Spreader apparatus for spreading spray liquid and for mounting on a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer

Abstract

The invention relates to a spreader apparatus (1) for spreading spray liquid and for mounting on a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), comprising: a fastening device (2) for mechanical connection to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50) and for fluid-communicatingly attaching the spreader apparatus (1) to at least one fluid-conducting supply pipe (52) of an agricultural field sprayer (50); at least one metering device (3) for directed spreading of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or blocking spray liquid; and at least one connecting device (4) for fluid-communicatingly connecting the fastening device (2) to a metering device (3), the at least one connecting device (4) being designed such that the spatial distance (X, Y) of the at least one metering device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) can be changed. The invention also relates to an agricultural field sprayer (50) for spreading spray liquid.

Description

[0001] Dispensing device for distributing spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer

[0002] The invention relates to a spreading device for spreading spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer as well as to an agricultural field sprayer for spreading spray liquid.

[0003] DE 10 2017 110 564 A1 discloses a multiple nozzle body for mounting on a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer extending transversely to the direction of travel. The multiple nozzle body comprises a first and a second coupling piece for connecting application elements designed as spray nozzles.

[0004] According to DE 10 2017 110 564 A1, several multiple nozzle bodies are arranged on a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer. The multiple nozzle bodies are designed such that a discharge element of a first coupling socket of a first multiple nozzle body is 50 cm apart from a discharge element of a first coupling socket of a second multiple nozzle body. The distance between a discharge element of a second coupling socket of the first multiple nozzle body and a discharge element of a second coupling socket of the second multiple nozzle body is 25 cm. Thus, the second coupling sockets shorten the distance between two multiple nozzle bodies. The second coupling sockets of a multiple nozzle body are rigid or fixed and unchangeable in their length. Thus, the distance between the first and second coupling sockets of a multiple nozzle body is also predetermined or fixed.This means that fixed spray widths are specified for the agricultural field sprayer.

[0005] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide a spreading device for spreading spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer, as well as an agricultural field sprayer for spreading spray liquid, which allows any desired or predeterminable distance between two spreading elements, thus ensuring high variability of a spreading device and / or a field sprayer. This object is achieved by the features of the independent patent claims. Further advantageous developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention comprises an application device for applying spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer.

[0007] The application device comprises a fastening device for mechanically connecting it to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer and for fluidly connecting the application device to at least one fluid-carrying supply line of an agricultural field sprayer. The fastening device can be designed such that it can be connected to a spray boom of an agricultural field sprayer in a fixed or rigid manner, allowing both to be moved as a unit or only as a unit together.

[0008] Furthermore, the dispensing device has at least one metering device for the directed dispensing of spray liquid and for selectively switching between the release and shutoff of spray liquid. Thus, with the aid of the at least one metering device, spray liquid can either be dispensed or not dispensed.

[0009] Furthermore, the dispensing device has, e.g., at least one connecting device per dosing device, for fluidly connecting the fastening device to the at least one dosing device or to a dosing device. Consequently, spray fluid can flow or reach the at least one dosing device from the fastening device via the at least one connecting device.

[0010] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device is designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device can be varied. Thus, a distance, or even an arbitrary or predeterminable distance, between two metering devices is possible, thus ensuring a high degree of variability of a spreading device and / or a field sprayer.

[0011] In addition, the at least one connecting device can be designed to be variable in length and / or telescopic and / or rotatable. This configuration allows for easy adjustment of the distance between a fastening device and a dosing device.

[0012] The at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device can be displaced, e.g., only along or counter to a first spatial direction. Consequently, the direction in and against which the at least one dosing device can be adjusted using the at least one connecting device can be fixed or predetermined.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one connecting device can be designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device, e.g.

[0014] B. is displaceable only along or against a second spatial direction. Consequently, the direction in and against which the at least one dosing device is adjustable by means of the at least one connecting device can also be determined or specified.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one connecting device can also be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device can be displaced, e.g., only along or counter to a third spatial direction. This configuration also allows the direction in and against which the at least one dosing device can be adjusted using the at least one connecting device to be determined or specified.

[0016] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can be configured to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device is rotatable, e.g., only, about a first, second, or third spatial direction. Thus, a distance between the fastening device and the dosing device can also be changed, e.g., relative to a first spatial direction.

[0017] In addition, the at least one connecting device can be designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position, e.g. R within a first fictitious plane spanned by a first and a third spatial direction, which can be oriented perpendicular to one another. The first fictitious plane can be oriented or aligned identically to the earth's surface. Thus, the distance between the fastening device and the dosing device can be freely changed within the first fictitious plane. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one dosing device can be changed from the fastening device in two spatial directions, e.g. a first and a third spatial direction, which can be oriented perpendicular to one another.Consequently, the variability of a spreading device and / or a field sprayer can be increased, since different spray widths can be realized with this design.

[0018] In addition, the at least one connecting device can alternatively or additionally be designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one dosing device can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position, e.g. only within a second fictitious plane spanned by a second and a third spatial direction, which can be oriented perpendicular to one another. The second fictitious plane can be oriented or aligned substantially perpendicular to a plane that is oriented or aligned in the same way to the earth's surface. With the aid of this design, the distance between the fastening device and the dosing device can be freely changed within the second fictitious plane. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one dosing device can be varied in two spatial directions, e.g.a second and a third spatial direction, which can be aligned perpendicular to each other, can be changed relative to the fastening device. Consequently, the variability of a spreading device and / or a field sprayer can be increased, since different spray widths can be realized with this design.

[0019] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the at least one connecting device can be designed to change the spatial position of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device such that the at least one metering device can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position in space. The first spatial direction and the second spatial direction and / or the third spatial direction can be aligned perpendicular to one another. This configuration allows maximum variability of a spreading device and / or a field sprayer. This is because the distance between the fastening device and the metering device can be freely changed in space. In other words, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the fastening device can be changed in all three spatial directions, e.g. a first, a second and a third spatial direction, which can be aligned perpendicular to one another.

[0020] The three spatial directions can run along three coordinate axes, which result in or span a three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0021] It can also be provided that the at least one connecting device has a first and a second arm, which together form a telescopic or length-adjustable or inherently movable cantilever arm. The first arm can be designed to be displaceable or telescopic with the second arm, or the first arm can be rotatably connected to the second arm and these together form an inherently movable cantilever arm. A inherently movable cantilever arm can be a two-part cantilever arm, the first part of which can be arranged fixedly or rotatably, e.g. on the spray boom. A inherently movable cantilever arm can also be a two-part cantilever arm, the second part of which can be movable, rotatable, displaceable or telescopic relative to the first part.

[0022] Furthermore, the first arm can be arranged in a rotationally fixed or rotatable manner with its first end on the fastening device or can be arranged on a spray boom of a field sprayer.

[0023] The first arm can be connected to the second arm at its second end in a rotatable or displaceable / telescopic manner. Furthermore, the first arm can be configured or arranged on the fastening device so that it can be relatively rotatable or twistable at least within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees or even by 360 degrees.

[0024] The second arm can be connected to the first arm at its first end in a relatively rotatable or relatively displaceable / telescopic manner. The second arm can also be arranged at its second end on the at least one dosing device. Furthermore, the second arm can be designed to be rotatable or twistable relative to the first arm at least within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees or even by 360 degrees. Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can comprise an actuator, e.g., a linear actuator or a linear drive or a rotary actuator, for changing the spatial distance between the dosing device and the fastening device.

[0025] The at least one connecting device and / or the actuator can be continuously or stepped. The actuator can also have a housing and a control output that can be designed as a shaft. In addition, the actuator can be fastened by its housing to a first arm of the at least one connecting device or to the fastening device or can be fastened to a spray boom of a field sprayer. Furthermore, the actuator can be connected by its control output to a second arm of the at least one connecting device. By attaching the at least one connecting device and / or the actuator, the first and second arms can be moved towards one another. The actuator can be designed as a servo motor, a stepper motor, an electric, a pneumatic or a hydraulic actuator.

[0026] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device can have a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can have two end stops that limit the displacement or rotation of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device. The two end stops can be formed on the first or second arm. Thus, the locking mechanism can have two end stops that limit the rotation of a second arm relative to a first arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0027] In addition, the locking mechanism can have at least one locking point between two end stops. The at least one locking point can define a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance can be achieved between the at least one dosing device and the fastening device.

[0028] The locking mechanism can also comprise a spring-loaded locking pin. Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have at least one locking hole as a locking point, into which a locking pin can be engaged. The at least one locking hole can be arranged in a first arm of the at least one connecting device or in a second arm of the at least one connecting device. The spring-loaded locking pin can be arranged in a second arm of the at least one connecting device or in a first arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0029] Furthermore, the at least one metering device can have at least one dispensing element for dispensing a spray liquid and at least one controllable valve for releasing and blocking a liquid flow.

[0030] The at least one dispensing element can be arranged on the at least one valve or on an outlet of the at least one valve. The at least one dispensing element can also be arranged downstream of the at least one valve or downstream of an outlet of the at least one valve.

[0031] The at least one valve can be configured to selectively open, block, or close. The at least one valve can also be configured for control via pulse width modulation. Thus, the at least one valve can be configured to be only openable and closable, whereby it can only assume one of these states.

[0032] The at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can also be designed in such a way that the path of a spray liquid from the valve to the dispensing element is less than 20 cm. The distance between the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be constant or unchangeable. Furthermore, the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be arranged next to one another or connected to one another in such a way that the at least one dosing device is always movable as a whole / unit or always together with its at least one valve and with its at least one dispensing element relative to the fastening device. In addition, the at least one valve and the at least one dispensing element can be arranged next to one another or connected to one another in such a way that the distance and the spatial orientation of the two to one another is not changeable or unchangeable.

[0033] The at least one application element can further be oriented such that it can apply spray liquid in or against the second spatial direction. The second spatial direction can be oriented toward the earth's surface or substantially perpendicular to the earth's surface. Furthermore, the at least one application element can be designed as a nozzle and / or a trailing hose.

[0034] Furthermore, the at least one dosing device can have a rotatable dispensing element carrier that can be adjusted to different positions.

[0035] The dispensing element carrier can be designed to be rotatable relative to at least one connecting device, such as a second arm of the at least one connecting device.

[0036] In addition, the at least one connecting device and the at least one dosing device can be designed such that the dispensing element carrier is rotatable relative to the at least one connecting device.

[0037] In addition, at least two dispensing elements can be arranged or attached to the dispensing element carrier.

[0038] The application element carrier can be designed such that only the application element oriented in a second spatial direction can be fluidly connected to the fastening device via the at least one connecting device. The second spatial direction can be oriented toward the earth's surface or substantially perpendicular to the earth's surface. By manually rotating the application element carrier or by rotating it with the aid of an actuator, an application element through which spray liquid can and / or should be applied can be quickly and easily changed and / or positioned.

[0039] In this case, the at least one controllable valve can be arranged upstream of the application element carrier in order to release or block spray liquid from exiting the at least one application element by means of the controllable valve. In other words, the application element carrier can be arranged between the at least one controllable valve and the at least one application element.

[0040] A second aspect of the present invention comprises an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid.

[0041] It is expressly noted that the features of the application device, as mentioned under the first aspect, can be used individually or in combination with one another in the agricultural field sprayer. In other words, the features concerning the application device mentioned above under the first aspect of the invention can also be combined with further features here under the second aspect of the invention. Thus, a field sprayer can be realized with which any desired, predeterminable, or adjustable distance between application elements can be implemented, thereby ensuring a high degree of variability of the field sprayer.

[0042] An agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid comprises a spray boom that is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer.

[0043] Furthermore, the agricultural field sprayer has at least one application device for applying spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom according to the first aspect. Several application devices can be arranged or attached to the spray boom at a distance from one another.

[0044] In addition, the agricultural field sprayer comprises at least one supply line for supplying the at least one application device with spray liquid.

[0045] The at least one application device is arranged on the spray boom and is fluidly connected to the at least one supply line. This allows the application of spray liquid by means of the field sprayer.

[0046] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of a dispensing device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device is variable in a first spatial direction relative to the fastening device, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. The spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction can also be fixed.

[0047] The spatial distance of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device within a first fictitious plane spanned by a first and a third spatial direction can be variable.

[0048] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of a dispensing device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device is variable in a third spatial direction relative to the fastening device, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. Furthermore, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a second spatial direction can be fixed.

[0049] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of the dispensing device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device can be changed in a second spatial direction, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the fastening device and / or in a first spatial direction is constant or remains nearly constant. The spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a first spatial direction can also be fixed.

[0050] The spatial distance of the at least one dosing device relative to the fastening device can also be variable within a second fictitious plane spanned by a second and a third spatial direction.

[0051] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of a dispensing device can be designed such that the spatial distance of the at least one metering device relative to the fastening device can be changed in a third spatial direction, but the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the fastening device is constant or remains nearly constant in a first spatial direction. Thus, the spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the spray boom and / or in a first spatial direction can also be fixed.

[0052] Furthermore, the at least one connecting device of the dispensing device can be rotatable, e.g., on the fastening device. The spatial distance of the at least one metering device from the fastening device can be constant in the first fictitious plane.

[0053] The axis of rotation can also be aligned substantially perpendicular to the extension of the spray boom or to the earth's surface, or along the second spatial direction, thereby altering the distance between two metering devices of adjacent application devices. In this description, "substantially perpendicular" can be understood to mean that a rotation axis or fictitious plane is also considered perpendicular if it deviates by + / - 10% from an ideal perpendicular on a plane or on / to a spray boom.

[0054] The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings schematically show:

[0055] Fig. 1 is a sectional view of an agricultural field sprayer for applying spray liquid in a first state;

[0056] Fig. 2 shows the field sprayer from Figure 1 in a second state;

[0057] Fig. 3 is a view of a dispensing device from Figures 1 and 2;

[0058] Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the connecting device of the dispensing device from Fig. 3 according to a first embodiment;

[0059] Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of the connecting device of the dispensing device from Fig. 3 according to a second embodiment, wherein Fig. 5 is shown rotated by 90 degrees compared to Fig. 3;

[0060] Fig. 6 the field sprayer from Figure 1 in a third state; and

[0061] Fig. 7 shows the field sprayer from Figure 1 in a fourth state.

[0062] In the following description, the same reference symbols are used for the same items.

[0063] Figure 1 shows a sectional view of an agricultural field sprayer 50 for applying spray liquid in a first state, with Figure 2 showing the field sprayer 50 from Figure 1 in a second state. For the sake of simplicity and brevity, Figures 1 and 2 are described together below.

[0064] Thus, Figures 1 and 2 show an agricultural field sprayer 50 for applying spray liquid with a spray boom 51 which is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer 1 (perpendicular to the drawing sheet surface) and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer 1.

[0065] The field sprayer 50 has a plurality of application devices 1 for applying spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom 51. The application devices 1 are arranged or attached to the spray boom 51 at a distance from one another.

[0066] Furthermore, Figures 1 and 2 show that the field sprayer 50 comprises a supply line 52 for supplying each application device 1 with spray liquid, wherein the application devices 1 are arranged on the spray boom 51 and are fluidly connected to the supply line 52. Thus, application of spray liquid by means of the field sprayer 50 is possible.

[0067] The application devices 1 for applying spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom 51 of the field sprayer 50 each have a fastening device 2 for mechanical connection to the spray boom 51 of the agricultural field sprayer 50 and for fluid-communicating connection of the application device 1 to the fluid-carrying supply line 52. Each fastening device 2 is designed such that it is immovably or rigidly connected to the spray boom 51, so that both can only be moved together as a unit.

[0068] In addition, each application device 1 comprises two metering devices 3 for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between the release and shutoff of spray liquid. Thus, the metering devices 3 can either dispense spray liquid or not dispense it.

[0069] Furthermore, Figures 1 and 2 show that each application device 1 has a connecting device 4 for each metering device 3 for fluidly connecting the fastening device 2 to a metering device 3. Consequently, spray liquid can flow or reach the metering device 3 from the fastening device 2 via the connecting device. The connecting devices 4 are designed such that the spatial distance X of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 can be changed. Generally speaking, the connecting devices 4 are designed to be variable in length and / or telescopic and / or rotatable. Consequently, any distance between two metering devices is possible, thus ensuring a high degree of variability of the application devices and / or the field sprayer.

[0070] When comparing Figures 1 and 2, it is noticeable that each connecting device 4 is designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be displaced along and counter to a first spatial direction R1. With regard to Figure 2, each connecting device 4 can also be designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a first fictitious plane E1, spanned by the first and a third spatial direction R1, R3. In this case, the first fictitious plane E1 is oriented or aligned in the same way to the earth's surface.

[0071] According to Figures 1 and 2, the first spatial direction R1, a second spatial direction R2, and the third spatial direction R3 are aligned perpendicular to each other. The three spatial directions R1, R2, and R3 run along three coordinate axes, which form or span a three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0072] Furthermore, Figures 1 and 2 show that each dosing device 3 has two dispensing elements 11 for dispensing a spray liquid and a controllable valve 12 for releasing and blocking a liquid flow.

[0073] The dispensing elements 11 are arranged at an outlet of the valve 12. Each dispensing element 11 is arranged downstream of the valve 12 or downstream of an outlet of the valve 12. Specifically, each dispensing element 11 is designed as a nozzle, but can also be designed as a trailing hose.

[0074] Furthermore, the valve 12 is designed to be selectively opened, blocked, or closed. The valve 12 is designed for control by means of pulse width modulation, wherein the valve 12 is designed such that it can only be opened and closed. The valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 are configured such that the path of a spray liquid from the valve 12 to the dispensing element 11 is less than 20 cm. Furthermore, the distance between the valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 is constant or unchangeable. In other words, the valve 12 and the dispensing elements 11 are arranged or connected to one another such that a dosing device 3 is always movable as a whole / unit or always together with its valve 12 and its dispensing elements 11 relative to the fastening device 2.

[0075] Furthermore, Figures 1 and 2 show that each dosing device 3 has a rotatable dispensing element carrier 13 that can be adjusted to various positions. The dispensing element carrier 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the connecting device 4. In other words, the connecting device 4 and the dosing device 3 are designed such that the dispensing element carrier 13 is rotatable relative to the connecting device 4.

[0076] As already mentioned, two dispensing elements 11 are arranged or attached to the dispensing element carrier 13. The dispensing element carrier 13 is designed such that only the dispensing element 11 oriented in the second spatial direction R2 is fluidly connected to the fastening device 2 via the connecting device 4. By manually rotating the dispensing element carrier 13 or by rotating it with the aid of an actuator, the dispensing element 11 through which the spray liquid is to be dispensed can be quickly and easily changed or brought into position.

[0077] The controllable valve 12 is arranged upstream of the application element carrier 13 in order to release or block spray liquid from exiting a application element 11 by means of the controllable valve 12.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a view of a dispensing device 1 from Figures 1 and 2, wherein Figure 4 shows an enlarged view of the connecting device 4 of the dispensing device 1 from Figure 3 according to a first embodiment.

[0079] According to Figure 4, the connecting device 4 has a first and a second arm 6, 7, which together form a telescopic or length-adjustable cantilever arm 5. The first arm 6 is designed to be displaceable or telescopic with the second arm 7. The first arm 6 is arranged rotationally fixed with its first end 6A on the fastening device 2, wherein the first arm 6 is connected with its second end 6B to the second arm 7 in a displaceable and telescopic manner. In other words, the second arm 7 is connected with its first end 7A to the first arm 6 in a relatively displaceable and telescopic manner. The second arm 7 is arranged with its second end 7B on a dosing device 3.

[0080] As shown in Figure 4, the connecting device 4 comprises an actuator 8, e.g., a linear actuator or a linear drive, for changing the spatial distance X between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2. The connecting device 4 and the actuator 8 are designed to be continuously variable.

[0081] The actuator 8 has a housing 9 and a control output 10, which can be designed as a shaft. The actuator 8 is attached by its housing 9 to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4. The actuator 8 is connected by its control output 10 to the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4. In this case, the actuator 8 is designed as a stepper motor. However, it can also be designed as a servo motor or as a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator.

[0082] According to Figure 4, the connecting device 4 has a locking mechanism having two end stops 14, 15 that limit the displacement of the dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2. The two end stops 14, 15 are formed on the second arm 7.

[0083] In addition, the locking mechanism can have a plurality of locking points (not shown) between the two end stops 14, 15, wherein each locking point defines a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2 can be achieved. The locking mechanism can have a spring-loaded locking pin and a plurality of locking holes as locking points into which the locking pin can be locked. The locking holes can be arranged optionally in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4 or in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4. The same applies to the spring-loaded locking pin. This can also be arranged in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4 or in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4.

[0084] As Figure 4 further shows, the dispensing element carrier 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the connecting device 4 or the second arm-retaining device 4. Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the connecting device 4 of the dispensing device 1 from Figure 3 according to a second embodiment, wherein Figure 5 is rotated by 90 degrees compared to Figure 3 - see the coordinate systems shown in Figures 3 and 5.

[0085] According to Figure 5, the connecting device 4 has a first and a second arm 6, 7, which together form a movable cantilever arm 5. More precisely, the first arm 6 is rotatably connected to the second arm 7, and together they form the cantilever arm 5.

[0086] Furthermore, it can be seen from Figure 5 that the first arm 6 is arranged with its first end 6A on the fastening device 2 in a rotationally fixed manner. However, it is also possible for the first arm 6 to be arranged with its first end 6A on the fastening device 2 in a rotatable manner.

[0087] Furthermore, the first arm 6 is rotatable with its second end 6B with the second arm

[0088] 7. In other words, the second arm 7 is connected to the first arm 6 in a relatively rotatable manner by its first end 7A.

[0089] According to Figure 5, the second arm 7 is arranged with its second end 7B on a dosing device 3, wherein the second arm 7 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first arm 6 within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees. Although not shown, it is nevertheless mentioned for the sake of completeness; it is possible for the first arm 6 to be designed or arranged to be relatively rotatable on the fastening device 2 within an angular range between 0 and 100 degrees or even through 360 degrees.

[0090] Furthermore, Figure 5 shows that the connecting device 4 comprises an actuator 8, e.g. a rotary actuator, for changing the spatial distance X between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2. The connecting device 4 and the actuator

[0091] 8 are continuously variable.

[0092] The actuator 8 has a housing 9 and a control output 10, which is designed as a shaft. Furthermore, the actuator 8 is attached by its housing 9 to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4. In contrast, the actuator 8 is connected by its control output 10 to the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4. Furthermore, the actuator 8 is designed as an electric actuator. However, it can also be designed as a servo motor, a stepper motor, a pneumatic actuator, or a hydraulic actuator.

[0093] According to Figure 5, the connecting device 4 has a locking mechanism having two end stops 14, 15 that limit the rotation of the dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2. Specifically, the two end stops 14, 15 limit the rotation of the second arm 7 relative to the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4. The two end stops 14, 15 are formed on the first arm 6.

[0094] Furthermore, the locking mechanism can have locking points (not shown) between the two end stops 14, 15, wherein each locking point defines a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance can be achieved between the dosing device 3 and the fastening device 2. The locking mechanism can have a spring-loaded locking pin and a plurality of locking holes as locking points into which the locking pin can be locked. The locking holes can be arranged in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4 or in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4, wherein the spring-loaded locking pin can be arranged in the second arm 7 of the connecting device 4 or in the first arm 6 of the connecting device 4.

[0095] Figure 6 shows the field sprayer 50 from Figure 1 in a third state, whereas Figure 7 shows the field sprayer 50 from Figure 1 in a fourth state.

[0096] It should be noted that the description relating to Figures 1 and 2 is also applicable to Figures 6 and 7.

[0097] Figure 6 shows an exemplary dispensing device 1 in a third state. It can be seen that each connecting device 4 is designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be displaced along or counter to a second spatial direction R2.

[0098] In Figure 6, the connecting devices 4 are designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a second fictitious plane E2 spanned by the second and third spatial directions R2, R3. The second fictitious plane E2 is oriented substantially perpendicular to a plane that is co-oriented or aligned with the Earth's surface.

[0099] In contrast, Figure 7 shows an exemplary dispensing device 1 in a fourth state. Here, the connecting devices 4 are designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be displaced along or counter to a first and second spatial direction R1, R2. Thus, each connecting device 4 is designed to change the spatial position of a dosing device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 such that the dosing device 3 can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position in space.

[0100] Back to Figures 1 and 2. In particular, Figures 1 and 2 show that the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 are designed such that the spatial distance X of a metering device 3 in a first spatial direction R1 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable, but the spatial distance Y of the metering device 3 to the spray boom 51 or in a second spatial direction R2 is constant.

[0101] In Figures 1 and 2, the spatial distance of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 can also be variable within a first fictitious plane E1 spanned by the first and third spatial directions R1, R3. Thus, the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 can be designed such that the spatial distance of a metering device 3 in the third spatial direction R3 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable, but the spatial distance Y of the metering device 3 from the spray boom 51 or in the second spatial direction R2 remains constant.

[0102] In contrast, Figures 6 and 7 show that the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 are designed such that the spatial distance Y of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable in the second spatial direction R2, but the spatial distance X of the metering device 3 from the fastening device 2 and / or in the first spatial direction R1 is constant. Furthermore, in Figures 6 and 7, the spatial distance of a metering device 3 relative to the fastening device 2 can be variable within a second fictitious plane E2 spanned by the second and third spatial directions R2, R3.Thus, the connecting devices 4 of a dispensing device 1 can be designed such that the spatial distance of a dosing device 3 in the third spatial direction R3 relative to the fastening device 2 is variable, but the spatial distance X of the dosing device 3 to the fastening device 2 in the first spatial direction R1 is constant.

[0103] Alternatively, the connecting devices 4 of the dispensing device 1 can be rotatably mounted on the fastening device 2, wherein the spatial distance of a metering device 3 from the fastening device 2 is constant in the first fictitious plane E1. The axis of rotation can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the extension of the spray boom 51 or to the earth's surface, or along the second spatial direction R2. Thus, the distance between two metering devices 3 of adjacent dispensing devices 1 can be varied.

[0104] Reference symbol

[0105] 1 dispensing device

[0106] Fastening device R1 first spatial direction

[0107] Dosing device R2 second spatial direction

[0108] Connecting device R3 third spatial direction

[0109] Cantilever first arm X spatial distance A first end Y spatial distance B second end second arm

[0110] 7A first end

[0111] 7B second end

[0112] 8 Actuator

[0113] 9 housings

[0114] 10 Control output

[0115] 11 Dispensing element

[0116] 12 valve

[0117] 13 application element carriers

[0118] 14 End stop

[0119] 15 End stop

[0120] 50 agricultural field sprayers

[0121] 51 spray booms

[0122] 52 supply line

[0123] E1 first fictitious level

[0124] E2 second fictitious level

Claims

Patent claims 1 . Application device (1) for applying spray liquid and for attachment to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), comprising: - a fastening device (2) for mechanical connection to a spray boom (51) of an agricultural field sprayer (50) and for fluid-communicating connection of the application device (1) to at least one fluid-carrying supply line (52) of an agricultural field sprayer (50), - at least one metering device (3) for the directed application of spray liquid and for selectively switching between releasing or shutting off spray liquid, and - at least one connecting device (4) for fluidly connecting the fastening device (2) to a dosing device (3), - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed such that the spatial distance (X, Y) of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable.

2. Dispensing device according to claim 1, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to be variable in length and / or telescopic and / or rotatable, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) in such a way that a. the at least one dosing device (3) is displaceable along or counter to a first spatial direction (R1), b. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) is displaceable along or counter to a second spatial direction (R2), c. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) is displaceable along or against a third spatial direction (R3).

3. Dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) such that the at least one dosing device (3) is rotatable about a first, second or third spatial direction (R1, R2, R3).

4. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) is designed to change the spatial position of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) in such a way that a. the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a first fictitious plane (E1) spanned by a first and a third spatial direction (R1, R3) which are oriented perpendicular to one another, b. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position within a second fictitious plane (E2) spanned by a second and a third spatial direction (R2, R3) which are oriented perpendicular to one another, c. and / or that the at least one dosing device (3) can be arranged at any desired or predeterminable position in space.

5. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) has a first and a second arm (6, 7) which together form a telescopic or length-adjustable or internally movable cantilever arm (5), - wherein the first arm (6) is designed to be displaceable or telescopic with the second arm (7), or - wherein the first arm (6) is rotatably connected to the second arm (7) and together they form a movable cantilever arm (5).

6. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) comprises an actuator (8) for changing the spatial distance (X, Y) between the dosing device (3) and the fastening device (2).

7. Dispensing device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) has a locking mechanism, - wherein the locking mechanism has two end stops (14, 15) which limit the displacement or rotation of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2), and / or - wherein the locking mechanism has at least one locking point between two end stops (14, 15), - wherein the at least one locking point defines a preconfigurable position in which a defined distance between the at least one dosing device (3) and the fastening device (2) can be achieved.

8. Agricultural field sprayer (50) for applying spray liquid, comprising: - a spray boom (51) which is aligned transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer (1) and extends transversely to the direction of travel of the field sprayer (1), - at least one dispensing device (1) for dispensing spray liquid and for attachment to the spray boom (51) according to one of the preceding claims, - at least one supply line (52) for supplying the at least one application device (1) with spray liquid, wherein the at least one dispensing device (1) is arranged on the spray boom (51) and is fluidly connected to the at least one supply line (52).

9. Field sprayer according to claim 8, - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one dosing device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable within a first fictitious plane (E1) spanned by a first and a third spatial direction (R1, R3).

10. Field sprayer according to claim 8 or 9, - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one metering device (3) relative to the fastening device (2) is variable within a second fictitious plane (E2) spanned by a second and a third spatial direction (R2, R3). 11 . Field sprayer according to one of claims 8 to 10, - wherein the at least one connecting device (4) of the dispensing device (1) is rotatably mounted on the fastening device (2), - wherein the spatial distance of the at least one metering device (3) to the fastening device (2) in the first fictitious plane (E1) is constant, and - wherein the axis of rotation is aligned substantially perpendicular to the course of the spray boom (51) or to the earth's surface or along the second spatial direction (R2), whereby the distance between two metering devices (3) of adjacent application devices (1) can be changed.

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