unit is configured to change the height of the distribution boom relative to the reference surface, for example the agricultural area, by changing at least one actuator of the height adjustment unit.

[0053] The height adjustment unit, preferably the parallelogram and / or the linear unit, can expediently be part of the distribution linkage, or in particular can be connected to the support device of the distribution linkage with the parallelogram and / or the linear unit.

[0054] Preferably, the central section of the linkage is rotatably coupled to the support structure about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. This allows the distribution linkage to follow the direction of travel in response to forces acting upon it.

[0055] Preferably, a control and / or regulating unit is provided to change the rotational position of the distribution linkage about its axis of rotation, oriented in the direction of travel, by means of the rotatable coupling of the distribution linkage to the support structure. Preferably, the change in the rotational position of the distribution linkage includes control and / or regulation of the rotational position of the distribution linkage. Preferably, a sensor unit is provided and configured to detect the rotational position of the distribution linkage. Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is configured to carry out the change in the rotational position based on the detected rotational position.

[0056] Preferably, at least one actuator is provided which is coupled to the carrier device and the distribution linkage, and wherein the control and / or regulating unit is configured to control and / or regulate the actuator to rotate the distribution linkage about the axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel, preferably on the basis of the detected rotational position about the axis of rotation of the distribution linkage oriented in the direction of travel.

[0057] According to a further preferred embodiment, each of the booms may be coupled to the central linkage section so as to be rotatable about an upright axis of rotation and / or about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. For example, at least one pivot joint is provided which is configured to allow rotation about the upright axis of rotation and / or about the axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel.

[0058] The at least one joint is configured to allow rotation of the respective boom about the axes of rotation. Preferably, the at least one joint is configured to provide at least one degree of freedom for rotation of the boom relative to the linkage center section. Preferably, the at least one joint is formed by at least one pivot joint.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, each of the booms may be formed by at least two linkage sections, wherein the linkage sections are rotatably coupled relative to each other about an upright axis of rotation and / or about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. At least one joint may be provided in this arrangement.

[0060] According to a further preferred embodiment, a metering device may be provided which is configured to meter a quantity of distribution material into the distribution lines.

[0061] According to a further preferred embodiment, the metering device can be spatially assigned to the distribution rod. Such spatial assignment can be achieved, for example, by means of a single structural unit.

[0062] According to the invention, the underlying problem is solved by a method for influencing movements of a distribution linkage of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader, comprising the following method steps: - Providing a distribution linkage with a linkage center section and a support device, wherein the linkage center section is rotatably coupled to the linkage center section about an upright oriented axis of rotation; - Providing at least one pressure-medium-operated actuating device coupled to the linkage center section and the support device; - Influencing rotational movements of the distribution linkage around the upright oriented axis of rotation by means of at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device.

[0063] In the context of the invention, the individual steps of the process can be carried out in a defined sequence; however, it is also conceivable that the steps of the process can be carried out in any sequence. An arbitrary change between the process steps is also conceivable. Furthermore, the process can be extended by adding further process steps.

[0064] The control device or control unit includes, for example, a computer unit, an on-board computer, and / or the like, and also comprises a control circuit, in particular a hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical control circuit, wherein the control circuit is suitably designed for hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical signal and / or command transmission. This signal and / or command transmission can also be wireless (e.g., via WLAN).

[0065] In the context of the invention, the term control device or control and / or regulating unit encompasses, in particular, the entirety of components for signal and / or command transmission. Accordingly, this also includes computer units, CPUs, and / or the like. Likewise, control devices integrated into the respective sensors, sensor units, or sensor arrangements are also included. It should also be noted that the signals and / or data from the sensors, measuring devices, detection devices, and / or the like can each be used as feedback for a control and / or regulated variable.

[0066] It should be noted that the terms "control" and "regulate," as well as "control unit" and "regulate unit," can refer to electronic and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic controls or regulators, which, depending on their design, can perform control and / or regulation tasks. Even though the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass "regulation." Likewise, the use of the term "regulation" can also imply "control."

[0067] Regarding the advantages and embodiments of the method according to the invention, reference is made to the advantages and embodiments of the pneumatic fertilizer spreader according to the invention.

[0068] For the purposes of the application, features disclosed in conjunction with other features may also be considered disclosed on their own. Features linked by "and / or" are to be understood as disclosed both on their own and in combination with the other features.

[0069] To avoid repetition, it should be noted that the embodiments and features according to the invention can be combined with the device and / or the method in any way and without restriction. Accordingly, all embodiments and features according to the invention are disclosed and claimable for both the device and the method.

[0070] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual relative sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged for better illustration in relation to other elements. The figures show: Fig. 1. A pneumatic fertilizer spreader in a perspective view; Fig. 2 the fertilizer spreader according to Fig. 1 in a side view; Fig. 3 a section of the distribution linkage in a top view; Fig. 4 a pressure medium control device.

[0071] The in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The four embodiments shown are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation.

[0072] One embodiment of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 is shown in the figures. The pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 can be used to efficiently apply, or distribute, granular agricultural materials in desired quantities on agricultural land (LF). Examples of such materials include agricultural fertilizers, microgranules, seeds, and the like.

[0073] The fertilizer spreader 1 is designed as a fertilizer spreader 1 pulled by a towing vehicle (e.g., a tractor, not shown here), but the fertilizer spreader 1 can also be self-propelled or mounted on a towing vehicle. The fertilizer spreader 1 could also be an autonomous vehicle (e.g., fully autonomous or semi-autonomous) or mounted on an autonomous carrier vehicle.

[0074] The fertilizer spreader 1 comprises a frame R supporting the components of the fertilizer spreader 1, as well as at least one storage container 3 for carrying and / or providing the spreading material. Two or more storage containers 3 for two or more, in particular different, spreading materials may also be provided, i.e., in particular, mounted on the frame R of the fertilizer spreader 1.

[0075] To achieve maximum efficiency, i.e., a large working width, the fertilizer spreader 1 has a spreading boom 5 extending transversely to the direction of travel FR with a large working width (e.g., 24 meters, 30 meters, 36 meters or more). The spreading boom 5 comprises a support structure 10 connected to the frame R, a boom center section 11, and arms 13 pivotably mounted on the boom center section 10 relative to the boom center section 11. Preferably, each arm has at least one boom section 12, which can be rotatably assembled about vertically oriented axes. The boom center section 11 can also be referred to as a boom section 12.

[0076] To comply with a permissible transport width (e.g. 3 meters in Germany), the booms 13 are pivotably mounted on the central section of the linkage 10 about upright oriented axes 14.

[0077] The distribution linkage 5, in particular its central linkage section 11, is supported by a bearing 15, which according to the Fig. As indicated in Figure 2, the linkage is rotatable transversely to the direction of travel FR about a pivot axis oriented in the direction of travel relative to the frame R on the support structure 10. The rotational position can be controlled and / or regulated, in particular by means of an actuating device (not shown) which can be controlled by means of a changing unit 26, and which can be mounted, in particular, between the linkage center section 11 and the support structure 10 and / or between the linkage center section 11 and the frame R.

[0078] The frame R can also preferably be expediently designed in multiple parts, wherein the individual parts can in turn be connected by means of a permanent (e.g. welding) and / or detachable (e.g. screws or similar machine elements) connection.

[0079] The frame R also includes a chassis 16 with running wheels, which according to the exemplary embodiments can in particular be a tandem chassis, and a connecting device 17 for connection to a towing vehicle. In addition, the storage container 3 is part of the frame R.

[0080] To adjust the height of the distribution linkage 5, the support device 10 is mounted on the frame R in a height-adjustable manner by means of a height adjustment device 10.1, for example a parallelogram.

[0081] A metering device 4 with a metering container 18 is assigned to the central section 11 of the distribution linkage 5; in particular, these form a single structural unit. A conveying system 19, comprising a conveying line and / or a conveying device 20, opens into the metering container 18. However, several conveying lines and / or conveying devices 20 could also open into the metering container 18 in order to supply it with one, two, or more different distributed materials.

[0082] Preferably, both the storage container 3 and the dosing container 18 taper downwards in a funnel shape, with at least one outlet opening (not shown here) arranged at the lowest point in each case.

[0083] The outlet opening is formed by an opening in the respective container 3, 18, through which, for example, distributed material from the storage container 3 is conveyed into the conveying system 19 and / or from the dosing container 18 into the dosing device 4, whereby the outlet opening thus simultaneously forms the inlet of the conveying system 19 and / or the dosing device 4.

[0084] The material being spread from the metering device 4 is conveyed to the distribution elements 8 attached to the distribution boom 5 by means of distribution lines 6 along the distribution boom 5. During operation of the fertilizer spreader 1, the material is transported along the distribution lines 6 by means of an airflow, whereby the distribution lines 6 are coupled, i.e., operatively connected, by means of a flow-generating device (e.g., one or more blowers such as centrifugal blowers, radial blowers, axial blowers, diagonal blowers, cross-flow blowers, or the like).

[0085] A plurality of distribution lines 6 are attached along the distribution rod 5, each of which, according to the exemplary embodiments, has a distribution element 8 attached. However, two or more distribution elements 8 per distribution line 6 would also be conceivable or possible, with each distribution line 6 having a distribution element 8 assigned to its respective outer end, which forms an outlet opening 7. Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 have different lengths extending from the metering device 4 along the distribution rod 5.

[0086] In order to achieve a compact distribution linkage 5, the distribution lines 6 are also arranged one above the other, meaning that a large number of distribution lines 6 are arranged one above the other.

[0087] Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 are essentially symmetrical to each other on the distribution linkage 5 with respect to the central linkage section 11. In addition, the opposing distribution elements 8 each have at least a largely identical height position.

[0088] Furthermore, the distribution lines 6 have separation points, not shown here, between the rod center section 11 and the booms 13 or between the rod sections 12 of the booms 13.

[0089] The distribution elements 8 can be formed, in particular, by impact plates, against which the material to be distributed is conveyed by means of the air volume flow and subsequently distributed, for example, in a fan shape, depending on the shape of the impact plate. However, the distribution elements 8 can also be formed by an arc-shaped end section of the distribution lines 6, which can then, for example, act as impact plates themselves.

[0090] The distances between the distribution elements 8 can be such that, in particular, a full-surface distribution of the material being distributed is made possible by means of the spreading fans generated by the distribution elements 8, and in particular a seamless distribution of the material being distributed is made possible.

[0091] According to an alternative embodiment, it would also be conceivable that the distribution elements 8 are arranged on the distribution rod 5 in such a way, or that the spreading patterns created by the distribution elements 8 are such that the spreading patterns overlap. For example, a double or triple overlap of the spreading patterns could be provided, which in turn could increase the distribution quality, as shown in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0092] To supply the dosing device 4 with the respective distributed material, it is operatively connected to at least one storage container 3, whereby the operative connection can be made by means of a conveying system 19 with, for example, a conveying line 20 and by means of the dosing container 18.

[0093] The conveying system 19 according to the embodiment examples comprises a conveying line 20 or conveying device 20 leading into the dosing container 18; however, two or more conveying lines 20 could also be provided, in particular for different distribution goods.

[0094] The conveying system 19, or the conveying line 20 or the conveying facility 20, is at least divided into two parts, that is, it has several conveying sections 21, 22.

[0095] The conveying system 19 and / or the conveying sections 21, 22 can be formed by one or more screw conveyors and / or conveyor belts and / or the like.

[0096] Alternatively or additionally, the conveying system can also be formed, at least in sections, by a pneumatic conveying system, in which distributed material is conveyed by means of an air volume flow along the conveying line 20.

[0097] The metering device 4 is assigned to the rod center section 11 and / or the support device 10 in such a way that these follow the vertical movements and / or the rotary movements of the distribution rod 5 at least largely synchronously.

[0098] Preferably, the pneumatic fertilizer spreader 1 comprises at least a frame R supporting components of the fertilizer spreader 1, a storage container 3 for carrying and providing the material to be distributed (e.g., seeds, fertilizer and / or the like).), a distribution linkage 5 extending transversely to the direction of travel FR, which distribution linkage 5 has a support device 10, a linkage center section 11 and booms 13 rotatably attached to the linkage center section 11, wherein distribution lines 6 with distribution elements 8 and a metering container 18 operatively connected to the storage container 3 by means of a conveying system 19 are attached to the distribution linkage 5, wherein the distribution lines 6 can be supplied with an air volume flow to convey the distributed material along the distribution lines 6 to the distribution elements 8 and wherein, by means of at least one metering device 4 forming a structural unit with the distribution linkage 5 and operatively connected to the metering container 18, distributed material can be metered into the distribution lines 6.

[0099] According to the invention, the rod center part 11 is rotatably coupled to the support device 10 about an upright oriented axis of rotation 23.

[0100] In the Fig. Figure 3 shows a top view of a part of the distribution linkage 5, in particular showing the linkage center section 11 and the support device 10. The linkage center section 11 is rotatably coupled to the support device 10 about the axis of rotation 23, preferably by means of a pivot point. Preferably, the pivot point is configured such that the linkage center section 11 is rotatable about the upright axis of rotation 23 and an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel FR.

[0101] The linkage center section 11 is coupled to the carrier device 10 by means of at least one actuating device 24, which is formed from two hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2.

[0102] The two hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the direction of travel FR.

[0103] Suspensions 33 are provided on the central section of the linkage 11, by means of which the booms 13 can be connected to the central section of the linkage 11.

[0104] In the Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows an embodiment for the hydraulic circuit of the actuator 24. Preferably, a pressure medium circuit 34 is provided.

[0105] In the Fig. Figure 4 shows the hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2, each comprising a first pressure chamber 35 and a second pressure chamber 36. The pressure chambers 35, 36 can also be referred to as working areas.

[0106] Furthermore, a hydraulic block 32 is provided, by means of which the hydraulic cylinders 24.1 and 24.2 are connected via a pressure port 29 and a tank port 30. The hydraulic block 32 has a pressure regulating valve 31, by means of which the hydraulic fluid circuit 34 and, accordingly, the hydraulic cylinders 24.1 and 24.2 are pre-pressurized. This pressure can be, for example, between 50 bar and 100 bar.

[0107] The pressure regulating valve 31 is designed to maintain a constant pressure in the pressure medium circuit 34.

[0108] The chambers 35, 36 of the hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2 are each connected to the hydraulic block 32 by means of a delivery line 37.

[0109] A pressure control device 25 is provided for the automatic compensation of pressure fluctuations in the hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2, for example by pressure changes in the respective chambers 35, 36.

[0110] The pressure control device 25 is designed to compensate for pressure fluctuations in the actuating device 24. In this case, the pressure control device 25 comprises a pressure storage device 26, wherein the pressure storage device 26 includes at least two pressure storage devices 26.1, 26.2. The pressure storage devices 26.1, 26.2 are each pre-pressurized, preferably with a pressure that is lower than the pressure in the pressure medium circuit 34, which can be set by means of the pressure regulating valve 31.

[0111] The first pressure accumulator 26.1 is connected to the delivery line 37 between the first pressure chamber 35 of the first hydraulic cylinder 24.1 and the hydraulic block 32. The second pressure accumulator 26.2 is connected to the delivery line 37 between the first pressure chamber 35 of the second hydraulic cylinder 24.2 and the hydraulic block 32.

[0112] To illustrate this with an example, let's assume the first hydraulic cylinder 24.1 extends. Due to the rotatable arrangement of the distribution linkage around the axis of rotation 23, the second hydraulic cylinder 24.2 retracts. The first hydraulic cylinder 24.1 requires more hydraulic fluid, for example, hydraulic oil, in the first pressure chamber 35 and draws this from the first pressure accumulator 26.1. The second hydraulic cylinder 24.2, on the other hand, releases hydraulic fluid from the first pressure chamber 35, which is then received by the second pressure accumulator 26.2. The pre-charged pressure accumulators 26.1 and 26.2 then compensate for pressure fluctuations in the pressure chambers 35 and 36, and the distribution linkage 5 is returned to its neutral position.

[0113] To further improve performance, specifically by damping the movements, throttling elements 27, 28, in particular throttle valves 27, 28, are provided, each arranged between the second pressure chamber 36 and the hydraulic block 32. The throttling elements 27, 28 allow the flow of the hydraulic fluid through the delivery line 37 to be controlled, particularly with regard to the quantity of hydraulic fluid flowing through it. This results in damping of the hydraulic fluid outlet or inlet to the second pressure chamber 36, thereby damping the rotary movements of the distribution linkage 5.

[0114] The one in Fig. The pressure control device 25 shown in Figure 4 is designed to compensate for and / or counteract the rotary movements by automatically compensating for the pressure fluctuations occurring in the hydraulic cylinders 24.1, 24.2.

[0115] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made and equivalents used as substitutes without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made without departing from the relevant scope. Consequently, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but is intended to encompass all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. Reference symbol list: 1 pneumatic fertilizer spreader 2 Distributed goods 3 storage containers 4 Dosing device 5 distribution rods 6 distribution line 7 Outlet opening 8 distribution element 9 Flow generating device 10 Supporting institution 10.1 Height adjustment device 11 Linkage middle section 12 Linkage section 13 outriggers 14 upright oriented axis 15 Storage 16 Chassis 17 Connection device 18 dosing containers 19 Funding system 20 Conveyor line 21,22 Funding section 23 upright oriented axis of rotation 24 Actuator 24.1 cylinders 24.2 cylinders 25 Pressure control device 26 Pressure storage device 26.1 Pressure reservoir 26.2 Pressure storage 27 Throttle element 28 Throttle element 29 Pressure connection 30 Tank connection 31 Pressure regulating valve 32 Hydraulic block 33 Suspension boom 34 Pressure medium circuit 35 first pressure chamber 36 second pressure chamber 37 Conveyor line

Claims

Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) for spreading material onto an agricultural area (LA), comprising at least one distribution boom (5) with a boom center section (11), at least two arms (13) rotatably coupled to the boom center section (11), and a support device (10), wherein the support device (10) is coupled to a frame (R) of the fertilizer spreader (1), and wherein the distribution boom (5) has several distribution lines (6) with distribution elements (8), characterized in that the boom center section (11) is rotatably coupled to the support device about an upright oriented axis of rotation (23). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device (24) is coupled to the linkage center part (11) and the support device (10), wherein the at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device (24) is configured to influence rotary movements of the spreading linkage (5) about the upright oriented axis of rotation (23). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 2, characterized in that the at least one pressure-medium actuated positioning device (23) is configured to influence the rotary movements of the distribution linkage (5) about the upright oriented axis of rotation (5) by means of at least one pressure control device (25), wherein the at least one pressure control device (25) is configured to automatically compensate for pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one positioning device (23) by means of the rotary movements of the distribution linkage (5) about the upright oriented axis of rotation (23). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 3, characterized in that the pressure control device (25) comprises at least: - a pressure storage device (26); and / or - a valve device with at least one pressure medium control valve. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that the pressure control device (25) is configured to automatically compensate for the pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device (23) independently of a pressure sensor. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 4, characterized in that the pressure control device (25) comprises at least one pressure storage device (26) and is configured to automatically compensate for the pressure fluctuations occurring in the at least one actuating device (23) independently of any sensor, preferably any sensor. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least claim 2, characterized by at least a sensor device which is configured to detect the rotary movements and / or a rotational position of the distribution linkage (5) about the upright oriented axis of rotation (23), and by a control and / or regulating unit which is configured to control and / or regulate the at least one pressure-medium actuated actuating device (24) on the basis of the detected rotary movements, preferably in such a way that the pressure-medium actuated actuating device (24) counteracts the detected rotary movements. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the at least one actuating device (24) is formed by at least one hydraulic cylinder (24.1, 24.2) or at least two hydraulic cylinders (24.1, 24.2). Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the linkage center part (11) is rotatably coupled to the carrier device (10) about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel (FR), wherein at least one actuating unit is connected to the distribution linkage (5) and the carrier device (10), wherein the at least one actuating unit is configured to influence a rotational position and / or rotational movements of the distribution linkage (5) about the axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the booms (13) is coupled to the linkage center part (11) at least rotatably about an upright oriented axis of rotation and / or about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the booms (13) is formed by at least two linkage sections (12), wherein the linkage sections (12) are coupled rotatably relative to each other about an upright oriented axis of rotation and / or about an axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier device (10) is arranged to be height-adjustable relative to the frame (R) by means of a height adjustment unit. Pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by a metering device (4) by means of which material can be metered into the distribution lines (6) of the distribution boom (5), and wherein the metering device (4) is spatially assigned to the distribution boom (5), preferably the metering device (4) is coupled to the distribution boom (5). Method for influencing movements of a distribution boom (5) of a pneumatic fertilizer spreader (1), comprising the method steps: - Providing a distribution boom (5) with a boom center section (11) and a support device (10), wherein the boom center section (10) is rotatably coupled to the boom center section (11) about an upright oriented axis of rotation (23); - Providing at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device (24) which is coupled to the boom center section (11) and the support device (10); - Influencing rotational movements of the distribution boom (5) about the upright oriented axis of rotation by means of the at least one pressure-medium actuated adjusting device (24).

Images