DISPENSER FOR GROUNDY MATERIAL

Description

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

[0002] EP 0 799 560 B1 and US 10 779 460 B2 disclose such distribution devices. US 2020 / 045877 A1 further discloses a distribution device in which elbow-shaped pipe fittings serving as outlets are connected to a distribution chamber.

[0003] Due to varying working widths and seed-dependent row spacing, a specific number of placement devices is used for the granular material when spreading granular material, such as seed or fertilizer. For example, agricultural spreading machines are known that are equipped with 24 placement devices to place the granular material along 24 spaced-apart rows on the agricultural field. Agricultural machines equipped with 32 placement devices are also common, so that the granular material is placed along 32 spaced-apart rows on the agricultural field.

[0004] Due to the varying number of depositing devices, different distribution devices are used, each with a different number of outlets in its distribution chamber, through which individual air / material flows can be discharged from the distribution chamber toward the depositing devices. In the distribution chamber, a main air / material flow introduced through a main conveying line is then divided into the required number of individual air / material flows, which can be routed to the depositing devices via discharge lines.

[0005] Modern distribution devices are also equipped with return lines, through which material from individual air-material flows can be directed back into the main conveyor line if the material application along individual rows needs to be temporarily interrupted. Depending on the number of outlets and return lines of the distribution device, the end attachment points of the return line can be spaced at different distances from each other. The higher the number of outlets from the distribution chamber of the distribution device, the further the upper attachment point of the return line is moved outwards. The return lines have traditionally been formed by flexible or deformable hoses, which could easily compensate for radial and axial offsets of the attachment points of the return lines.

[0006] However, some distribution devices do not allow flexible hoses to be used in the return lines, for example because the return lines are required to have several internal ducts.

[0007] The object underlying the invention is therefore to be able to use identical parts in the return line for different models of a distribution device in which the use of hoses in the return line is not possible or should be avoided, regardless of the number of outlets of the distribution chamber of the distribution device or the storage devices used.

[0008] The object is achieved by a distribution device of the type mentioned at the outset, wherein the return line comprises a line element which is articulated at both ends.

[0009] The articulated mounting allows for different alignments or angles of incidence on the line element. The return line and the associated line receptacles can therefore be used with different models of the distribution device, even if the line receptacles have different distances or offsets from one another. Across all models, the return line can therefore be implemented with the same line element, regardless of the number of outlets in the distribution chamber of the distribution device or the storage devices used. Line elements that are adapted to the number of outlets in the distribution chamber or the attachment points in the return line are not required. This results in a significant reduction in the variety of parts across all models. In addition, the articulated mounting of the line element allows assembly tolerances to be compensated for despite the omission of flexible hoses.Despite its articulated mounting, the articulated line section is immobile during operation because it is secured by two cable supports at the line ends. The articulated mounting of the line section is therefore particularly useful during the assembly of the distribution device. The line section is therefore articulated on both sides. With articulated mounting on both sides of the line section, the mobility of the line section can be eliminated. The articulated line section can be a single-piece or multi-piece.

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

[0011] The articulated cable link is articulated at both ends, allowing it to be not only pivoted but also moved translationally. This allows manufacturing tolerances to be compensated for, thus achieving length compensation.

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

[0013] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is advantageous in which the return line has a first line receptacle, wherein a first joint section of the articulated line member is arranged on the first line receptacle. The first joint section of the articulated line member can be detachably connected to the first line receptacle in a non-destructive manner. Preferably, the orientation or angle of the line member can be changed after connecting the first joint section of the line member and the first line receptacle by pivoting the line member, provided the line member is not yet fixed at the opposite end.

[0014] Furthermore, a distribution device is preferred in which the first line receptacle and the first joint section of the articulated line member form a joint bearing, in particular a ball joint bearing. The first line receptacle can be designed as a joint head and the first joint section can be designed as a joint socket. Alternatively, the first line receptacle can be designed as a joint socket and the first joint section can be designed as a joint head. The joint socket forms the counterpart to the joint head and at least partially encloses it. As an alternative to the joint socket, the joint head can also engage in a substantially cylindrical bearing section, such that the joint bearing permits a translational movement of the line member. If the joint head is enclosed by a joint socket, preferably only rotational movements of the articulated line member are possible.The articulated mounting can allow multi-axis, in particular tri-axis, rotation of the articulated line member relative to the first line receptacle when the articulated line member is not fixed. The articulated mounting can prevent translational movements of the articulated line member relative to the first line receptacle.

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

[0016] In another preferred embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the second return line has a second line receptacle, wherein a second joint section of the articulated line member is arranged on the second line receptacle. The second joint section of the articulated line member can be detachably connected to the second line receptacle in a non-destructive manner. Preferably, the orientation or angle of the line member can be changed after connecting the second joint section of the line member and the second line receptacle by pivoting the line member, provided the line member is not yet fixed at the opposite end.

[0017] A distribution device according to the invention is also preferred in which the second line receptacle and the second joint section of the articulated line member form a joint bearing, in particular a ball joint bearing. The second line receptacle can be designed as a joint head and the second joint section can be designed as a joint socket. Alternatively, the second line receptacle can be designed as a joint socket and the second joint section can be designed as a joint head. The joint socket forms the counterpart to the joint head and at least partially encloses it. As an alternative to the joint socket, the joint head can also engage in a substantially cylindrical bearing section, such that the joint bearing permits a translational movement of the line member. If the joint head is enclosed by a joint socket, preferably only rotational movements of the articulated line member are possible.The articulated mounting can allow multi-axis, in particular tri-axis, rotation of the articulated line member relative to the second line receptacle when the articulated line member is not fixed. The articulated mounting can prevent translational movements of the articulated line member relative to the second line receptacle.

[0018] In another embodiment of the distribution device according to the invention, the articulated mounting formed by the first line receptacle and the first joint section of the articulated line member and / or the articulated mounting formed by the second line receptacle and the second joint section of the articulated line member is equipped with a guide device which is designed to guide the articulated line member during a pivoting movement along a predetermined movement path and / or to limit the pivoting movement of the articulated line member. The guide device can comprise a guide pin which is guided in a guide slot of the guide device. When the line member is pivoted, the guide pin preferably moves within the guide slot and is guided by the guide slot during the pivoting movement of the line member.The guide pin can be arranged on the cable receptacle or the joint section of the cable link. Furthermore, the guide slot can be arranged on the joint section of the articulated cable link or on the cable receptacle. The guide device can also function as a stop. For example, the guide pin strikes the contour of the guide slot when the cable link has been pivoted into a final orientation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0027] Furthermore, a distribution device according to the invention is preferred in which one or more material introduction protection elements are arranged between the separation collection area and the air discharge lines, which are permeable to air and designed to prevent the introduction of material into the air discharge openings. The material introduction protection element can be a grid, sieve, or net, in particular a circumferential one. The material introduction protection element can preferably be passed through by air, but is impassable for the granular material. The material introduction protection element can be a material filter, through which air can pass but is impassable for the granular material. The material introduction protection element therefore has air passage openings whose size prevents the material from passing through. The air passage openings can also be formed by material perforations.

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

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

[0030] The agricultural spreader is preferably a seed drill or a fertilizer spreader. The agricultural spreader can be an attachment that can be attached to a tractor via a three-point linkage. The agricultural spreader can be a mounted spreader, so that the tractor acts as the carrier vehicle. Furthermore, the spreader can be a towed spreader, so that the tractor acts as the traction vehicle.

[0031] The object underlying the invention is further achieved by an assembly method of the type mentioned above, wherein a pipe element of the return line, which is articulated at both ends, is aligned within the scope of the inventive method. By aligning the articulated pipe element, the angle of inclination of the pipe element is changed and adapted to the model of the distribution device. Due to the articulated mounting, multiple different pipe elements with different curvatures are not required for distribution devices with a different number of outlets.

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

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

[0034] The Fig. 1 shows a distribution device 10 which is used as a distribution head of an agricultural distribution machine designed as a seed drill. The distribution device 10 comprises a main conveyor line 12 which is oriented essentially vertically. The main conveyor line 12 is formed in sections by a corrugated pipe. A main air-material flow rises through the main conveyor line 12 and is introduced into a distribution chamber 14 of the distribution device 10. The distribution chamber 14 has a plurality of outlets 16a-16f arranged along the circumference, wherein the main air-material flow introduced into the distribution chamber 14 is divided into a plurality of individual air-material flows which can be led out of the distribution chamber 14 through the outlets 16a-16f.The outlets 16a-16f are each connected to a discharge passage 18a, 18f, so that the individual air-material flows discharged from the distribution chamber 14 can be fed to discharge lines 20a, 20f via the discharge passages 18a, 18f. The discharge lines 20a, 20f each lead to a placement device for depositing the seed on an agricultural field. The placement devices can be, for example, seed coulters.

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

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

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

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

[0039] The separation collection area 28 further has a material return opening 38 connected to the main conveying line 12, through which the returned material can be fed back into the main conveying line 12. The material return opening 38 is designed to be circumferential. A return area 40 of the main conveying line 12 directly adjoins the material return opening 38 of the separation collection area 28. An upright line section 42 of the main conveying line 12 is arranged between the return area 40 of the main conveying line 12 and the distribution chamber 14. The separation collection area 28 is arranged below the upright line section 42. A funnel-shaped return component is integrated into the separation collection area 28, which also encompasses a portion of the main conveying line 12. The return component comprises an expansion nozzle 44 for the main air-material flow flowing through the main conveying line 12.

[0040] Between the outlets 16a, 16f and the separation collection area 28 are flow intersection areas 26a, 26f, in which a return line 24a, 24f and an air discharge line 34a, 34f intersect. The respective return lines 24a, 24f lead from top to bottom, namely from an outlet 16a-16f on the distribution chamber 14 to the separation collection area 28. The respective air discharge lines 34a, 34f lead from bottom to top, namely from the separation collection area 28 to the respective discharge line 20a, 20f.Because a return line 24a, 24f and an air discharge line 34a, 34f intersect in the flow intersection area 26a, 26f, the individual air-material flow located radially inward above the flow intersection area 26a, 26f can be directed radially outward before reaching the separation collection area 28 below the flow intersection area 26a, 26f, and the air flow separated radially inward in the separation collection area 28 below the flow intersection area 26a, 26f can be directed radially outward for introduction into the discharge line 20a, 20f above the flow intersection area 26a, 26f. Thus, the material flowing into the separation collection area 28 can also be directed into the radially inward main conveying line 12 after air separation.

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

[0042] The Fig. 3 shows material inlet protection elements 36, which are arranged between the separation collection area 28 and the air discharge lines 34 of a distribution device 10. The material inlet protection elements 36 are webs which together form a labyrinth structure. The labyrinth structure is permeable to air and prevents the introduction of material into the air discharge openings 34. Air is separated via the separation edge 30 from the individual air-material flow flowing into the separation collection area 28 via the return line 24. The separated air is discharged from the separation collection area 28 via the material inlet protection elements 36 and the air discharge opening 32 and introduced into the air discharge line 34. Between the outlets on the distribution chamber 14 and the separation collection area 28 there is a flow crossing area 26, in which a return line 24 and an air discharge line 34 intersect.The return line 24 and the air discharge line 34 are wound around each other in a flow crossing area 26 in a helical manner over half a turn.

[0043] In the Fig. 4 In the distribution device 10 shown, the material inlet protection element 36 is designed as a circumferential plate with a plurality of air discharge openings 32. The annular plate prevents the material, i.e., the seed, from being introduced into the air discharge openings 34.

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

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

[0046] In the Fig. 7 1 shows a distribution device 10 in which the deflection element 22 of the deflection unit 60 is in the return position. In the return position, the connection between the respective outlet 16 and the discharge line 20 via the discharge passage 18 is blocked. Furthermore, the connection between the respective outlet 16 and the separation collection area is opened via the return line 24. The individual air-material flow discharged from the distribution chamber 14 via the outlet 16 is thus directed into the return line 24 and guided radially outwards in the flow intersection area 26. The air separated in the separation collection area 28 is then introduced into the discharge line 20 via the air discharge line 34. The separated air is brought radially outwards in the flow intersection area 26, so that it can be introduced into the external discharge line 20.

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

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

[0049] The distribution chamber 14 of the Fig. 9 The distribution device 10 shown has 32 outlets 16c-16f, so that the upper joint bearings 54f are located further out due to the increased space requirement. Nevertheless, a line element 48f can be used in the return line 24f, which is identical in construction to the one shown in the Fig. 8 This is possible because the line member 48f is articulated via the joint bearings 54f, 56f, and thus a different angle of attack α2 can be set on the line member 48. During assembly of the distribution device 10, a suitable angle of attack α1, α2 is set on the articulated line members 48f via the joint bearings 54f, 56f designed as ball joint bearings. This results in a significant reduction in the variety of parts across all models. In addition, the articulated bearing of the line members 54f allows assembly tolerances to be compensated for despite the omission of flexible hoses.

[0050] The articulated pipe sections 48f are rigid pipes constructed as plastic parts, namely injection-molded plastic parts. The pipe sections 48f are therefore plastic pipes or plastic pipe segments.

[0051] As in the Fig. 10 and 11 As shown, two outlets 16a, 16b of a distribution chamber 14 are each connected to a bundling section 58 via deflection units 60a, 60b. In the bundling section 58, the individual air-material flows discharged from the distribution chamber 14 via the outlets 16a, 16b are combined to form a collective flow and fed via a line channel 50b in the line member 48 into a return body 62 connected to the main conveying line 12. Air is separated within the return body 62 and then fed via a line channel 50a of the line member 48 into discharge lines connected to delivery devices, such as seed coulters.

[0052] The line member 48 is articulated via the joint bearings 54, 56, whereby a pivoting movement on the line member 48 is made possible after releasing one of the two joint bearings.

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

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

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

[0056] In the Fig. 12 In the distribution device 10 shown, an angle of attack α is established due to the radial offset of the fastening points or the articulation points of the line member 48. This angle of attack α can be adjusted during the assembly process of the distribution device 10. Bezugszeichen

[0057] 10Distribution device 12Main conveyor line 14Distribution chamber 16, 16a-16fOutlets 18, 18a, 18fDischarge passages 20, 20a, 20fDischarge lines 22, 22a, 22fDeflection elements 24, 24a, 24fReturn lines 26, 26a, 26fFlow crossing area 28Separation collection area 30Separation edge 32Air discharge opening 34, 34a, 34fAir discharge lines 36Material inlet protection elements 38Material return opening 40Return area 42Line section 44Expansion nozzle 46fLever 48, 48fLine element 50a, 50bLine ducts 52Partition wall 54, 54fJoint bearing 56, 56fJoint bearing 58, 58fBundling section 60, 60a, 60bDeflection units 62Return body 64a, 64bCable receptacles 66a, 66bJoint sections 68Guide device 70Guide pin 72Guide slot 74Shoulder 76Cable section α, α1, α2Angle of attack

Claims

1. Distribution device (10) for granular material, in particular seed, for an agricultural distribution machine, having - a distribution chamber (14) in which a main air-material flow introduced through a main conveyor line (12) can be divided into a plurality of individual air-material flows which can be guided out of the distribution chamber (14) through outlets (16, 16a-16f); and - at least one return line (24, 24a, 24f) which is connected to at least one outlet (16, 16a-16f) of the distribution chamber (14) and via which material from at least one individual air-material flow can be guided back into the main conveying line (12); characterized in that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) comprises a line member (48, 48f) which is articulated at both ends.

2. Distribution device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the articulated line member (48, 48f) is formed as a rigid pipe.

3. Distribution device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) has a first line receptacle (64a), a first joint portion (66a) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) being arranged on the first line receptacle (64a).

4. Distribution device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the first line receptacle (64a) and the first joint portion (66a) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) form a joint bearing (54, 54f), in particular a ball joint bearing.

5. Distribution device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) has a second line receptacle (64b), a second joint portion (66b) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) being arranged on the second line receptacle (64b).

6. Distribution device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the second line receptacle (64b) and the second joint portion (66b) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) form a joint bearing (56, 56f), in particular a ball joint bearing.

7. Distribution device (10) according to any of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the articulated bearing (54, 54f) formed by the first line receptacle (64a) and the first joint portion (66a) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) and / or the articulated bearing (56, 56f) formed by the second line receptacle (64b) and the second joint portion (66b) of the articulated line member (48, 48f) is equipped with a guide means (68) which is designed to guide the articulated line member (48, 48f) during a pivoting movement along a predetermined movement path and / or to limit the pivoting movement of the articulated line member (48, 48f).

8. Distribution device (10) according to any of claims 5 to 7, characterized by a return body (62) which connects a plurality of return lines (24, 24a, 24f) to the main conveyor line (12), a plurality of second line receptacles (64b) for a plurality of articulated line members (48, 48f) being formed on the return body (62).

9. Distribution device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that two separate line channels (50a, 50b) run within the articulated line member (48, 48f).

10. Distribution device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the return line (24, 24a, 24f) is connected to at least two outlets (16, 16a-16f) of the distribution chamber (14) and has a bundling portion (58, 58f) which is designed to combine at least two individual air-material flows before introduction into the articulated line member (48, 48f).

11. Distribution device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by a separation collection region (28) into which a plurality of return lines (24, 24a, 24f) open and in which air from a plurality of air-material flows introduced into the separation collection region (28) can be separated for introduction into a plurality of air discharge lines (34, 34a, 34f) of the distribution device (10), each connected to a discharge line (20, 20a, 20f).

12. Distribution device (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the separation collection region (28) is formed partially or completely around the periphery, the separation collection region (28) preferably having one, in particular only one, air discharge opening (32) connected to a plurality of or all of the air discharge lines (34, 34a, 34f).

13. Agricultural distribution machine for spreading granular material, having - a distribution device (10) according to any of the preceding claims; and - a plurality of depositing means for depositing the granular material on an agricultural area, wherein the depositing means are each connected to an outlet on the distribution chamber (14) via a discharge line (20, 20a, 20f).

14. Assembly method for a distribution device (10) for granular material, in particular for a distribution device (10) according to any of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps of: - providing an assembly of the distribution device (10), the assembly comprising a distribution chamber (14) and in the distribution chamber (14) a main air-material flow introduced through a main conveyor line (12) being able to be divided into a plurality of individual air-material flows that can be guided out of the distribution chamber (14) through outlets (16, 16a-16f); and - connecting at least one outlet of the distribution chamber (14) to a return line (24, 24a, 24f), via which material from at least one individual air-material flow can be guided back into the main conveying line (12); characterized by the step of: - aligning a line member (48, 48f) of the return line (24, 24a, 24f), which line member is articulated at both ends.

15. Assembly method according to claim 14, characterized in that the articulated line member (48, 48f) is aligned via an articulated bearing (54, 54f, 56, 56f), in particular a ball joint bearing.