Innovation in seed level adjustment cover

Abstract

The invention relates to the seed level adjustment cover mechanism in pneumatic sowing machines used in the agricultural sector, wherein the seed level cover (3,4,5) located on the seed dispenser body (1) adjusts the seed housing opening (27) at the desired distance in a stepped manner with a single mechanism, without sliding the level covers (3,4,5) out of the holes on the body, and without removing or replacing the cover.

Description

[0001] INNOVATION IN SEED LEVEL ADJUSTMENT COVER

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention generally relates to improvements in the seed level adjustment cover mechanism located within the vacuum-operated seed dispensing mechanism of pneumatic sowing machines used in the agricultural sector.

[0004] More particularly, the invention concerns a new seed level adjustment cover mechanism that allows easy and practical adjustment of the seed housing opening in steps so that seeds can be sown one by one at appropriate intervals along the row during sowing, thereby increasing product quality and yield, while saving time and reducing costs.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] In the known art, pneumatic sowing machines capable of precisely sowing seeds one by one at desired intervals in each row have been developed for row sowing in fields. By means of these pneumatic precision sowing machines, farmers can sow their products with lower time and cost, achieving better product quality and yield. Due to orderly and precise sowing, the amount of seed used is reduced, and labour requirements decrease.

[0007] In sowing machines, sowing quality and precision are of critical importance. The main factors determining sowing quality include sowing the seeds individually at suitable depths and appropriate intervals along the row. During sowing, seeds in the sowing units adhere to the holes on the sowing discs by vacuum effect. For seeds to be sown individually, each hole on the disc must contain a single seed. When seeds are poured from the hopper into the seed dispenser body, the seed housing opening should be adjusted according to the seed size. This adjustment is made using the seed level cover and is important for ensuring a regular seed flow.

[0008] If the seed level cover is closed more than necessary, an insufficient number of seeds will be present in the seed housing. This causes the holes on the disc to remain empty, resulting in missing seeds during sowing. If the seed level cover is opened more than necessary, excess seeds flow into the seed housing. This leads to seed congestion and causes the seed dispensing disc to rotate with difficulty. When seeds become congested, soft-textured seeds get damaged, and coated seeds may have their coatings broken. Damaged seeds either fail to germinate or grow weakly, thereby reducing plant yield. Broken coatings cause clogging of the seed dispensing disc holes, preventing sowing. Additionally, seed congestion damages the agitator tines located above the seed dispensing disc. The seed dispensing disc is damaged, leading to damage to the seed dispensing body. As a result, this situation reduces yield, decreases farmers' profits, and increases costs. Moreover, it prevents sowing from being carried out correctly and properly. Figure 2 shows the appearance of two different seed dispensing discs.

[0009] When sowing with a pneumatic sowing machine, at the row ends, the machine equipment is lifted from behind the tractor for turning. Excess seeds in the seed housing spill from the seed dispenser body during lifting. This causes seed loss.

[0010] In conclusion, for accurate sowing, neither fewer nor more seeds than required should be present in the seed housing. Sufficient seed flow must be ensured. Companies specify seed housing openings according to seed size in their user manuals. However, since seeds vary, it is important for farmers to check their sowing and adjust the housing opening accordingly.

[0011] In the prior art, the seed housing opening is adjusted by our company using three different seed level covers according to the size and flowability of the seed. Seed level covers of different sizes are mounted inside the seed dispenser body using fastening elements. If the fastening elements are tightened loosely, the covers may fall off; if overtightened, fastening elements may break or strip. Figure 3 shows the appearance of the seed level covers (3, 4, 5) and fastening elements (6) unmounted in the empty seed dispenser body (1.1 ).

[0012] The seed level cover named C1 by our company, used for adjusting the seed housing opening, has three different adjustment holes at its top part and one fixed hole at its bottom part. The C1 seed level cover is loosely mounted to the seed dispenser body through its fixed hole using a fastening element. One of the three adjustment holes suitable for the seed to be sown is selected, and the cover is mounted to the seed dispenser body. If it is desired to change the adjustment hole, the fastening element is removed and the fastening element in the fixed hole is loosened. The C1 seed level cover is then mounted in another adjustment hole. If the C1 seed level cover used is not suitable for the seed to be sown, all fastening elements are removed, and one of the other two covers specified in the user manual is mounted using the fastening elements.

[0013] When adjusting the seed housing opening, either the seed level cover itself or its position must be changed in all sowing units. For each unit’s adjustment, the operator must empty the seeds from the hopper. This causes a loss of time for the farmer.

[0014] Additionally, in pneumatic seeders, the inspection cover on the seed dispenser body allows control of the inner part of the seed dispenser body. The seed dispensing action of the disc, the amount of seed in the dispenser body, and seed flow are observed. If clogging occurs or any malfunction arises, the inspection cover helps detect these problems without emptying the seed hopper. Inspection covers should be both functional and user-friendly in design, facilitating necessary adjustment and inspection procedures.

[0015] In the known art, inspection covers of our company and other companies are mounted to the seed dispenser body from the hole at the bottom part using fastening elements and a spring. At the top part, there is a pin to lock the cover. It is opened downwards to observe the inside of the seed dispenser body.

[0016] However, in the current design, when the inspection cover is opened, it does not provide full clearance due to the previous design. It restricts viewing and obstructs adjustment of the new seed level adjustment cover mechanism. This problem created the need to design a new inspection cover. For making adjustments, a sliding inspection cover that opens completely by sliding sideways was designed. Figure 8 shows the opened view of the previous technical inspection cover (29).

[0017] As a result, with the existing system, seed level adjustment cannot be performed easily. This situation causes the operator using the machine to spend more time and effort. The existence of the above problems and the inadequacy of current solutions made it necessary to develop an improvement in the relevant technical field. Aims of the Invention

[0018] The present invention relates to a seed level adjustment cover mechanism that meets the above-mentioned requirements, eliminates disadvantages, and provides additional advantages.

[0019] The main aim of the invention is to adjust the seed housing opening without sliding seed level covers out of the holes on the seed dispenser body and without removing or replacing the cover.

[0020] Another aim of the invention is to enable easy and practical adjustment of the seed housing opening with the seed level adjustment cover mechanism.

[0021] Another aim of the invention is to save time and labour by allowing the same seed housing opening to be easily adjusted for each unit from above the seed dispenser body.

[0022] Another aim of the invention is to increase product quality and yield by enabling precise sowing in rows with the seed level adjustment cover mechanism.

[0023] Another aim of the invention is to design a new inspection cover since the existing one obstructs adjustment of the new seed level adjustment cover mechanism. A sliding inspection cover that opens completely by sliding sideways was designed to allow adjustments.

[0024] The structural and characteristic features and all advantages of the invention will be understood more clearly with the detailed description given below with reference to the accompanying figures, and therefore, evaluation should be made by considering these figures and the detailed description.

[0025] Brief Description of Drawings

[0026] For the best understanding of the structure of the present invention and its advantages together with additional elements, it should be evaluated together with the figures described below.

[0027] Figure 1 - Perspective view of the seed dispenser body of the prior art in unassembled state. Figure 2 - View of toothed and pinned seed dispensing discs.

[0028] Figure 3 - Perspective view of the prior art seed level mechanism’s seed level adjustment covers (3,4,5) and fastening elements (6) unassembled on the empty seed dispenser body (1.1 ).

[0029] Figure 4 - Perspective view of the prior art seed level mechanism’s C1 seed level adjustment cover mounted on the empty seed dispenser body.

[0030] Figure 5 - Perspective view of the prior art seed level mechanism’s C2 seed level adjustment cover mounted on the empty seed dispenser body.

[0031] Figure 6 - Perspective view of the prior art seed level mechanism’s C3 seed level adjustment cover mounted on the empty seed dispenser body.

[0032] Figure 7 - View of the inspection cover closed on the seed dispenser body of the prior art.

[0033] Figure 8 - View of the inspection cover opened on the seed dispenser body of the prior art.

[0034] Figure 9 - View of the inspection cover closed on the seed dispenser body of the invention.

[0035] Figure 10 - View of the inspection cover opened on the seed dispenser body of the invention.

[0036] Figure 11 - Perspective view of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention mounted on the empty seed dispenser body.

[0037] Figure 12 - Perspective view of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention unassembled from the empty seed dispenser body.

[0038] Figure 13 - View of the seed level adjustment scale.

[0039] Figure 14 - Perspective view of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention mounted on the seed dispenser body.

[0040] Figure 15 - Detailed view of the first level of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention. Figure 16 - Front view of the seed dispenser body with the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention at the first level.

[0041] Figure 17 - Detailed view of the second level of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention.

[0042] Figure 18 - Front view of the seed dispenser body with the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention at the second level.

[0043] Reference Numerals

[0044] A. Seed Level Adjustment Cover Mechanism

[0045] 1. Seed Dispenser Body of Prior Art

[0046] 1.1 Empty Seed Dispenser Body of Prior Art

[0047] 1.2 Seed Dispenser Body Cover

[0048] 2. Seed Dispenser Body of the Invention

[0049] 2.1. Empty Seed Dispenser Body of the Invention

[0050] 3. Prior Art Seed Level Cover C1

[0051] 4. Prior Art Seed Level Cover C2

[0052] 5. Prior Art Seed Level Cover C3

[0053] 6. Prior Art Seed Level Cover Fastening Elements

[0054] 7. Seed Level Adjustment Cover

[0055] 8. Seed Level Movable Cover

[0056] 9. Pins of Seed Level Movable Cover

[0057] 10. Adjustment Button

[0058] 11. Adjustment Button Connection Pin

[0059] 12.Adjustment Button Spring

[0060] 13. Adjustment Button Washer

[0061] 14. Centring Element 15. Adjustment Button Pin

[0062] 16. Fixing Cover

[0063] 17. Fixing Cover Fastening Elements

[0064] 18. Seed Level Adjustment Scale

[0065] 19. Seed Level Adjustment Scale Fixing Elements

[0066] 20. Inspection Cover

[0067] 21. Inspection Cover Retaining Ring

[0068] 22. Inspection Cover Washer

[0069] 23. Inspection Cover Spring

[0070] 24. Inspection Cover Locking Apparatus

[0071] 25. Inspection Cover Handle

[0072] 26. Inspection Cover Mechanism

[0073] 27. Seed Housing Opening

[0074] 28. Seed Level Adjustment Scale Level Holes

[0075] 29. Prior Art Inspection Cover

[0076] 30. Prior Art Inspection Cover Spring

[0077] 31. Prior Art Inspection Cover Fastening Elements

[0078] 32. Prior Art Inspection Cover Connection Plate

[0079] 33. Prior Art Inspection Cover Connection Plate Fastening Element

[0080] 34. Inner Agitator Assembly

[0081] 35. Seed Scraper

[0082] 36. Upper Inspection Glass

[0083] 37. Seed Dispensing Disc with Teeth (Sowing Disc)

[0084] 37.1. Teeth of Seed Dispensing Disc 38. Seed Dispensing Disc with Pins (Sowing Disc)

[0085] 38.1. Pins of Seed Dispensing Disc

[0086] 39. Sowing Disc Bearing Element

[0087] 40. Seed Protective Plastic

[0088] 41. Outer Agitator Mechanism

[0089] The drawings do not necessarily need to be to scale, and details not required to understand the present invention may have been omitted. Furthermore, elements that are at least substantially identical or at least substantially have identical functions are indicated by the same numeral.

[0090] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0091] In this detailed description, the preferred embodiments of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism located on the seed dispenser body of the invention are explained solely to facilitate better understanding of the subject and without creating any limiting effect.

[0092] Figure 12 shows the unassembled view of the seed level adjustment cover mechanism of the invention. Accordingly, the elements forming the seed level adjustment cover mechanism are:

[0093] • Seed level adjustment scale (18) with holes on it

[0094] • Fixing element (19) to secure this scale to the seed dispenser body (2)

[0095] • An adjustment button (10) that moves on the seed level adjustment scale (18) and, after being brought to the desired setting, is fixed into the scale holes (28)

[0096] • A spring (12) for the pull-push movement of the mentioned button

[0097] • A washer (13) to secure the spring

[0098] • A pin (15) to engage the button into the holes (28)

[0099] • A connection pin (11 ) linking the pin and the button

[0100] • A centring element (14) to centre the pin (15) on the movable cover (8) and to ensure smooth movement

[0101] • Seed level movable cover (8) used to adjust the seed housing opening (27) • Pins (9) on the seed level movable cover (8) that move within channels on the seed dispenser body (2) for stable operation

[0102] • Fixing cover (16) mounted inside the seed dispenser body (2)

[0103] • Fastening elements (17) to secure the fixing cover

[0104] • Inspection cover (20) located on the seed dispenser body (2)

[0105] • Handle (25) to move the inspection cover

[0106] • Locking apparatus (24) with teeth

[0107] • Spring (23) positioned between the inspection cover and the locking apparatus

[0108] • Washer (22) for the movement of the spring, and

[0109] • Retaining ring (21 ) to secure the spring.

[0110] Seeds taken into the seed dispenser body (1 ,2) from the seed hopper via vacuum generated by a fan of the sowing machine are picked up one by one by the holes on the sowing disc (37,38) and dropped into planting pits opened at specific rows and depths on the field. For seeds to be sown individually, each hole on the sowing discs (37,38) must contain a single seed. Therefore, the seed housing opening (27) is adjusted according to the seed.

[0111] To change the seed housing opening (27), the adjustment is made using the seed level adjustment cover (7). For this, the inspection cover mechanism (26) on the seed dispenser body (2) must first be opened. To move the inspection cover mechanism (26), the handle (25) is pulled. When the handle (25) is pulled, it releases, and the inspection cover mechanism (26) can move sideways. When the inspection cover mechanism (26) is opened, the sowing disc (37,38) becomes visible, allowing observation of whether seeds are being dispensed, the seed level in the housing, and how seeds pass through; also, adjustment of the seed level cover is performed.

[0112] On the seed dispenser body (2), there is a seed level adjustment scale (18) with level holes (28) fixed in place. An adjustment button (10) that can engage into the level holes (28) is positioned on this scale (18). The adjustment button (10) moves between the level holes (28). To move the adjustment button (10), it is pulled outward to release. When the adjustment button (10) is released, it slides up and down along the seed level adjustment scale (18).

[0113] The seed level movable cover (8) mounted to the adjustment button (10) moves up and down inside the seed dispenser body (2) together with the adjustment button (10). To widen the seed housing, the cover is moved upwards; to narrow it, it is moved downwards. The adjustment button (10) is brought to the appropriate level hole (28) on the scale (18) for the required setting and engaged. With this process, the adjustment is completed, and the seed level adjustment cover operates according to the specified working principle.

[0114] As stated in Claim 1 , the seed level adjustment scale (18) can be formed in different shapes, with different fastening elements, and with varying numbers of fastening elements.

[0115] As stated in Claim 3, the number of holes on the seed level adjustment scale (15) can be increased or decreased.

[0116] As stated in Claim 6, the seed level movable cover (8) can be formed in different shapes, with different fastening elements, and with varying numbers of fastening elements.

[0117] As stated in Claim 7, the bearing element (9) moving within the channel inside the seed dispenser body (2) for the stable operation of the seed level movable cover (8) may be pin-shaped, square, or rectangular.

[0118] As stated in Claim 8, the fixing cover (16) can be formed in different shapes, with different fastening elements, and with varying numbers of fastening elements.

[0119] As stated in Claim 9, the inspection cover (20) can be formed in different shapes, with different fastening elements, and with varying numbers of fastening elements.

[0120] As stated in Claim 10, the inspection cover locking apparatus with teeth can be formed in different shapes, with different fastening elements, and with varying numbers of fastening elements.

[0121] Additionally, alternative configurations may be used in the seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) of the invention to allow the adjustment button (8) to transition between levels on the seed level adjustment scale (15). For example:

[0122] • Instead of the adjustment button (8), a structure with a tooth can be used, with movement provided by a spring mechanism to make the level adjustment.

[0123] • Movement of the adjustment button (8) can be achieved with a threaded system. • Adjustment can be made with a system where the adjustment button locks into the level holes.

[0124] By means of the invention, the newly designed inspection cover provides greater inspection clearance, field of view, and ease in adjusting the seed level. Moreover, without removing and replacing three different seed level covers and without emptying seeds from the hopper, the seed housing opening can be easily and practically adjusted with a single movable seed level cover. In this way, precise sowing in rows is facilitated, farmers’ work is eased, product quality and yield are increased, and savings in labour, time, and costs are achieved.

[0125] The scope of protection of this application is determined in the claims section and cannot be limited to the examples described above solely for illustrative purposes. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can implement similar configurations using the innovation revealed by the invention and / or apply this configuration to other areas with similar purposes in the relevant field. Therefore, it is also evident that such configurations would lack novelty and especially inventive step over the prior art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. The invention relates to a seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) used in pneumatic sowing machines in the agricultural sector, which adjusts the seed housing opening (27) of the seed dispenser body (2) according to different seed sizes, characterized by comprising:• at least one seed level adjustment scale (18) fixed onto the seed dispenser body (2), having level holes (28) to adjust the seed housing opening (27),• at least one seed level adjustment cover (7) comprising an adjustment button (10) that moves on the seed level adjustment scale (18), transitions between the level holes (28), and is fixed after being brought to the desired setting, thereby adjusting the seed housing opening (27), and• at least one inspection cover mechanism (26) located on the seed dispenser body (2), movable sideways, allowing observation of the seed disc.

2. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising at least two fixing elements (19) for securing the mentioned seed level adjustment scale (18) to the seed dispenser body (2).

3. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising seed level scale holes (28) formed on the mentioned seed level adjustment scale (18), containing at least two holes into which the adjustment button (10) enters to adjust the seed housing opening (27).

4. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 or claim 3, characterized by comprising at least one pin (15) providing the connection of the adjustment button (10) to the seed level adjustment scale holes (28), at least one adjustment button spring (12) enabling the pin to be inserted and removed, at least one washer (13) to fix the spring (12), a connection pin (11 ) linking the adjustment button (10) and the pin (15), and a centring element (14) centring the pin (15) on the movable cover (8) and ensuring smooth movement.

5. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising at least one seed level movable cover (8) within the seed level adjustment cover (7) to adjust the seed housing opening (27).

6. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising at least two bearing elements (9) moving within the channel inside the seed dispenser body (2) to ensure stable operation of the mentioned seed level movable cover (8).

7. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising at least one fixing cover (16) mounted inside the seed dispenser body (2) within the seed level adjustment cover (7), and at least one fastening element (17) for mounting the fixing cover (16) to the seed dispenser body (2).

8. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising at least one inspection cover (20) movable sideways within the mentioned inspection cover mechanism (26).

9. The seed level adjustment cover mechanism (A) according to claim 1 , characterized by comprising, within the mentioned inspection cover mechanism (26), a handle (25) pulled outward to move the inspection cover (20), a locking apparatus (24) with teeth for locking, at least one spring (23) enabling movement of the handle (25), an inspection cover washer (22) for the movement of the inspection cover spring (23), and a retaining ring (21 ) to fix the inspection cover spring (23).

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