Soil treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a soil treatment apparatus (100) for loosening soil, in particular soil covered with grass, said apparatus comprising: a support device (102) and a holding device (142) which is movably held thereon and on which a plurality of injection elements (144) are held; a reciprocating device (146) by means of which the injection elements (144) can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil; and a fluid supply device (134) which is fluidically connected, directly or indirectly, to the injection elements (144) for supplying fluid, wherein the support device (102) comprises at least a first support device portion (104) and a second support device portion (106), wherein the soil treatment apparatus (100) can be made to move in a processing direction (B) via the first support device portion (104), and the holding device (142) is held on the second support device portion (106), wherein the first support device portion (104) and the second support device portion (106) are arranged one behind the other along the processing direction (B) and are connected to one another so as to be movable and in particular displaceable relative to one another along the processing direction (B).

Description

[0001] SOIL TREATMENT DEVICE

[0002] The present invention relates to a soil treatment device for loosening soil.

[0003] In particular, the present invention relates to a soil treatment device for loosening soil in soils with grass growth.

[0004] A generic soil treatment device is described, for example, in DE 10 2018 122 086 A1 and is used for soil maintenance. For example, needle-shaped injection elements are used to inject a fluid into the soil. The effect of the fluid, particularly compressed gas or a compressed gas mixture, especially compressed air (in this case referred to as aeration), loosens the soil, resulting in better aeration and drainage. Air and water can penetrate the soil more easily, and the drainage effect is improved. In soils covered with grass, for example, at sports or recreational facilities, the root system can spread more effectively in the soil to promote growth.

[0005] Further soil treatment devices for fluid injection and in particular for aeration are described in DE 10 2016 105 248 A1, DE 10 2015 115 991 A1 and DE 10 2016 105 253 A1.

[0006] Such soil treatment devices generally have a voluminous basic structure in order to be able to accommodate, for example, a relative movement mechanism by means of which, for example, the injection elements for injecting the fluid can be introduced into the soil during a driving operation of the soil treatment device.

[0007] Furthermore, these soil treatment devices generally require complex control of this relative movement mechanism, for example, to compensate for a movement of the soil treatment device during fluid injection, particularly to avoid possible damage to the injection elements, for example, due to bending of the injection elements. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide such a soil treatment device, in particular with a simpler and / or more compact design.

[0008] This object is achieved according to the invention by a soil treatment device for loosening soil, particularly in soils with grass growth, having the features of the independent device claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0009] According to this, a soil treatment device for loosening the soil, in particular in soils with grass growth, comprises: a support device and a holding device movably mounted thereon, on which a plurality of injection elements are held, a lifting device, via which the injection elements can be inserted into the soil and withdrawn therefrom, and a fluid supply device which is directly or indirectly in fluid communication with the injection elements for providing fluid, wherein the support device comprises at least a first and a second support device section, wherein the soil treatment device can be caused to move in a processing direction via the first support device section and the holding device is held on the second support device section,wherein the first and the second support device sections are arranged one behind the other along the machining direction and are connected to one another so as to be movable and in particular displaceable relative to one another along the machining direction.

[0010] This makes it possible, in particular, to provide a soil treatment device in which, during a moving operation, a delay can be generated between the first and second support device sections due to the relative mobility of the first and second support device sections to one another, so that injection elements assigned to the second support device section can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil during the moving operation. In particular, the soil treatment device according to the invention can have a simple and / or compact design, since, for example, a separate relative movement mechanism for controlled movement adjustment between the moving soil treatment device and the holding device and / or the injection elements is advantageously not required and can be dispensed with.The soil treatment device can thus be free of a separate relative movement mechanism, in particular for the controlled movement adjustment between the moving soil treatment device and the holding device and / or the injection elements, and / or preferably does not comprise such a mechanism.

[0011] It should be understood that orientation and position information refers in particular to the intended use of the floor treatment device, which is movable or is moved along a processing direction on the floor surface. For example, a transverse direction can be oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the processing direction. In particular, for the purposes of this description, it is assumed that the floor surface is oriented substantially horizontally and that a contact plane of the floor treatment device substantially coincides with the plane defined by the floor surface.

[0012] The lowering of the injection elements for insertion into the ground and the raising for removal from the ground can be carried out, for example, via the holding device in a manner as described in one of the documents cited above. Alternatively, a solution such as that described in the non-prepublished patent application DE 10 2023 100 886.2 by the same applicant with the same filing date as the present patent application can be used. "Insertion" can, for example, comprise a solution in which the injection elements are driven into the ground under the action of a fluid. "Removal" can, for example, comprise a solution in which the injection elements are removed under the action of a fluid and / or an elastic return device.

[0013] It can be provided that the injection elements can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil by means of the lifting device, during a relative movement and in particular a relative displacement of the first support device section and the second support device section relative to one another, or when the soil treatment device is not in motion. This can preferably ensure that damage to the injection elements during insertion into the soil, during placement in the soil, and / or during withdrawal, for example as a result of a shear force caused by movement, can be reliably avoided.

[0014] It can be provided that one or more or all injection elements are held on the holding device so as to be movable relative to the holding device, and the lifting device comprises at least one number of lifting elements corresponding to the injection elements held so as to be movable on the holding device, via which the respective injection elements can be inserted into the ground and withdrawn therefrom, in particular can be inserted and withdrawn individually and / or individually.

[0015] For example, a respective lifting element can be operatively connected to a respective injection element for insertion into and withdrawal from the ground. In particular, the lifting elements can be fixed to the holding device.

[0016] It can be provided that the lifting device, in particular the lifting elements of the lifting device, is in direct or indirect fluid connection with the fluid supply device.

[0017] It can be provided that the soil treatment device comprises an adjustment device by means of which the holding device can be raised and lowered relative to the ground. In particular, the adjustment device can be designed mechanically or electrically. For example, the adjustment device can be designed as an electrical adjustment unit, in particular as an electrical linear actuator. The adjustment device can serve, for example, to adjust a distance of the holding device relative to the ground and / or can, for example, enable a soil treatment position of the holding device in which the holding device is lowered, and a transport position of the holding device in which the holding device is raised.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that one or more or all injection elements are rigidly held on the holding device and the lifting device comprises at least one further lifting element, for example a main lifting element, via which the holding device can be raised and lowered relative to the ground and the respective injection elements rigidly held on the holding device can thereby be inserted into the ground and withdrawn from it.

[0019] In particular, the at least one further lifting element can be fixed to the second support device section and the holding device and can connect the second support device section and the holding device to one another.

[0020] It can be provided that the further lifting element of the lifting device is in direct or indirect fluid connection with the fluid supply device.

[0021] It can be provided that the first support device section and the second support device section are at least partially mounted inside and / or on one another in order to be movably and, in particular, displaceably connected to one another. This can, for example, enable a particularly compact design of the support device and thus of the soil treatment device.

[0022] It can be provided that at least one part of the first support device section or the second support device section is designed as a first guide element, and at least one part of the respective other support device section is designed as a second guide element, wherein the first guide element and the second guide element are slidably connected to one another and, in particular, telescopically. This makes it possible, for example, to achieve a particularly simple and simultaneously compact design of the support device sections and thus of the soil treatment device.

[0023] It can be provided that the support device comprises at least one bearing arrangement, preferably at least one plain bearing arrangement, rolling element arrangement, or roller bearing arrangement, which is provided between the first support device section and the second support device section, in particular between the first guide element and the second guide element. This allows for a smooth relative movement and, in particular, a relative displacement between the first guide element and the second guide element, and thus between the first and second support device sections, for example, in which reduced frictional resistance and / or rolling resistance occurs.In particular, the support device can be based on the concept of using at least one bearing arrangement for displaceably guiding the first and second support device sections, which bearing arrangement enables particularly precise and smooth guidance of the support device sections relative to one another.

[0024] It can be provided that the at least one bearing arrangement is designed as a roller bearing arrangement comprising at least one roller. The at least one roller can be fixed to the first support device section or the second support device section, in particular to the first guide element or the second guide element, and can be arranged between the first support device section and the second support device section, in particular between the first guide element and the second guide element.

[0025] Alternatively, the at least one bearing arrangement may be configured as a rolling element arrangement comprising at least one rolling element cage and a plurality of rolling elements. The rolling element cage may be arranged on and / or adjacent to the respective rolling elements between the first support section and the second support section, in particular between the first guide element and the second guide element. A rolling element may, for example, be configured as a ball. It should be understood that any rolling element configuration suitable for the present purpose is alternatively conceivable.

[0026] It should be understood that the present bearing arrangement is not limited to a rolling element arrangement or a roller bearing arrangement, but rather can be designed as any means suitable for displaceably guiding the first and second support device sections relative to one another. For example, it is conceivable that the at least one bearing arrangement comprises at least one means for sliding, in particular at least one plain bearing arrangement, for the said purpose or is designed as such.It can be provided that the first support device section and the second support device section are movable and in particular displaceable between a first relative position and a second relative position relative to one another along the machining direction, wherein, when the first support device section and the second support device section are in the first relative position, the support device has a shortest extension along the machining direction and, when the first support device section and the second support device section are in the second relative position, the support device has a longest extension along the machining direction.

[0027] This can be understood in particular to mean that when the first support device section and the second support device section are in the first relative position, the floor treatment device assumes a pushed-together state and when the first support device section and the second support device section are in the second relative position, the floor treatment device assumes an extended state.

[0028] For example, a changeover process from the first relative position to the second relative position and / or from the pushed-together state to the pulled-out state can be understood as an extension and / or pulling apart.

[0029] For example, a change process from the second relative position to the first relative position and / or from the extended state to the retracted state can be understood as shortening and / or contracting.

[0030] For example, it can be provided that the injection elements can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil by means of the lifting device, in particular by means of the lifting elements of the lifting device, during extension and / or extension. In particular, it can be provided that, once the injection elements are inserted into the soil, the fluid can be supplied to the soil via the injection elements, in particular can be injected into the soil.

[0031] In particular, it can be provided that after the carrying device has been lengthened and / or pulled apart, in particular after each lengthening and / or pulling apart, the carrying device can be shortened and / or contracted.

[0032] It can be provided that the soil treatment device comprises at least one braking device, by means of which the second support device section can be slowed down and / or braked relative to the first support device section, in particular with regard to a movement in the processing direction. This can in particular serve to and / or result in the support device being extendable in the processing direction when the soil treatment device moves in the processing direction. This provides a simple solution, in particular without additional relative movement mechanisms, for braking the second support device section during the moving operation of the soil treatment device to such an extent that the injection elements can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil during the ongoing moving operation of the soil treatment device.

[0033] This can be understood in particular to mean that by means of the at least one braking device, the support device can be caused to extend and / or extend when the soil treatment device moves in the processing direction, in particular when the soil treatment device is caused to move in the processing direction.

[0034] In particular, the braking may lead to a temporary standstill of the second support device section relative to the ground.

[0035] For example, the first support device section and the second support device section can be transferred from the first relative position to the second relative position and / or the support device can be transferred from the pushed-together state to the extended state via the at least one braking device when the first support device section is moved further in the processing direction. It can be provided that the second support device section comprises at least one support element for resting on the ground, via which the floor treatment device and in particular the support device of the floor treatment device can be guided and in particular driven over the ground, wherein the at least one braking device can be brought into engagement with the at least one support element and / or directly with the ground for decelerating and / or braking the second support device section.

[0036] By providing this at least one support element on the second support device section, this at least one support element can be regarded and / or referred to, for example, as a rear support element.

[0037] It can be provided that the at least one support element, in particular the rear one, is designed as a wheel or a roller. However, it should be understood that the at least one support element, in particular the rear one, can be designed differently, such as, for example, as a skid, crawler chain, and / or crawler belt.

[0038] It can be provided that the at least one support element, in particular the rear one, is designed as a guided or unguided support element.

[0039] It can be provided that the at least one braking device is in direct or indirect fluid communication with the fluid supply device and can be fluidically actuated to slow down and / or brake the second support device section.

[0040] It can be provided that by means of the at least one braking device, the second support device section can be slowed down relative to the first support device section via a frictional engagement and / or braked via a frictional engagement and / or via a positive engagement.

[0041] For example, it can be provided that the at least one braking device for slowing down and / or braking the second support device section can be brought into frictional and / or positive engagement with the at least one support element, in particular the rear support element, and / or directly with the ground.

[0042] For example, it can be provided that at least one support element, in particular designed as a wheel or as a roller, is provided on the second support device section and the at least one braking device comprises a braking element provided with a braking pad and a fluidically actuated actuator, wherein the braking pad can be pressed against this support element by a movement of the braking element that can be brought about by means of the actuator.

[0043] The at least one actuator can, for example, be fixed with a first end to the second support device section, wherein the braking element is arranged at a second end facing away from the first end.

[0044] It can be provided that the soil treatment device comprises at least one return device, which is fixed to the first support device section and the second support device section and connects the first support device section and the second support device section to one another, wherein the first support device section and the second support device section can be moved relative to one another and in particular towards one another by means of the at least one return device. This can, for example, enable a quasi-continuous or continuous operation of the soil treatment device, since the first and second support device sections can be moved apart and towards one another as required, and the injection elements can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil in a correspondingly coordinated manner.

[0045] This can be understood in particular to mean that by means of the at least one return device the support device can be caused to shorten and / or contract and / or the shortening and / or contraction of the support device can be effected, advantageously while the soil treatment device is moving in the processing direction, in particular while the soil treatment device is caused to move in the processing direction.

[0046] For example, the first support device section and the second support device section can be transferred from the second relative position to the first relative position and / or the support device can be transferred from the extended state to the collapsed state by means of the at least one return device.

[0047] It can be provided that the at least one return device is in direct or indirect fluid connection with the fluid supply device.

[0048] It should be ensured that at least one braking device is advantageously released and / or unactuated during shortening and / or contraction.

[0049] It can be provided that the at least one return device and the at least one braking device are operatively connected to one another, in particular are fluidically connected to one another.

[0050] For example, an actuation of the at least one return device for shortening and / or contracting the support device, for example applying pressure to the at least one return device, can be coupled with a release and / or non-actuation of the at least one braking device, for example with a depressurization of the at least one braking device.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, an actuation of the at least one return device for extending and / or pulling apart the support device, for example a depressurization of the at least one return device, can be coupled with an engagement and / or actuation of the at least one braking device, for example an application of pressure to the at least one braking device.

[0052] It can be provided that the soil treatment device has at least one guide device by means of which the holding device is movably held on the support device, in particular the second support device section, and via which the holding device can be raised and lowered, in particular by means of the adjusting device and / or the lifting device, for example the further lifting element of the lifting device.

[0053] It can be provided that the at least one guide device comprises or forms at least one joint device or at least one linear guide device for translational guidance. It can be provided that the at least one guide device comprises at least a first guide member and a second guide member, which are each mounted on the holding device and on the support device and which are arranged spaced apart from one another and substantially parallel to one another.

[0054] It can be provided that a parallelogram guide for raising and lowering the holding device is realized by means of the first guide member and the second guide member.

[0055] It can be provided that the adjustment device is mounted internally on the second support device section and / or the holding device with respect to an extension of the second support device section and / or the holding device oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the machining direction and connects the second support device section and the holding device to one another.

[0056] It can be provided that the soil treatment device has at least one travel drive, in particular at least one motor, which is arranged on and / or in the first support device section and by means of which the soil treatment device can be caused to move in the processing direction.

[0057] It can be provided that at least one support element for resting on the ground is provided on the first support device section, via which the ground treatment device and in particular the support device of the ground treatment device can be guided and in particular moved over the ground, wherein the at least one support element can be driven by means of the at least one travel drive.

[0058] Since this at least one support element is provided on the first support device section, this at least one support element can be regarded and / or referred to as a front support element.

[0059] It can be provided that the at least one support element, in particular the front one, is designed as a wheel or a roller. However, it should be understood that the at least one support element, in particular the front one, can be configured alternatively, such as, for example, as a crawler chain and / or crawler belt. It can be provided that the at least one support element, in particular the front one, is designed as a steered or unsteered support element.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the soil treatment device has at least one coupling device which is arranged on and / or in the first support device section for coupling the soil treatment device to a separate drive system, in particular a towing vehicle, and via which the soil treatment device can be caused to move in the processing direction, in particular by means of a tensile force exerted by the separate drive system.

[0061] It can be provided that the soil treatment device has a steering device via which the processing direction can be varied, wherein the steering device can be actuated manually by a user and / or by a separate drive system, in particular a towing vehicle, in particular by means of a pulling movement that can be generated thereby and / or can be actuated and in particular controlled automatically by means of a control unit assigned to the soil treatment device or comprised by the soil treatment device, preferably in a self-propelled and / or self-steering manner.

[0062] For example, it can be provided that the at least one in particular front support element on the first support device section and / or the at least one in particular rear support element on the second support device section can be steered by means of the steering device.

[0063] For example, it can be provided that the steering device comprises a motor, in particular an electric motor, via which the machining direction can be varied.

[0064] It can be provided that at least one roller-shaped support device is movably mounted on the support device, which is positioned upstream and / or downstream of the injection elements with respect to the processing direction and extends transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the processing direction. For example, the roller-shaped support device can be movably mounted on the second support device section and advantageously on the holding device, in particular rotatably mounted with respect to a rotational axis oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the processing direction.

[0065] For example, sections of the soil surface can first be injected with fluid, in particular compressed air, via the injection elements, whereby the soil is loosened, and then the loosened soil section is moved over with the trailing support device in order to smooth out elevations in the soil that can be caused or have been caused by the fluid injection, for example.

[0066] It can be provided that the roller-shaped support device forms the at least one, in particular front, support element and / or the at least one, in particular rear, support element or that such a support element is formed by means of the roller-shaped support device.

[0067] It can be provided that the fluid supply device comprises a drivable conveying unit for fluid, in particular a compressed air compressor.

[0068] It can be provided that the fluid supply device comprises at least one reservoir for fluid, which can be filled with fluid for intermediate storage and which is in direct or indirect fluid communication with a plurality of injection elements.

[0069] It can be provided that the at least one storage container is fixed to the holding device and / or forms part of the holding device.

[0070] For example, the at least one storage container can comprise at least one structural element formed as a substantially closed hollow profile or as a pressure vessel, or can be designed as such, which advantageously extends transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the machining direction. This can enable a structurally simple design of the storage container. The required rigidity can be imparted to the holding device via the at least one storage container. An interior space of the at least one storage container can temporarily store the fluid, in particular compressed air, for injection. It can be provided that the at least one storage container has a round and preferably circular cross-section.

[0071] The at least one storage container is advantageously made of metal.

[0072] It can be provided that the soil treatment device comprises at least one control device for controlling an operation, in particular a fluid operation, of the soil treatment device.

[0073] It is understood that the lifting device, for example the lifting elements of the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device can advantageously be controlled by the control device of the soil treatment device.

[0074] It can be provided that the at least one drive and / or the steering device can advantageously be controlled by the control device of the soil treatment device.

[0075] It is understood that the lifting device, for example the lifting elements of the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device with corresponding supply lines for fluid are in direct or indirect fluid communication with the fluid supply device, for example indirectly via the at least one storage container.

[0076] It is also understood that the lifting device, for example the lifting elements of the lifting device, the at least one braking device, and / or the at least one return device are equipped with corresponding valves for controllable actuation, wherein these valves can advantageously be controlled by the control device of the soil treatment device. In this case, a respective clocked control of the valves is preferably provided.

[0077] It should be understood that, although the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device are described as being fluidically actuated and / or operable, the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device can alternatively be designed mechanically and / or electrically. When implementing the soil treatment device in practice, it proves to be advantageous if the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device are designed pneumatically. As a result, for example, a drivable conveying unit for fluid, in particular an air compressor, can be used jointly and additional units and / or devices can be avoided. For example, a separate hydraulic system and / or unit can be dispensed with.However, it should be understood that the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device can alternatively be designed hydraulically and the soil treatment device can accordingly have a hydraulic motor for providing hydraulic fluid at least for the lifting device, the at least one braking device and / or the at least one return device.

[0078] Further preferred features and / or advantages of the present invention are the subject of the following description and the drawings of exemplary embodiments.

[0079] The schematic figures show:

[0080] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a floor treatment device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with a user;

[0081] Fig. 2 is a further perspective view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 1;

[0082] Fig. 3 is a plan view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 1;

[0083] Fig. 4 is a sectional detail view A along section line AA of Fig. 3;

[0084] Fig. 5 is a sectional detail view B along section line BB of Fig. 3;

[0085] Fig. 6 is a side view of the detailed view C of Fig. 2; Fig. 7 is a side view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 1 in a soil treatment position and / or in a collapsed state;

[0086] Fig. 8 is a side view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 1 in a transport position and / or in a collapsed state;

[0087] Fig. 9 is a side view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 1 in a soil treatment position and / or in an extended state;

[0088] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a soil treatment device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] Fig. 11 is a side view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 10 in a soil treatment position and / or in a collapsed state;

[0090] Fig. 12 is a plan view of the soil treatment device of Fig. 10;

[0091] Fig. 13 is a side view of a soil treatment device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a transport position and / or in a collapsed state; and

[0092] Fig. 14 is a side view of a soil treatment device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a transport position and / or in a collapsed state.

[0093] Identical or equivalent features are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0094] Referring to Figs. 1 to 9, there is schematically shown a soil treatment device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] The soil treatment device 100 is used in particular for loosening the soil, preferably in soils with grass growth. This advantageous soil loosening can achieve improved soil aeration, drainage, and drainage. This allows the root system of the grass growth to spread more effectively in the soil, promoting growth.

[0096] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to application to a floor of the type described and this merely serves to better explain the invention.

[0097] The soil treatment device 100 comprises a support device 102, which, for example, comprises a frame made of interconnected supports or is formed as such.

[0098] The support device 102 comprises at least a first support device section 104 and a second support device section 106.

[0099] The soil treatment device 100 can be caused to move in a processing direction B via the first support device section 104.

[0100] This is to be understood in particular that the soil treatment device 100 is movable on a soil surface, in particular along the processing direction B.

[0101] In the processing direction B, the soil treatment device 100 can be moved, for example, in a straight line.

[0102] It should be understood that the processing direction B refers to the intended use of the soil treatment device 100. The processing direction B corresponds to a main direction of movement during the intended use.

[0103] A transverse direction Q of the soil treatment device 100 is aligned transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the processing direction B.

[0104] The first and second support device sections 104, 106 are arranged one behind the other along the machining direction B, with the first support device section 104 being the leading one.

[0105] The first and second support device sections 104, 106 are connected to one another so as to be movable and, in particular, displaceable relative to one another along the machining direction B (see Figs. 7 and 9). As can be seen in particular in Fig. 4, the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are at least partially mounted within and against one another and are thus movably and, in particular, displaceably connected to one another.

[0106] In particular, the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are connected to one another via a respective first part and a respective second part.

[0107] The respective first and the respective second part of the first and second support device sections 104, 106 are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the support device 102 with respect to the transverse direction Q and are spaced apart from one another.

[0108] To a certain extent, the respective first and the respective second part of the first and second support device sections 104, 106 can be regarded as the respective left part and the respective right part of the first and second support device sections 104, 106 with respect to a viewing direction from the soil treatment device 100 in the processing direction B.

[0109] In particular, the first and second parts of the first support device section 104 are each designed as a first guide element 108 and the first and second parts of the second support device section 106 are each designed as a second guide element 110.

[0110] Each first guide element 108 and each second guide element 110 extend in the machining direction B.

[0111] In the present example, each first guide element 108 has a C-shaped cross-section.

[0112] In the present example, each second guide element 110 is essentially designed as a hollow profile which has an essentially rectangular cross-section.

[0113] Each first guide element 108 is slidably mounted in and on the respectively associated second guide element 110. In a sense, the respective first guide element 108 and the respective second guide element 110 are slidably connected to one another and, in particular, telescopically.

[0114] The support device 102 further comprises at least two bearing arrangements 112, which are provided between the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 and in particular between the respective first guide element 108 and the respective second guide element 110.

[0115] As can be seen in Fig. 4, the bearing assemblies 112 are each designed as a roller bearing assembly.

[0116] This realizes a smooth relative movement and in particular relative displacement between the first guide element 108 and the second guide element 110.

[0117] Each bearing arrangement 112 comprises, for example, at least one roller 114 which is rotatably mounted in and on the respective second guide element 110.

[0118] The respective bearing arrangement 112 and in particular the respective roller 114 are arranged between the respective first guide element 108 and the respective second guide element 110, so that an upper leg of the C-shaped cross section of the respective first guide element 108 is engaged by means of the respective bearing arrangement 112 and is guided in particular over the respective roller 114.

[0119] The first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 and in particular the respective first guide element 108 and the respective second guide element 110 are thus movably and in particular displaceably mounted on one another and connected to one another, in particular via the respective bearing arrangement 112.

[0120] The first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are movable and in particular displaceable relative to one another along the machining direction B via the bearing arrangements 112 between a first relative position (cf. Figs. 1 to 4, 7 and 8) and a second relative position (cf. Fig. 9). As can be seen in Figs. 1 to 4, 7 and 8, the support device 102 has, in particular, a shortest extension along the machining direction B when the first support device section 102 and the second support device section 104 are in the first relative position.

[0121] In a sense, the floor treatment device 100 is in a collapsed state when the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are in the first relative position.

[0122] Furthermore, as can be seen in Fig. 9, the support device 102 has a longest extension along the processing direction B in particular when the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are in the second relative position.

[0123] In a sense, the soil treatment device 100 is in an extended state when the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are in the second relative position.

[0124] A change process from the first relative position to the second relative position or from the pushed-together state to the pulled-out state can be understood as an extension and / or pulling apart.

[0125] A change process from the second relative position to the first relative position or from the extended state to the retracted state can be understood as a shortening and / or contracting.

[0126] On the first support device section 104, a support element 116 designed as a wheel is provided for resting on the ground.

[0127] In a sense, since the support element 116 designed as a wheel is provided on the first support device section 104, the support element 116 can be referred to as a front support element 116 and in particular as a front wheel 116.

[0128] On the second support device section 106, two further support elements 118, each designed as a wheel, are provided for resting on the ground, which are spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Q. In a sense, since the further support elements 118, each designed as a wheel, are provided on the second support device section 104, these support elements 118 can be referred to as rear support elements 118 and in particular as rear wheels 118.

[0129] The soil treatment device 100 and in particular the carrying device 102 of the soil treatment device 100 can be guided and in particular driven over the ground via the front wheel 116 and the rear wheels 118.

[0130] In the present case, the front wheel 116 is fixed to a front end portion of the first support device portion 104 with respect to the machining direction B.

[0131] The rear wheels 118 are here fixed to a rear end portion of the second support device portion 106 with respect to the processing direction B.

[0132] The support device 102 thus extends with respect to the processing direction B essentially between the front wheel 116 and the rear wheels 118.

[0133] In particular, the front wheel 116 is arranged substantially centrally with respect to an extension of the first support device section 104 in the transverse direction Q.

[0134] In particular, the rear wheels 118 are arranged laterally and on opposite sides with respect to the extension of the second support device section 106 in the transverse direction Q.

[0135] The front wheel 116 is steerable and, for example, directly or indirectly drivable and is arranged on the first support device section 104.

[0136] For this purpose, the soil treatment device 100 has a steering device 120 and a drive 122.

[0137] The working direction B of the soil treatment device 100 can be varied via the steering device 120.

[0138] The steering device 120 can be manually operated by a user.

[0139] The steering device 120 comprises a lever-shaped handle device 124 with a handle head 126, which serves the user to operate, in particular to steer, the steering device 120, and a suspension device 128 which is rotatably mounted on the first support device section 104 and on which the front wheel 116 is mounted and via which the front wheel 116 is attached to the first support device section 104.

[0140] The suspension device 128 is mounted on the first support device section 104 so as to be rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the processing direction B and the transverse direction Q in order to realize steerability of the soil treatment device 100.

[0141] In this case, the drive 122 is attached to the suspension device 128 for driving the front wheel 116. The drive 122 is designed as a motor, in particular an electric motor.

[0142] The front wheel 116 can be driven by means of the drive 122 and thus the soil treatment device 100 can be caused to move in the processing direction B.

[0143] In a sense, the entire soil treatment device 100 can be driven by means of the drive 122 via the front wheel 116.

[0144] In this case, the rear wheels 118 are not steerable and are not drivable, attached to the second support section 106. This could nevertheless be provided.

[0145] The soil treatment device 100 further comprises two braking devices 130, two return devices 132 and a fluid supply device 134.

[0146] The braking devices 130 and the return devices 132 are each directly or indirectly in fluid communication with the fluid supply device 134 and can be fluidically actuated and / or operated.

[0147] By means of the braking devices, the second support device section 106 can be slowed down and / or braked relative to the first support device section 104 with respect to a movement in the processing direction B when the first support device section 104 is moved in the processing direction B.

[0148] This is particularly important to ensure that when the

[0149] When the soil treatment device 100 is moved in the processing direction B, the support device 102 can be extended in the processing direction B and / or the second support device section 106 can be decelerated and / or stopped relative to the first support device section 104. In particular, it is possible for the second support device section 104 to be braked to a, for example, temporary, standstill relative to the ground.

[0150] This can be understood in particular to mean that by means of the braking devices 130 the support device 102 can be caused to extend and / or expand when the soil treatment device 100 moves in the processing direction B and in particular when the soil treatment device 100 is caused to move in the processing direction B by means of the travel drive 122.

[0151] For example, the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 can be transferred from the first relative position to the second relative position and / or the support device 102 can be transferred from the collapsed state to the extended state by means of the braking devices 130.

[0152] The respective braking devices 130 are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the support device 102 with respect to the transverse direction Q.

[0153] In particular, the respective braking devices 130 are arranged corresponding to the rear wheels 118, as can be seen in particular in Fig. 3.

[0154] Each rear wheel 118 is assigned a respective braking device 130.

[0155] Each braking device 130 can be brought into engagement with the respective rear wheel 118 for slowing down and / or braking the second support device section 106 (see Fig. 6).

[0156] In particular, by means of the braking devices 130, the second support device section 106 can be slowed down and / or braked relative to the first support device section 104 in a frictionally engaged manner.

[0157] As can be seen particularly in detail in Fig. 6, each braking device 130 comprises a braking element 138 provided with a braking pad 136 and a fluidically actuated actuator 140. The respective actuator 140 is fixed to the second support device section 106.

[0158] The respective brake element 138 is designed as a lever arm member and is pivotally attached to the second support device section 106 at one end and connected, for example, to the respective actuator 140 at the other end. The respective brake pad 136 is also attached to this other end.

[0159] The respective brake pad 136 can be pressed against the respective rear wheel 118 by a movement of the respective brake element 138 which can be brought about by means of the respective actuator 140, which is shown schematically in particular in Fig. 6.

[0160] As can be seen in Fig. 6, each braking device 130 can be transferred by means of the respective actuator 140 from a non-braking position (cf. dashed contour) into a braking position (cf. non-dashed contour) and / or vice versa.

[0161] In the braking position, the braking element 138 lies in particular flat against an outer circumference of the wheel 118 and in particular rests on this.

[0162] By means of the return devices 132, the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 can be moved relative to one another and in particular towards one another.

[0163] This serves in particular to ensure that, when the soil treatment device 100 is moved in the processing direction B, the support device 102 can be shortened again in the processing direction B after being lengthened, in particular can be returned to an initial state, for example to the first relative position and / or the pushed-together state.

[0164] The respective return devices 132 are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the support device 102 with respect to the transverse direction Q.

[0165] Each return device 132 is fixed to the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 and connects the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 to each other.

[0166] In particular, the return devices 132 are arranged corresponding to the first and second guide elements 108, 110. Each return device 132 is designed as a fluidically actuated lifting cylinder.

[0167] By means of the return devices 132, the support device 102 can be caused to shorten and / or contract and / or the shortening and / or contraction of the support device 102 can be effected while the soil treatment device 100 moves in the processing direction B and in particular while the soil treatment device 100 is caused to move in the processing direction B by means of the travel drive 122.

[0168] For example, the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 can be transferred from the second relative position to the first relative position and / or the support device 102 can be transferred from the extended state to the collapsed state by means of the return devices 132.

[0169] The braking devices 130 are in particular released and / or unactuated during shortening and / or contraction.

[0170] In the present case, the return devices 132 and the braking devices 130 are operatively connected to one another and, in particular, are fluidically connected to one another.

[0171] An actuation of the return devices 132 for shortening and / or contracting the support device 102 is coupled with a release and / or non-actuation of the braking devices 130.

[0172] In particular, applying pressure to the return devices 132 is coupled to depressurizing the braking devices 130 and in particular their actuators 140.

[0173] An actuation of the return devices 132 for extending and / or pulling apart the support device 102 is coupled with an engagement and / or actuation of the braking devices 130.

[0174] In particular, depressurizing the return device 132 is coupled with applying pressure to the braking devices 130 and, in particular, their actuators 140. Furthermore, the soil treatment device 100 comprises a holding device 142, a plurality of injection elements 144, and a lifting device 146.

[0175] The injection elements 144 serve, in particular, to inject a fluid into the soil. Under the action of the fluid, in particular a compressed gas or compressed gas mixture, especially compressed air, the soil can be loosened, for example, and thus improved aeration and drainage can be achieved.

[0176] The holding device 142 is held on the support device 102 in particular in a movable manner.

[0177] In particular, the holding device 142 is held on the second support device section 106.

[0178] The injection elements 144 are held on the holding device 142.

[0179] The injection elements 144 can be inserted into and removed from the ground via a lifting device 146.

[0180] The fluid supply device 134 is in fluid communication with the injection elements 144 for providing fluid directly or indirectly.

[0181] In particular, the injection elements 144 can be inserted into and withdrawn from the ground by means of the lifting device 146, during a relative movement and in particular a relative displacement of the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 to one another, or when the soil treatment device 100 is not caused to move.

[0182] This can ensure, for example, that damage to the injection elements 144 when inserted into the ground, when inserted and / or when withdrawn, for example due to a shear force caused by movement, can be reliably avoided.

[0183] The injection elements 144 are movably held on the holding device 142.

[0184] In particular, the injection elements 144 are movably held on the holding device 142 along a direction parallel to the machining direction B and the transverse direction, for example, vertically. The lifting device 146 comprises a number of lifting elements 148 corresponding to the injection elements 144 movably held relative to the holding device 142.

[0185] The respective injection elements 144 can be inserted into and removed from the ground via the lifting elements 148.

[0186] In particular, each injection element 144 is assigned a lifting element 148 on which the injection element 144 is movably held.

[0187] The corresponding injection element 144 can be inserted into and removed from the ground via the respective lifting element 148.

[0188] To a certain extent, the respective injection elements 144 can be inserted and removed individually and / or individually into the ground via the lifting elements 148.

[0189] For this purpose, the respective lifting elements 148 are operatively connected to the respective injection elements 144 for insertion into and withdrawal from the ground.

[0190] The lifting elements 148 are fixed to the holding device 142.

[0191] Each lifting element 148 of the lifting device 146 is in direct or indirect fluid communication with the fluid supply device 134.

[0192] The injection elements 144 can be inserted into and withdrawn from the ground by means of the lifting device 146 and in particular by means of the lifting elements 148 of the lifting device 146 during the extension and / or extension.

[0193] The lifting device 146, in particular the lifting elements 148, can be designed, for example, as described in the non-prepublished patent application DE 10 2023 100 886.2 of the same applicant with the same filing date as the present patent application.

[0194] Once the injection elements 144 are inserted into the soil, the fluid can be supplied to the soil via the injection elements 144, in particular injected, particularly for soil loosening. After, and in particular after each extension and / or extension of the support device 102, a shortening and / or contraction of the support device 102 can be initiated by means of the return devices 132.

[0195] During a moving operation of the soil treatment device 100, a deceleration between the first and the second support device section 104, 106 can be carried out due to the relative mobility of the first and the second support device section 104, 106 to one another, so that the injection elements 144 arranged on the second support device section 106 can be inserted into the ground and withdrawn from it during the moving operation.

[0196] In particular, since the second support device section 106 can be slowed down and / or braked relative to the first support device section 104 with respect to the movement in the processing direction B by means of the braking devices 130, the support device 102 can be extended in the processing direction B, whereby the injection elements 144 can be inserted into and withdrawn from the soil during ongoing travel operation of the soil treatment device 100, preferably without any damage to the injection elements 144 occurring.

[0197] Furthermore, since the first support device section 104 and the second support device section 106 are movable relative to one another and in particular towards one another by means of the return devices 132, the support device 102 can be repeatedly returned to its initial state, so that, for example, a quasi-continuous or continuous operation of the soil treatment device 100 can be realized.

[0198] In a sense, the first and second support device sections 104, 106 can be moved apart and towards each other as required, and the injection elements 144 can be inserted into and withdrawn from the ground in a synchronized manner.

[0199] The soil treatment device 100 further comprises an adjustment device 150, by means of which the holding device 142 can be raised and lowered relative to the ground. The adjustment device 150 is designed, for example, as an electric linear actuator, which can be selectively shortened or lengthened upon actuation.

[0200] The adjustment device 150 serves in particular for fine adjustment of a distance of the holding device 142 with respect to the ground.

[0201] Furthermore, the adjusting device 150 serves to realize a soil treatment position of the holding device 142, in which the holding device 142 is lowered (cf. Figs. 7 and 9), and a transport position of the holding device 142, in which the holding device 142 is raised (cf. Fig. 8).

[0202] It should be understood that the holding device 142 is preferably in the soil treatment position during the intended insertion and withdrawal of the injection elements 144.

[0203] The adjustment device 150 is mounted internally and in particular centrally on the second support device section 106 and the holding device 142 with respect to an extension of the second support device section 106 and the holding device 142 oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the machining direction B and connects the second support device section 106 and the holding device 142 to one another.

[0204] The holding device 142 is movably mounted on the support device 102, and in particular on the second support device section 106, by means of a guide device 152 (see Fig. 5). Via this guide device 152, the holding device 142 can be raised and lowered in a guided manner by means of the adjustment device 150.

[0205] In particular, the guide device 152 is designed as an articulated device and comprises two first guide members 154 and two second guide members 156.

[0206] The guide members 154, 156 are mounted on the holding device 142 and on the support device 102, respectively, and in particular on the second support device section 106, and are spaced apart from one another and arranged substantially parallel to one another. A parallelogram guide 158 for raising and lowering the holding device 142 is implemented by means of a first guide member 154 and a second guide member 156, as can be seen in particular in Fig. 5.

[0207] This creates a robust structure for the guided lifting and lowering of the holding device 142.

[0208] Furthermore, a roller-shaped support device 160 is movably held on the holding device 142.

[0209] The roller-shaped support device 160 is arranged downstream of the injection elements 144 with respect to the processing direction B.

[0210] The roller-shaped support device 160 extends transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the processing direction B.

[0211] In particular, the roller-shaped support device 160 is held rotatably on the holding device 142 with respect to a rotational axis oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the machining direction B.

[0212] For example, sections of the soil surface can be injected with fluid, in particular compressed air, via the injection elements 144, thereby loosening the soil. Subsequently, the loosened soil section is moved over by the trailing support device 160 in order to smooth out any elevations in the soil caused or induced by the fluid injection, for example.

[0213] As can be seen particularly in Figs. 1 to 3, the fluid supply device 122 comprises a drivable fluid delivery unit, in particular an air compressor 162, and an internal combustion engine 164, wherein the air compressor 162 is drivable by means of the internal combustion engine 164 and is driven during operation. Instead of the internal combustion engine 164, a different type of engine could be used.

[0214] It should be understood that a torque transmission element between the air compressor 162 and the internal combustion engine 164 has been omitted to improve clarity of the figures. The torque transmission element may be configured, for example, as a belt or a chain.

[0215] The fluid supply device 122 further comprises a reservoir 166 for fluid, which can be filled with fluid for intermediate storage and which is in direct or indirect fluid communication with the injection elements 144.

[0216] The storage container 166 is fixed to the holding device 142 and forms part of the holding device 142.

[0217] The storage container 166 extends transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the machining direction B. The storage container 166 can be used to impart the required rigidity to the holding device 142.

[0218] The reservoir 166 can temporarily store the fluid, in particular compressed air, for injection.

[0219] The storage container 166 has a round and preferably circular cross-section. The storage container 166 is advantageously made of metal.

[0220] Furthermore, the soil treatment device 100 has a control device 168 for controlling an operation, in particular a fluid operation, of the soil treatment device 100.

[0221] The control device 168 is housed in the end section of the second support device section 106, which ensures safe storage and protection from external influences.

[0222] In addition, an energy storage device, e.g. a particularly rechargeable battery, can be accommodated in said end section, by means of which the adjustment device 150 and the travel drive 122 can be supplied with energy.

[0223] It is understood that the lifting device 146, in particular the lifting elements 148 of the lifting device 146, the braking devices 130 and the return devices 132 can be controlled by the control device 168 of the soil treatment device 100.

[0224] Furthermore, the adjustment device 150 and the travel drive 122 can be controlled via the control device 168. It is further understood that the lifting device 146, in particular the lifting elements 148 of the lifting device 146, the braking devices 130, and the return devices 132 are in direct or indirect fluid communication with the fluid supply device 134 via corresponding fluid supply lines, for example, indirectly via the reservoir 166.

[0225] It is also understood that the lifting device 146, in particular the lifting elements 148 of the lifting device 146, the braking devices 130 and the return devices 132 are equipped with corresponding valves for controllable actuation and these valves can be controlled by the control device 168 of the soil treatment device 100.

[0226] Referring in particular to Figs. 7 to 9, the operation of the soil treatment device 100 will be described again in detail.

[0227] The soil treatment device 100 is manually steered by a user to a destination via the steering device 120, wherein the drive 122 drives the soil treatment device 100.

[0228] Here, the holding device 142 is in the transport position (see Fig. 8).

[0229] At the destination, the holding device 142 is lowered into the soil treatment position by means of the adjusting device 150 (see Fig. 7).

[0230] The soil treatment device 100 is then driven and steered by the user over the soil to be treated.

[0231] The support device 102 is first in the retracted state or the first relative position is present (see Fig. 7).

[0232] The rear wheels 118 are now braked by means of the braking devices 130 (see Fig. 9), so that the second support device section 106 remains stationary, while the first support device section 104 continues to move.

[0233] The support device 102 is extended, and the injection elements 144 are introduced into the soil by means of the lifting elements 148, and fluid, in particular the compressed gas or compressed gas mixture, for example, air, is injected into the soil to loosen the soil. Subsequently, the injection elements 144 are withdrawn from the soil again by means of the lifting elements 148. The support device 102 is now in the extended state, or the second relative position is present (see Fig. 9).

[0234] The braking devices 130 are released and the second support device section 106 is moved again in the direction of the first support device section 104 by means of the return devices 132.

[0235] It should be understood that during these operations, the soil treatment device 100 and in particular the first support device section 104 are moved further.

[0236] When the second support device section 106 and the first support device section 104 are again in their starting position, in particular the first relative position or in the pushed-together state (see Fig. 7), the rear wheels 118 are braked again to extend the support device 102 and the process starts again from the beginning.

[0237] This allows a quasi-continuous or continuous operation of the soil treatment device 100 to be realized.

[0238] Referring to Figs. 10 to 12, there is schematically shown a soil treatment device 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0239] The soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 10 to 12 is substantially configured and / or designed like the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9, so that the differences are described in particular below.

[0240] In particular, the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 10 to 12 does not include a front wheel 116 and an internal combustion engine 164.

[0241] However, the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 10 to 12 comprises a coupling device 170.

[0242] The coupling device 170 is arranged and secured on the first support device section 104 for coupling the soil treatment device 100 to a separate drive system, in particular a towing vehicle, for example a tractor. Via the coupling device 170, the soil treatment device 100 can be caused to move in the working direction B, in particular by means of a tensile force exerted by the separate drive system.

[0243] In a sense, the soil treatment device 100 is pulled by the separate drive system.

[0244] The soil treatment device 100 can be steered via the coupling device 170 and, in particular, the processing direction B can be varied.

[0245] In a sense, the steering device 120 is realized by the coupling device 170 and can be actuated by the separate drive system by means of a pulling movement that can be generated by the latter.

[0246] Furthermore, a torque can be transmitted via the coupling device 170 to the soil treatment device 100 and in particular to the compressed air compressor 162 for its operation by the separate drive system.

[0247] The operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 10 to 12 is analogous to the operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9.

[0248] Referring to Fig. 13, there is schematically shown a soil treatment device 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0249] The soil treatment device 100 of Fig. 13 is essentially configured and / or designed like the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9, so that the differences are described in particular below.

[0250] The soil treatment device 100 of Fig. 13 comprises a control unit 168, by means of which the soil treatment device 100 can be actuated and in particular controlled in an automated manner, preferably in a self-propelled and / or self-steering manner.

[0251] The steering device 120 here comprises a motor 172, in particular an electric motor, via which the machining direction B can be varied and which can be controlled by means of the control unit 168. The drive 122 can also be controlled by means of the control unit 168.

[0252] The control unit 168 further comprises a device for navigation, for example comprising a GPS unit, an optical navigation unit (lidar, camera, etc.), and / or a detection unit for detecting a ground contour.

[0253] It can be provided that the control unit 168 is or comprises a computer system and / or is connectable or connected to a computer system. It can be provided that the computer system can be a server, in particular a cloud-based server.

[0254] It can be provided that the control unit 168 is configured to detect and / or provide at least one piece of information about the ground, for example via sensor units connected to the control unit 168, e.g. a camera unit and / or a detection unit.

[0255] In particular, the information can be provided to one or more information recipients, wherein an information recipient can be, for example, a user, in particular an end user, e.g. a gardener, groundskeeper, and / or greenkeeper, a display unit, a mobile device, software, in particular an app, a server, a computer, a cloud, etc.

[0256] This makes it possible to realize autonomous operation of the soil treatment device 100.

[0257] The operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Fig. 13 otherwise takes place in an analogous manner to the operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9.

[0258] Referring to Fig. 14, there is schematically shown a soil treatment device 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0259] The floor treatment device 100 of Fig. 14 is substantially configured and / or designed like the floor treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9, so that the differences are described in particular below. The floor treatment device 100 of Fig. 14 comprises a seat unit 174 for seating a user.

[0260] An operating unit 176 for operating and controlling, in particular steering, the soil treatment device 100 is provided on the seat unit 174.

[0261] For this purpose, the steering device 120 comprises in particular a motor 172, in particular an electric motor, via which the machining direction B can be varied and which can be controlled by means of the control unit 168 in accordance with a user input via the operating unit 176.

[0262] In this case, the motor 172 is integrated into the seat unit 174.

[0263] Optionally, the control unit 168 can further comprise a navigation device, for example, comprising a GPS unit, an optical navigation unit (lidar, camera, etc.), and / or a detection unit for detecting a soil contour, whereby autonomous operation of the soil treatment device 100 can additionally be realized. For example, it is conceivable for the soil treatment device 100 to be driven to its destination by a user and for the soil treatment device 100 to autonomously treat the soil there, in particular to aerate it.

[0264] The operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Fig. 14 otherwise takes place in an analogous manner to the operation of the soil treatment device 100 of Figs. 1 to 9.

[0265] List of reference symbols

[0266] Soil treatment device support device first support device section second support device section first guide element second guide element

[0267] Bearing arrangement

[0268] Roller front support element, front wheel rear support element, rear wheel steering device

[0269] Drive

[0270] Handle device

[0271] Handle head

[0272] Suspension device

[0273] braking device

[0274] Return device

[0275] Fluid supply device

[0276] Brake pad brake element

[0277] Actuator

[0278] Holding device

[0279] Injection element

[0280] Lifting device lifting element

[0281] Adjustment device

[0282] Guide device first guide link second guide link parallelogram guide 160 support device

[0283] 162 air compressor

[0284] 164 internal combustion engine

[0285] 166 storage containers

[0286] 168 Control device, control unit

[0287] 170 coupling device

[0288] 172 Motor of steering device

[0289] 174 seat unit

[0290] 176 Control unit

[0291] B Machining direction

[0292] Q transverse direction

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Soil treatment device (100) for loosening soil, particularly in soils with grass growth, comprising a support device (102) and a holding device (142) movably mounted thereon, on which a plurality of injection elements (144) are held, a lifting device (146) via which the injection elements (144) can be inserted into the soil and withdrawn therefrom, and a fluid supply device (134) which is directly or indirectly in fluid communication with the injection elements (144) for providing fluid, characterized in that the support device (102) comprises at least a first support device section (104) and a second support device section (106), wherein the soil treatment device (100) can be caused to move in a processing direction (B) via the first support device section (104), and the holding device (142) is held on the second support device section (106),wherein the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are arranged one behind the other along the machining direction (B) and are connected to one another so as to be movable and in particular displaceable relative to one another along the machining direction (B).

2. Soil treatment device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the injection elements (144) can be inserted into the ground and withdrawn from it by means of the lifting device (146), during a relative movement and in particular a relative displacement of the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) to one another or when the soil treatment device (100) is not caused to move.

3. Soil treatment device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are at least partially mounted in and / or on one another in order to be movably and in particular displaceably connected to one another.

4. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least a part of the first support device section (104) or of the second support device section (106) is designed as a first guide element (108) and at least a part of the respective other support device section (106, 104) is designed as a second guide element (110), wherein the first guide element (108) and the second guide element (110) are slidably connected to one another and in particular telescopically, wherein in particular the support device (102) comprises at least one bearing arrangement (112), preferably at least one rolling element arrangement or at least one roller bearing arrangement, which is provided between the first guide element (108) and the second guide element (110).

5. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are movable and in particular displaceable between a first relative position and a second relative position relative to one another along the processing direction (B), wherein, when the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are in the first relative position, the support device (102) has a shortest extension along the processing direction (B) and, when the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are in the second relative position, the support device (102) has a longest extension along the processing direction (B).

6. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) comprises at least one braking device (130) by means of which the second support device section (106) can be slowed down and / or braked relative to the first support device section (104), in particular with respect to a movement in the processing direction (B).

7. Soil treatment device (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that the second support device section (106) comprises at least one support element (118) for resting on the ground, via which the soil treatment device (100) and in particular the support device (102) of the soil treatment device (100) can be guided and in particular driven over the ground, wherein the at least one braking device (130) for slowing down and / or braking the second support device section (106) can be brought into engagement with the at least one support element (118) and / or directly with the ground, wherein in particular the at least one support element (118) is designed as a wheel (118) or as a roller.

8. Soil treatment device (100) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the at least one braking device (130) is directly or indirectly in fluid communication with the fluid supply device (134) and can be fluidically actuated to slow down and / or brake the second support device section (106).

9. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that by means of the at least one braking device (130) the second support device section (106) relative to the first support device section (104) can be slowed down via a frictional engagement and / or braked via a frictional engagement and / or via a positive engagement.

10. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that at least one support element (118) designed as a wheel (118) or as a roller is provided on the second support device section (106), and the at least one braking device (130) comprises a braking element (138) provided with a braking pad (136) and a fluidically actuated actuator (140), wherein the braking pad (136) can be pressed against the support element (118) by a movement of the braking element (138) brought about by means of the actuator (140).

11. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) comprises at least one return device (132) which is fixed to the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) and connects the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) to one another, wherein the first support device section (104) and the second support device section (106) are movable relative to one another and in particular towards one another by means of the at least one return device (132), wherein in particular the at least one return device (132) is in direct or indirect fluid connection with the fluid supply device (134).

12. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) has at least one guide device (152) by means of which the holding device (142) is movably held on the support device (102), in particular the second support device section (106), and via which the holding device (142) can be raised and lowered wherein in particular the at least one guide device (152) comprises or forms at least one joint device (152) or comprises or forms at least one linear guide device for translational guidance.

13. Soil treatment device (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the at least one guide device (152) comprises at least a first guide member (154) and a second guide member (156), which are each mounted on the holding device (142) and on the support device (102) and which are arranged at a distance from one another and substantially parallel to one another, wherein in particular a parallelogram guide (158) for raising and lowering the holding device (142) by means of the first guide member (154) and the second guide member (156) is realized.

14. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that one or more, in particular all, injection elements (144) are held on the holding device (142) so as to be movable relative to the holding device (142), and the lifting device (146) comprises at least one number of lifting elements (148) corresponding to the injection elements (144) held so as to be movable relative to the holding device (142), via which the respective injection elements (144) can be inserted into the soil and withdrawn therefrom, in particular can be inserted and withdrawn individually and / or individually, wherein the lifting device (146), in particular the lifting elements (148) of the lifting device (146), are in direct or indirect fluid communication with the fluid supply device (134).

15. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) has at least one drive (122), in particular at least one motor, which is mounted on and / or in the first support device section (104) is arranged and by means of which the soil treatment device (100) can be caused to move in the processing direction (B).

16. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) has at least one coupling device (170) which is arranged on and / or in the first support device section (104) for coupling the soil treatment device (100) to a separate drive system, in particular a towing vehicle, and via which the soil treatment device (100) can be caused to move in the processing direction (B), in particular by means of a tensile force exerted by the separate drive system.

17. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the soil treatment device (100) has a steering device (120) via which the processing direction (B) can be varied, wherein the steering device (120) can be actuated manually by a user and / or by a separate drive system, in particular a towing vehicle, in particular by means of a pulling movement that can be generated thereby and / or can be actuated and in particular controlled in an automated manner by means of a control unit (168) assigned to the soil treatment device (100) or comprised by the soil treatment device (100), preferably in a self-propelled and / or self-steering manner.

18. Soil treatment device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the fluid supply device (134) comprises a drivable conveying unit for fluid, in particular a compressed air compressor (162), wherein in particular the fluid supply device (134) further comprises at least one storage container (166) for fluid, which is filled with fluid for intermediate storage can be acted upon and which is in direct or indirect fluid communication with a plurality of injection elements (144).

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