Spraying apparatus, trailer sprayer, vehicle-trailer combination, semitrailer sprayer and agricultural vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a spraying apparatus, comprising a collecting tank for receiving a product to be sprayed, a conveying line arrangement for conducting the product from the collecting tank to product-dispensing points, a pump for conveying the product in the conveying line arrangement, an air-conveying device for distributing and / or atomizing the product emerging at the product-dispensing point(s), a control and / or regulating unit for controlling and / or regulating at least one product-dispensing flow and / or an air-conveying rate of the air-conveying device, and a current generator unit which can be mechanically and / or hydraulically connected to a power delivery system of the agricultural vehicle or utility vehicle and which can convert mechanical and / or hydraulic energy obtained from the connected power delivery system into electrical energy. The pump and the air-conveying device can be electrically driven, the current generator unit supplying the pump and the air-conveying device with the respectively required electrical operating energies.

Description

[0001] March 18, 2026

[0002] Spraying equipment, trailer sprayer, combination, semi-trailer sprayer and agricultural vehicle

[0003] State of the art

[0004] The invention relates to a spraying device according to the preamble of claim 1, a trailer sprayer according to claim 17, a combination according to the preamble of claim 20, a semi-mounted sprayer according to claim 21 and an agricultural vehicle according to claim 22.

[0005] European patent EP 3991 557 B1 describes a spraying device for a trailed sprayer in which a shaft mechanically coupled to the power take-off (PTO) shaft of a towing vehicle is connected to a generator to drive the sprayer's pump. This generator, in turn, powers a fan of the sprayer. Thus, the pump speed is directly linked to the PTO speed, and regulating the generator speed is complex and may require a gearbox. Furthermore, the generator's position is limited and must be closely aligned with the pump's position. A mechanical pump drive must also always run, even when less or no flow is required, resulting in wasted energy.

[0006] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties with regard to efficiency, especially with regard to a spraying process and / or with regard to overall energy consumption. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of independent and dependent claims S0647-WO2.

[0007] solved, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0008] Advantages of the invention

[0009] The invention relates to a spraying device for a trailer sprayer, a semi-trailer sprayer or a sprayer that can otherwise be coupled to a commercial vehicle, comprising at least: a collection tank for receiving a product to be sprayed, which is a liquid or a suspension, such as plant protection products, growth regulators, foliar fertilizers, soil improvers, water, antifreeze sprays, etc., a conveying line arrangement for guiding the product from the collection tank to one or more product dispensing points, for example nozzles, at least one pump for conveying the product in (one or more conveying lines) of the conveying line arrangement, preferably in the direction of the product dispensing points, at least one air conveying device for distributing and / or atomizing the product exiting at the product dispensing point(s), a control and / or regulating unit for controlling and / or regulating at least one, in particular by means of the pump and / or by means of at least one pressure regulator, e.g.a pressure regulating valve adjustable product output flow and / or an air delivery rate of the air conveying device, preferably an operating strength of the pump and / or the air conveying device, in particular depending on a sensor signal momentarily detected by a sensor unit, and a power generator unit that can be mechanically and / or hydraulically connected to a power output system of the agricultural vehicle, which is intended to convert mechanical and / or hydraulic energy received from the connected power output system into electrical energy.

[0010] It is proposed that the pump and the air conveying device each be, preferably exclusively, electrically driven / driven, with the power generator unit being provided to at least power the pump and the S0647-WO2

[0011] The air conveying unit is supplied with the necessary electrical operating energy. This advantageously improves efficiency. More precise and / or faster control of the pump and / or air conveying unit can be achieved, allowing for better adaptation to changing spraying requirements. The pump output can be controlled much more precisely and preferably directly by varying the pump drive. For example, the output quantity of the product to be sprayed can be advantageously and flexibly adjusted to the foliage density, distance, plant species, growth stage, etc., of a planting section currently being traversed by the spraying device. This advantageously ensures that an optimal quantity of product is always sprayed, thus optimizing product consumption.In contrast to mechanical or hydraulic systems, electrical control allows for advantageous automatic adjustments to product output, e.g., based on driving speed, environmental conditions, and / or detected plant structures. Furthermore, high energy efficiency can be achieved, particularly through more dynamic power adjustments. Fuel consumption of the agricultural vehicle can be reduced. A more even load distribution of the power take-off (PTO) can be achieved, especially since power generation via the generator can be achieved using a constant PTO torque and / or speed, even if the output of the pump and / or air pump is frequently varied.Furthermore, the flexibility in arranging components of the spraying system, particularly the pump, air delivery unit, and power generator unit, can be advantageously increased, especially since mechanical force flows within the spraying system no longer need to be considered. This can advantageously increase compactness, reduce the complexity of the design, and / or improve weight distribution (S0647-WO2).

[0012] can be improved. A central control and / or regulation unit can be advantageously used to control the pump and air delivery system.

[0013] The spraying device is, in particular, a blower spraying device. The spraying device is specifically designed for applying / spraying the product to be sprayed, especially onto an agricultural product, an agricultural area, and / or a plantation. The spraying device is, in particular, a spraying system for fruit growing, viticulture, arable farming, forestry, landscape maintenance, green space management, horticulture, and / or vegetable cultivation. A trailed sprayer is preferably a towed agricultural spraying device, which is connected to the agricultural vehicle (e.g., tractor, Unimog) in particular via a drawbar or trailer hitch. A semi-mounted sprayer is preferably a spraying device mounted on the agricultural vehicle, which is supported, for example, by the three-point linkage of the agricultural vehicle or on a platform (e.g., a trailer).

[0014] The vehicle's loading platform is mounted there. "Provided for" is understood to mean specifically programmed, designed and / or equipped.

[0015] The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0016] The delivery line assembly can comprise hoses, pipes, channels, etc. The delivery line assembly is fed, in particular, from the collection tank containing the product. Preferably, the spray device has a plurality of product dispensing points. The product dispensing points can, for example, be formed by several nozzles arranged (regularly) around an opening / outlet of the delivery line assembly. In this case, an airflow exiting the outlet of the delivery line assembly would atomize the exiting product and / or discharge it into the vicinity of the spray device, preferably in a directed manner. The pump can be S0647-WO2

[0017] For example, a diaphragm pump or a piston pump. Alternatively, other pumps such as centrifugal pumps, etc., may also be suitable. The air conveying device is preferably a fan or a blower, e.g., a radial blower or an axial blower. Alternatively, the air conveying device could also be a compressor. In particular, the product dispensing points introduce the product into an airflow generated by the air conveying device. Preferably, the product dispensing flow and the airflow rate are independently controllable and / or adjustable, and preferably synchronizable with each other. A "control and / or regulation unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one control electronics unit. A "control electronics unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with a processor and a data memory, as well as an operating program stored in the data memory and executable by the processor.

[0018] Preferably, the components of the control and / or regulating unit are arranged on a common circuit board and / or advantageously in a common housing co-located with the other components of the spraying device. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the control and / or regulating unit is arranged separately from the spraying device, e.g. in the form of an external server or a cloud, and is connected to components of the spraying device via a data connection.

[0019] The power output system of the agricultural vehicle preferably includes an energy output interface for the external transfer of energy, in particular energy generated by an engine of the agricultural vehicle. Preferably, the power output system provides the energy as mechanical energy (rotation) or as hydraulic energy (pressure). The power generator unit preferably includes an energy reception interface compatible with the power output system. The power generator unit can, for example, comprise a synchronous generator (brushless or with brushes), an asynchronous generator, or a permanent magnet generator. The pump and the air delivery device are S0647-WO2.

[0020] Preferably designed without non-electrical (mechanical or hydraulic) energy reception interfaces. Operating energy is, in particular, the energy used to perform a main function of a component, e.g., generating the pumping power of the pump or the delivery rate of the air conveying device. The spraying device is specifically designed to dispense the product simultaneously on two opposite sides. The spraying device is specifically designed to dispense the product in directions perpendicular to a main direction of movement of the spraying device. Alternatively or additionally, the spraying device may be designed to dispense the product vertically downwards.

[0021] Furthermore, a sensor unit with at least one sensor is proposed for the detection, preferably on both sides, of at least one distance, at least one shape, and / or at least one type of object to be sprayed with the product, in particular a plant, as the spraying device passes by. This advantageously enables optimal product dosing. It also advantageously allows for particularly precise control of the pump and the air delivery system. The sensor can be a distance sensor that measures the instantaneous distance of a plant growing to the side of the spraying device, in particular perpendicular to the direction of movement of the spraying device. For example, the distance sensor can be designed to detect the distance of a row of trees, bushes, shrubs, vines, or the like from the spraying device.The sensor can be a plant and / or object detection sensor that detects the plants and / or objects currently arranged in a sensor field of view, in particular oriented perpendicular to a direction of movement of the spraying device, or at least records properties of the plants (e.g. leaf density, leaf color, leaf size, leaf shape, growth height, leaf surface temperature, etc.) and / or objects (object color, object texture, object category, etc.). S0647-WO2.

[0022] For example, the plant and / or object recognition sensor can be designed to detect plant varieties, plant health status, plant growth phases, fruiting bodies, inflorescences, etc. The sensor unit can comprise several sensors, which may be designed, at least partially, to detect the same parameters and / or at least partially to detect different parameters.

[0023] If the sensor is an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a radar sensor, especially an ultra-wideband radar sensor, precise and / or reliable measurements can be advantageously achieved. Data from the optical sensor can be evaluated, for example, by an image recognition algorithm, which can be a specially trained machine learning algorithm. The ultrasonic sensor can be used advantageously at all times of day and under all visibility conditions. The ultra-wideband radar sensor also functions advantageously under all light and visibility conditions, especially even in rain, fog, or dusty conditions. The ultra-wideband radar sensor is advantageously robust against contamination, especially of the sensor's measuring surfaces.

[0024] Furthermore, the ultra-wideband radar sensor can advantageously detect very precise distances, shapes, and densities of objects and / or vegetation. The ultra-wideband radar sensor preferably emits low-power, broadband electromagnetic pulses and receives reflections of these signals from objects such as plants, leaves, or obstacles.

[0025] In particular, precise distance data and / or plant structures can be determined by measuring the travel time of the reflections. The ultra-wideband radar sensor also detects internal plant structures (inner, hidden foliage, e.g., leaf layers and densities) with high precision. The data from the ultra-wideband radar sensor could also be analyzed using a trained machine learning algorithm.

[0026] Furthermore, if the sensor of the sensor unit and / or the control and / or regulating unit are, preferably exclusively, electrically driven, wherein the S0647-WO2

[0027] Since the power generator unit is designed to supply the sensor of the sensor unit and / or the control unit with the required electrical operating energies, a high level of efficiency can advantageously be achieved. The power generator unit can advantageously represent a universal power supply for most, preferably all, components of the spraying system.

[0028] Furthermore, it is proposed that the power output system to which the generator unit can be connected be a power take-off (PTO) shaft of the commercial or agricultural vehicle and / or a hydraulic clutch of the commercial or agricultural vehicle. This allows for the advantageous use of widely available mechanical or hydraulic clutch systems from agricultural machinery. Specifically, the generator unit includes a PTO connection interface and / or a hydraulic clutch connection interface. It is conceivable that the generator unit has both, thus offering flexible deployment options or even dual power supply capabilities. In particular, the electrical interface of typical commercial or agricultural vehicles is not capable of providing the electrical energy required to operate the pump and air delivery system.

[0029] Furthermore, it is proposed that the generator unit include a gearbox, in particular a gear or belt transmission, which is designed to convert, preferably by multiplying, a (constant) PTO speed of the power take-off shaft, in particular a maximum possible PTO speed, into a generator speed of the generator unit, in particular an optimal speed. This advantageously allows for particularly high energy efficiency. In the system from EP 3991 557 B1 and other prior art systems, the PTO shaft cannot be operated at the maximum possible PTO speed (usually around 1000 rpm) because commercially available mechanically driven pumps cannot operate at such high speeds. As a rule, the S0647-WO2

[0030] Systems known from the prior art are therefore driven at PTO speeds significantly below the maximum possible PTO speed, e.g., around 540 rpm. However, commercially available mechanically driven generators are optimized for considerably higher input speeds (3500 rpm to 4500 rpm). The high gear ratios required for this necessitate relatively complex and expensive gearboxes. The present invention allows the PTO shaft to be operated at a significantly higher speed, in particular at the maximum possible speed, thus advantageously enabling the use of considerably lower gear ratios and consequently reducing complexity (simpler gearbox) and costs.

[0031] In particular, the gearbox of the power generator unit is designed / optimized for a gear ratio of approximately 1000 rpm (input side) to approximately 3500 rpm to 4500 rpm (output side).

[0032] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spraying device incorporate a reversible electrical energy storage device, such as a battery or a supercapacitor system, which is designed to be charged with electrical energy by the power generator unit. This advantageously allows for high energy efficiency. In addition, it advantageously allows for high flexibility and / or operational readiness of the spraying device. Specifically, the power generator unit includes a charger for supplying energy to the reversible electrical energy storage device and / or for drawing electrical energy from it.

[0033] If the reversible electrical energy storage device is at least intended to support or temporarily replace the electrical energy supply (directly) provided by the power generator unit in the event of a temporarily increased electrical energy demand or a temporary disconnection, standstill and / or interruption of the power output system, a particularly high operational readiness and / or a particularly trouble-free / uninterrupted operation of the S0647-WO2 spray system can be advantageously achieved.

[0034] This can be guaranteed. Advantageously, peak loads can be absorbed.

[0035] Advantageously, a stable product output can be ensured even without a mechanically coupled pump. Electrical systems of the spraying unit remain functional even during temporary disconnection, standstill, and / or interruption. Furthermore, the reversible electrical energy storage system enables consistent operation, prevents performance drops with variable energy input, and ensures that important processes such as precise control of the spray volume or data recording / product output documentation are not affected.

[0036] Furthermore, it is proposed that the power generator unit be designed to feed excess electrical energy, not currently required for operating the components of the spraying system, into the reversible electrical energy storage device. This advantageously allows for high energy efficiency, particularly without constant load and / or speed changes in the power output system. It also advantageously minimizes wear on the power output system and enables the system to operate with the most constant power output possible.

[0037] Furthermore, it is proposed that the spraying device have an electrical output interface through which electrical energy stored in the reversible electrical energy storage device can be supplied externally, e.g., to operate external electrical devices. This advantageously allows for a high degree of flexibility. It also enables the on-site operation of wired electrical devices. The output interface is, in particular, an electrical plug connection, e.g., a power outlet. External electrical devices can include: power tools, chargers, lighting systems, auxiliary pumps, etc.

[0038] Additionally, it is proposed that the reversible electrical energy storage device be designed, at least in part, to provide stored electrical operating energy for operational tasks of spraying system components that differ from their standard operating tasks during spraying operation. This advantageously allows for a high degree of flexibility and / or user comfort. The standard operating task of the pump is, in particular, pumping the product through the delivery line assembly. The standard operating task of the air conveying unit is, in particular, generating an atomizing airflow. The standard operating task of the sensor is, in particular, detecting plants and / or objects within its field of view. The standard operating task of the power generator unit is, in particular, converting mechanical or hydraulic input energy into electrical energy.

[0039] If the pump's operating task, which differs from its standard function and for which the reversible electrical energy storage device provides stored electrical energy, involves filling or emptying the collection tank with the product from an external source, user convenience can be significantly increased. Advantageously, external auxiliary pumps can be dispensed with. In particular, the pump has a connection device for hoses that can be used to fill the collection tank.

[0040] If, alternatively or additionally, the pump's operating task, which differs from the standard operating task and for which the reversible electrical energy storage unit provides stored electrical operating energy, involves rinsing the collection tank and / or the delivery line assembly, a high degree of user-friendliness can be advantageously achieved. Cleaning effort can be significantly reduced. The spray system can be easily prepared for a wide variety of spraying tasks.

[0041] Furthermore, it is proposed that the reversible electrical energy storage system is at least intended to store electrical operating energy for an S0647-WO2

[0042] The system provides power to electronic components of the spraying device that require a continuous energy supply, such as a permanent data logger, a position tracker, a data communication device, or an environmental sensor. This allows for a high level of user convenience. Advantageously, no additional individual batteries or accumulators are required for the respective components. High operational readiness is achieved. A wide range of functionalities can be provided by the spraying device. In particular, it is conceivable that the reversible energy storage device could be selectively recharged when its charge level falls below a certain threshold.

[0043] Furthermore, if the generator unit is designed to feed excess energy back into the vehicle's electrical system or energy storage system, a particularly high overall energy efficiency can be achieved. For example, the generator unit can feed energy back into the vehicle's electrical system or energy storage system whenever the reversible electrical energy storage device is already fully charged. The energy storage device of the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle can be a 12V battery in the vehicle's electrical system. Alternatively, the energy storage device of the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle can be a traction battery, particularly a high-voltage battery, in a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid.

[0044] Furthermore, it is proposed that the power generator unit be flexibly positioned relative to other components of the spraying system, in particular at least to the collection tank, the delivery line assembly, the pump, the air delivery unit, and / or the control unit. This advantageously allows for a high degree of compactness and / or flexibility. In particular, it enables a flexible arrangement for various agricultural or commercial vehicles. S0647-WO2

[0045] In particular, the flexibly positionable power generator unit is connected / connectable to the rest of the spraying system, especially at least to the pump and the air delivery unit, by means of a cable connection. For example, the power generator unit could be arranged on the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle, while the rest of the spraying system is arranged on a trailer coupled to the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle. This advantageously allows for a simple and / or short connection to a power take-off (PTO) shaft of the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the pump and / or the air delivery unit can be flexibly positioned relative to other components of the spraying system, especially at least to the collection tank, the delivery line assembly, the power generator unit, and / or the control unit.This allows for advantageous high compactness and / or high flexibility. In particular, it enables flexible arrangement for various agricultural or commercial vehicles.

[0046] Furthermore, a trailed sprayer with a spraying device is proposed, comprising a mobile support frame for at least one mounting point for the collection tank, the delivery line assembly including the product dispensing points, the pump, the pneumatic conveying device, and preferably a sensor unit, and additionally comprising at least one trailer coupling to a coupling with a trailer hitch on the towing vehicle. This advantageously avoids excessive strain on the agricultural or commercial vehicle, in particular on the chassis of the agricultural or commercial vehicle, e.g., from the weight of a filled collection tank. Advantageously, ground pressure can be kept low. Advantageously, high compatibility with a wide variety of agricultural or commercial vehicles can be achieved. Advantageously, a large working width can be achieved, which is in particular wider than S0647-WO2.

[0047] Maximum vehicle widths. Larger collection tank capacities can be used to advantage, thus reducing the frequency of refilling.

[0048] If the power generator unit can be separated from the mobile support frame, in particular independently of the rest of the spraying device, and arranged on a towing vehicle that can be coupled to the trailer hitch of the trailer sprayer, in particular on the agricultural vehicle or the commercial vehicle, the aforementioned advantages of the flexible positioning of the power generator unit can be achieved.

[0049] Additionally, it is proposed that the trailed sprayer be trained as a vertical sprayer, a horizontal sprayer, a boom sprayer, or a tunnel sprayer.

[0050] This allows for advantages in product application. A vertical sprayer is a spraying system with vertically oriented nozzles, primarily used in viticulture, fruit growing, and for tall crops to wet plants from the side. A horizontal sprayer is a spraying system with horizontally arranged nozzles, used for low-growing crops such as cereals, vegetables, or lawns. A boom sprayer is a boom sprayer with a wide horizontal spray bar, primarily used in agriculture for the broadcast application of pesticides or fertilizers. A tunnel sprayer is a closed spraying system with recovery that sprays the plant from both sides and collects excess spray to minimize losses and drift. Tunnel sprayers are particularly common in viticulture and fruit growing.

[0051] Furthermore, a combination with a towing vehicle, for example an agricultural tractor or an all-terrain utility vehicle / multi-purpose vehicle, having a trailer coupling on the towing vehicle side and a power take-off shaft and / or a hydraulic coupling, is proposed, wherein the combination is coupled to the trailer coupling of the towing vehicle side and to the power take-off shaft and / or the hydraulic coupling S0647-WO2

[0052] It features a trailed sprayer. This allows, in particular, the aforementioned advantages to be achieved.

[0053] Furthermore, a mounted sprayer with a spraying device is proposed, comprising a support frame for at least one mounting point for the collection tank, the delivery line assembly including the product dispensing points, the pump, the air conveying unit, the power generator unit, and preferably a sensor unit, and additionally comprising at least one vehicle coupling for attachment to a suitable, and in particular specifically designed, platform or three-point linkage of the agricultural vehicle or commercial vehicle. This advantageously allows for a high degree of compactness and / or maneuverability. Furthermore, comparatively lower costs can be achieved.

[0054] Furthermore, an agricultural vehicle, in particular an agricultural tractor, or an all-terrain utility vehicle / multi-purpose vehicle, equipped with a power take-off (PTO) and / or a hydraulic coupling and with a platform or three-point linkage, on or to which a mounted sprayer connected to the PTO and / or hydraulic coupling is temporarily installed, is proposed. This allows for advantageous high compactness and / or maneuverability. The agricultural vehicle could be, for example, a tractor, a Unimog, a pickup truck, etc.

[0055] The spraying device, the trailer sprayer, the combination sprayer, the mounted sprayer, and / or the agricultural vehicle according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the spraying device, the trailer sprayer, the combination sprayer, the mounted sprayer, and / or the agricultural vehicle according to the invention can be used to fulfill a requirement described herein in S0647-WO2.

[0056] The functionality may involve a different number of individual elements, components and units than the number specified herein.

[0057] Drawings

[0058] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0059] They show:

[0060] Fig. 1 schematically shows an exemplary combination with a towing vehicle and a trailer, which forms a trailer sprayer with a spraying device supplied with energy via a power output system of the towing vehicle, and

[0061] Fig. 2 schematically shows an agricultural vehicle with a platform on which a mounted sprayer with the spraying device supplied with energy via a power output system of the agricultural vehicle is mounted.

[0062] Description of the exemplary implementations

[0063] Figure 1 schematically shows an exemplary vehicle combination 50a with a towing vehicle 52a and a trailer 58a. The towing vehicle 52a is configured as an agricultural tractor. Alternatively, the towing vehicle 52a could also be configured as another type of off-road utility vehicle or multi-purpose vehicle. The towing vehicle 52a has a trailer coupling 48a on the towing vehicle side. The towing vehicle 52a has a power output system 30a. The power output system 30a is configured as an example power take-off (PTO) shaft. Alternatively to or in addition to the PTO shaft, the power output system 30a could also be S0647-WO2

[0064] The trailer 58a has a hydraulic coupling. The trailer 58a is designed as a trailed sprayer 10a. In Figure 1, the trailed sprayer 10a is shown by way of example as a vertical sprayer. Alternatively, the trailed sprayer 10a could also be designed as a horizontal sprayer, a boom sprayer, or a tunnel sprayer. The trailed sprayer 10a includes a spraying device 34a. The trailed sprayer 10a includes a support frame 44a. The support frame 44a is mobile. The support frame 44a includes a chassis 60a with at least one axle and at least two wheels. The trailer 58a includes a trailer coupling 46a. The trailer coupling 46a is provided for at least one coupling with the trailer coupling 48a on the towing vehicle side. In the illustration of Figure 1, the trailer coupling 48a on the towing vehicle side is coupled to the trailer coupling 46a of the trailer 58a.In the representation of Figure 1, the power output system 30a of the towing vehicle 52a is coupled to the spraying device 34a, in particular a current generator unit 32a of the spraying device 34a, in a manner capable of energy transfer.

[0065] The spraying device 34a is designed for integration into the trailed sprayer 10a. Alternatively, the spraying device 34a can also be integrated into a semi-mounted sprayer 12b (see Fig. 2) or any other sprayer that can be coupled to an agricultural vehicle 14b or commercial vehicle. The spraying device 34a is a blower sprayer (also called a mist sprayer or atomizing sprayer). The spraying device 34a is a sensor-controlled sprayer, in particular a sensor-controlled blower sprayer. The spraying device 34a is designed to apply a product, such as a plant protection product, a growth regulator, a foliar fertilizer, a soil improver, water, an antifreeze spray, etc., to plants in a crop, e.g., a plantation. The product is a liquid or a suspension.The blower spraying device is designed to distribute the product onto the plants in the form of a fine mist. The spraying device 34a includes a collection tank 16a. The collection tank 16a is separated from the support frame 44a of the S0647-WO2.

[0066] The spraying device 34a includes a delivery line assembly 18a. The delivery line assembly 18a is mounted on the support frame 44a of the spraying device 10a. The spraying device 34a includes several product dispensing points 20a. The product dispensing points 20a are each designed as nozzles. The product dispensing points 20a each include an electrical adjustment device 42a, e.g., an electrically controlled valve, for adjusting the opening state and / or degree of opening of the respective nozzles. The electrical adjustment device 42a is (exclusively) electrically driven. The delivery line assembly 18a is designed to convey the product from the collection tank 16a to the product dispensing points 20a. The delivery line assembly 18a includes a plurality of branches for this purpose.The conveying line arrangement 18a forms an internal product distribution unit.

[0067] The spraying device 34a comprises a pump 22a. The pump 22a is mounted on the frame 44a of the trailed sprayer 10a. The pump 22a is electrically driven (exclusively). The pump 22a is designed to convey the product. The pump 22a is designed to convey the product in the delivery line assembly 18a. The pump 22a is designed to transport the product from the collection tank 16a to the product dispensing points 20a. The spraying device 34a comprises an air conveying device 24a. The air conveying device 24a is mounted on the frame 44a of the trailed sprayer 10a. The air conveying device 24a is electrically driven (exclusively). The air conveying device 24a is designed to distribute and atomize (fog) the product dispensed at the product dispensing points 20a. The air conveying unit 24a is a powerful fan.The air conveying device 24a generates a strong airflow, which is directed via an air duct arrangement 62a to the product dispensing points 20a. The spraying device 34a includes a control and / or regulating unit 26a. The control and / or regulating unit 26a is mounted on the support frame 44a of the trailed sprayer 10a. Alternative S0647-WO2.

[0068] The control and / or regulating unit 26a could also be located at least partially external to the trailer 58a and / or the towing vehicle 52a and be connected to other components of the spraying device 34a via a data link. The control and / or regulating unit 26a is (exclusively) electrically driven. The control and / or regulating unit 26a is intended at least for controlling and / or regulating product dispensing flows exiting the product dispensing points 20a. The control and / or regulating unit 26a is intended for controlling and / or regulating the product dispensing flows from the product dispensing points 20a by means of controlling and / or regulating the pump 22a, in particular the pumping capacity of the pump 22a.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, the control and / or regulating unit 26a is provided for controlling and / or regulating the product output flows of the product output points 20a by adjusting the respective opening states and / or opening degrees of the electrical adjusting devices 42a. The control and / or regulating unit 26a is provided at least for controlling and / or regulating an air flow rate of the air conveying device 24a, in particular by adjusting an air flow rate of the air conveying device 24a.

[0070] The spraying device 34a includes a sensor unit 28a with at least one sensor. The sensor of the sensor unit 28a is designed to detect at least one distance, at least one shape, and / or at least one type of plants to be sprayed with the product as the spraying device 34a passes by the plants. The sensor of the sensor unit 28a is, for example, an optical sensor. Alternatively, the sensor of the sensor unit 28a could be an ultrasonic sensor or a radar sensor, in particular an ultra-wideband radar sensor. It is also conceivable that different sensor types are combined in the sensor unit 28a. The sensor unit 28a is mounted on the support frame 44a of the trailed sprayer 10a. The sensor of the sensor unit 28a is (exclusively) electrically driven. The control unit 26a controls and / or regulates the air conveying device 24a based on a sensor signal currently detected by the sensor unit 28a.TheS0647-WO2.

[0071] The control and / or regulating unit 26a controls and / or regulates the pump 22a depending on a sensor signal currently detected by the sensor unit 28a. The control and / or regulating unit 26a controls and / or regulates the electrical setting device 42a, in particular the opening states and / or opening degrees of the product dispensing points 20a, each depending on a sensor signal currently detected by the sensor unit 28a.

[0072] The spraying device 34a includes the generator unit 32a. The generator unit 32a can be mechanically and / or hydraulically connected to the power output system 30a of the agricultural vehicle 14a. The generator unit 32a is designed to convert mechanical and / or hydraulic energy received from the connected power output system 30a into electrical energy. The generator unit 32a, shown by way of example in Figure 1, can be connected to the power take-off (PTO) shaft of the towing vehicle 52a. The generator unit 32a, shown by way of example in Figure 1, is designed to convert the mechanical energy received from the PTO shaft into electrical energy. The generator unit 32a includes a transmission 68a. The transmission 68a can be designed as a gear transmission or as a belt transmission.The gearbox 68a is designed to convert / translate the power take-off (PTO) speed into an optimal generator speed of the generator unit 32a. The generator unit 32a is designed to supply the pump 22a with the required electrical operating energy. The generator unit 32a is designed to supply the air conveying unit 24a with the required electrical operating energy. The generator unit 32a is designed to supply the control unit 26a with the required electrical operating energy. The generator unit 32a is designed to supply the sensor unit 28a with the required electrical operating energy. The generator unit 32a is designed to supply the electrical adjustment device 42a with the required electrical operating energy.The power generator unit 32a is shown mounted on the support frame 44a of the trailer sprayer 10a. However, the power generator unit 32a can be flexibly positioned relative to the other components of the spraying system 34a, in particular at least to the collection tank 16a, the delivery line assembly 18a, the pump 22a, and / or the air delivery unit 24a. Depending on space requirements, preferences, and / or the configuration of the vehicle combination 50a, the power generator unit 32a could alternatively also be mounted on the towing vehicle 52a. The power generator unit 32a can be detached from the mobile support frame 44a and attached to the towing vehicle 52a, which can be coupled to the trailer hitch 46a of the trailer sprayer 10a.

[0073] The spraying device 34a includes a reversible electrical energy storage device 36a. The reversible electrical energy storage device 36a is designed as an accumulator. The reversible electrical energy storage device 36a is intended to be charged with electrical energy by the power generator unit 32a. The spraying device 34a includes a charger 64a for charging and / or discharging the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a. The charger 64a is mounted on the support frame 44a. The power generator unit 32a is intended to feed excess electrical energy, not currently required for the operation of the components of the spraying device 34a, into the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a.The power generator unit 32a can also be designed to feed excess energy back into the vehicle electrical system of the towing vehicle 52a or into an energy storage device 66a of the towing vehicle 52a, particularly when the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a of the spraying unit 34a is already fully charged. The spraying unit 34a has an electrical output interface 38a. The electrical output interface 38a is designed to output electrical energy stored in the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a to an external source. The electrical output interface 38a is designed to output electrical energy stored in the S0647-WO2.

[0074] reversible electrical energy storage 36a is stored to provide for the operation of external electrical devices.

[0075] The reversible electrical energy storage device 36a is designed, at least, to support or temporarily replace the electrical energy supply provided by the power generator unit 32a in the event of a temporarily increased electrical energy demand or a temporary disconnection, standstill, and / or interruption of the power output system 30a. The reversible electrical energy storage device 36a is designed to provide stored electrical operating energy for operational tasks of components of the spraying device 34a that differ from their standard operational tasks during (normal) spraying operation. One of the operational tasks of the pump 22a that differs from the standard operational task and for which the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a provides stored electrical operating energy is filling or emptying the collection tank 16a with the product from an external source.One operating task of the pump 22a, different from the standard operating task, for which the reversible electrical energy storage device 36a provides stored electrical operating energy, is the flushing of the collection tank 16a and / or the delivery line assembly 18a. The spray device 34a also includes at least one further electronic unit 40a. The electronic unit 40a is mounted on the support frame 44a. The electronic unit 40a is (exclusively) electrically driven. The electronic unit 40a must be continuously supplied with electrical energy for proper function. In normal operation, the electronic unit 40a is supplied with electrical operating energy by the power generator unit 32a. The electronic unit 40a can be configured with a permanent data logger, a position tracker, a data communication device, an environmental sensor, etc.The reversible electrical energy storage device 36a is designed to provide stored electrical operating energy for the supply of the electronic units 40a. S0647-WO2.

[0076] Figure 2 shows another embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby, with regard to identically designated components, particularly those with the same reference numerals, reference may also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiment, especially Figure 1. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter "a" is appended to the reference numerals of the embodiment in Figure 1. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the letter "a" is replaced by the letter "b".

[0077] Figure 2 schematically shows an agricultural vehicle 14b without a trailer. The agricultural vehicle 14b is designed as an agricultural tractor. The agricultural vehicle 14b has a power output system 30b. The power output system 30b is, by way of example, designed as a power take-off (PTO) shaft. The agricultural vehicle 14b has a platform 56b. Alternatively or additionally, the agricultural vehicle 14b can have a three-point linkage (not shown, but known to those skilled in the art). The agricultural vehicle 14b has a mounted sprayer 12b. The mounted sprayer 12b is coupled to the power output system 30b, in particular to the PTO shaft. The mounted sprayer 12b is installed on the platform 56b, in particular temporarily and detachably. The mounted sprayer 12b includes a vehicle coupling 54b.The vehicle coupling 54b is intended for the, in particular temporary and detachable, attachment of the semi-mounted sprayer 12b to the platform 56b (and / or the three-point linkage) of the agricultural vehicle 14b.

[0078] The mounted sprayer 12b includes a spraying device 34b. The spraying device 34b comprises the components already described in connection with the spraying device 34a of the trailed sprayer 10a. The mounted sprayer 12b with the spraying device 34b therefore includes at least one S0647-WO2

[0079] The support frame 44b is designed to accommodate at least one collection tank 16b, one conveying line assembly 18b including product dispensing points 20b, one pump 22b, one air conveying device 24b, one power generator unit 32b, and one sensor unit 28b. For details and functions, please refer to the explanations accompanying Fig. 1. Reference numerals

[0080] 10 trailer sprayers

[0081] 12 saddle sprayers

[0082] 14 Agricultural vehicle 16 Collection tank

[0083] 18 Conveyor line arrangement

[0084] 20 Product Dispensing Point

[0085] 22 Pump

[0086] 24 Air conveyor

[0087] 26 Control and / or regulating unit 28 Sensor unit

[0088] 30 Power Delivery System

[0089] 32 Power generator unit

[0090] 34 Spray device

[0091] 36 Energy storage

[0092] 38 Electrical output interface 40 Electronic unit

[0093] 42 Electrical adjustment device 44 Carrying frame

[0094] 46 Trailer hitch

[0095] 48 Trailer hitch

[0096] 50 team

[0097] 52 Towing vehicle

[0098] 54 Vehicle coupling

[0099] 56 platform

[0100] 58 trailers

[0101] 60 chassis

[0102] 62 Air duct arrangement

[0103] 64 charger

[0104] 66 Energy storage 68 Gearbox

Claims

S0647-WO2 March 18, 2026 Claims 1. Spraying device (34a-b) for a trailed sprayer (10a), a semi-mounted sprayer (12b) or a sprayer otherwise capable of being coupled to an agricultural vehicle (14a-b) or commercial vehicle, comprising at least: a collection tank (16a-b) for receiving a product to be sprayed, which is a liquid or a suspension, such as plant protection products, growth regulators, foliar fertilizers, soil improvers, water, antifreeze sprays, etc., a conveying line arrangement (18a-b) for guiding the product from the collection tank (16a-b) to one or more product dispensing points^) (20a-b), for example nozzles, at least one pump (22a-b) for conveying the product in the conveying line arrangement (18a-b), at least one air conveying device (24a-b) for distributing and / or atomizing the product dispensing at the product dispensing point(s) (20a-b), a control and / or regulation unit (26a-b) for controlling and / or regulating at least one product output stream, in particular emerging from the product output points (20a-b), and / or an air flow rate of the air conveying device (24a-b), in particular depending on a sensor signal momentarily detected by a sensor unit (28a-b), and a power generator unit (32a-b) that can be mechanically and / or hydraulically connected to a power output system (30a-b) of the agricultural vehicle (14a-b) or commercial vehicle, which is designed for this purpose S0647-WO2 is to convert mechanical and / or hydraulic energy received from the connected power output system (30a-b) into electrical energy, characterized in that the pump (22a-b) and the air conveying device (24a-b) are each, preferably exclusively, electrically driven, wherein the power generator unit (32a-b) is provided to supply at least the pump (22a-b) and the air conveying device (24a-b) with the respective required electrical operating energies.

2. Spraying device (34a-b) according to claim 1 , characterized by the sensor unit (28a-b) with at least one sensor for detecting at least one distance, at least one shape and / or at least one type of object to be sprayed with the product, in particular a plant, when the spraying device (34a-b) passes by.

3. Spray device (34a-b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor is an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor or a radar sensor, in particular an ultra-wideband radar sensor.

4. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular at least according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the sensor of the sensor unit (28a-b) and / or the control and / or regulating unit (26a-b) is, preferably exclusively, electrically driven, wherein the current generator unit (32a-b) is provided to supply the sensor of the sensor unit (28a-b) and / or the control and / or regulating unit (26a-b) with the respective required electrical operating energies. S0647-WO2 5. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power output system (30a-b) to which the power generator unit (32a-b) can be connected is a power take-off shaft of the agricultural vehicle (14a-b) or commercial vehicle and / or a hydraulic coupling of the agricultural vehicle (14a-b) or commercial vehicle.

6. Spraying device (34a-b) according to claim 5, characterized in that the power generator unit (32a-b) has a gearbox (68a-b), in particular a gear or belt transmission gearbox, which is provided to convert, preferably to translate, a power take-off speed of the power take-off shaft into a, in particular optimal, generator speed of a power generator of the power generator unit (32a-b).

7. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b), for example an accumulator, which is provided to be charged with electrical energy by the power generator unit (32a-b).

8. Spraying device (34a-b) according to claim 7, characterized in that the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) is at least designed to support or temporarily replace the supply of electrical energy provided by the power generator unit (32a-b) in the event of a temporarily increased electrical energy demand or a temporary disconnection, standstill and / or interruption of the power output system (30a-b). S0647-WO2 9. Spraying device (34a-b) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the power generator unit (32a-b) is provided to feed excess electrical energy not currently required for the operation of the components of the spraying device (34a-b) into the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b).

10. Spray device (34a-b) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized by an electrical output interface (38a-b) by means of which electrical energy stored in the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) can be supplied externally, e.g. to operate external electrical devices.

11. Spray device (34a-b) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) is at least provided to supply stored electrical operating energy for operating tasks of components of the spray device (34a-b) which are different from their standard operating tasks which the components of the spray device (34a-b) perform during a (normal) spray operation.

12. Spray device (34a-b) according to claim 11, characterized in that the operating task of the pump (22a-b), for which the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) provides stored electrical operating energy, differs from the standard operating task and is the filling or emptying of the collection tank (16a-b) with the product from an external source.

13. Spray device (34a-b) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the operating task of the pump (22a-b), for which the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) provides stored electrical operating energy, differs from the standard operating task and is the rinsing of the collection tank (16a-b) and / or the delivery line assembly (18a-b).

14. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that the reversible electrical energy storage device (36a-b) is at least provided to supply stored electrical operating energy for a supply of electronic units (40a-b) of the spraying device (34a-b) that must be continuously supplied with energy, such as a permanent data logger, a position tracker, a data communication device or an environmental sensor.

15. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power generator unit (32a-b) is provided to feed excess energy back into an on-board network or into an energy storage device (66a-b) of the agricultural vehicle (14a-b) or commercial vehicle.

16. Spraying device (34a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power generator unit (32a-b), the pump (22a-b) and / or the air conveying device (24a-b) can be flexibly positioned relative to respective further components of the spraying device (34a-b), in particular at least to the collection tank (16a-b), the conveying line arrangement (18a-b), the pump (22a-b), the air conveying device (24a-b), the power generator unit (32a-b) and / or the control and / or regulating unit (26a-b). S0647-WO2 17. Trailer sprayer (10a) with the spraying device (34a) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a mobile support frame (44a) for at least one receiving of the collection tank (16a), the conveying line arrangement (18a) including the product dispensing points (20a), the pump (22a), the air conveying device (24a) and preferably a sensor unit (28a), and additionally comprising at least one trailer coupling (46a) to a coupling with a towing vehicle-side trailer coupling (48a).

18. Trailer sprayer (10a) according to claim 17, characterized in that the power generator unit (32a) can be separated from the mobile support frame (44a) and arranged on a towing vehicle (52a) that can be coupled to the trailer coupling (46a) of the trailer sprayer (10a).

19. Attachment sprayer (10a) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by a configuration as a vertical sprayer, as a horizontal sprayer, as a boom sprayer or as a tunnel sprayer.

20. Combination (50a) with a towing vehicle (52a), for example an agricultural tractor or an all-terrain utility vehicle / multi-purpose vehicle, comprising a towing vehicle-side trailer coupling (48a) and a power output system (30a), in particular a power take-off shaft and / or a hydraulic coupling, characterized by a trailer sprayer (10a) coupled to the towing vehicle-side trailer coupling (48a) of the towing vehicle (52a) and to the power output system (30a), in particular the power take-off shaft and / or the hydraulic coupling, according to one of claims 17 to 19. 21.Mounted sprayer (12b) with the spraying device (34b) according to one of claims 1 to 16, comprising a support frame (44b) for at least one receiving of the collection tank (16b), the conveying line arrangement (18b) including the product dispensing points (20b), the pump (22b), the air conveying device (24b), the power generator unit (32b), and preferably a sensor unit (28b), and additionally comprising at least one vehicle coupling (54b) for attachment to a suitable, in particular provided, platform (56b) or three-point suspension of the agricultural vehicle (14b) or commercial vehicle.

22. Agricultural vehicle (14b), in particular an agricultural tractor, or an all-terrain utility vehicle / multi-purpose vehicle, with a power output system (30b), in particular a power take-off shaft and / or a hydraulic clutch, and with a platform (56b) or three-point linkage, on or to which a mounted sprayer (12b) coupled to the power output system (30b), in particular to the power take-off shaft and / or to the hydraulic clutch, according to claim 21 is temporarily installed.

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