AU2014227499B2 - Seeder with metering system having selectively powered metering sections - Google Patents

Abstract

A particulate delivery system comprising: a tank containing particulate; a plurality of particulate-transporting lines; a metering system 5 including a plurality of particulate metering sections, each of said metering sections being associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines and including a metering device configured to control dispensation of the particulate from the tank to the respective line; an airflow generator in communication with the particulate-transporting lines so as to provide pneumatic conveying of the particulate within the lines; and a plurality of damper 10 assemblies, each of which is associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines, each of said damper assemblies being operable to selectively restrict airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line responsive to variations in metering of particulate to the respective particulate-transporting line. SPEC-1010517

Description

SEEDER WITH METERING SYSTEM HAVING SELECTIVELY POWERED METERING

SECTIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from US Application No. 61/444,467 filed on 18 February 2011 and US Application No. 13/398,557 filed on 16 February 2012, the contents of which are to be taken as incorporated herein by this reference.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0002] The present application claims the benefit of and priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/444,467, filed February 18, 2011, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] The present application is a divisional from Australian patent application 2012200946, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] 1. Field of the Invention [0005] The present invention relates generally to seeding machines, including seeding machines of a pneumatic type that are commonly referred to as seeders and, more particularly, to seeders having selectively powered metering sections operable to individually allow or restrict seed dispensation.

[0006] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art [0007] A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that that document or matter was known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.

[0008] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that seeders are commonly used in the agricultural industry to dispense particulate materials such as seeds and/or fertilizers into the ground. It is known in the art of seeding to provide a large, high-capacity cart that is towed by a tractor, along with an implement having a multitude of ground-engaging openers that deposit the seeds and/or fertilizers carried by the cart. In the case of air seeders, the seeds and/or fertilizers carried by the cart are typically contained within large tanks or hoppers, with each tank dispensing seed into a collector assembly positioned therebelow. The collector assemblies introduce the streams of material gravitating from the tanks into pneumatic conveying lines that deliver the materials to their ultimate destinations. 1

Metering structure may be provided between each tank and the respective collector assembly to control the rate at which the material enters the collector assembly or to restrict entry of the material into the collector assembly. 2014227499 30 Jun2017

5 SUMMARY

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a particulate delivery system comprising: a tank containing particulate; a plurality of particulate-transporting lines; 10 a metering system including a plurality of particulate meeting sections, each of said particulate metering sections being associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines and including a metering device configured to control dispensation of the particulate from the tank to the respective particulate-transporting line; an airflow generator in communication with the particulate-transporting lines so as to 15 provide pneumatic conveying of the particulate within the particulate-transporting lines; a plurality of damper assemblies, each of which is associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines, each of said damper assemblies being operable to selectively restrict airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line responsive to variations in metering of particulate 20 to the respective particulate-transporting line, each of said damper assemblies being shiftable between engaged and disengaged configurations, said engaged configuration corresponding to at least partially obstructed airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line, 25 said disengaged configuration corresponding to at least substantially unobstructed airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line, each of said damper assemblies including a flap shiftably mounted within the respective particulate-transporting line, said flap being shifted into the airflow within the respective particulate-transporting 30 line when the damper assembly is in the disengaged configuration, said flap being shifted into the airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line when the damper assembly is in the engaged configuration, each of said damper assemblies including a damper actuator operably coupled to the flap to effect shifting of the flap between the engaged and disengaged configurations of the 35 damper assembly. each of said metering devices including a metering device actuator, 2 said metering device actuator being operable to permit or stop dispensation of particulate by the metering device, 2014227499 30 Jun2017 each of said damper actuators being operatively linked with a respective one of the metering device actuators so that the damper assembly is shifted to the engaged configuration 5 when the particulate dispensation is stopped and the damper assembly is shifted into the disengaged configuration when particulate is dispensed, each of said damper actuators comprising a damper hydraulic cylinder, each of said metering device actuators comprising a metering device hydraulic cylinder; and a hydraulic system operably coupled to the cylinders, with each of the damper hydraulic 10 cylinders being fluidly coupled with a respective one of the metering device hydraulic cylinders so that both are controlled simultaneously by the hydraulic system.

[0010] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. These concepts are further described below in the detailed description of the preferred embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of 15 the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0011] Various other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures. 20

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0012] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein: [0013] FIG.l is a right front isometric view of an air seeder incorporating the 25 principles of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 2 is an enlarged right front isometric view of a portion of an air seeder similar to that of FIG. 1, particularly illustrating a collector assembly and metering structure below a tank; [0015] FIG. 3 is an enlarged left front isometric view of the portion of the air seeder 30 seen 2a 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 in FIG, % particularly iliilstrating the trmismissipil system for the metering structure and the mechanism, for'adpistihg/ifre position of dreseed iplates; [Θ016] FIG, 4 is an enlarged., exploded: right rear isometric view of the poitioh of the air seeder seen in: FIG. % saps the transmission system, particularly illustrating the seed How 5 directing structures of the lo wer tank, a plurality of metering sections, and acollector assembly; [0017] MO. 5 is an enlarged, partially exploded, partially sectioned right rear isometric view of the portion of the air seeder seen in FIG. 4, particularly illustrating the components of the metering sections; [0010] MG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the right side of the portion of the air 10 seeder seen in FIG. 4; [0019] FIG,:?: is an enlarged right front, isometric view of the portion of the air seeder seen in FIG, 4, particularly illustrating the components of the meteri ng; sections; [0020] FIG, 8 is a partially sectioned front elevatiohai view of a collector assembly, showing the interior thereof and the di verter valves in a position such that the valves completely 15 close the upper loading zones and open the lower loading zones; 10021] MG, § is a partially sectioned front elevauooal view of the collector assembly of FIG, 8, showing the interior thereof and the diverter valves; in an .^herein both upper and lower loading zones are open so that materials from the overhead tank are introduced into both upper and lower air streams passing through &e collector assembly; 20 [0022]: FIG. 10 is a partially sectioned front elevational view of the collector assembly of FIGS, 8 and 9, showing the interior thereof and the diverter Valves in a position such that the valves force metered product from the overhead container to drop only:info the upper loading zones; [0023] FIG. 11 is a left rear isometric view of a metering section in a disengaged 25 configuration; [0024] FIG. 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the left sidepf the metering section of FIG. 11 in an engaged configuration; [0025] FIG. 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the left side of the; metering: section ofFIGS, II and 12 in a disengaged configuration; 1¾ [0026] FIG. 14 is an enlarged, paxtiaily seetioned rightfront isOhietric view of a damper as shown in FIG. 1, illustrating both the engaged (dashed lines) and disengaged (solid lines) 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 configurations; £0027] FIB,: 15 is a partially sectinnecl view of the right side of the damper of FIG. 14 in a disengaged configuration; and pK)28] FIG, 16 is a partially sectioned Gew of the right side of the damper of FIGS. 14 5 and 15 in an engaged configuration.

[0029] The drawing figures do riot limit the present invention to the spedfic embodiments disclosed and described herein. The; drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the preferred embodiments·, 10

DETAIEED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] The present invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different; forms, While the drawings illustrate, and the specification describes, certain preferred embodiments of the invention, nis ίο be understood that such disclosure is by way Of example only. There is no 15 intent to limit the principles of the present im'emion: to the particular disclosed embodiments, [0031] With initial reference to FIG, 1, the illustrated machine compri ses an air cart 10 that is adapted to be connected in tandem with a towing tractor (not shown) and a planting implement having multiple openers thereon (not shown). Generally speaking, cart 10 supplies seeds and/or fertilizer to the planting implement as the tractor pulls both machines in tandem 20: across a field.

[0032] The particular air cart 10 selected for purposes of illustration has three tanks 12 J 4,16 included as a part thereof, although this number may vary. The tanks 12,14,16 may be used, for example, to separately contain seeds, starter fertilizer, and additional fertilizer or granular inodulant for the soil. 25 [0033] Each of the tanks is provided with its owh collector assembly 18 positioned below the: respective tank for·introducing materials from the tank into a number of conveying air streams. Shell air streams are- produced by a fan 20 at the rear of the cart that delivers air to n distribution manifold 22, Manifold 22, in turn, directs the powerful air streams into upper and lower primary runs of conveying lines 24 and 26, respectively. Thenumher of upper and lower 30 primary lines 24 and 26, respectively, can vary widely without departing from the scope of the present invention, in the present application, however, a total of nine upper primary; lines 24 and nine lower primary lines 26 are shown in FiGS, 1 and 8-10, while eight upper primary lines 24 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 and eight lower primary lines 26 are shown in FIGS, 2-4 and 7, (HGS. 5» 6, and 1146 are: generic in this regard.) [0034] .Although FiG. 1 illustrates lines 24 and 26 .disconnected from the manifold 22, it will he appreciated that,4npfactte%;a.secti.Qh of pipe or hosing extends between such locations 6: to complete each conveying: line. Front the front of theair cart..10, conveying lines 24 add 26 are coupled with flexible hoses: (not shown) that lead to the planting implement, where appropriate divider structure 'Splits eachprimary stream inters number of secondary product steeams leading to individual openers of the im.pleme.nt,

[0035] As shown in FK3> 2 and others, a metering structure 2¾ which will be described 10 in: depth: belo:w,: is positioned above each collector :asserrih]y 18, Each collector assembly IS comprises a:geperaily hollow body that includes a pair of vertically stacked upper and lower collector modules 30 and: 32, respectively, The body of each module 30,32 is generally rectangular and i s fabricated From a plurality of plate materi als to present a front wall 34, a spaced rear wait 36, and a pair of opposite end walls 38: and 40. front wall 34 is provided with 1 f out-turned flanges 34a and 34b; rear wall 36 is provided with out-turned flanges 36a and 36b: and end .walls 38 and 40 are provided With out-turned flanges 38a,38b and 40a,4()b, respectively. As best shown in FIG. 4,. all of the afereitientioned flanges tdeilitate bolting of collector modules 30, 32 to one another and to the bottom of the metering structure 28, [603#]: As illustmtedin particular in FIGS, S-10, the interior of upper collector module 20 30 is subdivided by a plurality of upright, transversely spaced collector partitions 42 extending between front wail 34 and rear wall 36, there being a total of one fewer such partitions 42 than there are upper and lower primary lines 24,26, in FIGS, 8-10, for instance, eight partitions 42 are present; and the collector partitions 42 cooperate with one another and with opposite end wails 38,40 to present nine separate upper compartments 44 across the width of the module 30, 25 with the upper compartments 44 being effectively sealed from one another. Uppercompartmenis 44 directly underlie eorrespondiiig outlets pf the metering straetare 28 so as to receive nine corresponding, discharging streams of material fin##» such structure 2:8, [ΘΘ37] In the samenine-jineem lower module 32 has a similar series of eight

Upright collector partitions 46 that extend between front and rear walls 34,36 thereof and 30 cooperate with end walls 38,40 to define:nine discrete lower compartments 48 in lower module 32, The nine direct overhead registration with the corresponding nine loiter compartments 48 so as to effectively define nine generally upright collector passages SO extending from the upper margin of upper module SQtdthe lower margin of lower module 32, each such eollectcmpassage SO having an; upper portion defined by the eorrtrsponding upper compartment 44 and a lower portion deimed by the corresponding lower compartment 48. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 [0038] Regardless of tbe number ¢4 compartments 44,48 that are present, each upper 3 compartment 44 is provided with an upper loading zone 52 formed by a transversely J-shaped cup 34 extending between front wall 34 and rear wall 36 thereof The generally upright leg 36 of cup 54 is located approximately halfway between adjacent collector partitions 42 and terminates at a distance below the top margin of upper module 30. The concave'leg: 58 of : each cup 54 likewise extends the1 entire distance between front wall 34 and rear wall 86 and has its [Q distal end welded or otherwise secured to the proximal partition 42 or end wall 38. as the ease may be. Concave leg 58 of each loading cup 54 registers with an inlet 60 in rear wall :36 and an outlet 62 in front wall 34, As shown in FIG, 5 and others, a rear tube 64 comprising part of the upper con veyingiine 24 is secured to back Wall 36 m registration with inlet 60, while a.frouttube 66 is secured to front wall 34 in registered communication with outlet: 62. Thus, e4cfr upper 15 loading zone 52 is disposed within the path of pressurized air fiowingTbxaugM a corresponding one of .the upper primary: conveying, lines 24, [0039] Each of the upright collector passages 50 is: also provided with a lower loading zone 68 located in the correspondinglower compartment 48. In this respect, a floor JQ extends across the entire width of the body of collector assembly 18, and particularly across the bottom 10 of lower module 32, The floor TO lneiudes a transversely U-shaped, inverted channel 72 haying a plurality of cup segments 74,76,78. As illustrated especially in FIG, 8, for instance, three cup segments 74,76,78 may be bolted to the upper surface of the floor 70, each such segment including three separate cups 80,82,84-The length of tfe line of cup segments 74,76^ and 78 is such that when floor 70 is fastened to the bottom margin of lower module 32: by bolts 86,88 and 25 wing nuts 90,92, segments 74,76, and 78 slip up intolower compartments 48 while channel 72 abuts the bottommost of the flanges of end walls 38 and 40. Aldmughtfoee cup segments having three cups apiece is a preferred configuration, itis Withitidmambitofthe present invention for any suitable number of cup segments axrd cups to he used.

[0040] Each lower loading zone 68 is in open communication with a rear inlet94 in rear 30 wall 36 and a front outlet 96 in front wall 34, A rear tube 98 of the corresponding lower primary line 26 is affixed to rear wall 36 in registered communication with inlet 94, while a front tube 100 of line 26 is affixed to front wall 34 in registered alignment with outlet 96, Each lower "loading zone 68 is disposed in the path of travel of the air stream flowing through the corresponding priinary Mne,26 as It passes, through lower compartment 48. Such air stream thus passes into, through, arid out Of the lower loading zone 68. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 10041] Each upper compartment 44 of the collector passages 50 contains its own di verter 5 valve 102. Each diverter valve 1()2 is in the nature of a flapper plate that is substantially thekame width in a fore-and-aft direction as the corresponding upper compafhneht 44,Each valve 102 is fixed to a fore-and-aft rocM shaft 104 that, is journaled by front and rear ws!ls24,36 and is located proximal to the uppermost tip of the J-shaped cup .54 of upper loading zonel52, [0042] Each valve: 102 is-moveable between a position completely covering and thus ID closing off the upper loading zone 52, as shown in FIG, 8, and an alternative exirem&positicm, shown in FIG. '10, in which the valve is inclined in the opposite direction to close off the lower loading zone 68. More particularly, the FIG. 8. position of valve 102 is such that the lower loading zone 68 is open but the upper loading zone 52 is completely closed. The FIG. 10 posi.tion of valve 102 is such that the upper loading zone 52 is open huythe lower loading zone IS: 68 is completely closed. FIG. 9 illustrates the valves 102 in an vsrfit'^eS^ both the upper loading zones 52 and the lower 'zones 68 are open, [0043] In order to actuate the diverter valves 102 between their various positions, actuating mechanism broadly denoted by the numeral 106 is provided, in one preferred form of the invention, actuating mechanism 106 is designed to operate all of the diverter valves 102 20 simultaneously. More -specifically, actuating mechanism 106 includes an operating lever 108 for each val ve 10:2, such lever 108 being affixed to an outer end of rocker shaft 104 where it projects forwardly beyond front wall 34. Each lever 108, intern, has an elongated slot 110 atitsdistal end remote from the point of connection of lever 108 to rock shaft 104. 0)044] Mechanism 106 further includes a single push-pull pad f 12 that extends across 25 the front ofthe upper collects module 30 adjacent its upper margin. Further, mechanism 106 includes a sepes of couplings 114 secured to rod 112 at spaced locations along die length thereof. The couplings; 114 connect the rod 112 with the operating levers 108. Each coupling 114 comprises a block 116 that is slidably adjustably positionable along the length of rod 112 and is secured in a selected position by a set screw 118. Further, each coupling 114 includes a pin 120 30 (see FIG, 6| projeedng rearwardly from block 116 into the slot 11.0 of the corresponding actuating lever 108. Thus, as rod 112 is pushed Or pulled along its length, such motion is transmitted to operating levers: 108, and the arcuate motion of levers; 108 relative to the straight line reciprocal motion; of rod 112 is accommodated by virtue of the coupling pins 120 moving between 110 in levers 10B. A handle 122 at one end of rod 112 facilitates 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 manipui ation thereof |004SJ A pair # guide brackets 124 and 126 are secured to front wail 34 of upper $ collector module 30 adjacent opposite lateral ends dieredf and reciproeaOy export the push-pull rod 112, Rod 112 lias a pair of erOss-holcs 128 and 130 therein, positioned generally adjacent handle 122 and adapted to removably receive a cotter pin 132, Holes 128 and 130 ate so located that when rod 112 has diverter valves 102 positioned as in MG. 8, holes 128 and 130 are both located to the left sideef guide bracket 126. Thus^ as shown in FIG. 7 (which illustrates the same 10: diverter valve 102 position as FIG, 8), the cotter pin 132 may be inserted into hole 130 at such; time to bear against the inboard: surface of guide bracket: 126 and prevent rod 112 froor being shifted axially to the right (directions here being from the perspective of one viewing the cited, figures), wWefe'y^op3id:#ift-the'-diverter val ves 102 away from their positions covering tire upper loading zone 52· By removing cotter pin 132, rod 112 can be shifted rightwardly from the 15 position of HG§> 7 and 8 until the diverter valves 102 are brought to their positions for covering lower loading zone 68, as illustrated in FIG. 10. Cotter pin 132 may then be inserted into hole 128, which is now located on the outboard side of guide bracket 126, thus locking rod 112 against leftward movement and thereby retai ning diverter valves 102.-in.. the· appropriate position for covering the lower loading zone 68, 20 [9046.3 As illustrated in FIG, 9, when cotter pin 132 is completely removed from.rod 112, rod 112 may be positioned in an intermediate position, wherein diverter valves 102 open both upper and lower loading; zones 52 and 68, Additional holes in rod 112 could be provided to receive cotter pins or the like on opposite sides of guide bracket 126 to hold diveftef valves 102 in such intermediate position, if desired, Alternatively, other means could he provided for 25 releasably locking rod1112 and diverter valves 102 in such intermediate position..

[0947] During operation, air s treams from liues 24 and 26 are constantly passing through the body of each collector assembly 18. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, all of the upper loading zones 52 and all of the lower loading zones 68 are always exposed to conveying streams of air. If it is desired for product from a selected one of the overhead tanks 12,14,16 to be 30 metered into only the lower primary 'fin.es :26, the respective push-pull rod ..112 is .set in the position of FIGS. 7 and 8 so asto cause all; of the diverter valves 102 associated with the selected tank 12;, 1,4, or 16 to close the respective upper loading zones 52 and open the respective lower loading zones :§S. ThuStpraduel gTavitadngithrough collector passages 50 lands on die diverter valyes. 102 and is ''directed; away /ft-oin npper loading zones 52 into: lower compartment 48 and lower loading zones 68/ Upon entering the lower loading zones 68, the product is Immediately entrained in the; air streams passing through loading zones 68 and conveyed down stream through 5 lower primary lines 26. If the air Sfreamk coming into lower loading zones 68 have already been 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 loaded with materials from an upstream tank, the products gravitating through the collector assembly simply join With the eXistihgmateriais and travel together through lower primary lines 26 to their ultimate destinations.

[0048] On: the other hand, if the^ef afor desires to have products from a selected one of 10 the overhead tanks 12,14,16 enter only into the upper primary lines 24, the respective push-pull rod 142 is positioned as shown in FIG. 10 to cause all of the diverter valves 102 associated with the selected tank; 12, 14, or 16 to :close their respective lower loading zones 68 and open their respective upper loading zones 32. Thus, product metered from the : selected lank 12, 14, or 16 gravitates into the collector passages 50 and is directed by the diverter valves 102 directly Into 15 upper loading;zones 52, where the transversely moving streams of air mi Wain the materialsand carry them downstream in upper lines: 24. If product from an upstream tank has already been introduced i nto lo wer primary, lines 26, such product merely passes through lower loading zones 68 and continues to travel within lower lines 26 without being combined in any way with the product introduced into upper lines 24 at the upper loading zones 52. 20 [00493 If, for any reason, the operator prefers to have product from a selected one of the overhead tanks 12,14,16 entering both upper lines 24 and k>wer lines 26, the respeeti vepush-pull rod 112 is positioned in the intermediate position of FIG. 9, wherein diverter valves 102 associated with die selected tank 12,14, or .16 are positioned to open the respective uppeiloading zones 52 as well as the respecti ve lower loading zones 68 at the same time. Different degrees of 25 openness of the upper and lower loading zones can also be achieved by positioning control rod 112 at any selected one of a number of positions to correspondingly vary the relati ve amounts of product to flo wing into zones 32 and 68.

[6656] It will thus be seen that; the eoilector assembly 18 of the present invention provides a great dealof flexibilityand convenience for the farmer. Various combinations of tanks 30 add supply lines can be used to best suit the farmer’s particular needs lit any given time. For example, theieart 10 shown inFlG, 1 has three tanks :12,14, and 16, each of which is provided with its own collector assembly 18, lb one exemplary use of this cOnstritotion, rear tank 12 may be filled with fertilizer, center tank 14 may contain seeds, and front .tank 16 may contain addi tional fertilizer or an moculant. In a preferredparticulafed'ivmion arrangement, thecollecior assembly 18 associated with rear tank .12 may then be set so that all materials from tank 12 bypass tiie opper loading zones 52 and drop into lower loading zones 68 for pickup by the lower •I: primary lines 26. The collector assembly !8 of middle tank 14 may be set to close Its lower loading zones 68 so that all materials from tank 14 are diverted into only the upper zones; 52, where they are picked up by the air streams within upper primary lines 24, Thus, fertilizer from rear tank 12 and seeds from middle tank 14 are maintained separate from one another, Meanwfrile, die collector assembly for the front tank 16 may be set to drop product into either 10 or both of the primary lines 24 and 26 as may he desired, depending upon the nature of the |irofrabtiS tank 16. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 [0051] In other situations it may be desirable, for example, to use all three tanks 12,14,16 for the .same product. All three tanks 12,14,16 may be Filled with seeds, for example. By first cleaning out the tanks 12,14,-16- .completely (the means by which this can be efficiently 15 accomplished being described hereinbelow), tanks that have previously been used for Fertilizer may now be used for seeds, and vice versa, [00521 In a preferred embodiment, each of the tanks 12, 14, and 16 includes a storage portion 134 and an outlet portion 136 that is positioned below the storage portion 134 and coupled thereto. The outlet portion 136 is in the respective metering 20: structure 28. The outlet portion J 36 preferably includes a rear Wall 138, a pair of side walls 140 and 142, an inner front wall 144, and an outer front wail 146.

[0653] The inner and outer front walls 144 and 146, respectively, are spaced from each Other so as to form a channel 148 therebetween, A pair of openings or windows 150 arc formed in 'the outer front wall 146 such that the windows 150 are in communication with the channel 25 148. Aremovable window cover 152 is provided for covering each window :150. The inner front wall 1.44 includes a pair of openings 154 that are also in communication with the channel 148. A tube-or hose 156 extends into the. Interior of the respecti ve tank 1¾ 14, or 16 from each of the openings 154 such that each tube 136 is in communication with the channel 148 at one end and with the .interior of the tank 12,14. or 16 atthe other end, The channel 148 is in: communication 30 at its lower end with the respective metering structure 21, as will be discussed in more detail hereinhelow. The aforementioned structures thus form a pressure equalization system that ensures that the internal pressure in the given tank 12, '14., or 16 is the same as that in the metering structure 28. Such balancing of pressure helps prevent hang -up or "bridging” of the particulate within tlie: metering structure:28. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 [0054] Ereferably, each outlet portion 136 includes a variety of structures designed for direction of and control of the particulate, material contained in the respective tank 13-,14, or 16. J. Forinstance, each outietpofbon 136 preferably includes a divider 158 that extends in a fore-and-aft direction to bisectthe outlet portion 136^ .However, multiple dividers or none at all could be used.

[0655] As best shown in FIGS, 4-6, in a preferred embodiment, the outlet portion 136 also includes aroof 160 having a peak 162. Seed or other particulate material entering the outlet 10 portion 136 from the storage portion 134 is diverted into either tire fore or aft portion of the outlet portion 136 by the roof 160. A pair of irregul ar slits 164a, 164b ar».foiih^:ih,!^e'ri^fl'0. Each of the slits 164a,164b is such that a portion of the divider 158 projects therethrough, [0056] As best shown in FIG. %. a ploraluy of triangular diverters 166 are preferably provided at the base of the outlet portion 136. Each 'triangular diverter 1:66 ffhthet diverts the 15 seed or particulate material, albeit in one lateral direct! on or another rather than fore or aft as for the roof 160, The material then exits the outlet portion 136 via one of a plurality of outlets 168. [00571 In a preferred embodiment, a plurali ty of sliders 170 are provided in each outlet portion 136. The sliders 170 are operable to slide toward and away from the center of the outlet portion 136 prior to fixation in a. selected position. In the illustrated embodiment, such sliding 20 is initiated via manual adjustment of rods 172, each of Which can be fixed via wing nuts 174 to ensure the respective slider 170 is held stationary when desired. A plurality of end supports 176 are provided to support the ends of the sliders 170 and to iguide; the respective: slider 170 in a linear direction when the slider 170 is in motion, in a preferred embodiment, a: pair of end supports 176is provided on each of the side walls: 140,142. A.pair of end supports l?6 is also 25 provided oh. each side of the divider 158.

[0658] The sliders 170 are positioned such that the roof 160 is positioned above and overhangs the sliders 170. In addition to diverting the product, as described above, the reof 160 also ensures that the product does not fail .between·:the sliders: 170, [6659] The sliders 170 arc operable to shut off dispensation of particular material to 30 selected portion s of the meteri ng structure 28 or to- the metering: structure 28 in its entirety· iVlore particularly, when one of the: rods 172 is pulled outward relative to the outlet portion 136, the respective; slider 170 moves from the position shown in FIGS, 2-7, in which the associated outlets 168 are unobstructed, to one (not shown) in which the slider 170 covers each of the associated outlets 168, Gfely material, having already entered (he portion offoe metering structure 28 ^associated with the given slider 170 prior to its closure will then be available for dispensation, ^d'h^additionalmateri^^m the tanks 12,14,16 will be allowed to enter the respective portion 6 of the metering structure 28, The latter effect is particularly advantageous when, for instance, maintenance or repair is required for components of the metering structure 28, as one or more of the sliders 170 can be positioned to: block particulate from: entering the metering structure 28 or a portion thereof While work is being done. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 [0061)] Although the sliders 170 may be positioned to leave the outlets 168 felly 10 uncovered or fully covered, intermediate positions am possible, as well. Furthermore, each of the sliders 170 may be positioned differently from the other sliders 170.

[0061] The use of few sliders 170, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, allows for easy isolation of large portions of the metering structure 28 or of the metering structure 28 In its entirety for convenient maintenance and repair access, However, it is noted that any number of 15 sliders or no sliders at all may be present without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0()62] The illustrated metering structure 28 includes:suitable metering mechanisms for either discharging materials at a metered fate of flow from the tanks 1.2, 14, and 1:6 info the respective Collector assemblies 18 or preventing their discharge into the respective collector 29 assemblies: 18, More particularly, metering structure 28 includes a plurality of metering sections: 178 (one of which is shown intisoktion hi FIGS, 11-13), each of which includes, among other things, a rotatable, drive wheel ISO having teeth 1:80a, a rotatable engagement wheel 182 having teeth 182a, and a rotatable metering wheel 184 having teeth 184a. A metering roller 186 is connected::fo rotate with the metering wheel 184. Preferably, the metering roller 186 includes 25: a plurality of flutes IBS, which are arranged in a helical pattern and axe configured to define· a plurality of partieulatmrecemng pockets 1:90 therebetween. However, a variety of roller configurations are permissible. For in stance, the flutes could be arranged in a herringbone:-or other type of pattern,: or a non -fluted roller could be used. Furthermore, with respect to certain aspects of theinventipn, theroeteringsteucture could alternatively be configured to varythe foie 30 of particulate: dispensation rather than just providing “on” and “off* configurations.

[0063] in the illustrated embodiment, each of the drive wheels 180 is moutited: on a common drive shaft 192 to rotate therewith. However, it is within Che ambit of the present invention fornrulsiple drive shafts'to he used,provided that appropriate drive mechanisms are present.· 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 {(1(164] In a preferred embodiment, therate of rotation of the drive shaft 192 is controlled by a transmission system 194, as shown in FIGS, 2 and 3, A variety of transmission systems $ known in the art are suitabl e for implementation with the in venlive seeder without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For instance, a positive ground drive transmission having dual- or multi-speed options might be implemented, or a variable drive transmission could be provided. Regardless of the exact Implementation, the ability to vary the rotational speed of the drive shaft 192 is desirable, since: such rotational speed control allows the metering rate to be 10 independent of tiro rtrtatiohal Speed and to therefore: he optimized for a variety of particulate materials. For instance, a Slow speed may be desirable when seeding fine seeds such as canola or mustard, whereas:larger seeds may suitably be dispensed at a higher rotational speed. In other instances, 'l^:<|esirable.based on the soil conditions in a particular location within, a field, 15 {006SJ Bach metering: section 178 also includes a control arm 196 pivotally mounted relative to the drive shaft 192 for swinging movement about a pivot axis that is aligned with the drive shaft 192, The engagement wheel 182 is rotatably mounted on the upper end of theeontrol arm 196 in such a manner that the teeth 182a of the engagement wheel 182 are maintained in intermeshed engagement with the teeth 180a of the drive wheel 180, Rotation of the drive wheel 20 ! 80 is thus fransmitted to the engagement wheel 182, A hydraulic cylinder 198 is mounted at one of its,ends to a cantilevered arm 200 and is connected to the lower end of the control arm 196 at the oilier of its ends. As best shown In FIG. 12. when the hydraulic cylinder 198 is retracted, the upper end of the control arm 196 pivots forward such that the engagement wheel 182 mounted thereon is operable to drivingly engage the metering wheel 184 by means of the 25 intermeshing of teeth 182a of the engagement wheel '184^ #€ whael 184, to thereby cause the metering wheel 184 and, in turn, the metering roller 186, to: rotate. As best shown in FIG. 13, however, when die hydraulic eylinder ΐ§§ is, extended, the upper end of the control arm pivots backward such that the engagement wheel 182 mounted thereon is not operable to drivingly engage the metering wheel 184. That is, the teeth 182a do not intermesh 30 with· the teeth 184a, Rotation of the metering wheel 184 and, .in turn, the metering roller 186, will thereby: either cease or fail to be initiated. Seed: or particulate material dispensation can therefore quickly and selecti vely be initiated or stopped for each indi vidual metering section 178,, [0066] The above-described metering configuration is highly advantageous, providing 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 neardnstanianeous stoppage of seed dispensation. In a system that attempts stoppage using a moveable gate above a metering roller, for instances the quantity of seed having already passed by the gate en route to die roller will still be dispensed after the gate has been closed. By 5 contrast, the inveiniveconfiguratiGrrdeseribedhereinstopsthedispensationdireefiyaitheroiler. Therefore, the only particulate dispensation that will occur after disengagement of the engagement wheel and metering wheel is that due to continued inertial rotation of the metering roller (which is minimal because of the frietitmal engagement between the roller, particulate, and surrounding structure). Stoppage of dispensation is therefore nearly instantaneous. 10 [Θ067] Although hydraulic cylinders are used in the preferred embodiment for actuation

Of the control arms 196, it is noted that a variety of actuation means fall within the scope of the present invention. For instance, pneumatic or spring-based actuation systems might he used. Furthermore, a single actuator could act on more than one metering section or on all of the metering sections simultaneously. Ultimately, however, a quick-acting actuating system is 15 desirable, |0068] It is further noted that a mechanism other than a pivoting control ann could be used to enable engagement and disengagement of the engagement and metering wheels. For instance, means: could be provided for non-pivoting: forc-and--aft shifting of the engagement wheel or, if the teeth were configured appropriately, the engagement wheel could swing laterally 20 toward and away from the metering wheel.

[0069] Each metering section 178 also includes a pair of vertical metering: partitions 202,204 thatform the sides of an upright metering passage 206, The metering partitions 202,204 correspond to and are arranged in vertical alignment with the end walls 38,40 and the collector partitions 42 found in the collector assembly 18, such that the Upright collector passages 50 and 25 the upright metering passages 206 are in vertical alignment with each other. More particularly, each metering /section 178 includes a base plate 208 having an opening 210 and a top plate 212 having an opening 214 and an opening 216, Whereas the opening 210 connects the metering passage 206 with a respective collector passage 50, the, opening 214 connects die metering structure with the channel 148 so as to allow for pressure equalization between the metering 30 structure 28 and the respective tank 12,14, or .16, The opening 2.(6 is in communication with a respecti ve one of the outlets 168 of the outlet portion 136 of the respective tank 12,14, or 16. >70] The wheels 180,182,184 of each metering section 178 are positioned adjacent the metering parti tion 202 on the side of the pattitibn 202 that faces 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 204, The metering roller 186 is positioned on tee other side of the metering partition 202, such that it is positioned laterally between metering partitions 202.204 or. in other words, within the upright metering passage 206; Slots 218 and 220 are formed in metering partitions 202 and 204, 6 respectively, to allow the drive shaft 192 to pass therethrough, [0071] As best, shown in FIG,! 1, a variety of particulate gindanee structures am provide! to define the upright metering passage 206 or to influence the flow of particulate material therethrough. More particularly, a shield 222, a seed plate 224, an inlet guide 226, and an outlet guide 228 are provided. The shield 222 includes an upper portion 230, a curved middle poteen 10 232, and a lower portion 234, The seed plate 224 includes an arm region 236 and a lip region 238, with the lip region 238 having an end 240, Particulate material that enters tee metering section.78 through the opening 216 is guided toward tee metering 'roller by tee inlet guide 226, the arm region 236 of the seed plate 224, and, the upper portion 230 of the shield 222. The particulate material is then trapped in the pockets 190 of the metering rol ler 186, such that the 15 material is transported by the metering roller 186 as it rotates in a counter-clockwise direction as vi ewed in FIG. 11. When tee end 240 is reached, however, the material falls downward under the influence of gravity toward and out of the opening 210 in die base plate 208. 'Die material is guided toward tee opening 210 by the lower portion 234 of the shield 222, as well as by the outlet guide 228. Any particulate material that does not fall from the pockets 190 travels past the 20 arid 140 until it is enclosed' in the pockets 190 by the curved middle portion 232 of tee shield 222,

The middle portion 232 and the upperpertion 230 thus ensure teat particulate material is not lost out of the back of the respective metering section 178.

[0072] Each metering section 17 Salso s hares a removable front wall 242, best shown in FIGS, 2 and 3, that can be attached or removed via wing nuts 244. When attached for operation, 25 the front wall 242 ensures that particulate materia! is not lost out. of the front of any of the metering sections 178.

[0073] Removal of the front wall 242 provides convenient access to the critical components of each metering section 178, Although a single shared front wall 242 is preferred, multiple front walls could be provided, with· one wall corresponding to several metering sections 30 178 or with each metering:section 178-including its own front wall, [0074] In a preferred embodiment, each of-the seed plates 224 is mounted on a shared shaft 246, best shown in FIG, 5, teat traverses the upright metering passages 206. As-shown in FIG. 3, the shaft 246 is connected at one end to a handle 248. The handle 248 includes a projection 250 that is designed to fit into one of a plurality of slots 252 in a positioning guide 254. Movement of the handle 248 and, in turn, shifting of the projection 250 from one of the slots 252 to another of the slots 252 results in pivoting of the plurality of seed plates 224 from 5 one position to another. ThuSj the seedplates 224 may he positioned in a range of configurations, from very close proximity to the metering rollers 186, as shown by the solid line in FIG, 6, to a substantia! distance from the metering rollers 186, as shown by the dashed line in FIG.fr. Such positional control of the seed plates 224 provides the operator with the ability to further customize the metering process to various partteniate sizes. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 !0 [0075] It is noted that a variety of seed plate designs fall within the scope of the present invention. In addition to basic shape variations, for instance, modified seed plates nught include ridges for additional Seed guidance, with the spacing and configuration of the ridges varying according to the seed type.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, each of'the metering sections 178 also includes an 15 airflow diverter 256, As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6,: the diverter 256 acts in cooperation with the outer front waH i 46 to define a pads of travel for air moving between the channel 148 and the repeetive metering section 178 as part of the pressure-equalization system described previously.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, means are provided for complete and rapid emptying Of the contents of the tanks 12, 14, and 16 into: the coUector assemblies IS, Under normal 20 operation, as described above, each metering structure 28 receives particulate materials gravitating from the: respective tank 12, 14, or 16 tiirough respective outlets 168 thereof. The metering rollem 186 then selectively allow or prevent particulate dispensation into a respective collector assembly 18 to proceed. However, such rollers 186 can be intentionally bypassed if and when the operator wishes to completely and rapidly empty the contents from the tank so that they 25 pass directly into the respective eollectdr assemblies 18 instead of being metered slowly or not at all by the rneterihgtoliera 186, More particularly, when the seed plates 224 are positioned as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 6, seed entering the metering sections 178 may completely bypass the respective metering rollers 186 and thereby travel from the respective tank 12,14,. or 16 to the respective collector assembly 18 with little or no resistance. 30 [0078] Furthermore, the present design of each collector assembly 18 is conducive to rapid, complete, and easy dumping of the contents of the tanks 12, 14, and 16 after they have fraversedthe meteringiSections 178 as described above. To facilitate such clean-out, the floor 70 of each collector asseinbly may be quickly and easily removed by simply unscrewingthe wing outs 90.92 and aHowmg flboi 70 to #0p out The diverter valves 102 fof that particular iisSemMy are then set in the position of FIG. 8, allowing the contents of the overhead tank to drop straight through the collector passages 50, bypassing the upper loading zones 52, 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 5 [0079] 1 will also be appreciated that calibration of the metering unit 28 can be easily achieved in a manner somewhat, simil ar to cleaning out of the tanks 12,14, and 16. By removing the floor 70If om a particular collector assembly 18 and replacing it with a calibrating receptacle (not shown),: product can be run through each metering sectici» 178 and discharged into the calibrating receptacle for measurement, Desired adjustments qf the appropriate components of 10 the metering Section 178 can then be readily carried cut. 100803 A variety of systems can be imp! ernemed fbi determining; which of the hydraulic cylinders are actuated and when, Ah operator-based system would be permissible, for instance, with the machine operator manually flipping switches, pressing buttons, or providing input to a guided user interface in order to signal the cylinder actuation's). An automated system could be 15 used, as· well. For instance, a system which automatically allows or prevents seed dispensation from certain metering sections based on a known seeding plan and the current position of the machine: could be used. In one implementation, this system could: be based on machine coordinates derived from a global navigation satellite system (GMSS) or global positioning system (GPS). Hybrid systems or other varieties of manual and/or automated systemsMl within 20 the scope of the present invention, as well, HJfiraately, however, a system that allows for quick signal transmission and resulting engagement or disengagement of a selected metering roller or rollers is desirable, [0081] In a preferred embodiment as shown in FiG, 1, a damper assembly 258 may be added to each upper primary' line:24 and lower primary line 26, The damper assembly 258 is 25 operable to assist in the balancing of pressure across the upper primary lines 24 and lower primary lines 26, as will be described below; [0082] As shown in PIG. 1, a fan 20 provides airflow which is distributed to the lines 24,26 Via a distribution manifold 22, When no seed is being dispensed or when an equal amount: of seed is being dispensed through each metering section 178, the resistance to airflow breach 30 line 24,26 will be essentially equal (assuming that the damper assemblies: 258 are each configured identically so as to identically affect the airflow). Thus, the airflow will he distributed essentially equally through: the lines 24,26, However, if a selected metering section 178 is deaetivafedsueh that no seed Is dispensed out;of it into a respective collector assenlbly l$,ihe lack of seed(flow and, in turn, the lack of aMoWiObstruetion within thelrespectofe lines 24,26 will lead id a diversion Of airflow away from the remaining paxtially obstructed (by seed) dispensing Sines 2:4,26 and into the unobstructed· non-dispensing lines 24,26 (again assuming 5 equivalent damper-based effects). This will result in less airflow in .the dispensing lines 24,26, leading to reduced material-earning capacity in these lines 24,26 and increased likelihood or plugs forming in the lines 24,26. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 [0083] The damper assembibs 258 address this airflow di version and resulting deficiency by being activated in coordination with the hydraulic cylinders 198 of the meteri^ sections 128 10 and, in torn, with the dispensation and sreppageof dispensation of particulate. More particularly ,

When a hydraulic cylinder 198 is actuated to stop the metering: and dispensation of particulate; material, the respective damper assembly 258 is actuated to provide a suitable degree: of Obstruction of the respective line 24,26 such that an airflow loss does not occur in the remaining lines 24,26. in essence, the actuated damper assembly 258 acts as a proxy for the non-dispehsing 15 seed or particulate material, providing: the effect that the seed would have had if it had been dispensed. When a hydraulic cylinder is retracted such that metering anddispensation do occur, however, the damper assembly 258 is configured such that airflow is not obstructed by the damper assembly 258, the airflow instead being; appropriately obstructed by the material being dispensed. 20 [0084] A preferred embodiment of a dampen assembly 258 is illustrated in FIGS, 14-16,

As shown, the damper assembly 258 includes a mounting arm :26Q,-a. hydraulic cylinder 26¾¾ rod 264, and a flap 266. One end of the cylinder 262 is rnoonted on the mounting arm 260, wMIe the other end of the cylinder 262 connects to the rod 264. The flap 266 is fixed to the other end of the rod 264 such that a fixed, angle; is maintained between the rod 264 and the flap 266. The 25 damper assembly 258 also defines a storage region 268, In the retracted cylinder configuration shown in FIG, 15, which corresponds to the (retracted cylinder) engaged metering configuration shown in FiG, 12, the rod 264 is. positioned by the cylinder 262: such that the flap 266 is contained in the storage; area 268 and therefore does not influence the airflow, In the extended cylinder configuration shown in FIG, 16, which corresponds to the (extended cylinder) 30 disengaged metering configuration shown in FIG. 13, the rod 264 is positioned by the cylinder 2:62 such that the flap 266 angles into the body of the damper assembly 258 to thereby partially obstruct the airflow.

[0085] Alfoougha two-position flap 266 may he used, it is also within the scope of the 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 present invention for variable positioning of the flap to he implemented, Such positioning ability would be particularly desirable if, for instance, the metering structure provides for variable particulate flow (rather than -‘W* and '"off,” as shown] or if introduction of particulate from multiple tanks variable airflow obstruction capability for airflow balancing to occur, Ftmfoermofe,:i£:is:within the scope of the present invention for a damper to be provided to correspond® each metering roller, tp:.just those metering rollers associated with a given metering structure: (as is: iUustrated in FIG. 1), or to some other subsetof metering rollers that is deemed appropriate for the particular circumstance:, 10 [0086] fo apmfoifod effibGdinunit, the hydraulic lines foot shown) confrpiiing the damper assemblies 258 are teed directly off of the respective hydraulic lines foot shbwrfl controlling the respective metering sections 178, Therefore, each damper cylinder 262 is preferably fluidly connected in series to a tespeefo/e one of the metering cylinders 198 (both corresponding to one of the metering sections 178] so that the cylinders are operated simultaneously. However, a 15 variety of Coordinated or independent control systems could be used in implementing a damper system. Furthermore, other airflow restriction means that vary structurally from the damper assemblies· 258 described herein could be used without departing foam the spirit of the present invention, [()087] Although the damper assembly 258 is described above infoe contest of a maeMne 20 having all of the preferred features of the present invention, it is noted that the damper assembly 258 could he implemented in air seeders having a variety of dispensing line and/or metering configurations. For instance, the damper assemblies could be implemented in a seeder having only one set of dispensing lines and making use of a shut-off gate above a metering roller to stop or start dispensation. Ultimately, the damper assemblies 258 are appropriate in any circumstance 25 in which it is desirahlefo counteract foe airflow imbalance that Would occur between individual dispensing lines due to a change in the seed dispensation rate into one or more of them, [0088] The preferred fomis of the invention described above are to housed as illustration only and should not be utilized in aUmiflug sense in intejpretiug the scope of the present invention. Obvious modifications to the exemplary embodiments, ashereinabove setforth, could 30 he readily made by those skilled in foe art without departing foam the spirit of the present invention, [008$] The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on foe Doctrine of Equivalents to determine and access the reasonably fair scope of the present invention as pertains to any apparatus not materially departing from but outside the literal scope of the invention set forth in the following claims. 2014227499 18 Sep 2014 5 [0090] Throughout the description and claims of the specification, the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as "comprising" and "comprises", is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. 20

Claims (4)

1. The claims defining the invention are as follows:

   1. A particulate delivery system comprising: a tank containing particulate; a plurality of particulate-transporting lines; a metering system including a plurality of particulate meeting sections, each of said particulate metering sections being associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines and including a metering device configured to control dispensation of the particulate from the tank to the respective particulate-transporting line; an airflow generator in communication with the particulate-transporting lines so as to provide pneumatic conveying of the particulate within the particulatetransporting lines; a plurality of damper assemblies, each of which is associated with a respective one of the particulate-transporting lines, each of said damper assemblies being operable to selectively restrict airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line responsive to variations in metering of particulate to the respective particulate-transporting line, each of said damper assemblies being shiftable between engaged and disengaged configurations, said engaged configuration corresponding to at least partially obstructed airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line, said disengaged configuration corresponding to at least substantially unobstructed airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line, each of said damper assemblies including a flap shiftably mounted within the respective particulate-transporting line, said flap being shifted into the airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line when the damper assembly is in the disengaged configuration, said flap being shifted into the airflow within the respective particulate-transporting line when the damper assembly is in the engaged configuration, each of said damper assemblies including a damper actuator operably coupled to the flap to effect shifting of the flap between the engaged and disengaged configurations of the damper assembly, each of said metering devices including a metering device actuator, said metering device actuator being operable to permit or stop dispensation of particulate by the metering device, each of said damper actuators being operatively linked with a respective one of the metering device actuators so that the damper assembly is shifted to the engaged configuration when the particulate dispensation is stopped and the damper assembly is shifted into the disengaged configuration when particulate is dispensed, each of said damper actuators comprising a damper hydraulic cylinder, each of said metering device actuators comprising a metering device hydraulic cylinder; and a hydraulic system operably coupled to the cylinders, with each of the damper hydraulic cylinders being fluidly coupled with a respective one of the metering device hydraulic cylinders so that both are controlled simultaneously by the hydraulic system.
2. 2. The particulate delivery system of claim 1, said flap being variably shiftable within the respective particulate-transporting line so that the extent to which airflow is obstructed by the flap is variable.
3. 3. The particulate delivery system of any one of claims 1 or 2, each of said particulate metering sections including a rotatable metering roller in communication with the tank, said rotatable metering roller operable to dispense the particulate when rotated and prevent particulate dispensation when not rotated.
4. 4. The particulate delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 3, each of said particulate metering sections including a shiftable gate in communication with the tank, with shifting of the shiftable gate controlling particulate dispensation.