DE102021116352A1 - AGRICULTURAL WORK MACHINE AND METHOD OF WEIGHTING AN AGRICULTURAL WORK MACHINE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to an agricultural working machine (10), preferably a towed agricultural working machine (10), in particular a tillage and/or seeding machine, having a machine frame (14) and at least one axle (16), the axle (16) having two axle units ( 110, 120) each comprising at least one road wheel (18) resting on the ground and which are connected to one another via a connecting support structure (130), preferably in order to enable stresses to be transmitted between the axle units (110, 120).

Description

The invention relates to an agricultural working machine, in particular a towed one, in particular a soil tillage and/or sowing machine. The invention also relates to a method for shifting weight on an agricultural working machine, in particular a towed one.

In agriculture, agricultural working machines are used for tilling the soil and/or for sowing agricultural products to be distributed, and these are often designed as working machines pulled by a tractor. In the development and construction of such work machines, on the one hand agricultural aspects in field work and on the other legal aspects in road transport must be taken into account. As a rule, for field work on an arable land, for soil protection and for uniform processing, a weight distribution that is as even as possible on all soil tillage and/or sowing tools or the greatest possible weight relief of the soil tillage and/or sowing tools is desirable. For road transport, on the other hand, the weight distribution must be designed in such a way that the vertical loads and axle loads do not exceed the maximum values prescribed by law. These problems increase accordingly with increasing working widths of the work machines.

To date, towed agricultural machines have been designed in such a way that they can be used to comply with legal requirements. However, this was usually accompanied by a deterioration in optimal weight distribution when working in the field. This is the case in particular with working machines in which at least some soil tillage and/or sowing tools are arranged behind the wheels or the axle of the working machine in relation to the direction of travel, because this allows the weight distribution to be optimized for field work, but a so-called negative support load, which is not permissible for road transport, can occur for road transport.

Such machines usually include a machine frame with z. B. a reservoir, wherein at the rear end of the machine frame z. B. a rotary harrow and z. B. a coulters comprehensive coulter rail can be mounted pivotably relative to the machine frame.

A z. B. two, three or four wheels comprehensive chassis can be mounted. The chassis can B. have a left chassis section and a right chassis section, the left chassis section and the right chassis section are separated from each other and have a wheel on the left and right, so that the chassis z. B. may have 4 wheels.

An arrangement of the running wheels over the entire width of the machine frame, if possible, has the advantage that essentially the same ground conditions can be created over the essentially entire width, for e.g. B. a subsequent power harrow and z. B. following coulters.

However, due to the wide arrangement of the wheels, there is also the problem that large moments and forces are introduced into the machine frame via the left-hand chassis section and the right-hand chassis section, with the result that there is a risk of machine frame fractures. The risk of machine frame fractures exists particularly when driving on roads or when driving on uneven paths when moments and forces act unevenly on the machine frame due to uneven ground and the machine frame is thus subjected to stress peaks in particular. Reinforcing the machine frame in areas at risk of breaking is usually only possible to a limited extent due to the restricted installation space.

An object of the invention is to create an agricultural working machine in which the risk of machine frame fractures can be reduced, in particular the stresses acting on a machine frame can be reduced, and preferably in which an optimized weight distribution is achieved both in field work and in road transport can be made possible.

This object is achieved by a particularly towed agricultural working machine with the features of independent claim 1 and with the features of method claim 19. Advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are disclosed in the claims and the following description with partial reference to the figures.

The invention relates in particular to a towed agricultural machine, e.g. B. Tillage and/or seed drill. This means that the work machine is suitably set up in particular to be pulled by means of an agricultural towing vehicle (e.g. tractor).

The work machine includes a machine frame and at least one axle (e.g. travel axle).

The axle comprises two axle units, which are preferably separated from one another and each comprise at least one running wheel supported on the ground.

The machine frame can B. be formed from several frame members and in particular include two side beams. It is possible for one axle unit to be mounted on one side support and the other axle unit to be mounted on the other side support.

The axle units are connected to one another in particular via a connection support structure (e.g. connection beam, axle bell, connection bell and/or connection flange, etc.), preferably in order to enable stresses (e.g. forces and/or moments) to be transmitted between the two axle units .

This advantageously enables the machine frame (e.g. the side supports) to be stressed more evenly and/or stress peaks on the machine frame (e.g. on the side supports) can be reduced and thus in particular the risk of a machine frame breakage.

Stresses can advantageously be partially transferred from one axle unit to the other axle unit and/or stresses of different magnitudes on the axle units can be approximated to one another (e.g. essentially matched to one another).

The connection support structure thus advantageously makes it possible to significantly reduce the in particular maximum stresses (eg moments and/or forces) acting on the machine frame.

Stresses can e.g. B. are transmitted in each case by means of the connection support structure to the respective opposite axle unit or its at least one impeller.

Due to the fact that the axle is formed by at least two axle units in particular (therefore, for example, it is not a fixed axle on which four wheels are attached, for example), manufacturing tolerances can also occur, for example, both in the axle units and be advantageously compensated in the machine frame. In this way, assembly of the axle can also advantageously be substantially simplified and, in particular, can also be carried out without distortions or the like, which could occur, for example, as a result of manufacturing tolerances.

The connection support structure serves in particular to connect the axle units to one another in a support structure.

The axle units together with the connection support structure can thus in particular form a common and/or continuous axle.

It is possible for the connection support structure to be designed as a tube, in particular as a round tube. The tube can in particular consist of z. B. steel.

The axle units can each z. B. an axle segment (in particular an axle tube), preferably with at least two wheels supported on the ground.

It is possible for the axle segments to extend substantially coaxially.

It is possible that the axle segments and the connecting support structure extend in particular with their longitudinal or central axes essentially in a common plane and/or essentially coaxially.

The axle units are preferably next to each other (z. B. left and right on the machine) and thus z. B. not arranged one behind the other.

It is possible for each of the axle segments to protrude with one of their end sections into the connecting support structure, which is preferably designed as a tube.

The axle segments can B. via a mounting structure (z. B. flange elements, mounting brackets (z. B. U-bracket), flange plates, etc.) coupled to the machine frame, in particular releasably. The mounting structures are preferably arranged substantially centrally on the axle segments.

The axle units preferably each comprise at least two ground-supporting wheels (e.g. a left wheel and a right wheel). The axis can thus z. B. include at least four wheels.

It is possible that the mounting structure of one axle unit is arranged between two road wheels of one axle unit and the mounting structure of the other axle unit is arranged between two road wheels of the other axle unit.

The axle is preferably a non-driven axle.

The connection support structure preferably extends between the axle units.

The connection support structure can, for. B. essentially coaxially to wheel centers (z. B. wheel hubs (z. B. axle segment stubs), wheel hub recordings, etc.) extend the wheels.

The connection support structure can preferably be expediently mounted to the axle units, e.g. B. expediently on the one hand to an axle unit and expediently on the other hand to the other axle unit.

It is possible for the connecting support structure to protrude into a wheel of one axle unit on the one hand and into a wheel of the other axle unit on the other hand.

The connection support structure can preferably be attached to the wheels (e.g. rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel discs and/or wheel spokes, etc.) and/or their wheel hubs (e.g. rotatable axle segment stubs, etc.), so that the connection structure e.g. B. on the one hand can be attached to an impeller and / or its wheel hub of an axle unit and on the other hand can be attached to an impeller and / or its wheel hub of the other axle unit, preferably in such a way that it can advantageously rotate together with the wheels.

The attachment can B. on wheel sections between tires of the wheels (e.g. rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel bolts, wheel discs, wheel spokes, etc.) and/or through wheel sections between tires of the wheels.

For example, it is possible for wheel hubs (e.g. rotatable axle segment stubs) to be present on the axle segments for the running wheels. B. Wheel bolts or other suitable fasteners can be attached, which can extend through the rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel discs and / or wheel spokes etc. and can be mounted on the connecting structure. However, an attachment z. B. possible directly on rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel discs or wheel spokes.

In the context of the invention, the wheel hubs can e.g. B. rotatable axle segment stub and / or be designed as a rotatable axle segment stub.

The connection support structure can be used on both sides z. B. have a mounting flange extending transversely (e.g. obliquely or essentially at right angles) to the longitudinal axis of the connecting support structure for mounting on the axle units, in particular the running wheels and/or their wheel hubs. The mounting flange can e.g. B. be annular and / or have mounting holes.

It is possible that the axle segments are designed to be non-rotatable and therefore do not rotate with the running wheels, particularly when the working machine is being driven.

The connection support structure can e.g. B. be formed and / or connected to the wheels (eg turn together with the wheels, so that they can advantageously turn together with the wheels, especially while driving the working machine.

At least one of the impellers can, for. B. a brake (z. B. drum brake (especially brake drum) can be assigned, which can be integrated z.

The axle units are preferably separated from one another and/or can be mounted individually (e.g. independently of one another) on the machine frame and/or can be removed from the machine frame. Alternatively or additionally, the axle units are preferably arranged next to one another in relation to the direction of travel of the working machine.

The axle units can e.g. B. be essentially identical in construction, so that in the context of the invention, preferably at least the axle segments, the mounting structures and z. B. the wheels can be essentially identical.

It is possible for the axle units to be coupled to one another, in particular structurally, via the connecting support structure.

The axle units and thus in particular the axle can, for. B. form a packer roller.

The impellers can B. be provided with an AS profile.

The machine frame can B. two side members, in particular two longitudinal beams, include, wherein the mounting structure of an axle unit to a side member and the Mounting structure of the other axle unit can be mounted to the other side beam.

The connection support structure can preferably be designed as a (e.g. elongate) connection support, in particular as a connection tube support. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the connection support structure to be inserted axially as an intermediate piece between the axle units, e.g. B. in order to connect the axle units to one another in particular in terms of the supporting structure.

The connection support structure can e.g. B. have a length of less than 1.5 meters, less than 1 meter or less than 0.75 meters.

The machine frame can B. have a towing device (e.g. towing eye, drawbar, two-point or three-point connection, and/or the like), the towing device being set up so that the work machine can be connected to an agricultural tractor (e.g. preferably tractor) and a supporting force (e.g. positive or negative vertical load) can be transferred to the agricultural tractor (e.g. tractor hitch).

The running wheels, which are supported on the ground, are assigned to the machine frame, preferably in the rear area.

The running wheels can preferably include the at least one running wheel of one axle unit and the at least one running wheel of the other axle unit.

The working machine is preferably designed in such a way that when driving on the road and/or working in the field, the weight is distributed in such a way that part of the weight is transferred to the ground via the wheels and part of the weight is transferred to the agricultural tractor via the towing device.

For tillage and/or sowing, it is also provided that tillage and/or sowing tools are mounted on the machine frame, preferably behind the running wheels in relation to the direction of travel, so that they can be adjusted in height relative to the running wheels.

In order to create a towed agricultural working machine with an advantageously optimized weight distribution both for field work and for road transport, it is preferably provided that a relative position of the wheels and/or the axle (e.g. one axle unit and/or the other axle unit ) can be changed in relation to the machine frame (e.g. in relation to the soil tillage and/or sowing tools) in relation to the direction of travel.

As a result of the changeability of the relative position, a targeted weight shift of the working machine is possible. In particular, it is therefore possible to adapt the vertical load and the axle loads or wheel loads acting on the wheels, expediently in order to be able to comply with the legal requirements for driving on the road and to optimize a weight distribution desired for field work. In addition, it is thus possible, through improved weight distribution, to improve the driving characteristics of the work machine itself and thus in turn the safety when operating the work machine.

The greatest possible relief of the tillage and/or sowing tools for field work can thus be achieved by arranging them, preferably in relation to the direction of travel, and for example exclusively behind the running wheels. This makes it possible for the weight of the working machine to be distributed as evenly as possible and to a small extent on individual soil tillage and/or seed tools when working in the field.

It should be noted that the direction of travel corresponds in particular to a forward direction of the working machine, i.e. a direction along which the working machine is moved by means of an agricultural tractor, and this can be both forwards and at least briefly backwards.

It should be noted that the position information according to the following description relates in particular to the running wheels whose relative position can be changed, in the work machine the relative position of which cannot be changed running wheels are therefore expediently preferably excluded from the definition or the position information, i.e. that it is therefore also possible that at least one running wheel (or several running wheels) does not change their relative position and/or they remain permanently arranged in the area of the tillage and/or sowing tools.

In order to maintain the respective wheel loads, it can be provided, for example, that a relative position of the axle (e.g. the axle units) with respect to the machine frame can be changed in relation to the direction of travel.

Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible and can be subsumed under the definition of the invention that the work machine has several z. B. axles arranged one behind the other in relation to the direction of travel (e.g. a front axle and at least one rear axle) and a relative position of at least one axle relative to the machine frame in relation to the direction of travel can be changed. A combination of an axle with two or more running wheels and a single running wheel would also be conceivable or subsumed under the definition of the invention, with the axle and/or the individual running wheel being able to change a relative position with respect to the machine frame in relation to the direction of travel .

In the context of the invention, the definition of running wheel includes any type of running gear, ie, for example, also crawler tracks or the like. Appropriate suspension devices, frame structures or the like for storing the running wheel are also included.

The machine frame can be designed in one or more parts and assembled by detachable and/or non-detachable connections.

A preferred embodiment can provide for the relative position to be changed in such a way that the running wheels can assume at least a front relative position and a rear relative position with respect to the direction of travel.

A front relative position for field work and a rear relative position for driving on the road can expediently be provided. It should be noted here that the running wheels can not only assume a front relative position and a rear relative position, but can also assume relative positions which lie between the front relative position and the rear relative position.

In order to achieve the greatest possible weight shift, it is possible for the distance between the front relative position and the rear relative position, preferably based on a contact point of the wheels, to be at least 0.2 meters or at least 0.5 meters or at least 0.7 meters or at least 1 meter . Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for a distance to be at least as large as half the diameter of the running wheels.

According to a preferred embodiment variant, it can be provided that the vertical position of the wheels, preferably the wheels in the front relative position and the rear relative position, is essentially identical to the direction of travel and/or a height offset of a maximum of 0.1 meters or a maximum of 0.25 meters or a maximum is 0.5 meters. A transport height is therefore not influenced or only influenced to a small extent by a change in the relative position.

A preferred embodiment variant of the invention can provide for the relative position to be changed in such a way that the running wheels can assume a front relative position and a rear relative position in relation to the direction of travel, with a ratio of a distance, in relation to the direction of travel, between the front relative position and the rear relative position and a height offset vertical to the direction of travel between the front relative position and the rear relative position, preferably in each case based on a contact point of the wheels, essentially a maximum of 1: 0.2 (in words 1 to 0.2) or a maximum of 1: 0.3 or a maximum of 1:0.5 or a maximum of 1:1. This means that, for example, a change in the relative position in the direction of travel of 1 meter causes a height offset of essentially a maximum of 0.2 meters or 0.3 meters or 0.5 meters or 1 meter.

A relative position of the running wheels can be changed in a wide variety of ways, for example by axial displacement relative to the machine frame. For example, a linear guide and/or a corresponding sliding frame can be provided for this purpose. Alternatively or in addition, a change can be made, for example by rotary pivoting relative to the machine frame, preferably about a pivot axis oriented transversely to the direction of travel. For this purpose, for example, the running wheels and/or the axle (in particular the axle units) can be mounted on the machine frame by means of at least one rocker. Alternatively or additionally, a change can be made, e.g. by translational movement of the running wheels relative to the machine frame, for which purpose the running wheels, the axle units and/or the axle can be movable, for example, along a curved path relative to the machine frame.

Also conceivable would be corresponding combined movements for changing the relative position, which are composed, for example, of linear, rotary and/or translatory movements.

A preferred embodiment of the invention can provide for the relative position of the running wheels to be changed depending on a stroke position of the soil tillage and/or sowing tools, preferably depending on a lowered and/or raised stroke position of the soil tillage and/or sowing tools. Thus, in particular, collisions between the wheels and the tillage and / or seed tools can be prevented because a The relative position, for example the front relative position to the rear relative position, can only be changed if the tillage and/or sowing tools have a defined stroke position.

In addition or as an option to this, it is also possible for the relative position to be changed in such a way that the running wheels can assume at least a front relative position and a rear relative position with respect to the direction of travel, with a front relative position being able to be assumed when the soil tillage and/or sowing tools are lowered (e.g. if the tillage and/or sowing tools have ground contact) and/or a rear relative position can only be assumed when the tillage and/or sowing tools are raised (e.g. if the tillage and/or sowing tools have no ground contact and/or a position for road transport).

In order to further optimize weight distribution in field work and road transport, it is possible in a development of the invention for the relative position to be changed in such a way that the running wheels can assume at least a front relative position and a rear relative position with respect to the direction of travel, with in a front relative position, all running wheels are located with their complete circumference in relation to the direction of travel in front of the tillage and/or sowing tools and/or in a rear relative position, at least one running wheel is at least partially at the same height in relation to the direction of travel and/ or below the tillage and/or sowing tools.

In order to be able to comply with the maximum permissible transport dimensions of the work machine for road transport, it is expediently possible for the relative position to be changed in such a way that the running wheels can assume at least a front relative position and a rear relative position with respect to the direction of travel, with a rear relative position Arrangement of the wheels to the tillage and/or sowing tools takes place in such a way that the transport height of the working machine is 4 meters or does not exceed 4 meters. In addition, the lifting height of the tillage and/or sowing tools can also be adjusted.

According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that, in order to change the relative position, the running wheels can be coupled (e.g. operatively coupled) to at least one actuating device, which actuating device can be controlled by means of actuating signals generated by a control device, with the actuating signals being specified by a manual specification by an operator and/or by automated signal generation by means of the control device. A change in the relative position can thus be initiated, for example, by an operator (e.g. remotely controlled) and/or by automated signal generation (e.g. by stroke position-dependent and/or operative coupling) by means of the control device.

The at least one adjusting device can, for. B. be formed by one or more hydraulically, pneumatically and / or electrically operated actuators (e.g. cylinder, linear drive and / or the like.)).

In order to prevent uncontrolled movements of the actuating device and thus increase the safety of the working machine, it is conceivable that in a respective relative position the travel of the actuating device can be blocked (e.g. by hydraulic valve technology) and/or prevented (e.g. by means of mechanical stroke limitations such as insert elements).

The cylinder(s) forming/forming an adjusting device, for example, can also be correspondingly dimensioned or subjected to a corresponding pressure in order to prevent, for example, uncontrolled movements.

It is possible that e.g. B. one axle unit comprises an actuating device and the other axle unit comprises an actuating device. But it is also possible that a common actuating device is provided for both axle units, so that z. B. advantageously both axle units can be operated together with an adjusting device.

In order to further minimize the risk of collision between the tillage and/or sowing tools and the chassis, it is optionally conceivable that the running wheels and/or the at least one adjusting device is operatively coupled to the tillage and/or sowing tools, preferably operatively coupled in this way is that changing the relative position of the running wheels is only possible when the lifting position of the tillage and/or sowing tools is raised.

An effective coupling can take place in a wide variety of ways. It would be conceivable, for example, for an effective coupling to take place by means of mechanical limiting elements that meet, which are assigned to the axle and/or the running wheels on the one hand and to the tillage and/or sowing tools on the other are, so that, for example, the axis and the tillage and / or sowing tools support each other. Alternatively or in addition, it would be possible, for example, for an operative coupling to take place by means of a stroke limiting device (eg mechanical insert clips, limiting disks or the like) assigned to the actuating device. As an alternative or in addition, it would also be conceivable for an effective coupling to take place by means of a hydraulic and/or electrical signaling device (e.g. hydraulic pressure sensor, hydraulic series connection, position sensor, angle potentiometer) that of the actuating device on the one hand and a lifting device for adjusting the stroke position of the soil tillage and / or seeding tools is assigned to the other and is signal-connected and/or signal-connectable to a control device.

Preferably, it is possible that in a front relative position of the running wheels, the excavation device can assume any lifting positions of the tillage and/or sowing tools, so that the respective lifting positions have no effect on the weight distribution, in particular the supporting force of the traction device.

The excavation device can, for example, include one or more actuators and/or include a coupling frame or pivoting frame. The excavation device could also have or form a two-point or three-point connection.

Preferably, the relative position is changed expediently, for example, in such a way that in a rear relative position of the running wheels, a positive supporting force is applied to the traction device when it is connected to an agricultural tractor and/or that a center of gravity of the working machine is in front of the running wheels in relation to the direction of travel, preferably in front of a contact point of at least one wheel that is closest to the traction device in the direction of travel.

It should be pointed out that the tillage and/or sowing tools do not have to be arranged exclusively behind the wheels, but rather that tillage and/or sowing tools can also be arranged in front of and/or next to the wheels with respect to the direction of travel. Soil tillage and/or sowing tools can also be arranged below the machine frame.

If the work machine includes seed tools, it is also possible for the machine frame to be assigned a storage container for carrying and providing the distribution material (e.g. granular and/or liquid seed, fertilizer or the like) to be distributed by means of the seed tools.

It should be noted that in the context of the invention, the definition of tillage and/or sowing tool does not only include the respective components that carry out tillage and/or sowing, but also, for example, frame structures for carrying and guiding the tillage and/or sowing tools .

The control device has, e.g the control and/or regulating circuit is expediently designed for hydraulic and/or pneumatic and/or electrical signal and/or command transmission. Which signal and/or command transmission can also take place wirelessly (e.g. via WLAN). In the context of the invention, the concept of the control device includes, in particular, the entirety of the components for signal and/or command transmission. Accordingly, computer units, CPUs and/or the like are also included. Control devices integrated in the respective sensors or sensor units or sensor arrangements are also included. It should also be pointed out that the signals and/or data from the sensors/measuring devices/detection devices and/or the like can each be used as feedback for a controlled and/or regulated variable.

It should also be pointed out that the terms "control" and "control device" can refer to electronic and/or pneumatic and/or hydraulic controls or regulations which, depending on the training, can take on control tasks and/or regulation tasks. Even if the term “control” is used here, it can also appropriately include “rules”. Likewise, when using the term “rules” a “control” can also be included.

In order to avoid repetition, features disclosed in connection with the particularly towed agricultural working machine should also apply and be claimable according to the method disclosed. The aforementioned aspects and features and embodiment variants according to the invention, in particular with regard to the towed agricultural working machine, therefore also apply to the method and can be freely combined with one another in any way. In Conversely, the same applies, so that all aspects, features and design variants according to the invention that are disclosed in connection with the method are also disclosed for the towed agricultural machine and can be claimed accordingly.

The invention also includes a method for shifting weight on a particularly towed agricultural working machine, preferably carried out with a particularly towed agricultural working machine, particularly a soil tillage and/or sowing machine, as described in this document or according to one of Claims 1 to 18.

The method is expediently characterized by changing a supporting force acting on a traction device by assuming a front relative position or a rear relative position in relation to the direction of travel of the running wheels and/or the axle.

According to a further development of the method, it is possible for the running wheels and/or the axle to assume a front relative position or a rear relative position depending on a stroke position of soil tillage and/or seed tools, preferably depending on a lowered and/or lifted stroke position of soil tillage - and/or seed tools.

Thus, according to the method, it is possible to shift the axle and/or wheel loads acting on the running wheels to the supporting force of the traction device and vice versa.

It should be mentioned that the running wheels can preferably comprise at least one running wheel of one axle unit and at least one running wheel of the other axle unit.

It should also be mentioned that it is possible that the working machine z. B. includes multiple axes as disclosed herein.

• 1 eine Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsvariante einer gezogenen landwirtschaftlichen Arbeitsmaschine mit einem Maschinenrahmen, mehreren Laufrädern und Bodenbearbeitungs- und Saatwerkzeugen, welche Bodenbearbeitungs- und Saatwerkzeuge sich in einer ausgeklappten und abgesenkten Feldarbeitsstellung befinden,
• 2A eine Seitenansicht einer Arbeitsmaschine gemäß der 1, mit sich in einer zusammengeklappten und ausgehobenen Stellung für eine Straßenfahrt befindenden Bodenbearbeitungs- und Saatwerkzeugen und sich in einer Feldarbeitsstellung (vordere Relativposition) befindenden Laufräder,
• 2B eine Seitenansicht einer Arbeitsmaschine gemäß der 2A mit sich in einer Stellung für einen Straßentransport (hintere Relativposition) befindenden Laufrädern,
• 2C eine Prinzipskizze eines Laufrades mit zwei Relativpositionen welche durch ein rotatorisches Verschwenken erreicht werden,
• 3 eine Perspektivansicht einer Achse, die zwei Achseinheiten umfasst,
• 4 eine Seitenansicht der Achse der 3,
• 5 eine Schnittansicht der Achse der 3,
• 6 eine Ansicht auf die Achse der 3,
• 7 eine Detailschnittansicht der Achse der 3, und
• 8 bis 11 unterschiedliche Ansichten einer Verbindungstragstruktur für die Achse der 3.

Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The proportions of the individual elements to one another in the figures do not always correspond to the real proportions, since some forms are shown in simplified form and other forms are shown enlarged in relation to other elements for better illustration. Show it:

• 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of a towed agricultural working machine with a machine frame, several wheels and tillage and seed tools, which tillage and seed tools are in an unfolded and lowered field work position,
• 2A a side view of a working machine according to FIG 1 , with tillage and sowing tools in a folded and raised position for road travel and wheels in a field work position (forward relative position),
• 2 B a side view of a working machine according to FIG 2A with wheels in a position for road transport (rear relative position),
• 2C a basic sketch of a running wheel with two relative positions which are achieved by rotary pivoting,
• 3 a perspective view of an axle comprising two axle units,
• 4 a side view of the axis of the 3 ,
• 5 a sectional view of the axis of 3 ,
• 6 a view on the axis of 3 ,
• 7 a detail sectional view of the axis of 3 , and
• 8th until 11 different views of a connection support structure for the axis of 3 .

The embodiments shown in the figures correspond at least in part, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference symbols and, for their explanation, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures in order to avoid repetition. The illustrated embodiments only represent examples of how the towed agricultural working machine according to the invention and the method according to the invention can be designed and implemented and do not represent any final limitation.

1 shows a perspective view of a simplified embodiment of a towed agricultural working machine 10. The working machine 10 comprises a machine frame 14 having a towing device 12, the towing device 12 being set up so that the working machine 10 can be connected to an agricultural towing vehicle (e.g. a tractor not shown here). and a supporting force FA (eg positively or negatively acting support load) can be transferred to the agricultural tractor.

The machine frame 14 are, in the rear area, several supported on the ground Wheels 18 assigned. The working machine 10 comprises 4 wheels 18 arranged next to one another, in which 1 only 3 of these are visible, sometimes only in sections. The running wheels 18 are assigned to an axle 16 . The axle 16 can be designed in particular as described with reference to FIG 3 until 11 explained.

The work machine 10 is set up for combined tillage and sowing, for which purpose tillage and sowing tools 20 mounted in a height-adjustable manner are arranged on the machine frame 14, preferably behind the several running wheels 18 with respect to the direction of travel FR, with soil tillage and sowing tools 20 also being used exclusively or sowing tools 20 would be conceivable. The tillage tools are formed, for example, by a rotary harrow with a trailing packer roller, and the sowing tools are formed, for example, by coulters. It should be pointed out that other tillage and/or sowing tools or other arrangements of tillage and/or sowing tools would also be conceivable.

For better understanding, it should be pointed out that in the context of the invention, the definition of soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 not only includes the respective components that carry out soil tillage and/or sowing, but also, for example, frame structures for supporting and guiding the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20. According to the exemplary embodiments, all of the components for tillage and/or sowing are mounted on the machine frame 14 so that they can be adjusted in height, i.e. their lifting position can be adjusted. A change in the lifting position is expediently carried out by means of a lifting device 32 .

The excavation device 32 according to the 2C comprises at least one actuator (e.g. hydraulically, pneumatically and/or electrically operated cylinder) and a parallelogram. The excavation device 32 can also include several actuators and/or a coupling frame (cf. 2A) , respectively swing frame can include. The excavation device 32 could also form a two-point or three-point connection. The lifting device 32 or the actuator can in turn be controllable by means of a control device.

Even if according to the 1 and 2 the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are arranged exclusively behind the running wheels 18, an arrangement of the soil tilling and/or sowing tools 20 in relation to the direction of travel FR in front of the running wheels 18 and/or next to the running wheels 18 would also be possible as an alternative or in addition.

In order to be able to supply the seed tools 20 with a respective material to be distributed, a reservoir 22 is also assigned to the machine frame 14 for carrying and preparing the material to be distributed.

The tillage and / or seed tools 20 according to 1 have a large extension (e.g. 6 meters) transversely to the direction of travel FR, which in turn is too wide for a maximum permissible transport width (e.g. 3 meters in Germany) for road travel. In order to still be able to move the working machine 10 on the road, the working machine 10 according to the exemplary embodiments provides that the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 can be folded up in such a way that a transport width can be maintained.

In the 2A and 2 B are accordingly each folded tillage and / or sowing tools 20 shown, the illustrated embodiments are otherwise identical to the work machine 10 according to FIG 1 are.

The towing device 12 is designed as a towing eye, but could also be a drawbar, a two-point or three-point connection and/or the like. The towing device 12 is appropriately set up so that the working machine 10 can be connected to an agricultural tractor and a supporting force FA can be transmitted to the tractor.

How from the 1 and 2 As can be seen, the tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are arranged behind the running wheels 18, which, however, can result in a negative support force FA on the towing device 12, i.e. sometimes no support load is transmitted to the towing vehicle. Although this has advantages for field work due to the even weight distribution on the tillage and/or sowing tools 20, driving on the road is therefore legally not possible.

In order to achieve optimal weight distribution both when working in the field and when transporting on the road, weight shifting is preferably provided, which is achieved in that a relative position 24; 26 of the axle 16 and thus in particular of the running wheels 18 relative to the machine frame 14 (e.g. relative to the tillage and/or sowing tools) can be changed in relation to the direction of travel FR (see 2A and 2 B and 2C ).

As can be seen from the exemplary embodiments, there is a change in the relative position 24; 26 expediently such that the running wheels 18 have at least one front relative position 24 (see 2A and 2C solid lines) and a rear relative position 26 (cf 2 B and 2C dashed lines) can take. The front relative position 24 can be provided for field work, for example, and the rear relative position 26 can be provided for driving on the road, for example.

A distance A1, in particular based on a contact point of the running wheel 18, of the front relative position 24 to the rear relative position can be at least 0.2 meters or at least 0.5 meters or at least 0.7 meters or at least 1 meter. It would also be conceivable that a distance A1 from the front relative position 24 to the rear relative position 26 corresponds to at least half the diameter of the running wheel 18, ie for example 0.5 meters with a running wheel diameter of 1 meter.

As from the embodiments and in particular 2C it is expedient, in particular, that the vertical position of the running wheels 18, preferably the running wheels 18 in the front relative position 24 and the rear relative position 26, is essentially identical to the direction of travel FR and/or a maximum height offset of 0.1 meters or a maximum of 0. 25 meters or a maximum of 0.5 meters. Thus, by changing the relative position 24; 26 does not affect a transport height H1 or only to a small extent.

As in particular from the 2C it is possible that changing the relative position 24; 26 by rotating the running wheels 18 and/or the axle 16 relative to the machine frame 14 about a pivoting axis 28 oriented transversely to the direction of travel FR, with the running wheels 18 and/or the axle 16 being mounted on the machine frame 14 by means of at least one rocker arm 30 for this purpose .

In addition to rotary pivoting, an axial displacement of the running wheels 18 and/or the axle 16 in relation to the direction of travel FR in relation to the machine frame 14 and/or a translational movement of the running wheels 18 and/or the axle 16 in relation to the machine frame 14 would also be conceivable .

The relative position 24, 26 is preferably changed as a function of the stroke position of the tillage and/or sowing tools 20, i.e. whether the tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are lowered or lifted ( 2A and 2 B and 2C - dashed lines) are. In turn, a lifting position can be changed by means of a lifting device 32 .

The work machine 10 is designed, for example, in such a way that a front relative position 24 can be assumed when the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are in a lowered stroke position (see, for example, 1 and 2A) and/or a rear relative position 26 can only be assumed when the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are in a raised lifting position (see 2 B) .

How from the 1 and 2A As can be seen, it is possible that in a front relative position 24 all the running wheels 18 are located with their complete circumference in relation to the direction of travel FR in front of the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 and/or in a rear relative position 26 the running wheels are located 18 are located at least in sections at the same height and/or below the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 in relation to the direction of travel FR.

It is expediently provided that changing the relative position 24; 26 takes place in such a way that the running wheels 18 can assume at least a front relative position 24 and a rear relative position 26 with respect to the direction of travel FR, with the running wheels 18 being arranged in a rear relative position 26 in relation to the soil tillage and/or sowing tools 20 in such a way that a transport height H1 of the working machine is 4 meters or does not exceed 4 meters.

Changing the relative position 24; 26 can take place, for example, by means of at least one actuating device 34 (e.g. formed by one or more hydraulically, pneumatically and/or electrically operated actuators (e.g. cylinders, linear drives and/or the like) which, for example, are connected to the machine frame 14 and the running wheels 18, or the rocker 30. The adjusting device 34 can be remote-controlled, for example, by an operator, for example.The travel path of the adjusting device 34 can also be blocked.

The running wheels 18 and/or the adjusting device 34 can be operatively coupled to the tillage and/or sowing tools 20, for example operatively coupled in such a way that changing the relative position 24; 26 of the running wheels 18 is only possible when the tillage and/or sowing tools 20 are in a raised lifting position. According to the 2C the operative coupling takes place by means of a hydraulic and/or electrical signaling device 36 (represented by dashed lines with an arrow len), which is assigned to the adjusting device 34 on the one hand and a lifting device 32 for adjusting the lifting position of the tillage and/or sowing tools 20 on the other hand and is signal-connected and/or signal-connectable to a control device 38. The signaling device can be formed, for example, by a position sensor, position sensor, pressure sensor or the like and can be set up to directly or indirectly detect a stroke position of the soil tillage and/or sowing tools. A corresponding hydraulic control would also be conceivable, for example.

A mechanical functional coupling would also be conceivable, for example by means of mechanical limiting elements meeting one another, which are assigned to the running wheels 18 on the one hand and to the tillage and/or sowing tools 20 on the other.

The relative position 24 is preferably changed; 26 expediently, for example, such that in a rear relative position 26 of the running wheels 18 a positive supporting force FA is applied to the towing device 12 when connected to an agricultural tractor and/or that a center of gravity SP of the working machine 10 is in front of the driving direction FR in relation to the direction of travel FR at least one wheel 18, preferably in front of a contact point of the at least one wheel 18, which is closest to the traction device 12 in the direction of travel FR.

the 3 until 7 show different views of an axis 16 according to an embodiment of the invention, the z. B. in a work machine 10, as with reference to the 1 and 2 described can be used.

The axle 16 includes, in particular, two axle units 110 and 120 (e.g. a left axle unit and a right axle unit), which in the illustrated embodiment each have two running wheels 18 supported on the ground (e.g. a left running wheel and a right running wheel). include.

The axle units 110, 120 each have an axle segment 111, 121.

The axle segments 111, 121 are each supported by a mounting structure 112, 122 (e.g. mounting flanges, etc.) coupled to the machine frame 14. The mounting structures 112, 122 are preferably arranged essentially centrally on the axle segments 111, 121.

The machine frame 14 can, for. B. two side beams, in particular two longitudinal beams include, wherein the mounting structure 112 can be mounted on the one side beam and the mounting structure 122 on the other side beam.

Stresses, such as in particular forces and moments, can be transmitted to the machine frame 14 via the mounting structures 112, 122, as a result of which there can be a risk of the machine frame breaking. The danger of a machine frame breaking exists in particular during field work of the work machine 10 if, due to uneven ground, the stresses act unevenly on the machine frame 14 (e.g. large load application via axle unit 110, in particular the mounting structure 112, and small load application via the axle unit 120, in particular the mounting structure 122, or vice versa) and the machine frame 14 is thus in particular loaded unevenly and/or with stress peaks.

The axle units 110 and 120 are therefore in particular a z. B. as a tube, in particular a steel tube, designed connection support structure 130 structurally connected to each other, preferably to allow a transmission of stresses (z. B. forces and / or moments) between the two axle units 110, 120. the 8th until 11 12 show different views of a connection support structure 130 according to an embodiment of the invention.

This advantageously enables the machine frame 14 (in particular the two side supports) to be stressed more evenly and/or stress peaks on the machine frame 14 (in particular on the two side supports) are reduced and the risk of a machine frame breakage is thus also reduced.

Stresses can advantageously be partially transferred from one axle unit 110 to the other axle unit 120 and/or stresses of different magnitudes on the axle units 110, 120 can be approximated to one another (e.g. essentially matched to one another).

The axle segments 111, 121 and the connecting support structure 130 preferably extend in a common plane, in particular substantially coaxially. The axle segments 111, 121 protrude with one of their end sections into the connection support structure 130, which is preferably designed as a tube.

Axle 16 is a non-driven axle 16. Axle 16 is preferably towed by a tractor.

The link support structure 130 extends axially as an intermediate piece between the axle units 110,120 and is suitably mounted to the axle units 110,120.

The linkage support structure 130 is preferably configured to rotate with the wheels 18 .

The connecting support structure 130 can expediently be attached to the wheels 18 and/or their wheel hubs, namely on the one hand to a wheel 18 and/or a wheel hub of one axle unit 110 and on the other hand to a wheel 18 and/or a wheel hub of the other axle unit 120, in particular such that the linkage support structure 130 can rotate with the idler wheels 18 .

The attachment can B. on wheel sections between tires of the wheels 18 (e.g. rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel bolts, wheel discs, wheel spokes, etc.) and/or through wheel sections between tires of the wheels 18. For example, it is possible for wheel hubs for the running wheels 18 to be present on the axle segments 111, 112. B. wheel bolts can be attached, wherein the wheel bolts can extend through the rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel discs or wheel spokes etc. and can be mounted to the connecting structure 130 . However, an attachment z. B. possible directly on rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel discs or wheel spokes. In the context of the invention it is thus z. B. possible that the attachment of the connection structure 130 to the wheels 18 z. B. by means of attachment to preferably wheel hubs, in particular axle segment stubs, rims, rim plates, wheel discs, wheel bolts, wheel discs and / or wheel spokes, etc. can be done.

In the context of the invention, the wheel hubs can in particular comprise rotatable axle segment stubs and/or be designed as rotatable axle segment stubs.

In at least one of the wheel hubs and thus in particular one of the axle segment stubs z. B. a preferably designed as a drum brake brake can be integrated.

The connection support structure 130 can in particular extend essentially coaxially to the center points of the running wheels 18 .

The connection support structure 130 can on both sides z. B. a mounting flange 131 extending transversely (e.g. obliquely or essentially at right angles) to the longitudinal axis of the connecting support structure 130 for mounting on the axle units 110, 120, which have running wheels 18 and/or wheel hubs of the running wheels 18 (e.g. 8th until 11 ).

In contrast to the connection support structure 130, the axle segments 111, 121 are preferably non-rotatable.

The axle units 110, 120 are expediently separated from one another and arranged next to one another with respect to a direction of travel FR of the working machine 10, so that the axle units 110, 120 are z. B. is not a leading and a trailing axle.

The axle units 110, 120 can, in particular, be mounted individually on the machine frame 14 and/or can be removed from the machine frame 14. Furthermore, the axle units 110, 120 are preferably of essentially identical construction.

It is possible that the axle units 110, 120 and thus the axle 16 form a packer roller.

The connection support structure 130 can e.g. B. be designed as an expedient relatively long or relatively short connection support, z. B. as an axle bell, connecting bell or connecting flange etc.

The connection support structure 130 makes it possible, in particular, for the maximum forces and moments acting on the machine frame 14 (in particular its side support) to be significantly reduced because they are transmitted via the connection support structure 130 to the respective opposite axle unit 110, 120 and/or the respective opposite running wheel 18 can.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications can be made without leaving the associated area. Accordingly, the invention should not be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but should include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the subclaims independently of the claims referred to.

Reference List

10

working machine

12

pulling device

14

machine frame

16

axis

18

Wheel

20

tillage and/or sowing tools

22

reservoir

24

front relative position

26

rear relative position

28

pivot axis

30

swing arm

32

excavation device

34

adjusting device

36

signaling device

38

control device

FR

driving direction

FA

supporting force

A1

Distance

SP

main emphasis

h 1

transport height

110

axle unit

111

axle segment

112

assembly structure

120

axle unit

121

axle segment

122

assembly structure

130

Connection support structure, in particular connection support

131

mounting flange

Claims (20)

Agricultural working machine (10), preferably a towed agricultural working machine (10), in particular a tillage and/or seeding machine, having: a machine frame (14) and at least one axle (16), characterized in that the axle (16) has two axle units (110 , 120) each comprising at least one road wheel (18) supported on the ground and which are connected to one another via a connecting support structure (130), preferably in order to enable transmission of stresses between the axle units (110, 120). Working machine (10) after claim 1 , characterized in that the connection support structure (130) is designed as a tube, in particular as a round tube. Working machine (10) after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the axle units (110, 120) each comprise an axle segment (111, 121). Working machine (10) after claim 3 , characterized in that the axle segments (111, 121) and the connection support structure (130) extend substantially in a common plane and/or substantially coaxially. Working machine (10) after claim 3 or 4 , characterized in that the axle segments (111, 121) protrude with one of their end sections into the connecting support structure (130), which is preferably designed as a tube. Working machine (10) according to one of claims 3 until 5 , characterized in that the axle segments (111, 121) are each coupled to the machine frame (14) via a mounting structure (112, 122). Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axle (16) is a non-driven axle (16). Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the connection support structure (130) is designed as a connection support, - the connection support structure (130) is inserted as an intermediate piece axially between the axle units (110, 120), - the connection support structure (130 ) extends essentially coaxially to the center points of the wheels (18), - the connecting support structure (130) protrudes into a wheel (18) of one axle unit (110) on the one hand and into a wheel (18) of the other axle unit (120) on the other hand, and /or - the connecting support structure (130) is attached on the one hand to a wheel (18) or its wheel hub of one axle unit (110) and on the other hand to a wheel (18) or its wheel hub of the other axle unit (120). Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the axle segments (111, 121) are designed to be non-rotatable and/or - the connection support structure (130) is designed to rotate together with the impellers (18). Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the running wheels (18) is assigned a brake. Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axle units (110, 120) - are separated from one another and are arranged next to one another in relation to a direction of travel (FR) of the work machine (10), - via the connecting support structure (130) are structurally coupled to one another, - can be mounted individually on the machine frame (14) and/or can be removed from the machine frame (14), and/or - are constructed in the same way. Working machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axle units (110, 120) form a packer roller. Working machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the machine frame (14) has a towing device (12), the towing device (12) being set up so that the working machine (10) can be connected to an agricultural tractor and has a supporting force (FA) can be transferred to the agricultural tractor, the running wheels (18) being assigned to the machine frame (14), preferably in the rear region. Working machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the machine frame (14), preferably behind the running wheels (18) in relation to the direction of travel (FR), soil cultivation and/or sowing tools are mounted such that they can be adjusted in height relative to the running wheels (18). (20) are arranged. Work machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - a relative position (24, 26) of the axle (16) with respect to the machine frame (14) can be changed in relation to the direction of travel (FR), and/or - a relative position (24; 26) of the running wheels (18) relative to the machine frame (14) in relation to the direction of travel (FR) can be changed, and/or - the relative position (24; 26) is changed in such a way that the running wheels (18), can assume at least one relative front position (24) and one relative rear position (26) relative to the direction of travel (FR). Working machine (10) after claim 15 , characterized in that the relative position (24; 26) is changed in such a way that - the running wheels (18) can assume at least one front relative position (24) and one rear relative position (26) relative to the direction of travel (FR), - wherein a Ratio of a distance (A1), in relation to the direction of travel (FR), the front relative position (24) to the rear relative position (26) and a vertical offset to the direction of travel (FR) between the front relative position (24) and the rear relative position ( 26), preferably in each case based on a contact point of the running wheels (18), - is essentially a maximum of 1: 0.2 or a maximum of 1: 0.3 or a maximum of 1: 0.5 or a maximum of 1: 1. Working machine (10) according to one of Claims 15 until 16 , characterized in that a relative position (24; 26) of the running wheels (18) can be changed by - axial displacement relative to the machine frame (14) and/or - rotary pivoting relative to the machine frame (14), preferably by a transverse Direction of travel (FR) oriented pivot axis (28) and / or - a translatory movement of the wheels (18) relative to the machine frame (14). Working machine (10) according to one of Claims 15 until 17 , characterized in that the relative position (24; 26) is changed in such a way that - in a rear relative position (26) of the running wheels (18) there is a positive supporting force (FA) on the towing device (12) when connected to an agricultural tractor and/or - that a center of gravity (SP) of the working machine (10) in relation to the direction of travel (FR) is in front of at least one running wheel (18), preferably in front of a contact point of the at least one running wheel (18) that is in the direction of travel (FR ) is closest to the hitch (12). Method for shifting weight on an agricultural working machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by - changing a supporting force (FA) acting on a traction device (12) by assuming a front relative position (24) or a rear relative position (26) in Reference to the direction of travel (FR) of the axle (16) and / or the wheels (18). procedure after claim 19 , characterized in that taking a front relative position (24) or a rear relative Position (26) of the axle (16) and/or the running wheels (19) depending on a stroke position of tillage and/or sowing tools (20), preferably depending on a lowered and/or raised stroke position of tillage and/or sowing tools ( 20), done.

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