CA2073237A1 - Multi-port divider header for air seeders - Google Patents
Multi-port divider header for air seedersInfo
- Publication number
- CA2073237A1 CA2073237A1 CA002073237A CA2073237A CA2073237A1 CA 2073237 A1 CA2073237 A1 CA 2073237A1 CA 002073237 A CA002073237 A CA 002073237A CA 2073237 A CA2073237 A CA 2073237A CA 2073237 A1 CA2073237 A1 CA 2073237A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- header
- divider
- ridges
- central axis
- port
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000011236 particulate material Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003337 fertilizer Substances 0.000 abstract description 9
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 abstract description 5
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006227 byproduct Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002939 deleterious effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009499 grossing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003116 impacting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
- Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
Landscapes
- Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
- Fertilizing (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A multi-port divider header for use in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder is disclosed, The header provides for the even division of an incoming air stream along with its entrained particles of seed and/or fertilizer in a number of independent outlet streams without substantial variance in delivery rate among the outlet streams. The outlet orifices of the header are preferably all at substantially the same angle with the central axis thereof. Preferably, extensions of the outlet orifices in the upstream direction to the air flow define the surface of the divider chamber upon meeting with the inlet orifice.
The entire surface of the means for deflecting the inlet air stream with its entrained particles to the outlet means provides a low angle of incidence between the surface and the air stream with its entrained particles.
A multi-port divider header for use in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder is disclosed, The header provides for the even division of an incoming air stream along with its entrained particles of seed and/or fertilizer in a number of independent outlet streams without substantial variance in delivery rate among the outlet streams. The outlet orifices of the header are preferably all at substantially the same angle with the central axis thereof. Preferably, extensions of the outlet orifices in the upstream direction to the air flow define the surface of the divider chamber upon meeting with the inlet orifice.
The entire surface of the means for deflecting the inlet air stream with its entrained particles to the outlet means provides a low angle of incidence between the surface and the air stream with its entrained particles.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a divider header for use in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder.
In the area of air seeders it is commonplace for seed and/or fertilizer mix to be entrained in a relatively fast-moving air stream from one or more large hoppers. In order for the seed and/or fertilizer mix to reach the seed boot where it is ejected rom the air seeder onto the ground, the original air stream must undergo one or more subdivisions while maintaining the seed and/or fertilizer mix entrained in the subdivided air stream. It is important in such air seeders that the seed and/or fetrilizer flow be constant and uniform with no dead spaces where the particles can accumulate and clog the air stream. It is also important that the seeds and/or fertilizer particles undergo as little damage as possible in the process.
Prior art air seeders such as displayed in USP 3,631,925 of ~einrich Weiste, 4 Jan 72 and in USP 4,473,016 of Jacob N. Gust, 25 Sep 84, have managed to deliver seed and/or fertilizer combinations to the soil but have had serious problems with respect to uniformity of delivery across the width of the machine. While each seed boot i~ associated with one ground working tool, there may be as many as 25 or more ground working tools on one cultivator. Failure of the delivery system of the air seeder to produce a uniform result across the width of the cultivator could render the machine useless, at worst, or wasteful, at best.
One area where serious problems have occurred with respect to page ---> 1 uniformity and maintenance of air flow i9 in the area of the dividex header where the air stream is sub-divided into several smaller air streams. This area of an air seeder is particularly subject to non-uniform results and clogging partially on account of dead spaces in the air flow where particles can accum~late.
It is commonplace for such divider headers to be attached to vertically oriented inlet air streams so that the effects of gravity upon the particles entrained in the air flow immediately upstream of the header have been reduced as much as possible.
This dictates a change of the direction of the sub-divided airstreams at or immediately downstream of the header. Such prior art headers typically included a large change in direction from the inlet to the outlet tubes and an impact surface perpendicular to the inlet flow, which surface could be formed from resilient material to limit damage to the entrained particles. Also known are various conduit sections with or without annular ridges such as is shown in USP 4,575,284 issued 11 March 1986 to Kelm.
page ---> 2
This invention relates to a divider header for use in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder.
In the area of air seeders it is commonplace for seed and/or fertilizer mix to be entrained in a relatively fast-moving air stream from one or more large hoppers. In order for the seed and/or fertilizer mix to reach the seed boot where it is ejected rom the air seeder onto the ground, the original air stream must undergo one or more subdivisions while maintaining the seed and/or fertilizer mix entrained in the subdivided air stream. It is important in such air seeders that the seed and/or fetrilizer flow be constant and uniform with no dead spaces where the particles can accumulate and clog the air stream. It is also important that the seeds and/or fertilizer particles undergo as little damage as possible in the process.
Prior art air seeders such as displayed in USP 3,631,925 of ~einrich Weiste, 4 Jan 72 and in USP 4,473,016 of Jacob N. Gust, 25 Sep 84, have managed to deliver seed and/or fertilizer combinations to the soil but have had serious problems with respect to uniformity of delivery across the width of the machine. While each seed boot i~ associated with one ground working tool, there may be as many as 25 or more ground working tools on one cultivator. Failure of the delivery system of the air seeder to produce a uniform result across the width of the cultivator could render the machine useless, at worst, or wasteful, at best.
One area where serious problems have occurred with respect to page ---> 1 uniformity and maintenance of air flow i9 in the area of the dividex header where the air stream is sub-divided into several smaller air streams. This area of an air seeder is particularly subject to non-uniform results and clogging partially on account of dead spaces in the air flow where particles can accum~late.
It is commonplace for such divider headers to be attached to vertically oriented inlet air streams so that the effects of gravity upon the particles entrained in the air flow immediately upstream of the header have been reduced as much as possible.
This dictates a change of the direction of the sub-divided airstreams at or immediately downstream of the header. Such prior art headers typically included a large change in direction from the inlet to the outlet tubes and an impact surface perpendicular to the inlet flow, which surface could be formed from resilient material to limit damage to the entrained particles. Also known are various conduit sections with or without annular ridges such as is shown in USP 4,575,284 issued 11 March 1986 to Kelm.
page ---> 2
2~ ~ 7 ~
OBJEC~S OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide a divider header for an air seeder which overcomes these problems while providing for uniform and accurate sub division oP the 5incoming airstream, along with it~ entrained particles of seed and/or fertilizer mix, into the desired number of outlet streams.
It is a further object of this invention to reduce the amount of energy absorbed in the header which, in prior art headers, was lost by product and air impacting upon and being Obounced off a deflection panel or other device.
It is a further object of the invention to provide for maintenance of product and air velocity at a generally high level as it passes through the header. Maintenance of a high product Yelocity in the header dictates a higher carrying velocity in the Sfinal delivery lines thereby eliminating or reducing problems downstream of the header.
It is a further object of the invention to optimize air velocity in the air seeder by avoiding velocity stagnation in the header and thus unnecessary power applied to the air seeder.
:0It is a further object oP the invention to provide for product division in a gentle manner whereby minimal product damage occurs while product is passing through the header.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a smooth area transition from entry of air into the header to exit thereby 5eliminating large velocity changes and any large cavity inside the header.
page ---> 3 ~.?,?,t~
It is a further object of the invention to provide a divider header which is easily manufactured in a symmetrical fashion and which may be castable and of one-piece construction.
SlIMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a multi-port divider header, herein referred to as the header, for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder having a generally circular inlet orifice for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, and having a divider chamber connected to said inlet orifice and comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet orifices wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a lS low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and a plurality of generally circular outlet orifices radially distributed about the central axis of the header. Each outlet orifice is connected to the divider chamber opposite said inlet orifice and conducts an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream. The central axis of each outlet orifice preferrably is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, the angle between the central axis of the outlet orifice and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degees.
page ---> 4 ~7;~ 7 The present invention further provides a header where the angle between the central axi~ of the outlet orifice and the central axis of the header is in the range of between 25 degrees and ~5 degrees and preferrably approximately 30 degrees.
The present invention further provide~ a header where the outlet orifices may be sep~rated by a plurality of flow diverting ridges oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header. The flow diverting ridges may be of generally triangular cross-section and may be shaped so as to blend smoothly 1~ into the associated circular ou-tlet orifices.
The present invention further provides a generally cone-shaped deflector axially aligned with the central axis of the header and tapered outward-ly in the direction of flow of air through the header. The deflector may include ridges of generally triangular cross-section and whose height may increase in the direction of air flow.
The present invention further provides a circumferential surface for deflecting the inlet air stream spaced radially outwardly and circumferentially surrounding the deflection means, ~0 and extending in the direction of the air flow through the chamber~
The circumferential surface may include a plurality of second directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of travel of air to associated outlet orifice. The height of the second directional control ridges increases in the direction of air ~5 flow through the divider chamber means and may correspond generally to the distance from the inlet orifice. Each second directional page ---> 5 ~ ? ~37;
control ridge is spaced equally between a pair of said outlet mean~
and may be aligned with said first ridges.
The present invention thus consists in a multi-port divider header for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance comprising:
A. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, B. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and C. a plurality of generally circular outlet means radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
1~ each connected to the divider chamber means opposite the inlet means, and, 2. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header, wherein:
(1) the central axis of each outlet means is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, page ---> 6 (2~ the angle between the central axi~ of the outlet means and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degees.
The present invention further preferrably includes means to centralize the flow of air and entrained particulate material in the inlet orifice, which means may comprise a tapered section of inlet tuhe means downstream of, and closely associated with, the inlet orifice and a smooth transition from the said tapered section of inlet tube to the divider chamber.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the invention, partially cut away along line B-B in Figure 2, and of discharge tubes associated with the invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of the multi-port divider header of the preerred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is an isometric cross sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the invention taken along the line A-A in Figure 2.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREEERRED EMBODIMENT
In Figures 1, 2 and 3 the multi-port divider header is generally designated as 1. The multi-port divider header is herein referred to as the header for convenience.
As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 the header 1 is cylindrically symmetrical about its central axis designated 2.
The inlet air stream along with entrained particles of ~eed page ---> 7 2~ 7 and/or fertilizer is preferably vertically oriented and enter-~
the header 1 through inlet tube 4 along central axis 2 in an upwards direction as noted with arrow 3 on ~igure 1. The inle~
tube 4 is connected upstream to the source of entrained particles and high velocity air.
After sub-division in the header 1, the air stream and entrained particles exit the header 1 and enter a plurality of outlet tubes 5 for continued delivery downstream in the air seeder. Outlet tubes 5 are curved downwardly and for the particular preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1 would be 12 identical curved tubes 5. As can be seen the number of outlet tubes provided is a matter of design choice and may range from three to many depending on the desirecl configuration of the header.
The ratio of the total area of the outlet tube~ aeross their lS central axes to the area of the inlet tube across its central axis can vary, but generally is in the range from 0.75 ~o 2.0, and preferably is in the range from 1.0 to 1.5.
Inlet tube 4 is inset in the lowermost portion 6 of divider header 1 and snugly fits against cylindrical surface 7 for an airtight fit. Adjacent and downstream of cylindrical surface 7 and inlet tube 4 is a cylindrical but inwardly tapered surface 8 which serves, in the preferred embodiment, to centralize the air flow along with its entrained particles. Preferably the taper on surface 8 is in the order of 5 degrees but may advantageously be between 4 and 7 degrees.
Downstream of tapered surface 8 is a further cylindrical page ---> 8 ~ ~ ~ ? ~ ~
surface generally de~ignated 9 whose ~ides are generally parallel to cylindrical surface 7 but of a necessarily smaller diameter.
Cylindrical surface 9 provides for a smoothing of the transition between tapered surface 8 and the balance of the header.
Outlet orifices are generally designated as 10 on Figure 2.
The central axis 11 of each outlet orifice 10 is angled to central axis 2. The angle, herein referred to as angle A, i~ generally designated as 12 on Figure 1 and preferrably is uniform for each outlet orifice 10. Outlet tube 5 is snugly fi~ into outlet orifice 10 by means of an airtight connection formed by cylindrical surface 13 of outlet tube 5 abutting on a corresponding surface on the outlet orifice 10.
Preferably the interior diameter of outlet tube 5 is the same as the diameter of outlet orifice 10 for a smooth airflow between the divider header 1 and the outlet tube 5.
Extensions of central axes ll of the outlet orifices 10 preferrably meet at a common point 14 lying on the central axis 2 of the header.
The central portion yenerally designated 15 of header 1 includes a divider chamber generally designated as 16 on Figure 1.
Divider chamber 16 includes a generally cone-shaped deflector 17 which is axially aligned and symmetrical with central axis 2. The divider chamber 16 generally lies entirely within the perimeter formed by the radially outward edges of the outlet orifices 10.
Preferably the generally conical surface of deflector 17 page ---> 9 2 ~ r~ ~ ~
is formed by extensions of the cylindrical surfaces, co-axial with and extending convergingly from the perimeters of outlet orifice3 10 and outlet tubes 5, thereby providing first directional control ridges 18, as shown on Figure 3, and cylindrically-shaped valleys 19 therebetween. Preferably first directional control ridges 18 and cylindrically shaped valleys 19 extend from the outlet orifice 10, towards point 14 on central axis 2 and the ridges are of decreasing height as they approach point 14.
Similarly the interior circumferential surface of divider `O chamber 16 is formed by corresponding extensions of the cylindrical surfaces co-axial with and extending convergingly from the perimeters of outlet orifices 10 and outlet tubes 5. This forms a series of second directional control ridges identified as 20 on Figure 3 along the exterior of divider chamber 16 with !5 cylindrically shaped valleys 21 therebetween corresponding with cylindrically shaped valleys 18 andl first directional control ridges 19 respectively.
Tn between each outlet orifice in the divider chamber is a flow diverting ridge 22 as shown in Figure 3 which has a `O generally ~riangular cross-section along the line C-C and a generally elliptically curved lowermost portion 23 forming a flow diverting ridge 22. First directional control ridges 18 are axially aligned with, and form a continuous curve with corresponding flow diverting ridges 23 and second directional :5 control ridges 20.
Preferably the first directional control ridge 18, flow page ---> 10 ~ 7 diverting ridge 22 and 3econd directional control ridge 20 are formed by the intersection of the aforesaid cylindrical extensions from the outlet orifice 10 and outlet tubes 5 along axes 11 towards point 14, thereby providing for a generally cone S shaped deflector 17 and a smooth but sub-divided interior surface. Axial extensions of the outlet orifices towards point 14 meet cylindrical surface 9 at about point 24.
Preferably outlet tubes 5 have a straight portion axially aligned with axis 11 in order to assist in maintaining uniform back pressure across each of the outlet orifices 10 in the header.
Point 14 may be advantageously either upstream or downstream of cylindrical surface 9. The point 25 of deflector 17 may be at, upstream of or downstream of cylindrical surface 9.
Angle 12 is preferably 3~ degrees but may vary between 25 and 35 degrees without deleterious effect.
In addition angle 12 may be as little as 5 or 10 degrees and as much as 40 or more degrees without detracting from the invention although smaller angles may dictate a sharper curve on the outlet tube 5 at some point downstream while a larger angle may provide for difficulties in maintaining uniform back pressure across each outlet orifice and may provide for additional adverse impact damage to seeds and/or entrained fertilizer.
page ---> 11
OBJEC~S OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide a divider header for an air seeder which overcomes these problems while providing for uniform and accurate sub division oP the 5incoming airstream, along with it~ entrained particles of seed and/or fertilizer mix, into the desired number of outlet streams.
It is a further object of this invention to reduce the amount of energy absorbed in the header which, in prior art headers, was lost by product and air impacting upon and being Obounced off a deflection panel or other device.
It is a further object of the invention to provide for maintenance of product and air velocity at a generally high level as it passes through the header. Maintenance of a high product Yelocity in the header dictates a higher carrying velocity in the Sfinal delivery lines thereby eliminating or reducing problems downstream of the header.
It is a further object of the invention to optimize air velocity in the air seeder by avoiding velocity stagnation in the header and thus unnecessary power applied to the air seeder.
:0It is a further object oP the invention to provide for product division in a gentle manner whereby minimal product damage occurs while product is passing through the header.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a smooth area transition from entry of air into the header to exit thereby 5eliminating large velocity changes and any large cavity inside the header.
page ---> 3 ~.?,?,t~
It is a further object of the invention to provide a divider header which is easily manufactured in a symmetrical fashion and which may be castable and of one-piece construction.
SlIMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a multi-port divider header, herein referred to as the header, for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance such as an air seeder having a generally circular inlet orifice for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, and having a divider chamber connected to said inlet orifice and comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet orifices wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a lS low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and a plurality of generally circular outlet orifices radially distributed about the central axis of the header. Each outlet orifice is connected to the divider chamber opposite said inlet orifice and conducts an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream. The central axis of each outlet orifice preferrably is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, the angle between the central axis of the outlet orifice and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degees.
page ---> 4 ~7;~ 7 The present invention further provides a header where the angle between the central axi~ of the outlet orifice and the central axis of the header is in the range of between 25 degrees and ~5 degrees and preferrably approximately 30 degrees.
The present invention further provide~ a header where the outlet orifices may be sep~rated by a plurality of flow diverting ridges oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header. The flow diverting ridges may be of generally triangular cross-section and may be shaped so as to blend smoothly 1~ into the associated circular ou-tlet orifices.
The present invention further provides a generally cone-shaped deflector axially aligned with the central axis of the header and tapered outward-ly in the direction of flow of air through the header. The deflector may include ridges of generally triangular cross-section and whose height may increase in the direction of air flow.
The present invention further provides a circumferential surface for deflecting the inlet air stream spaced radially outwardly and circumferentially surrounding the deflection means, ~0 and extending in the direction of the air flow through the chamber~
The circumferential surface may include a plurality of second directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of travel of air to associated outlet orifice. The height of the second directional control ridges increases in the direction of air ~5 flow through the divider chamber means and may correspond generally to the distance from the inlet orifice. Each second directional page ---> 5 ~ ? ~37;
control ridge is spaced equally between a pair of said outlet mean~
and may be aligned with said first ridges.
The present invention thus consists in a multi-port divider header for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance comprising:
A. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, B. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and C. a plurality of generally circular outlet means radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
1~ each connected to the divider chamber means opposite the inlet means, and, 2. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header, wherein:
(1) the central axis of each outlet means is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, page ---> 6 (2~ the angle between the central axi~ of the outlet means and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degees.
The present invention further preferrably includes means to centralize the flow of air and entrained particulate material in the inlet orifice, which means may comprise a tapered section of inlet tuhe means downstream of, and closely associated with, the inlet orifice and a smooth transition from the said tapered section of inlet tube to the divider chamber.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the invention, partially cut away along line B-B in Figure 2, and of discharge tubes associated with the invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of the multi-port divider header of the preerred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is an isometric cross sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the invention taken along the line A-A in Figure 2.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREEERRED EMBODIMENT
In Figures 1, 2 and 3 the multi-port divider header is generally designated as 1. The multi-port divider header is herein referred to as the header for convenience.
As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 the header 1 is cylindrically symmetrical about its central axis designated 2.
The inlet air stream along with entrained particles of ~eed page ---> 7 2~ 7 and/or fertilizer is preferably vertically oriented and enter-~
the header 1 through inlet tube 4 along central axis 2 in an upwards direction as noted with arrow 3 on ~igure 1. The inle~
tube 4 is connected upstream to the source of entrained particles and high velocity air.
After sub-division in the header 1, the air stream and entrained particles exit the header 1 and enter a plurality of outlet tubes 5 for continued delivery downstream in the air seeder. Outlet tubes 5 are curved downwardly and for the particular preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1 would be 12 identical curved tubes 5. As can be seen the number of outlet tubes provided is a matter of design choice and may range from three to many depending on the desirecl configuration of the header.
The ratio of the total area of the outlet tube~ aeross their lS central axes to the area of the inlet tube across its central axis can vary, but generally is in the range from 0.75 ~o 2.0, and preferably is in the range from 1.0 to 1.5.
Inlet tube 4 is inset in the lowermost portion 6 of divider header 1 and snugly fits against cylindrical surface 7 for an airtight fit. Adjacent and downstream of cylindrical surface 7 and inlet tube 4 is a cylindrical but inwardly tapered surface 8 which serves, in the preferred embodiment, to centralize the air flow along with its entrained particles. Preferably the taper on surface 8 is in the order of 5 degrees but may advantageously be between 4 and 7 degrees.
Downstream of tapered surface 8 is a further cylindrical page ---> 8 ~ ~ ~ ? ~ ~
surface generally de~ignated 9 whose ~ides are generally parallel to cylindrical surface 7 but of a necessarily smaller diameter.
Cylindrical surface 9 provides for a smoothing of the transition between tapered surface 8 and the balance of the header.
Outlet orifices are generally designated as 10 on Figure 2.
The central axis 11 of each outlet orifice 10 is angled to central axis 2. The angle, herein referred to as angle A, i~ generally designated as 12 on Figure 1 and preferrably is uniform for each outlet orifice 10. Outlet tube 5 is snugly fi~ into outlet orifice 10 by means of an airtight connection formed by cylindrical surface 13 of outlet tube 5 abutting on a corresponding surface on the outlet orifice 10.
Preferably the interior diameter of outlet tube 5 is the same as the diameter of outlet orifice 10 for a smooth airflow between the divider header 1 and the outlet tube 5.
Extensions of central axes ll of the outlet orifices 10 preferrably meet at a common point 14 lying on the central axis 2 of the header.
The central portion yenerally designated 15 of header 1 includes a divider chamber generally designated as 16 on Figure 1.
Divider chamber 16 includes a generally cone-shaped deflector 17 which is axially aligned and symmetrical with central axis 2. The divider chamber 16 generally lies entirely within the perimeter formed by the radially outward edges of the outlet orifices 10.
Preferably the generally conical surface of deflector 17 page ---> 9 2 ~ r~ ~ ~
is formed by extensions of the cylindrical surfaces, co-axial with and extending convergingly from the perimeters of outlet orifice3 10 and outlet tubes 5, thereby providing first directional control ridges 18, as shown on Figure 3, and cylindrically-shaped valleys 19 therebetween. Preferably first directional control ridges 18 and cylindrically shaped valleys 19 extend from the outlet orifice 10, towards point 14 on central axis 2 and the ridges are of decreasing height as they approach point 14.
Similarly the interior circumferential surface of divider `O chamber 16 is formed by corresponding extensions of the cylindrical surfaces co-axial with and extending convergingly from the perimeters of outlet orifices 10 and outlet tubes 5. This forms a series of second directional control ridges identified as 20 on Figure 3 along the exterior of divider chamber 16 with !5 cylindrically shaped valleys 21 therebetween corresponding with cylindrically shaped valleys 18 andl first directional control ridges 19 respectively.
Tn between each outlet orifice in the divider chamber is a flow diverting ridge 22 as shown in Figure 3 which has a `O generally ~riangular cross-section along the line C-C and a generally elliptically curved lowermost portion 23 forming a flow diverting ridge 22. First directional control ridges 18 are axially aligned with, and form a continuous curve with corresponding flow diverting ridges 23 and second directional :5 control ridges 20.
Preferably the first directional control ridge 18, flow page ---> 10 ~ 7 diverting ridge 22 and 3econd directional control ridge 20 are formed by the intersection of the aforesaid cylindrical extensions from the outlet orifice 10 and outlet tubes 5 along axes 11 towards point 14, thereby providing for a generally cone S shaped deflector 17 and a smooth but sub-divided interior surface. Axial extensions of the outlet orifices towards point 14 meet cylindrical surface 9 at about point 24.
Preferably outlet tubes 5 have a straight portion axially aligned with axis 11 in order to assist in maintaining uniform back pressure across each of the outlet orifices 10 in the header.
Point 14 may be advantageously either upstream or downstream of cylindrical surface 9. The point 25 of deflector 17 may be at, upstream of or downstream of cylindrical surface 9.
Angle 12 is preferably 3~ degrees but may vary between 25 and 35 degrees without deleterious effect.
In addition angle 12 may be as little as 5 or 10 degrees and as much as 40 or more degrees without detracting from the invention although smaller angles may dictate a sharper curve on the outlet tube 5 at some point downstream while a larger angle may provide for difficulties in maintaining uniform back pressure across each outlet orifice and may provide for additional adverse impact damage to seeds and/or entrained fertilizer.
page ---> 11
Claims (39)
1. A multi-port divider header for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance comprising:
a. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, b. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and c. a plurality of generally circular outlet means radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
i. each connected to the divider chamber means opposite the inlet means, and, ii. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header, wherein:
(a) the central axis of each outlet means is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, (b) the angle between the central axis of the outlet means and the central axis of the header is less than 45 page ---> 12 degees.
a. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, b. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles and the said deflection means, and c. a plurality of generally circular outlet means radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
i. each connected to the divider chamber means opposite the inlet means, and, ii. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream along its central axis in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header, wherein:
(a) the central axis of each outlet means is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, (b) the angle between the central axis of the outlet means and the central axis of the header is less than 45 page ---> 12 degees.
2. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 1 wherein the angle between the central axis of the outlet means and the central axis of the header is in the range of between 25 degrees and 35 degrees.
3. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein the deflection means comprises a plurality of flow diverting ridges:
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
4. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 3 wherein the flow diverting ridges are of generally triangular cross-section.
5. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 4 wherein the flow diverting ridges are shaped so as to blend smoothly into the associated circular outlet means.
6. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein a first portion of said deflection means comprises a generally cone-shaped deflector axially aligned with the central axis of the header and tapered outwardly in the direction of flow of air through the divider chamber means.
7. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 6 wherein the deflection means comprises a plurality of flow diverting ridges:
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
page ---> 13
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
page ---> 13
8. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 7 wherein the flow diverting ridges are of generally triangular cross-section.
9. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 8 wherein the flow diverting ridges are shaped so as to blend smoothly into the associated circular outlet means.
10. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 6 wherein the deflector further comprises a plurality of first directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of travel of air to associated outlet means.
11. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 10 wherein the height of said first directional control ridges increases in the direction of air flow through the divider chamber means.
12. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 11 wherein the increase in the height of the first directional control ridges corresponds generally to the increasing diameter of the deflector.
13. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 12 wherein the deflection means comprises a plurality of flow diverting ridges:
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
14. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 13 wherein the flow diverting ridges are of generally triangular cross-section.
15. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 14 wherein the flow diverting ridges are shaped to as to blend smoothly into the associated outlet means.
16. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 15 wherein the page ---> 14 flow diverting ridges are aligned with said first directional control ridges.
17. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein said divider chamber further comprises a circumferential surface means for deflecting the inlet air stream:
a. spaced radially outwardly and circumferentially surrounding the deflection means, and b. extending in the direction of the air flow through the chamber.
a. spaced radially outwardly and circumferentially surrounding the deflection means, and b. extending in the direction of the air flow through the chamber.
18. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claims 17 wherein the circumferential surface means includes a plurality of second directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of travel of air to associated outlet means.
19. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 18 wherein the height of the second directional control ridges increases in the direction of air flow through the divider chamber means.
20. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 19 wherein the increase in the height of the second directional control ridges corresponds generally to the distance from the inlet means.
21. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 20 wherein each second directional control ridge is spaced equally between a pair of said outlet means.
22. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 21 wherein the divider chamber means further comprises a generally cone-shaped deflector axially aligned with the central axis of the header and tapered outwardly in the direction of flow of air through the page ---> 15 divider chamber means.
23. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 22 wherein the deflector further comprises a plurality of first direction control ridges aligned generally in the direction of travel of air to associated circular outlet means.
24. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 23 wherein the height of said first directional control ridges increases in the direction of air flow through the divider chamber means.
25. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 24 wherein the increase in the height of the first directional control ridges corresponds generally to the increasing diameter of the deflector.
26. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 25 wherein the deflection means comprises a plurality of flow diverting ridges:
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
a. separating the outlet means from each other, and b. each oriented generally radially outward from the central axis of the header.
27. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 26 wherein the flow diverting ridges are of generally triangular cross-section.
28. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 27 wherein the flow diverting ridges are shaped so as to blend smoothly into the outlet air stream.
29. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 28 wherein the flow diverting ridges are aligned with said first direction control ridges.
30. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 29 wherein the flow diverting ridges are also aligned with said second direction page ---> 16 control ridges.
31. A multi-port divider header axially symmetrical about its central axis for sub-dividing an inlet air stream and its entrained particulate material in an agricultural pneumatic conveyance comprising:
a. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, and, b. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means, wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles c. the said deflection means comprising:
i. a generally cone-shaped deflector:
(1) axially aligned with the central axis of the header, and, (2) tapered outwardly in the direction of flow of air through the divider chamber means, (3) including a plurality of first directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of air flow in the divider chamber means for deflecting the air and its entrained particles, and, ii. a circumferential portion of said deflection means radially outward from and circumferentially surrounding page ---> 17 the said cone-shaped deflector including a plurality of second directional control ridges:
(1) aligned generally in the direction of air flow in the divider chamber means, and, (2) each spaced equally between a pair of outlet means, d. a plurality of generally circular outlet means equally radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
i. each connected to said divider chamber means opposite said inlet means, and, ii. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header.
wherein:
(a) the central axis of each outlet air stream is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, (b) the angle between the central axis of the outlet air stream and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degrees and substantially greater than 0 degress, and, (c) the outlet means are separated from each other by a plurality of flow diverting ridges in the divider chamber means:
(i) of generally triangular cross-section, and, (ii) shaped so as to blend smoothly into the outlet air stream, and, (iii) oriented radially outward from the central axis of the header.
page ---> 18
a. generally circular inlet means for receiving an inlet air stream in the direction of the central axis of the header, and, b. divider chamber means connected to said inlet means comprising deflection means for deflecting the inlet air stream and its entrained particles towards multiple outlet means, wherein substantially the whole of said deflection means is oriented so as to provide a low angle of incidence between the air and its entrained particles c. the said deflection means comprising:
i. a generally cone-shaped deflector:
(1) axially aligned with the central axis of the header, and, (2) tapered outwardly in the direction of flow of air through the divider chamber means, (3) including a plurality of first directional control ridges aligned generally in the direction of air flow in the divider chamber means for deflecting the air and its entrained particles, and, ii. a circumferential portion of said deflection means radially outward from and circumferentially surrounding page ---> 17 the said cone-shaped deflector including a plurality of second directional control ridges:
(1) aligned generally in the direction of air flow in the divider chamber means, and, (2) each spaced equally between a pair of outlet means, d. a plurality of generally circular outlet means equally radially distributed about the central axis of the header:
i. each connected to said divider chamber means opposite said inlet means, and, ii. each for conducting an associated outlet air stream in the same general direction as that of the inlet air stream but at an angle to the central axis of the header.
wherein:
(a) the central axis of each outlet air stream is oriented towards the central axis of the header, and, (b) the angle between the central axis of the outlet air stream and the central axis of the header is less than 45 degrees and substantially greater than 0 degress, and, (c) the outlet means are separated from each other by a plurality of flow diverting ridges in the divider chamber means:
(i) of generally triangular cross-section, and, (ii) shaped so as to blend smoothly into the outlet air stream, and, (iii) oriented radially outward from the central axis of the header.
page ---> 18
32. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 31 wherein each of said first direction control ridges is aligned with a corresponding one of said second direction control ridges.
33. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 32 wherein each of said first direction control ridges is also aligned with a corresponding one of said flow diverting ridges.
34. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 33 wherein the surfaces of the both of the divider chamber means and the deflector are formed substantially by generally cylindrical extensions of the periphery of the said outlet means in the opposite direction to air flow through the divider chamber means and along the central axis of the outlet air stream.
35. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 34 wherein the inlet means includes means to centralize the flow of air and entrained particulate material in the inlet means.
36. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 35 wherein the means to centralize the flow of air comprises a section of tapered tube means downstream of and closely associated with the divider chamber means.
37. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 35 wherein said means to centralize the flow of air further includes smooth transition means from the tapered tube means to the divider chamber means.
33. A multi-port divider header as claimed in either of claims 1 or 31 wherein the ratio of the total area of the circular outlet means across their central axes to the area of the circular inlet page ---> 19 means across its central axis is in the range of from 0.75 to 2Ø
39. A multi-port divider header as claimed in claim 37 in which the said ratio is in the range from 1.0 to 1.5.
page ---> 20
page ---> 20
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US72623591A | 1991-07-05 | 1991-07-05 | |
| US07/726,235 | 1991-07-05 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2073237A1 true CA2073237A1 (en) | 1993-01-06 |
Family
ID=24917738
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002073237A Abandoned CA2073237A1 (en) | 1991-07-05 | 1992-07-06 | Multi-port divider header for air seeders |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2073237A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6227770B1 (en) | 1998-02-06 | 2001-05-08 | Flexi-Coil Ltd. | Conveyor tube and distributor header for air conveyor |
| CN106973591A (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2017-07-25 | 安徽农业大学 | A kind of seed manure dual-purpose type collection arranges Pneumatic type tripper |
| CN108432417A (en) * | 2018-02-07 | 2018-08-24 | 吉林大学 | A kind of radial direction individual gas sources formula feed mechanism for seed |
-
1992
- 1992-07-06 CA CA002073237A patent/CA2073237A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6227770B1 (en) | 1998-02-06 | 2001-05-08 | Flexi-Coil Ltd. | Conveyor tube and distributor header for air conveyor |
| US6273648B1 (en) | 1998-02-06 | 2001-08-14 | Flexi-Coil Ltd. | Distribution header for air conveyor |
| US6290433B2 (en) | 1998-02-06 | 2001-09-18 | Flexi-Coil Ltd. | Distribution system for conveying air-entrained material |
| CN106973591A (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2017-07-25 | 安徽农业大学 | A kind of seed manure dual-purpose type collection arranges Pneumatic type tripper |
| CN106973591B (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2023-03-28 | 安徽农业大学 | Seed and fertilizer dual-purpose type collection and exhaust pneumatic distributor |
| CN108432417A (en) * | 2018-02-07 | 2018-08-24 | 吉林大学 | A kind of radial direction individual gas sources formula feed mechanism for seed |
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