Agricultural implement, method of controlling agricultural implement and method of folding agricultural implement

Abstract

An agricultural implement (1) comprises a main frame section (11) extending along a working direction (Dw) of the agricultural implement (1), and at least one tool carrying side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R), which is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) between a working state and a transport state, a first pivot joint, about which the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) about at least one first geometric pivot axis (Ap1) which is vertical, a second pivot joint, about which the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131 L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) is pivotable about at least one second geometric pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’) which is horizontal, and a section fold actuator (134), which is configured for controlling a movement of the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131 L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) about the second pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’) between the transport state and the working state. When the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131 L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) is in the working state, the section fold actuator (134) is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction (Dw).

Description

The present disclosure relates to agricultural implements carrying tools for working soil, in particular to agricultural implements for distributing a product to ground over which the implement travels, such as seeders and planters, but also to tillage implements, in particular harrows or cultivators. The disclosure is also applicable to combination machines, i.e. machines having tools both for working soil and for product distribution.BackgroundAgricultural implements are known and widely used, having various tool-carrying frame sections that are foldable between e.g. a working state and a transport state.WO2023187026A1 introduces a folding concept, wherein side frame sections are folded from a working state to a transport state by first pivoting the side frame sections about a vertical axis, such that the side frame sections become horizontally oriented and received between front and rear ground supports of the agricultural implement, followed by a folding about a horizontal axis, which is parallel with a working direction of the agricultural implement, such that the side frame sections become vertically oriented.While this folding concept appears promising, there is a need for further development, which may improve the performance of the agricultural implement. In particular, there is a need to provide for stable and reliable operation of the agricultural implement across its width.SummaryIt is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved solution that alleviates the mentioned drawbacks with present solutions. Furthermore, it is an object to provide an agricultural implement which has improved performance and which provides for stable and reliable operation across its width.The invention is defined by the appended independent claims, with embodiments being set forth in the appended dependent claims, in the following description and in the drawings.According to a first aspect, there is provided an agricultural implement, comprising a main frame section extending along a working direction of the agricultural implement, and at least one tool carrying side frame section, which is foldable relative to the main frame section between a working state and a transport state, a first pivot joint, about which the side frame section is foldable relative to the main frame section about at least one first geometric pivot axis which is vertical, a second pivot joint, about which the side frame section is pivotable about at least one second geometric pivot axis which is horizontal, and a section fold actuator, which is configured for controlling a movement of the side frame section about the second pivot axis between the transport state and the working state. When the side frame section is in the working state, the section fold actuator is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction.A working direction is a direction which is parallel with a forward travel direction of the agricultural implement. Hence, the working direction is also substantially horizontal in the sense that it would be approximately parallel with the ground surface.A conventional section fold actuator would be arranged to operate in a direction which is in a plane that is perpendicular to the pivot axis about which the frame member is to be pivoted by the section fold actuator, which typically also means a direction parallel with a working direction of an agricultural implement, for supporting the pivoting of a tool carrying section between a working state and a transport state.By arranging the section fold actuator so as to be non-parallel with the working direction, the section fold actuator may, in the working state, provide weight distribution onto the side frame section, and also support the side frame section to maintain a desired position by transferring a force between the main frame section and the side frame section.By this arrangement, an additional actuator for transferring a load from the main frame to the tool carrying frame may not be necessary, such that the number of actuators used may be reduced, and an easier maintenance of the agricultural implement is facilitated.A section fold actuator may be configured to provide the entire force controlling the fold movement. In the present case, the section fold actuator may be defined as an actuator that provides at least about 60 %, preferably at least about 70 %, at least about 80 %, at least about 90 % or at least about 95 %, of the actuator force required for the fold movement.The section fold actuator may be configured to provide a pressure to the side frame section when the agricultural implement is in the working state.A pressure is desired to keep the side frame sections in a desirable position for working the ground that the agricultural implement travels across. Alternatively, a negative pressure may be provided, so as to wholly or partially lift the side frame section, or merely to reduce ground pressure.The section fold actuator may in said horizontal plane, present an angle to the working direction, which angle is about 5-60°, preferably about 20-50° or about 30-45°.In particular, the angle may be about 5-10°, about 10-15°, about 15-20°, about 20-25°, about 25-30°, about 30-35°, about 35-40°, about 40-45°, about 45-50°, about 50-55° or about 55-60°.The second geometric pivot axis may extend substantially transversely of the working direction when the agricultural implement is in the working state, and the second geometric pivot axis may extend substantially parallel with the working direction when the agricultural implement is in the transport state.The main frame section may further comprise a carriage which is movably supported by the main frame section and which is movable between first and second longitudinally spaced apart positions along the main frame section, wherein said first and second pivot joints may connect the side frame section to the carriage.The first and second pivot joints may connect the side frame section to the carriage.Hence, when the agricultural implement comprises a carriage, the first fixing point may be on the carriage.The carriage may be slidably supported by a part of the main frame section, which extends along the working direction.Hence, a position of the carriage may be continuously adjustable along a part of the main frame section, which extends along the working direction, or it may be possible to shift the carriage between two fixed positions.The carriage may be at a longitudinal end of the main frame section when the agricultural implement is in the transport state and at a middle section of the main frame when the agricultural implement is in the working state.In the transport state, a center of gravity of the carriage may be positioned within the foremost or rearmost 30 %, preferably 20 % or 10 %, of the main frame section length. In the working state, the center of gravity of the of the carriage may be positioned within the middle 40 %, preferably 30 % or 20 %, of the main frame section length.The agricultural implement may further comprise a container assembly for a product that is to be distributed by the agricultural implement, said container assembly being supported by the carriage, such that the container assembly is movable with the carriage along the main frame section.The product may be a granular product, such as seeds, fertilizer or pesticide. Alternatively, or as a supplement, the product may be powdery or liquid, such as fertilizer or pesticide.The container may comprise one or more product spaces and associated distribution systems. Such product spaces may be formed as separate containers or as compartments within a container.By making the container movable along the main frame section, it is possible to combine the advantage of achieving a favorable weight distribution during field operation, while also allowing convenient access to the container for filling, cleaning or maintenance work. Since the container is longitudinally displaced from the tool carrying part of the main frame section, the container can fill the entire working width without being limited to the space between the folded vertically oriented frame sections.The agricultural implement may further comprise a guide member, which is pivotably connected to the main frame section and to the frame section for controlling a relative movement between the main frame section and the side frame section.The side frame section may comprise a laterally inner side frame section which is pivotably connected to a laterally outer side frame section.The laterally inner frame section may be connected to the laterally outer frame section by a pivot joint that provides a geometric pivot axis which is perpendicular to a frame plane.Hence, the geometric pivot axis may be substantially vertical when the agricultural implement is in a working state.The laterally inner frame section may be connected to the laterally outer frame section by a pivot joint that provides a geometric pivot axis which is substantially horizontal and parallel with the working direction.The section fold actuator may be configured to operate between a first fixing point on the main frame section, and a second fixing point on the tool carrying side frame section, wherein the second fixing point is positioned laterally outwardly of the first fixing point.The agricultural implement may further comprise at least one adjustment actuator, which is operable between a third fixing point on the main frame section and a fourth fixing point on the side frame section, wherein the fourth fixing point is arranged laterally outside of the second fixing point.The agricultural implement may further comprise at least one first ground support, such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a front ground support, and at least one second ground support, such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a rear ground support, wherein the first and second ground supports are longitudinally spaced apart such that the side frame section is receivable longitudinally between said first and second ground supports when the agricultural implement is in the transport state.The side frame sections are folded such that they are receivable between the ground supports. Hence a longitudinal distance between the ground supports may be large enough to allow the frame section to be received between the ground supports. Hence, the frame sections will not need to be stowed above the ground supports, which effectively alleviates the restrictions on ground support dimensions. Consequently, a larger portion of the regulatory permissible height can be taken advantage of, since the frame sections may be transported while extending almost all the way to the ground, except for necessary ground clearance.In particular, a length along the working direction of a space formed longitudinally between the first and second ground supports may be greater than a length of the frame section when the agricultural implement is in its first state.If the agricultural implement comprises a carriage, and alternatively also a container, the carriage carrying the container may be moved along with the folding movement from a central position on the main frame section to an end position on the main frame section, such that the container is moved away from the center of the main frame section, thereby allowing the side frame section to be received along the main frame section.The first ground support may comprise at least one pair of wheels, preferably with a steering arrangement, and / or the second ground support may comprise at least one pair of wheels.At least one of said pairs of wheels may comprise coaxially arranged wheels, which are laterally spaced from each other, preferably by a distance which is greater than a wheel width.According to a second aspect, there is provided an agricultural equipment comprising a traction vehicle and an agricultural implement as claimed described above, wherein the traction vehicle provides at least one first ground support, such as one or more wheels or tracks, and wherein the agricultural implement comprises at least one second ground support, such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a rear ground support, wherein the first and second ground supports are longitudinally spaced apart such that the frame section is receivable longitudinally between said first and second ground supports when the agricultural implement is in the transport state.A traction vehicle may be a tractor or similar equipment, configured to pull and / or carry the agricultural implement.According to a third aspect, there is provided a method for controlling an agricultural implement, which comprises a main frame section extending along a working direction of the agricultural implement, at least one tool carrying side frame section, which is foldable relative to the main frame section between a working state and a transport state, a first pivot joint, about which the frame section is foldable relative to the main frame section about at least one first geometric pivot axis which is substantially vertical, and a second pivot joint, about which the frame section is pivotable about at least one second geometric pivot axis which is substantially horizontal. The method comprises controlling a movement of the side frame section by transferring a load between a first fixing point on the main frame section and a second fixing point on the side frame section, wherein the second fixing point is positioned laterally outside the first fixing point from the main frame section.The agricultural implement may further comprise a section fold actuator for controlling the movement of the side frame section about the second geometric pivot axis by transferring said load, and wherein the section fold actuator is operable between the first fixing point and the second fixing point in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction.The method may further comprise using the section fold actuator to apply pressure to the side frame section while the agricultural implement is in the working state, and in particular when the agricultural implement travels over ground to be worked by the agricultural implement.According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of folding an agricultural implement from a working state to a transport state, wherein the agricultural implement comprises a main frame section, at least one side frame section carrying a plurality of soil working tools, wherein the side frame section is pivotably connected to the main frame section, such that the side frame section is foldable between the working state and the transport state, wherein, in the working state, the side frame section presents a front edge which extends generally transversely of a working direction of the agricultural implement. The method comprises while the side frame section is generally horizontally oriented, pivoting the side frame section relative to the main frame section about a first pivot axis, which is vertical, such that the front edge of the side frame section becomes parallel with the working direction of the agricultural implement, subsequently, pivoting the side frame section relative to the main frame section about a second pivot axis, which is horizontal and which extends parallel with the working direction, such that the side frame section becomes generally vertically oriented, wherein said pivoting the side frame section relative to the main frame section about the second pivot axis is achieved by application of a force by a section fold actuator, which is operable between the a first fixing point on the main frame section and a second fixing point on the side frame section. In the method, the second fixing point is positioned laterally outside the first fixing point, such that the section fold actuator is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction.The method may further comprise while pivoting the side frame section about the first pivot axis, maintaining a fixed distance between a point on the main frame section which is spaced from the first pivot axis and a point on the side frame section, which is spaced from the first pivot axis in a direction along the second pivot axis.In the method, the agricultural implement may further comprise a carriage, which is movably supported by the main frame section and which is connected to the side frame section by the first and second pivot joints, whereby the method further comprises while pivoting the side frame section about the first pivot axis, moving the carriage from a first position to a second position along the main frame section, wherein the first position and the second position are longitudinally spaced apart positions along the main frame section.The first position may be at a central point on the main frame section. The second position may be at an end point on the main frame section.Brief description of the drawingsThe invention will in the following be described in more detail with reference to the enclosed drawings, wherein:Fig. 1a-1c are perspective views schematically illustrating an agricultural implement in a working state, during folding-in operation and in a transport state.Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the agricultural implement as seen from above.Fig. 3a-3d schematically illustrate various frame configurations to which the present concept can be applied.Detailed descriptionThe present inventive concept finds use on various types of soil working agricultural implements, including tillage implements, such as harrows or cultivators, but also on seeders, planters or other implements configured to distribute a product to ground over which the agricultural implement travels.The implement may be configured to be towed and / or carried by a traction vehicle, such as a tractor.In the following description, the inventive concept will be described with reference to an agricultural implement 1 in the form of a planter, comprising a main frame section 11, at least one tool carrying frame section 13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R, which is foldable relative to the main frame section 11 between a working state and a transport state, a first pivot joint, a second pivot joint and a section fold actuator 134. The transport state is a state in which the implement 1 may be folded-in to a minimum width. The working state is a state in which the implement 1 may be folded-out to a maximum width.Referring to figs 1a-1c, the agricultural implement 1 has a working direction Dw, which is a horizontal direction along which the agricultural implement 1 is intended to move during field operation. The working direction Dw also constitutes a longitudinal direction of the agricultural implement 1.The agricultural implement 1 comprises a main frame section 11, which is illustrated as a longitudinally extending elongate beam, but which may also be formed as an elongate frame comprising two or more longitudinally extending beams and two or more transversely extending beams.A draw bar 12 may be connected at a forward portion of the main frame section 11, allowing for the agricultural implement 1 to be connected to a traction vehicle, such as a tractor or the like.A first ground support 14 is illustrated as a pair of front wheels, which may be laterally spaced from each other on either side of the main frame section 11. The first ground support may be steerable, e.g. by means of a link connection to the draw bar. Alternatively, an actuator controllable steering mechanism may be provided, such as an electrically or hydraulically controllable steering mechanism.Alternatively, the first ground support 14 may be provided by the traction vehicle, whereby the agricultural implement 1 may be partially carried by the traction vehicle, rather than merely towed.A second ground support 15 is illustrated as a pair of rear wheels, which may be laterally spaced from each other on either side of the main frame section. The second ground support may be steerable, e.g. by means of a link connection to the draw bar and / or to the first ground support.Alternatively, an actuator controllable steering mechanism may be provided, such as an electrically or hydraulically controllable steering mechanism. A controllable steering mechanism may be programmable so as to behave differently in different situations. For example, it may exhibit a first behavior in connection with turning on a field, where a very small turning radius may be desirable, and another behavior in connection with driving straight, where it may be desired that the agricultural implement 1 follows a specific path.In alternative embodiments, the ground supports may comprise skids or tracks.In the illustrated example, the agricultural implement 1 comprises a pair of side frame sections 13L, 13R, including a left side frame section 13L and a right side frame section 13R. Each of the side frame sections carries one or more sets of soil working tools, such as, but not limited to, levelling tools, output units (row units, coulters, seed knives, etc.) harrow tines, cultivator tines, compacting tools, or the like.A side frame section may comprise one or more side frame section ground supports, which may take the form of support wheels, packer wheels or rollers. Such ground supports may be arranged on a subframe, which may be supported by the side frame section and which may be adjustable relative to the side frame section, such that tool working depth may be controlled for each side frame section by adjusting a relative position of the side frame section and the side frame section ground support.In the illustrated example, each side frame section 13L, 13R carries a first set of tools 132a in the form of levelling tools, second and third sets of tools 132b, 132c in the form of output units and a fourth set of tools 132d in the form of packer wheels for reconsolidation.It is understood that, while the present disclosure illustrates an agricultural implement 1 which comprises a left side frame section 13L and a right side frame section 13R, the principles illustrated herein can be used also for an agricultural implement 1 having, in addition to the left and right side frame sections 13L, 13R, a short middle section (not shown) and / or having left and right outer side frame sections (figs 3b, 3c), pivotably connected to the respective left and right side frame sections 13L, 13R.In other embodiments, the folded length may instead correspond to the length of the respective side frame section.Longitudinally between the ground supports 14, 15, a space is formed which has a length. This length is greater than the folded length of the frame sections, such that the frame sections can be received longitudinally between the ground supports 14, 15 when they are in the folded state.Hence a transport “pocket” for the side frame sections 13L, 13R is defined by a lateral side of the main frame section 11, a vertical plane that is tangent to a rearmost portion of the front ground support 14 and a vertical plane that is perpendicular to the working direction and tangent to a forwardmost portion of the rear ground support 15. In a direction laterally outwardly, the “pocket” will be limited by the desired transport width. Laterally inwardly, there may be a limitation in that the side frame sections 13L, 13R may collide with each other. Downwardly, the “pocket” is limited by the ground, less some desirable ground clearance, and upwardly, the “pocket” is limited by the relevant transport height.The agricultural implement 1 may further comprise at least one container assembly 18 for the material that is to be distributed. It is understood that two or more containers may also be provided. The container may be connected to a distribution system, which may comprise a fan for providing an airflow, a metering device for injecting the material into the airflow, a conduits for distributing a material-laden airflow and one or more distributor heads for distributing the material-laden airflow to the various output units 132b, 132c.The container may form part of a container assembly 18, which may comprise one or more containers, or one container with two or more container compartments, such that two or more products can be distributed. One or more respective product meters may be connected to each container. In some cases, two or more products may be distributed in by the same distribution system, albeit fed by different product meters. In other embodiments, there may be provided separate distribution systems for different products.The side frame section 13L, 13R may be formed of one or more transversal beams 1311, 1312 and optionally of one or more longitudinal beams 1313, which may connect two or more transversal beams 1311, 1312, if any. When discussing the side frame sections 13L, 13R, it is understood that a side frame section will have a leading portion at its front part, as seen in the working direction Dw and a trailing portion at its rear part.The side frame sections 13L, 13R are foldable about the first pivot joint and second pivot joint relative to the main frame section 11, such that the side frame sections are pivotable about a horizontal geometric pivot axis Ap2, the approximate location of which is indicated in figs 1a and 1b and about a vertical geometric pivot axis Ap1, the approximate location of which is indicated in figs 1a and 1b.In some embodiments, a carriage 17 may be provided as part of the main frame section 11. Such a carriage 17 may form a slide unit, which is movable along a longitudinal direction of the main frame section 11, such that the pivot joints providing the first and section pivot axes Ap1, Ap2, Ap2’ may be movable along the working direction Dw, as will be explained.The horizonal geometric pivot axis Ap2’ may be situated at a leading portion of the side frame section 13L, 13R, as illustrated, or at a trailing portion.The vertical geometric pivot axis Ap1 may be situated at a leading inner (as seen in the width direction) portion of the side frame section 13L, 13R or at a trailing inner portion.A section fold actuator 134, as illustrated in figs. 1a-1 b, is connected between the main frame section 11 and the side frame sections 13L, 13R. The section fold actuator is connected between a first fixing point on the main frame section and a second fixing point on the side frame section 13L, 13R. The second fixing point is positioned laterally outside the first fixing point from the main frame section 11, so that, when the side frame section is in the working state, the section fold actuator 134 is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction Dw.The section fold actuator 134 may be operable between the main frame section 11 and the tool carrying frame section 13L, 13R; 2131 L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R, or the section fold actuator 134 may be operable between a carriage 17 and the side frame section if the implement 1 comprises a carriage 17. The actuator 134 is connected between the main frame section 11, or the carriage 17, as the case may be, and the tool carrying side frame section. The section fold actuator 134 is inclined relative to the working direction Dwwhen the implement 1 is in the working state.The section fold actuator 134 controls a movement of the side frame section 13L, 13R about the second pivot joint between the transport state and the working state, as illustrated in figs. 1b-1c. When the side frame sections 13L, 13R are pivoted about the second pivot axis Ap2, the section fold actuator 134 controls the movement from the position where the side frame sections are positioned with their leading edge along the main frame section 11, still being horizontally oriented in an intermediate position during folding, as seen in fig. 1b, until the side frame sections are folded to be vertically oriented and being in the transport state, as illustrated in fig. 1c.A carriage 17 may be slidably mounted to the main frame section 11, such that the carriage is slidable along a part of the main frame section 11, which extends along the longitudinal direction of the main frame section 11.In the illustrated example, the carriage is slidable between a rear portion of the main frame section 11 and a central portion of the main frame section 11.In other embodiments, the carriage 17 may instead be slidable between a front portion of the main frame section 11 and a central portion of the main frame section 11.The central portion of the main frame section 11 may be a region where the side frame sections are positioned in a working state of the agricultural implement 1. In particular, where the carriage 17 supports a container assembly 18, a center of gravity of the container assembly 18 may be positioned within a horizontal area defined by the side frame section(s) when the agricultural implement 1 is in the working state.The container assembly 18 may be mounted on the carriage 17, such that the container assembly 18 is slidable with the carriage 17.Alternatively, the carriage 17 and the container assembly 18, if any, may be movably supported by the main frame section 11, such as by means of a parallel linkage arrangement (not shown), which may allow the carriage 17 and the container assembly 18, if any, to be shifted between two spaced apart positions along the working direction Dw.The container assembly 18 may have a width which is about 80-100 %, preferably about 90-100 %, of a maximum width of the agricultural implement 1 in the transport state.A carriage actuator (not shown) may be provided for controlling the longitudinal position of the carriage 17 relative to the main frame section 11. A carriage actuator may be provided as a linear actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder, or an electric actuator, e.g. of a leadscrew type, screw jack type or ball screw type, or of a rack and pinion type.The side frame sections 13L, 13R are mounted to the carriage 17, such that a first pivot joint provides the horizonal geometric pivot axis Ap2 between the carriage 17 and the side frame section 13L, 13R.The side frame sections 13L, 13R are also mounted to the carriage 17, such that a second pivot joint provides the vertical geometric pivot axis Ap1 between the carriage 17 and the side frame section 13L, 13R.The pivoting of the side frame sections 13L, 13R may be controlled by actuators, such as the section fold actuator 134, which may be operable between the carriage 17 and the side frame section 13L, 13R, as illustrated in figs 1a-1c. In particular, the section fold actuator 134 may be operable between the carriage 17 and an inner edge portion of the frame section 13L, 13R, in order to provide pivoting about the horizonal geometric pivot axis Ap2.Optionally, a section adjustment actuator 133 may also be operable between the main frame section 11, or the carriage 17, as the case may be, and the side frame section 13L, 13R. If the implement does not comprise a carriage, the section adjustment actuator 133 may be operable between a third fixing point 1331 on the main frame section 11 and a fourth fixing point 1332 on the side frame section. The section adjustment actuator 133 may be operable between the carriage 17 and a portion of the side frame section which is spaced from the inner edge portion of the frame section 13L, 13R, in order to adjust frame section force and / or orientation about the second horizontal geometric pivot axis Ap2’. The section adjustment actuators 133 will thus engage the side frame section laterally outside a portion at which the section fold actuator 134 engages the side frame section.The section adjustment actuators 133 will not provide any lifting force at all in connection with the folding of the side frame sections about the second horizontal pivot axis Ap2. To this end, the section adjustment actuators 133 may be freely movable during the folding operation. Optionally, at most, the section adjustment actuators 133 may provide less than about 30 % of the required lifting force, preferably less than 20 %, less than 10 %, less than 5 % or less than 1 %.In some embodiments, the section adjustment actuator 133 may be configured to operate between a pair of frame sections which are connected by a pivot joint, such that an operating angle between the frame sections can be controlled.The adjustment actuator 133 may optionally also be operable to assist in lifting the side frame sections from ground so as to facilitate the pivoting about the first pivot axis Ap1. Alternatively, the adjustment actuator 133 and the section fold actuator 134 may cooperate in lifting the side frame section from ground in anticipation of, or in connection with, the pivoting about the first pivot axis Ap1.A guide member 135, such as a strut may be provided to operate between the main frame section 11 and the respective side frame section 13L, 13R. The guide member 135 may be connected to the main frame section 11 and the side frame section 13L, 13R by ball joints, or the like, so as to maintain a predetermined distance between a point on the main frame section 11 and a point on the side frame section 13L, 13R.It is understood that other types of guide members may be used, such as guide members which may be telescopic or foldable collapsible. It is also possible to use a linear actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder, as guide member.In the illustrated example, the guide members 135 are connected to the main frame section 11 at a position forwardly of the side frame sections 13L, 13R and extend to a leading portion of the respective side frame section 13L, 13R.Referring to figs 1a-1c, there is illustrated a folding operation of the agricultural implement 1 for transforming the agricultural implement 1 from a working state to a transport state.The folding operation may begin by taking the tools out of engagement with the ground. Rolling tools, such as packer wheels, or the like, may be left in contact with the ground.While it is understood that the carriage 17 is optional, such that all parts which are arranged on the carriage 17 may instead be fixedly arranged relative to the main frame section 11.In the following, the folding operation is described with reference to an embodiment including a carriage 17. Hence, in any embodiment not involving any carriage, reference to a movement of the carriage is to be disregarded.A first folding step comprises moving the carriage 17, if any, rearwardly while allowing the side frame sections to pivot about their respective vertical geometric pivot axis Ap1 and while allowing the guide members 135 to guide the movement such that the leading edge of the side frame sections 13L, 13R will come to face inwardly towards the main frame section 11, as illustrated in fig. 1b.A second folding step comprises operating the section fold actuators 134 to fold pivot the side frame sections 13L, 13R about their respective horizontal geometric pivot axis Ap2, such that the side frame sections 13L-13R will become essentially vertically oriented.As mentioned, in this step, the adjustment actuator 133, if any, may be freely movable, or provide a minor folding force.An unfolding sequence for transforming the agricultural implement 1 from a transport state to a working state may be carried out by taking the steps of the folding operation in reverse order.In fig. 1c, the agricultural implement 1 is in the state were the side frame sections 13L, 13R are oriented essentially vertically, received longitudinally between the ground supports 14, 15 and arranged so that a leading edge of the respective side frame section 13L, 13R faces downwardly.In a first unfolding step, the section fold actuators 134 are operated so as to pivot the side frame sections 13L, 13R about their respective horizonal geometric pivot axes Ap2 until the frame sections are essentially horizontally oriented as illustrated in fig. 1b.In a second unfolding step, the carriage 17 is displaced forwardly along the main frame section 11, thus moving the vertical geometric pivot axis Ap1 forwardly, while the guide members 135, which maintain a predetermined distance between the main frame section 11 and a point along the leading edge of the respective side frame section 13L, 13R, cause the side frame sections 13L, 13R to pivot while they are horizontally oriented, until they arrive at the configuration illustrated in fig. 1a.Alternatively, in particular where there is no carriage 17, or additionally, the guide members 135 may be replaced by actuators which can provide for the folding about the first pivot axis Ap1, or which may assist in such folding where there is also a carriage 17.The second unfolding step may be facilitated by causing the tools supported by the respective side frame section 13L, 13R to be out of engagement with the ground during the second unfolding step.The rear ground support 15 may comprise a rear support frame (not shown), which may be pivotably connected to the main frame section 11, so as to allow a relative height between the rear ground support 15 and the main frame section 11 to be adjusted. For example, it may be desirable to lift the rear ground support out of engagement with the ground, in particular on a harrow / cultivator version of the present concept.It may also be desirable to be able to lift the rear ground support out of engagement with the ground on a seeder and / or a planter in order to reduce wheel tracks. Moreover, it may be desirable to be able to press the rear ground support downwardly, e.g. in connection with folding the side frame section 113L, 113R.Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the agricultural implement as seen from above.The section fold actuator 134 is connected, so as to be operable, between the main frame section 11 and the side frame sections 13L, 13R.The second fixing point 1342 is positioned laterally outside of the first fixing point 1341 from the main frame section 11, so that, when the side frame section is in the working state, the section fold actuator 134 is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction Dw. Hence, the section fold actuator 134, when seen in projection on the horizontal plane, presents an angle, and is inclined relative to the working direction. The angle may be about 5-10°, about 10-15°, about 15-20°, about 20-25°, about 25-30°, about 30-35°, about 35-40°, about 40-45°, about 45-50°, about 50-55° or about 55-60°.Further, when being in the working state, the section fold actuator controls a movement of the side frame section 13L, 13R by transferring a load between the first fixing point 1341 on the main frame section 11 and the second fixing point 1342 on the side frame section. In an embodiment were the agricultural implement 1 comprises a carriage 17, the load is transferred from the main frame section 11 and the carriage 17 to the side frame sections. When the agricultural implement 1 travels across a ground to be worked, the ground may give rise to a force applied to the side frame section in an upwards direction. Since the tools on the side frame section are intended to work the ground at a certain depth or with a certain pressure, a transferring of a load to the side frame sections are needed. Conventionally, a separate load actuator works in between a main frame section and a tool carrying frame to transfer a load to the tool carrying frame. By the second fixing point 1342 being positioned at laterally outwardly relative to the main frame section 11 compared to the first fixing point 1341, the inclination as described above is achieved. Thereby, the section fold actuator 134 may transfer a load to the side frame sections in order to achieve a good working position for the side frame sections 13L, 13R. Thereby, the adjustment actuator 133 is not necessary for the implement 1, to achieve the desired load on the side frame sections. However, the implement 1 may have the adjustment actuator 133, as illustrated in the embodiment of fig. 2.Fig. 3a-3d schematically illustrate various frame configurations to which the present concept can be applied.The agricultural implement 1 illustrated in figs. 3a and 3d comprises side frame sections 13L, 13R, and their functionality is further described above in connection to figs. 1-2.As illustrated in figs. 3b-3c, the agricultural implement 1 may comprise two side frame sections 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R on each side of the main frame section 11. The agricultural implement 1 may comprise, as illustrated in fig. 3b, a section fold actuator 134 connected to a laterally inner frame section 2131L, 2131R. The section fold actuator 134 may transfer a load from the main frame section 11 to the side frame sections 2131L, 2131R, which may be connected to laterally outer frame sections 2132L, 2132R such that the load is transferred also to the laterally outer frame sections.As illustrated in fig. 3c, the agricultural implement 1 may further comprise an adjustment actuator 133 coupled to the laterally outer side frame sections 2132L, 2132R. In this embodiment, the section fold actuator 134 controls the transfer of a load to the laterally inner side frame sections 2131L, 2131R, and the adjustment actuator 133 controls the transfer of a load to the laterally outer side frame sections 2132L, 2132R.Regarding features not described in connection to figs. 3a-3d, the description above in connection to the embodiments described equally applies to the embodiments of figs. 3a-3d.

Claims

1. An agricultural implement (1), comprising:a main frame section (11) extending along a working direction (Dw) of the agricultural implement (1), andat least one tool carrying side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R), which is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) between a working state and a transport state,a first pivot joint, about which the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) about at least one first geometric pivot axis (Ap1) which is vertical,a second pivot joint, about which the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is pivotable about at least one second geometric pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’) which is horizontal, anda section fold actuator (134), which is configured for controlling a movement of the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) about the second pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’) between the transport state and the working state,characterized in thatwhen the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is in the working state, the section fold actuator (134) is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction (Dw).

2. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the section fold actuator (134) is configured to provide a pressure to the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the working state.

3. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the section fold actuator (134), in said horizontal plane, presents an angle to the working direction, which angle is about 5-60°, preferably about 20-50° or about 30-45°.

4. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second geometric pivot axis (Ap2’) extends substantially transversely of the working direction (Dw) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the working state, andwherein the second geometric pivot axis (Ap2) extends substantially parallel with the working direction (Dw) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the transport state.

5. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the main frame section (11) further comprises a carriage (17) which is movably supported by the main frame section (11) and which is movable between first and second longitudinally spaced apart positions along the main frame section (11), wherein said first and second pivot joints connect the side frame section to the carriage (17).

6. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 5, wherein said first and second pivot joints connect the side frame section (13L, 13R; 113L, 113R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) to the carriage (17).

7. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the carriage (17) is slidably supported by a part of the main frame section (11), which extends along the working direction.

8. The agricultural implement (1) according to any one of claims 5-7, wherein the carriage (17) is at a longitudinal end of the main frame section (11) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the transport state and at a middle section of the main frame section (11) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the working state.

9. The agricultural implement (1) according to any one of claims 5-8, further comprising a container assembly (18) for a product that is to be distributed by the agricultural implement (1), said container assembly (18) being supported by the carriage (17), such that the container assembly (18) is movable with the carriage (17) along the main frame section (11).

10. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a guide member (135), which is pivotably connected to the main frame section (11) and to the frame section (13L, 13R; 113L, 113R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) for controlling a relative movement between the main frame section (11) and the side frame section (13L, 13R).

11. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the side frame section comprises a laterally inner side frame section (2131L, 2131R) which is pivotably connected to a laterally outer side frame section (2132L, 2132R).

12. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the section fold actuator (134) is configured to operate between a first fixing point (1341) on the main frame section (11), and a second fixing point (1342) on the tool carrying side frame section, wherein the second fixing point (1342) is positioned laterally outwardly of the first fixing point (1341).

13. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 12, further comprising at least one adjustment actuator (133), which is operable between a third fixing point (1331) on the main frame section (11) and a fourth fixing point (1332) on the side frame section, wherein the fourth fixing point (1332) is arranged laterally outside of the second fixing point (1342).

14. The agricultural implement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the agricultural implement (1) further comprises at least one first ground support (14), such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a front ground support, andat least one second ground support (15), such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a rear ground support,wherein the first and second ground supports (14, 15) are longitudinally spaced apart such that the side frame section (13L, 13R; 113L, 113R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is receivable longitudinally between said first and second ground supports (14, 15) when the agricultural implement (1) is in the transport state.

15. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 14, wherein the first ground support (14) comprises at least one pair of wheels, preferably with a steering arrangement, and / orwherein the second ground support (15) comprises at least one pair of wheels.

16. The agricultural implement (1) according to claim 15, wherein at least one of said pairs of wheels comprises coaxially arranged wheels, which are laterally spaced from each other, preferably by a distance which is greater than a wheel width.

17. An agricultural equipment comprising a traction vehicle and an agricultural implement as claimed in any one of claims 1 -13,wherein the traction vehicle provides at least one first ground support, such as one or more wheels or tracks, andwherein the agricultural implement (1) comprises at least one second ground support (15), such as one or more wheels or tracks, in particular a rear ground support,wherein the first and second ground supports are longitudinally spaced apart such that the frame section (13L, 13R; 113L, 113R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is receivable longitudinally between said first and second ground supports when the agricultural implement (1) is in the transport state.

18. A method for controlling an agricultural implement (1), which comprises:a main frame section (11) extending along a working direction (Dw) of the agricultural implement (1),at least one tool carrying side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R), which is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) between a working state and a transport state,a first pivot joint, about which the frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is foldable relative to the main frame section (11) about at least one first geometric pivot axis (Ap1) which is substantially vertical, anda second pivot joint, about which the frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is pivotable about at least one second geometric pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’) which is substantially horizontal,the method comprising:controlling a movement of the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) by transferring a load between a first fixing point (1341) on the main frame section (11) and a second fixing point (1342) on the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R),wherein the second fixing point (1342) is positioned laterally outside the first fixing point (1341) from the main frame section (11).

19. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the agricultural implement further comprises a section fold actuator (134) for controlling the movement of the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) about the second geometric pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’), andwherein the section fold actuator (134) is operable between the first fixing point (1341) and the second fixing point (1342) in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction (Dw).

20. The method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising using the section fold actuator (134) to apply pressure to the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) while the agricultural implement (1) is in the working state, and in particular when the agricultural implement (1) travels over ground to be worked by the agricultural implement (1).

21. A method of folding an agricultural implement (1) from a working state to a transport state, wherein the agricultural implement (1) comprises:a main frame section (11),at least one side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) carrying a plurality of soil working tools,wherein the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) is pivotably connected to the main frame section (11), such that the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is foldable between the working state and the transport state,wherein, in the working state, the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) presents a front edge which extends generally transversely of a working direction of the agricultural implement (1),the method comprising:while the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) is generally horizontally oriented, pivoting the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) relative to the main frame section (11) about a first pivot axis (Ap1), which is vertical, such that the front edge of the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) becomes parallel with the working direction (Dw) of the agricultural implement (1), subsequently, pivoting the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) relative to the main frame section (11) about a second pivot axis (Ap2), which is horizontal and which extends parallel with the working direction (Dw), such that the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) becomes generally vertically oriented,wherein said pivoting the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) relative to the main frame section (11) about the second pivot axis (Ap2) is achieved by application of a force by a section fold actuator (134), which is operable between a first fixing point (1341) on the main frame section (11) and a second fixing point (1342) on the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131 L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R),characterized in thatthe second fixing point (1342) is positioned laterally outside the first fixing point (1341), such that the section fold actuator (134) is operable in a direction, which, when projected on a horizontal plane is non-parallel with the working direction (Dw).

22. The method as claimed in claim 20, further comprising: while pivoting the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131 R; 2132L, 2132R) about the first pivot axis (Ap1), maintaining a fixed distance between a point on the main frame section (11) which is spaced from the first pivot axis and a point on the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R), which is spaced from the first pivot axis (Ap1) in a direction along the second pivot axis (Ap2, Ap2’).

23. The method as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein the agricultural implement (1) further comprises a carriage (17) which is movably supported by the main frame section (11) and which is connected to the side frame section by the first and second pivot joints,the method further comprising:while pivoting the side frame section (13L, 13R; 2131L, 2131R; 2132L, 2132R) about the first pivot axis (Ap1), moving the carriage (17) from a first position to a second position along the main frame section (11), wherein the first position and the second position are longitudinally spaced apart positions along the main frame section (11).