Agricultural spreader

Abstract

The invention relates to a spreader, in particular an agricultural spreader, comprising a storage container (2) for receiving a material (S) to be spread, a spreader unit (3) for distributing the spreading material (S) on agricultural land (N), a supply chute (4) with a chute inlet (4.1) for introducing the spreading material (S) coming from the storage container (2), and a chute outlet (4.2) for discharging the spreading material (S) to the spreader unit (3), wherein an additional chute (5) is provided which can be inserted into the supply chute (4) in order to adjust the chute outlet (4.2).

Description

[0001] Agricultural spreader The invention relates to a spreader, in particular an agricultural spreader, comprising a storage container for holding a spreading material, a spreading unit for distributing the spreading material over a usable area, a feed chute with a chute inlet for introducing the spreading material from the storage container, and a chute outlet for feeding the spreading material onto the spreading unit. Such spreaders, for example fertilizer spreaders, generally have a storage container for holding the spreading material to be distributed, which is often granular or powdery. This storage container is often designed in the manner of a large-volume, often open-topped container for storing the spreading material. In this context, "spreading material" refers to all granular, granular, or powdery materials that can be used in agriculture and distributed with such spreaders, in particular mineral fertilizers, lime, seeds, etc.The term "distribution" is intended to cover all types of spreading material using such spreaders on cultivated areas such as fields, meadows, etc. To distribute the material, the spreaders are usually driven or pulled along parallel, spaced-apart strips across the cultivated area. For this purpose, the spreaders can be either attached to tractors, mounted on them, or designed to be self-propelled. The spreading unit distributes the material from the storage hopper over a large area, often in a fan-shaped pattern behind the spreader, with the spreading width of the sown seed often considerably exceeding the width of the spreader. The spreading unit usually has several spreading elements, which are often designed as rotatable spreading discs and via which the material is distributed using centrifugal forces.To adjust the spreading width and spreading pattern, i.e. the distribution of the spreading material over the usable area, the rotation speed of the spreading discs on such spreaders, for example, can be adjustable. The spreading material that can be fed from the storage hopper in such spreaders is usually fed via a feed chute. Such feed chutes often have a chute inlet for introducing the spreading material that can be fed from the storage hopper. The spreading material is often fed into the chute inlet of the feed chute by gravity or via a conveying device extending between the storage hopper and the feed chute, such as conveyor belts or screw conveyors. The chute outlet is usually designed for the gravity-based feeding of the spreading material onto the spreading unit and is located above the spreading elements or spreading discs.The spreading material is fed essentially vertically from the chute outlet onto the spreading discs. The area in which the spreading material is fed onto the spreading discs influences the spreading pattern and is known as the drop point. To ensure a uniform spreading pattern with different spreading materials, it is also known to adjust the drop point, for example depending on the degree of moisture or the flowability of the respective spreading material. Against this background, a spreader is known from DE 1281733 B in which the feed chute is adjustable to change the drop point. The feed chute can be mounted offset in several positions transverse to the direction of travel of the spreader and can also be pivoted within a certain angular range in order to change the drop point of the spreading material on the spreading discs.In this context, WO 01 / 50836 A1 discloses a feed chute with internal guide plates that can be manually secured in various pivoting positions using fasteners. With these feed chutes, it is generally possible to adjust the drop point to suit the nature of the spreading material; however, manual adjustment is complex and not user-friendly. To avoid the aforementioned disadvantages, DE 4134315 A1 proposes a spreader in which the drop point can be adjusted using a metering device consisting of several motor-adjustable slides. This allows the drop point to be adjusted in a user-friendly manner, even while driving.However, it has proven disadvantageous with this spreader that it requires several servomotors, which not only entail a comparatively complex construction, but are also maintenance-intensive and carry a certain risk of failure. Against this background, the object of the invention is to provide a spreader in which the drop point can be adjusted in a structurally simple and user-friendly manner. This object is achieved in a spreader of the type mentioned at the outset by the features of patent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent subclaims. The additional chute, which can be inserted into the feed chute to adjust the chute outlet, allows user-friendly adjustment of the drop point with virtually just one movement.The drop point can be adjusted in a structurally simple manner via the position of the feed chute's chute outlet. This results in both user- and maintenance-friendly adaptation of the spreading pattern to different characteristics of the spreading material. An advantageous further development in this context provides for the feed chute to be funnel-shaped with a cross-section that tapers from the chute inlet to the chute outlet. This design enables simple gravity-based feeding of the spreading material onto the spreading unit. The larger cross-section at the chute inlet enables simple and low-loss introduction of the spreading material into the feed chute. The tapered cross-section at the chute outlet enables reliable and defined feeding of the spreading material onto the spreading unit.The feed chute can in particular have a rectangular cross-section and be closed on two essentially vertically extending sides and open on the other two essentially vertically extending sides. In this context, it has proven advantageous if the feed chute has at least two funnel-shaped chute segments that converge towards one another. Such an arrangement enables a directed, gravity-based application of the spreading material to the spreading unit. In this context, it has proven structurally advantageous if one chute segment is arranged on the inside, i.e. in a central area of ​​the spreader, and the other chute segment is arranged on the outside, i.e. in an outer area of ​​the spreader.It has proven advantageous if one of the chute segments, in particular the inner chute segment, is designed as the main chute element for feeding the majority of the spreading material onto the spreading unit, and the other chute segment is designed as the secondary chute segment. The secondary chute segment can advantageously serve to stiffen the feed chute. The chute segments can, in particular, be designed like a ramp. From a design perspective, it is advantageous if the cross-section tapers transversely to the direction of travel of the spreader. This enables particularly simple and reliable guidance of the spreading material transversely to the direction of travel of the spreader. The main direction of travel of the spreader is forward. It is further proposed that the feed chute be closed at its front and / or at least partially open at its rear.Such an arrangement enables unwanted particles contained in the spreading material to be moved out of the spreader via the at least partially open rear. The closed front of the feed chute prevents spreading material from falling out of this area and any resulting negative influence on the spreading pattern. Furthermore, the closed front of the spreader can effectively protect the tractor and other components arranged in the front area from contact with the spreading material. The front of the feed chute is located at the front in the main direction of travel and the rear is located at the rear in the main direction of travel. It is further proposed that the feed chute be designed as a double chute with two chute exits. Such an arrangement advantageously enables the spreading material to be fed onto the spreading unit at two feed points simultaneously.In this context, it has proven structurally advantageous if the double chute has a common chute inlet. This allows for reliable and low-loss introduction of the spreading material from the storage container into the feed chute. It is further preferred if the feed chute designed as a double chute has a separation point arranged between the chute inlet and the two chute outlets for dividing the spreading material introduced via the chute inlet into two partial quantities. Such an arrangement enables uniform application of the spreading material to the spreading unit at two feed points. The separation point can extend in particular along the direction of travel of the spreader. In this context, it is advantageous if the separation point is designed in such a way that a defined position and / or installation position is formed for the additional chute.This enables particularly simple and reliable guidance of the additional chute. Furthermore, such an arrangement enables self-positioning of the additional chute inserted into the feed chute. Furthermore, such an arrangement prevents incorrect positioning of the additional chute. In this context, other means for guiding and / or positioning the additional chute relative to the feed chute are also conceivable, for example, positioning aids or stops. From a design perspective, it has proven advantageous if the feed chute is mirror-symmetrical to the separation point. This allows the spreading material introduced via the chute inlet to be evenly divided into two portions. Furthermore, such an arrangement can also prove advantageous with regard to simplified manufacture of the feed chute.In an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the additional chute be designed such that the chute outlet can be adjusted in two directions by inserting the additional chute. Such an arrangement enables simple, user-friendly adjustment of the drop point on the spreading unit in two directions. In particular, such an arrangement can limit and / or reduce the size of the chute outlet, thereby enabling particularly targeted and defined application of the spreading material to the spreading unit at the drop point. In this context, it has proven advantageous if one of the directions extends longitudinally and the other direction transversely to the direction of travel of the spreader. Such an arrangement allows user-friendly and repeatable adjustment of the drop point.In a further development of the invention, it is proposed that the additional chute be designed in the manner of a ramp with an angular cross-section. The two legs of the ramp, which are arranged at an angle to one another, allow a reliable and structurally simple adjustment of the chute outlet in both directions. In this context, it has proven advantageous if the additional chute is designed in the manner of a box-shaped funnel open on two sides and with a cross-section that tapers between the additional chute inlet and the additional chute outlet, in particular a rectangular one. With regard to the additional chute, it is further proposed that it be at least partially closed at the rear and / or open at the front. Such a design allows good guidance of the seed in the area of ​​the rear.Furthermore, the feed chute and the additional chute inserted into the feed chute can thereby together form a funnel with a tapered cross-section and is closed around its circumference. Such an arrangement allows for particularly low-loss guidance of the spreading material, since little spreading material can fall out of the feed chute. When inserted, the front of the additional chute is located at the front in the main direction of travel, and the rear is located at the rear in the main direction of travel. It is further proposed that the additional chute have a longitudinal adjustment ramp inclined longitudinally to the direction of travel for adjusting the chute exit in one direction and a transverse adjustment ramp inclined transversely to the direction of travel for adjusting the chute exit in the other direction. Such an additional chute enables adjustment of the chute exit in both directions.In this context, it has proven structurally advantageous if the longitudinal adjustment ramp is arranged at the rear of the additional chute. This allows effective guidance of the grit from the chute entrance to the chute exit longitudinally to the direction of travel. In particular, the longitudinal adjustment ramp can extend at an angle from the chute entrance to the chute exit in the direction of travel. However, it is also conceivable to arrange the longitudinal adjustment ramp at the front of the additional chute if this proves expedient. It is further proposed that the longitudinal adjustment ramp and / or the transverse adjustment ramp have sections with different gradients. This ensures that the longitudinal adjustment ramp and / or the transverse adjustment ramp run at an angle between the chute entrance and the chute exit.Such an arrangement has proven particularly advantageous with regard to trouble-free and low-jam guidance of the spreading material between the chute inlet and chute outlet. From a design perspective, it is advantageous in this context if the transverse adjustment ramp has a greater gradient in the area of ​​the chute inlet than in the area of ​​the chute exit. This can ensure that the additional chute is steeper in the area of ​​the chute inlet than in the area of ​​the chute exit. Such a design can prevent jams of the spreading material in the feed chute and ensure continuous feeding of the spreading material to the spreading unit. In a further development of the invention, it is proposed that the transverse adjustment ramp of the additional chute at least partially covers one of the chute segments of the feed chute in the inserted position.This allows for particularly user-friendly positioning of the additional chute relative to the feed chute by simply inserting the additional chute. In this context, it is particularly advantageous if the transverse adjustment ramp of the additional chute, in the inserted position, at least partially, preferably completely, covers the inner chute segment of the feed chute. With regard to the structural design of the additional chute, it has proven advantageous if the longitudinal adjustment ramp has, in the vertical direction, an inclined inlet area for guiding the spreading material in the area of ​​the chute inlet, an inclined outlet area for guiding the spreading material in the area of ​​the chute exit, and a transition area arranged between the inlet area and the outlet area, which is angled relative to these areas and extends in particular vertically.In this context, it is further proposed that the additional chute be designed as a double additional chute with two longitudinal adjustment ramps, two transverse adjustment ramps, and a separation point arranged between the transverse adjustment ramps. Such an arrangement enables the simultaneous adjustment of two chute exits of the feed chute and thus the simultaneous setting of two drop points on the spreading unit in a user-friendly manner. In this context, it is structurally advantageous if the transverse adjustment ramps extend from the separation point transversely to the direction of travel of the spreader, and if the longitudinal adjustment ramps are arranged parallel to the direction of travel of the spreader at the rear of the double additional chute.Such an arrangement of the longitudinal adjustment ramps also reduces losses of spreading material during spreading operation of the spreader, as less spreading material can fall out through the open rear of the feed chute. With regard to user-friendly installation of the additional chute, it has proven advantageous if the additional chute, designed as a double additional chute, has a saddle-like insertion shape for insertion into the feed chute. Such an arrangement enables user-friendly saddle-mounting of the roof-shaped additional chute onto the feed chute. Positioning or assembly errors can thus be avoided. Furthermore, such an arrangement enables captive storage of the additional chute on the feed chute, even during distribution of the spreading material and the vibrations that occur during this process.Furthermore, such a design allows self-positioning of the additional chute relative to the feed chute during distribution of the spreading material. In this context, it is preferred if the additional chute is designed to be mirror-symmetrical to the separation point. Such an arrangement enables further simplified, more user-friendly positioning of the additional chute relative to the feed chute. It is proposed that the additional chute be designed with a bottom side of the separation point being saddle-mounted onto a top side of the separation point of the feed chute designed as a double chute. Such a design enables particularly time-saving, user-friendly installation of the additional chute in the feed chute, which can be carried out quickly and error-free even by inexperienced installation and / or operating personnel.In a further development of the invention, it is further proposed that the additional chute be detachably fastened to the feed chute in the inserted position, in particular by screwing, without tools and / or by means of quick-release devices. Such a fastening enables time-saving and user-friendly assembly and disassembly of the additional chute in the feed chute. Furthermore, such a fastening allows secure positioning of the additional chute relative to the feed chute, in particular in the event of shocks or vibrations occurring during distribution. In this context, a structurally preferred embodiment provides that the additional chute has a tab-like fastening area for attachment to the feed chute. With regard to the arrangement of the fastening area, it has proven structurally advantageous if it extends vertically from the top side of the longitudinal adjustment ramps.It is also advantageous if the fastening area extends transversely to the separation point and has a fastening hole arranged centrally in the fastening area. The good accessibility of the fastening area enables particularly time-saving and user-friendly installation of the additional chute in the feed chute. In this context, a design of the fastening hole as a square hole is particularly advantageous. In this context, it is preferred if the additional chute has two tab-like fastening areas which extend downwards from the transverse adjustment ramps. From a structural point of view, it is particularly advantageous in this context if the fastening areas extend vertically downwards from the transverse adjustment ramps.With regard to the structural design of the fastening areas, it has proven advantageous if these extend parallel to the separation section and each have a fastening hole arranged in the area of ​​the rear of the feed chute. In an advantageous further development, it is proposed that the additional chute have two box-shaped saddle elements which are arranged on the underside of the transverse adjustment ramps and extend parallel to the fastening areas. Such saddle elements enable advantageous, user-friendly and time-saving installation of the additional chute on the feed chute. In this context, the saddle elements can also serve as spacers to bridge installation distances. It is further proposed that the additional chute be assembled from formed sheet metal parts, in particular from bent sheet metal parts.Such a design has proven successful in terms of weight-saving construction. Furthermore, such a configuration using formed sheet metal parts can be advantageous in terms of manufacturing technology. In a further advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the spreader have several interchangeable additional chutes for the step-by-step adjustment of the chute outlet. Such a configuration enables particularly simple, step-by-step adjustment of the chute outlet and thus particularly user-friendly adaptation of the drop point to the nature of the spreading material to be distributed. This allows precise adaptation to the nature, in particular to different moisture levels of the spreading material. By exchanging the additional chutes, the chute outlet can be easily adjusted in several stages, whereby different drop points can be set on the spreading unit.In this context, it is proposed that the additional chutes differ in terms of their longitudinal and / or transverse adjustment ramps. In this way, an advantageously large range of drop points, which differ in their position in the longitudinal and transverse directions, can be covered with different additional chutes. It is further proposed that the spreading unit be arranged below the chute exit. Such an arrangement of the spreading unit enables simple and reliable adjustment of the drop point by adjusting the chute exit. Furthermore, the spreading material can be fed onto the spreading unit in a straightforward, in particular gravity-based, manner. With regard to the spreading unit, it is proposed that it have at least two spreading elements, with each spreading element being assigned a chute exit.Such an arrangement enables user-friendly, simultaneous adjustment of the drop point for each of the spreading elements. In this context, it is further proposed that the spreading elements be designed as spreading discs, each rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation, for centrifugal force-based distribution of the spreading material. Such a design of the spreading elements enables reliable spreading fan-like distribution of the spreading material in the direction of travel behind the spreader. The spreading width can advantageously be adjusted via the rotational speed of the spreading discs. In particular, a high rotational speed of the spreading discs can be set to generate a large spreading width. Furthermore, the spreading fans generated by the respective spreading elements can at least partially overlap to ensure sufficient distribution of the spreading material or a desired application rate of the spreading material.With regard to the spreading elements, it has proven advantageous if they rotate in opposite directions. Such a design enables a particularly advantageous and uniform distribution of the spreading material in a uniform spreading pattern in the direction of travel behind the spreader. In particular, it is proposed that one of the spreading discs rotate clockwise and the other spreading disc counterclockwise. In this context, it is particularly advantageous with regard to the widest and most uniform spreading pattern possible if the spreading disc on the left in the direction of travel rotates clockwise and the spreading disc on the right in the direction of travel rotates counterclockwise. With regard to an even distribution of the spreading material, it is preferred if the spreading elements have spreading vanes to guide the spreading material.Such spreading vanes enable particularly reliable guidance of the spreading material on the spreading discs and effective distribution of the spreading material. In particular, the spreading vanes can be adjustable to change the spreading width. In an advantageous further development, it is proposed that the chute outlet for feeding the spreading material is designed as a feed point onto the spreading elements. The feed point is an area which is adjustable in two directions by means of the additional chute. By adjusting the feed point, adaptation to the properties or characteristics of the spreading material is possible. In this context, it has proven advantageous to change the feed point when the additional chute is used such that the feed point is located in front of the feed point in the direction of rotation of the spreading elements without the additional chute.This allows a more even distribution of the spreading material over the usable area, particularly when using spreading material with a higher moisture content. In a similar way, the feed point can be changed when an additional chute is used so that the feed point is located behind the feed point without the additional chute in the direction of rotation of the spreading elements. This makes it possible, for example depending on the properties of the spreading material, to adapt the spreading pattern using the additional chutes that can be inserted into the feed chutes. In an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the spreader have a conveyor unit for conveying the spreading material from the storage container to the feed chute. Such a conveyor unit has proven particularly useful when longer distances have to be bridged between the storage container and the feed chute.In particular, such a conveyor unit can continuously feed the grit that can be fed from the storage container into the feed chute. In this context, a design of the conveyor unit as a conveyor belt, screw conveyor, etc. is structurally advantageous. The conveyor unit can be gravity-driven or motor-driven. Further details and advantages of the invention are explained below with the aid of the attached drawings of exemplary embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. Further exemplary embodiments can result from combining the features of one or more of the previously described features with one another and / or with one or more features of the exemplary embodiments or claims. The drawings show: Fig.1 shows a perspective view of a spreader according to the invention attached to an agricultural tractor; Fig. 2 shows a further perspective, partial view of a spreader according to the invention; Fig. 3 shows a view as shown in Fig. 2 with an additional chute inserted into the feed chute; Figs. 4a-c show partial perspective views of a feed chute of a spreader according to the invention; Figs. 5a-b show partial perspective views of an additional chute of a spreader according to the invention; Figs. 6 and 7 show exploded views as shown in Fig. 3; Fig. 8 is a plan view according to the illustration in Fig. 3, and Fig. 9 is a perspective side view according to Fig. 3. The illustrations in Figs. 1 to 9 show in various, partly sectional or perspective views a spreading device 1, in particular an agricultural spreading device 1 for distributing spreading material S on a usable area N.The spreader 1 shown in the figures is a fertilizer spreader, but it can also be another spreader 1 for distributing or spreading granular, granular, or powdered spreading material S, in particular mineral fertilizer, lime, seed, or road salt, on a usable area N. Various agricultural areas N, such as fields, meadows, pastures, or even traffic areas, can be considered as the usable area N. The spreader 1 has a storage container 2 for holding the spreading material S to be distributed, which is designed in the manner of a trough-shaped container that is open at the top for easy filling, see Fig. 1. The storage container 2 serves to store the spreading material S and is arranged on a chassis 7. Two running wheels 7.1 are arranged laterally on the chassis 7. As shown in Fig. 1, the spreader 1 is connected to the ground via a coupling device 7.2 is attached to an agricultural tractor 8 and is pulled in the direction of travel F over the usable area N to distribute the spreading material S along parallel, spaced-apart strips. Alternatively, the spreader 1 can also be attached to the tractor 8 or be self-propelled. For the flat, fan-shaped distribution of the spreading material S behind the spreader 1, the latter has a spreading unit 3. The spreading unit 3 comprises two spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 designed as rotatably mounted spreading discs, via which the spreading material S is distributed in a fan-like manner behind the spreader 1 over the usable area N using centrifugal forces. The spreading material S is fed to the spreading unit 3 via a feed chute 4, into the chute inlet 4.1 of which the spreading material S is fed from the storage container 2 by gravity or by means of a conveyor unit not shown in the figures. The feed chute 4 has a above the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 of the spreading unit 3 for feeding the spreading material S onto the spreading unit 3, see Fig. 2. The feed point A, at which the spreading material S is fed from the chute outlet 4.2 onto the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2, influences the spreading pattern, i.e. the distribution of the spreading material S on the usable area N. To ensure a uniform spreading pattern for different spreading materials S, in particular for spreading materials S with different moisture levels or flow properties, such as lime with different moisture levels, the feed point A in the spreader 1 according to the invention can be adjusted in a structurally simple and user-friendly manner. For this purpose, an additional chute 5 is provided which can be inserted into the feed chute 4 and via which the chute outlet 4.2 and thus also the feed point A can be adjusted.Before the design and function of the additional chute 4 is explained in detail, the function of the spreading unit 3 for distributing the spreading material S is first explained with reference to the illustration in Fig. 2. The spreading unit 3 is arranged on the rear of the spreader 1 and has two identical, plate-like spreading discs as spreading elements 3.1, 3.2. The spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 are each rotatably mounted about a rotation axis D extending in the vertical direction for the centrifugal force-based distribution of the spreading material S, see Fig. 6, and are arranged next to one another below the storage container 2 transversely to the direction of travel F. To carry and guide the spreading material S, the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 designed as spreading discs have a plurality of spreading vanes 3.3 extending essentially perpendicularly from their surfaces in the radial direction. The scattering elements 3.1, 3.2 have opposite directions of rotation φ1, φ2, as shown in Fig.2, the left spreading element 3.1 can be rotated clockwise and the right spreading element 3.2 can be rotated counterclockwise. The spreading material S is fed to the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 at a feed point A, see Fig. 2. The feed point A is determined by the chute outlet 4.2 of the feed chute 4, which is arranged vertically above the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2, see also Fig. 8. The structure and function of the feed chute are explained below with reference to the illustrations in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4a-c. The feed chute 4 is arranged between the storage container 2 and the spreading unit 3 and is fastened to the chassis 7, see Fig. 2. In the present exemplary embodiment, the feed chute 4 is designed as a double chute, which is formed symmetrically on both sides of a separation point 4.6 extending linearly in the direction of travel F, see Fig. 4b.The feed chute 4, designed as a double chute, has a common chute inlet 4.1 and two chute outlets 4.2, each arranged above the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2. Between the chute inlet 4.1 and the chute outlets 4.2, the feed chute 4 is of the same type on both sides of the separation point 4.6, namely funnel-shaped with a cross-section deflected or shifted between the chute inlet 4.1 and the respective chute outlet 4.2 to guide the spreading material S, see also Fig. 4b. The chute inlet 4.1 has a rectangular cross-sectional area that is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the chute outlet 4.2 to simplify the introduction of the spreading material S originating from the storage container 2. For the directed, gravity-based guidance of the spreading material S from the chute inlet 4.1 to the chute outlet 4.2, the two similar areas of the feed chute 4 each have two funnel-shaped orV-shaped chute segments 4.4, 4.5, see Fig. 4b, whereby a cross-sectional taper is achieved transversely to the direction of travel F. The inner chute segments 4.4 are designed as main chute segments, via which a large part of the spreading material S is guided between the chute inlet 4.1 and the chute outlet 4.2. The chute segments 4.4 spread out from the separation point 4.6 arranged centrally between the chute areas, extending in the direction of travel F and are inclined transversely to the direction of travel F, see Fig. 4b. The separation point 4.6 serves to evenly divide the spreading material S fed via the common chute inlet 4.1 into two partial quantities T1, T2. The externally arranged chute segments 4.5 not only guide the spreading material S but also stiffen the feed chute 4 to increase its stability. As can be seen in particular from the illustrations in Fig.4c and 9, the feed chute 4 is designed to be closed at its front by means of a front wall 4.3 in order to prevent the spreading material S from undesirably falling out of this area and the associated impairment of the spreading pattern or contamination of elements of the spreader 1 or the tractor 8. The rear of the feed chute 4, on the other hand, is designed to be largely open, cf. Fig. 4a. This allows any unwanted particles such as foreign bodies contained in the spreading material S to be moved out of the spreader 1 before the spreading material S hits the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2. The spreading material S can be fed onto the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 via the feed chute 4 as shown in Fig. 2. The drop point A essentially corresponds to the cross-sectional area of ​​the chute exit 4.2, so that in this case the drop point A extends over a large area of ​​the scattering devices 3.1, 3.2.In particular, the drop point A extends over a large angular range along the respective direction of rotation φ of the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2. In order to adjust the drop point A, the spreader 1 according to the invention is provided with an additional chute 5 which can be inserted into the feed chute 4, the function and structure of which are explained below with reference to the illustrations in Fig. 3 and 5a and b. According to the illustration in Fig. 3, an additional chute 5 is inserted into the feed chute 4 to adjust the chute outlet 4.2. As a result, the drop point A is adjusted, compared to the situation without the additional chute 5 (cf. Fig. 2), both in direction R1, which extends in the direction of travel F, and in direction R2, which extends transversely to the direction of travel F. The drop point A set by the feed chute 5 has, in particular, a smaller cross-sectional area.Furthermore, the smaller area drop point A is now located in the rotation directions φ1, φ2 of the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 in front of the drop point A as formed by the feed chute 4 alone. This can be seen, for example, by comparing the illustrations in Figs. 2 and 3. The shift of the drop point A results from the smaller cross-sectional area of ​​the chute outlet 4.2 of the feed chute 4, which results when the additional chute 5 is inserted. With the additional chute 5 inserted into the feed chute 4 according to the illustrations in Figs. 3, 8 and 9, the drop point A is thus adjusted such that the spreading material S hits the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 earlier with respect to the rotation directions φ1, φ2. Such an “early” application point A has proven to be advantageous for a uniform spreading pattern when the spreading material S, especially lime, has an increased moisture content.Alternatively, it is also conceivable to adjust the drop point A in the opposite direction using an additional chute 5 inserted into the feed chute 4 so that the spreading material S hits the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 later with respect to the directions of rotation φ1, φ2. The additional chute 5 thus provides a simple and user-friendly way of adapting the drop point A to the nature of the spreading material S. The structural design of the additional chute 5 is explained below with reference to the illustrations in Figs. 5a and b. The additional chute 5 is designed for insertion into the feed chute 4, which is designed as a double chute, in the manner of a double ramp with an angular cross-section, cf. Fig. 5a. The additional chute 5 is also designed mirror-symmetrically to a separation point 5.3, which extends linearly in the direction of travel F. Two transverse adjustment ramps 5, inclined transversely to the direction of travel F, extend from the separation point 5.3.2 for adjusting the chute exit 4.2 in the direction R2. On its rear side, the additional chute 5 has two longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 inclined longitudinally to the direction of travel F for adjusting the chute exit 4.2 in the other direction R1. The cross-sectional area of ​​the chute exit 4.2 can be adjusted via the incline of the longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 and the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2, resulting in a changed drop point A. The longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 and the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 each have areas with different gradients for improved guidance of the spreading material S, as shown in Fig. 5a. As a result, the longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 and the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 run at an angle between the slide entrance 4.1 and the slide exit 4.2. In particular, the additional slide 5 is designed such that its transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 are steeper in the area of ​​the slide entrance 4.1, iehave a greater gradient there than in the area of ​​the chute exit 4.2. The longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1, on the other hand, have a sloping inlet area 5.1.1 near the chute entrance 4.1 for guiding the spreading material S and also a sloping outlet area 5.1.2 for guiding the spreading material S in the area of ​​the chute exit 4.2. Between the respective inlet area 5.1.1 and the outlet area 5.1.2 there is a transition area 5.1.3 which runs at an angle to the inlet area 5.1.1 and the outlet area 5.1.2 and extends in particular vertically, see Figs. 5a and 5b. As already apparent from the above description and also from the illustrations in Figs. 6 and 7, the additional chute 5, designed as a double additional chute, has a saddle-like, approximately roof-like insertion shape for insertion into the feed chute 4. The additional chute 5 is in particular provided with an underside of the separation point 5.3 can be saddled onto the top side of the separation point 4.6 of the feed chute 4, which is designed as a double chute. This user- and assembly-friendly saddle of the additional chute 5 onto the feed chute 4 ensures secure storage of the additional chute 5 during the distribution of the spreading material S. Furthermore, the complementary shapes of the feed chute 4 and the additional chute 5 allow easy self-positioning of the additional chute 5 through its own weight and the pressure exerted by the introduced spreading material S. Furthermore, incorrect installation of the additional chute 5 into the feed chute 4 can be reliably avoided. In the inserted position, the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 of the additional chute 5 cover the chute segments 4.4 of the feed chute 4, see for example Fig. 8. This further supports the secure mounting of the additional chute 5 on the feed chute 4.Furthermore, the function of separating the spreading material S into two partial quantities T1, T2 can be easily retained. The additional chute 5 can be detachably fastened to the feed chute 4 in the inserted position. For this purpose, the additional chute 5 has a tab-like fastening area 5.4 extending essentially vertically from the top of the longitudinal adjustment ramp 5.1 and transversely to the separation point 5.3. A fastening hole 5.5 is arranged centrally on the fastening area 5.4, via which the additional chute 5 can be fastened to a corresponding fastening area of ​​the feed chute 4 by means of bolts or screws, see Fig. 7. In addition to a screw connection, the additional chute 4 can also be designed so that it can be fastened to the feed chute 4 without the need for tools, in particular by means of quick-action clamping devices. In addition to the fastening area 5.4, the additional slide 5 has two further, separate from the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 downwardly extending tab-like fastening areas 5.6. These fastening areas 5.6 extend essentially parallel to the separation point 5.3 and each have a fastening hole 5.7 arranged in the area of ​​the rear of the additional chute 5. The additional chute 5 can also be fastened to a corresponding fastening area of ​​the feed chute 4 by means of bolts or screws via these fastening areas 5.6, see Fig. 7. In addition, the additional chute 5 has two box-like saddle elements 5.8, which are arranged on the underside of the transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 and extend parallel to the fastening areas 5.6. These saddle elements 5.8 serve as spacers for the user-friendly fastening of the additional chute 5 to the feed chute. Based on the above explanations and also the illustrations in Fig. 5a and b, it is clear that the additional slide 5 at its rear is adjustable due to the longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 is at least partially closed and open at the front. When the additional chute 5 is inserted into the feed chute 4, their interaction results in a funnel that is at least largely closed around the circumference, see Fig. 9. This ensures reliable guidance of the spreading material S from the chute inlet 4.1 to the chute outlet 4.2. The additional chute 5 according to the invention, which can be made, for example, from formed sheet metal parts or bent sheet metal parts, can be inserted into the feed chute 4 in a simple and time-saving manner. Therefore, to enable a uniform spreading pattern with very different spreading materials S, in particular with spreading materials S with considerably different moisture levels or flow properties, it can be expedient to provide a spreader 1 with several additional chutes 5 that can be exchanged as needed.These additional chutes 5 can have differently designed longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 and / or transverse adjustment ramps 5.2 for adjusting the chute exit 4.2. For example, it is conceivable to provide an additional chute 5 for particularly moist spreading material S, which adjusts the chute exit 4.2 such that a particularly early drop point A is achieved relative to the directions of rotation φ of the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 of the spreading unit 3. Analogously, for particularly dry or particularly free-flowing spreading material S, it can also be advantageous to use an additional chute 5, via which a particularly late drop point A can be set. The setting of an early or late drop point A with respect to the directions of rotation φ can be achieved by appropriately designing the longitudinal adjustment ramps 5.1 and transverse adjustment ramps 5.2.The spreader 1 described above is characterized in that the point of application A of the spreading material S to the spreading elements 3.1, 3.2 can be adjusted in a structurally simple and user-friendly manner.

[0002] List of reference symbols 1 Spreader 2 Reservoir 3 Spreading unit 3.1 Spreading element 3.2 Spreading element 3.3 Spreading vane 4 Feed chute 4.1 Chute inlet 4.2 Chute outlet 4.3 Front wall 4.4 Chute segment 4.5 Chute segment 4.6 Separation point 5 Additional chute 5.1 Longitudinal adjustment ramp 5.1.1 Inlet area 5.1.2 Outlet area 5.1.3 Transition area 5.2 Lateral adjustment ramp 5.3 Separation point 5.4 Fastening area 5.5 Fastening hole 5.6 Fastening area 5.7 Fastening hole 5.8 Semi-trailer element 7 Chassis 7.1 Running wheel 7.2 Coupling device 8 Tractor A Drop point D Rotation axis F Direction of travel N Usable area R Direction S Spreading material T1 Partial quantity T2 Partial quantity φ1 Direction of rotation φ2 Direction of rotation

Claims

Claims 1. Spreading device, in particular an agricultural spreading device, comprising a storage container (2) for receiving a spreading material (S), a spreading unit (3) for distributing the spreading material (S) on a usable area (N), a feed chute (4) with a chute inlet (4.1) for introducing the spreading material (S) that can be supplied from the storage container (2), and a chute outlet (4.2) for feeding the spreading material (S) onto the spreading unit (3), characterized by an additional chute (5) that can be inserted into the feed chute (4) to adjust the chute outlet (4.2).

2. Spreading device according to claim 1, characterized in that the additional chute (5) is designed such that the chute outlet (4.2) is adjusted in two directions (R1, R2) by inserting the additional chute (5).

3. Spreader according to claim 2, characterized in that one of the directions (R1) extends longitudinally and the other direction (R2) extends transversely to the direction of travel (F) of the spreader (1). 4.Spreading device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the additional chute (5) is designed as a ramp with an angled cross-section.

5. Spreading device according to claim 4, characterized in that the additional chute (5) has a longitudinal adjustment ramp (5.1) inclined lengthwise to the direction of travel (F) for adjusting the chute exit (4.2) in one direction (R1) and a transverse adjustment ramp (5.2) inclined transversely to the direction of travel (F) for adjusting the chute exit (4.2) in the other direction (R2).

6. Spreading device according to claim 5, characterized in that the transverse adjustment ramp (5.2) of the additional chute (5) is one of the chute segments.

7. Spreader according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the additional chute (5) is designed as a double additional chute with two longitudinal adjustment ramps (5.1), two transverse adjustment ramps (5.2) and a separation point (5.3) arranged between the transverse adjustment ramps (5.2).

8. Spreader according to claim 7, characterized in that the additional chute (5), designed as a double additional chute, has a saddle-like insertion form for insertion into the feed chute (4).

9. Spreader according to any one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the additional chute (5) is designed to be saddled onto an upper side of the separation point (4.6) of the feed chute (4), which is designed as a double chute, with a lower side of the separation point (5.3). 10.Spreading device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the additional chute (5) can be detachably attached to the feed chute (4) in the installed position, in particular by screwing, without tools and / or by means of quick-release devices.

11. Spreading device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by several interchangeable additional chutes (5) for stepwise adjustment of the chute outlet (4.2).

12. Spreading device according to claim 11, characterized in that the additional chutes (5) differ with respect to their longitudinal and / or transverse adjustment ramps (5.1, 5.2).

13. Spreading device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the feed point (A) is modified when the additional chute (5) is installed such that the feed point (A) is in rotational. direction (φ1, φ2) of the scattering organs (3.1, 3.2) lies before the discharge point (A) without the additional chute (5) being used.

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